21 September 2037
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Daniel McMurran John Crowley Jessica Crowley Metaron Anheles Demitrius Larson Eponine Larson Othello Larson Vladimer McMurran
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Eeolmar Price Elijah McMurran Quint Adam Crowley Nicholas Romolo Trajedie Remourna Joel Marsetti

Daniel: Pooor J.N.
John: Sorry for trying to strong-arm your ancestor's parents.
Daniel: Hehehehe… Soul looks a lot paler.
John: Doesn't look good himself. Certainly doesn't have a soul sickness, though. So, did you hear?
Daniel: What?
John: You're not bound to Elijah anymore.
Daniel: Oh, yeah… That's some tough breaks.
John: You just get to be bound to me.
Daniel: Not too good for you.
John: I don't see a problem with it.
Daniel: Then I won't point it out.
John: What, going to Heaven the same time I do, if I do?
Daniel: No… I think you've got enough on your plate without having to worry about what happens after you die.
John: That just entirely depends on what the afterlife really is like.
Daniel: Well, this is one option. The others are Hell and Heaven.
John: I'm not going to live forever, so you'll see one of them. I can't see you going to Hell, though.
Daniel: I don't know why you would either.
John: I'm not exactly feeling like Heaven material right now.
Daniel: Laughs. You have balls of steel. I wouldn't personally stand in front of a hurricane and ask it what it could do for me.
John: Gall doesn't really count as a virtue.
Daniel: It should. Laughs.
John: Sorry to ruin your perception of how manly I am, but I was frightened of him.
Daniel: Yeah, but you didn't show it. It is weird that you can trace me all the way back to that.
John: It is. I'm dumb enough to face the same hurricane with a request, too.
Daniel: Too bad I got freaky chick's healing power instead of all the elements at my control… Laughs. What? Are you gonna bait him again? You've got a death wish.
John: I'm not going to bait him.
Daniel: What're you going to do?
John: Beg.
Daniel: Laughs.
John: Don't mistake me, I do realize what I did was wrong and despicable.
Daniel: Yeah, both Jessica and Quint were kind enough to tell you that.
John: I knew it myself too.
Daniel: Well, you're human. Everyone seems to forget that… Well, maybe not Quint.
John: Maybe that's the problem. Shrugs.
Daniel: Jessica's no sugar fairy herself.
John: So you know what she said, then?
Daniel: Yeah, I was watching.
John: I see.
Daniel: She can press those buttons if she wants to.
John: Yes, she can.
Daniel: Dunno why you're surprised.
John: I'm not.
Daniel: I've always known Jessica was evil. Laughs.
John: More ironies… I'm the asshole, but I would never truly intend to harm someone I love in that fashion.
Daniel: I didn't say she intended to harm you, she was just saying she didn't want you to become an asshole like Price… I think she was more getting at that she didn't want you to become an asshole like you used to be.
John: I don't plan on it. I'm just at the end of my rope, so to speak.
Daniel: Well, she is too, so you're both going to have to forgive each other.
John: I've already done so. I don't hold it against her.
Daniel: I at least appreciate what you're doing for me… More for Adam. Probably solely for Adam but sort of indirectly related to me.
John: Not solely for Adam, Daniel. For you, too.
Daniel: 'Cause I'll cease to exist if Fate dies and you won't have anyone to talk to at night.
John: Letting Fate die was never an option for me.
Daniel: That's good. Aren't you meeting Mephistopheles today?
John: I am.
Daniel: Try and not maim him
John: Who are you, my mom?
Daniel: Nooo… Your mom was so nice.
John: I know. Regardless, you've been reminding me every time Price is mentioned. I have a nice, deep scar to remind me.
Daniel: Well I know I would probably try to maim him if the guy wanted my grandson and was responsible for my dying son… Well, he is… but I'm dead.
John: I don't want to maim him, Daniel. I want to kill him slowly with my bare hands. That just isn't in the cards.
Daniel: You wanna punch him in the nose and show him who's boss.
John: If you want to be specific, I would squeeze his throat until it collapsed and his body stopped twitching.
Daniel: You're so scary.
John: I don't enjoy the fact.
Daniel: Izzy thinks so.
John: I don't blame him.
Daniel: 'Cause if it was him instead of Vladimer, you'd be like, "Sure, have him!"
John: …Sighs. …No. It's one thing to suggest it… I don't think I could bring myself to really do it, for all my talk.
Daniel: Aww.

Jessica: Shaking John.
John: It's why I- Awakens. A light sleeper.
Jessica: John… Metaron's outside the door. Just tell her… Just tell her… um… You're my regent. Can't think of the correct term. Lies back down.
John: Nods, and climbs out of bed. Gets dressed.
Jessica: Asleep again.
John: Out the door he goes, closing it behind him.

Metaron: Good afternoon.
John: Good afternoon. Jessica is indisposed… I will be acting as her proxy.
Metaron: …Alright.
John: …Sorry for the inconvenience.
Metaron: And you will be acting on her or Adam's wishes and not your own, correct?
John: That is correct. The trade is going as it was discussed.
Metaron: Looks a bit surprised. Lady Jessica has agreed to it?
John: There isn't any other option, unfortunately.
Metaron: Nods. Lucia and I have agreed upon it as well. Very well. I will get to opening up communication with Price. Please gather Vladimer and a few trusted individuals.
John: Very well. Bows slightly, out of respect. I will get to that now. Takes his leave to do so.
Metaron: Bows back and goes to her duties.

Demi: Out playing with his kids.
John: Outside he goes.
Eponine: Laying on her stomach, making a chain of flowers. Already has one on her head and around her neck.
Othello & Luke: Chasing each other around in some sort of game.
John: I'd like to do that, too.
Demi: Sitting near Eponine, talking with her. Has a flower chain on his head and around his neck, too.
John: Adorable. Allow me to ruin it. Approaches Demi. Doesn't look like he bears good news, as usual.
Demi: Looks behind him. Oh, hello Sir Crowley.
