Spirits of the Earth

Adela => Serha Plains => Topic started by: DragonSong on November 03, 2016, 01:04:28 PM

Title: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 03, 2016, 01:04:28 PM
@Dauphin DaGlobster

She'd never run so fast in her life. Panting desperately for air, Elora wove her way through the tall grasses of the plains, praying to any gods that would listen that she wouldn't be spotted.

Her bare feet were bleeding with every step she took, a stolen blade clutched tightly in her hand, occasionally hacking at a stubborn plant in her way.

Don't look back, don't look back, just keep moving, she chanted to herself over and over as what felt like an eternity crawled by. Gods, where was she? How long had she been running? She had no idea, she just knew she couldn't stop, not now, not even if it killed her.

She'd rather die on her feet than go back to that.

Lungs burning, heart racing, eventually her exhausted legs betrayed her. Her knees buckled and she collapsed, covering her mouth to stifle a cry as she rolled a few feet, then came to a stop. Immediately she curled in on herself, sword raised just slightly over her head in a defensive position as she dragged in ragged gasps of air.

The grass and turf tore at her bare skin and she closed her eyes against a thousand dull pains demanding her attention. Come on, stand up! You have to keep moving! Go, go, GO! her mind screeched at her.

Swallowing a desperate wail, she forced herself back to her feet and kept running.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 03, 2016, 02:44:51 PM
What a lovely day for flying, thought Merradin as he came coasting over the peaks of the mountains and saw the seemingly endless plains come into view. He loved to fly over them on occasion, finding a rare sort of zen in the way they just seemed to roll on and on.

A beat of his wings had him rocketing forwards ever faster, carried by the winds he manipulated. He closed his eyes, taking in the sounds and scents of the plains beneath him. Wild grasses, running water, blood, the chill of the air...

His eyes opened.

Blood?

Curiously, he glanced downwards. He spotted the trail of trampled grasses and bloody prints before the source itself, and even then, his curiosity was piqued ever further. A naked woman with a sword running across the plains? And one that looked like she could make only a few more steps before passing out at that?

Intent on observing for a bit longer, he banked and slowed down considerably, keeping pace as he flew directly above her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 03, 2016, 02:51:42 PM
A cloud. Oh thank heavens, something was blocking the sun from beating down on her. It had been a frigid plains night when she'd escaped, but by now the grasses had heated to a near unbearable temperature. She chanced a glance upward to see how large the cloud was, how much shade she could count on-

And froze. Her eyes went wide and her jaw dropped.

She was Adelan. She was no stranger to dragons- even if they made her a little nervous at the best of times- but she'd never seen anything like this. The creature was massive!

And wild. Very wild. She would know if someone in her own military partnered a beast like that.

Great. She'd escaped only to be eaten alive. Maybe literally.

Still shaking, Elora raised the sword over her head to show the creature that she was armed, but no sooner had she done so when her legs gave out again and she collapsed into the grass, panting desperately.

Feeling as though each breath cut her lungs, she threw any caution she'd held to the wind and shrieked, "If you're going to kill me just get it over with!"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 06, 2016, 12:21:59 PM
Well, it was certainly a brave response, if nothing else. Of course, Merradin had no desire to eat this poor human, regardless of her requests. Silently, he watched as she collapsed to the ground, seemingly giving up on life altogether.

He descended slowly, still circling, until he suddenly stopped flapping. He fell down until he was a mere fifty feet above the ground before opening his wings, aloft once again on magical winds. He hovered like that for a few more moments before he landed, slowly approaching her with his eyes switching between Elora herself and the curved blade she was holding.

Now that he was closer, he could smell other things on her. It smelled like horse, but also slightly off, and the scent was all over her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 06, 2016, 12:37:43 PM
Still shaking, Elora watched as the dragon descended. She swallowed nervously- it was like he just kept getting bigger.

Once he was close enough for her to see his eyes- she assumed the creature was male, but she'd never been very good at differentiating dragons' sexes- she allowed the sword to drop point first into the dirt, leaning on it like it was a cane.

She stared at the creature, panting. "I'd rather you than him," she murmured. "Please..." Her voice wavered. "Please, if you're not going to eat me, just end me quickly. Please."

Like most in the  Adelan military, she'd been taught a bit of Draconic. She had no idea if this wild dragon would understand her, if the vague words she remembered would translate, but she tried. "Please. Help me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 06, 2016, 08:59:01 PM
Ah, so she was Adelan, then. He had a hunch from how she looked, but the draconic sealed it for him.

Of course, he knew what she was saying in common as well, but that wasn't important at the moment. Merradin got close. So close, in fact, that if she wanted to swing at his snout with her sword, she could. The air around him just seemed to tingle with energy.

His eyes were curious, almost friendly, and after a few moments, he narrowed his eyes at her, and they glowed as he cast a spell, trying to force her into succumbing to her tiredness. He wanted to pick her up and help her, but he didn't want her knowing where his hoard was, either!

"Rest now," he said in excellent common, directing the spell towards her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 07, 2016, 04:12:45 AM
Elora bit back a whimper as the dragon approached, but she managed to hold her shaky ground. She lifted the blade but didn't strike, rather keeping it poised at the ready.

She'd asked for this, hadn't she? She shouldn't fight if he was going to do what she wanted.

What she wasn't expecting was the magic. Her eyes fluttered and she swayed. "N-no..." Instinctive terror clawed at her chest; the last time a stranger had sent her into unconsciousness burned in her memory. "No, please..."

But she was so tired, so tired. Her eyes fluttered closed and she collapsed to her side. Her hand still gripped the sword, even in sleep, and her brow was drawn into a fearful sort of frown.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 08, 2016, 08:17:22 AM
Poor thing. Merradin stood over her, and gently scooped her up in his claw. He made sure she was secure before he straightened up and spread his wings. A magical wind carried him off the ground silently, and with a beat of his wings he was heading skyward, banking back around towards his home.

----------

When Elora woke up, she'd find herself in an incredibly comfortable bed with all of her injuries healed, wearing a thin yet opaque silk robe. She'd find her sword sitting against the doorframe, the blade wrapped in cloth. She was in someone's bedroom, that much was true, but the riches there were nigh unbelievable. There was probably more money in this one room than an Essyrni merchant prince's entire house.

There wasn't a door to this room. Instead, the bed faced a wide archway that led into a room with a gently bubbling bathbasin set into a marble floor. It seemed that this small, incredibly opulent house was built around that central room, with a kitchen, dressing room, and a study that featured a comfortable arrangement of cushions in front of a magical blue fire, tall bookshelves stacked with books both incredibly ancient and remarkably new, and a shelf of wine bottles.

It seemed she was alone.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 08, 2016, 08:29:18 AM
The first thing she registered was the feel of what felt like a thousand cuts and bruises- but they didn't hurt nearly as much as they should have. In fact, she felt rather...comfortable.

Her eyes flew open and she shot upright, gasping. Where the hell was she? She looked around wildly and bolted out of the bed, lunging for the sword.

Unfortunately, she was still weak enough that her legs decided now would be a good time to just take a break. She collapsed to her knees, panting, and clutched the robe tighter around her body as she looked around.

"Oh my gods..." she breathed as she really took in the opulence around her. This was...unreal. Like something out of a story...

Her eyes widened further. No, that was ridiculous. She was delirious, that was all.

But- it must have been that dragon, right? How else would she end up here?
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 08, 2016, 09:51:24 AM
The sounds of powerful wings beating disrupted the silence, followed by the slight rumble of something massive landing outside the home. Graceful, yet thudding footsteps got closer and closer, until they seemed to be right outside the small house.

Suddenly, lightning flashed and crackled, the light piercing the velvet curtains in front of the windows as the footsteps turned into a more human sounding gait.

The front door, which was a set of exquisitely carved wooden double doors, gently swung open to reveal Merradin wearing his human form and dragging the body of a plains buffalo behind him. Immediately, his eyes shot to her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 08, 2016, 09:58:11 AM
Elora cried out at the flash of light, throwing her hands up defensively. She staggered to her feet and finally managed to get ahold of her stolen blade, shakily holding the sword up as she whirled to face the front door.

Her eyes widened at the sight of a human man- not what she was expecting. A thrill of fear that she hated shot up her spine.

Honestly, she would have preferred the dragon.

"Wh-who are you?" she demanded, voiced raspy and shaky. "Where am I?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 08, 2016, 10:42:29 AM
Merradin took in how she was standing, and continued to drag the buffalo into the home, although he made sure to giver her a wide berth. Funnily enough, the buffalo had been killed bloodlessly, the only mark of a fight being a single, precise hole burned into its skull.

He set the buffalo down, and offered her a warm smile.

"My name is Merradin, and this is my home," he said, motioning to the small, opulent house around them. He motioned to the horns that were still visible in this form.

"I'm the dragon who found you out on the plains."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 08, 2016, 10:50:18 AM
Her eyes went even wider. "Merradin? That-" The name sounded familiar. Why?

She took a shaky step back, but allowed the tip of her sword to dip toward the ground. "I've never met a dragon with a human avatar before," she said, trying to sound flippant despite her obvious wariness and exhaustion.

Her eyes skated over him again. "Why did you help me?" she whispered.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 08, 2016, 09:16:01 PM
"You haven't seen a dragon in human form before?" Merradin said, cocking an eyebrow up. He shrugged.

"I figured that for an Adelan, this would be available knowledge."

He finished dragging the buffalo towards the kitchen, and then moved over so he could properly converse with her.

"Well, it's not like I was going to kill you! Why would I do that?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 08, 2016, 09:26:08 PM
"I know of your kind with such abilities," Elora defended herself automatically. "I've just never met one."

When he moved forward she had to fight the urge to skitter back a step. She was a knight of the realm, dammit! What had happened didn't change that.

She set her jaw and straightened her spine, head high. "I've heard some wild dragons don't take kindly to humans. I wasn't sure if you were one of them," she said as blithely as she could manage. Glancing around, she added, "Where are we, anyway. You don't...live here, do you?"

That seemed awfully inconvenient for someone of his natural size, though she supposed for the human form it would be quite comfortable.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 10, 2016, 08:35:15 PM
Merradin smirked.

"Of course I live here," Merradin said, and he moved to start walking back outside. He motioned for her to follow him. If she did, she'd find that this small, incredibly luxurious home sat smack-dab in the middle of the largest treasure hoard she would ever see in her life.

"It'd be improper of me to find some other house to live in away from my hoard," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 10, 2016, 08:43:09 PM
Elora's jaw dropped. "Demons above and below!"

Eyes wide, she looked at the splendor around her, then flicked her eyes to the dragon. "Merradin," she whispered. "You- you're not- you can't be- there are stories..."

She trailed off, not sure herself if she was asking him anything or not.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 10, 2016, 08:55:27 PM
"I've read all the stories about the legendary Lightning Eater," Merradin said, turning to her.

"I don't quite know where you Adelans got the idea that I eat lightning, but that is what you've decided to call me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 10, 2016, 09:11:06 PM
"So it is you." She should be more shocked, probably, more afraid.

But she was just too tired. She rubbed her temples and sighed. "Yes. Silly humans, making up stories. Although they seem to have hit the mark about your hoard," she noted with a wave of her hand.

Eyes flicking up to meet his, she asked quietly, "Why am I here, Merradin? Really. What interest could one lost human woman hold for someone like you?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 10, 2016, 09:28:44 PM
"Well," Merradin started, and he took a few steps towards her, but again, not too close.

"It's not like I could just leave you there. So I brought you back here. Healed you," he said. His sharp eyes remained locked onto hers, and then he smiled.

"I can tell you're exhausted. Why don't you return to bed? Dinner will be ready soon."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 10, 2016, 09:36:48 PM
"So...I'm a charity project?" She snorted and glanced away. "Didn't think dragons would care much about that sort of thing."

Her years of training in chivalry made her sigh and mutter, "That was unkind, I'm sorry. I have...been under great stress." She closed her eyes. "I think I will sleep, thank you. Your...hospitality is appreciated."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 10, 2016, 09:40:22 PM
She was right to apologize!

Merradin frowned a bit when she snapped at him like that, but upon hearing her apology, he seemed to lighten up again. He walked past her and back into the house, heading for the kitchen.

"Oh, do feel free to use the bath-basin if you'd like," Merradin said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 10, 2016, 09:53:39 PM
"Thank you." She gave him a small nod and slipped away.

A bath would be heaven, but she didn't relish the idea of taking off the robe. Thin it might have been, but at least it was covering. Finally she sighed and shucked it off, slipping into the water with a quiet groan as her batter body protested.

She closed her eyes and tipped her head back, allowing the water to relax her slowly.

No. No, bad idea. She couldn't stop moving, or she was start to think, and that- She shook her head and started scrubbing at herself, not caring how much it hurt, just needing the distraction.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 03:48:34 PM
"Are you hungry?" Merradin asked from the kitchen, having dragged the buffalo the rest of the way inside.

"I have a few apples here," he continued.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 03:54:10 PM
Elora jerked and almost jumped out of the water, on the defensive, before the question registered. "Um...yes. Thank you."

More sedately now, she climbed from the bath and hunted up the robe, wrapping it around her still damp body before making her way cautiously to the kitchen.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 04:14:55 PM
And on her way to the kitchen, she walked right into him as he came around the corner, apple in hand for her!

Although he was the size of a person, Merradin still had all the strength and constitution of his true form, so for Elora, it'd be like walking into a person-shaped wall.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 04:18:28 PM
"Ow!" She smacked into his chest and staggered back, rubbing a now sore nose. "Son of a- what the fuck are you made of, granite?!" she exclaimed reflexively

Then fear flashed across her face and she dropped her eyes, flinching back as though expecting to be hit. "I'm sorry, I didn't mean-" She swallowed and wrapped her arms around herself.

Self loathing rose up in her chest, choking her. She was a warrior dammit, not some cringing maiden! But the reaction was there all the same..

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 04:27:00 PM
For better or worse, Merradin read her sudden apologizing as her being fearful of his draconic nature, and not a recent trauma rising back up to torment her.

He waved it away, shaking his head as he chuckled.

"It's fine, I shouldn't have come around the corner like that," Merradin said, and he held the apple out to her.

"Forgive me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 04:33:04 PM
She stared at the fruit as though it might bite her. "Um, sure. Thanks."

She took the apple and bit into it cautiously. Her eyes widened and she suddenly began devouring it. Gods, she was starving!
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 05:05:22 PM
Merradin looked at her devour it for a few moments, and then his eyes rolled up to hers.

"Do you want another one?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 05:06:27 PM
She was having difficulty not licking the juice off her fingers she was so hungry. "Um...yes, if that's alright," she murmured.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 05:13:19 PM
He nodded slowly and darted back into the kitchen, coming back with another apple.

"Certainly the hungriest human I've ever seen. How long has it been since you've eaten?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 05:19:46 PM
She devoured this apple too, shrugging. "A few days, I think."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 05:24:03 PM
"Gods above, you poor girl!" Merradin said, and he leaned against the frame of the kitchen's entryway. A quick glance downwards, and he spoke up.

"Dinner will be ready soon, why don't you finish that bath? You've been so focused on eating that you've forgotten to hold your robe up."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 05:29:11 PM
Elora froze, then went crimson. She gathered up the robe quickly. Damnit, she'd never been so skittish about her body before!

She knew she was bruised and battered, and he'd obviously already seen her naked. But still she had to fight shame rising in her throat. "I'll, um, do that. Thank you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 06:06:12 PM
Merradin nodded and gave her a sympathetic smile, and turned about, returning to the kitchen.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 06:13:05 PM
She nodded at him and returned to the bath.

This time she actually looked down at herself, at a body that didn't feel like it was really hers anymore.

She couldn't fight it anymore. She covered her face and wept.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 06:19:03 PM
Merradin's ears picked up her weeping as soon as it started, and in a moment, he was back by the entryway, looking on.

"Hey," he said plainly, and he stepped towards her and to her side.

"What's wrong?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 06:25:15 PM
Elora shook her head and flinched away from him. "I- I don't think you would understand," she whispered. "Excuse me." She tried to turn from him, ashamed.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 06:29:02 PM
"I might not," Merradin said, more or less figuring it out. He moved so that she couldn't just dismiss him.

"But I can still listen and talk about it. I can still help you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2016, 06:47:23 PM
She dropped her eyes. "You found me naked and bleeding, running for my life." Though she wanted it to be there, the bite had left her voice. "Tell me, what do you think happened?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 23, 2016, 09:51:51 PM
"I don't need to tell you. We both know," Merradin said, and he frowned a little.

"I can never relate to that feeling of being completely powerless," he said, taking his eyes away from her as he stepped out in front of her, to fully face her.

"But what matters is that you've survived. Through sheer strength and wit, you made it out."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 07:25:08 AM
Slowly, Elora lifted her gaze to meet his eyes. The simple action still made her heart jump and her gut clench in anxiety, but she forced herself to hold his gaze.

A very small, dry smile quirked at one corner of her mouth. "It was a lot of luck, if I'm being honest," she murmured. "And I certainly wouldn't have made it without your help."

She finally dropped her eyes, still feeling like a hunted animal but now....well, a little less. "Thank you for that. Really."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 09:30:23 AM
Merradin offered her a bigger smile, and then playfully shooed her.

"Go on, back to your bath, then. Enjoy it," he said, and he returned to the kitchen.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 09:43:40 AM
She nodded slowly, that tiny smile lingering a few moments on her lips before she turned and made her way back to the bath.

This time she allowed herself to enjoy it, pretending she could scrub away all that had happened over the last few days with soap and warm water. Her mind drifted, flashes of memories she desperately wanted to avoid playing behind her eyes, but at least this time it didn't send her into a completely panicked spiral.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 10:01:22 AM
After around twenty minutes, Merradin came back out of the kitchen, wiping his brow with a hand towel as he casually made his way to his bedroom, seemingly ignoring the naked Elora in the bathbasin.

"Enjoying your bath?" He asked as he passed, intent on fetching something from his room.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 10:03:39 AM
The voice snapped her out of her own head and she gave a rather girlish squeak, ducking into the water in an attempt to preserve some modesty.

"Wh-wha- warn a girl, will you?" she exclaimed, trying to cover panic with irritation. Grumbling to herself and watching him warily, she added almost grudgingly, "It's...quite nice. Thanks."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 10:34:30 AM
"I apologize, my home isn't quite designed for privacy," Merradin said, although he never once looked at her, offering her her privacy as he went about his business. He came out of his room with a bottle of wine.

"Dinner will be ready soon."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 10:38:40 AM
"Right. Ah, thanks." She waited until she was sure his back was to her before springing out of the bath and snatching up the robe again. Her pale hair hung heavy and damp around her shoulders and she cautiously followed the sound of Merradin's footsteps out of the room.

"Hey, uh... Could I ask you something?" she ventured cautiously.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 11:05:23 AM
When she followed him into the kitchen, she'd find him in the last few steps of making an exquisite meal comprised of buffalo steak and some kind of vegetable stew. The kitchen itself could make a master chef cry, such was it's beauty and variety of equipment, complete with magical amenities to make cooking even easier. There was also a large door that presumable led to the cellar.

He looked over to her as she entered.

"Ask away," he said, throwing some spices into the stew.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 11:11:32 AM
"Well..." She clutched the robe a little tighter around her body and tilted her head, looking over the kitchen. Surely he couldn't be who she'd thought he was, not living in a place like this.

There was just no way. Right?

She cleared her throat. "Um, there's...stories, where I come from. About...a dragon called Merradin. The Lightning-Eater." She gave a nervous little laugh. "There's no way- I mean, that's not you, right?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 11:22:56 AM
"Hm?" Merradin hummed.

"Of course that's me," he said nonchalantly, turning to fully face her, leaning an elbow against the kitchen counter.

"I... I introduced myself as Merradin, didn't I?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 11:26:00 AM
Her jaw dropped.

"Oh my- holy gods!" Blanching, she backed up a few steps. "B-but- I thought- I wasn't even sure you were real!" she exclaimed. "D-did you really-? Oh my gods!"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 11:37:18 AM
"One thing at a time," Merradin said, standing a slightly bemused look on his face even as he held a hand out for her to calm herself.

"Do you need a glass of wine?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 11:41:04 AM
"Gods yes. Please." She nodded quickly, casting her eyes around to find a seat. Failing that, she just sort of sank down onto the ground.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 11:53:12 AM
Merradin was quick to pour her a cup of sherry, followed by one for himself, before he joined her, sitting down on the ground in front of her and offering her a glass.

"I assume you have questions?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 12:00:33 PM
She chuckled wryly, voice hoarse, and took the offered glass. "Just a few."

Elora blinked up at him. "Did...did the stories really happen like they say? Did you really..." She swallowed nervously and trailed off, not sure how to frame the question.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 12:05:44 PM
"Did I really...?" Merradin started, taking a sip of his wine.

"Is this about the dragon knights?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 12:10:52 PM
Eyes wide, she swallowed and squeaked out, "Yes."

It would be just her luck to have been rescued by yet another creature with a grudge against Adelan knights. Maybe the hospitality was a ruse, a ploy to gain her trust before the torture began.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 12:37:29 PM
"Oh, that spotty incident," Merradin said, sighing with exasperation.

"I let the Adelans capture me. Not that I made it easy for them, but ultimately, I entered their ranks because I wanted to," he said, placing a hand on his chest.

"I wanted to know what it was like to have a human rider. However, I wasn't quite cut out for the military life. It was... too constricting for me," he said. He took another sip of wine.

"So I decided to leave. The Adelans disagreed with my point of view, quite ready to throw some chains on me so I could be disciplined. Having reached an impasse, I had to--"

He cleared his throat.

"Assert myself."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 12:47:12 PM
"Oh."

Yeah. That was very different from the story she'd been told.

"Well, that's...I'm sorry?" she offered a little lamely. "I didn't realize- I've never heard of a dragon being forced like that. I honestly didn't think anyone would have the spine to try it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 12:51:11 PM
"Well they'd been hunting me for the dragon knights for a while. They feared my power, wanted to wield it instead of fear it."

He frowned a bit.

"I'll never like what I did for my freedom, but it's what I had to do."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 12:59:14 PM
"I...can understand that." She sighed and sipped at her drink. "To be honest, I've always been afraid of you lot," she said, gesturing to him with her free hand. "I mean, I've seen riders and dragons with this deep, intense bond, but then there are others...and I can't help thinking, what happens when the dragons figure out how small we really are?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 01:11:28 PM
"Oh, we're perfectly aware," Merradin said, shooting her a sympathetic smirk.

"But us dragons have no quarrel with you. We're content with lazing in our hoards and trimming the fat off the edges of mankind. Sure, if we wanted, we could sink our teeth into the juicy meat, but if the humans go, then who'll make the treasure we collect?"

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 01:18:46 PM
The color drained from her face and she cleared her throat awakardly. "Yes, well...I suppose that's a good point," she murmured.

After another moment of silence, she asked, "So then...why did you help me? If humans are just treasure making pests, why bother saving one lone girl?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 01:27:02 PM
"Because I'm not like the others," Merradin said, nodding his head proudly.

"I've spent a lot of time among humans, watching them, conversing with them, drinking with them," he said, smirking at his last few words.

"As I've sated my curiosity over the centuries, I learned that humans, save for outwards appearances, are just like us dragons. Some are kind, some are evil. Humans can be powerful, weak, rich, poor..."

he trailed off to take a sip.

"You'd be surprised just how similar we are."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 01:32:48 PM
Elora nursed her drink, mulling that over. "I suppose that makes sense." She blinked, suddenly having a little trouble keeping her eyes open.

"Where do you get stuff like this?" she asked, nodding to her glass.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 01:40:58 PM
"I buy it," Merradin said plainly, and he took a heartier sip.

He looked as if he  was about to say something else, but then he took a quick sniff of the air, and nodded.

"Dinner's ready," he said, and he stood from the ground.

"Need a hand?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 01:44:43 PM
"Oh. Yeah, thanks." She took his hand and got to her feet. "Whoa."

The world tilted slightly, then righted itself again. She frowned at the glass in her hand. "Okay. Maybe I shouldn't be drinking this if all I've had to eat in the last few days is two apples," she muttered.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 01:53:54 PM
"Hrm, I'm tempted to agree," Merradin said, and he laughed softly.

Maybe you should save the rest of it for dinner," he said, and he darted into the kitchen to serve the food up into some plates.

"Please, take a seat!" he called from the kitchen.

Elora might find it interesting to have a dragon of all things serve her some dinner, but in all actuality, Merradin kind of enjoyed it! It wasn't often that he had guests, after all, and even then, any dragonesses he brought over were usually more interested in his hoard than sticking around for dinner.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 01:56:38 PM
"Er, thanks." She took a seat cautiously and tied to keep her still damp hair out of her face. Curious about the sheer...oddness of the situation, she asked slowly, "Do you entertain guests...like me often? Humans?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 02:14:59 PM
"Hm? Oh, no, not often. I don't even entertain guest that often in general," Merradin said. He came out of the kithen bearing two plates, which contained a generous helping of perfectly slow-cooked buffalo steak and potatoes, and set one down in front of Elora and then at the seat next to her. Much like his house, the dining table was small, but exquisite.

He spoke as he went back to get the stew.

"You're the first guest I've had in five years. I entertain the ones I do get, though. It's always nice to have some company."

He set the stew down at their places and sat down in his seat.

"I think I really outdid myself this time."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 02:20:28 PM
"It, ah, all looks delicious," Elora said, sincere if a little befuddled. "I...hope you won't take this the wrong way, but I wouldn't have thought a dragon would be a cook."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 02:57:37 PM
Merradin chuckled, and cut a piece of steak with a knife before delicately sticking a fork in it.

"You wouldn't be wrong. Dragons just eat their meat raw, or char it to a crisp," he said, and shuddered at the thought.

"Once I picked up cooking from humans, I never looked back."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 03:01:14 PM
"Huh." She picked at er own meal and her eyes widened a bit. "Wow! This is really good."

Well- that and she was starving. She supposed that could be a factor in how she thought the food tasted, but she had a feeling it would have been quite delicious on its own.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 03:06:37 PM
"Thank you!"

Merradin smiled at her, happy to see his cooking was up to snuff.

"I think I'm going to take a bath after dinner," he said, sipping from his wine before following it down with a spoonful of stew.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 03:10:27 PM
"Ah, right." She tilted her head. "Is there somewhere I should- I mean, I don't want to invade your privacy, but this space is very..." She waved a hand. "Open."

A little shrug. "Maybe I should just wait in here for you to finish?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 03:17:24 PM
"Hardly! I don't mind," Merradin said, and why would he? If she could see what he looked like beneath the blue velvet robe that he wore around his home, perhaps she'd understand his confidence.

"Bodies are bodies. You may roam the house as you will," he said, pausing between sentences to eat.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 03:24:21 PM
"Errr...alright then."

A week ago she probably wouldn't have thought much differently than him. Her eyes flicked down at herself and she frowned.

She'd never been ashamed of her body before. Almost more than anything else Dehak had done to her, she was slowly realizing that shame, that instinctive fear, was what she found truly unforgivable.

At least, that's how it felt looking back on it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 04:13:41 PM
Merradin gave her a sidelong smile as he continued to eat.

"I suppose you'll be wanting to return to your people as soon as possible?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 04:20:53 PM
"Yes, I-"

She suddenly went quiet. An odd look crossed her face. "Yes," she repeated, slower. "I need to...discuss some things with my superiors. The sooner the better."

To be honest, the idea of leaving wasn't really all that appealing in that moment. It was nice her, elegant and comfortable, and she didn't have to be a knight. She could just be Elora.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 04:32:16 PM
"You don't sound all too ready to go to me," Merradin said, giving her a sly wink.

"What says you can't be missing for a few days longer?" he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 04:36:30 PM
She cleared her throat. "Well...I suppose...a few days wouldn't hurt."

Guilt clenched right in her chest and she sighed, rubbing her temples. "This is ridiculous," she grumbled to herself. "I should be stronger than this. I shouldn't need a few days."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 04:43:38 PM
"It's not a matter of strength. If you look at it that way, then every small break might seem like giving into weakness," Merradin said, and he set down his utensils to join his hands, although he did take a sip of wine before he spoke.

"You've just been through an incredibly harrowing experience. You haven't even been in my care for eight hours," he continued.

"I think you should take a well-deserved breather."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 04:48:04 PM
Elora was quiet for a while, picking at her food. Then she nodded slowly and lifted her eyes to his.

"You know, you may be right. Thank you, Merradin." Saying his name now that she knew he really was that Merradin sent a strange little shiver down her spine, she cleared her throat.

"Why don't you- you could let me clean up. I don't mind, I'd like to repay your hospitality somehow. You could go take your bath."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 04:55:09 PM
At her offer, Merradin smiled a bit wider, letting her see that his human form was accurate down to the teeth and the structure of his mouth. Not many dragons could shapeshift so perfectly.

"Thank you, erm..."

He cleared his throat.

"I don't think I ever had the pleasure of knowing your name?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 05:00:04 PM
She gave him a small, shy smile. "Elora. Elora Braun." She nodded at him. "Pleased to officially make your acquaintance."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 05:04:07 PM
"Elora Braun," he repeated, letting her name roll off of his tongue like silk before he gave her a smirk.

"The pleasure is mutual," he said, and glanced down to his empty plate and bowl. He glanced to Elora's cup of wine, and then to his own.

"Would you like me to top up your glass before I go?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 05:10:20 PM
She really probably shouldn't. But, well...

Fuck it.

"Sure." She smiled and nodded her thanks.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 06:31:54 PM
Merradin nodded his acknowledgment and stood from his place. He walked by her, fetched the bottle of wine, and topped her glass off as well as his own.

"Thank you for the dishes," he said, before he took up his glass and walked towards the bath. He set the glass down by the rim and shed his robe. She'd get a glimpse of his body from behind, an impeccably muscled and powerful looking physique that went perfectly with his nature. She wouldn't have a view for long, because at that point he revealed his wings, tail, and horns, and his tail curled about as he stepped down into the bath.

"Absolutely perfect," he said to himself, stretching his wings out along the bath's rim as he sipped gently on his wine and let himself sink a bit further into the water.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 06:56:07 PM
Elora couldn't help but stare- she'd seen plenty of naked men, and while Merradin was certainly a powerful specimen, it was not his physique that caught her attention. Her eyes flickered curiously over his wings and tail, then up to the horns that crested his head.

Then she realized what she was doing and flushed, snapping her eyes away. She set about cleaning the dishes, doing her best to navigate her way around the elaborate kitchen.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 07:06:15 PM
Much like his bath, the kitchen's water basin had an enchantment that kept the waters clean, so she could wash the dishes to her hearts content in it and the waters would remain clear. There was a scrubber that sat in a small bowl filled with soap next to it.

While she washed the dishes, Merradin only got more comfortable, and he quite purposefully oriented himself so that when she left the kitchen, she'd be presented with a frontal view of him from the waist up.

He couldn't help himself.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 07:12:18 PM
Once she was satisfied the dishes were clean enough, Elora turned to make her way back to the bedroom.

She paused, eyes sweeping up and down Merradin's form pointedly. She was no stranger to such tactics, and raised an eyebrow at him. "Did you want a drinking partner?" she asked, nodding to his glass. She had retrieved her own from the table, held loosely in her hand.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 07:14:54 PM
"I wouldn't be opposed," Merradin said, voice nearly a purr as he took in the bath.

He sipped from his wine.

"Thank you once again, for the dishes."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 07:19:06 PM
"Of course." She shrugged and settled herself at the edge of the bath basin, legs curled to the side. She was just over an arm's length from her host, close enough to be friendly but not so close that she felt trapped.

"Least I could do. Call it payment for room and board." She toasted him and took a sip of her drink.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 07:30:28 PM
Merradin toasted back, adjusting his wing so that she could sit where she was.

He took a sip and looked back to her.

"How long have you served the crown?" he asked, looking up at her curiously.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 07:33:39 PM
Her eyes were drawn to the movement of his wing, so it took her a moment to refocus and answer his question.

"Oh. Well, I started training as a page when I was twelve, so...ten years." She shrugged and sipped her drink again. "I mean, I was only knighted four years ago, if that's what you're asking."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 07:49:11 PM
"I offer you belated congratulations," Merradin said, toasting her with his glass before taking a heavier sip.

"Speaking of room and board, I only have the single bed," Merradin said, glancing towards the bedroom, and then back to Elora.

"It's fairly large, so I think we can share without much issue," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 07:52:12 PM
Elora glanced to the bed, then back to him. "Well, ah...I suppose, if it doesn't bother you that's...fine."

Internally she had to fight down another surge of panic. He's not going to hurt you. Even if he was, you are not helpless. You are not bound. You can defend yourself.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 07:54:07 PM
He could read her tension like a book.

"If the prospect bothers you, I can always reside on my treasure hoard," Merradin said. He smirked at her.

"Wouldn't be much of a dragon if I didn't snooze on it occasionally."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 07:57:59 PM
"No, that's-"

She sighed and shook her head. "Look- I'm going to need to get over this. If you'd rather sleep on your...hoard, that's fine. But if you want the bed, me being skittish shouldn't kick you out of it."

That was what she'd do. She'd just run into the problem head on and eventually it would be easier to handle.

That had always worked for her in the past.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 08:31:05 PM
"As you wish," Merradin said.

He smirked.

"Maybe the wine will help."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 08:34:59 PM
She chuckled dryly, but there was little humor in it. "Here's hoping," she muttered, downing the rest of her glass.

Uncurling her legs, she let her toes dip into the warm water of the bath and wiggled them absently.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 08:45:48 PM
Merradin spared her wiggling toes a glance, and then looked back up to her with a smirk, downing half of his remaining wine as well.

"It's a bed fit for a dragon, so you shouldn't have much trouble finding it comfortable," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 08:47:45 PM
"Oh, I'm sure that's the case," she chuckled wryly.

Perhaps just a bit tipsy, she tilted her head at him and asked bluntly, "Isn't weird spending so much time human-shaped? I mean, if you even sleep like that- wouldn't you rather be a dragon?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 09:16:40 PM
"It's only weird if one doesn't like being a human," Merradin said, giving his answer with a grin.

"Besides, dragons are too big to enjoy things like warm baths, plush beds, or a nice glass of wine," he added.

"This form is like a second skin for me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 24, 2016, 09:19:46 PM
"Huh." A wry little smile crossed her lips and she shook her head. "Well that's...good."

She reached for her glass, remembered it was empty, and pulled her hand back, running her fingers through her hair with a soft huff.

"I'm gonna be honest- I should probably turn in soon. I don't think my body quite knows how to process alcohol right now," she admitted in a mumble, face twisting sourly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 24, 2016, 09:49:52 PM
Merradin laughed, wing twitching. The tip accidentally brushed her leg.

"Soon, but not now, hopefully?" Merradin said, looking to her.

"I find that I quite enjoy your company."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 25, 2016, 05:28:01 AM
Elora jumped slightly when his wing brushed against her, then flushed. "Well... I mean, it won't hurt, I guess," she mumbled.

Her smile twisted wryly and she blurted out suddenly, "I used to be fun, y'know. You probably would have liked my company a lot better a few weeks ago." She leaned back, bracing her palms on the floor behind her.

"I was never this much of a lightweight, first of all," she grumbled.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 25, 2016, 09:11:32 AM
Merradin folded one of his wings in so he could turn and rest his elbow against the rim and face her, his other hand holding his glass of wine.

"I think you've been fairly fun so far," he said, shrugging.

"And you're certainly not the most lightweight I've ever seen, either," he added.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 25, 2016, 09:14:16 AM
She scoffed. "Please. This is nothing- once upon a time I probably could've drunk you under a table," she boasted in a playful sort of way. "I'm just malnourished- you should've seen me at full strength."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 25, 2016, 01:13:45 PM
Merradin laughed, and she captured even more of his attention.

"Is that a challenge?" he purred, looking up to meet her eyes.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 25, 2016, 01:20:20 PM
Elora laughed. It felt good, if just a little bit forced. "Maybe," she drawled, smirking. "Gimme a day to recover and I'll take you up on that."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 25, 2016, 01:27:26 PM
Merradin returned her smirk, and turned to put his back to the rim, stretching out the wing he had folded. He finished his glass of wine, and set it down on the rim.

"I'll look forwards to it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 25, 2016, 01:29:54 PM
Elora smiled slightly and tilted her head, watching him. She couldn't help but be fascinated by the way the dragon parts blended so seamlessly into a human body.

"Can all of you do that?" she asked abruptly, waving a hand at him. "Look human and whatnot. I've never seen a dragon do it before, but I'd heard about it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 25, 2016, 01:36:46 PM
"Oh, a lot of us can do it, some better than others," Merradin said, and he gave his wings a slight stretch, purposefully giving Elora a view of how the wing connected to his exquisitely muscled back.

"Most just end up looking like humans with fangs, or small horns and whatnot. A smaller majority can look fully human. It's all a matter of practice."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 25, 2016, 01:39:49 PM
"Is it something you learn?" she asked curiously, leaning in a bit. She was oddly tempted to reach out and trace the joint of wing and shoulder; if she'd had just a bit more alcohol in her system, she might have done it.

"Or is it, like, I dunno...a knack or something?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 25, 2016, 01:43:46 PM
Merradin flexed the joint a bit more for her.

"It is. Almost all dragons who know how to do it figure it out on their own. It comes easier to some than others, of course," he explained.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 25, 2016, 01:49:46 PM
"Ah." She forced herself to lean back, folding her treacherously twitching hands in her lap. She bit her lip, trying to come up with something interesting to say but a little too tipsy to manage it.

"So, uh...how long have you- I mean, do you spend a lot of time like this?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 12:41:42 AM
"I really do. It's such a nice form!" Merradin said, happily showing himself off.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 08:33:48 AM
Elora chuckled quietly and shook her head. Her eyes flicked down, then jerked back up again and she forced herself to look away.

"It, ah, yeah it is." She cleared her throat and started to get to her feet. "I- I should really go to bed."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 09:59:11 AM
"Very well," Merradin said, and he nodded understandingly.

"I will join you shortly, perhaps."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 10:02:59 AM
"Oh- no, yeah, you take your time." She gave him a nod and a semi-forced little smile, then moved toward the bed.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 10:20:57 AM
Merradin didn't watch her leave, turning back around to keep relaxing in the bath. He himself wasn't quite sure about what kind of game he wanted to play with this human, but it was nice to have someone to show off to and to be a good host for.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 10:30:33 AM
Elora glanced back over her shoulder a few times at her host, completely bemused by the situation she found herself in.

Rescued by the Lightning-Eater. It sounded like some sort of bizarre dream. She huffed a chuckle to herself and climbed into the bed, pulling the covers up over her head and curling in on herself.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 10:39:05 AM
One thing that Elora would notice is that at night, the inside of the mountain got noticeably colder, to match the cold night air that flowed into it from the mouth of the cave.

Merradin bathed for a solid ten minutes more before he left the water. It was hard to do so silently, and even if he'd somehow left the water without making a single noise, the small crackle of electricity as he instantly dried himself ruined that streak.

Giving his wings another stretch, he approached the bed, not at all caring that he was naked (although he did throw on a loincloth that was barely enough to cover him), and he entered it. He slept on his side for the sake of his wings, facing Elora.

A mere three feet separated them on the bed. Merradin, with the lightning that coursed through his veins, was like a beacon of warmth.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 10:48:18 AM
Barely dozing, Elora jerked awake at the crackle of electricity. She sat up a bit, looking around wildly, then realized that the sound was only Merradin leaving the bath and relaxed back onto the bed.

She tensed when he climbed in beside her, but the beckoning warmth was undeniably tempting. Gods, why me? She tried to conserve her own heat, curling into a tight little ball.

Gradually, she started to doze again. In her sleep, her body instinctively sought heat, curving back toward Merradin slightly as a series of shivers rippled through her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 10:52:45 AM
And in response to her curving, Merradin made himself just a bit more accessible, although he didn't move any closer to her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 10:59:55 AM
Elora rolled over in her sleep and curled up again, though now she had sort of fit herself into the curve of the dragon's body.

Her brow furrowed and her eyelids fluttered as she slept, a few soft murmurs escaping her lips, obviously dreaming.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 11:08:20 AM
Merradin remained as he was, although one of his wings did move over her ever so slightly as she curved into him. He kept his arms to himself, though.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 11:11:59 AM
Now that she was near a source of heat the shivering had stopped, but her little twitchings and murmurings kept up.

The dreams at least didn't wake her though, just made her restless, tossing back and forth on the bed. She actually bumped into Merradin a few times, though even that didn't wake her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 11:15:18 AM
In an effort to both soothe her and allow himself to go to sleep, Merradin tried to assert some of his magic again, intent on giving her restful, blessedly dreamless sleep as he laid a hand on her head, softly stroking her hair.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 11:21:09 AM
Elora's body tensed and she shuddered under his touch, then suddenly relaxed. Her breathing evened out and she uncurled slightly, evidently much more peaceful.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 11:26:36 AM
"Sweet dreams," he murmured, and while his wing was still sort-of on her, he left her alone for the most part, closing his own eyes so he could drift off to sleep.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 11:33:22 AM
She wasn't sure how long she slept, but by the time she woke she felt worlds better than she had.

At least until she register the body next to her- unclothed- and the gentle pressure of the wing against her. She jerked upright with a gasp, instinctively scrambling away from the perceived threat.

It took her almost a full minute to remember where she was and who she was with. She clutched the robe tighter around her body, breathing heavily.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 11:43:29 AM
Merradin raised his head from the pillow at Elora's scrambling, and he offered her an apologetic expression.

"Elora?"

He raised a bit on an elbow, folding his wing onto his back.

"Are you alright?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 11:45:48 AM
She flinched at the sound of his voice, then tried to take a few breaths to control herself.

"I'm fine," she murmured eventually. "Just... I didn't realize where I was, that's all."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 11:51:17 AM
"You must've drifted towards me in your sleep. I am fairly warm against the cold of the cave," Merradin mused.

He sat up in the bed and stretched his wings out along with his arms and back. He groaned quietly, and then flopped back, wings and arms splayed out. He looked to her, and grinned.

"So, any ideas on how to spend your first day here?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 11:57:18 AM
"Yeah, must've..."

She bit at her lip, then shook her head and looked back to him. Her eyebrow arched.

"I...don't know. What do you usually do around here?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 12:07:34 PM
"Well, somedays I like to laze around, on others I'll take a tour of my territory," Merradin said.

"We could... do all kinds of things. Go fishing, go into town somewhere, anything."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 12:15:08 PM
"Well..." Elora glanced down at herself and frowned a bit. "Could I perhaps get some proper clothes before we go anywhere?"

The robe was very nice, but didn't really do all that much in the way of protection.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 12:18:01 PM
"What did you have in mind?" Merradin said, sitting up and turning to face her.

"I'm sure I can go out into my hoard and pick out a breastplate for you," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 12:26:21 PM
She laughed quietly. "I mean- sure, if that's what you've got. But I don't suppose you just have a tunic and breeches or something lying around?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 12:31:46 PM
Merradin smiled, happy to see his joke wasn't lost on her as he stood from the bed, giving another stretch. He walked towards his dresser, and opened it.

"I have a tunic and breeches, yes," he said, and he glanced back at her before returning to the task at hand. He came back with a royal blue tunic that had sleeves that went to the wrists and a pair of smooth, black breeches to match.

"How do you feel about blue? I think you'd look stunning in it," Merradin said, putting the clothes on the bed.

The tunic was a tad large for her, so she'd have to button it up tight and fold back the sleeves a bit to not look a bit odd.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 12:41:43 PM
"Oh, thank you!" She slipped off the bed with a bright smile. "I don't much care about the color, as long as I have some proper clothes," she chuckled, though gratitude was plain in her eyes.

She moved to pick up the tunic and breeches, "Err...could I have a moment to change?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 01:40:29 PM
"Of course," Merradin said, already halfway out of the room with his own clothes.

"I think blue's a good color for you, though," he added, stepping around the corner to put on his own clothes.

Blue, funnily enough, was also his color of choice. The tunic he selected had sleeves that went to the elbows, and a much more open chest than Elora's. The breeches were the same as hers, if not a bit tighter around the leg.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 01:44:05 PM
"Hm. Well, thank you."

She'd never given much thought to it before, but once she was dressed she realized the color actually did suit her rather well. Sure the clothes were a little big, but some careful folding and tucking made them fit just fine. She smiled slightly and slipped out of the bedroom cautiously.

"Ah, Merradin?" She glanced around, looking for him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 01:50:49 PM
Merradin was adjusting his breeches when she came in, otherwise dressed and ready as he stood at the kitchen archway. He turned to face her, and his face brightened considerably.

"Ah, stunning! Just how I thought it'd be," he said, stepping a bit closer to her. His eyes were on her, attentive for what she had to say.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 01:55:05 PM
"Oh, well-" She cleared her throat, flushing a bit. "Thank you."

Her eyes flicked over him curiously and she licked at her lips, feeling awkward. Gods, this exchange would have been so easy even a week ago- now she just felt like she didn't know what to say.

"You...clean up nicely, Master Lightning-Eater."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 01:58:05 PM
Merradin smirked at the compliment. If his wings were out, he'd stretch them out, but as it stood, it was just his horns, as anything else would disturb the clothing.

"As do you, Ser Braun," he rebutted, giving her a quick looking over just as she did to him.

"Breakfast?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 01:59:42 PM
Elora chuckled- at least she hadn't offended him- and nodded. "That would be wonderful, thank you."

She took a few steps into the kitchen. "Could I help? I'm no chef, but if you give me instructions I could probably manage something."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 02:15:50 PM
"Hm," Merradin said, thoughtfully tapping his chin.

"Well, I was going to just make each of us a bowl of fruit, perhaps with a kind of honeyish berry sauce?"

He thought for a few moments before he looked to her and gently put a hand on her forearm.

"Can you mix the sauce?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 02:17:18 PM
She flinched at the touch, but it was less dramatic than her previous skittishness. "Um, yeah. Yeah, I think I can manage that," she said with a quick smile, though it didn't quite reach her eyes.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 04:04:12 PM
"Thank you," Merradin said, and he turned to walk to the cellar. The doors magically opened for him and he went down a step. He motioned for Elora to follow him, beckoning her to him with a finger.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 04:11:42 PM
Elora hesitated, a little leery of following him into an enclosed space. After a moment though she relented and padded after him cautiously.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 04:15:26 PM
Merradin led her down into his cellar, which was a trove of all kinds of vegetables, fruits, and spices. At the far end of the room, there was a set of magical looking doors from under which a gentle, frosty air flowed.

"Honey and berries are in the middle section of the right wall," Merradin said, pointing.

"I'll gather the fruits."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 04:19:53 PM
She nodded and moved toward the indicated wall. "Alright. How much should I get?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 04:22:45 PM
Merradin didn't answer her immediately, focused on picking out a few pears. When he did, he looked at the wall, and thought for a few moments.

"Couple bunches of raspberries and a handful of cranberries should do it," he said. He picked out some apples.

"As for the honey, just get the already opened jar. I think it's the one with half left."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 04:26:36 PM
"Sir, yes, sir." She gathered up the berries and honey and juggled them around in her arms until she had a good grip on them. "I'll just...head back up then?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 04:30:25 PM
"Go on ahead, if you're ready," Merradin said, still picking out some fruits. A melon and even a mango were among his selections.

"There's bowls in a cabinet next to the water basin."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 05:05:41 PM
"Got it." She moved back up to the kitchen, setting her supplies to the side while she prepared a bowl to heat water, adding the fruit slowly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 05:11:58 PM
After a few moments, Merradin came up from the cellar. The door closed behind him and he set his various fruits down on a counter and retrieved a cutting board.

His right arm turned into scales beneath the elbow, and his hand became more reminiscent of a dragon's talons. He picked up a pear and started slicing it, his claws cutting through it like it was made of air.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 05:31:35 PM
Elora watched him curiously as Shen went about her own task, steadily adding berries and honey to the sauce and tasting it every so often until she deemed it acceptable.

"So...how long have you lived here?" she asked, trying to start casual conversation.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 05:40:34 PM
"Well, I set off on my own at the tender age of one-hundred," Merradin started, and he smiled at Elora.

"If you think I'm a looker now, you should've seen me in my three-hundreds. Those were some fun times," he said, and he returned to the subject.

"So, after about fifty years of wandering, I found this cavern and claimed it for myself. Been here ever since."

He perfectly sliced up the first pear, and moved onto the next.

"Of course, the house wasn't the first thing I built, but I've been in this cavern since one-hundred and fifty, and right now, I'm about one thousand, one-hundred and eighty-seven."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 05:44:11 PM
"I never said I thought you were a looker," Elora teased, winking at him. A bit of her natural personality seemed to be shining through the wariness that had cloaked her since he'd found her. "Someone is awfully sure of himself."

Her hand slipped when he voiced his age and she burned herself on the hot pot. "Oh- ow! Damnit." She drew her hand back and sucked at her burned finger.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 05:48:48 PM
"Oh! Let me see that," Merradin said, moving towards her, presenting his hand, which had already started to frost over a bit with some magically generated cold winds. Even so, he looked at her, and returned her wink, eyes still very draconic, but not in an unattractive way.

"You don't need to say it for me to know it," he retorted, and he raised his chin a bit, letting his horns catch the light.



Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 06:13:30 PM
Elora rolled her eyes but gave him her hand. "So? I'm sure lots of females find you attractive, this can't be news to you," she snipped, quirking an eyebrow.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 06:18:19 PM
"It isn't," Merradin said, and he took her hand, singling out her burnt finger and encasing it in cold, sucking out the lingering heat that would've otherwise caused the burn to sting well into the day.

"What matters is I got you to admit it," he said, smile playfully smug.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 06:41:04 PM
She chuckled, then sighed in relief as the dull pain ebbed. "Yeah, well- I'm kinda notorius for admitting things like that pretty easy, back home. Don't let it go to your head," she teased.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 06:44:03 PM
Merradin continued to smirk, although. His eyes caught on something on her clothing, and before he could stop himself, he reached with his other hand and straightened her collar a bit.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 06:49:33 PM
In a flash Elora's lightheartedness vanished as she flinched back from his hand, her mouth twisting into a warning snarl while a flash of fear went through her eyes.

Then she realized what he'd been doing and froze, eyes a little wide. "I, uh- I'm sorry," she muttered, embarrassment and irritation rising in her chest.

Gods, she just wanted to feel normal again!
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 06:51:36 PM
"No, no don't apologize, that was my bad," Merradin said, having retreated his hand just as quickly as she flinched away.

"I, I just saw your collar was uneven and I couldn't help myself," he said.

"Forgive me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 06:55:37 PM
She shook her head. "No, it's fine. I was- I need to get over this."

It didn't occur to her for a second that pushing the trauma aside and pretending it hadn't happened maybe wasn't her healthiest option.

She swallowed and tried for a smile. "Nothing to forgive." She moved to turn back to the pot, muttering, "Sorry, don't want this to burn."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 07:00:23 PM
Merradin made a mental note to talk to her later, but for now, returned to cutting fruit with his claws. He'd gone from cutting to dicing, reducing the fruit slices into neat, diced cubes.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 07:02:26 PM
Elora stirred the sauce a while longer before removing it from the heat and setting it aside. She glanced at Merradin every so often, not quite sure what to say- for one of the few times in her life- and feeling awkward.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 07:12:08 PM
Merradin seemed perfectly content in what he was doing, although it could only happen so many times before she glanced towards him and their eyes met.

Rather than quickly glance away, Merradin offered her a warm smile.

"Finished with the sauce?" he asked, breaking the eye contact as he glanced towards the sauce bowl.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 07:20:57 PM
She jerked her eyes away quickly, not really sure herself why she did. "Um, yeah. Hope it's okay," she mumbled, rubbing at the back of her neck.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 07:25:40 PM
Merradin approached, still smiling, and dipped a claw in. He raised it to his mouth and he gave it a lick, nodding at the flavor.

"It's great!" he said, and he went to retrieve two more bowls.

"Go ahead and have a seat, breakfast'll be right up."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 07:27:49 PM
"Good." She smiled, a little relieved, and took a seat as offered. "You really don't need to- like, wait on me," she added as he moved about. "I mean, I'm perfectly capable..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 07:38:20 PM
"I know you're capable," Merradin said as he approached the table, hands human again, and he sat down next to her, setting their bowls down. It was a mix of diced fruit and that honey-berry sauce, although the sauce was definitely more a topping than something the fruit swam in.

"But I also want to be a good host anyways," Merradin said, nodding as if to affirm himself.

"I'd even give you a massage, if you'd let me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 07:40:03 PM
Elora tucked into her breakfast eagerly, then glanced up at Merradin with an arched brow.

"Really? A massage? Why?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 07:44:41 PM
"Because you don't know how much you need a massage until you get one," Merradin said, eating at a much more relaxed pace.

"I can't imagine how achey and stiff your muscles must be, especially with the life of a soldier."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 07:48:31 PM
"Weeell..." She tilted her head at him as she ate, then shrugged. "I mean- if you're offering, I guess it'd be silly to say no."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2016, 07:54:06 PM
Merradin smiled brightly, and resumed eating.

"After breakfast?" he said, still looking at his food.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2016, 07:56:05 PM
She chuckled and continued picking at her food. Now that she'd had a proper meal, she seemed to have remembered how to eat like a normal person.

"Sure. Ah, thanks."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 08:03:32 AM
"It's no problem," Merradin said, and he resumed eating.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 08:32:12 AM
Elora turned her attention back to her own food, surprised that just fruit could be so filling. She tended to favor a bit more substance to her meals.

Curious, she glanced up at him again. "So...how does a dragon have access to so much fresh fruit anyhow?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 08:49:24 AM
"I buy it. I have means of delivery, a schedule, everything," Merradin said.

"But I'm afraid that's all I'm comfortable sharing."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 09:01:14 AM
"Oookay..." Her curiosity was piqued, but she knew she wouldn't get anything more out of him so she let the subject drop as she finished off her breakfast. "Well, thank you. It was very good."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 09:04:02 AM
Merradin nodded.

"You're welcome. So," he paused to stand, and motioned to his bedroom.

"Massage?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 09:10:45 AM
Her heart leapt up into her throat. She took a breath and forced it back down, then offered a small smile.

"Ah, sure." She stood, feeling tense but wanting to deal with this problem head on. She could do this, how hard could it be?
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 09:34:54 AM
Oh, Merradin knew that it was about to get very interesting, but he kept his mouth shut about it.

When they reached the bedroom, he motioned to the bed.

"Take off your tunic and breeches and lie down on your stomach," Merradin said, and he turned around to give her some privacy.

"You can use the tunic to cover your rear, I only really need access to your legs."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 09:42:14 AM
Elora fought the urge to run. She could do this. She could do this.

"Alright." She stripped almost roughly, as though trying to rip away the panic that was rising up in her chest. She lay down on the bed and covered as much as she could with the tunic, forcing herself to breathe.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 09:47:17 AM
"It's alright," Merradin said, going to stand over her. He slid a pillow closer to her head, in case she wanted to use it.

"Just relax, let all the tension out as I work. You're going to feel amazing after this," he said, and he touched the nape of her neck, and then her back, getting a feel for her musculature and all of that before he actually started, stopping at her lower back, skipping over her rear, and continuing to just examing from her thighs down.

His touch was gentle and precise, and he spoke as he worked.

"Just as I thought. You have so many knots," he murmured.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 09:55:28 AM
Elora tensed up at the touch of his fingers, despite how firmly she told herself to relax. "Right. Um...right," she mumbled, turning her head slightly to rest it on the pillow.

Normally she would have relished the gentle touches- she'd had very little leave time lightly, it had been a long time since someone had touched her like this, even without romantic intention. And there was the pleasant tingle she was familiar with, the little fluttering in her chest.

but it was drowned out by the sudden wash of fear. Her hands fisted in the sheets and her breathing picked up, heart starting to race as fight or flight kicked into gear.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 09:59:13 AM
"Do you need me to go slower?" Merradin said, pausing a bit when he finished looking over her legs and hovering his hands over her shoulders, eyes watching her fist.

"It's just me, Merradin. You're safe here," he whispered, trying to soothe her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 10:04:19 AM
"N-no. I'm fine." She winced at her stutter, cleared her throat and tried again. "I'm alright, really."

She took a few more breaths and her body relaxed very slightly. He's not going to hurt me, he's not going to hurt me...
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 10:15:34 AM
"Alright," Merradin said, and he started at her shoulders. He was firm, but also gentle, moving slowly and precisely as he kneaded the flesh by her collar and worked down to her shoulders.

"Can you feel those knots melting away?" He said, and he resumed his work.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 10:38:58 AM
With deep, steady breaths, she did eventually start to relax, if only a little. "Um, yeah."

Memory suddenly assaulted her and she tensed again, clenching her eyes shut. Instinct demanded she run, or fight, but she forced it down, breathing shallow and panicky.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 11:04:16 AM
Merradin could still feel her tension, so he decided to add some levity.

"I'm willing to bet you never thought you'd get a massage from a dragon," Merradin said, hands moving to knead her back, then a bit closer to her sides, and then slightly lower on her back. He wasn't just alright at it, Merradin was damn good at what he was doing.

"How're you feeling?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 11:18:18 AM
She couldn't deny that the purely physical reaction he pulled from her was amazing. She even had a few moments where it was all she thought about, pushing the traumatic memories aside as best she could.

"No, can't say I did," she chuckled, trying to relax herself into the bed a bit more.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 11:34:11 AM
Merradin smiled, and he edged more around her sides, kneading and squeezing to draw out any tension she had as he slowly made his way towards her lower back.

"Well, consider yourself lucky, I don't do this often," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 11:35:57 AM
Elora laughed again, the sound a bit more relaxed this time. "Well, that I can imagine," she muttered teasingly. "Where'd you even learn this?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 03:55:50 PM
"I learned it from a bathhouse worker," Merradin said, and his hands got closer and closer to her lower back, which, unsurprisingly, had the most tension to it. He thoroughly worked that area, eyes scanning the skin of her back.

"She'd performed it on me, and it piqued my curiosity."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 04:37:52 PM
Elora couldn't keep herself from giving a short barknof laughter. "And was the massage all she performed on you?" she goaded playfully.

His hands working through the tension in her back was heaven, and she started to relax a little more.

