Work Text:
Caelus
Sorry if I don’t reply right away, I’m looking for trash cans
___________________________________________
Caelus
Okay so you said you wanted to meet with Vera right? That woman who’s got the Ruby of Divine Glow or something like that?
You
Ah yeah that’s the one! I knew you’d pull through for me Caelus, you’re a great friend buddy!
Caelus
Ugh don’t get your hopes up Sampo, there’s a huge chance she won’t even give you the ruby in the first place, it is an expensive heirloom after all
Caelus
What do you need it for anyway? Because if you use it to scam someone again I swear to the Destruction I’ll find you.
You
Hey whoa whoa! You think too lowly of Sampo, I would never do something like that hahah… Ehh anyway it’s a secret for now, if I get my hands on the ruby I’ll tell ya then
You
I’m gonna go now and meet the girl, thanks for the help Caelus! I’ll pay you back when I get the time!
Caelus
That belongs on WatchMojo’s top ten biggest lies ever told
You
Say what?
Caelus
Nothing forget it, see you later. Good luck I guess?
___________________________________________
As he strolled through the shadowed streets of Belobog's Underworld, Sampo casually slipped his phone into his pocket, his gaze sweeping the surroundings in search of the designated meeting spot arranged by Caelus for him and Vera.
Sampo, driven by his greed, allowed it to override any semblance of caution or self-awareness. Despite him not having a clue what he was doing, the prideful mercenary was determined to achieve his desires, as was always the case with Sampo Koski. Unbeknownst to him, his suspicious activities had piqued the interest of none other than Gepard Landau, the esteemed captain of the Silvermane Guards. From that moment on, Gepard diligently kept a watchful eye on every move Sampo made, leaving the mercenary intoxicated by the newfound attention. It was not just the spotlight that enthralled him, but also the captivating presence of the man responsible for bestowing it upon him.
The stern countenance that adorned Gepard's face whenever he confronted Sampo, the way his piercing sapphire eyes locked onto Sampo's, provided a euphoric thrill for the Nihility user. Sampo would go to great lengths to elicit a reaction from Gepard, whether through playful teasing, mocking remarks, engaging in frequent conversations with Serval, or even challenging Gepard to duels. Yet, despite his relentless efforts, Sampo's attempts always fell short of the desired response. Perhaps he was crazy, but Sampo's desperation drove him to seek that moment when Gepard would lose his composure. He yearned to witness firsthand the words and actions that would emerge from Gepard's lips, even just once.
And so, driven by his ambitions, Sampo concocted what he deemed a ‘perfect plan.’ With the aid of Caelus, he managed to establish contact with a woman named Vera, whose ties to the Landau family granted her possession of the coveted Ruby of Divine Glow. This precious jewel, passed down through generations of the Landau lineage for centuries, had become the target of a notorious group of thieves. To ensure its safety, the current head of the Landau family entrusted the gem to Vera's care. Sampo's objective was clear: to sway Vera into granting him temporary custody of the ruby. Once successful, his next move would involve subtly alerting Gepard of his possession of the gem. Aware of Gepard's unwavering dedication to preserving valuable artefacts as a Preservation user, Sampo anticipated that the captain would be compelled to pursue him, eventually seizing the gem from Sampo's grasp. What awaited them beyond that point remained yet to be revealed.
Was this a completely ludicrous idea? Yeah. Was Sampo still going to do it anyway? You bet.
Sampo checked his phone to double-check the coordinates Caelus had sent him where the meeting would take place. It was finally time to put his ‘genius’ plan into motion.
Sampo hurried through the hushed streets of Boulder Town, glancing around to make sure no prying eyes were following him. He reached the designated meeting spot, a secluded corner of the area, near the back exit to the mines, where he was to negotiate with Vera. Spotting her standing near a stack of wooden crates, he approached with the friendliest smile he could muster.
"Vera! it's a pleasure to meet you. The name’s Sampo Koski." The Nihility user politely greeted her, extending his hand. Vera's stern expression hardened even further as she shook his hand, reluctantly acknowledging his presence.
"Pleasure," she replied curtly. "Caelus informed me that you wanted to speak with me, although I may not trust you, I trust him, so here I am. Anyway let’s cut to the chase, what brings you here Sampo?"
Sampo's grin widened, and he leaned in, his voice lowering conspiratorially. "Oh, I’m sure you know well why Miss Vera, but I’ll explain it again… You see, I need to borrow a certain special ruby that you have in your possession, just for a day, nothing more."
