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sempiternals2023-11-16 11:24 pm
indigently) wrote in sempiternals2023-11-16 11:24 pm
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( It is as obvious as the red laced in blood how painfully wrong they are for one another. Even if he gave the guy a golden ticket and brought him down to the Fortress, who is he to cage a bird of paradise and condemn him to a life beneath the waves? Without color, without purpose, without sun. Wriothesley has never been dishonest, only slightly misleading, and for that, he has taken responsibility. Which mostly has consisted of interacting with him as little as possible. Sexuality is one messy spectrum, romance is another so when they fuck you in tandem, one can imagine: it's not easy to juggle. He's past the experimentation phase and he certainly doesn't want to make Kaveh of all people an open-field subject. The fact is: it will never work out.
The sluice gate at the bottom of the ocean is as strong as the one he keeps in his chest, even when it bubbles the moment he enters the bar and sees the familiar face, sucking faces with some other. This wouldn't be an issue if he wasn't used to Kaveh pouring himself onto him. Maybe he's over the infatuation? So this works for them. Logically, he should feel static about the encounter because he no longer has to worry about crushing all of Kaveh's hopes by himself. His job is easier now.
So he walks directly towards them and pretends he didn't see anything. He raises his hand towards the bartender and calls out his order. )
I'll take a Stormy tonight, please, and thanks.
The sluice gate at the bottom of the ocean is as strong as the one he keeps in his chest, even when it bubbles the moment he enters the bar and sees the familiar face, sucking faces with some other. This wouldn't be an issue if he wasn't used to Kaveh pouring himself onto him. Maybe he's over the infatuation? So this works for them. Logically, he should feel static about the encounter because he no longer has to worry about crushing all of Kaveh's hopes by himself. His job is easier now.
So he walks directly towards them and pretends he didn't see anything. He raises his hand towards the bartender and calls out his order. )
I'll take a Stormy tonight, please, and thanks.
[ It's been quite a nice night so far. A frustrating day with his mother and step-father led to Kaveh deciding to spend the evening at a bar, and he was already several drinks down by the time he was approached by the young man in whose lap he is currently perched, a tongue down his throat and a hand rubbing slow against his crotch under the concealing edge of the table.
On any other day, Kaveh will argue until he's blue in the face that he's not the sort to engage in PDA, but he's drunk and far from home and with any luck he'll never have to see any of these people again—
At least, that's how he rationalizes it for himself right up until the moment when he hears a distinctly familiar voice from just behind him.
Something deep in Kaveh feels immediately sick. But he pulls back with a slow, blinking chuckle, a nudge of his mouth against his companion's before he turns his head, looking up at the newcomer with dazed carmine eyes. ]
Well, if it isn't the lord of the dead himself, visiting us from the underworld. Perhaps you'd like to join us, Your Grace?
[ One hand gestures lazily at another chair set into their table, although he's cut off from whatever he wants to say next with a pleasured, humming chuckle as a pair of lips latches onto a neck already decidedly marked up with bruises and bites. ]
On any other day, Kaveh will argue until he's blue in the face that he's not the sort to engage in PDA, but he's drunk and far from home and with any luck he'll never have to see any of these people again—
At least, that's how he rationalizes it for himself right up until the moment when he hears a distinctly familiar voice from just behind him.
Something deep in Kaveh feels immediately sick. But he pulls back with a slow, blinking chuckle, a nudge of his mouth against his companion's before he turns his head, looking up at the newcomer with dazed carmine eyes. ]
Well, if it isn't the lord of the dead himself, visiting us from the underworld. Perhaps you'd like to join us, Your Grace?
[ One hand gestures lazily at another chair set into their table, although he's cut off from whatever he wants to say next with a pleasured, humming chuckle as a pair of lips latches onto a neck already decidedly marked up with bruises and bites. ]
( The overall impression he receives consists of gazes gawking at his nasty, protruding scars along his neck, face, and arms. Only people whose families have ever gotten a visit from him might recognize him.
This is a bad idea. He's pretty much aware of how logic turns to shit when Kaveh gets drunk yet he's seething so hotly he thinks his alignment with Cryo could melt. He lets a chuckle pass him, too, then grabs the drink from the bartender. )
Yeah, I didn't think you were still in Fontaine.
But you know my answer.
( The other man is going to kiss him up until he forgets all about him, right? Is this the plan to get himself laid at last? Good for him. Wriothesley takes a swig of his drink and refuses the offer to sit. )
You keep having your fun, I'll go find mine. It was good seeing you.
( Civil, right? Civil and cold. )
This is a bad idea. He's pretty much aware of how logic turns to shit when Kaveh gets drunk yet he's seething so hotly he thinks his alignment with Cryo could melt. He lets a chuckle pass him, too, then grabs the drink from the bartender. )
Yeah, I didn't think you were still in Fontaine.
But you know my answer.
( The other man is going to kiss him up until he forgets all about him, right? Is this the plan to get himself laid at last? Good for him. Wriothesley takes a swig of his drink and refuses the offer to sit. )
You keep having your fun, I'll go find mine. It was good seeing you.