Eponine: Hullo Sir Crowley
John: Greetings.
Eponine: Do you want a flower chain?
John: …That would be nice.
Eponine: This one's for you, then.
John: I'll looking forward to having it when I return.
Eponine: I'm almost done…
John: Not looking too well still. Not even in his waking moments. …Very well then.
Demi: How's the situation with Elijah?
John: It could very well be drawing to a close.
Demi: Blinks. What's the plan?
John: We're complying on the condition they relinquish the part of Fate's soul they have.
Demi: Are you giving him Vladimer…?
John: We are.
Demi: …I see.
John: …I wish there was another way.
Demi: Nods. I'm sorry it has to be this way.
John: I am, too.
Demi: Looks at his own daughter and strokes her hair…
John: …I am here to request your presence at the exchange.
Demi: Hm? When will the exchange be?
John: That will be left in Metaron's hands. I am only gathering capable individuals in case of duplicity.
Demi: Alright. It would be my pleasure to assist you.
John: Thank you.
Demi: Othello! Luke! Come back inside.
Othello: Daaad…
Demi: It's not safe outside by yourselves. You can play inside. Come on. Stands up himself.
Othello: Grumbles as he walks up. Aidae's always inside.
Eponine: Here. Finished with the chain. You hafta wear it, though. It's good luck.
John: Of course… I could use some. Does indeed double-wrap it around his wrist.
Demi: Herds his kids inside. I need to get ready… Where should I meet you?
John: The front gate should suffice.
Demi: Alright, I'll see you soon. Bows his head respectfully and off he goes with three children in his wake.
John: Who else to bring with… Demi freaking killed Lucifer. Should be enough, I think.


Metaron: Steps into Lucifer's Tomb… It's dark and dank with a few torches flickering around. A table is in the middle of a spacious room with a stone coffin on it, encrusted with dried blood.
John: Very accommodating. Doesn't look unwell anymore, at least. Once more, composed and calm. Not about to look weak right now.
Metaron: Price isn't here yet… Takes a seat at the table uneasily.
Vladora: Despite wanting to be brave… this is pretty scary.
John: My poor grandchild.
Vladora: Clings to John's hand.
John: Keeps him close. At least to him I'm the best knight ever. I don't feel like it.
Lucia: Shivers a bit, standing close to Belial.
Demi & Daphne: Standing, swords out.
John: Sword drawn in the hand that isn't occupied by Vladora. Such an intimidating sight. Sword hand is also, unfortunately, his flower wreath hand.
Price: Doors open and he enters with quite the entourage, including bodyguards, slaves, and Elijah. A tall man, with longish black hair and blue eyes. Does actually look like an older version of Izzy.
John: How pleasant.
Price: Looks around at them all. How nice of you all to come. Such a pleasant day out, is it not? Takes a seat. Everyone else in is entourage continues standing. My, my, where is our Regent?
John: Glances to Metaron out of the corner of his eye. Not sure if he's supposed to step forward or if she wishes to do the talking.
Metaron: Gives John a look that says, "Be careful with your words." Nods to him. Since Price addressed his demands to Adam and you're filling proxy, it's you who must speak for him.
John: Adam is currently indisposed. I am acting as his proxy.
Price: Oh, really? What a shame… I was looking forward to seeing him again.
John: If we may, we should get to the business at hand.
Price: Chuckles a bit. As you wish.
John: We've brought Vladimer.
Price: Smiles. So you've agreed to my conditions, then?
John: We would like to add a condition of our own.
Price: Eyebrows raise. And what's that?
John: The part of Fate's soul you have separated from Elijah as well.
Price: …Removes a small vial from his pocket. You want this? Tosses it in the air and catches it.
John: Correct.
Price: Pray tell, why would you want this?
Metaron: Eyes dart to John, giving him the same look.
John: Difficult to think of a reason or which to use, really. Lie and tell him it is merely valuable or be honest and tell him that it is needed to keep Fate alive?
Price: Continues tossing and catching it.
John: To even the deal.
Price: Well… Continues tossing and catching it. It's of no use to me…
John: Then are we at an agreement?
Price: Yes. I suppose that's fair. Sets the vial down, smirking.
John: It's difficult to be civil. Very well, then. At least I don't think that he would try duplicity. We kind of outgun him, so to speak.
Price: Passes the vial across the table to John. Then let the exchange be made.
John: Sheathes his sword and takes the vial. The exchange of Vladimer and Elijah should be made at the same time, don't you agree?
Price: Of course.
Elijah: Looking at John, absolutely horrified.
John: Hate me, Elijah. I deserve that at the least. Begins to step forward, leading Vladora, only pausing momentarily to make sure the same is being done to Elijah.
Elijah: Indeed being brought forward by a Demon. H-Have you all gone mad?! Have you lost your minds?!
John: Stares forward, not looking to Elijah as he passes with Vladora.
Elijah: No!!! Please God, no!!! How can you?! H-How…?
Demon: Takes Vladora's arm.
Price: Looking quite amused.
John: Kneels down for a moment, whispering something very, very quietly in his ear. …Braver than Aroda. Just for his ears only. May God forgive me.
Elijah: Struggling violently. The Demon still has his arm.
Vladora: Nods, looking quite scared…
John: …Just one last thing. …I love you… And slowly, reluctantly relinquishes him.
Demon: Relinquishes Elijah.
Demi: Holds his sword to Elijah.
John: That is why I brought you. How sinister the mind of man.
Elijah: Stares at Demi in horror. D-Damn you all!
John: Turns on his heel and returns to the others. Turns once more. Our business is concluded, then.
Price: Thank you for your time. Picks a trembling Vladora up.
John: Nods slightly.
Demi: Elijah, move. Prods the blade into his back.
Elijah: Has to move at that. Tears, breathing fast… Looks like he's losing it. V-Vladora!
John: Follows the leaving party.
Metaron, Lucia, Belial, Daphne, & Elementals: Head out with Demi prodding Elijah along.
