[It would be a waste to spend his unique magic so recklessly, wouldn't it? He might get one of the answers he seeks, but this playful hunt of theirs might also turn deadly serious. Or would it be stranger if there was no hunt at all? Would it be worse to see his ever-present smile wiped away, or to look into the eyes of someone so fascinated by everything, and see no interest or regard reflected in them at all?
There are other, more pleasant ways to coax answers out of each other, if it comes to that. Jade looks away, and Rook tucks his face against Jade's shoulder to muffle his giggles, relaxing into the coils sneaking their way ever higher. It might be a little sticky, it might be a lot dangerous--but it's hard to deny how cozy Jade's embrace is. How often is it that anyone trusts him enough to let him be this close?]
Oh lĂ lĂ , I had no idea merfolk moved so fast! Humans usually spend a while making up their minds. But it wouldn't be unknowing if you told me all about it, would it?
[How interesting, he's probably the last person anyone should look to for a commitment, at this point in his life. Is he going to get a crash course on merfolk romantic cultural customs?]
[ Perhaps it's a foolish teenager's excitement pushing this on so quickly, but the possibility of leaving the College without even a thorough exploration of what humans have to offer feels like a disservice.
But separating ideals from home and embracing ones from another is difficult to do completely. The twins would need to find their own mates someday and while Jade had originally resigned himself to the very real possibility that he would need to find someone to carry on the family business first, he doesn't think Floyd would mind if that time came now rather than later.
Well. He might have some complaints, but that was more Floyd's personal judgment on what Jade could possibly see in such a noisy seagull. ]
It differs depending on the species...
[ Jade's neck cranes to give Rook access, tail settling comfortably around the blond's waist with more than enough length to spare for tentacles to cling or attach to. Tips of claws toy with blond strands--such a rare color back home. ]
But with my own, we are rather particular. We prove ourselves to our partner through battle, acts of bravery, or elimination of the competition... I have always found my Father's scar caused by Mother's claim of him to be rather romantic.
[And not entirely dissimilar to beastmen practices in some parts of Sunset Savannah, now that he thinks about it. Maybe that's why it feels almost unnervingly comfortable and familiar--why he had apparently nearly slipped into that role without even meaning to. Of course Jade is going to assume he's coming on ridiculously strong, after how heavily he's stalked him--to say nothing of the knife and arrows that had been exchanged mere minutes ago. He may as well have kicked down the door with a bouquet of roses in hand. Hah, does stopping short of hitting Jade mark him as sappy and sentimental, then? Or merely weak-willed and unserious about his pursuit? What must Jade assume about his relationship with Vil in that case, going to such lengths simply to please him?
He wonders what other humans in the college might even be emotionally capable of giving Jade (and Floyd, presumably) what he would want. (Speaking of competition. It really is so easy to simply step back and reframe things.....) Wouldn't they be more comfortable looking to Savanaclaw's rough and ready student body, particularly the beastmen? A scion of Pomefiore surely must seem disappointingly frail and frivolous in comparison to someone like Leona or Jack.
Or maybe he's simply overthinking all this. It's all too easy to let his mind wander, wrapped up so snugly and enjoying the taste of him on his lips while Jade plays with his hair.]
Humans aren't usually prone to such grand gestures, in my experience. Although, so many of the books and plays I loved as a child were absolutely full of them..... I suppose that must make merfolk relationships sound like a fairytale romance to me.
The lack of obvious interest is something that surprised me upon coming to land, though I had never thought I would find someone that captured my interest.
[ And who seems to be interested in him. Grand gestures aside so many humans seemed so ashamed or embarrassed by their affections.
It's true that Rook's antics came off as more frustrating to most people--blatantly annoying or frustrating... but to Jade they are simply parts of his charm. A strong hunter is a provider, and he hadn't even noticed anyone in his part of the sea who quite held a candle to Rook's prowess yet. Initially it was difficult to dismiss Rook's antics due to nature, but as Jade grows to know him more he finds it impossible to ignore.
His tail tightens more, silently amused at the feeling of Rook's lower body molding to his hold. It's easy to imagine his human bones splintering beneath it, but perhaps that could come another day. Jade leans in to brush his own lips against Rook's vibrant colored neck, his teeth quick to follow with a gentle nip to test the waters. ]
Although... my kind's commitment might be outside your preferences.
[ If Rook's intense passion for so many is anything to go by, though Jade at least has enough common sense now to know that Rook's interest and personality is quite different than outright attraction. ]
It's silly, isn't it? So many of us fear rejection so deeply, that plenty of humans can spend years testing the waters and hesitating to jump in.
[Even he finds it absurd, from the inside looking out. Doesn't even unrequited love has a bittersweet beauty to it, painful though it may be? Or has he simply watched so many tragedies unfold on the stage that his views on the matter are permanently skewed? They may not be romantic in nature, but he still faces rejection so often he's learned to brush it off with a smile.
Not that he's facing rejection now. Far from it, given the strength with which Jade grips him; Rook purrs appreciatively at the exploratory touch of lips and teeth, fingers threading through Jade's hair as though he means to hold him there. This really is a dangerous passion, isn't it? They both know full well what he's like. How does someone so easily enchanted measure up against the possessive commitment of a merman? Is it wrong that some deep, dark part of him is curious how much he would suffer, if it all went wrong?]
Well..... who knows? I daresay it's worth a try to see how it goes, so long as you don't expect anything binding right away. Maybe you'll even surprise us both, and win me over completely?
[Now wouldn't that be a shock to everyone who knows him? Even Rook genuinely isn't sure if he's capable of the sort of depths of devotion that has eyes for nothing and noone else. Or is that an absurd role reversal, given he's been the one pursuing Jade so doggedly until now?]
[ All of that is far too wasteful. While Jade might struggle with expressing his true self often (something Floyd and Azul have been working on with him ever since Azul's... incident), hesitating over something so impractical for so long seems incredibly foolish. At worst they would receive a rejection and be able to move on. Or perhaps the object of their affections already holds them on a pedestal they're too cautious to shake.