( Civil, right? Civil and cold. )
[ Archons, Wriothesley pisses him off. First, there's the way he seems angry somehow, despite having no right whatsoever to be so. And then, even worse, there's the implication that he wouldn't have set foot outside the prison at all if he'd known Kaveh was still in Fontaine. At this point, he's made peace with the fact that the other man has no interest in him whatsoever— it sucks, and he hates it, but there's nothing he can do about it.
But at the very least, can he not treat him like he's some sort of social pariah?
Kaveh rolls his eyes, deliberately visible and pointed in his response, picking up his own glass and raising it in a mock toast, gulping down a mouthful or two. ]
Yeah, sure. Good luck.
[ With that said, he turns his back to him once more, pressing himself closer onto his stranger's lap and resuming their make-out. If the moan on his mouth is louder than it usually would be, it's deliberate. ]
But at the very least, can he not treat him like he's some sort of social pariah?
Kaveh rolls his eyes, deliberately visible and pointed in his response, picking up his own glass and raising it in a mock toast, gulping down a mouthful or two. ]
Yeah, sure. Good luck.
[ With that said, he turns his back to him once more, pressing himself closer onto his stranger's lap and resuming their make-out. If the moan on his mouth is louder than it usually would be, it's deliberate. ]
( Kaveh always presented so careful around public matters. Wriothesley realizes then he doesn't actually know him. The disappointment of watching him making out like this so shamelessly, moaning loud enough for everyone to hear without any respect turns to bitterness. He chugs down the rest of his drink when he's far away enough. He knows it's not within his right to express disapproval. Other couples do this sort of thing, too.
He doesn't have any true relationship to lean back on. Dating anyone in the Fortress is out of the question, and nobody on the surface dares look at him in the eye for too long.
Does Kaveh always sound like that when he moans?
He's going to have dreams about it and he's terrified.
So he slips out from the bar as fast as he entered. Like a ghost people suddenly forget existed among them the moment he's out of sight. There's a gym near here and he really needs to punch mistakes out of his system until the cold seeps into his bones once again.
He knows he has to apologize at some point if Kaveh permits him to. )
He doesn't have any true relationship to lean back on. Dating anyone in the Fortress is out of the question, and nobody on the surface dares look at him in the eye for too long.
Does Kaveh always sound like that when he moans?
He's going to have dreams about it and he's terrified.
So he slips out from the bar as fast as he entered. Like a ghost people suddenly forget existed among them the moment he's out of sight. There's a gym near here and he really needs to punch mistakes out of his system until the cold seeps into his bones once again.
He knows he has to apologize at some point if Kaveh permits him to. )
( In about 48 hours Kaveh will be abroad the aquabus heading directly to the desert again. His time in Fontaine will dissolve like grains of sand through the winds, but he'll be free. )
You're quiet. It's making me nervous.
( The bridge to the entrance is the last scene inmates get to see. For many, it is the last gleam of daylight they will ever get to see. The last saline breeze misting from the drop ahead, or the waterfalls. Perhaps Kaveh will understand the gravity of his position and how important it is. He waves at the operator while they await the lift. It is important to note how Wriothesley rarely breaks the rules and Kaveh is the second, maybe third person he bends them for. )
Do you miss home?
You're quiet. It's making me nervous.
( The bridge to the entrance is the last scene inmates get to see. For many, it is the last gleam of daylight they will ever get to see. The last saline breeze misting from the drop ahead, or the waterfalls. Perhaps Kaveh will understand the gravity of his position and how important it is. He waves at the operator while they await the lift. It is important to note how Wriothesley rarely breaks the rules and Kaveh is the second, maybe third person he bends them for. )
Do you miss home?
[ It's certainly true that Kaveh's plan is to be on his way home in two days' time. But if he's honest, that's a plan he's had many times now. He keeps changing his mind, canceling and sending yet another missive back to Alhaitham to let him know he's staying with his mother a little longer.
Of course, he doesn't realize the significance of Wriothesley allowing him to visit the prison... but the prison warden is not the only one breaking rules. Kaveh is breaking plenty of his own by even being here. He knows the other man isn't interested in him, isn't interested in men at all... and yet here he is, putting time into a relationship that can never be.
It's a friendship, of course. But it's a friendship he shouldn't be keeping. Not when he wants more.
Lost in his thoughts, he's quiet until Wriothesley's voice cuts in, making him start as he looks back up at the other man. ]
Ah... yeah, I guess you could say that. It's been weird, being with my mother for so long.
Of course, he doesn't realize the significance of Wriothesley allowing him to visit the prison... but the prison warden is not the only one breaking rules. Kaveh is breaking plenty of his own by even being here. He knows the other man isn't interested in him, isn't interested in men at all... and yet here he is, putting time into a relationship that can never be.
It's a friendship, of course. But it's a friendship he shouldn't be keeping. Not when he wants more.
Lost in his thoughts, he's quiet until Wriothesley's voice cuts in, making him start as he looks back up at the other man. ]
Ah... yeah, I guess you could say that. It's been weird, being with my mother for so long.