Demons: Leave.

Elijah: Y-You're all monsters! Every last one of you!
John: I am. No more facade of calmness and control. Slumps a little, looking utterly defeated.
Metaron: We are, Elijah.
Lucia & Belial: Nod sadly.
Elijah: Y-You're all c-crazy… How could you? Tears.
Metaron: It's for the greater good.
Elijah: Fuck the greater good! That's my son, Goddammit!
Metaron: And we'll try to get him back as soon as possible.
John: …We will.
Elijah: Y-You… Just sobs, shaking badly.
John: …I'm sorry, Elijah.
Metaron: You can cry and scream and damn us to Hell and call us monsters all you want, but it won't bring your son back. If we hadn't given him Vladimer, it would have incited a war. A war we're not ready for, in which many lives would be lost and if we had not given him Vladimer, your younger brother would be dead in days as well as Fate and the power of the Uray and I know not what else.
John: It would be nice to just go back now. I need my wife.
Metaron: We may be monsters, but we're trying to save the greatest number of people. We're trying to hold off this war until we're ready for it, so it will be a success and all of Atlantis can live in peace again. If you think this wasn't a painful decision for all involved, think again. Your father especially. Don't be selfish. Help us and we'll do our damned best to get your son back in one piece when we're ready for the consequences of that action. Gets out the potions back to Atlantis.
John: Nods in agreement to her words. At the very least, he tries to meet Elijah's eyes.
Elijah: Wishes her words weren't logical. Still looking horrified… but mostly heartbroken.
Metaron: Hands the potions out.
John: Takes his.
Everyone Else: Take theirs.

Quint: The soul, please.
John: …Of course.
Quint: Takes it…
John: …Slowly sinking to his knees…
Quint: Raises an eyebrow… Sniffs. Well… Looks around. It's not so bad here. I think I'll visit again in nine months or so. Did you drop something?
John: Shaking slightly. …Does… that mean…?
Quint: Yes but I'm doing it for Fate's reincarnation and this young man here, who lost his son. It'd be a shame for him to lose his mother too.
John: …It is for them I would want it done… Regardless… you have my deepest thanks…
Quint: Thank you for saving my son. Good-bye. He, Ice, and Essence disappear just as suddenly as they arrived.
John: Remains on the ground on his knees.
Metaron: You did a good thing, John. We Angels are departing. Farewell.
John: …Farewell.
Angels and Demon: Leave, giving John sympathetic looks.
Elijah: …To his own knees he goes and… gives John a hug.
John: Very slow to react, as if he'd gone numb for a moment and wasn't even aware of the hug, but is soon hugging Elijah back.
Demi: Departs silently, taking this as a sign that Elijah won't do anything stupid now.
John: …Elijah… I'm so sorry…
Elijah: It's… It's not okay but… I… understand… why you did it… I know… I know you… wouldn't… without a… reason.
John: …Elijah… There's something I should tell you…
Elijah: Pulls away to look at his father… still looking heartbroken… as though he'll never be happy again…
John: …Your mother… Sighs… He may not look as bad as Elijah, but he's suffering as well. …She was going to die soon…
Elijah: Stares. W-What?!
John: She was poisoned… back long ago, when she was returning from Malais, the same time when Katen was…
Elijah: S-She's going to die… Sniffs. More tears stream down his cheeks. Doesn't know how things could get much worse.
John: …If Essence can help her… she won't…
Elijah: …Essence?
John: …I tried to… coerce them into healing Jessica… but they couldn't… it would have killed our child.
Elijah: But Mom's gonna be okay, right?
John: …If Essence can help her…
Elijah: …I hope it can… Sighs. I-I… I'm going to my room. I need some time alone… Aidae's alright, isn't she?
John: She locked herself in her room…
Elijah: I'll check on her… Gives his father a hug, gets up, and walks off.
John: Returns the hug while it lasts, then gets to his feet to go to the infirmary.

Adam: Eyes open presently and sits up.
Nick: Oh good. You're awake.
Adam: Blinks. What happened…?
Nick: A whole novel.
Trajedie: You're awake!
Joel: Someone should write a book of it. Make a fortune.
Nick: Hmm….
Adam: Smiles at Trajedie and holds his arms out to her, still looking confused, since last he remembered, he was in his office.
Trajedie: Hugs him as tight as she can… Which isn't very tight, really.
Adam: Hugs back, giving her a kiss on the cheek and stroking her hair. Sorry for worrying you…
Nick: She didn't want to leave your side. It was all very tiresome… Some people call it 'romantic'.
Trajedie: Too glad to be embarrassed.
Joel: Jealous much?
Nick: Hm.
Adam: Please… Tell me what happened, Dr. Romolo.
Joel: This'll be a story to tell to the people at my wife's mixers. Too bad no one would believe me.
Nick: Well, your father carried you in here, which was a blow to my very being, let me tell you. Anyway, I checked you out and there was nothing wrong with you except that you were unconscious, but neither Joel nor I could find the cause so we took a blood test and went to the lab to study it. I think something happened while we were in the lab… Trajedie will have to relate it to you. If you will, Trajedie.
Joel: I'd just spice it up a bit, vis-a-vis, switch places with John.
Trajedie: …Oh… um… These people arrived… There was Quint, Essence, and Ice… and they were talking to John about how they were there for Fate's soul…
Nick: I saw that, Trajedie. Didn't something happen while we were out of the room?
Trajedie: Wait…
Nick: …Yes?
Trajedie: Adam brought someone here.
Adam: Blinks at Trajedie. Wasn't I unconscious?
Trajedie: Well… Yes… but… you sat up… and grabbed a book…
Adam: Blinks. This sounds familiar.
Trajedie: And… John spoke to the person who appeared… and he told him that his soul was broken… That Eeolmar had taken it… but from Elijah.
Adam: Who was the person…? My… My biological father?
