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mixedmarshalarts-blog · 5 years

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A Romantic Holiday || Drex&Marshal

This a short-form style roleplay that @lightrecon and I did several months ago, depicting Marshal and Drex’s first Valentine’s Day together. I feel like it’s a genuine reflection of the two’s dynamic in a way not often seen on the dash. Because it’s rather lengthy, I’ve split it up into “chapters”, which each has the relevant trigger warnings on it.

Enjoy!

Challenger Approaching: Nina

DREX: -So. among the many things he had heard about this holiday tradition, one of them happened to be getting your loved one a bear. And the closest thing that happened to connect in Drex's mind was a Stufful — a bear Pokemon found in the Alola region, who also happened to be a Fighting-type. It seemed perfect in his eyes, really. DREX: -he had a card, a box of chocolate in a Heart Shaped Box, he was also told to get flowers, this Bear, and honestly, yes, he was being so extra. He was attempting to do Every Valentines tradition, thinking he had to do them All, not just a one or two, pick and choose sort of situation.- DREX: -but the card could wait until the event >:3c so all he had was this Bear. And the box of chocolate.- DREX: -and he's just, standing outside the League door, the little Stufful looking up at him with her little smile and her stick-on present bow- DREX: -he's never been to the league before,,, and he doesnt quite know how it works, or how to get to Marshal's specific quarters, so all he can do is give the door a hefty knock-

MARSHAL: -Mimi caught a Stufful in Pokelog and I figured it was close enough to Vday to FINALLY DO THIS THING. He's taken him to the League and so far they've had a pretty good time, mostly giving the grand tour and answering Drex's many, many questions- MARSHAL: -he told him that he would be right back, retire to his quarters for a few moments. The perfect time for Drex to enact his plan- MARSHAL: -But also time for Marshal. He's been nervous about this--really, really nervous. Drex was probably rather easily able to tell his apprehension, though they've both been a little offput. It's a big holiday with big expectations after all- MARSHAL: -What Drex sees is not Marshal in his usual wear. For one thing his chest is actually covered--in a dress no less. It's black and long, off the shoulders with a gold inlaid pattern and two slits at the bottom for better mobility. His makeup is warm with gold eyeliner and lipstick. He stands there for a moment, slightly flushed before taking a deep breath and looking up- MARSHAL: Drex, I-- -his eyes immediately fall on the Stufful in his arms and his words catch in his throat-

DREX: -he is... also flushed, looking Marshal up and down and Nina makes her little Nina noises- DREX: You look beautiful.... DREX: -quietly, his voice laced in wonder- I should buy you dresses from now on.... I did not... DREX: -he says again- You look beautiful.

MARSHAL: I-- thank you, you don't have to but-- MARSHAL: -he shakes his head a little bit, still staring at Nina- MARSHAL: Is that...a Pokemon?

DREX: Well, no, but I will want to. You know I will want to.

NINA: -bat bat bats her little feet up to Marshal and stares waaaaay up to him. hes so big. shes so small. hes like a mountain. but she will CONQUER- NINA: -makes her little squeaky toy cry- NINA: -she pokes his ankle-

DREX: Oh! Um, well, you-you see... I have been told one of the many Valentines Day traditions was to obtain a bear for your special one... DREX: I was not aware that such a bear must be a... stuffed toy bear. DREX: So I ventured to obtain a bear-like Pokemon found in Alola. It is called a Stufful — a dual Normal- and Fighting-type. DREX: So... as it turned out, she was somewhat perfect for the occasion, despite my misunderstanding — don't you agree? DREX: I have named her Nina. She likes to climb. DREX: And she is yours now.

MARSHAL: -just kind of looking between him and this new Pokemon--his new Pokemon- MARSHAL: I...wow... MARSHAL: -he leans down and goes to pick Nina up-

NINA: -and he picks her up, sure, but she quickly WRIGGLES-

MARSHAL: -but he keeps a firm grip on her- MARSHAL: Ah, no.

NINA: -OH NOW SHE'S REALLY WRIGGLING- NINA: -flails her little arms-

MARSHAL: That kind of behavior isn't going to get you what you want. Now are you going to calm yourself?

NINA: -you could swear her cry sounds like NO!!- NINA: -but she begrudgingly settles down-

DREX: -sweats- I have also heard that Stufful do not like being. Squeezed.

MARSHAL: That is fine. But she cannot hope to flail herself and potentially hurt others in the process. MARSHAL: -looks like you got a strict dad Nina sorry- MARSHAL: -he holds her out in front of him and looks her over-

NINA: -looks at him with that soft little smile but her eyes scream bloody passion- NINA: -you wanna go bich- NINA: -and she tries !! to put a paw down on his arm- NINA: -she wants to CLIMB dammit-

MARSHAL: -he smiles softly and then puts her on the ground- MARSHAL: Does she have a Pokeball?

NINA: -NOOOOOooooooo now she's small again- NINA: -rats- NINA: -goes to press her head against Marshal's leg and she makes a squeaky noise-

DREX: Oh! Um. Here we are... -presents Marshal a Beast Ball-

MARSHAL: -and well this is the first time he's ever seen a Beast Ball up close. He looks it over- MARSHAL: Fascinating...are there any differences between this and a Pokeball I should know about?

DREX: On Earthen Pokemon, they are.... terrible.

MARSHAL: -looks up at him in concern- MARSHAL: Pardon?

DREX: They have... such poor performance compared to the average Pokeball. DREX: Apparently less than half the capture rate. DREX: -he looks somewhat embarrassed- But I... managed. DREX: -flashbacks to him squatting in front of Nina for like three hours quietly begging her to join him- DREX: ...I managed.

MARSHAL: -DREX PLEASE- MARSHAL:...I see. Well, if she's already been captured, then it should be fine. MARSHAL: -he looks down to Nina- MARSHAL: I will bring you out later to meet the rest of your teammates, and then we can begin training.

NINA: -tilts her head. what are these words he's saying. she doesn't know. he's weird. they're both weird. everything's weird.- NINA: -every time he looks at her she's reminded how incredible it must feel to be on top of his head. like look at that head. it's perfect nina size- NINA: -but theres no way to get there unless she's close to his shoulders already. hm.....- NINA: -little nina noises-

DREX: -he looks to Marshal and gently puts the Beast Ball in his hand-

MARSHAL: -thanks him with a nod and a smile and then goes to recall Nina back to her ball. Sorry lil girl you aren't messing up this makeup job today-

DREX: I hope she will not be too troublesome to you...

MARSHAL: No, no. I certainly wasn't...expecting this, but I appreciate the effort and the thought. MARSHAL: Perhaps it will be good to expand the team. At the very least Dewey will have a sparring partner now.

DREX: She seems mischievous all the same as him.

MARSHAL: -sighs and shakes his head, adding the ball to his belt- MARSHAL: It will certainly be an experience...thank you. MARSHAL: -he leans over to kiss his cheek-

DREX: -he blushes and stiffens, and when Marshal pulls away, he finally smiles and laughs a little nervously before relaxing- DREX: -he's still not... Used to that- DREX: -and he touches his cheek where he was kissed- You're too kind to me...

MARSHAL: Hardly. From what you've described, that's only the beginning of the gifts.

DREX: ...Yes, that's exactly so. This is second... -he goes over to the counter ( i assume there's at least one mirror in the hallway with those countertops u know the ones ) and grabs a bouquet of flowers- DREX: This is also customary, yes?

MARSHAL: -he smiles and laughs a little- Yes, and I was figuring you'd get as such. I have a place they can go in the kitchen, if you'd like. MARSHAL: -he motions Drex along-

DREX: -nods nods- Of course. DREX: -he's still just... absolutely awestruck by Marshal's outfit, taking in the little details, and he's still blushing-

Dinner and Gift Exchange

MARSHAL: -with his back to Drex, he takes a deep breath. He's still pretty nervous and he feels exhilarated?? But also scared to be just walking around in the open like this. He knows none of his coworkers said they would be here but he always expects someone to pop up around the corner- MARSHAL: -now important note for the tour: he had not yet shown him the kitchen. There's a reason for that. When he opens the door, they're immediately hit with a hearty smell. The room is dark, save for the few candles that are around the place, mostly congregated at a table in the middle. It's a pretty big place, as you would expect a kitchen that feeds at least 5, let alone all their Pokemon. Outside of the candles there isn't much decoration outside of an empty vase and a box sitting on the main table, which has two chairs sitting across from each other- MARSHAL: -he glances at Drex a little nervously-

DREX: -he takes in the room with eyes very wide — it's so... beautiful. Everything is just beautiful...- DREX: -and he just takes it all in and laughs quietly- Oh my goodness... You... You did this all for us...?

MARSHAL: -smiles and laughs nervously, rubbing his neck- MARSHAL: I suppose I thought your first Valentines Day should include...some of the more popular human traditions.

DREX: Well I've... I've certainly never experienced anything like this... DREX: Truly, on Megalopolis, there isn't a tradition like this one. DREX: It's... beautiful. DREX: It's all so... special. DREX: -he takes a deep breath- Wow...

MARSHAL: I'm glad you like it... MARSHAL: -looks over the room for a moment. And even other humans would know, this isn't...great. He put some candles in a dark and otherwise empty room. He didn't even put a tablecloth down or anything, jeez- MARSHAL: -but then he looks back to Drex who is glowing faintly in the dim light and even he can see how enamored he looks by it all. His expression softens and he smiles- MARSHAL: You can sit if you like, and put the flowers in the vase. I can prepare our dinner.

DREX: Oh! If that is what I must do, yes. DREX: -he isn't actually sure what should be done so he just kinda takes Marshal's word for it and sits down, not even taking off the plastic wrap from the flowers and just. putting them in- DREX: -you're a genius, Drex-

MARSHAL: -he goes over to the stove where there's a pot that he takes the cover off of. He hears the crinkle crankle and glances back- MARSHAL: You should probably take the plastic off. There's a trashcan over there. -he gestures in the direction. He's continually on the move, getting plates, glasses, and all that-

DREX: Oh... -he takes the wrap off and just sticks the rest in there, and goes to throw out the plastic wrap- DREX: -and he kinda nosily hovers around for a second to see what Marshal's up to-

MARSHAL: -well currently hes getting water for the both of him because hes STR8EDGE 4 LYFE and won't even have some romantic wine on v-day smh. He. Turns to Drex who is rather close, two glasses in hand- MARSHAL:...is everything alright?

DREX: Oh! Yes, everything's fine. DREX: -he gives a nervous little laugh- I still remember that perhaps our first interaction was. You helping me in the kitchen. DREX: I, admittedly, am quite curious as to what... processes you are doing here.

MARSHAL: Ah well...I actually did most of the cooking before you got here. It should still be warm though. -he smiles and walks away to put the glasses on the table. Drex can see there's...some kind of mess in that pot-

DREX: Oh! I see. DREX: -and he looks at the glass of water curiously and goes to sit down, examining it, putting his hand on the other side and noticing the reflection- DREX: -yes even water's fascinating folks and up to this point he actually hasn't seen drinkable water-

MARSHAL: -Drex please. He catches a glimpse of this and smiles softly before returning to prepare the rest of the food. A few moments later, he returns with two nice big plates of pasta. It's littered with shrimp (Clauncher?) and mixed together with a creamy sauce and herbs sprinkled on top. He goes to put one plate down in front of Drex before going to sit across from him-

DREX: -oh his eyes are so wide at the sight of Marshal's dish. it smells so good. it looks so good. now, admittedly, drex probably hasn't even eaten all that much since he's gotten here, but this is by far the fanciest thing ever offered to him- DREX: This looks delicious...

MARSHAL: -smiles at his reaction- MARSHAL: Thank you. I wasn't sure what you would like but...seafood tends to be my best choice.

DREX: I am... not sure what would be my choice, either. DREX: -laughs just a little- I do not think I've been on this Earth long enough to... have a preference.

MARSHAL: -he picks up his fork, but doesn't start eating yet- MARSHAL: What kind of foods have you had thus far?

DREX: A... malasada. A B-L-T. DREX: ...Two B-L-Ts. DREX: A. Cook-ie. DREX: Pizza. I did not like pizza. DREX: -he tries to think of what else- DREX: I had the cookie with milk. I did not like milk.

MARSHAL: -eyebrows dip-...Is that all? MARSHAL: -also a creamy sauce probably has some kind of dairy in it whoops-

DREX: No, I am sure there was more... DREX: I had a... burger.

MARSHAL: -just kind of. stares. Now that he thinks about it, he's never seen Drex eat on his own- MARSHAL:...do Megalopolans not need to...eat regularly?

DREX: Once every — how would you say — week? But Earth days are much shorter than days on Megalopolis, so... I'm actually quite unsure.

MARSHAL: -eyes widen- Ah...I see. MARSHAL: -slowly looks down at their meals. And he suddenly feels this pressure- MARSHAL: Well...I hope you enjoy.

DREX: -bows his head a little- Thank you. DREX: -and he grabs the fork. And he has an Ariel moment- DREX: -kinda. glances at marshal-

MARSHAL: -and he carefully spins some pasta around his fork, taking a mouthful-

DREX: -and he, Mimics Marshal's movements okay yeah that seems right-

MARSHAL: -and he's just going to eat quietly. But he's never been the conversationalist as it is, let alone with food in his mouth-

DREX: -and he definitely makes some little approving hums, letting his hand hover over his mouth as he speaks- This is... absolutely delicious. How did you make it?

MARSHAL: Hm? -he waits until he's swallowed to explain the process in depth. Hey guess what another skill has that Marshal has that I absolutely do not- MARSHAL: -Marshal's experiences with food are not my own. Janine's experiences of microwaved food from the Pokemart is absolutely my own-

DREX: -drex knowing absolutely jack fucking shit about food is absolutely my aesthetic- DREX: -nods along, but he kinda stops at what I assume was milk mentioned as an ingredient- Oh. DREX: Um. DREX: Marshal... DREX: I found out from Cynthia that... milk makes me... ill.

MARSHAL: -his eyes widen a little and he lowers his fork- MARSHAL:...Oh. I'm. So sorry. -he goes to stand-

DREX: -oh god he feels REALLY bad because the food was so good...- DREX: -but thank god he only got one bite in amirite gamers- DREX: I-I'm sorry. But it was very good...

MARSHAL: It's-- alright. I'm sure I could make something else-- -but there's definitely an edge to his voice. He takes both the plates up and sort of starts hurrying around the kitchen-

DREX: -and he easily picks up on the tension in Marshal's voice, as he usually does- DREX: Marshal...?

MARSHAL: Hm? -light floods the room as he opens the fridge to look through its contents-

DREX: -he watches him as he flits about this way and that, with that anxious intent that he'd seen before. he did it when he didn't want to think; when he wanted to distract himself- DREX: Marshal... look at me.

MARSHAL: What? MARSHAL: -he leans up from the fridge, eyes darting between him and the appliance- MARSHAL: Is everything alright?

DREX: -his voice is quiet and level- Just... take a deep breath. DREX: Deep breath...

MARSHAL: Drex-- MARSHAL: -it seems like for a moment he's going to brush it off but then he pauses. And he just seems to know. He sighs and then leans up, taking a deep breath-

DREX: There we go... DREX: What are you feeling right now...? DREX: Just... tell me how you feel. What's going through your mind. DREX: Please...

