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Scaramouche watches as a young man in gold and white follows the Akademiya’s Scribe and Sumeru’s famous architect. He has long brown hair with streaks of white, and piercing green eyes. Scaramouche knows he’s from the desert based on his clothing choice. But what is a desert dweller doing in the city?
It’s a passing thought, not curious enough to care. The man from the desert isn’t very good at being sneaky, or maybe he is and the other two are just stupid. Scaramouche doesn’t know them personally, but he has talked to the architect a couple of times. The Scribe also makes visits to Buer’s office, but even that’s rare.
Point is, this is slightly amusing.
The desert man trips over an uneven part of the pavement, and almost knocks down a barrel of zaytun peaches. Scaramouche had already been here at the Grand Bazaar because Buer sent him to buy some things. The Scribe and Architect came in about ten minutes ago, followed by the desert man. The two men had been talking while shopping, but Scaramouche paid them no mind. He was more interested in whoever was following them, though hardly.
The desert man barely catches himself and the barrel. The two men move past Scaramouche, and the Architect briefly pauses his conversation to say hi to him. Scaramouche gives a brief nod in return.
“You know those two?”
Scaramouche is only slightly startled by the voice. He turns around and sees the desert man ducking behind the vegetable stand he’s at. His voice is smooth.
“Not really.” Scaramouche responds, and walks away. He’s been here too long.
And of course as luck would have it, the desert man follows.
“Could you tell me anything about them?” He asks.
Scaramouche tries not to roll his eyes. He’s trying to be nice this week because apparently Buer thinks he’s too mean. Whatever.
“I probably know about as much as you. But I don’t stalk them in my spare time unlike you.” That wasn’t too mean, right? Scaramouche is just stating facts.
The desert man looks amused, a small smile on his face. “Stalking them, aye? Yeah, I guess it looked that way. But I don’t think I’m interested in those two anymore.”
Scaramouche doesn’t know what that means and doesn’t plan on sticking around to find out. He couldn’t care less. “Well, kudos to you. See ya.”
Scaramouche walks away and the man follows him. Did he just gain a stalker? Is this what he meant? Scaramouche is beginning to get annoyed.
“And why are you following me? Plan on stalking me next?” He couldn’t keep the annoyance out of his tone.
The man only smirks, and it pisses him off even more. “No, I’m just interested in your big ass hat. I don’t come to the city often, so I don’t think I’ve seen you before. Mind if I take a closer look at it?”
Scara takes a single step back. “I actually do mind. It’s not polite to invade other people’s space.”
“Oh, sorry about that, friend! Say, what’s your name? I completely forgot to ask! I’m Sethos, nice to meet ya!” The desert man, Sethos, smiles widely. It’s bright and friendly.
“… Okay, hope to not see you around. Bye.” Scara doesn’t tell people his name, unless absolutely necessary. This isn’t one of those times. He won’t ever see Sethos again, not if he can help it.
He begins walking away again, and thank goodness Sethos doesn’t follow this time.
Instead, he laughs loudly and waves, “Bye, friend!”
Pfft. As if they’ll ever be friends.
__________________
“Excuse me, sorry to disturb you, but do you know a guy with a ridiculously large hat?”
It’s been two days, but Sethos can’t stop thinking of the man he met with the hat. He’s an intriguing guy who speaks in a clipped tone. His skin is like porcelain, pale and unblemished. He has striking purple eyes and purple hair to match. He doesn’t dress like a Sumerian, so Sethos wonders where he’s from.
He’s also very good looking.
No, good looking isn’t quite right. Handsome, maybe? Sethos will figure it out.
The random person he just asked shakes his head. “I’ve seen him around, but I don’t know his name. Sorry, kid.”
“That’s okay. Enjoy the rest of your day.” Sethos says and walks off. He hasn’t left back home, yet since Cyno invited him to dinner today. They’re meeting up at Tighnari’s house, and Cyno offered to walk with him so Sethos doesn't get lost. Sethos declined because he wanted to learn on his own. Cyno gave him detailed directions, and marked a path on Sethos’ map.
Sethos walks around Treasures Street, asking about the guy with the silly hat. No one seems to know his name, which is odd. Everyone in the desert knows each other. Sethos sighs, and decides to leave the city so he can be on time for dinner.
It didn’t take long to find Tighnari’s house. Sethos made it safely through the forest, but did get bit by a few bugs. It was nothing major so he ignored the bites. There are people hanging around at different buildings and Sethos assumes they’re the Forest Rangers. Cyno told him about them, and that Tighnari is like the lead Forest Ranger.
For the most part, they ignore him. Sethos doesn’t mind; if he’s stopped he’ll be late. Sethos prides himself on his punctuality.
He reaches the house that Cyno described. The giant leaves acting as a door are wide open, so he sticks his head in, shouting, “Hello? I’ve arrived!”
“Come in!” A voice from inside yells back. It sounds like Tighnari.
Sethos enters the home, and is delighted to smell something so delicious. Upon entering, there’s a small sitting area with a sofa and small, wooden table to the left. To the right, there’s another table where a few chairs sit and taking up the back wall is a kitchen. It’s where Tighnari and Cyno are. Walking further inside, Sethos notices a hallway to the left, just behind the sofa. He assumes there is a bedroom or two back there.
“Hey, Sethos, welcome to my humble abode.” Tighnari greets him, stirring something in a bowl.
Cyno, who had also been stirring a pot on the stove, turns around, “Welcome to our abode.”
Tighnari rolls his eyes, ignoring him. “Please, take a seat. Dinner is almost done, and Collei should be here soon. She’s finishing up some patrols around the area.”