Trajedie: …He looked like it… but… I don't.. know… He said his parents would help John… and they arrived afterwards…
Adam: Nods.
Nick: Would you say it was Fate, then?
Trajedie: Nods. …And… John has some of Fate in him.
Adam: I did notice… a sense of… Well… I'm not sure what… in my dad.
Nick: So, yes… Fate's parents and wife arrived.
Joel: …Must say that it was rather interesting, at least.
Nick: Nods. And like Trajedie said… they were the Elementals, Quintessence and Ice.
Trajedie: Nods as well.
Nick: And, um… They argued a lot… About how they were going to get Fate's soul from Price. Then a letter came from Price to you and your father opened it and he said it said that Price wanted Vladimer in exchange for Elijah and the Elementals said that they didn't care about that, they just wanted Fate's soul back and they were neutral about the Demon war and wouldn't help out or anything. So then the Queen of Angels arrived and your father left with her to go see your mother… In which case, I'm not really sure what happened. Well, I made the Elementals tea… They weren't very friendly.
Joel: Especially the Quint of essence.
Nick: Nods. Indeed. Your father finally came back, like… hours and hours later and said that they had agreed to give Vladimer to Price. Then he got all up in Quint's business and that's when things got really interesting. Your dad said the Elementals weren't pulling their weight while he was doing all the work, so they owed him something and Quint was like, "I don't owe you anything 'cause unless you get Fate's soul back, your son will die" and well, um…
Trajedie: Was dismissed before all of this. All news to her.
Nick: …Your father said he didn't care. He said he wanted your mother to be cured of her Demon scar and Essence was all up on that and so they left. Anyway, the Elementals came back and I didn't ask too many questions… Then your father came back to bait Quint some more because he wanted Quint to do something for him, since apparently Essence couldn't heal your mom. Then Quint got really pissed and took out his big sword but your dad wasn't phased a bit and Quint was like, "No matter how the wind will blow, the mountain will not bow to it." So your father changed his mind rather than meeting his untimely demise and having Quint level the castle and Quint said he was a selfish conniving manipulative bastard and he wouldn't do a thing for him and your dad said he was just bluffing and Quint said if your dad had been nicer, he would have helped him out. Then your dad was all doting on you because he was lying about not loving you because he didn't want your mom to die. Sighs. So then he went to bed. The end.
Adam: …My mom's going to die…?
Nick: Um… I'm sorry.
Adam: …Hangs his head down to cry.
Trajedie: Hugs him tighter, frowning sadly. Adam…
Adam: Hugs her back, shaking and cries onto her shoulder.
Nick: Well that's depressing.
Joel: Gee, that was handled with all the subtly of a gang bang.
Trajedie: Not sure what to say or do. Kinda angry at Adam's dad and Nick, too.
Adam: Sobs.
John: Enters the infirmary. …Adam… You're awake…
Adam: Looks up from Trajedie's shoulder to his father, eyes and face red.
John: …I'm sorry, Adam… We didn't have a choice… Thinking he's crying about Vladimer.
Adam: Looks confused. Swallows and wipes away tears, lips trembling.
Trajedie: You should leave, Mr. Crowley. Coming to the defense of 'her' man.
John: …Is that so?
Adam: D-Dad… M-Mom's going to die…?
John: Stares… Slowly turns to Nick.
Trajedie: I don't see how you couldn't have told your own son.
John: Locks his eyes onto Nick's. You're the only person who could have known.
Nick: Avoids eye contact and waits for his bloody and messy end with his organs strewn across Atlantis.
John: No violence forthcoming. …Your mother… was going to… in a few year's time…
Adam: Small sob… More tears come.
John: …Essence could not heal her in her current state… It would terminate her pregnancy…
Adam: Bites his lip, trembling. Sniffs.
John: …She may still live…
Adam: Looks up. …H-How?
John: …Quint and Essence are returning…
Adam: …They'll heal her?
John: …For your sake and Elijah's, I believe they will try…
Adam: Looks relieved. …Thank God… Did you give Vladimer to Price?
John: …Yes…
Adam: Frowns.
John: We didn't have any other option…
Adam: Just nods. At least knows that his father wouldn't want to give up his nephew lightly.
John: Staring a little listlessly. I need to lie down.
Adam: Parts from Trajedie's arms to stand and hug his father.
Trajedie: After what he did, too.
John: Hugs back when he is hugged. …I'll go now.
Adam: Alright… Goodbye, Father. I love you.
John: I love you too, Adam.
Adam: I know.
John: Kind of a strange response…
Adam: Just in response to what Nick said about you saying you didn't love me to save my mom. Dr. Romolo… I feel fine… May I be discharged? I need to get back to work and I'm sure Trajedie does too.
Nick: Nods. You may.
Trajedie: …But… you just woke up. Shouldn't you take some time to… Peters off when she realizes she knows less about what ailed him than anyone, really.
Adam: I'm fine, really Trajedie… Thank you for looking after me… Gives her a hug and kisses her on the lips. I'll take you somewhere really nice tonight to eat, okay?
Trajedie: That seems to mollify her, but still looks worried for him. Okay… I mean… you know if you're fine… Blinks, realizing the sentence didn't make a whole lot of sense.
John: …Are you two in love or something?
Adam: Blinks at his father. Yes. Smiles.
John: …Heh… heh-heh…
Trajedie: I don't see what's funny about it. Frowns.
Adam: Smile widens, remembering.
John: Soon laughing!
Adam: Smiles. Get some rest, okay Dad? You deserve it… Pats his arms a bit.
Joel: Nick, I think John needs to be committed before he decides to skin one of us and make a lady suit or something.
Adam: Bows to the doctors, smiles fondly at Trajedie and… goes to take a shower and change clothes before going back to work.
Trajedie: Returns to work before her salary is put in jeopardy again.
John: …Heheh… Dr. Romolo?
Nick: …Yes?
John: …Is there a wheelchair in this infirmary?
Nick: Um… yes. Several.
John: Could I use one? …It's for my father.
