1stknight | PSL (closed)

PSL (closed)

[Honestly, being summoned was quite the surprise to Bedivere. Being a saber, he knew he was at a disadvantage. After all, there were so many more sabers even just from the Round Table who were much more famous, so surely they would have been summoned over him. In fact, he was sure it had happened countless times before. That one master he had met, the one from Chaldea, they had spoken of singularities and grail wars to span several worlds and timelines. And with so many fine Sabers to choose from, he was sure that he hadn't ever been summoned before. The short time between the 'creation of his legend' and 'now' notwithstanding.

It made him feel a touch inadequate, if he was being truthful. After all, he was a simple knight. The master who had summoned him, he deserved better than someone like him. But if he was the one who was summoned, then he would fulfill his duty to this new master. Nothing would be done in half-steps, never again.

So as his form solidified in the summoning circle, Bedivere offered his new master a warm smile. Once again, his life was sworn to someone else's. Whatever his master wished for, Bedivere would help him achieve it.]

Saber, Bedivere. I am honored to be summoned by you. From now on, I shall be your Servant.

['I am honored to be summoned at all' was the truth, but he didn't speak that.

Then he paused, and he took a survey of the situation. The summoning circle was expertly made, but this man in front of him...well. He didn't look like a mage. He looked like a normal person. Perhaps it was a disguise? Or maybe there was more to this situation than he could see immediately. He would have to wait for his new master to respond in order to find out more.]

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[Honestly it's a good attempt. Dazai will take it even if he knows he's being baited, and he rubs his ankle on Bedivere's. Go on, he's interested to see where this'll go.]

So you did.

[He nudges his bowl to the side in clear invitation.]

Exactly the same? Or is there a surprise in between?

Exactly the same would be boring, wouldn't it?

[Well, maybe not, given how exciting sex in general is. But Bedivere does want to surprise Dazai at least a little bit, even if he's woefully inexperienced in all things sex. It's not like the kama sutra is on the required reading list for knights.

What he really wants is to have anal sex with Dazai, but he doesn't even know the words for it or how to express it to Dazai, so. ...well actually, Bedivere is suddenly going to get an idea. His love of reading- another trait that will be passed on to Atsushi eventually- might help out here.]

Are there any books on this subject? Some research might be helpful as well. Just so I, er, have some surprises for you.

[The Kama Sutra might not have reached Britain, but there's more than one bawdy tavern song around.

Speaking of books - Dazai's eyebrows hike up at the unusual request.]

Are you asking me if I have porn?

[The surprise makes even the chance of teasing Bedivere slip from his mind. Dazai doesn't have outright h-material around, but he does have the internet and erotica baked into partly depressing literature. Briefly, he heads back to his room and retrieves three books and a laptop. After placing these in front of the knight and settles down next to him, Dazai promptly re-links their ankles and plants his chin on Bedivere's shoulder.]

Browse away! If you're looking online, I'll let you know which links to avoid.

[And make several filthy comments in the process.]

Not pornography, that isn't going to be helpful. Textbooks would be better? Or informational articles?

[Or the internet. The internet is helpful for these kinds of things. Hopefully that's not a work laptop though, because Bedivere doesn't know what an incognito browser window is and poor Kunikida having to find out that Dazai's laptop is being used to google "how do two men have sex?"

Videos pop up first, as well as a 'how to' wiki article with some rather creative-yet-horrifying drawings. Bedivere is absolutely going to click on a gay porn video if Dazai doesn't stop him.]

[Even if it was a work laptop, Dazai makes it a habit to clear his search history.

...okay, maybe not all of them. He does leave in filth and random shit to leave any would-be hackers suitably unimpressed.

Now, to save his unsuspecting lover from the beast that is modern porn, or no? Having sex on the line makes for a convincing argument, so he leans forward, nipping an earlobe as a distraction as he gently grasps Bedivere's wrist.]

Still think porn's unhelpful? [Now there's a bit of a joke with at twist. Sure it's unrealistic in plenty of ways - even harmful - but there are gems every now and then. Not that Dazai cares to go hunting when Bedi here's the real diamond in the rough.] What are you looking for, anyway - sex positions?

[A guess based on the search words.]

[Bedivere was already a bit embarrassed just by doing the search- he feels like everyone can see him, and he doesn't want to have to explain this to anyone whose opinion he cares about- but it's that nip on his earlobe and the gentle touch that gets Bedivere to blush.]

Truthfully I don't know how to do this. They, ah. Any education I had was about a man and a woman.