“Do you need any help? I don’t mind!” Sethos offers.
Tighnari smiles gratefully, “Thank you, but there’s no need. You’re the guest today, so let us take care of you.”
Cyno nods, “Yes, lettuce take care of you.”
He waves around a piece of lettuce before eating it. Tighnari sighs deeply, “Ignore any and all of his terrible puns, Sethos.”
Sethos chuckles, not really minding it. The jokes themselves aren’t funny, but Cyno sure is amusing. “That’s okay! Cyno is entertaining me!”
Cyno smirks in triumph and turns off the stove. Tighnari pours whatever contents he had in the bowl into the pot. “Please, don’t boost his ego.”
“I—“
“Don’t.”
Cyno’s expression doesn’t change, but Sethos somehow knows he’s pouting. They’re an odd couple, but Sethos enjoys their company.
After a few minutes of small talk, Collei walks in just as dinner is being set on the table. “Hi, guys! Oh, hello! I’m Collei, nice to meet you!”
She greets Sethos kindly, offering a hand for him to shake. He does so gently, not wanting to hurt her or anything. “Same to you! I’m Sethos, I’ve heard so much about you!”
Collei takes a seat and Cyno immediately starts piling her plate high with food. Collei lightly blushes at that, and chuckles quietly, “Nothing embarrassing I hope.”
“We never talk bad about you, Collei. We only share good memories. Like that one time you tripped and spilled your fruit juice all over Alhaitham. That was the best day of my life.” Cyno says, sighing dreamily as he reminisces.
Collei is impossibly red at this point, “That was so embarrassing! Why did you say that in front of a guest? Tighnari make him stop!”
Cyno ignores his adopted daughter and Tighnari just rolls his eyes. Sethos watches them in amusement, already liking their family dynamic. He doesn’t feel uncomfortable or left out, either. It’s nice being with them, more than he ever thought. They make him feel at ease, and like he’s been with them all their lives.
They soon tuck into dinner, light chatter going around the table. Afterwards, Collei sneaks away to avoid cleaning the dishes, so Sethos offers to do it. Cyno helps him, and they make quick work of it. When they return to the living room, Tighnari is on the sofa, there’s a large bottle on the wooden table with three cups, and TCG laid out.
“Now that the kids went to bed, how about some adult time?” Tighnari suggests with a smirk.
“Sure! Seems fun!” Sethos agrees, taking a seat.
Cyno mostly ignores the bottle of alcohol and starts setting up the game. Tighnari pours them all some.
“So, this is the famed Genius Invokation I’ve heard so much about?” Sethos comments, eyeing the character cards. Are these real people?
Cyno goes over to the bookshelf and takes down a box of some sort. He opens it to reveal a thick stack of cards. “Yes. Have you never played?” Cyno asks, a little too excited.
Sethos throws a glance at Tighnari, who just shrugs and sips his drink. Sethos gulps, “Uhh. No, not really.”
Cyno’s eyes light up, but there’s no smile to accompany it. It’s a bit of a silly look on a grown man, but Sethos can’t help but giggle.
“Great, let me teach you.” Cyno states.
So, Cyno explains how to play and Sethos eventually gets the hang of it. He stops needing Tighnari’s help after about three rounds against Cyno. After about two hours of playing, they’re all pleasantly buzzed from the wine. They decide to take a break from the game.
“Hey, do you guys know the guy with the incredibly large hat? It’s so cool! I wish he’d let me take a closer look at it!” Sethos says with a small smile.
Tighnari and Cyno look at him, then at each other, and back at Sethos.
Sethos gets the feeling they do know him.
“Well,“ Tighnari starts, “I guess you could say we know him. He’s Lord Kusanali’s attendant.”
Cyno hums in agreement. “Yes. His name is Hat Guy.”
“Hat Guy.” Sethos repeats, not really believing that’s his actual name. “There’s no way.”
Tighnari rolls his eyes, and takes a sip of his drink, “He won’t tell us his actual name.”
Cyno places a hand on his husband’s shoulder. Sethos glances at it, and then at Cyno. “Is he not a… friend?”
“Oh geez. Definitely not. He’s an asshole!” The fennec fox exclaims.
Sethos finds their attitude towards Hat Guy interesting. He didn’t think they would be capable of not liking someone; especially Cyno.
“Well, he seems interesting. I would like to get to know him more.”
Cyno snorts at that. “Good luck with that. He doesn’t talk to anyone, and is usually hiding.”
“Hiding where?”
“I heard people around the Akademiya say he sits in the trees around there.”
Sethos keeps that in mind for later. The conversation quickly moves on from Hat Guy, but Sethos is hardly paying attention. He keeps thinking how he’ll approach Hat Guy, and hopefully converse better than earlier that day. Not to mention how beautiful the guy is, almost like a doll. His skin must be incredibly smooth, and Sethos gets the urge to caress him.
It gets a little too late, and Cyno is drunk, talking nonsense. Sethos takes this as his cue to head out. They wish each other goodnight with Tighnari covering Cyno’s mouth before the drunk man could say a terrible joke.
On his way to his rental home, Sethos decides to do some exploring. He isn’t that tired yet, and didn’t have too much to drink. He walks around the Akademiya, and eventually makes it to the Sanctuary of Surasthana. He was told that Lord Kusanali resides inside, so Sethos is careful and quiet to not disturb her. He walks over to the open platform, and leans over the railing. He hears crickets chirping, and the rustle of leaves from small animals.
