[ Lioriley knows well the limits of her own abilities; how much her body can take before she needs to recuperate. But she also has a bad habit of not listening to the warning signs her body gives her, nor paying much attention to the insistence from others that she should probably take it easy. It's not hard to fall into a dangerous rhythm while working in the hospital either - there's a lot of people between the four cities, and plenty that need help.
She should have stopped days ago, but her own drive to please and see people well has left the Lunari worse for wear. When she finally decides to call it quits for the night - her shift was done at least four hours beforehand - she stumbles out into the streets, her leylines flickering faintly in the dim light of the street lamps. She makes it about halfway home before she finally collapses, slumped against one of the smaller buildings in Fayren - her head knocking against the wall before she lands in a heap.
[When Lior wakes up, it's not going to be where she was last conscious. It's one of those small, starter apartments, the walls already lined with piles of books and papers scattered about the small wooden desk off to the side of the bed she's currently lying in.
The only thing she might notice is a cold compress on her forehead, near where she hit her head against the wall, earlier. Solas is actually not even in the room at first, but he does enter the room shortly after, a book tucked under one arm and some assorted food on a tray in his other hand. He knows Lior lacks the actual need to eat in most circumstances, but food can give comfort, regardless. He sets down the tray on the bedside table and pours a glass of water before settling down in the chair that's been sat next to the bed and opens his book to read. Overall, the room is quiet, dimly lit but enough for him to read by without disturbing Lior's needed rest.]
Edited (editing cause i'm garbage) 2018-06-16 03:37 (UTC)
[ It's been a long time since she did something so incredibly stupid; a long time since she had a reason to use so much energy at once. Back home, now that the wars were over and people weren't being shipped in every two minutes for healing, she didn't have to expend so much so quickly. Here, there were hundreds of thousands of people - locals, outsiders - that needed help one way or another she almost felt like she was obligated to do so.
Stupid, in hindsight, and a mistake she likely won't make again anytime soon. She'll chastise herself for it later though, once the bleariness subsides and she fully realizes where she is and how she got there. The pain in her head has long since subsided as the energy returned, but the cold compress is nice nonetheless.
The Lunari stirs after a moment, dark eyes half lidded as she watches Solas enter with the book and tray of food. It doesn't take her long to register who he is - there are few elves she's met here, and fewer still that held her interest as long as he had. ]
Solas. [ She says as she sits up, gently pulling the compress from her head. ] How did — what happened?
You collapsed. [He says this as he closes his book, sitting back up again.] I figured you simply needed some time to replenish yourself, so I brought you here. It seemed safer than leaving you where you were.
[As he says this he tilts his head ever so slightly, his expression appraising. She looks fine now, as far as he can tell, no wound remaining on her head, and the lines on her face and arms seem to be glowing more steadily, much better than the flickering that he'd seen earlier.] You must have depleted your magics to cause something like that, am I right?
What luck you happened upon me then. Thank you. [ She sounds genuine in her appreciation, too. Like it really is lucky that Solas was the one that found her in such a sorry state. No telling what could have happened if some less savory people came upon her in the street like that.
His question has her blushing slightly, less bright than it would be normally as her energy continues to slowly return. It's almost odd how long it seems to be taking - but then again, her connection to this world's energies is not nearly as strong as it would be back home. ]
You are correct. I have not rested for a few days whilst working at the hospital.
It would be in your, and your patients' best interest for you to take more time to replenish yourself. [the words are firm, but his expression belies his worry for her well being.]
For now, you're welcome to stay here as long as you like. There's food and water, if you want any. It might be helpful, even if you don't need to eat.
[ She frowns, looking on the verge of protest until she meets his gaze. He doesn't know her well enough yet — doesn't know that this is a habit she has not fully kicked in the six centuries she's lived. It's hard not to work herself to her limit when she feels it is all she can do for the people around her. ]
I appreciate your kindness, Solas, but I would not wish to impose upon you for longer than necessary. [ She really doesn't, but a fervent desire for company and companionship has her words faltering slightly. No, no. She couldn't. ] I will have to insist on returning the favor some how, though.
It's not an imposition. I don't offer what I don't want to give. You're one of the few people here who... [he shakes his head. There's no reason to make this personal. He helped because it was the right thing to do.] regardless, you should rest. I have plenty of books here if you're bored, but it would ease my concerns if you would at least stay until morning.