( Kaveh waits for the inevitable heartbreak that is sure to follow impossible hopes. Like this, Wriothesley leads him into another dead end. What could be of them is equally unobtainable and fated to live through a screen of texts or pictures. He'll put more into the friendship without thinking of the consequences, including breaking the rules. Someone down there will probably point it out at some point and he'll dismiss it.
Maybe Kaveh will realize his position as they descend away from daylight. )
Why's that weird? She's your mom.
( It's an honest question. He never quite received the treatment of real parents. He'd imagine Kaveh would be happy to spend time with her since they live so far apart. Yet there appears to be something deeper than that. It takes living with trauma to recognize it. Wriothesley is fine these days, though. )
Maybe Kaveh will realize his position as they descend away from daylight. )
Why's that weird? She's your mom.
( It's an honest question. He never quite received the treatment of real parents. He'd imagine Kaveh would be happy to spend time with her since they live so far apart. Yet there appears to be something deeper than that. It takes living with trauma to recognize it. Wriothesley is fine these days, though. )
[ Wriothesley wears his trauma well enough that Kaveh can't see it. To the contrary, his is written all over him, worn on his chest like a badge not matter how many times he tries to tear it off.
His past— and its influence on his present— is far from a point of pride, and so Kaveh tries his best to downplay it, smiling as he shakes his head. Wriothesley's keen eyes will likely see the anguish in his eyes, though, belying the truth of his feelings. ]
Yeah, I know. We've just... never really been that close. And she moved away a while ago now, so... you know.
[ He shrugs, aiming for nonchalant. ]
And then my step-father, I mean... he's practically a stranger. So it's all just... it's a lot sometimes.
[ He looks around at the elevator, curiosity taking the place of his troubled expression. ]
This Fortress of yours... it's deep, huh.
His past— and its influence on his present— is far from a point of pride, and so Kaveh tries his best to downplay it, smiling as he shakes his head. Wriothesley's keen eyes will likely see the anguish in his eyes, though, belying the truth of his feelings. ]
Yeah, I know. We've just... never really been that close. And she moved away a while ago now, so... you know.
[ He shrugs, aiming for nonchalant. ]
And then my step-father, I mean... he's practically a stranger. So it's all just... it's a lot sometimes.
[ He looks around at the elevator, curiosity taking the place of his troubled expression. ]
This Fortress of yours... it's deep, huh.
Ah, I see. You've been spending a lot of time with them. I imagine the weirdness will wear off if you visit them every year.
( He's not touching on his stepfather unless Kaveh does. He imagines it takes something big to make someone, anybody, detach themselves entirely from their hometown and move into a different nation. Leaving behind her own son? He looks at him carefully while they continue to descend. )
Yeah. It's made with reinforced steel. There's a lot of history if you want to learn more about it.
( The elevator stops with a loud, shaky landing locking them to the steady ground. Wriothesley smiles at him. )
If anyone asks, you're here for work.
( He's not touching on his stepfather unless Kaveh does. He imagines it takes something big to make someone, anybody, detach themselves entirely from their hometown and move into a different nation. Leaving behind her own son? He looks at him carefully while they continue to descend. )
Yeah. It's made with reinforced steel. There's a lot of history if you want to learn more about it.
( The elevator stops with a loud, shaky landing locking them to the steady ground. Wriothesley smiles at him. )
If anyone asks, you're here for work.
[ Kaveh smiles and nods, although the expression is thinner than it should by rights be. Somehow, he doesn't think it will get much easier— but explaining why means explaining everything, and he's not ready for that. Not now.
He focuses instead on Wriothesley's explanation of the Fortress. He is indeed interested, and he's ready to ask about it when the elevator shudders to an abrupt halt, and his host tells him to lie,
and
Kaveh feels a twist of something uncomfortable in his gut as his heart promptly misunderstands those words, the architect nodding and then turning his head away in order to try and get his composure back.
He gets it. Wriothesley doesn't want anyone to know they're friends, much less that the young man from Sumeru is harboring an all-encompassing crush—
He swallows. ]
For work. Got it.
He focuses instead on Wriothesley's explanation of the Fortress. He is indeed interested, and he's ready to ask about it when the elevator shudders to an abrupt halt, and his host tells him to lie,
and
Kaveh feels a twist of something uncomfortable in his gut as his heart promptly misunderstands those words, the architect nodding and then turning his head away in order to try and get his composure back.
He gets it. Wriothesley doesn't want anyone to know they're friends, much less that the young man from Sumeru is harboring an all-encompassing crush—
He swallows. ]
For work. Got it.
(No exact rules are suggesting visiting hours from the outside. So far, Clorinde, Navia, and the Iudex himself have ever stepped on these grounds. Furina seems to prefer not to for all the right reasons. Most labor is done from within. Repairs, building, and even teaching among inmates. The Fortress isn't just a place for exile, but it should be regarded as a city.
This is the only place Wriothesley ever truly regarded as his home.