Suddenly, he hears a twinkle. Maybe the sound of a bell? Yeah, most definitely a bell. It sounded far away, but close enough. Sethos looks around, seeing nothing at first. He heard it again, and was able to pinpoint it from within the high trees. Sethos walks towards the building, and to the side. He begins carefully climbing the thick trunk. He’s only been to the city a few times, but never really climbed up the great trees that hold up the city.
After a bit, he makes it as high as he’s willing to go. Sethos looks around, depending on the moonlight to help him. Then, he spots it. On a stretched out branch that dangles over the edge, there’s a figure. The figure sits there and next to them is…
A hat.
Sethos won’t lie, he gets a bit excited. He’s finally seeing Hat Guy, and so soon, too! He thought he’d have to wait until tomorrow. Sethos makes the effort to get closer, and once he reaches the branch, he walks across it. He holds his arms out, not for balance, but just because. Sethos doesn’t have trouble with things like this. Growing up in the desert helps you to gain all types of survival and adventure skills.
“Hey!” Sethos finally calls out gently. He stops about 4 or 5 feet away from Hat Guy.
The other man doesn’t look at him, continuing to stare at the dark sky. “Oh, you made it? What a shame.”
Sethos was half expecting a snarky remark, so he snorts. “Yup! Surprised?”
“The desert doesn’t have trees like this.”
Sethos chuckles at the roundabout answer. So, Hat Guy is one of those guys.
“No, but I have experience in climbing in general. So, Hat Guy? Is that your real name?”
Hat Guy glances at him for a second, “It’s real for you.”
Sethos stares at him for a moment, then understands. “What’s your name for those close to you?”
“Did you really think I would answer that?”
Sethos laughs again. He was right, Hat Guy is interesting. “Alright, alright. I’ve been hunting you down all day after we met.”
Hat Guy folds his arms, and sighs in annoyance, “I know.”
“You weren’t the least bit interested in who was looking for you?” Sethos asks, staring at the hat that sits on the other side of Hat Guy.
Hat Guys gives him an uninterested expression.
Scaramouche wonders what this guy’s problem is. He knows the desert man is new around here, but he should know by now that Scara doesn’t like to be bothered. The man was asking everyone about him for crying out loud.
Scaramouche replies, “Not at all. I had a feeling you’d find me eventually. Which you did, so now what do you want?”
The desert man hasn’t stopped looking at Scaramouche’s hat, and that annoys him. He now knows what he wants.
“I wanna touch your hat. I mean, I wanna touch other things, too, but let’s start with the hat.”
What?
Scara glares at him. “What the fuck?”
In hindsight, Sethos knew he fucked up. He didn’t mean to say that part out loud. Now, he’s going to think about it for the rest of the night (read: the rest of his life.)
“… That wasn’t very HR conscious, was it?” Sethos ends up saying, blush evident on his tanned skin. “I didn’t mean to say that.”
“Yet, you did. Which means you were thinking of it.”
Sethos doesn’t dignify that with an answer. It would only make him more guilty. Or is his silence doing that? Either way—
“Anyway, so can I?”
Scaramouche’s eyes roam his form. “Will it get you to leave me alone? You’re annoying and you talk too much. It’s like you’re constantly buzzing like a damn bee.”
The comparison makes Sethos laugh. It rings out within the leaves, and it seems like the crickets laugh along with him. His tanned eyes are screwed shut as well, and he nearly falls off the branch.
Scaramouche wants to leave. He’s noisy.
Sethos eventually stops laughing (it wasn’t that funny), wiping the corner of his eye, “That was a good one, Hat Guy! You’re funnier than Cyno! Don’t tell him I said that, though,”
Scaramouche is over this. He stands up, and grabs his hat, but is stopped by a hand on his wrist.
“Wait, don’t go! I’m sorry for laughing. I didn’t mean to offend you.”
“I’m not offended. And please don’t touch me.” Scara yanks his hand away, but makes no effort to leave like he had been planning to.
Sethos lets out a breath of relief, “Oh good! So, your hat. I can’t promise I’ll leave you alone because you’re interesting. I wanna know more about you.”
His eyes are soft around the edges, and Scaramouche hates that he can see Sethos is being sincere.
“You won’t know more, ever. I don’t plan on keeping you around.” Scaramouche responds, finally handing over his hat. The man is going to keep bothering him about it if doesn’t let him hold the damn thing.
Sethos takes it carefully, and closely examines it. “It’s marvelous. The designs are very detailed, and delicate. Who made it?”
“I did.”
Sethos’ eyes widened at the new information, exclaiming, “No way! You’re talented! Oh, now I’m definitely never leaving you alone. Tell me more!”
He looks like a kid during the holidays: all bright eyes and unyielding curiosity. It annoys Scara.
Scaramouche takes his hat back, and waves his hand, making it disappear in a flurry of yellow sparkles. “Anyway, I’m leaving now. Bye.”
Scara activated his vision to float above the branch. He descends the tree and Sethos calls after him, “See you later, Hat Guy!”
The last thing either of them hear is the twinkle of a bell.
________________
Another week of stalking—
Observing… goes by in a flash. Sethos had gotten really good at finding Hat Guy around the city. He follows Hat Guy as the man runs errands, or escorts him to his classes. Sethos will wait outside as well until the lesson is over, and go wherever Hat Guy goes.
Hat Guy of course complains. He’ll often glare at Sethos, and call him an “annoying little bee.” Sethos has grown fond of it, so it’s no longer an insult. Honestly, it never really was, but Sethos won't tell Hat Guy that.
Now, they sit in front of the Sanctuary, leaning over the rail. The sun is getting ready to set.
