[Though the corner of Salt's mouth twitches downward, and though there is a hint of suspicion on his face, he says nothing to argue. Rather, he gives a simple nod, taking those words for what they are.
It's the second statement that spurs a more pronounced reaction. Quickly, he finds himself glancing downward — a faint sheen of sweat on his skin, oil from polishing flecking parts of his shirt — and then back to Elder Faerie once more.]
I - do not think I am presentable enough. [At least, not to be seen with Elder Faerie. And his armor, half tended as it is, is also not in the right state either.
Still, he does not want to deny his... whatever they are, now. In fact, the idea of eating with him is pleasant. It's just... him.]
[Elder Faerie cants his head, looking mischievous. what he would like to say is, Silent Salt looks more than fine the way he is now. but decorum is important to both of them, so he tucks that thought away for later]
...You may clean up and meet me downstairs in an hour.
[the way that he says that sure doesn't sound like a request. it's an order. it's teasing, though]
Observant as Elder Faerie is, he'll undoubtedly notice the wayu Silent Salt's cheeks darken at the command. Though he has his own protests, the tone that Elder Faerie s firm enough to brook no debate. Thus, he finds himself nodding, even bowing his head faintly. He is ever the loyal servant, after all.]
Of course. I will not keep you waiting, my friend.
[He doubts there would be any true consequence for failing to arrive precisely on hand, but Salt has no intention of testing that theory.
That being said, he does linger in the doorway, It feels wrong to simply close it in Elder Faerie's face. After a moment of slightly awkward Silence, he finds himself adding:]
[ah! Elder Faerie's expression softens, looking warmed by the sentiment and more sincere than when he was teasing just a moment ago]
I do, as well.
[there is much to discuss, he thinks. but nothing bad, and he doesn't want to give Silent Salt the impression that he is scolding him, so he nods and takes his leave. there's a slight bounce in his step.
but when he gets to his door, he pauses before Silent Salt can go back to his room]
...I... do not know of many date spots here. But I am certain we shall find at least one.
[Silent Salt would have been perfectly content, leaving things at that. He stares after the retreating form of Elder Faerie, a tempered smile forming on his lips. It quickly shifts into something faintly flustered as the other man turns back, though, before blooming into something outright surprised.]
A... date.
[It is not a question. He heard Elder Faerie perfectly clear, just as his stance on any sort of arguing had been. Even still, he cannot help but feel faintly surprised. Or perhaps... terrified might even be a better word?
Neither he nor the cookie he was before could ever claim to have been on a date, after all.]
I... will do my best to be prepared for whatever may come.
[It's is a rather harried response, and one that he does not allow Elder Faerie to counter. He ducks back into his own room, the door closing rather forcefully behind him. It's only after a few seconds that it cracks open once more.]
Apologies.
[He's not angry, after all. Just... out of his depth.]
[this wasn't a battle! Elder Faerie sighs. he did not mean to fluster poor Silent Salt. he gets into his own room, only now remembering that he had already seen a cafe in the Grove. two, perhaps, but one definitely looked very cozy, with pillows on the floor! maybe they should try that one.
when he finally came out of his room, he was washed and dressed, in slacks and a long flowy grey boho-style shirt. his hair was braided, since it was still a little damp, and he had grabbed a coat and scarf to keep warm.
then he waited, wondering if he was doing the right thing. it wasn't as though he had regrets. he was simply worried he was being too aggressive, too bossy. what if Silent Salt did not feel the same way he did? maybe that kiss was a fluke........... but there were several kisses after that. right? they couldn't all be flukes!]
Though Silent Salt does not consider himself to be a vain Cookie, he still finds himself taking far too long to get ready. He simply isn't sure what among his meager wardrobe would be considered acceptable attire for what could be argued to be a rather casual date. Surely his attire from the ball is entirely too much, but his armor was just as inappropriate. And his current attire also wouldn't do.