MARSHAL: -he's quiet for a long time. Then he slowly closes the fridge and sighs- MARSHAL: I...wanted to make you something nice. I knew you would likely go over the top with your gifts and I would not be able to reciprocate. So I hoped to make the experience...the best I could create.

DREX: -he gives a little sigh- Marshal, you didn't know... DREX: I did not even know my body's aversion to dairy until. Well. Until I got sick. DREX: It still... is astounding to me how many human foods use milk as an ingredient. DREX: You didn't know... DREX: But it has been wonderful so far. It truly has. DREX: And I did not even buy many more gifts after this point. Only two. DREX: And one is but a Valentines card, so it isn't as... extravagant. DREX: You certainly do not have to match my output to make me happy, Marshal... I am already happy just being here with you... DREX: -he gives a light little sigh, and he goes up to approach him- It really is okay. DREX: Here, maybe... whatever recipe you had next intended... perhaps you could teach me? I am fascinated to learn. DREX: Well, as you already know.

MARSHAL: -stands there and silently listens. He still seems a little downtrodden when Drex approaches him but he smiles small at the end-...Sure, we could do that. MARSHAL: -shit fuck I don't know anything about food what are we doing-

DREX: -well shit lets assume they start making it and drex asks a lot of questions as he does and he kinda hovers over marshal a lot and stuff-

MARSHAL: -and they make something Drex friendly. Something. Don't ask what but it is-

DREX: -after theyre finished making the Drex Friendly Pasta he kinda stands behind Marshal and looks over their handiwork. They did good. And heeeee helped- DREX: -he has his hands on marshal's shoulders and rubs them a little before getting on his Tippy Toes and kisses his cheek-

MARSHAL: -he smiles at that and glances back at him, briefly putting his hand over top Drex's- MARSHAL: Well...I hope this will be better for you.

DREX: I did not see any milk or cheese. So it should be fine. DREX: -softly and sweetly- Thank you.

MARSHAL: -smiles a little wider and goes to scoop him up a plate of pasta, which he hands to him-

DREX: Oh, could I get more... water? It is very delicious. -dont ask how water has a taste to him. just dont do it-

MARSHAL: -fuck that water absolutely has a taste. He nods- Sure. MARSHAL: -and he'll go to get him some more water before returning to his seat. He's going to have the red sauce pasta and save the other stuff in the fridge for his coworkers-

DREX: -OKAY BUT I MEAN LIKE 'tastes like juice' has taste like it has a TASTE bc his tastebuds are so different from a human's- DREX: -but he eats with little approving drex noises- DREX: -and he EATS it all very quickly he's a hungry boy- DREX: -and he wipes off his face Very Delicately with the hand cloth like a good boy- DREX: That was. Very delicious.

MARSHAL: -smiles- I'm glad you thought so. MARSHAL: -it's going to take him a little longer to finish but he gets there- MARSHAL: So...I suppose the last of the presents should be exchanged then?

DREX: Oh! Yes, certainly. DREX: -he goes back out of the kitchen for his box of chocolates and idk we'll get to the cards when we get there- DREX: -presents the Heart Shaped Box- DREX: Here we are. DREX: I have no idea what is inside.

MARSHAL: -eyebrows dip but he laughs a little- You don't? -he pulls the box closer to him-

DREX: ...No. DREX: I have heard heart shapes are... customary. And this was also... customary. DREX: So I do not know. DREX: I hope it is not dangerous.

MARSHAL: -he chuckles and goes to open it- Most likely not. -and well is it just normal ol chocolates Jiji-

DREX: ...What are those.

MARSHAL: They're chocolates. They're a type of candy.

DREX: Oh! I see. DREX: Do you like them?

MARSHAL: -he nods- Most people do. Unfortunately though...most chocolate candies contain dairy.

DREX: Oh. Well, they are not for me, so... DREX: ...You can have dairy, yes?

MARSHAL: Yes, I can. Still, I will save them. -he goes to put the lid back on- Thank you Drex. This has truly been the most...traditional, I have ever celebrated this holiday. Now I understand why others enjoy it so much. MARSHAL: Although...I do have something for you too. MARSHAL: -he takes the small box next to the vase and slides it across the table to him. It's not wrapped, doesn't even have a bow it-

DREX: -a Box- DREX: -for him??- DREX: -he... slowly opens it-

MARSHAL: -it's filled with a small cloth but what is more important is what is nestled in the center of it. It's a smooth, round, transluscent purple stone- MARSHAL:...It's called an Eviolite. When given to a young Pokemon, it helps their defensive abilities. But in greater mythology...it is said to bring protection to those who keep it close. This particular one was found in the Wellspring Caves of Unova but...it is just one of many types of stones this world has to offer you. I hope you can add many from around this planet to your collection.

DREX: -his eyes slooowly widen and his breath hitches- DREX: -and he just... holds the stone as his eyebrows bow- DREX: -and he examines it, how it shines with its polish; how it sparkles- DREX: -he thinks back to every other stone he'd collected — stolen little moments with hesitant look-arounds, makings sure to snatch them up quickly and hide them in whatever fold of whatever rags he still managed to wear. There was always apprehension in his previous collection — that whoever owned him would be able to use it as leverage over him. that it would all be lost. that he would be caught doing something as harmless as collecting a stone or a gem, and be punished for it severely- DREX: -and how he took all of those little weathered stones home and polished them all, making them his. making them his survival story- DREX: -yes, there may have been gemstones he was given — and he distinctly remembers one such instance where a man, a servant of his owner, snuck gifts for drex regularly — but... that simple, harmless action proved to be his demise. all because of drex and his interest.- DREX: -he finds himself blinking away tears- DREX: -and now here was this. the only gift that was ever given to him so earnestly, unpunishable. given to him by the one he loves, by the one he trusts so dearly. he holds the eviolite tightly and gives a little sob, using his free hand to cover his mouth- DREX: Thank you...

MARSHAL: -he smiles and turns to kiss him in return- MARSHAL: I feel the same way...

Technology Explored: Cinema and More

CW: Spoilers for Disney’s Tangled

DREX: -he rests his head against Marshal's shoulder for a moment before finally pulling away- DREX: There's still plenty of time left in the night... what do you wish to do?

MARSHAL: Well...I know you said you'd be interested in watching a movie. We do have a BlueRay player here.

DREX: Oh! Yes, that is true. I also have yet to see your room. If... that is allowed.

MARSHAL: Of course...which would you prefer to do first?

DREX: Well... do you have a movie in mind for us to view?

MARSHAL: Ah...not really. Truthfully, I don't own that many movies. But my coworkers have...stocked the shelves with all kinds of different films. I thought you might like to choose one.

DREX: Oh, I suppose that works, then... DREX: We could end the night in your quarters, then. It seems appropriate.

MARSHAL: -flushes a little- I suppose so. MARSHAL: Alright well. -he stands- I'll show you to it. Then while you're deciding, I'll clean up in here.

DREX: I could do that, yes. DREX: Um... so where would the selection be?

MARSHAL: -he motions him along and leads him down a hallway to an entertainment room. Which. Knowing the league is probably ultra flashy and ridiculous, with a huge tv, games, and all sorts of other weird technology junk. But he leads him over to a cabinet filled with tons and tons of movies-

DREX: -he is absolutely fascinated with the entertainment room; there's so much to see and look at , and most of it doesn't at all seem like Marshal's aesthetic choice. he supposes those are the drawbacks of living in shared quarters- DREX: -he finally sees a wall with many many thin boxes — which were similar in size to his Rocky that he had bought Marshal, so he assumes they are the D-V-Ds, and he begins to look through them- Ah, thank you. I... will hopefully have one selected by the time you return.

MARSHAL: -smiles and nods, putting a hand on Drex's shoulder and squeezes it before he turns to leave- MARSHAL: -he returns to the kitchen and cleans everything up, putting away all the extra food for leftovers. He leaves the flowers, chocolate, and stone box on the table for them to get later. Then, he'll return to the entertainment room-

DREX: -when Marshal returns, he'll see Drex holding a single movie — a Disney movie. He had heard some of the beachhouse residents talking about Disney — that it is a lovely genre of movie that's supposed to make you feel nice. He's holding a box for the movie Tangled- DREX: I think I want to watch this one.

MARSHAL: Hm? -he goes over and looks over his shoulder- MARSHAL: Ah yes, this is one of the new Disney movies. I've heard good things.

DREX: I have heard many things about the brand "Disney." That they are usually... wholesome and romantic...

MARSHAL: -he nods- Generally, they tend to be movies for children but I know many adults who watch them as well.

DREX: Children's movies...? Oh, I see... DREX: Then... is it still appropriate for us to watch?

MARSHAL: -nods- It's fine. -he goes to take the case from him to set it up. Hopefully faster this time after the disaster of last time-

DREX: -and it is a Much Larger T-V than last time... goodness... he finds a place to sit- DREX: Have you ever seen this movie?

MARSHAL: No. -he shakes his head- I don't watch movies very often.

DREX: -he gives a small smile- I only happened to notice that you... knew the Rocky Movie word-for-word. DREX: I was curious as to which other movies you know so well.

MARSHAL: -flushes a little and chuckles embarrassedly- Ah well...I used to watch that one a lot as a kid. We only had a handful of movies so we just...watched those over and over. MARSHAL: But I don't do that anymore.

DREX: Oh, I see... DREX: So I happened to, coincidentally, pick a favorite of yours. DREX: I suppose I have a good sense of your interests. DREX: ...Marshal, what is an E-moh-ji.

MARSHAL: It was very lucky. MARSHAL: -glances back at him- I believe it’s a term used for symbols you can use while texting on your phone.

DREX: -quietly- Why would they find the need to make a movie out of such things... -he goes back over to the DVD case and finds the Emoji Movie- ?????

MARSHAL: A...movie? -you are asking the wrong guy-...maybe the terminology has changed. I’m unsure.

DREX: -shows him the movie- ??? DREX: ?????

MARSHAL: -expression contorts and he frowns but shakes his head- I’m unsure. I find I often...am behind. When it comes to pop culture.

DREX: -he kinda... looks over the movie and holds onto it- Part of me wants to watch this.

MARSHAL: -raises an eyebrow- I’ve heard...mixed reviews on animated movies that are not from Disney

DREX: Still, is that not... comical? DREX: Or is it just plain bad?

MARSHAL: -looks at the movie's cover again. Makes. A Face- MARSHAL: As someone who does not text using emojis, I imagine I would not find the humor very...humorous.

DREX: I am sure I would not either. DREX: -eagerly- Let's watch it anyway. -he has. a weird sorta cheesy smile on him- DREX: Or. Wait, yes. The Disney movie. My apologies.

MARSHAL: -glances him over- It's whichever movie you want.

DREX: I suppose we can watch the Disney movie, yes.

MARSHAL: As long as that's what you want. -he holds his hand out to be given a movie-

DREX: -looks at the Emoji Movie... someday, but not today, and he puts it back on the shelf before handing him Tangled-

MARSHAL: -and he'll put it in and step back, taking the remote to go through the main menu. He takes a seat on the couch and smiles at Drex-

DREX: -he sits close by Marshal and leans on him a little- I should say it again... DREX: You do look lovely, really.

MARSHAL: -flushes a little and smooths out his dress- MARSHAL: Thank you... MARSHAL: You look quite handsome as well.

DREX: Well... I haven't worn anything outside of what I normally would. DREX: Do you think I would look good in a dress? DREX: I hadn't considered it when I was shopping at the store named after you.

MARSHAL: I believe so. MARSHAL: This is...the first time. I have worn one in front of somebody else.

DREX: Oh...? DREX: -he blushes a little- In front of... me? DREX: I... I am honored, truly. DREX: That you would, well, trust me enough to do this.

MARSHAL: Of course. MARSHAL: It...took me awhile to even consider buying one. I truly have Alder to thank for his guidance and encouragement.

DREX: Well, I believe he gave you the right encouragement. DREX: It looks lovely, and you look very happy. DREX: That's all that should matter.

MARSHAL: -flushes and smiles. After a moment, the smile widens- MARSHAL: I...am. MARSHAL: -he goes to wrap an arm around Drex's shoulders and goes to start the movie-

DREX: Well... I know you look beautiful. DREX: Next time I go to the market, perhaps we can... look for more dresses for you? DREX: Would you like that?

MARSHAL: -he's quiet and still- MARSHAL: I think perhaps someday but...maybe not right now. MARSHAL:...If that is alright.

DREX: -he nods and squeezes Marshal's hand- Of course. Whatever you're most comfortable with.

MARSHAL: -squeezes his hand in turn- FLYNN: This is the story of how I die.

DREX: -quietly- How is he speaking if he is dead.

MARSHAL: I...am unsure. -and then it goes into the whole story about the flower and whatnot-

DREX: -right away, he's taken aback by the beautiful visuals and the sound design, as well as the animation — since he's actually never seen that before as of yet. as the movie progresses, he asks a few questions here and there such as 'how did such a tower manage to never be found? who built it?' as well as general, out-of-box questions such as 'where does this movie take place?' he questions how rapunzel's hair got so long, and if that truly is possible in a natural setting. he doesn't understand much about the whole 'magical' aspect.-

MARSHAL: -and he tries to answer questions where he can, pointing out that it seems the tower was purposefully hidden in a grove, etc. He tells him the kingdom is named Corona, though he is unsure if a place like that actually exists. And when the answer is magic, he pretty much says as much-

DREX: -he's not very well satisfied with the answer of magic, but he learns to live with it. it is fantasy, after all. he's enamored by rapunzel and flynn's characters, and understandably laugh at the humor involved. however, he's actually taken aback a bit at each of the music pieces, as if he... didn't know they were going to happen ( it's disney, drex. it's gonna happen ), but he finds he ends up enjoying them-

MARSHAL: -he mostly chuckles whenever Drex does. And while this isn't really his thing, he's enjoying it well enough and is more enjoying just the experience of watching it with his boyfriend-

DREX: -and they get to the point where I See the Light plays and it's all cheesy and romantic and Drex is visibly enamored and especially absorbed into the movie, and he squeezes Marshal's hand tight-

MARSHAL: -at the squeeze, he glances down at him and just watches him be enamored. PARALLEL TO FLYNN WATCHING RAPUNZEL BEING ENAMORED ITS GAY. His expression softens and he smiles, pressing a light kiss to the top of his head-

DREX: -when the song ends, he feels a small kiss at the top of his head, and he turns to look to Marshal ( and the entire song's parallel completely goes over his head )- Yes...?

MARSHAL: -shakes his head but smiles- Nothing.

DREX: -and he just smiles back softly and resettles againt Marshal as the movie progresses with that one prison break scene and it's all good fun- DREX: -but then comes the moment where flynn climbs up the tower and sees rapunzel all tied up and he gets MCSTABBED and drex very audibly gasps and tenses at it all- DREX: -it's very sad, and flynn and rapunzel's little exchange while rapunzel's trying to heal him just puts a pit in drex's stomach. he's getting pretty emotional- DREX: -and then there's the clusterfuck of mother gothel aging up and then dying and shit and then by the You Were My New Dream line he's already crying those silent tears. but it's disney. disney knows how to getcha-

MARSHAL: -eyes dart between Drex and the movie. He's a little less emotionally invested in everything that is happening. Really, he's more worried about Drex. Because growing up, Marshal admittedly didn't watch that many Disney movies but the ones he did see weren't this intense. He rubs Drex's arm to comfort him and just kind of. Hopes things will turn out alright-

DREX: -and well since it's disney of course everything turns out okay!! within the same breath of flynn dying he comes back and everything's happy and cheerful and drex finds himself perking up by the end of it. but it's like a wistful happiness. it's strange- DREX: -when that weird goblin guy makes a kissy face at the screen and the credits roll, he leans against Marshal once more, and he holds his hand and squeezes it- DREX: Marshal...?