[ She cocks her head to the side, curious as to where that line of thought might be going. Unfortunately, the answer seems to be nowhere. Oh well. ]
Very well. If it will ease your mind then I will stay. [ It doesn't take much to convince her, truthfully. ] I will not linger in silence if it cannot be avoided. How have you been faring since we spoke last?
[Thank you for not arguing with him. If there is one thing that he is good at it is making his point. But, the subject is settled and swiftly changed so he matches the flow of conversation.]
Well enough, I've found my bearings at least. As strange as this world has proved to be, there's more than enough to catch my interest.
[ In the three weeks since they spoke last, Lioriley has not slept. She's kept herself as busy as possible — at work, adventuring outside the city, researching in the library — for an excuse to not return home. It was difficult to avoid seeing Solas at work, but not nearly as hard as it was when they lived in the same place.
Which isn't to say she wanted to avoid him — but she also didn't know what she might say or do when she saw him again. The tension in the air between them was thick and uncomfortable after they parted last; and Lioriley wasn't entirely sure what to say to him now. Should she apologize? Tell him how she felt? No. She did nothing wrong — but she hadn't done anything right either.
Eventually though. She has to go to the house for one reason or another. And when she does she practically runs into Solas upon opening the front door. For a split second she just stares at him, then quickly turns her eyes to the side. ]
[Solas, on the contrary, had found himself retreating to sleep more than perhaps he normally would, outside of working. There was a lot on his mind, conflicting emotions and desires that he was having an unnaturally long time sorting through. He'd made a misstep, one that had undoubtedly harmed someone he'd come to respect as an equal.
He was leaving the house with books tucked under his arms, a satchel across his chest and a far off expression on his face. He wasn't paying attention, and he'd almost bumped right into the very woman he'd both been avoiding and wanting to see again. There's a fleeting expression of sadness that blips onto his features for a moment but then it's gone again as the fingers of the hand next to his satchel flex a little.]
No. Don't apologize, you have nothing to be sorry for. [He finds it hard to look at her, but manages. It's partially relief and partially disappointment he feels when he sees that she's looking elsewhere, obviously purposefully.]
It is fine. No harm done. [ She can only assume he's talking about apologizing for almost bumping into her. If he's apologizing for something else, well, she's apparently not acknowledging it.
It's hard not to look at him, and harder still to pretend that she doesn't want to. The lack of sleep, even for a Lunari as old as she is, has clearly taken its toll on her via faded leylines and dark circles around her eyes. She fidgets nervously with fingers twining together and feet shuffling as she makes room for him to move, should her choose to leave. ]
Were you headed out? [ Maybe she shouldn't have asked. Maybe he won't answer. ]
I feel as though you are miss attributing my apology, Lioriley. [But as he watches her, her lack of sleep IS obvious, enough so that he considers his next steps carefully. He finally settles on setting a hand on her shoulder, stepping over in order to gently guide her inside.
It's an awkward shuffling of positions, but he manages one way or another, and in the same motion sets the satchel he'd been wearing on the ground, forgotten for now.]
You look exhausted. I have some herbs that should provide some comfort.
Then I am sorry for that as well. [ She's clearly not all there currently, and as the words slip from her lips with no proper filtering, she immediately regrets them. Hopefully, he doesn't think her tone aggressive or condescending; because she is genuinely sorry for possibly misinterpreting whatever he was apologizing for.
And she's not stupid, she knows what he means but she doesn't let herself acknowledge it because even after three long weeks alone she still doesn't know how to respond. On the plus side, she's so caught up in these random, babbling thoughts that she doesn't notice she's walking forward until she's already inside and he's speaking again. ]
I have been thinking a lot lately. [ She says, finally looking up to him with a faint smile finally curving the corners of her lips. ] I shall not object to it, so long as it will not keep you from your business.
As have I. I believe I owe you an explaination for the other day. [He says this without looking at her, busying himself with herbs and mixtures, hands working away at creating some sort of """""tea"""" that should help ease Lior into a state that would at least allow her some rest.]
...It is a.... Complicated matter. But I do not feel as though it is fair to you, to avoid it any longer. [as he says this he turns, holding a shallow cup out to Lior, the liquid dark green. His face is solomn, but not unkind. Perhaps, if someone knew him well enough they could figure he's doing his best to hedge his bets.]