In the end, he resolves to turn the dilemma over within his head as he clambers into the shower. The steam brings a level of clarity, and by the time he emerges, he is at least somewhat certain of what to put on. The slacks and shoes of his formal attire are thrown on, as well as a simple tunic style shirt. His hair — towel dried to the best of his ability, is kept down and loose. It reaches his hips these days, but he has no desire to fuss with its length at present. He still isn't sure if it is too casual or too formal, but at the very least, it feels comfortable to him.
With that contentment in mind, he steps out of his room and heads down to the lobby of the inn. His eyes scan the room quickly, seeking out Elder Faerie as quickly as he can.]
[the lobby isn't too busy, yet. it's still a little early for dinner, so most of the people who reside in the inn are either still in their rooms, or cooking in the kitchen.
so Elder Faerie stands tall, and proud alone in the room. he turns to finally see Silent Salt and smiles. he looks happy that he is there, but also a little tired. the Faerie hasn't been sleeping much. but they can discuss that later. right now, he moves over to him with a nod]
Yes, you look wonderful.
[meaning, thank goodness you're not wearing your armor tonight]
[It is a strange feeling, knowing that Elder Faerie is waiting for him. That despite the intimate knowledge of Silent Salt's failings, the other Cookie still chooses to stand beside him. For some reason, that alone manages to make Salt's heart flutter.
What a strange thing...]
I could say the same of you. [Elder Faerie's attire looks natural, his comfort effortless. Salt can only admire just how easily the man seems to have adapted to their new home.
But he does not. It's a subject that treads close to something potentially uncomfortable — the loss of a home he can never return to. And so instead, Silent Salt simply holds his arm out, hoping that Elder Faerie might fold himself against the taller cookie's form. There would be no greater honor than to guide and protect him.]
I look forward to seeing what you have thought up. By all means, lead the way.
[Silent Salt gets his wish as Elder Faerie settles beside him. it's nice, he feels protected, and warm, which is the goal.
he leads Silent Salt to the Magic Lamp Cafe he had seen while he was getting the layout of the town in his mind. it was either this or the bunny cafe, which probably would have been acceptable, also, but Elder Faerie already is dealing with Puck who is following them. Puck is a little unpredictable, so he doesn't want to have to be introducing them to other animals while he's focusing on Silent Salt.
inside, the cafe is filled with warm spicy scents, some that remind Elder Faerie of dishes he'd had long ago]
[Though Silent Salt is already doing his best to keep his posture relaxed, he can't help but tighten up as he makes the offer to his companion. Some part of him does worry that they've pushed too far, that Elder Faerie might attempt to pull back. Thankfully, though, his doubts are quickly dispelled as Elder Faerie steps inward, and that linger tension all but dissipates immediately.
He even finds a smile spreading over his lips, one that remains there even as they enter the cafe.]
It is more than enough.
[After all, Silent Salt had survived on far less for far longer. It had only been fair, when his people had so little. Likely, his best meal had been taken within the Faerie Kingdom, and he kept those few and far between. It wasn't fair for him to dine so lavishly away from home, when he knew what awaited him in the Barren.
But his thoughts are not within the wastes at present. They remain the moment, observing this new place and taking in the delightful smells. He guides Elder Faerie to a table, claiming a small corner for themselves. He does feel a little silly, tucked in at a table that is far too small for his frame, but it will have to do.]
[Elder Faerie smiles in amusement, glad to see that Silent Salt is opening up. baby steps, as it were, are difficult to manage. but Elder Faerie has waited so long, by this point. he doesn't mind waiting longer for them to fall into synch with one another.
well, more than they already do]
My own shortcomings with cooking aside, I do find it exciting to try new things. I hope that whatever we eat here agrees with both of us.
[at the very least they wouldn't be making the meal themselves]
[He like think he has a hardy enough disposition to handle most things. And if not, at least the clinic will not be terribly far. Not that he plans to visit it. He would be too ashamed to admit his weakness, honestly.
But that thought gives way to another, and he finds himself shifting the topic.]
Have you been tending to yourself otherwise? Resting as you should?