Kaveh probably doesn't see it as such, nor does he understand how the underground works to realize he's about to witness a world no one else in Teyvat will get access to. He leads him to the small boat, unsure why Kaveh is all of a sudden quiet again. )
It's another ten minutes until we get to the Administrative area. Even though you're just visiting, I'd like your opinion on some projects I'm working on there.
You're not claustrophobic, are you?
This is the only place Wriothesley ever truly regarded as his home.
Kaveh probably doesn't see it as such, nor does he understand how the underground works to realize he's about to witness a world no one else in Teyvat will get access to. He leads him to the small boat, unsure why Kaveh is all of a sudden quiet again. )
It's another ten minutes until we get to the Administrative area. Even though you're just visiting, I'd like your opinion on some projects I'm working on there.
You're not claustrophobic, are you?
[ The change of topic is appreciated, allows him to gather his composure enough to look up at Wriothesley again, a small smile on his lips— perhaps, albeit, a little strained. ]
Some projects? Of course, it would be my pleasure. And no, I'm not claustrophobic. I've spent a long time in different ruins, after all—
[ It's not quite true, though. Ruins are one thing. It's somewhat different from the feeling he has now, in a metal tunnel under the crushing depths of the water above, knowing even one breach in the structure could kill them all in a heartbeat—
(Later, he'll probably allow himself the time to be amazed at how well built the whole thing is.)
There is one problem, though... ]
Ten minutes? It's a long arrival journey for your new inmates... [ And it's an overwhelmingly grim journey. ] You said before that this place is designed to give people a second chance, right?
Some projects? Of course, it would be my pleasure. And no, I'm not claustrophobic. I've spent a long time in different ruins, after all—
[ It's not quite true, though. Ruins are one thing. It's somewhat different from the feeling he has now, in a metal tunnel under the crushing depths of the water above, knowing even one breach in the structure could kill them all in a heartbeat—
(Later, he'll probably allow himself the time to be amazed at how well built the whole thing is.)
There is one problem, though... ]
Ten minutes? It's a long arrival journey for your new inmates... [ And it's an overwhelmingly grim journey. ] You said before that this place is designed to give people a second chance, right?
Ah, of course. I look forward to some stories about those.
( If he can't go out to do exploring himself, it's nice living vicariously through the tales of others. Someday he'll get his chance to venture out when retirement catches up to him. If ever.
He sits down comfortably on the shuttle like it's one of the tours in the lines from the surface. )
It is. Everyone has basic rights here, free meals, a bed to sleep in, and a sense of direction. Whether they decide to continue living on the surface is up to them. Not everyone stays, which is a good thing. There's only so much space to accommodate people when you're underwater.
Looks like we're here.
( When they get off the boat, there's inmates and guards alike to give Kaveh second glances over. Outsiders are a myth in these places and Kaveh is definitely a new face. )
Are you hungry?
( If he can't go out to do exploring himself, it's nice living vicariously through the tales of others. Someday he'll get his chance to venture out when retirement catches up to him. If ever.
He sits down comfortably on the shuttle like it's one of the tours in the lines from the surface. )
It is. Everyone has basic rights here, free meals, a bed to sleep in, and a sense of direction. Whether they decide to continue living on the surface is up to them. Not everyone stays, which is a good thing. There's only so much space to accommodate people when you're underwater.
Looks like we're here.
( When they get off the boat, there's inmates and guards alike to give Kaveh second glances over. Outsiders are a myth in these places and Kaveh is definitely a new face. )
Are you hungry?
[ Wriothesley confirms what he thought, and Kaveh nods in thought. Before he can voice his aesthetic concerns, though, the warden is guiding him off the boat. There are eyes on him, more than normal— He frowns slightly, uncomfortable at the sensation, and keeps his attention on the other man, managing a small smile and a nod. ]
Yeah, I could eat. We can talk over the food too about—
[ Kaveh trails off as he looks over the massive dome in which they find themselves standing as they step off the boat. It's more of the same, the reinforced metal offering it strength, but no beauty whatsoever.
How are people meant to start over in a place like this? ]
...I'm very glad you asked me to come and do some work here, Your Grace.
Yeah, I could eat. We can talk over the food too about—
[ Kaveh trails off as he looks over the massive dome in which they find themselves standing as they step off the boat. It's more of the same, the reinforced metal offering it strength, but no beauty whatsoever.
How are people meant to start over in a place like this? ]
...I'm very glad you asked me to come and do some work here, Your Grace.
( It's not shocking Kaveh is received with so much ogling. His outfit contradicts Fontaine fashion, yet even people here seem to acknowledge the richness of his presence and timeless beauty. He's the color the place needs, but given Kaveh's reaction entering the dome: this is the last place he needs.
While work is a simple excuse, Wriothesley begins to realize perhaps it's not a bad idea to make their alliance a reality. He guides him to the cafeteria and orders two specials. )
You can consider this an initial tour. I'm in no rush to make any changes but I do have all the hands you could possibly need even after you return to Sumeru.