“When are you leaving?” Hat Guy says suddenly. They hadn’t really talked since they got up here about 20 minutes ago.
“When you do.” Sethos answers simply.
“No, I mean back to the desert.”
“Oh,” Sethos hums to himself. He looks over at Hat Guy, “Not too sure. I don’t tell them when I’m coming back; they know I’ll eventually come back.”
Scaramouche doesn’t question who “they” are. He doesn’t want to know, and doesn’t need to know. It’s not any of his business. He glances at Sethos, and it looks like he’s expecting Scara to ask, but it holds no hope. Instead, Scara says, “So, you’re gonna keep bothering me until then? Oh, great,”
The sentence is dripping with sarcasm and it makes Sethos giggle quietly. Scaramouche’s mouth nearly quirks up at the sound. Nearly.
“You know, if I bother you so much, why haven’t you told me to leave you alone?” Sethos retorts.
Scara scowls at him, “I have.”
Sethos shakes his head, “No, not really. You say it, but you never mean it,”
“I always mean what I say.”
Sethos suddenly moves closer, their noses almost touching. Scaramouche moves away on instinct. Sethos smirks, “Is that so? Why haven’t you tried harder, then?”
“You must like hearing yourself talk.” Is Scaramouche’s only response.
Sethos chuckles, and shrugs, “Maybe. I like hearing you talk, though.”
“Yeah? That’s absurd.”
“I would like to hear you say other things, too.”
If Scaramouche didn’t know any better (and he does know) he’d think Sethos is flirting with him. Hardcore at that. He wonders if he’s interested enough to humor the desert boy.
Scaramouche stares at him— studying. Could it hurt to indulge the guy? Sure, he’s annoying, but he’s intelligent, and not ugly.
“Other things like what?” Scara asks in turn, even taking a chance to take a step closer.
If Sethos is surprised, he doesn’t show it. His smirk only gets wider. In fact, he gets just that much closer, their noses brushing together but feather light.
“You screaming my name.”
Scaramouche raises a brow in interest. He guessed that’s what Sethos was going to say. He chuckles, amused. “You’re gonna have to try harder than that, little bee.”
Scaramouche moves his head carefully, pressing a kiss to the corner of Sethos’ mouth. The blush that immediately covers Sethos’ face is amusing. It makes Scaramouche genuinely laugh.
And Sethos…
Sethos has never heard anything more beautiful. Listening to Hat Guy actually laugh causes his stomach to churn, and his heart just a bit faster. He fears he may like Hat Gay more than he thought because he wants to hear that laugh for the rest of his life.
Even though it’s at the sake of his own embarrassment, he’d give anything to hear it again.
Despite that, Sethos couldn’t help but blurt out, “Go on a date with me. Please,”
That stops Hat Guy’s laughter, and Sethos is a little sad, but it’s important. Hat Guy stares at him for a moment; face expressionless. What in Teyvat did Sethos do? Did he upset Hat Guy? Dammit, he never should’ve asked! But he couldn’t help himself. He needs to woo Hat Guy!
“Maybe.” Hat Guy finally answers.
“Maybe? What does that mean?”
Hat Guy shrugs, “It means maybe,”
“Well, what can I do for you to say yes?”
Hat Guy sighs and looks away. A gentle breeze comes in, slightly swaying his dark purple hair. Sethos wants him to kiss him again. Or maybe even do more than kiss. He did kind of just insinuate that… He will no longer be thinking about his awful flirting skills, thank you very much.
“Give me two days. Leave me be for two whole days, and I’ll have your answer by then. Sound fair enough?”
Sethos is too quick to agree. He should be embarrassed— and he is. His face is red again, he can feel it burning. He isn’t desperate, per se, but he just really really wants to be close with Hat Guy. Is that so bad? Wanting to be close to your crush?
Crush is an odd word to Sethos. He’s never used it until now. But hanging around Hat Guy for a little over a week now has caused him to become more aware of his feelings. He thought the guy was interesting, at first. Pretty, too. He likes the way Hat Guy talks, walks, breathes—
Relax.
Sethos has never liked anyone this much before. He’s had fleeting moments of likeness towards others, but not to this extent, nor this early. It’s only been a week, and Sethos is this infatuated? Is there a time limit on these things? Sethos doesn’t know, but he also doesn’t exactly care. It’s how he feels, and he thinks there isn’t a time for feelings.
“Alright, two days it is. See you later, little bee.” Hat Guy says, tipping his hat and flying off.
_________________
“I’m happy for you, Hat Guy.”
Scaramouche rolls his eyes as he watches Nahida gently sway back and forth on her vine swing. She only chuckles at him.
“He’s different, I guess. Interesting.” Scaramouche explains. He doesn’t have to explain at all, but he knows Nahida is curious, even if she won’t ask.
Nahida smiles, “That’s good. I think you needed a change of pace. You said you’ll give him an answer in two days’ time? Why does it look like you already have your answer?”
“Listen, Buer, I don’t need you analyzing me, or whatever bullshit it is that you do.”
“I’m not. I’m just simply stating what I am observing.”
Silence takes its place in the room. They’re inside Surasthana at a room with just a table and some chairs. They’re always in here, but Scara doesn’t know what exactly it is. A dining room, perhaps?
“I do have my answer,” He breaks the silence, and takes a sip of his coffee. He continues, “I want him to think about it. He’s just been following me around for nearly two weeks; he doesn’t know me.”
“You don’t know him, either, but you’re still saying yes to the date.”
Scaramouche scoffs, “I thought dates were for that reason.”
