kykeon | for offshoots

for offshoots

[In the old days, men came to Circe, not the other way around. But a great witch knows how to improvise, especially in the name of revenge. Especially in the name of petty revenge.

Expose her disguise in Salem, will he? Well. Can't have Robin Hood being too perceptive and clever, without consequences for his fat mouth.

Servants may not need sleep, but enough liquor makes them pass out when they put their guard down. She doesn't even need to be too quiet when sneaking into the kitchen, stepping around the scotch and cards from a British get-together. No King Arthur but a few knights, a poet and a pirate. And, ah-ha! An outlaw, with drool sticking poker chips to his cheek.

Circe taps a finger to her lips. Hm. All men might be pigs, but it wasn't quite fitting in this case....hadn't been grabby fingers, but a quick tongue that had earned him this trouble... a tilt of her head. That russet hair, standing on end, did already put her in mind of a certain bushy creature. Why not complete the look?

Boop!

She taps a finger full of magic right onto his nose and steps back to observe her handiwork. Not cruel enough to earn her deserved scorn - enough to teach him not to blow her cover. And if he was so sly and crafty, than surely, not too hard a task to discover who'd turned his ears vulpine and given him a tail to match that kitsune Caster's? Admirable handiwork, if she will admit that to herself. Perfectly fluffy copper fur even she wants to reach out and pet.

Fufufu.

Time for a fox to hunt a hawk. And for Circe to spirit herself away before he catches a whiff of her among all the alcohol.]

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[the boop to his nose makes it wrinkle but he doesn't wake. only groans and buries his face further into his arms. some of those chips peeling off his cheek and falling back to the table.

but a fluffy ear twitches, flicking at her before she leaves. the new appendages weren't merely for show. they functioned, a part of him.

it'll be a rude fucking awakening.

though he's not the first person to wake up to them. Mozart is the first to see Robin's state and he barely conceals his laughter once his eyes focus on the sight of Robin-no-Mae. as badly as he wants to ask Robin about them, who he pissed off, maybe it would be better for him to come across them on his own.

there's beauty in self-discovery.

Chaldea comes alive. normally Robin greets the morning by watching the sunrise from his favorite tree, listening to the soft song of birds. but today? today he's listening to his own heartbeat in his head, head pounding. the soft, fluffy ears flatten to his head.]

Ugh. Damn it, not again.

[he really needs to learn to say no to these drinking parties. with great effort, he sits up and wipes the drool from his face as he looks around. at the mess. that has been left to him. cards scattered all over the table. empty glasses and no sign of his drinking buddies.

bastards.

he starts with the cards because they're right in front of him, gathering them into a pile by dragging them across the table and not picking them up at all. idly, he reaches behind him to scratch at his lower back--

there's. something fluffy that meets his fingers? did those guys do something to him while he was sleeping? he doesn't want to look. but his upper body twists around and he peeks something that reminds him of a certain Caster. that's attached to him.

he has a tail.

...]

Whaaaaaaaat!?

[Robin leaps out of his chair, knocking it over with a loud clatter. making a ruckus that would catch anyone's attention if they're walking by.

shut up, moron.]

[ and here was Nero, on her way down to the kitchen because you know what sounded like a good idea for breakfast? that chocolate cake sitting in the fridge. the one with Marie's name on it but she's left it there for 24 hours and therefore it's free game.

so she's humming a song under her breath because, well, cake! she's not the only one in a good mood it seems. more than one person she's passed has had a huge grin cracking their face. but who cares? CAKE.

there are only a few steps away from the kitchen when the sunny morning turns into a horror movie. with a scream. high pitched and like an animal's been shot. or someone's found Blackbeard peeking into their shower.

and Nero breaks into a run. kicking open the doors to a kitchen with her sword materializing in her hand. charging in with a valiant battle cry because! defend humanity against all threats! is their mission!]

GET BACK YOU FOUL -

[ well the kitchen's destroyed. the liquor cabinet? decimated. and there's a greenish blur knocking over whatever had remained standing up as it spun around in a tizzy and Nero's already knocked it over before she realizes oh hey, it's Robin Hood! probably should have recognized him sooner what with the regular not-so-casual hookups but she had charged in blindly and filled with determination to protect Chaldera from the thing with -

- the

- tail?

so now she's knocked him flat on the ground along with the overturned chair, an immeasurable amount of crushed beer cans, and enough scotch that it could only be the result of Shakespeare and Andersen having gotten into another argument over poetry vs prose. Robin, looking like he's not sure whether to vomit or yell or do both all over her boots. and even before saying 'hello', Nero's squinting, tilting her head. why is his hair moving - oh holy shit that's not hair. those are very, very mobile moving cat ears and - oh god is this why he asked her to pretend to be a cat, she didn't know he was part cat, that wasn't part of the Robin Hood legend but then again it didn't say anything about Robin Hood fucking Roman Emperors and -

her fingers have to verify and touch them rather than, again. helping him up. they look so real, they couldn't possibly be a headband or -

!!! they're! s-so soft-!]

W-what have you done to yourself!?!

[ no fair if he has THREE noble phantasms and one allows him to grow fuzzy ears. soft, twitchy, fuzzy ears. and a tail (!!!!) that seems to be causing quite a bit of discomfort from being pinned under him pinned under her. maybe she should take her foot off his chest. ...she touches the ears again. nope. they don't come off. ]

Why have you turned yourself into a cat creature!?!

[everything happens kind of fast. one second he's freaking out that he's become that furry version of Robin Hood that Jack and Alice had shown him. the next second he's barreled over so he's flat on his back. ow, laying on his tail hurts? no, fuck, it's NOT his tail. but it is directly connected to some nerves and it still hurts. there is still a pain that shoots up from his spine.

of all the people to find him like this, he would have probably wanted Nero to be at the bottom of the list. what with him asking her to pretend to be a cat. this must be karma. a big, fat, cunt-load of karma.

he lays there beneath her, dreading what's going to happen next. his eyes narrow back at her squinting, ears flattening out of the alert perkiness they had been when he wildly turned around to see the door flying open to reveal some red and golden blur. it's okay if she didn't realize it was Robin. he's so hungover that he can't see straight yet.

feeling, though? yeah. that still works. he goes stiff as she touches his ears -- the fluffier ones and he's pissed off that it feels good. he swallows down the sound that wants to claw its way out his throat. a completely authentic purr that would put her cat one to shame.]

Are you out of your mind?! I didn't do this!

[there are few Servants who would do this to themselves as a prank. or to impress their Master.

Robin isn't one of them.]

I'm not a cat! Haven't you seen a fox!? And stop touching them!

[what with the white tip the ends his tail and the black at his ears, surrounding the white fluff. actually, who cares what animal he is? he needs to get rid of this. first, he gets rid of Nero's boot off his chest by shoving it off and pushing her hands away from his ears.

who could have done this? BB? was it BB... some kind of joke of hers? fucking BB. she's always up to something.

with the foot off of him, he sits up and wishes he had his mantle. where did it go? Billy better not have stolen it and given it to Lip again. his tail twitches angrily behind him.]

I never thought I would want Nightingale to chop off something of mine...

[ well there's an entity above that has his number because Nero was the one that found him. and pushing her away isn't enough to get her to give him space, though does get her to dematerialize her sword. because once the initial adrenaline of 'something's yelling!!' has been redirected, it goes right into the mix of 'Robin hurt bad no' and 'WHAT'. ]

Then who did this!? Explain!

[ yelling solves all problems.

or at least goes to show just how responsive the ears are to short-range loud noises. pressing right flat against his skull as though trying to blend in with his hair. but he's right - the black tips are distinctly un-catlike, but just as soft as the rest of them when she pinches one in between her fingers. trying to move them around, inspect or tug them off; Nero fights against the reflexes that want them kept flush to his skull.

up close, Robin looks like shit. and it goes a way to stirring some sympathy out of her. there's a discomfort in her chest at the nasty wince curling back his features - wait no now it's just shock again because fuck he has fangs and oh no that's hot. sharp white canines are the thing that finally get her to let go of his ear, which immediately flops back into hiding.]

What manner of card game were you playing last night?!

[ nobody had said anything about animal transformation poker last night! Nero would have gone to that.

but then the tail makes an irritated shudder and like gold, her attention's all on that. picking up the white tip and -

- why is it so soft -!

truly like the furs she'd draped herself in while alive - bristly but velvety, demanding the attention of busy fingers.

but gods, he looks so miserably ill. Nero takes a spot on the floor beside him, crossing her legs and staring at his face. subtly different enough from the one she had come to know that it put a shiver in her spine. or maybe that was, in fact, the pointed teeth, which how would that feel if - Nero. focus. the hand she's not idly stroking the fluffy white part of the tail comes up to his face. it burns her, feverish almost, and then at parts clammy. not ill just miserably, miserably alcohol sick. and there's that discomfort in her chest again, more prominent than the shock. ]

Is there something that you need? Perhaps water?

[if he knew who did this, he would already be gone and looking -- bitching until he got turned back to normal. BB is going to be his first target because this sort of thing is right up her alley. but then he'll have to consider the other Casters around Chaldea if it turns out that, for once, she's innocent.

Nero's exploring is innocent, too, but irritating. in that her touch, rubbing the appendage between her fingers, feels really good. a few times she's scratched her nails along his scalp, but it pales in comparison to the shocks of pleasure that rock him. his cheeks warm from it and he's lucky the hangover already makes his pale face a bit flush to begin with.

he tries pulling his head away, but she just keeps coming back at him. in the end, he gives up with an exasperated sigh. at this point, he knows there's no point in fighting her when she wants to do something. absolutely pointless. he's not doing it because it feels nice, okay? that's dumb.

up close, Nero looks as she always does. or, actually, there's something different. the expression on her face is more rare than usual. there's a softness in her green eyes and a knot in her brow that presents the discomfort in her chest plainly. he doesn't get why those eyes suddenly widen and he gives her uncertain looks. like an unsure animal.

at least she's let go of his ear. only to grab for his tail. why is she so touchy? he reaches up and rubs his ear since he's glad she's let go of that. hm, doesn't feel as good when he does it. he keeps rubbing anyway as he explains, watching her sit next to him on the floor.

weird she doesn't take a chair.

he's a bit stunned by the hand on his cheek. it's tender. he lets it sit there for a minute or so before he pulls his face away, the heat traveling down his neck and to his chest.]