Nick: Um… sure… Feel free to take any.
John: Thank you. Requisitions a wheelchair.


Adam: True to his word, took Trajedie to a fancy restaurant. Smiles at her over the candlelight.
Trajedie: You make it very difficult not to fall for you.
Adam: Blushes and says softly. …Will you sleep with me tonight…?
Trajedie: Blushing, but smiles. …Yes.
Adam: Smiles. Just meant that he wanted her to sleep in his bed.
Trajedie: That's not how she took it. Gazing at him past the candlelight.
Adam: …Do you like the food? Smiles.
Trajedie: Nods. It's delicious… Frowns a tiny bit. …but I bet it's expensive…
Adam: T-That's alright… I mean… I think you're worth it. Smiles.
Trajedie: Aww… Adam… Smiles back to him adoringly. …Thank you, Adam, for taking me out.
Adam: It's no problem… Thank you for looking after me when I wasn't well. Smiles.
Trajedie: It wasn't a bother… I wanted to make sure you were okay…
Adam: Smiles and blushes a little. Thank you… Do you like to cook?
Trajedie: It's fun to experiment with it… but I think I could burn cereal, honestly.
Adam: Laughs. I don't cook much, either. Never really bothered to learn, I guess.
Trajedie: Not much interest in cooking?
Adam: Shakes his head, 'no' and laughs a bit. My mother cooks very well… She went to school for it, I think… so I guess I just never considered cooking for myself… That's… not really something to be proud of. Rubs the side of his face a bit. I mean… I've never really had to… fend for myself… and I don't think I'm a better person for it. Frowns.
Trajedie: …I think you're great regardless of whether or not you've learned how to cook… and… well… you seem very busy anyhow… How would you fit learning to cook in with everything else you've learned?
Adam: Laughs. Well… I don't mean just that… cooking… I mean… Well, I've been very sheltered. I suppose it's understandable because of how sickly I've been most of my life. Well, I told you how I'd like to travel… That's part of the reason why. I read a lot… but I'd like to actually experience things for myself… I'd like to understand people better… Relate better to their experiences… and I think that's difficult, having lived in a castle most of my life and… just having everything handed to me.
Trajedie: Nods to his words, taking them in, staring into the candle's fire for a moment before her eyes find their way back to his. You haven't had everything handed to you… No one could have made you as smart as you are… and traveling to better empathize with people is very noble of you… I think in your line of work, traveling will be necessary… but I don't think living in the castle is going to impede that. You have an open mind and you're willing to listen and accept different views… so I don't think it matters that you lived in a castle, so long as you keep that mind of yours open when you do have to travel.
Adam: Nods. Well… I wouldn't just want to travel for business… I mean, meeting with other kings and queens in other castles. I mean… I'd like to spend time among non-royalty too… Just normal people. To know them, as well. Heh… I guess that's not really in my job description, since outside of this kingdom, I only supervise other kings and queens. I… I just want to know… and experience… everything I can. Smiles.
Trajedie: Smiles back to him. Well… maybe there'll be a time when you can travel of your own accord and see us normal people. Laughs a little, though soon turns sincere when she begins talking. …and… well… when that time comes, I hope you don't mind if I want to come with you…
Adam: Smiles. I'd love for you to come!
Trajedie: Smile only gets wider and more affectionate at his words. …Where would you want to visit first? Right off the top of your head… no forethought, just the first location that comes to mind when you think of how you'd like to travel.
Adam: Oh, you're asking me not to think and be spontaneous… Laughs.
Trajedie: Laughs with him. Give it a try.
Adam: Oh, wow… Laughs. I'm thinking… Himmel. Oh… The Cave of Crystals… All around Arudis… I want to see the big cities of Malais and Lousmon. I want to see the land of my ancestors in Sibia. The beaches in Paldicia and the desert in Taidl… The mountains of Va'Eng and Tanekia… Fire Island in the winter… Laughs. I broke the rules, huh?
Trajedie: Just laughs again at his answer. You did… but that's okay… It sounds like you want to go everywhere, off the top of your head, regardless.
Adam: Nods! …I really wanted to see Sibia…
Trajedie: Then you should see it sometime… Make it a goal.
Adam: It's just very overgrown… Hana was working on excavating it but as far as I know now… Well… He's just disappeared.
Trajedie: Oh… I'm sorry…
Adam: Maybe after the war is over, it can be uncovered. Smiles.
Trajedie: Nods. It'll be something to look forward to.
Adam: Nods, biting his lip a bit. …Do you want dessert?
Trajedie: I would… but I really don't think I could eat it all.
Adam: I could help you again. Smiles.
Trajedie: That's what I was hoping for. …Well, so long as you're helping, I think dessert sounds wonderful.
Adam: You have to pick it this time. Smiles.
Trajedie: But what if I pick something you don't like on accident?
Adam: Well, I'll just be mad at you aaall night. Laughs.
Trajedie: Makes a pretty convincing sad, pouting expression. …You would…? Corners of her lips are twitching a bit though, resisting the urge to smile.
Adam: Nods solemnly. Can't help a big grin afterwards, though.
Trajedie: Returns his grin with a small giggle and a smile. Okay… I'll choose something… but you have to promise not to be mad if it's not to your palate.
Adam: I promise. Smiles.
Trajedie: Order something indeed! …Though she does point it out on the menu to Adam first, still a little chicken about whether or not he'll like it. A very fruity dessert, really. Mostly cherry-laden.
Adam: Smiles. That's fine.
Trajedie: Seems a little relieved at that.
Adam: Smiling.
Trajedie: Dimples.
Adam: Aww, she has dimples.
Trajedie: Usually doesn't smile enough for it to be noticed. Not that she's sad, but it's kind of hard not to smile at times like this and work doesn't really put me in a smiling mood.
Adam: That means our kids will have dimples. Dessert arrives!
Trajedie: Waits for him to eat first.
Adam: Waits for her.
Trajedie: Now it looks like we're having a staring contest.