MARSHAL: -gives a little sigh of relief. Jeez Disney. He sits back when the tension passes but still rubs Drex's arm absentmindedly- MARSHAL: Hm?

DREX: -he has a brief moment of reflection over Eliak, and... over his past life that he'll never have again, but only briefly. truly, it wasn't even enough to make him cry when the tension hit its peak in the movie. it was just... a strange parallel he didn't expect to feel in a movie that was so innocuous up until that point- DREX: -he's quiet for a little bit, brushing the top of Marshal's hand with his thumb, and he whispers- You... are my new dream.

MARSHAL: -blinks. His cheeks flush and he smiles, chuckling a little- And you...are mine. MARSHAL: -he laughs a little more. It sounds cheesy and ridiculous coming out of his mouth but it's nice anyway-

DREX: -and he chuckles back a little bit and leans close to Marshal's chest- DREX: Ahh... that was a fantastic movie, really. DREX: -he sniffles a little- Are they always this... emotionally investing?

MARSHAL: It was very good. MARSHAL: From what I understand...yes. Are you...alright?

DREX: -he thinks on that question for a moment- DREX: I... I think so. DREX: I'll be okay in time...

MARSHAL:...-he leans over to press another, longer kiss to his head- MARSHAL: Is there anything you need of me?

DREX: -and he smiles at that, and a few more tears fall, mostly from an emotion he can't quite describe, and he kisses Marshal back on his cheek, gently- DREX: No... this is all I need. DREX: Just you, and... the happiness I feel being here.

MARSHAL: -he lets go of Drex's hand to wipe the tears from his face- MARSHAL: Alright. -and he lets the silence fall, just enjoying a quiet moment between the two of them-

DREX: -stretches a little and shifts his position to get a bit more comfortable, looking around the room. he notices the air hockey table- What is that.

MARSHAL: -follows his gaze until he sees it- Ah. It is an air hockey table. A game, essentially. The goal is to hit the puck into the opposite goal and collect the most points.

DREX: Oh... I see. And that? -it looks like an arcade machine idk which one itd be thats ur pick my guy-

MARSHAL: That is Pac Man. Another game, the goal is collect the circles without being caught by your pursuers.

DREX: What is Pac Man like?

MARSHAL: It is a digital game. It is shown on the screen and you decide its actions with the controls.

DREX: No, I mean... what is he like? Is he not a man?

MARSHAL: Oh. No, he is a little...circle.

DREX: Then why is he... called Pac Man.

MARSHAL: I'm...unsure. -this has become a token line for him at this point-

DREX: Why does he wish to collect circles?

MARSHAL: I just believe that's...the goal of the game.

DREX: Seems... strange. DREX: -settles back against him- DREX: And what is that? -it's a vinyl player. probably grimsley's-

MARSHAL: It's a vinyl player. It's a rather...old method of playing music.

DREX: How does it work?

MARSHAL: I believe...it takes a record, which is similar to the movie disks you have seen, but larger. Then as it spins, the music plays.

DREX: Do you... have a record to play?

MARSHAL: Ah...the music player I believe belongs to Grimsley. I don't know if he would appreciate our...interference with it. -he grimaces at the thought of how overdramatically Grimsley would react-

DREX: Oh... I see. DREX: Yes, I believe that is for the best. My apologies. DREX: I have heard... little of Earthen music, admittedly. DREX: What kind of music do you enjoy?

MARSHAL:...Hm. I prefer to listen to music live, I think. And what I tend to prefer is instrumental.

DREX: Could you show me sometime?

MARSHAL: Well. I can't play myself, but I will find something. MARSHAL: What is music on Megalopolis like?

DREX: It is... not similar to the music here, I don't think. I have not heard any Earthen music that reminds me of it.

MARSHAL: Hm. It would be interesting to hear sometime.

DREX: I, admittedly... do not know how to play any instruments. It is a bit unfortunate.

MARSHAL: Mm, I understand that. I wish I had learned as well.

DREX: I believe Phyco knew an instrument. He kept it close to his desk.

MARSHAL: Perhaps we could listen sometime.

Starlight, Starbright

DREX: -stretches- Should we retire to your quarters? Or are there other things to see?

MARSHAL: -a small smile creeps on his face- If it's alright...I do have one more thing I wish to show you.

DREX: -and his eyes and freckles light up briefly- Yes, absolutely.

MARSHAL: -he smiles wider and pulls away from him, but still takes his hand. Then he leads them to an elevator. He takes a deep breath as he waits for it to arrive-

DREX: -hes never been inside an elevator and is admittedly a bit frightened being inside a Confined Box as he is, and when it starts, his hand reflexively rests on Marshal's chest and he holds his hand tightly-

MARSHAL: -they step on and when Drex gets close to him, he squeezes his hand. After pressing a button, they ascend upwards and he fills the air with speech- MARSHAL: This trip has likely illustrated how difficult it is to get to the League. It is intentional. It's a final obstacle for anyone who wishes to challenge us. It also give us a certain amount of separation from the rest of Unovan society. This was to act as a means of defense but...-he sighs and shakes his head- Perhaps that was a naive notion.

DREX: It gives a sense of finality, I believe. DREX: You are able to reflect on your journey and prepare yourself for what lay ahead.

MARSHAL: -he nods- It is symbolic for those who come here. For those of us already here it can be...isolating, at times. Part of why we must provide everything for ourselves here from food to entertainment is because we don't have the luxury of finding it anywhere else. MARSHAL: -with a ding, the elevator stops. The doors open and they are immediately hit with the chilling but refreshing air of the outdoors. He smiles and squeezes his hand- MARSHAL: But there are...benefits, to being separated from the rest of society. MARSHAL: -he guides him out of the elevator by hand. They exit the elegant architecture of the large dome and onto the roof. There, he tilts his head up. They are met with a beautiful night sky, completely unpolluted by the light that is so common everywhere else, even in an area like Undella Bay. Stars and galaxies litter the firmament against the completely darkened backdrop of the rest of the mountains-

DREX: -he gives a sharp inhale as he exits, not at all affected by the chilly air, but instead, he finds himself enamored by the sight above him. he takes a few steps forward, his hands slowly cupping over his mouth, and he lets out a very shaky sigh- DREX: -his eyes are so filled with wonder- Marshal... DREX: Oh goodness...

MARSHAL: -he's seen this sky a million times before--it's what he sees on a nightly basis. So he's just watching Drex the whole time, smiling softly- MARSHAL: I was amazed myself when I first arrived here...it truly is spectacular.

DREX: -his hand slowly points up to what Marshal can only assume is one of the many many stars- Do you see those clusters of stars? I... I have been there. DREX: We call that cluster Ryzr. My father once... once took me there. I unfortunately cannot recall the names of the peoples who reside there, but they sold our planet their precious ores in exchange for our mushrooms. DREX: Fascinating how trade works, yes?

MARSHAL: -his eyes widen a little and he moves closer to Drex to follow where he is pointing. He hadn't been expecting this but thinking back, he doesn't know why not- MARSHAL: Yes, that's...extremely fascinating. MARSHAL: On Earth that is the head of the Seviper bearer constellation.

DREX: Fascinating... I believe the intersectionality of the constellations would mean that from... Megalopolis's trajectory, I believer Ryzr includes more star clusters on a separate plane than humans account for in their definition of the... Seviper-Bearer constellation.

MARSHAL: Well...our understanding of the stars has really only advanced in the last few decades. Before that, humans did not know what lie beyond...so we created imagery and stories from what we could see. They've shaped our narrative and have been our guide since our beginnings as a species.

DREX: -nods at him- All the same with Megalopolis, except... as time has went on, we have extended those contellations into a three-dimensional plane, and they have since become known as clusters defined by stars, rather than imagery.

MARSHAL: -nods thoughtfully, now watching the sky. He points as well- That one is the Teddiursa constellation. And next to it, Ursaring.

DREX: -nods, trying to see what Marshal is seeing-

MARSHAL: -he points them out and tries to both visually and audibly draw them out for him. He tells him the legends of the constellations, how the young Teddiursa wanted to see the moon reflected on its head so it climbed up into the heavens, and its mother followed after it. How a Seviper once attacked a village and a brave Machoke wrestled it away but to keep his people safe, he leaped into the sky where he now forever holds the snake. There's an enthusiasm and wonder in his voice as he recounts these stories-

DREX: -he listens intently, very fascinated by the story woven for him- DREX: That... That is beautiful... and very fascinating and whimsical.

MARSHAL: -he smiles, looking up at the sky- Each constellation has a story...one that has been passed down for thousands of years from person to person. They've helped us navigate the world both literally and philosophically. I believe one of our greatest losses has been to lose that to an excess of technology. But...there are still places and people who look to them. And our stories continue to be passed. MARSHAL: -he looks to Drex once more-

DREX: -he gives a smile to Marshal- I wish to learn as much of human lore as I possibly can. While... I suppose that is some distance away — after all, I still have to learn about human terminology — these sorts of things are so interesting to me. DREX: Humans give such meaning to the world around them. They've given meaning to the land, the ocean, the sky... DREX: Megalopolis has done... no such thing. As I mentioned previously, our... star clusters were defined by imagery. But we never did make such stories as humans have.

MARSHAL: -he nods- I think it's one of the most important aspects of...being a human. It is part of our very nature, and it's what intertwines our history from the beginning to the present to whatever may come.

DREX: It is... strange to me. Our planet holds no such sentiments. For example, you have all since called Solgaleo a... a deity. A god. We as Megalopolans saw no such thing. DREX: I wish to know about the impact this world has on its people, and the cultural influences humans have since imprinted on the Earth they live in. DREX: What other constellations are there?

MARSHAL: -and he'll spend a good amount of the night pointing out the constellations and their stories. Some of them are pretty straightforward, others are a bit more outlandish--like a woman who turned into a Milotic after her lover spurned her, etc-

DREX: -and in exchange, Drex points out some of the other constellations and clusters that hold personal meaning to him. some even touch on his experiences from his captivity, but he speaks about them with an evenness and minimum pain- DREX: I remember this galaxy, you know. When I was captured, I... spent a fair amount of time in here. DREX: Humans call it the Milky Way, yes? DREX: I remember many more of these star clusters from when I was moving between spacecrafts, rather than... when I used to travel on surveys with my father. DREX: So I cannot recall to you the names of such planets. I... would not know their translation in my native tongue. DREX: -he trails off for a moment- Marshal... I... DREX: -he doesn't continue. he doesn't... want to ruin the moment- DREX: This is... all so wonderful. DREX: I am... trying to find other stars. If I can recognize them.

MARSHAL: -he listens as well. It's hard, hearing about Drex's experiences as a slave, but he knows it's only so much worse for him. When he cuts himself off, he takes his hand, just looking him over- MARSHAL: -and it's while he's staring at Drex's face staring at the sky, he reaches up to gently brush his fingers against his cheek- MARSHAL:...I've never really noticed until now but your face...is like a microcosm of the skies itself. Like...you have your own stars.

DREX: -he blushes at the gesture, causing his features to light up slightly and he just... stares at marshal for a moment. he actually cant think of anything to say, so he just... giggles like an idiot- Y-You think so...? -he finally asks but well he isn't even sure why he asked it. just for conversation's sake? who knows-

MARSHAL: -his eyes widen a little in wonder as they light up and he continues gently stroking his thumb across his cheek- MARSHAL: Yeah...it's exactly like that, honestly. It's...beautiful.

DREX: -he, impulsively puts his hand on his free cheek and laughs like a Damn Fool, wanting to hide his face. he doesnt even know why, especially since Marshal likes it so much- I, a-ah, um I. It. Th. I. B — Um. Ah. DREX: -puts a hand on his shoulder- That's very nice of you.

MARSHAL: -his eyebrows dip but he smiles, cupping his cheek. He laughs a little as well- Are you alright?

DREX: -why did he feel so warm. why was his throat so dry. im stealing ur line scad. why this. why me.- DREX: I —! Wh-Why yes. I'm-I'm. DREX: Dandy. -why did he say dandy-

MARSHAL: Alright... MARSHAL: -he runs his thumb over his cheek- MARSHAL: I’m not being...too much, am I?

DREX: -shakes his head in Marshal's hand- No...! N-No, no, of course not. DREX: I am just. Ah... not... used to this.

MARSHAL: -he thinks for just a brief moment to Elias but he doesn’t question it- MARSHAL: Ah...I understand. I can’t truly say I am either but...we’re learning together. MARSHAL: -he leans in to press a kiss to his forehead. When he pulls back, he hovers there, eyes flickering over his face. He hesitates- MARSHAL: Is it...alright if I kiss you?

DREX: -he's flushed a deep, deep blue as Marshal pulls away. what was with him today. was it the cold air? he's usually not this... what's the word. he can't even think of the word- DREX: Y-Yes... Yes you may. DREX: A-Anytime, really.

MARSHAL: -smiles and leans in, giving him a very gentle kiss on the lips. He holds it there for a few moments before pulling away-

DREX: -he manages to kiss back despite his fluster, only a little bit, his hands resting on his shoulders before Marshal pulls away- DREX: -and he slowly rests his head against Marshal's forehead, giving a quiet sigh- Ah... th-thank you? Is... this something I should thank you for?

MARSHAL: -he chuckles softly- I don’t believe so.

DREX: I-I must ask as well. Am I... too much at times... either? DREX: Perhaps not now, but... other times.

MARSHAL: No...anytime I have spoken up, you have always respected my wishes. That is...more than I could ever ask.

DREX: Okay... -quietly- okay... DREX: But if I ever happen to do anything that upsets you, or-or is excessive, please do not hesitate to let me know, okay...?

MARSHAL: I understand. And of course that goes for you as well...

DREX: -he gives a little smile and nuzzles Marshal's cheek- Admittedly, I am... um. Not used to this much affection. I never have been. DREX: I... always act this way.

MARSHAL: -again he thinks to Eliak but he isn't gonna bring it up jeez- MARSHAL: Well...if it ever makes you uncomfortable, please let me know...

DREX: Oh, no, no! I... I actually quite enjoy it. DREX: I just... happen to get very flustered, so I apologize...

MARSHAL: -he gives almost something of a smirk- As if I have not been flustered before...

DREX: Well —! You see, it's, ah. It's at least cute when you do it...

MARSHAL: -his eyebrows dip- It's cute when you do it as well...

DREX: -he buries his face in his hands to hide his glowing blush gee drex way to prove a point- Well...! I will not argue with you. This is... This is silly.

MARSHAL: -laughs a little- I suppose so. MARSHAL: -he pulls back to press another kiss to his forehead before drawing back. He wraps an arm around Dulse and pulls him to his side, looking up at the stars again-

DREX: -he manages to quiet down for a moment, but he's unable to quell his smile- I... I like our silly moments, too. All the same as the rest. DREX: And I like it when you... hold me like this, and say kind things about me, even if I, admittedly, do not know what to do in return. DREX: It's... overwhelming, but not... in a bad way...? Does that make sense?

MARSHAL: -he glances down at him, smiling before looking back up- MARSHAL: Yeah, I understand that. I've felt the same way at times.