[ Despite her best efforts, her smile begins to wane just as soon as it had come. Her eyes dart from Solas' face to the cup he offers, fingers curling around it without her even realizing what she's doing. She stares down at the liquid, still swirling just a little in the cup before she offers him, once more, her full attention. ]
I am too used to complicated matters. [ She offers, sincerely enough. It's not an inaccurate statement, given the ridiculous events of her life. Nothing can be done without some kind of complication - including, but not limited to, having feelings for someone. ] If you care to elaborate now, however, I am willing to listen.
[He's still standing when she looks back at him, and for a moment he almost loses his nerve, almost choosing to withdraw back and retreat again.] There is much I have not told you.
...Enough that I feel as though I have not been honest with you. [he pauses. finally choosing to settle down in a chair across from Lior.] How much do you recall of what I've said about the Elves of Thedas and their relationship with the fade?
[ Lioriley has absolutely no idea where he's going with this, and that fact alone is unsettling enough. But the addendum of 'not being honest with her' is what really gets her stomach to drop. She feels like she's going to be sick, and while she doesn't want to think ill of him and wants to give him the benefit of the doubt here — she can't help but worry.
Needless to say, she's glad she's chosen to sit now. She sets her tea on the table. ]
Quite a bit. I have it all written down. [ practically every word he said to her in regards to his homeland. She silently waits for him to continue. ]
Then you will recall what I said about the events that lead up to the fade being separated from the rest of Thedas, and the effect it had. [he pauses, considering for a moment.]
And, if I recall, I touched on the subject of the beliefs of the Dalish. As well as the situation currently unfolding in Thedas, the inquisition and my part in it. Most importantly the artifact that created the anchor. It is a Dalish relic, Fen'Harel's. [another pause as he watches Lior's facial expression. He almost looks like he wasn't going to stop there, but instead he pauses to give her a chance to speak.]
[ Lioriley is silent for the duration, trying to piece together all the things he told her about Thedas in the time since he arrived. There's a lot to unpack there, and even more as he speaks that only serves to confuse her.
Her expression is just that: confused; brows furrowed, a finger curled against her lower lip, and her lips down turned in a heavy frown. Not so much disapproving as uncertain. ]
Forgive me, but I do not quite understand the correlation to our current situation. [ She almost wishes she didn't say that. ]
[How does he say this? He frowns, considering. He has not been fully truthful with her. Not that he's lied, but his identity and purpose he has left nebulous and full of half truths.]
It is my relic. One I never intended the inquisitor to wind up with.
[ Another pause, shorter than the last and yet so much more prominent. It all comes together in a whirlwind of emotions she can't quite parse. Confused, slightly angry, but mostly saddened by this realization. Her fingers unfurl, resting against parted lips. Stunned. ]
You — you are the dread wolf. [ Not a question so much as a statement she feels needs to be said aloud, for confirmation. But she's heard the tales, and she'd like to think she understood them. ] All those tales you told me were spoken from experience, not merely stories. I ...
Has 'Solas' been a lie, or is there truth to that as well?
I was Solas first, Dread Wolf is derogatory, a title I did not ask for but took the mantle of in any case.
[More or less, anyway. But even though he's told her the clarity of it all, he doesn't entirely feel less burdened. He's shared the past, but the future...]
I felt you deserved to know the whole of it. Though you are not from Thedas, I would not want to continue to gain your attention under false pretenses.
I am sorry, I did not mean — [ She only barely knows what she's apologizing for at this point, honestly. She didn't mean to use the derogatory term that he has used himself? Shit. She's panicking. Her heart is racing, leylines glowing. Solas should know the tells well enough by now to discern how she feels. Frantic, she look still keeps her eyes on him. ]
I am glad you told me, I just — this is not quite what I expected. [ She expected something akin to him not telling her the whole truth about himself, but not this. Not something so intense and almost insane in how elaborate and complicated it is.
[ AN ACTUAL FUCKING MINUTE LATER, assuming Solas didn't try and talk to her during that time, she manages to compose herself; her hand dropping to instead fiddle with the edge of her blouse. She doesn't know what to say, not really, or if she should say anything at all.