It's different than this case where Jade simply bided his time to ensure that they were in a suitable setting to make the proposition. Surely. Not at all nerves that he misunderstood Rook's demeanor as actual hunting mishaps.
The next nip to the hunter's throat is sharper and quickly followed by a dark teal tongue before Jade speaks against his skin. ]
I understand land dwellers do have different courting methods...
[ Another sharp nibble. If they were both merfolk perhaps he'd take that type of comment with more offense, but all things considered it is a fair request. Rook's heart is so overwhelmingly full all of the time, though it wasn't impossible for noone else to be interested in him. Admittedly, Jade doesn't consider that as a possibility for himself, either. ]
So long as you do not intentionally make me jealous.
[ His grip in Rook's hair relents, but only so his hand can trail down to his neck. Clawed fingertips pressing just lightly above where, were he still human now, his jugular vein would reside. ]
[Oh, now this is nice. Dangerous, but nice; he wonders if Jade would so readily bare his throat for him, the way Rook does now. Rook squirms a little in his hold, breath catching sharply as Jade's attention grows more sinister focused; his tentacles flex and cling instinctively where they're curled around him, tooth-ringed suckers latching onto sleek scales.]
Perish the thought. And if I want you to punish me, even without ruffling your scales?
[Does that mean he should stop his observations of the others? Floyd, Azul, even Leona or the fae in Diasomnia..... Hah, as if those two wouldn't complain to Jade about him lurking to watch over them. As if someone like Leona would ever give Jade cause to be jealous. Far more likely that he would start sending Jade texts along the lines of "come pick up your damn hellbeast he's ruining my nap". Even his relationship with Vil has a completely different tenor.
No, he doesn't think they're likely to run into any problems in that regard. If anything, it's far more likely that others would have eyes for Jade, considering how often people find Rook even just expressing himself to be off-putting. How many people might already have their eyes on a seemingly perfect gentleman like him?]
[ Oh, certainly not. A large part of Jade's day-to-day amusement comes from Rook's semi-regular rotation of stalking researching his brother and good friend. While Jade finds the act charming, he enjoys the anguish it brings onto everyone else.
Though if he'd heard of Rook pursuing Floyd or Azul like this... well, it would be a different story. One that they would certainly inform him of immediately with the full intent of seeing Rook broken and bloodied.
Jade laughs against the chromatophores beneath his lips. Would the bite he so wants to use to claim Rook's throat ruin their color changing properties? ]
You did ruin my notebook...
[ His tail tightens more harshly in response to the small teeth finding their way into his skin. It would be only fair, wouldn't it? If Rook can latch on with teeth then he should be allowed to in turn.
Breaking skin is effortless and the taste that fills his mouth is euphoric. The copper tang of blood finally meeting his tongue is like a rush of adrenaline, urging his nature to dig in his claws to keep his prey against his cold, slick body. ]
[Why in Twisted Wonderland would he ever feel the need to hunt Floyd or Azul so actively? Floyd might be athletic enough to be a workout, and Azul might be cunning enough to be a challenge, but..... Jade is the best of both worlds, and appreciates the art of the hunt in a way he's inclined to suspect that neither of the others do. No, it's far more interesting (and entertaining) to simply learn what he can with a little poking and prodding, knowing how easily he can get the information he wants.]
I--!
[There's a notebook, hmmm? Full of what? Surely it can't be ruined enough by a single arrow that he won't be able to read it. (Because he does still intend to read it. If Jade wants his things back, he'll either have to scale that tree before Rook can fetch everything himself, or he'll have to come get it from him--whether that's simply asking for it, or retrieving it from his room.) Already his curiosity is piqued to see the fruits of Jade's labor of love, combing the mountains for his precious specimens.
There's not enough time to ask, or explain himself, or even protest before needle sharp teeth bury themselves in his throat. Rook moans outright, back arching to press bodily against Jade. Considering the circumstances, he manages a perhaps shocking level of strength for such a newly minted merman, tentacles clenching thoughtlessly around Jade. The heartbeats thrumming against his chest might stay as stubbornly steady as ever, but there's no mistaking the scent of adrenaline and arousal perfuming the water along with his blood. So this is his punishment, hmmm? Maybe he should think of a few ways to harmlessly needle Jade, if that's the case..... Is this fresh injury even going to stay, when he transforms back to himself?
Maybe if things really do get serious, he should invest in a water breathing potion instead of a transformation potion, just once. Wouldn't it be something special, letting Jade claim him and deliberately leave whatever sort of mark he desires? He doesn't have to use his skin care products to help soothe away a specific scar, if he doesn't want to.....]
[ Would Rook be disappointed in a book full of imprints of mushroom gills, extensive field notes and the occasional writing about the hunter himself? Watching Rook watch him and carefully notating his own observations on it. It's not the best thing for a hunter to get ahold of...a firsthand account of the little things his prey notices when being stalked.
Jade, truthfully, cares more about his field notes and mushroom afterimages than the last part, though. ]
Mmm...
[ His tongue appreciates the wounds his fangs leave, the tip of it brushing against the thin holes they leave behind. A cloud of blood taints the water in a way so comfortably familiar to the merman. The squeezing around himself earns the same in kind--what all could those tentacles do? The sharp, small teeth would easily leave small rings of punctures he would need to keep an eye on, but beyond that he's curious. Could Rook hold him down, choke him or break him open? To coil around his ribcage and squeeze him so hard he'd see white... it's more appealing than it should be, but it's just another part of his own nature.
Tooth for tooth. Squeeze for squeeze. Dominate or be dominated.
His webbed hands start to roam--through blond hair, down Rook's throat, a squeeze at a shoulder blade as his chest presses against an equally strong one. He'd agreed not to jump into anything binding, but a smooth grind of his body against the other's makes him consider being reckless. Even if things don't work out then at least won't have any regrets when he returns home. ]
I want you.