DREX: -and he just smiles and leans in a little closer, looking up towards the stars, absorbing the sights, and he gives a content little sigh-

MARSHAL: -and he's just going to stay like this for awhile, in a comfortable, loving silence-

DREX: -he squeezes Marshal's hand and just enjoys the silence for a moment, but then he finally asks- Do you... not get cold up here?

MARSHAL: -he shakes his head-...I don't mind the cold. -and he squeezes him-

DREX: Are... you sure? -drex you're absolutely frigid to hold why are you even asking-

MARSHAL: -he chuckles a little- I'm sure. Why, are you cold? -is that.............a joke-

DREX: -looks him dead in the eyes- Freezing.

MARSHAL: -stares at him. But soon a smile cracks on his face and he bursts out into laughter, more genuine than Drex has likely seen. He grins and rubs his arm- Well, we should probably get you inside then.

DREX: -he laughs and grins- A little-known fact about Megalopolans is that we must be properly stored in freezers lest we melt.

MARSHAL: -laughs along- You should have let me know sooner, I would have cleared some more space out for you. MARSHAL: -he turns to walk them towards the elevator-

DREX: Perhaps I can sleep in your bath tub for the night if you fill it with ice. Wake me up for sunrise.

MARSHAL: I would hope not. I just washed the sheets in my bed and I'd like to think they're very comfortable. MARSHAL: -they get back on the elevator but Marshal keeps an arm around him as they descend-

DREX: I would sincerely hate to soil them by melting in the middle of the night.

MARSHAL: You've done fine so far at the beach house

DREX: I'm surprised, really. DREX: Perhaps it is my frigid heart.

MARSHAL: Is that how you'd describe it?

DREX: I'm actually not sure at this point.

MARSHAL: -glances down at him. This doesn't feel very jokey anymore. He rubs his arm a little, silently urging him to go on-

DREX: Hm? Oh. Yes. DREX: As you must know. I am very cold. Physically or otherwise. -is he doing this right- DREX: I have no sense of emoting and am probably some sort of machine in disguise. DREX: -he giggles just a little- You saw just now — I nearly short-circuited at your compliment.

MARSHAL: -that brings a little smile back on his face- MARSHAL: You know, I have also been called a robot in my life. Perhaps that is why we are so compatible.

DREX: Perhaps this is why we are so bad at this. DREX: Two robots learning love for the first time.

MARSHAL: -well. You had a. And I had a. Hm.- MARSHAL: I'd like to think we are improving. -they exit the elevator and start to head towards his bedroom-

DREX: -okay but listen it wasnt really love those were fake fans- DREX: -finally gets to the bedroom- DREX: -stops- DREX: This is not the freezer.

MARSHAL: -puts his hand on the doorknob, glancing back at Drex- MARSHAL: Well...no, it is not. MARSHAL: -there's only so far his wit can go and he's used up basically all of it-

A Dour Turn

CW: Sexual Assault mentions, self-harm

DREX: -so then he walks inside of it and examines all the Marshal-y things about it-

MARSHAL: -and well, the first Marshal-y thing is that the room is rather bare. Of course, it seems just as advanced and stylish as the rest of the League but in terms of personal touches, it's rather empty. He has a mirror closet, a dresser with various makeups/skin care products/etc on it, and a bed neatly made with two nightstands next to it. There are some weights and other exercise equipment in the corner. A large window overlooks the mountains. But there are a few little touches...of Drex. The Makuhita plushie he was given is sitting on the corner of the dresser. Some of the candles and incense are arranged on the nightstands. And behind the dresser is a plain nightlight- MARSHAL: -he heads over to the dresser and begins to take off his jewelry, putting it in a box-

DREX: -he expected more.... Rockly Bal Boa. But he digresses, gravitating towards the window and looking out over the mountains with very wide eyes- DREX: -i also forgot to make him pack a spare set of clothes. or is that, like, in character idk anymore- DREX: -then he looks to the bed and smiles at the little Dewey plush and sits down at the foot of the bed, sort of just. kinda. not knowing what to do? but he's happy nonetheless-

MARSHAL: -he takes some makeup wipes and heads to the mirror, where he starts the painstaking nightly process. He glances at Drex in the mirror- You can make yourself comfortable.

DREX: -he takes off his shoes and kinda just, settles on the bed?-

MARSHAL: -it's a long process that includes some skincare but after he's done lotioning up his face, he looks over himself in the mirror, still in the dress- MARSHAL:...Drex? Could you...help me unzip this?

DREX: ...?? DREX: Oh, um. DREX: Okay? DREX: -oh dear. he's starting to flush- DREX: -and he gets up and tries to stop blushing like an idiot like god drex it's just marshal's back-

MARSHAL: -to be fair, if they've been sleeping together at the beach house, Drex has probably seen him shirtless. He usually sleeps in just pants, boxers at the MOST. But still, his back does look very good in this dress. Marshal faces the mirror, motioning to Drex where the zipper is on his back-

DREX: -so he just kinda, unzips the back of it and holds the back so the dress doesn't fall- DREX: Is this good?

MARSHAL: -he nods- Yes, thank you. -and he slowly and carefully slides the dress off of himself, leaning down to step out of it- MARSHAL: -And. Well. You can't exactly wear boxers with a dress, what you wanna mess up that sweet, sleek line? No. But he didn't go commando either. Instead, as he steps out, Drex is met with his boyfriend's thick bod, only covered in a small, tight pair of black briefs-

DREX: -WELP that's it scad. you killed him. you done killed him.- DREX: -he's still holding onto Marshal's dress, but he can't help but stare. And. Blush. a lot.- DREX: -slowly, hands him the dress,- DREX: ...Here you go.

MARSHAL: -he leans up with a deep sigh, rolling his shoulders a little. No don't Drex-- MARSHAL: -it's too late. He turns to face Drex. Those briefs are so very tight. He takes the dress with a tired smile- MARSHAL: Thank you.

DREX: -HE LOOKS AWAY VERY QUICKLY but its too late. he's seen it all. he's seen it ALL- DREX: Y-You're. Ah. DREX: Ah.......... DREX: Um. DREX: Thanks.

MARSHAL: -soon realizes Drex's strange behavior. Being a boxer, Marshal had to get over shame of his body pretty quickly. So it takes him a moment but soon it clicks- MARSHAL: Ah-- I apologize. -he holds the dress over himself to cover his body- MARSHAL: Am I-- making you uncomfortable?

DREX: N-No...! No, n-no. You. DREX: You look nice. -how does he look nice drex he's not wearing anything- I-I mean —! DREX: You're very pretty to look at. DREX: -bad. bad bad bad bad bad- I don't know how else to explain...

MARSHAL: -stares at him for a moment. Then he gets a look of realization- MARSHAL: Ah...yes. I understand. -he nods. He seems. Oddly subdued on the subject- MARSHAL: I will get changed then. You'll be alright here?

DREX: You're not... mad? Or-Or upset...? DREX: I. DREX: I actually feel quite... guilty. About this. I-I don't know how to explain...

MARSHAL: -he shakes his head- No. I understand the way that I am...viewed by others. The...appeal. That I have. MARSHAL: -he says as if he were explaining a BLT or some other mundane thing-

DREX: I-I'm sorry...

MARSHAL: -he shakes his head- It's alright. MARSHAL: -he pauses and then frowns a little- MARSHAL: Why would you feel guilty...?

DREX: I — well. I... I must admit, I. DREX: -he sighs nervously- When I very firstly met you... on-on the beachside when you first arrived, I... DREX: And even a few days after... DREX: You... must remember how I had... acted towards you, yes?

MARSHAL: -he nods slowly, silently urging him on-

DREX: -sighs- Okay. DREX: I... must admit I... DREX: I just found you attractive. DREX: Ph-Physically. DREX: -he bites back his lip and looks quite ashamed- And every time we spoke, I felt nervous. And... that was the sole reason why. DREX: I did not even realize it back then — not until Zinnia explained — but that... that was what it was. DREX: That was... all it was. At least for our first few encounters. DREX: And... And... I suppose that sole reason gave way to more reasons that I... ended up liking you so much. DREX: But still, I — that root reason... never changed. DREX: Not at first. DREX: Now those moments are over, and... of course, I like spending time with you and being with you for so many other reasons, but I... DREX: I still feel this way when I see you — um... more... undressed. DREX: And I feel... terrible. DREX: You are attractive, yes. But I... DREX: I do not know where... the line of... simply finding you beautiful, and-and... objectifying you... Where... DREX: If... DREX: If I am... objectifying you. DREX: -he gives a shaky sigh- I'm sorry...

MARSHAL: -and he doesn't outwardly show it, but his stomach does drop. He's felt like with his exposure to the world and his own sexualization, he'd come to learn the signs. When people were only interested in him because of his looks. And looking back...those signs had been there with Drex. But perhaps it's because of his general lack of experience with other men that he didn't see it right away. The previous encounters he had with men were...certainly different. But maybe he had been thinking Drex had seen more in him from the start. Now he knows the truth- MARSHAL: -his expression is unreadable. He's silent for awhile before he shakes his head- MARSHAL: It's fine. MARSHAL: -he goes over to the dresser to fish out a pair of sweatpants and a t-shirt- MARSHAL: It isn't your fault. -his voice is flat- I am an object. I was crafted to be one. It's a natural byproduct of what I do. You can't help the feelings you have. They are...normal, in these circumstances.

DREX: -he feels the change in Marshal almost immediately, and it's only confirmed by the emptiness in his tone. he bites his lip and... he can't quite find it in him to cry. not yet.- DREX: You're not an object, Marshal. You are not. Please don't... don't say that. DREX: -quietly- Please don't say that... DREX: And you are not... fine. I'm starting to believe that is... -yeah, here they come- the quickest indicator that you are not. DREX: You're not an object, Marshal. And I... DREX: I'm so ashamed of myself that I ever... DREX: -he doesn't even know what to say. he'd felt this way with... several of the men at the beach house, and all he has to show for it is this pit of shame in his stomach- DREX: -he lets out a shaky sigh- There is so much more to you than that, Marshal. I saw this since... since the second time, I believe, that I met you. There was the sewing, and your ability to mend clothes, and your makeup that was, and still is, fantastic. DREX: And there's your patience to even put up with me. To even have had the patience to put up with my curiosity and my stupidity. DREX: Those reasons have moved away from just your body, Marshal. DREX: And I am just... so ashamed that I... let that be a reason at all. DREX: You... You deserve better than that.

MARSHAL: -he starts putting on his clothes, avoiding eye contact- It isn't about what I deserve, it is just my reality. This is a fact I've known and accepted about myself. I know what I am and what that means. It is simply...the truth. MARSHAL:...it doesn't invalidate the other aspects of my being. I'm glad you were able to see more and that we are together. Really. MARSHAL: -he emphasizes it, despite the dullness of his tone- MARSHAL: But...that doesn't change the truth either. I am an object. MARSHAL: But I'm also...yours. -he pulls his shirt over and leans up, looking down at him. There's a small smile on his face, but it is bittersweet-

DREX: -for once, he... he doesn't know what to say. he doesn't know what to do to make it right again. he only feels guilt, and feels... shame. he best shouldn't have said anything.- DREX: -and marshal's words are like a punch to the gut. they're a punch to the gut in a way he can't describe, and he feels winded, and his eyes snap up to marshal's, and then they... look through him- DREX: -he opens his mouth, then he closes it, his gaze slowly looking down to... nothing at all, and he trembles- I... DREX: I need a mo-moment. DREX: I'm s — I'm sorry. DREX: -and he very abruptly leaves the room and walks a good distance from the doorway. he feels. he feels sick inside. he can't place why.- DREX: -he can't place what it is. he just... slowly goes into a squat and puts a hand over his hand over his mouth and he can't... stop shaking- DREX: -he can't stop shaking- DREX: -and then it hits him- DREX: -he's just as bad as them. all of them. all of the faces he doesn't dare want to remember anymore. every single one who used him and toyed with him. now he was them, and marshal was his — - DREX: -and suddenly he can't see anymore- DREX: -and he doesn't remember when he starts sobbing uncontrollably, wailing and wailing-

MARSHAL: -The guilt starts to hit him as he sees Drex falling into a deeper pit of shame. Because he really isn't upset with him, he's just melancholy about his own life. He didn't mean to make it seem like so much of the blame was being put on Drex. He doesn't put any blame on him at all- MARSHAL: -but soon he says he needs a moment and practically runs out. Marshal almost reaches out to him but then pulls back. He needs his space...that's okay. He takes a deep breath and sighs deeply- MARSHAL: -rubbing his neck, he turns and is about to sit on the bed when he hears a cry- MARSHAL: Drex?! MARSHAL: -the fight AND flight instinct kicks in as he spins around and sprints out of the room, frantically looking around for whatever direction the crying is coming from- MARSHAL: -finally he spots him, crouched on the ground. He runs over and falls to his knees beside him, putting a hand on his shoulder and the other on his back- MARSHAL: Drex, what's wrong, what happened?!

DREX: -considering his panic, he can't hear anything, or see, or feel. everything feels invisible. he wasn't even sure he was crying at all.- DREX: -but then he feels something on his shoulder, on his back, and considering where his mind was at the moment, he could only ever believe it was some threat, some punishment, something out there to hurt him and he shrieks, falling over onto his side and he curls his legs close to his chest, holding himself upright on one elbow, the other instinctively pulled towards his face in a cower- DREX: -and he stays still for a moment, tears still falling silently down his eyes, and he continues to hyperventilate, but he still... cannot process what just happened. who was after him. what they wanted- DREX: -and slowly... it comes into focus. he comes into focus, and only then does his arm lower from his face- DREX: -and he sounds... genuinely... confused- M...Marshal...? DREX: -and then the background comes back into full view, and the fear in Marshal's eyes. He doesn't understand any of it. why was he afraid? what was going on? What had... happened?- DREX: ...What's wrong...? -and... strange as the question was, it was genuine-

MARSHAL: -he gasps and pulls back when Drex screams and falls over. He scrambles to his feet, giving the other some space but now frozen in his spot. All he can do is watch in terror, useless and clueless as to what he could do- MARSHAL: -he just stares at him. His lip quivers slightly before opening- MARSHAL:...You...you were crying...and-- -he swallows hard. His voice is low and trembling-...screaming. MARSHAL: What...happened...?

DREX: -he looks over the room, then Marshal, and he tries not to think about why can't remember where he is. he looks over Marshal. he's... he's terrified. even through all of this, drex's breath is still choppy and tears still run down his eyes, but he can't... he doesn't feel it. he doesn't feel the emotion of it.- I-I was...? DREX: I... I'm sorry... I... DREX: I don't know... DREX: What did... DREX: -his eyes scan around absently for some thought or reason to form in his head and... something hazy comes of it, but he can't quite make it out- DREX: -quietly- I-I'm sorry...

MARSHAL: -he slowly goes to approach him again, very cautiously crouching down, but still leaving space between them- MARSHAL: Is this...because of what I said? Drex, I am not angry or upset with you. I...-his voice trails off, just looking over him in concern-

DREX: -he mouths quietly- What you said...? I... DREX: -and then it hits him again, and his expression of confusion just drops into shame and, like a puzzle, he feels everything again. he feels the tears on his eyes and feels himself tremble enough to tremble again, and he's back in reality and he can feel, but he doesn't panic- DREX: -and he lets out a very shaky, shaky sigh, and he looks away- No, I-I.... DREX: ..... DREX: -very quietly- You have every right to be angry with me,

MARSHAL: -he scoots forward, inch by inch, but he's tense- MARSHAL: No...I'm not. The things that I said had...nothing to do with you. They are my own struggles, and I'm sorry I placed so much of that burden on you. But there is nothing you've said or done to upset me.