[Elder Faerie is quiet for a moment. he's decided what he wants to order, but the question gives him pause. if this were anyone else, he might have said that he was fine. but being that it is Silent Salt, he cannot lie]
It has. Been difficult to rest, lately. I feel uneasy.
[Puck looks up at him, sensing Elder Faerie's stress, and nudges him. Elder Faerie places a hand on its head]
[If Elder Faerie had feared condemnation, then he'll be relieved to see none upon Silent Salt's face. He only nods grimly.]
I have felt much the same.
[Not only has the sky felt incredibly foreboding, but things have felt far too peaceful for far too long on top of that. Something will have to tip the balance sooner or later.]
But you can rest easy that no harm will come to you. I have been keeping a vigilant watch on the inn.
[Elder Faerie wanted to say something negative, but he bit his tongue. he didn't wish to worry Silent Salt now, not when they were on a date.
speaking of which, he glanced over to Silent Salt just as someone came to bring them drinks and take their orders. he put a pin in his thought to order for himself, and waited for Salt's order to be taken, too. then he sighed.
once the waiter was gone, Elder Faerie sipped at his tea]
...You seemed surprised when I mentioned that this was a date. Does the word displease you?
[Silent Salt is very polite as their order is taken, albeit a bit stiff. He keeps his gaze on the table, and while his tone is perfectly polite, it almost seems a touch soft? This is altogether a very different experience than that which he has allowed himself in the past. It feels... strange, to him.
It is the same story for being on a date, the subject of which he flinches mildly at when Elder Faerie broaches it. He clears his throat to try and cover, once again tipping his gaze away from his companion's own. The result is him staring almost awkwardly over the other cookie's shoulder.]
... It does not. I can at least say that much. [The rest of it, though.] I have never... experienced something like this. That is all. I admit that hearing the word allowed was startling.
[yeah, Elder Faerie was not subtle about his subject change, there. and, for that, he is sorry. he just didn't want to talk about how he's feeling and how he's not sleeping]
For that, I apologize. I had been thinking about it, and then just blurted that word out without considering your feelings. Perhaps it was wishful thinking after all.
[Unfortunately, the topic will be noted for another time. Just... not as public. Unfortunately, though, that does mean focusing on Silent Salt's shame and embarrassment. Alas.]
That - was not what I meant to say. I am happy to be here with you, as we are. I did not... [He inhales faintly.] Though I admit to not feeling worthy, I did not want the events of the other night to be the end.
[There's another quiet gap. It's clear that Silent Salt is warring with himself by the way his brow pinches. It isn't Elder Faerie — witches, Silent Salt would vow himself to the cookie in a heartbeat. Would, if not for the fact that he still doubts himself so incredibly.
In the end, though, he gives a silent nod. It takes him a moment to find his words, to convince himself he is not damning them both.]
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timeasmymeasure
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 04:56 am (UTC)It's the second statement that spurs a more pronounced reaction. Quickly, he finds himself glancing downward — a faint sheen of sweat on his skin, oil from polishing flecking parts of his shirt — and then back to Elder Faerie once more.]
I - do not think I am presentable enough. [At least, not to be seen with Elder Faerie. And his armor, half tended as it is, is also not in the right state either.
Still, he does not want to deny his... whatever they are, now. In fact, the idea of eating with him is pleasant. It's just... him.]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 05:04 am (UTC)...You may clean up and meet me downstairs in an hour.
[the way that he says that sure doesn't sound like a request. it's an order. it's teasing, though]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 05:53 am (UTC)Of course. I will not keep you waiting, my friend.
[He doubts there would be any true consequence for failing to arrive precisely on hand, but Salt has no intention of testing that theory.
That being said, he does linger in the doorway, It feels wrong to simply close it in Elder Faerie's face. After a moment of slightly awkward Silence, he finds himself adding:]
I look forward to it. Our time together, I mean.
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 06:09 am (UTC)I do, as well.