[ When was the last time he truly asked for something for himself? Rook is an inconvenience to Azul and Floyd at his best and worst, but... surely they would understand. ]
[He'll be over the moon to get his hands on it, once he makes it home with his prize. How often does a huntsman get to see the world from the eyes of his prey? How often is he gifted with the sort of field notes and art he favors of flora he's not already familiar with? Maybe there will be a way to fix the damage; it would be a shame for such treasures to go to waste.
It's impossible not to squirm when Jade's hands start moving, touches all too fleeting to be even remotely satisfying. For now, at least, he has very little interest in struggling; it's obvious how overwhelmingly outmatched he is, underwater in an unfamiliar body. Later, though..... Who knows what he'll be capable of, once he's practiced enough to put up the sort of fight Jade deserves? Maybe he really will be able to leave Jade begging for mercy.]
Then what are you waiting for? I believe first blood goes to you.
[He could argue that his arrow had landed first..... But that had never actually been meant to injure. When was Jade ever allowed to be selfish? Surely he had earned the right to be a bit greedy, and savor his victory tonight.]
[ How fortunate it is then that Jade's notes have always been attentive in detail. Not to the same smooth effect of Azul's, but detailed all the same. Rook's only loss is that it's a somewhat newer journal with only his more recent exploits. ]
Submitting so easily?
[ Jade's body is slick thanks to his natural coating. It makes his flesh sliding against the vice's all the more enchanting, even with tendrils instinctively clutching him. Without the ringed suckers latching onto him he doubts that the other would be able to keep a steady grip at all.
Jade kisses his prize again, lips parting to eagerly press his strong tongue against Rook's lips in a bid for admission. His hand dipping between them to continue his exploration even as he can feel his own arousal swell. It's subtle for now, but he's sure with how tightly they're tangled together that the hunter will be able to feel where his sex is hidden away.
Finding Rook will be the more challenging part considering their forms striking differences, but he's positive from the moans he's already earned he'll be successful. ]
[Is a lack of material a loss, or simply an implicit challenge invitation to go looking for the rest? Maybe he'll even get to take a peek at Floyd's side of the room, while he's snooping. Azul's things might be a step too far, but if he's planning to get into the twins' room anyway..... Wouldn't it just be wasteful to not use the opportunity?
Somehow, this is both everything he'd imagined it would be, and far beyond anything he'd expected. He just doesn't have any grounding that would prepare him for how his body gives way under Jade's strength, or how viscerally satisfying it is to entwine with him and hold on so tightly. He doesn't answer at all for what feels like an eternity; he's far too preoccupied with the kiss, breathing soft noises of encouragement against Jade's lips as he urges him further, deeper, more.
They don't even have to part do breathe, do they? Jade really is going to spoil him for anything else, going from this back to dry land. It's hard to even want to part long enough to speak, playfully smug though Rook sounds once he finally does; in the meantime, ink starts seeping out to form a dark cloud around them, a dramatic backdrop for the brilliant, ever-shifting colors creeping over his skin. Does it count as #relationshipgoals to have someone normally so relentlessly encouraging and supportive actually taunt you?]
I wanted to make sure you manage to get least one win.
[ The ink floods his gills and lungs, but it's the colors spreading across Rook's flesh that truly throws him. It's mesmerizing in a way that he knows isn't ideal, so burying his face back into Rook's throat feels like the smartest course of action.
Even if it brings him all the closer.
His tail loosens for the first time since he'd managed to tangle the hunter in it. Jade's long body rising in the water to begrudgingly create more space between them. How else can he be expected to trace his hands along such a delightfully different body? He'd truly imagined pulling Rook beneath the water as a man, leaving him bitten and bruised. His human body exhausted and soaked with water, blood, and slime.
Not that it isn't still possible... it would just be more work. Perhaps he could drag things out long enough for Rook's potion to wear off and leave him helpless. Lungs frantically calling out while Jade pounds him into the mud--it's a pleasant thought. One he doesn't think Rook would be opposed to at a later date if their current 'date' goes well. ]
[Given a little time, maybe he'll be able to control reactions like these. Maybe he can spill ink around himself in more shaped pulses to wear like an elegant shadowy cloak, or play out this kaleidoscope of color to entertain them both on a whim. Until then, though? At least this body knows what it wants to do, ready and eager to entrance a mate.
His tentacles stay latched on where they are even as Jade drifts back--partly because he doesn't want to let go when he's still craving Jade's touch so badly, and partly because he simply isn't sure how to just yet. Of course, there is one that seems to be having trouble hanging onto such a slime-slick tail.....]
What if I am~?
[It's big talk, coming from someone who isn't actually sure how much work it will take for him to pose a comfortable threat, isn't it? Unused to these potions as he is, it's entirely possible Jade could keep him distracted and trapped here in the depths until he's had his wicked way with both of his shapes--until he can't tell up from down anymore at all, until he's too weak and addled to even struggle for the surface, until the only thing keeping him from blacking out is Jade feeding him scant, measured gasps of air while he fucks him literally within an inch of his life.
But if he is going to submit so easily, why shouldn't he tease Jade a little? Why shouldn't he enjoy being punished to his heart's content, knowing he's not yet ready to struggle against Jade in earnest?]
[ Leave it to Pomefiore to find a way to make being a terrifying sea creature fashionable.
Jade takes one of Rook's hands into his own, bringing it to his face to lean against his palm. It would be easy for prey to fall for such a fascinating subject--a plethora of colors and possibilities. While Jade's kind tend to keep among their own, he doesn't find this to be a bad arrangement, although even if the man in front of him was just that--a man--he'd still wish to pursue him. His head tilts, exposing his throat to the palm he guides there while his free hand moves to his own body.
Clawed fingertips glide down his torso until he brushes them against what, to himself, is a plenty obvious rise in muscle. It takes little force to spread himself to slowly reveal his growing arousal. Is it fast to humans to go from confession to outright mating? Most likely. Yet to Jade it feels like the obvious course of action.
His body is coated in a thick layer of protective slime, but his cock certainly is not much different. Visibly appearing wet even in the depths of the lake's water. ]
Then I accept...