DREX: -he thinks to protest but he just feels so sluggish, so, so tired, and he murmurs out a very empty little- Okay...

MARSHAL:...I'm so sorry Drex. I never meant to...hurt you...in this way... MARSHAL: -his voice gets quieter and quieter. He almost reaches out to him again but pulls back once more-

DREX: It's okay... DREX: I'll... um. DREX: -he just shakes his head slowly. he doesn't even know what to say. he doesn't even remember what about what marshal said was so... bad. and that's probably for the best- DREX: I'll be okay.

MARSHAL: -he swallows hard. Everything fell apart so fast- MARSHAL:...I...I can set you up in the guest room, if you like. I-I can get you food, water, I can even take you home if you need-- MARSHAL:...What...whatever you need...

DREX: -he shakes his head again- No, I'll be fine, Marshal. I... DREX: I do not even remember... why I am out here.

MARSHAL: You left after our conversation...you said you needed a moment...

DREX: Okay... DREX: -he furrows his brows- I don't remember why I did that... DREX: I'm sorry.

MARSHAL: I don't...I don't want to say anything again if it will cause this to repeat. -there's a twinge of fear in his voice-

DREX: That's fine... DREX: But... I am okay now... you need not worry about that... DREX: -he finally looks up to Marshal, and his heart sinks at his expression- Marshal, I... I scared you. I'm sorry.

MARSHAL: I... MARSHAL: Of course I'm going to be worried. Drex, I-- did this to you-- MARSHAL: -his chest seizes a little and he goes to stand, though he doesn't move closer or farther away-

DREX: -by now, his tears have finally stopped and his breathing is working on leveling, but his voice remains quiet- You did not... mean it.

MARSHAL: -the words jumpstart something in him and he can feel his heartrate beginning to rise. He takes a step back- MARSHAL: That doesn't-- matter! MARSHAL: I don't-- I can't-- MARSHAL: -he looks around franatically and his own breathing is starting to increase. He shuts his eyes tight and tries to breathe deeply- MARSHAL: What. Do you need from me?

DREX: -the sharpness of Marshal's voice causes him to flinch and tense, and he finds himself shaking again, though... he doesn't otherwise react. at least he doesn't cry or scream, that is to say- DREX: -he murmurs quietly- I need us both to be quiet and calm down. DREX: -ironic that he says this, as he feels his throat nearly closing up- ...And breathe.

MARSHAL: -a lump forms in his throat and he turns away, walking down the hall. A few doors down, he stops and presses his forehead, forearm and fist to the wall. He breathes sharply and deeply-

DREX: -and as Marshal leaves, he puts his elbow to his knee and rests his hand against his eyes, and he feels a new wave of quiet tears start to fall. he doesn't sob; he only gives shaky breaths as his hand slowly slides up to his forehead. god, he feels so tired. he just wants to be held. and considering his previous panic that he can't even recall, he doesn't even understand why marshal won't-

MARSHAL: -sorry Drex. Eventually he turns around and leans back against the wall, sliding down it. He draws legs up and puts his face in his hands, just sitting there. The air seems to turn heavy around him-

DREX: -and in the time he has to himself, he can only think — what did he do wrong? what did he say wrong? and he traces back and back to what he can remember from their conversation — not even that, from just helping marshal out of his dress — and he traces it forward and forward until it hits him again. how he was flustered by his looks. how he was a fucking idiot and opened his mouth. and how marshal looked, and how he felt, and his words — - DREX: -and he presses his face into his hands and he stifles a sharp sob, and he forces himself not to panic again. he can feel everything that it was. he can feel all of the implications that made him panic and made him cry. but he doesn't panic. and he doesn't cry. he only shakes and lets the guilt seep in-

MARSHAL: -he doesn't mean for it to be heard but it's nearly impossible in the complete silence of the league- MARSHAL:...I knew I would do this.

DREX: -and when drex hears those words so faintly he feels fit to cry all over again- DREX: -he wants to just... get up and go to Marshal and not even care if he thinks he's worthy of it or not and just hold him, but he... he can't find the strength to get up, and he tenses up in his frustration of himself, his fingers tensing so sharply into claws and his jaw clenching before he just... lets it all go in defeat and buries his face in his hands again and he gives little whimpers and sobs- DREX: -he can't think of the right thing to do like this, and he'd be damned if he'd allow himself to approach Marshal again without that sort of preparation- DREX: -and he's just so, so angry at himself that he can't be okay right now. marshal needs him. what is he doing sitting here and crying-

MARSHAL: -he can hear Drex crying and it absolutely kills him inside but he's so afraid he's just going to make things worse. He can't do it. He can't do it himself- MARSHAL: -but he can't do nothing. Finally, he pushes himself to his feet and without looking at Drex, walks away, back into his room- -A few minutes later, Drex hears footsteps approaching him again. A hand reaches out to gently rub his back. It is...large, and thick, with three fingers-

CLARESSA: -when Drex looks up there's the Momma herself, looking over him sadly-

DREX: -and when drex looks up, he looks so, so expectant, but then he looks and sees that it is not... marshal at all, and his expression drops almost immediately, along with his shoulders. he doesn't fight away from her touch but he certainly looks away- DREX: -very quietly- ....Please go away.

CLARESSA: -she pulls back. Her eyes flicker over him and she reaches out to gently pet his hair before toddling away like she's told- CLARESSA: -but it's only a few moments before she returns with a glass of water and an apple, both of which she places in front of Drex. Then she goes to sit across from him-

DREX: -and when she leaves, he feels... more awful. more guilty. and yet when she returns he feels........... Still more awful, only this time, frustrated. he isn't quite sure what would satiate this situation. he really isn't- DREX: I... DREX: Do not need your comfort, okay? DREX: I don't require. Nor wish for. Anybody's comfort. DREX: I don't know what to do... DREX: I. Should've. Done. More. -and he finds himself trembling to tears. again- And I did not. DREX: I did more when I should have done less, and I did so little when I should have acted. DREX: And this is all because of me. DREX: It was because of me. From the start. From the moment I laid eyes on him. DREX: I'm. Just. I just.... DREX: He... I.... DREX: -he manages to catch himself before he fully breaks down- DREX: And you are not. The person. I wish to be telling this to. I'm sorry. DREX: I don't mean that to be. Offensive.

CLARESSA: -just shakes her head like "it's fine" and gives him an encouraging smile. Still, she seems to be in some kind of thought, and she looks down the hallway that Marshal disappeared down, tapping her fingers together-

DREX: ...What does that mean. DREX: I don't wish to force him into conversation if he doesn't wish it himself. DREX: And he obviously doesn't wish it. So.

CLARESSA: -she grimaces a little at that, making vague gestures and noises. It's hard being a Pokemon-

DREX: -he wishes he could understand, but he is just... so tired- I don't... DREX: I don't know what you're trying to say.

CLARESSA: -she sighs and shakes her head. Pushing herself to her feet, she toddles over to a door and opens it, revealing another room with a bed. Whether this is the guest room or actually one of the residence's room is unknown. But then she looks to Drex. Then down the hallway. Then back at him. Then towards the open room-

DREX: You want me to... rest?

CLARESSA: -she gestures to the room. She gestures to the glass and apple. She gestures down the hall. Then she gestures aaalllll around. Basically she's telling you its what you want bro-

DREX: -shakes his head, his voice quiet and practically utterly defeated- I'm fine where I am... DREX: Thank you, though...

CLARESSA: -she nods, then goes to return to her seat, twiddling her fingers-

DREX: -and after a moment of saying that, he groans — out of frustration and anger and just trying not to cry again — and he rubs his hands over his face harshly- But I suppose I'll have to. DREX: -he looks over to Claressa and he looks and sounds... very empty. very tired- Where is he...?

CLARESSA: -she hesitates for a moment before looking down the hall. She points down it and then slowly raises her finger until she's pointing at the ceiling-

DREX: He's... up?DREX: Where... DREX: He is a floor... above? Must I take the elevator?

CLARESSA: -keeps pointing up and up before she stands up on her tippy toes, as high as she can go-

DREX: C... DREX: Can you take me to him?

CLARESSA: -she seems a little nervous. It's pretty obvious she's been told not to do that. But she's also Momma and she knows best. So she nods and toddles off to the elevator-

DREX: -he breathes a quiet, quiet sigh of relief at the panic that had been welling up in his throat, happy enough that she was able to move her feet in a direction at all, and he quietly follows behind her-

CLARESSA: -she reaches up to press the button to summon the elevator. They get on and she reaches uuuppppp to try and press the top button, the same one Marshal pressed to take them to the roof. But she's too short-

DREX: -presses it for her?-

CLARESSA: -she gives something of a chuckle and pats his side as a thank you. Then they begin to ascend. As they get close to the top, however, they both hear loud, muffled clanging of metal. Claressa winces a little and sighs deeply, shaking her head-

DREX: -he flinches slightly but otherwise, he doesn't move, his hands tensed into fists and he... almost knows what he's about to see when he arrives. he doesn't care. he doesn't care about anything Marshal says or feels he doesn't deserve. he doesn't care about that. he's tired. he's so, so tired. and he just wants them to stop being upset with themselves and upset with one-another and he just wants them to be able to talk and be close again-

MARSHAL: -eventually the elevator stops and the door opens. The architecture of the League has always been grand, which means there's a lot of extraneous pieces to add to the imagery. Marshal has placed himself besides one of those pieces, a metal spire at the edge of the building. There he is panting, hopping on the balls of his feet. Even in the faint light of the night it can be seen how much he's sweating. With a sharp inhale, he lets out a yell and pulls back his bare fist, ramming it into the spire. A metal clang echoes. He does this again, and again, and again-

DREX: -he doesnt really take in the sight and he knows the sound when he hears it. everything can be impressive and whimsical later. he just sees marshal, and that's all he needs to see. and he walks up to him from the side, hovering close but not... terribly close enough to startle. he's not even sure marshal could hear him approach, so he speaks up, though his voice is dry when he speaks- Marshal.

MARSHAL: -he gasps and snaps his head towards him. His expression is somehow both wild and exhausted, sweat dripping down his brow. For a moment, all he can do is stare at him in shock, mouth slightly open in a pant-...Drex...how did you-- MARSHAL: -his eyes flicker over his shoulder to see Claressa near the elevator. The two stare each other down and she folds her arms. He clenches his jaw and looks away from the both of them, silent-

DREX: It was upon my request. Don't blame her. DREX: -he tries... so hard to keep away from his emotions. he tries so hard to be stern, but when Marshal's eyes meet his, everything breaks away- DREX: -and he sighs very shakily- DREX: ...Can I please hold you? -his voice has a twinge of sorrow, and more than anything else, desperation-

MARSHAL: -he shuts his eyes tight at that. He wants to tell him no, to warn him that they can't continue on like this. He's already hurt him tonight and Drex has no idea about the other ways that he could hurt him in the future. The ways that he's hurt others- MARSHAL: -But another part of him wants so desperately to say yes and give in despite how selfish it feels. He came up here to release his emotions but only within a few words, this man has seemed to bring everything back- MARSHAL: -he shudders, and reaches up to clamp his hand over his eyes. From this distance, Drex can see that his knuckles are raw and bloodied. He inhales shakily and on the exhale, a small sob comes out-

DREX: -no it is... very hard to stay mad at him. it's very hard to stay emotionless. his voice is so soft and tender when he says his name- Marshal... -and he takes the smallest step closer. then... maybe one more- DREX: -and he shakes his head slowly, his hands reaching out very slightly- Just... forget about everything else. Forget about your apologies. Forget about what went wrong. Forget about your sorrow, and your self-hatred, and... and your frustration. DREX: I don't... care to think about that right now. I'm far too... sad to try and drag that out in conversation right now. DREX: We can talk later. We can think later. But I just... I just want us to be together right now. DREX: -and his sobs cascade down his voice- I want nothing else, really. DREX: -quietly- Please...

MARSHAL: -he just stands there, breathing shakily. Slowly, he lowers his hand. He turns to Drex and takes a trembling step off the ledge. And then another. But his legs seem to give out under him and he falls to his knees in front of him. With some hesitation, he lifts his head to look up at him. His eyes are so full of fear and sadness and small tears prick the corners of his eyes. Something in him cracks and he grimaces again before he wraps his arms around him, burying his face in Drex's shirt. He's trembling so much-

DREX: -and he slowly lowers himself to his knees and easily wraps his arms around Marshal, bringing him so, so close, and he can't help but press a kiss to his forehead before pressing his cheek against it. and he immediately starts sobbing, holding him so so tightly, and he doesn't dare let go. he pets the back of Marshal's head gently, the other hand squeezing his shoulder, and he brings Marshal's head so that he can bury it in his own shoulder- DREX: -and he very gently rocks him, repeating a nearly-inaudible mantra through shaky breaths and gasps- It's okay... It's going to be okay... We're going to be okay... DREX: We're going to be okay...

MARSHAL: -it's a bit awkward with how tightly he's holding him but eventually they get to some sort of level positioning. He readjusts his arms but still hugs him tightly. He allows himself to be guided into his shoulder where he just cries. This might...be the first time he's ever cried in front of Drex. Whether or not he can hear the mantra, he can't bring himself to say anything in return-

DREX: -after a moment, he has to readjust, but they find their way eventually, and he loosens his grip as soon as he knows that Marshal won't try and walk away again. he doesn't want him to walk away. walking away only... only leads bad places.- DREX: -and he just pets him gently, rocks him gently as he cries, whispering a little louder now that he can find his own voice — 'It's okay.'- DREX: -and he'll continue this way until marshal finally manages to settle himself down-

MARSHAL: -eventually he does settle, becoming heavy in Drex's grip. He doesn't move, nor does he lift his head from his shoulder. But he does murmur against him-...I'm so sorry... MARSHAL:...I wanted this to be a good time for you...

DREX: -he hushes him gently- Don't think about that. Not right now. DREX: We can talk once we're both... entirely settled. And I mean to say... entirely. Settled. Okay? -he brushes his fingertips through Marshal's hair down close to his ear- DREX: -he turns as best as he can to Claressa- Miss Claressa, can you... do you have... bandages?

CLARESSA: -she straightens and nods, going to toddle off-

MARSHAL: Wait. -he stirs and shifts. He gives Drex one last squeeze before pulling away from him, shakily pushing himself to his feet- MARSHAL: We should just...go inside. I...want to clean up, fully. MARSHAL: -as he stands, he keeps a grip on Drex's arm, albeit a gentle one, and attempts to pull him to his feet as well-

DREX: -and Drex pulls away slightly but he helps Marshal stand up, and he can very well bear the brunt of his weight.- DREX: -and as Marshal finally allows his face to be visible, Drex gently cups his cheeks, rubbing them, allowing the cool feeling of his skin to at least offer some relief-

MARSHAL: -he can't help it, he naturally leans into his touch. But eventually he moves his face over to press a kiss into Drex's hand. He just looks so tired-

DREX: -and he presses his forehead against Marshal's, looking equally tired, but he doesn't care. he doesn't care. and he tilts his head and presses a little kiss on the side of his nose before he pulls away, keeping a hand on his back, then moving it and eventually he wraps both of his arms against one of Marshal's. he would hold his hand at this point, but he doesn't wish to strain his knuckles anymore than they are-

MARSHAL: -he gives a shaky sigh at all of that but just accepts it and goes to move to the elevator. Claressa is waiting for them there. As they pass, she puts a hand on Marshal's side. He looks down at her wearily and pats her head, despite it all. Soon they all board the elevator and take it down to the dorming area. Marshal walks sluggishly, leaning some of his weight against Drex, barely processing how easily he's being held up. But eventually they all stop in front of a door- MARSHAL:...I'm going to clean up...if that's alright. You can...do whatever you need to.