Vera's eyes narrowed with suspicion. "And what interest would you have in the Ruby of Divine Glow, Sampo? It's not exactly something a man of your reputation usually desires."
Sampo chuckled as he jokingly hissed, feigning offence. "Did you have to hit me where it hurts Miss Vera? It's all just hearsay and exaggeration I swear. I assure you, I have a genuine reason for wanting to borrow the ruby, just for the day."
While Sampo wittily articulated, he felt a presence behind him, hidden amongst the shadows. He grinned to himself and decided not to inspect what it was, allowing his conversation with Vera to continue as normal.
Vera crossed her arms, unconvinced. "You'll have to provide a more compelling argument, Sampo. Why should I trust you?"
The mercenary's expression turned earnest, his voice dripping with persuasive charm. "Vera, my reputation may precede me, but I've never broken a promise. I'm a man of my word. Besides, I know the Landau family wouldn't entrust the gem to just anyone. They know your loyalty, your integrity."
Sampo was basically lying out of his teeth at this point. However, whatever step he’d have to take in order to get his hands on the jewel, he’d happily do.
Vera's stern facade softened slightly as Sampo's words struck a chord. She unfolded her arms and regarded him thoughtfully.
"Now, let's talk business," Sampo continued, smoothly transitioning into his next move. "I understand the value of the ruby, not to worry. So, let's discuss a fair compensation for your cooperation, shall we?"
Vera hesitated, her gaze fixed on Sampo. "How much are you offering?"
Sampo's eyes gleamed with anticipation, eager to seal the deal. He briefly paused, weighing his options before speaking. "How about… 70,000 Credits?”
Vera scoffed in sarcastic amusement. “Are you kidding me? Do you know how much that gem is worth? 130,000.”
“Miss Vera please… consider my poor bank account! 80,000.”
“110,000.”
“95,000. I’ll take extra good care of it Miss Vera you have my word~”
The two’s eyes were locked, both engaged in a battle of wills. Negotiation hung in the air like a tangible force, each party striving for an advantageous outcome. After a brief standoff, Vera finally relented, a faint hint of a smirk touching her lips.
"Alright, Sampo. We have a deal."
A triumphant grin played on Sampo's face as he extended his hand once again. Vera accepted the gesture, and they shook hands firmly, the agreement sealed.
While they exchanged pleasantries, Vera’s nimble fingers deftly drove the ruby into Sampo’s jacket, making almost certainly not a soul witnessed their trade. The mercenary took a step back, his victory evident in his eyes.
"It's been a pleasure doing business with you, Vera," Sampo said, his voice laced with satisfaction. "Rest assured, I'll return the Ruby of Divine Glow intact by the end of the day."
Vera nodded, a mixture of relief and lingering suspicion evident in her gaze. Sampo turned on his heel, his stride was confident as he made his way back into the heart of Boulder Town, the coveted gem hidden safely against his chest.
And so, phase one of Sampo’s grand scheme was complete. Now time for phase two.
Caelus
Sorry if I don’t reply right away, I’m looking for trash cans
___________________________________________
You
Guess who got their hands on the ruby?!
Caelus
Uhh… Vera?
You
No bro, me! She accepted the money I proposed to her
Caelus
Seriously? What did you give her all of your life savings or something?
You
Of course not! You know I would never do that! Sampo managed to persuade her with a good deal, I’d say it went well
Caelus
Good for you, I guess… Was that guard there?
You
Yep, I felt him behind me while I was talkin to Vera, thanks again for that buddy, I owe ya one!
Caelus
Oh no, you owe me two actually. Anyway, you gotta tell me what the hell is going on, Why do you want that ruby and why did you make me send that guard over there?
You
Ohhh right! Yeah so uh, how do I put this..?
You
You know Gepard right? Captain Gepard, Middle child Landau, lil bro Geppie?
Caelus
Dude get to the point already please
You
Yeah sorry sorry, the guy NEVER reacts to anything I dish out at him, it’s insane! So I thought I'd, you know, get the Ruby of Divine Glow and wave it in front of Geppie’s face, imagine how pissed he’d get seeing me, a shady mercenary and a guy he hates, holding his precious family's gem?! It’s priceless!
Caelus
…
Caelus
You are down bad atrocious man.