[there is much to discuss, he thinks. but nothing bad, and he doesn't want to give Silent Salt the impression that he is scolding him, so he nods and takes his leave. there's a slight bounce in his step.
but when he gets to his door, he pauses before Silent Salt can go back to his room]
...I... do not know of many date spots here. But I am certain we shall find at least one.
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 06:24 am (UTC)A... date.
[It is not a question. He heard Elder Faerie perfectly clear, just as his stance on any sort of arguing had been. Even still, he cannot help but feel faintly surprised. Or perhaps... terrified might even be a better word?
Neither he nor the cookie he was before could ever claim to have been on a date, after all.]
I... will do my best to be prepared for whatever may come.
[It's is a rather harried response, and one that he does not allow Elder Faerie to counter. He ducks back into his own room, the door closing rather forcefully behind him. It's only after a few seconds that it cracks open once more.]
Apologies.
[He's not angry, after all. Just... out of his depth.]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 06:42 am (UTC)when he finally came out of his room, he was washed and dressed, in slacks and a long flowy grey boho-style shirt. his hair was braided, since it was still a little damp, and he had grabbed a coat and scarf to keep warm.
then he waited, wondering if he was doing the right thing. it wasn't as though he had regrets. he was simply worried he was being too aggressive, too bossy. what if Silent Salt did not feel the same way he did? maybe that kiss was a fluke........... but there were several kisses after that. right? they couldn't all be flukes!]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 06:44 pm (UTC)In the end, he resolves to turn the dilemma over within his head as he clambers into the shower. The steam brings a level of clarity, and by the time he emerges, he is at least somewhat certain of what to put on. The slacks and shoes of his formal attire are thrown on, as well as a simple tunic style shirt. His hair — towel dried to the best of his ability, is kept down and loose. It reaches his hips these days, but he has no desire to fuss with its length at present. He still isn't sure if it is too casual or too formal, but at the very least, it feels comfortable to him.
With that contentment in mind, he steps out of his room and heads down to the lobby of the inn. His eyes scan the room quickly, seeking out Elder Faerie as quickly as he can.]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 07:21 pm (UTC)so Elder Faerie stands tall, and proud alone in the room. he turns to finally see Silent Salt and smiles. he looks happy that he is there, but also a little tired. the Faerie hasn't been sleeping much. but they can discuss that later. right now, he moves over to him with a nod]
Yes, you look wonderful.
[meaning, thank goodness you're not wearing your armor tonight]
I have thought of somewhere we can go.
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 08:45 pm (UTC)What a strange thing...]
I could say the same of you. [Elder Faerie's attire looks natural, his comfort effortless. Salt can only admire just how easily the man seems to have adapted to their new home.
But he does not. It's a subject that treads close to something potentially uncomfortable — the loss of a home he can never return to. And so instead, Silent Salt simply holds his arm out, hoping that Elder Faerie might fold himself against the taller cookie's form. There would be no greater honor than to guide and protect him.]
I look forward to seeing what you have thought up. By all means, lead the way.
no subject
Date: 2025-12-20 09:06 pm (UTC)he leads Silent Salt to the Magic Lamp Cafe he had seen while he was getting the layout of the town in his mind. it was either this or the bunny cafe, which probably would have been acceptable, also, but Elder Faerie already is dealing with Puck who is following them. Puck is a little unpredictable, so he doesn't want to have to be introducing them to other animals while he's focusing on Silent Salt.
inside, the cafe is filled with warm spicy scents, some that remind Elder Faerie of dishes he'd had long ago]
What do you think? Will this do?
no subject
Date: 2025-12-21 04:22 am (UTC)He even finds a smile spreading over his lips, one that remains there even as they enter the cafe.]
It is more than enough.
[After all, Silent Salt had survived on far less for far longer. It had only been fair, when his people had so little. Likely, his best meal had been taken within the Faerie Kingdom, and he kept those few and far between. It wasn't fair for him to dine so lavishly away from home, when he knew what awaited him in the Barren.