Wh-what, no? We were playing poker last night. [he thinks? it's kind of hard to remember now. but it's usually poker.] This isn't from playing cards, I woke up like this. [not by beyonce.

a fresh throb of pain hits his temples and he grits his teeth, bares his fangs, reaching up to press his palm to his forehead. he looks up at her with a grimace, peering through a squinted green eye.]

I don't know who did it, so I need to figure that out and find out how to reverse it.

[ there's a wriggling annoyance that after throwing herself after him again and again, she's getting a much better response by touching these. he eases into the flat of her hand and she combs into his hair, so her index finger rubs against where the base meets his skull. it's a silky blurring of fur and hair and maybe she'll just. keep massaging there. if he's going to be so compliant in her hand.

this went from panic to hot too quickly.

anyway.

once she's had her hand pulled away from his face to, she only has the tail to play with. which she more than idly pets as he speaks - an eye always flickering when it twitches. Nero stretches around, trying to see how and where it emerges from his back and pants. or, to be fair, if there were any other changes to his person. ]

Surely more than card games must have happened. You truly can't recall?

[ but then Robin flinches. and grimacing lips pull back to show more white points than just the canines - and Nero snaps backwards. reflex. he's Robin, there's nothing in him that could harm her, no matter what he's been cursed by. she'd sooner be at risk from these beer cans than from him. but still. she'd come to know that mouth rather well and to see danger in it... ]

Well! I will certainly assist you in that quest! [ she stands with determination. puts a hand back on top of his head in a friendly pat pat, and then marches off towards the kitchen sink. ] Any damage done to you I will consider damage inflicted upon me as well- and we shall find the villain and demand recourse! [ first, though. she runs a rag under cold water and returns to push it onto his forehead. less able to hunt evil when he's about to puke.

it certainly is a large tail. how much control over it does he have? the toes of her boots nudge it and she jumps a bit at the response. as he'd accused her of, Nero preferred cats to dogs - but where did foxes fall in that dichotomy? more towards cats, she considered, watching the way his ears would twitch and rise to tall, sharp points.

this probably makes him another few inches taller than her. hmf. unfair. ]

[he doesn't do much but watch her from the corner of his eye while she moves around and looks behind him. it's pretty obvious she's no less than enthralled with what's going on. what with her scritching his ears and petting his tail. the size of it has made his top lift slightly so it can escape, exposes some of the skin of his back.

more than the pointless triangle hole in his back. seriously, what the hell is that for?

besides the teeth, tail, and ears? nothing else seems to have changed. he's still as sarcastic as ever.]

If I remembered, I would probably have an idea of how to go back to normal.

[see? sarcastic.

his expression falls back to exasperation for her offer and the headpats. it shifts again, confused. there's no reason for her to consider this is her responsibility to fix. no reason to help him. in fact, he's pretty sure most people would find entertainment out of his plight than help him. there are a few do-gooders that definitely would, but that's because they would help anyone.

Robin isn't that person.

here she is putting a cold rag on his forehead. aaah, that feels nice. his shoulders seem to sag slightly, the headache alleviated slightly.]

That feels nice...

[he mumbles to himself. even his ears don't flatten quite as harshly to his head. they move into a relaxed position and his tail stops flicking and twitching around behind him. he doesn't pay much mind to her toe-ing at his tail either -- it responds without him thinking about it or willing it to move. it just jumps away from her foot, settling at his side and wrapped close to his thigh.]

There's no reason for you to help me, Your Majesty. I can handle it, don't worry. And you're going a bit overboard when you consider my pain as your pain. Even if you were my Master, that's──

[considering how he's being obedient as she presses a cold rag to his forehead? maybe she's not that far off.]

Anyway, thanks for the offer but I don't want you to get tangled up in my problems.

[ listen he'd be in the same position if she suddenly showed up with cat-fox ears and tail. or maybe different, because he was into that. but there was a sense of possessiveness about the matter too because how dare a villain tamper with Robin? he was hers. i mean. her friend. more-than-friend. regardless - not someone Nero will stand idly by and allow to come to harm. even if the harm was just. making shirts slightly more difficult to fit in.

for the most part, the hangover appears to be causing him the most distress. and that's his own fault, though she's more sympathetic in the face of...well actually Servants weren't technically human to begin with, so he hadn't lost any humanity. nor did he insist on having much to begin with. ]

No recollection of offending any gods or goddesses?

[ those were usually the culprits in these cases. ]

Hm....umu! I have it! The fox Caster!

[ Tomato. no wait. Tamamo!

couldn't possibly be a coincidence that he's taken two steps closer to her. Nero begins to seethe and the hand on the cloth closes into a fist. that witch! she'd always been Nero's rival for their Master's affection - it made PERFECT SENSE that she would go after Robin now! not that their trysts were anywhere close to public but still! she had magic! and diabolical intent! yes, the more Nero considers, the more logical it sounds....clearly, jealous of the thief's affection, Tamamo put a curse on him to turn him into a fox-creature to, thus driving him directly into her arms as the only other being similar to him! ]

Quickly now - I've solved the case! Come! [ and she's yanking him up to his feet, all gentle bedside manner thrown out the window as quickly as she's headed out the door. ] Oh, I'll show her what you get when you incur the wrath of Rome -!!

[he's not a furry!! Nero just made her cat acting unnecessarily sexy?!

anyway.

well. he could count the number of people he hadn't offended more easily on his fingers compared to the people he had offended. he's already decided to look for BB, first off. she sometimes can let slip where the plot is going.

Nero comes to her own decision.]

Hah? Casko?

[he didn't think she had that kind of ability but she is a Caster. no no, he needs to go talk to BB. that's the path of the least resistance. Tamamo is a huge pain in the ass. more than BB, even. Nero squeezing down on the cloth makes it drip onto his lap and get his pants wet.]

Hey! Nero!

[she's too busy with her own thoughts. probably too busy to notice he uses her name, too. it was an accident.

he's pulled so fast onto his feet that he can only stumble after her, wishing he had his mantle. at least it has a hood and he can hide his ears. this is embarrassing. not being dragged around by Nero but the inconvenience of having ears and a tail and having them be so fluffy.

and sensitive, apparently.]

You've, what? [seriously?] How'd you figure it out?

[he's impressed?! if she's right, anyway. he's being pulled down the halls of Chaldea. at first, like the ear thing, he fights it. and, LIKE THE EAR THING, he gives up and lets her have him tag along to wherever it is she thinks they need to go. they pass by the ever-smiling Gawain. he's friendly to everyone.

but for some reason, his greeting towards Nero rubs him the wrong way. he straightens out of his slouch and the knight finally seems to notice Robin, too. instead of making fun of Robin for his predicament, he's curious.

and asks Nero about it. is it because they're both Sabers? who knows? Robin doesn't like it, though. Gawain's sunny disposition doesn't annoy him this much, usually. but in the middle of their conversation, he reaches down for Nero's hand and tugs her forward.]

Yeah, we gotta go. Things to do, people to see, curses to break.

[ Nero Fun Fact! using the words "sexy" and "cat" in the same sentence automatically makes you a furry.

and Tamamo might be a pain in the ass, but it's been scientifically proven than Nero is a bigger one. therefore she has no concerns about kicking Ms Perfect Wife's perfect ass until she turns Nero's not-boyfriend-we-won't-use-terms back into a not-human-but-more - look, the point being. Tamamo was going to pay for this. ]

Oh ho - who else would steep to the low level of bewitching a man while he's happy and drunk?

[ to start: Camilla, Liz, Kiyohime, Da Vinci probably, Alter Jeanne, Alter Artoria.... ]

Certainly, she must have believed herself clever! That I would never have connected an attack on you to an assault on me! But she underestimated my intelligence - never again! This will teach that - that - that prima donna! That snake! That -

[ if he had any confidence in her having really solved the case, it's more likely that it's gone now. Sherlock Holmes, she is not. even 1 Star Holmes discount she is not. but what Nero is, is determined, and inadvertently parading Foxy Robin all around Chaldera for every Tom, Dick, Harry and Gawain to see him -

oh Gawain is talking to her.

rude! couldn't he see she's in a hurry and filled with the fury of justice and righteousness against THAT EVIL WITCH THAT TRIED TO STEAL HER HE'S-NOT-HER-BOYFRIEND-NOPE-NO-WAY. but trying to march away from Gawain is as difficult as kicking a puppy on purpose, especially when she can wave Robin around like a prop to illustrate HOW COMPLETELY JUSTIFIED HER RIGHTEOUS ANGER IS.

- wait why is Robin pulling her. ]

My point, Sir Gawain! She has completely humiliated him! [ nope. she has to yank back and grab him by the shoulders so Gawain can see the full torment in Robin's flattening ears and bared teeth and wait why is he doing that. why is he kicking the metaphorical puppy of the Round Table. ] Watch yourself, noble knight - or else you and your fellows, you'll be next! Join us in our quest to put a stop to her curse!

[Robin Fun Fact: no shut up

prima donna? there are a lot of Servants he could call that, but with Nero using the term? he gets it. he knows who she's talking about. the one thing between Robin in Nero is they both have some weird rivalry with the Caster with pink hair. the pink fox.

Tamamo.

well, it's not a bad guess. she's a fox herself. with Casko, however, he can't see her wanting Robin to be anything close to what she is.

more importantly: go away Gawain. Robin looks miserable, er more than usual, when he's put on display. there is a baring of his teeth but he averts his eyes, glaring at a very interesting spot on the wall. besides, Gawain isn't a puppy. puppies don't have very high libido. he's a two year old with his nuts intact.

Gawain seems to wave off the warning and Robin interrupts before he can accept her offer. he spins in her grip and grabs her shoulders.]