You
Hahaha and what if I am?
Caelus
You’re not denying it?! What do you expect from doing this plan? That Gepard is gonna pin you to a wall or some shit?
You
Oh my god the money I’ve spent would be 10x more worth it if he does that
Caelus
You’ve gone off the deep end Sampo.
___________________________________________
And so what if he has? Sampo had ventured too far down the path of his plan to entertain the thought of retreat.
When Sampo negotiated with Vera, an unsettling sensation pricked at the back of his mind—the unmistakable presence of a Silvermane Guard, who was discreetly placed there by none other than Caelus, his saving grace in the mercenary’s precarious plan. This lone guard had been privy to the entirety of the conversation between Sampo and Vera and would soon relay the details to the captain. Now, all the Nihility user could do was bide his time and await the inevitable outcome.
___________________________________________
Meanwhile in the Restricted Zone
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In the frost-kissed night, Captain Gepard Landau patrolled the Silvermane Guard Restricted Zone, his footsteps echoing through the quiet streets. As he continued his watchful vigilance, a nervous Silvermane Guard appeared before him, breathless and panic-stricken. Gepard turned his piercing gaze towards the guard, sensing the urgency in his demeanour.
"Guard, what troubles you?" Gepard inquired, his voice steady but laced with concern.
With a trembling voice, the guard relayed the shocking news. "Captain Gepard Sir! The Ruby of Divine Glow has been seized by Sampo Koski! I witnessed Sampo strike a deal with Vera!"
Gepard's eyes widened in disbelief. "Vera? Why would she make such a transaction? Is she a traitor to the Landau family?"
The guard hurriedly shook his head, his voice filled with conviction. "No, Captain. It appears that Sampo coerced Vera into this arrangement, blackmailing her into compliance. She is a victim in this unfortunate turn of events."
Gepard clenched his fists, his usually composed demeanour giving way to a torrent of anger. "Sampo... I always knew he was far from innocent, but I never expected him to stoop this low."
In the grip of his fury, Gepard's mind raced, thoughts swirling like a tempest within. Having crossed paths with Sampo on numerous occasions in the past, Gepard was familiar with the mercenary's propensity for trouble. However, the extent of Sampo's actions now left Gepard incredulous. What could drive him to resort to blackmailing Vera and orchestrating such a daring feat? Gepard thought he knew Sampo, but this turn of events had shattered that illusion, transforming the mercenary into an enigmatic stranger.
As the weight of the situation settled upon Gepard's shoulders, he silently vowed that the guard's dedicated efforts would not be in vain. With unyielding determination, he made a solemn declaration: "Don’t worry. I shall personally track down Sampo and reclaim the Ruby of Divine Glow. In the name of the Preservation."
The guard nodded, reassured by Gepard's unwavering commitment. With a salute, he swiftly retreated, leaving the captain alone with his righteous fury.
As Gepard stood in the frigid night, his mind consumed by a storm of emotions, he reaffirmed his duty to protect the city and uphold the honour of the Landau family. With unwavering determination, he set forth on his mission, to confront Sampo Koski and reclaim the stolen jewel.
___________________________________________
Back with Sampo in the Underworld
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Sampo's grin widened, his lips stretching to reveal a mischievous glint in his eyes as he delicately cradled the precious ruby against his cheek. He found himself nestled within the depths of a dim, desolate alleyway, where shadows danced around him like restless spectres. It was in this clandestine realm, the Underworld, that Sampo revelled, finding solace in the realm of shadows.
As if summoned by his thoughts, the very embodiment of authority burst into the alleyway. The Captain, Gepard, strode forward with a determined gait, fists clenched so tightly that the strain threatened to rupture the taut sinews of his hands. Eyes as sharp as a blade bore into Sampo, piercing through his facade with almost palpable intensity. Sampo's smirk remained unabated, a smug testament to his own cunning, while his mind whirred with anticipation, wondering just how flawlessly his plan would unfold.
Amusement glinting in his gaze, Sampo rose from his seat, and the two men locked eyes, an invisible battle of wills unfolding between them. Sampo's voice, laced with a mixture of familiarity and audacity, carried through the air like a playful breeze. "Hey, Gepard! Long time no see, buddy. Are you looking for something, perchance? Searching for... this , maybe?"