But his thoughts are not within the wastes at present. They remain the moment, observing this new place and taking in the delightful smells. He guides Elder Faerie to a table, claiming a small corner for themselves. He does feel a little silly, tucked in at a table that is far too small for his frame, but it will have to do.]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-21 07:01 pm (UTC)Good. I noticed that this place seemed rather cozy, especially with it being so frosty outside.
[soon, a menu is brought over for them to peruse. Elder Faerie has not heard of these dishes, but his stomach rumbles all the same]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-22 03:27 am (UTC)It is quite inviting. Though I have noticed most places in this world are. A rare sight to behold, at least given all we have seen.
[Not to bring up bad memories or anything. Unfortunately, it cannot be helped given the scent in the air.]
It reminds me of the Land of Spices.
[But at least the memory is not entirely unpleasant. The region itself, at least, had been pleasant enough.]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-22 06:41 am (UTC)I was thinking the same thing.
[he places the menu on the table so that they both can look at it. the lighting is dim in here, but their eyes will adjust]
I recall a traveler bringing spices to the faerie Kingdom, but I did not know how to use them. Some were quite harsh.
no subject
Date: 2025-12-24 02:03 am (UTC)[He manages a smile, albeit one that's slightly melancholy.]
We ended up there, from time to time. They had hoped that adding spices to our meager rations might help them taste better. It... did not end well.
[Despite the way his heart aches, he manages a watery laugh.]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-24 05:37 am (UTC)well, more than they already do]
My own shortcomings with cooking aside, I do find it exciting to try new things. I hope that whatever we eat here agrees with both of us.
[at the very least they wouldn't be making the meal themselves]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-24 09:53 pm (UTC)[He like think he has a hardy enough disposition to handle most things. And if not, at least the clinic will not be terribly far. Not that he plans to visit it. He would be too ashamed to admit his weakness, honestly.
But that thought gives way to another, and he finds himself shifting the topic.]
Have you been tending to yourself otherwise? Resting as you should?
no subject
Date: 2025-12-25 12:29 am (UTC)It has. Been difficult to rest, lately. I feel uneasy.
[Puck looks up at him, sensing Elder Faerie's stress, and nudges him. Elder Faerie places a hand on its head]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-25 04:01 am (UTC)I have felt much the same.
[Not only has the sky felt incredibly foreboding, but things have felt far too peaceful for far too long on top of that. Something will have to tip the balance sooner or later.]
But you can rest easy that no harm will come to you. I have been keeping a vigilant watch on the inn.
[You know. Instead of sleeping.]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-25 05:04 am (UTC)speaking of which, he glanced over to Silent Salt just as someone came to bring them drinks and take their orders. he put a pin in his thought to order for himself, and waited for Salt's order to be taken, too. then he sighed.
once the waiter was gone, Elder Faerie sipped at his tea]
...You seemed surprised when I mentioned that this was a date. Does the word displease you?
no subject
Date: 2025-12-25 06:19 pm (UTC)It is the same story for being on a date, the subject of which he flinches mildly at when Elder Faerie broaches it. He clears his throat to try and cover, once again tipping his gaze away from his companion's own. The result is him staring almost awkwardly over the other cookie's shoulder.]
... It does not. I can at least say that much. [The rest of it, though.] I have never... experienced something like this. That is all. I admit that hearing the word allowed was startling.
no subject
Date: 2025-12-26 03:15 am (UTC)For that, I apologize. I had been thinking about it, and then just blurted that word out without considering your feelings. Perhaps it was wishful thinking after all.
[he sips at his tea]
no subject
Date: 2025-12-30 12:53 am (UTC)That - was not what I meant to say. I am happy to be here with you, as we are. I did not... [He inhales faintly.] Though I admit to not feeling worthy, I did not want the events of the other night to be the end.
no subject
Date: 2025-12-30 04:31 am (UTC)So you are not adverse to the idea of us becoming... closer?
no subject
Date: 2025-12-30 04:40 pm (UTC)In the end, though, he gives a silent nod. It takes him a moment to find his words, to convince himself he is not damning them both.]
I would... like nothing more.
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