No! No no no. Two's company but three's a crowd. We're not making this a party for some mission like Master would do. There's only sixteen points to be used and it's between me and you. I'm only letting you drag me around because-- [um what was his reason? right, he doesn't have a choice or something?] Because you would pester me until I said yes. The two of us is plenty to manage one Caster.

[there's a growl that's built steadily in his throat and this time he tosses the Red Saber over his shoulder and marches off as Gawain stands, dumbfounded, at their backs.

Robin's back. Nero can probably see behind him.]

[ if Nero had had a plan, things wouldn't be going according to it.

because first, how could he be questioning her reasoning? it absolutely has to be true! she has fox ears and a tail - he now has fox ears and a tail. she's evil, hates Nero - Robin is, uh. well fox = fox, therefore!

Gawain is about to say something again with the sparkle of helpfulness in his eyes when Robin's taken control of both the conversation and Nero. there's a bit of a shiver from just how firm and heavy his hands are on her - usually he's much more light with his touch. and he's babbling but with a deep growl to the words that makes Gawain both step backwards and raise a lemon-colored eyebrow.

oh no, the curse is progressing. it's turning him into a rude asshole. ]

Nonsense - any charge into enemy territory requires a front-line infantry in case there are traps! Therefore - eep!

[ what are his hands doing, why is her perspective shipping. curse her shortness - er, his animal strength! Nero gets a very good look at Robin's back and how his big furry tail has turned bristly, upright. but her hip is against his neck and her fists pound on his back, knees against his chest. Gawain slowly raises one hand and waves goodbye, off to go find another maiden to aid in a quest and seek a just reward. ]

Unhand me! This is completely unacceptable - [ and by gods he is strong and making her voice flutter ] This is a mission and we should enlist the Praetor to get to the bottom of it! Put me down at once! [ and if he was capable of such behavior then why hadn't he ever done if before when she was positively pleading for dramatic gestures!!! ] This is most unlike you! PROOF that you must stop this before you turn into a beast - that you need my help and - I do not permit you to carry me this way!!

[ and if he won't listen to a word she's saying? then Nero will use her vantage point and wiggle just a bit, so that she can grab the tufty white tip of his tail and PULL. yank as hard as she can with a closed fist and a good grip. ]

I SAID PUT ME DOWN!

[it is unlike him. it was unlike him to get pissed off from Nero talking to Gawain. Robin doesn't mind the big oaf that much and she's actually right. if they have more people looking for casters, they can deal with this quickly. but they can't. he can't.

something is seriously wrong with his brain that it isn't Gawain concerning himself with Robin's problems that bothers him. it's Gawain being around Nero that gets under his skin the most. stupid! the hell is going on? it must have something to do with the curse.

he needs to get a handle on himself. now that they're finally away, he's a little calmer. a little. Nero beating on his back is pretty annoying. he wouldn't have to carry her if she didn't persist on getting help from the Knight of the Sun -- notorious for being a big fucking flirt with anything that had an ass and two legs. and Robin thinks even the legs thing doesn't matter all that much as long as someone had a pretty face.

and Nero has all three. much much MUCH to Robin's chagrin.

he's not listening to what she's saying. too busy thinking about a way to conduct their hunt without running into anyone else they don't want to run into. Blackbeard would be bad, too. Tristan proved he's not above being terrible, either. oh, yeah, and Fergus can't come anywhere near her the--]

GYAAAAH!

[the sound of Robin's shout echoes through the halls.

after that, he's quick to drop Nero ON HER ASS and backpedal away from her, tears in his eyes. aftershocks of pain and something else he doesn't want to mention run through his body.]

What the hell was that for?!

[ that's why he would have been cannon fodder!! which means distracting Tamamo with compliments she'd be completely flustered by and then Nero could have leapt and - pulled her hair and shook her until she cast the counter curse?

not that it matters now. she's reconsidering more than that when her ass hits the hard tile floor with as high pitched a yell she can managed. it goes something like; ]

UGHWEEE!

[ but then up on her feet and marching off towards where he's cowering in a corner away from her, it seems. face bright red and that damnable tail curled around in front of him protectively. how dare he! their interactions are entirely based around him being passive and prodded into every act and decision, so she's not sure what to do now that he's being an active agent in all the worst ways. ]

When there is an order to put me down, you need to listen and obey it! Punishment comes for disobedience! [ Nero crosses her arms across her chest. ] What's the matter with you? Your face is red! And while I find it quite adorable, this is no time for you to be acting strange!

[ no clearly not when he's just turned half fox. not the time to be strange and weird. ]

While I will admit, it was not my intention to cause you pain, Sir Gawain would have been helpful! That shrew would have listened to any word he'd say and he would have so gallantly fought on our behalf to turn you back to your proper self! Which is my only intent.

[ there. she'll reach out to take Robin's shoulder in an act of magnanimous forgiveness. ]

[it doesn't curl in front of him for long. he's struggling to push it behind him as she closes the distance and gets in his space. he's still mostly? passive? the moments he has been a bit more aggressive is brought on by a force he can't control. in his right mind, he wouldn't care if Nero was talking to Gawain or anyone else for that matter.

she's not his. she doesn't belong to him and he doesn't belong to her. so why was there something like hot fire burning in his gut when Gawain was smiling at her? ugh, this sucks! he'd rather be eaten by Meltlilith's Corruption or even disappear into Lip's Breast Valley Deletion Dimension.

maybe not Liz's singing.

he has some smart comment like "nothing's wrong with me. besides the ears and tail" but he nearly bites his tongue when she calls his blushing face adorable. it seems to grow hotter but he tries to cover his face with the back of his hand. where's his mantle? he wants his mantle.

the touch to his shoulder slowly, so slowly, makes him relax. they sag and he sighs, dropping his hand back to his side.]

Yeah. I know that guy would have happily helped us out. He'd help a turtle if it was on its back. [he can't tell her what he was thinking. she'd get weird about it. what would work, then?

well, he knows what would work. but he would rather listen to a concert by Liz than say it. a hand awkwardly rubs the back of his neck.]

Look, it's like I said. I don't want anybody else involving themselves with my problem. [he's not lying.] You're all I need.

[............. he could have worded that better. shit.]

[ the lack of sarcasm is almost as disorienting as the fuzzy ears. and then redoubles back around to deeper rage at Tamamo-no-Mae. how dare that geisha-wannabe take her Robin away from her!

because Robin might not want to be possessive, but Nero is. not the lion or the cat Robin's teased her, but a dragon with a hoard breathing fire at the interlopers. he's her uncomfortably blurred relationship. not in the way that, she (unconsciously) thinks, that she'd see red if he spoke to a lady. but this its a fundamental change to HER THING. he'd understand: it'd be like if Billy stole and stained his mantle.

but Nero isn't going to think about this beyond the HOW DARE SHE angle of it. and right now it's more important to see some of the regular resigned pain get back into his expression rather than the acute type. so she'll pap pap to the soft tail as apology too.

shame they won't have a chance for her to know what it would feel like on bare skin. ]

Sadly you are bad at solving your own problems, so you need further assistance and -

[ well look at that. he's made her choke on her own words. ]

W-what did you say?

[ then! it hits her! and Nero's face cracks into the biggest shit-eating grin. ]

Oh ho! Well then let it be known - the feeling is quite mutual! [ time to pull him into a hug far more powerful than she seems capable of, half choking him and in a tangle of arms that ends with her petting his head again. something about cat(-like) ears just demands that she touch and play with his hair, scratch at the tufted base. ] However! Don't distract me! We must go and fight Tamamo and earn you back your manhood - forthright!

[ usually that witch is busy with her makeup this time of the afternoon, applying rouge that is much less even and flattering than she thinks it is. so time to storm that fortress -

- with a little skip in Nero's step. ]

[it's... it's the hangover. yeah, that must also be the reason he's not thinking straight. the reason he's talking before he thinks about his words. he's gone and said something kind of dumb. something Nero doesn't need to hear.

he doesn't want to repeat it, either. it's no use. she's heard it. why else would she smile so large that it's close to splitting her face?

or hug him so tightly?]

Gah! Stop, you're cutting off my oxygen! Quit it with the ears!

["you're all I need"

as if he feels that way...

but she does. and she isn't afraid to admit it to his face. it's not true, anyway. she wants the attention of an audience, the love of the people. the focus of her Master, he knows. she wants the world and Robin isn't it. she doesn't stop petting his ears, either. the aggression is gone and he's passive with that. like her touch calms him down.

she leaves him staring at her back while she bounces off, reaching up to touch his ears.]

Something bad's gonna happen, I know it... [just behind her, Robin falls into step in her shadow. where he normally finds himself.

they don't run into anyone else. though Robin holds the small hope of stumbling across whoever was in current possession of his mantle. he feels completely useless without it. they don't.

because his luck is shit.

they do make it to Tamamo's haunt and Robin lifts his hand to knock at the door.]

[ sorry Robin, your ears are just too soft!!! even after they go back to being human, she might just ~~have Master~~ buy a fox-ear hairband for you.

but in the meantime. showdown with Tamamo-no-Mae. round one.

she answers the door in a loose silk robe and Nero gets the first strike - screaming in her face and barging her way into Tamamo's room. which smells so strongly of perfume and orchids that it constitutes the second strike, making Nero stumble back into the Robin she had dragged in after her. ]

UNDERHANDED TREACHERY! I always fashioned you a LOW-CLASS rat - but you assault a good-hearted man to come after me? [ jerking Robin around, exhibit one. ] You pursue my beloved Praetor but not enough - you must try and make every bedfellow of mine your plaything! SET THIS RIGHT OR I WILL STRING YOU FROM HERE TO PLUTO -

[ but if the surprise assault had an effect, it was only because like a sneaky sneak, Tamamo had been expecting it. plucking curlers out of her hair and her tail standing on in, she could shout right back into Nero's face. "THEY CALL YOU EMPEROR WHEN THEY SHOULD HAVE YOU AS THE JESTER! OUR HEART BELONGS ONLY TO OUR HUSBAND - not whatever trash you pull into your bed. WHICH should know, the flattery is appreciated, but you, English boy, should stick to birds and squirrels. BUT HOW DARE YOU AMBUSH US IN OUR HOME-!"