Nahida laughs a little louder now, “Hat Guy…”
Scaramouche finally realizes what he said, and looks away, trying to hide his blush of embarrassment. “Shut up! You know what I meant!”
Nahida giggles some more, “I do, but it’s nice to hear you say that. Who would’ve thought in a million years Hat Guy would have a date! This is exciting, no?”
Scaramouche has had it up to here. He scoffs and gets up, “I refuse to listen to this nonsense. Bye.”
Nahida hops off her swing and it disappears, she positions her hands into a square shape, but before she could activate her power, Scaramouche turns around to flip her off.
“Don’t fucking read my thoughts!”
He hears her giggles on his way out the building.
_________________
“So, you actually like him? Like, like him like him?”
“Yes.”
“Are you sure?”
“Absolutely.”
“Hm.”
Sethos is sitting at a table in the tavern with the boys. They’ve got a casual game of TCG going (nothing is ever casual with Cyno, though) as well. He just explained to them how he feels about Hat Guy, and the deal that they made.
Kaveh drinks from his wine glass, chugging all of it in one go. He sets the glass down, saying, “I can’t be sober for this conversation,”
“You can’t be sober for anything,” Alhaitham said coolly, turning a page in his book.
Kaveh glares at him, but Tighnari interrupts before they could start arguing again, “That’s all fine and dandy, Sethos. It’s just that none of us have ever had a decent conversation with the guy,”
Cyno does a special move, taking out Sethos’ Collei card, “I tried telling him a joke to ease his anger… it only made him angier,”
Kaveh, whose glass is full again, chimes in, “He’s nice to me. Our first ever interaction was terrible, but now he tolerates me at best. Sometimes he brings me muffins that Lord Kusanali makes,”
Alhaitham actually puts his book down, and looks at Kaveh, “What.”
“Oh, dear,” Tighnari mumbles, and takes a sip from his glass.
Cyno ignores them, urging Sethos to play. Sethos does so, but looks at Kaveh and Alhaitham with interest. He’s been a witness to their arguments before, even when he was “stalking” them. He’s only recently started hanging out with them, but they make him feel welcome.
“What?” Kaveh inquires.
“He gives you muffins.”
Kaveh nods, “Yeah!”
“I thought you got them from a bakery or something.”
Kaveh shakes his head, “Nope. Hat Guy says Lord Kusanali always makes too many for him, so he gives me some. Is there a problem?”
Kaveh lifts a brow, daring his boyfriend to challenge him. Alhaitham always does.
“Not necessarily a problem, but don’t you think you should have informed me?”
Kaveh rolls his eyes, “This is why I said I can’t be sober,”
(That isn’t why, but the others don’t need to know.)
((They know.))
The blonde continues, “No, because I didn’t think it mattered where I got the muffins from. You liked them, so that’s all that matters. Besides, it’s not like Hat Guy made them. Lord Kusanali did,”
“That’s not the issue. It’s the fact he gave them to you. Don’t you see how that looks to me?”
“I don’t because you’re smarter than that. Hat Guy doesn’t have some weird crush on me. He barely tolerates me. The only people he likes are Lord Kusanali, and Sethos, apparently,”
Sethos blushes at his statement. If what Kaveh says is true, then he might have a chance of scoring a date with Hat Guy.
He tunes out the arguing couple to think about Hat Guy some more. He misses him. It’s only been a day, but Sethos got used to seeing him a lot. Sethos wonders if they’ll ever reach a point where they see one another every single day. Or maybe even wake up next to each other.
Get a hold of yourself, Sethos. Go on a date first!
Should he start planning their date? He knows Hat Guy will agree, but there’s still a small chance he could say no. But, Sethos can read people. And Hat Guy seemed really into the idea; into him. They were so close, their noses nearly touching. Sethos wanted to kiss him, or wanted Hat Guy to kiss him. The things he said to Hat Guy replaying in his mind make him feel a little embarrassed, but he’s happy that Hat Guy received it well, and didn’t punch him.
The small kiss left on the corner of Sethos’ mouth still lingers. He subconsciously brings a hand up to feel it. Hat Guy’s lips were soft, and he wanted to feel them against his own so bad.
Hat Guy has to say yes.
__________________
Sethos sits in the cafe, sipping a hot coffee. Today is the day. They never really agreed on a time to meet, so Sethos is trying to kill time.
Also, he has a feeling Hat Guy will show up at the cafe.
He just isn’t sure when.
So, Sethos sits and waits. He makes idle chatter with other patrons, happily yapping away. He doesn’t notice the other chair at his table has been occupied for the last few minutes.
“You literally talk to anyone.”
Sethos jumps a bit, and turns away from the conversation he was having with a student. His eyes light up at the sight of Hat Guy sitting across from him, a wide smile taking over his face.
“You’re here!”
Hat Guy’s eyebrow quirks up, a smirk settling onto his face, “You were waiting for me,”
He states it like it's a fact, and Sethos can’t help the light blush on his cheeks.
“I had a feeling you’d show up,” Sethos says truthfully. He chuckles a bit, “I’m glad you came,”
Sethos smiles brightly, and Scara ignores the weird fluttering in his chest. He won’t deny that Sethos isn’t ugly. His smile definitely helps with that, too. Scara wouldn’t mind seeing it more often.
When he had walked in, he wasn’t really expecting to see the desert boy. Scara just came in for tea, but when he saw Sethos, he couldn’t resist. For some odd reason. He knows the time limit is up, but he was fully expecting to see Sethos later that night, in their usual spot.
Their usual spot?
Scara scoffs to himself. When had he become such a sap?