Then there was a little brush, a flick of his thumb against her side- it was nothing, just a simple touch, but memory came crashing down in her and she gasped, bolting away from him. Panicked, she leaped from the bed and skittered away, eye she wild as she sank into a defensive crouch.

A moment later she realized what had happened and covered her face, groaning. "I- I'm sorry," she whispered, self-loathing evident in her voice.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 04:45:41 PM
Merradin was stunned at how quickly she got away from him. However, after a few moments of processing, he averted his eyes from her, as she was topless.

"It's fine, Elora," Merradin said, and he met her eyes. Giving a sigh, he sat down on the bed, and patted the space next to him.

"Are you sure you're fine?" Merradin asked.

"If you want to talk about it, I'm here."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 04:53:01 PM
She bit her lip, then cautiously moved forward to perch on the edge of the bed. She twisted a bit to cover herself as best she could with the sheet and wrapped her arms right around herself.

"I feel like he broke me," she murmured after several long moments of silence. "That- it was the one thing I promised myself he couldn't do, but now..." Her eyes glimmered with the threat of tears and she looked away.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 05:21:05 PM
Merradin listened, and when she was done, he set a hand down on the bed next to her. An offer, in case she wanted the comfort. It didn't matter who did it, Merradin didn't need to know that.

"But he didn't break you," he said, and he tried to meet her eyes.

"The sword you came with had blood. His blood, I would presume," he stated.

"You held out. You stayed strong and used that strength to overpower him and escape," he said.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 05:26:28 PM
Elora gave a sound that was half laugh, half sob. She looked at his hand for a moment, then took it cautiously.

"I know," she murmured. "I know. I survived, but I- it feels like this won't go away. I'm afraid now. I never was before. I drank when I wanted, fought for the hell of it, loved who pleased me...maybe it was a little unorthodox, but it was my life!"

She bowed her head, clutching his hand a little tighter. "Now- now I can't even feel your hand on my back without thinking of him. Drinking makes me weak, and a fight..." She shook her head with a mirthless laugh. "There's a difference between living and surviving. And I'm not really sure which I'm doing now."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 05:41:21 PM
"Well, the drinking will come back, I can tell you that much," Merradin said, nodding affirmingly. He squeezed her hand in return, and he turned to fully face her.

"You're alive, so you're living. You can cook, drink, enjoy baths, and presumably many more things that I've yet to see. If you were stronger than him when you escaped, you're certainly stronger than him now."

With a dry chuckle, he added "You were brave enough to even try and stand up to me when I found you."

He motioned to her.

"You can still drink when you want and love who pleases you, you just need to reclaim the experience for yourself. Make anything that reminds you of him yours."




Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 05:55:15 PM
She was quiet for several long moments. "That...is not bad advice."

She offered him a small smile, then took a shuddering sort of breath. "If... If you don't mind, do you think we could try to finish that massage?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 06:04:50 PM
Merradin nodded, and he stood from the bed, motioning to it.

"If you'd be so kind as to lie down for me again," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 06:09:18 PM
Elora took a few more breaths to calm herself and nodded, then stretched out on the bed, using the tunic to cover herself again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 06:30:50 PM
"Now, where were we?" he mused, and he refrained from brushing his thumb against her side as he found the spot where he left off and continued.

"So, to answer your previous question, the massage was all she performed," Merradin said.

"Although, in hindsight, it was a pretty involved massage."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 06:45:10 PM
She chuckled and slowly started to relax again. "On your end or hers?" she teased quietly, trying to remember what she would normally do in a situation like this.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 06:47:02 PM
"It was... a mutual effort," Merradin recounted, and he found a stiff spot right above her hips, so he pursued that, intent on leaving only relaxed, massaged flesh in his wake.

"Although, curiously enough, she didn't charge me at the end."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 06:54:12 PM
Elora snorted and rolled her eyes. She still found it hard not to tense as images of Dehak flashed through her mind with the occasional touch, but she was trying to take his advice- make it hers again.

A soft groan left her as he pressed on a particularly stubborn knot and she winced. "Ah- ow. Oohhhh, okay...that feels good," she mumbled almost sleepily.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 06:56:45 PM
"Oh, this is unforgivable," Merradin said, and with the practiced hands that came with millennia of life, he made short work of the knot.

"Are you saying you didn't like anything before?" he asked, raising an eyebrow.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 07:02:47 PM
"N-no, I did," she mumbled. "I just...I'm finding it easier to enjoy it now," she admitted after a moment.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 07:05:26 PM
"Ah, alright," Merradin said, and now that he'd finished with her back, he lifted his hands away.

"I'm going to do your legs now," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 07:10:51 PM
Elora's stomach clenched in anxiety, but she took a breath and forced it away. "Alright," she murmured, glancing at him over her shoulder.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 07:15:06 PM
He started low, at her ankle, kneading and gauging with his fingers before he started moving up, squeezing and melting away tense muscles.

"You have amazing legs. Has anyone ever told you that?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 07:21:40 PM
Despite her tension, a very small chuckle bubbled out of her. "No, actually. I've heard "pretty hair", "fine hands", "pouty lips," and "fantastic breasts", but never much about my legs."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 07:48:28 PM
"Well, a few more come to mind," Merradin said, working the tension out of her calves and lower legs before ascending to the area just behind the inside of her knee.

"Your eyes are quite striking as well," Merradin said.

"And I think you've got a very fine set of curves."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 07:55:02 PM
She squeaked- evidently he'd found a sensitive spot. "My eyes?" she repeated, glancing back at him. A bit of color rose in her cheeks. "Huh. That's maybe a new one too."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 08:04:50 PM
"It's just such a rich color, especially with those little flecks of gold," Merradin said. He slipped a hand beneath her leg to gently cup her knee, lifting the leg and straightening it out, smoothing a hand down her angle to keep her foot parallel.

"Your voice is quite pleasant on the ears as well. If I'd met you on the street, I wouldn't be able to believe that a knight could have such pleasant tones."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 08:07:20 PM
"Well, I'm not just a knight." Elora sucked in a quiet breath as his hands continued their work, lashes fluttering. "I was...raised to be a lady too," she murmured after a moment.

A thought struck her and she laughed quietly, twisting her upper body to look at him. "What would have been the chances of us just meeting on the street anyhow?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 08:10:18 PM
"In Ketra?" Merradin mused, and once he'd straightened out one leg, he moved to repeat the same thing with the other one.

"I'd say that it would range from highly unlikely to probable, depending on the part of town and the time of year," Merradin said.

"I attend all the festivals, so we might've even brushed shoulders by accident."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 08:15:47 PM
"Really?" She lay back down properly with another sigh. "And no one knows who you really are," she mused, a small smile twisting her lips.

"Why go to human festivals anyway? Surely they can't be that interesting for you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 08:25:01 PM
He smirked, fingers travelling along her other calf and returning to that area beneath her inner knee. He worked that area out a bit more, and then set her leg down. Then, he moved past her knees, to where her thighs started.

"Oh, so much tension here," he sighed, and got to work.

"Well, seeing as how there's drinking, dancing, and good times, it makes it leagues better than any dragon festivals," Merradin said.

"Which, of course, we have none," he chuckled.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 08:28:14 PM
Even as he mentioned it her tension increased, and without thinking she muttered, "Yeah, well. Repeated rape will do that to a person."

Her eyes closed and she let out a sharp breath.

"...so dragons don't have festivals? Do you ever just...get together?" She winced at her own awkwardness.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 08:35:50 PM
"Oh, Elora, I..."

His fingers curled a bit, and he stopped, hands going to the bed.

"I had no idea," he said, looking to her.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 08:40:32 PM
"Really?" She sat up a bit and twisted to look at him. "I- I figured you would've just...assumed." She dropped her eyes, drawing her bottom lip between her teeth and unconsciously hugging her arms around her chest.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2016, 08:42:42 PM
"I... I assumed that you were raped but..."

He sighed, and put a hand on her shoulder.

"How long were you captured?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2016, 08:45:52 PM
She shrugged, not looking at him. "A few days. Maybe a week." Her eyes had gone dull, glimmers of gold fading away. "Felt like a lifetime."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 12:57:50 AM
To Merradin, the disappearance of the gold from her eye was immediately noticeable. It was a feature that he found wickedly attractive, finding pleasure in both the aesthetic of it and on a baser level closer to those unshakeable draconic instincts for gold.

He sat down at the edge of the bed, eyes sympathetic as he placed a hand on her shoulder.

"I'm sorry, Elora. I wish there was something I could do to just... Whisk it all away with a touch of my finger and a few perfect words, but I can't," Merradin said, and he looked away then.

Suddenly, he smiled.

"But I'm going to try my best to do it anyways," he said, smile turning into a smirk as he stood and resumed working on her legs.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 04:27:28 AM
Elora stiffened slightly at his touchbin her shoulder, but she smiled a bit in a slightly forced sort of way, hoping to convey a little gratitude.

She chuckled when he went back to work and slowly lay back down on the bed. "There are probably many things you can do, Lightning Eater, but this seems like it might be beyond even you," she murmured dryly, though she did relax a bit under his attentions.

She shifted a little, resisting the urge to flinch away from him with every inch he worked higher on her thighs. If he'd wanted to hurt her he would have done it already- she had to keep reminding herself that he'd done nothing but help her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 07:01:46 AM
He continued his slow progress upwards, devoting both hands to a single side and working deftly to rub and squeeze away all the tension of her captivity.

"If I might be so bold, Ser Braun, I find your appearance in its entirety to be quite pleasant," he said, picking up the conversation from before.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 07:11:47 AM
Elora chuckled quietly and glanced back at him.

A thought suddenly struck her and she voiced it without thinking: "Can dragons do that? Be...attracted to humans, and what have you? Wouldn't you have some sort of dragony instinct to make sure you only liked lady dragons?"

Her tone was simply curious, none of the usual teasing.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 07:35:40 AM
"Most dragons stick to their own kind, but it is not unheard of for an exceptional non-dragon to catch a dragon's eye," Merradin said with a nod, and he moved onto her other leg.

"When I'm done with this leg, can you turn over onto your back? I'd need to do the other side of your legs and shoulders."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 07:57:39 AM
"Huh." She digested that, nodding slowly. "What? Oh, yeah, sure." She glanced back at him again. "Just say when."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 09:05:06 AM
He smirked at her, and after a minute, he finished with her other leg.

"So, how do we feel so far?" He said.

"I won't accept any answer that isn't 'absolute heaven'."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 09:09:59 AM
Elora laughed and propped herself up a bit so she could look at him. "Well, then I guess my answer has to be- absolute heaven."

Her eyes softened a bit and she added, "Really though. This is...very nice."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 09:28:17 AM
Merradin chuckled a bit to himself, and he met her eyes, searching for that gold.

He took a moment to look her over, as if affirming himself of his handiwork, before he made a twirling motion with his finger.

"Could you turn over for me?" Merradin said, and he turned around to give her some privacy.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 09:30:44 AM
"Ah, right. Sure." She waited until his back was turned, then rolled over. Feeling suddenly and incredibly self conscious, she hurriedly spread the tunic over her hips and folded her arms firmly across her breasts.

"Okay. You can turn around now."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 09:50:48 AM
Merradin turned about, and after appraising her for a few moments, he pointed to himself.

"Do you want my tunic? So you can cover a bit better?" He offered, lifting his fingers to the top lace of his tunic.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 09:55:48 AM
"Um..." She gave him a sheepish sort of laugh and nodded. "If you don't mind, I'm not gonna say no."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 10:05:45 AM
Merradin chuckled, and he lifted his tunic up over his head, letting his wings back out. He set the tunic down on top of her, and averted his eye, giving her a moment to adjust it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 10:11:11 AM
Elora shifted the tunic so it covered her properly, watching his wings with curiosity. She didn't think she'd ever get used to that, no matter how many times she saw it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 10:29:43 AM
Merradin glanced down with his eyes, and upon seeing she was ready, he went and put his hands on her shoulders, eyes watching her curiously as he gave the front of her collar the same treatment as the back.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 10:40:12 AM
Somehow, though he was closer in this position, Elora felt more comfortable now that she could see him.

And of course it would be much easier to wrap her hands around his throat like this...

She gave herself a little shake and tried to relax back. Her eyes continued to watch him warily, though the glinting gold in her eyes had reasserted itself.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 01:08:05 PM
There it was. Merradin met her eyes and smiled warmly as he kneaded her collar, moving to her shoulders and upper arms.

"Oh! So strong, too," he said, and he gave her bicep a playful pinch before he resumed.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 01:12:53 PM
She giggled, ticklish, and batted his hand away with a playful sort of smirk. "Oi, stop that! I fight back you know."

Loaded words, though she said them with a smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 01:55:44 PM
Merradin laughed with her and got back to work. He finished with her upper body, skipped over her torso, and went right back to her legs.

"So, given any thought about what you want to do after this?" Merradin said.

Once again, he gently took a leg up, kept it straight, and lifted it to stretch it for her. Slowly, he bent her knee and drew the leg in closer to her torso, getting a nice, full rotation.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 02:02:22 PM
Elora's lashes fluttered and she sighed quietly as her muscles started to relax gradually. She tensed up a bit again when he lifted her leg, then forced herself to breathe.

"Well... I dunno. I'm..." She sighed again and her eyes closed. "Having a bit of a hard time focusing..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 02:16:48 PM
Merradin raised an eyebrow at her wording, and then smirked, evidently pleased with himself that he could evoke such relaxation in her.

"Well, I haven't taken my morning bath yet, so you're free to join me," he said, and he set her leg down and started giving the other the same treatment.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 02:19:34 PM
Shivers ran up her spine. It was some combination of wariness and an instinctive reaction to the continued touches.

"That...sounds pretty goods." She looked up at him, eyes suddenly sort of calculating. Make it mine again...
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 02:29:08 PM
Merradin met her eyes for a few moments, smiled, and then finished stretching out her other leg before the kneading began.

"Now, I'm almost done here, and I feel like you should know that when you stand up, you're going to be dangerously limber," he said, and his smile widened a bit.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 02:32:33 PM
"Dangerously limber?" she laughed. "What the hell does that mean?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 02:41:07 PM
"That you're going to feel so light on your feet, you're liable to trip over something," Merradin said, tone playful. He finished with one thigh and moved onto the other.

"Don't worry. If I'm there, I'll catch you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 02:52:11 PM
"How gallant," Elora drawled. She hissed in a sharp breath and almost jerked her leg away when he his fingers brushed a little higher on her thigh, but forced herself to relax again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 03:43:31 PM
Merradin laughed.

"You're in good hands," he said, nodding his head.

He took his hands off of her, and then dusted his hands off.

"And we're done! I'll go ahead and slip into the bath, you can go ahead and move at your own leisure," he said, and he walked out of the bedroom, shooting her a wink as he stretched his wings out.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 03:47:11 PM
Slowly, Elora sat up. She hummed contentedly and stretched, feeling much more relaxed than she'd expected.

Maybe there was some merit to this whole massage thing.

Feeling very light indeed, she slipped off the bed, glanced at her borrowed clothes, then shrugged and slipped the robe on instead as she made her way out of the bedroom. If she was just going to get in the bath anyway, what was the point?
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 04:06:42 PM
When she left the bedroom, Merradin was in the bath, wings outstretched and tail resting on the rim. He glanced at her sidelong as she came in.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 04:10:52 PM
Carefully not looking at him. Elora paused at the edge of the bath. Then she took a sharp breath, dropped the robe, and stepped in. Immediately she sank up to her neck, long silver hair floating around her to provide some modesty, and she glanced over at the dragon with a combination of curiosity and wariness.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 04:32:03 PM
When she looked over to Merradin, she'd find that he was just in a world of his own, relaxing against the bath. After a moment, though, his eyes opened, and he glanced at her. He noted her wariness with an arch of his brow.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 04:32:47 PM
She moved to the other side of the bath and let her back press against the rim. She met his arched brow with one of her own.

"What?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 04:54:34 PM
"Nothing," Merradin said, and he smirked.

"I just think that relaxed is a very good look for you," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 04:58:06 PM
Elora snorted and rested her head back. "Thanks, I guess." She closed her eyes and allowed herself to enjoy the warm water.

As she relaxed she let herself spread out a bit. Some of the strange panic and shame she'd felt just from baring her body before had faded- she still wasn't at a place where she felt comfortable, but she was able to recognize what was trauma induced fear and what was her natural modesty (or rather lack thereof).
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 05:19:55 PM
Merradin nodded.

"You're welcome."

He stretched a bit, letting himself sink into the water.

"So, any ideas for how you're going to spend your day?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 05:22:58 PM
She groaned. She really didn't want to think about that.

"I should go home," she muttered. "I just... I want to be- over this, before I do. I don't want them looking at me like I'm...fragile."

She huffed and glanced away, worrying her lip. "Though I should at least send some sort of message. They'll think my entire unit was killed."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 05:41:02 PM
"Well, think of it this way. If you tell them that you're experiencing the Lightning-Eater's hospitality, I'm sure they'll give you all the time you need," Merradin said, smirking. He shifted a bit.

"And you really should take as much time as you want. You know they're just going to send you right back out regardless of whether you've recovered fully or not, right?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 05:46:18 PM
She frowned, she couldn't help it. "You know, so many people I've met lately seem to think my military are monsters," she muttered. "If I told them I was unfit for duty they would give me leave. I'm just planning on not telling them that."

She glanced away. "I should write a letter, at the very least. Is there any way to deliver something like that?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 05:50:26 PM
"I don't think they're monsters," Merradin said, putting a hand on his chest.

"Just... stringent."

He cleared his throat, and answered her question.

"We'd have to go into town to find a courier, though."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 05:58:17 PM
"Alright." She ran her fingers through her hair, then ducked her head under water and came back up again quickly.

"How long should that take?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 06:01:04 PM
"Not too long, I'd wager. The longest part would actually be writing the letter," Merradin said, and he shrugged his shoulders.

"Would you fancy a night on the town?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2016, 06:06:47 PM
Elora chuckled a bit and eyed him curiously. "And what exactly does a night on the town entail, with you?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 28, 2016, 11:06:54 PM
"Drinking, eating a good meal," Merradin said. He looked at her, and ran a hand through his wet hair.

"Maybe I could convince you to share a dance with me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 05:57:21 AM
She tilted her head at him. "That sounds...acceptable," she said slowly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 06:21:04 AM
Merradin smirked, and closed his eyes, finding himself at rest.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 06:43:41 AM
Elora allowed herself to relax as well, though she kept her eyes open. She scrubbed gently at her skin and watched the dragon out of the corner of her eye.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 07:02:41 AM
This time, it was Merradin's turn to open his eyes and notice he was being watched.

"Hm?" he said, eyes meeting hers before she could glance away.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 07:09:30 AM
A bit of color rose to her cheeks when she realized she'd been caught, but she held his gaze.

"You're a surprisingly trusting creature," she noted by way of en excuse. "How would you know I wouldn't take adavantage if you're vulnerability now? I mean- you don't really know all that much about me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 08:14:36 AM
"I know that you're not an idiot," Merradin said, expression still friendly, although a touch of seriousness appeared. Then, a smirk.

"I'd also like to think that you have better manners than that."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 08:17:01 AM
She chuckled and leaned her head back against the rim again. "Well, you got me there," she chuckled. "That's no way to repay your hospitality."

She cracked an eye open suddenly and looked at him. "...How can I repay you, by the way?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 08:24:17 AM
"Oh, don't worry about it," Merradin said, waving a hand at the issue.

"I'm the one who brought you here, after all. It'd be rather improper of me to ask something in return."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 08:27:51 AM
Elora frowned a bit. "That doesn't seem right," she murmured. "You saved my life. I owe you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 08:33:09 AM
"Well..."

Merradin seemed to be in thought.

"I wouldn't mind a reward from the crown, if you can put in a good word for me," Merradin said, raising an eyebrow.

"Past that, I wouldn't need anything from you," he said, lifting himself a bit out of the water so he could rest his arms on the rim.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 08:38:08 AM
That startled a laugh out of he. "Reward from the crown?" She shrugged and said playfully, "I'll do my best, but I'm just a knight. Doubt I could really get the ear of some royal or another."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 09:53:19 AM
"Well, a knight that's enjoyed the personal company of the Lightning-Eater is far from "just" a knight," Merradin said.

"Especially if you return riding on my back," he said, and he shot her a wink.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 10:32:19 AM
Her eyes widened, some combination of fear and surprise. "Are you serious? You wouldn't...actually let me ride you, would you?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 11:07:01 AM
"Oh, just think of the looks on their faces!" Merradin said with a chuckle.

"It's going to be spectacular."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 11:23:27 AM
Elora stared at him blankly. Finally, she managed to squeak out, "I thought you didn't like having a rider."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 11:57:55 AM
"I didn't like the military lifestyle," Merradin said, raising a finger up out of the water.

"I could tolerate having a rider, it was the orders that rubbed me the wrong way, besides," he paused to meet her eyes.

"It helps if the rider's a friend."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 12:00:50 PM
Her expression softened into a small smile. "Am I a friend then?" she asked softly, head tilting slightly to the side.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 12:09:09 PM
"I would consider you a friend. You've been nothing but lovely since I've met you," Merradin said, affirming it with a nod.

"It's been a very long time since I could just be myself with someone."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 12:13:23 PM
Elora chuckled. "You still don't know me very well," she pointed out. "But I'm glad I've made a good impression thus far."

She was quiet a moment, then added, "For what it's worth, I rather enjoy you being yourself."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 12:18:17 PM
Merradin let out a small laugh, smiling brightly.

"Thank you," he said, putting a hand on his chest.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 12:25:01 PM
Elora offered an answering smile and nodded to him. "Don't thank me, I'm just stating a fact."

She sighed and stretched her arms over her head, then moved to climb out of the bath. "I guess I should get started on that letter."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 01:09:35 PM
"Perhaps," Merradin said, letting out a big yawn.

"Excuse me. There's some of that draconic laziness," he chuckled.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 01:11:07 PM
"I guess it's not all rumors then," Elora chuckled as she shrugged on the robe and tied it loosely. "Where could I find paper and ink?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 01:17:58 PM
"My bedroom," Merradin said, and he stood to rise from the water, absolutely shameless in his nudity. She'd be able to see that every bit of him matched the draconic strength he wielded.

"I'll show you, I'm heading there anyways," he said, shooting her a friendly look as he dried himself with a crackle of electricity and turned to lead her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 01:19:08 PM
"Ah-" Her eyes widened a bit and she swallowed, focusing her attention on his face. "Right. Yes. Thank you."

Her cheeks felt rather warm as she followed along behind him, making an effort to keep her eyes above waist level.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 01:28:11 PM
He led her into the bedroom and motioned to a desk. One of the only other windows in his room, this one provided an excellent view of Merradin's vast treasure hoard. There was an ornate quill and an inkpot there, next to a pile of fine parchment paper.

Merradin himself sighed and flopped onto his bed, bringing up some sheets to cover everything below his waist as he sprawled out his limbs, wings, and tail.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 01:31:57 PM
"Thanks." Elora smiled as she took a seat and nodded gratefully at him.

Writing the letter proved more difficult than she would have thought- she had to figure out exactly what she was going to say about her captivity, and then about her rescuer. She stole a few glances at Merradin as she wrote, then finally sat back with a sigh.

"Alright. That's done then." She sighed and ran a hand through her hair.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 01:35:35 PM
"That's good," Merradin said, having been in a half-snooze the whole time. His tail dangled over the edge of the bed, swaying gently like a comfortable cat.

"If we're going into town at night, we've still got so many hours before the sun goes down," he said, voice a grumble.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 01:39:35 PM
"I suppose we do." Her gaze was drawn to the movement of his tail and a rather wicked but distinctly typical Elora idea struck her.

No. Don't do it, it's a stupid idea.

Probably- but fuck it. It was the first impulse she'd had the really felt like her in days. Glancing at his face to make sure his was still dozing, she darted forward and batted at the end of his tail as it swung toward her, trying to see if she could flip it the opposite direction.

It was completely juvenile, and it felt amazing.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 01:55:04 PM
His tail darted away at the bat, and his eyes opened just a crack. He smirked, and his tail came back around for revenge and batted at her thigh.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 01:57:43 PM
Elora jumped slightly, then smirked herself and grabbed at his tail again, trying to hold it in place so he couldn't bat her with it again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 02:02:20 PM
His tail tugged a bit, and he refrained himself from using even a fraction of his full strength as he playfully resisted.

"Well, it seems you've caught my tail," Merradin said, voice somewhere between a purr and a teasing whine.

"Whatever will become of me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 02:07:09 PM
"Aha!" She raised a hand in mock triumph, giggling. "I have found the great Merradin's weakness. The world will fall before my power!"

The soft vibration of his voice through the air sent a shiver down her spine and she tugged his tail lightly, playfully, then let go.

"I'm gonna be honest, I half thought you might roast me for doing that," she noted with a small chuckle.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 02:17:25 PM
Merradin laughed, and even as his tail fell away from her hands, it slithered about and came to rest on his stomach. He tilted his head up at her, leveling those eyes of his at her.

"No, you're going to have to try much harder than that," he said, maintaining that purr. His tail resumed its original position, swaying just off the edge of the bed.

"Besides, roasting you seems a bit extreme, just for tugging my tail. Maybe I should just spank you instead?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 02:22:59 PM
Elora snorted. "What, am I a toddler?" she muttered, crinkling her nose at him. Her eyes flicked to his tail again and she shook her head slightly. "Is that prehensile?" she asked suddenly, eyes curious as they moved back to his face.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 02:25:55 PM
"Well, I've been told it's very dextrous," Merradin said, and his tail came forward to poke at her thigh.

"Curious?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 02:26:57 PM
She started slightly and stared at his tail, then back at his face.

"...Are you suggesting what I think you're suggesting?" Her tone was caught somewhere between amused and incredulous.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 02:28:10 PM
Oh, how he loved these games. His eyebrows arched ever so slightly.

"What do you think I'm suggesting? Because if you think I'm suggesting what I think you're thinking I'm suggesting, then yes."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2016, 02:31:08 PM
Elora frowned at him and drew her knees up to her chest, eyeing him warily. "Merradin..."

She huffed out a breath and her mouth twisted down at the corners. "Normally I'd play this game all day with you. But I'm...distinctly not normal right now."

She glanced away. "What do you want from me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2016, 07:56:35 PM
"I... want you to be better," Merradin said, and he sat up, draping his wings over himself slightly. It might be odd for Elora, to witness the great Merradin unsure and, perhaps, a little hurt.

"I can't quite place it, but I've taken a shining to you. So I want you to get better."



Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 06:21:44 AM
The sincerity of him caught her off guard a little. She stared at him for a moment in silence. Her eyes flicked to his tail, his wings, then back to his face.

"And...you think this will...help me get better?" she ventured slowly, not even really sure herself what this was.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 06:29:29 AM
Merradin's smile returned slightly, but it wasn't the same confident grin as before.

"I must be honest, I've been tempting you because I wanted you to take something for yourself," Merradin said, tail curling onto his lap.

"I figured that, well, if you were the one to approach me, to... to initiate, then it'd help you reclaim a little bit more of yourself."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 06:31:51 AM
"That's..." Her mouth twisted wryly and she gave a short little chuckle. "Actually really smart." She glanced at him with a lopsided, sad sort of smile. "Sorry I wasn't very cooperative."

She glanced at his tail in his lap and tilted her head in a considering sort of way. For several long moments she was silent.

"...Would you let me control this? Stop if I asked- only touch me if I let you?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 06:46:18 AM
It was Merradin's turn to be thoughtful for a few moments, before finally, he laid himself back a bit, full smile returning.

"Your word is law, Elora," Merradin said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 06:52:01 AM
Her stomach clenched with sudden panic but she forced herself passed it and nodded slowly. "Okay," she murmured. "Okay...just- gimme a minute."

Her eyes flickered over him and her hands started to shake slightly. She clenched them into fists and hid them in her lap in an attempt to hide it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 06:55:08 AM
Nothing escaped Merradin's keen eyes, and he sat up a little again, concern knitted into his features.

"Elora?" he said, giving his head a slight tilt.

"What's wrong?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 06:58:21 AM
She shook her head."I...can't get him out of my head," she admitted softly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 07:17:08 AM
"Well, just focus on how I'm not him," Merradin said, and after a few moments, he clarified.

"I can hold your hand, say little soft praises as you go, let you take charge," he said, sitting back up and looking at her. His smile turned a bit softer.

"I don't mind being on the bottom for you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 07:49:36 AM
Elora stared at him for a moment, then cautiously reached out to take his hand. Her knuckles were white she was gripping so tightly, her whole body alive with tension.

"Okay." She forced herself to breathe. "Okay. Can you...lie back?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 07:55:33 AM
"Of course," he said. His hand slipped out of hers as he lied back with his wings splayed out. His hands were open, held out to her in a silent invitation and to let her know that it was alright, that he would be gentle.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 09:01:28 AM
Another sharp breath and she leaned over him slightly, still seeming nervous to actually touch him. Her hand fluttered out, hesitated, the sort of raced the line of his collar over to his shoulder.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 09:40:50 AM
Merradin let his eyes go half closed as she traced his collar, letting himself relax as she took her time.

"Don't be nervous," he purred, flicking his eyes over to her.

"I don't bite."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 09:43:41 AM
Elora scoffed quietly. "That's easier said than done," she murmured, leaning over him a bit and trailing her hand down over his chest to lie flat against his stomach.

She couldn't deny he was attractive- she didn't want to, she wanted this to work, to feel normal again. But there was still that fatalistic sense in the back of her mind, waiting for one wrong move to send panic coursing through her.

She took a few deep breaths in an effort to force it away, then let her other hand come to rest over his heartbeat, bracing herself against him as she just stared at him for a moment.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 10:18:49 AM
Merradin just breathed, letting Elora feel the powerful rhythm that thudded past his ribcage. His eyes flicked to her hands, then her arm, and then to her own eyes.

"Your hands feel nice," Merradin said, and he lifted a hand to cover hers, except he didn't complete the motion.

"May I?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 10:22:01 AM
She tensed, then nodded with a shivering exhale.

"Yes." She turned her hand to meet his, curving her fingers so they could lace through his.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 10:28:51 AM
At first, their fingers were merely laced, but Merradin's hand parted a little so he could explore her palms and fingers with his own, eyes curiously following the movement of her fingers as he played with them.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 10:45:31 AM
Elora smiled a bit as she watched his fingers dance across her own. There was something strangely innocent about it, and somehow it helped her relax a bit more.

Cautiously, she lowered herself so her hand was braced beside his head and leaned in to kiss his cheek gently, almost warily.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 10:58:51 AM
And Merradin was still, letting her exact her contact at her own pace. He gave her a smile after the kiss, and he locked their fingers together.

"Can I have another?" He said, tone playful and eyes filled with mirth.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 11:03:04 AM
Her heart was beating much faster than it should have been.

"Well, since you asked nicely..." She leaned in and pecked his cheek again, then very carefully tilted her head to just barely brush her lips across his.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 11:20:03 AM
And once again, Merradin was docile. He started playing with her fingers again, and he raised a hand to her shoulder, eyes open and waiting for her to answer a silent question.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 11:29:18 AM
She met his eyes for a long moment, then pressed closer to kiss him properly.

This was what made the difference for her. Rape didn't require kissing, tenderness, even real attraction. Her body tensed slightly as she waited for Merradin's reaction to guide her next move.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 11:59:40 AM
Merradin kissed right back, parting his lips against hers gently as she pressed in, as well as placing his hand on her shoulder, stroking slowly, gently.

"I like your lips," Merradin said, and he smirked.

"Did you... Want to come a bit closer?" he said, recognizing her hesitance and enticing her with a quick smile and a shifting of his body to make him more accessible.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 12:06:28 PM
A sharp breath left her and die of the tension bled from her shoulders.

She smiled a bit and shifted so she was laying over him a bit more. Her hands were still braced to either side of his head, ready to spring away, but she gradually allowed the contact between them to spread.

"I like your lips too," she murmured, and leaned in to kiss him again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 12:25:35 PM
"Feel free to keep kissing them, then," Merradin said, and his smile turned a little cheesy and remained so even as their lips touched. When they parted, he was flushed just the barest amount.

"I've mentioned that I love the gold in your eyes, yes?" he said, and he studied her with those sharp eyes of his.

"It goes away when you're not happy. I'd like to keep it there, if you don't mind," he said, chuckling his last few words.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 12:30:37 PM
"Does it?" Her cheeks flushed and she ducked her eyes a little shyly. "I...didn't realize that happened."

She flicked her eyes back up to his face and smiled softly. "Can you put your hands on my waist?" she asked cautiously.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 12:34:08 PM
"Of course," Merradin said, and slowly, he laid his hands on her waist. He tried not to stroke with his fingers until she gave the go ahead, and he compounded it by leaning forwards to kiss her again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 12:52:03 PM
Elora kissed him back softly, and there were a few moments where she just tried to remember to breathe before she leaned into him a little more.

"You can...move a bit," she murmured. "If you want..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 01:08:03 PM
"Only if you say so," Merradin said, and his hands wandered up her side a bit before they slowly went down to her hips, stroking gently.

"Is there anything I can do to make you more comfortable?" Merradin asked, letting his head rest back so he could look at her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 01:14:01 PM
"Just...keep talking to me?" She met his eyes for a moment, then ducked her head again and admitted on a sigh, "I can't- I need you to keep me out of my head. Keep me here."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 01:17:57 PM
"Say no more," Merradin said, and he leaned in to kiss her, going for a deeper contact than before.

"Why don't you come a bit closer? You can straddle me if you want."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 01:21:12 PM
"Mm..." Elora cautiously moved further up his body, sliding one leg across him so she was straddling his hips. The robe she wore really wasn't designed to stay closed in such a situation, and she whimpered quietly at it fell open a bit, hating the sound.

"W-wait." She swallowed and closed her eyes. Breathe. Just breathe. After a few moments collecting herself, she bent her arms and lowered herself to lay over him, shoulders still tense but the cold panic in her gut fading slightly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 01:25:48 PM
The first thing she might notice is that he was warm, and seemed to thrum with not only his heartbeat but with an unseen, almost contagious energy.

He chased away her whimpers with another kiss, and his hands went a bit lower on her hips.

"Can I put my arms around you? Or my wings?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on November 30, 2016, 01:27:20 PM
The warmth was certainly welcome, and Elora leaned into him a bit more. "Okay," she murmured by way of reply, tilting her head to feather a very light kiss to the column of his throat.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2016, 07:57:58 PM
Merradin joined his hands on the small of Elora's back, even as his wings slowly lowered to her shoulders. He flexed them, lightly draping them over her to encase her in warmth.

"Better?" he said, stroking up her back a little.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 06:26:45 AM
"Mhm." She nodded slowly and pressed back against his grip slightly, testing to make sure she could spring away if she needed to.

No. Wanted to. He wasn't going to hurt her, she had to keep reminding herself of that.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 07:04:14 AM
Even if she didn't intend on back up and away, Merradin's grip loosened considerably as she tested it, but once she stopped, he relaxed again.

He leaned forwards, paused for a moment, and then gently put his lips against hers, parting them slowly.

"First time you've kissed a dragon?" he teased with a smirk.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 07:08:06 AM
She chuckled quietly and kissed him back.

"Well, yeah. Can't exactly say I've had the opportunity before," she murmured. She let herself lean against him a bit more, focusing on how he felt physically rather than the panic that refused to subside completely.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 07:13:35 AM
One of the hands on her back slowly ghosted up to the middle of her shoulders, remaining there as he saw fit to continue kissing her. He started to rub her  back, and his wings came to rest a tad lower.

Then, he took another hand off of her back, and put it on her shoulder directly.

"Can I touch your face?"

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 07:18:46 AM
Elora took in a shivering breath. "Yes," she murmured. She slid one hand down his chest, then back up to rest gently over his heartbeat, reveling in the fact that she could touch him in turn. It felt like it had been so long since she'd done something like this.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 07:23:03 AM
Merradin's hand went up her shoulder and brushed a bit of hair out of her face, after which it came to rest on her cheek, thumb stroking her jaw.

"Beautiful," Merradin murmured, and he leaned in for a deeper kiss, chest pressing up slightly against her hand's stroking.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 07:29:19 AM
She shuddered delicately and pressed back into the kiss. "Not as much as you," she pointed out with a quiet chuckle.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 08:09:41 AM
Merradin smiled at the praise, hands going back to wandering on her back and sides, although he kept to the boundaries they'd set. He kissed her, this time wanting to see how long she'd stick with it as he decided to turn up the heat just a little.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 08:27:57 AM
The kiss was lightning, and she could have drowned in it. A soft noise caught in her throat and she focused almost too intensely on the way his mouth felt against hers, his hands on her back, his heartbeat under her palm.

Elora sighed softly against his lips, and she opened her eyes, searching for his.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 09:41:43 AM
And she'd find his eyes, those almost cloud-white irises, sprinkled in with streaks of blue like a lightning storm. He exhaled softly against her lips, pupils narrowing slightly as he focused on her own eyes, and he rocked up to kiss her lips, then her jaw, and then her neck.

"Elora..." he murmured against her collar.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 09:53:31 AM
Her breath hitched, then stopped. "Keep- keep talking," she begged quietly. "Keep me here, Merradin. Please."

An inkling of what she'd lost had begun to trickle back into her body, flushing her with heat. She tilted her head back and asked softly, "Say my name again?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 10:20:59 AM
"I like this, Elora. Just being with you," he said against her lips, his fingers tangling gently in her hair as he continued to press his lips to hers. His wings settled on the small of her back, leaving her actual back open to the air as his hands trailed down her sides.

"And you're a great kisser," he said, smirking.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 10:29:36 AM
Elora smiled against his lips and kissed him harder. "Right back at you," she murmured quietly, her hand trailing down to circle around one of his wrist and guide it up to gently cup her breast.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 10:35:29 AM
"I'm glad that I meet your standards," he chuckled.

Merradin gently fondled her, pressing a thumb to her nipple as he dared to hold her closer. Then, while they were kissing, he offered her his tongue.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 11:18:10 AM
The touch made her shiver, though it wasn't entirely anxious. She breathed deeply, forcing herself to focus on the rise and fall of her chest, before she let her tongue flick out to meet his cautiously.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 11:46:52 AM
Merradin caressed her tongue with his own, intent on banishing that anxiety with gentle touches and steady pleasure. His wings rose a bit, wrapping her a tad more completely.

"It's been a long time since I've held someone like this," Merradin mused, searching for her eyes.

"It's nice..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 11:48:30 AM
"Mm." Elora hummed a quiet agreement and met his eyes for a moment. She ducked her head quickly though to ghost her lips along his collar.

"How long is...a long time?" she ventured after a moment, trying to keep herself grounded in the present.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 01:58:18 PM
"Mm, perhaps... a decade?" Merradin said, glancing off to search for an answer before his eyes returned to hers.

His fingers brushed further down her hips, and he raised an ayebrow at her.

"May I?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 02:21:09 PM
She flushed and shivered a bit, then murmured, "...Sure."

She tilted her head at him, and in an attempt to keep her mind present asked, "A decade. Really?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 01, 2016, 02:54:39 PM
"Mhm," Merradin said, and he leaned in to kiss her as his hand roamed down her robe and planted his hand right on her ass.

"Most of my encounters are a bit racier. Even for the ones that aren't, I've never gotten the chance to cuddle."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2016, 03:42:20 PM
"Is that what you call this?" Her eyebrow arched and she focused on the good tingles that went skittering up her spine. "Cuddling?"

She kissed his neck again, relaxing against his chest. "Feel like this has a bit more touching than usual cuddling."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 06:13:00 AM
"Well, I don't engage in anything short of exceptional cuddling," Merradin teased, kneading her ass a little as he smiled up at her.

"Is this not to your liking?" he purred, leveling a smirk at her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 02, 2016, 09:15:37 AM
Elora chuckled quietly. His hands at her rear had her shivering, but now she was at least able to focus on the good shivers it sent running up her spine.

"It's...passable," she murmured teasingly, tilting her head to trail a few kisses along his jaw to his neck.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 09:35:36 AM
"Passable?" he said, and he raised an eyebrow at her, leaning in to pass his lips over hers. He was smiling the whole time, though, her teasing not lost on him.

"How can I make it more than passable?" he asked.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 02, 2016, 10:02:53 AM
Elora hummed quietly into the kiss and nudged her head up under his chin when she broke away, nuzzling into his neck.

"Keep talking," she murmured, passing her hands down his sides gently. She wriggled a bit on top of him to settle herself more comfortably. "And...you could touch me a bit more...if you want," she added very quietly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 11:52:14 AM
Merradin hummed his acknowledgement, kissing the top of her head as he let his hands truly wander, wrapping her up a bit more in his wings as he explored her sides, back, ass, and even the rear of her thighs.

"Every piece of you is sexy," Merradin remarked.

"I want to just pass my tongue over all of it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 02, 2016, 11:59:15 AM
She shivered and nipped at his collar. "The feeling is mutual," she mumbled after a moment, pulling back slightly so she could look at his face.

She hesitated a moment, then shrugged the robe down off her shoulders, tugging at the tie around her waist until it fell completely open. She licked her lips nervously and glanced away, reminding herself again to just breathe.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 12:07:24 PM
Merradin looked her over as the robe fell away, and he smiled.

"Damn," he remarked, and using his tail, he pushed away the sheets covering himself, even as propped up on an elbow to kiss her, intending on washing away all of her doubts and fears with a simple touch of the lips.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 02, 2016, 12:26:03 PM
Elora focused on that kiss like it was her lifeline, hands gripping his shoulders desperately as her body trembled slightly.

There was something comforting in the look in his eyes as he'd looked her over. Predatory, sure. Lustful, yes. But he'd also seemed...gentle. It wasn't a word she usually applied to dragons, but it was bizarrely clear in the way he held her.

She let her hand trail down his chest to curl her fingers over the curve of his hip gently, eyes clenched shut. She was still shaking, but she tried to fight past it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 12:54:56 PM
"It's alright, Elora. You can take your time," Merradin said, still propped up on one hand while the other rested on her hip. He leaned in to press a kiss to her jaw.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 02, 2016, 01:02:32 PM
A small sound caught in her throat and she nodded slowly. "Just- just give me a minute," she murmured. Her nails dug into his skin and she ducked her head to press her face into the curve of his neck and just breathe for a moment.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 06:45:53 PM
And Merradin gave her all of the time she needed, holding her idly and nuzzling softly into her hair.

"I love your scent," Merradin said, and he left a small kiss on top of her head.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 02, 2016, 06:57:58 PM
That made her chuckle, albeit shakily. "My scent? I just had a bath, I don't stink do I?"

She twisted her head to kiss his cheek, then moved to his neck. Her skin felt all hot and shivery at the same time.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 07:53:19 PM
"We all have a scent," Merradin said, and he started to stroke her head and back, returning to some more comforting touches to help her ground herself.

"If you're so adamant about it, maybe you should let me bathe you next time," Merradin added.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 02, 2016, 08:14:30 PM
Elora snorted. "You just want more excuses to touch me," ah accused quietly, but she nuzzled into his neck a little more and let her hands trace gently up and down his sides.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 08:22:24 PM
"is that a bad thing? To want to touch you?" Merradin said, drawing his hands a bit higher on her back, embracing her with his wings at the same time.

"Besides, you get to touch me, too. Not a bad trade, hm?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DragonSong on December 02, 2016, 08:26:02 PM
"No." Her voice was very soft suddenly. "It's not a bad thing."

She leaned back slightly, bracing her hands beside his head so she could hover over him, knees on either side of his hips. Her eyes were unusually vulnerable, the walls she normally held disappearing.

"You can...touch me." She cleared her throat and gave an inductive jerk of her head downward, toward their waists. "If you want."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!)
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2016, 08:58:46 PM
Merradin met her eyes, his look soft and almost loving. He nodded.

"I'll take it nice and slow for you," Merradin said, and his hand ghosted along her inner thigh, trying to gauge her arousal without touching her for the moment.

"Just let me know if you want me to stop, alright?"

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 05:52:53 AM
Elora's breath hitched and she gave a shaky little nod. A steady heat was building in her core and she ducked her head a bit, trying to focus on that feeling.

"I'm...okay, right now."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 09:32:55 AM
"Alright," Merradin said, and his hand went farther until he brushed her heat with his fingers, a gentle, tentative touch. The whole time, his eyes were open, attentive to any objection she might have.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 09:36:24 AM
Her body jerked and she almost pulled away from him with a small whimper, eyes clenching shut. Then she focused on her breathing and slowly let her body relax again.

"Okay. I- I'm okay," she muttered, more to herself than him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 10:44:31 AM
He didn't know whether to believe her or not, but once she'd affirmed him to continue, the touches resumed.

"You're more than okay," Merradin said, and he kissed her.

"I know you're strong enough."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 10:56:32 AM
Elora kissed him back, a small sound catching in her throat. Shivery heat washed trough her from his touches and she trembled delicately against him.

"Gods." She kept her eyes closed and turned her face into his neck, feathering light kisses over his collar.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 11:18:44 AM
Merradin's free hand brushed down her side as he felt her, fingers exploring her until he decided to move onto her clit.

"You're doing great," he said against her own neck, pulling her a bit closer.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 12:12:51 PM
The first shock of true pleasure she'd felt jolted through her and Elora gasped quietly. Her nails dug into his skin where she clutched him and she whimpered quietly.

"Like that," she murmured faintly. "Just- keep going like that..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 02:49:24 PM
Merradin smirked at her positive response, and moved his fingers more purposefully.

"See? Not so bad," he teased.

He gave her side a tiny squeeze.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 02:53:01 PM
"Mmn- no," she murmured, tensing and then relaxing again under his touch. "Not...so bad."

She tilted her head to kiss him, then pulled back slightly to look down at him. She trailed her hand over his chest, then across the planes of his stomach to the dip of his hips. Her eyes were still vulnerable, but questioning now.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 06:49:59 PM
Merradin smiled at her, nodding gently. He pressed his fingers towards her heat a bit more.

"Go ahead," he said, and he flushed just a smidge.

"I want you to touch me..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 06:53:52 PM
Elora nodded shakily and hesitantly wrapped her fingers around the base of him. Another shiver ran through her and she moved her hips slightly- not pulling away this time but pressing toward him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 07:31:08 PM
Merradin let out a tiny sigh when she grasped him, a small spark of electricity jumping from one of his horns to the other at the contact. He chuckled a little sheepishly and covered them up with magic.

"Sorry," he said, and his smile turned from sheepish to more cheesy.

"Your touch is absolutely electric."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 07:32:49 PM
Elora laughed, she couldn't help it. "Well isn't that a line," she teased, dipping in to kiss him.

"You don't have to apologize," she added against his lips. "It's...nice to know I'm having some effect on you." She slid her hand along him, her touch exploratory more than anything else.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 07:41:44 PM
Merradin kissed her deeply, and when she parted away, he let her speak before he nudged his head back up to seal their lips again. He slowly started to harden up against her hand.

"Does it send a shiver through you?" Merradin started, purring against her lips.

"Knowing that you can arouse a being such as myself?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 07:45:20 PM
At his words a rather telltale shiver sped down her spine. "Maybe," she admitted with a crooked smile. She continued to pump him slowly, letting her lips part gently as she kissed him.

"It's...better knowing how gentle you're being with me," she added after a moment. "I've seen what you can do. Felt it. Feeling this, knowing how much you're holding in..." She pressed her lips to his cheek in a feather-light kiss. "Thank you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 08:52:19 PM
"I'm not usually so docile," Merradin teased, and he left a kiss on her neck.

"But for you, I can definitely make an exception."

He passed his tongue over her neck, the touch carrying with it a little bit of harmless energy. At the same time, he touched her heat and pushed a bit with a finger.

"May I?"

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 03, 2016, 08:59:28 PM
Another shiver ran threw her at that spark of energy and she dipped her head to kiss the hollow of his throat.

The pressure of his finger made her freeze, body going tense. She took a breath, then another, then nodded slowly. "Yes," she murmured. She reached for his other hand and guided it to her breast. "Just- please keep talking to me. If I hear your voice, it's...easier."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 03, 2016, 10:11:50 PM
Merradin gripped her breast, not too roughly but not exactly as gently as possible either. He pulled her closer and his finger slipped inside of her. He let out a soft hum against her lips, daring to give her lips a small nibble.

"I can't get enough of how you kiss," he said.

He let his eyes fall half-closed as she stroked him.

"A little faster, please..."

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 04, 2016, 07:34:15 AM
Elora gasped and her body gave a little jerk. Then she nodded, increasing the rhythm of her hand as she leaned in for another kiss.

"I can't believe I'm doing this," she said with a soft laugh, more easily able to focus on the heat between them now.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 04, 2016, 07:42:56 AM
"Yet here we are," Merradin said, letting his finger slide into her to the knuckle, and he raised his wings a bit, now covering her entirely with them to encase her in a blanket of warmth. He leaned up to kiss her again.

"You're amazing."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 04, 2016, 07:46:20 AM
She shivered and mewled softly against his lips. "I- I'm not," she muttered on reflex. "I'm not even- you're a dragon!"

She raised a hand to stroke the membrane of his wings to punctuate the words.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 04, 2016, 08:36:56 AM
It was nice to get his membrane stroked. The thin, vessel-rich skin that made up the membranes was sensitive, and he flushed just a smidge brighter when she touched them.

"I am a dragon," Merradin rebutted.

"And you're amazing."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 04, 2016, 08:39:12 AM
"Hmph." She noted his reaction with some interest and skated her fingers along the inside of his wing again, watching his face. Her hips rolled forward slightly and she murmured, "You can...touch me a little more."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 04, 2016, 08:45:08 AM
At her assurance, Merradin added another finger to her heat, his other hand gripping her breast as he pulled her into a heated kiss. His tail came up and draped itself over her waist, curling slightly to rub the tip against her stomach.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 04, 2016, 08:50:06 AM
Elora gasped, then sighed quietly and felt herself begin to melt into his touches. "Oh!" She started a bit, surprised when his tail rubbed against her stomach. "That's...interesting."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 04, 2016, 08:52:54 AM
"If you think that's interesting," Merradin started, and his tail curled downwards more so that the end could grind and rub against her womanhood and clit.

"Then how's this?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 04, 2016, 08:56:34 AM
"O-oh! Ahh..." Her eyes fluttered and she rocked forward against his fingers and tail. "That's...wow." She let out a shaky breath and ducked her head into the curve of his shoulder, kissing and licking gently.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 04, 2016, 09:09:27 AM
Once he saw that she liked that contact, Merradin only made it faster, giving her neck a series of gentle bites and passionate kisses as he just cranked up everything.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 04, 2016, 09:12:38 AM
"Oh gods." Elora groaned and rocked her hips against him again. Reacting to his increased speed, she put a little more effort into pumping her hand along his length as she moved her kisses back to his mouth, panting gently.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 05, 2016, 04:36:10 PM
"Elora," Merradin murmured against her mouth as his wings drew up higher to her shoulders, where she was now fully embraced by them.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 05, 2016, 04:37:58 PM
She hummed and shivered a little against him. "Merradin..."

It felt so strange to say his name like this. A nervous sort of laugh bubbled up out of her and she ducked her head into the curve of his shoulder. "S-sorry," she muttered, smiling slightly against his skin.

She pressed a few kisses along the column of his throat, working her way back up to his mouth.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 05, 2016, 05:14:54 PM
"Sorry for what?" Merradin said, and he worked his fingers a bit deeper inside of her, his other hand stroking her ass and hips.

"I like your laugh."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 05, 2016, 05:18:48 PM
"Mmn." Elora started and arched against him, cheeks flushed. "Th-thanks," she murmured, pressing a quick kiss to his lips.

Carefully, she rocked her hips against his hand, almost relearning her own body as she found those places where she was more sensitive to his touch. "Oh!" She paused, shivering, and dipped to kiss his jaw. "There?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 05, 2016, 06:27:26 PM
"You got it," Merradin purred as he learned her sensitive places and started to work on them.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 05, 2016, 06:31:41 PM
Elora's breath stuttered and she started to rock against his hand gently. Her hands skated up and down his body and her lips followed hungrily, mapping a trail over his chest and shoulders. Soft shivers ran up and down her spine as she gradually felt the tension in her core coiling tighter.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 05, 2016, 06:56:36 PM
Once she started to rock, Merradin helped her move with the hand on her ass. His tail moved to press and flex agianst her, going for more contact.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 05, 2016, 07:03:16 PM
"Ohhh..." Elora drew in a breath and gave a sharp buck forward with her hips. "Your tail-" Her voice cut off in a small groan and she pressed herself against him, searching for as much contact as she could get.

"A little more, please," she whispered, clutching tightly at his shoulders.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 06, 2016, 10:17:44 AM
And his tail worked harder, the textured scales rubbing against her clit as the tip of his tail pressed against her, supplementing the feeling of his exploratory fingers by sliding in alongside them.

"I can tell you're close," Merradin murmured against her neck, giving her a slow lick before he started to devour her neck with kisses.

"Go ahead."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 06, 2016, 10:25:07 AM
Elora sucked in a breath and tilted her head to the side to bare more of her neck. Shivers rippled through her frame and she suddenly gripped his shoulders tighter, nails digging into his skin.

"Gods- fuck." Her back arched, pressing her body into his, and she came with a shudder and a small cry.

Little pulses of pleasure ran through her body and she whimpered quietly, ducking her head into the curve of his shoulder. She simply lay against him for a few moments, breathing ragged as she clenched her eyes shut and tried to choke back a sudden sob.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 06, 2016, 11:59:54 AM
Merradin let Elrora ride out her orgasm, prolonging it when he saw fit but otherwise leaving her to experience it by herself. When she finally settled and started to sob against his shoulder, his touches were all comforting. His hands lightly wrapped around her in a hug, and he placed a kiss against her temple.

"Take your time, Elora," Merradin said.

"It's alright."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 06, 2016, 12:04:33 PM
She dragged in a shaky breath, still crying quietly. "I- I can't-" She swallowed thickly and clung to him tighter, shaking like a leaf in a gale.

Eventually she lifted her head and wiped at her eyes with a watery chuckle. "Wow, that sure sets the mood. Sorry..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 06, 2016, 12:14:21 PM
"It's alright," he repeated, and he wiped a tear from her eyes with a finger.

"We don't have to go any further, we can move at your pace."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 06, 2016, 12:19:14 PM
"I- I just need..." She swallowed and rubbed at her eyes. "Just...a few seconds." She dipped her head to press her forehead against his collar, focused on breathing properly.

"Thank you for that," she murmured after a few moments.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 06, 2016, 12:31:23 PM
"You're very welcome," Merradin said, giving her a bright smile. He settled in to just hold her, giving her as much time as she wanted.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 06, 2016, 12:38:00 PM
Elora allowed herself to relax against him, her face still hidden in the curve of his neck and shoulder.

After a minute or so, her tearful gasps evened out into soft breaths and her heart thudding against his chest had returned to a reasonable speed. She cautiously lifted her head and kissed his cheek, silver lashes still damp but feeling considerably more relaxed.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 07, 2016, 06:46:17 AM
Merradin stroked her hair as she sobbed, providing nothing but soothing comfort. When she rose up to kiss his cheek, he smiled, and let his head rest back.

"I don't suppose you're the cuddling type?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 07, 2016, 06:53:02 AM
She smiled a bit. "I can be." Her head tilted slightly to the side as she looked him over.

She'd never been with a man who didn't immediately ask for his turn after something like this, so she was just waiting for it, and wondering how she could react.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 07, 2016, 07:32:29 AM
In a normal situation, Merradin would have wondered if it was his turn, but with Elora, things were very different. He shifted a bit to the side, inviting her to curl up next to him.

"Would you like to be?" he asked.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 07, 2016, 07:42:06 AM
Elora smiled and let herself curl next to him in answer. "Thank you," she murmured with a kiss to his cheek. Her hand came to rest hesitantly on his chest.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 07, 2016, 09:55:24 AM
Merradin opened himself so she could curl to her heart's content, and once she did so, he put his arm around her, resting his wing on her so she could have a sort of pseudo-blanket to keep the cold out.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 07, 2016, 10:04:09 AM
Elora pressed a little closer, wrapping her arm around his waist and pressing a kiss to his shoulder.

"If..." She bit her lip, then started again. "If you give me a few minutes...we could try again?" She lifted her head slightly to look at his face. "Not...just for me, this time." Her cheeks were rather red, but her eyes were determined, despite the fact that tear tracks still marked her face.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 07, 2016, 10:28:07 AM
"If you so desire," Merradin whispered, and he leaned in to leave a small kiss against her lips, letting his tongue pass over her lips before he gave her yet another one. He was smirking.

"I can blow your mind, if you let me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 07, 2016, 10:33:13 AM
She chuckled quietly and kissed him back. "I think...I'm almost ready to let you," she murmured, smiling at him. She slid her hands up to cup his face and kissed him again, the contact oddly chaste.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 07, 2016, 10:53:55 AM
When she gave him that chaste kiss, Merradin pulled her just a bit closer, kissing her chin and then lips.

"Take your time. I'm a patient dragon," he teased.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 07, 2016, 10:55:28 AM
Elora laughed softly again. "I suppose you'd have to be- how long do you lot live anyway?" She pressed a few kisses down his neck to his shoulder, then across his chest.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 08, 2016, 10:46:39 AM
"Until we're killed," Merradin said simply. He pulled her closer, stroking along her back and sides. With his hands and wings.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 08, 2016, 10:55:06 AM
Her eyes widened slightly as she pressed closer to him, hands resting against his chest. "Wow. That's...wow," she mumbled, shifting to slide one leg cautiously against his.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 08, 2016, 11:00:20 AM
"I myself was rather impressed to learn that from my mother. She was nearly two-thousand when she had me, and she'd told me tales of old dragons out there about as old as humanity itself," he said.

One of his hands drifted along her leg as she moved it against his.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 08, 2016, 12:56:11 PM
"Gods." Elora shook her head and stared at him with wide eyes. "That's just...wow." Her hand moved to gently curl her fingers over his hip.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 12, 2016, 11:06:53 PM
Merradin chuckled.

"He is also a nasty, territorial old codger, I can tell you that from personal experience," he added. When she curled her hands around his hips, he merely shifted a bit so she could have better access to it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2016, 06:54:06 AM
Elora smiled a bit and shook her head. "I guess grouchiness comes with age, doesn't matter what species you are," she chuckled quietly.