Nero draws her sword. Tamamo snaps her fingers.

they end up pulling at each other's hair instead. ]

Cheap prostibula!

- homewrecker! -

- reverse your curse or I shall unleash my full wrath! -

- Our handwork would have made his mangy tail and ears MATCH -

- so you ADMIT this is what you've done! -

- We told you We have no interest in your one night stands! -

- IT'S BEEN MORE THAN ONCE -

- and if you were not so blind and short you could have seen We were not responsible -

- TAKE THAT BACK I AM NOT SHORT -!

[ Elizabeth, who had been painting her nails on Tamao's bed, waves hello to Robin. ]

[this is worse than that fight between Li and Beowulf. holy shit. he doesn't want to get between this any more than he didn't want to get between those two. Robin stands at the door, listening to what can only be called a catfight. or foxfight. cat and foxfight.

and Liz just sits on the bed and waves hello to Robin. he doesn't blame her.

he does mind Nero just fucking telling the whole world they've done the sideways tango more than once. not to mention her calling him good-hearted. of all things, he did not expect good-hearted. not when she calls him thief and liar and beast and whatever the hell else comes into her head.

on the opposite side of the spectrum, Tamamo calls him trash. fair, but he's still offended when it's the fox caster.]

Oi──

[it's no use. they're so busy screaming at each other that Robin's voice is drowned out easily. the shouting and hair-pulling match will continue on and Robin decides to walk deeper into the bedroom. only to sit heavily on the edge of a bed Liz is occupying. the dragon girl immediately crawls over and starts poking and prodding at Robin's ears and tail until he tells her to knock it off.

when Nero and Tamamo are out of breath, just glaring at each other, Robin speaks up again. he looks a mix of tired, annoyed, embarrassed, and scared.]

Are you two finally finished? I'd be surprised if either of you could speak after all that. That probably wouldn't be a bad thing. I think plenty has been said.

[Liz is clipping bows into his hair. pink ones since she's run out of green.]

What I managed to get from all that is that you didn't do this, Casko?

[of course We didn't! he's a mouse, not a fox! as if We ever want him to be in any way related to Us! said in a very hoarse voice. she's pretty upset about it and blames Nero if Our Husband falls out of love with the rough quality of her normally silken tones.]

Yeah, yeah. I've spent too much time here as is. I'm leaving, with that.

[a hand reaches up to scratch at his hair and slowly tugs out a pink bow.

it's thrown at Liz. who ducks for cover.]

I'm not a doll for you to play with!

[ for good measure Nero pulls on Tamamo's ears one last time. ha! stupid fox. ]

The record states that I was the Praetor's Servant that won the War, so put that filthy rumor to rest once and for all!

[ but she was on bended knee and breathing heavily, waiting for the strength to build before she can summon her Noble Phantasm. because despite all the BLATANT LIES, Robin seems to believe she's not at fault. Liz chirps in to insist that Tamamo had been with her since yesterday, all night - "Girl's night! No emperors allowed!"

which.

umu.

it was a good idea to begin with!!]

Then surely you must have a lead on who would be powerful enough to do this!

[ We have no interest in this matter. Our luxurious hair....it will take years to outgrow the damage you have done!

He's fine like this! New mascot! insists Liz, clipping another pink bow onto the tip of one ear. it flickers, trying to shake it off before his hand comes and snatches it away.

he's on his feet again and, too tired to stand, Nero grabs a hold of his leg and lets him drag her off and out of Tamamo-no-Help's terrible room. where she can finally inhale air that doesn't come with a cloud of incense attached. ]

She could still be hiding her knowledge of the true culprit.

[ beat that dead horse till the end.

Nero considers their next move with every strained limping step Robin takes. well, he doesn't seem to be in any pain, and apart from a developing animosity towards Royal Knights, nothing else had changed. sometimes Servants did develop inhuman traits if their legends changed - Andersen had those fish scales . perhaps he could merely get used to it?

well she didn't want to get used to it. no matter how addicting it was to touch the new bits.

Da Vinci could be of assistance? or she'd turn Robin into a girl which - - - Nero's brain fizzled out there for a moment, trying to picture it - which wasn't helpful! normal! normal grumpy Robin who would be so thankful for her help in the matter that his gratitude would take the form of bed-breaking sex and a proposal to be mutual - NERO STOP.

they could find magic Cu and see if he had any thoughts of a matter, but then a better, easier idea came into her head.

she yanked on Robin's tail to signal he stop and listen. ]

A-ha! We shall go to Merlin for assistance! Surely if he cannot break the curse, he can use his scrying to give us the name of the truly responsible! [ well. things had ended awkwardly the last time she'd seen Merlin, because he'd asked her thoughts on Mordred and seemed upset they were only negative. but! ] He is in my debt for a few favors - I can guarantee it will be a productive meeting!

- your face has gone all red again.

[new mascot, his ass. Robin manages to get most of the bows out and tossed back at Liz ("I've improved your image and this is how you repay me?!") before he's dragging Nero out the door. she'll complain about being carried but she's fine with this? her priorities are pretty skewed.

he kind of already knew that.]

Let it go already, will you? That pink one isn't behind this.

[they both seem to take a deep breath at the same time, glad to have escaped. that pretty much went down as he thought it might -- badly. not only that, but it was a waste of time. while Tamamo more or less hated his guts, he couldn't see her transforming him into something that was so much like her. and her words proved that. which meant it was time to go to BB--

or Merlin. why is she taking charge with this?! she's not the one with fox ears and a tail. things he is not going to get used to, by the way. and could she, UGH.

HIS TAIL.]

Gh!

[it hurts less now and is more of that something else. which might explain the heat in his face as he glares down at Nero with ears pinned back and a canine showing. his voice is that hiss/growl combo as he reaches down and puts her back on her feet.]

How many times do I have to tell you to stop messing with the ears and tail?! Next time, I'll seriously swat your ass. Like a kid! [again. NOT REALLY A TERRIFYING THREAT, ROBIN.]

Merlin, you said? [... a sigh.] I guess it's worth a shot. I still think it's BB we need to look for. Pranks like this are exactly where she gets her kicks. Not to mention, she's already threatened to turn me into an animal once before. A pig.

[what's he in debt for when it comes to her? isn't he an incubus?

no. no, can't be. besides, if they did it's... it's none of his business. he doesn't care. he doesn't.]

But we're going to find BB next if turns out that wizard won't spill, got it?

[ it was a good enough a lead that you didn't say no to it, Robin!! ]

If pulling on that tail is a way to have you finally listen to me, then maybe I'll tie a string around it for easy access.

[ seeing the bared fangs and flat ears, like he's about to pounce on prey, is much less threatening a second time around. when its her, not Gawain, he's snarling at. but why is he flushed red? it's not as though she's pulling on his dick or anything sensitive.

also....maybe she should just leave him be foxy. and then convince him to return to her quarters. and pull on it so that he's forced to see his threat through to the end. how does it feel to kiss a man with fangs? she's a Servant, her sense of self-survival is lacking. ]

Merlin will spill, as you put it. He's the key to having you returned to your normal handsomeness and in my debt. [ WHY DID SHE GIVE HER PLAN AWAY ] No, this is more cruel and hurtful than a prank. Designed to take away your humanity and identity, render you nothing more than a savage. This could progress! Until you're nothing but - but a Berserker, more fox than man!

[ it could happen, couldn't it? a curse corrupting a Servant. and then what? would he have to be released from their Masters bonds and resummoned? panic seized her heart. would he remember her, if that happened? ]

Merlin keeps chambers beside the library. I'm sure you believe your instinct correct, and it is BB, but. Trust me.

[ perhaps the tone of her voice, while sincere, would carry more weight. if she wasn't still shaky on her knees from a slapfight with Tamamo that seemed to have less to do with Robin than old grudges. because Nero was worried - for him, for what it meant.

her enemy list was longer than his was - and she had not been subtle about their trysts. had talked openly and happily about the first time with Billy, even though for some reason the Archer hadn't wanted to hear a single word. so there would be those who knew through Robin would hurt Nero. and if he had come to harm through her?

no. she would make this right. ]

[if there was a chance it was Casko, he didn't want to dismiss it. and there was and SO HE WENT even if he really really didn't want to. the two of them fought and it wasn't even all that sexy like girl fights are made out to be -- it was more of an inconvenience.]

Hah. Try it and I'll hide your favorite cat pillow.

[it's not the only way he'll listen. Nero just hasn't found his sweet spot. it's not anything physical. being an emperor automatically makes him ornery towards her, anyway. that isn't to mention how she constantly tries to boss him around and, ah, it's no wonder she thinks she needs to use a tail to have him obey.

he can only hope she doesn't figure him out. they're crossing dangerous territories already, aren't they? and when she calls him handsome, he doesn't offhandedly thank her like he would normally. he's quiet and folding his hands behind his head. in the end, she's helping him for him to owe her.

of course she wasn't doing it just to be nice. it doesn't make sense if his heart skips a beat if she calls him handsome, either.]

Don't get so riled up. It's fine. I'm used to crap like this, actually. [as if he has humanity or an identity to being with. noticing the slight quiver to her voice, a hand settles on top of Nero's head, large and warm.] With BB, she's always looking for ways to have fun and cause trouble at the same time. As long as she's not trying to destroy humanity again as she did on the far side of the moon, she's harmless. Just annoying.

[before she panics, or overthinks the situation, he's quick to smooth it over. not her hair. he ruffles that before it falls away and focuses on the distance down the hall, where the library is.]

As for Merlin, I'm not really sure. [trust her, huh? it may be for her own benefit, but she does want to help him. from the start, she was offering to get him water when she saw the shadows beneath his eyes. marching towards Tamamo's quarters to demand she change him back and even considered enlisting the help of other Servants to make it go faster.

it's so over the top and so Nero but she is doing her best. she's always doing her best since he's known her.]

But alright, alright. Let's go find Merlin if you really think it'll get us somewhere, Your Majesty. I'd rather keep my head and not turn Berserker class. One Saint Graph is plenty for me.

[he nudges her with his elbow, a grin on his lips, teasing her for all her classes and multiple Saint Graphs.]