“Yeah, well, I only came in for tea, so,” Scara gets up, leaving his half empty cup on the table.
“Wait! Just stay,” Sethos exclaims, reaching over to grab Scara’s wrist.
Scara will never admit that he did this so Sethos would ask him to stay. Not even to himself.
“… Fine, since I have nothing better to do,” Scara says, and sits back down.
Sethos smiles again, “You’re a bad liar,”
“Who said I was lying?”
Sethos shakes his head with a small laugh. Hat Guy sure knows how to play it cool. Sethos likes that; it’s amusing and adorable.
“Does this count as our date?” Sethos asks after a few minutes of conversation. He had gotten another coffee, while Hat Guy finished his tea.
Hat Guy crosses his arms over his chest, and leans back, “What date? I don’t remember you asking me,”
Sethos smirks, “I did ask you. You said to wait two days and you’ll have an answer. Today is the day,”
A sigh. “I suppose you’re right,” Hat Guy lifts his cup to take a sip, but Sethos notices a twitch of his mouth. It makes his stomach do backflips at the prospect of being able to make Hat Guy smile.
Hat Guy continues after setting his cup down, “Make sure you show me a good time. I don’t like living with regrets,”
Sethos nearly combusts with happiness. He grips his cup tightly, and can’t contain the wide smile spreading miles across his face. His eyes shine bright as he exclaims, “Of course! You won’t regret it, I swear!”
He’s so incredibly happy about being able to go on a date with Scara. Scara himself didn’t think anyone would be this excited at the idea of spending any amount of time with him. He supposes there’s Buer, but she doesn’t really count.
Scara is… Well, he isn’t unhappy about their date. Maybe a little excited, he won’t lie. Scara has never been on a date, so he isn’t sure what to expect. He doesn’t like not knowing things; that has put him in danger plenty of times. Maybe Sethos will tell him? If he doesn’t make fun of Scara, that is!
“So, did you plan anything?” Scara asks, trying to ignore Sethos’ exuding joyfulness.
Sethos shakes his head quickly, “Nope! I was kind of… preoccupied with— Never mind! Doesn’t matter!”
His face his heating up as it turns a bright red. Sethos tried to subtly cover it, but Scara immediately pulls his hands away. “Preoccupied with what? It seems like it involves me,”
Sethos looks at the pale hand on his wrist, back to Scara, then back at his wrist. Did he not like it? Should Scara let go? He isn’t into doing things others don’t like.
But Sethos doesn’t look uncomfortable. If he was, he would have been pulled away, right? Right.
“I was just thinking about… you.”
“Me, but not planning our date?”
Sethos shakes his head, “Crazy, right? Just you, nothing else.”
Scara hates to admit that his stomach feels weird, and there’s a light thrum beneath his skin. Sethos has only been thinking of him? He likes Scara that much? He can’t even begin to fathom liking someone that much. Scara tolerates Sethos, enough to agree to a date with him.
“Be more productive with your free time,” Scara says in response. He takes his hand away from Sethos’ wrist.
Sethos feels cold now.
It looks like the desert boy wants to touch again, but hesitates. His tan hand lays on the table, and slowly inches away from Scara.
“When is our date, then? Since you don’t know what we’re doing,” Scara asks instead.
“Hmm,” Sethos ponders out loud. He taps his fingers on his chin, then gasps quietly, “Tomorrow is Friday! I’m sure there’s an event going on we could go to. Does that sound okay? I know you tend to avoid crowds, so…” He trails off his sentence, awaiting Scara’s response.
He really doesn’t want to. Being in a crowded area is one of the worst things ever. Being so close to another body is unnecessary and uncomfortable. However, Scara wants to try. Not for Sethos,and his cute smile, but just to try.
Scara shrugs nonchalantly, “That sounds fine. You know where to find me,”
He gets up from his chair. He needs to go now. Buer actually sent him on an errand that needs to be done by the end of the day.
“You’re leaving now? Are you doing something for Lesser Lord Kusanali?” Sethos asks him. He hates how perceptive Sethos is.
“Something like that. See you around,”
“Okay, bye! I’ll see you later!”
Scara walks out of the cafe, and takes a deep breath. He can’t get Sethos’ smile out of his head. Just standing here and imagining it makes his cheeks feel warm. Scara shakes his head and does as he’s told, trying to block out the radiant smile.
__________________
The next day, the two meet up at their tree. The sun is setting, and Sethos can’t take his eyes off of Hat Guy. He’s a bit surprised that Hat Guy dressed up in something a little more formal with a dangly earring hanging from his right lobe. Its light green color catches the light, and it’s beautiful.
Hat Guy is beautiful.
“Are you going to stare all night?”
Sethos is snapped out of his thoughts and he smiles, easily replying, “I most definitely could, but I think you’d find that boring,”
Hat Guy scoffs, and rolls his eyes. “Whatever, you sap. Where are we going?”
“I thought about it some more. I know you don’t like crowds, so I thought a picnic would be better. Does that sound okay?” Sethos asks hopefully. He really hopes Hat Guy says yes because he already set everything up earlier with Cyno, and Kaveh’s help.
Hat Guy eyes him, and there’s… something in them that Sethos can’t quite name yet.
“Just us?”
Sethos nods, “Just us,”
Hat Guy relaxes just a bit, and nods once, “Lead the way.”
Sethos smiles wide, and stands closer to him, “May I have the honor of holding your hand?” He holds out his hand, palm facing up. He waits patiently.