Adam: I'm good at staring. Half-smile.
Trajedie: Not so good at it. Finally does 'break' and takes a single cherry off the desert and into her mouth it goes.
Adam: Oh, sexy. Takes a single cherry off the dessert and dangles it over her mouth.
Trajedie: Looks up at it and smiles, then closes her eyes and parts her lips for it.
Adam: Oh God. To her lips it goes.
Trajedie: Takes it gingerly between her lips once it reaches them. Doesn't know she's most likely being stared at. Soon, in it goes, stem and all.
Adam: I want to do bad things to you.
Trajedie: Opens her eyes and looks to Adam with a small smile, constrained a little bit by the cherry in her mouth. Says nothing, though her lips move slightly as she looks to him.
Adam: Don't make me aroused in the restaurant.
Trajedie: Parts her lips slightly and withdraws a knotted cherry stem from between them.
Adam: Mouth hangs open a bit.
Trajedie: Didn't really think it'd elicit that kind of response… but it doesn't bother her that it did. …May I have another?
Adam: Gulps. Don't look at her… Don't think about it… Don't think about her soft skin… Don't think about what you did at the lake…
Trajedie: Never really considered how suggestive that could be before this. Smiles to him.
Adam: Blushing, looks down and focuses on consuming the dessert.
Trajedie: Not even suggestively, mostly concentrating on the cherries. Her favorite fruit.
Adam: Does not meet her eyes again until the dessert is finished.
Trajedie: I made him flustered… Gladly does meet his eyes, if he's willing once it is finished.
Adam: Does not speak… Do not meet eyes… Do not pass go… Do not collect 200 dollars… Wait, yeah… Pays the bill and leaves the establishment with her.

Trajedie: Sidles up close to him once they walk out.
Adam: Once they're relatively alone, turns to her and pulls her into his arms, holding her close.
Trajedie: Ooo. Willing into his arms she goes, taking a bit of time to brush a bit of hair out of her face that fell in front of it.
Adam: Trembling a little. Very softly. …I want you…
Trajedie: Here I thought that little trick would just be something to laugh at and explain how to do… …I want you, too.
Adam: Swallows, takes her hand, and starts to head back to the castle.
Trajedie: Follows, holding his hand tightly. Given thought… I think I could kind of see why it might.

Adam: To his room they go.
Trajedie: Gazed at Adam the whole time. Hopefully no one saw us. Learned folk may know just what is on my mind.
Adam: Once they are within his room and the door is closed and locked… Moves to the bed, pulling Trajedie down and kissing her.
Trajedie: No protests there. Kissing right back in kind, though is a little more assertive than she was the lake.
Adam: Kneeling a bit on top of her, though not actually resting his weight on her. Quite passionate kissing.
Trajedie: Fortunate, since she's not a very study young woman. Pressing rather affectionately back to him, tilting her head into the passionate kisses.
Adam: Being much more assertive himself, since his hands are already working on removing her clothes.
Trajedie: His hands would find help in that effort, her own assisting him in the removal of her clothing.
Adam: Thankfully slows down once she is fully in the nude.
Trajedie: That is good, since her hands are now at work to render him the same.
Adam: Gentleman enough to assist her in that endeavor as well.
Trajedie: So sweet. Doing so rather hastily too. He's certainly left an impression on her.
Adam: Hands slowly stroking and caressing her, lips kissing her softly in some places and sucking and nibbling and licking in others. The feeling of my bare skin against hers is quite enticing.
Trajedie: Would return the favor in kind, but is occupied with squirming in pleasure with quiet moans escaping her barely-parted lips. The feeling is quite mutual in that regard.
Adam: After some time focusing his attention on all her little nooks and crevices, leaving none untouched or unloved, reaches more intimate zones, though leaves his lips on her neck.
Trajedie: Seemingly more responsive than she was last time, pressing to his touches whenever she could gain the composure to. Not even minding if he marked her lips or shoulder or wherever he explores.
Adam: Pretty much everywhere they could explore! Massages with his fingers, though pays close attention to her and her reactions. His head seems to be more about him tonight. Being careful to not quite let her go all the way there.
Trajedie: There are spots on her that obviously bring out more of a reaction from her. To a shudder, all the way to a jolting moan that may be a little too loud for the walls to smother.
Adam: Despite his seeming need to leave no part of her untouched, is avoiding one rather important spot. When his fingers near it, seems to shy away. Looks into her eyes, gauging her reaction as his other hand strokes her side.
Trajedie: Her eyes are constantly fluctuating from his attention. From wide-eyed almost as if in shock, to lidded when his other hand traces over a sensitive spot that isn't as erogenous as the others.
Adam: T-Trajedie… Continues to stroke gently… Really doesn't want to set her off.
Trajedie: It's getting to the point where all of her reactions are more passionate. Definitely building up to it. Mm…! A…Adam…
Adam: Hand moves away altogether, resting softly on her stomach. Looking at her in the eyes. Another staring contest?
Trajedie: Gazing right back to his, breathing a little labored. …A…Adam… I want you… now… please… Said in a quiet, breathy voice. Doesn't blink.
Adam: I-I want you… too… but… Still looking deeply into her eyes. Still calculating her reaction.
Trajedie: Desire is alight in her eyes. Doesn't seem in a state to consider his words right then and there, rather she begins to turn against him. Moving him wouldn't be an easy task for her, unless he cooperated and if he did, he would find himself with his back to the mattress instead.
Adam: Lets her take over and hopes she knows herself better than he does. Back is to the mattress, as to her wishes.
Trajedie: He'd soon find himself being explored in a very similar way as she was, though she doesn't nearly have her head on as clearly. Every kiss and nibble is bestowed unto him quite passionately.
Adam: Strokes her back and hair gently… Still feeling nervous, as there's the consideration of going all the way.
Trajedie: Strokes his sides, even dragging her nails gently down them, as she soon makes a trail down his chest with her lips.
Adam: Closes his eyes, enjoying the sensation.