[ she tried! her best!!

!!!

no...there's no way he knows which one her favorite is. Cassia is safe for now. the tension in her chest lessens a bit.

Robin can rest easy in the sense she's no closer to understanding him or what makes him turn red or what words gets him to follow on after her but with a complaint at every turn. but something does make his listen, make him smile. make him suddenly talk about honor or act on it when all his speech is about lacking it.

it is about more than having Robin owe her. maybe that's why she smiles instead of shaking off the hand on her head. reaches back up and gives an appreciative scratch to his ears. have to appreciate their softness before Merlin spells them away. ]

Are you used to mages putting curses on you?

[ trust her, she'd asked. and he hadn't said yes - but he was walking beside her. not giving her comments as she took them round corners and up stairs. Nero doesn't frequent the library as often as some others - why bother when her knowledge of history already encompasses its most glorious era? - but the music library is wonderful for solace. she's personally added to it, and has to rearrange the discs for maximum visibility of her recordings. ]

Though! If you prefer a different, we may also ask him to teach you magecraft - increase your class from lowly Archer to a respectable position such as Caster. Our time together has made come to appreciate you....tricks and subterfuge, but! Much better to bring you up so you have pride in yourself and your behavior.

Plus - it would be wonderful to teach you what I know, for among my many talents, magic is but one!

[ become the better fox Caster. take Tamamo down!! ]

- and, as you had already phrased it, I am all that you require or will ever need.

[ not the exact phrasing, but Nero's grinning her bright smile. hands behind her back and heels clicking happily on the sterile tile.

Merlin's room seems nondescript by its door, but Nero knows its the right one before she starts pounding down on it. ]

WIZARD! WIZARD OPEN UP - it is I! Nero Claudius! ...I know you're in there! Artoria still avoids you!!

[ruffling her hair and scratching at his ears elicit two very different reactions. Nero smiles, but Robin has a zing of shock race through his spine. he's beginning to hate it, every time it happens. the muscles of his jaw flex but he exhales carefully, not wanting to make a sound that will give anything away. she's already figured out the tail.

while he's not used to mages specifically putting curses on him, he's used to curses in general. corruption and spells. this one is more benevolent compared to the others, but just as agitating. he doesn't answer that way. he merely shrugs and says it's not his first time. it is the first time he's been cursed this way, however. hopefully the last, too.

lowly, petty bowman he is. but that's where he belongs. casters are wise and tenacious, which Robin is not. sabers are full of kings and knights -- they type of people is extremely incompatible with. Nero is a bit of a fluke, when he thinks about it. or perhaps it's just because they have a history together when it comes to their lives as Servants.

he never would have imagined they would be walking together while she praises him for his trickery and sabotage. or attempting to build him up for confidence. he'll never reach her level, he's positive on that front.]

You know, you've been complimenting me a lot lately... [what's up with that?

is it because he had stupidly let something slip like "you're all I need"? he only meant that he's all he needs to deal with when they find whoever did this. that's all. something keeps him from saying so. the sharp click of her heels, bright and flamboyant. like her smile.

he sighs and rubs his jaw. why can't he tell her it's not what he meant? they're already at his door, anyway. he stands, only jolting slightly when Nero starts banging on the door. he's quick to look exasperated, though. can she ever just do anything at 50%? why is it always 200%????

a voice and a bang comes from inside. "Ah, of course! How could I not recognize such a voice?" but it's not long before the door opens and a man with overflowing, incredibly fluffy looking hair stands with a calm smile on his face. his gaze trails to Robin.

"Oh? You've brought a friend with you this time?"

the hairs raise along Robin's neck. an uncontrollable urge to pull Nero to him nearly consumes him like an inferno. Gawain was nothing compared to this.

green has been his color for so long. what does it look like as an emotion?]

Yo. [is the most he can muster but even that barely conceals the heat clawing up from his chest.]

[ Nero's figured out nothing. they're just soft and easy to reach.

and she's not thinking of the Moon Cell or virtual corruption as much as 'wait what other time were you furry'. or really, what her words might imply to him. for the animosity towards their encounters there had not carried over long - its still underhanded, and she'll attack him for lack of a fair fight. he's no assassin, takes no hostages as bait - and shows more kindness in cooking with Ibaraki than expected of a coward. so yes, she does think him better than his class - but only because he's demonstrated such.

her opinion may also be shaped by his growing appreciation of how great she is. also sex. the sex has been good. ]

Have I? [ Nero taps a finger to her chin. hm, had she? no more than the regular praise she showers upon beautiful women or cute boys. ] Well if I have, then it is simply because you must deserve it. I won't give praise out of pity.

[ but had she? certainly, she's felt her feelings shift towards him, ever since he'd dropped out of the tree and stayed in her head. flashes of his smile that a scowl or hood so often hides. Nero misses it, with the sharp teeth having replaced the look she's thought about at night. and it is true - she wants to help him because in her mind, she's claimed him. for she is a sovereign, and one must have subjects and an inner court. hm. Robin has served the role of spymaster before...

no matter. Merlin's coming to answer his door before she has to break it down.

now the wizard was a different matter - Nero couldn't claim him nor did she particularly want to, despite the benefits he has. she can admire his pretty face and gorgeous hair and taste in clothing that reveals more skin than people said was appropriate. enough that when it opens she hugs him - smells of flowers, as always, light and fresh - and puts a kiss hello on each of his pale cheeks. but Merlin's serene smile and beaming eyes bely his strange requests, ones that almost sound reasonable in his voice.

Robin, for his charms and lack of them, has never asked her to be something she isn't. ]

Not here for pleasure this time, grand wizard! We've come to request aide on a knightly quest. My dear friend has had a curse put on him and -

[ he has murder in his face.

Nero stumbles over her next words. Robin's ears are flat, eyes narrowed, lips curled back and twitching as he fought to bring them somewhere neutral. not dissimilar from the looks towards Gawain and yet - well, she had not quite had nerves in her throat. had there been bad blood between them? then why hadn't he mentioned such on the long walk here??

"I see. Robin Hood it is? Now, now, no need for such a look. Unless it has affected other parts?" and Merlin's eyes briefly travel down to Robin's hips. huh. "Come in, come in. It's good you've come. You left a few of your things behind from last time."

his room is books and books and blooming flowers. Nero forgets for a moment why she's there and goes to sniff as many as she could - the lilacs are fresh, but white roses!

"Are you certain you haven't come for fun? I'm aware of several deeds that can only be done with a tail such as yours - lovely color, I must say..." but then Merlin's back at her side, not even an inch from her elbow, with that devilish smile. presenting her with a folded bundle of silk - oh yes, she'd wondered where that went. Nero sets it on the table, because she currently lacks a pocket large enough to put her bra inside. ]

[... or so she says. Robin has a feeling she hands out her praise but expects to get it back tenfold, somewhere down the line. whether immediately or with time. it's true that since being summoned to Chaldea, he's been praised here and there. it's been for being cunning or doing his job well, for his skill with guerrilla warfare. she sure as hell didn't appreciate his tricks before now. didn't she hate them?

Robin doesn't hate much. knighthood is one but that's partly because of the old Master he had. things that make him feel smothered and controlled, mainly. he'll have to add another to the list. Nero hugging -- no, Nero kissing Merlin's cheeks. he doesn't move an inch as he watches this go down. it's like he's watching from another person's body. this one isn't his own anymore.

is this what it feels like to be a Berserker?

Nero's voice sounds far away. he can only just parse what she or Merlin says in their conversation. it's his name that shakes him and how Merlin looks--

is the wizard looking at his dick?! he comes to, out of a murderous stupor, angry and embarrassed instead. he'd rather jump out a 30 story window than follow him inside. Nero's already going, though. god damn it, Nero. Robin considers just waiting outside, let Nero handle it. Merlin putting an arm around Nero's shoulder changes his mind. the door shuts behind him.

and Robin stands there, arms folded. ears still flat, tail flicking and twitching in irritation. Nero bouncing around to every flower and smelling them doesn't do much to calm him, either. she's a kid, seriously. of course, she's immediately drawn to the white roses.

if she were to take the color that bursts across Robin's cheeks from Merlin's suggestion, she could easily paint them red.]

Hah?! Y-you--!

[he's gone.

handing over a bra to Nero, now. yeah, that's definitely a bra. it's taken from the table, not a second after Nero's set it down. waved a bit in Merlin's face as the wizard continues to smile pleasantly.]

Oi. Enough of all this. [Robin stop waving Nero's bra around. he shoves it down into his shirt. a good place for it. look, he's not thinking straight.] I don't know what the hell you're up to, but I want no part of it. Just tell me whether or not you can get rid of this, okay?

[Merlin cups his chin in thought. partly to hide his grin as Robin's face continues to burn. "I might be able to do something. I'll need some time and certain materials to prepare, though."

... what is this? some jrpg quest? his life is running errands for huge pains in the asses. that's his life.]

What kind of materials?

[ of course she does. but they're not mutually exclusive. Nero can be praised because of her own greatness - and can compliment others when she sees their potential. had her thoughts on guerrilla warfare changed? no. it was cheap and spoke to lack of confidence. even when outmatched, you look your opponent in the eye (for a real fight. she has no qualms playing dirty in the game of love). but had her thoughts on Robin changed?

maybe if this strange behavior continues to escalate, it will.

Merlin may be smiling but Nero just. blinks. congratulations, there's a whole minute where she doesn't know what to say? raving and bristling and waving her bra around in Merlin's face. fangs bared, voice raised and its chilling but this time not in the good kind of way. ]

H-HEY! THAT'S NOT YOURS.

[ had she been right and it was progressing and he was losing his mind? will sod off her sympathy doesn't extent to UNDERWEAR THIEVES. Nero's on him, stepping on his toes and trying to swat away the arms he raises up to protect his face. stay! still! so she can reach down your shirt!!

Merlin. watches. ]

Have you lost your sense!? Don't air dirty laundry! Don't pick me up -!