Her hand traced along the hollow of his hip for a few moments before she worked up the courage to brush her palm against his length, testing.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2016, 11:58:38 AM
Merradin murred a bit at her tentative touch and he leaned up to kiss her cheek.

"Don't worry I still don't bite," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2016, 12:01:31 PM
"Hm." She rolled her eyes at him, hoping she looked more at ease than she felt. "Smartass," she told him almost affectionately. Cautiously, she wrapped her fingers around the base of him. Her throat felt as though it almost closed up and she had to swallow a few times, focusing on breathing.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2016, 12:44:02 PM
"I try my best!" he said with a wide smile, and then he dipped forwards to give her a peck on the lips. His hands wandered right back down to her ass, giving her a gentle squeeze.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2016, 12:48:24 PM
Elora jumped slightly when his hands moved to her rear, her hand jerking up along his length before she collected herself and stroked back down.

She swallowed again and leaned in for another kiss. "You, um...tell me what you like?" she muttered against his lips, feeling very unsure of herself.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 14, 2016, 08:52:21 AM
"I'd just like for you to be yourself and go at your own pace," Merradin said into her mouth before he kissed her jaw.

"I think you'll find yourself hard-pressed to find a motion I won't approve of."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 14, 2016, 08:58:58 AM
A small sigh left her and she twisted her head to trail a few kisses over his throat. Her hand moved cautiously up and down again and she took a few breaths in an attempt to keep herself calm.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 14, 2016, 10:03:21 AM
Merradin let her take her time, leveling soft kisses against her lips, jaw, and cheeks.

"Like I said before, we... we don't have to go all the way if you don't want to..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 14, 2016, 10:08:34 AM
"I-" Elora swallowed and nuzzled into his shoulder to hide her face. "I'm not- I don't think I can," she admitted, voice soft, wrecked.

Her hand continued gentle movements but she couldn't seem to look at him. "But I don't...I want to return the favor." She swallowed again, clenching her eyes shut.

Why? Why couldn't she do this?
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 05:56:24 PM
"You don't have to," Merradin said, and he put a hand on her cheek, seeking to meet her eyes if she'd allow him to.

"You've already done so much, and you've done so well. We'll have plenty of time to gently ease you back in," he continued.

"I want you to be comfortable, above all."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 07:16:33 PM
Elora couldn't find the right words to respond to that. She closed her eyes and leaned into his hand, focusing on breathing evenly.

"Just... I think I need a little more time," she whispered, twisting her head to kiss his palm lightly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 07:22:41 PM
"Then more time is what you'll have," he said simply, and he patted the bed next to him.

"I'm feeling like another nap, and I want to spend it with you in my arms. Can you find it in your heart to oblige me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 07:24:21 PM
A small smile curved at her lips and she settled hesitantly beside him. "I think I can manage that." She let her head rest on his shoulder cautiously, but the tension was slowly bleeding from her body.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 07:29:18 PM
Merradin turned himself so that they were facing each other. Gently, he let his wing rest over her as he took her into his arms, leaving a small kiss on her head before he closed his eyes and settled in. Soon, the only movement from him would be the slow, yet powerful expansion of his chest as he breathed.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 07:56:05 PM
Elora didn't find sleep as easily, watching him for a few moments through half-lidded eyes, not quite sure herself if she expected him to suddenly change his manner or- or if she was just watching him. It was peaceful. She'd forgotten how comforting the sound of another's breath and heartbeat could be.

Gradually, she let her eyes close completely and dropped off to sleep.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 08:02:01 PM
Merradin was a fickle snoozer, and while he did sleep deeply, he only slept for around an hour.

His eyes slowly cracked open, and before he stirred or moved, he decided to just assess Elora for a few moments.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 08:09:08 PM
"Mmm." She frowned a bit in her sleep and curled closer to the warmth of another body as he shifted, one arm wrapping loosely around his waist.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 09:02:02 PM
When her arm wrapped around his waist, he adjusted his arms a bit as well, gently drawing his fingers to her hip as he snuggled a bit closer to her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 09:06:41 PM
As worn out as she still felt, Elora was a trained soldier at her core, used to waking at small sounds or a simple touch. Even the small shifting movement between the two of them gradually roused her and she lifted her head a bit, blinking.

For a moment she couldn't quite recall why she was lying against him, naked, and why there was a very odd feeling blanket draped over her- oh, no. That was his wing.

She blinked again as she felt herself become more awake and tried to sit up a bit. "Oh. Ah, how long was I out?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 09:09:15 PM
"Just an hour, perhaps a bit longer," Merradin murmured, his eyes still closed. When she moved to sit up, he moved his wing up to give her some space. He looked to her, narrowing his eyes playfully.

"You're cute when you're asleep."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 09:16:47 PM
Elora started a bit at the compliment- maybe it was a compliment, no one had ever told her that before- then smiled crookedly and arched an eyebrow at him.

"What, so I'm not cute when I'm awake?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 09:18:37 PM
"When you're awake, you're beautiful," Merradin said, nodding conclusively.

"But when you're gently snoozing in my arms, you're cute. Especially in the way you hide your head against me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 09:24:38 PM
Her cheeks reddened and she looked away, clearing her throat. "I'm not," she grumbled, crossing her arms with a huff and pouting- no, she was not pouting. She didn't pout.

"I mean- I don't. I didn't. Did I?" She'd never had a partner comment on her sleeping habits before- did she really cuddle like that?
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 09:26:56 PM
"You did," Merradin said, chuckling at her reddening cheeks before he dipped forwards to lay a kiss onto one.

"Bath?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 09:32:04 PM
Elora flinched a bit, but she didn't try to pull away. She even leaned into him slightly with a small smile at the suggestion.

"Sure." She sighed and ran her fingers through her hair. "I...really do have to deliver that letter though. Sooner rather than later."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 09:36:57 PM
"Well, bath, and then town?" Merradin said. His eyes tracked the movement of her hand, slit pupils widening slightly, before he looked back to her face, pupils tightening once more as he focused on her.

"It should be getting close to sundown, we might still be able to find a courier."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 09:40:49 PM
She nodded with a small, grateful smile. "That'd be good. Thank you, Merradin."

She hesitated a moment, then leaned in to press a quick peck to his cheek before sliding off the bed and moving toward the bath.

"So, um..." She bit her lip, searching for something to say. It was strange- she was comfortable around him, more or less. As comfortable as she could be with anyone right now. But she still felt that she didn't really know all that much about him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 09:44:43 PM
"So, what?" Merradin pursued, getting up out of the bed alongside her, letting his tail brush her hand as he intended to lead her over to the perpetually bubbling bathbasin. When he reached the rim, he turned to look at her.

"You look like you have a question."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 09:50:56 PM
She started. She'd almost forgotten about his tail- well, not entirely...

That thought only made her blush harder and she quickly followed him into the water. "I- I guess I just feel like I still don't know all that much about you," she murmured with a shrug. "And I'm not really used to feeling that way around people. Least not the ones I'm...more relaxed around."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2016, 09:54:50 PM
"Mm," he answered, and he set himself down, stretching his wings and arms as he let the water relax him. He looked to Elora, and beckoned her closer with his finger.

"Come, then. Ask away."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2016, 10:01:37 PM
Elora scooted a bit closer and allowed herself to sprawl out a bit.

"Well...what do you do when you're not here or in the city? Do you spend any time as a dragon anymore "
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 18, 2016, 01:17:47 PM
"Oh, I spend plenty of time as a dragon! I have you over, though, and it'd just be rude to go clomping around as a dragon. I hardly think you'd find it the most relaxing. Or pleasurable," he said, shooting her a wry grin.

"I like to fly about, patrol my territory, go hunting. I was just out to stretch my wings when I found you," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 18, 2016, 02:01:04 PM
A blush rose to her cheeks at that and she ducked her eyes a bit at his grin.

Then she frowned, glancing up at him curiously. "How did you find me? How'd you notice one small human out in the middle of the plains?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 21, 2016, 03:00:01 PM
"Coincidence, mostly," Merradin said, scooting closer so that their sides touched lightly and he put an arm around her.

"I was out for a short flyabout when I smelled blood. I looked down, and there you were, running across the plains."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 21, 2016, 03:12:08 PM
"Hm." Elora stiffened a bit, then relaxed and leaned into his side slightly. "Well. Guess I'm lucky you were out stretching your wings then."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 21, 2016, 03:21:07 PM
"Indeed," he agreed, turning his head towards her to leave a small kiss on her head.

"Can... can I ask you why you came to the plains?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 21, 2016, 03:23:17 PM
She sighed and closed her eyes, letting her head rest against his shoulder.

"Border patrol. My unit was supposed to find the source of some caravan raiding and put a stop to it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 21, 2016, 08:48:57 PM
There was a moment of quiet.

"I'm sorry," Merradin said, voice soft, almost hesitant, and he held her a bit more soothingly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 21, 2016, 08:54:49 PM
She snorted, but settled a little more comfortably against him. "Yeah, me too."

She shook her head. "We couldn't even stop the raids. I- I feel like what happened was all for nothing. I lost my whole unit, and then he showed up..."

She sighed. "Calla. My horse- she didn't deserve what happened."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 21, 2016, 08:59:24 PM
Again, more quiet from Merradin.

"I cannot pretend that I can make things better with words. That I can just speak and erase what happened, to make it all better," he said, voice sympathetic as the hand that wasn't around her sought one of her own.

"But I can do my best to soothe it. To make it better. Elora, you can't blame yourself for everything that happened. The fact that you survived at all is a testament to your strength. And, well, if anything..."

He trailed off to shrug his shoulders.

"If you were captured, you know where the raids are coming from now, right?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 21, 2016, 09:06:11 PM
Another long breath. "No, actually. The raid that hit our unit was a band of plains riders. I was captured by a centaur."

She shook her head. "He said...I don't think they're working together. Which means I have two threats to report to my commander."

Abruptly, she twisted in his arms to hide her face against his shoulder. "I've never been afraid of what I do before," she murmured. "Every new mission, I knew I could die. But now..." She shuddered. "Gods, there are things so much worse than death."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 21, 2016, 09:20:21 PM
At the mention of centaurs, Merradin's eyes widened ever so slightly. If that was true, then her captivity had been much more horrible than he could hope to imagine. He kept silent about it, not wanting to dredge any memories back up by asking her to clarify on that point.

"I'm so sorry you had to go through all of that. I really am, Elora."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 21, 2016, 09:21:45 PM
She nodded jerkily, but didn't say anything. "It's...fine," she murmured after a moment. A lie of course, she didn't think she'd ever be fine after this. "I mean- I'm alive, right?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 21, 2016, 09:28:31 PM
"You're more than alive," Merradin said.

"You're strong, confident. I know that things might seem bleak, with everything still so fresh, but it will get better," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 21, 2016, 09:30:18 PM
Almost despite herself, she felt her lips twitch up on one side. "I'm glad you can believe that," she murmured. "Maybe I'll get there too, eventually."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 21, 2016, 09:40:03 PM
"There's no maybe," Merradin said, not letting her doubt herself for even a second. He smiled, and leaned in to nuzzle against her forehead.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 21, 2016, 09:42:30 PM
She couldn't help laughing quietly. "Why do you care so much?" she asked- for what felt like the tenth time.

She just couldn't get over how invested he seemed in her, even though they really didn't know all that much about each other. "I mean- I'm grateful, really. I'm just not used to people being so kind without expecting something in return."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 25, 2017, 06:57:27 PM
"What, I can't just be nice?" Merradin said, raising an eyebrow at her, playful smile across his face.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 25, 2017, 09:38:07 PM
"I mean, you can," Elora laughed. "But I'd still be confused." She didn't try to press the issue though, content to relax against him slightly as she lay beside him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 25, 2017, 09:47:03 PM
There were a few moments of quiet before Merradin responded.

"I guess I've just jever really had a reason to be anything but nice. It's the way I was raised, I suppose," he mused, although he snuggled with Elora more.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 25, 2017, 09:52:12 PM
She chuckled quietly. "So the Lightning Eater is a boy-next-door kind of dragon. Who'd have thought," she teased softly, throwing him a wink that made the gold in her eyes glint and shimmer.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 25, 2017, 10:20:07 PM
Merradin chuckled a bit to himself.

"Sometimes, it's the truth behind the legend that's more interesting," Merradin said, and he leaned forwards to put a soft kiss against her lips, short and sweet.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2017, 02:29:58 AM
Elora returned the kiss carefully, as though afraid one or both of them would shatter like glass if she shifted the moment too much. A soft sigh breathed from her and she let her head rest against his shoulder again.

"I still need to deliver that later," she murmured, suddenly remembering its existence.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2017, 03:51:52 PM
"And it will be delivered," Merradin said, although he didn't even budge a muscle. He rested his forehead against Elora's.

"You're a good cuddler. I love it..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2017, 03:53:48 PM
The knight quirked an eyebrow, lips curving up on one side. "I am?" She tilted her head at him. "Ah...thank you, I suppose. You too?"

She chuckled slightly, nuzzling into his neck a bit more.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2017, 05:25:03 PM
Merradin purred at her warmth, opening his neck up for more nuzzles as his hands moved to hold her more fully. Idly, he passed a hand along her side and hip.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2017, 05:26:56 PM
Elora paused. Slowly, she raised her head. "Are you...?"

She'd made lovers purr before, but this was...well, more like an actual purr, albeit deeper and a little rougher. A smile tugged at the corners of her mouth and she placed two fingers on his throat, feeling the vibration as she stroked a hand down his chest.

Her eyes glinted. "You're purring."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2017, 05:42:01 PM
"I am. Dragons purr," Merradin said, purring only growing as she stroked him. He met her eyes with his own, studying all the different nuances of her features.

"You didn't know that?" he finally said, smile playful.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2017, 05:44:14 PM
She shook her head, utterly enchanted, and stroked her fingertips down his chest again, then moved to trace the planes of his stomach.

"It's...cute," she murmured, smiling slightly. She stroked his neck, then dipped to kiss his throat, suddenly wanting to feel the vibration against her lips and tongue.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2017, 06:03:59 PM
The purr was broken up by a sigh, and he tilted his head further back. His hands wandered, one of them drawing one of her legs closer to his hip while the other stroked her neck.

"I'll accept that description, but only because it's coming from you," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2017, 06:07:44 PM
Elora's smile widened and and she allowed him to pull her closer, continuing to stroke his throat and stomach, then dipping toward his hips.

"Well, consider me flattered, oh great Merradin," she murmured teasingly. Emboldened, she lapped her tongue along the length of his throat, sliding her hand down to brace just over the beat of his heart while the other swirled circular patterns over his hip.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2017, 08:16:08 PM
Oh, Merradin loved that, and when she passed her tongue along her, he let out a longer, breathier sigh. His hand slipped a bit lower, gently cupping her ass as the fingers of the other hand slipped into her hair.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2017, 08:21:04 PM
She chuckled quietly at that reaction, pausing to murmur, "So...I take it you like this?" She was mostly teasing, but she was also very aware of the freedom he'd given her to explore him. She didn't want to cross a line and violate that trust.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2017, 09:22:02 PM
"Very much," Merradin said.

"You can go a bit farther, if you want..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2017, 09:25:24 PM
She licked the line of his throat again, allowing her hand to trail to the junction of his hips. Carefully, she traced a finger around the base of him, humming quietly against his neck.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2017, 09:52:31 PM
And again, she'd hear those encouraging purrs. He kissed her jaw, and then his mouth lowered to her breast, and he slowly started to suckle and tease her nipple with his tongue.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 27, 2017, 05:21:00 AM
Elora shifted, heat pulsing through her, then cautiously moved so she was straddling his thighs, still licking and kissing at his neck while her hand traced absent patterns up and down his length before eventually wrapping her fingers fully around him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 27, 2017, 10:05:28 PM
She straddled him, and his hands went to her hips, slowly smoothing up her sides and then down her legs, all the way to her knees.

Her name escaped his lips as a whisper, a humble request for more.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 28, 2017, 05:08:47 AM
Her hand began to pump along his length, eyes on his face as her other hand traced the lines of his torso, first following the dips and planes of solid muscle before trailing off to create her own nonsense patterns over his skin, searching out where he was most sensitive.

Heat was building in her, but she ignored it. She needed to do this, to feel in control, just for a few minutes. As much as she wanted to please him, she knew she was also doing this for herself.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 29, 2017, 10:29:42 PM
After he got over the initial feeling of it, Merradin played the ever-sudmissive teddy bear. He only moved to stroke Elora's body and kiss her, never trying to pressure her to continue or to initiate any contact that wasn't gentle or caring.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 30, 2017, 01:50:25 AM
Grateful that he allowed her this control for now, Elora did her best to increase the stimulation of her affections. Her hand moved faster along his length, and she moved her kisses from his face and neck down his body, licking and scraping her teeth over skin she'd figured to be sensitive.

Her free hand moved to stroke his wings, remembering the little shiver that had earned her earlier.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2017, 10:39:35 PM
When her finger traced over the scales of his wing, his hands moved up a bit higher up her side, fingers grasping just that little bit tighter. He arced his body just a little bit, giving her more access to the flesh she was kissing, letting her know that he was eating it all up.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2017, 05:12:15 AM
Determined now, she hummed quietly into the little kisses and nips she scattered over his skin, wanting to make him fall apart underneath her. Her hand moved to the joint of wing and shoulder, stroking and massaging, while the fingers of her other hand gave his length a very soft squeeze and a gentle tug before she traced her fingers around the base of his head, then started pumping him again.

She repeated the pattern, growling quietly as her kisses turned into a gentle bite in his neck, then a deliberate scraping of her teeth against his collar as she moved steadily down, licking along lines of muscle and sucking hard just above his ribs, satisfied that it would leave a mark.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 04, 2017, 08:20:32 PM
Merradin bit his lip ever so slightly when she left that mark just above his ribs, and his hands wandered to her ass, gently kneading the generous flesh there. His breathing was a tad shallower now, needy releases of breath letting her know that she was making him go through significant effort to just stay still.

His hand dipped a bit lower, and he looked up at her, eyes asking a silent question.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 04, 2017, 08:32:32 PM
Elora paused and her eyes flicked up to meet his as she seemed to be considering. With a soft exhale, she ducked her head again to pepper a few more kisses along his ribs.

"You can touch me a little," she murmured against his skin. She felt a deep set tension cooling in her chest, afraid he would suddenly decide to fight her for the power here- a fight she knew she couldn't win, if it came down to it.

And... And she couldn't help feeling like she wanted to do something for him for a change. His touch certainly wasn't unappreciated in her current state, but she was determined to do this for him, first.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 04, 2017, 08:54:53 PM
Merradin nodded slowly, and his fingers slid down ever further. His touch wasn't meant to overshadow hers, rather, he moved his fingers in a way that kept Elora feeling some pleasure, so that she wasn't totally left out of things. His other hand slipped up her body to cup her breast.

"Keep doing that," Merradin sighed.

"Please, don't stop..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2017, 05:09:35 AM
The knight hummed quietly and leaned into his touch a bit. She glanced up at his face when he spoke and smiled. "Wasn't planning on it," she murmured, eyes glinting.

The movement of her hand sped up and she leaned in to kiss and suckle at his collar, once more raising marks on the skin. Her other hand slid around his waist, then dipped to brush her fingers over the base of his tail curiously, stroking when scales met skin.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2017, 08:31:58 AM
Merradin's tail automatically curled around her arm, and he lifted a bit higher off the bed, using his wings as leverage as he gave her more space to work. His collar and neck were dotted with marks now, and as he gently played with her nipple with his thumb, he looked up at her.

Eager to see what'd she do next.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2017, 08:46:58 AM
Elora paused a moment to admire the marks she'd scattered across his skin, lips quirking up on one side as she just appreciated his touch. Her hand wrapped as much as it could around the base of his tail and stroked the first few inches with a little more confidence, exploring.

Very carefully, she allowed her body to rest more secularly against his, trapping his length between them as she continued to stroke him. "You can ask for what you want, you know," she told him softly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 07, 2017, 06:43:30 AM
The tail curled around her arm lowered a bit so it was closer to her wrist, and he looked up to her face to meet her eyes. His hands wandered back up to her sides, and his wings rose to gently envelop her, lightly holding her.

He dipped his head forwards to kiss her, and spoke, lips still brushing against hers.

"I want you to make me come," Merradin said, and he passed his tongue over her lips.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2017, 06:50:57 AM
She shivered and leaned into the kiss.

She was certainly going to give it her best effort.

Groaning into his mouth, she felt the rhythm of her hand stutter slightly before she collected herself and started up again, faster. Her thumb flicked over the tip of him and she dragged her free hand down his back, nails catching at the joints of his wings and the base of his tail.

Elora pressed her body against his as much as she could manage, breathing a little raggedly as she drew her lips down his throat to kiss his pulse hungrily.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 07, 2017, 09:28:34 PM
Merradin grabbed Elora's ass and hips. He squeezed gently as she continued to make him purr, spreading himself out a bit more to expand their contact.

When her mouth moved to his throat, he tilted his head way back, giving her all the access she needed to that area.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2017, 09:35:03 PM
Her lips and tongue mapped a blazing trail over his throat to his collar, peppering a few more marks to his skin as she moved along.

She grinned as she felt him purr and gave his cock a soft squeeze. "Cute," she murmured absently, flicking her thumb back and forth over the tip of him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 07, 2017, 10:26:58 PM
Merradin "hmphed" a little at her compliment, but he also gave the top of her head a gentle kiss.

He sighed as she started to flick, and his wings enveloped her more fully.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2017, 10:32:49 PM
Taking that as a positive sign, Elora renewed her efforts, allowing the pad of her thumb to run gently against the skit in his head before resuming the quick back and forth motions, all the while her other hand continued to pump along his length.

She chuckled quietly and kissed the spot just below his ear. "You are though," she murmured teasingly. "The great Lightning-Eater purrs like a kitten. It's adorable."

...Maybe she was pushing her limits a bit here, but she just needed to feel in control, and gods bless it that damned purring sent a thrill of power through her in a way she'd never have expected.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 07, 2017, 10:44:56 PM
If she felt in control, it was probably because, at this point, Merradin had more-or-less surrendered himself to her. His tail swished pleasantly against the bedsheets, although sometimes it went taut when her hands moved in a particular way.

"What can I say?" Merradin started, and his hands ran up her back and sides, where he held her shoulders.

"You've got magical hands..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2017, 10:56:45 PM
Paying close attention to what made his hands clench and his body tense, Elora concentrated on that, smiling at his comment.

"No magic," she laughed quietly. "Just me." Her head tilted slightly to the side and a smirk pulled at her lips. Leaning into him to nip at the shell of his ear, she murmured, "If you come for me, I'll change the letter to tell them I'm staying here another week."

It was mostly playful, but she couldn't deny there was a part of her that wanted to know she could cause him to come undone beneath her hands. And honestly she just wanted to make him feel good- not because she felt she owed it to him, but just because she wanted to.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 24, 2017, 11:41:36 AM
"Then please, make me come," Merradin groaned, and he twitched in her hand, hands tightening on her sides.

"Just a little bit more, Elora..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 24, 2017, 11:48:26 AM
She kissed him, sealing her lips to his and swiping her tongue along the line of his bottom lip as she pumped her hands along him faster, alternating rapidly between soft touches and firmer strokes.

"Gods," she breathed as she pulled away just long enough to meet his eyes, then darted back in for another kiss, trailing her lips down his jaw and neck to his collar and back up again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 24, 2017, 11:54:31 AM
His breathing was short, almost stifled when she pulled away, and after a moment, it seized entirely.

"Elora, I'm coming@"

With a gasp and a crackle of electricity between his horns, all it took was a few more strokes after that before he came rather powerfully.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 24, 2017, 12:00:04 PM
Elora's eyes widened slightly, electricity in the air raising the hair on her arms. "Whoa..."

What would it be like to...?

She quickly put the thought from her mind and pulled her hands away, not wanting to overstimulate him. She glanced down at the mess between them and smiled a little crookedly. "I think maybe we'll need another bath," she chuckled.

Hesitantly, she curled her legs to the side and braced her palm on the bed beside him, looking down at him. "So...that was...okay?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 24, 2017, 12:14:10 PM
"Okay?" Merradin repeated, just a tad breathless, and he smiled.

"More than okay, Elora. Amazing," he said, passing a hand along her cheek. He leaned in to kiss her.

"Sorry about the electricity."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 24, 2017, 12:18:17 PM
"Good." She smiled and tilted her head into the kiss. Laughing quietly as she pulled away, she added, "And you don't have to apologize about that. It was...interesting."

She let herself curl onto her side, cheek propped against her hand to look at him. "Does that always happen? When you..." She trailed off, waving a hand airily.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 24, 2017, 01:17:18 PM
"Sometimes yes, sometimes no," Merradin said, and he gave her a wink.

"It depends on how good my partner is," he said, and he started trailing a hand down her side, to her hip.

"Bath?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 24, 2017, 01:21:17 PM
Elora tried not to feel too pleased with herself about that.

"Yeah, bath," she agreed with a smile. Her eyes tracked the movement of his hand, then she pulled away and stood from the bed, moving toward the bath.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 24, 2017, 06:38:08 PM
Merradin watched her get up, eyes following her rear for a few moments before he stood and followed her to the bath. He stretched his wings (and himself) before stepping down into the warm water, a purr rising from his chest as he let himself sink down.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 24, 2017, 06:58:42 PM
Elora tilted her head as she joined him in the water, either not noticing or ignoring where his eyes lingered.

"I suppose I have to fix that letter," she said with a small smile, eyeing the dragon sidelong. "We had a deal, after all."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 24, 2017, 07:04:11 PM
"Mmm, we did..." Merradin murmured, and he looked over to her, scooting closer to her without initiating any contact she didn't ask for.

"I trust you'll put that week to good use?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 24, 2017, 07:17:54 PM
She arched an eyebrow at him. "I think that depends on what you mean by "good use"," she pointed out idly, scrubbing absently at her body.

Internally, she was debating. The sex had been...well, rather wonderful, actually. But it was still hard for her to separate the panic and trauma from the act itself, despite how much she wanted to. She eyed him almost warily, trying to gauge what he wanted.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 24, 2017, 07:25:03 PM
"Why, by having as good a time as possible, of course," Merradin said, and he shot her a smile.

"There's a lot we can do in a week. Lots of beautiful places to visit, things to try out. You might even meet some of my dragon friends," Merradin said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 24, 2017, 07:29:17 PM
Elora's eyes widened and she swallowed nervously. "Ah- dragon friends?"

Okay, so Merradin she could handle...in his humanoid form. That did not mean she was prepared to meet more dragons.

But she didn't want to seem as nervous as she felt, so she pushed the thought away and shrugged. "Well, as you like. You're my host after all, I'm just grateful for the hospitality." She smiled slightly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 24, 2017, 08:29:33 PM
"It's a strong "might," I don't quite know if any of them are actually in the area or not," Merradin remarked. He directed his eyes forwards, but not before he gave Elora a glancing over.

"What was the plan for tonight?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 25, 2017, 04:15:08 AM
"Well, I suppose delivering that letter will be part of it." She shrugged. "After that...I don't really know. Did you have an idea?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on June 15, 2017, 10:01:28 PM
"Maybe a dance over a drink or two?" Merradin said, and he looked at her sidelong.

"I'm alright taking tonight slowly if you want to, though."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on June 16, 2017, 06:02:24 AM
Elora smiled and let her head rest back against the side of the bath. "That...sounds rather nice," she murmured. She took a breath and rolled her shoulders back, sltrying to steel herself. "I think I'd like to- try to be back in the world, as it were."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 09, 2017, 12:22:02 AM
"I think I know the perfect town," Merradin said, and he let his tail go limp in the water. He was still buszing pleasantly from the intimacy, but when he looked to Elora, she seemed troubled.

He let his head rest back, preferring not to address it for now.

And then his head snapped back up.

"Wait, you're not afraid of heights, are you?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 09, 2017, 06:06:00 AM
Having closed her eyes, she cracked one open to look over at him. "Not particularly." Dragons, yes. Heights, no.

She sat up a little straighter and combed her fingers through her hair. "I assume that means we're...flying to our destination?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 12, 2017, 11:53:25 PM
"We are," Merradin admitted, and he stood to stretch his wings before he moved back into the center of the pool where it was a bit deeper. He turned to look at Elora, up to his collar in water, and smiled.

"I'll be flying low, though, so it should be fine."

He looked at her for a few moments before he gave her an inviting look.

"Maybe we can stay the night in town? Find a nice inn?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 13, 2017, 12:11:29 PM
"Alright then." She took a breath. This would be fine. It was just Merradin. Even in dragon form, he'd still be...well, him.

This was fine.

She snapped out of her worrying at the sound of his voice and took a moment to process the suggestion. "That- sure. Yes, that would be...fine. If you like."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 02, 2017, 10:07:41 AM
"We don't have to if you don't want to," Merradin said pointedly, and he stood from the seat to wade further into the basin. The tops of his wings, the tip of his tail, and his head where the only things that protruded from the deeper water. He submerged himself for a few seconds, then looked back to Elora.

"Do you dance often?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 02, 2017, 06:08:04 PM
A very small smile tugged at her lips and she tilted we head a bit. "I used to dance quite a bit." She shimmied out into the water a bit more and scrubbed at her hair.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 03, 2017, 07:55:04 PM
That earned her a curious raise of his brow.

"Used to?" He said. As she got closer, he couldn't help but appreciate the sight of her. She was beautiful to him, wickedly so, and had everything he'd ever really want in a mate.

Save for the fact that she was a mere human, of course.

But still, he couldn't help but return her warm smile, an amused, almost mirthful look on his face.

"Why did you stop? Burn up too many dance floors?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 04, 2017, 06:24:27 AM
That earned a small chuckle and Elora eyed him over her shoulder as she combed her fingers through her hair. "Not exactly. I've been given...much more responsibility than I used to have these last few months. Doesn't leave much time for dancing."

Reasonably satisfied with her state of cleanliness, she boosted herself up to sit in the edge of the bath, legs dangling in the water. "What about you then?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 19, 2017, 12:15:30 AM
"Me?"

Merradin smirked, and he put his arms up on the rim of the pool.

"I partake a dance every now and then. I love visiting the cities every now and then. Dragons might be immortal, but we don't exactly get together to drink or dance," he said, the last few words coming out as a chuckle.

"I look forward to seeing Ketra again. Haven't been there in a month. I know a really nice inn with great drinks."

He looked back over to her, head tilting up so he could meet her eyes. He smiled again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 19, 2017, 07:23:44 PM
"Chances are I know the place you mean," Elora commented blithely. "I've made my way through just about every tavern and ale room in the city by now."

She boosted herself out of the bath and glanced around for the robe she'd been using. "What's the name?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 25, 2017, 01:28:09 AM
"The Rat's Head," Merradin said glibly, and his eyes momentarily followed her as she stood from the bath before he followed suit. He stretched, and started walking towards their robes, which had been sort of thrown a tad bit out of sight.

He certainly wasn't shy with his body either as he knelt down to grab the robes, loosely throwing his own on before he passed Elora her own.

"Decent little affair that place is. Great whiskey, too."

"I have all my clothes here, but we'll have to get you a dress from my hoard. I think I've got a few dressers out there in the treasure piles."

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 25, 2017, 09:35:05 AM
She slipped into the robe quickly and held it close around her shoulders, a little chilly now that she was out of the warm bath. "I know the name," she mused. "Not particularly familiar though."

She tilted her head at his offer of a dress. "Ah...I appreciate it, but I don't suppose there might be just a shirt and breeches in my size?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 02, 2017, 01:06:42 AM
"There is, if you like the color blue," Merradin said, turning to walk into his bedchamber and to his dresser.

"You'd probably still look stunning in them regardless," he said, mostly to himself but loud enough for hdr to hear. He picked out an outfit, a blue shirt with a slightly open chest, tight fit around the torso, and baggy sleeves. To match it, he also slipped on some black pants and shoes that were patterned to look like they were made of blue scales.

His wardrobe in general, if Elora wanted to purview it, would contain mostly shirts and garments in various shades of blue and several different kinds of pants, from trousers to breeches, in browns and blacks.

No garments were particularly humble, although none were extravagant.

"Another thing I love about this tavern is that they have great ale and wine. The variety staggers me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 02, 2017, 07:17:15 PM
"Blue is fine," Elora chuckled as she followed after him. "I take it you're a coinessuer, then?" she added, lightly teasing, as she turned her back to give him privacy to change.

When given her turn, she picked her way through his assortment of clothes and settled on the simplest shirt and breeches she could find. With some carefully tucking and folding, she managed to produce an ensemble that actually fit, and didn't look half bad, all things considered.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 18, 2017, 08:57:11 PM
"A connoisseur of what? drinks or clothes?" Merradin chuckled.

"I'd rather think I was a connoisseur of many things."

He stepped to his wardrobe, putting a hand on his chin. He shrugged off the towel coveringHe stood at it for a few good moments, considering what he'd wear, before he decided on a blue, long-sleeved shirt with a black fur vest on top. For pants, he chose some black leather trousers. He wore brogue dress shoes, and modestly adorned himself with rings.

As he fastened his belt, he spoke.

"I've had a lot of time to develop my taste for, well, pretty much anything."

He retracted his horns, and went to the other side of his room, where he had a mirror with a washbasin and a small, golden table with grooming supplies on it. He took a little bit of hair oil and started brushing it into his hair, making it nice and neat as he combed to the side.

He looked very much like a normal human now. He turned to her and grinned slightly.

"So trust me when I say that you look marvelous," he said.

"All ready to go?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 21, 2017, 08:17:20 AM
Elora chuckled but declined responding to the compliment. She still wasn't quite sure how to take them from him.

"Ready as I'll ever be," she said with a smile and a shrug. "So are we, um..." She waved a hand and sort of winced. "Flying?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 22, 2017, 11:20:59 PM
"I'm afraid so," Merradin said, giving her a lopsided smile. Oh, he could see what the problem was immediately. He slowly stepped back into the central room of his little home and motioned for her to follow him as he continued on and headed outside, stepping out into the little courtyard that was in front of his home.

The few windows inside his "house" let out the occasional view of his treasure hoard around them, but it'd quickly become apparent that the house was little more than an island in an ocean of treasure. The house sat on raised foundations amidst a sea of treasure, a stereotypical dragon's hoard if there ever was one.  fifteen foot tall piles of coins, gems, jewelry, golden objects, the occasional enchanted-looking weapon, and, curiously enough, artwork. Merradin had statues, ornately framed paintings, and other pieces, both ancient and modern.

The hoard was placed in a cavernous chamber.  The only way in and out was a massive opening in the ceiling, but from the current angle she wouldn't be able to see how far up it went.

Merradin kept walking, going out into the center of the courtyard. He looked around in varying directions, eyes scanning his treasure-hoard.

"I know I've got my old saddle around here somewhere..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 23, 2017, 03:44:24 PM
She gave a good effort not to just stand gaping for the next ten minutes or so at the splendor around her.

Giving herself a little shake, Elora cleared her throat and tried to focus on Merradin rather than his hoard. "Um...saddle?" She frowned, feeling suddenly awkward. "Are you, ah, sure? I mean... Is that necessary?" There was something a little odd about saddling a creature she would at this point consider herself to be on friendly terms with, if not precisely friends.

Though she supposed she had called Calla her friend.

That was a mistake, thinking of Calla. Her poor horse. She was suddenly on the verge of tears, and quickly whipped her head around in the hopes that Merradin wouldn't notice.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 11:12:52 AM
Unaware of the emotional turmoil brewing behind him, Merradin let out a small chuckle.

"I think you'll find it more than necessary. I'd like to think the ride would be too precarious without it."

Incidentally, he looked behind him, eyes still peering about for the ornate saddle with the insignia of the Adelan crown, when they passed over Elora, continued scanning, and returned to her. The way her head was downturned caught his eye.

"Elora?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2017, 11:18:55 AM
"Fine! I'm fine," she said quickly, automatically, snapping her head up with a surreptitious wipe of her eyes. She forced a smile and tried to focus on searching the hoard for this saddle. "Alright, what exactly am I looking for here? I'm afraid I don't know much about dragon saddles," she chuckled, the sound just a little forced.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 05:17:29 PM
If Merradin had a hunch before, now he knew something was up, but just as she dropped the issue, Merradin saw fit to do the same. He wouldn't want to upset her or anything, so for now, he'd let that lie.

"Well, it's quite like a normal saddle," Merradin snorted, and he took a few steps further away from her.

"Hold on, I'll find it."

And so, forgetting that Elora probably wasn't used to what she was about to see, he was suddenly surrounded by dark clouds, and with a flash of lightning the clouds parted, revealing that he was no longer a man, but now a dragon.

And he truly was legendary in size, even for a dragon. Nonchalantly, he glanced around, and he stepped down from his house's little platform among the riches and started wading through his hoard. Every footstep of his made the earth shudder.

"It might be buried under one of these gold piles, old as it is."

He paused, and looked back at her, turning his head and raising his scaly brows a little.

"It's the one thing I have in here that's made of leather, so it shouldn't be that hard to find."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2017, 05:31:35 PM
Elora squeaked- later she would tell herself it was just a sharp intake of breath- and skittered backward from the smoke and lightning. The hair on her arms stood up and she gaped up at Merradin, speechless.

Aside from his rescuing her from the plains, when she had been near delirious with exhaustion, dehydration, and starvation, she hadn't actually seen him in his true form.

It was...certainly a lot to take in.

She tried to shake herself back into focus, looking for the saddle, but she could help giving the dragon a wide berth as she cautiously approached the piles of treasure. "That, uh...right. Leather. I'll just...look for that."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 06:56:21 PM
She'd be able to hear him slow down in his steps. He looked to her more fully, still surprisingly expressive despite that he had a dragon's snout instead of a human face. His features fell slightly, and he raised one of his front claws to his chest. Insecurity was a rather interesting look for a dragon.

"Is... is this too much?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2017, 07:03:01 PM
Well, great. Now she felt bad.

Swallowing thickly, Elora shook her head automatically, then paused. "It-" She sighed and rubbed at her temple, then gave him a sheepish sort of smile. "It certainly is...a lot."

Deep breaths. You've been around dragons all your life. Just because they scare you doesn't automatically make them dangerous. This was Merradin for gods' sakes! If he'd proved one thing in the time she'd known him, it was that he didn't plan to hurt her.

At least not intentionally.

"Can I-" She reached out, then snatched her hand back. Her cheeks flushed a rosy pink and she chewed at her lower lip. "Is it- is it alright if I...touch you?"

That had worked before. He'd allowed her control and the ability to touch him as she pleased, and it had helped her work through the panic that such intimacy would otherwise have raised. Perhaps the same principle could be applied- although to a vastly different situation.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 07:17:54 PM
At her request, his smile returned, and it was with a healthy amount of amusement that he noticed her cheeks flush up.

"But of course," he said. His voice was powerful (unsurprisingly), and whenever he hit his lower tones she'd be able to feel a rumble in the air as he spoke. However, he still sounded very much like his human self, if not grander.

Mindful of his treasure, he lowered himself until he was resting on his belly, much like a cat. He tucked his wings to his side and peered down at her.

"Go on then, I still don't bite."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2017, 07:21:40 PM
Despite herself, Elora snorted a bit at that and shot him a wry look. "Pity," she teased dryly, a bit of that gold glint coming back to her eyes.

She approached with careful steps, still sort of trying to wrap her head around the idea that this massive dragon was the man she'd come to know over the last day or so. Cautiously, she reached out, hesitated, glanced up at his face, then exhaled sharply and pressed her palm against his chest.

His scales were warm. She could feel the thunder of his heartbeat thrumming through her whole body, making her shiver. Her breath caught in her throat and she craned her head back to look up at his face, eyes wide.

"...It's you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 07:43:39 PM
When she looked up, she'd find that he was peering down at her as well. When she spoke, he snorted out a laugh.

"Yes, the one-and-only."

He lowered his head so he could rest it on the ground by her, in case she still felt like touching.

"And I still look good, too," he said with a toothy smirk.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2017, 07:55:38 PM
She scoffed.

Yeah. Definitely Merradin.

"Ass," she accused, though with no small amount of affection, and she reached over to shove him lightly. She had a feeling the entirety of her body weight thrown against him would be little more than the buzzing of a fly to her, so she wasn't all that worried about hurting him.

"Alright, let's look for that saddle then, yeah?" Seemingly much more at ease, she patted his flank before turning back to examine the piles of treasure again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 08:25:09 PM
Merradin's gaze followed her as she walked down his body. When she patted his flank, he stood back onto his scaly feet, raising his head once again.

It was rather amusing as he waded through his treasure hoard, every movement of his signalled by the loud jingling of coins and other precious objects, which were somehow unharmed by the whole endeavor. Overall, the ground layer of treasure went up to Merradin's belly, as his weight was enough to just let him move through it as if it was water.

Elora, being a human, could just walk on the coins and treasures, almost as if it was extremely expensive sand. There were places where the treasures piled up even higher than this, high enough to tower over Elora as noticeable hills in the terrain.

Interestingly enough, among the coins, chests, and priceless objects, there was the occasional ornate weapon, helmet, or even breastplate that stuck out of the coiny sand.

"Now, I know it has to be one of these piles. probably one of the smaller ones."

He sniffed at the air, and he started moving.

"Over here, I think."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2017, 08:30:17 PM
She was looking for the saddle.

She really was.

She just...kept getting distracted. First by the sheer amount of wealth around her, then by specific treasures or weaponry that caught her eye. More than a few blades seemed to be of Adelan make, and though she was no mage herself she could have sworn oat least one or two of them were enchanted.

A particular blade, gentle curved steel with a silver pommel and hilt, caught her attention and she bent to examine it. "How do you even keep track of all the things you've collected in here?" She murmured, almost more to herself than to Merradin.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 08:38:12 PM
"I remember. A dragon always remembers what's in their hoard, and I can sense it, in a way..."

He trailed off to peer at a small pile of treasure that could've concealed the saddle, but after a few moments, he kept moving.

"Down to the smallest coin."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2017, 08:42:02 PM
“Hmm.” She straightened up and patterned after him, coins sliding under her feet. “So all those stories about dragons hunting down every last scrap of their stolen treasure, even if it’s taken halfway across the world...those could be true? Ack!”

Not paying attention to where she put her feet, she stepped on a partially buried helmet that rolled out from under her and sent her tumbling down the side of a hill of treasure. She rolled to a halt, unharmed but rather rattled and distinctly embarrassed, and sat up to find herself nose-to-pommel with a massive saddle.

“...I think I found it.”
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 08:54:11 PM
"Could be? No, are true is more appropriate. A vengeful dragon will go through a lot to--"

And at that moment, she cried out and disappeared from his sight. He heard her tumbling down a pile of treasure, and immediately went wading in through his treasure after her.

"Elora! Are you alright?" he said, head peering down into the small dip she'd found herself in. For now, he paid the saddle no mind, waiting for her answer.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 13, 2017, 08:59:47 PM
Aside from being very, very red she was entirely unhurt. Silently trying to will her blush away, she scrambled to her feet and nodded quickly. "Yeah, just lost my footing. Stupid, wasn't looking where I was going. Anyway!"

She tried to brush passed the situation, still flushed as she set about attempting to dig the saddle out from the side of the mound of treasure. "Uff. When was the last time you used this thing?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 13, 2017, 09:31:07 PM
"Call it... hrm... Here, let me see that."

Using what was probably draconic magic, Merradin parted the treasure around Elora so he could join her by the saddle. He sat down on his haunches, using his front legs as arms as he reached for it. He made sure that Elora was out of the way, and merely pulled the saddle out, holding it away to lightly shake the treasure off like it was dust, one of the more notable pieces of which being a shield of elven make.

He set the saddle down and started to dig for the harness as well, finding it in a few moments.

"At least three-hundred years. I was a bit younger, then."

He tossed a smirk her way, and stood, spreading his wings to bare his sides to her.

"Go on then. I hope I haven't gained too much weight since then."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 14, 2017, 04:24:58 AM
She ducked out of the way as he cleared the treasure and watched the pieces fall with interest. Rolling her am eyes, she muttered, "I think you know you haven't," as she stepped forward to take the harness.

It was slow going, but she managed to figure out how the whole thing rigged up and attached. "Gods," she huffed, backing away to survey her handiwork. "Do dragonriders do this nonsense every day?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 14, 2017, 12:26:51 PM
"Only the days they ride their dragons," Merradin said, huffing a little as she finally tightened the last buckle. The saddle went around the base of Merradin's neck, so it wasn't exactly too far away from a glorified collar.

The saddle itself was more of a high-backed seat than anything else. Whiplash was a legitimate threat so it was important for riders to have something to put their back against so they don't get whipped around in the saddle.

Indeed, the saddle also had stirrups that one needed to buckle their feet into, as well as a buckle designed to go around the rider's waist. There was also a handlebar in front of the seat, should the rider feel the need for an extra grip.

Merradin himself gave Elora a teasing look, and lowered himself onto his belly again, laying himself belly-down so she could climb into the saddle.

"Come along, then, beautiful. You've got a great ride ahead of you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 14, 2017, 12:30:13 PM
She couldn't help laughing at that, clapping a hand over her mouth to stifle some of the sound. "Damn, if I had a copper for every time I heard that," she joked, then sighed dramatically. "Too bad men don't live up to those claims half the time."

Eyes glinting wickedly, she swung herself up into the saddle. Alright, so she was on a dragon, but the basic principles of riding should still apply, right? Except...

"Ohhhh, this is high. You are high," she mumbled, eyes wide as she glanced over his shoulder while she buckled herself in. Very securely.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 14, 2017, 02:12:12 PM
"Fortunately for you, I am no mere man."

Once the sounds of her bucking in ceased, he raised himself up onto his legs, standing up to his full height. As he got used to the saddle again, he stretched his wings.

"Comfy?" he said, as he walked towards that hole in the ceiling. Now that they were beneath it, she'd be able to see that it stretched upwards for quite a ways, ending in a small point of light at the very top. As he walked, she'd now be able to feel the rumble in every step travel up into her, even the slight heaving of his massive frame as he breathed.

He turned his head about so he could look at her. He had that same mirthful expression, but his eyes were soft with concern, as if wanting to make sure for himself that she was all buckled in and safe.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 14, 2017, 02:14:07 PM
Elora had gone a little pale, gripping the horn of the saddle tightly. She hadn't lied before, she wasn't afraid of heights.

Apparently the question should have been if she was afraid of the ground from heights.

"Yep." Her voice was a squeak and she cleared her throat to try again, "Um, yeah. I'm- I'm good."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 14, 2017, 02:38:41 PM
"Alright," Merradin said, and he directed his eyes upwards towards the light.

"Just rest back against the seat, it'll only take a few seconds," Merradin said, and he gave his wings a test flap.

"Here we go."

He started to flap his wings, every flap throwing up a flurry of wind. After a few moments, storm clouds surrounded his feet. He dipped down, like a cat preparing to pounce, and then brought his wings down.

And just like that, the magical wind he was building up spilled forth, and when his wings caught it
and the sound of thunder bellowed beneath him and Elora, it was enough force to send his massive body shooting upwards at a staggering speed that a creature as large as him shouldn't be able to achieve.

They shot straight up for what probably felt like a minute to Elora, and then, suddenly, there was light.

The sun shone down on them as Merradin cleared the hole, and as he straightened himself out and started to soar, she'd find herself with a stunning view of the clouds.

Not above her, but below, and beneath those clouds the treacherous crags and valleys of the Thunderblack mountain range.

"See? Not so bad," Merradin called out.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 14, 2017, 02:44:23 PM
She wouldn't be proud of it later, but Elora screamed, clinging to the saddle. Luckily the thunder drowned most of the noise out, and by the time they'd leveled out she seemed to have collected herself somewhat.

Oh dear.

That was a long way down.

Swallowing thickly, she nodded and tried to call back to him, "Yeah. Not so bad..." Her voice was a little thin and reedy, but overall not too far off from her normal tone.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 14, 2017, 03:16:21 PM
"I know it's a lot to take in," Merradin said, his voice carrying clearly despite the wind blowing past the both of them.

"But if we do this enough times, you might even get to liking it," Merradin said, turning his head forwards again.

"We'll be flying like this for a while until we get close to town."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 14, 2017, 03:25:06 PM
"Yeah, no, I'm alright." It wasn't entirely a lie. If not exactly comfortable, she was at least getting used to the sensation.

"How far are we going exactly?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 15, 2017, 10:34:27 AM
"Hundred or so miles," Merradin answered. He was slowly lowering his altitude, stopping his descent to skim across the tops of the clouds. The sun had started to set by now, painting the clouds and sky with color.

"So we'll be there soon."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 15, 2017, 10:38:54 AM
"Gods." Elora shivered a bit from the chill at such a high altitude, but as she gradually started to settle into the rhythm of flying she found herself able to actually enjoy the view passing by below them.

"How could you ever bear to land?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 15, 2017, 08:04:58 PM
Merradin hmphed. Before he answered her, however, he allowed himself to descend down through the clouds. When they cleared that layer, they were coming over the Thunderblack highlands, and ahead was the Draconi forest.

"I ask myself the same thing all the time," he mused. Once again, they started to glide. He was almost dead silent in the air, like a bird of prey. He could patrol these skies at his whim, for he was an apex predator.

"I came to the conclusion that I need to land because I can't sleep while flying."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 15, 2017, 08:10:06 PM
She chuckled a bit almost despite herself and watched the approaching forest with fascination. "Well. Thanks for- showing me this, I suppose," she murmured. Without thinking, she leaned forward to pat his neck, as she would have with Calla on a long ride.

Realizing what she was doing, she pulled back quickly with a soft blush. "Uh- ahem. So, where exactly am I supposed to find a courier in this town we're going to?" she asked quickly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 15, 2017, 08:24:53 PM
"No problem," he said. He felt her pat his neck, and while she recoiled and blushed, Merradin smirked to himself, unaware of her bashfulness but sensing the hesitance in her movements.

"You can find a courier by the inns. If we're lucky, there might even be one where we're going."

There was a moment or two of silence before he spoke again.

"You don't have to be so shy, you know. I appreciate neck pats."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 15, 2017, 08:26:30 PM
"O-oh." Her blush deepened and she cleared her throat. "I figured it was kinda...y'know. Condescending? Which wasn't at all what I was trying to be," she added quickly. "I didn't wanna offend you or anything-"

Elora closed her eyes with a sigh. "I'll just shut up now."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 15, 2017, 08:37:09 PM
That elicited proper chuckles from him, and again he looked back at her.

"You're adorable, you know that?" he said teasingly. He turned his head back around to the flight ahead.

"And no touch from you is a bad one, as far as my experience goes."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 15, 2017, 08:48:24 PM
"You shut up," Elora laughed, swatting lightly at his shoulder. "Don't go saying things like that- I'm a knight of the realm, I've got a reputation to maintain over here."

Her blush went a few shades deeper and her smiled turned a little mischievous as a wickedly playful thought flashed through her mind. "Yet," she added before she lost her nerve. "No touch from me has been bad yet." It was strange to, well, flirt with a dragon, but she barreled through. "Believe me, Lightning Eater, if I set my mind to it I can be positively sinful."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 15, 2017, 09:08:11 PM
Another rumble went through him. At her words, a small jolt shot from one of his horns to the other. When he was a human, it was a little easier to suppress those automatic reactions of his.

"My, aren't we feeling brazen..." he purred. He gave his wings a flap to maintain his flight.

"Feeling more confident, now that you know where my weak points are?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 15, 2017, 09:11:49 PM
Huh. That was interesting.

Making a note of his reaction and filing it away, Elora smiled slightly. "Maybe a little," she chuckled. Her voice softened a little and she added, "I really do...appreciate what you've done for me, Merradin. I know this playing around is all well and good, but I'm still..." She shrugged, unable to come up with a word for what exactly she was. "Anyway. Thanks for...helping me. With everything."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 15, 2017, 09:16:43 PM
He tilted his head a bit to glance back at her, and she'd be able to see that he was smiling.

"You're welcome, Elora," Merradin said.

"And just you wait. You're going to be even better after tonight. A good drink and a dance will do that to you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 15, 2017, 09:23:17 PM
She chuckled again and leaned back in the saddle. "Yeah, that has been my experience."

Maybe...maybe she really could learn to feel normal again. If not soon, at least- at least some day.

It was more than she'd believed a day ago.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 15, 2017, 09:32:47 PM
Merradin continued to smile to himself as he flew, falling quiet as the peace of the moment just asserted itself. As they approached more civilized land, Merradin flew lower and lower, using the cover of night and his silent gliding to keep them unseen and unheard.

Ahead of them, the lights of a town would start coming into view.

"We're going to be landing soon."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 15, 2017, 09:35:15 PM
Elora tried not to be too obviously relieved by that. Flying was all well and good- honestly she'd enjoyed most of it- but it was still distinctly not in her comfort zone.

Maybe with a little more practice.

A thought suddenly occurred to her. "Uh, Merradin? What are we gonna do with the saddle while you're human?" It was not by any means a small piece of equipment.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 16, 2017, 09:09:54 AM
"We can stow it where we land," he said absently, mostly focused on finding a clearing in the trees to set himself down in. When he found one just a mere mile away from town and a short walk off the road, he started to slow down.

He slowed down to a hover, lowering himself gently until finally, he touched down.

"And here we are."

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 16, 2017, 09:48:36 AM
A gentle touchdown for a creature of Merradin's size still jolted Elora slightly- there was literally no way to avoid it, the ripple of contact just shifted her on his body- but it wasn't too uncomfortable and she found herself breathing a little easier once they were on solid ground.

"Alright then." She unbelted herself from the saddle and slipped down his shoulder to the ground, patting his flank. "Here, hold still so I can get this off you."

She paused, silent a moment, then snorted to herself. "My gods. This is not normally the context I say that in."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 16, 2017, 06:01:19 PM
That had Merradin chortling to himself. He was grinning like a bastard even as he turned to face her. The main buckles were near his chest, which he presented to her as he sat down on his haunches.

"Go on then, Ser Knight. Undress me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2017, 04:05:58 PM
She rolled her eyes and started in on the buckles, a little more easily now that she knew how the contraption worked. "I don't think this exactly qualifies as undressing," she noted blithely with a prim little sniff.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2017, 04:20:13 PM
Merradin huffed a little from his nose and settled down, not saying much else as she took the saddle off of him. Patiently, he waited for the saddle to come off. Then, he distanced himself a little from her before becoming enshrouded in storm clouds. In a moment's notice, he was the man she knew. He ran his fingers through his hair a couple of times, and then shot her a smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 17, 2017, 04:22:37 PM
Elora rolled her eyes again, but she was smiling a bit herself. "Alright then, Lightning Eater. How exactly do you plan to show a girl a good time?" She folded her arms over her chest and leaned back into one hip, quirking an eyebrow.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2017, 09:21:48 PM
"Did I not tell you? Regardless, I'll remind you," he said as he walked past her, nearly close enough to brush shoulders as he moved past. He spoke the whole way.

"It involves a couple of fine drinks, a few lively dances... and maybe some more drinks after that? I honestly only had the first two steps planned."

After a few steps, however, he stopped and offered her his hand, looking at her sidelong.

"I know a fantastic little establishment."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 18, 2017, 07:51:51 AM
"See, those are some rather vague steps," Elora noted teasingly. "If you wanna court a girl you're going to have to put a bit more effort into it."

She went abruptly quiet as she realized what she'd said. Merradin certainly wasn't courting her... Was he? Regardless, the phrasing had her flushing a bit and snapping her eyes away from him as they walked.

She did take the hand he offered though.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 29, 2017, 09:40:38 AM
At her slip, Merradin just smirked a bit wider to himself.

"You know, I could've sworn I told you this already..." he murmured as he started to lead her away. Abruptly, he stopped, and turned back around.

"Oh, the saddle!"

He let go of her hand and raised his own towards the saddle. He murmured something to himself in draconic, and nothing happened.

"Drat."

He murmured again, but slightly different this time, and the saddle gently faded away, seemingly disappearing.

He whipped back around and gently took Elora's hand.

"There we go. My illusion magic's a tad rusty, been a while since I had to hide something so big."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 29, 2017, 11:16:39 AM
"Huh." She cocked her head to the side, starting just a bit when his hand found hers again. "So...lightning stuff, shapeshifting, illusions...anything you can't do?" Her lips quirked up on one side as she tipped her head back to smirk at him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 29, 2017, 11:36:55 AM
"There's a lot of things I don't know how to do," Merradin said, shooting Elora a fond look to match the look she gave him.

"Many dragons spend their lives amassing knowledge or skills. I just spent it partying with humans," Merradin mused. he tilted his head at Elora and winked at her, a mischievous glint in his eye.

"I'm a bit of an expert in the field."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 29, 2017, 11:40:24 AM
"Oh?" Elora's smirk widened. "Well then, I suppose you have me at a disadvantage. I'm by no means inexperienced in that particular field, but I don't know if I'm an expert," she chuckled.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 29, 2017, 11:55:22 AM
"Don't worry, I'm sure we can do some mutual learning."

As he spoke, they made it through the tree and were on the road. The town was just a short walk away, the low wooden walls clearly visible from where they were standing.

They weren't going to Ketra, but rather one of the smaller towns near it.

"It's been so long since I've been here. I usually just go to Ketra, but... It's nice to indulge in nostalgia every once in a while."

He looked back to Elora.

"This town was just a couple of buildings when I was born."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 29, 2017, 12:01:03 PM
The knight looked up at his face again, a considering sort of brow creasing her brow. "Which was over a thousand years ago," she murmured almost absently. She shook her head with a disbelieving little laugh, though the humor didn't quite reach her eyes.

"I'm surprised this town was anything when you were born, Grandpa." The soft melancholy that had seemed for a moment to be threatening to take over her expression vanished into a teasing grin and she bumped his shoulder with her own.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on February 25, 2018, 10:35:21 AM
"Grandpa," Merradin huffed, a small chuckle forcing his mouth into a smile. He offered her his arm as they stepped down the worn road.

"The buildings were different, of course. Dirt walls and thatch roofs, the whole deal. Adela wasn't even a dream in a tribesman's mind then..." He trailed off.

He was quiet a few moments, and then he smiled to himself, struck with nostalgia.


Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on February 25, 2018, 11:54:59 AM
"Oi." Elora leaned into his side slightly, giving him a lopsided smile. "You're drifting off there. Y'know, for a guy who seems to think Grandpa is a ridiculous moniker, you sure are acting like one," she teased with a little smirk.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 06, 2018, 09:39:04 AM
"It's a lot of memories to go through," he rebutted. When she leaned into his side he looked down at her, subtly pleased by her show of intimacy. While she spoke, he listened attentively. As he considered his response, his eyes went to her lips for the briefest moment.

"It's startling how much the world can change in a few thousand years. And yet the humans stay the same," he said, adding the latter sentence in as a comment, and he smiled as if to indicate that was a good thing.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 06, 2018, 09:56:29 AM
She laughed quietly and quirked an eyebrow at him. "I suppose I'll take that as a compliment." She adjusted her grip on his arm slightly so she could walk more comfortably beside him.

She didn't miss the way his eyes lingered, and found herself dropping her eyes with a soft blush. "Hey, stop that. We're in public, y'know, it's impolite to stare like that," she teased gently.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 22, 2018, 10:39:00 AM
"Pardon me," Merradin teased back.

They were at the gates now, which were already open. A merchant was arguing with a guard outside the gate. Merradin spared them a glance before he kept going.

They were in the town now. It was late in the afternoon, so there wasn't all that much activity on the street. Many establishments were either closing or already shut tight, while the local watering holes were just now starting to come alive.

"I never tire of seeing the city, you know. It's fascinating how humans live so close together."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 22, 2018, 11:44:28 AM
"Not exactly what dragons are used to, huh?" Elora looked around as they entered the town.

Her fight or flight instinct rose to hum just under the surface of her skin. So many people, so few places to run, to escape...

She pressed closer to Merradin's side unconsciously. "So, um- ahem. Where's your favorite spot here then?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 01, 2018, 08:31:42 PM
"It's a couple of byroads past the main square. Tucked between a blacksmith's shop and a chandler," Merradin said immediately, and he looked at her again. He gave her a comforting smile, and opened his side a bit more in case she wanted to press further against him. They already looked like two lovers, walking side-to-side like that and with their hands together.

It was with gentle concern that he felt her tenseness. To a being such as him, it was easy to hear her breath shorten oh so slightly, to smell that faint tinge of fear that all animals gave off when they expected an attack.

"I have wines and such in my lair, but there's something about the froth of a freshly poured Adelan red in a wooden mug that just sits right with me. And the atmosphere, and the smells..."

He trailed off again, but for a shorter time, wrinkling his nose as he spoke again.

"Well, not always the smells."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 01, 2018, 08:36:20 PM
A small part of her hated the show of weakness, but she tucked herself a little more securely against his side. "Not much for the combination of piss and vomit?" she joked wryly, eyebrows arched and a smirk playing at her lips.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 01, 2018, 08:52:44 PM
"You nailed it," Merradin said, and he returned her smirk with one of his own. When she tucked into his side, he looked forwards. They were still walking down the main road, just two faces in the semi-crowded streets.

"I do appreciate this, though. you humoring me and all. It's been a solid couple of months since I last visited the humans. Even longer so with a friend," he said, and then threw her a wink.

"And a beautiful friend at that."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 01, 2018, 09:14:41 PM
"You flatterer," Elora chuckled, shaking her head at him. "If I didn't know better, I'd think you were trying to butter me up," she teased lightly.

She was starting to feel a little calmer, and she looked around again as they walked, taking in the people around them cautiously.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 01, 2018, 09:28:31 PM
"What, I'm not allowed to compliment my date?" He started, but before she could answer, he continued, placing his free hand against his chest.

"And pray tell, what would I be buttering you up for, hmm?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 01, 2018, 09:36:12 PM
"Why, you could be planning to proposition me," she gasped, pressing a hand to her own chest and widening her eyes dramatically.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2018, 07:51:24 AM
At that, Merradin let out a few seconds of laughter before he composed himself again. The look in his eyes changed to a huskier one, the care and desire visible in the way he regarded her.

"That would be redundanr," he said, and he leaned in to whisper salaciously into her ear.

"You've already spilled the seed of a dragon. What more is there to propose?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2018, 09:01:48 AM
A shiver ran down her spine and quite against her will her breath caught in her throat. Elora licked her lips and glanced up at him through her lashes.

"Oh, I've got a pretty good imagination," she murmured, testing. Whether she was testing him or herself she wasn't sure. "I'm sure I could think of something..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2018, 10:49:53 AM
In truth, Merradin had tested her, and he found her reaction to be delicious. He pulled his mouth away from her ear, paused as if tempted to kiss her, and then straightened back up.

"I'm sure you do, and I'm sure you will, Merradin said.

They were walking through the town's square now, but Merradin led them along the sides, away from the crowds gumming up the market stalls and along the edge.

"Maybe I'll do some imagining of my own, Ser Braun," he said, and directed his eyes back to her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2018, 11:07:08 AM
She shivered again and shot him a quick, lopsided smirk. "That a promise?" she teased quietly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2018, 11:56:29 AM
As a dragon, it pleased him to no end whenever he could make her shiver with just a few words. He smiled at her rather innocently.

"As sure as rain falls from the sky," he said, matching her tone.

He took them into a side road, away from the square. They were close, now.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2018, 01:39:44 PM
Another shiver, though this one she managed to suppress slightly. "Watch yourself, Lightning Eater," she murmured playfully. "I may not be a dragonrider in the traditional sense, but I think I could learn."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2018, 02:20:38 PM
"Hold onto that confidence," Merradin said, voice nearly a purr as they rounded a corner. Down the street, the tavern was visible. A decent looking place, but warm light, music, and the smell of food came from its windows and open doorways.

A couple of drunk revelers sat outside, slurring the words to the song being played inside.

"You'll need it if you don't want to be bucked off."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2018, 02:27:38 PM
Elora chuckled and shook her head at him, looking around curiously as they approached the tavern.

"This seems nice," she murmured, head tilted a bit to the side. There was still a wariness in her shoulders and the set of her jaw, but she did her best to move past it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2018, 03:23:33 PM
Merradin nodded his agreement.

"It is," he said, leading her up the three steps that led to the building's front porch.

The sign hanging from the building's awning read "The Winking Rat," and Merradin spared the sign a nostalgic smile before motioning through the open door.

"After you, my lady," he said with a cheesy smile.

The inside was that of a good-quality tavern, although it was obvious that no nobles frequented the place. It was quaint, but the music was good, the few gambling tables alive, the dances energetic, and the drinks well stocked.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2018, 04:13:14 PM
Elora looked around a little nervously as they entered, but she managed to summon a smile. "Nice."

She looked up at Merradin. "Buy a girl a drink?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2018, 04:27:28 PM
Merradin was already on it, eagerly leading her along to the bar, pulling her stool out for her, and taking a seat. The bartender was busy serving some other patrons, and so while she got around to serving them, Merradin turned to Elora.

"What did you have in mind?" He said, and glanced about.

"The brandy here is good. So are the stouts."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2018, 04:47:13 PM
"Whiskey would be divine," she sighed with a crooked smile. "Though if you recommend the brandy I suppose I should try it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2018, 07:02:22 PM
"Well you can always have your whiskey later," Merradin said, and it looked like he was going to say something else but then the bartender was there, and he promptly ordered two brandies, bread, and a plate of sausages.

"And I know that I myself have some bottles of fine whiskey."

He seemed lost in thought for a few seconds.

"Somewhere."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2018, 07:06:43 PM
"Oh?" Picking up their little game from before, Elora sipped at her drink and asked wryly, "Is that a clever ploy to lure me back to your abode, good ser?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2018, 09:17:18 PM
"You have me all figured out," Merradin admitted, chuckling to himself. He sipped some of his own brandy, closing his eyes a little to savor it before swallowing.

"And here I thought my master plan to take you to my cave and make out with you on a pile of treasure was subtle," he huffed, and gave her a teasing look.

The sausages and bread arrived, and Merradin didn't hesitate to tear a piece from the loaf and pop it in his mouth.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2018, 09:31:19 PM
She snorted softly into her drink and kicked a foot out to nudge at his leg. "You're incorrigible," she informed him with a soft laugh.

When the food arrived she went right for the sausage. Merradin's fruit dishes has been delicious, but she needed some meat.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2018, 04:40:28 AM
Merradin smiled at her knowingly and took a sausage for himself.

"You like it," he said, before taking a bite, and then another drink from his brandy.

"So, how's your brandy?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2018, 05:42:46 AM
"Delicious," she answered honestly, smiling at him. "I'll be sure to take any recommendations you give in the future. At least as far as alcohol goes."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2018, 09:56:43 AM
Merradin scoffed a tiny bit at her words.

"Just alcohol? You wound me," he said, giving her a mock frown. Again, he took a slow, savoring sip.

The music in the tavern shifted over to a more active song, and Merradin started nodding along to it. He looked to her and smiled, taking another swig before he asked her a silent question with his eyes.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2018, 10:23:26 AM
Eliza laughed and shook her head, taking another sip of her drink and standing from her stool.

"Come on then!" She grabbed his hand and tugged him up out of his seat with a grin, eyes glinting gold.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2018, 12:33:05 PM
Oh, it was exactly what he wanted, and his drink was quickly forgotten when she took his hand and pulled him from his seat, eyes following hers, eager to see what she would lead him into.

They weren't the only ones animated by the shift in music, and the whole place seemed to come more alive.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2018, 01:26:38 PM
Elora laughed again and placed his hands on her hips, swaying gently to the music. "I'm sure you know more dances than I do, but this is the best I've got for the moment," she chuckled with a little half smile, looping her arms around his neck.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2018, 01:42:41 PM
"I don't mind starting a little slow. Don't want to show up the rest of the dancers," he said, and he swayed with her in perfect time. He joined his hands at the small of her back. He held her a little closer, making the dance a little racier but not by too much, and he let out a short purr.

He had just enough brandy in him that he just wanted to relish the closeness to her, rather than do any ostentatious dance moves.

He met her eyes, gazing into the gold, and against his conscious effort his eyes flicked back down to her lips.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2018, 01:50:56 PM
Her smile shrank just a bit, lashes lowering towards her cheeks.

"You can," she said without thinking, then cleared her throat, a soft blush dusting her cheeks. "I mean...you seem like you want to. If you, uh, want to kiss me, you can..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2018, 02:10:57 PM
A little bashfully, Merradin nodded slowly, but didn't kiss her immediately. He let the rest of the tavern melt away, brushing a few strands away from her face and stroking her cheek with his thumb.

"You're just so beautiful," he started, and he dipped in, joining their lips and parting his against hers for a few endless moments before he pulled away. He held her differently, one hand on her hip while the other sought her own hand to lock fingers.

"I just can't help myself," he said with a chuckle.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2018, 02:28:41 PM
Elora blushed for what felt like the third time in as many minutes. She felt her heart hammering in her ears, drowning out the noise and light around them until all she could focus on was the man before her. She closed her eyes as he kissed her, lips gliding almost carefully against his.

Gods. Even just a kiss was enough to make her toes curl.

"You are very good at that," she laughed breathlessly as they parted. One hand moved to the small of his back while the other remained lightly on his shoulder.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2018, 08:34:17 PM
"Mm" Merradin responded curtly, and he mirrored how she was holding him, stepping their dance up just a bit as he held her closer and moved a bit faster.

"I don't know what I like more. Actually kissing you, or seeing the color on your cheeks after. You might have to help me decide."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2018, 08:52:16 PM
Her blush deepened, but she chuckled a bit and slid her hand from his shoulder to the back of his neck, pulling him toward her just a bit.

"Well, I know which I like more," she murmured, eyes half lidded. "Let me see if I can convince you." She leaned up on her toes for another kiss.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 05, 2018, 08:00:06 PM
He was content to let her go at her own pace, reciprocating the kiss for as long as she'd hold it. He purred a bit more, rising up to a level where it'd be audible to the both of them, and she'd be able to feel it in her chest when she held him close.

When they finally pulled apart he had an almost starstruck look in his eyes. It was bizarre for him, feeling this way for a human, but it felt all too natural when their lips touched.

There was something about her that he found magnetic, and it showed with how he gently smiled afterwards, rather than put on his usual smirk or grin.

"You make a good arguement."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 05, 2018, 08:02:17 PM
Elora laughed softly, just a tad breathless, and crinkled her nose up at him. "Well then, I rest my case," she teased lightly.

The song seemed to be winding down and she glanced toward the bar. "Why don't I grab our drinks? I'll be back in a moment."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 09, 2018, 06:45:14 AM
"Go on ahead," Merradin said, and as she did so, he looked about the tavern. He loved to silently observe all of the different people that human society held. Dragons were so predictable to Merradin, but humans?

They always found new ways to amaze him.

And so, while he waited, he swayed to himself, allowing himself to slip away into the atmosphere of the place.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 09, 2018, 07:53:23 AM
Elora fetched the drinks easily enough, but by the time she turned to go back to Merradin he seemed to have slipped away into the crowd. She rolled her eyes with a wry little smile and set to weaving her way through the clusters of people, glancing around for him.

It really wasn’t much that did it. Someone was too drunk to watch where he was going and bumped into her shoulder, sending her rocking back on her heels and twisting to narrowly avoid smacking into another patron. While the first man slurred apologies, reaching for her shoulder to steady himself, the second caught her around the waist to keep her upright.

And she was trapped, held, back in that awful tent, dread and disgust clawing at her throat. The world tilted sideways, started spinning. Sounds were too loud, scents too strong, light too bright. She started shaking. The drinks she held clattered to the floor, and one man jumped back, yelling as alcohol soaked his boots.

The other kept his grip around her waist, laughing. “Easy now, we ain’t gonna hurtcha, lass.”

Bile rose in her throat and she shoved a ay from him. “G-get off me!”

The stranger reeled back, mumbling something about being unable to take a joke, and Elora felt her feet slipping beaneath her. Dizy and gasping, feeling as though someone had pressed a heavy weight onto her chest, she whirled and staggered for the door, scrambling out into the cooler, open air.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 29, 2018, 12:55:44 AM
In the moments leading up to Elora's panic, Merradin was allowing himself to get lost in it all. He could feel the energy in the air, acute senses taking in so much more than a mere human possibly could. He was peering over at a table, observing a pair of drunkards arm wrestle, when Elora's sharp exclamations and the clatter of dropped cups reached him.

He looked to see some bewildered peasant men and a shock of silver fly leave through the door. Without so much as a glance towards the fallen drinks, Merradin stepped past the men and the crowd.

She'd have a solid ten seconds of silence, only broken by the door opening again and Merradin's voice.

"Elora?" He said, voice quiet. He let the door shut behind him, and took a few steps towards her.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 29, 2018, 01:09:36 AM
One hand pressed to the side wall of the pub, Elora bent nearly double as she wretched quietly. There was nothing left in her stomach, but still her body rebelled, shudders wracking her frame.

She knew Merradin was behind her before he spoke, and it took her several long moments before she managed to answer.

"I-- I'm fine," she whispered, eyes clenched shut. "Just...gimme...a few minutes."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 29, 2018, 10:28:27 PM
Merradin had never been able to stomach vomit.

The smell hit his nose, and he couldn't help but feel utterly revulsed. He gave Elora (and himself) a few moments to recover before he stepped forwards, placing a supporting hand on her shoulder, a gentle touch to let her know he was there..

"Come on, let's get you seated down. You didn't get any on you, did you?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 30, 2018, 12:43:57 AM
She shook her head, both in answer and in protest. "I-- I can't go back in there," she whispered after a moment. "I'm sorry, I can't."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 11, 2018, 10:31:57 AM
"Oh no, not in there," he said.

"Wait here for a moment. Sit down on the steps, I'll be right back."

He left her for a moment, slipping inside for a few seconds. Intercepting a miffed tavern worker cleaning up the spill, he secured one of the metal flagons at the cost of a confused look from the worker and brought it outside. He dumped out whatever was left and moved to rejoin her.

He breathed out over the flagon, his breath taking the form of a small, dark cloud that started to rain into the flagon until it was full of cool water

"Here," he said, holding it out to her.

"Should we go somewhere quieter?
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 11, 2018, 05:11:07 PM
Elora took another breath, glancing up at him. She nodded slowly. "Yes. Please."

Her voice was much smaller than she would have liked. She felt smaller.

She hated it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 14, 2018, 09:09:42 PM
"Let's go for a walk, then," he said, smiling gently. He stood, and offered her his hand and arm if she wanted to walk alongside him. In his other, he had the water, still holding it patiently for her to take.

"Do you want me to get something for the road? I know some nice, scenic places to share a bottle," he  said. His tone was playful.

"Maybe a nice fountain to dance by?"

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 18, 2018, 06:10:16 PM
The knight hesitated a moment, but eventually placed her hand in the crook of his arm. Her breathing was gradually returning to normal, and though sounds and colors still seemed too loud, too bright, that too was slowly starting to fade.

"Yes. Yes, I think that sounds good." She tried for a smile, and thought she almost managed it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 15, 2018, 10:45:22 PM
"Of course," Merradin said. When she took him by the arm, he glanced down. After a moment's thought, he shifted his hand around so he could squeeze hers, and he leaned in and gave her a kiss on the side of the head.

"You're all right. I'll be right back," he said, and he stepped inside for a moment. He decided against something too hard (he had to fly them home after the night was through!) so he got the classiest bottle of wine the place had. Essyrni, based on the markings on the bottle.

He found it to be deviously sweet and easy to drink. Satisfied, he stepped back outside, and rejoined Elora. He gave her a fuller smile when he saw her, and held his hand out to her. He held the bottle up invitingly.

"Come, then, Ser Braun. The night is still young, and we younger still."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 16, 2018, 01:04:49 PM
"Well, one of us is," Elora quipped. Her smile still wasn't quite to full strength, but the glitter was back in her eyes. "I'm not sure over a thousand truly counts as young, Master Merradin," she teased lightly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 19, 2018, 07:11:09 PM
Merradin's smile widened at her teasing. He chuckled and he started to walk with her. He found her usage of "Master" a tad amusing.

"Still young enough for you, apparently," he said, and he gave her a telling smile. He took the cork off of the bottle and took a light sip from it. He still held it up, in case Elora wanted some.

"Did you grow up here, in Ketra?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 23, 2018, 07:53:19 PM
She nodded, smiling a bit to be thinking of those memories. "I did, for the most part. My parents had a small estate-- though they really spent most of their time in some set of barracks or another. I was mostly raised by a governess."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 03, 2018, 07:25:04 PM
"Governess?" Merradin said. He retracted the bottle, assuming she didn't want any, and took another small sip before corking it back up.

"That's a new one."

He looked at her as they walked, smiling.

"So, the military life runs in your blood then, right?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 03, 2018, 07:34:56 PM
"Mhm." She nodded again, tilting her slightly to the side. "Mum and Da are both military lineage, so...I guess it just sort of made sense for me to follow after," she elaborated with a little shrug.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 22, 2018, 10:51:10 AM
Merradin nodded. Their walking had taken them to a square. The bustle of the day had given way to a quiet, nighttime peace that made the statue in the center, that of a man struggling with a dragon at the end of a rope, all the more eye-catching to Merradin.

"I never met my father. My mother told me that he went his own way before I was old enough to remember," he started, and he looked away from the statue and to Elora.

"But I know he was a hunter of the skies. My mother was a dragon of the seas, you see. I was raised on an island off the coast of Thanatos."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 22, 2018, 11:23:47 AM
Elora listened, looking up into his face. "Do you miss it?" she asked after a moment. "The place where you grew up, I mean."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 22, 2018, 12:54:40 PM
Merradin was quiet for a few moments, face straightening out. He leaned against the base of the statue, eyes drawn towards the lights of Ketra's palace, and the dragon knight barracks that loomed in the hills behind the palace. Then, he met her eyes with his own, lightning to her gold.

"I do. And I miss my mother as well," he started, and he took a swig from the bottle.

"She was so proud of me when I flew off on my own. I was happy too, even if I knew I'd never see her again..."

he trailed off, playing with the bottle's cork in his unoccupied hand. He wanted to change the subject now. Merradin motioned to the statue he was leaning against.

"You know, this is my favorite statue in Ketra. Except for my horns, the carvers didn't get that detail right."

He looked back up, smirking at the statue version of himself as it struggled in vain against the ambition of man.

"The king put it up to commemorate my capture."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 22, 2018, 05:42:28 PM
Elora looked up at him again, lips slightly pursed. With some distance and time between herself and that tavern, she was feeling almost fine again. Well enough that she could at least process what he was saying.

And to catch his subject switch. She thought about pursuing it for a few moments, then decided against it. She looked back at the statue, taking it in.

"They didn't make you smart enough," she noted casually. "Even when I first met you, there was...I don't know. Something in your eyes, I suppose."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 22, 2018, 07:27:55 PM
Merradin brightened at the praise. It was new, being called smart. He was always mighty, or dreadful, or a destroyer. Coming from her, it meant all the more.

"You'll make me blush," he purred, and he offered his hand. His gaze had a hint of adoration in it.

"Take a closer look, Ser Braun. Maybe you'll find the word you're looking for."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 23, 2018, 05:27:38 PM
"Flirt," Elora accused as she took his hand. She was smiling a bit as she looked up at him, head tilted slightly to the side.

"What exactly am I meant to be finding, Merradin," she asked softly. Her expression had lost its playfulness, just a bit, the glint in her eyes replaced with a soft shimmer.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 23, 2018, 08:02:19 PM
At her words, Merradin's smile widened, and...

...nothing else.

He gazed at her as she smiled at him, the sudden, slight shift of her tone causing his words to catch in his throat. He'd never, ever had his words fail him like that in all his years of life.

Some color rose in his cheeks, and his eyes even faltered under her own, shifting downwards. Finally, he lifted her hand up and kissed her knuckles, trying in vain to conceal how she struck him. His smile returned, and he met her eyes again.

"Someone to share tonight with?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 23, 2018, 08:16:47 PM
The knight blinked, a little surprised that he hadn't offered an immediate pithy comeback. She swallowed a little thickly and twisted her hand in his so she could lace their fingers together.

"Perhaps," she conceded quietly, letting her eyes flick away for a moment. Trying to lighten the mood a bit, she added, "Of course, you are my ride home, so it would certainly be in my best interest."

She paused, then her eyes widened and she quickly amended, "Your home, I mean, of course."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 23, 2018, 08:27:33 PM
Merradin chuckled. He glanced down at their joined hands, and held hers just that little bit tighter.

"Regardless, you're welcome anytime," he said, looking back up at her.

"Now..."

He paused, and held the open bottle of Essyrni wine up to her.

"...Are you going to let your ride home drink this all by his lonesome?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 26, 2018, 04:14:09 PM
Elora chuckled in turn and took the offered bottle, taking a tiny sip. "Just a little bit for me, I think. I'm...perhaps a little bit sick of alcohol, currently," she admitted with a wry smiled and a shrug.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 15, 2018, 10:08:26 PM
Merradin nodded, taking the bottle back from her when she was done with it.

"I understand the feeling. I don't mind saving it," he said as he corked it back up. He hefted himself up onto the statue's base, resting his back against the leg of his captor.

He looked down at her, invitation in his eyes as he held a hand down for her to join him.

"Sit with me awhile?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 26, 2018, 05:25:59 PM
Elora smiled slightly and reached up to take his hand, swinging herself up onto the base of the statue beside him with a soft grunt. "Don't mind if I do."

She tilted her head back to look up at what stars she could make out through city lights, sighing softly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2018, 07:02:50 PM
Merradin smiled lightly at her as she gazed up to the stars, and tucked one of his legs up to rest his arm on his knee.

"The view here is good. On clearer nights, you can see the palace and the noble quarters."

He gazed back out, but his eyes returned to her eventually.

"Can I hold your hand?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2018, 11:44:22 AM
The knight started slightly and glanced sidelong at him, blinking. Then she smiled and cautiously reached her hand out to him, palm up. "Yes. I'd like that."

She looked away again, back out over the town. "It is a lovely view," she admitted quietly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2018, 09:23:45 PM
Merradin was stunned by his own words just as much as Elora. He didn't show it all that much but it had been the first time in centuries that he'd asked to hold someone's hand like he just did. The dragon scooted a little closer, so their shoulders were lightly touching. His hand slid into hers, fingers locking.

He followed her gaze to the distant lights, buildings indistinguishable from one another in the cloudy night's darkness.

"I've always loved it here. This isn't the first time I've brought a bottle here," he started. He stroked at her knuckles with his thumb, before holding her hand just a little bit firmer.

"But I'm glad I've got to share it with you..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 28, 2018, 02:57:25 PM
Elora smiled and twined her fingers through his, squeezing back gently. "You know what? I am too."

She turned her head to look at him, eyes searching his face, then sighed quietly and let her head drop onto his shoulder, pressing a little closer to his side. "Thank you, Merradin. For-- well. For everything, I suppose."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 02, 2018, 09:43:11 PM
Even though it was a simple touch, a little jolt of something shot through Merradin right then. He didn't know what to call it, it didn't quite feel like attraction in the conventional sense. In his long life, he'd experienced love, heartbreak, and even had a crush, and yet this was something completely new.

She'd be able to see it in his face. He couldn't hide the small, genuine smile or the faint red on his cheeks. When she put her head on his shoulder, he spared their joined hands a final look before returning his gaze to the view.

"You're very welcome, Ser Braun," Merradin said, and he laid his other hand on his lap.

"Having you around's not so bad. You mix a good sauce, after all..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 04, 2018, 11:51:00 AM
It was hard to miss the sudden shift in him, a sort of...bashfulness, almost. Elora smiled a bit and dropped her eyes, giving his hand a soft squeeze as she settled herself more comfortably against him.

"Well, I should hope so." She smirked at him sidelong. "I've been championed as a sauce-mixer, you know. Won awards and everything."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 08, 2019, 09:23:43 AM
Merradin chuckled lightly at that, and turned his eyes upwards to the sky for a few moments before looking back down at her. A few moments of silence before he leaned his head on hers and closed his eyes, basking in the company.

"How fortunate then, that fate crossed our paths."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 08, 2019, 09:35:05 AM
"Mm, I would certainly say so." She smiled and let her eyes close for a moment, just listening to the gradual, sleepy sounds of his breath and heartbeat.

After a moment, a yawn struck her and she raised a hand to cover her mouth, shaking her head slightly. "Sorry," she chuckled lightly. "I swear I'm normally more fun than this."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 08, 2019, 10:40:59 AM
"It's fine," Merradin said. Feeling bold, he released her hand and instead put his arm around her, holding nice and close in a soft embrace.

"I came here to drink and dance, but..."

He trailed off, and left a kiss on top of her head.

"I like this more."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 08, 2019, 10:48:04 AM
Elora tensed a moment, then relaxed again, allowing herself to lean more into his side. "I think...I might too," she admitted with a wry little smile. She tilted her head back to look up at him. "Thanks, Merradin-- but I promise next time we go out it'll be more drinking and dancing," she added with a laugh.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 08, 2019, 11:08:25 AM
"You promise?" He repeated teasingly, and he met her eyes when she looked up at him. Once again, eye contact with her seemed to smite him just a little bit, and he found himself reddening just a bit as he raised a hand to gently brush away some of her silver hair from her face. The urge to kiss her was very real, but Merradin held himself in.

"But it was less about the actions and more, well... I get to do a nice thing with you," he admitted.

"I... I've found that I've taken a bit of a shining to you, Elora."

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 08, 2019, 01:53:54 PM
The knight chuckled for his teasing, but when his hand came up to brush her hair from her face she found herself sobering, just looking up at him in silence as he spoke.

"I..." She licked her lips, dropping her eyes for a moment. "That's...very flattering, Merradin. Thank you," she murmured after a brief pause. Glancing up again, she added with an attempt at humor, "Does that mean a wild dragon has a crush on me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 08, 2019, 03:25:36 PM
Merradin laughed a little breathlessly at her joke, and once again, there wasn't a quippy response immediately after. The movement of her licking her lips caught his eyes for a brief moment before he looked back to her.

"I wouldn't say I have a crush on you, no, but... How do I describe it?"

He mulled it over, and covered one of her hands with his own.

"Whenever you touch me, it feels like I flew through a charged storm cloud. I've only known you a couple of days, but I feel so... connected to you, every part of you, I..."

He went really red, probably too red for an ancient dragon.

"...I've lived a long life. I've been in love, I've had my heart broken and fantasies fulfilled, each more than once. But with you, Elora, I feel something deep within myself that I've never felt for anyone, dragon or human..."

Then, after a short pause, he laughed a bit to himself and covered his face with a hand as the chuckling died down. When he looked at her again, it was with endless warmth in his eyes.

"I don't even know what it is but I'm absolutely drunk on it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 08, 2019, 08:35:32 PM
She stared at him in utter silence, eyes very wide. "I..."

Her voice trailed off, throat dry, lips still parted but no sound able to make it passed them. How on earth was she supposed to answer that?! "You...I..."

She couldn't do it. She just couldn't make words happen, at least nothing coherent. Her heart skipped giddily in her chest, a combination of anxiety, youthful infatuation, wariness, and something dangerously approaching-- well. Something she hadn't thought to experience again for a long, long time. Possibly never.

"Merradin, that's...wow." Elora shook her head, turning away from him to stare out over the view. "I-- I don't know if I can-- I don't know what to say," she whispered. A little shiver ran through her and she glanced down at his hand over hers. She thought about pulling away, but after a moment she turned her hand over and laced their fingers together.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 08, 2019, 09:59:37 PM
"You don't need to say anything," Merradin said, glancing down at their joined hands as his own heart fluttered. Gods, he felt like a schoolboy, and yet he couldn't help but wince at her reaction.

"Did I say too much? I promise, I'm not usually such a sap," Merradin said, even as he raised her hand up to leave a peck on it.

"But that's been my honest feeling ever since I met you. Not as much at first but now, well..."

He held her hand with both of his.

"Look at me. Making my confessions under the moonlight and blushing like a bridesmaid."

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 09, 2019, 11:39:40 AM
"No, no you didn't...say too much," Elora murmured quickly, her own eyes fixed on their joined hands. She smiled softly and shook her head before lifting her eyes to his face again.

"I'm flattered, Merradin. Really, I am. And I--" She took a breath, thinking over her words. "I think I might...be able to-- to reciprocate. I just--!"

She closed her eyes again, brows drawing together in a slight frown. "I didn't think...this part of my life would come back to me so soon. Maybe ever. It's...a lot."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 09, 2019, 01:47:24 PM
At her mention that the feeling was mutual, Merradin smiled a little more warmly. She closed her eyes, and Merradin wanted to banish that frown on her face, so he put a hand on her cheek, leaning in to rest his head against hers.

"I... I don't want you to worry about it."

He paused, words caught, and then kissed the top of her head.

"...kiss me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 09, 2019, 05:53:04 PM
"I..."

She was already leaning toward him, not even realizing she was doing it. Then she stopped, turned her face away, closed her eyes and took a breath.

"I can't, Merradin," she whispered, her voice suddenly thick, throat tight. "I can't not worry about it. I want to, gods I want to, but I...can't." Her eyes were still closed, fists clenched tight at her sides. "You saw me tonight, I was-- I was scared! Scared of a damned bar, that's-- that's not me, that's never been me, and that just scares me more and--"

She bit her tongue, shaking slightly. "What could I be for you? Maybe before, if we'd met...before. But now?" She scoffed and shook her head. "I'm not a knight. I'm not a soldier, a warrior, I'm barely even a woman anymore, I-- I don't know what I am."

Very slowly, Elora opened her eyes and raised her head to look at Merradin, tears swamping the gold in her gaze. She shook her head again. "What could I be for you, like this? You deserve something better. Someone whole."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 09, 2019, 08:19:36 PM
Merradin listened to her until she was done, frowning slightly to hear her speak of herself in such a way. It was all so bewildering to him, this new feeling. Even more jarring that he shared it with a human.

As she finished, he started shaking his head lightly, and he looked to meet her gaze. She'd be able to see that while Merradin was adept at holding himself together, she'd see the seams start to stretch in how painfully real his smile was.

"To me, you're Elora Braun," Merradin said simply.

"You could just be Elora, and that's all I would ever need."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 09, 2019, 08:28:39 PM
Elora shook her head as she met his gaze, but it wasn't exactly a denial, almost something more like disbelief.

"I couldn't-- I couldn't stay," she whispered, voice trembling slightly. "Even if I thought I could ever learn to be that-- Elora Braun-- again, I...I couldn't stay with you, Merradin." She took a shaky breath and closed her eyes for a moment.

"Elora Braun was a knight of the realm. She was a defender. If that is who you need...I couldn't stay with you, here in the mountains. I'd have to go back." Another shake of her head. "If what you're saying is true, that you've never...felt this before, with a human... It wouldn't be fair to either of us. I couldn't in good conscious begin this with you, knowing I'd have to leave in order to be what you see in me."

What she saw in herself. Because as confused and scarred as she knew she still was, somehow being near Merradin made her think that maybe she really was strong enough to be Elora Braun again. It was a terrifying, thrilling, miraculous thought, and it made her heart clench in something like grief.

Elora Braun was a warrior of Adela, and Merradin was the Lightning-Eater, a creature of sky and fire and wild places. She could never ask him to sacrifice that for her, just as she could not sacrifice the ideal that made her who she was if she was ever to be a match for him. And those ideals meant that she would have to leave.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 09, 2019, 09:05:57 PM
Somehow, Merradin found it in himself to chuckle a little bit, and he gave her that familiar smirk.

"I've spent two thousand years on this world and I've never met another soul that gleams like lightning quite like yours. But this emotion, this burning desire to be close to you, It's not love, although I think there's some of that mixed in," he started.

He wracked his brains. Never had he heard of a dragon that took a human as a mate, but Merradin wasn't even sure that's what he felt right now. His face sobered up again.

"When I was with the dragon knights for those three years, I learned that there are instances where a dragon and a rider don't need to train together. That sometimes, a special human comes along and meets the right dragon, and that they just click, and Elora, I..."

He breathed out, feeling some disbelief of his own.

"...I think you might be one of those, and that you've utterly smitten me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 09, 2019, 09:15:17 PM
She stared at him for a moment, rather blindsided.

"You...think we've bonded like that?" she whispered, a combination of awe and something like fear in her voice.

She'd never wanted to be a dragon rider. She respected them of course, and admired the work they did, but that life had never seemed right for her. Honestly, she was usually scared of dragons!

Except Merradin. Some uneasiness was still there, sure, but...

She didn't know what to say.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 09, 2019, 09:24:19 PM
[*sneakily edits out the unfinished sentence in his previous post*]

Merradin seemed equally as bewildered as her, even as he slowly nodded.

"I thought it was only a thing that happened to dragons who were raised to be mounts, that they were more receptive, but..."

He breathed out, and started to redden up again.

"But I don't just think so, Elora, can't you feel it?" he said, and he gently took one of her hands, picking it up and putting it against his chest, where she'd be able to feel that heartbeat, feel the vibrations travel through her arm and straight into her own chest, and then he placed a hand on the side of her neck to feel her own pulse, thumb stroking her jaw.

"Can't you feel our hearts beating in time with one another? The way just being near you makes my pulse thunder?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 09, 2019, 09:32:52 PM
Elora simply stared for a long moment. Then, slowly, she raised her eyes to his. "I do," she admitted softly, and even just saying the words felt like something between them had slid perfectly into place. "I can feel it, I mean. This...connection."

A long, tired sigh seemed pulled from the deepest parts of her chest and she shook her head, looking rather baffled. "What are we supposed to do about this?" she muttered, gesturing helplessly between the two of them.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 09, 2019, 09:45:53 PM
When she spoke, something washed over Merradin then. Her acceptance of the bond caused it to truly set in, but for Merradin, all he knew was that all of a sudden he found that he could feel her heartbeat, even when he slid his hand down away from her pulse to seek one of hers and lock their fingers together.

Perhaps she'd feel something as well.

As for her question, he didn't know. He shook his head for a few moments.

"For now, I think I could do with going back home. Maybe have you in my arms?" he said, and met her eyes.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 10, 2019, 08:03:44 AM
Elora drew in a shuddering breath, for a moment feeling as though her own suddenly unsteady pulse was...echoed.

She shook her head and dropped her eyes, a very small smile curving at her lips for Merradin's words. "That sounds...rather nice," she murmured, glancing up at him sidelong.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 10, 2019, 08:24:39 AM
"Let's get out of here, then," Merradin said, suddenly feeling very attentive of even the slightest detail of her. How much air she let out when she breathed, every last nervous tremble. He even felt that tinge of nervous anxiety melt away as she relaxed.

He hopped down from the base of the statue, and offered his hands up to Elora to help her down.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 10, 2019, 08:29:04 AM
Shaking her head, bewildered by all that had just happened, what it might mean, Elora reached out to take his hands and slipped down to stand beside him. She found herself pressed close against his chest as she did, looking up into his face with suddenly wide eyes.

"I--" She swallowed and stepped back, shaking her head. "We should get back to where we left the saddle."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 10, 2019, 09:14:25 AM
"Yes, we ahould," Merradin said, smiling down at her as she suddenly got close. When she pulled away, he reached for her hand once again, not knowing how this bond worked but hoping that he could channel some of the confidence and awe he held for her through the simple touch. With the other, he reached up to grab the bottle, holding it by the neck in his other.

"Say what you were going to say, Elora. It's alright."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 10, 2019, 09:54:33 AM
Elora shook her head. "Nothing. It's nothing, really. Tonight had just been...a lot."

She flexed her fingers in his gently, feeling...strange. With a huff and another small shake of her head, she murmured, "Lets get back."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 10, 2019, 10:23:49 AM
Merradin nodded.

"Let's. We can figure all of this out tomorr-wait!"

Merradin stopped, and tilted his head over. He chuckled a little to himself.

"Your letter! We totally forgot."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 10, 2019, 10:32:47 AM
"Oh for—!"

Laughing rather exasperatedly, Elora shook her head. "I can't believ we forgot," she chuckled, rubbing a hand down her face. "Alright, where to?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 10, 2019, 11:08:56 AM
If anything, it was nice to see her laughing and smiling again.

"Well, we honestly should've done it when we got here, but it's not too late yet," He said, and he started off, once again looping his arm with hers as they got going.

"I think the courier's post is by the gate. We should hurry, I don't think they're gonna let us in if we run too late."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 10, 2019, 11:29:00 AM
"Well come on then!" Grabbing his wrist, Elora pulled him into a run. "If I'm going to be taking a vacation of sorts, I'd rather not spend every other day checking back here because we forgot something."

It was entirely possible-- dare she say probable-- that the sudden resurgence of a good mood was in fact a defensive mechanism in its own right, attempting to smother the confusion that had minutes ago been threatening to drown her.

She didn't much care.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 10, 2019, 12:11:24 PM
A little surprised by her sudden burst of happiness, Merradin let her sweep him away as they hurried along. Before long, they were back at the gates, and Merradin stepped up to the courier's post and tried the door, finding it locked.

Merradin sighed, and knocked on the door.

"We're closing up! Come back tomorrow!" came a woman's voice from inside.

Merradin huffed, and crossed his arms in front of the door.

"I don't want this letter delivered right now, but can't you accept it, at least?" he said, turning an ear towards the door to hear the response.

There was quiet and the sound of footsteps against wood got closer until the door opened, and a twenty-something year old woman appeared at the doorway.

"I told you, come back tomorrow. I already locked up the sending box."

"And if I paid you 50 gold pieces just to open it again?"

The woman was silent after that, glancing from Merradin to Elora, before she nodded.

"Alright, let me see it."

Merradin looked back to Elora, and motioned to the woman with her head.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 10, 2019, 12:32:40 PM
Watching the exchange with one arched eyebrow, Elora stepped up to hand over the letter. "This needs to get to the barracks in Ketra," she told the woman. "I realize it doesn't have the military seal, but there are...extenuating circumstances."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 10, 2019, 01:13:28 PM
The woman stepped outside, taking the letter in her hands. She seemed slightly on guard, a mysterious couple showing up just before closing to bribe her. She just chalked it up to desperation and continued on.

"I can seal it here, although it's just a generic one," she said, and then looked it over.

"Do you want it to be one-way, or are you expecting a response?"

Merradin smiled sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck.

"No, we'll be quite unreachable by the time that arrives, just sending it off should be enough."

The woman nodded. "Ten more gold then, please."

Merradin gave her the payment and she weighed it appreciatively in her hand. She looked back up to Merradin.

"Who is this from?"

"Elora Braun," came his response, and she nodded again.

"You two stay safe, wherever it is you're going."

And with that, she went back into the courier's post. The locks on the door sounded off, and Merradin looked over to Elora.

"That was a close one."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 10, 2019, 02:18:13 PM
Elora let out a sharp breath, shaking her head. "Yeah," she muttered, rolling her neck gently. "Gods, can you imagine if we'd forgotten entirely?" She snorted and shook her head, smirking a bit.

Well, that was one thing out of the way. Almost cautiously, she reached out to take his arm again and glanced up at him. "On our way then?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 11, 2019, 12:06:18 AM
"Worst case scenario, I could've just taken it myself tomorrow. It's just an hour's flight to here, two and a half to Ketra," he said, though his voice died down a tad when she took his arm. The warmth was almost contagious to him and he reveled in it as he let her take his arm.

"On our way, then."

They stepped out through the gate and pretty soon they were back in the forests. Merradin glanced around, mostly remembering where he'd left the saddle but not remembering which exact rock. With his treasure senses, they found it handily and he dropped the illusion, putting the spare bottle of wine into one of the saddle pouches.

He glanced around, making sure they were alone.

"All right, I'm gonna transform."

He put a but if distance between them and shifted over. The tree canopy annoyed him slightly so he lowered down onto his belly and stretched his wings.

"Hello again, Ser Braun," Merradin said, giving her a warm little smirk. He spoke with a purr and it made the very air vibrate.

In his true form, the bond seemed to be much sharper, much more direct. He felt the sudden need for affection, so he lowered his head down on the ground by her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 11, 2019, 11:30:40 AM
For perhaps the first time in her life, Elora realized she wasn't afraid as she looked at the dragon, not even a little. In fact, considering the confusion of their current situation, she almost felt suddenly more comfortable with him in this form.

A small smile plucked at her lips and she cautiously reached out to hover her hand over his muzzle, uncertain just how intimate she was allowed to be with the massive dragon.

"Hello, Lightning-Eater."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 11, 2019, 12:07:52 PM
Her hand came close, and Merradin made up the rest of the distance, shifting his head forwards just the barest amount, moving with incredible gentleness until he felt her hand on his snout.

"Don't be shy," he said, voice playful.

He breathed out slowly through his nose, the air coming out charged with static that crackled harmlessly in front him.

"I find that I quite like those touches."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 11, 2019, 12:17:03 PM
Elora's smile widened a bit and she rubbed her palm over the smooth scales of his nose, brushing the pad of her thumb around the curving edges curiously.

"Well, I hope enough scratches can earn me a ride?" she teased lightly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 11, 2019, 12:36:12 PM
Merradin let out a "Hmph" at that, and he merely closed his eyes to let her explore him as she wished. Idly, he listened to the light thudding of her heart as she saw fit to pet and brush.

After a few minuted, though, he opened his eyes back up and straightened, lifting his massive frame off the ground so Elora could get to buckling his saddle on, finding himself eager to get into the air. Not for his own sake, but feeling a strange sort of urge to, well... be ridden, a desire to take Elora up there with him into his world.

"Let's buckle up then. I can hear a warm bath calling my name."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 11, 2019, 12:59:13 PM
She chuckled a bit and set about fixing the saddle to his back before climbing up, a bit more gracefully this time.

As she settled herself on his back, she fancied for a moment that she could feel his breath, his heartbeat, pulsing through her body as though the one was merely an extension of the other.

"Alright." She set her hands gently on his neck. "Ready."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 11, 2019, 04:34:49 PM
She climbed on and Merradin nodded once she said she was ready. He wasted no time, curling up a bit like a cat before leaping up into the air. He beat his wings and jsut like that they'd cleared the trees. The ascent was a lot smoother this time around, since they didn't have to rocket straight up.

Elora'd get plenty of time to admire the nighttime country side as Merradin coasted over the Draconi Forest and then turned to head in the direction of the Thunderblacks. Soon enough though, he would beat his wings faster and stronger, taking them up higher and higher, skimming beneath the clouds.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 11, 2019, 05:25:35 PM
Elora found herself lulled into a strange sort of relaxation as they glided above the trees, but once they climbed toward higher elevation she gasped quietly and leaned a little lower over Merradin's neck. It was cold up near the clouds, heightening her senses at the same time it made her shiver and cling a little tighter to the dragon's back.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 11, 2019, 05:43:16 PM
Merradin felt her cling a bit more to him, and he turned his head back to glance towards her. It wouldn't be a bad idea to pack a coat in the saddle, especially if they were going to be flying to and from the Thunderblacks.

As they entered the foothills, he tilted upwards and cleared the cloud layer, and before she knew it the peaks of the Thunderblacks were to her sides as they soared. They came to the entrance to Merradin's lair, and he circled the entrance in the peak, once again looking back to her.

"Ready for the dive?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 11, 2019, 07:57:53 PM
Elora tightened her grip and leaned just a little lower over his neck. "Ready when you are," she replied with a sharp exhale, trying to sound at least a little more sure than she felt.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 11, 2019, 08:16:29 PM
Merradin nodded.

"Hang on tight, use the saddle horn," he said, coming off a little bit like a doting instructor. He'd made this dive countless times, and could do it with his eyes closed if he wanted to. But now, he had Elora on his back, which made him feel suddenly unsure about it.

Then, she leaned in and hugged his neck tighter and he was confident she'd be safe. Banking around, he passed over the opening and tilted down, folding his wings to his side and tucking his legs in as he went careening down through the hole.

It was only a few seconds of drop, because just as soon as he'd started he spread his wings and slowed down to a hover just as they cleared into his lair. He came to a landing on the large, flat courtyard in front of his home.

Giving his wings a stretch, he lowered down so Elora could dismount.

"There we go. That wasn't so bad, was it?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 11, 2019, 08:56:35 PM
Her breath left her in a sudden gasp, tossed behind them with her stomach as they plummeted toward his lair.

But then they were evening out again and she took in a long, relieved breath. She smiled a bit as she slid down from Merradin's back and patted his shoulder, setting to work immediately to get the saddle uncinched and off his back.

"Not bad. I suppose I'll have to get used to it," she chuckled dryly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 11, 2019, 09:04:08 PM
"Give it a few more times, it'll grow on you," Merradin said. He lifted up a bit so she could unbuckle him, and once he was free of his saddle, he stepped forwards a bit and wreathed himself in storm clouds.

Back in his human form, he turned his head to Elora.

"Come along, then. I'm feeling like a quick dip before bed," he said. As he walked, he unlaced his silky blue tunic and merely tossed it aside, letting his wings out again. His horns followed, and finally his tail curled out as he did away with his pants and smallclothes and sank into the bath, sighing happily.

"I had a good time. We should go on another date sometime," he said, looking back to Elora with a sidelong smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 11, 2019, 09:28:13 PM
Elora trailed behind him toward the bath, watching him cast clothes aside left and right with just he eyes,  crooked smile working at her lips.

"You need a maid," she informed him with a little chuckle as she stopped at the edge of the bath, debating ridding herself of her own clothes. Smile growing a little wider, she added teasingly, "So we're calling it a date then?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 11, 2019, 09:53:21 PM
"Well, I'd like to call it a date," Merradin said, and he turned about to prop himself up on the rim of the basin, resting his chin on a hand as he looked up at her. Her smile was contagious and he found himself smiling wider.

He straightened up a bit, giving her a bit more of a view and stretching his wings out to punctuate it.

"Are you going to come in? The water's nice," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 12, 2019, 08:00:29 AM
"Well..." Elora hedged for a moment, then sighed softly and shrugged, unbuttoning her borrowed tunic. "I guess a few minutes won't hurt."

Once out of her clothes, she slipped into the warm water with a soft sigh, leaning back against the edge and closing her eyes.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 12, 2019, 08:38:37 AM
"It's always nice to freshen up before bed," Merradin said, giving her a smile and returning with his back against the edge. He couldn't help but look at her. He already thought she was incredibly attractive before, and the sudden onset of this mysterious bond only served to amplify that.

Racy thoughts ran through his head and he flushed a bit, looking away to pretend to scrub at his neck and hair when in reality he was suddenly shy about being caught looking at her.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 12, 2019, 09:44:34 AM
Years of training meant that she was usually aware of when she was being watched, and recent horrors had only bolstered that instinct.

Still, Elora didn't feel unsafe here with Merradin, even vulnerable as she was. So she just settled herself a little more comfortable against the side of the bath and let her head tip back, content enough not to call him out for looking.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 12, 2019, 10:38:00 AM
It was only for a few more minutes that Merradin remained in the bath, content to laze there until the heat had him a little woozy.

So, he went out to the middle and submerged one final time before he came back up. He pulled himself out of the basin and dried himself with some electricity. Elora's towel was still there from the last time, so he also made it a point to grab it for her and leave it close by.

"I'm going to head to sleep. Come on out whenever you wish," he said. He walked away and into his bedroom then, tail swishing pleasantly behind him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 12, 2019, 10:53:17 AM
"Mmm." Elora raised a hand in acknowledgement, allowing herself to relax for a few minutes more before she finally relented and scrubbed herself down quickly, then ducked beneath the water. Surfacing with a soft gasp, she moved to the edge and climbed out, wrapping the towel around her body before making her way back to Merradin's bedroom.

She hunted around for a few moments before recovering the flimsy nightgown she'd been wearing before and wriggling into it, then crossed to the bed. There was a moment of hesitation, but then she huffed out a breath and climbed into the bed, turning onto her side so her back was to Merradin as she drew the blanket up and closed her eyes.

"...Goodnight."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 12, 2019, 01:17:11 PM
Merradin was already asleep when she got to the bedroom, sprawled out onto his stomach, wings agape and tail stretched out, the end swaying pleasantly.

He stirred when Elora laid down on the bed, and at her words he just smiled pleasantly and drew in one of his wings so it wouldn't encroach on her space.

"Good dreams, Elora," he murmured.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 12, 2019, 01:34:12 PM
To her slight surprise, that was exactly what she had: good dreams. Or at least she thought she did, she really couldn't remember much by the time she stirred awake come morning, eyes bleary and hair slightly rumpled from sleeping on it wet.

Yawning, she sat up in bed and stretched a bit, glancing around as she tried to get her bearings.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 12, 2019, 04:49:44 PM
She'd find Merradin still sleeping next to her, another example of draconic laziness. He'd gone from on his stomach to facing her, and while he wasn't really closer to her, he'd settled with one arm slightly outstretched towards her, palm up against the bed. An idle smile was on his features.

Indeed, it seemed that even when asleep, he couldn't help but be magnetized towards her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 12, 2019, 06:48:21 PM
Smiling a bit to herself, Elora reached out to lightly stroke his shoulder, then huffed out a breath and got to her feet. She was hungry, and she didn't see the point in waking him if she knew where the kitchen was.

Maybe she'd try her hand at making them both breakfast.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 12, 2019, 07:23:22 PM
Merradin didn't wake up from the touch, leaving Elora free to do what she wished.

Merradin's kitchen had a good stock of food. Fresh meat was something he could easily acquire for himself, so there was a lack of any of that in the pantry. In his cellar, he had a large selection of fruits and vegetables in a variety of states, from fresh to preserved. The kitchen area itself had a well-stocked pantry of spices, flour, and sweet condiments like jam and honey, as well as both coffee and tea.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 12, 2019, 08:45:38 PM
About an hour later, Elora found herself rather pleased with the results of her exploration and experimentation. It was nothing fancy, but she'd managed to bake a loaf of soft bread and had laid out a variety of fruits and jams to accompany it.

She debated a moment, then returned to the bedroom, bending over Merradin and touching his shoulder lightly. "Hey. You hungry?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 12, 2019, 10:24:50 PM
When she returned to him, he was sprawled on his back. She leaned over and touched his shoulder and he purred lightly, raising a hand to lazily cover hers. He opened his eyes, sitting up to yawn and stretch.

"Breakfast sounds marvelous," Merradin said, and he looked at her.

"Are you going to kiss me good morning?" He asked, giving her a playful smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 13, 2019, 01:00:36 PM
Elora rolled her eyes, but leaned down to place a quick peck on his cheek. "C'mon, you," she muttered, giving his shoulder a light shove as she stepped back. "Food's on the table. Get it while it's hot."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 13, 2019, 01:08:51 PM
He brightned at the peck, eyes narrowing just that bit more when she shoved him. He was buck naked when he slipped himself out of bed, but he hurried over to slip a bathrobe on. He took a deep breath of the air, sighing.

"I didn't know you baked,"  he said, slowly sashaying his way into the kitchen, loose and content from a good night's sleep.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 13, 2019, 02:56:38 PM
"Well, it's not like I'm gonna be running a shop anytime soon," she chuckled as she moved back toward the kitchen. "But yeah, I can make bread, maybe a cake or a pie if I had the ingredients for it. You kinda have to learn those things when you live by yourself, y'know?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 13, 2019, 06:04:18 PM
"I do know," he said, shooting her a look. Once they entered the kitchen, he wasted no time in letting one of his hands shift to a draconic form as he used his sharp claws to split a couple slices of bread off of the loaf.

He hummed pleasantly to himself as he did so, taking a spoon to put some of the jam and sliced fruits on the bread to make himself a sandwich.

"You know, if you ever want some meat, I can get some really easily," he said, setting his sandwich down on a plate.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 13, 2019, 07:34:59 PM
"Well I'm certainly no vegetarian," Elora said with a smile. "But I can subsist on fruit and breads and cheeses for a while. I don't wanna put you out."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 13, 2019, 09:30:46 PM
"Nonsense," Merradin said, taking a bite out of his fruit and jam sandwich. He moaned a bit, absolutely delighted by the fresh bread and the sweetness of the fruit. The dragon had a sweet tooth, it seemed.

"It'll take me three hours at most to find a nice fat bison that can feed us for a week," he continued. And yet, even with a delicious sandwich to distract him, he still found himself glancing st her every so often. Finally, he spoke.

"Are you going to eat?" He asked, looking at her curiously.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 14, 2019, 10:38:49 AM
"Yeah, sure." She sidled up to cut her own slice of bread, spreading a modest layer of jam over it before taking a bite. With a little shrug, she added, "If you're gonna go hunting anyway I won't say no to having some meat around. I can salt it and whatnot to help preserve it too."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 14, 2019, 11:48:48 AM
"That," Merradin started, and took another bite.

"Is a good idea."

After a bit, he set his sandwich back down, stretching and cracking his neck.

"What did you want to do today?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 14, 2019, 05:07:40 PM
Elora shrugged and leaned back against the wall, munching on her breakfast. "I didn't have any ideas, really. I suppose I'm supposed to be on vacation, yeah?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 14, 2019, 09:54:15 PM
"That you are," Merradin chuckled. He nodded through it and finished off his sandwhich. He smiled, leaning back in the seat. "Delicious."

He stood up and

"Well, you're here with the great Lightning Eater, on vacation no less. I can think of a few coastlines within four hours of here. Or maybe a visit to another country? You have a week, we could fly to Yoreiq if you wanted!"

His excitement suddenly froze.

"Oh, but my hoard..." he said to himself, suddenly stepping over to peer out a window to his cavern full of treasure. This was completely alien to him. For a split second, he hadn't considered his treasure hoard at all! He was so ready to just swoop away with Elora on his back, and...

"...I think it should be fine," he said, speaking after a short moment of consideration.

He walked back to her, fully ready to be excited again.

"Do any of those sound good?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 15, 2019, 01:58:54 PM
"Seeing the ocean might be nice," Elora mused. "I haven't been to the coast since I was a little girl..."

She tilted her head as he seemed to scramble for a moment, considering his hoard. Almost carefully, she added, "We don't have to leave though, if it would make you...uncomfortable."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 15, 2019, 02:12:36 PM
Merradin waved her concern away.

"It's fine, it's fine," he said, shaking his head and smiling.

"I just... I've never cared about anyone more than I cared for all this treasure," he said, motioning out the window.

"But if I had to choose between seeing you smile at seeing the ocean or making sure my hoard was safe, it kind of scares me a little that I'd choose the first one in a heartbeat," he said, giving her a smile.

"And I have zero problems with that."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 15, 2019, 08:56:32 PM
"Oh." Elora blinked at him, then shook her head quickly and ducked her eyes. "Well that's...um...thank you?" She cleared her throat and glanced away, feeling awkward and nervous in a way she hadn't since she was a teenager.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 18, 2019, 08:19:06 PM
"Oh... too much?" Merradin winced. He dared to step a little closer, though. He joined his hands together in front of him.

"Well, regardless of that, if you want to see the oceans I hear the waters of Yoreiq are crystal clear. I'm half sea dragon myself, as you know," he said with a chuckle, trying to brighten the mood.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 19, 2019, 07:32:45 AM
"Oh, it's not-- it's not...too much," Elora tried to assure him, though she wasn't even sure herself if she was lying or not. Trying for a small smile, she added, "Honestly I'd be happy just to see the ocean, I don't care where. Whatever you want!"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 19, 2019, 08:28:58 PM
"Well, it sounds to me like you want to go to Yoreiq for a week, then. Just think about it" he said, smirking. His smile waned a bit, and he put his hands out for her, the smile returning.

"You and me, the sun. Crystal blue waters and island fruits. We can find one of those islands on the chain where nobody lives and have the place all to ourselves."

He sighed.

"It sounds like a dream."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 20, 2019, 11:43:45 AM
"All by ourselves, huh?" She smiled a bit wider. "That...doesn't sound half bad, actually ."

Despite the apparent ambivalence of her words, there was a warmth in her tone and eyes that hadn't been there before.

"So. When do we leave?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 20, 2019, 01:29:39 PM
Merradin shrugged. Her tone wasn't lost on him and hearing the warmth in her voice seemed to brighten him all the more. He retracted his hands, when she didn't take them, returning them to his front.

"Today, if you want," he said, smiling.

"We'll have to pack, of course, especially if we're camping out on an uninhabited island. I don't have any tents or anything but I do have a bedroll around here somewhere. I can make a shield out of air to keep things out past that," he said with a shrug.