Maybe it's more like two minutes before she speaks again. ]
Whatever title you might have held, or still hold; and whatever you had done in Thedas — I have no say in that. But I fell for Solas, the one that I met here those months ago... and that despite this revelation I still hold true to that.
[There is some small comfort in her words. He finds he much prefers being just Solas in her company, which is what had prompted all of this. He could just forget what lies in wait in Thedas and live for what peace he's found in this world... but.]
A relief, if I'm honest. I was not sure how you would feel. There is still a role I must play back in Thedas, plans I have laid that... [that he still feels are important and must happen.
It's a shame he's sitting across from her at the table or he'd take her by the hand, instead his hands rest on the table, fingers curling into relaxed fists] ...It's hard to remain focused on those goals, in your presence.
leanna needed a minute to fucking write that reply
[ A part of her is curious and wants to ask for details of his future plans, but the smarter part of her says to let it be. If he feels he can and wants to tell her; then he will. He's already admitted this much, and even that seems to be burdening him.
She has no right to judge — she's told him practically nothing of her own life. Perhaps it's not as extreme, but the fact remains that secrets are still held between them on both sides.
Lioriley decides to take the initiative now, opting to just stand up and bridge the gap between them across the table. Her arms extend, looping around Solas' shoulders and hugging herself to him. Somewhat awkward, given that she's standing and he's sitting now, but it works. ]
I would not think to hinder you, should you choose instead to focus on the plans you have made in your homeland. But perhaps it is not entirely unwise to take advantage of this chance we have been given, to appreciate the time we can spend together here.
[Of all the things that could have happened in this point in time, the current situation is not one he had anticipated. This is probably why he's a terribly shitty villain. As it is a little awkward considering his seated position he does gingerly rise to his feet in the same motion as he wraps his arms around Lioriley.]
Perhaps. [At least, for now. There's no way to get back to Thedas here. Despite how uncomfortable this conversation may have been there's the barest upturn of the corners of his lips as he looks down at Lior.] There may be much I could learn from you, as it turns out.
[The rest of the story can wait, perhaps if Lior wishes to know more she will ask? For now, however, Solas lifts one hand to cup the side of Lior's face, closing the distance between the two of them until his lips are pressed against hers.]
[ It's a dangerous game, asking too many questions. She doesn't have all that much to hide — at least nothing so far as deity-hood or anything similar — but she also doesn't want to burden him with centuries of guilt and war, misery that he does not need added to his own troubles. And he seems to have many of those. She also doesn't want him to know, not yet.
Secrets are kept as such, at least for now, and she is fine with that. She knows enough (she thinks) to gather how she feels about him, still. And as she looks at him, notes that smile and mirrors it with her own, she does not worry so much about the future. This is better than what they had the past few weeks. ]
Likewise. [ She tilts her head, fingers brushing under his chin as she eases up on her toes to return the kiss. She's been wanting to do that since that time on the beach, right before this stupid misunderstanding went down. She grips at the front of his shirt for leverage, and perhaps to make sure he doesn't go too far. ]
ive arrived as i always do
She should have stopped days ago, but her own drive to please and see people well has left the Lunari worse for wear. When she finally decides to call it quits for the night - her shift was done at least four hours beforehand - she stumbles out into the streets, her leylines flickering faintly in the dim light of the street lamps. She makes it about halfway home before she finally collapses, slumped against one of the smaller buildings in Fayren - her head knocking against the wall before she lands in a heap.
Probably not her best idea. ]
fuckin leave, hoe.
The only thing she might notice is a cold compress on her forehead, near where she hit her head against the wall, earlier. Solas is actually not even in the room at first, but he does enter the room shortly after, a book tucked under one arm and some assorted food on a tray in his other hand. He knows Lior lacks the actual need to eat in most circumstances, but food can give comfort, regardless. He sets down the tray on the bedside table and pours a glass of water before settling down in the chair that's been sat next to the bed and opens his book to read. Overall, the room is quiet, dimly lit but enough for him to read by without disturbing Lior's needed rest.]
mmmmm no
Stupid, in hindsight, and a mistake she likely won't make again anytime soon. She'll chastise herself for it later though, once the bleariness subsides and she fully realizes where she is and how she got there. The pain in her head has long since subsided as the energy returned, but the cold compress is nice nonetheless.