[ "Dear me." ]

As you see - he's going to aid you, us! Return you to normal so you do not turn - GIVE ME BACK! [ one hand has gotten down the neck of his shirt to feel around. nope, just his stupid built abs and not her bra, not that she can feel when he tries to dodge and pull her out. shouting, so that Nero has no choice but to shout LOUDER. Robin's seized her hands so Nero has to try and kick his shins.

then a fifth hand enters the scene. Merlin may have thin, spindly hands, but they have the strength of a dozen men as they pry Nero out and back. he takes her around her middle and spins her around and back, setting her down on her feet and shaking his head. "Now then, children. Do you still want my help?" ]

He stole from me!

[ "Yes Nero dearest, I saw. Now then."

the materials are just to see if he can break the curse. not even to break it. which RIPOFF. but Merlin requires; yew bark, clear wine, a bit of Robin's hair (which he plucks out from the ginger's head), and a silver bowl. then he will prepare a scrying pool to see if the curse can be broken by another's hand - "or true love's kiss" - and from there? well more materials. he's a simple Servant now, no Grand Caster. is he made of magical tools?

"But we've yet to discuss what you will do for me in return, hm?" ]

Has your mind begun to go mad too? You are in my debt!

[ "Are you now? Dear me. What you did wasn't for our relationship?" ]

Hmf! I made it quite clear what I think of her - and it was for your fun that I answered to that name rather than mine - that was your plead and request of me! That was the favor. Which you promised to repay! Or do you break the promises you make while on pillows, swine?

[ Merlin taps both index fingers to his lips. oh come now. is he going to play this with her, when she's already going out of her way in generous gestures for another? could he not see the depths of her magnanimity? this was not for some bauble or blackmail - this was Nero sacrificing a promise boon from the greatest wizard alive to aide an ailing friend! or more than friend. whatever Robin was! ]

Make him cease this nonsense Rob - Robin?

[ Nero turns to him. Which -- ]

[i mean, of course it's not his? he's still keeping it in his shirt, though. that's how badly he doesn't want Merlin to see Nero's underwear. it's pretty fucking clear she's not only slept with Robin, but with other Servants too. and, really, truly, it's none of his business. Nero can do whatever she damn well pleases.

this is why he didn't want to get involved beyond a fuck here and there. something frivolous and fun. something he can deal with and something he doesn't have to think too deeply about. something he doesn't have to go out of his way to do special things for or try and hold together. and if she gets tired of him, that's fine too. hell, that seems inevitable.

this is unlike him. he wants someone to punch him. he wants Nero to punch him. stepping on his toes isn't enough. they struggle, Robin fighting to keep her hands out of his shirt and off his toes. he curses in their scuffle, grabbing her to keep her away and fuck that was his shin?!

Nero dearest. he's sure she loves that. Robin won't ever call her anything near that.

there's a protest from his hair being pulled. he doesn't protest his payment. figures. totally figures. it's fair -- no matter how much Robin doesn't want to pay him even a cent for this. turns out Merlin is in Nero's debt anyway.

and as they go on about relationships and pillows, he's had enough.

he's already closing the door behind him by the time Nero calls out his name. to hell with this. he doesn't need her help or Merlin's. he'll do whatever the hell BB wants if it means he doesn't have to stomach whatever is going on in his gut.

and he's staying the hell away from Nero, for that matter. no selfie will bring him back.]

[ it's pretty blatantly obvious that Merlin's trying to work the angle that will get him laid. which Nero is resolutely not interested in again, no matter how much he's mentioning her good time. heated enough that when Robin's gone, it's Merlin who has to crane over her shoulder and say "I'd recommend going after him".

goddamnit! he made off with her bra!!

men are useless!!

Nero's heels click angrily with how fast she has to run after him. ]

Get back here! Robin! ROBIN!

[ what's gotten into him? there's an ear flickering so she knows he hears her. but he won't stop. Nero breaks into a jog as nerves speed up - has something happened? is he unwell? for as terrible a hangover as he had, she wouldn't be surprised if he'd gone to throw up (did Servants vomit....? Nero never has. she holds her liquor well). why won't he look at her?

Merlin why were you so. useless. ]

Stop this! If you're troubled -

[ Nero hates silence. it leaves room for trouble to creep in and grow like mold in dark spaces. and room for thoughts such as - why does it gnaw at her, that he won't stop? that he's walked away from her? Nero had been here to help. wanted to be with him until he was normal, back to the Robin she knew, who didn't snarl at passerbys.

...did she know him though? no. Nero's confident in this as much as anything. sure that, when she finally catches up and yanks back his arm, it'll be an annoyed scowl. a strained, but not too pained, expression. after all. when she called enough, he had come to her. ]

Stop! Stop at once! Why did you leave? You're being extremely rude!

[her orders definitely won't bring him back. physically grabbing at him and stopping him in his tracks will. he doesn't turn around, actually. his upper body is leaning forward slightly with momentum, his legs spread apart in his walk. his shirt puffed out where he's hid her bra.

there's a twitch in his shoulders and he finally he turns. there's no scowl, no annoyance. no pain. his eyes still have dark circles and his hair is still messy.

his expression is startingly flat.]

Me? I'm being rude? Well, I didn't want to keep being the third-wheel in that conversation you were having with-- ugh. Nevermind. It doesn't matter. Let me go.

[the farther away from her he is, the better. she's the reason behind his madness. all the snarling and the red that swims in his vision. if anything will get him to run away as fast as possible, it's the threat of him becoming attached to something.

jealousy is born from attachment. before he knew it, he's begun to break his own rules. but as long as Nero doesn't find out, it'll be fine. as long as she never ever realizes that he was starting to think her bubbly, girly reactions were endearing and how she put her heart into everything, her whole soul was admirable. or how her praises were actually kind of nice and--

as long as she doesn't know any of that, he's fine.]

I want to get rid of this curse but Merlin's too busy trying to get into your pants. Or didn't you notice? I don't want his help and I'm not playing quest boy for him, either. I'm gonna look for BB or figure this out on my own.

Edited 2018-10-12 09:09 (UTC)

[ if she lets go, he'll take off. Nero uses the leverage from his arm to put herself in front of him, so she can better glare into his face. had planned to glare. her expression changes instantly to pale and worried; instead of letting go, her hold tightens. frightened. ]

If something was said to offend you then surely it was not his intention. Or mine.

[ her anger, irritation - he'd the one who'd stormed off like a fussy child, stolen her underwear with the subtly of Hercules. why would she be anything but yelling when this was all for him? arguing with Merlin instead of storming off with curses and vows to leave him to his Arthur fetish. fighting Tamamo (and would have beaten her, she'll add), because it was his condition she was worried about. but Nero isn't angry that he's being ungracious, petulant.

she wants to know why it wasn't enough to help. ]

I will not. That wizard is a perverted old man but he's no fraud - his help is the quickest way to return you to normal.

[ is he going to shove her off? or hit her? Nero had never seen him quite so clouded, dark. not in the Moon Cell, arguing over morals with the knight - not in singularities, when all felt lost and broken. did she notice? of course she did! hadn't he ever seen Merlin speak with a woman - or indeed a man, or thing on two legs? but why would he care what Merlin said or did or -

or -

was he.....]

Are you jealous?

[while he can believe Nero wouldn't intentionally say anything to offend him (not right now), Merlin was a different story. he wasn't oblivious to his watchful eye and her seemed plenty amused when Robin was stuffing her bra down his shirt and she was fighting to get it back.

Merlin wants them to play fetch like they're dogs and Robin is not about it. if it was a mission that his Master wanted, fine. because that's his Master and when he has a job to do, Robin does it. but when it's his problem and he doesn't want to do something, he's not going to fucking do it.

he considers prying her hand off of him but that's all. there's a storm in his expression, she's right. but it's brought on by himself, not by her. if hadn't been cursed with these stupid ears and tail and whatever the hell else was making him act weird, then neither of them would be here.

Nero wouldn't be accusing him of being jealous.

which, by the way?

fuck.

his face burns from cheeks to ears. and his already unsteady heart leaps in his chest.]

Wh-what do I have to be jealous over? Don't say weird things. [he didn't want to hear it out in the open. it's bad enough he was thinking it himself.] If you want to take him up on his offer, be my guest.

[something is scratching him uncomfortably. it's the hook of her bra. Robin reaches into his shirt and pulls it out, pushing it at her chest. he was pretty sure Nero didn't normally wear bras.]

Here, and take this thing. Don't leave your things scattered around. You'll turn into a layabout like me.

[ Venus above. he is jealous.

Robin Hood may be as understandable to her as quantum mechanics or modesty, but Nero knows love. she knows when blush and stuttering comes from an envious heart and suddenly. suddenly so much more is clear. Gawain, Merlin - both terrible flirts, both objects of his ire. and even if he tried to deny it, the tail gave so much more away with the furry equivalent of goosebumps running up through it.

he was jealous. of men around her. ]

Oh ho ho.

[ Nero's grinning. like an idiot, like a conquerer. like someone who has just discovered a very precious piece of blackmail and will never, ever let it go. and like someone who doesn't have a swarm of butterflies just released into her chest. proof! proof, now, that her pursuit of him was destiny! the fates had drawn them together and not only given her these feelings, but instilled them in Robin as well! would he have fought Merlin for her? or Gawain? stars above, the thought he would go to battle for her heart --!! ]

You ARE jealous. To think you had hid it so well that even my eyes had not taken notice!

[ and here she had been, shy as a temple maid in spring. not saying what she had in mind for fear it might spook him away.

and Nero does wear bras. sometimes. usually when they're the only top she has. she takes it, but then will not let his hand go so quickly. captures it with her fingers, both gentle and inescapable. and trying to will her smile over to his face, to chase away the storm of his expression. ]

Allow me to put your troubled mind at ease. For all that mage can do, he bundles them in webs and traps that I do not wish to fall into again. Unless it would have helped you. But I would not have done the same for him, or Gawain, or any other save my Praetor.

[ hm. her usual silver tongue has failed her. ]

...I've become quite fond of you, layabout though you may be. I said it once before today. You are all I need.