"Clothes, too. And I don't have any of those fancy Essyrni swimsuits either."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 20, 2019, 01:45:23 PM
Elora felt a little pinprick of guilt as he pulled his hands back, but she didn't allow herself to dwell on it. Tilting her head a bit to the side, she smirked and noted, "Y'know, people in Adela get by just fine without swimwear. What's wrong with a little skinny dipping?"

Clearing her throat, she tried to move on quickly from her own joke with a hurriedly added, "Just tell me what you need me to grab and I can do it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 20, 2019, 02:28:28 PM
Her joke, even if she'd tried to hurry past it, earned her a stifled chuckle and a grin from Merradin.

"Well, I'd say we need clothing for the week, you know where that is. The bedroll, erm..."

He spared a glance into the kitchen.

"We could pack some of the preserved foods. The saddle has a lot of stowing space on it. And I can catch us some fresher food when we're there. And your sword, too. It never hurts to be prepared."

He mulled it over.

"I... don't think we'll need much else? If anything we can go to Ainu to get anything we need. It's a day's flight from here to Yoreiq, though. So no forgetting anything important."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 21, 2019, 07:12:38 AM
"Fair enough." She nodded and stepped away to begin gathering the things they'd need. Her eyes lingered on the sword as she reached to grab it, and she hesitated. Her fingers skimmed across the hilt, gaze tracing the curve of the blade, her mouth going tight as her eyes darkened and the gold faded away...

Then she grabbed the sword and laid in on the pile on the bed.

Just about finished, she returned to Merradin with a small smile and a tilt of her head. "I think we're about ready on my end."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 21, 2019, 07:49:02 AM
She'd find him in the kitchen, bundling up the remainder of the bread she'd made alongside some fruits and vegetables wrapped together with spare kitchen cloths. Alongside that, some packaged jerkies and even a few cookware essentials like a pan and a skewer.

He turned back to her, a pleasant expression over his features.

"Good! I've got the foodstuffs all arranged, so let's get all this stuff over and packed into the saddle," he said. He started with the cookware, grabbing it all up in his arms. He paused as he moved next to her, noting the dulled gold in her eyes. He met her eyes and smiled a bit wider, and he leaned in to leave a peck on her cheek before continuing forwards. He spoke as he left the small house.

"Bring the clothing."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 21, 2019, 10:43:25 AM
Elora blinked a bit at the peck, but she didn't protest it. With a shrug, she gathered up the clothing and a few other odds and ends into a bundle in her arms and followed where Merradin led.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 21, 2019, 10:59:24 AM
By the time she was out onto the house's tiled landing area, Merradin was at the saddle. The saddebags on it were four back-pack sized bags, two for each side, with an additional larger space mounted on the back.

He'd finished stuffing the preserved foods and cookware into the right side saddlebags and had procured a decently sized cloth pouch to fill with gold from his hoard, spending money for the travels ahead.

He hummed to himself the whole time, an older, ancient song.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 21, 2019, 11:02:45 AM
Elora crossed to the left side of the saddle and began quickly and efficiently packing their supplies away. Military training was clear in the crisp jerk of her movements, the ease with which she could fit quite an armload of supplies into a smaller space.

"Set over here," she noted when she was done, rocking up onto her toes and folding her arms across the top of the saddle.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 21, 2019, 11:36:06 AM
Merradin was much less efficient. He took a decent bit longer than her to arrange things effectively, especially since some of the cookware items were awkwardly shaped. Between the two bags on his side and the rear container, he got it all in there.

With a huff, he leaned on the opposite side of the saddle from her, peering at her in return.

"All set," he repeated.

Giving her a final smirk, he stepped away from the saddle to give her space and shifted over. He stretched quite like a cat.

"It shouldn't take us more than a day, potential stops included," he said. He approached her and set himself down by the saddle, eyes gazing down on her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 21, 2019, 11:50:02 AM
Impulsively, Elora leaned across the space between them as they both leaned on the saddle and pecked his nose. She pulled back quickly though and moved around to stand before him. "Ready when you are."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 21, 2019, 12:12:59 PM
[I should've made it clearer, when I said Merradin shifted over I didn't mean he shifted to the other side of the saddle, I meant that he turned into his dragon form. But don't worry, I'll work around it Unless if it was clear and I'm just a bozo who misreads things]

"Ready," Merradin said. Still feeling the tingle of her lips on his nose, he leaned forwards and left a quick kiss on her forehead, hands giving her shoulders a slight stroke as he stepped back, making enough space so his change wouldn't topple her over.

With a quick clear of his throat, he was wreathed in storm clouds and was a dragon once again. He sighed and spread his wings, bending down and arcing his back before he set down on his belly.

"It's been a while since I've flown east. When you look at those seas from above, you can see the reefs just as easily as the islands themselves."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 21, 2019, 12:44:38 PM
[Oh you're fine, that was my bad!!]




"Really?" Elora considered that as she walked around to his shoulder, one hand skimming lightly across his scales. Hefting the saddle up took some effort, but from there it was just buckles and routine.

She eyed the saddle on his back with some trepidation. She still felt a little odd about riding him. Not so much once she was up there, once she felt that connection, but the process of getting on and off his back was...awkward.

With a huff, she tried to put it on her mind and began to clamber up onto the saddle.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 21, 2019, 01:41:10 PM
"Oh yes," he answered, voice a purr as she skimmed her hand along his scales. She'd be able to hear the light crackling of lightning on his horns, a tell-all sign that he loved the contact.

He was still as she clambered up, but even though she weighed nothing to him he loved that slight weight of her on his back. He used to hate wearing the saddle in the old days, but whenever Elora buckled it onto him he found himself liking the snug feeling more and more each time.

Once she was buckled in, he stood up, stepping back down into his hoard as he moved under the hole.

He looked back to Elora, giving her a toothy smile.

"Shall we?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 21, 2019, 07:56:53 PM
Elora let out a soft breath and adjusted her seat slightly. She could feel his heartbeat, his every breath thundering through her own body like a bellows.

“Ready when you are.”
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 22, 2019, 04:44:54 AM
Merradin smiled a little wider and bunched up like a cat about to pounce. His wings unfurled and gold coins went scattering about them like dust. With a single beat of his wings and a gust of magical winds they were rocketing up.

Merradin cleared the entrance and his wings spread back out. He gave the peak a few circles, letting Elora see his domain before they left it, and then banked coastwards and away from the Thunderblacks. Once they were clear, he started their descent, taking them just beneath the clouds so she'd be able to see the terrain as they passed over it.

He turned his head back to call to her.

"We'll be passing over Serendipity and following that coast to Yoreiq. Next stop, empty island."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 22, 2019, 07:07:58 AM
"Whoa!" Elora bent low over his neck as they took off, squinting against the wind. As the circled the peak, she chuckled quietly and muttered, "Show off."

She nodded when he twisted his head around to call back to her, showing that she was listening, but she was...distracted. It was strange to ride a dragon, strange in ways she hadn't realized before. The rise and fall of his wings, the bellows of his lungs, the thundering of his heart...

Strange.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 22, 2019, 05:22:30 PM
Merradin was massive, and such size required incredible power to keep airborne. If she touched his scales, she'd be able to feel his strength rippling through him with every beat of his wings.

Merradin had fallen silent, content to just focus on the feeling of her and the winds beneath his wings.

They had a long flight ahead of them...
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 22, 2019, 08:12:22 PM
Elora meant to keep alert, really she did, but the rhythmic movement of Merradin's wingbeats and the warmth generated by the lighting magic that pulsed through him was oddly soothing, and she soon found herself drifting.

Safely buckled into the saddle, she gradually began to slump across the dragon's neck, eyes falling closed and breath evening out.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 22, 2019, 08:38:52 PM
He glanced backwards when he felt her arms against his neck. Taking note of her sleeping form, he returned his gaze to the flight ahead.

------------------
6 hours later...

"Elora?"

He was looking back at her as he spoke. They had found the coast and followed it, and Merradin was flying across the seas when he deemed it appropriate to disturb her. They were almost at Yoreiq, after all!

Merradin had managed to catch some strong coastal winds, making the trip at least a few hours shorter and beautifully smooth.

"Ser Braun?" he repeated, a little more playfully this  time. He was flying low over the rich oceans  around the Yoreiq islands. The waters were vibrant blue and incredibly clear. Even through the choppy waves, the distorted shapes of the reefs and their inhabitants could be seen.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 22, 2019, 08:52:05 PM
"Mmrmph." Elora yawned widely and shook her head, burrowing more firmly into the pillow of her arms. "'M not on guard duty tonight, Carren, leave me be," she groaned blearily.

Then she seemed to wake up a bit more and actually blinked her eyes open, looking around. "Oh." She straightened up, rubbing one hand across the back of her eyes. "Where--" Another yawn stretched across her face. "Where are we?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 22, 2019, 09:05:04 PM
"Over the Tuor ocean. You can see the island chain coming up on the horizon, too." Merradin said.

They were coming at it from a direction that allowed them to circumvent the main island. Merradin didn't want news of a new dragon arriving to spread.

"I must say, I didn't think you had six more hours of sleep in you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 22, 2019, 09:07:36 PM
"Six hours?" She arched an eyebrow and shook her head, rubbing at the back of her neck. "Damn. Guess I was really out of it," she chuckled quietly.

Suddenly a bit awkward, she added, "Ah, I didn't...that wasn't uncomfortable for you, was it?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 22, 2019, 09:27:33 PM
"No, it's fine. I'm happy to see you got over your flight nerves," he said.

Then, his smile widened.

"You looked cute, snoozing there like that."

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 23, 2019, 12:34:33 PM
Elora made a face at him and slapped lightly at his shoulder. "Watch it," she play-growled. "I don't do cute."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 23, 2019, 12:51:22 PM
"Me neither, but that doesn't stop you, hmm?" he said, quick as a whip. He continued, ignoring her light slap.

"Are you hungry?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 23, 2019, 01:25:47 PM
Elora rolled her eyes, but admitted, "Yeah, I could eat." She glanced over Merradin's side and watched the world spin away below them, it was almost hypnotic.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 24, 2019, 11:05:56 PM
"A quick landing, then. I could use a bite to eat myself..."

The island they came upon sat on the far northern end of the chain. It was a sandy, circular affair with a jungle that started 40 away from the water at the beaches. All in all, it was roughly two square miles of island, and it seemed they had it all to themselves as Merradin came in low. He flew in a circle over his landing spot a few times to bleed off momentum before angling down and coming to a solid landing on the sand.

He lowered himself onto his belly, content to rest for a bit after a long flight.

"Jerky and fruit sandwiches now. For dinner, I'll catch us something with meat," he said, tail swishing behind him.

"Maybe a grouper or two..." he continued, and he spread his wings back out to rest them. He found the warm sand incredibly comfortable.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 25, 2019, 01:29:59 PM
"Oof." Elora hadn't quite braced for the landing, and she was thrown forward a bit on Merradin's neck. Pushing herself back up, she shook herself and set out disentangling from the saddle so she could slide down his side to land on the sand herself.

"Alright, I'll get the food," she chuckled, moving toward the saddlebags.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 25, 2019, 10:02:04 PM
"Watch yourself," he chided as she slid off of him.

He laid down long enough for her to get the food out before straightening up to present the buckles and straps for the saddle.

"Welcome to day one of your vacation, Ser Braun," he said, eyes glinting with affection as he gazed down at her.

"It's afternoon, it'll start to cool down soon and it'll be the perfect temperature for swimming," he continued.

"Perfect time to catch dinner, too."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2019, 09:08:34 AM
Elora smiled a bit as she went about unbuckling the saddle. Once it was off, she stepped back and rested her weight on one foot, hip cocked as she looked out over the beach, the glittering water.

"It's beautiful," she noted quietly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2019, 09:25:08 AM
He slipped out of the saddle, and now free of it he stepped past her, still in his draconic form. Giving her an appreciative little looking over, he laid down next to her, body pointing towards the water. He offered her his head, setting it down right in front of her and even going so far as to give her a little nudge.

Guh, he was a dragon, not a house cat. But even still, he found himself loving it when she stroked his scales.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2019, 09:49:09 AM
Laughing quietly, Elora settled herself beside him and reached out to scratch his eye ridge, then moved down to his jaw, her other hand stroking carefully over his muzzle.

"You really like this, don't you?" she noted with some combination of amusement and slight surprise.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2019, 10:42:41 AM
Rather than answer with words, he just decided to purr away, letting her feel his enjoyment in the way the ground rumbled beneath her. He was so much larger than her, and he seemed conscious of it in the way he pressed against her ever so lightly, trying his hardest not to push her over when he easily had enough strength in him to demolish buildings.

As she stroked away, she'd hear light crackles and pops from his electricity. She stroked over his muzzle and he let her see his teeth, each one longer than her arm.

"Very much..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2019, 11:02:40 AM
Elora couldn't help laughing quietly, twisting a bit so she could scritch at the grooves between his scales with her nails.

"Okay, question." Her eyes sparkled at him, the gold front and center. "And don't roast me for asking this-- do you like belly rubs?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2019, 12:35:50 PM
Oh, those spots between his scales were too much, and he went just a little boneless at the feeling. His scales were stronger than steel but the pebbly black flesh beneath and between was velvety and sensitive.

At her question, he just narrowed his eyes.

"No," he said, but even as he did so he turned onto his side, exposing his lighter belly to her.

"But from you? Maybe..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2019, 01:33:29 PM
For a moment she thought she might have crossed a line, but then he'd rolled over onto his side and she grinned a bit, shifting back so she could settle in the curve of his body and reaching out to rub at his belly.

"Oh." She blinked. "Your scales are softer down here, a little."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2019, 02:41:17 PM
"They are," he said, and he curled a bit so that she was loosely surrounded by him, loving the feeling of her hands on him.

"The Lightning Eater's weak spot, so to speak," he continued. Then, grinning playfully, he pressed her to himself with his tail and rolled onto his back, leaving her sprawled on top of him.

"And right now, he wants you to keep going."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2019, 04:48:23 PM
"Ack!" Elora found herself pitching forward as he rolled so she wound up splayed like a starfish over his stomach. Picking herself up, she let her legs slide out to the sides and leaned over him to get a better angle, rubbing at the scales just beneath his chest.

"Mmm, maybe you'd better be wary who you share your weaknesses with," she teased. Remembering the reaction it had got on his jaw, she dug her nails into the grooves between his scales again, scritching lightly at the skin.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2019, 05:04:26 PM
Her deftness with the scale-scratching earned her an honest jolt between his horns.

"So far, it's just you," he said, lifting his head up to look at her as she straddled him and rubbed his abdomen. It was incredible, how these small touches from Elora could send waves of comfort and pleasure through him in a way that nobody else had done before.He lifted one of his front legs and carefully stroked her side with the curve of his index claw, a hesitant motion, unsure of how she'd react to receiving mutual affection while he was still a dragon.

"And don't you worry, I'll find your weak spots too."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2019, 05:16:38 PM
Elora went still for a moment, glancing sidelong at his claw stroking her side. It didn't feel bad, but...

Well, it was just sort of weird, wasn't it? Belly rubs and scale scratches were one thing, but this felt...very intimate. And he was a dragon!

"Hmm..." She shook her head and set back to passing her hands over his scales. She didn't try to push him away-- she wasn't really sure how to react. "What makes you think I have any?" she quipped lightly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2019, 05:36:32 PM
He laughed. "Play your cards right and you're going to find out..."

Merradin saw how she went still, and he smiled a little sheepishly. She had him at a disadvantage here. Every piece of him was so big and dangerous that he didn't quite know how to go about returning her affection.

"Sorry about that, but I wanted to touch you back and you're just so much smaller," he said, voice playful as he smiled.

"Also, I don't have fingers," he added with a chuckle.

He tried a different approach, bringing the claw behind her and using her flat of it to stroke her back.

"How's that?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2019, 05:50:42 PM
"It's-- it's fine." Elora cleared her throat, frowning a bit as she looked down at her hands moving over his belly. "It's not...bad, or anything. I don't think. It's just..."

Well. She couldn't think of a tactful way to say it.

"You're not attracted to me like this, are you?" she mumbled, flushing a bit. "I mean...you're a dragon. When you're, y'know, like this..." She gestured vaguely to his massive form. "I'm just some squishy little human. Shouldn't you be...interested in a lady dragon?"

Her blush went even darker and she added quickly, "Unless you're just being friendly, in which case I am a complete ass and I can just go drown myself."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2019, 06:29:38 PM
"Elora," he started. Even so, he looked uncertain. He struggled for words, coming up short every time he thought he had a response, but it did come at last. He opted to just lay his scaly, raptor-like foot on his belly just in front of her. A hand to hold, if any.

"I... The simplest way to say it is that I think you're prettier than a lightning storm, no matter what pair of eyes I'm looking at you with," he said. When he spoke, she'd be able to feel his lungs rumbling beneath her.

"But, you are a human, just as sure as I am a dragon. I can't dance with you, let alone kiss you," he said, punctuating the sentence by showing her his teeth, and then returning to that grin of his.

"But, I do happen to know how to turn into a human, and, well..." he ended his sentence by giving her a raise of his eyebrows.

"But if you want me to be tamer when I'm like this, I... I think I'd understand."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 26, 2019, 06:40:26 PM
"I..."

She licked her lips, simply staring down at his paw where it lay before her. One hand reached out to cautiously brush against him, and she sighed.

"I don't really know what I want," she murmured. She didn't seem quite able to meet his eyes. "I feel like... In a really strange way, this is almost easier." She let out a long breath. "When you're not...human. I mean I won't lie and say I'm-- I'm attracted to you in the same way, but..."

She shrugged. "Weirdly, I think I feel more comfortable with you like this? After-- after what happened, being with someone like that is just..." She shivered and closed her eyes. "But now, with you like this... I know you could hurt me so easily if you wanted, but I don't think you could do that and I feel...safer."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 26, 2019, 11:18:10 PM
"I want you to be safe. To feel safe and know you're strong," Merradin said, speaking plainly and honestly to her.

He gave his head a little tilt.

"But I like you, Elora Braun. You know I like you, but... if I wanted to spend time with you as a person, so I can be closer to you than when I'm like this... would you oblige me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 27, 2019, 07:15:53 AM
She thought about that for a few moments, wanting to be as honest as she could. "I would," she murmured eventually. "I just...this is all so weird."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 27, 2019, 07:55:23 AM
He chuckled a bit at that.

"Believe me, weird is not a bad word," Merradin said, and he looked out over to the ocean.

"But I don't want it any other way."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 27, 2019, 08:04:41 AM
Elora snorted a bit at that and sprawled forward to lay against him, turning her head and laying it against one folded arm, looking out to sea as well.

"I-- I guess this is pretty nice," she admitted with a small smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 27, 2019, 08:12:58 AM
"It is..."

He felt her get comfortable on his belly and he smiled just a bit wider.

"And we haven't even swam in it yet..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 27, 2019, 08:36:50 AM
"Oh, that's right." Elora smiled and sat up a bit. "Y'know, I don't think I've just swam for fun since I was a little girl."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 27, 2019, 09:07:38 AM
"Well, what are we waiting for then?" He said.

He didn't want to mention that he wanted to get off his back because his wing joints were starting to hurt. He was too heavy to lay on them comfortably for long.

"Go on, I'll be right behind you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 27, 2019, 09:52:15 AM
She rolled her eyes and slid down to land on the sand again, reaching up and arching her back in a long stretch. "Alright, alright."

She paused a moment, considering, then stripped down to her underthings before beginning to wade out into the water. It was wonderfully cool and clear, and she smiled a bit as she wriggled her toes in the sand, just allowing herself to bask in sensation for a moment.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 27, 2019, 11:18:34 AM
Merradin watched her go, rolling up onto his belly and shaking his wings. Then, without much further ado he followed her in, trying not to splash as he walked until his belly touched the water, and he turned back to her, a smile across his features.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 27, 2019, 03:20:09 PM
Elora chuckled a bit and followed him out into deeper water, swirling her hands back and forth over the smooth surface.

"It's beautiful," she noted softly, her eyes following the bands of color that painted the horizon as the sun crept toward it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 27, 2019, 09:38:32 PM
"It is..."

The water was cool, and after a long day with the sun on his back it felt nice to chill his cold blood He waded in deeper, scattering schools of small fish. Water that was half a leg deep for Merradin was nearly chest-high for Elora, but he laid back down in the sea, forming a small island made of Dragon out on the ocean.

"Scenic Yoreiq. Too bad I didn't work on my beach body."

He chuckled, and that turned into some short laughter. He looked down at her, setting sun casting orange across his blue scales.

"This is such a crazy, spontaneous thing to do. I like this..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 28, 2019, 10:19:52 AM
She smiled up at him and crinkled her nose for his "beach body" comment.

"It is," she murmured, reaching out with one hand to press against his shoulder for a moment. Then she climbed up onto his back, turning to lay against his neck on her back, looking up at the sky. "I've never really done anything like this before."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 28, 2019, 10:47:42 AM
"Me neither. The Thunderblacks have been my home and domain for centuries, but now... I wonder why I ever left the islands," he said. When she rested her back on his neck, he made sure to keep still for her, not wanting to shake her off by accident.

"And it's going to be an entire week," he said. He glanced back to make sure she was perched on his neck securely, and he slowly rose and started to walk , tail trailing behind him as he searched for deeper waters, taking her along with him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 28, 2019, 12:00:57 PM
"Whoa." Elora laughed quietly and turned onto her belly so she could wrap her arms loosely around his neck, trailing her fingers in the water as they moved deeper and deeper.

"Right. A week away." She let her cheek rest against his scales, tracing absent shapes in the crystal clear waters. "Gods. I don't even remember the last time I went on leave."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 28, 2019, 01:04:32 PM
Oh, he liked that. Feeling her against him like that, the touch of her fingers sending little tingles into his chest. He kept going until the water was up to his chest, then he tucked his legs in and spread his wings, using them to keep him going in the water as he started to float about, peering down through the clear waters at the life around them. He was half sea-dragon, and it could be seen in how comfortable he was in the water.

"Well, you're on leave now," he said, keeping his head low to the water so Elora could play with it.

"So whatever your desire is, I'll help you realize it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 28, 2019, 01:59:58 PM
She laughed again and shook her head, just allowing her eyes to slide closed and her body to relax as she rested against him.

"I don't know if I even have any desires right now," she chuckled. "Just...being. Sitting like this, not having any pressure on me for one thing or another... It's nice."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 28, 2019, 02:42:29 PM
And Merradin could feel the same. Even now, he felt the distance between himself and every single coin, gem, and piece of equipment that he'd left behind on a near whim, but when Elora let herself relax and rest against him he found her calm to be contagious.

"I can get behind that idea," he said, and he started swimming in a loose, wide circle.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 28, 2019, 03:19:02 PM
Elora huffed quietly and turned onto her side, one arm still looped around the side of his neck to hold her in place while her other hand played absently over his scales, tracing nonsense patterns in the spaces between them.

"The water will start to cool down soon," she noted as the sun crept ever closer to the horizon.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 28, 2019, 04:24:17 PM
He nodded, smiling to himself as she played with his scales. He rewarded her with a short purr, letting her feel the rumble for a few moments.

"I like that," he mentioned.

"And it won't be cool just yet, we still have a little time. You should get some more swimming in," he  said, wheeling his head about to make eye contact with her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 28, 2019, 07:21:40 PM
The soft gust of wind from the sharp movement of his head blew her hair back slightly and she chuckled, catching a few strands to tuck them back behind her ear.

"I dunno." She eyed the water dubiously. "I like dipping my toes as much as the next gal, but I've never been much of a real swimmer."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 28, 2019, 07:46:11 PM
He gave her a challenging look.

"And if I told you I wanted to swim, would you hold on?" He said, shifting about on his legs and tucking his wings in tight to his sides.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 29, 2019, 07:12:18 AM
Elora raised her eyebrows and automatically clutched a little tighter to his neck. "Do I have a choice?" she laughed lightly, though there was a hint of nervousness in her tone.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 29, 2019, 09:15:32 AM
Merradin nodded.

"You always have a choice," he said, looking back over to shore, then back to her.

"But if you hold on, I promise you'll love the ride."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 29, 2019, 09:27:45 AM
"Mmf." She tightened her grip, lifting her head slightly so she could look out in the direction they were heading. "Alright. I'm on."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 29, 2019, 11:26:18 AM
Merradin grinned and looked back out ahead of them. He streamlined himself in the water, using a combination of magic and his natural power as he set off, doing a few graceful turns and circles on the surface of the water, striking out deeper and deeper. Suddenly, he spread his wings, lifting him just a little bit. He turned his head downwards, and just like that they were under.

The water was incredibly clear and mild on the eyes as he dove down. They were still very much in the shallows, and reef life darted away as Merradin cast his huge shadow over the sea floor.

It seemed he was in his element down here as well, twisting gracefully and even diving down among the corals and coming back up in one smooth looping motion.

They were down there for less than thirty seconds, as Merradin wasn't sure how long Elora could hold her breath. But when he resurfaced, he raised his head up and snorted out the water that had collected in his nose and mouth.

Even then, he started to circle again, preparing to dive back down once again. Curiously, he looked back at her on his back to see how she'd taken the ride.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 29, 2019, 12:00:31 PM
Elora felt herself growing tenser and tenser as they circled through the water. She'd hadn't been lying, she really wasn't a swimmer-- Ketra was landlocked, and she had spent most of her life either in the city or in her parents' estate just outside it.

When they dove beneath the surface she drew in a sharp, gasping breath and instinctively clenched her eyes shut, arms and legs locking as tight around Merradin as she could get.

Then, cautiously, she cracked an eye open. If she could have gasped again, she would have. She'd never seen anything like the reefs sprawled out below them, and the way her bondmate twisted and curved through the water just about took her breath away.

Luckily, they surfaced before that could become entirely literal. Elora gasped as her head broke the surface, choking as she gulped in a mouthful of water with the fresh air. Coughing and shaking her head, she beamed at Merradin when he turned to look at her, dripping on his scales.

"Well! That was-- ahem!-- something."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 29, 2019, 12:46:23 PM
He noticed she came up coughing, and looked back at her, face knit into a look of concern. But when she beamed at him, he beamed right back, and started to swim in little circles.

"I think I saw a school of tuna down there," he said.

"If you take a nice, deep breath, you can have one more ride and I can catch us our dinner."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 29, 2019, 02:50:38 PM
She laughed a bit and nodded to show him she was ready, drawing in a deep breath and leaning low over his neck again. Now that she was more prepared, she was able to relax against him rather than clinging like a burr.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 29, 2019, 03:49:03 PM
Merradin wasted no time, flapping wings once again to give him some diving momentum. He shot straight down, curving about and leveling out, looming over a school of tuna traveling along the reef's edge. Then, with a powerful beat of his wings he rocketed over. The tuna started to scatter, but he issued a sheet of lightning that lit up the reef and caught several tuna, stunning them. He got one within his jaws and one in his right front claw.

He rose back up to the surface, two fat tuna fish in his possession. He was grinning widely, even as the tuna in his teeth struggled, and he started making his way back to shore.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 29, 2019, 07:51:02 PM
Almost unable to help herself, Elora whooped as they broke the surface once again. She shook the saltwater from her hair and laughed as the white-blonde strands stuck to her cheeks and forehead.

"Merradin, that was amazing!"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 29, 2019, 08:14:36 PM
He grinned ever wider. It was hard to speak while holding a tuna in your mouth, so he saved his words until they were coming back onto the shore. He dumped the fish onto some rocks so they wouldn't get sandy and lowered himself so she could dismount.

"Nothing too amazing, just catching some fish," he said with a hint of bashfulness in his voice.

"But I'm glad you liked it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 29, 2019, 09:20:00 PM
"I meant the ocean," Elora laughed as she slid down to the sand. She was absolutely sopping wet, but found that she didn't much care. Leaning in to press a quick peck to his muzzle, she added, "But you were very impressive too."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 29, 2019, 09:29:09 PM
She pecked his muzzle, and he smiled a little brighter at that. He gave her the draconic equivalent of a kiss, which was a lick on the  shoulder with his long, forked tongue. Once that moment passed, he shrouded himself in clouds so he could shift back to his human shape. He was like her, sopping wet and in his underclothes, which stuck to him like another skin.

"I put some towels in the saddle," he motioned lazily, and he approached his two freshly caught tunas. The fish were large, at least thirty pounds each, but not big enough to gut while in dragon form.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 30, 2019, 09:32:23 AM
Elora shivered a bit at the feeling of electricity that crackled across her skin when he summoned his clouds. Nodding, she returned to the packs and fetched out the towels, then made her way back to the rocks where Merradin was gutting the fish.

"Here," she draped one towel over his shoulders, wrapping the other around herself and settling on the sand.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 30, 2019, 03:39:35 PM
Merradin was looking over the tunas, figuring out what do with them, when he felt a towel drape over him and he looked back to Elora, smiling as he pulled it a bit tighter on his shoulders. He dried himself off and set the towel aside, letting his hands turn into dragon's claws as he picked one to start with and easily split its belly open. As he let it bleed, he looked over the other one, still thrashing lightly as it was freshly caught. Perhaps it had been too much to catch two, one would feed them well enough.

So, it was with a moment's consideration that he shifted back over and promptly ate it up with a few snaps of his teeth. He was a dragon, he needed a lot of food!

He started to clean it, having no better tools other than his clawed hands, and before long he had fat tuna steaks sitting out on one of their food cloths, having discarded the scraps to the ocean.

He washed up his claws in the ocean, and while he did so he spoke up to her.

"Get a fire going , we'll set up camp somewhere just in front of the treeline," he said.

"And delicious flame-cooked tuna will be all ours."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 30, 2019, 05:02:48 PM
Elora opted to simply sit back and watch his process. She could have cleaned the fish herself, but he seemed to have a handle on things, so she decided not to intrude.

At his word she got back to her feet and nodded, offering a quick, "Sure thing," as she set about collecting enough wood for some kindling and sparked a small fire, shells and rocks surrounding the small pit she'd dug into the sand to keep it contained.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 30, 2019, 05:54:49 PM
He finished cleaning himself up, wrapping his waist in his towel as he approached her with the wrapped up steaks. Setting those down, he procured a skewer and frame set from the saddle and started to set it up over the fire. Then, he sat back and watched he finish setting up, smiling idly as he watched her go.

"I can't wait for some real meat," he said, rubbing at his abdomen and stretching out over a towel.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 30, 2019, 07:57:46 PM
Elora allowed herself to go boneless, flopping down beside him. "I suppose being a dragon doesn't exactly allow for a vegetarian lifestyle," she teased lightly as they waited for the fish to cook.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 30, 2019, 08:41:41 PM
She laid down by him and he turned about to look at her, stretching out on his side and resting on an elbow. He cradled his head with one hand and draped the other over his side.

"No, I'm a real carnivore. The fruits are nice for my sweet tooth, though."

He ginned.

"And, well... I had a good time today, Elora. Looking forwards to tomorrow," he said, and he ventured out with a hand, hoping she'd take it. His grin got a bit wider, more playful.

"You made the island look good today."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 30, 2019, 09:42:37 PM
She snorted quietly and rolled her eyes at him, but she was blushing never so slightly. "Not exactly a difficult task, that," she noted with a chuckle and a wry quirk of her eyebrow. "This place is amazing."

She waved a hand to indicate the island around them, not even bothering to sit up.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 30, 2019, 10:10:45 PM
"It is, but you shouldn't sell yourself so short," Merradin said, glancing back at the fish. Sighing, he settled on his back, looking over to her.

"And you've gotten very adept at climbing me," he added.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 31, 2019, 10:36:44 AM
Elora gave him a droll look for that. "Innuendo aside," she said dryly after a moment, "yeah, I think I'm getting better at the whole...dragon riding...thing?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 31, 2019, 10:52:40 AM
"No innuendo intended, that's you and your dirty head," Merradin jabbed, and he even stuck his tongue out at her.

"You fell asleep on my back, which is saying something. When I was younger, the knight the dragon riders assigned me, somebody trained to be around dragons of all kinds, couldn't stop shitting himself when we were in the air," he recalled with a nostalgic look on his face.

"You, Elora, are a true natural. With all we've learned about each other past couple of days, I would say that you were born to be a dragon knight."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 31, 2019, 11:16:19 AM
"Mm." She nudged his shoulder with hers lightly as she scooted closer. "I dunno. I guess...maybe."

She shrugged and chuckled quietly. "I suppose stranger things have happened."

None immediately came to mind, but still...
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 31, 2019, 11:32:31 AM
She scooted closer, and Merradin dared to give her shoulder a light stroke, smiling a bit wider as his fingers skimmed along her arm and past her elbow, travelling to her hand to play with her fingers.

"Maybe you're descended from one of those original dragon knights," Merradin said, tone half-teasing, eyes drinking her in like she was wine.

"Men and women that tamed wild dragons without so much as a scuffle."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 31, 2019, 12:10:26 PM
Elora chuckled quietly and pressed her fingertips back against his. "I dunno about that. Would you say you've been tamed, Merradin?"

She rolled onto her side, propping herself up with an elbow and smirking at him slightly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 31, 2019, 12:38:25 PM
"Me? Tame?"

He chuckled at that, meeting her eyes as he let out his wings and tail and stretched those out before relaxing them again. He glanced down at their hands, and then turned his so he could lock fingers with her. He lifted her hand and gave her knuckles a gentle kiss.

"Just a bit, perhaps..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 31, 2019, 12:48:19 PM
A small shiver trickled down her spine, something warm and shuddering that terrified her as much as thrilled her.

"Is that so?" she breathed quietly, staring at their joined hands.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 31, 2019, 01:59:47 PM
He felt that shiver go through her and he ate it up, voice lowering to match her breathy tone. He leaned in, not to kiss her, but to leave a salacious little whisper in her ear.

"Very so..." he started, and left a little kiss beneath her ear.

"You had me rolling on my back like a kitten," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 31, 2019, 03:16:52 PM
Another shiver, this was tingling all the way down her spine to reach the very tips of her fingers and toes.

"Hmm...I wonder what else I could make you roll over for," she whispered, almost challenging.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 31, 2019, 07:12:26 PM
"Mm, try me..." Merradin purred, and he brushed a bit of her hair out of the way. Daring to get a little closer to her, there wasn't all that much seperating their lips now, other than a couple inches of air.

"For centuries, warriors, dragon hunters, knights and even princes have tried to tame or slay me. They scaled mountains, fought through caves full of trolls, all of that just to see me belly-up and to take my hoard for their own. " he said. He didn't think he needed to explain what had happened to the ones that made it far enough to challenge him.

Deciding that she'd responded well to when he leaned in the first time, this time he laid his head against hers, eyes like lightning storms to her shining gold. He wanted to kiss her, but he found himself hesitating due to warm, fuzzy nerves.

"But you, Elora, can get me on my back much, much easier."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 31, 2019, 07:24:45 PM
Elora wet her lips, her eyes going a little round. She held his gaze for several long moments, lips just slightly parted as her breath hitched in her chest.

Then she smirked, feeling a flash of something hot and crackling and familiar flood through her body. "Can I now?"

Without warning she surged forward, twisting Merradin onto his back and perching above him triumphantly, her legs straddling his hips, hands resting on his shoulders. Their lips were nearly touching and every movement brought them closer together, her eyes burning into his.

Then she leaned back with a wicked grin, tossing her hair. "I don't know what all those knights were having trouble with. It's quite simple to have you on your back."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 31, 2019, 11:07:42 PM
When she turned him over like that, he gained an awestruck look in his eye. He held his discipline and didn't kiss her letting her lean up as he stayed there.

"I'm sure you would've slain me if you were one of them," he said, looking up at her. His slit reptilian pupils narrowed in on her, his... bonded?

Rider?

He let one of his hands rest on her shoulder, as the other one stroked at her neck and cheek. Then, he let himself go a bit, leaning up on his elbow to leave a kiss on the base of her throat, leaving a slow lick with his forked tongue, eyes looking up at her to gauge her reaction.

"Have I told you, Ser Braun, that every piece of you is gorgeous?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 09:38:41 AM
She shuddered delicately at the touch of his tongue, her whole body going taut, though this time it was not wariness, but a shivering excitement.

"You may have mentioned something like that," she breathed as she tilted her head to look down at him. Merradin. Lightning-Eater. Sprawled out beneath her and looking up at her like she was something wondrous.

A heady mix of power and desire rushed through her and she licked her lips again, not quite sure how to proceed but very sure that she wanted to. Carefully, she let her hands slide up from his chest to rest on his shoulders, keeping him pinned as she let her head cock slightly to the side.

"You could destroy me," she noted softly, almost vaguely. Even she wasn't entirely sure what she meant.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 10:01:35 AM
He found himself unable to resist her as she pinned him back down to the ground. As soon as she did so, there was a small jump of electricity between his horns. Here he was, a dragon that could level entire towns, feeling himself come totally alive when he was pinned like that.

Perhaps it was a kink the dragon never knew he had. Nobody had ever pinned him like that...

He couldn't do much moving with his hands, but he bent his elbows to feel at her thighs and knees. Apart from that, she had total control of him.

"I could destroy you, yes," he purred, tone heavily suggestive and teasing.

"But at this very moment, I just want to kiss you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 10:25:42 AM
A smile flickered across Elora's lips. Slowly, she moved her hands from his shoulders to grip his wrists, then pinned them back to the sand above his head, gentle but still unyielding.

"You may," she whispered, and leaned down to brush her lips against his in the barest echo of a kiss.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 10:32:28 AM
Merradin tested her grip just a little bit, and he squirmed underneath her, filled with the desire to act upon her but too stricken by this sudden need to let her act upon him.

When their lips brushed together, he let himself go a little bit, lifting his head up to fully seal their lips for a few moments. He caught her lower lip in his teeth and he gave it a light tug as he parted from her, letting his head rest back against the towel.

"Amazing..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 10:39:25 AM
"Mmm." Elora simply basked in the sparks dancing along her skin, return for another quick kiss, then another, then a longer touch, slanting her bottom lip against his and pressing down until she felt nearly drunk with the strange mix of desire and the tantalizing feeling of refusing to give into it.

Then she pulled back abruptly, rolling off him and tossing her hair casually. "Ah, the fish will burn. We'd better be paying attention."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 11:17:40 AM
Merradin drank her like wine and let himself get just a bit lost in her. That last kiss left him nearly panting as she rolled off of him, and he looked at her. He glanced back to the skewered tuna steaks, which had already started to turn a nice golden brown, and he sat up.

Giving her a fond look and a stroke on the side, he stood up, letting her see him in all kinds of angles as he tended to the steaks. He gae the skewers a few turns, kicked some sand onto the fire to dim it, and then removed the steaks.

He sat down next to her, handing her a skewer with a juicy, fatty tuna steak on it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 11:22:00 AM
Elora smiled at him as she took the food and murmured, "Thanks."

While she had been mostly teasing him, she was also quite hungry, and the fish smelled divine. She dug in, hardly caring that she almost burned her mouth. She gave a soft, satisfied groan as she swallowed, nodding approvingly in Merradin's direction.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 11:52:41 AM
When she nodded at him, she'd find him nodding back, his own mouth full of tuna.He swallowed, and chuckled.

"I don't know where you humans got the idea to put meat to fire but it's honestly one of the better inventions you've ever conceived," Merradin said. He was unafraid of burning his mouth, and just let his teeth shift back into draconic ones as he tore a big bite out of it, chewing slowly.

He scooted a bit closer to her, still wanting to be close and still on fire from her kisses from earlier.

"I ate an entire tuna not even an hour ago and I was still starving," he muttered, shooting her a smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 12:01:36 PM
"Well, that's not exactly surprising," Elora laughed, bumping his shoulder lightly with her own. "You are a dragon. I doubt even a whole school of tuna is enough to keep you full."

If she was being honest, she was still feeling the tingling after effects of those kisses herself, but she was still hungry. She eagerly devoured her portion of the fish, licking her fingers when she was done.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 12:29:34 PM
"It's a start," Merradin said. Just as quickly as she'd finished her first tuna steak, so did he. He licked his lips clean and wiped his fingers on the underside of the towel's corner.

He leaned in, resting a hand on her leg as he kissed her shoulder.

"Do you want me to put another set of steaks on? Or are you feeling... sated?" he said, purring the last word out as he took her scent in.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 12:41:48 PM
Her eyes flashed. "I am far from sated," she whispered back, a challenge glinting in the gold of her gaze.

In a quick movement, she grabbed his hand and pulled it away from her leg, twisting them over so she was once more straddling his hips, pushing him into the sand with one hand pinned firmly above his head.

Gently, she traced the fingertips of her other hand over his collar. Then she paused, meeting his eyes. "If I cross a line, you'll tell me, right?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 01:57:16 PM
"Good," he whispered, even as she turned him back over. Once again a delighted shiver coursed through him when she pinned him, but he was grateful that she left him a free hand. With that hand, he explored her side, although he'd avoid intimate areas until she gave him the go ahead.

He bared his neck and collar to her as she explored with her fingers.

"I trust you, just as you trust me," he said, testing her grip and arcing himself towards her a little bit. His tail snaked up, and he laid it across the small of her back. Secretly, he wanted her to cross all his lines, and perhaps she'd be able to feel his desire through the bond.

But for now, he looked up at her, starstruck and eager to see what she'd do.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 02:16:12 PM
Elora met his eyes, considering. Slowly, she wrapped her fingers around his hand on her side and moved it up beside the other.

Leaning in, she breathed in his ear, "Not yet. Don't touch me yet." Giving in to temptation, she nipped lightly at his earlobe before she pulled away, kissing her way along his jawline and down his neck.

She drew her hands back as she traveled down his body, allowing him to move them if he wished, though her eyes flickered up to watch his face, waiting to see if he'd follow her order.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 02:38:59 PM
She'd look up and she'd find him smiling. "Of course..." he said softy, and she'd be able to see that he'd joined his hands where she'd pinned them, but apart from that they stayed there.

Soft breathing issued from him as she kissed his jaw, then his neck, and he let his eyes close halfway, letting out a sigh.

The little sparks and arcs between his horns became regular, and he let them meld back into his head, not wanting to shock her by accident.

His tail even slid off of her, coming to lay off to the side as he surrendered totally to her wishes.

"You love this," he teased.

"Having a dragon beneath you..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 02:49:02 PM
She chuckled quietly as her kisses moved down to his chest. "Well, can you blame me?" She cocked her head, dragging one finger down his chest toward his stomach, almost tortuously slow. "How many people could say they've done the same?"

Her other hand slid lower, tracing her fingertips lightly over his tail in gentle strokes. Carefully, gently, she worked her hand up to the base of his tail, where it met his spine, and dipped down to kiss the hollow of his throat as her fingers dug in to scratch lightly. 
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 03:16:18 PM
As soon as she dug in and scratched at his tail, he let out an honest-to-gods gasp at that, arcing himself up and going just a little mad as she kissed at his throat. He couldn't help it, he was harder than diamonds beneath her after she'd done that.

"Oohh, yesss..." he said, letting his eyes close fully for a few moments before he opened them up to look for her own.

"Not many..." Merradin purred.

"Or at all... you might be the first..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 03:34:47 PM
Elora had to bite back a wicked grin, rather pleased with the reaction she'd gotten from him. "I take it you like that in this form as well," she chuckled quietly and continued the scratching.

A thought struck her, a memory, and she paused a moment before very carefully digging her nails into the tiny gaps between his scales. Her head lowered to dot kisses over his chest as she did.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 04:21:37 PM
"Do I need to answer? You can see for yourself," he said, grinning at her as she lowered to kiss his chest. The whole time, he'd kept his hands to himself. His tail, however, wrapped around her arm and even tightened when he started working the scales.

"Gods, Elora... you're driving me mad..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 04:44:11 PM
She laughed quietly. "Good," she whispered, digging her nails in with a little more force for a moment before pulling her hand back entirely.

Both hands settled on his shoulders and she simply looked down at him for a breath, two, feeling their heartbeats echo in time, thrumming through both their bodies. Slowly, carefully, she curled her fingers and dragged her nails down his chest, shifting her hips back in tiny, incremental movements until she reached his navel.

She dipped to kiss a trail back up his stomach, soothing the faint red lines she'd raised with her scratches, and one hand went back to work at the base of his tail, alternating between teasing at the edges of his scales and simply stroking where they melded to skin.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 04:57:06 PM
Those nails going down his chest caused little trails of light pain and he ate it up, letting out a breath heavy with static as he smiled.

"Mmm, Elora..." he murmured drawing his hands in to rest his head on them but still following her orders.

Gods the desire to move was almost too much, but he kept himself in line for her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 05:10:16 PM
"Yes?" Elora kissed the hollow of his throat, a tiny thrill running down her spine that he still hadn't moved to touch her. "What is it?"

She nipped at his neck then sucked lightly on the flesh, freeing one hand from his tail so she could brace it beside his head, giving herself more leverage as she took a risk and ground her hips lightly against his, just once. A soft groan caught in her throat and she pulled away to breathe, "What do you want?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 05:26:34 PM
"I--oh that's nice," he stuttered. He was going to speak, but then she brushed back against him like that and he was properly interrupted.

He turned his head and kissed her arm, looking back up at her as he let his mouth hang a bit open.

"I want you to keep going, you're beyond words," He started, and he propped himself up on his elbows, bringing his face close to hers but not making any contact.

"And I want to touch you. Wherever and however you want me to..."

He submitted to her, lying back down and stretching his hands back up above his head, placing one over the other as if he'd been tied.

"Release the dragon, Ser Braun..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 05:53:27 PM
Elora laughed, she couldn't help it. The heady thrill of power and desire was intoxicating, making her head swim and her breath hitch as he lay beneath her, ready and willing.

"Perhaps I will," she mused playfully, leaning down until their lips could almost touch...

"But not yet." She sat back again, her eyes flashing gold as her hand moved against his scales, teasing and tempting gently. "First..."

Her other hand slipped down, over the planes of his chest and stomach, hovering teasingly at the edge of his smallclothes. "Tell me how much you want me, Merradin," she whispered. Despite her apparent delight in the teasing play, there was a hint of vulnerability in her eyes as she looked down at him, lips just slightly parted.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 06:04:13 PM
She teased at his smallclothes and he nudged his hips upwards a brief moment, more restless squirming.

"Elora, I want you as surely as rain falls from the clouds," he said, playing along to see that drunken, lusty look in her eye.

"I want to please you, make you gasp. I'll do anything you say..." he trailed off and licked his lip.

"Anything," he repeated.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 06:20:06 PM
"Anything?"

Gods, he really was beautiful. And she knew he could have reversed their positions in a moment, or could have simply refused to play her game, but the fact that he hadn't, that he recognized how much she needed this...

Slowly, agonizingly slowly, she bent to kiss his navel, then began working her way up his stomach and chest to his throat, where she lingered for a moment before finally reaching his jaw, his cheek, his lips.

"Then you may touch me," she whispered, and her hand moved to trace the underside of his tail in a single, firm stroke, pulling his hips up against hers for the briefest moment at the same time.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 06:41:25 PM
Their hips nudged together and Merradin purred, slowly bringing his hands back from above his head as their lips met. The first touch was to her head as he threaded his fingers through her hair, deepening the kiss. He held her like she was a treasure, his other hand going to the small of her back to hold her nice and close.

"Thank you," he murmured into her mouth before resuming the kiss. The sun had gone down by now, and he raised a finger from her back to create an invisible bubble of air around them to keep out the blowing sand and bugs from their little campsite.

That hand returned, sliding along her hips to hold her thigh.

"Gods, a dragon could lose himself in those lips of yours..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 06:55:20 PM
She smiled and tilted her head slightly into his hand, a soft, satisfied sigh leaving her as their lips parted.

"I invite you to get lost then," she chuckled quietly, reaching down with her free hand to stroke his wrist where he held her thigh, then the back of his hand.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 07:10:55 PM
Merradin chuckled. When he felt her hand on top of his, he stroked it upwards, wanting to touch her ass but too hesitant to do so. Instead, the hand stroked downwards.

"When we touched," Merradin started, and made a downwards movement with his head.

"I quite liked that. We can do that more, if you want..." Merradin said. It was his turn to kiss now, and he took advantage. Kissing her lips deeply, then her jaw, her chin, the base of her throat, just above her breasts. Then, after a short kiss between them, he came back up, passing his forked tongue all along her throat.

"We can do whatever you want."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 07:19:03 PM
"Mmm..." A familiar heat pooled low in her belly and she tipped her head back to bare her throat to him, lips parted as she sighed.

"Like this?" Her hips ground down against his again, not too hard, almost exploring more than anything else. She shivered delightedly at the flash of pleasure it sparked in her, spurred on all the more by the fact for that brief moment she could focus on just the pleasure.

One hand moved up to cup the back of his head and she drew him up to press their lips together again, moaning softly into his mouth. "I want you to touch me more," she gasped when they broke apart. "Just...slowly. Please?"

Her hand trailed down the back of his neck, tracing absently over his shoulders and back before coming to rest on his hip.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 07:37:31 PM
"I'd love to," Merradin started, and he teased at her underclothing, slipping a hand beneath it to feel at her ass while the other stroked her neck.

"But I think we're wearing too much," Merradin purred, even as he drew his lips away from hers to lower them to her breast. At first, he kissed the soft flesh at the base, but then he gave the nipple itself a kiss through her underclothes, then a nibble. He took it slow, giving her all the chances to object she needed.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 08:00:32 PM
Elora smiled and concerned, "Perhaps."

She wriggled her hips against his teasingly as she slid back, away from the delicious contact of his hands and lips. Eyes locking on his, she reached up to undo her breastband and let it fall to the sand beside them.

"I believe you might also be wearing too much," she noted with a quirked brow.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 08:31:00 PM
"Oh, how inappropriate of me," he teased, giving her a moment to wiggle before he sat up. He slipped his hands beneath her and did away with his smallclothes. There was nothing left to hold him back and she would find him raring to go.

He stroked her collar, fitting her throat between his thumb and index finger as his hand stroked downwards, covering a breast and giving it a gentle squeeze.

"Radiant..." he murmured to himself, and he kissed her.

"Beautiful."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 01, 2019, 08:58:18 PM
Elora licked her lips. She considered for a moment, then slowly shifted to remove the last of her own underthings, casting them aside before she settled onto his lap again.

A soft sigh was dragged from her throat and she rested her hands on his shoulders. “You give me too much credit,” she laughed quietly, one hand reaching up to stroke his cheek oh so gently. She leaned in for another kiss, humming in the back of her throat as their chests brushed together and she felt heat beginning to gather.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 01, 2019, 09:09:43 PM
Merradin had a quip for that, but she stole it from him when she kissed him. His hands wandered, one going to her ass to squeeze it with need while the other held her back, holding her to him. The feeling of her skin on his was lightning and he wanted as much of that as possible.

They were close enough that when he shifted, their sexes brushed together, and Merradin let out a soft breath at that.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 08:46:20 AM
Her breath caught in her throat for a moment as they brushed together, and she released it in a small, shuddering sigh.

"Closer," she murmured, trailing her mouth along the shell of his ear as her hands kneaded at his shoulders. "Hold me tighter, Merradin."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 09:26:27 AM
And hold her closer her did, bringing her body flush to his as his hands mapped her skin. Breath hot and skin burning, the hand at her ass slid over to touch her heat, tentatively at first but if she didn't object he'd start to give her proper attention, even going so far as to grip his cock and use that to rub her.

He compounded that with a kiss to her ear and neck.

"As tight as you want. As long as you want," Merradin purred.

"But I want to taste you," he continued, letting out his long forked tongue to show her what she was in for if she accepted.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 09:47:42 AM
Elora shudder and shifted against him, soft sighs escaping her lips as they rocked and moved together gently. When his fingers found her heat she stiffened for a moment, then closed her eyes and let her head fall onto his shoulder with a soft breath, her body slowly relaxing into his touch.

She bit her lip at that particular proposition, considered. Then she nodded, slowly. "Alright..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 10:03:08 AM
At her acceptance he couldn't help but grin wider. He lifted his head to kiss her, breathing hotly through his nose, following up by licking at her lips. He beckoned her towards him, licking his lips.

"Come closer, then..." he whispered, stroking her hips and legs and stomach.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 10:10:38 AM
She moved closer at his coaxing, until there was hardly a breath of space between them, returning those kisses until she was near drunk with them.

Her hands skated down his back gently, one coming to rest on his hip and the other playing idly with the base of his tail. Curiosity suddenly piqued almost despite herself, she asked, "Are you this sensitive here when you're in fully dragon form?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 10:17:23 AM
Merradin laughed at that. "Wouldn't you like to know..." he purred and he kissed her chin, throat. He shifted himself downwards, sliding beneath her as he stopped to kiss her breast, the area beneath, then her stomach.

"But you know all about my sensitive places. Maybe it's time I discover some of yours?" he continued, and he slid further still, kissing the area below her navel and giving it a little nip.

"I'm going to bathe my snout in your scent and never forget it..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 10:24:01 AM
"Oh gods..." Elora drew in a shivering breath as his kisses trailed down her body. She rocked up on her knees, allowing him to slide beneath her entirely.

"Merradin...please..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 10:31:06 AM
When she angled up onto her knees, Merradin didn't hesitate. His hands snaked up her body, feeling her stomach and breasts while his tail wrapped around her waste like a belt, the tip coming down to tease at her heat before he let his tongue work.

At first, he got to know her, passing the coiling length of his tongue between her folds slowly, using the forked tip to great effect. Then, he started running and looping it back and forth with greater speed, literally getting drunk off of her scent and wetness.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 10:37:15 AM
Elora gasped, her back going rigid while her hands clenched at her sides. Her whole body shivered as pulses of pleasure started to surge through her body. "Merradin— mmm..."

Her legs trembled and she suddenly pitched forward slightly, planting her hands in the sand to help hold herself up.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 12:40:14 PM
A small chortle came from him, and he coiled his tongue over her clit while his tail teased the edges.

"Say my name again," Merradin purred against her, pushing with his tongue against her entrance but never entering. His hands dragged down her back, going to her ass to press her heat agaijzt his mouth more.

"Remind yourself who's pleasing you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 01:00:52 PM
"Oh gods." She swallowed convulsively and her hips bucked forward before she caught herself, fisting her hands in the sand and panting quietly. "Merradin," she whispered, shivering, her eyes clenched shut. "Merradin...Merradin."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 01:54:34 PM
"Merradin's right," he purred. Oh, she'd teased him plenty, so he took this chance to make her buckle as his reward. He tightened his grip on her legs, not letting her go anywhere as he devoured her.

Tentatively, he put the tips of his tounge together and probed her entrance, sliding the smooth limb into her just the barest amount to see how she'd take it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 02:27:32 PM
Elora's whole body jerked slightly and she bit down on a sharp gasp, resisting the urge to rock her hips forward. "Oh...okay. Wow."

She licked her lips and swallowed. "For the love of gods, Merradin, don't you dare stop."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 02:47:44 PM
At her approval, he purred, letting his tongue conduct the vibrations before he extended it slowly inside of her, pressing her heat to him so he could get as much of his tongue into her, parting the tips inside of her as he licked, swayed, and doubled back.

He took his tongue out, letting her see how wet his mouth and face were with her juices as he stretched his tongue out.

"Delicious," he purred, before going digging in again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 02:54:07 PM
She groaned, long and low, lips parted, face and neck flushed as she stared down at him. She was practically shaking, and when his tongue slipped inside her again she gasped, her toes curling.


"Ohhhh gods..." She planted lightly and shifted in his grip, though the way he held her kept her pretty firmly in place. She did manage to lean back, fists clenching and unclenching at her sides as her legs shook.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 04:24:17 PM
He continued to purr, loving every iota of what she was giving out as he intensified his efforts, letting some tongue out and grinding it against her clit.

"Melt for me," he groaned.

His hands returned up to her front and gripped her breasts, freeing her up to rock and move as she wanted.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 02, 2019, 06:41:18 PM
Elora's head snapped back and her hands went white-knuckled at her side, a mewling sigh the only remnant of the moan starting in her chest that she allowed to escape her lips. Her legs began to shake in earnest with the effort it took both to hold herself up and keep still, refusing to move as he positively devoured her.

"Merradin." His name was a gasp, almost a plea. "A-- A little more, gods."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 02, 2019, 10:54:17 PM
He gave her more than just a little bit. He stroked her clit with a thumb as he once again plunged upwards. This time, he probed for sensitive areas, and his tongue was exceptionally flexible.

Then, once he was satisfied, he started rolling his tomgue, even going so far as to tease her with the tail as well, only for the scaled appendage to then grind its textured underbelly against her clit.

Determined to make her come screaming.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 03, 2019, 07:25:15 AM
"Mm-- ah!" Elora tensed, one hand suddenly clutching at Merradin's hair, tangling and scratching at his scalp. Her other hand clapped over her mouth, attempting to smother her cries as her passion reached a peak.

When it was over she slumped forward, gasping and shivering.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 03, 2019, 09:18:33 AM
Merradin let her breath for a few moments before he scooted up a little and kissed her navel, giving her a needy lick there as well.

"Just remember," he started, going so far as to give her ass a satisfied pat and a greedy squeeze.

"That you may do the riding, but I'm the one that gets you up there," he said, grinning like a bastard.

He motioned vaguely backwards towards his large member, throbbing patiently for her.

"Can I have a turn?" he asked lightly, and kissed her navel again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 03, 2019, 11:26:08 AM
Still breathing a little heavily, Elora managed to give him a slightly tired smile and nodded slowly. Hesitantly, carefully, she shifted back and lowered her head to kiss his throat, lingering there before she made her way down to his chest, then lower still.

She paused when she reached the gently slipping dip of his hips. Her eyes lifted to meet his, hands resting gently on his thighs. She took a breath, then whispered, “I trust you...”

It was almost more an affirmation for herself than for him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 03, 2019, 02:49:16 PM
"And I trust you..." Merradin said, repeating it just like the last time she'd said. He stroked her face tenderly for a few moments before smiling wider and resting back on his elbows, joining his hands beneath his body to show her that he was submitting once again.

"Take your time, get to know me like I know you," he continued, giving his hips a little shake so she'd feel his length tickle against the base of her throat as she remained close to him like that.

He licked off some of the juices that remained on his lips, made all the hornier and lustier by the primal taste and smell of sex.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 03, 2019, 03:35:03 PM
Elora took another breath, held his gaze a moment longer, then dipped her head to take him into her mouth.