Trajedie: Her lips only go lower and lower on his body, only slowing down to focus on a spot should it seem to stir Adam more than usual.
Adam: Is seeming more stirred and excited the lower she goes in anticipation.
Trajedie: The kissing stops for a moment, her lips leaving his body completely as she just looks up at him, hands still stroking his sides.
Adam: You're a tease! Eyes open and looks at her.
Trajedie: Don't even ask me why this thought came into mind… When his eyes open and are on her, she leans in and presses a gentle kiss to arousal.
Adam: Mmm… Eyes close.
Trajedie: That seemed to work… One more kiss upon it. Then he would soon feel a soft, warm, and wet sensation against it, replacing the feel of her lips entirely.
Adam: Oh God… That definitely does elicit a moan and a clutching at the bed covers.
Trajedie: I'm going to Hell, definitely. Getting the reaction that she wanted, gives him a long lick, experimentally for herself as well.
Adam: Mmm… Chest rises and falls as he breathes deeply.
Trajedie: Having no experience at this at all, she is merely doing whatever her lust-addled mind prods her to do and that lends to more exploration with her tongue. Briefly remembers a tied cherry knot, only momentarily, though now it makes sense to her, at least.
Adam: A soft smile on his lips. Seems to be enjoying this quite a bit, but keeps his face rather calm.
Trajedie: If she had a clear head, may consider this a little strange, but at the moment, it just seemed oddly natural to try and get the same reactions out of Adam that he had gotten from her.
Adam: …Trajedie…
Trajedie: Presses on with her exploration for a few moments longer, though soon stops and looks up to him. Even then, a hand left his side and seemed to continue where she had left off, leaving her the ability to make eye contact with him.
Adam: Trajedie… Pulls at her a bit, so she's laying on top of him and looking him in the eyes.
Trajedie: Still no resistance, easily pulled to him and gazes adoringly into his eyes.
Adam: Puts a hand to her cheek, stroking it affectionately, still looking deeply into her eyes.
Trajedie: Doesn't dare break the hold his eyes have upon her own as she presses still yet to him in an almost pleading and desperate way.
Adam: T-Trajedie… D-Do you want to…?
Trajedie: …Nods.
Adam: A-Are you sure…? Heart thumping fast in his chest.
Trajedie: …Yes. Once more, her words are breathy, her own chest rising and falling against his somewhat quickly.
Adam: Looks at her deeply into her eyes… What does he see?
Trajedie: A very, very strong desire for him.
Adam: I trust you… and I don't think there's anyone else I'd rather do this with… Slowly rolls over, so he's back on top of her… stroking her gently again… making sure she's as comfortable and relaxed as possible.
Trajedie: Allows him to take lead without so much a noise of protest, just gazing up at him through the entire process. There is no one she trusts more with this than him.
Adam: So slowly, lets his fingers explore where he was previously avoiding, once more looking deeply into her eyes, gauging her reaction.
Trajedie: Has started to shiver, whether it's out of a sort of anxiety she hasn't expressed or anticipation, is unclear.
Adam: Stroking ever so carefully and gently. …Do you want me to stop?
Trajedie: N…No…
Adam: Presses a little more. A-Are you sure…?
Trajedie: More shivering. Ye…Yes…
Adam: …Strokes, letting another finger slip in. …If you want me to stop… j-just say so… Softly. I'm going to Hell.
Trajedie: Winces a little.
Adam: T-Trajedie?
Trajedie: …Just never done this before…
Adam: N…Neither have I… Uses his other hands to stroke, very gently, spots she had previously found pleasurable, hoping that helps.
Trajedie: That does seem to do the trick, her body letting go of its tension from his touches.
Adam: Continues in this vein, stroking gently inside and outside of her until he's sure she's completely ready.
Trajedie: The shivering has abated… and is much as she was when he had first tended to her, jolting should he touch her more sensitive spots again.
Adam: Trajedie….? Looks her in the eyes.
Trajedie: Keeps her eyes focused on his. Gives a small nod to him…
Adam: In that case… positions himself atop her and, as slowly and gently as he's done everything else, enters.
Trajedie: Definitely a virgin, at least that is obvious. Once more, winces when it does enter.
Adam: Surprisingly, to him, this feels quite good… Utilizes self-restraint and continues to go slow and gently. If he can, will once again stroke those zones most pleasurable to her and kiss her.
Trajedie: Kind of obvious that this is somewhat painful, though his pace is at least making it tolerable. Kissing her maybe a little difficult, as she's biting her bottom lip slightly, though his hand on her lower side, the spot that seems to get the most pleasured reaction, is soothing at least.
Adam: Her neck it is for kissing! Presses his lower body against hers a bit more, hoping it excites more sensitive areas, as he ventures deeper, can't help but let out a moan and clutch her a bit.
Trajedie: Though she chews on her bottom lip for a while, whimpering, that soon abates as she grows accustomed to him. She finds herself clutching him as well, her body beginning to release its tension.
Adam: Sorry, Trajedie… Deeper he goes, pressing a little more. Moves up her neck a bit.
Trajedie: No more pain yet, clutching him a little tighter, moaning in response to the new sensation and his kisses.
Adam: It's quite a relief to hear the moaning, which he hopes means she's enjoying it. Continues onward.
Trajedie: He would be correct in hoping so, her own hips moving back to his in encouragement.
Adam: Sorry Trajedie… Continues onward, quite enjoying the trip himself.
Trajedie: Shuddering against him, her clutch growing a bit tighter. Quite enjoying it as well, apparently. Any further and this is going to suddenly turn into something not so enjoyable.
Adam: Presses more, since she seems to like that the further he gets… He's going very slowly, at least. Mmm…
Trajedie: That is a plus and so far, she is enjoying it the further he gets. A very curious feeling, but such a wonderful one. That'll change in few seconds shortly. Hn…
Adam: Does indeed get there! Oh no. At least he's gentle?