[ He does wonder how much he'll need to be entangled in the hunter's tentacles to feel him like this, but at the least he can give Rook one last chance to protest or back out. ]
[Just wait until he learns how to accessorize when he can coordinate himself with anything he wears. He's going to learn about Coral Sea fashion and become a menace.
Most humans would find this shameful, wouldn't they? They wouldn't understand the difference between cultures. They would declare him easy, if they knew he had done this on the--no, without even going on a first date. Then again, most humans were so afraid that they couldn't even dream of just..... embracing this, accepting themselves and each other, trusting in their own feelings. Most humans would need to be drunk to even consider the possibility, and they would almost certainly be repelled by seeing how different Jade's body is than their own.
But he's never been like most humans. As long as he's not tarnishing Jade's reputation along with his own, he couldn't care less how people might talk. Rook licks his lips at the sight, stroking down slick skin to trail his own claws lightly along Jade's length. Honestly, isn't it unfair for one man to be so handsome? How is he supposed to be able to think of reasons not to do this, when he's being offered such a perfect cock as a distraction? Surely Jade won't mind if he gives him a few strokes, just to admire the look on his face.....]
I'll just have to do my best to meet your expectations in that case, won't I? I'll try not to be a bore.
Merfolk falling for humans is hardly a novel or strange idea anymore--especially with the facility he and the others trained at to be able to attend the College. Many mermaids and mermen were desperate to experience the land and all that it had to offer in comparison to Jade's beloved sea.
Many never returned. He's sure most of those weren't stories with happy endings, but many more likely were living the dream their princess had all those years ago.
Though Jade's own preferences certainly play a role here... a willingness to break outside of the norms expected of him and his people. So the touch to his cock easily earns nearly a choke of a moan. The striking difference between his human one truly is fascinating, and the tips of claws do nothing but add to the sensation. ]
Mm... I doubt you will disappoint me, Rook-san.
[ A kiss is pressed to Rook's palm, followed by a nibble at his strong wrist. ]
Although, please keep in mind: merfolk are more sensitive.
[ It comes from being so naturally protected in most cases, but overstimulation can have its benefits. ]
[Oh, what a sound. He wants to wring more out of him. He wants to hear Jade's voice hoarse and cracking from overuse. Even knowing he'd intended to submit without a fight, he can't help the flare of predatory intensity, realizing exactly how sensitive Jade was. He shivers in excitement at the touch of lips and teeth, fingers curling over his cheek. What else can those fangs do? What can his own fangs do? Maybe if he gets Jade worked up enough.....
It's soon enough clear why Jade's questing fingers hadn't been able to find his own sex--and why he had been so ready to give himself over to Jade without a fight, no doubt. One of the tentacles Jade's tail had been squeezing so harshly snakes up between them, swollen and slick with lingering slime, already visibly dripping. It joins his hand in wrapping around Jade's cock, and Rook swallows back a noise of his own as it starts moving. If just his hand had earned that much of a reaction, then how much more can he get out of Jade?]
[ Rook really does look stunning like this. When he speaks his sharpened teeth draw Jade's eyes even as he shivers under the hunter's touches. So wet and strong and the way it moves even if it's sloppier in comparison to the skilled fingers accompanying it. A warm, strong hand with soft callouses that Jade can clearly feel with every stroke.
With his manhood so in good hand (and more), his own are free to pull himself closer to the blond. Lips parting with a moan as his gills flare in response to his own excitement. When the tendril brushes against his base he can't resist the urge to grind himself against it. He might not be necessarily built for it, but he wants him all the same. How Rook manages to remain so composed is beyond him--but as his tail pulls close again to encircle them he considers how best to break that. Thin, sharp fins brush against the blond's back and slowly work their way higher. ]
[His encouragement sounds a little breathless, but Rook tightens his tentacle as carefully as he can manage around Jade's cock, every stroke accompanied by firm squeezes and coaxing curls of his claws. Go on, grind against him as much as you want; he's right here to take care of you, Jade, just like you take care of everyone else. And he intends to be very, very thorough in his service.
It's hard to tear his eyes away, seeing the look on Jade's face--but it's not enough to satisfy him, either. For the moment, Rook is content to let that encroaching tail wind around him and pull him close; he's more interested in ducking his head to tuck his face into Jade's neck. He pours that growing hunger into lavishing Jade with attention instead, harsh sucking kisses inevitably turning into bites. If any of this manages to be retained by his human form, then people will know without a doubt that he's been claimed, won't they? If they don't..... hmmm. Maybe he'll need to capture Jade for a bit of terrestrial makeouts as well, sooner or later?]
[ Clawed fingers curl into blonde hair, eager to keep Rook close to his now craning neck. Offering his thickened skin to lips and fangs. He doubts the marks outside of teeth will stick, but it's a craving to feel it all the same. What sort of assumptions would the other students make of such a mark? Clearly they would never dare to say anything, but Azul and Floyd certainly would.
Would Vil be upset with Rook's own trophies? The thought of the blond covering up Jade's claim with makeup doesn't please him, but it's understandable, he supposes.
It's hard to focus on any of that when the combination of Rook's mouth, tentacle and hand so demands his attention. His breath on the hunter's ear is heated as his hips grind forward to chase the wet tendril on every backstroke. His tail tenses as it coils around them and his head buries into the crook of Rook's shoulder. ]
Rook-san--
[ Mismatched eyes flutter as he grips him tighter. ]
[Delicious. Absolutely delicious. He doesn't even need to wrestle Jade into submission to get him panting and grinding as though he's in rut. Maybe that challenge of his wasn't quite so ill-founded as he thought? He likes the thought of that. Getting such a polished, poised man to fall to pieces around him.....
Rook's next bite is sharper, a half-voiced growl muffled against Jade's skin as that tail tightens around him. Floating in open water like this, there's nothing to pin Jade against. But isn't being so hopelessly entangled like this almost as good?]
Inside you? Where?