Hat Guy stares at it, almost assessing it, seeing if it’s safe. He eventually, albeit slowly, places his hand in Sethos’. It’s slightly cold, but incredibly soft. It’s the complete opposite of Sethos’s calloused hands.
Hat Guy says nothing, and Sethos leads the way. The walk isn’t too long, but Sethos talks the whole way. Hat Guy answers his many questions, until they reach a small clearing. They’re near a river, and there’s a plethora of fireflies around to light the night.
Hat Guy stares at the blankets, and food set up. His eyes widened just the tiniest bit, but Sethos saw it. It makes his heart pound at the sight of surprising someone like Hat Guy.
“Um, do you like it? I had set it up earlier, so I was really hoping you’d say yes when I asked earlier—“
“Shut up. It’s… nice. I appreciate it,” Hat Guy admits, his face slightly turned away. If Sethos didn’t know any better, he’d think Hat Guy was blushing.
He didn’t say anything, though, as a sense of pride filled him. He led Hat Guy to the blanket, helping him sit down like a gentleman. Hat Guy merely scoffed, and it made Sethos chuckle.
“So, I didn’t bring anything too heavy. There’s no special reason. I’m not too sure of your eating habits because well, I’ve never seen you actually eat. Which is strange, but that’s a topic for later,” Sethos yaps as he takes out a few containers from the wicker basket, “Um, I made it all myself. You know, home cooked meals are better and healthier. I also brought wine, if you drink that—“
“Hey, shut up, will you? You talk a lot when you’re nervous, and it’s annoying,” Hat Guy explains. Sethos would have been upset about being called annoying if it weren’t for the look on Hat Guy’s face.
He’s trying to cover up, but he can’t hide the intense blush taking over his face. His eyes are soft, almost fond, and he’s completely relaxed. He’s surrounded by fireflies, and the various containers of homemade food. The sun is nearly done setting, so the purple and orange hues are a wonderful contrast to his pale skin. He looks ethereal and Sethos thinks he feels himself start to fall.
“Sorry, I didn't notice it. Let’s eat, hm?” Sethos says softly. Hat Guy nods in agreement.
They eat, drink, and make small talk. Sethos trying to get to know him more, and telling Hat Guy about himself as well.
“The General Mahamatra is your cousin? That explains a lot,” Hat Guy exclaims. They’re done eating by now, and halfway through the wine.
There’s a light flush on Sethos’ face from the alcohol. He chuckles, “Crazy, right? We didn’t grow up together, so I’m still learning about him. Our dads had a falling out so we were separated. I don’t remember much of my time with him, though.”
“His jokes are terrible.”
“Yeah, but he’s amusing. Do you have any siblings?”
“Nope.”
Sethos refills their cups and puts the empty bottle in the basket. “So, it’s just you and Lord Kusanali?”
Hat Guy takes a sip of his wine, “… Yeah, sure. I’m just her errand boy, though.”
“I heard she convinced you to attend the Akademiya, and participate in the Interdarshan Championship. And that she gave you your name,”
Hat Guy snorts in amusement, “And who told you that?”
“Traveler,”
“Of course they did. What else did they say?”
Sethos looks away from the river, and at Hat Guy, “Why do you wanna know? Making sure they didn’t say anything bad about you?”
Hat Guys smirks at him, “No, they just have a tendency to run their mouth.”
Sethos chuckles, “Well, don’t worry. They only had good things to say… except for your attitude.”
Like clockwork, Hat Guy nearly shouts, “My attitude? What’s wrong with it?”
Sethos laughs loudly, “That’s what’s wrong! They said you have a bad attitude towards everything, and aren’t happy with anything,”
Hat Guy crosses his arms over his chest, pouting slightly, “I do not. I’m just being realistic about life. If that’s called a bad attitude then so be it,”
They’re quiet for a moment, Sethos looking at him, and Hat Guy trying to avoid his gaze.
“About the happy part… I never said I wasn’t happy,”
“Yeah? That’s good. I’m happy that you are.” Sethos flashes him a small, but genuine smile. He takes a chance and carefully grabs Hat Guy’s hand, holding it loosely in case he wants to pull away.
Hat Guy says nothing, just looks at their intertwined fingers, and then up at the starry sky. After a moment, he grips Sethos’ hand more securely. Sethos’ stomach flutters, and he takes a deep breath.
“I like you,” Sethos rushes out to say. He wasn’t planning on confessing tonight, but he couldn’t help himself. Was it not the perfect moment?
Hat Guy turns to look at him, but Sethos can’t describe his expression. “You have to be more specific than that,”
Sethos blushes a bright red, “… Are you going to make me actually say it?”
Hat Guy smirks, and nobody mentions his own reddening cheeks. “I don’t know what you mean,”
Sethos groans in embarrassment, and uses his free hand to face palm. “Oh geez, fine! I… Hat Guy, I have feelings for you. Romantic feelings, in case that wasn’t obvious,”
Scaramouche wasn’t expecting what to feel after hearing his confession. It certainly wasn’t relief, that’s for sure. Why is Scaramouche relieved to hear that Sethos likes him? He’s never sought out anyone’s validation (at least not in centuries) for anything. He knows a lot of people in Sumeru don't like him, and he’s always getting into heated debates with his classmates. Scaramouche can count on one hand how many people genuinely like his company.
Maybe it’s the sense of being wanted. He wasn’t wanted by multiple people throughout his long life, so he was always alone. Not that he minded; he was a wanderer. He didn’t belong to anyone or anything.
But now, centuries later, someone is sitting in front of him, telling him that they want him. Telling him that they actually enjoy his company, and like his harsh personality. It’s… a relief. Scaramouche didn’t realize he had been longing for someone by his side, and now he has the opportunity for it. He didn’t think he would get this far in life, and it’s not… bad.