The Lunari stirs after a moment, dark eyes half lidded as she watches Solas enter with the book and tray of food. It doesn't take her long to register who he is - there are few elves she's met here, and fewer still that held her interest as long as he had. ]
Solas. [ She says as she sits up, gently pulling the compress from her head. ] How did — what happened?
fuk OFF
[As he says this he tilts his head ever so slightly, his expression appraising. She looks fine now, as far as he can tell, no wound remaining on her head, and the lines on her face and arms seem to be glowing more steadily, much better than the flickering that he'd seen earlier.] You must have depleted your magics to cause something like that, am I right?
:(
His question has her blushing slightly, less bright than it would be normally as her energy continues to slowly return. It's almost odd how long it seems to be taking - but then again, her connection to this world's energies is not nearly as strong as it would be back home. ]
You are correct. I have not rested for a few days whilst working at the hospital.
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For now, you're welcome to stay here as long as you like. There's food and water, if you want any. It might be helpful, even if you don't need to eat.
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I appreciate your kindness, Solas, but I would not wish to impose upon you for longer than necessary. [ She really doesn't, but a fervent desire for company and companionship has her words faltering slightly. No, no. She couldn't. ] I will have to insist on returning the favor some how, though.
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Very well. If it will ease your mind then I will stay. [ It doesn't take much to convince her, truthfully. ] I will not linger in silence if it cannot be avoided. How have you been faring since we spoke last?
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Well enough, I've found my bearings at least. As strange as this world has proved to be, there's more than enough to catch my interest.
[Video]
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Oh. Solas frowns.]
Again, my name is Solas. If you can remember that I might answer your question.
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And because I told you to.
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I am currently at the hospital, should you decide to bring it here.
[maybe it will do him some good.]
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Which isn't to say she wanted to avoid him — but she also didn't know what she might say or do when she saw him again. The tension in the air between them was thick and uncomfortable after they parted last; and Lioriley wasn't entirely sure what to say to him now. Should she apologize? Tell him how she felt? No. She did nothing wrong — but she hadn't done anything right either.
Eventually though. She has to go to the house for one reason or another. And when she does she practically runs into Solas upon opening the front door. For a split second she just stares at him, then quickly turns her eyes to the side. ]
My apologies, I did not think you were home.
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He was leaving the house with books tucked under his arms, a satchel across his chest and a far off expression on his face. He wasn't paying attention, and he'd almost bumped right into the very woman he'd both been avoiding and wanting to see again. There's a fleeting expression of sadness that blips onto his features for a moment but then it's gone again as the fingers of the hand next to his satchel flex a little.]
No. Don't apologize, you have nothing to be sorry for. [He finds it hard to look at her, but manages. It's partially relief and partially disappointment he feels when he sees that she's looking elsewhere, obviously purposefully.]
Perhaps it is I that owe you.
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It's hard not to look at him, and harder still to pretend that she doesn't want to. The lack of sleep, even for a Lunari as old as she is, has clearly taken its toll on her via faded leylines and dark circles around her eyes. She fidgets nervously with fingers twining together and feet shuffling as she makes room for him to move, should her choose to leave. ]
Were you headed out? [ Maybe she shouldn't have asked. Maybe he won't answer. ]
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It's an awkward shuffling of positions, but he manages one way or another, and in the same motion sets the satchel he'd been wearing on the ground, forgotten for now.]
You look exhausted. I have some herbs that should provide some comfort.
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And she's not stupid, she knows what he means but she doesn't let herself acknowledge it because even after three long weeks alone she still doesn't know how to respond. On the plus side, she's so caught up in these random, babbling thoughts that she doesn't notice she's walking forward until she's already inside and he's speaking again. ]
I have been thinking a lot lately. [ She says, finally looking up to him with a faint smile finally curving the corners of her lips. ] I shall not object to it, so long as it will not keep you from your business.
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...It is a.... Complicated matter. But I do not feel as though it is fair to you, to avoid it any longer. [as he says this he turns, holding a shallow cup out to Lior, the liquid dark green. His face is solomn, but not unkind. Perhaps, if someone knew him well enough they could figure he's doing his best to hedge his bets.]