...I don't want to disappoint you.

[There, he finally said it. It feels like a relief to admit to it, but he's also anxious about how Dazai will respond to it.]

[Oh. Oh.

Dazai slips an arm around Bedivere's shoulder and nuzzles his cheek... before lightly poking the other one, ending in a playful caress.]

Protip: anxiety's a performance killer.

You know, a prostitute showed me the ropes after I looked all this up. [He scrolls down and clicks on an actually helpful website.] Can't say I didn't have my fair share of fumbling either.

[Not that he's about to bring up his previous reputation now, but the fact is that sex only became a relaxing affair after he left the mafia.]

Trust me, I'd say I was worse off than you when I started out. What matters is that you're having fun and are into it, since that makes even falling off the bed a fond memory in hindsight.

Oh, but it is fun! That is why I want to keep doing it.

[He's not sure why he's trying to reassure Dazai of that point. Maybe he just doesn't want Dazai to pull back because of Bedivere's nervousness.

Hilariously, he's not even looking at the website now. He's looking squarely at Dazai.]

But I also know how limited our time together is, and I'd rather not spend it fumbling through everything. Especially if...

[If they don't win this Grail War, and one of them (or both) ends up dying.

But he trails off there and doesn't finish his thought.]

[Bedivere needn't have worried. Dazai's mind is unchanged. Doubly so now that a looming unknowable end date is brought to the forefront once more.

...it stings, really, this awareness that someone he's become so fond of isn't going to be able to stick around if they're defeated, and has places to go if they win. He exhales through his nose and presses his forehead on the crook of Bedivere's neck. Maybe that's enough to hide the bitter curve his smile has taken.]

I get it. Really. It's best to move forward with the least number of regrets as possible.

...mmm.

[No regrets. Or as few as possible, at least.

That means not regretting their time together, and not dwelling on what is to come. Instead, Bedivere had to think of the man right there in his arms. Dazai's smile is hidden, but so too is Bedivere's pensive look, one that creases his brows as he tries to think of what to do.

Well. Bedivere was always best known for his perseverance and ingenuity in the face of new threats.

He brings up his hand, gently cupping the back of Dazai's head and holding him there. Part-hug, part-clinging. He takes a moment to just relax and press his face against the side of Dazai's head, inhaling the scent of his shampoo. Then he presses a kiss to that spot.]

I don't regret this. Even if I'm a bit anxious, I don't regret it.

Edited 2021-05-07 14:05 (UTC)

[Somehow, in spite of his typical cynicism, Dazai believes him. Not just because Bedivere's a terrible liar, or that the knight's warmth is... kind. Welcoming.

He exhales softly, letting his breath warm Bedivere's neck.]

Then a bit of fumbling's a-ok, no? [He's used to keeping his expression light even if what he's feeling is the exact opposite. How he wants to be selfish, but it's a moot point if his lover stops smiling. If there's a moment that serves as decent proof that good men get their just rewards, perhaps Bedivere making his wish upon the grail will be it.] Sex will be woefully incomplete without you blushing at your own forwardness. Why, it's almost a trademark of yours!

Edited 2021-05-07 14:40 (UTC)

Hopefully my blushing and fumbling won't prevent it from being a good experience.

[Bedivere is resigned to forever alternating between momentary boldness and then embarrassment at his boldness after the fact. Such is the duality of this Knight. But he's also finding it easier to get lost in the moment once he gets going, and as long as he doesn't stop and think too deeply about it things should be fine.

It helps that Dazai is so encouraging, too.

His metal arm slips down to Dazai's waist while his real hand stays up in Dazai's hair, bringing Dazai in for a gentle hug. There's genuine affection in those movements, and not just a desire to have sex and get mana from it. They're long past the point of 'do it for the healing' now.]

So, please excuse my forwardness here?

Oh, Bedivere. [He can say that when there's only the two of them here, quiet and teasing, and he kisses the knight's neck.] You really have no clue about your own appeal, do you?

[Who apologizes for being cute? This knight, apparently, and Dazai's tempted to find out if fuzzy chameleon hats exist just so he can stick one on Bedivere's head. Maybe someone's come up with a way to make them change colors, too, like a mood ring, and the cycle of ribbing can continue..!]

Of course you're excused. In fact, your forwardness is highly encouraged.

[A hat like that would be so silly, but Bedivere might just wear it.]