She was just as tortuously slow with this as she had been with her teasing him earlier, working her lips and tongue in tandem in an effort to draw him gradually toward the brink. One hand worked beneath his body to find his tail again, stroking carefully as she wrapped her tongue around his length and sucked gently.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 03, 2019, 03:56:59 PM
"a-ah..." was Merradin's first response, and his wings twitched beneath him. Then, they closed a little further when she found his tail, bringing him pleasure both front and back. He was torn between leaning back or forwards into her touches, and it dragged a breathless smile out him.

"Just like that, Ser," he purred, resting his tail over her ass but otherwise keeping it still so she could feel his every twitch as she touched his scales.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 03, 2019, 04:32:59 PM
At that small encouragement, Elora leaned down to take him further into her mouth. Her hand at his tail shifted, moving up to the base of his spine where her fingers curled and her nails slipped into the gaps between his scales at the same time her tongue came around to flick across his tip teasingly once, twice, before she wrapped her lips around him again.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 03, 2019, 04:57:09 PM
And her efforts were rewarded with more purrs and soft noises from Merradin, proof that she could could make even a dragon squirm.

"Gods above and below," he murmured to himself, breaking his own rule to keep his arms behind his back to drape a forearm over his face and turn his head sideways, unable to keep completely still.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 03, 2019, 07:17:37 PM
A small shiver ran down her spine, almost a flash of pride. Lifting her head, she purred, "No gods here. Just me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 03, 2019, 10:30:39 PM
"Lucky me, that's all I need," Merradin said

He lifted his head to give her a fond look.

"But don't stop now, Elora. Please..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 04, 2019, 07:27:28 AM
"Well...since you asked so nicely..." She smirked at him for a moment before lowering her head again to continue working him, her hand at his tail digging into those thin gap between his scales just a little bit harder.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 04, 2019, 07:42:17 AM
Between the two different sensations,  Merradin wasn't long for the world. His tail gave a quick spasm when she found a particular spot on the underside. The sharp movement of the tail caused it to slap her ass lightly and Merradin was caught between a laugh and a moan.

"Ohh, not much longer, Elora," he said, free hand gripping the towel.

He let out a bit of a growl, and his wings went taut.

"Milk your dragon...."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 04, 2019, 07:58:38 AM
Humming around his length, Elora dipped to take him into her mouth as far as she could, her tongue flattening and twisting around as much of his length as she could reach. With the reaction she got from his tail, she pressed her nails pressed in deeper and sort of twisted.

She looked up at him through her lashes all the while, suddenly feeling a thrill at the prospect of watching him come apart.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 04, 2019, 08:35:48 AM
She might as well have directly twisted the seed out of him with that move, because he didn't even have time to warn her before the pressure and pleasure suddenly peaked and snapped. He slammed a fist onto the ground at his side and she'd be able to feel the ground rumble lightly with the impact. He still had his strength, but with much less weight behind it than in his true form.

"Elora!" was his only word as he finished inside of her mouth, giving her seed that seemed to tingle in her mouth with energy.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 04, 2019, 09:04:45 AM
Her eyes widened slightly as the ground shook, but she waited until he had finished before she lifted her head to look at him, flushed and breathing a little heavier than normal.

"So. Sufficient repayment?" Her mouth curled up teasingly at one corner.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 04, 2019, 09:26:14 AM
Merradin nodded, lying there with a dumb looking smile on his face.

"Incredible..." he murmured, before sitting up to look at her. He could hear and feel her heart beating in time with his. Intimacy seemed to sharply amplify it and he just sort of lost himself in the feeling of her.

"I've never felt that good before," he purred, beckoning her towards him with a finger.

"What do you want to do tomorrow?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 04, 2019, 11:49:06 AM
Elora smiled and crawled up his body to let herself flop beside him, stretching up for a quick kiss before she did.

"Gods, I'm not sure," she chuckled quietly. "I've never been to a place like this before."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 04, 2019, 12:04:27 PM
"Well, the main island is just a few islands down the chain, there's a small port there. Not sure what's there, but I'm sure we can make our own diversions," Merradin said, smiling after the kiss.

"But after a long flight and other... diversions I'd have to say I'm spent," he continued, and he turned a bit onto his side, stroking down Elora's arm.

"And I want to sleep with you nice and close to me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 04, 2019, 01:00:22 PM
She smiled softly and allowed herself to curl in a little closer to him, one hand coming to rest softly on his hip. "I think we can manage that," she murmured quietly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 04, 2019, 02:07:36 PM
Merradin smirked and touched her in kind, feeling along her side and resting a hand on her hip as she came closer. He leaned in a bit, resting their heads together to just feel her closeness before he gave her a soft, slow kiss.

"Do you want more tuna?" he murmured.

"It'll spoil by morning if we don't..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 10:27:06 AM
"Hmm...I suppose I could eat," she murmured after a moment of consideration. Snuggling just a little closer, she added with a crooked smile, "Though I am rather comfortable right here."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 10:48:39 AM
Merradin smiled in kind and held her more securely, letting his hand drift down her leg to map her body.

"There was a whole school of tuna, I'm sure we could always get more," he said, eyes drifting down to her lips.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 11:03:18 AM
Elora chuckled quietly. His interest wasn't exactly subtle, and her mouth quirked up into a crooked smile. "You want to kiss me," she noted with teasing little glint in her eyes.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 11:18:58 AM
"Shocking, I know," he said, teasing right back.

He stroked the side of her neck, passing his thumb along her jaw. He hummed thoughtfully before he leaned in and gave her a feather-light peck on the chin.

"Your lips taste and feel like absolute heaven and I can't stop myself from wanting more..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 11:25:54 AM
"Really?" She smiled, tilting her head back just a bit to bare the column of her throat. "What flattery, Lightning Eater! Although, considering I've seen how...intriguing it can be to bring you close to pleasure but not quite satisfying..."

Her smile turned wicked and she turned her face away, musing aloud, "Perhaps I will deny you this, and see what happens?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 05:34:50 PM
Merradin smirked, but he saw her game for what it was. She bared her throat to him, and he leaned in just a little more to leave a slow kiss against the hollow of her neck, then he kissed up a bit higher on the side of her neck when she turned her head away.

"So tell me, then," he said, matching her tone to let her know he was playing along. He caught her earlobe between his teeth and then kissed her just beneath the ear..

"What parts of you do I have to kiss to get there?" he purred
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 07:48:08 PM
"I think you're on the right track," Elora laughed quietly, reaching up to run her fingers through his hair. "I'm sure you can get creative..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 07:54:04 PM
He smirked against her and pulled her closer so they were chest-to-chest. One hand slid down to her leg, and he sort of pulled it over himself, getting a potent thrill from having her so close to him.

His head drifted to her face, where he left a chaste little kiss on her cheek. He smiled, their lips a hair's breadth away, before he drifted downwards and kissed her chest, just above her breasts.

He took a moment to feel her heart beat against his cheek before he drifted lower and kissed the soft flesh of her breast, squeezing where he kissed with his teeth just enough to draw a red mark before he soothed it with another kiss.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 08:02:08 PM
Elora hummed contentedly in the back of her throat, one hand stroking idly up and down Merradin's back as his kisses mapped a trail over her skin.

After a few lazy moments, she twined her fingers in his hair and pulled him up so they were face to face again, her leg over his waist curling to draw him in closer.

"Very nice," she purred, teasing. Leaning in, she murmured, "I suppose that earns you a kiss."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 08:08:44 PM
She pulled him in closer and their hips brushed together. Merradin actually flushed a little at the closeness and the soft spike of pleasure, but he masked it by closing the distance and laying a deep, hungry kiss against her lips, the kind he wanted to get lost in.

His own hands wandered, to her hips and thighs and up to her sides and shoulders. Finally, they drifted down to grab her ass and pull her just that much closer, molding his body to hers.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 08:41:17 PM
"Mmph!" Breaking away with a soft, gasping laugh, Elora managed to chuckle, "Easy there, Lightning Eater, you'll start to give a girl ideas."

Despite the teasing tone to her voice, her eyes were gentle as they flickered over his face, matched by the fingertips that she traced over the lines of his cheekbones and brow. "I really like the way you kiss," she murmured after a few moments, a light dusting of pink coloring her cheeks.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 09:03:08 PM
"What kind of ideas?" he answered, and he kissed her yet again, finding that once he'd gotten started with her it was a little impossible to stop. This one was shorter though, and he smiled a little more when she blushed. He passed a thumb over her cheek and simply met her eyes.

"The feeling is very mutual, Elora," he said.

"Kiss me, then."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 09:17:37 PM
She didn't need more prompting than that. Cupping his face between her hands, she leaned in to kiss him again and practically groaned at the sensation, loving everything from the touch of his lips to the feel of his body pressed against hers to the very taste of it.

"Ideas," she murmured as they broke apart, "like maybe you care about me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 09:27:52 PM
Her words sobered Merradin a little, but he gave her his characteristic smile and laid his head against hers. They made his heart do little flips in his chest and he found himself flushing a little brighter.

"I do..." he started, twining his tail around one of her thighs while he brought a wing in to loosely cover her.

"...More than I've cared for anyone in a long time, Elora," he said, oddly shy all of a sudden.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 09:39:20 PM
The knight dropped her eyes and felt her own face flushing. She let her hand slide down between them to take his and pulled it up, absently playing with his fingers for a few moments before she spoke.

"I...I never expected anything like this, Merradin," she murmured, still not lifting her eyes. "But I believe that...I have come to care for you too. A great deal."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 09:47:00 PM
As she spoke, he shifted his hand to lock fingers with her and hold her hand close to his chest, where she'd be able to feel the thunder of his heart.

"I didn't expect this either," Merradin admitted, and he kissed her forehead.

"But here we are. There's nowhere else I'd rather be," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 05, 2019, 10:01:55 PM
"Hmm." She smiled, just a little, and allowed her head to tilt forward so her brow rested against his. "Thank you, Merradin," she murmured suddenly. "Truly. For everything."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 05, 2019, 10:45:46 PM
Her words brightened him, and when she laid her brow against his he found himself tilting his head back just a little bit to leave a shy little smooch on her lips before he put his brow back against hers.

"You're very welcome," he muttered back, and he locked eyes with her for a few brief seconds before he narrowed them playfully and then closed them.

"I think we might be the first," he started, hand lazily stroking her hip.

"First human and dragon to be... close like this. I've certainly never heard of it happening before," he said, opening his eyes back up.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 06, 2019, 09:53:56 AM
She couldn't help laughing a bit and nuzzling forward against him. "Oh, I'm not sure about that. We've got plenty of stories of half-dragons that wander the continent where I'm from."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 06, 2019, 11:46:05 AM
"How many stories tell of the dragon sticking around?" Merradin countered, but he gave her a smirk and nuzzled back. He let his horns back out, rather liking how she reacted to his draconic bits.

"But I rather like this. Just being close to you, knowing that you trust me like this..."

He nuzzled in nice and close.

"I would have no other."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2019, 06:02:28 PM
Elora's heart stuttered slightly and she licked her lips as she looked at him. "You... Really?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 07, 2019, 06:34:49 PM
"Yes," he said easily, raising his head to meet her eyes, searching for that gold he loved.

"I'm... The thought of being with someone other than you feels... off. It doesn't sit well with me," he said, giving in to the bond's urges. It felt right to say it and it all clicked nicely in his head.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2019, 06:58:44 PM
"I, um...wow." She swallowed thickly and gave him a sort of nervous smile. "That-- that's a lot, Merradin," she whispered, her eyes a little wide. "I'm not saying-- it's not that I object to the idea, exactly, it's just...a lot."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 07, 2019, 07:04:42 PM
"I know, I know, and I don't want to come off too strongly," he added with a genuine smirk and a quick kiss to her chin.

"But... That's how I feel. So I'm going to be honest with you about it." he said, giving her face a stroke.

"I think you're beautiful and strong."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2019, 07:10:28 PM
Her eyes closed for a moment and she tilted her head into his hand. "I-- I don't think I know what to say," she whispered, opening her eyes after a moment and reaching up to cup his face against her palm.

"...Thank you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 07, 2019, 07:48:23 PM
"That's all you need to say," Merradin said, and he pulled her in close, settling his body against hers as he gave he shoulder a little kiss.

"Let's get some rest," he said as he blanketed her with his wing.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2019, 07:50:33 PM
A soft smile curved at her lips and she nodded, snuggling in closer to his chest. "Alright. Goodnight, Merradin..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 07, 2019, 11:11:27 PM
"Sweetest dreams," he murmured back. He shifted bit more onto his side to better hold her, keeping one wing out to the back and the other draped over her as a blanket. He fell asleep with her like that, dreaming pleasant dreams.

It wasn't until the sunrise started to touch his skin that he began to stir.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 08, 2019, 01:28:52 PM
Elora was out like a light, and even the hints of dawn that speckled across her back-- or at least the backs of her shoulders, bared from Merradin's wing-- weren't enough to wake her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 08, 2019, 03:46:11 PM
Merradin awoke silently, still except for the opening of his eyes. There was an orange sun rising over low clouds, promising a day that wouldn't get too hot. He smiled, looking down at the woman in his arms, this human that had captured his affections and interest in a way that he'd never felt before. Even when he'd woken up with another dragon like this, that feeling he'd felt in the past didn't even come close.

So he closed his eyes and just lightly nuzzled in that much closer, content to just remain like that with her until she awoke.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 08, 2019, 06:55:38 PM
Elora came awake slowly and in spurts, first shifting subtly against Merradin, then yawning and crinkling her brow, finally rolling to the side slightly and stretching her arms, arching her back deeply as she yawned again and slowly blinked her eyes open.

The first thing she saw was Merradin's face, and she smiled slightly. "Morning."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 09, 2019, 12:09:13 PM
He half-opened his eyes at the sound of her voice.

"Hello," he whispered, giving her side a fond brush of his hand. With a smile, he noticed how her scent lingered all over him.

"Kiss me a good morning?" he asked, feeling bold.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 14, 2019, 04:19:15 PM
She laughed quietly, her throat raspy with the morning, and leaned in to press her lips to his gently.

"Satisfactory?" she murmured as she pulled away, allowing her hands to wander gently up and down his sides as she snuggled a little closer.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 14, 2019, 08:58:33 PM
When she kissed him he pulled her closer, holding her and drinking in the feeling of her skin and lips like it was wine.

"So," he murmured when she pulled away. He licked his lips, hand tracing up and down the lines of her back.

"What'll it be today, Ser Braun? Island, or port town?"

Then, a grin.

"But Merradin is also an option."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 18, 2019, 08:47:33 AM
"Well, aren't you just raring to go first thing in the morning," Elora laughed. She squirmed against him, rolling to the side to sprawl out over the side beside him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 18, 2019, 12:30:43 PM
He relished that little squirm she gave him before she rolled off. His wings opened and he let her loose. He stretched, arcing his back a little before setting down again.

He turned his head to look at her, and he drew in to leave a kiss on the side of her head before he sat up, looking down at her.

"What can I say? You bring it out of me," he purred, giving her leg an idle stroke. Then, he stood up onto his feet, stretching more and yawning, wings outstretched and tail stiff. he ran a hand through his hair and his horns reappeared.

And so he stood there, stark naked and tail swaying behind him, watching the sun rise over the beach.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 18, 2019, 01:58:06 PM
Elora shook her head with another soft laugh and propped herself up onto her elbows, watching him quietly, her eyes tracing the way dawn light glinted off scales and horns.

"Well, what do you want to do today?" she asked after a moment. "I'm not alone on this island, y'know."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 18, 2019, 09:54:45 PM
Apart from his obviously draconic bits, Merradin also had scales around the area where his wings connected and around the base of his tail.

"Hmmm..." he said, giving her a dramatic pause as he turned back to her in order to sit down by her once again. He drank her in with his eyes before finally meeting hers.

"I wouldn't mind doing some exploring. And then we could go into town for drinks at night," he said.

"Although... wait!"

He sprung up to his feet and went over to the saddle. Digging into one of the pockets, he procured that bottle of sweet dry wine from last night.

"I totally forgot that I left this in the saddle," Merradin said. He looked about, speaking up again.

"You haven't seen my underclothes, have you?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 19, 2019, 08:20:37 PM
"Isn't it a little early for wine?" Elora laughed, shaking her head at him. At his question, she glanced around with a slight furrow to her brow.

"Ah... Oh, here." She leaned over to collect his underthings from the scattered pile of fabric that surrounded where they'd slept.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 20, 2019, 02:33:09 PM
"Well, we at least don't need to buy any wine now," Merradin said, and he slipped it back into the saddle.

He stepped forwards to take his underthings with a little smile.

"Thanks, gorgeous..." he purred, giving her side an affectionate little stroke.

"I'm thinking of going into town and eating some food. There's bound to be some interesting sights there, too."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 21, 2019, 12:53:17 PM
"Gorgeous?" Elora crinkled her nose at him and leaned into his side, giving his shoulder a little bump with her own. "Laying it on a little thick today, are we? What's your angle here?" She narrowed her eyes at him playfully.

Sobering a bit, she added easily, "Yeah, food sounds good." Frowning and laughing all at once, she suddenly remembered, "I don't speak the language though..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 23, 2019, 02:00:51 PM
"Neither do I," Merradin said, smirking to himself, letting her lean on him to her hearts' content. He was strong and unyielding, body hard as stone, but yet he let himself be nudged about by her. He found that he simply couldn't resist her.

"And I may be laying it thick, but am I correct to assume that you love it?" He said with a grin.

"I don't have an angle. I just wanted to call you gorgeous."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 27, 2019, 04:19:10 PM
"Sap," Elora teased softly as she settled against him, content to simply sit and watch the sun rise over the water.

"It really is beautiful..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 27, 2019, 08:58:17 PM
"Better a sap than a dullard," Merradin murmured, letting a hand rest on her leg as she sat there with him. He adjusted himself to sit a bit more comfortably with her.

"I've been watching the sun rise for my entire life, but it never ceases to amaze me," he said, looking to her. His face took on a bashful, almost giddy quality.

"I'm glad you're here watching it with me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 30, 2019, 06:19:32 PM
"I repeat: sap," Elora teased, though there was hint of a blush to her cheeks and the flecks of gold in her eyes positively sparkled.

Impulsively, she leaned in to kiss his cheek lightly. "...You're beautiful."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 30, 2019, 06:29:45 PM
"And I'm the sap," Merradin said, almost to himself. He couldn't help but smile a bit wider at her little kiss to his cheek, and he turned his head to meet her eyes as he spoke.

"Beautiful how? That's a rather new one to me," Merradin said, resting a hand on her knee after he'd tired of leaning on it.

"I've heard powerful, unyielding. Cataclysmic, even. But never beautiful..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 30, 2019, 06:32:36 PM
Her blush darkened a shade or two, but her voice was steady as she replied, "A thunderstorm is beautiful, isn't it? In its own way. Lightning is even beautiful."

She turned her head to look out at the sunrise again. "You're...a force of nature, I suppose. A thing that is both terrifying and lovely all at once."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 30, 2019, 07:06:07 PM
Hearing her call him terrifying in this context sent something through him. He rubbed at her knee a little, an idle motion, before his hand slid just a bit higher and went still.

"Terrifying and lovely,' He repeated to himself, smiling gently as he rest his head on her shoulder.

"I like that."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 30, 2019, 07:16:41 PM
Elora snorted softly as she allowed her head to come to rest against his. "Of course you do," she muttered. Her own hand found its way to his, twining their fingers together and resting their joined hands against her thigh.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 30, 2019, 07:49:40 PM
There was a moment of absolute silence and stillness between them as Merradin simply enjoyed the closeness. His hand held hers and he closed his eyes. Head resting against her shoulder like this, he could hear the blood rushing through her veins and the beating of her heart. An unknown part of him sang at the intimacy and he left a slow, tender kiss on the base of her neck.

He purred just at the taste and smell of her and his free hand held her a little closer. A possessive, protective gesture.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 01, 2019, 08:02:27 AM
A small shiver rippled through her frame at the press of his lips, and she shifted against him slightly.

"We should probably get moving soon," she noted softly. "Aren't you hungry?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 01, 2019, 08:17:21 AM
"Soon," Merradin said, loving how she shivered so much that he gave her another one.

A hand went to her chin to support her head. He slid his head out from under hers and gave her cheek a kiss.

"I was, um... hoping we could be close for a little bit?" he whispered, blushing lightly even as he spoke the words, leaning in to give the corner of her mouth a kiss.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 01, 2019, 12:05:01 PM
The faintest hint of a teasing grin flickered over her lips. "We are close," she pointed out softly, and her eyes glinted with mirth. "Unless you meant something else..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 01, 2019, 12:17:36 PM
The look in her eyes encouraged him. and he tilted his head back just a barest amount and kissed her properly.

"Closer," he said when they parted, and he broke away from her, resting on his back and elbows as his eyes invited her to him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 01, 2019, 06:29:41 PM
"Oh?" Elora smirked and leaned forward to crawl over him, hovering so that she just kept them from touching. "Is this close enough?"

She dipped her head to ghost the barest hint of a kiss over his collar, peeking up at him through her lashes.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 01, 2019, 09:40:59 PM
"Ah, a little closer, if you would," Merradin purred, watching her eyes as she peeked up at him. This time, he didn't hide any of his draconic bits, wanting to give her the full image.

Gently, he put his hands on her sides, wanting to touch and hold her but making the touch light enough to still play along with her game.

"You light me on fire whenever you touch me... you know that, right?" Merradin said, looking at her fondly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2019, 08:10:40 AM
Her smirk softened into a proper smile and she dipped to kiss the side of his neck. "Is that so?" she murmured as she allowed her body to relax against his, every inch of her pressing up against him. Her eyes fluttered closed and a soft sigh escaped her lips as a delicate little shudder rippled through her frame.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2019, 12:20:50 PM
The closeness was amazing, and Merradin held her more securely. He hadn't even gotten the chance to put his underclothes back on, so there was nothing keeping them from sliding against one another when she came close like that.

"A-ah," he breathed, and then kissed the top of her head.

"Kiss me," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2019, 01:49:54 PM
A single bolt of pleasure shot through her, sharp and hot, and she drew in a shaky breath as she smiled against his throat.

"If you insist," she murmured softly, and lifted her head to press her lips to his, slow and gentle and careful, as though they were both made of glass and she worried they might shatter.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2019, 05:22:15 PM
"Thank you..." he said, almost unconsciously, his head swimming with heat. He nudged his hips, teasing their sexes together as he kissed her fervently.

"That feels so good, Elora... I want to keep doing that..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 02, 2019, 07:10:09 PM
A thrill shivered down her spine and she sucked in a careful breath at his whispered thanks, feeling her stomach clench with a sudden surge of desire.

"How good?" she breathed, leaning in to trace her lips around the shell of his ear. Slowly, oh so slowly, she lifted her hips back, then let them sink down again to press firmly against him, rubbing together deliciously. "Tell me how good it feels, Merradin." How I make you feel.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 02, 2019, 09:07:46 PM
His length parted the lips of her sex but she went no further and Merradin groaned a little. A little spark between his horns and he was at her neck, kissing away, hands holding her closer while one went to her ass to help her move.

"Oh, Elora..." he sighed, opening his eyes so she could see how his reptilian pupils narrowed in when he focused on her. He'd never been particularly sensitive, but whenever she touched him it made him want to vibrate. He purred deeply, letting her feel the rumbles go through her whole body as he expressed his ecstasy in the purest way he knew.

"I can't use words, Ser Braun. Please, just ride your dragon," he said, moving his hips with hers so that the head of his cock would slide against her entrance and across her clit.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2019, 07:29:54 AM
Elora caught her breath on a small gasp and clenched her eyes shut as heat pooled low in her core, urging her to do exactly what he asked.

"My dragon?" she whispered, her lashes fluttering as she locked her eyes with his. Her hips rocked forward again, slowly, testing, teasing. The rumbling of his purrs thrummed through her body quite deliciously and she shuddered on a sigh before grinding against him more firmly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2019, 11:53:19 AM
His reply came faster than he would've expected from himself.

"Yes?" he started, tone questioning, but then he gave her a kiss, and bucked his hips up a little bit to meet her motions.

"Yes." Merradin affirmed.

"Every rider needs a dragon, don't they?" he teased, hand on her ass squeezing tighter.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2019, 05:17:53 PM
She squeaked quietly, then mock glared at him. "Do they?" Her voice was almost a growl as she lowered her head again to nip and kiss at his throat, sucking firmly before she rocked her hips forward and a low groan rumbled in her chest.

"Mine," she whispered, and with little more than a sharp, short breath, she slid her hips forward to take him inside her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2019, 07:04:45 PM
The sudden entry caught him off guard. That, combined with her words and how possessive she was being sent a literal jolt through him that culminated in a short arc of electricity between his horns. His breath left him, but now that he was inside her like that he could only grip her ass tighter and bring her further against him, so that their hips were flush together and there was barely any space between their bodies.

"Incredible," he purred, and he let himself get lost as he kissed her, and just kept kissing and kissing.

When they broke away, his eyes glimmered with lightning and he beamed up at her.

"Gods, fuck me, Elora. Please..." Merradin said, letting his eyes fall closed and stroking a hand along her side to grip one of her breasts
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 03, 2019, 08:00:53 PM
Elora hasped, clenching her eyes shut as her body adjusted to him. A shiver ran down her spine, at once both exhilarating and terrifying. "Gods."

She swallowed thickly and slowly opened her eyes to look down into Merradin's face, lips parted slightly. At his words another shiver ripples through her and she whimpered quietly.

"Yes," she breathed, and she rocked her hips forward to press against him with a soft, shuddering sigh.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 03, 2019, 09:36:34 PM
"Mm-ah," Merradin gasped when she rocked forwards and pressed fully against him. Merradin nuzzled into her neck, taking deep drafts of her scent whenever he wasn't kissing or teasing with his teeth.

He wanted to drown in her. Wanted to feel nothing except Elora, so he closed his eyes and kept kissing her neck. His hands trailed up on the sand above his head and he crossed his wrists, remembering how much she loved it when he played docile. He lifted his hips a bit, pressing the head of his large, powerful dick against her deepest insides before settling back down.

"Elora," he started, gazing up at her with wonder in his eyes.

" This is amazing Elora," he said again, this time with another nudge of his hips.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 07:41:34 AM
"Ohh." She swallowed, clenching her jaw to bite back a moan, and wriggled her hips slightly as he settled back into the sand to really just take a moment and feel the way they were connected.

"I didn't think I could feel like this again," she admitted on a soft breath as she dipped her head down to nurse at his neck. Her hips began to rock forward in a slow, gentle rhythm. Another gasp hitched in her chest and she amended, "I don't think I've ever felt like this."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 09:13:35 AM
"I've..."

Merradin made a small sound that devolved into a purr, and once he learned her rhythm he matched her gentle movements with small bucks of his own.

"I've never felt like this either," he admitted. His tail snaked up to lay itself over her waist and his wings went stiff and made small twitches.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 12:26:59 PM
Caught with a sudden impulse, Elora reached out to stroke her fingers softly over the membrane of his wing as she rocked atop him, slowly building in speed and power as her confidence grew.

Trying and failing to bite back a smile, she peppered a series of quick, soft kisses over his collar bones and chuckled quietly, "I still can't believe you purr."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 12:45:55 PM
He chuckled, smiling genuinely as he brought a hand to the back of her head as she kissed his collar. It wasn't the same kind of vibrating sound that cats made, but a deep, growling rumble. He bent his wings somewhat, letting her use the outer finger of the wing as handles for better leverage to she could ride him to her heart's desire.

Now, sparks and arcs came regularly, a visual metaphor for him being unable to contain the pleasure he was feeling.

"Every piece of you is sexy," Merradin said, passing his hands down her body when he couldn't resist the urge to touch her anymore.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 12:59:04 PM
"Merradin--" She caught her breath and paused in her rocking as a delectable shiver ran through her body. Her hands stroked over his wings a few times before she found the outer edge and traced the lines of his bone through the skin to the joint in his shoulders, massaging gently.

Slowly, she leaned down until they were chest to chest and kissed him deeply, scraping her nails gently down his back until she reached the base of his tail, where she dug in gently, angling his hips up even as she did so they connected at a deeper angle.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 01:36:31 PM
It was almost too much, getting caught between two sensations like that. He bucked beneath her a bit more, reverting to squirms and twitches of his tail as they copulated.

And as they writhed together, the skies above gradually became cloudier and cloudier as the weather reacted to Merradin's intense emotions and rain clouds started to build.

"Careful, Ser Braun," he said, voice breathier than he wanted it to be.

"Give me too much too fast and I might shoot a half-dragon into you by mistake," he said, but the tone was teasing and he resumed kissing her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 02:10:06 PM
Elora paused for a moment, tilting her head. "Is that...possible?"

Of course, she knew half-dragons existed, but if she was being honest she'd never really put much thought into the logistics of such a situation.

Still, it wasn't enough to distract her entirely, and she ground her hips down against his gently, smirking a bit when his tail flexed around her waist. "So...I shouldn't do this?"

She slipped her nails between the scales of his tail and dug in firmly as she rocked against him with a bit more force, groaning deep in her throat as her muscles clenched and flexed around him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 02:27:51 PM
"Oh!" he said, unable to keep quiet as his back arched so he could push into her heat.

"Yes, just like that. And you certainly shouldn't do it faster," he said, nearly begging. His tail wrapped around her tighter and the strong appendage helped her move while his hands drew up her body and gripped her breasts.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 02:30:56 PM
"Oh dear, I wouldn't want to inconvenience you," Elora gasped, half laughing as she leaned heavily into his touch. "Perhaps we should just stop, if you're so distressed..."

She began to pull away from him even as her nails dug in harder, eyes flaring gold with mirth.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 02:42:36 PM
"No, I'm quite the opposite," Merradin said, and he moved her back down with his tail so that they slapped together.

"I've never felt this good in my life," he said. Almost to punctuate his words, the distant sound of thunder echoed about the islands.

"But please, Elora..."

He leaned up and kissed her, and then spoke into her mouth.

"I don't want you to stop."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 03:01:15 PM
With a small laugh Elora glanced skyward, then looked down and quirked an eyebrow. "Just promise not to smite me with lightning," she chuckled as she allowed him to pull her down again.

One arm wrapped around his shoulders to keep him pulled tight against her as they moved together, her mouth on his hot and fierce and almost desperate. Her other hand continued to work at the base of his tail, pulling his hips up against her with every rock forward, determined to remove any crack of space between them.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 03:21:27 PM
"Mmm, I promise," Merradin purred, panting against her desperate kissing and holding her so incredibly tight. He couldn't remember the last time he'd felt so close to someone and everything in him just wanted to keep going.

Rocking his hips up against hers, he pulled back from her kiss with a groan and bucked up a bit sharper.

"Let me make you mine," he said, and he squeezed her greedily.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 03:53:09 PM
She shuddered, squeezing her eyes shut and clenching her jaw as a rush of heat shivered through her body.

Abruptly, she gasped out, "Do-- do dragons mate for life?"

Even as the words left her lips, she rocked her hips against him a little more harshly, a hint of desperation in her movements as she felt herself beginning to climb toward her peak.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 05:49:22 PM
When she started rocking more harshly Merradin let out an honest moan at that, a low sound that came through his teeth.

"We do," He said, and he brought a hand against the back of her head to bring her down into a hot, sloppy kiss.

He was close, but not as close as she was. She'd definitely have her climax first.

"Are you going to take me as a mate?" he asked, tone playful but eyes painfully genuine.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 05:54:48 PM
Elora drew in a sharp breath and whimpered quietly as she suddenly found an angle that had him rubbing oh so wonderfully against that one spot with every thrust.

His words managed to break through the fog somewhat, and she stared at him with wide eyes for a few moments before she answered, her lips parted as she breathed raggedly.

"Do you...want me to?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 06:17:39 PM
"I've never heard of a dragon taking a human mate, we'd be the first," he said quickly, but at this very moment he didn't want to talk. He knew she was close, he could feel it, so he bucked up with greater intensity, wanting to hammer that spot that had her breathing short.

"Come for me so I can give you my seed," he said, gripping her hips to amplify her power while his wings came and wrapped her up.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 06:21:48 PM
That didn't answer her question, but she found she was suddenly not so invested in pursuing that particular line of questioning as the movement of his hips brought him lancing up into her so powerfully. She gasped and writhed atop him, her hand at his tail scratching and scrabbling for purchase.

"M-Merridan-- ah!"

Elora's spine arched, eyes blown wide and pupils dilated as she shuddered through her climax.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 06:47:17 PM
Her climax was sweet and Merradin gave her sharp, powerful bucks to make sure she really rode it out. After a minute of that, he himself was wincing, and he gave her ass a pat to get her attention.

"Oh, I'm close, I'm gonna come!" Merradin said, tail slipping down on her waist so the tip could slap and tighten against her ass, like a serpent looking for a grip.

Once again, thunder from the cloudy sky.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 07:02:11 PM
Elora shivered and slumped against him, rocking her hips weakly through the aftershocks of her climax and biting down lightly on his shoulder.

"Come then," she whispered against his skin. She really dug her nails in under the scales at the base of his tail, scratching and gripping tight in the hopes that would help him along.

Raindrops began to patter against her bare back and she laughed breathlessly, her free hand moving to wrap around Merradin's shoulders and hold him against her as she tilted her head up for a fierce kiss.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 07:57:42 PM
[I'm getting some deja vu here lol]

For a split second, he was worried about the chance of them producing a half-dragon. He didn't know much of anything about the process, as he'd never actually been with a human before Elora, but he knew that it was possible because half-dragons did exist.

Regardless, when she doubled back down on him the rain built up into a gentle drizzle and when their lips met he couldn't hold it in any longer.

"Elora!"

His tail tightened like a belt and he pressed her to him, delivering his warmth to the deepest parts of her with his last few thrusts. Face pressed into her silver hair, a bolt shot straight between his horns. While it didn't touch her, a lightning bolt from the coming storm did strike the next island over. The sharp crackle indicated the end of his climax and he relaxed and went boneless just as the rain started to set in.

He let out a short laugh, unable to contain his joy as the rain hit his face. He joined his hands and wings over her back and squirmed his hips to settle in her just right.

"Please," Merradin started, and he kissed the top of her head.

"Take me as a mate."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 04, 2019, 08:05:16 PM
[Ah jee, haha]




"Ah!" Elora jumped a bit at the flash of lightning, her head snapping up and eyes blowing wide. Then she looked at Merridan and laughed, finding his sudden joy strangely infectious.

Yet another shiver wracked her frame as he shifted beneath her and she found herself cradled to his chest with him still resting inside her, his wings and arms sheltering her from the storm. She simply stared at him for a few moments, her lips slightly parted but no words on her tongue.

Slowly, she reached up to trace her fingertips over his face, the line of his cheek and jaw, down the column of his throat, finally coming to rest just over his heart. Slowly, so slowly, a smile curved at her lips.

"...Yes."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 04, 2019, 08:25:25 PM
When she spoke, his smile widened, and he tilted his head up a bit to give her a quick peck on the lips. Lightning struck again, this time farther away. He wasn't worried for their little camp, that was all protected from the rain by the air bubble, so he was content to lay there in the rain.

"Thank you," he said, and he rest his head back against the sand.

"So how does it feel? You're the first human to ever become a dragon's mate," he teased.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 05, 2019, 06:51:26 AM
"Am I really the first?" She turned that idea over in her mind, a slight crinkle furrowing between her brows.

Shaking her head, she looked down at Merradin and slowly lowered herself over his chest, letting her head come to rest on his shoulder. Raindrops bounced cheerily off her neck and shoulders and she shivered gently.

"I feel..." She took a breath and closed her eyes, burrowing into the curve of his neck before admitting softly, "...loved."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 05, 2019, 09:29:27 AM
"I've heard of no other," Merradin said, and he adjusted himself a bit, sliding out just a bit before sinking back into her.

Dragons saw love differently than humans, but her words sent a shiver through him nonetheless.

"As well you should, you are my mate after all," Merradin said, giving her a smile and another nudge of his hips. He'd gone a little soft inside her, but within the minute he was already hardening again, growing slowly inside her.

"Can I ride you?" Merradin asked, smirking.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 05, 2019, 11:27:55 AM
"Oh." Elora squeezed her eyes shut and bit her lip as she felt him wriggle beneath her and shift inside her. She let out a long, slow breath and paused a moment before answering.

"Yes," she murmured softly, raising her head to pepper kisses over his throat. "If I'm your mate, you'd better prove it..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 05, 2019, 07:48:42 PM
"Need to prove it, do I?" Merradin said, looking up at her with a challenge in his eyes. He rocked up to kiss her, and then he turned them onto their sides. He felt at her sides and waist before he smirked and turned her onto her back, planting his hands next to her sides as he looked down on her.

"I'll prove it until you're nice and sore," he purred
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 06, 2019, 07:21:28 AM
Every muscle in Elora's body suddenly went tight and some of the color drained from her face. Stiffly, she closed her eyes and turned her head to the side, forcing herself to just breathe, firmly pushing away memories and trying to focus on what she'd felt before, how good it felt to be close to him as she had been.

"Maybe...don't mention...sore?" she managed to murmur eventually, stilted and awkward, eyes still clenched shut as her stomach roiled uncomfortably. She didn't try to push him off her, though she wasn't touching him now either, her hands fisted in the sand by her sides.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 06, 2019, 12:32:00 PM
Merradin picked up on her tenseness, and as the rain lightly fell around them he merely looked down at her, her words leaving a small frown on his face. He lowered a little to kiss her chin, and then set himself down on his side next to her, hand idly passing over her stomach and between her breasts.

"We don't have to do it like that, if you don't want to," Merradin said simply.

"I just... I wanted to make you squirm the same way you make me," he admitted.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 06, 2019, 12:51:12 PM
"I know." She was still a little pale, and her smile was wan when she finally turned to look at him, but it was a smile. "I know, Merradin, I do. I—"

She closed her eyes and exhaled sharply. "I wish I knew how to make this...easier. Because being with you is amazing, it truly is. I wish I didn't..." She sighed again and reached up to drag a hand down her face, a frustrated growl building in her throat.

"Can we try again?" she asked softly after a few moments. "Maybe just...slower? To start?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 06, 2019, 01:01:34 PM
"We can go as slow as my mate desires," Merradin said, kissing her knuckles when she covered her face with her hand and then resting his forehead against hers. He didn't want to talk about the anger that welled in him when she talked about her trauma. He wanted to take off from here and lay storms and lightning upon those centaurs, but...

He looped his arm around her side, wanting to make her feel secure.

"Dragons are patient, after all," he said, trying to joke.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 06, 2019, 01:22:06 PM
That earned him a huffing little chuckle and she dropped her hands to rest against his chest, her smile growing a little wider.

"Thank you." She leaned in to kiss him softly, sweetly, letting the touch linger as she sought to just drink him in, feeling how warm and solid his body was against her. Safe. Strength cradling her close, but not so close as to smother.

Slowly, so slowly, she rolled onto her back and pulled him over her as they kissed, bending one knee to press her leg up against his hip and gasping quietly against his mouth as she felt him shift inside her with the movement. A hint of gold flickered back to life in her eyes as she pulled away from his lips and stroked her fingertips across his cheeks. One step at a time.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 06, 2019, 09:03:35 PM
One step at a time.

For the briefest moment, Merradin had thought he heard her say something, but his mind must have been playing tricks on him. Lowered over her once again, he was quick to dip down and kiss her chest, neck, and finally her breast shifting his hips a little from side to side, exploring the different angles and how that made him feel.

"Can I move?" Merradin asked, and then kissed her just beneath the chin.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 07, 2019, 01:28:26 PM
There was the barest hint of...something tugging at the back of her mind, but then Merradin was over her again, his lips tracing over her skin, moving against her and inside her, and she gasped quietly.

"Yes," she whispered, her eyes closed. She ran her hands up his back, to the joints of his wings, and massaged lightly with her fingertips. A little breathlessly, she added, "Please..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 07, 2019, 04:28:35 PM
"As you wish," Merradin said, and he leaned down to kiss her, even as he gave his hips one last push against hers before he cocked back. He nearly slid out of her, and then he slowly went back in. He sighed with the pleasure, closing his eyes as he repeated that motion until they were moving in a slow, passionate rhythm.

His wings came down next to her and he used the strong limbs to keep himself propped up, lowering his hands to her breasts to squeeze them together before he started touching and exploring.

"You feel amazing," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 07, 2019, 04:42:50 PM
"Merradin..." She drew in a shaky breath as she began to learn his rhythm, rolling her hips up against his with each push forward. Her hands tensed against his back, fingers pressing into the muscles of his shoulders and drawing him down toward her until their chests pressed together.

"Kiss me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 07, 2019, 04:53:00 PM
"Hm, how the tables have turned," Merradin said. Now that they had the motions down he shifted a little and plunged in deep, only to stay there and hold her tightly to him.

"You have this desire, but what if I deny it to you?" he purred, loosely quoting what she'd teased him with before, and then he lowered his head just a little more to give her a chaste little kiss on the corner of the mouth and a quick rock of his hips, but nothing more after that.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 07, 2019, 05:03:57 PM
Elora moaned softly and wriggled beneath him, pouting when he stilled above her. "That is spectacularly unfair," she grumbled at him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 07, 2019, 05:22:35 PM
"All's fair in love," Merradin said, but after a moment of contemplation he leaned down to kiss her so maddeningly deep, holding her head with one hand as the other drew down the leg against his hip. Then, he held it and pulled it up against his side. He drew back again and he fucked her a little harder now, wanting to show her his power but still keeping it slow. Once more, the storm clouds above them lit up with distant lightning.

"But I want you so much I can't help myself," he said, pausing their kiss to speak, but he dove right back in, kissing on her neck.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 07, 2019, 05:45:50 PM
A soft gasp morphed into a deep, satisfied groan as they kissed, and even when their lips parted Elora was quick to tilt her head and begin nursing at his neck, kissing down to his shoulder and over his collar bone, where she lingered at the hollow of his throat.

Her hips hitched up against his and she drew in another sharp breath. "I suppose I should thank the gods for that then," she laughed quietly, lifting her legs to wrap around his waist and once more tracing her fingertips in feather-light patterns between his shoulder blades.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 07, 2019, 10:14:24 PM
She got a small laugh out of him for that, and he gave her a parting kiss before he straightened up. He put his hands on her hips and spread his wings just for the visual of it. Still wearing her legs like a belt he started to pull her in, thrusting deeply into her with a speed that was slowly starting to grow.

"Hah... I should be the rider more often," he purred.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 08, 2019, 01:56:37 PM
Elora moaned and arched her back sharply, hips tilted to offer a deeper angle. With a breathless little chuckle, she murmured, "Don't let it go to your head."

One of her hands slid down from tracing the joints of his wings to find the base of his tail and squeeze gently, teasingly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 08, 2019, 02:28:58 PM
When her hips tilted up and he lunged into her he let out a moan at the new feelings. He started to thrust into her a little faster, and then quicker still when she gripped the base of his tail like a handle.

Gods, the brazenness of her, it was almost too much.

"Elora..." he murmured, and then he leaned down, keepinf that elevated pace as he kissed her and nibbled her bottom lip.

"Elora," he repeated, voice overflowing with bliss and pleasure.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 12, 2019, 01:16:14 PM
The way he nearly moaned her name like that sent zings of pleasure pulsing through her body and Elora arched her back a little deeper. She gasped into his mouth and gripped the hair at the nape of his neck to pull him in for another kiss.

Her hand on his tail kept working, stroke and squeezing gently before slipping her nails into the thin gaps between scales-- by now she was getting quite good at that.

"Merradin," she breathed, tilting her head back and baring her throat.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 12, 2019, 10:48:08 PM
She started playing with his tail again, and he wrapped it around her arm. He arced away from the sensation, which caused him to shift further against her. He paused to grind nice and deep and he bit lightly at her throat just beneath her chin. Then, he gave her a kiss to soothe the bite before he spoke.

"Your Lightning Eater is right here," he purred, and then he was leaning up and away from her. He straightened up, giving her a view of him in his entirety as he looped an arm beneath her waist to lift her up off the ground and really start diving into her. His other hand smoothed up that warrior's body of hers and gripped a breast.

The Lightning Eater tamed by a human...

He smirked a little to himself at the thrill of it all. He'd never felt like this, even when he'd been with actual dragonesses. Everything about Elora excited him and an instinctual part of him just sang at their lovemaking.

Because that's certainly what it felt like. Making love for the first time...
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 13, 2019, 11:11:19 AM
"Merradin!"

Her back arched more deeply as he lifted her up and she gasped. Her hands dropped from his body to fist in the sands at her sides, then move up to lock together above her head. She bit her lip and turned her head to the side, strands of silver hair falling over her face as she panted lightly. Tension coiled tight, low in her belly, and she groaned softly.

"Gods, just--" A particular thrust cut her off with another low moan. "Please, please..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 13, 2019, 01:09:24 PM
It was too much. More distant cracks of lightning mirrored the bolts that flew semi-regularly between his horns. He held her like a treasure as he hammered her like a drum.

"Please?" He purred, and he sped up. He let his head tip back and spread his wings, misting water behind him when they unfurled. He leaned back over her, sliding a hand up her arm to gently rest it over where her hands were joined.

"I want you to say it...."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 13, 2019, 02:33:39 PM
Her hand twisted in the sand until she could lace her fingers through his, squeezing tight.

"Merradin." She panted softly and positively writhed beneath him, bending her spine and pressing up against him as his wings tented over them. "Show me," she gasped out. "Show me I'm yours, Merradin, please."

Her other hand reached up to cup the back of his neck and draw him down into a fiery, desperate kiss. "Show me you're mine..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 13, 2019, 03:02:34 PM
He planted his wings at her sides again, encasing them as he tightened his hand over hers. He could've drowned in that kiss, and when they broke apart he was panting lightly, long forked tongue slipping out to give her lips a tickle before he dove back in.

He was close, but he wanted to delay it. He slowed down but shifted his hips to find that angle that had felt amazing and drove into her powerfully. He drew his hands down her body, exploring and touching before gripping her hips and pulling her closer, tighter.

"All mine," he said, and he resumed the pace from before.

"I'm gonna come apart. Just a little more, Elora!
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 13, 2019, 04:25:54 PM
"Oh gods." Elora closed her eyes and bucked up against him a little sharply. Her hands twisted in his hair and she moaned against his mouth as she threw herself into another kiss.

Her climax shivered through her with an almost understated little sigh. Her whole body trembled gently against Merradin's as warm pleasure washed through her in waves. She shuddered and turned her face into the curve of his neck, kissing and nibbling.

"I've got you," she whispered, her voice ragged in the aftermath of her own peak. "Come for me, Merradin."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 13, 2019, 08:56:54 PM
He didn't last much longer after that. He straightened up abruptly as his peak arrived, and he plunged in deep and stayed there as he delivered his seed into her. He never lasted so long at his peak, and he felt utterly drained when it was all over, having filled her to the very brim.

He purred almost desperately as he nuzzled against her chest, leaving not a single inch of empty space between them.

"This is the best I've ever felt in my entire life," he said, voice soft.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 14, 2019, 07:03:48 AM
More or less collapsed beneath him, Elora smiled tiredly and ran her hands over his back and shoulders, one coming to rest against the back of his head and stroke gently as she held him to her chest.

"Mhm," she agreed softly, dipping her head to kiss his brow. "Merradin, that was..." She smiled and carded her fingers through his hair. "That was amazing."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 14, 2019, 06:42:11 PM
"You're incredible," he said. He moved to pull them onto their sides, hands wandering around her body lazily.

"So, since we're mates now, there's something we need to discuss," he said, giving her a gentle kiss.

"Regarding my hoard. Well, our hoard, now," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 14, 2019, 06:45:43 PM
A startled laugh bubbled out of her chest, though the sound morphed abruptly into a quiet gasp as she wriggled against him and was quite suddenly reminded that they were still joined rather intimately.

"Our, um, hoard?" she repeated, raising an eyebrow. Playfully, she quipped, "I didn't realize equity of property was such a concern in dragon partnerships."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 14, 2019, 07:07:38 PM
"It isn't," he said, and he sighed when she wriggled against him and he pulled her tighter to him. Gods, he couldn't get enough...

"But I figured I should let you know that you're now one of the most fabulously wealthy women on the continent," he said, shooting her a playful grin.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 14, 2019, 07:16:33 PM
Elora couldn't help chuckling a bit at that, and she rolled her eyes at him. "Ah yes. My plan all along," she teased quietly, and leaned in to brush her lips lightly against his.

She settled back with a content little sigh, turning her face into the curve of his neck and twining her arms loosely around his neck.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 14, 2019, 07:55:11 PM
"Just don't let it go to your head," He sassed. He hummed pleasantly into the kiss and settled into that feeling. The sex was beyond words, but this closeness?

It just felt so right, he couldn't resist it. He loosely put his arms around her and covered her with a wing to shelter her from the rain. He made to pull out of her, sighing as he did so.

"So, shall we go into town now that we're limbered up?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 15, 2019, 08:14:54 AM
Elora laughed quietly again and ducked a little closer to him, taking advantage of the shelter of his wing. "Sure." She arched an eyebrow pointedly. "Mind making the rain stop, in that case?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 15, 2019, 02:15:18 PM
He nodded gently and tucked his face into her neck. The rain lightened and the clouds directly above them started to break up, although the storm continued in other parts of the island chain.

"I think Yoreiq's going to be feeling the effects of us for the rest of the day," he murmured, idly passing a hand along her side and hip.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 15, 2019, 03:12:03 PM
She blushed a bit and twisted her head to press her lips gently against his temple. "Is that, um...does that happen every time?" she asked after a moment, almost hesitant.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 15, 2019, 03:54:49 PM
It was a little ironic that her little blush amused him, because she asked that question and it made him blush in kind.

"Oh, ah... no," he said, and after a moment he turned over so that he was on his back and he brought her with him so she could rest on top of him.

"My passions are tied to the storms of this world. My rage cracks the sky and my joy makes the clouds swell, but I have never had anyone bring it out of me like that."

Then, he kissed her, lazily feeling on her ass and smiling up at her afterwards.

"Not even other dragons."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 16, 2019, 07:45:51 AM
"Oh. Well." She cleared her throat and snuggled just a bit closer for a moment. "D'you think that'll...keep happening?" She smirked, though her blush deepened slightly. "I mean, if it does, we may have to work out some sort of schedule to avoid flooding..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 17, 2019, 06:17:14 PM
"Maybe yes, maybe no. I guess we'll have to keep trying and see," he said, and gave her a grin after that. When she snuggled closer he shamelessly took her by the ass and shifted her up against him just that little bit more. He was strong, and could move her around like she weighed as much as a feather.

"Will..."

He started, and paused, seeming to pick his words over before he leaned in for a short kiss.

"You're still returning to Adela, then? After a week passes?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 17, 2019, 07:58:31 PM
"Mmn!" Elora caught her breath as he pulled her up against him and shot him a mock glare for the zing of sensation it inspired.

His question sobered her quickly though. She returned the kiss almost distractedly, and her answer was slow when it finally came. "...Yes. I am. I-- I have to, Merradin."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 19, 2019, 12:17:58 AM
"You have a duty to your country," Merradin said, understanding her choice completely. He took one of her hands into his own and held on.

"I'll visit, though? I... you're my mate, after all."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 19, 2019, 08:35:55 PM
"I... Right. Of course." Elora glanced away from him, a line furrowing between her brows. "I suppose that's... Well, what are the rules here, exactly? Being a dragon's mate and all."

She turned away from him, though she allowed him to keep ahold of her hand. "I mean-- am I meant to just wait about until you deign to visit? As nice as this time away is, I do actually have my own life to live, I can't--"

She sighed and closed her eyes, took a breath, then finished quietly, "I don't know how dragons do this sort of thing, Merradin. But...I can't spend my life hoping for even just a visit from the person I--"

She cut herself off again. Perhaps better not to finish that particular thought.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 19, 2019, 09:25:45 PM
"It's a complicated issue," Merradin said simply. He didn't seem as distraught by the question, just... well, he didn't know. And when he didn't know things, he got nervous.

"I wouldn't dream of asking you to set your life aside for me," he started, and he lifted her hand up so he could nuzzle her knuckles.

"But the dragon way isn't our way either, unless you want to lay a couple eggs and incubate them for a decade," he said, wanting to inject some levity into the situation.

"I want to be with you, Elora. I don't think the clouds will feel the same if you're not up there riding on top of me."

My mate, my rider in the storm...

Then, a thoughtful look suddenly struck him. He looked over to the saddle, and then back to her. It all just seemed to click for him right then and there.

"Well, you are a knight. And you do have a dragon," he started, giving her hip a tiny squeeze at the mention of her having a dragon.

"If only there was somewhere in Adela where a dragon and a knight could be together..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 20, 2019, 07:37:10 AM
Elora's eyes widened. Slowly, she twisted onto her side to face him again. "You...are you serious?"

She glanced toward the saddle and then back to his face, disbelief etched across her expression. "Merradin-- you hated being part of the dragonriders! I couldn't ask you-- we can't just..."

Her voice trailed off as the idea settled more firmly into her head, try as she might to convince herself that it just wouldn't work.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 20, 2019, 12:21:42 PM
"I didn't hate it quite like that, I just... I didn't see myself there. I didn't quite care about the crown, the other dragons, or even my rider. It was fascinating, but I wanted to move on" he said, although his eyes still held the memory of that stormy day.

"But I care about you. Even if I did hate the dragonriders, I would hate myself more if I just stayed by myself while you're out there, risking your life."

He squeezed her hand.

"We're mates now, so we need to stay together."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 20, 2019, 02:10:01 PM
"You would...do that?" Elora simply stared at him for a few long moments, feeling strangely detached. Was he serious? It wasn't that she doubted him, it was just that the idea itself seemed so— so mad, like it couldn't be real.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 20, 2019, 05:51:30 PM
Her question provoked a period of quiet from him, but then he simply rest his head against her shoulder, holding her tighter like something precious. Gently, he pulled out of her so he could just cuddle her more fully.

"For my Storm Rider? Yes."

Saying it out loud felt good.

"So I can protect you and sail the skies with you."

Then, he smirked a little to himself.

"Maybe I'll ask the crown for some land and we can still have a lair and a hoard," he offered.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 20, 2019, 06:13:29 PM
"You... I..."

Her arms came up around his shoulders and she turned her face into the curve of his neck, just focusing on the sound of his heartbeat, the feeling of his chest rising and falling against hers with every breath.

"I don't know what to say," she whispered, voice a little hoarse with emotion. "Just...thank you, Merradin."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 21, 2019, 08:04:26 AM
"I don't know what to say either," he noted, smiling against her.

"But... you've utterly captured me, Elora. In the best possible way," he said, still grinning against her as he left a gentle kiss on her neck.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 21, 2019, 08:46:53 AM
Elora smiled and held him a little tighter. "Sap," she whispered fondly against his skin. Her chest felt rather tight, but...she thought she might like it.

Leaning back a bit, she reached up to cup his cheek in her palm and her smile turned a little crooked. "Y'know...we really should get moving. We're liable to waste the day away just laying here."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 21, 2019, 09:17:36 AM
"I wouldn't mind that..." he purred.

"But you're right," he admitted, although he made no immediate motion to rise.

Then, some more musing from his part.

"Do you think they'd give me an estate in the city?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 21, 2019, 10:01:09 AM
"I-- I don't really know," Elora replied after a few moments of thought. "Most of the dragonrider corp simply live and work in the barracks... But then again I don't know if the crown would know what to do with a...unique case."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 22, 2019, 10:19:51 PM
"Hrm. That's all post-vacation talk," he said, deciding it wasn't worth stressing over at the moment and instead he gave her neck a kiss before he sat up and away from her.

"I'm gonna wash off this sand and saltiness. Come join me?" Merradin said. He stood and took several steps away from her, out of that little area sheltered from the rain and into the thick of it. It wasn't particularly heavy rain, but the day would see consistent showering for sure.

He spread his wings and slicked his hair back, looking back to her and inviting her to join him with a smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 23, 2019, 11:06:34 AM
Elora chuckled quietly and sat up as he moved away from her. She tiltedher head and noted wryly, "Considering our best option for washing is the ocean, I'm not sure how much that will really help with the salt problem."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 24, 2019, 10:28:46 PM
"The rain," he said simply. He looked at her a little amusedly, standing there as the raindrops hit his shoulders. Just to punctuate it, he stopped focusing on protecting their small area and let the rain return fully, although their supplies and camp were still safe and dry.

He spread his wings a bit, smiling to himself as he let it fall on him and he slicked his hair back with rain-water, thoroughly enjoying the feeling.

And when he opened his eyes to look at her, the invitation was clear.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 29, 2019, 05:53:30 PM
Elora shivered a bit as the rain picked up and got to her feet with a languid stretch. "Cant't say I've ever had a literal rain shower before," she noted with a quiet laugh.

It was a little strange to be doing something like this, uncaring of her state of undress, though she supposed their stretch of beach was rather secluded. Still, it was rather nice, in a novel sort of way.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 30, 2019, 07:53:50 PM
"It's quite nice. Not too hot, not too cold..." he murmured, watching her approach with a restless sort of energy in his eyes. He wanted to be close to her for no other reason that it made his heart race to have her near.

Gods, what was he going to do with himself?

He sighed and closed his eyes, tilting his head up to let the rain wash his face.

"Good to wake up to."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 30, 2019, 09:02:01 PM
"Mm." Elora gave a soft soft of agreement, tipping her head back and closing her eyes to let the rain streak down her face.

One small step at a time, she found herself drawing closer to Merradin, even with her eyes closed, not realizing she was doing it until her shoulder brushed against him. She blinked and turned to look up at him, then smiled almost sheepishly.

"I suppose you're more used to this sort of thing?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 31, 2019, 11:01:39 PM
"I love the rain," he murmured, loud enough for just the both of them, and then brushed a bit of wet hair behind her ear, letting the touch linger o he could give her cheek a stroke.

"When I get bored, sometimes I'll just go up there and find a nice dark cloud to fly through" he said, and he smiled a little wider for her.

"The rain looks good on you, too," he added, and he gave her side a gentle stroke.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on June 07, 2019, 09:29:11 PM
"No, you? Love rain? I don't believe it," Elora teased, though the glint to her eyes softened a bit as she leaned into him stroking her cheek. She took the opportunity to turn her head slightly and brush a light kiss against his palm as he did.

