[ As the habit’s come to be, he quietly steps into Aether’s room just as the sun begins to kiss the morning sky.
Past the mirror’s slim frame, Vincent raises to stand himself upright and tug at the hems of his waistcoat, wings relaxing from their place tucked tightly against his back. His line of sight raises, smiling in anticipation while he approaches the bed - and, briefly, his steps falters up what he sees.
This little bedmate of Aether’s is not one he recognizes; noted with an ever so slight narrow of his mismatched eyes.
Though his gaze is fixed on the unfamiliar form, he delicately drapes himself down - and only then does he intimately behold the vision of Aether’s sleeping face, fingers caressing along the other blond’s soft jaw. He steals a kiss, gentle and lingering. ]
[ Although Xiao doesn't wake up as he usually does at any small noise, it's impossible for him to ignore the dip in the bed or the closer presence. In the blink of an eye, he throws himself out of the bed, grasping his spear and aiming it against Vincent.
Those bird-of-prey eyes narrow, jaw tensed as he grits his teeth and readies himself for battle to protect Aether from this... unknown man who somehow appeared in the blond's bedroom and dares to lay his hands - or lips - on his friend! ]
[Despite eating the horrible nightmare, Aether sleeps relatively well. Xiao's presence definitely helps with it. He never hears anyone approach and only stirs at the soft press of lips against his own. Normally, he would then slowly awaken, let himself stretch in the bed, wrap his arms around his lover--
Xiao's reaction causes a shock to the traveler's system, enough to make him up in an instant. He reaches to grab the spear's handle in panic, his eyes big.]
Xiao, no! This is... [He should've told his friend... why didn't he tell him this! He never thought this would happen, that's why.] This is Vincent. My lover. [His cheeks burn a little.] I have two lovers.
[Then he slowly turns his head to Vincent.]
Vince, sorry about this... This is Xiao. My friend.
[ Well, if Vincent’s to be fair, he knows that his presence is alarming by default; an unfamiliar spectral soul with a lofty demonic appearance. Still, it’s quite rich that this new toy of Aether’s should question him.
Without a care, he briefly peers up at the stranger, fingers petting across Aether’s lips as he admire those waking eyes as though they hold some divine truth.
Slipping away to stand, his chest falls with an airy sigh while turning his attention to Xiao, at last. It’s with his most congenial smile that he touches a hand to his heart, long tresses swaying with a cant of his blond head. ]
[ ...and to be fair on Xiao's end, he's been around a lot of weird-looking people back home as well, so the shimmery pale creature with wings isn't what sets his need to protect off as much as the sudden appearance.
The yaksha lowers the spear immediately when Aether grabs it, to make sure he doesn't get hurt by accident. His eyes remain on Vincent, though, but be looks more confused than defensive now.
Two lovers... that's not too difficult for him to understand, but he's not sure why he hasn't heard of this one before. ]
Where did you come from? I didn't sense your presence.
[It seems the situation calmed down with Xiao dropping his weapon and Vincent's choosing to not address the initial hostility. He can imagine his lover isn't too happy about the entire situation, but at least he is diplomatic and he's also not Vanitas. He wouldn't try to antagonize his friend... right? Hopefully. This is the same friend that hurt Vanitas, though.
Aether signs a little, then to answer Xiao's question he points at the mirror on the wall.]
This mirror is actually a portal that leads into Vanitas and Vincent's bedroom. This way they can visit me anytime they want and I can do the same.
[ This one is much more discreet, but he’s been around. In fact, now that he’s taking a good look at this small fellow, Vincent realizes that Xiao was at Aether’s party. Of course, he’s heard of the yaksha, as well.
To Aether’s explanation, he drapes his arms across his middle with a mild nod. ]
That’s right. To my understanding, you’re quite familiar with my little kitten.
[ Though the blond’s smile widens, though his eyes hold none of that friendliness. ]
[ Xiao says, glancing at the mirror again. Who knows if someone broke into either of their places and continued into the other's home? Still, it explains the times he's seen Vanitas around but didn't see him enter.