Then I would like to-

[Bedivere's sentence is abruptly cut off by a sharp knock at the door. The knocking pattern would be familiar to Dazai, as the white-haired individual responsible for it comes knocking at Dazai's door often enough for it to be recognizable. Atsushi doesn't call out for Dazai this time, though. Instead, after knocking, an envelope slides under Dazai's door. Then the sound of Atsushi's footsteps can be heard as he runs away from the door.

Bedivere stares at the envelope, and then glances to Dazai. He hasn't even moved yet beyond that, because he's so shocked by the interruption.]

[Many photos will be taken.

As for that knock - he turns his head sharply with a raised eyebrow. The pace of that knocking sequence doesn't suggest there's an emergency, but here's the thing: why use this particular method of communication, Atsushi? Sure, Dazai will be very displeased if someone rudely calls his phone now, but is this a sign that their dear tiger's paying attention to what he overhears?]

Hold on a moment.

[After brushing his lips on Bedivere's temple, Dazai gets up to retrieve the envelope, presses his back on the wall, and opens it.

What's news, Atsushi?]

[At least his three knocks in quick succession are very distinct, so Dazai doesn't have to worry about someone else listening in on his private conversations with Bedivere. Speaking of which, Bedivere is torn between curiosity and absolute shame at possibly being overheard during such a sappy conversation.

First off, the outside of the envelope says "13:17" on it in what is distinctly Atsushi's handwriting. But inside the envelope is a set of four tickets to the big carousel on the pier they would be going to that day, with a time of 1:15 pm as a boarding time. Another strange present that surely will have some use in the near future. Given how much of a stickler Atsushi is with his money, the fact that he bought four tickets on his own sure is something.

Also, four tickets. Not two.]

Dare I ask what it is?

...an invitation.

[Plain and simple.

What's absolutely bizarre about this is that Dazai's pretty sure only four people are aware of this alliance, and none of them are tigers. If he didn't already find Atsushi reliable on some level, Dazai's paranoia would've urged him to check this apartment for bugs and not return for a few days.

Before returning to Bedivere, he schools his expression into a more thoughtful one and hands over the tickets for inspection, slipping the envelope into his pocket.]

Or, more specifically, a lovely set of freebies. [If this was from the Agency, Kunikida would've been the messenger. No, this is Atsushi's handiwork, which begs the question - how is his protege involved? Is this something he's doing out of concern? That's the most likely possibility for now, in which case - my, my, someone's learned how to be sneaky.] It seems we're boarding a nice carousel, with the added bonus of maybe talking in private with the other two.

[What is he missing here? Is Atsushi working with someone else? And when on earth did he find the time to save up for these tickets and purchase them?

If Bedivere's busy with the tickets, Dazai will just go ahead and fire off two text messages.

To Ango, he'll mention a change of plans - how does he and his companion feel about a carousel ride?

To Atsushi, he will send the most obnoxious smiling kaomoji with sparkles and hearts along with a compliment for his thoughtfulness before adding: Oh, to have someone like you keeping an eye out for my love life! Are you trying your hand at being my personal cupid and matchmaker?

'fess up, tiger.]

[Bedivere doesn't see the time written on the envelope, since it goes right into Dazai's pocket, so he misses that particularly concerning bit of information there. Instead, he sees the tickets to the ferris wheel (not carousel, RIP me, I meant ferris wheel before) and assumes they are just a friendly gift. He is still perplexed by them, though, because he had thought that their plans were secret.]

Has one of your co-workers been eavesdropping on us?

[That has to be it, right? Nobody else would have been close enough to overhear them, not without someone being aware.

Ango returns the message saying that his companion is interested by the prospect, and saying they can meet up at that location later in the day.

Atsushi doesn't respond immediately, but Dazai will see the 'typing...' message for several minutes before he gets a response. Atsushi is Trying, but finding the right words is difficult. But eventually a message does come through: "It's not like that! I was going to take Kyouka-chan but our plans fell through. You can use them, right?

An obvious lie. because if it was him and Kyouka, they wouldn't need four tickets.]

That's what I'm trying to figure out. [Sighing, Dazai sits back down and presses his face on Bedivere's shoulder. Look, it's comfy.] If he is, I'll be impressed. Atsushi-kun can walk quietly if he wants to, but discretion doesn't come naturally to him. He's too honest, like you.

[(Down the line, he'll want to slam his head on the closest table when he recalls saying that. How can he be this oblivious!?)

For a few moments, he's quiet again as he checks his phone. "Interested," right - Dazai can imagine she and Bedivere will love seeing the city from high up. And, really, Atsushi.

Sure can! As a reward for your good behavior, I'll send you both photos of the lovely view.