[the second he sees her smile spread across her face, the first sound of her smug laughter, he wants to bolt down the hall and away from... this. the annoyed scowl she had expected when she first grabbed him has made its appearance. coupled right along with his blush.

he feels so stupid.

she has ammo again him now. a trap he's weak to. it's not beneath her to spread the news that Robin Hood was jealous that Gawain and Merlin were blatantly flirting with her. though he would be quick to say that he wasn't himself. find any excuse to break his way out of a hole he's falling into.

at least he managed to hide it from her. not well enough. actually, she's just dense because he had not been subtle about it. again, not his fault. he has ears and a tail that broadcast all his emotions.

she'll have to try harder to get him to smile. the storm has passed and he just looks as sulky as he usually does as she holds onto his hand stubbornly. he's only just gotten used to their Master, Praetor she calls them, and the mats and resources they put into his Saint Graph.

and now Nero, another Servant, wants to help him she'd suffer Merlin's bullshit? nobody has to go that far.]

I'd hate to break it to you, but I'm an expert at traps myself. If you hate them so much--

[his words are turned back on him. albeit, words he hadn't meant to say. words that came out very wrong but words he said, all the same. she's fond of him.]

Man, you really have bad taste. Seriously, it's bad. [barring their Master. they're a good seed.

he hasn't stopped blushing and now he's looking at her hands holding his. small but they easily wield a sword her own size.]

... You don't have some goal to sleep with everyone in Chaldea, do you?

[he should be the one that needs to be hit. knock his HP down.]

[ what does he take her for, Astolfo? she's no gossiping grandmother, swapping rumors while their hair is done. what Nero does is brag - he should be worried about her telling everyone how good the sex is and in garish detail the pleasure she feels. that's what she'd announce from the rooftop, not that he was jealous.

though lord. if he ever revealed who else he'd slept with... perhaps she can understand his growls and snarls a bit clearer than she'd first thought. ]

Mine is most impeccable taste. It sets trends and alters the fashion of our times. My only apology would be for all the attention you might receive as my paramour - others shaking envious in their boots for the attention I will lavish upon you.

[ here, to start. if she can't smile away his gloom, she'll kiss it off with a peck to his cheek. and as he said - those ears and tail broadcast everything. there's no hiding it.

hm. maybe it would be better to leave them be on him after all.

and if that was intended to be a dig at her, she won't be shamed. Nero has no compunction, no British prudishness. if anything her lovemaking should be put on the theatrical stage so all can applaud and give roses to her and her lovers for their performance. also there's been like, ten tops, out of the hundred Servants in Chaldea. ]

It flusters me to say so, but to see you so pained.... [ and her arms have swept around his middle, her head pressed against his chest. his scent hadn't changed too much, with only a bit of stale beer mingled with the forest. and he's warm, sturdy - as solid as ever. no magic had changed that aspect of him. ] Please, be happy when we are together. Do not let what I've done with others cause you any distress or anguish.

[ their Master had Nero's love, it was true - but that was an imbalance, intertwined with respect and dependency and competition with impossibilities even her heart understood, deep down. and it was not a zero sum game. a Servant's eternality provided complications - the most glorious flames burned the briefest, after all. and Robin, hm. perhaps it was not so different after all.

she understood Robin least - his fickleness, his deprecation, his irritation towards the things and people he gravitated towards. as comprehensible as the love her citizens had for an Emperor they burned in effigy. how they spat at her, and then fought and died for her. what he had, he would never give her - never compromise those angry, bitter parts of him. that for all the gold he'd stolen, he could only ever sneer at the ones who wore it.

but she could hope. give herself repeatedly to it and hope - that one day an act of hers could change it. one day her people would love her as she loved them. one day, her city would hold her in their hearts and memories as she did Rome's marble glories. and one day, that she'd be smart enough to uncover the correct move to make with him. and until then, throw herself repeatedly at it, galvanized to continue the war for every snatched victory. he'd come to her when called.

hold tightly to him, while he was there in front of her with no escape. wish and want and pray this stubborn creature was inspired by her passion enough to feel it too.

and never thinking of the irony. that if and when he did, if she would welcome it.

she feels too strongly, to consider the brain's complexities and self-hatreds. ]

[oh. he worries about her telling all of Chaldea about their sex on a daily basis. one morning, he's afraid he's going to wake up to the inevitable shitstorm that comes with Nero announcing on the speaker that she has fucked Robin not once, not twice, but a lot more than that. like she was telling Tamamo and Merlin earlier.

he actually wonders if she knows the meaning of discretion.

Robin doesn't want the consequences that any public displays may give him. it's difficult enough for him to accept simple things like hugs. any kind of lavishing is going overboard. more than overboard. so when she gives him a peck to his cheek he sucks in a breath and feels his ears go hot. they can kiss and he can have his tongue down her throat without question. but peck his cheek and he's so awkward it's painful.

because ten is much more than his zero. and sometimes it shows in his mannerisms.

he thought the kiss to his cheek was too much but having her wrap him up in her arms and have her head against his chest? well, she'll hear it. his heart racing away -- there's no hiding that. it's not happy, but it's something.]

It's not causing that...

[he nearly chokes on his own words because of the contradictions it has against his actions. they always spoke louder than words. that's true for Robin Hood, as well. although he thinks that Nero is an anomaly in that regard. her words spoke louder than her actions. rather, her actions were only a subset of those words. they were always bigger and louder than what he thought her tiny body could carry.

yet she was easy enough to understand. while Nero would be testing and searching, Robin lacks the motivation to do so. he's fine with the way things are and he'll be fine if she decides to find twelve instead of keeping it at eleven.

(for Robin, the right move would always be one where he isn't involved.)

she's still hugging him and he hesitates before he ever touches her. gently, his arms wrap around her shoulders and he places his chin on top of her head. it's not happy.

but it's something.]

I'll be back to normal when this is cured. Don't think or worry too much about what I've done today, alright? It's not Robin Hood.

[it's someone else.

someone he spent a long, long, long time leaving behind.]

[ what is there to be quiet about? Nero has a healthy appetite and good taste. what would happen if the world knew? if he had to be badgered into every movement, maybe telling more people would be the solution. have others drag him along the path he himself had been to afraid to start on.

there had been a hundred questions that had come with shoving his tongue down her throat. it's seemed Robin has had nothing but questions and second guessing. Nero had not been immune to questions. but those were of the sort around his behavior. did he find her a shame, some secret he must keep? what made her unworthy of his proclamations and grand gestures?

her ego was not quite as impenetrable as appearances suggested.

one of her hands comes between his shoulder blades. as if to steady him for when the thundering heart leapt out of his chest. its warm, even without the comfort of his mantle. she adjusts her cheek against it, still pleased with his scent despite the beer. and when his chin comes to rest atop her braids and buns, Nero turns her face into the base of his neck. all the better to be filled with the scent that drives hers chest to burn. ]

I've no option other than to worry about you.

[ he wanted her. the words caught on her heart and in her head like bristled seeds. all i need. and she craved to be needed, to be wanted, to be so integral and essential that it to be deprived was to cause suffocation. and if moving mountains was what was needed, she'd train herself to gain the strength. it was the hallmark of her class - resolute, determined, charge on forward.

he may prefer the moves that keep him still. but Nero wouldn't know how to stay still if her Master's life depended on it. ]

Then let's continue forward. If your instinct tells you to speak to BB and not Merlin, then we will go to her and then back to him. Though I must say. [ and as, slowly, Nero unravels herself from the hug - feeling cold, feeling flushed - she pets the ears again. a savoring touch on velvety fur along the full length of it, the back of her knuckle brushing repeatedly. ] I shall miss how soft these feel.

[the day Robin makes grand gestures and proclamations about the girl he's been sleeping with is when DW creates an Alter version of Robin Hood. that's just not how he is. Robin Hood is a timid man, by no means a lady-killer. it's not shame that keeps him from showing her off -- not shame in her, anyway. as thunderous as she was, as conceited and vain, it's not her he finds shame in.

the rest she'll have to figure out.

Robin doesn't seek out intimacy. not like Nero did. nor did he expect it to come to him. for better or for worse, Nero is a special case. it could have been her filling a void he hadn't realized existed until she kissed him. until he gave in and had a wayward thought of "this is nice" when she had her bare body against his and they were sweaty, sticky. they were basking in the leftover waves of pleasure that washed over them.

the thought is quieter now but there. he can feel his grow hotter but doesn't push her away. all he can do is hope some God is with him today and nobody interrupts this. being held isn't something that happens to him often. it's only more recently, with Nero, that he has. even then, it was in throes of pleasure or her demanding something of him. not for her to reassure him.

his breathing starts to even when the guilt doesn't crush him like he expects it to. his arms tense to tighten around her more--

BB. they have to cure the curse. she slips from his grasp easily and he steps away, unsure of what to say. though maybe it would be better if he just didn't say. for once, just didn't say anything at all about it.

for once, he lets her pet his ears. not without some sulking and a blush that hasn't faded from an intimate moment he will never mention. his brows furrow and his mouth twists. with a small sigh, he gives up. leaning into her touch.

it could be written off as his thanks for... for being herself, he guesses.]

Ask BB nicely and she might give you a pair of your own. Or you could always try to pet Tamamo's.

[ at least she figured out he's jealous. possessive. those tendencies managed to seep out from whatever box he'd kept them vaulted in.

he must live a lonely life. even if it is by his own choice, Nero doesn't know how he'd stand it. off on a branch or tree like a bird without a nest. no wonder Liz and BB go after him. they pick off the ones out of the heard, knowing nothing would come to his rescue. or whoever did this curse to him, thinking they'd be up against one outfoxed outlaw. not anymore! not when Nero's here.

he won't be alone with her.

the ears flutter, silky. she hums absently at the nice sensation of them, and of Robin's head cupped against her hand. still prefers lions, and not merely because it's too late to stop the shipment of them to Chaldea. but he's not that different from a lion, she thinks. less gruff than you'd expect. capable of silly cute things too. maybe if she puts down a box, he'd curl up in it - thinking he'd burrowed away and not noticing she was cooing and taking pictures.

and then he goes and ruins it by mentioning THAT WOMAN. ]

Hmm! Hers would be coated in gels and mousse as she attempts to artificially produce such softness! Such richness! Such a delicate balance of textures and sensations! One's character clearly influences the comfort of fur - it is why even a mangy dog can be pleasant to pet, and a purebred nothing but steel wool! No. Yours are much better - and even then!