With a tantalizing flourish, Sampo dangled the vibrant ruby before Gepard's very eyes, the gemstone casting prismatic shadows that danced upon the Captain's furrowed brow. Gepard's teeth clamped down so fiercely, the mere sound of them grinding together echoed through the alley, as if the intensity of his anger threatened to shatter the fragile stillness. Despite the rising tension, the Landau marshalled his thoughts, inhaling deeply to steady his racing mind. Then, with a resolute exhalation, he reopened his eyes, now shimmering like sapphires caught in the moonlight.
"Why did you do it, Sampo?" Gepard's voice cut through the air, taut with a mix of disbelief and reproach. The seriousness etched in his tone reverberated with each syllable, each word carrying the weight of their shared history.
Sampo's brows lifted in a mock display of innocence, feigning puzzlement at Gepard's stern question. "What do you mean, Captain? Do tell, what misdeed has poor Sampo committed this time?"
A flicker of impatience shadowed Gepard's narrowed eyes, his reserves of patience dwindling with every passing second. His voice, now a touch louder, held a deepened resonance, a sign of mounting frustration. "What possessed you to blackmail Vera for that ruby? Why do you want it so fervently? What fascination does such an object hold for you?"
Sampo's laughter reverberated through the alley, mingling with the cool night air as it escaped his lips in a vibrant burst. The sound, accompanied by an exhaled breath, carried a subtle edge of amusement that laced the atmosphere like a playful zephyr ruffling the feathers of Gepard's composure. It slithered under his skin, goading him, stoking the flames of frustration that surged through his veins. Yet, Sampo's lighthearted demeanour seemed unyielding, as though he revelled in his ability to toy with Gepard's emotions.
"What?! Oh Captain, how could you ever have such a dim view of my character?" Sampo's voice dripped with exaggerated incredulity. "Blackmailing Miss Vera? Never! It was a simple agreement between us. She agreed to lend me the ruby for a day, and rest assured, Captain, I even paid her handsomely for the privilege!"
As Sampo ardently defended himself, his tone embraced a teasing levity, painting the situation with strokes of humorous disbelief. The mirth danced in his voice, casting a shimmering veil over his words, simultaneously tempting Gepard to push past his breaking point and challenging him to maintain his composure. And though Gepard's resolve trembled like a taut wire strained to its limit, the Preservation user had yet to reach the precipice of his patience.
Gepard's gaze, fixed unwaveringly on Sampo, held a glimmer of genuine curiosity, a flicker of a desire to comprehend the enigma that stood before him. With measured composure, he chose his words carefully, attempting to diffuse the tension that crackled in the air like a gathering storm. "Look, Sampo, just be frank with me. What is your connection to the Ruby of Divine Glow? If you provide some insight, I might be able to grasp the complexities of your situation."
Sampo, ever the embodiment of nonchalance, shrugged his shoulders in a dismissive gesture. The movement rippled through his lithe frame, embodying a casual indifference that hung about him like an invisible shroud. "Ah, but you see, Mr Landau, sharing such information would be a violation of my privacy. I'm afraid I must refrain from spilling any beans to you."
Gepard inhaled deeply, drawing in the cool night air as if seeking solace in the rhythm of his own breath. His voice, deliberately modulated, remained a portrait of calm, despite the currents of frustration that surged beneath its surface. "The Ruby of Divine Glow holds significance for my family. It has been passed down through generations, etching itself in our ancestral lore. Its value goes beyond mere material worth, intertwining with our very identity. Therefore, Sampo, you cannot simply choose silence in a matter that touches the core of the Landaus."
Gepard let out a low, incredulous whistle, his eyebrows raised momentarily as if to punctuate his bemusement. He allowed a peal of gentle laughter to escape his lips, laden with a hint of incredulity. "Look, Captain, forgive me for not having an understanding of the value placed upon family heirlooms and the like. As far as I'm concerned, if there's a sum of money involved, the shattering of heirlooms would hold nothing over me. Everything has its price, after all."
That does it.
Like a wild beast breaking free from invisible restraints, Gepard's simmering rage erupted into a violent tempest that consumed his senses. His eyes blazed with a mixture of fury and wounded pride as he lunged forward, his hands grappling with a furious strength that seemed to defy his own wiry frame. Sampo, caught off guard by the sudden onslaught, found himself forcefully pressed against the unyielding wall of the alley, the harsh brick digging into his back. Gepard's teeth, bared in an animalistic display of aggression, loomed mere inches from Sampo's face, a fearsome snarl twisting his features. "How... How dare you," Gepard seethed through clenched teeth, his voice a venomous hiss that echoed through the confined space. "Insult my family's honour? Spit it out, Sampo Koski! Tell me the truth! Why did you stoop to blackmailing Vera? Why did you dare to lay claim to the most prized possession of the Landaus? Huh?!"