Trajedie: That does help, if it's any consolation. Jolts against him and lets out a cry, though it is definitely not out of enjoyment. A little taken unawares by the sudden pain, deceived into thinking none would ever show. She clutches him far tighter, eyes squeezing shut.
Adam: That grinds things to an immediate halt… T-Trajedie?
Trajedie: Still a little surprised by the pain, no response immediately coming. Crying a little.
Adam: T-Trajedie? Out he goes and immediately scoops her up into his arms, cradling her. I-I-I'm so sorry!
Trajedie: Not sobbing or anything, just some tearing up at her eyes. Even in spite of the pain, there is some disappointment felt when he leaves her. …A…Adam…
Adam: Strokes her hair. I'm sorry Trajedie… I-I-I didn't mean to hurt youuu.. Holds her close.
Trajedie: Snuggles closer to him, a hand quickly drying her eyes. It's okay, Adam… The pain, at least, is fleeting.
Adam: Cradles her. I'm sorry… I won't do that again…
Trajedie: …Adam… Her hugging and snuggling is becoming very familiar. …No… I want to…
Adam: Y-You want to?
Trajedie: Yes…
Adam: W-Why?
Trajedie: …It felt good, Adam… and… I want to share myself with you…
Adam: A…Are you absolutely certain…?
Trajedie: I am… but… if you don't want to… …I'll get you in the mood again.
Adam: I-I want to… I just don't want to hurt you…
Trajedie: Presses closer to him once more, affectionately. …You won't…
Adam: Willing to try again, so lays her back down and once again, positions himself and enters as gently and slowly as he can… It's strange to him… Something that was so horrible when he experienced it with Price is such a very different experience with someone he loves. This should, of course, be obvious but Adam's an idiot sometimes.
Trajedie: Much to her relief and most likely Adam's, there's no pain this time. When he presses in, she gives a small, pleasured shudder, once more clutching him. Once more, her assertiveness shows through when she moves her hips to press back to his in order to expedite his 'travel'. Mm…!
Adam: Mmm! That feels nice. Presses to her to, once again, rub against her more sensitive areas. Hand gently strokes a breast and his lips once more find her neck.
Trajedie: Putty in his hands, once more beginning to moan, though quietly at his tender touches, pressing right back to him with what could be surprising enthusiasm.
Adam: Deeper he goes, until he's fully within her. This elicits quite a lot of moaning from him and quite deeper and more aggressive kissing.
Trajedie: Let's out a cry of pleasure when he does move fully within her. Her fingers press to his back firmly, her hips lifting and pressing still yet, as if she could somehow take him further in. Now her moans are far less quiet, the walls once more unable to cushion the sound completely.
Adam: Mmm… Pulls out and back in rhythmically… Still trying to be slow and gentle at first but can't help but quicken the pace. Ah… Mmm… Clutches at her a bit, panting.
Trajedie: Finds the quickening pace begin to become more satisfying and soon finds herself rocking against him. Can barely believe how much she's enjoying this, clutching even tighter to him. Mmm!
Adam: Having similar thoughts… This feels surprisingly good… Ah… Mmm… Going just a bit harder, making sure to at least press against her, so she gets some friction where it counts. Trembling a bit.
Trajedie: Shuddering with every hard movement against her and from the sounds of it, she's getting just the friction she needs. A…Ah! …Adam…! Very much so.
Adam: T-Traj… Moans. Keeps going… Harder… Faster… Pressing more… I've been wanting to call you 'Traj' for awhile now, too.
Trajedie: Soon trembling, pressing harder and faster right back to him, beginning to pant herself, heart thumping faster in her chest all the while.
Adam: His moans are starting to get loud enough to escape the walls as well. Slows down just a little to go deeper, fingers clutching into her thigh and side, lips planted just a little under her jaw.
Trajedie: Head tilts back as she continues to moan, feeling warmer and warmer all over her body as her fingernails just lightly dig into his skin, not purposefully trying to harm him, but it's hard to control herself in such a state.
Adam: Very soon to reach his peak, moans joining hers… Kisses just a bit off her mouth, trembling all over, breathing heavily.
Trajedie: Judging from this, he's hasn't really had relief in a long time… or maybe ever. Clumsily turning her head, so she could at least kiss him proper, though her heavy breathing doesn't allow long-lasting meetings between their lips.
Adam: Kisses back shortly, pressing his lips hard against hers.
Trajedie: Kissing back just as hard, moving against him, her shuddering becoming more a series of jerking jolts.
Adam: Not long to follow, going deep within her with one last moan and panting. Mm… Ahhh… Pants… Lips meet her neck again gently. Mm…
Trajedie: The prior kissing smothers her sounds of ecstasy. Finally settles down against the bed, panting. Mmm…
Adam: Snuggles into her a little himself as his breathing begins to return to normal. Slowly pulls out of her to lay at her side. Wraps his arms around her, pulling her close.
Trajedie: Snuggles up lovingly to him, much like she had before, though with a whole different emotion attached to it. Just adoration and tenderness, rather than desire.
Adam: …That was… nice… Softly said.
Trajedie: …Looks up at him with a very fond expression on her face. …You're amazing…
Adam: Blushes. I-I am? My first time?
Trajedie: My first time too. I wouldn't know any better.
Adam: You're amazing too… Holds her. I-It was okay, wasn't it…? I didn't hurt you anymore?
Trajedie: …Not a bit… The opposite, really… Never felt like that before…
Adam: Strokes her hair and smiles a bit. It was nice… Repeating himself. I-It wasn't so bad, right? Snuggles into her more, happily.
Trajedie: Nuzzling up to him like she's just starved for affection and right now, she kind of is. He'd be lucky to get out of bed without having to drag her with. It was great, Adam.
Adam: Smiles. I liked it… I love you, Trajedie… Gives her a soft kiss on the cheek.
Trajedie: Smiles, leaning in to kiss his cheek in return. I love you too, Adam…
Adam: Smiles back, looking very happy. Thank you…