[He thinks he knows what would need to happen if Jade took him, he had felt the muscles in his siphon flexing as he released his ink. But what about Jade? His anatomical knowledge of merfolk is clearly shamefully lacking, if he's suddenly tripped up at a time like this. What would his family think, knowing he's been slacking on such a critical subject?]
[ At most they could make it to the lake floor, but the mud and rocks would make more a more unpleasant bed. Though there is appeal to stones digging into his body and leaving him potentially littered with little reminders. Not that the bite to his neck won't be suitable enough with how it makes his throat ache in such a divine way.
It takes more effort than he'd like to bring his hand down to the one pleasuring him so thoroughly. Webbed fingers pressing to guide him just a little lower than his cock, spreading himself just enough to encourage clawed fingers to feel the hole there.
Whether it's Rook's fingers or otherwise that actually enters him, he doesn't care. Especially not when his stomach is already twisted in knots and his arousal is quite literally making a slick mess of both itself and the tendril squeezing it. It'll be more than a snug fit, but he has to--wants to--make due. ]
[There, right there. He really should have guessed, even if he struggles to imagine a dangerous situation where he would still need to know. Should he check out a marine biology textbook to make sure a blunder like this doesn't happen again? Seven, this is not the time to be thinking about work--
Right now, all he wants to think about is the wet heat his tendril is pressing into, how impossibly tight Jade feels around him when he molds to fit the space. Even Rook can't help but moan freely now, the claws of his free hand digging into Jade's back as he starts to move in earnest. It's so strange, being able to simply hold still while pushing into him..... Coming from a human perspective, it's a completely alien way to think of sex.
Rook's hand slides back up to wrap around Jade's cock again, touch firmer and rougher now as he contemplates. Strange as this body is, does that mean in theory they could take each other as the same time? It might be awkward, but with Jade's tail to brace against.....]
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There are other, more pleasant ways to coax answers out of each other, if it comes to that. Jade looks away, and Rook tucks his face against Jade's shoulder to muffle his giggles, relaxing into the coils sneaking their way ever higher. It might be a little sticky, it might be a lot dangerous--but it's hard to deny how cozy Jade's embrace is. How often is it that anyone trusts him enough to let him be this close?]
Oh lĂ lĂ , I had no idea merfolk moved so fast! Humans usually spend a while making up their minds. But it wouldn't be unknowing if you told me all about it, would it?
[How interesting, he's probably the last person anyone should look to for a commitment, at this point in his life. Is he going to get a crash course on merfolk romantic cultural customs?]
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But separating ideals from home and embracing ones from another is difficult to do completely. The twins would need to find their own mates someday and while Jade had originally resigned himself to the very real possibility that he would need to find someone to carry on the family business first, he doesn't think Floyd would mind if that time came now rather than later.
Well. He might have some complaints, but that was more Floyd's personal judgment on what Jade could possibly see in such a noisy seagull. ]
It differs depending on the species...
[ Jade's neck cranes to give Rook access, tail settling comfortably around the blond's waist with more than enough length to spare for tentacles to cling or attach to. Tips of claws toy with blond strands--such a rare color back home. ]
But with my own, we are rather particular. We prove ourselves to our partner through battle, acts of bravery, or elimination of the competition... I have always found my Father's scar caused by Mother's claim of him to be rather romantic.
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[And not entirely dissimilar to beastmen practices in some parts of Sunset Savannah, now that he thinks about it. Maybe that's why it feels almost unnervingly comfortable and familiar--why he had apparently nearly slipped into that role without even meaning to. Of course Jade is going to assume he's coming on ridiculously strong, after how heavily he's stalked him--to say nothing of the knife and arrows that had been exchanged mere minutes ago. He may as well have kicked down the door with a bouquet of roses in hand. Hah, does stopping short of hitting Jade mark him as sappy and sentimental, then? Or merely weak-willed and unserious about his pursuit? What must Jade assume about his relationship with Vil in that case, going to such lengths simply to please him?
He wonders what other humans in the college might even be emotionally capable of giving Jade (and Floyd, presumably) what he would want. (Speaking of competition. It really is so easy to simply step back and reframe things.....) Wouldn't they be more comfortable looking to Savanaclaw's rough and ready student body, particularly the beastmen? A scion of Pomefiore surely must seem disappointingly frail and frivolous in comparison to someone like Leona or Jack.
Or maybe he's simply overthinking all this. It's all too easy to let his mind wander, wrapped up so snugly and enjoying the taste of him on his lips while Jade plays with his hair.]
Humans aren't usually prone to such grand gestures, in my experience. Although, so many of the books and plays I loved as a child were absolutely full of them..... I suppose that must make merfolk relationships sound like a fairytale romance to me.
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[ And who seems to be interested in him. Grand gestures aside so many humans seemed so ashamed or embarrassed by their affections.
It's true that Rook's antics came off as more frustrating to most people--blatantly annoying or frustrating... but to Jade they are simply parts of his charm. A strong hunter is a provider, and he hadn't even noticed anyone in his part of the sea who quite held a candle to Rook's prowess yet. Initially it was difficult to dismiss Rook's antics due to nature, but as Jade grows to know him more he finds it impossible to ignore.
His tail tightens more, silently amused at the feeling of Rook's lower body molding to his hold. It's easy to imagine his human bones splintering beneath it, but perhaps that could come another day. Jade leans in to brush his own lips against Rook's vibrant colored neck, his teeth quick to follow with a gentle nip to test the waters. ]
Although... my kind's commitment might be outside your preferences.
[ If Rook's intense passion for so many is anything to go by, though Jade at least has enough common sense now to know that Rook's interest and personality is quite different than outright attraction. ]
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[Even he finds it absurd, from the inside looking out. Doesn't even unrequited love has a bittersweet beauty to it, painful though it may be? Or has he simply watched so many tragedies unfold on the stage that his views on the matter are permanently skewed? They may not be romantic in nature, but he still faces rejection so often he's learned to brush it off with a smile.