( He sits at the one of the tables. While cleaning does take place weekly, the metal walls and floors has seen better days. )
I'm not looking for luxury, just improvements. A lot of materials are recycled from the surface. As you would expect, imports are more expensive. Salinity and moisture here ruin many things, such as paint jobs and metals without proper tempering.
While work is a simple excuse, Wriothesley begins to realize perhaps it's not a bad idea to make their alliance a reality. He guides him to the cafeteria and orders two specials. )
You can consider this an initial tour. I'm in no rush to make any changes but I do have all the hands you could possibly need even after you return to Sumeru.
( He sits at the one of the tables. While cleaning does take place weekly, the metal walls and floors has seen better days. )
I'm not looking for luxury, just improvements. A lot of materials are recycled from the surface. As you would expect, imports are more expensive. Salinity and moisture here ruin many things, such as paint jobs and metals without proper tempering.
[ Kaveh joins Wriothesley at the table, listens as he talks, and then shakes his head with a small sigh. Everything the other has said has merit, but that's hardly a problem for someone who has always taken pricing restraints very seriously throughout his career. It's clear the place is in need of upgrades. He can do that; he can do that quite easily. He'll need some time to examine the structure, perhaps study how the water pressure will affect it at this depth, test some rudimentary designs before applying them to the Fortress itself—
(and even as he's thinking through the steps he has to take, Kaveh knows he's going to have to stay in Fontaine a little longer, despite what he practically only just told the other man)
—but none of that is exactly his concern. He's worried about... ]
I'm not suggesting luxury. That would defeat the purpose of a prison. And I also agree that structural improvements are the most pressing issue. But at the same time... [ He tips his head in thought. How exactly is he meant to say it? ] It's depressing in here, Your Grace. Stifling in a way that I can't say feels particularly encouraging to the idea of a fresh start.
(and even as he's thinking through the steps he has to take, Kaveh knows he's going to have to stay in Fontaine a little longer, despite what he practically only just told the other man)
—but none of that is exactly his concern. He's worried about... ]
I'm not suggesting luxury. That would defeat the purpose of a prison. And I also agree that structural improvements are the most pressing issue. But at the same time... [ He tips his head in thought. How exactly is he meant to say it? ] It's depressing in here, Your Grace. Stifling in a way that I can't say feels particularly encouraging to the idea of a fresh start.
Your Grace, here are the two specials. Please, enjoy.
( Wolsey sets down the more fancy assortment in each of their trays. He has never seen anyone like Kaveh before. His outfit is unlike any other Fontainian, and oddly...revealing. He keeps all curious suspicions to himself, returning to the cafeteria kitchen.
After thanking him, Wriothesley breaks off a piece of bread to dip in the butter sauce, listening to Kaveh. )
Depressing? You think so?
( One could argue he's just trying to provoke Kaveh to emphasize more of his thinking, edging on humor or sarcasm. He glances up at the tall pipes and columns making up the frame for the entire structure. )
If you can find a way to improve the structure without drowning everyone, I'll pay you extra. We replace some parts every other year to keep up with the erosion of the sea. Ever since the Fortress was established, sturdy materials were used and replaced over the years. I found some documents in my office detailing the process vaguely if you need them to make a further assessment after you see some of the damage in the floors below.
( He takes a sip from his tea, blue eyes careful on Kaveh. He should have invited him down here sooner rather than practically hours. Not only is the company pleasant, but he finds his thought process interesting. He's unlike all the other genius inmates from Sumeru he has gotten the chance to speak to. And, yes, he's pretty. )
What would you change to give people the impression this is a place of opportunity?
( Wolsey sets down the more fancy assortment in each of their trays. He has never seen anyone like Kaveh before. His outfit is unlike any other Fontainian, and oddly...revealing. He keeps all curious suspicions to himself, returning to the cafeteria kitchen.
After thanking him, Wriothesley breaks off a piece of bread to dip in the butter sauce, listening to Kaveh. )
Depressing? You think so?
( One could argue he's just trying to provoke Kaveh to emphasize more of his thinking, edging on humor or sarcasm. He glances up at the tall pipes and columns making up the frame for the entire structure. )
If you can find a way to improve the structure without drowning everyone, I'll pay you extra. We replace some parts every other year to keep up with the erosion of the sea. Ever since the Fortress was established, sturdy materials were used and replaced over the years. I found some documents in my office detailing the process vaguely if you need them to make a further assessment after you see some of the damage in the floors below.
( He takes a sip from his tea, blue eyes careful on Kaveh. He should have invited him down here sooner rather than practically hours. Not only is the company pleasant, but he finds his thought process interesting. He's unlike all the other genius inmates from Sumeru he has gotten the chance to speak to. And, yes, he's pretty. )
What would you change to give people the impression this is a place of opportunity?