DREX: -he gives a weak little laugh- I feel like I might have to as well... DREX: I sullied up all of my clothes by crying too much, and I feel... DREX: I need a shower. DREX: However you want to go about it... but we should clean your hands before anything else.

MARSHAL: Mm -he nods- It's whatever you feel most comfortable with.

CLARESSA: -she huffs and grabs Marshal by the wrist, dragging him into the bathroom. She's going to start rummaging around for the bandages and disinfectant-

MARSHAL: -just stands there a little awkwardly as he waits-

DREX: I don't really care... DREX: My only problem now is that I... do not have a proper change of clothes.

MARSHAL: You could...borrow some of mine. Though they will probably be large on you.

CLARESSA: -she pesters Marshal along until he's sitting on the toilet, where she begins to tend to his wounds. There's a sense that this isn't the first time they've done this before-

DREX: -shakes his head- I don't mind at this point... DREX: ... DREX: But if it's comfortable, and it smells like you, you're not getting it back. -he's trying to be funny. he's too tired- DREX: -he watches the two go on and... well, he was actually going to do it, but Claressa looks to be the expert on these things, so he leaves them be-

MARSHAL: Hm. -it like. almost sounds like a laugh?? he's also very tired-

CLARESSA: -when she finishes, she puts both hands on his legs. He looks down at her and the two exchange a silent, but knowing look. She reaches up to gently pat his face and pet his hair. Then she steps back-

MARSHAL: -he sighs deeply and looks up at Drex-...do you want to shower here? I could show you another bathroom, or...

DREX: -shakes his head again- I don't... DREX: It's. DREX: Whatever you want to do, Marshal. I don't. I'm too tired to think. DREX: Give me a direction and I'm certain I will go that way.

MARSHAL: -he pushes himself to his feet- Here, you can have this bathroom. I'll make sure some clothes are left for you. Feel free to use anything else you may want or need. Then...we can meet in...my room? MARSHAL:...only if you want. The guest bedroom is still an option for you. MARSHAL: Or...the freezer I suppose. -there's the faintest smile-

DREX: -he gives the smallest snort- While I'm gone, I'll need you to go downstairs and fill a bucket or two with ice to deliver it to me. DREX: So I can finally sleep. DREX: Also, you won't get the bathroom back. DREX: -then he gives a soft little smile- Truthfully, Marshal, I... I don't want to be away from you.

MARSHAL: -smiles a little more at the joking but it fades- MARSHAL: You...want me to...stay with you?

DREX: -he. he doesn't know what that means- Y...Yes...?

MARSHAL: Like...in here?

DREX: -he kind of blushes thinking about it- DREX: ...If you can stand to see me naked.

MARSHAL: -he flushes as well, deeper than Drex- MARSHAL: Of course-- I mean-- I'm not attempting-- I'm just trying to clarify your meaning-- MARSHAL: -see he can get flustered too-

DREX: -and okay he definitely smiles widely at that, chuckling softly- Marshal, I'm... I'm too tired to think about all of these sorts of implications. DREX: You can either stay or go. -he chuckles- I am showering either way. DREX: ...Might make it faster if you stay, though.

MARSHAL: I. Uhm. I-I'll get you some clothes. -bright red, he turns and quickly makes his way out-

CLARESSA: -she looks between the both of them, shakes her head, and goes to follow Marshal-

DREX: -he gives another low chuckle- I'm sorry, Miss Claressa. DREX: -and well. he's not sure if marshal's planning on putting his clothes in the bathroom with him or leave it out on the bed or what, so he just... decides to start undressing what he can — of course, his outer accessories like his scarf and his jacket, and eventually starts unbuttoning his shirt-

Reconciliations and Reflections

CW: NSFW (nothing overtly sexual, but some discussion of genitalia), discussions of abuse

MARSHAL: -by the time he's finished unbuttoning his shirt, there's a knock at the door-

DREX: -and he goes to open it, taking a little peek out. marshal can see how his freckles extend down his arm and onto his hand, glowing very faintly. more curious than that, it seems, is the harsh white scarring on the back of his arm in the pattern of thin, thin lightning bolts that snake some distance horizontally- DREX: Have you come with your least valuable shirt?

MARSHAL: -he can't help it, of course his eyes wander. It's like people who are attracted to each other are going to look at and be attracted to them isn't that right Marshal. But he quickly snaps his eyes back up when he's been addressed- MARSHAL: Ah-- not least valuable. But smallest. -he goes to give him a tshirt back from when he first started his journey years ago. It's very worn, and has a faded, unintelligble design on the front. He hands that to him as well as his smallest pants, but those definitely will never fit him. He tried

DREX: -he opens the door a little more so he can take the clothes from Marshal, holding the pants out over him and yeah its just never gonna happen- DREX: I could just... wear my boxers. DREX: -he gives an apologetic little smile-

MARSHAL: -flushes a little bit. His eyes wander again but he just looks away- MARSHAL: Ah yeah...my apologies. -he goes to take the pants back-

DREX: -he hands it back gently, but then he moves his hands behind Marshal's head and pulls him a little closer, nuzzling their foreheads-

MARSHAL: -he's a little surprised by the gesture, but he doesn't pull away- MARSHAL: Are you...going to be alright? Not wearing your...usual clothing? MARSHAL: -because he does have some basic understanding of the issues Megalopolans have-

DREX: I... I should be fine. I'll be under a blanket, after all. That should offer some protection.

MARSHAL: Okay. MARSHAL: -he still doesn't move away, just enjoying the feel of Drex's skin against his own-

DREX: You know, I... I don't think I want to be away from you. I really don't. DREX: -and he runs a hand through Marshal's hair-

MARSHAL:...do you...want me to come in?

DREX: But I don't... want to force you. DREX: If you don't want to, I will be fine. I promise.

MARSHAL: It’s...alright. I just...want to know what you’re comfortable with...

DREX: And I want to know what you are comfortable with, too.

MARSHAL:...I...don’t mind it but...considering our conversation, I just don’t want to...hurt you again...

DREX: -he whispers quietly- You're not going to hurt me. I promise you, you're not going to hurt me.

MARSHAL: -hesitates- Please just...tell me what you wish of me. I just want to make this better...

DREX: -he gives a little exhale- I want us to be together. That's all. Even if we don't say anything, I just... want to hold you, and-and feel you, and... I don't want to let you go. I don't... want to be apart from you. DREX: Even if we shower together, just... doing that — just holding one-another — then that is enough by me. DREX: But I understand the... showering aspect... might be uncomfortable.

MARSHAL:...-flushed a little-...only if you think so...

DREX: -shakes his head- I... I don't think so. DREX: I might blush, a-and well, get flustered. But that is because, well... you're b-beautiful. -he... hesitates with his words, wandering into this territory again very, very carefully-

MARSHAL: -he swallows hard, his eyes flickering down Drex’s body-...you are as well.

DREX: -he pets Marshal's cheek gently, and he can... sense a sort of discomfort from him- DREX: -he smiles softly- Thank you... DREX: I, um. I must apologize for... -he glances down at himself very briefly — at the myriad of scars that line his chest and arms, all the way up until his neck- ...if it makes you uncomfortable.

MARSHAL: -his eyebrows dip and he reaches out, placing his hands on his shoulders and running them down his arms- No...never.

DREX: -he gives a shaky sigh of relief at that- Okay... thank you... DREX: -and he sort of repeats the motion Marshal does with his own hands and helps ease him into the bathroom, only letting go with his left hand to put his shirt on the sink-

MARSHAL: -is shuffled into the bathroom. He pulls away and after an awkward pause, starts to take off his shirt-

DREX: Oh, I also must say, I... know humans have a preference for the shower at the highest setting. I... do not. DREX: It will be a. Cold shower.

MARSHAL: I told you, I don’t mind the cold. -he sliiiides his sweatpants off-

DREX: -he gives a small smile and tries to think of some dumb ice box joke but nothing comes to mind, so he lets it slide- DREX: -and he looks back over Marshal and gives a long inhale before blushing again, then looking away and putting a hand over his burning cheeks- DREX: -and he just sort of tries to think about his own damn self and unbuckles his belt, shrugging off his jeans. thank god he wasnt planning on sleeping in those-

MARSHAL: -he glances behind him at Drex, eyes flickering over him. But...he won’t be the first to completely undress. So instead he goes to turn on the shower-

DREX: -and he's. actually very nervous to fully undress, for the obvious reasons. in his mind he ideally imagined everything just being. very uneventful. and he worries this won't be like that. he tries to push away all of the traumatic thoughts to the back of his mind; this is marshal. marshal is different.- DREX: -and with a low exhale he takes off the rest-

MARSHAL: -he catches a glimpse at him taking everything off and takes a deep breath. Everything will be fine. He takes off his briefs as well and folds them with the rest of his clothes. But he doesn’t turn to Drex-

DREX: -and now theres these two fools completely naked and staring at the opposite walls from one-another. what Fucking Fools. drex this is all your fault- DREX: -and he inhales deeply- DREX: You are not. Looking at me, are you? -he doesnt ask with worry, really. it's more curiosity than anything-

MARSHAL: Ah...no. But you asking means...you are not looking either? -the FOOLS-

DREX: -and Marshal can just hear drex giggling, starting small, but it eventually grows into a fit- No, I'm not. -and he can hear the smile in his voice- DREX: I can't believe.... DREX: Should. Do. Do you want to look... first? Do we both close our eyes and... both... open them at the same time?

MARSHAL: -he can’t help but laugh a little as well- Perhaps we should just...get into the shower?

DREX: Not looking at each-other...?

MARSHAL: I’m sure we shall...while we are maneuvering...

DREX: -he's still just laughing like a fool- Oookay. DREX: Whatever... Whatever works best for you. I'll go first. -and he slides the glass door and steps inside, and the water is waaay too hot for his comfort, but it's that kind of hot where you get used to it after a second and it actually feels nice-

MARSHAL: -as Drex goes, he turns towards him and gets a glimpse of dat booty. He's already blushing a little as he goes to follow in after them. The League is nice and their showers equally so but they aren't necessarily gigantic. So they're pretty close together- MARSHAL: Mm...does it feel alright for you?

DREX: I'll be fine, yes. -and he finally... turns to Marshal, still giggly, and enough tired that honestly for the first few moments he looks at Marshal and hes just completely thinking this is 100% fine. and he just puts a hand on his shoulder and rests his forehead against his chest- I'm so tired... DREX: You look nice, too. -he says that like hes complimenting some outfit Marshal's wearing-

MARSHAL: Ah...thank you? -he laughs a little- You do as well... MARSHAL: -he pets his hair a little, which is already getting wet- MARSHAL: -and well. Drex. You have the best view-

DREX: Why didn't we just do this the first time...? -he asks it rhetorically, because honestly? now that hes thinking back on it, he just can't... pinpoint why he freaked out like he did. why he worded things the way he did, or even why he felt guilty over looking at Marshal's body. he's pretty. that's all there is to it. this didn't need to devolve like it did and he still blames himself for causing it but it all feels so stupid in his mind- DREX: -and he sighs and shakes his head, lifting it to look to Marshal. he didn't really... care to focus on his junk or anything; really, his eyes had been closed until he looked up again, and he sighs and stretches and rests his hands against Marshal's shoulders- Do you... want to sit down? -he looks down to the floor of the shower- Can we sit down?

MARSHAL: -and he's starting to feel that same regret, looking over Drex. Of course lovers are going to look at each other's bodies. Why was he letting his past define this relationship? He feels shame- MARSHAL: -he puts his hands on his shoulders and rubs them up and down his arms- MARSHAL: Generally...people don't sit down during a shower. The faster we clean ourselves, the sooner we can rest?

DREX: -and then he thinks back- Marshal, your legs gave out on you on the upper floor. Please... sit down. DREX: We can reach up to the stand and grab the products and still do most everything... sitting down, can we not?

MARSHAL: I've...never done it that way before. MARSHAL: I am feeling better though...

DREX: -quietly- Still... I don't want you to fall again. DREX: -he kinda devolves into giggles as he says- Because it won't just be my shirt you fall into...

MARSHAL: -he flushes and instinctively his eyes start to travel downwards but he Stops that shit and quickly looks away- A-ah-- uh-- I-I suppose that's--

DREX: -he quietly laughs- Please sit...

MARSHAL: -he sighs deeply and goes to awkwardly maneuver himself. It's a little difficult with the size of the shower and he just sort of awkwardly lowers himself to his knees-

DREX: -and he also kinda manages to squat down, but there's enough space next to Marshal that he can kinda squeeze in if Marshal scoots a little- Okay, this is... harder than I thought. DREX: But we can...? At least. -and he gives a content sigh once he's fully sat down, happy to not have to carry his weight-

MARSHAL: -and he does scoot to give him room and while he's doing that he does get. A peek-

DREX: -and well he'd basically see something that kinda looks like a vagina? it's a little different considering well he's... an entirely different species. but it's not dissimilar?- DREX: -a lot more of his works and functions are Within so theyre not clearly visible yet so thus far it doesn't look. too strange- DREX: -but soon he brings his knees together and a little close to his chest and marshal cant really see anymore. not that he'd want to i'm sure- DREX: -he leans against Marshal's shoulder and sighs again- DREX: -his voice is quieter now when he speaks, with less humor, but... more tender. marshal might be familiar with this voice by now that it's his comforting voice when they're upset or hurt or when marshal's scared- We can talk about it all now if you are comfortable doing so.

MARSHAL: -he wasn’t sure what he was expecting. In fact, he doesn’t even feel like he had a long enough look to process what he was seeing- MARSHAL: -when he’s addressed, he suddenly feels extremely vulnerable. Very much so. Not only must he bare his feelings but he must do it base ass naked? He rubs his arm- MARSHAL: If it’s alright...I think I would rather clean ourselves...and maybe speak once we’ve settled in bed...

DREX: Okay. That's fine. DREX: -and he really is fine with it. of course now they had settled down as Drex has advised so he had just... figured he would ask- DREX: ...Can I wash your hair?

MARSHAL: I...suppose so? I certainly don’t have as much as you though -he chuckles a little-

DREX: Well... yes, that is true. But you can wash my hair, then.

MARSHAL: I suppose so. -and he reaches up to grab some product for them-

DREX: Okay... can you... show me how to wash your hair correctly? It seemed self-explanatory, but... DREX: The woman who cut my hair spoke many words and said there was a proper way.

MARSHAL: Yeah...I'll do you first. MARSHAL: -he gently takes Drex's shoulder and pushes him under the stream of water. Once he's good there, he pours some product out into his hands and rubs them together. Then he is going to gently massage Drex's scalp-

DREX: -and he has to admit he didn't really... do it like That before. he would kinda rub and rub but it almost feels like a head massage, and he closes his eyes and just sort of Feels marshal's fingertips- Oh... this feels nice.