"And I should hope it looks good on me, considering it's all I'm really wearing right now," she added in a wry murmur, glancing back up at him through her lashes again with a crooked little smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on June 08, 2019, 09:41:26 PM
Merradin smiled at that, taking her a bit closer to himself. Not too intimate, but close enough to satisfy his desire to have her near. He stroked along her head, running his index finger through her hair.

"It's enough. And we match outfits, too," he added, drawing his eyes down her form to drink her in before meeting her eyes again.

"I'm happy I found you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on June 16, 2019, 09:45:48 AM
Her heart stuttered almost giddily and she dropped her eyes as a soft flush worked up her neck and across her cheeks. "You keep saying things like that," she noted, her tone almost accusatory but somehow not irritated or angry.

Honestly, she didn't know what she was feeling, exactly. There was a flash of delight, that she couldn't deny. There was also a certain kind of power trip in hearing the affection in his voice, how free he was in expressing a desire to be near her. But it was...overwhelming, too.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on June 27, 2019, 01:36:47 PM
He laughed a little breathlessly and tucked his wings in to his back. Letting out a short but powerful purr that rumbled through the both of them. It sounded like the low growling of an alligator as he pulled her just that little bit closer, relishing the feeling of her wet body against his.

"Too much?" He asked her, gazing into her eyes.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on June 29, 2019, 01:36:12 PM
Elora smiled and looped her arms around his waist as he pulled her in. "No," she decided quietly. "Not too much."

She leaned up to kiss him, cupping his face between her palms as she moved her lips softly against his, gentle and coaxing and sweet.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 04, 2019, 02:17:52 PM
Coaxing was right, because against the soft touch of her lips he could only hold her tighter. He slipped his fingers through her wet hair, humming lightly to himself. When they parted, it was only for a moment because he immediately leaned in and gave her another short kiss.

"Nice to know I'm not too cheesy," he murmured.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 04, 2019, 02:22:31 PM
Chuckling a little breathlessly, Elora had to turn her head away for a moment to catch her breath when they broke apart. It wasn't as though there had been anything particularly hungry or passionate to those kisses, but just the way he held her was enough to leave her almost weak-kneed...though she'd be hard-pressed to admit it.

Giving her head a quick shake, she took a step back, toward their clothes. "C'mon. We should get dressed if we're going to see what's in town."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 07, 2019, 10:50:57 PM
"I suppose so," Merradin said, putting a morose tone to his voice when she parted from him. He stepped past her and knelt down to fetch their clothes, which were still decently fresh. They'd been spared the sand and rain under the protection of the air shield.

With a shrug, he started walking to the saddle.

"We should dress light, it's going to be hot and, well... humid as well, as of recently."

He gave her back her smallclothes as he passed her and started to slip his own on, then he went into the saddlebags themselves and dug through them.

"I packed us some airy tops and loose pants," he said, and quieted back down as he tried to find them.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 08, 2019, 05:59:05 PM
Elora gave her clothes a quick shake before putting them back on, slipping up behind Merradin and peering over his shoulder as he hunted for their clothes.

Almost absently, she rested her hands on his hips as she leaned against his back, slotting her chin into place on his shoulder and letting her cheek rest against his gently.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 10, 2019, 09:32:11 PM
"Hello," he said, almost a whisper. He couldn't help but smile when she came up behind him. He leaned his cheek against hers and he got out a pair of blue vests, one more opaque than the other. The lighter one had short frills on the cuffs while the darker one had cleaner, slimmer cuts. It'd probably fit her better.

"We should wear something short on our legs, too. It'll be a humid day if the rain keeps up," he said, finding her hands with his own and bringing them over his upper abdomen so she could "hug" him.

"Don't want to get balmy. Maybe we could find some fresh water to enjoy inland?"

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 11, 2019, 07:39:43 AM
"Mhm." She pressed a quick kiss to his cheek and tightened her arms around him for a moment before stepping away again and taking the smaller vest from him.

"A stream or something may be nice," she agreed vaguely. With a smirk curving at her lips, she added, "We wouldn't want to risk too many out of season storms just to keep cool."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 18, 2019, 11:06:12 AM
"A little more rain never hurt the tropics," he rebutted, but slipped on his own vest, keeping it open while he put on his smallclothes and hunted around in the packs for a couple of pairs of light breeches that let the legs breathe.

He gave her a cursory look as she took the vest, and he smiled, tossing her a pair of breeches.

"We don't know if I'll make it rain every time. I guess we'll have to... experiment?"

He started slipping on the breeches.

"See what brings out the rain best?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 18, 2019, 11:20:14 AM
Elora laughed and shook her head at him. "You are a cad, do you know that?" she teased as she pulled on the breeches.

Smile turning a little wicked, she picked her way across the sand to his side again and wrapped her arms around his middle, leaning in to murmur, "And you really don't want to challenge me. I'm fairly certain if I put my mind to it I could get the rain out of you every time."

She nipped the shell of his ear lightly then spun away, propping her hands on her hips and tilting her head at him. "Ready to go?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 21, 2019, 08:09:19 PM
"You'll make me blush," he muttered, and just before she spun away he pecked her on the cheek. He finished lacing his breeches and nodded at her.

He took a few steps away and amid a sudden burst of churning storm clouds he returned to his draconic form. He spread his wings out and rested back on his haunches, peering down at her with a warm look on his scaly features.

He returned to all fours and took a few paces down the beach, gazing off towards the water.

"I'm nervous that they won't take me back," he said finally, and looked back to her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 21, 2019, 08:40:10 PM
It took Elora a moment to process that and realize what he was talking about, a bit thrown as she was by the shift in topic.

"The dragonriders, you mean?" she murmured as she took a few steps toward him, movements almost cautious.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 24, 2019, 09:07:34 AM
Nervous was an odd look for him, especially in the full splendor of his draconic form. His eyes were the biggest giveaway, although it could also be seen in the way his wings were held higher and tighter to himself than usual.

"Yes," he started, and he noted her taking some cautious steps towards him. Offering her a smile, he lowered down onto his belly so he didn't tower over her quite as much.

"It was forty years ago, but... everyone's heard the tale, even you. They... do the Adelans hate me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 24, 2019, 09:11:19 AM
"Hate?" She shook her head slowly, contemplative; but a smile curved at her lips when he lowered his body toward the sand and she moved closer to lean against him. "No. I don't think they hate you. I don't think they could-- if my people respect one thing above all else, it's strength. Power."

She pursed her lips, quiet for a moment longer, then added, "I would imagine they'd be...wary. Maybe all the way to downright suspicious." She looked up at him, and the smile slowly reinstated itself. "But that's what you've got me for, yeah? I'm a Knight of the Realm. I can put in a good word for you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 24, 2019, 01:41:15 PM
There was a quiet moment of contemplation when she spoke. She was right, of course, but the massive dragon needed to hear it for himself. He'd never cared much for what the Adelans thought of him. He knew he was a legendary figure for them, but he didn't visit nowhere frequently enough to keep his ears to the ground like that.

She leaned against his side and he laid his head and neck on the sand, loosely encircling her.

"Thank you..." he said, and smiled at her.

"Now go on, get the saddle," he teased and gave her just the barest of nudges with one of his folded wings.

"I'd love to swim there but I just got the salt out of my scales."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 24, 2019, 09:13:33 PM
A dragon's smile was no easy thing to get used to, but she found that it was oddly growing on her. Laughing a bit for the nudge, she reached up to grab at the spines along his back and pulled herself up to settle into the hollow between neck and shoulders.

"Ready when you are."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 29, 2019, 10:25:48 PM
Instinctually, he wanted to protest the lack of the saddle, as his first concern was her safety. But she found a pretty good spot, nestled in the valley between his shoulders. Her weight on the base of his neck was a comforting one and the say she held his spines drew another smirk out of him. He rose to his feet.

"We'll fly low and slow," he started, and he walked over to where the beach met the island's treeline. He turned back to face the water and lowered his head. He spread his wings just a bit more, angling them low.

"I rather like where you are, so hold on tight."

He took off at a run that made the earth rumble. By the time he reached the water, he beat his wings and lifted off. He left misted seawater in his wake and coasted up out of the cove and banked to follow the island's coast.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 29, 2019, 10:35:10 PM
"Yeah, that was the plaaaaAAAHN!"

Elora found herself abruptly clinging to his neck as he broke into a run, a startled shriek morphing into incredulous laughter when they took to the air. She leaned a little lower over his neck and clung to the spikes.

It felt a little odd to be riding without a saddle, but she knew the distance was short enough that she shouldn't have to worry about it unduly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 05, 2019, 03:15:51 PM
He couldn't help but smirk to himself, and he evened out, coming to a smooth glide as they traced the island's shape. If she sought it out, she could probably find a good space for her feet against the base of his collar. Without the saddle, she could feel everything from the thundering of his heart to the sway of his wings.

He couldn't help himself so he glanced back at her, to assure himself she was still secure, and then faced forwards again.

"I hope they have drinks with fruit in it," he commented, trying to make conversation.

"real fruit, too. Not a cider," he added.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 05, 2019, 03:58:32 PM
Elora chuckled quietly as she shifted on his back, trying to find the best way to settle herself. "Yeah, that sounds nice," she agreed, and leaned over to pat his flank lightly.

"We're setting down away from the town itself though, yeah? Don't wanna risk scaring the locals?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 05, 2019, 05:21:12 PM
"Yes, somewhere in the surrounding jungles. We'll walk in the rest of the way. Nobody should question a couple of foreigners in the port town," he said. They broke away from the island's coastline and then they were on their way to the main island.

"I hid the saddle, so our things should be safe until we return. We can spend the night in a real bed," he offered. He'd be lying if he said sleeping on the sand and rocks had left his back and wings feeling comfortable.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 05, 2019, 06:18:54 PM
"A real bed sounds very nice," Elora agreed. She was a bit stiff in places from sleeping out on the sand—although she'd certainly had worse, so she didn't want to complain.

A though struck her. Unable to remember if she'd asked already or not, she questioned him, "You...speak the language? Or at least we have some way of communicating, right?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 06, 2019, 07:33:23 AM
"Uhhh..."

There was a very telltale silence after that.

"A few words here and there, but I can't hold a conversation," he admitted. He was a continental dragon at heart. While he could read Essyrni poetry and carry a tune in Old Serenian, he'd only been to Yoreiq a couple of times and therefore was about as knowledgeable as one would expect.

"On the bright side, nobody'll suspect me of being anything other than a foreigner. People don't usually expect dragons to butcher their language."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 06, 2019, 08:22:12 AM
Elora laughed--not a mean sound, just bright and happy and full. "Well, I guess we'll just have to make do then."

She leaned over his left shoulder a bit to pat his neck, then settled back again, titling her head to watch the island pass by below them. "So I guess that particular story isn't true, then; dragons don't just speak all languages instinctively."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 07, 2019, 10:39:28 PM
"No, but one can learn many tongues over an eternal life, which might give some humans that idea," he said.

"Like Feudal Adelan," he said, his draconic voice putting an interesting tone to the ancient syllables.

"Or Thanati, but it isn't quite as good. That being said, - oh!"

The seas were patched with reddish, shiny fish. A shoal of migrating tropical salmon were close to the surface, swimming in the same direction as them.

"Hold on tighter, I'm going to lower down to snatch some breakfast."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 08, 2019, 07:52:34 AM
She shivered slightly as his voice thrummed through the air around them. She was passable with feudal Adelan, but she'd never really had the need to practice it often, so she found herself focusing more on the syllables and the cadence than the words themselves.

He was distracted quickly enough by the fish though, she she smiled softly. "Alright, I'm hanging on," she chuckled, leaning lower over his neck to do so.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 08, 2019, 06:44:21 PM
He could feel her shivering against his neck somehow, and it brought a smirk to his snout. He crop-dusted over the salmon shoal and hit the surface with a wide sweep of lightning. It caught about five fish, which floated up to the surface.

"I learned so I could read the old poems. First human tongue I ever learned."

Why not coax a few more shivers? Either way, he banked around and flew down real low and scooped up his breakfast in his mouth, while also snatching one up with a claw. The water drained from between his fangs and he made a meal of four fish all at once with a quick gulp.

He passed the last one and held it by the tail with his teeth, and then curled his neck back to present it to her.

"Gut it so I can lightning fry it for you," he mumbled.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 08, 2019, 08:03:57 PM
Yeah. She really should read up on her feudal Adelan. She didn't remember the language being so...sultry.

Oh dear gods, I need to get a grip.

Giving herself a brisk mental shake, Elora reached out to take the fish, then quirked an eyebrow up at him. "Really? Here? Doesn't that, ah...have some risk of accidentally frying me?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 08, 2019, 11:22:32 PM
Merradin guffawed just a bit.

"No, you wouldn't be holding it, just give it back to me when you're done," he said in between the chuckles. He scanned her with his striking eyes. Now that he was a dragon they literally glowed with power, with the dark slit pupils standing out strongly from the brightness.

Merradin spoke in the common tongue once again, but he still kept his voice lower so she could really feel it whenever he spoke.

"You're looking a little red there, Ser. Maybe I should whisper it into your ear instead," he purred.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 09, 2019, 09:35:42 AM
"You hush." She gave the side of his neck a light smack, mock frowning at him. "And just so you know, oh great and wise dragon, I can't exactly gut a fish with my bare teeth. And I don't have a knife."

She quirked her eyebrow pointedly--and then sort of froze. She didn't have a knife. She didn't have any weapon on her, something that really hadn't happened since she was fourteen years old. And she hadn't even noticed.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 09, 2019, 08:51:58 PM
Oh.

That was very true.

"Well, can't go back for the saddle now, there's Yoreiq coming up now," Merradin said. He lowered down and started banking to go for the island's forested, rocky coast. There were a few ships in the far distance, but as long as he stayed low he could avoid discovery.

"Just toss it, then. We'll be having breakfast in no time anyways. And I must say, flying without a saddle is quite bold of you," he said.

"But I like the feeling of you on my neck there. Being close to you. You're so much smaller than me but I can feel your every breathe and shiver. Like we're connected.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 09, 2019, 09:01:20 PM
Elora chuckled quietly and waited until they'd landed to toss the fish to a nearby flock of seabirds. Sliding down from his back, she "hmm"ed quietly, then frowned and noted, "I know it's quite a bit different than riding a horse, but riding a dragon bareback can't be all that unusual, can it?"

Of course she didn't really know; up until now she'd basically avoided the dragonrider corps.

A soft smile touched at her lips and she leaned against his side for a moment, letting her hand rest on his scales. "I...feel that too," she murmured. "The—the connection..." She let her head rest against his foreleg and just listened to his heartbeat for a moment, eyes closed.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 09, 2019, 09:45:53 PM
Without quite realizing it, a racy, heated thought passed through him when she leaned against his leg. He wanted her closer, perhaps against his neck or by his head.

Come closer, Storm Rider...

"I suppose it depends on the context of the riding," he purred. They were safe, sheltered by the trees that grew all the way to the land's end.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 10, 2019, 10:41:12 AM
Elora laughed and moved up further along his neck, toward his head, her palm resting lightly against his scales all the while.

"You're incorrigible," she told him with a quick peck to the slightly softer scales on the back of his jaw. She moved her hand to scritch lightly at the spot as she pulled back. "So. We ready to head into town."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 10, 2019, 07:04:09 PM
That little peck made his horns spark and he couldn't help but smile when she gave that spot in his jaw a little scratch, purring and letting her see his fangs as he smiled wider.

"Mmm, it's tempting to not move, but yes," he said, and he lifted up and away from her. He took some steps away and before she knew it he was human again. He stepped up to her and gave her a kiss on the jaw, similar to what she'd done for him. He offered his hand.

"Shall we?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 10, 2019, 07:19:19 PM
She chuckled quietly, raising a hand to shield her eyes a bit as he transformed. When his lips skimmed her jaw she tilted her head slightly and leaned into him for a moment.

With a smile, she took his hand and nodded. "Yes, I believe we shall."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 11, 2019, 01:56:16 AM
It was an interesting feeling, to yearn for his human shape. While he appreciated her affection as a drake there wasn't much he could do in return, and the thought of whatever that might entail sent some fresh color through him.

He brought her alongside him as they walked through the jungles. the misty, stormy morning gave way to an overcast sky, the final remnants of their passions lingering over them.

"It's not a place of fabulous wealth but the place itself is beautiful. I hear the people there have wings, if you can believe it."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 11, 2019, 10:26:34 AM
Elora shrugged as she took his hand, lacing their fingers together naturally. "I've never met a full-blooded Yoreiqi, but I know of a few who claim heritage. None of them have wings, but I've heard the stories," she replied.

A small smile tugged at her lips and she tilted her head at him. "I imagine it's...very different. Flying with a human form."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 15, 2019, 10:59:39 AM
"The weight's spread around differently," was Merradin's immediate response, giving her a sidelong look and giving her hand a little squeeze.

"And you can't quite go as fast. Really good for hovering or gliding, though," he continued, and he glanced at her, studying her for a moment, then smiled wider.

"I think a pair of wings would look stellar on you."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 15, 2019, 02:24:22 PM
She laughed at that and shook her head. "I wouldn't know what to do with them," she replied with a small chuckle. "If I had a pair, I couldn't just make them vanish or call them into being like you do," she pointed out.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 15, 2019, 05:55:22 PM
"Hm, maybe you'd finally learn what it feels like to get your wings stroked," he started, stroking her back as they walked and meeting her eyes with a smoldering look before he leaned in and kissed her beneath the ear.

"So you know what you do to me when you do it," he added, and pulled back to give her an innocent smile. The jungle gave way to a winding path down a grassy hill where the main port of Yoreiq could be seen.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 15, 2019, 07:42:33 PM
A shiver ran over her skin, following his touch, and she twisted her head to mock glare at him. She couldn't manage that long before he'd swooped in to press a kiss to the soft, sensitive skin just beneath her ear and elicited another full-body shiver.

"Stop it," she whisper-laughed, shoving at his shoulder as they stepped out into the light. "I know the Yoreiqi are supposed to be pretty...open, but you can't just do that where people can see!"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 20, 2019, 05:52:18 PM
"Oh hush, town's still a bit farther on," Merradin teased back, but he relented, joining his own hands behind his back as he walked alongside her. Then, he looked at her sidelong and chuckled.

"Besides, I want your shivers all to myself," he added, and then resumed their walking pace.

"So, I'm guessing breakfast is in order, then. I'm thinking something hot, with maybe some kind of fruity drink or what have you," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 20, 2019, 06:20:56 PM
Elora grumbled but subsided for his teasing, still smiling sort of crookedly. She did give his side a little nudge with her elbow for his comment about shivers. "Those you have to earn," she teased back.

She nodded in response to his suggestion of breakfast. "That all sounds good to me. Any idea where exactly we can get that?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 20, 2019, 07:59:03 PM
"The first place I smell it coming from, of course," he said, grinning a little brighter and picking his pace up. It was an intriguing sort of thrill, going into a foreign place. He was so intimately familiar with everything Adelan (and just a little bit of Thanatos, from when he was still a young wyrm).

He offered her his hand once again.

"Maybe closer to the docks and beaches there will be places that can accommodate a pair of foreigners like us?" Merradin offered.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 20, 2019, 08:39:03 PM
She chuckled again and reached out to properly link her arm through his, rather than just take his offered hand. She tugged him a step closer with a soft glint in her eyes as she did. "Well then, I suppose we'd better go and find such a place, yes?"

Still smiling, Elora pulled him along as she increased her pace and they drew ever nearer to the small town.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 04, 2019, 11:18:06 PM
"Yes we should," he answered as he walked along side her. He couldn't help but start to steal away some glances at her as they walked through the town's entrance and along the wood-lined paths that made the roads.

He was still thinking about their morning tryst and its implications, that he was now mated to a human and rejoining a military career to be with her. But it had never felt so right before...

"A time ago, you told me you could drink me under the table. Still up to it?" He asked, eyes gleaming with mirth.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 05, 2019, 12:03:38 PM
Elora laughed and shot him a sidelong glance, quirking one eyebrow up. "Y'know, it is still morning," she teased lightly. "We're just starting the day off with a drinking contest?"

She shook her head with a soft, crooked smile and gave him arm a gentle squeeze. "Alright then, you're on. But you are responsible for whatever hangover I end up with."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 12, 2019, 09:20:33 PM
"Excuse me," he started. He squeezed her arm back.

"I don't quite know when the best time for human drinking is, things work a little different for me," he said, glancing about at the town. Yoreiqis built simply, even their important buildings were little more than wood and thatch, but it was all slightly raised from the ground on scaffolding to fight off flooding. There were some areas higher up where only a winged person could reach but that was the extent of it for this small port.

"Think of it as the plan for tonight, as for now?"

He took a draft of the air.

"I think I smell meat and vegetables cooking around the corner."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 12, 2019, 09:56:52 PM
Taking a quick sniff of the breeze herself, Elora's stomach rumbled demandingly as the scent reached her. Her cheeks flushed lightly and she chuckled at herself.

"Yeah, and I'm suddenly starving," she replied with another lopsided smile.

Despite that, however, her eyes were drawn not so much to the holdings or where they may find a meal, but to the people milling about or going about their business through the small town. She'd only known one or two people who could claim Yoreiqi descent back home—and none of them actually had wings!
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 13, 2019, 07:19:51 PM
There were plenty of curious glances directed at them, but the people of this particular port were more accustomed to outsiders so they went about their day, walking for the most part but every once in a while one would take to the air to reach a higher building.

At higher levels of the village, winged shapes could be seen darting from wall to wall. Merradin's eyes lit up at the sight, but he didn't let it distract him too much. There was food to be eaten! They rounded a corner and went straight until Merradin followed his nose to a small, one-room establishment consisting of a cooking area surrounded by a counter with seating.

Merradin lifted the heavy cloth flap that served as the door and beckoned Elora inside.

"After you," he purred.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 13, 2019, 09:23:42 PM
She laughed and gave him a short but rather melodramatic bow before ducking through the gap he'd opened up for her.

The smell of food set her stomach rumbling g again and she flushed, then chuckled as she looked around. "Gods, whatever you're all making in here smells divine."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 14, 2019, 11:41:07 PM
The Yoreiqi chattered a bit amongst themselves when these two newcomers entered, but it wasn't much more than continuation of a previous conversation. Merradin approached two seats on an unoccupied side of the counter.

Although he didn't quite get to sitting. Instead, he peered over the counter at the various cooking foods, a starved look in his eye. A few meats, rices, balls of cooked octopus, and a few varieties of noodles were all on the menu.

"The nose always knows," Merradin muttered to himself, and he sat down, turning his head about to look at Elora.

"So what strikes your fancy?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 15, 2019, 08:37:58 AM
Taking the seat beside him, Elora cast another curious look around the place, trying to take it all in, see if she recognized anything.

"Honestly? Everything," she chuckled after a moment, looking back to him. "I guess I didn't realize quite how hungry I was--I'd happily eat everything in this place right now," she admitted with a crooked smirk. "But, since that seems a bit unrealistic...do you have a recommendation?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 15, 2019, 12:54:13 PM
"Hmm..." he murmured, looking over all the choices before waving down one of the cooks. The man was in his fifties, with a pair of broad silvery wings and graying brown hair tied in a bun.

"Common?" He asked, and the man tilted his head and said a few unknown syllables. Merradin was quiet after that, considering, before he just started pointing to food items with an excited look on his face. The cook frowned and rubbed his thumb and index fingers together, silently asking Merradin if he had money, and Merradin nodded.

He procured five coins from his pouch. They weren't silver, or even gold for that manner, but platinum, and the cook's demeanour improved significantly. The place sold food by the bowl, so they very quickly had generous, steaming helpings of rice balls stuffed with salmon, thick white noodles mixed in a salty sauce, and octopus balls cooked in oil over a fire.

They were given two-pronged forks and Merradin scooted in closer to her. He observed all the food in a catlike manner before spearing a rice ball and taking a bite in a discreet flash of his sharp teeth. He purred quietly, so only she could feel it, and nodded.

"Oh, it has a nice sauce inside," he murmured.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 15, 2019, 05:12:40 PM
Elvira watched the exchange with a small, crooked smile, quietly baffled all over again by how—how human he could seem.

When the older man brought their food and smiled at him gratefully, but just sat and watched Merradin take a bite before she touched anything. Sure, her stomach was still grumbling, but she found that she was quite enjoying just watching his reactions.

“Yeah?” She speared another of the rice balls and popped it into her mouth, then nodded with a soft “mmm” of appreciation. She could feel Merradin’s purr tickling up her side and bumped his arm lightly with hers, crinkling her nose. “Here, try these.”

She scooped up a forkful of the noodles and held the fork out to him playful, eyes glinting with a hint of mischief that seemed perhaps a little out of place.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 15, 2019, 06:06:04 PM
[never has a thread made me so hungry...]

For such simple food, it was surprisingly delicious and Merradin relished every bite of his rice ball. His eyes focused in on the bundle of noodles she held out for him and he smiled wider. He ate like a dragon too, decisively and with dignity.

The saucy noodles proved to be a worthy foe, however. The bundle was thick enough that he had to open a little wider to eat it and he ended up with sauce on his mouth and cheeks stuffed with sweet, warm noodles.

"Mm!" He said, voice heavily muffled. In this case, he was a bit less dignified.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 15, 2019, 09:55:14 PM
[Lol just got off a shift and now I want takoyaki XD]




Elora had been planning on teasing him a bit with the food, but seeing how much he was simply enjoying it made he me change her mind, allowing him to eat off her fork without a fight.

She did sneak a quick kiss, finding that she didn’t even really care that it smeared sauce between their lips. Pulling back, she smiled and took a bite of the noodles herself, nodding appreciatively.

“You’re right, this is all good.” With a small chuckle, she added, “Although I’ve eaten stale field rations when I’m hungry enough, so I may not be the best judge of fine cuisine.”
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 16, 2019, 10:26:32 PM
Merradin was not feeling particularly kissable at that moment so when she did it brought some fresh color to his face and he swallowed down his noodles with a satisfied sigh. The sweetness and texture of the thick, chewy noodles was everything he could've wanted and more.

While Elora spoke, an octopus ball fell victim to his hunger and he was grabbing another one when she finished.

"Well, we won't have to deal with that if I have any say about it. I'd give them quite the earful."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 17, 2019, 08:27:39 AM
Elora picked at one of the rice balls, curious more than anything else. She typically didn't get such food back home.

With a quiet chuckle she shook her head at Merradin, eyes glinting. "Oh, I'm sure you would," she replied with a small smile, scooting just a little closer to him so her shoulder brushed his, just a bit.

There was some sort of commotion outside, a group of people all heading passed the little establishment, and she glanced back over her shoulder instinctively. For a moment she thought she saw a flash of bright color, more than was even typical in Yoreiq, but then it was gone.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 17, 2019, 07:19:16 PM
[is this the moment? If not I'll edit]

Whereas Elora was momentarily distracted by a flash of color, Merradin was a little tenser against her as he laser-focused his senses. That hint in the air, the familiar tickling at his snout...

He was still staring out towards where the color had come from when Elora turned back. He'd probably look a little silly, half-bitten octopus ball still on his fork as his eyes seemed to track some unseen movement beyond the wall.

Was that... another dragon?

He snapped out of it and rubbed his shoulder against hers in return. "I love these octopus ball things. What a curious little food."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 17, 2019, 07:39:48 PM
[Yup, this works! Figured I'd just drop little hints here and there for now?]




Elora tilted her head at him, her eyes narrowing. There was a reason she was one of the youngest people to be knighted in almost a generation--she was good at her job. Part of that meant being observant, and picking up on specific ticks from people.

"Yeah, they're good, if a little chewy," she agreed slowly, glancing back over her shoulder in the direction Merradin's attention had snapped before looking back to him and quirking an eyebrow. "What's up, Lightning Eater? Should I be worried?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 17, 2019, 08:12:19 PM
[gotcha!]

"Mmm? Oh no, I just... i thought I smelled something is all," he said, and returned his gaze to her. He ate some more noodles, slurping a little loudly as he tried to get the slippery things into his mouth. His eyes wandered down and he smiled a little wider. He lifted a hand to rub at her lower lip and then sucked the sauce off his thumb.

"You had some," he said quietly, smirking.

"So what did you have in mind after breakfast? See the island, maybe?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 17, 2019, 08:20:13 PM
"Mhm..." She didn't entirely believe him, but she didn't see that point in pushing the issue, not yet.

Besides, before she could really make up her mind about it his hand flicked out to rubbed his thumb over her lip and for some reason she felt herself shiver slightly as he sucked the sauce off.

Whoa there. I need to pull it together.

"Yeah, that sounds nice." She smiled and nodded, looking away and hoping her cheeks weren't as red as they felt. "There's probably quite a few lovely little places tucked away in the jungles, right?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 18, 2019, 07:20:34 PM
Oh, that was perfect, the way she reacted, and Merradin relished in her subsequent attempt to hide it from him. He let her think she'd succeeded by not addressing it.

"I'm sure we can find at least one or two before the day is out," he said, and he popped down the other half of his octopus ball.

"Maybe a nice romantic pool by a waterfall?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 18, 2019, 07:26:48 PM
"As long as you don't expect another out of season storm," Elora chirped brightly in reply, grinning smugly while her eyes glinted at him. "I don't know about you, but I'm not sure I like our chances if we decide to go swimming and, ah...lightning happens."

She arched an eyebrow before she took another bite of the noodles innocently.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 19, 2019, 10:29:46 PM
"The lightning won't threaten us, if that's what you're worried about," he purred, and sat back with a sly look on his face. He himself took some more noodles, and by that point their food was nearly gone, left as only a lone octopus ball and a pinch of noodles.

"Maybe, maybe not," he said, and then leaned in.

"Depends on how well you get it out of me."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 20, 2019, 04:55:33 AM
Another shiver rippled down her spine and Elora shot him a mock glare, though she couldn’t quite keep the hint of a smile off her face.

“We are in public,” she reminded him, though she allowed her leg to press against his gently beneath the table, just for a moment. “Honestly, Merradin, if you can hardly keep yourself together surrounded by people who don’t even speak the language, I hate to think how you’ll fare to  maintain some professionalism at the barracks.”

It was meant to be teasing, but as the words left her lips she quite abruptly realized—they would have to. The military had strict rules about fraternization even among ground troops, she couldn’t imagine they’d take too kindly to a dragon knight...well, riding her dragon.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 20, 2019, 10:47:45 AM
"Hush, nobody understands us," Merradin challenged, and his leg pressed back against hers as he gave her a saucy little smile.

"And don't you the worry, I'll be the picture of a military professional," he added, and he took the last octopus ball, gave it a considering look, and then promptly held it out to Elora.

He grinned a little wider.

"Will I get to meet your parents?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 20, 2019, 12:59:41 PM
"I think you underestimate the universality of innuendo," Elora retorted in a murmur when he said that no one would understand them, before leaning forward to pluck the octopus ball off the offered fork.

Then he asked about her parents and she choked, her eyes going wide. Coughing, she frantically signaled for a glass of water and clapped a hand on her chest twice before she managed to rasp out, "Do you want to?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 21, 2019, 12:25:58 AM
Merradin startled a little and pat her back to help her out. The old cook was quick to give her a very light ale, as fresh water on an island was a little short on hand.

"Well, I was just curious but after a reaction like that, I'd have to accept the offer," he said with a grin, but then his expression softened and he waited for her to fully recover them.

"I mean... I know that's something you humans do. See your parents. And since you're my mate, it feels right to meet them," putting an emphasis on the word "mate" that helped convey the secret fire he had for her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 21, 2019, 07:38:52 AM
After gulping a grateful draft of the ale, Elora cleared her throat and prayed silently that her cheeks weren't as red as they felt as she replied, "Well, I--I mean I guess some humans do--" Most-- "but it's, ah...it's not a requirement? You don't have to if you don't want to," she finished hurriedly, and took another quick drink, scrambling for something to say.

The way he looked at her and practically purred when he called her his mate really wasn't helping her think clearly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 22, 2019, 01:42:24 AM
"You sound like you might be against the idea," Merradin noted, lowering his excitement just a little bit. He gave her some more time to recover and drink her refreshment, although his was still smiling as he rubbed her back to soothe her. "I think it'd be interesting, at least. Dragons don't see their parents ever again after they leave the lair. If I ever come back she'd likely treat me like an intruder, but it's because she's my mother," he said, and smirked.

"But it's up to you," he conceded, and then returned to the previous subject. He leaned back and pat his belly, smiling. He'd eaten good and likely would stay satisfied for longer.

"I'll be full for another hour or so, we should make the best of it," he reminder her.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 22, 2019, 09:17:51 AM
"I'm not against it," Elora assured quickly. "I just..."

She sighed and finished off the ale, pushing the cup away from her, and settled back in her chair slightly. "My parents are...a lot," she admitted after a moment, frowning slightly at the table. "And now they're both Generals, which means they're just... Their jobs are everything to them."

She glanced at him, biting her lower lip thoughtfully. "They're also sticklers for protocol. Merradin, if they found out that we're..."

She huffed and shook her head. Rather abruptly, she pushed back from the table and got to her feet. "Look, it doesn't matter. We're on leave, right? Let's go see if we can find one of those waterfalls." Her smiled was maybe a little forced, but she was genuinely trying.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 25, 2019, 07:09:47 PM
"Oh," he said, and while he did look disappointed, he understood. He could only imagine what kind of hell would be raised if he even returned to his mother at all, let alone with a human claimed as a mate.

No, not just a human. Elora.

"Two generals? My, I didn't know I was marrying into such good breeding," he said, standing with her. He placed two platinum coins on the counter and the old cook took them very enthusiastically and bade them good travels.

"But I understand. Let's get out of here."

He stepped back out onto the sunny street and looked back at her, invitation clear in his eyes.

"Find somewhere quieter?" He added with a sly grin.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 25, 2019, 07:18:15 PM
Elora's heart sank slightly; she could see that he was disappointed, and while she really did just want to make things easier for them and whatever exactly was happening between them when they got back to Ketra, a part of her did a little bit wish that he could meet her family.

Then he said marrying into and she blanched.

It wasn't inaccurate, it was just...he'd never phrased it that way before. He'd called her his mate, a treasure, but that--that was new.

She quickly tried to school her expression back into a smile, hoping her thoughts didn't show on her face, and followed him out onto the street.

"Gods yes," she agreed with a smile, linking her arm through his. There still seemed to be some sort of commotion happening closer to the edge of town, near the docks, and again she caught that bright flash of color...someone's hair?

Whatever. She was on leave, she didn't have to be in constant surveillance mode. "That looks like a trail, doesn't it?" She nodded toward a small gap in the trees near the edge of the town. Eyes glinting, she tipped her head at him and teased, "Wanna risk it?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on September 27, 2019, 09:11:57 PM
There was something about the way she blanched at his joking words that made his thoughts skip. His own eyes widened slightly as he processed what he'd said, but he found that it was true, in a sense. She was his Storm Rider and his mate, his lover and soon to be comrade-in-arms.

They were everything but officially married, it seemed, and Merradin's thoughts on his words blended into curiosity when she looked away and he followed her eyes to a fleeting dash of color.

He felt a tightness in his chest and around his horns, concealed as they were. It was the faintest trail of a scent, but the wind carried it nonetheless. It smelled... female, and with a little bit of what he guessed a rainbow would smell like.

It couldn't be... another dragon?

It was an interesting implication. He could be in someone's territory right now, which meant it wasn't safe. The worry showed on his brow but it smoothed back out when he heard Elora's voice.

She pointed the trail out to him and he returned his attention to her, perking up as inspected the narrow trail.

"I suppose it'll do for a start," Merradin said, and he stepped down between the trees, looking back at her with an inviting glint to his eyes and offered her his hand.

"Shall we?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on September 27, 2019, 09:26:09 PM
He'd done it again. He sensed something, smelled or heard it maybe, and she could see the way it put him on edge. It was subtle, but she could sense the change in him as clearly as if it was in her own body.

...Huh. That was...odd.

She frowned a bit, considered pressing him about the issue, then changed her mind with a quick sigh and a brisk shake of her head. If it was really important, she trusted that he'd say something.

Eventually.

Besides, that glint to his eye promised all sorts of trouble, and she found the slight tension that had entered her shoulders eased as she reached out to take his hand. "I believe we shall," she acquiesced with a slightly crooked smile.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 02, 2019, 07:01:21 AM
He almost did mention it to Elora, but then she was moving up and taking his hand. His sharp eyes took in every detail, how the tension left her in waves when she held his hand, how those softer, mammalian eyes of hers looked at him. He could feel the peace in her and he didn't want to cast a shadow over their small retreat.

Because yes, it could've been a dragon right here on the island, or just the lingering traces of one. Or a powerful scent blown onto the islands from the mainland. Still, he couldn't deny that rush of feeling that went through him...

He tightened his hand around hers and he darted his eyes to glance around before leaning in and leaving a tiny kiss on her cheek. With a breathless smile and a giddy pep to his step he started to lead her down the trail. He seemed serene, almost at one with his surroundings.

"I haven't been to the islands since I was just a wyrmling," he started, passing a hand along the trunk of a palm tree as they passed under it.

"The colors, the smells, the sounds... it's like all of it is from another life," he mused.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 02, 2019, 07:13:45 AM
Elora paused, a little startled by the sudden, secretive little kiss, but she smiled and fell into step beside him easily as he led her into the trees.

She tilted her head a bit, watching him lay his hand against the trunk of the tree. A thought occurred to her, and with barely more than a moment of consideration she asked, "How long ago was that? I mean...I know how old you are, about, but--well, how long is a dragon a child? A wyrmling?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 02, 2019, 11:57:38 AM
Merradin smiled at the question and looked back to her.

"A dragon is a wyrmling until they live their hundredth year. By that point, I was about half the size I am now. When it got too tight in my egg and I broke out I was about the size of a horse, and I couldn't fly until I was about five. Wings weren't strong enough until then," he said, talking about his formative years with a clarity no human could ever hope for.

Almost to reminisce, he added:

"When I turned one-hundred my mother told me to fly west and never look back, but she was so proud of me, I could tell. She knew I'd make my mark on the world..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 02, 2019, 12:22:47 PM
She whistled softly, eyes widening slightly as she considered that. "Wow. Dragons...really do live a long time, huh?"

It was clear she didn't really expect an answer to the question; her brow was furrowed as she turned the idea over in her mind. It wasn't the first time she'd had to confront the idea of Merradin's lifespan, but each time seemed to strike her anew. A millennia in and he didn't seem all that much older than her.

...What did that mean for them?

Not willing to confront that particular thought just then, Elora gave her head a quick shake and tilted her head to glance up at him again. "You...haven't seen your mother since?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 09, 2019, 01:41:39 PM
"No," came his immediate answer, and without any of the sad tone or regret a human might've felt upon saying something like that.

"Wild dragon's don't co-exist. At all. We only ever gather to mate or rear our young, sometimes during the major eclipses," he said, eyes wandering around the jungle surrounding them before he looked back to her. A smile edged onto his lips.

"So that's why I was so curious about your parents," he said, and bumped her elbow with his own.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 09, 2019, 02:43:14 PM
Elora felt her stomach give a funny twist at that, brows drawing together in a slight frown. "But...wait, then why are you bothering to come back to Ketra with me at all?" She looked up at him, brow still furrowed and lips drawn into a thin line. "If you don't...well, live with your mate or a family or anything--why do you want to come back with me?"

It had occurred to her that he may just be doing it because it was what she wanted, and wasn't actually something Merradin himself was all that invested in. The thought stung, but what worried her more was the idea that the dragon would feel trapped back in her old life, in the routine and duty. And if he felt trapped, he might start to blame her.

Though even just the idea of separation hurt more than it should, she didn't want that for him. For either of them.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 09, 2019, 09:16:23 PM
There was a response coming, but it paused. Not like Merradin was thinking of something to say, but more... struggling with it.

"No, no, Elora... it's..." he said, and he held her hand tighter. Merradin couldn't describe it, couldn't put it to words. It felt like love and Merradin knew that was apparent between the two of them, but...

"It's different, Elora, I... I know it's a really drastic thing," he started, and lifted her hand up so she could feel his heart.

"Just because that's how dragons usually are, that's not how I feel. I can't bear to be without you, Elora, I... I love you," he said, saying the last few words a little quieter.

"I'm not exactly opposed to living out my days and nights with you in Ketra either, or fighting alongside you against Adela's enemies. It's not fancy living on a giant pile of treasure, yeah, but," and he paused to squeeze her hand and meet her eyes.

"I've already got all I need right here."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 09, 2019, 09:42:53 PM
Her stomach flipped again, though this time she felt heat rush to her cheeks at the same time and she had to duck her eyes, looking away from him.

"I just...I want you to be sure," she murmured eventually, chancing a glance back up at his face. Her eyes found his and held them, searching. She squeezed his hand gently in return. "I need to know that if we're doing this, really doing this, you won't wake up one morning in a month or a year or a decade and realize you didn't want this after all, because--"

She paused, glanced down, then sighed softly and murmured, "Because...I love you, too."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 09, 2019, 10:37:14 PM
Merradin let the silence hang for a little bit before stepping in to rest his head on hers and wrap his arms around her shoulders.

"I want this with you, Elora," he said.

"You are my Storm Rider and greatest love and I know that whatever we build for ourselves in Ketra will be great."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 09, 2019, 10:44:57 PM
She tensed almost instinctively, her eyes going a little wide—because despite everything that had happened between them in the last few days, she realized she hadn’t really known what to expect, hadn’t known if he would change his mind.

Slowly, the tension bled from her shoulders and she turned her face into his chest, wrapping her arms around him tightly. “Yeah,” she murmured in agreement, knowing it was inadequate but unable to get anything else passed the tightness in her chest and throat.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 12, 2019, 07:53:03 PM
"So I don't want you to worry," he said, and lowered a hand to stroke her upper back, and when he parted from her he was smiling genuinely. He came back in to nuzzle noses with her, and remained close as he started to purr.

He didn't want to overwhelm her, but with a sneaky look back towards the village he leaned back against a palm tree, still just hugging her.

"It's going to be alright."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 12, 2019, 07:58:28 PM
"Rmmph." She pouted a bit and pressed closer, her arms dropping down to rest loosely around his waist. "I suppose you're right," she admitted in a theatrical sigh, turning her head to rest against his shoulder as he leaned back against the tree.

A tiny smirk flickered across her face and she added, low and teasing, "Well, someone's either very pleased with himself, or likes this whole hugging thing more than he's letting on." She pulled back enough to rest one palm flat on his chest and quirked an eyebrow at him. "You're purring again."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 16, 2019, 06:51:30 PM
"Oh, I hardly noticed," he said, and he raised a hand to stroke her cheek and jaw as he just stood there and smiled. Because yeah, she had him dead to rights. Just having her against his chest like that, the warmth of her body and the slight weight of her... gods...

Then, just as quickly as he'd settled, he was pulling her  further along the jungle trail, mischief in his eyes.

"Maybe you'll hear some more if you come along," he said, shooting her a sidelong glance.

"Maybe... there'll even be some rain," he added innocently, deliberately looking away from her to tap his chin.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 16, 2019, 07:10:06 PM
"You absolute cad," Elora accused with a laugh, utterly delighted. She laced her fingers through his as he pulled her along and squeezed gently. "Y'know, I'm thinking you and I are gonna have a real problem following military protocol about public affections," she muttered with a roll of her eyes. "You might just have to stay a dragon while we're on duty to remove temptation."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 26, 2019, 11:07:30 PM
"No we're not," Merradin declared, perhaps a little overconfident but who cared?

"We'll be discreet."

He led her along a bit further, catching the scent of water in the wind but keeping quiet, wanting her to experience the surprise.

"And the dragon knights aren't always on duty at every moment, and even the dragons got leaves from the barracks every once in a while. That was a time, drinking old adelan ale with my wingdrakes," he said, and once again lost himself in the memories as he went quiet.

"And I can buy some land, maybe a little away for the city. A place for you and me?" he continued.

"A quaint, well-furnished house in the trees?" Merradin said, and then he tilted his head the other way.

"Or maybe a lavish palace in the foothills? We could live like and emperor and empress and make the crown jealous..." he added with a low purr.

"Also, you don't happen to hear any running water, do you? I must admit I'm not too familiar with the island's layout," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 27, 2019, 11:01:45 AM
Elora chuckled and bumped his arm gently. "Somehow I'm not sure making the crown jealous is the wisest course of action," she muttered laughingly.

Tilting her head, she listened for a moment, then glanced toward the southeast. "That way, maybe?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 29, 2019, 10:17:48 PM
Merradin smirked a little to himself when she picked out the right direction, pleased on a strange instinctual level that he'd picked out a mate with such sharp hunting senses.

"Let's see," he said, and walked alongside her. He let his hand swing as he walked, eyes scanning the trees ahead. Thankfully the forest terrain wasn't too harsh (not that a dragon and a knight would find rough terrain all that bothersome) and the roots and shoots and ground-vines stretched on ahead among the thick, twisting jungle trees.

The sound of water became more audible as they approached, but it was not the crashing of a waterfall. When they finally stepped out of the last of the trees and into a small, canopy-shrouded grove, they'd see that there was a spring here, fed by a stream that split and flowed downwards through some rocks as it filtered into a deep, rocky pool which diffused into the surrounding land to keep it vibrant and lush.

"This'll do," Merradin said simply, and he turned his head back to give Elora a smoldering look as he pulled his blue shirt up and off himself and slipped himself out of his pants. He moved up to get some distance from her and changed back into his true form, and he let out a small (ironically enough) groan as he stepped down into the water and then lowered himself so that only his back and neck protruded from the water. He gave her a smile, as best he could as a dragon, and lifted a taloned claw from the water to beckon her towards him.

"Come have a dip with me, Storm Rider," he said, and his voice made the surface of the pool vibrate ever so much.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 30, 2019, 08:59:39 AM
"Merradin." Elora eyed him suspiciously, her tone mock-offended as she continued to follow him through the trees. "Were you testing me?"

She had to raise her voice just slightly to be heard over the rush and trickle of the stream filtering between the dark rocks into the pool. It really was a beautiful spot, and she looked around curiously as Merradin began stripping.

Rolling her eyes slightly when he settled himself into the water, she hesitated just a moment before stripping down to her underthings and cautiously dipping a toe into the water. It was surprisingly warm--though she wasn't quite sure if that didn't have anything to do with the dragon's presence.

"Alright, alright." She slipped into the water, one hand still gripping at the rocky shore as she edged her way slowly deeper into the pool.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 16, 2019, 08:50:05 PM
"Maybe a little," the dragon admitted, and as she got ready to enter behind him he turned back into a human, satisfied with having cooled his scales a little and eager to get back into his human shape. It was once just a tool, but Elora gave the form a new meaning.

"You really are as sharp as you are beautiful," he said, even as he made his way to the small, rocky waterfall that fed the spring and proceeded to start bathing in it. Even as a human, the vapor from the waterfall made small swirls around him, indicating the kind of power that idly lingered by him at all times.

He looked back at her and his small grin and inviting look said everything as he turned his back to her and continued to wash up.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 16, 2019, 09:23:26 PM
Elora bit her lip gently, watching him move through the water in his human shape once again.

"Don't think flattery is some sort of get-out-of-trouble free play," she grumbled, sinking fully into the water. She ducked low enough to soak her hair, then rose again, shaking her hair out over her back and shoulders as she waded her way across the pool to the little waterfall.

She allowed her hands to trail gently over the surface of the water, fingertips tracing the tiny eddies and swirls around his body as she came up beside him, and eventually reached out to wrap her arms around his waist, leaning up on her toes to press a light kiss to the nape of his neck.

"I'm still cross with you for that," she informed him, before slanting her lips teasingly over the skin just beneath his ear.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 18, 2019, 08:58:00 AM
There was a shudder in the air as she wrapped her arms around his waist, and Merradin smiled to himself, reaching down to take her arms and loop them a little more securely. It felt like being sheltered by someone's wing but so much closer and he reveled in it.

"Sorry I made you so cross," he said, voice low and husky, and he sighed when she kissed the back of his neck. He let himself relax against her a bit more, unable to resist her once she'd touched him.

Still turned around, he guided one of her hands a little lower, low enough to tempt her but not far enough to do too much of the work for her.

"Is there anything I can do to make it up to you?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 18, 2019, 03:57:11 PM
She smiled a bit, crookedly, when he pulled her arms a little tighter around him and leaned more firmly into his back. She felt him start to melt against her and flashed another smile, feeling rather victorious, as she skimmed her lips along the column of his neck before stretching up to nibble playfully at his ear.

Her hand moved down as he guided it, but she hovered teasingly, tracing swirling patterns over the shape of his hips with the barest brush of her fingertips.

"I'm sure I'll think of something," she murmured as she let her other hand trail up the center of his body to his chest before moving it to rest gently over his heart, holding him to her as she continued to kiss and tease.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 26, 2019, 08:42:31 PM
"Mmm," he said, and he slipped his hands backwards to stroke the sides of her legs, by now his arousal was fully apparent. The vapor twisted around them with the ebbs and flows of pleasure, and the heavy beating of his heart against her palm.

"You've got me," he noted, to affirm the both of them.

He turned about in her arms after a few moments so he could wrap his own arms around her.

"So if there's anything I can do to improve that crossness of yours, anything, just tell me."

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2019, 07:35:56 AM
Elora sucked in a sharp breath when he turned to face her and she suddenly felt the evidence of his arousal pressing firmly against her. Her hands shifted to grip his shoulders and she leaned into him a little more heavily with that same half-smile curving her lips.

"Mmm...you could press me up against the edge of this waterfall and fuck me silly," she noted lightly, gold-tinged eyes glinting at him. "That might help."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 27, 2019, 11:50:58 AM
"I could..." he answered, and he leaned in to press her closer and rest his head against hers. A small purr came from him and there was a quiet moment of consideration from him before he turned her about and set her against the rocks that edged the waterfall in one quick motion, sealing it with a burning kiss as he pressed against her. The head of his cock nearly entered her right there but rather than give her that immediate gratification he merely teased her for a few moments as he kissed away with abandon.

He didn't have his wings or his horns present at the moment but when he pulled back to take a breath she'd be able to see the lightning in his eyes as he just looked at her with wonder.

Then he surged forwards again, pinning her back against the tall rocks that the waterfall flowed down from like she wanted as he finally entered her and thrust in all the way to the root, until he felt her cervix kiss his tip.

"I'm going to have you until you're all scrambled," he said against her neck, letting her feel some sharp teeth against her throat and then soothing it with a kiss even as his hands stroked down her front only to take her hips and bring her even closer.

"Tell me how much you lust for the cock of a dragon."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 27, 2019, 12:35:39 PM
A soft gasp caught in her throat as he spun them to place her back against the rock, and the sound quickly morphed into a hurriedly stifled moan against his mouth as he seemed intent to sear that kiss into her soul.

She was already panting lightly when they broke apart and she stared up into his face, hips squirming as she felt him pressing and teasing against her.

She opened her mouth to tell him to just get on with it already, but before she could make a sound he had pinned her back against the stone, sliding in until he physically couldn't get any deeper and quite effectively knocking a high, sharp cry from her lips.

His teeth scraping against her throat earned another gasping little moan and she tangled her fingers in the hair at the nape of his neck. She rocked her hips forward at his touch, hissing in a breath. "If you keep moving like that, I'll tell you anything you want," she panted a little raggedly, nails scraping against his skin where she clutched at him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 30, 2019, 10:27:53 PM
He couldn't help but just have her her like that for a little, and he reveled in the act of giving in to the lust. He explored her with his hands even as he sprouted his wings and used the powerful limbs to help support her as he spread her legs higher and wider and took her wildly.

At one point it wasn't enough and he came in closer until their bodies pressed together and he claimed her lips.

"Tell me what you want," he said finally, murmuring into her mouth. He then kissed her once more on the lips and then along her jaw.

"Your fantasies, your desires, I'll make them all come true," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 01, 2019, 07:31:26 AM
Elora gave a high mewling sound that she would probably be mortified to think of later, but in the moment she couldn't have cared less. Though it was rather difficult in their current position, she tilted her hips toward him so that every thrust forward dragged his length against her deliciously and she shuddered, arms clutching tight around his shoulders.

"I...I want--" Her head fell back with a soft groan as his lips moved to her jaw and she panted lightly, trying to focus through the haze of heat and pleasure. "Just--just tell me you love me, Merradin," she whispered, her eyes fluttering closed as she surrendered to his affections completely--perhaps for the first time, in all honesty.

"Just hold me, and kiss me, and tell me you love me." Her fingers curled a little tighter in his hair, and she tilted her head to brush her lips against his cheek before nuzzling into the curve of his throat with a low moan of pleasure.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 17, 2019, 10:11:23 PM
He could feel that total surrender, and it brought a shot of pure joy through him, that she trusted him and loved him enough to just let him please her and himself. He smiled against her neck, fangs against her bare skin. A small nip, and then he soothed the spot with a lick of his forked tongue and a kiss.

"My heart belongs to you, my chosen knight," he murmured as he kissed up to her ear, and then moved to claim her lips. His hands moved lower to better support her and he drove into her harder, deeper. He let himself go a little more, and the line between dragon and man blurred further. Scales spread around his horns and his eyes gained a sharp, distinctly reptilian quality.

He kissed her gently, in sharp contrast to the way he hammered into her. He didn't just want to fuck her, though...

He paused a moment, and with a mischievous look her way he held her tightly to him and brought her in through the small waterfall, soaking them both but leaving them nice and secluded in the small space behind the waterfall. He brushed some of her wet hair behind her ear and kissed her again.

"I want to love you silly," he said, and started up again, but slower.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 18, 2019, 08:23:00 AM
Yet another shiver made its way down her spine as she felt those sharp teeth brush against the skin of her throat, followed by a soft pant of want when he nipped and licked at her gently.

She couldn't answer his declaration, a low moan that morphed into a muffled cry of pleasure pretty much the only sound she could make as he continued to move against her. Though that was quickly followed by a quick, startled gasp when he moved them through the water and she found herself once more abruptly soaked through.

But she responded to his kiss eagerly, laughing softly against his mouth and reaching up to card her fingers through the hair that had plastered itself to the nape of his neck. "Oh, believe me, Merradin, you're getting there," she assured him a little breathlessly. Her eyes were almost shimmering gold at him as she pulled back to meet his gaze, letting her brow rest against his for a moment even as she gave a little twitch with her hips to ensure that she was pressed as close to him as she could manage in their current position.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on January 19, 2020, 09:54:26 PM
Damn, we should visit the islands more often... was the first thing that went through Merradin's head as he took it all in. Being close to her like this was the best kind of heaven. Warm waters and a lover's embrace was like a salve for a lonely heart. And while long lived, it was possible even for a dragon to feel a little empty, especially one who spends so much time living at a human pace.

Pressed as close as they were, moving was a little interesting, but he managed to get enough movement to fuck her slow and deep, like a hammer. He came in close, nipping at her collar and gripping her tightly.

"Gods, Elora, it's like a dream," he murmured, and then nuzzled her neck and took a moment to just close his eyes...

...only for them to open. He still moved, but all of a sudden he was aware, and felt a tightness between his horns. There was another...

[other character intro? If no I can edit.]
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on January 20, 2020, 01:00:14 PM
[Gotcha]




"Mmm..." It was about all she could manage to respond without gasping or crying or, or doing something equally embarrassing. Gods knew her lover--her mate--didn't need anything else to inflate his ego in this regard.

Not that she minded, particularly. But she figured someone had to make him work for it, and it looked like that someone was her.

But then something changed. Her senses weren't as honed as his, nor nearly as sensitive, but she felt him tense against her, just a bit, and she knew something was wrong.

She went still, arms around his shoulders and her cheek pressed to his temple as suddenly the sound of her own breathing and heartbeat was far too loud. "Merradin?" she whispered cautiously, her grip on him tightening a fraction.

From the other side of the pool, a soft rustling noise came, then a tiny...squeak?

A slender, brightly colored figure all but tripped into the clearing, just barely managing to catch herself with a hand on a tree trunk and a quick flare of her multicolored wings. "Oh goodness, I am so sorry, I didn't mean to startle you--" she was already babbling before she lifted her head to actually look at the two strangers.

When she did, her gilded skin went distinctly pink, and she let out another squeak as she whirled to put her back to them, hands flying up to cover her eyes for good measure. "Oh, goodness I am so so sorry! I smelled another--I didn't mean to--I didn't realize--Excuse me!"

It all happened in a flurry of moments, such that Elora found herself stunned, still held up against the rocky wall by Merradin and utterly unsure as to what to do as the stranger seemed to be trying to dart back into the cover of the trees.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on January 26, 2020, 10:50:59 AM
As soon as the colorful stranger let out that squeak and he heard the rustling of someone coming into view, a shot of acute fear went through him. Because yes, that is another dragon, and if it came to an altercation Elora would be right at the center of it.

He spun about, leaving Elora in the process, intent on locking eyes with the newcomer, a female dragon by the sound of it. He stretched a wing out, half to shield Elora and half to protect her decency, and he bristled in an animalistic, instinctual manner that could be seen even through the human shape he wore.

And then the stranger was apologizing and flushing between colors, trying to duck back out of view... and in the moment he just sort of deflated, and felt a little bit ridiculous at his strong reaction. There was a cautious pause as he looked back to Elora before he returned his attention to the stranger and stepped forwards a few paces, wings still outstretched as he wasn't quite ready to relinquish his defensiveness.

"It's alright," he started.

"We didn't know we were encroaching on your territory, the fault is ours."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on January 26, 2020, 12:34:49 PM
"Oh no no no, you're not...ahem. That's not exactly..."

The stranger chanced a peek back over her shoulder at the two of them, and seemed relieved that the human was at least mostly shielded from view. For some reason it was much less embarrassing to see a fellow dragon in such a state of undress than it was his human companion.

The dragoness shuffled her wings and brought them around so that they hugged her body, colorful feathers obscuring most of her bronzed skin. Though her face was still quite red, she seemed a little more sure of herself as she cocked her head to the side and offered a tiny smile.

"You aren't intruding or anything. This isn't precisely my territory. It just... It's been quite some time since I've seen another dragon, and I was curious when I caught your scent. I certainly didn't mean to disturb you and your..." 