[ Kaveh briefly smiles his gratitude in the direction of the man running the cafeteria, although he's not ignorant of the sidelong look he receives
(how could he be, when every person in this place seems to want to look at him twice before moving on?)
but focuses instead on the meal itself and on what Wriothesley has to say in response to his concern. With a slight frown, he tilts his head, and reaches for his own bread to mimic the other's actions. He's not concerned about finding a way to improve the structure— Kaveh's ego is never bigger than it is when he's talking about his ability as an architect. The difficulty, though, is... ]
Of course it's depressing. I know there were some windows on the way down, but after that I haven't seen anything at all. It feels like we're trapped in a gigantic steel sarcophagus, you know? The ocean outside is pretty, and as deep as we are, it still lets in some natural light— [ which is a whole other issue ] —Your Grace, have you ever grown a plant? You can put a seed in a pot with dirt and you can give it as much water as you want, but without sunlight all it will do is drown.
[ Kaveh's food is temporarily forgotten, eyes alight and almost wild with passion. Wriothesley has seem him drunk, has seen him making out with another man in the middle of a bar, but this is still the most engaged he's ever been in the other's presence as he gesticulates, hands moving fast in front of his chest as he explains himself. ]
Not to mention that there's no chance for the inmates to express themselves... [ He points at the sign he's noticed since sitting down. ] You say you're always replacing the walls, but won't let people decorate them? I know you want to prevent graffiti, but you're stifling creativity at the same time. There has to be a better way.
[ Two minutes in the Fortress, and he's criticizing not only the architecture, but the operating procedures. Whoops. ]
(how could he be, when every person in this place seems to want to look at him twice before moving on?)
but focuses instead on the meal itself and on what Wriothesley has to say in response to his concern. With a slight frown, he tilts his head, and reaches for his own bread to mimic the other's actions. He's not concerned about finding a way to improve the structure— Kaveh's ego is never bigger than it is when he's talking about his ability as an architect. The difficulty, though, is... ]
Of course it's depressing. I know there were some windows on the way down, but after that I haven't seen anything at all. It feels like we're trapped in a gigantic steel sarcophagus, you know? The ocean outside is pretty, and as deep as we are, it still lets in some natural light— [ which is a whole other issue ] —Your Grace, have you ever grown a plant? You can put a seed in a pot with dirt and you can give it as much water as you want, but without sunlight all it will do is drown.
[ Kaveh's food is temporarily forgotten, eyes alight and almost wild with passion. Wriothesley has seem him drunk, has seen him making out with another man in the middle of a bar, but this is still the most engaged he's ever been in the other's presence as he gesticulates, hands moving fast in front of his chest as he explains himself. ]
Not to mention that there's no chance for the inmates to express themselves... [ He points at the sign he's noticed since sitting down. ] You say you're always replacing the walls, but won't let people decorate them? I know you want to prevent graffiti, but you're stifling creativity at the same time. There has to be a better way.
[ Two minutes in the Fortress, and he's criticizing not only the architecture, but the operating procedures. Whoops. ]
( Of course Kaveh is the type turning people’s heads twice. Surely he puts enough thought into his outfit and persona to realize he’s a feast on his own. It’s a good thing Wriothesley has mastered the poker face.
However, seeing this side to Kaveh has him entirely mesmerized in everything point he puts on the table. He knows this Fortress isn’t exactly known for being aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but — )
People and plants are different, though. We’d be dead by now if sunlight was that crucial.
( Are architects always this intense or this just Kaveh? Wriothesley is no expert but surely how people express themselves or what liberties they practice has nothing to do with architecture. There’s a humanitarian lean into the subject that grazes the comfort of what he has been calling home for decades. Wriothesley cuts into his lamb chop, looking down at it with the smallest smirk. As off topic as Kaveh is, the points are certainly valid. He kind of likes to hear him go on and on. He’s as loud with his hands and expressions as he is with his voice— no wonder guards who walk by also can’t take their eyes off of him. Wriothesley meets their gazes as if to silently dismiss them, there’s no issues here to be had. )
At least this far down we guarantee no inmates ever try to escape. There’s nothing we can do about our foundation.
( No, he won’t change the rules, so he’ll tactfully ignore his request. There’s plenty of other ways people here express themselves- some are creative. )
You should eat your food before it freezes over. Then I have another place to show you.
On that note, this plant situation— if greenery will make this less depressing, what about fake plants?
However, seeing this side to Kaveh has him entirely mesmerized in everything point he puts on the table. He knows this Fortress isn’t exactly known for being aesthetically pleasing to the eye, but — )
People and plants are different, though. We’d be dead by now if sunlight was that crucial.
( Are architects always this intense or this just Kaveh? Wriothesley is no expert but surely how people express themselves or what liberties they practice has nothing to do with architecture. There’s a humanitarian lean into the subject that grazes the comfort of what he has been calling home for decades. Wriothesley cuts into his lamb chop, looking down at it with the smallest smirk. As off topic as Kaveh is, the points are certainly valid. He kind of likes to hear him go on and on. He’s as loud with his hands and expressions as he is with his voice— no wonder guards who walk by also can’t take their eyes off of him. Wriothesley meets their gazes as if to silently dismiss them, there’s no issues here to be had. )
At least this far down we guarantee no inmates ever try to escape. There’s nothing we can do about our foundation.