Not that he's facing rejection now. Far from it, given the strength with which Jade grips him; Rook purrs appreciatively at the exploratory touch of lips and teeth, fingers threading through Jade's hair as though he means to hold him there. This really is a dangerous passion, isn't it? They both know full well what he's like. How does someone so easily enchanted measure up against the possessive commitment of a merman? Is it wrong that some deep, dark part of him is curious how much he would suffer, if it all went wrong?]
Well..... who knows? I daresay it's worth a try to see how it goes, so long as you don't expect anything binding right away. Maybe you'll even surprise us both, and win me over completely?
[Now wouldn't that be a shock to everyone who knows him? Even Rook genuinely isn't sure if he's capable of the sort of depths of devotion that has eyes for nothing and noone else. Or is that an absurd role reversal, given he's been the one pursuing Jade so doggedly until now?]
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It's different than this case where Jade simply bided his time to ensure that they were in a suitable setting to make the proposition. Surely. Not at all nerves that he misunderstood Rook's demeanor as actual hunting mishaps.
The next nip to the hunter's throat is sharper and quickly followed by a dark teal tongue before Jade speaks against his skin. ]
I understand land dwellers do have different courting methods...
[ Another sharp nibble. If they were both merfolk perhaps he'd take that type of comment with more offense, but all things considered it is a fair request. Rook's heart is so overwhelmingly full all of the time, though it wasn't impossible for noone else to be interested in him.
Admittedly, Jade doesn't consider that as a possibility for himself, either.]So long as you do not intentionally make me jealous.
[ His grip in Rook's hair relents, but only so his hand can trail down to his neck. Clawed fingertips pressing just lightly above where, were he still human now, his jugular vein would reside. ]
Or I may have to punish you.
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[Oh, now this is nice. Dangerous, but nice; he wonders if Jade would so readily bare his throat for him, the way Rook does now. Rook squirms a little in his hold, breath catching sharply as Jade's attention grows more
sinisterfocused; his tentacles flex and cling instinctively where they're curled around him, tooth-ringed suckers latching onto sleek scales.]Perish the thought. And if I want you to punish me, even without ruffling your scales?
[Does that mean he should stop his observations of the others? Floyd, Azul, even Leona or the fae in Diasomnia..... Hah, as if those two wouldn't complain to Jade about him lurking to watch over them. As if someone like Leona would ever give Jade cause to be jealous. Far more likely that he would start sending Jade texts along the lines of "come pick up your damn hellbeast he's ruining my nap". Even his relationship with Vil has a completely different tenor.
No, he doesn't think they're likely to run into any problems in that regard. If anything, it's far more likely that others would have eyes for Jade, considering how often people find Rook even just expressing himself to be off-putting. How many people might already have their eyes on a seemingly perfect gentleman like him?]
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stalkingresearching his brother and good friend. While Jade finds the act charming, he enjoys the anguish it brings onto everyone else.Though if he'd heard of Rook pursuing Floyd or Azul like this... well, it would be a different story. One that they would certainly inform him of immediately with the full intent of seeing Rook broken and bloodied.
Jade laughs against the chromatophores beneath his lips. Would the bite he so wants to use to claim Rook's throat ruin their color changing properties? ]
You did ruin my notebook...
[ His tail tightens more harshly in response to the small teeth finding their way into his skin. It would be only fair, wouldn't it? If Rook can latch on with teeth then he should be allowed to in turn.
Breaking skin is effortless and the taste that fills his mouth is euphoric. The copper tang of blood finally meeting his tongue is like a rush of adrenaline, urging his nature to dig in his claws to keep his prey against his cold, slick body. ]
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I--!
[There's a notebook, hmmm? Full of what? Surely it can't be ruined enough by a single arrow that he won't be able to read it. (Because he does still intend to read it. If Jade wants his things back, he'll either have to scale that tree before Rook can fetch everything himself, or he'll have to come get it from him--whether that's simply asking for it, or retrieving it from his room.) Already his curiosity is piqued to see the fruits of Jade's labor of love, combing the mountains for his precious specimens.
There's not enough time to ask, or explain himself, or even protest before needle sharp teeth bury themselves in his throat. Rook moans outright, back arching to press bodily against Jade. Considering the circumstances, he manages a perhaps shocking level of strength for such a newly minted merman, tentacles clenching thoughtlessly around Jade. The heartbeats thrumming against his chest might stay as stubbornly steady as ever, but there's no mistaking the scent of adrenaline and arousal perfuming the water along with his blood. So this is his punishment, hmmm? Maybe he should think of a few ways to harmlessly needle Jade, if that's the case..... Is this fresh injury even going to stay, when he transforms back to himself?
Maybe if things really do get serious, he should invest in a water breathing potion instead of a transformation potion, just once. Wouldn't it be something special, letting Jade claim him and deliberately leave whatever sort of mark he desires? He doesn't have to use his skin care products to help soothe away a specific scar, if he doesn't want to.....]no subject
Jade, truthfully, cares more about his field notes and mushroom afterimages than the last part, though. ]
Mmm...
[ His tongue appreciates the wounds his fangs leave, the tip of it brushing against the thin holes they leave behind. A cloud of blood taints the water in a way so comfortably familiar to the merman. The squeezing around himself earns the same in kind--what all could those tentacles do? The sharp, small teeth would easily leave small rings of punctures he would need to keep an eye on, but beyond that he's curious. Could Rook hold him down, choke him or break him open? To coil around his ribcage and squeeze him so hard he'd see white... it's more appealing than it should be, but it's just another part of his own nature.
Tooth for tooth. Squeeze for squeeze. Dominate or be dominated.
His webbed hands start to roam--through blond hair, down Rook's throat, a squeeze at a shoulder blade as his chest presses against an equally strong one. He'd agreed not to jump into anything binding, but a smooth grind of his body against the other's makes him consider being reckless. Even if things don't work out then at least won't have any regrets when he returns home. ]
I want you.