Her eyes flickered to Elora, soft and considering. "Mate?" she settled on finally--though she was clearly asking Elora herself rather than the dragon so clearly protecting her.

Poking her head out from around Merradin's wing, the knight smiled a little sheepishly at the stranger and nodded. "Er, yes, actually. But like he said, we didn't mean to, ah..." She flushed almost delicately and glanced between the two dragons.

Two dragons. And her stuck in this...odd introduction.

The gods really did have a sense of humor.

"Sorry," she finally muttered with a tiny chuckle, stepping in close to Merradin's back and laying a hand on his shoulder reassuringly. Though she couldn't say it aloud, she hoped the touch might convey some of her thoughts: I'm fine. She seems fairly harmless. It's alright.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on January 27, 2020, 10:12:26 PM
Her fingers visited his shoulder and the rest of that lingering tenseness just melted away. It seemed she didn't need to speak, because to Merradin, it was almost as if she'd spoken to him right then and there. His wings drew in, although not completely. Elora probably still wanted something convenient to hide behind, after all!

But he nodded gently, turning his head just a little to look back at her. He didn't know that what he heard was pieces of her thoughts, and so thought that she'd whispered it to him.

"You're right," he murmured in response, and his eyes seemed to crackle less. They were softer, almost apologetic when he looked back towards the new appearance. He turned his head back so he could just sort of... look at her. Taking a moment to find Elora's hand and give it a comforting squeeze beneath the water, he stepped forwards a couple times and beckoned the stranger forwards.

"It's a hot day and the waters are nice and cool," he started, giving her a suddenly friendly look.

"You can come in in, sate some of that curiosity. My name is Merradin, and this is my mate, Elora Braun," he said.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on January 28, 2020, 08:32:34 AM
Elora shot him a look, eyes going a little round. Had she... She hadn't said any of that out loud, had she?

She didn't exactly have time to think about it, because then Merradin was beckoning the strange dragon forward and she had to tuck herself in close against his side, just beneath his curved wing, to preserve any amount of modesty.

Of course, now that the older dragon and his mate were no longer...preoccupied, their guest seemed quite at home with their general state in the water. Elora had forgotten for a moment that the Yoreiqi people didn't have quite the same standards of modesty when it came to clothing.

The dragoness herself only wore a loose skirt, wrapped high over her hips with a longer strip of fabric hanging just over her left hip, and she didn't bother taking it off before slipping into the pool.

"You know, I'd almost forgotten this place was here," she giggled pleasantly, stroking her hands absently over the surface of the water. With every movement, the colors of her hair and feathers seemed to catch the light and shimmer--as did the bright red jewel in the center of her brow. "It's been quite some time since I've visited this particular village--oh! I'm being rude."

She smiled at them both and dipped her head politely, wings fanning out to the sides. "I'm Melisma. And...well, until new evidence comes to light, I appear to be the last dragon of Yoreiq."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on February 04, 2020, 12:37:29 PM
Merradin studied Melisma as she approached and lowered herself into the water. He'd never seen a dragon like her before and found himself keenly aware of her movements. His eyes followed the colors, the shapes, one alpha creature regarding another.

"That's... I'm sorry to hear that, Melisma," Merradin said, and he lowered himself back down into the water to rest comfortably. Nudity was not a factor among dragons, really, but being among humans had taught him to be polite regardless. He put his back against the pool's edge ,giving Melisma her space if she wanted to swim around and beckoning Elora to just relax with him.

"Have you spent your whole life on the islands? I was born on Thanatos, myself."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on February 04, 2020, 12:58:01 PM
"Oh, don't be sorry!" The dragoness chirped more than she spoke, swirling her hands over the surface of the water--though she kept her wings arched high, evidently wary of getting them wet.

Watching from her place tucked against Merradin's side, Elora wondered if that was because of the feathers. She knew bats had little trouble flying wet, but most birds... Hm.

"If there were others, it was...a very long time ago. I'd never actually met another dragon until this last year, and that was when a storm blew me all the way to the mainland," Melisma continued easily. And it became clear, even to the Adelan knight, that this dragon was...very young, in a lot of ways. She seemed utterly unaware of the way Merradin watched her, or if she should be watching him similarly.

While Elora had come to expect a certain kind of presence from dragons, Melisma seemed to lack it. Perhaps it was because she'd grown up alone, perhaps it was simply the nature of the islands that shaped her.

Wait a second.

"Ah..." Elora sat up a bit, frowning slightly. "If you don't mind my asking--how is that possible? You weren't...even raised by another dragon?"

Melisma looked to her with wide eyes: grief, love, nostalgia, contentment all passed across her face in an instant. Then she ducked her gaze again and shook her head with a small smile. "No," she murmured, evidently not offended. "My father...found me. When I was still in the egg. He raised me."

Then she turned back to Merradin, morose countenance easily replaced with eagerness. "But Thanatos! I've never been that far, what's it like?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on February 09, 2020, 10:31:32 AM
Merradin's eyes sparkled at the opportunity to talk about Thanatos, and he laid a hand on Elora's thighs beneath the water, hand gently stroking as he spoke. He still hadn't forgotten their fiery tryst, and the sudden interruption had left him rather unsatisfied, so to speak.

"It's not all that different from Yoreiq. The islands are much larger, and the locals aren't as avian in their nature. And the sands are whiter," he added, tilting his head at her.

"But I've never seen a dragon with colors like yours before," he said, and then llifted a hand to stroke the edges of his own wing.

"And those wings... There are a lot of sea dragons in Thanatos, some have been living underwater for so long that they've nearly become serpents, with wings better for swimming than flying."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on February 09, 2020, 11:25:50 AM
Elora shifted again, though this time it was to toss her mate a warning look when his hand stroked up her thigh. Really? You can't keep your hands to yourself for five minutes? she thought with an exasperated roll of her eyes, hoping he could read her expression for what it was.

Melisma, for her part, didn't seem to notice. She sighed with something a little like envy as her gaze flickered over the other dragon's wings, then shrugged. "Oh, yes, I know most don't have trouble with the water, but I, well..." she glanced over her shoulder at her own wings with a small frown. "I can't do a thing with them when they get wet. It's quite annoying, really, as I actually rather like swimming."

She shook her head again and gave them a crooked, wry sort of smile. "Rather silly way for island dragons to evolve, isn't it? Though I think we used to be more migratory--I've found some old carvings and things deeper in the jungles, years back."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on February 18, 2020, 09:58:32 PM
He'd considered the gentle hand on her leg a rather chaste gesture, but it seemed that he understood her thoughts quite keenly. He looked at her again, almost as if she'd spoken to him. His smile was apologetic at first, but it straightened somewhat and fascination bloomed in his eyes.

Because she'd just spoken to him without moving her lips. Instead of saying anything, he just nodded gently and ducked his eyes, hoping she could see the apology in his expression. He lifted that arm to stroke her chin with his thumb and stood in the water. First to stretch and then to step into the deeper water. He was quite uncaring of his nudity. He knew it could weird out humans but he figured a yoreiqi dragon would have little issue with it.

"Well, if it helps, I can dry your feathers for you. Swim to your heart's desire. We can go see these carvings afterwards, that sounds like an adventure..." he started. But he couldn't quite shake his curiosity, and he found himself speaking again.

"Can I... see you?" he ventured, looking to Melisma. The wariness was gone, but it was replaced by pure curiosity. It wasn't often that a two dragons met amicably like this, and he couldn't help but shake that desire to know another of his kind, a trait he'd learned from watching humans for too long.

"I don't often meet another island dragon."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on February 18, 2020, 10:11:10 PM
Elora frowned slightly at him as he suddenly shifted his attentions to stroke her chin, a little confused by the gesture though certainly not opposed to it.

Then her eyes widened as the shift in his expression fully registered. Had...had he heard her?!

Whoa...

It seemed that would have to be a conversation for another time however, as the female dragon suddenly beamed when he offered to dry her wings if she decided to take a swim. "Oh, that's so kind of you, I--"

Melly choked off when he asked to see her. She glanced down at herself, confused for a moment, then flushed deeply as she realized what he meant. "Oh. Oh. Oh, of course. I'm sorry, am I being rude? Like I said, I really don't meet many other dragons, my apologies..."

Still babbling, she backed from the water and let her wings fan out to the sides. Her form seemed to ripple and shift as she did, and Elora instinctively skittered back toward the reassuring rocky walls of the waterfall behind her. The gradient of colors from Melisma's wings seemed to extend to the air around her, creating a rainbow in water droplets that weren't there, and within the shifting, colorful light she sort of stretched and twisted...

And between one heartbeat and the next she was a dragon. Much smaller than Merradin's true form, though Elora could see a bit of her wings was actually free of feathers in this shape, and she seemed to have...fur. Fur instead of scales.

Melly blinked at them and settled down onto her haunches, folding her wings in close to her sides. Like this, she didn't actually seem very large at all--still massive compared to Elora's little human self, of course, but the knight was hard pressed to say she looked more than even a tenth or so Merradin's size.

The dragoness cleared her throat. "Ah...hello?" Her voice had changed slightly, a little lower and thrumming, but still clearly the same person.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on February 18, 2020, 11:13:50 PM
"No, no, it's fine, if anything I'm being a little too curious," Merradin countered. He didn't want to make this dragonness uncomfortable, even though he stared at her quite plainly. He'd never seen anything like her. The feathers, he could get, but he'd never seen a dragon with fur.

Sparing a glance back at Elora to reassure her, he himself stepped out of the pool. He wanted to give Melisma the chance to use the pool comfortably, even though he was confident the two of them could share it regardless. As he stepped out of the water, he shifted over and while his transformation wasn't quite as surreal or quick as Melly's he still made the most of it, subconsciously wanting to impress this new acquaintance.

"Pleased to meet you," Merradin said, dipping his head at her. It was usually customary for dragons to touch snouts to indicate amicability, but she was much smaller than him and he didn't want to rush or scare her.

He didn't want to tower over her too much, and so he let himself rest on his belly, and gave Elora an inviting look in case she wanted to join him outside of the pool.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on February 19, 2020, 08:58:32 AM
"Oh!" Melly squeaked quietly and backpedaled to give him room--and despite herself Elora had to lift a hand to hide a smile as she stood from the pool and made her way over to where they'd left their clothes.

It was becoming clear to her that, while clearly an adult among her kind, this dragoness was very, very young.

Melisma blinked at him when he dipped his head down, having to crane her own neck up a bit in order to be on a similar level. Cautiously, she darted her head forward to bump her muzzle against his, then pulled back quickly with a little snort and shuffle of her wings. "Well, ah, pleased to meet you too," she chirped, cocking her head with a dragonish sort of smile before she turned to slide into the pool.

Elora huffed a soft laugh and skittered to the side to avoid the small wave of water, busy pulling on her clothes. She leaned against the side of Merradin's leg, watching the other dragon let her wings fan out over the surface of the pool as she just floated there with a contented croon humming in her throat.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on February 20, 2020, 10:17:52 AM
It was when he'd compared their sizes that he realized just how young Melisma was, but he certainly was nobody to judge anyone on their age. Instead, he merely opted to observe the young dragoness as she crooned and hummed to herself.

He glanced down to Elora, amusement clear in his eyes, and he sort of curled around where she leaned against him, letting his head rest on the ground with a contented huff. His whole body relaxed, and he regarded Elora with his eyes for a few moments before he let them slowly close. A pleased smile remained on his features, however.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on February 20, 2020, 12:44:34 PM
Elora reached out to lay her palm on the ridge of scales just above his brow as his eyes closed, and she couldn't resist to tease a bit.

"Getting some nesting instincts there, Lightning-Eater?" she whispered, referring to how contentedly he'd been watching the younger dragon swim about.

She'd thought she'd kept her voice low enough that Melisma wouldn't hear them, but the dragoness suddenly lifted her head from the water to stare at them with very round eyes.

"Oh, are you a nesting pair? That's lovely! I didn't think dragons really did that with human mates."

"Ah--" Elora stared, feeling heat wash over her face. "Er, it's not... I mean it's a bit more complicated than that..." A little desperately, she looked to her partner, hoping he would step in.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on February 25, 2020, 07:18:56 PM
Her whispered little tease caused a little chain of lightning to shoot down the spines of his back. He opened his eyes and watched Elora keenly as she embarrassed herself.

At least she'll never underestimate a dragon's hearing again...

Merradin shifted his head to look at Melisma, and then he rose to sit on his haunches with a satisfied huff.

"I don't know if we can make a nest in the traditional sense," Merradin said, and then he looked fondly down at Elora before meeting Melisma's gaze again. Happy with his stretch, he sat down in a sphinx-like manner next to Elora.

"But we are mates. I have chosen her for her strength and soul," he said, and he brought his head in close to Elora to encourage her to keep touching.

"And we're trying to build something for ourselves."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on February 25, 2020, 07:40:46 PM
The knight snapped him another quick, narrow-eyed look for what she thought was him teasing her about underestimating a dragon's hearing--she hadn't made out the words exactly, but she was fairly sure he'd said something to that effect.

Before she could try to retort though, he was looking down at her with that sort of warmth and proudly claiming her to Melisma, and her cheeks flushed. She cleared her throat and glanced away as he laid his head down beside her, but she reached over to scratch at the ridges of his brow again.

"Right, well... That's that, I suppose," she muttered, still a little red.

Melly crooned again, flaring her wings out a bit as she moved back toward shallower water and rested her head on the side of the pool. "Oh, but that's so romantic," she sighed, eyes shimmering at them. Elora's blush deepened a few degrees.

"Well, how did you two meet? I can't imagine it was very typical," the younger dragon laughed.

Elora tensed, her hand stilling against Merradin's scales. "He...rescued me. From the plains, on the mainland," she replied, a little terse.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 13, 2020, 06:47:25 PM
Merradin could feel the tension run through Elora and he looked up at her, eyes softening as he remembered that day that he found her. It wrenched his heart when he thought about it and he couldn't suppress the resentment for what had been done to her.

Oh so gently, he tilted his head against her, giving off a low purr to try and soothe her as best he could as a dragon.

"I was just trying to take care of her, at first. It'd been so long since I had such pleasant company, and well..."

He shot Elora a look that translated even as a dragon.

"She grew on me," he said with a low chuckle, trying for levity.

"I'd like to hope that I've grown on her as well."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 13, 2020, 07:01:35 PM
The purr went a long way to relaxing her, and she smiled at him a bit in attempted assurance as she once more scratched his jaw. I'm alright.

"Grown like fungus," she teased, with no small amount of affection in her voice.

Melisma may have been young and a but naive, but she evidently wasn't stupid or unobservant. She sensed the shift in Elora's mood, and gave a melodious little cough to clear her throat as she changed the subject. "Oh, of course. I've noticed that love often blooms from that sort of affection. That really is very sweet."

She sighed, almost wistful, and cocked her head. "Have you done much traveling since, then? Is this your...honeymoon, as it were? That's what they call it on the mainland, isn't it?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 22, 2020, 10:02:10 PM
He could feel her relax, not just physically, either. He didn't really question it, and opted to remain quiet through Melisma's words, closing his eyes as Elora gave him some lovely jaw scratches. His tail gave a pleased swish and he only broke his silence to give out a chortle at Melisma's terminology.

"I must admit, we haven't done much travelling yet," he said, and he finally regarded Melisma with his eyes again.

"The days have been like honey lately, too..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 25, 2020, 08:48:11 PM
Elora felt her face heating again and she gave him a gentle shove for that. "You hush," she muttered, flushed and happy and a little bashful and not at all sure how to deal with any of it in the presence of their new acquaintance.

And acquaintance who seemed to be politely trying to give them some privacy, amusing herself with swimming lazy circles around the pool and dipping her wings in and out of the waterfall.

"Well, I know most mainlanders don't really get the opportunity to come out to the isles," Melisma said eventually, paddling another half circle. She really seemed to be taking advantage of the opportunity to safely get her wings wet. "I apologize for making your trip er...rather more eventful than you probably intended," she added a little sheepishly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on March 25, 2020, 10:28:32 PM
You like hearing it...

It was clear that Merradin was quite open and didn't find any qualms with stating the situation bluntly, if not with some added eloquence.

"Why take a trip if it's not going to be eventful?" Merradin posed, but then he lifted his head to shake a bit of sleepiness off of himself. He watched Melisma swim in circles for a few long seconds.

"Do you spend much time in the towns? I like to visit the mainland cities now and then. There's so many things humans have and do that us dragons never quite get up to," he started.

"Especially all the food, Gods..."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on March 29, 2020, 02:09:19 PM
The words whispered against her mind and she shivered as though he'd dragged his fingers down her back. Her eyes were a little wide; there was no denying it that time, that he was speaking in her mind.

How...how was that even...?

She would have loved to start demanding answers out of him, but she didn't want to do it in front of their new acquaintance. So she settled for shooting him a firm, We are going to have a Talk, later look and settling back against his foreleg.

"Oh, I used to a lot more, when I was younger, and small enough for my father to take me into town without fear of me bumping into things or accidentally setting fire to a hut," Melisma replied with a soft, musical laugh. She paused, letting her head come to rest at the edge of the pool. "After...I spent a bit of time alone. I didn't actually figure out how to do the whole look human thing until relatively recently, but once I did I started visiting the towns again." Her lips pulled back and her eyes narrowed in a dragonish smile. "The people usually know something is different about me, but they don't pry. Some of their parents or grandparents remember or heard stories about me from when I was young, so they know I'm no danger to them."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 06, 2020, 10:41:48 PM
She looked back at him like that and he returned her look with a wide-eyed glance of his own. Oh shit, she definitely heard him!

So he wasn't just hearing things like a nervous new lover, she'd... they'd...

She settled against his leg, and he raised his head to listen to Melisma a little more intently to her answer.

"I didn't have much contact with the humans until I was already on my own. Where I lair, there are dragons that have sided with humans and others that remain wild. There is conflict sometimes, but we both manage," he said, trying to put it lightly that dragons were sometimes sought by humans either to kill or capture.

"And this place? You've lived here a long time, then. Any places a pair of discreet travelers shouldn't leave without seeing?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 07, 2020, 10:43:09 AM
"Oh, lots!" Melly exclaimed, clearly happy to share the beauties of her home. "Most of them further in toward the center of the islands. Places humans can't get to very easily, but--" She cocked her head at them with a glint in her eye. "Not exactly an issue for you two, I assume."

She shuffled her wings in a dragon's shrug and pulled herself a little further out of the water. Her voice sobered a bit and she seemed almost to be thinking aloud as she added, "Of course there are some places the humans made, which are also lovely, but...if you're worried about conflict, perhaps best to visit in a human shape?"

She glanced back to them, but as she said the word "conflict" she sort of seemed to...flinch, almost. Elora straightened up a bit, tracking the ripple of movement down the younger dragon's neck to her flank.

She blinked. That-- those were some wicked scars. She somehow hadn't noticed before; perhaps because Melisma had kept them hidden in the pool or with the fold of her wing? Was that intentional?

The knight glanced away swiftly, not wanting to be rude, but she felt a lurching tug at her heart regardless. The dragoness really did seem so young... Poor little thing...
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on April 22, 2020, 10:54:16 PM
Merradin couldn't help but smile as Melisma perked up, finding her musical voice and boundless energy quite refreshing. The glint in her eye clued him in that maybe she wasn't so naive, but...

...well, he saw the rest.

He was surprised that he'd never seen it before. The only thing he could really do is lower his eyes before finding it in himself to give her a sympathetic look. He knew what he had to do.

He looked down at Elora. He gave a smile that must have just been friendly to Melisma, but maybe Elora'd be able to recognize the mischief he had planned.

"If you would, Ser. I'd like to stand."

Smiling, Merradin lifted up onto his feet and gave an appraising look at the sky. It was nearing afternoon, now. He tucked his wings in and with a quick whirl of storm clouds he was human and leaning against Elora's shoulder. He did Elora the favor of coming out of the transformation dressed, too!

"Well, Elora and I are going to go visit the big city later. Dance if the music's good, take in the local beverages, that kind of thing."

He extended a hand to Melisma.

"Care to join us?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on April 23, 2020, 10:27:16 AM
Elora squeaked quietly--though she would vehemently deny it--as Merradin stood and she had to scramble back a bit to avoid his bulk. She shot him a quick Look, but it faded easily enough into a crooked smile and a roll of her eyes as he was suddenly human once more, propped against her shoulder. She bumped his hip with hers lightly.

The young dragoness watched with half-lidded eyes--though they shot open wide at the offer.

"O-oh, um..." She looked between the two of them, shuffling her wings and front paws. "I...are you sure?"

Even as she spoke, the air around her shimmered once more with that hint of a rainbow, and she melted back into her own more humanoid form, sweeping her wings forward around her body as though to provide a sense of modesty.

Now that she was looking for it, Elora saw that it had, in fact, been an intentional effort to hide the scars on her side. A little less extensive in this form, at least in comparison, but undeniably there.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 14, 2020, 08:47:20 AM
Merradin rippled with satisfaction when Elora did that little bump against his hip, and he gave her a simmering look before he regarded Melisma. The endless colors shimmering from her wings...

It made even a rainbow look bland.

"I'm sure the three of us could get up to some mischief," Merradin added, and he wrapped an arm around Elora's side, hand resting on her hip.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 14, 2020, 09:23:32 AM
Melly beamed. "In that case, I think I'd love to join you," she laughed lightly, eyes glittering nearly as much as the gem in her brow.

"Perhaps not too much mischief," Elora laughed with a dry look at her mate--gods, that still felt weird to say, even in her own mind. Nice, but weird. "We don't want to cause an international incident," she finished wryly.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 31, 2020, 08:25:49 PM
"International incident..." Merradin repeated, chuckling as he gave his head a couple shakes. He answered Elora's dry look with a low-eyed smile of his own."I'll have you know that nobody's ever had to change a map on my behalf," he said, and he jabbed a finger playfully into Elora's shoulder.

He turned and beamed to Melly, and made to step from the clearing that held the grove. He didn't know what had happened to her in the past, but right now he just saw someone who needed a good time.

"It seems my platinum is still good here, so we'll all feast like royalty," he said, stepping partially onto a rock so he could strike a figure.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 31, 2020, 08:46:59 PM
Elora snorted. "Sure, not yet," she quipped back, pinching his side lightly in retaliation.

Melly chuckled softly as she looked between the two of them, absently wrapping a sarong around her hips. The knight shot her a fondly exasperated smile when Merradin struck a pose before rolling her eyes at the other dragon. "Sorry about him. He can just be...like that."

The dragoness giggled and shook her head. "No, no, don't be! It's--it's nice, really. No one's exactly...joked around me in a while," she admitted quietly.

Elora felt that little pang in her chest again and jerked her head toward Merradin as she moved to follow him. "Well, if you're not sick of it by the end of the night, it'll be a damned miracle. C'mon."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 18, 2020, 09:39:22 PM
Merradin was beaming, inside and out. When Elora caught up to him, he paused to lock arms with her and give her a little nudge with his head.

"My brave knight will bail me out if anything happens," he murmured, mostly for Elora's ears but Melisma's would be able to hear it just as well.

Merradin beckoned for Melisma to follow the two of them as he started to walk with Elora. Now that it was approaching midnight, the jungle was a mix of blooming colors washed orange by the setting sun.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 23, 2020, 07:02:31 AM
The knight huffed and rolled her eyes at him, though there was a hint of color in her cheeks. Melly just smiled as she fell in beside and a little behind them. The younger dragon seemed reluctant to encroach too much on their space.

"It really is gorgeous out here," Elora noted as she glanced around. It occurred to her, almost vaguely, just how odd her current situation was: walking between two human-shaped dragons on an island she'd never before have thought she'd see in person. She shook herself, but the feeling lingered a bit.

Melisma made a chirping sound and played absently with the ends of her colorful hair as she nodded, smiling happily. "I've always thought so. I've been to the mainland once or twice, and it's fascinating, of course, but..." She looked around, shrugged, smiled again. "This is home."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 19, 2020, 07:54:20 PM
"So few mountains..." was Merradin's comment. He focused on the walk, on the feeling of Elora on his arm and the pleasant smells of the jungle.

"Oh, you should definitely come visit Ketra if you find the time," Merradin chimed in, looking to Melisma.

"I've spent so much time there over the centuries it's practically my second lair."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 22, 2020, 10:13:02 AM
Melly's eyebrows shifted toward her hairline. "A city?" she repeated, sounding dubious. "Oh, I...I don't know. That's an...awful lot of people."

Elora tilted her head at the younger dragon, tucking herself a little more securely against her mate's side as they walked. She found herself smiling slightly--it was hard to reconcile this shy, fluttering young woman with the word dragon. Merradin at least kept something of the...the aura of the dragon in his more human shape, she supposed, but Melisma was...something else.

It was rather sweet, in a slightly odd way.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on January 25, 2021, 11:04:45 PM
"One step at a time, I suppose," Merradin answered.

He opted to walk in silence until he recognized the outskirts of the port town, and saw a familiar palm tree... that's when he snapped out of his silent thoughts and contemplations about this new dragon. Dragons may look diminutive when they're young, but Merradin could only guess as to what Melisma would look like when she was his age. She already conflicted with much of what he was used to seeing in a dragon, even for a youngling.

"Ah, back again," he started, and then laid a hand on Elora's forearm, wanting her to take the lead on this particular foray.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on January 26, 2021, 01:59:05 PM
Elora cast him a quick, questioning look, but didn't really hesitate as she led them back out from under the shade of the trees.

"Well, I suppose it's quite lucky we ran into you for communication purposes if nothing else," she joked lightly, glancing back at Melisma. "Neither Merradin nor I speak the language."

Melly blinked at her, then laughed, eyes crinkling at the corners and the jewel in the center of her brow glinting subtly. "Oh, I can certainly help with that. I could even teach you a bit, if you want!"

She seemed so enthused with the idea that Elora found herself smiling and nodding automatically, only mildly bewildered. She cut her eyes up to Merradin sidelong and quirked one brow. Were you this energetic at her age?
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on May 14, 2021, 12:34:08 PM
Merradin, always the sucker for an opportunity to delve into his vast memory, merely narrowed his eyes.

Far more.

At Melisma's offer, Merradin just gave a thoughtful tilt to his head. He'd taken to walking just ahead of Elora, mostly to search for the best smelling place in town. A tiny part of him wanted to see how Elora would get along with a dragon that wasn't him.

"All the food words. Maybe a few swears as well," he said with a mischievous look back towards the younger dragon.

"I like to keep my vocabulary practical."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on May 14, 2021, 04:53:10 PM
Elora shivered. It was still so—so surreal, to hear him in her head like that. She knew he couldn't hear her every thought—or at least she didn't think he could—but it was still a hell of an adjustment!

Melly bounced along beside her, humming to herself and giggling at Merradin's request of vocabulary. "I'm sure I can teach that easily enough," she chuckled. "All the important things to go back and impress mainlanders with, huh?"

Elora snorted quietly and smiled at the other woman. Dragon. Dragoness? Whatever. "I'm sure my countrymen will be thrilled," she noted dryly.

Melisma giggled again, then looked between the two of them. "Where exactly are the two of you from, again? Maybe you could teach me some....some Serenian or whatever it is."

Elora chucked. "Maybe Merradin could. I've got Common and some Adelan dialects under my belt, but that's really it."

The colorful little dragon suddenly stumbled, her eyes flashing wide for a moment. She quickly righted herself, chirping a bit too brightly, "Yes, Adela, of course! Where else would dragon knights come from, I suppose."

Elora frowned and cast a quick glance in her mate's direction. The hell do you think that's about?
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on July 05, 2021, 09:53:29 PM
Indeed, Merradin couldn't hear much. It seemed one only heard the other when they made a focused effort on voicing it internally. Either way, he didn't need Elora's voice chiming in through his thoughts to catch that odd, reflexive recoil that went through Melisma just then.

Hunters, perhaps? From Adela?

Catching some of the nervousness in the air (he couldn't help it, his nose picked up the heightened anxiety like it was nothing), he let his pace slow so he could walk alongside the two women.

"Modern Serenian is palatable to the tongue. Fae Serenian... confuses me, that's all I have to comment on the matter," he said, and he would've said more had the bitter, alluring smell of a good drink not caught his nose. He turned almost on a dime, eyes bright like a dog that had smelled a juicy cut of meat.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on July 06, 2021, 02:52:00 PM
Melisma blinked, seemingly taken aback by his sudden switch in attention, but Elora just laughed and rolled her eyes. "It's still rather early for a drink," she reminded her mate, but with no real sting in her voice, just fond exasperation.

Melly chuckled quietly and followed where Merradin was looking with her eyes. "Oh, but have you tried any of the native drinks yet? They make one with this sort of spiky fruit—I can't quite remember the proper name for it, but it's quite sweet until you swallow, then it's almost spicy."

She continued chattering about the different varieties of alcohol available on the islands, not a trace of her earlier shock to be seen. Elora smiled and nodded along with her, but she couldn't keep herself from eyeing the other young woman with occasional concern.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on August 18, 2021, 01:48:44 AM
Just as quickly, Elora's words seemed to snap him back, and he turned to look at her sidelong with an apologetic curve to his eyebrows. He stopped long enough for Elora to catch up and then simply linked his arm with hers and kept going.

"Come to think of it, we've only had the food. We were starving when we arrived in town," Merradin said with a small chuckled. Elora's concern seemed to radiate to him, slowly bleeding through where their arms were linked.

"To be honest, bars are where I go to figure out where I'm going next. I've never been to the isles, so you could say we're in need of a local to guide us around to what's good. And the clothes, we need some clothes so we don't look like tourists" Merradin said, completely glossing over the fact that Elora's lack of wings and Merradin's hiding of his own made them stand out way more than their clothing. It was mostly an excuse to just collect nice things.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on August 18, 2021, 06:20:22 AM
"Oh, I can certainly do that!" Melly beamed and quickened her pace slightly. "I trade with this village a lot, so most of them know me. I don't, ahh..."

She cast her eyes back toward the two of them and furrowed her brow, cocking her head first to one side, then the other. "Well, er...the local fashions are a little more...revealing than what the two of you seem to be used to?" It should probably have been a simple observation, but the ever-present curious lilt to her voice and apparent uncertainty turned it into a question.

Elora pursed her lips. "Wonderful," she muttered, already feeling a blush start to creep up her neck.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 11, 2021, 02:26:54 AM
Merradin chortled at Melisma's commentary over the clothing. Just as Elora's heat started creeping up her neck, Merradin glanced at her as if he could smell nerves in her. He put a hand on the arm she had linked with his as they walked.

"This one's been wearing all of my clothes, it'd be nice to have my own wardrobe again," he said. His voice was a teasing growl but the spoken words concealed another attempt at this new telepathy they'd been brewing up. He turned his head to meet her eyes, narrowing his own meaningfully as he projected.

Only if you want, Storm Rider...

Then suddenly at arm's length from Elora once again, although his hand still held hers. He tapped his chin as he perused the locals. "Hmm, we are rather out of fashion," Merradin said, glancing at two passing Yoreiqi men with bare chests but wrists and waists wrapped in beautiful, light garments that held various tropical shades, and then down at his blue velvet tunic and breeches.

Oh, such nice colors. You wouldn't mind me in an outfit like that, I bet... his mental voice purred.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 11, 2021, 11:44:44 AM
"This one doesn't have many other options in terms of clothing," Elora pointed out with a little chuckle, crinkling her nose at him as he put his hand on her arm.

She shivered slightly when his voice brushed through her mind--she couldn't tell if she was growing used to the sensation or not, but it was definitely something.

She glanced down at their very clearly "mainland" clothes and agreed with another small laugh, "I suppose we are, at that."

Glancing up at Merradin sidelong, she squeezed his hand gently and projected, You are an absolute peacock, do you know that? She let her hand slide down his arm to twine their fingers together and added, I wouldn't mind, but I think I'd prefer you out of that outfit...
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 11, 2021, 07:16:48 PM
"Peacock!" He chortled to himself out loud, eyebrows knit with mirth as he regarded Elora with a growing look of adoration. The words that followed had his eyebrows soften and a small sound rumbled in his chest. Had his horns been exposed, that definitely would have provoked a bolt between them. The slow slide of her hand down his arm had that rumbling growing into something more audible.

"You're incorrigible," he told her, mimicking her cadence when she'd called him that in the past.

He looked back to Melisma, suddenly remembering her.

"Lead the way?"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 11, 2021, 07:59:49 PM
Ohhh, damnit. She was playing with fire--or, well, lightning--and she always seemed to forget that goading him into this particular kind of game was just as likely to bite her as it was him. She could feel that low rumble vibrate from his body into hers where they touched, and it sent a distinctly not cold shiver skittering down her spine.

Melisma's tiny laugh when Merradin seemed to suddenly remember her presence thankfully snapped her out of it, but did nothing to help her sudden blush.

"Well, I could take you some place to get some more local fashions," the younger dragon offered with another chuckle, spinning on her heel to walk backward as she spoke. "Or we could find that drink you were interested in first, it's up to you, really."

Elora, still a little flushed, shrugged as she tried to pull her mind back into more appropriate territory. "I'm not picky--I'm not really used to being a...tourist, I suppose you'd say. I'm content enough just to see the islands, I'm happy to go wherever you'd like." The last was said with a quick glance directed up to her mate, one eyebrow quirked. He was the one who'd convinced her she needed a vacation, after all, she was hardly well-practiced at it.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 12, 2021, 04:42:12 AM
"Let's get dressed up, then!" He answered easily. It was still early in the day for them, and while his bottomless hunger and thirst always called to him he could subside it longer, if only for Elora's sake. In regards to "being a tourist", Merradin could only smile wider.

"I'm something of a professional in the field," he said, putting a hand on his chest.

"Think of the things you'd love to do in a place where nobody would recognize or remember you. All your concerns and stresses are a continent away now, so let your imagination go wild," he said. He took a stronger lead in the walk and led Elora along by an arm.

He couldn't help but think on that dance they shared, back in Ketra.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 12, 2021, 06:14:55 AM
"Come with me, then!" Melly practically sang as she spun to lead them on a meandering route through the little village. "The best tailor in town is just this way--her great-grandmother was friends with my father, so her family knows me. Sort of. Anyway, she's lovely, and she's magic with cloth and dye."

Elora found herself laughing a little helplessly as the two dragons urged her along. She cut a sideways glance up at Merradin, shifting her arm slightly in his grip so she could take his hand and squeeze gently. "Honestly, I'm surprised there's anything left in your imagination to go wild on," she muttered playfully. "I'd think by now you'd have already done just about any crazy thing you can come up with."

Her own thoughts flickered around Ketra--but then steered quickly away. Ketra was home, and always would be, and she had certainly had fun with him before...things went bad. But she didn't want to think about her real life, her responsibilities, not just now.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 17, 2021, 02:54:56 AM
"Mm, I'll think you'll find that my imagination is still quite vivid," he said, unable to keep the pleased growl out of his voice when she took her hand in his and squeezed it. He looked down at her, and dipped his head down. Not for a kiss, but just to tenderly nudge the top of her head with the side of his before they kept walking.

Hearing about Melly's human father again sent a few pangs of sympathy her way, but before he could offer any words about his own they were going around a corner and Merradin could already smell the dyes in the air.

"Excellent. I want to be turning heads for the rest of the trip," he said with a hint of mischief in his voice.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 17, 2021, 06:20:57 AM
Again, peacock, Elora thought at him, crinkling her nose up and returning the little nuzzle he gave her as they walked.

"Well, I think you'll be doing that anyway," Melly chuckled pleasantly, evidently still unaware of the silent communication between her two companions. "The two of you certainly don't look local. But Sahana can at least get you in the proper clothes."

Elora snorted quietly, rolling her eyes at the word "proper"--to her, no one on this island wore anything more than what should have amounted to undergarments--but she was smiling as Melisma and her mate ushered her along into a smallish, rounded building that was mostly open to the air, with only a cloth covering stretching over about half the space. Colorful fabrics draped over every available surface, even hung up on strings crisscrossing the room and overlapping one another.

Her eyes widened a bit. It was a riot of color--she had to blink, like it was a bright light. "Well then."

"Melisma?"

Melly beamed as a woman who looked to be somewhere in her early thirties, with crimson-streaked hair and bright, blue-and-red wings stepped out from behind a rack of jewel-toned cloth wraps and beamed, opening her arms. The dragoness embraced her eagerly, already chattering in Yoreiqi as she gestured toward Merradin and Elora, then around at the clothes. The woman--this must be Sahana--responded just as quickly, smile just as bright, and for a few moments the two women simply gripped each other's hands as they stood in the middle of the little shop and practically spoke over one another in what was clearly an excited chance to catch up.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 19, 2021, 12:38:55 AM
Sweet warmth settled in Merradin's chest when Elora returned his little token of bestial affection and he kept close to her side as they walked. Had he a tail at that moment, it no doubt would have been bumping against Elora's hip.

"What makes us stick out? Is it my accent?" Merradin chortled, letting a proper laugh sweep through him.  His laughter died down as they stepped into the small tailor's shop. The place was so well lit by the natural light and Merradin's eyes were able to take in the veritable kaleidoscope of colors inside. Indeed, his pupils widened as he absorbed all the details, all the swirls.

Merradin couldn't help but smile when Melly re-united with her friend, eyebrows rising curiously as they both just got straight into catching up. With an apologetic brush of his fingers, Merradin parted from Elora to inspect a sheet of cloth that seemed to have every shade of blue imaginable.

"Incredible..." he murmured to himself.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 19, 2021, 08:28:07 AM
"I should've known," Elora chuckled, moving up next to him to take a closer look at the fabric that had caught his attention.

"You like this one?" The Yoreiqi woman turned her attention from Melisma as though she could smell a potential sale--but her eyes were bright and excited as she continued in stilted, heavily accented Common. "Is...good taste, this one."

Melly chuckled and said something to her in rapid-fire Yoreiqi. Sahana seemed to relax, a flash of gratitude over her face, and replied just as quickly. Turning her attention back to the two foreigners, Melisma translated, "She says you can take that down to look at, if you want. And she'd like to show you something specific." The last was said to Elora with a bright glimmer in her eyes that made the knight instinctively nervous.

She had a sudden flashback to being fifteen, with her governess trying to coax her into a skirt and corset. "Oh, err, really, that's--"

"Come on, it'll be fun!"

Melly grabbed her arm excitedly and passed her along to Sahana. Completely bemused, Elora craned her neck around to look at Merradin with wide eyes as the older woman started guiding her through the draping rows of cloth, mouthing, Help!
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 19, 2021, 09:02:19 PM
He could take it down? What a delight! With a giddy smile that could only come from a dragon sampling a new flavor of exquisiteness and extravagance, he coaxed the cloth from its display hanger and into his hands.

"Oh, this is an absolute wonder," he said to himself, only noticing Elora's plight when the knight disappeared from his side. He had spread the cloth and held it up to the light, letting it filter the sunlight and marveling at how light it was but with such strong colors.

He sensed more movement, and broke his gaze from the cloth to see Elora being spirited away into the shop. She asked him for help, and with a distinctly reptilian blink and small smile he merely uttered an amused "Have fun, you two," before he sidestepped closer to Melisma, eager to show her his new obsession, and then yet more cloths that captivated him.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 20, 2021, 05:19:44 AM
Damn overgrown lizard, Elora thought petulantly as she was led away.

Melly giggled lightly and waved before her attention was claimed by Merradin. She grinned, evidently thrilled with how much enjoyment he was getting from her friend's little shop. "I take it you're glad I brought you two here then?" she laughed quietly, passing one hand gently over the fabric and making a small, pleased noise at the feel of it.

Remind me to show you my hoard," she added with another little chuckle. "I have a few of Sahana's pieces. They're more like tapestries though, you don't really wear them."

It didn't take too long for the Yoreiqi tailor to return with Elora, and when she did the knight was blushing crimson in her new ensemble. It at least—at her very firm insistence—covered her breasts, but it felt to her as though it covered little else. The skirt had been wrapped and folded so it hung low in her hips, like Melisma's, and was a shade of deep, midnight blue. Tied loosely over her left hip, the fabric then crossed up her back and over her right shoulder to wrap snugly around her chest, any excess, doubling back to flip and and drape down behind her left shoulder.

Sahana was saying something, clearly very pleased with herself, as she lifted a bit of the excess cloth and held it closer to Elora's face—showing that the fabric was picked through with tiny threads of gold that caught and highlighted the similar flecks in her eyes.

Melly beamed and translated quickly, "She says your eyes are rare—well, rare on the islands—and she knew that fabric would suit you perfectly. She's very pleased, she says it's like it was made for you, and she's happy she finished working on it before you arrived." She paused, listening, then added with a chiming giggle, "She says you should find something silver, jewelry, on the mainland to wear with it. To compliment your hair."

Elora, feeling awkward and exposed but far less hunted than she would have thought, tried to give Sahana a smile as she shifted from foot to foot. "Er, that's...thank you. That's a very nice thought."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 25, 2021, 02:47:09 AM
"It's... I've never seen something quite so exquisite," Merradin said, holding it out so Melly could more easily pass a hand over the fabric. She made a pleased noise, and Merradin mirrored the cadence of the sound, but with his deeper tones.

"Such a lush blue. It's even in my shade," he said, and he let one of his arms become scaly and hands turn to talons. He put the fabric next to him, and Melly would be able to see that it was a near dead-ringer for his own coloration.

Melly offered to show him her hoard, and he was thankful that he was facing away from her, as his eyebrows could have shot into the ceiling with how high they went. Smoothing his expression over, he looked back to her. "That sounds lovely. I'm sure your hoard is very comfortable," he said with a playful glint in his eye. She was young, almost a child by dragon standards, and raised by a human to boot. She didn't know how personal it was for a dragon to let another into their hoard.

Although, with a twinge of sadness, he realized that she hadn't exactly had the chance to show anyone else.

"We'll be in Yoreiq for a week's time or so. We'll have all the time we need to see everything," he said, and then cast his eyes around the shop for another curiosity.

There! The first was simply folded over his arm as he approached a giant sheet that looked like someone had cut a rectangle out of a rainbow. "And this..." Merradin said, letting out a breathless chuckle. He passed a finger along where the red turned into purple, then into blue and green. How had she done it so smoothly? And it was so light!

He repeated this process with several things until he had a sizeable bundle of folded cloths in his arms and he was busy looking over his picks like a very pleased magpie when the rustle of cloth caught his attention. He looked up and saw Elora, his sharp eyes picking up those flecks of gold in the outfit, shimmering with her eyes as she moved from foot to foot. He let Melly and Sahana praise her for a moment, simply appreciating the sight of her before he parted from the cloth.

"I'm sure we can find something for her hair," he said softly, approaching Elora with a calm, inviting energy to him. He raised his hands, as if to preen at her dress, but simply smoothed one over her bare shoulder and used the other to play with some of the excess fabric.

"You make it look good," he said to Elora, meeting her eyes with a lower purr to his voice.

I could pull on this and unwrap you like a gift... came his mental voice, and he let the excess fabric go to simply pop a kiss onto her cheek to contrast his heated thoughts. Then, he turned to the two Yoreiqis, still holding onto Elora's hands and stroking the sides of her hands with his thumbs.

"Can I go next?" he said, looking to Melly with an eager smile.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 25, 2021, 06:39:54 AM
Melly cooed over the shades of blue between his scales and the fabric, her own colorful wings fluttering a bit. She didn't seem to notice any hesitation or surprise on his part at her offer to show them her hoard, just tossed him another of those quick, bright smiles when he said they'd be on the islands for a week.

She stepped back a bit when Elora and Sahana returned, wanting to give the two of them space as she pulled the tailor gently aside; and a good thing, too, it seemed. She may not have been aware of the silent conversation--and was admittedly young and not well-versed in the behaviors of her own species--but even she could read some of the intent in Merradin's body language when he approached his mate.

Elora went still under his touch--not the kind of automatic, tense wariness she sometimes got when he touched her without her expecting it, but rather something warm and shivery that seemed to surge to meet his voice in her mind.

Still blushing, she tipped her head slightly to the side and raised one eyebrow at him as he pulled back from kissing her cheek. Careful, Lightning Eater. You tug too hard and that's exactly what you'll be doing--I have no idea how she even got this thing to stay on me.

Blissfully oblivious to the silent conversation, Melly beamed in response to Merradin's question and nodded quickly. "Of course! Though I fear you may have to pick just one or two of those to start with, if you want to emulate island fashion," she added with a chuckle, nodding to the pile of fabric in his arms--and then quickly turning to Sahana to translate the request.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 30, 2021, 08:37:52 PM
At Elora's affirmation that indeed, the garment could come off with just a tug, Elaros' cheeks warmed considerably and he just smoothed a hand along her shoulder. A ripple of anticipation shot through him involuntarily, but he reigned in his potent instincts and instead turned to face Melly with a smile, hoping the young dragoness could take his mind off of the growing warmth in his chest.

She succeeded, but not in a way he wanted. Merradin's features fell a little, and he looked to Sahana, then Melly.

"I have to pick?" he said, sounding just a little bit like a spoiled child and not like a dragon that had been around longer than the current dynasty ruling Adela's throne.

He looked down at the riot of colors in his arms, and set the bundle down onto a seat. After a moment looking down at it, he instead looked back to Sahana, speaking directly to her and expecting Melly to translate.

"Do... do you have anything that goes with this?" He started, and he held his hands out to Sehana, letting his human disguise fall away and revealing the deep sky-blue scales and black talons of his reptilian limbs. His shirt fluttered up on his back as he let his wings out and an electric crackle filled the room for just a moment. His dark horns sprouted up, sweeping back across his head with a few bright crackles of lightning jumping between them for a moment, framed by his blackish-grey hair reminiscent of a storm cloud.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on October 31, 2021, 07:00:39 AM
Elora seemed entirely unmoved by Merradin's distress, rolling her eyes fondly, but Melly hurried to reassure, "I did say to start."

Sahana, despite a lack of direct translation, seemed to understand that basics of what was happening and smiled brightly, starting to say something to the younger dragon before Merradin held out his hands to her and let scales ripple out over his skin. The Yoreiqi woman's eyes widened and she took a step back, a flicker of fear in her expression before she looked to Melisma.

Without thinking, Elora found herself moving forward, placing herself partially between Merradin and the two women. Immediately, Sahan's expression softened--she actually chuckled, murmuring something that Melly quickly translated as, "She says it's, ah...it's unusual to see the maiden defending the dragon." Flicking her eyes up to Merradin's, she added as Sahana made a wide gesture with her hands before disappearing back into the riot of fabrics, "She's going to find something, shouldn't take but a few minutes."

Elora, who had gone a little red, cleared her throat and tried to shuffle to she side to give Merradin more space. "I thought you said these people were used to dragons?"

Melly shrugged a little apologetically. "They're used to me, but I'm not exactly...typical." She smiled brightly and continued quickly, "She was just a little nervous for a moment, she's fine now."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on October 31, 2021, 10:20:48 PM
Sahana's comment about the maiden defending the dragon elicited a pleased smile on Merradin's face, and he nodded gently to agree with her. As Elora shuffled aside, embarrassed by her protective instincts, Merradin simply approached and gave the side of her neck an appreciative nuzzle.

"It's partly my fault, me and my flair for the dramatic," he said, face still turned into Elora's neck. One of his wings went to her back and he held onto her rather tenderly. His tail started to make pleased little waves.

"Although this one is hardly a maiden," he said in a lower tone, more to Elora than to Melly herself as a little color entered his cheeks and he popped a kiss onto Elora's temple.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 01, 2021, 06:46:10 AM
A faint shiver rippled through her when Merradin came in close behind her and nuzzled into her neck, making her flush a little darker. Still, she tilted her head slightly to accommodate him, not noticing the way Melly glanced at them and then quickly away again with a wry, blushy smile.

Getting the feeling this was distinctly not a moment to intrude on, the younger dragon busied herself with examining a sheet of thin fabric that moved like liquid silk as she drew it through her fingers.

Elora felt her skin heat slightly as Merradin teased in her ear; she tried to shrug it off with a crooked smile flashed over her shoulder at him. "Haven't been for quite a while, and I make no apologies for it," she sniffed.

Which was about the moment Sahana reappeared, a bundle of fabric in her arms, and started speaking quickly to Melly as she approached and let it unfurl, either ignoring or not noticing how close Elora and Merradin were now standing.

The cloth was a gradient of dark blues, each shade bleeding into the next in a rippling, uneven pattern that make it look like a shifting night sky when Sahana shook the fabric out delicately. Melly listened, then translated, "She says she has others that you might like, some that are...gods, how would you say it? Flashier. But she thought you might like to see this one first. And..."

She trailed off as Sahana continued speaking, reaching into the fold of her own wrapped skirt to retrieve something. What she held out to them on an open palm with a pleased smile was a long, thin cord of braided golden thread.

Melly chuckled quietly. "Ah, that's some of what was left over from making Elora's ha'arin. Er, dress. She says it's...surprisingly strong. Would make for good, um..." She paused, lips pursed. "I'm sorry, there's not a good translation for it. There's this... Some Yoreiqi fashion, ah, accessories of sorts...no, that's not quite right, um...pieces, I suppose, that partners sometimes choose to compliment each other, and each will wear a half of the set." She shrugged. "Monogamy is hardly the done thing on the islands, but there are certainly pairs who have lifelong partnerships."

Elora blinked at the offered cord. "Oh. Ah. That's...very nice of her."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 03, 2021, 10:23:02 AM
There was something distinct about Merradin's satisfaction with Melly's reaction. Watching the young dragoness turn away with a blush on her cheeks seemed to provoke him somehow, and he'd started to wrap his arms around Elora's waist, keeping his hands on the fabric so he wouldn't tease the poor knight too much.

When Sahana reappeared, Merradin reluctantly parted from Elora so he could pay attention, finding it far too difficult to do so otherwise. The rippling dark blue cloth caught his attention and he detached himself from Elora's side to approach, face full of wonder.

Of particular interest was the gold thread, which he accepted once Sahana had held it out to them. Melly, to her credit, was a dragon who seemed to value art and aesthetic over anything else, but Merradin was the picture of a mainland dragon as he drew wide eyes over the golden sheen of the threads.

A short sniff of the air, and his pleased smile grew further. He turned to Elora, holding the loop of thread up next to her head, using her eyes to gauge just how golden the thread was.

"It's perfect," he said in disbelief, and he dipped his hand back down to hold it towards Sahana, returning it to her. "Almost pure, too." He looked down at the Yoreiqi woman and his wings tucked in tighter to his back. He was conscious that the people of Yoreiq used their wings for body language just as much as any other part of their bodies, so he didn't want to mix any signals in that regard. Still, he addressed Sahana directly, confident Melly would translate.

"I'd rather start with the simple piece, gold thread and all. Something I can let my wings out in," he said, then he dipped closer to Melly to add something else in a lower voice.

"She impresses me. If I like the others, I might just buy half the store."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 03, 2021, 12:56:31 PM
When he tried to hand the thread back, Sahana curled his fingers around it and patted the back of his hand, smiling. Melly felt confident she didn't need to translate that--it was a gift.

She chuckled quietly as she relayed Merradin's words to the tailor, then added to him under her breath, "With mainland gold, she'd be set at the ports for a month or so."

She tilted her head and listened as Sahana started answering the older dragon, gesturing expressively, and translated while she spoke, "There's more privacy in the back, if you like, or she can show you the appropriate styles here. She knows mainlanders are sometimes more finicky about that sort of thing."

Elora huffed quietly behind them, remembering how insistent she'd had to be about the strip of fabric covering her breasts when the tailor had dressed her. "You don't say."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 05, 2021, 05:23:38 PM
When it became clear that the gold thread was a gift, Merradin's eyes went a little wider and he made sure to delicately set it down alongside the sections of cloth he'd selected. He had to break away from Elora to do so, but he was silently thankful. His heat had been rising within him and he found himself needing a reprieve.

"Gold?" Merradin said as he looked back to Melisma, smile growing quite like that of a very pleased peacock. he chuckled and started to shift his vest off of his shoulders.

"Here is fine," he said, never shy about himself, he said, and he let it flutter down to his elbows so his wings could spread more fully.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 05, 2021, 05:59:58 PM
Sahana beamed and clapped her hands together again before moving forward to begin showing him how to drape the fabrics around his body in a handful of different styles common to the islands.

Elora, for her part, found herself blushing—illogically, considering neither Melisma nor Sahana seemed bothered by the situation, and it wasn't as though Merradin was showing anything she hadn't seen before—and she shuffled back a few steps to give them room. She forced herself to look at some of the fabrics around them rather than the expanse of skin suddenly visible.

Dear gods. She needed to get ahold of herself.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 09, 2021, 03:09:48 AM
Merradin couldn't help but to chuckle lightly at Elora's prudishness, amused that he could slay the formidable knight with the mere sight of his bare torso. It was fortunate then for her that she had her back turned when he finished undressing and submitted himself to Sahana's preening fingers and enthusiastic gestures.

Soon, the wondrous night-sky garment was draped around Elaros and he settled on an orientation. It cloaked his shoulders and upper chest, leaving the rest of his torso open to the air. The cloth looped back and came to rest low on his hips, widening back out again to offer him minimal modesty in the form of a knee-length section clipped over one side of his hip but not the other, leaving a sensual tilt to the fabric. The back was open, of course, to allow for future usage of his wings. The excess was wrapped around his forearms, trailing back towards the main body of the garment like the trailing whisps behind a dark cloud.

Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 09, 2021, 06:54:03 AM
Elora had enough training to be able to have a vague sense of the process just by keeping a lookout from the corner of her eye. When Merradin was dressed, she turned back to the little group and gave him a small smile.

“It looks good,” she murmured, taking a step toward him and automatically reaching out to run her fingertips over the fabric where it crossed his chest, following the line of it down to his hip. “Suits you.”

“It does,” Melisma chirped happily, reminding Elora that she was actually there. She startled a bit and snatched her hand back, color rising in her cheeks, but neither Melly nor Sahana seemed to notice. Or if they did, they were tactful enough not to say anything.

Sahana gestured widely, once again using her heavily accented Common rather than letting Melly translate as she tipped her head to the side to look Merradin up and down. “You like it? Trade for it?”
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on November 29, 2021, 03:05:01 AM
Merradin's eyes smoldered as Elora approached, thrilled that she found how it fit him as irresistible as he'd found hers. He did his absolute best not to purr as her fingers traced down low, eyes narrowing as she dared to go low.

When Melisma chirped in, Elora wasn't the only one who had started slightly, as Merradin was about to start leaning into the hand on his hip.

Merradin was thankful for Sehana and her wide gestures, and was able to focus less on the dusting of color on his own cheeks.

"In a heartbeat," he said, and motioned to himself.

"This one, definitely. And... " he trailed off as he looked back to the sections of cloth he'd picked out. Gauging just how much could fit in the saddlebag, and so on.

From his picks, he procured a section of nearly air-thin cloth with silvery glitters in it, usable as a shawl or cloak, as well as (after another thoughtful pause) a very large cloud white sheet suitable for draping over something at home or as a blanket.

"These for sure, and I don't mind trying out those other outfit ideas you had," he said, preening at his new outfit quite like a peacock.
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on November 29, 2021, 10:15:08 AM
Elora cleared her throat quietly as she stepped away from him, hoping her face wasn't as red as it felt, and watched with some amusement as Sahana enthusiastically began wrapping up the bundled of fabric Merradin had indicated and chattering away at him in Common--now that they were specifically talking business, she seemed to have the proper vocabulary to make do.

Melisma chuckled quietly and moved up beside the knight as she cocked her head at her friend and the other dragon. "It seems you're quite pleased to submit yourself to Sahana's care a while longer," she noted with a quick smile at Merradin, then added, "Would you mind terribly if I stole your mate for a few moments?"

That made Elora start, glancing over at the other young woman with her eyebrows raised. "To do what?"

Melly just grinned at her, eyes sparkling happily. "You'll see!"
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DaGlobster on December 11, 2021, 09:52:01 PM
"Just for a while," Merradin confirmed, passing his fingers along the lines of cloud-light fabric that covered him. His eyes were mostly on the colorful source of energy and sound that was Sahana. Something about her enthusiasm was contagious and Merradin could only smile as she got to work bundling up his picks, chattering all the way.

"It's not often I meet a clothier that knows how to treat me," he continued. With a gentle pull, he undid most of the garment so that he could get into the next one.

He shot a glance back towards Elora and Melisma, and merely smiled. He was facing Sahana, so the two of them would get a nice view of Merradin's back and rear as he bared himself shamelessly again.

"Have fun you two, I think I'll let this one spoil me for a little longer."
Title: Re: Dealing with Dragons (Glob!) [M]
Post by: DragonSong on December 22, 2021, 12:10:42 PM
Elora snorted. "You are utterly shameless," she informed her mate briskly, but she was smiling a bit as she said it. Melisma laughed, waving farewell to Sahana with another rapid burst of Yoreiqi before she grabbed Elora's arm and towed her back out of the shop.

"Just for a while" turned into nearly two hours—and by the time the younger dragon had returned with the knight in tow, Elora was shifting uncomfortably and tugging absently at the blue fabric twisting around her body. She honestly had no idea where it was Melisma had disappeared to after dragging her back and forth through the port town looking for something—that had been roughly the first hour—but when she had returned, it had been with..."gifts".

"I look like a walking chandelier," Elora grumbled, fiddling with the hem of her wrap for the umpteenth time.

"You look lovely," Melisma retorted, positively beaming. The dragon had somehow retrieved a collection of colored-glass faux gems—all in shades of blue and green, with a few sparkling bits of gold—and had spent what Elora considered to be an exorbitant amount of time fastening them in swirling, spiraled patterns over Sahana's cloth. The end result was something like an artist's vaguely over ambitious attempt at painting a night sky in nothing but jewel tones. Elora was fairly convinced that magic of some sort had been involved, as Melisma claimed happily that they would be easy enough to remove should she wish.

"Was all this really necessary?" Elora asked with a faint sense of baffled futility. She wasn't used to people being so...so friendly. For no discernible reason. The poor thing must have truly been starved for companionship, she supposed.

"It was," Melly chirped happily in response, cheerfully oblivious to Elora's spinning thoughts. "You know dragons like a bit of shine."

"This is not a bit of shine," she protested with a laugh. "And it's not as though I'm trying to seduce Merradin, you know. We're already—"

"We're back!" Melisma called, ushering Elora back into the maze of fluttering fabric that made up Sahana's shop.