MARSHAL: -he smiles gently and continues. While he's doing it, he lets his eyes trail down Drex's shoulders and back, just taking in the freckles, scars, and everything else-

DREX: -and albeit he brings no attention to it, marshal can see... so many scars. so many ugly scars. whiplashes, cigarette burns, claw marks, discoloration from what looks like acid burns. down his spine and in continuation from what he'd seen on drex's arm is a singular sharp white lightning scar that goes down his spinal column with the top end distrupting his hair line slightly, and splits four ways down his arms and legs- DREX: -his unmarred skin is littered in freckles that glow very faintly, some not at all that are faced more towards the bathroom light-

MARSHAL: -he pauses a moment and leans down to kiss the center of the scar that splits on his spine. Then he gently pushes him forward to start rinsing out his hair-

DREX: !! DREX: ...? -and marshal can slowly see his cheeks and his shoulders beginning to bloom with a slight blush. and he closes his eyes and feels the warm water rush through his scalp- DREX: -he sputters once he finally stops feeling the soapy water- Did you kiss me just now...?

MARSHAL: Y...es? -he says with some hesitation, like maybe he wasn't supposed to. He takes his hands off of Drex, letting him move freely-

DREX: Oh. I was curious as to what that was, is all. DREX: -he looks over his scars on the back of his hand- DREX: You know... after... after the massacre... DREX: And I was captured... I... DREX: These... are not the scars from when they wiped my memory. They used a technology called electromagnetic wave manipulation. DREX: It is... physically harmless. It leaves no scars like these. DREX: I... DREX: They did... this to me... for no reason at all. No reason besides to sate their sense of disproportionate retribution. DREX: They did it to all four of us. They assaulted us, electrocuted us. All off the record. All unethical. Just because they wanted to. DREX: -his hand hovers out in front of him and his eyes wander down his arm- It's disgusting.

MARSHAL: -he listens with a frown, his heart breaking- MARSHAL:....but you are still here. You are stronger than them. MARSHAL: -he runs a hand down Drex’s back-

DREX: -he's quiet as Marshal speaks- I know. I'm not... ashamed of how I look, nor the scars I bear. DREX: Sometimes I just... find it... important... just to say. DREX: Without... fear. And without recurring trauma. Just to mention it because... DREX: ...They got away with this. DREX: They thought they could do what they wished with me, since... I would just forget moments later. And I did, but... DREX: ...I remember now. DREX: And I want... others to know that. I want them to know what they did to me. DREX: I want them to know it was wrong. DREX: And I don't want to be silenced.

MARSHAL:...you won’t be. Whatever you think is best...I will support you. MARSHAL: Just...please try to remain safe.

DREX: -he gives a light sigh- Things are... different now that the government has pardoned me. I am still... upset with the way things were handled. I am... upset with the way they treated us, and... how they are attempting to make all of this simply... disappear. DREX: I... still don't know what happened to the other three. They won't tell me. DREX: For now, I'll... just try to recover what I can from my memory. And try to move forward from there. DREX: I'm still not sure if it is... wise to continue pursuing these matter — no, I'm... absolutely certain it is not — but I cannot... DREX: I feel like justice was not served. I know it was not.

MARSHAL:...it seemed there were others in Megalopolis who felt that injustice. Those who wished to...take your example.

DREX: Yes, I know. DREX: But I... I fear for them. DREX: I am only... beginning to recall who I was before those events. I was a different person entirely. I am... I am not sure you would even... like me as I was. DREX: I was very passionate. But I was also... deeply hurt. And scarred. And aggressive. DREX: I don't wish for others to follow that example. I was very rash. Passionate, yes, but... but very rash.

MARSHAL:...we were all different people when we were younger. I’m sure you would not like when I was younger either.

DREX: -he doesn't actually think he wants to question that- DREX: I... If you say so, then... I think it's true. DREX: Then again, I... forgive my younger self. DREX: ...I went through a lot. And it made me... very bitter. Very understandably... bitter. DREX: And I never wanted to be treated as I was... ever again. I still do not. DREX: But... now there is a disconnect from the trauma I faced. So I suppose now, I can move on. Without that resentment.

MARSHAL: -he’s quiet at that. He goes to hand him the bottle- MARSHAL: Would you like to wash my hair now?

DREX: Oh! Um. Sorry... DREX: Yes... Yes I could. -and he takes the bottle gently, flushing in embarrassment-

MARSHAL: -he smiles small and goes to turn, his back now to Drex-

DREX: -and he squats down, and he actually puts the bottle down for a second, and he hesitates a moment, still blushing. but then he lets his hands run from Marshal's shoulder blades to the edges of his shoulders, and he plants little kisses from the top of his back to the base of his neck, and ends by nuzzling his nose against the back of his head close to his hairline- DREX: -and then he gets up again and take the bottle- DREX: -and he's blushing so badly why did he do that why did he do that why did he do that why did he do that why did he do that why did he d-

MARSHAL: -sits there and shivers a little bit at the nuzzle. He gives a content sigh- MARSHAL:...you...are too good for me.

DREX: -if only Marshal could see him freaking out in the back rn- DREX: Y-You liked that...? DREX: I'm sorry; I... I didn't ask. DREX: If. DREX: It was okay before I did it.

MARSHAL: Of course... MARSHAL: -he looks down at his hands. The bandages are wet and soapy but still functional- MARSHAL:...even just an hour ago, I never could have imagined...

DREX: -and he turns the shampoo bottle upside down cuz it won't squeeze out the Goods, and he shushes Marshal gently- Don't think about that right now... DREX: You don't have to feel guilty. We... DREX: We both reacted quite... viciously, I would say. DREX: In ways we did not intend. And we ended up in places we... did not mean to. DREX: But we can learn from this. DREX: I'm... DREX: Actually quite glad that all of this is happening so soon. Is that strange? Allow me to explain... DREX: It... allows us to see... where our problems lay. And right away, we can work on solutions, sooner rather than later. DREX: And it gives us more time to... to heal. DREX: And to grow. DREX: And even in a situation like this — and yes, you said you didn't wish to speak of it in full until after we've dressed, so I won't mention much further — but... even now, we... DREX: We bear no ill-will. DREX: At least I don't. Not towards you, and... not towards myself, either. DREX: I don't... feel any emotions attached to the event. Not anymore. DREX: And I don't say that to sound... dismissive of it. I just... don't feel... visceral about it. Does that make sense?

MARSHAL: -he listens intently and allows it to sink in. He stares at the wall across from him- MARSHAL:...Yeah. It does.

DREX: -he feels the smallest pang of anxiety- Did I... upset you...?

MARSHAL: No. I’m upset at myself, but it is nothing that you have done. MARSHAL: I still have...massive strides to make on my journey. I sometimes just fear the ramifications of those who take it with me.

DREX: Mm... as do I. DREX: But what I most fear is... what I do not know. DREX: I... -he intends to continue but gets distracted at the shampoo bottle and he furrows his eyebrows, shaking it a little more and squeezing and he ends up bonking Marshal's head like once or twice before the shampoo comes out- Oh! Sorry... DREX: -he snorts- Sorry... DREX: -and he puts the bottle down and just apologetically starts to mimic the motions Marshal did for him with washing his hair-

MARSHAL: -barely flinches at being hit- It’s alright MARSHAL: -he shuts his eyes and breathes deeply, taking in the sensations of having his hair be washed. He attempts to concentrate on it to break from his toxic trail of thought-

DREX: -and all the bubbles start to form and my god there's a lot of bubbles- DREX: -his eyes actually widen a bit. in all of his time showering he. never really recognized them because it was always above his own eyes- DREX: -and so he kind of... looks at his hands, and then takes a little scoop from the foam on top of Marshal's head, feeling how light it is- DREX: -and he smiles. it's that sort of childlike glee kids feel seeing bubbles- You look very silly with all of this shampoo, how it formed on your head. DREX: Did I look like that just now?

MARSHAL: -he smiles and chuckles a little- Yeah, you did. I assume at least.

DREX: -quieter now- You look silly. DREX: Okay... -and he tilts Marshal's head back and he squats down a little so the water can rush over his hair. the way he's done it is if Marshal opened his eyes he could see Drex but why would he he'd get water in his eyes-

MARSHAL: -that is true. Instead Drex gets a nice view of his face, which is almost starting to look peaceful-

DREX: -and he smiles, rising a little and stepping closer to him, blocking up up the shower head slightly, and he puts his hands on Marshal's shoulders and kisses the top of his head, then his forehead-

MARSHAL: -and feeling a lack of water, he does open his eyes a crack to look up at Drex-

DREX: -and he sees him smiling, and he wraps his arms around marshal's neckline, kissing his temple before nuzzling it-

MARSHAL: -he nuzzles him back a little-...Perhaps we should finish cleaning ourselves and head out?

DREX: Hm...? Oh, yes. Okay. DREX: -and he snags one more tiny kiss on his forehead before letting go and standing up-

MARSHAL: -he smiles and goes to stand as well. He’s. Planning on washing himself-

DREX: -and Drex kinda gathered that? but i don't think he's Fully gathered that- DREX: -and his eyes flick over to the body wash like, who goes first-(edited)

MARSHAL: -he’s taking initiative and pouring some body wash on his hand. Then he’s going to. Lather Himself Up. Enjoy the show Drex-

DREX: -and he kinda... clasps his hands close and he feels his blush coming on. he made it this far without thinking about the fact that marshal just has his junk out for drex to see. it was a good run while it lasted-

MARSHAL: -it was. And he's assuming that Drex is going to be focused on washing himself while he does this so he's not acting too reserved or self conscious in his washing-

DREX: -YEAH thats probably a good idea so he just kinda turns around to the opposite wall and grabs the body wash once marshal puts it down and just kinda does his own thing and now theyre not looking at each other again despite both agreeing that their shared nudity is fine and i cant handle these idiots- DREX: -lather up, drex. dont think about marshal's butt-

MARSHAL: -once he's done he steps under the water to rinse himself off, letting out a hum-

DREX: -and he isnt done so have more freckle butt, marshal- DREX: -but he slowly finishes up and hes covered in Suds and he turns around to Marshal under the showerhead and he just. awkwardly waits.-

MARSHAL: -he does catch a glimpse at the freckle butt. Which he. Looks at. But he averts his gaze when Drex turns to him and clears his throat- MARSHAL: -he steps out of the way, making room for him-

DREX: -and he just kinda laughs awkwardly as the only indication thus far that welp this is just Weird isn't it- DREX: -he almost wants to address it but how would he even. why would he even.- DREX: -so he kinda just steps into the water and reaches his hand out for Marshal's-

MARSHAL: -blinks at Drex’s hand. You don’t want to? Okay. He takes his hand while he rinses off-

DREX: Be honest with me, Marshal. Is this... uncomfortable for you? -he sounds curious as he asks- DREX: Even the smallest amount?

MARSHAL: I...suppose a little bit. But not as much as I...originally feared.

DREX: -he gives a little sigh of relief at that; he... worried he might be the only one for a moment. He reaches for Marshal's other hand and squeezes it- I feel the same way... DREX: I thought this would be more devastating. I thought I might. Faint? DREX: -he laughs softly- Why do you think we feel this way? We both... agreed to do this. We both agreed that this is okay, and we were both aware we would. See one-another like this. I don't understand.

MARSHAL: -his eyebrows dip at that and he shakes his head- I...don't either, I must admit. I really just wanted to make you feel safe and comfortable... MARSHAL:...I suppose some of my apprehension came from the events of earlier tonight but... MARSHAL:...-he sighs and squeezes his hands- Suffice to say, I was wrong. But I don't think we need to extrapolate on it while we're...like this.

DREX: -he gives a small smile- Yes, you're right. I'm — albeit a bit... awkward — I'm happy with how we handled this. And. I. Hope that, um. DREX: -he looks away and blushes with a little laugh- Hope that we can feel... less awkward about each-other's nudity. In the future. DREX: -he feels so silly as he says all of this. really he feels to go between "it's just nudity" and "my god, he's naked" far too frequently, and he doesn't know what to d o-

MARSHAL: -he blushes a little as well- I...will make an effort. I'm sorry this has been so...odd.

DREX: It's... certainly an experience. DREX: And this is the most I've ever seen of you! -he's trying to be cheeky help him-

MARSHAL: -he chuckles and shakes his head- Yes...I would say the same for you. MARSHAL: -he sighs- Well...I suppose we should dry off now?

DREX: Yes, I-I should think so.

MARSHAL: -he smiles and reaches behind Dulse to turn off the shower. Then he opens the door to grab them both a towel, handing one to him before wiping himself down-

DREX: -he restrains himself from asking anything else. yes, from his curious nature, he is. in fact. curious about the Bits but he forces himself not to ask because whyyyyyy would you do that you weirdo- DREX: -so he just towels himself off with a light blush-

MARSHAL: -once he’s done, he wraps the towel around himself. As he leaves the shower, he draws his hand across Drex’s shoulders and places a kiss on his temple. Then begins the long process of post shower skin and hair routine-

DREX: -and he just smiles like a fool at that and blushes very deeply, and he continues to towel himself off, just sort of... observing how Marshal does his thing- DREX: -he kind of suspects he'd been doing all of his hygienic care wrong, so it doesn't hurt to watch someone do it right-

MARSHAL: -well my boy is extra. But when he’s done he goes to slip his clothes back on. It’s almost like a ritual for him, he barely seemed to notice Drex was there throughout-

DREX: -aaand he's still just standing there with the towel on his hips and he just,,, decides to do a simplified version of that-

MARSHAL: -he pulls his shirt over his head and notices Drex trying to do it. He just watches him for a bit-

DREX: -and he's lotioning his leg when he kinda, just, looks up- Yes...?

MARSHAL: -he flushes a little at being caught and shakes his head- MARSHAL: Nothing.

DREX: -he laughs a little, smiling widely- No, no, what is it?

MARSHAL: Nothing, I was just...watching. -flushes more-

DREX: -and he laughs. despite the fact that he acts Just Like this when hes flustered, marshal is very cute when hes flustered- DREX: Well, to be fair, I was watching you, too. But I wanted to see if your skincare routine was similar to mine. It is... certainly more thorough.

MARSHAL: Ah well...I find it to be relaxing. And I...enjoy the way that I feel afterwards.

DREX: Yes, that's certainly true. Perhaps I should follow your example... DREX: Well... now you now why I was watching you, but why-oh-whyever would you be watching... me? -he laughs a little bit- DREX: Of course, I tease. You do not have to answer.

MARSHAL: -flushes even deeper at that- I-- uh-- -he clears his throat- Perhaps I will meet you in the bedroom? -that doesn't sound appropriate in these circumstances Marshal choose your wording better-

DREX: Oh, hold on. -and he helps himself back into his underwear and boxers, and then slips into Marshal's shirt. It is... noticeably very big- There we are. DREX: How do I look?

MARSHAL: -smiles small- You look good...are you comfortable, though?

DREX: -it smells vaguely of a scent that is somehow comforting to him, and he hugs himself to feel the fabric- Oh of course. You are certainly not getting this back.