[ When was the last time he truly asked for something for himself? Rook is an inconvenience to Azul and Floyd at his best and worst, but... surely they would understand. ]
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It's impossible not to squirm when Jade's hands start moving, touches all too fleeting to be even remotely satisfying. For now, at least, he has very little interest in struggling; it's obvious how overwhelmingly outmatched he is, underwater in an unfamiliar body. Later, though..... Who knows what he'll be capable of, once he's practiced enough to put up the sort of fight Jade deserves? Maybe he really will be able to leave Jade begging for mercy.]
Then what are you waiting for? I believe first blood goes to you.
[He could argue that his arrow had landed first..... But that had never actually been meant to injure. When was Jade ever allowed to be selfish? Surely he had earned the right to be a bit greedy, and savor his victory tonight.]
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Submitting so easily?
[ Jade's body is slick thanks to his natural coating. It makes his flesh sliding against the vice's all the more enchanting, even with tendrils instinctively clutching him. Without the ringed suckers latching onto him he doubts that the other would be able to keep a steady grip at all.
Jade kisses his prize again, lips parting to eagerly press his strong tongue against Rook's lips in a bid for admission. His hand dipping between them to continue his exploration even as he can feel his own arousal swell. It's subtle for now, but he's sure with how tightly they're tangled together that the hunter will be able to feel where his sex is hidden away.
Finding Rook will be the more challenging part considering their forms striking differences, but he's positive from the moans he's already earned he'll be successful. ]
I suppose it is a rare opportunity for you...
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challengeinvitation to go looking for the rest? Maybe he'll even get to take a peek at Floyd's side of the room, while he's snooping. Azul's things might be a step too far, but if he's planning to get into the twins' room anyway..... Wouldn't it just be wasteful to not use the opportunity?Somehow, this is both everything he'd imagined it would be, and far beyond anything he'd expected. He just doesn't have any grounding that would prepare him for how his body gives way under Jade's strength, or how viscerally satisfying it is to entwine with him and hold on so tightly. He doesn't answer at all for what feels like an eternity; he's far too preoccupied with the kiss, breathing soft noises of encouragement against Jade's lips as he urges him further, deeper, more.
They don't even have to part do breathe, do they? Jade really is going to spoil him for anything else, going from this back to dry land. It's hard to even want to part long enough to speak, playfully smug though Rook sounds once he finally does; in the meantime, ink starts seeping out to form a dark cloud around them, a dramatic backdrop for the brilliant, ever-shifting colors creeping over his skin. Does it count as #relationshipgoals to have someone normally so relentlessly encouraging and supportive actually taunt you?]
I wanted to make sure you manage to get least one win.
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Even if it brings him all the closer.
His tail loosens for the first time since he'd managed to tangle the hunter in it. Jade's long body rising in the water to begrudgingly create more space between them. How else can he be expected to trace his hands along such a delightfully different body? He'd truly imagined pulling Rook beneath the water as a man, leaving him bitten and bruised. His human body exhausted and soaked with water, blood, and slime.
Not that it isn't still possible... it would just be more work. Perhaps he could drag things out long enough for Rook's potion to wear off and leave him helpless. Lungs frantically calling out while Jade pounds him into the mud--it's a pleasant thought. One he doesn't think Rook would be opposed to at a later date if their current 'date' goes well. ]
Fufu... just one? Are you challenging me?
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His tentacles stay latched on where they are even as Jade drifts back--partly because he doesn't want to let go when he's still craving Jade's touch so badly, and partly because he simply isn't sure how to just yet. Of course, there is one that seems to be having trouble hanging onto such a slime-slick tail.....]
What if I am~?
[It's big talk, coming from someone who isn't actually sure how much work it will take for him to pose a comfortable threat, isn't it? Unused to these potions as he is, it's entirely possible Jade could keep him distracted and trapped here in the depths until he's had his wicked way with both of his shapes--until he can't tell up from down anymore at all, until he's too weak and addled to even struggle for the surface, until the only thing keeping him from blacking out is Jade feeding him scant, measured gasps of air while he fucks him literally within an inch of his life.
But if he is going to submit so easily, why shouldn't he tease Jade a little? Why shouldn't he enjoy being punished to his heart's content, knowing he's not yet ready to struggle against Jade in earnest?]
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Leave it to Pomefiore to find a way to make being a terrifying sea creature fashionable.Jade takes one of Rook's hands into his own, bringing it to his face to lean against his palm. It would be easy for prey to fall for such a fascinating subject--a plethora of colors and possibilities. While Jade's kind tend to keep among their own, he doesn't find this to be a bad arrangement, although even if the man in front of him was just that--a man--he'd still wish to pursue him. His head tilts, exposing his throat to the palm he guides there while his free hand moves to his own body.
Clawed fingertips glide down his torso until he brushes them against what, to himself, is a plenty obvious rise in muscle. It takes little force to spread himself to slowly reveal his growing arousal. Is it fast to humans to go from confession to outright mating? Most likely. Yet to Jade it feels like the obvious course of action.
His body is coated in a thick layer of protective slime, but his cock certainly is not much different. Visibly appearing wet even in the depths of the lake's water. ]
Then I accept...
[ He does wonder how much he'll need to be entangled in the hunter's tentacles to feel him like this, but at the least he can give Rook one last chance to protest or back out. ]
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Just wait until he learns how to accessorize when he can coordinate himself with anything he wears. He's going to learn about Coral Sea fashion and become a menace.Most humans would find this shameful, wouldn't they? They wouldn't understand the difference between cultures. They would declare him easy, if they knew he had done this on the--no, without even going on a first date. Then again, most humans were so afraid that they couldn't even dream of just..... embracing this, accepting themselves and each other, trusting in their own feelings. Most humans would need to be drunk to even consider the possibility, and they would almost certainly be repelled by seeing how different Jade's body is than their own.
But he's never been like most humans. As long as he's not tarnishing Jade's reputation along with his own, he couldn't care less how people might talk. Rook licks his lips at the sight, stroking down slick skin to trail his own claws lightly along Jade's length. Honestly, isn't it unfair for one man to be so handsome? How is he supposed to be able to think of reasons not to do this, when he's being offered such a perfect cock as a distraction? Surely Jade won't mind if he gives him a few strokes, just to admire the look on his face.....]