...Vincent's possessive touch and sugary nickname is met with a frown from the yaksha. Why did mortals feel the need to show their dominance at the expense of their lover? ]
We're from the same world, so we know each other well. We are... friends.
[They were considering closeness to each other first and foremost, but if Aether thinks about it some more, he can see how Xiao would see it as risky.
The traveler gently touches his lover's hand, as if a reminder to keep things friendly (as much as they can be). Vanitas' injuries are not something he's going to forget anytime soon, after all...
Aether smiles warmly when Xiao admits to being his friend. He went such a long way.]
That's correct, but... Vince actually meant Vanitas, not me. [He points to his head.] Vanitas has cat ears and a tail.
[ The laughter that escapes Vincent is light and melodious. While he’d thought the nickname’s origin would have been obvious, given Vanitas’ soul manifestation, he would otherwise understand the confusion. ]
Indeed. Our darling traveler here is my little star.
[ With one of Aether’s hands over his, he’ll stay put for the moment with a hum of acknowledgement, resting a cheek atop the other’s head.
Despite this, his sight gaze remains fixed on Xiao. ]
As you might imagine, I feel quite conflicted right now. Vanitas was hurt. Badly. [ A blond brow quirks, a corner of his smile plucking higher. ] Do you often batter dying mortals?
[ Xiao doesn't quite know what to say about that. So they weren't just two lovers, but the lovers were together as well? That made the comment make a little more sense, even if the connections are a bit confusing for the yaksha. (Rex Lapis didn't exactly hold the kind of court that came with concubines.)
The short man slides back off the bed and stands, pulling his spear away as well. He reaches for his gloves and armor pieces and starts to put them on again. ]
If you have a grievance with me, then speak your mind. No, I do not make a habit of bringing harm to mortals, nor do I enjoy it.
[ He slides one of the gloves over his tree-like hand. ]
I regret my second and third blow. The first was warranted.
[Being in this kind of relationships makes some things easier and others far more complicated.
Aether tries to look up at Vincent, but he decides to stay still and silent for the moment, unsure what to say to this. There is little justifying Vanitas' actions, since the traveler made sure to warn him and even made him promise to not anger the yaksha. There is also nothing he can say to defend Xiao losing his temper to this degree.
The fact that both Vanits and Vincent then later suggested that Xiao would be far better partner to Aether is also fresh in his mind. He still doesn't know what to think of it all, but the previous conversation still lingers in the back of his mind.
For now, he only squeezes his lover's hand and hopes this conversation doesn't turn hostile.]
[ If Aether wishes to move, he won’t prevent the other man from doing so. He lifts his head to meet those golden eyes, leaving a kiss atop wispy blond bangs.
Back to the conversation, however. ]
Very well, I’ll speak plainly; I desired to have your head for it. [ A breath of laughter, at that. ] However, as I understand it, you’ve taken great care to watch after Aether, and have both become quite special to one another. [ An entertained little glance between the two. ] And, perhaps, I’m intimately aware of how vexing Vanitas can be.
I would have expected so, if you two are also involved.
[ He gets that, he does. Protecting one's mate is a strong instinct.
Xiao finishes putting on his other glove, making a fist to check the fit before working on his pauldron. He's not quite sure how to explain their bond to this person that he knows nothing about. ]
He is the only other person than my Lord that can call on me. He is the only other person than my Lord I will kill for. He is my friend.
[ The pauldron is tightened, and the yaksha looks back at the two blondes. ]
Aether can take care of himself... but to offer him up like his body and will means nothing, to use him as bait is unforgivable. Vanitas has done so twice, and this time he paid for it. I have no regrets, but neither do I have any other qualms with him.
[In spite of the sweet little kiss he gets from Vincent, his lover's first words make Aether freeze, all muscles tense until he hears the laugh. The look he gives the other is a small frown - there is indeed an understanding between them how much chaos Vanitas can bring.
Aether's gaze then falls on the yaksha, who so solemnly declares him as important as his savior. But he no longer claims to be a weapon for Zhongli or Aether. He recognizes now that he is a friend first an foremost to this traveler and Aether smiles only more, like he can't get enough of hearing it.]