( No, he won’t change the rules, so he’ll tactfully ignore his request. There’s plenty of other ways people here express themselves- some are creative. )
You should eat your food before it freezes over. Then I have another place to show you.
On that note, this plant situation— if greenery will make this less depressing, what about fake plants?
[ It's not that Kaveh isn't used to people looking at him. He's an attractive man, he knows this, but it's more of the way people here look at him, like he's something foreign, something curious— there are, of course, the occasional lascivious looks too, and when some of the men are ogling him like a prize to be unwrapped, it's hard to remember the truth of what he's saying— they're here not just as prisoners, but for a new beginning. He wants to shrink under their eyes. I'm not here for you.
(And then there's Wriothesley, who he is here for, who looks at him with that ever-calm gaze, blue eyes cold like the Cryo of his Vision, and Kaveh wonders bitterly why he doesn't see him the way everyone else seems to.)
He shakes the thoughts and the sensations off as well as he can to focus on the discussion they're having, the meal quickly cooling in front of him, and at the warden's prompting, he takes a mouthful or two, chewing slowly as he considers the questions the other has to ask— and shaking his head with a sigh. ]
Fake plants aren't bad, [ he acquiesces, even as the movement of his head makes his overall opinion clear, ] but fake plants of good quality are generally expensive, which is something we're trying to avoid here, no? For the same price, you could probably source heat lamps. Have you seen them before? Amurta scholars use them to grow plants effectively even in cooler climates or indoors. They're sort of like an artificial sunlight that generates both light and warmth— both things this place could benefit from.
[ Yes, he's noticed the cold even in his short time here; it sinks into his skin in a way that makes him wish he'd thought to bring a jacket. ]
That way, you could have real plants too. It would give less labor-inclined inmates something to do, caring for them and helping them thrive. With the right setup, you could even get a garden going, which would save money in other ways too, don't you think?
[ With that said, he cuts into his own meat, taking a bite of it. It's much nicer than he imagined prison fare to be, eyes closing as he chews. ]
(And then there's Wriothesley, who he is here for, who looks at him with that ever-calm gaze, blue eyes cold like the Cryo of his Vision, and Kaveh wonders bitterly why he doesn't see him the way everyone else seems to.)
He shakes the thoughts and the sensations off as well as he can to focus on the discussion they're having, the meal quickly cooling in front of him, and at the warden's prompting, he takes a mouthful or two, chewing slowly as he considers the questions the other has to ask— and shaking his head with a sigh. ]
Fake plants aren't bad, [ he acquiesces, even as the movement of his head makes his overall opinion clear, ] but fake plants of good quality are generally expensive, which is something we're trying to avoid here, no? For the same price, you could probably source heat lamps. Have you seen them before? Amurta scholars use them to grow plants effectively even in cooler climates or indoors. They're sort of like an artificial sunlight that generates both light and warmth— both things this place could benefit from.
[ Yes, he's noticed the cold even in his short time here; it sinks into his skin in a way that makes him wish he'd thought to bring a jacket. ]
That way, you could have real plants too. It would give less labor-inclined inmates something to do, caring for them and helping them thrive. With the right setup, you could even get a garden going, which would save money in other ways too, don't you think?
[ With that said, he cuts into his own meat, taking a bite of it. It's much nicer than he imagined prison fare to be, eyes closing as he chews. ]
( It's not unheard of having the more blessed individuals making a profit because of their appearances. Take Darcy, for example. Wriothesley doesn't care to know the details as long as everyone involved walks away satisfied and without issues. If you're good at something, don't do it for free.
He has seen more than enough of Kaveh in the past few months. Pictures might have been deleted from his phone, but not from his memory. He's a good man to talk to, granted, but even he feels ashamed of inviting him here. Best to avoid the knowing eyes of the Melusines if he can help it. Although it doesn't take a Melusine for someone to pick up on Kaveh being on par with Navia as far as beauty goes. The curious ears sitting near them will have little to gossip about when they realize they're just talking about all kinds of work-related matters. )
Aren't fake plants cheaper in the long run since they require zero maintenance? I'd have to write up invoices to order fresh soil to bring down here. And fertilizers.
( He admires the passion in Kaveh, every word is weaved as if he truly cares for the people down here and Wriothesley gives him credit for that. He sighs. ) I guess trying out smaller batches of plants wouldn't hurt. I'm surprised that hasn't been brought up before. I know a few Amurta scholars who have come and gone over the years. I'll keep the idea on a tab. We'll have to also put it up for a vote. If there's not that much demand for something as big as a garden, it would be a waste of resources and money.
( Ideal dreams aren't always met with ideal solutions. Though, to give people the opportunity of experiencing an afternoon picnic would be nice. He likes those. )
Are you ready to see the other area? We have a long way to go.