I'll just have to do my best to meet your expectations in that case, won't I? I'll try not to be a bore.
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Merfolk falling for humans is hardly a novel or strange idea anymore--especially with the facility he and the others trained at to be able to attend the College. Many mermaids and mermen were desperate to experience the land and all that it had to offer in comparison to Jade's beloved sea.
Many never returned. He's sure most of those weren't stories with happy endings, but many more likely were living the dream their princess had all those years ago.
Though Jade's own preferences certainly play a role here... a willingness to break outside of the norms expected of him and his people. So the touch to his cock easily earns nearly a choke of a moan. The striking difference between his human one truly is fascinating, and the tips of claws do nothing but add to the sensation. ]
Mm... I doubt you will disappoint me, Rook-san.
[ A kiss is pressed to Rook's palm, followed by a nibble at his strong wrist. ]
Although, please keep in mind: merfolk are more sensitive.
[ It comes from being so naturally protected in most cases, but overstimulation can have its benefits. ]
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[Oh, what a sound. He wants to wring more out of him. He wants to hear Jade's voice hoarse and cracking from overuse. Even knowing he'd intended to submit without a fight, he can't help the flare of predatory intensity, realizing exactly how sensitive Jade was. He shivers in excitement at the touch of lips and teeth, fingers curling over his cheek. What else can those fangs do? What can his own fangs do? Maybe if he gets Jade worked up enough.....
It's soon enough clear why Jade's questing fingers hadn't been able to find his own sex--and why he had been so ready to give himself over to Jade without a fight, no doubt. One of the tentacles Jade's tail had been squeezing so harshly snakes up between them, swollen and slick with lingering slime, already visibly dripping. It joins his hand in wrapping around Jade's cock, and Rook swallows back a noise of his own as it starts moving. If just his hand had earned that much of a reaction, then how much more can he get out of Jade?]
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[ Rook really does look stunning like this. When he speaks his sharpened teeth draw Jade's eyes even as he shivers under the hunter's touches. So wet and strong and the way it moves even if it's sloppier in comparison to the skilled fingers accompanying it. A warm, strong hand with soft callouses that Jade can clearly feel with every stroke.
With his manhood so in good hand (and more), his own are free to pull himself closer to the blond. Lips parting with a moan as his gills flare in response to his own excitement. When the tendril brushes against his base he can't resist the urge to grind himself against it. He might not be necessarily built for it, but he wants him all the same. How Rook manages to remain so composed is beyond him--but as his tail pulls close again to encircle them he considers how best to break that. Thin, sharp fins brush against the blond's back and slowly work their way higher. ]
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[His encouragement sounds a little breathless, but Rook tightens his tentacle as carefully as he can manage around Jade's cock, every stroke accompanied by firm squeezes and coaxing curls of his claws. Go on, grind against him as much as you want; he's right here to take care of you, Jade, just like you take care of everyone else. And he intends to be very, very thorough in his service.
It's hard to tear his eyes away, seeing the look on Jade's face--but it's not enough to satisfy him, either. For the moment, Rook is content to let that encroaching tail wind around him and pull him close; he's more interested in ducking his head to tuck his face into Jade's neck. He pours that growing hunger into lavishing Jade with attention instead, harsh sucking kisses inevitably turning into bites. If any of this manages to be retained by his human form, then people will know without a doubt that he's been claimed, won't they? If they don't..... hmmm. Maybe he'll need to capture Jade for a bit of terrestrial makeouts as well, sooner or later?]
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Would Vil be upset with Rook's own trophies? The thought of the blond covering up Jade's claim with makeup doesn't please him, but it's understandable, he supposes.
It's hard to focus on any of that when the combination of Rook's mouth, tentacle and hand so demands his attention. His breath on the hunter's ear is heated as his hips grind forward to chase the wet tendril on every backstroke. His tail tenses as it coils around them and his head buries into the crook of Rook's shoulder. ]
Rook-san--
[ Mismatched eyes flutter as he grips him tighter. ]
--inside.
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Rook's next bite is sharper, a half-voiced growl muffled against Jade's skin as that tail tightens around him. Floating in open water like this, there's nothing to pin Jade against. But isn't being so hopelessly entangled like this almost as good?]
Inside you? Where?
[He thinks he knows what would need to happen if Jade took him, he had felt the muscles in his siphon flexing as he released his ink. But what about Jade? His anatomical knowledge of merfolk is clearly shamefully lacking, if he's suddenly tripped up at a time like this. What would his family think, knowing he's been slacking on such a critical subject?]
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It takes more effort than he'd like to bring his hand down to the one pleasuring him so thoroughly. Webbed fingers pressing to guide him just a little lower than his cock, spreading himself just enough to encourage clawed fingers to feel the hole there.
Whether it's Rook's fingers or otherwise that actually enters him, he doesn't care. Especially not when his stomach is already twisted in knots and his arousal is quite literally making a slick mess of both itself and the tendril squeezing it. It'll be more than a snug fit, but he has to--wants to--make due. ]
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Right now, all he wants to think about is the wet heat his tendril is pressing into, how impossibly tight Jade feels around him when he molds to fit the space. Even Rook can't help but moan freely now, the claws of his free hand digging into Jade's back as he starts to move in earnest. It's so strange, being able to simply hold still while pushing into him..... Coming from a human perspective, it's a completely alien way to think of sex.
Rook's hand slides back up to wrap around Jade's cock again, touch firmer and rougher now as he contemplates. Strange as this body is, does that mean in theory they could take each other as the same time? It might be awkward, but with Jade's tail to brace against.....]
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you are so much stronger than me re: nicknames lol
I swear he does this on purpose, STOP......................
He'll use their real names just often enough to be upsetting. Horrible little domesticated man.
HORRIBLE. Ideally he gets them conditioned to be all hot and bothered over it for torture purposes.
this song slkdfj
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