He's a very dear friend of mine. [He adds, addressing to Vincent.] One, that saved me many times before and always worries for my safety.
[His expression falls a little when the incident with Vanitas is reminded.]
Vanitas understood his mistake. [He hopes.] I doubt he'd try that again... But thank you, Xiao. I don't want to see the two of you fighting.
[ Isn't Aether's frown the cutest? Vincent's smile only grows more fond.
As he offers the opportunity to explain, the taller blond stands to rest his hands on his partner's shoulders, his mismatched eyes shifting between the two as they speak.
Xiao's words are surprisingly well received; he even nods in agreement, that Aether could take perfectly good care of himself. The defensive actions may not have been necessary, but if he'd known that another was intending to play with either of his lover's hearts, he wouldn't have taken so kindly to it, either.
Chin lowering, her regards this new acquaintance of his thoughtfully. If he were to judge his character from this interaction alone, the yaksha is honorable. Honest, loyal. Vincent likes him. ]
Good. I wouldn't be so tolerant if this were to happen a second time.
[ Raising a hand, fingertips rest just below his grinning lips. ]
From my perspective, however, it seems that your devotion could speak of something far more complicated than friendship. I suppose it could be that you haven't had the opportunity to trust many... that's something which I could empathize with well.
[ He looks at Aether and gives a short nod when he says he doesn't want any more fighting. Xiao really doesn't want to bring any more distress to him, or lay his hands on mortals. ]
You have my word.
[ ...and unlike some people, he keeps his promises.
His gaze turns to Vincent as the other man speaks, and he understands. He would expect nothing less, so they don't have any issues in his mind. However, what Vincent says next makes the yaksha raise a brow, confusion etched on his features.
More than friendship? He only just managed to admit they're friends! ]
I don't understand. Loyalty, protection and devotion are not complicated. It's the foundation of my existence.
[ Never mind that it had all only been for Rex Lapis before he met Aether. ]
[Aether would argue that his frowns are not cute. He can't exactly hide his surprise that Vincent seems to like Xiao. Or maybe it was to be expected. The blond values loyalty and the yaksha is a reasonable person, too. They could get along just fine.
...Then Vincent talks about Xiao's feelings towards Aether, suggesting it could be something else than friendship. This is where the traveler draws the line, suddenly moving from his spot and approaching his friend. He only casts one hurt glance at his lover, before pulling a smile when addressing Xiao.]
Don't worry too much about it. Vince didn't mean anything in particular by it.
[Aether knows perfectly well what the other blond meant and he doesn't like it. Why do they all think they know what's best for him!]
Thank you, Xiao, for accepting my friendship. I know how much work you're putting into this... It makes me happy and I hope you can have many more friends from now on.
[Despite everything, his words are sincere and he looks at Xiao fondly, proud that the yaksha no longer sees himself as only a weapon.]
[ Ah. Looks like he's in trouble. With a faint sniff of a chuckle, in spite of himself, Vincent's arms drape across his own waist. ]
Many deviate from their intended purpose, often for selfish endeavors. [ Speaking both from both experience and practice. ] That merely speaks to your resilience, I suppose.
[ Glancing between the two, he hums. ]
In any case, you've chosen a fine friend for yourself, Xiao - and do, indeed, seem the sort that Aether deserves. [ A faint quirk of the brow. Is that better, little star? ]
[ Xiao isn't sure what to think right now, frowning. He didn't expect Aether to get up and go over to him, or try to smooth things over. Maybe he's missed something. A jab of some kind that didn't land.
It doesn't really matter, though. He doesn't care what people say about him. It's when they involve Aether than things get ugly. ]
I'm leaving.
[ Ah, there's the Xiao from a few years ago. Abrupt in an almost rude way. ]
[Xiao doesn't know what this was all about and Aether is not going to explain either. He only casts a look at Vincent. It is better, but he's painfully aware what his lover is still trying to say.
"A person Aether deserves".
He blinks when the yaksha announces that he's leaving.]
Huh, already? [Ah, right now with Vincent around Xiao would rather leave.]
...If you want. [He gives a small smile to his friend.] Thanks for cheering me up. I'll see you later, okay?