Sampo, rendered momentarily speechless by the force of Gepard's accusation, felt as though his very vocal cords had been savagely torn from his throat. The weight of Gepard's presence bore down upon him, his face mere inches away from his own. Against the backdrop of the dimly lit alley, Sampo's expression transformed into a sly grin, a flicker of realization dancing in his eyes. The success of his plan unfurled before him.
Sampo's heart pounded within his chest, its rhythm a crescendo that reverberated in his ears like a primal drumbeat. A thrill coursed through his veins, electrifying every fibre of his being, as he marvelled at the resounding success of his audacious plan. The man who had captured Sampo's heart, the very embodiment of his most ardent attraction, held him captive against the rough wall, their eyes locked intensely. Sampo’s skin, sensitized to the point of exquisite vulnerability, tingled with a fiery warmth as if the merest brush of a feather could set him ablaze. It was a moment of pure bliss, where every nerve ending seemed to sing with anticipation, confirming the mercenary's conviction that this was the culmination of his deepest desires.
A mischievous sparkle danced within the depths of Sampo's eyes, manifesting in an outright giggle that spilt from his lips like a melody. The air seemed to shimmer with an invisible mirth, as if it delighted in Gepard's almost successful attempt to rattle the unflappable Nihility user. With a mixture of irritation and curiosity etched across his features, Gepard cocked his head to the side, his voice laced with a smouldering anger. "Tell me, what exactly are you laughing at in a situation like this?"
Sampo's grin widened, revealing a glint of satisfaction that mirrored the unfolding of a meticulously crafted plan. His voice, a gentle whisper that barely disturbed the stillness of the night, dripped with a veiled sense of triumph. "Everything went as planned, Gepard..." The words hung in the air like an alluring secret, their meaning shrouded in enigma, leaving the Captain bewildered and oblivious to the imminent revelation.
In an audacious move that defied the boundaries of their roles and expectations, Sampo's hand darted forward, fingers curling around the fabric of Gepard's collar. Drawing the Captain closer with a tantalising pull, Sampo's lips captured Gepard's, in a kiss that ignited a tempestuous rush of emotions within both men. Gepard's internal world churned in turmoil, an intricate whirlwind of thoughts and emotions that threatened to consume his senses. In that suspended moment, the boundaries of reality blurred, and he momentarily lost his bearings, forgetting the very essence of his surroundings. He didn’t want this… right? The contact, soft yet firm, kindled a wildfire within Gepard, it swept through his veins like a tempestuous current. His cheeks flushed, the warmth of his heightened blood flow painting a rosy hue upon his skin, while his heart threatened to burst from his chest in a tumultuous crescendo.
For a moment, time itself stood still, their lips fused together in an intoxicating tango of desire and unspoken connection. Gepard's senses reeled, overwhelmed and shaken by Sampo’s decision to kiss him and by the intoxicating kiss itself. Gepard was breathless and disoriented. He instinctively retreated, as if a force had propelled him backwards, his back colliding with the opposite wall of the dimly lit alley.
Gepard stood there, his mind still whirling from the unexpected kiss. His heart was racing in his chest, and he struggled to gather his thoughts. His cheeks burned with embarrassment, and he couldn't help but stutter as he tried to speak. "W-what was that for?!" he managed to exclaim, sounding more like a kitten than a fearsome captain. Sampo just laughed in response, a smug smirk playing at his lips. "Why else would anyone kiss someone, Captain? It's because I like you," he stated, his tone teasing but also sincere.
Gepard was dumbfounded. He had thought Sampo was just playing a prank on him, but it seemed there was more to it than that. "I admit I kind of got a bit too carried away with the plan," Sampo continued, his words threatening to dissolve into laughter. "This whole thing I cooked up was just so I could see you lose your cool, see the great Captain Gepard get flustered! Who wouldn't want to see that? And after today, I'd say this plan was an absolute success. I didn't blackmail Vera, she agreed to it, and that Silvermane Guard who told you about it was working with us. All for the sake of my silly plan."