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I am too used to complicated matters. [ She offers, sincerely enough. It's not an inaccurate statement, given the ridiculous events of her life. Nothing can be done without some kind of complication - including, but not limited to, having feelings for someone. ] If you care to elaborate now, however, I am willing to listen.
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...Enough that I feel as though I have not been honest with you. [he pauses. finally choosing to settle down in a chair across from Lior.] How much do you recall of what I've said about the Elves of Thedas and their relationship with the fade?
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Needless to say, she's glad she's chosen to sit now. She sets her tea on the table. ]
Quite a bit. I have it all written down. [ practically every word he said to her in regards to his homeland. She silently waits for him to continue. ]
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And, if I recall, I touched on the subject of the beliefs of the Dalish. As well as the situation currently unfolding in Thedas, the inquisition and my part in it. Most importantly the artifact that created the anchor. It is a Dalish relic, Fen'Harel's. [another pause as he watches Lior's facial expression. He almost looks like he wasn't going to stop there, but instead he pauses to give her a chance to speak.]
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Her expression is just that: confused; brows furrowed, a finger curled against her lower lip, and her lips down turned in a heavy frown. Not so much disapproving as uncertain. ]
Forgive me, but I do not quite understand the correlation to our current situation. [ She almost wishes she didn't say that. ]
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It is my relic. One I never intended the inquisitor to wind up with.
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You — you are the dread wolf. [ Not a question so much as a statement she feels needs to be said aloud, for confirmation. But she's heard the tales, and she'd like to think she understood them. ] All those tales you told me were spoken from experience, not merely stories. I ...
Has 'Solas' been a lie, or is there truth to that as well?
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[More or less, anyway. But even though he's told her the clarity of it all, he doesn't entirely feel less burdened. He's shared the past, but the future...]
I felt you deserved to know the whole of it. Though you are not from Thedas, I would not want to continue to gain your attention under false pretenses.
1/2 for a literal time skip rip
I am glad you told me, I just — this is not quite what I expected. [ She expected something akin to him not telling her the whole truth about himself, but not this. Not something so intense and almost insane in how elaborate and complicated it is.
Just give her a minute to compose herself. ]
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Maybe it's more like two minutes before she speaks again. ]
Whatever title you might have held, or still hold; and whatever you had done in Thedas — I have no say in that. But I fell for Solas, the one that I met here those months ago... and that despite this revelation I still hold true to that.
A MINUTE ISN'T A TIMESKIP YOU BUTTHEAD
A relief, if I'm honest. I was not sure how you would feel. There is still a role I must play back in Thedas, plans I have laid that... [that he still feels are important and must happen.
It's a shame he's sitting across from her at the table or he'd take her by the hand, instead his hands rest on the table, fingers curling into relaxed fists] ...It's hard to remain focused on those goals, in your presence.
leanna needed a minute to fucking write that reply
She has no right to judge — she's told him practically nothing of her own life. Perhaps it's not as extreme, but the fact remains that secrets are still held between them on both sides.
Lioriley decides to take the initiative now, opting to just stand up and bridge the gap between them across the table. Her arms extend, looping around Solas' shoulders and hugging herself to him. Somewhat awkward, given that she's standing and he's sitting now, but it works. ]
I would not think to hinder you, should you choose instead to focus on the plans you have made in your homeland. But perhaps it is not entirely unwise to take advantage of this chance we have been given, to appreciate the time we can spend together here.
god
Perhaps. [At least, for now. There's no way to get back to Thedas here. Despite how uncomfortable this conversation may have been there's the barest upturn of the corners of his lips as he looks down at Lior.] There may be much I could learn from you, as it turns out.
[The rest of the story can wait, perhaps if Lior wishes to know more she will ask? For now, however, Solas lifts one hand to cup the side of Lior's face, closing the distance between the two of them until his lips are pressed against hers.]
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Secrets are kept as such, at least for now, and she is fine with that. She knows enough (she thinks) to gather how she feels about him, still. And as she looks at him, notes that smile and mirrors it with her own, she does not worry so much about the future. This is better than what they had the past few weeks. ]
Likewise. [ She tilts her head, fingers brushing under his chin as she eases up on her toes to return the kiss. She's been wanting to do that since that time on the beach, right before this stupid misunderstanding went down. She grips at the front of his shirt for leverage, and perhaps to make sure he doesn't go too far. ]