[ With a confounded blink, his head teeters to its side, leaving long blond tresses swaying in the wake of its movement. Sure, he was poking around a bit, but for once, Vincent thought he was being somewhat agreeable. ]
Oh? [ Looking between Xiao and Aether, a finger tapping against his elbow in thought. ] Hm. [ Standing himself upright, he shakes his head with a modest smile, a hand to his chest. ] There's no need. You're the guest here, Xiao. Please, don't allow my tactlessness to cast a shadow on Aether's hospitality.
[ Xiao blinks at that, looking at Vincent. Right, this man doesn't know him. ]
...there's nothing wrong with Aether's hospitality or you. My karmic debt can be contagious, and I do not wish for you to be tainted by it.
[ Aether is fully immune, so having a nap with him had not been an issue - and it's not the kind of contagion that will remain if he leaves.
Plus... he needs to make his mind make sense about what the other blond said. He feels awkward, and that's uncomfortable to someone not used to people-ing. ]
[ Mismatched eyes keenly focus on Xiao's gaze, upon such an admission. For the moment, Vincent simply breathes a soft sound of understanding. It's all he can get in, before Aether mentions that the yaksha lives above - which creates pause, brow faintly creased, as he knows there's no flat above.
Strange though that may be, he'll just have to prioritize his thoughts; thus, he shakes his head to center himself, albeit with some amusement. ]
I see. It's a relief that we've cleared any potential misunderstandings, then. [ Vincent offers a vaguely brighter smile. ] I wouldn't wish to keep you, but I'd be interested to know more about this karmic debt of yours, sometime. I happen to be cursed, myself. [ With a chuckle, he taps beside his red eye. ] An aberration which heralds disaster.
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Past the mirror’s slim frame, Vincent raises to stand himself upright and tug at the hems of his waistcoat, wings relaxing from their place tucked tightly against his back. His line of sight raises, smiling in anticipation while he approaches the bed - and, briefly, his steps falters up what he sees.
This little bedmate of Aether’s is not one he recognizes; noted with an ever so slight narrow of his mismatched eyes.
Though his gaze is fixed on the unfamiliar form, he delicately drapes himself down - and only then does he intimately behold the vision of Aether’s sleeping face, fingers caressing along the other blond’s soft jaw. He steals a kiss, gentle and lingering. ]
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Those bird-of-prey eyes narrow, jaw tensed as he grits his teeth and readies himself for battle to protect Aether from this... unknown man who somehow appeared in the blond's bedroom and dares to lay his hands - or lips - on his friend! ]
Do not touch him!
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Xiao's reaction causes a shock to the traveler's system, enough to make him up in an instant. He reaches to grab the spear's handle in panic, his eyes big.]
Xiao, no! This is... [He should've told his friend... why didn't he tell him this! He never thought this would happen, that's why.] This is Vincent. My lover. [His cheeks burn a little.] I have two lovers.
[Then he slowly turns his head to Vincent.]
Vince, sorry about this... This is Xiao. My friend.
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Without a care, he briefly peers up at the stranger, fingers petting across Aether’s lips as he admire those waking eyes as though they hold some divine truth.
Slipping away to stand, his chest falls with an airy sigh while turning his attention to Xiao, at last. It’s with his most congenial smile that he touches a hand to his heart, long tresses swaying with a cant of his blond head. ]
Xiao, hm? The pleasure is all mine, truly.
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The yaksha lowers the spear immediately when Aether grabs it, to make sure he doesn't get hurt by accident. His eyes remain on Vincent, though, but be looks more confused than defensive now.
Two lovers... that's not too difficult for him to understand, but he's not sure why he hasn't heard of this one before. ]
Where did you come from? I didn't sense your presence.
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Aether signs a little, then to answer Xiao's question he points at the mirror on the wall.]
This mirror is actually a portal that leads into Vanitas and Vincent's bedroom. This way they can visit me anytime they want and I can do the same.
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To Aether’s explanation, he drapes his arms across his middle with a mild nod. ]
That’s right. To my understanding, you’re quite familiar with my little kitten.