Gepard felt a mix of emotions swirling inside him. He was relieved that Vera hadn't been blackmailed, but he was also annoyed that Sampo had gone to such lengths to mess with him. At the same time, he couldn't ignore the fluttery feeling in his stomach that came with Sampo's confession. He wasn't sure what to say, so he just stood there, trying to process everything that had just happened.
A blazing inferno seemed to rage within the depths of the Preservation user, engulfing him in a searing heat that permeated his very being. At that moment, the concept of an ice bath appeared as an oasis of respite, where he could quell the flames threatening to consume him whole. Gepard found himself suspended in a liminal state, his mind adrift in a haze of confusion and bewilderment. He had convinced himself that he had a vehement hatred towards Sampo, but the memory of that stolen kiss now cast doubt upon his conviction. Did he like Sampo? Gepard's internal compass spun wildly, questioning his own preferences, his own identity. Forget Sampo did he even like men? These disquieting thoughts cascaded through his mind, each question a hammer blow to the fragile construct of self-assurance. Gepard fought against the flood of revelations that threatened to drown him, attempting to deny the truth that lingered in the depths of his being. Yet, the force of Sampo's kiss had shattered the fragile illusion, leaving him with an indisputable realization. A part of him, buried deep within the recesses of his heart, had been awakened by the touch of another man's lips. The weight of that truth crashed upon him like a tidal wave, amplifying his embarrassment to unbearable levels.
A gradual crimson hue crept across Gepard's face, intensifying with each passing moment, as if his embarrassment were manifesting itself physically. He instinctively turned away, his mortification at his own vulnerable display consuming him from within. Sampo, ever the provocateur, couldn't resist but to revel in the moment, his grin widening in amusement. "Who would have thought," he playfully mused, his voice dripping with teasing delight. "The Captain of the Silvermane Guards would be so flustered from a mere kiss?" The mercenary's words twirled in the air, their playful taunts sending a fresh wave of bashfulness crashing over Gepard, completely transforming the composed and steadfast figure he usually embodied.
Sampo's chuckle resonated through the stillness, a melodic sound that danced upon the ether. With determination, he reached out and gently guided Gepard's face towards his own, his touch both reassuring and electric. Their lips met once more, in a tender collision of desire and shared vulnerability. This time, the kiss lingered, a slow and deliberate exploration that conveyed a depth of longing and passion beyond words. Gepard, entranced by the moment, surrendered himself to the intoxicating embrace, losing himself in the fervour that enveloped them. His fingers delicately entwined themselves within Sampo's dark locks, an unconscious gesture that spoke volumes of the desire and connection that had forged between them. Time seemed to unravel in that lingering embrace, stretching the fabric of reality itself. It was as if a century had passed. But eventually, Gepard's senses returned to him, the need for air getting too hard to ignore. He pulled away, his breath coming in ragged gasps.
Sampo's laughter echoed through the air once more, it seemed as though laughter was the only language he spoke. His gaze lingered upon Gepard's reddened countenance, eyes tracing the delicate contours of his flushed cheeks. A soft smile tugged at Sampo's lips, appreciating the unexpected sight before him. "I gotta admit," Sampo's voice dripped with playfulness, "I never knew you’d look so cute with your cheeks flushed like that." His words hung in the air, teasing and gentle, as he savoured the sight before him.
Gepard's response was a curious noise that escaped his throat, his attempts to clear his voice conveying a sense of awkwardness and uncertainty. Standing in close proximity to the very criminal he had engaged in an intimate exchange, the Captain found himself at a loss for words. "I um… I-I’ll see you around, Sampo… If y-you’ll excuse me," Gepard managed to stammer, his voice betraying a mixture of shyness and an urgent need to distance himself from the situation. With a hesitant nod, he turned away, his gait marked by a touch of unease as he awkwardly adjusted the positioning of his loosened armour.
Sampo chuckled to himself, his laughter a soft undercurrent of amusement that followed Gepard's retreating figure. Brushing his finger lightly against his lips, the lingering sensation of Gepard's kiss sent a tingling warmth through his being. A faint blush adorned Sampo's cheeks, a testament to the unexpected impact their encounter had left upon him. As he stood there, drinking in the afterglow of their stolen moment, Sampo couldn't help but wonder what future encounters might lie in store for them.
Caelus
Sorry if I don’t reply right away, I’m looking for trash cans
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You
So… I kissed the Captain
Caelus
YOU WHAT?!