He has seen more than enough of Kaveh in the past few months. Pictures might have been deleted from his phone, but not from his memory. He's a good man to talk to, granted, but even he feels ashamed of inviting him here. Best to avoid the knowing eyes of the Melusines if he can help it. Although it doesn't take a Melusine for someone to pick up on Kaveh being on par with Navia as far as beauty goes. The curious ears sitting near them will have little to gossip about when they realize they're just talking about all kinds of work-related matters. )
Aren't fake plants cheaper in the long run since they require zero maintenance? I'd have to write up invoices to order fresh soil to bring down here. And fertilizers.
( He admires the passion in Kaveh, every word is weaved as if he truly cares for the people down here and Wriothesley gives him credit for that. He sighs. ) I guess trying out smaller batches of plants wouldn't hurt. I'm surprised that hasn't been brought up before. I know a few Amurta scholars who have come and gone over the years. I'll keep the idea on a tab. We'll have to also put it up for a vote. If there's not that much demand for something as big as a garden, it would be a waste of resources and money.
( Ideal dreams aren't always met with ideal solutions. Though, to give people the opportunity of experiencing an afternoon picnic would be nice. He likes those. )
Are you ready to see the other area? We have a long way to go.
[ Wriothesley asks fair questions, but they're questions of someone who has lived the most of his life in a world underground, with no soil or plants of which to speak, and with only passing encounters with those who would know.
Under other circumstances, Kaveh might argue his point further, but he respects that the prison's warden, despite his lack of understanding, agrees to keep the idea in mind, pending a vote. It speaks to his leadership style, just another thing the blonde quietly finds himself admiring about the other man.
(Damnit... he needs to stop finding things he likes about the man.)
He takes another bite of his food, considering what Wriothesley has said, and nods. ]
I think that a vote is a good idea. But at least allow me to assure you that apart from the initial outlay, the cost for upkeep would be very similar. If kept properly, soil doesn't often need replacing. And as for fertilizer... [ He gestures to the plate in front of him. ] Waste from food preparation or leftovers can be composted into usable fertilizer. Even— [ and perhaps, Kaveh thinks from previous discussions, this will be what wins him over ] —old tea leaves can be used. So I don't think you'd have much concern on that front.
[ His smile is genuine. As het up as he can be about things like this, having Wriothesley honestly listening to him is making a world of difference in his need to argue.
(Perhaps Alhaitham could learn a thing or two...!!!)
But— ]
The other area. Right. Yeah— One second. [ He scoops up one last mouthful of meat, and then nods up at the other man again. ] I'm ready.
Under other circumstances, Kaveh might argue his point further, but he respects that the prison's warden, despite his lack of understanding, agrees to keep the idea in mind, pending a vote. It speaks to his leadership style, just another thing the blonde quietly finds himself admiring about the other man.
(Damnit... he needs to stop finding things he likes about the man.)
He takes another bite of his food, considering what Wriothesley has said, and nods. ]
I think that a vote is a good idea. But at least allow me to assure you that apart from the initial outlay, the cost for upkeep would be very similar. If kept properly, soil doesn't often need replacing. And as for fertilizer... [ He gestures to the plate in front of him. ] Waste from food preparation or leftovers can be composted into usable fertilizer. Even— [ and perhaps, Kaveh thinks from previous discussions, this will be what wins him over ] —old tea leaves can be used. So I don't think you'd have much concern on that front.
[ His smile is genuine. As het up as he can be about things like this, having Wriothesley honestly listening to him is making a world of difference in his need to argue.
(Perhaps Alhaitham could learn a thing or two...!!!)
But— ]
The other area. Right. Yeah— One second. [ He scoops up one last mouthful of meat, and then nods up at the other man again. ] I'm ready.
Edited 2023-12-07 14:54 (UTC)
( It’s easy to dissect everything he admires about Kaveh. His thoughtfulness spills right out of his sleeves wearing nothing but his heart. This makes it more of a surprise he’s still single and loveless, and yet even after sharing so many kisses with strangers, none of them bothered to extend an offer to become something more?
He’s always careful when he studies him, making sure his gaze scans him from head to toe when Kaveh is too busy doing something else— like stuffing his face or going on in a tangent with his all knowing chin lift. Its endearing. )
Huh. Never thought of using the tea leaves. Now that you mention it, perhaps I should try to set up a garden and grow my own brand of tea plant. I wonder if the people on the surface would take a liking to the idea. Good stuff, Kaveh.
( He guides into one of the elevators leading to the dorms. Inmates are normally doing their own agendas. Some work, others walk around. Wriothesley has enough experience to know when he should be concerned about anything. The floors are also damp with moisture, forming small, wet pools once they climb the stairs to the hallways. ( Which are just pipes on their own. )
An inmate bows his head after passing by. )
Y-Your Grace. Is everything alright? I didn’t expect you here.
Haha. Expect the unexpected.
( Notice how he doesn’t even answer his question, either. He glances at Kaveh at the end of the turn of the hall. )
Here’s an empty room. All of them have the same layout. Naturally this one is more of a skeleton. But it’s a good gist of it. Everyone gets a bed, a desk, a shelf to put their things on, and all of them are ventilated.
I lived in one of these for a long time myself. Pretty comfortable, no?
( With drippy pipes all the way on the ceiling, some mold, rust everywhere. )
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