illithidnapped

[That distinctive warmth is a strange balm on an otherwise (figuratively) stormy morning. Astarion didn't sleep much. Maybe that's the thready pressure he feels lingering in the air.

It's nice hearing his voice.

What a terrible thought.]

Wycome proper, near the waterside district where the well-to-do strutted about between bouts of gambling and drinking and— everything else. [The sort of mischief done in a place built upon the concept of hedonism.]

His accent was Tevinter, though his clothing wasn't nearly as striking as one might expect. Possibly an up-and-coming, emphasis on the lack of arrival: boasting about scraping up elven relics from their previous owners seemed to be his way of proving shrewdness. Or cruelty. Or both.

[A faint pause before:]

Do you like it?

( scoffing: ) Buying items at a pawnbroker is hardly anything for him to brag about.

( he's learned enough about human society to realize as much. far faster than astarion's hesitation of a reply comes his easy affirmation. )

Yes. A great deal. I only seek to know where I cannot wear it.

I didn't think you were the sort to worry about it.

[Then again, an elf in Thedas is an elf in Thedas, and something stings mutedly as Astarion passes over that snagging detail.]

Anyway it was more like 'a few scraps of impure silver to a pack of wild animals after their land was scorched in the war' but yes. Basically the same.

And while I could've kept it for myself...well. I suppose I'm not much different at heart.

I do not get into fistfights in public on accusations of thievery.

( there's more than enough gossip going around right now, and he would prefer the guards don't get called on him. messy!! )

I am pleased, then, that you took it from him. And if your need to drape yourself in baubles persist, my offer from the last time we spoke still holds.

Shame. You'd look good all roughed up. [Messy can be fun, Thranduil. Embrace it every now and then from those high towers.

But his tone twists after that teasing commentary fades. Sinks lower. Lighter.]

I—

[A small breath, sticking to the back of his teeth.]

Tempting as the offer remains, I'm afraid I'm indisposed today. Personal business.

Wait for the next engagement with Corypheus' forces.

( and knocking on wood with regard to that. )

Of course. ( smoothly, no curious prying at all. ) Blessed Feastday.

Mmhm.

[He concedes, feather soft and just as content to let it lie. If he's a little grateful for it, that lack of prodding, it only manifests in the fact that he lingers long enough to add, not unkindly:]

Blessed whatever, darling.

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