[ oh god she's going for the tail again. doesn't pull but rather suddenly has it up her cheek to caress and stroke up and down....up and down..... ]

There are still finer things to have. Perhaps instead of wishing it away, I will have her cut it off so I can make a stole out of your tail, so I can forever have a piece of you and our adventure together to wear when winter comes!

[years and years and years of getting used to it. that's how he stands it -- by practice.

the tail and ears aren't really his. it's why he's not sure how to take her praising them. he's far more assured on how to react to her rubbing her face against his tail. not his, no, but tell that to the nerves there directly connected to his brain and the feeling that's going on there. Nero rubbing her face on it tickles and makes his breath short. his gasp is sharp and quiet, his back going straight.

he speaks through his teeth, through a blaze of heat working its way up his spine.]

Stop. Snuggling it.

[that's what she's doing. that's definitely what she's doing, isn't it?!

if his character influenced his fur, wouldn't it be muddy? dirty? matted, at least? then Nero wouldn't be so inclined to rub her face in it like that. with all the nerves obviously being connected to him, cutting it off would be really fucking painful and he would rather avoid that. so you know he's not in his right mind when he says,]

If you want, I'll give it to you! Just... [DEEP BREATH] s-stop rubbing on it.

But it's so soft!

[ fuck those cat pillows. maybe there's a way to make him say nyan if she squeezes Robin right. or whatever sound foxes make. ....what sound do they make....?

well it's twitching and it tickles her so Nero giggles, at first involuntarily. and then less so once she sees his face. then it's much more a loud, bright, deliberate cheer of laughter. let it infect him and make him smile too. come now Robin, smile. watch her do it - with the lips split from ear to ear so her small face has become nothing but one overwhelming bit of unfiltered, childlike happiness. ]

I may have it?!

[ fur might be more Iskander's taste, but! Nero pulls herself in closer to wrap his tail as far around her neck as it would go. so not quite a stole, and Nero not quite six inches away, but she's got it clamped to her neck with both hands and preens up into his face. ]

How does it look? Fitting, no?

[ it must be if he's blushing that much. ]

Such generosity you've hidden! And you've let others think you're a greedy bandit. To thank you, I shall name you my personal spymaster.

[ no sword comes down on his shoulder to confer the title, but her hand will do. and shortly followed by another hug - distinctly, closely, informal - swung around his shoulders. little more than an excuse to hold him tight again, and tap her brow against the hotness of his red cheeks. for what did a Servant need with a spymaster?

...

well one could never be too careful.... ]

[it's not how she squeezes, it might be a matter of what she squeezes. in any case.

the flush seems to burn hotter at her giggling. there's only so much fun a person can have from cuddling something soft. lately, he's become more privy to the fact that Nero is far more childlike. or perhaps it's just an effect of being summoned. Liz could be considered a noblewoman, herself. not a king or an emperor, really, but she's as childlike (if not more) than Nero.

hadn't she been putting bows on him? like he was some kind of doll? nobles are the worst.

really, the worst. tugging on his tail, looking so happy as she wraps his-- the tail around her neck. the darker side hopes she chokes but.

she's too damn happy.]

I said it so you'd let me go, damn it!

[and she hasn't. at all. he's not generous, either. he just wants to avoid trouble as much as possible. yet it finds him. it finds him in a tiny emperor in red and the brightest smiles he's ever seen on a human face.

one that embraces him so easily. without thought. her scent swarms around him, stronger. because of a more sensitive nose? perfect. just what he needed. his arms are around her before he realizes what he's doing, fisting what little fabric at her back.]

What do you need-- aah, no. I won't ask. Arguing with you makes me tired. Do what you want. You're going to anyway, right? Okay, okay. Spymaster, sure. As long as you stop tugging on my tail, I'll do it. Alright? Deal?

[ she's being gentle. see? and really, its as much a reason to touch soft fur as it is to get close to him. not that she needs to fashion an excuse - when she wants to be near him, she'll put herself in his orbit. but...this is different. he's protesting but he's stuttering, red all over, even sweating.

it's cute. he's cute when he's all flustered.

Nero puffs the fur up against her cheeks and tries to picture if the colors clash with her. what a shame if they would. hm. she might just wear it anyway. but then - there's a hand? and she's the flustered one, the tail falling off once there aren't her hands keeping it in place. in absence of a better place, her hands land against his chest. a thick vest, but still enough to feel out the contours, and to brush soft fingers against the silver necklace that he wore. ]

Y-you will?! You agree to it!

[ Nero doesn't have the excuse of a beastly curse. she smells him - not that he wears cologne, perfume, or battle-musk. even with the dying hint of old beer to it, its the scent of the skin that had never gotten out of her nose from the first time. and this close -

one hand comes up to turn his cheek. the other rings round his neck to make a more splendid necklace and a better angle for her to kiss his lips. rough, masculine. enjoyable to press against, to push into. eyes shut and she enjoys the act, this moment that she's wanted like a nap in summer sun...

how she's wished to be romanced, to be pursued. but she's learning, at least, that the pursuer in her dreams has begun to wear an emerald cloak. and if that is so, then again, she must be the dominant one. the one to make the moves, to act on impulses. others might sit around and debate until the stars come out, but that has never been her way, her lot in life. she's had to act first until it became second nature. until it was part of her. the joke, that Nero leaps before she knows where to land.

her hands land up into his hair again. there is no ear to curve her finger around; the shape of his skull anomalously different. it is much longer before fingers touch around his ear, and then its silk and softness, flickering in shock. ]

[no. he will say that the fur doesn't clash with her palette at all. and fur, as an accessory, suits her winsome looks. because it was only worn by the wealthiest of nobles and the world was unfair. good looks often came with money.]

I guess I am.

[always giving everyone the cryptic kind of answer, but it's the best affirmation she will get out of him concerning this. he's able to say it just before she turns his face towards her and his eyes are a fraction wider. her lips meet his and he goes still, stiff because they're in the middle of the hall and Nero has no shame. zero.

Nero is soft and feminine on her mouth but equally as enjoyable to feel for Robin. he shouldn't, he should push her away, but he answers her kiss by moving his mouth against hers. if Nero leaps before she knows where to land, Robin has to know it's land he meets and it's safe before he launches himself. with Nero, he gets caught up in closing his eyes quite often.

the ear flicks but he makes a sound to pour into her mouth. he doesn't know how many times he's told her not to touch them or his tail but she does it anyway. without fail. whatever sound he's made turns into a soft growl of frustration and he breaks away.]

Stop. Touching.

[ well yes, good looks came with money. but roguish good looks is the more common phrase. hm. had Nero coined it? she might have. right now she couldn't exactly recall how the Latin translated into Japanese but...it sounded pithy and clever and therefore her type of saying -

first task for the new spymaster: become familiar with Emperor Nero's collected writings and see if she's come up with the phrase roguish good looks.

the mental note comes and goes; Robin holds her whole attention when his lips adjust. somehow the height difference disappears, in these instances. so that Nero can guide the pace, guide her lips across his chapped kisses. increase the tempo, the use of delicate instruments like tongues and touch, that stroke his brow and jaw between the little sounds he makes. the ones that sound like breath and grunts and stop touching -

okay that one she should have listened to - ]

H-hey!

[ grabby hands throw a tantrum when all they can hold is the air. ]

That was romantic! You can't start and then suddenly stop!

[ it had taken so long to get a moment like that! and to have it snatched away - it wasn't fair! it would be even worse than just ghosting on someone, no matter what reasons ~~and there is no meta text here~~. take the full force of her Imperial glower, even when her lips are shimmering from their shared spit. ]

You should stop being so sensitive! One cannot behave themselves when prompted with a thing so tantalizing!

[ j'accuse....your ears! ]

[that's a job for a secretary or personal assistant, not a spymaster! the only thing he'll spy is how indulgent her writing is. especially if they're her poems.

if it's romantic, it's only because she's roman. if he's sensitive, it's only because he has ears and a tail that he isn't used to. kissing in a hallway isn't what he would call romantic. he would call it teenage. they're supposed to be thousands of years old, they're supposed to be dead but here they are.

shenanigans. sometimes he'd rather still be dead.

her Imperial Glower has no effect. neither does her small tantrum. it never has besides irritating him.]

Are you talking about yourself? I can behave just fine. [yeah, right. some things that he's done today proves otherwise.] I'm in the middle of finding someone to get rid of these, not being sensitive. Pardon me for wanting to stay on track. Besides, now that I'm your spymaster, you can't get all-- [he was going to say lovey-dovey but he doesn't like that. nothing with love. what's a better word?] clingy anymore.

[ wait does spymaster not mean personal assistant ]

If you could control yourself then you would not be a wanted criminal.

[ point - Nero (?). but a rather unsatisfying point. especially when it's followed by an audible GASP of air. ]

Clingy? How dare you!

[ that earns a very pointy poke right in his chest, piercing right through all that chest armor. ]

Now that you are my spymaster, you must learn the first lesson of servitude - do not bite the hand that feeds you! [ maybe that was the phrase she coined? hm. have him look that one up too.] You cling to me, not I to you! Now! You insist on being on track?

[ and his arm's in a death grip, only five of her tiny calloused fingers needed to snap him from a stand still. stay on track? she'll be the one to determine the track! and that was -

- was -

- where had they been going again.....

it'll come to Nero eventually, as long as Robin stopped trying to get her to stop pulling him. ]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

for offshoots

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robin are you jealous you don't get a bikini class of your own

he has a summertime tracksuit tyvm

bikini babe > shoobie

gasp how dare you

maybe if he didn't wear boxers to the beach

they're thin shorts u wanna see his dick outline

maybe

me too

gotta figure out what headcanons about it are accurate

DW give us the important specs like dick size

if we know everyone's cup size we gotta know dick specs

my thoughts exactly

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there's so much dust on this thread

grabs my vacuum

make robin clean up