He's on to you.]

Ah. Well, I suppose it's reassuring to be in like company.

[Atsushi, meanwhile, will definitely be having giggle fits every now and then when he recalls these conversations. They're both so oblivious, it sure is something.

Atsushi's message back might be a little concerning, though. Please be careful, Dazai-san. Even though Atsushi is a worrywart, this is Something Else. And Dazai and Atsushi might have to have a conversation about it after this afternoon is over.

Bedivere will be offering out the tickets to Dazai, so he can take them back.]

It is.

[For Bedivere, specifically. Dazai's not about to spend any more time with people like himself - happy jail time with Dostoevsky was bad enough.

And that sure sounds awfully like a setup involving a firing squad. Dazai frowns at his phone - they are definitely talking about this later - before pocketing it and taking the tickets back. When he glances at the clock, he sighs. Licks Bedivere's neck, and grazes his teeth on the damp skin. Thinking about this as, well, charging up his Servant in preparation for a possible fight is not sexy, but he's sure he can swing the mood one way or the other.]

Now, where were we?

[Whether or not they go beyond anything handsy, they'll make it in time for their ride.

Did Ango get there early? Y'know, as is usually the case?]

[There is time, and Bedivere is eager to reciprocate his feelings for Dazai. He might not have learned much new from the quick trip to the internet, but he certainly remembers the wonderful things Dazai did to him the night before. Dazai is going to find himself feeling just how talented Bedivere's mouth is.

Bedivere does insist on washing up and thoroughly brushing his teeth before they leave, though. He's going to be minty fresh for at least another hour.

Ango does arrive early, as usual. What's different is that Artoria is right there with him, rather than hiding in spirit form. This may be reasonable, though: it's hard to disguise a Servant suddenly appearing if you're in a very public place like this. Also, Artoria has been provided modern clothes for this, so there's that too.]

Dazai-kun.

[He nods to Bedivere as well, and Bedivere nods to Ango and gives Artoria a smile.]

[Getting laid does wonders, because Dazai's back to being a contented cat even after they shower and get dressed. A shame they have to leave.]

Yo, Ango. [Two tickets are handed over with a glib smile and a shrug that looks casual to anyone but the two of them.] Exciting, isn't it? We might see something an unusual view today.

[Something's up, and it's very strange to not be in on the setup he's walking into.

Arturia, meanwhile, had waved happily at the both of them when they arrived, and now she's ooh-ing and ahh-ing at Bedivere's appearance. She is, of course, ready for anything that might happen, but that won't stop her from enjoying herself before that!]

It's a nice afternoon, isn't it! [She might've asked Ango for a crepe or three from a nearby stand while they waited. If he got them for her, she's down to the last one.] You look well.

[Something is definitely up, because Ango is immediately using his ability to see the past of those tickets. It only takes a few seconds, but the pause as Ango uses his ability is one that will be familiar to Dazai. Ango doesn't blink when he uses his ability, and that can look weird if he's doing it for too long.

But after a couple seconds, his focus comes back on the present and he frowns.]

Unusual indeed...did you ask your benefactor about these?

[Ango already has quite a bit of information on what Atsushi was up to, but it's clearly left more questions than answers.

Bedivere and Arturia can go for crepes while the grown ups talk boring talk though. Bedivere is definitely interested in introducing Arturia to all the good foods the future has to offer. And as they pick out flavors- Bedivere goes for chocolate-covered-strawberries, that should satiate his sweet tooth- he's happy to carry on the light conversation.]

Haha, is it that obvious? Dazai has been spoiling me just a little bit. He got me a few sets of modern clothes to wear "off the job", and he indulged me by taking me to the zoo previously. And the food! He's shown me so many good things to eat around here.

[That knowledge, at least, he can pass on to her. Because food should be shared with everyone.]

He's been surprisingly careful in getting these to us.

[Secretive is the right word. With the two Servants occupied, he gives Ango a somewhat unreadable look. The only way he's able to tolerate not knowing what's going on is because Atsushi's the one setting this up. His skin's crawling, and it's going to be showtime soon.]

Perhaps we should compare notes later.

[That's not a suggestion.

Meanwhile, Arturia gets a fourth crepe: matcha with jam, whipped cream and berries.]

It pleases me that he's taking care of you. [There's a hint of the king she will be here, contemplative over matters that have not yet come to pass. The brief moment of solemnity is broken by a bite to the crepe.] Living in the modern world suits you, Saber. Seeing you happy brings me joy.

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