It’s not bad at all.
“Good,” Hat Guy responds, subtly squeezing Sethos’ hand.
“… Good? That’s all?”
“Yes,”
“So, is it safe to assume you like me as well? You’re a quiet guy, you know,”
And Hat Guy does something that shocks them both.
He kisses Sethos.
Neither of them really react, just feeling the press of their lips together. Both of their eyes are screwed shut, and their hands are hanging on tightly. Hat Guy pulls away first, and immediately looks away. Both of their faces are flushed from the intimate moment.
“Does that answer your question?” Hat Guy says quietly.
Sethos nods dumbly, “Yeah… yeah it does. Can I— Can we do it again?”
Hat Guy turns to him, and is momentarily surprised by the look of adoration on Sethos’ face. It makes him feel all weird and tingly but in a good way.
So, Hat Guy nods.
Sethos kisses him again, taking his time. He places a hand just beneath Hat Guy’s jaw, his touch feather-light. Their lips move in sync, gliding together perfectly. There’s a hint of the wine still on their lips, and it’s slightly sticky because of it. Neither of them mind, just content to be in each other’s space like this.
They finally pull away, and Sethos can’t help the smile spreading across his face. Hat Guy makes an annoyed expression, and shoves his face away.
“What the fuck are you smiling about?”
Sethos laughs at him, “Nothing! I’m just really happy! Does this mean we’re boyfriends now?”
Hat Guy scoffs, “Are you asking me?”
“Fine, fine,” Sethos playfully rolls his eyes, and asks, “Will you be my boyfriend?”
“Asking after only one date? How bold of you,”
“Answer me, or I’ll just start telling everyone we’re dating,”
“What good would that do? Jeez, you’re so pushy. Fine, whatever,”
Sethos grabs his hand and kisses his cheek, “Good. And, I’m not pushy,”
“You are. Also, I wouldn’t care if you told everyone. It’s not like I’m trying to hide anything.”
“You really are something, you know?”
“Shut up.” Hat Guy kisses him again, but it’s short and sweet.
Sethos giggles, “You’re becoming more bold. Being my boyfriend is bringing you out of your shell!”
Hat Guy rolls his eyes, “I said shut up, little bee. Always buzzing nonsense.”
“I actually like that name, you know,” Sethos mentions, ducking his head down. He noses along the other’s neck, and up to his jaw.
Hat Guy feels goosebumps rise up, and chill go down his back. He turns his head, subtly giving Sethos more room to explore.
“Of course you do,”
Sethos chuckles lowly, and he feels the vibrations against his skin. Sethos places a kiss underneath his jaw, and looks up at him, “Can I have the honor of calling you by your actual name, now? Saying hat guy doesn’t seem serious.”
That actually gets a laugh from Hat Guy. It’s quiet, but Sethos hears it. “Sure, whatever. Call me Scaramouche,”
“Scaramouche… I like it,” Sethos pecks his lips, “I like you,”
“Are you going to keep saying it?” Scaramouche asks, fighting the rising blush of his cheeks.
“Probably. Maybe for the rest of our lives.”
Scara pulls away from him with a scowl, “Don’t get ahead of yourself,”
“Don’t worry,” Sethos smirks, “I plan on keeping you for as long as I realistically can.”
Scara rolls his eyes, “Shut up, you talk too much.”
“Then, come shut me up,”
“You’re so annoying,”
“Ah—!”
_____________________
“You’re officially dating Hat Guy?”
“Yup!”
“Congrats!”
“Good luck.”
“That’s… If you’re happy, then I’m happy for you.”
Sethos laughs at his friends’ reactions. “It’s fine! He’s really nice once you get to know him! He’s an even better partner!”
Cyno nods in approval, “As long as he treats you well. It’s your turn, by the way,”
Sethos looks down at their game, and plays accordingly. He takes out one of Cyno’s cards, causing the man to groan in disbelief. Next to him, his husband gently pats his shoulder.
“Yeah, I guess I agree with Cyno. If you need anything, you know where to find us.” Tighnari says with a small smile.
Alhaitham and Kaveh share the same sentiments, but it’s mostly Kaveh doing the talking for them both. Alhaitham doesn’t disapprove.
“I can’t finish this game, actually. He’s coming to get me soon. We’re going on a date!” Sethos says, handing his cards to Kaveh. The blond fumbles for a bit.
“Oh really? Doing anything special?” Tighnari asks. He quickly helps Kaveh sort out his cards.
“I don’t know, he’s— Oh! He’s here! Gotta go, bye guys!” Sethos exclaims excitedly. He gets up, and the four men watch as their friend rushes to the front door of the tavern.
There is Hat Guy standing with his arms folded, but as soon as Sethos approaches, his arms are around Sethos’ waist. Sethos smiles wide as they exchange a few words. Hat Guy is looking at him with so much adoration, it makes the four men want to puke.
They continue to watch as Hat Guy pulls him in for a kiss, keeping it chaste. He then reaches up towards his hat, takes it off, and places it on Sethos’ head. He says something, and Sethos is blushing immediately. After that, they leave the tavern hand in hand.
“Wow.” Tighnari mumbles.
“That was… unexpected.” Cyno says.
“I told you guys he’s only nice to certain people. But that was cute! They look good together!” Kaveh comments.
“They will probably last a while.” Alhaitham chimes in, going back to his book.
“Yeahhh…” The other three agree in unison as they stare at the empty space the couple occupied.