[ Though the blond’s smile widens, though his eyes hold none of that friendliness. ]
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[ Xiao says, glancing at the mirror again. Who knows if someone broke into either of their places and continued into the other's home? Still, it explains the times he's seen Vanitas around but didn't see him enter.
...Vincent's possessive touch and sugary nickname is met with a frown from the yaksha. Why did mortals feel the need to show their dominance at the expense of their lover? ]
We're from the same world, so we know each other well. We are... friends.
[ It's still hard for him to admit that! ]
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[They were considering closeness to each other first and foremost, but if Aether thinks about it some more, he can see how Xiao would see it as risky.
The traveler gently touches his lover's hand, as if a reminder to keep things friendly (as much as they can be). Vanitas' injuries are not something he's going to forget anytime soon, after all...
Aether smiles warmly when Xiao admits to being his friend. He went such a long way.]
That's correct, but... Vince actually meant Vanitas, not me. [He points to his head.] Vanitas has cat ears and a tail.
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Indeed. Our darling traveler here is my little star.
[ With one of Aether’s hands over his, he’ll stay put for the moment with a hum of acknowledgement, resting a cheek atop the other’s head.
Despite this, his sight gaze remains fixed on Xiao. ]
As you might imagine, I feel quite conflicted right now. Vanitas was hurt. Badly. [ A blond brow quirks, a corner of his smile plucking higher. ] Do you often batter dying mortals?
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The short man slides back off the bed and stands, pulling his spear away as well. He reaches for his gloves and armor pieces and starts to put them on again. ]
If you have a grievance with me, then speak your mind. No, I do not make a habit of bringing harm to mortals, nor do I enjoy it.
[ He slides one of the gloves over his tree-like hand. ]
I regret my second and third blow. The first was warranted.
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Aether tries to look up at Vincent, but he decides to stay still and silent for the moment, unsure what to say to this. There is little justifying Vanitas' actions, since the traveler made sure to warn him and even made him promise to not anger the yaksha. There is also nothing he can say to defend Xiao losing his temper to this degree.
The fact that both Vanits and Vincent then later suggested that Xiao would be far better partner to Aether is also fresh in his mind. He still doesn't know what to think of it all, but the previous conversation still lingers in the back of his mind.
For now, he only squeezes his lover's hand and hopes this conversation doesn't turn hostile.]
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Back to the conversation, however. ]
Very well, I’ll speak plainly; I desired to have your head for it. [ A breath of laughter, at that. ] However, as I understand it, you’ve taken great care to watch after Aether, and have both become quite special to one another. [ An entertained little glance between the two. ] And, perhaps, I’m intimately aware of how vexing Vanitas can be.
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[ He gets that, he does. Protecting one's mate is a strong instinct.
Xiao finishes putting on his other glove, making a fist to check the fit before working on his pauldron. He's not quite sure how to explain their bond to this person that he knows nothing about. ]
He is the only other person than my Lord that can call on me. He is the only other person than my Lord I will kill for. He is my friend.
[ The pauldron is tightened, and the yaksha looks back at the two blondes. ]
Aether can take care of himself... but to offer him up like his body and will means nothing, to use him as bait is unforgivable. Vanitas has done so twice, and this time he paid for it. I have no regrets, but neither do I have any other qualms with him.
I will not touch him again.
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Aether's gaze then falls on the yaksha, who so solemnly declares him as important as his savior. But he no longer claims to be a weapon for Zhongli or Aether. He recognizes now that he is a friend first an foremost to this traveler and Aether smiles only more, like he can't get enough of hearing it.]
He's a very dear friend of mine. [He adds, addressing to Vincent.] One, that saved me many times before and always worries for my safety.
[His expression falls a little when the incident with Vanitas is reminded.]
Vanitas understood his mistake. [He hopes.] I doubt he'd try that again... But thank you, Xiao. I don't want to see the two of you fighting.
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As he offers the opportunity to explain, the taller blond stands to rest his hands on his partner's shoulders, his mismatched eyes shifting between the two as they speak.