MARSHAL: -smiles wider and chuckles- That is alright. MARSHAL: -he reaches out a hand to take his and goes to lead him to the bedroom. They probably pass the place where everything went down but its fine its fine-

DREX: -when they do, Drex... finds himself squeezing Marshal's tighter. but on another note he's not used to walking around with this little clothes and he feels... odd but good. like when u get to slip out of a Bra after a long day-

MARSHAL: -he squeezes his hand in turn, his expression flashing a hint of shame. But eventually they get to the bedroom and Marshal walks over to the bed, pulling out some covers for Drex, before walking to the other side and sitting down on the edge-

DREX: -he kinda... slides his leg against the bed because he honestly hasnt felt what it feels like yet. and then he climbs onto the bed and keeps swishing his legs. it feels nice.- DREX: -then he moves to the side Marshal's on in an awkward crawl, but he rubs his shoulders before laying his arms to wrap around the front of Marshal's neck, and he gives a small kiss on his shoulder before resting his chin on it-

MARSHAL: -he hears Drex moving around but he doesn't face him, just clamping his hands together in front of him. He stares at the wall, deep in thought- MARSHAL: -Drex's touch seems to rouse him back to reality and he leans his head against his- MARSHAL:...I'm so sorry for everything that happened tonight.

DREX: Shhh... shh. It's okay. As I've said, we both... bear no ill-will towards one-another, yes? Then all we can do now is... try and understand what went wrong, and be able to use this to strive to grow stronger together.

MARSHAL:...It was my fault. I was the one who was wrong. MARSHAL:...There is nothing wrong with the fact that you find me attractive. I find you attractive as well. I just allowed myself to be...so wrapped up in the events of my past, and you were the one who suffered for it.

DREX: The events of your past... DREX: -he scowls, but he eventually shakes his head- Marshal, I... DREX: -he kind of pulls away, only because this doesn't seem like a conversational sort of position, and he draws his hand across Marshal's shoulder before finding the spot next to him and turning to face him. his other hand rests on his cheek to subtly turn his head to look back at him- Please believe me when I say you... are not an... object. That is not your lot in life. You're not a thing. Not to me. You're a person. And... you're the love of my life. And you're beautiful, but you... are not an object. DREX: I never want you to feel so... -he bites back his lip, feeling his emotions swelling at the subject- ...to feel so disgusted in yourself that you feel the need to say these things about yourself. That you believe these things to be true. DREX: And i-if... if that's the case, then I. Will do. Everything. That I can. To make sure you understand how beautiful you are, and how-how wonderful you are beneath your appearance. DREX: -he rubs Marshal's cheek, and already his tears are falling. It's such a painful subject for him. He sees far too much of himself in Marshal for this to be easy- Okay...?

MARSHAL: -he seems surprised when Drex faces him and pushes him to face him in return. His eyes just sort of flicker over the other's face as he listens and takes it in- MARSHAL: -his expression turns somber when Drex begins to cry and he frowns. He reaches out an arm to wrap around him and pull him close to his chest, rubbing his arm- MARSHAL:...Okay. I have...tried in the past to make it more neutral. Just because it is true of many people does not make it...bad, or wrong. And I certainly never believed that of you. The fact that I made it seem that way...I'm so sorry, Drex. -he lowers his head on top of his-

DREX: -he bites back his lip and tries to quell his tears- I got so scared... and I remember why. DREX: You... I... know now that it was an attempt to placate the situation despite your upset, but... DREX: You said... "I am am object; but I am also... yours." DREX: I... DREX: I misunderstood gravely. DREX: It felt as though you... I... that... DREX: I owned you. Like a — Like a trinket. DREX: -he swallows hard- DREX: I never even... remotely want to be in a position where I feel that way. DREX: Where I... -he shakes his head and he buries himself closer to Marshal's chest, fighting off the same panic creeping back on him- DREX: -and he just tries to breath deeply, gripping onto Marshal's shirt like a vice-

MARSHAL: -and then suddenly everything clicks. His eyes widen before his brow furrows and he swallows deeply- MARSHAL: Drex... MARSHAL: -he turns to him fully and pulls him into an embrace, cradling the back of his head and rubbing his back- MARSHAL: No...I'm so sorry, that was never anything like I intended. I was not...thinking clearly about my words. I'm sorry. I'm so very sorry...

DREX: -after a moment, he's finally able to settle down- DREX: -he sighs shakily, whispering quietly- It's okay... DREX: It was... miscommunication at its most heinous. DREX: It's why this issue is so difficult for me. I... We went through... so much on this topic. Both in different ways. But we were both made... to feel the same way that we do. DREX: But if there is anybody I want... to call me beautiful, it's not them; it's certainly not them. They only ever said it to me for their own sick... twisted enjoyment. DREX: You're not like them. DREX: And I am not like Monika. DREX: And we both need to understand this before we can... finally move on.

MARSHAL: -he shuts his eyes tight. He's quiet for a long time, but he doesn't pull away from the embrace. When he finally speaks, there's a quiver in his voice- MARSHAL:..I am... MARSHAL:...afraid, Drex. MARSHAL:...I do not trust myself with you.

DREX: -he shifts and rests his ear against Marshal's chest- DREX: What are you afraid of...? What... do you not trust about yourself?

MARSHAL: I...hurt you tonight. I watched you fall, and scream, and cry over something that I had said to you. It was miscommunication but...it was still my own doing. MARSHAL:...it is...not the first time that I have hurt someone close to me. And although it has never been intentional...intentions do not excuse rash actions. Especially when it is others who pay the price. MARSHAL: Especially-- when it's you. MARSHAL: -he's quiet again. Then he sighs deeply- MARSHAL:...I was hoping you would leave me tonight. Or tomorrow.

DREX: Marshal... you tried to console me. You tried to, but... DREX: -he gives a little sigh- Here... allow me to... teach you something about myself. -he lifts his head and he looks Marshal in the eyes- DREX: When... I panic, and I cannot see you, I do not know you exist. Not then. DREX: The world around me goes dark. Everything goes dark. And I cannot see and I cannot hear. DREX: With the position I was in, I... I wasn't looking to you. I did not react to your presence, so I... honestly... had not known you were there. Not until you touched me. Once you had, all of my sensations returned to me at once, but I still did not yet know... what had touched me, nor why. I only feared the worst — because I... that was all I felt. Fear. DREX: Now, there is a correct way to do it. You can... attempt to speak with me, and keep your distance, raising your voice slowly — but not harshly — until it can cut through and I can hear you again. Or once my panic has settled down enough. And only then would you speak to me, and ask questions to affirm that I can respond at all with eye contact or a sort of motion, like a nod, and only think to touch me once I've acknowledged you completely. DREX: It's a very slow process. Sometimes it takes hours. DREX: How... could you have possibly known that? DREX: You couldn't. So instead, you... only tried to help in a way that, in my lucidity, would be perfectly fine. In fact, it would be most welcome. And is, like now. DREX: -he gives Marshal's shoulder a little squeeze- You cannot blame yourself for not knowing, Marshal. And now you do know. And now we can... learn and adjust, and be better next time. DREX: So no, I... I am not leaving. Not a chance. There's no reason to.

MARSHAL: -he listens very intently and takes it all in with detailed mental notes. His expression remains grave throughout but he nods- MARSHAL: -it isn't until that last line that a small amount of fear flashes in his eyes. He's been weighing it all night--does he tell him that there are reasons to? He does not believe he is that person, nor that he could ever do such a thing to Drex, but he is not 100% confident in himself. And that is enough to cause him great fear- MARSHAL: -But...he can't bring himself to explain it. At this point he has a greater fear of the reprecussions. So he just nods, slowly but firmly- MARSHAL:...Alright. -he leans forward and presses a kiss to his forehead-

DREX: -he still feels the tense feeling in the air, but he... doesn't know how to go about it. marshal brought up a very, very grave topic, and he honestly fears what going down that path might bring.- DREX: -and he bites back his lip, his voice quieter now, and... much more vulnerable- I don't... want you to leave, either. DREX: Marshal, I love you. I... I don't want to lose you...

MARSHAL:...I know. I do too. And I don't want to lose you. -he rests his forehead against Drex's. His voice is quiet and subdued. He doesn't look at him- MARSHAL: But if I was to ever hurt you...really and truly...I would not be able to live with myself.

DREX: You assume so much about yourself is so negative. I... DREX: -he takes a little inhale- I don't... know much about your past. But just as it so happened when Monika said... those words for the sole intent of tarnishing you, I know in my heart what you are. DREX: You are... remorseful, above all else. You feel sorrow for what you've done, and you no longer condone it, and you are making steps forward to attempt to change yourself for the better. DREX: It will not be a perfect road, Marshal. At times, it will be... so very difficult. You will make mistakes. DREX: But I know this. I know... all of these things, and I know you. I know... us, actually. Look at us. DREX: Just... an hour or so ago, we... were on opposite floors, with... bloody knuckles and tears. DREX: And now we're okay. Because we have conversation. And we forgive. And we heal. And you already acknowledged your mistakes, and you're already so willing to own up to that, and to then... change. DREX: A man like that would never really and truly hurt me. DREX: You might make mistakes, and it will sting. And I will... do the same to you. I will say things I do not mean; do things I did not wish to do. But that pain will never run deep. Never enough to scar. DREX: I... honestly and truly don't believe you will ever hurt me the way you fear you can, though that fear will still persist, I know. DREX: So I hope... my words and beliefs bring... at least some comfort. DREX: -he gives a weak little smile-

MARSHAL: -he feels a lump form in his throat and he shuts his eyes tight, looking so guilty and ashamed- MARSHAL: -but as it goes on, he opens his eyes and looks to Drex's, searching. He so badly wants to believe those things. And maybe with him, if he is the one saying them, then...he can- MARSHAL: -in the end, he just looks at him. And without really thinking about it, he leans forward and presses his lips to Drex's, deep and desperate in a way he never has before. He holds it and moves into it before pulling away with a shuddering sigh. He hovers near his face- MARSHAL:...I love you, Drex.

DREX: -and he gives a little gasp as Marshal kisses him, but he quickly adjusts and cups a hand to his cheek, the other resting at the base of his neck. He kisses back softly, so so very gently, letting Marshal deepen the kiss as he wishes. when Marshal pulls away, he gives a little exhale, and he leans their foreheads together- DREX: And I love you, Marshal. DREX: -his other hand moves to Marshal's other cheek as well, and he studies his eyes, his features, exhausted and fearful and desperate, and he looks back to him steadily, with his quiet resolve- You are so much stronger than you know.

MARSHAL: -he looks up at him and looking into his eyes, he seems to take in some of that resolve. He reaches up to cup Drex's face on either side, rubbing his thumbs along his temples- MARSHAL:...I will do everything in my power to make that a reality. I have...missteped on my journey. But I will get up and continue, for your sake. For our sake.

DREX: And you can... And you will. I know you will. DREX: And yes, you have misstepped, but I will be here for you when you falter. As will Alder, and the rest of the League, I am sure. DREX: That's what we are here for, love. We want you to succeed.

MARSHAL: -he gives a shuddery sigh and a small, affirmative noise. He continues to rub his thumbs across his temples in silence- MARSHAL:...-he chuckles dryly- I am very tired.

DREX: Yes, it... it's been a long day, certainly. DREX: But overall? I enjoyed it. DREX: And there is still time in the night... to... help my boyfriend into bed... -and he slowly takes Marshal's hands and helps the two of them further into the bed so they're relatively close to their pillows- DREX: -he intertwines their fingers and helps coax Marshal to lay down- DREX: And snuggle beside him... -and he lets himself down in bed and does just so, resting his head close to Marshal's arm- DREX: And tell him how much I love him. DREX: And that will end this night... wonderfully.

MARSHAL: -he is coaxed and pulled, which he allows himself to be. He lays down with Drex and wraps an arm around him, holding him close. He nuzzles his head on top of his- MARSHAL: -he releases a long sigh and closes his eyes, absentmindedly rubbing his arm- MARSHAL:...I am grateful that despite everything, you've been able to enjoy your Valentines Day.

DREX: -he yawns, snuggling himself a little closer, and he finally settles his head on Marshal's chest- Well, yes. DREX: Lovely food, lovely building, lovely gift. DREX: And I could spend it all with the one I love the most. -he lets his arm across Marshal's chest- DREX: So yes, I would very well say I enjoyed it.

MARSHAL: -he smiles and give a content sigh- MARSHAL:...I'm glad. I did too.

DREX: Oh, and how could I forget the lovely shirt you so graciously gifted to me? -he gives a small low chuckle-

MARSHAL: -chuckles a little as well, glancing down at him- It looks good on you. MARSHAL: Your frame compliments a looser style of clothing.

DREX: You think so...? I don't believe I could wear many in the daytime, but... perhaps I could invest in some lighter sleepwear.

MARSHAL: Perhaps...I like being able to see more of you. -he runs his hand down his arm-...it’s just like our universe. The cosmos expands everywhere. -he lightly draws a finger over Drex’s skin, making constellations out of his freckles-

DREX: -he blushes and his eyes widen at Marshal's words, and he finds himself laughing like an idiot- DREX: I am not like the cosmos... I wish I was. But I am simply... finite. DREX: While they... do extend everywhere — I am... positive you have seen that much. But there is an end to them. A number you can count. You can connect them all and all of the lines will meet each-other... eventually. DREX: Though... it is very high praise to be compared to something as infinite as the universe... but I doubt I can compare.

MARSHAL: You should overcome those doubts. Though there is a limit on the surface, what is inside of you is ever expanding, always with new thoughts and questions... MARSHAL:...there is only so much a human can we here on Earth. From our surface, we’ve mapped out the entirety of what we can see...maybe one day I will do the same here. -he brings Drex’s hand up and kisses his knuckles-

DREX: Oh, yes, my knowledge is growing more and more each passing day. Every moment here is a rapidly-expanding experience, and... believe me when I say I learn so much in a single day. It's... almost a little overwhelming to compare like that. DREX: -and he gives a little chuckle- Well... when that day comes, I will be sure to bring a marker.

MARSHAL: -he chuckles a little as well and presses one more kiss before settling. Everything feels heavy, and he finds himself drifting off-

DREX: -he feels much less tired, but he's pretty sure it'll hit him like a brick later. he doesn't seem to notice marshal falling asleep on him- I have found out that pants are called pants because they refer to the fabric in which your legs go in. DREX: Is that not odd? Why is a single garment not simply called a pant.

MARSHAL: Mmm. -it sounds far off-

DREX: -and he keeps talking about clothes and how jackets are called "jacket" singularly and how this phenomena only seems to apply to pants IE. jeans. But then why not underwear? and then he thinks about it and talks about how boxers are even called boxers and so are briefs but he still ultimately concludes that it's a silly practice and why can it not simply be A Brief or A Jean.- DREX: -eventually he comes to realize Marshal's stopped responding to him and he looks up and finds him sound asleep, so he covers his mouth and stifles a little laugh. how long was he talking for? who knows. he brushes Marshal's cheek apologetically-

MARSHAL: -and he's out like a rock at this point-

DREX: -and he keeps petting his cheek, sort of just... watching him as he sleeps, how he looks kinda silly but... peaceful. and he reflects on their afternoon. the flowers and eviolite still remains downstairs, and he can't help but smile at how grateful he still remains over the gift. it would be perfect for Poipole to hold, he muses briefly.- DREX: -and as his own mind starts to weigh heavily, he thinks over... all that went wrong. he still had one subject he wanted to talk about that... never got addressed.- DREX: -and he closes his eyes and settles against marshal's chest with a little shift here and there. he only hopes marshal will be okay with him bringing it up in the morning- DREX: -and he finds himself drifting off-

#thread: a romantic holiday #dulse #tw/cw are included in the post

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