Caelus
You went for it?!!? You mean your idiotic plan worked?!
You
YEAHHH
Caelus
I don’t even know what to say… What happened??
You
I managed to piss him off so much that he PINNED ME TO THE WALL. 10/10 experience would defo try again
Caelus
Wait.
Caelus
I CALLED IT REMEMBER?? I SAID HE’LL PIN YOU AGAINST THE WALL.
Caelus
Maybe I’m psychic, I should join the Divination Commission on the Luofu…
You
Don’t get too carried away buddy
Caelus
Sooo… how was the kiss anyway?
You
It was bomb, Gepard got SO flustered it was so funny and cute, I should have taken a picture fuck
You
He’s probably never kissed a man before, my guess anyway
Caelus
Forget never kissing a man, he’s probably never kissed anyone before
You
C’mon don’t be like that! Well, maybe you are right, he seems like the type of guy to avoid shit like that…
Caelus
Uh-huh
Caelus
You know, you guys as a couple would actually look good
You
You think so?!
Caelus
Yeah totally, your dynamic reminds me of relationship tropes in Wattpad fanfics or something
You
Caelus bro, sometimes I have no idea what you talk about
Caelus
Lmao it’s nothing don’t worry, anyway congrats on your plan working Sampo, I had no faith in it
You
Rude! But thanks bud, I gotta go give Vera back the ruby, cya!
Caelus
Hey don’t forget you gotta pay me for the help I gave you!!
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~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
"Those cogs go in the corner... yep, right there! Thanks for the help, bro," Serval's voice resonated with enthusiasm as she meticulously organized her workshop. Gepard stood by her side, assisting in the arrangement of mechanical parts, materials, and various tools.
In truth, Gepard had volunteered to lend a hand under the guise of being a supportive brother, wanting to make use of his remaining free time. However, deep within his thoughts, a profound sense of disarray rendered him incapable of returning to the front lines just yet. Ever since the unforgettable kiss he shared with Sampo two days ago, the Captain found himself ensnared in a whirlwind of lingering emotions that refused to relent. The memory of their intimate exchange had taken root within his mind, tormenting him incessantly. Even the mere contemplation of that stolen moment sent a fiery blush cascading across his cheeks, a vivid reminder of the intensity with which Sampo had caressed his face, pulled him closer, and claimed his lips...
Gepard's movements came to an abrupt halt, leaving him frozen in the very heart of the bustling workshop. Serval, sensing his sudden stillness, pivoted on her heels to face him, her brows knitting together in a quizzical expression. "Is something wrong Gepard? Your face looks red all of a sudden…" she inquired, genuine concern etching her features.
Gepard swallowed hard, his throat constricting as he wrestled with the words trapped within. He averted his gaze, shrouding his face from Serval's curious eyes. "I-it’s nothing, don’t mind me… it’s just a little hot in here is all." he stammered, his voice betraying the tension that gripped him.
Serval's lips curled into a knowing smirk, her eyes rolling in playful exasperation. She proceeded further into the workshop, clutching a box of meticulously arranged cogs in her capable hands. "Alright then, you don’t have to tell me if you don’t wanna," she declared, her voice laced with gentle amusement.
As Gepard exhaled a shuddering breath, his attention was abruptly diverted by the chiming of his phone. A message, an unexpected intrusion into his tumultuous thoughts, materialized on the screen. His free hand instinctively rose to cover his parted lips…
Sampo
Certified ancient relic agent
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Sampo
Hey Geppie! How’s it going?
You
Fine thanks… why are you messaging me?
Sampo
What did you expect Sampo to ignore you after all we did?! I’m not that heartless you know
You
You don’t need to make it sound so vulgar! Anyway are you in need of anything? Or something else…
Sampo
You seemed to enjoy yourself the other day while you were with me, hahaha you can’t hide it
Sampo
How about I treat you to a meal sometime? I mayyy be a bit broke but I’ll be fine
Sampo
So, how about it, Captain?
You
…
You
I’d like that.
Sampo
Alrighty! I’ll let you know when I’ve made the plan, see you then Geppie!
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Gepard bore uncertainty about the course of his relationship with Sampo, unaware of the twists and turns that lay ahead. Yet, contrary to his previous apprehensions, a spark of anticipation kindled within him, igniting a newfound excitement to bear witness to the change that would unfold along their shared path.