Xiao's words are surprisingly well received; he even nods in agreement, that Aether could take perfectly good care of himself. The defensive actions may not have been necessary, but if he'd known that another was intending to play with either of his lover's hearts, he wouldn't have taken so kindly to it, either.
Chin lowering, her regards this new acquaintance of his thoughtfully. If he were to judge his character from this interaction alone, the yaksha is honorable. Honest, loyal. Vincent likes him. ]
Good. I wouldn't be so tolerant if this were to happen a second time.
[ Raising a hand, fingertips rest just below his grinning lips. ]
From my perspective, however, it seems that your devotion could speak of something far more complicated than friendship. I suppose it could be that you haven't had the opportunity to trust many... that's something which I could empathize with well.
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You have my word.
[ ...and unlike some people, he keeps his promises.
His gaze turns to Vincent as the other man speaks, and he understands. He would expect nothing less, so they don't have any issues in his mind. However, what Vincent says next makes the yaksha raise a brow, confusion etched on his features.
More than friendship? He only just managed to admit they're friends! ]
I don't understand. Loyalty, protection and devotion are not complicated. It's the foundation of my existence.
[ Never mind that it had all only been for Rex Lapis before he met Aether. ]
Friendship is... more difficult for me.
[ You have to be a person to be a friend. ]
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...Then Vincent talks about Xiao's feelings towards Aether, suggesting it could be something else than friendship. This is where the traveler draws the line, suddenly moving from his spot and approaching his friend. He only casts one hurt glance at his lover, before pulling a smile when addressing Xiao.]
Don't worry too much about it. Vince didn't mean anything in particular by it.
[Aether knows perfectly well what the other blond meant and he doesn't like it. Why do they all think they know what's best for him!]
Thank you, Xiao, for accepting my friendship. I know how much work you're putting into this... It makes me happy and I hope you can have many more friends from now on.
[Despite everything, his words are sincere and he looks at Xiao fondly, proud that the yaksha no longer sees himself as only a weapon.]
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Many deviate from their intended purpose, often for selfish endeavors. [ Speaking both from both experience and practice. ] That merely speaks to your resilience, I suppose.
[ Glancing between the two, he hums. ]
In any case, you've chosen a fine friend for yourself, Xiao - and do, indeed, seem the sort that Aether deserves. [ A faint quirk of the brow. Is that better, little star? ]
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It doesn't really matter, though. He doesn't care what people say about him. It's when they involve Aether than things get ugly. ]
I'm leaving.
[ Ah, there's the Xiao from a few years ago. Abrupt in an almost rude way. ]
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"A person Aether deserves".
He blinks when the yaksha announces that he's leaving.]
Huh, already? [Ah, right now with Vincent around Xiao would rather leave.]
...If you want. [He gives a small smile to his friend.] Thanks for cheering me up. I'll see you later, okay?
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Oh? [ Looking between Xiao and Aether, a finger tapping against his elbow in thought. ] Hm. [ Standing himself upright, he shakes his head with a modest smile, a hand to his chest. ] There's no need. You're the guest here, Xiao. Please, don't allow my tactlessness to cast a shadow on Aether's hospitality.
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...there's nothing wrong with Aether's hospitality or you. My karmic debt can be contagious, and I do not wish for you to be tainted by it.
[ Aether is fully immune, so having a nap with him had not been an issue - and it's not the kind of contagion that will remain if he leaves.
Plus... he needs to make his mind make sense about what the other blond said. He feels awkward, and that's uncomfortable to someone not used to people-ing. ]
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It's fine, he lives right above me anyway.
[Which means he lives on the rooftop, yes.]
I won't be keeping you, then. [He says, turning to Xiao.] We'll see each other later.
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Strange though that may be, he'll just have to prioritize his thoughts; thus, he shakes his head to center himself, albeit with some amusement. ]
I see. It's a relief that we've cleared any potential misunderstandings, then. [ Vincent offers a vaguely brighter smile. ] I wouldn't wish to keep you, but I'd be interested to know more about this karmic debt of yours, sometime. I happen to be cursed, myself. [ With a chuckle, he taps beside his red eye. ] An aberration which heralds disaster.
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