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1.
The night was new, with the moon casting a glow across the Final Night Cemetery. Flins was inside the lighthouse preparing some snacks for Illuga, expecting his visit tonight. He sat at the dining table after grabbing a couple cups for the water, noticing that his fellow Ratnik was unusually late for his visit to Flins’ abode.
As if on cue, he heard Illuga’s voice outside of his home. It was muffled, but the laughter—along with the bark of a dog—echoed past his front door. This prompted Flins to investigate the sound, already aware of what had distracted Illuga enough to delay his visit to the lighthouse.
“I see you’ve made a new friend, Young Master.” Flins made his presence known, walking towards the Lightkeeper and the dog near the table at his shed. The shorter man, currently kneeling, looked up from scratching the golden retriever’s stomach.
“This little guy’s so cute; he must be hungry!” Illuga laughs again, shuffling the heavy luggage off his back to pull out a strip of cured meat for the dog. They sniffed the snack before chewing on the meat held in Illuga’s grasp.
Seeing this, Flins couldn’t help but be just a tiny bit upset. The supplies were for him, not the dog. He quickly sensed himself beginning to pout, so he re-composed himself. There’s no way he’s trying to compete with an animal for his Young Master’s attention. Flins decided to re-direct Illuga’s attention by inviting him inside.
“Please, Young Master, you must be parched. Let me pour you some water.” The fae gestured towards to door.
“Ah! That’s wonderful, thank you.” Illuga got up from his crouched position once the dog snatched the treat from his hands. Inside Flins’ house, Illuga spotted the water jug and had a thought. “Is it alright if I borrowed one of your bowls, Flins?”
Flins agreed, wanting to see what Illuga was planning and soon almost regret it. Illuga retreated back outside, bowl and water jug in hand, to give the dog something to quench their thirst. Illuga happily pet the blond fur, gently scratching behind their ears occasionally, while he also sipped from his own cup. If not for Flins’ rising jealousy, the sight would’ve been healing. Well, he supposes the two do share some similarities… Both small, fair-haired and bonding over water.
Flins won’t admit this, but heart softens just a little.
2.
Flins was in Nasha Town, finalising a purchase from Tarno at the Voynich Guild. The fae bid the man goodbye before turning around, antiques in arm, and spotting Illuga heading to The Flagship with the company of another Ratnik—perhaps they’re part of Illuga’s squad. Flins doesn’t recognise the Ratnik beside Illuga, noting that they were as tall as Flins(it looks the Lightkeeper’s hat may have added some height) and sported a masculine appearance.
The fae subconsciously followed them into the tavern at a distance, trailing behind just far enough to not be seen by his colleagues. He didn’t know why, but the way the taller Lightkeeper gazes at Illuga makes Flins feel unsettled. Not to mention, he’s way too comfortable intruding Illuga’s personal space. Flins watched as they both took a seat at the bar, the unknown Ratnik seated by Illuga’s right-hand side.
Flins quickly saw the opportunity to gracefully settle by Illuga’s left-hand side when he noticed that Illuga was absorbed in the conversation he’s having with the other Lightkeeper.
“I’ll have a Fire Water, please.” The bartender, Demyan, nodded at the request and started on his drink. Flins noticed that Illuga slowly diverted his attention from the other Ratnik once he heard Flins’ voice, almost akin to a dog hearing the word ‘walk’. It was very endearing, Flins would agree. The Lightkeeper leader looked conflicted, flickering his eyes back and forth between the fae and his other colleague.
“I didn’t expect you here, Mr. Flins. What a pleasant surprise.” Illuga flashed a smile at Flins once he made the decision to engage in a new conversation with the fae. “You should join us for a drink.” Illuga nudged his head towards the right, suggesting Flins should join him and the other Ratnik tonight. Flins glanced at Illuga’s companion, noting the barely veiled reluctance on his face.
“Oh, I’d hate to impose…” Flins would love to impose, actually. But he wanted Illuga to insist, just because the fae knows the Ratnik leader was way too accommodating to his fellow peers, so Flins tried to use that to his advantage. It seems like that was what the taller Ratnik wanted to hear from Flins’ mouth, since he looked more relieved.
“It’s my treat, don’t worry.” The face on the unknown Lightkeeper’s face was one of a person that knows they just lost. “Tell me about any new gemstones you’ve happened to come across!” The captain’s eyes sparkled, leaning a bit closer to Flins.
Flins revelled in Illuga’s attention. Of course, he felt a bit selfish. He had full intent to intrude on Illuga’s time spent with the other Lightkeeper. The fae can’t help but be possessive when he sees someone trying to steal Illuga away.
3.
“Young Master, would you like to patrol this route together? This way, I can keep an eye on both you and the sudden rise in the Wild Hunt’s activities.” Flins pointed at a location on the map of Nod-Krai. His finger hovered above the area near the Nothing Passage on Lempo Isle’s grassy hills.
It was a typical night at Flins’ house. Outside, the wind howled, setting an eerie atmosphere throughout the cemetery. Illuga was over for his routine supply drop and Flins’ welfare check-up, as per usual.
“Ah, sorry, Flins. I have a prior arrangement with a member of my squad. Would next time be alright?” No, I wanted to patrol with you. Flins’ mood deflated a little, before he caught himself. At the very least, Illuga looked extremely apologetic for turning down Flins’ invitation.
“Quite alright, Young Master. We can arrange for a later date.” Flins smiled, shrouding his jealousy for the remainder of Illuga’s visit. He shouldn’t be this affected. After all, his relationship with Illuga doesn’t have priority over anyone else’s, no matter how much he craves that it’s true.
The next night, Flins was patrolling the route he suggested to Illuga beforehand, albeit he’s alone instead. The fae was preparing the trek back to the cemetery when he spotted Illuga’s figure in the far distance. He was too far to hear any exact words being exchanged but close enough to catch the bright laughter from his mouth. Flins’ heart ached at the scene, wishing he was there with Illuga instead. Flins quickly turned his heel, each second of seeing them together further dampening his mood and increasing his desperation to get home.
On the other side of the meadow, Illuga noticed the retreating back of Flins, his figure recognisable. Initially, he didn’t plan on inviting Flins to patrol, believing the taller Ratnik preferred to work alone, so, he was caught off-guard when the Lightkeeper offered first. Illuga was regretful; he would’ve loved any opportunity to work with Flins.
The young Ratnik was looking forward to seeing Flins again.
✧✦✧✦✧✦
Surprising even himself, Flins didn’t want to see Illuga during his usual visit. He felt a little embarrassed about being upset. Nonetheless, the fae left a note at his door informing Illuga that he won’t be back until the next day. He decides he should work on quelling his jealousy, lest Illuga becomes uncomfortable with Flins’ affections.
4.
They’re on the patrol that they planned—together this time. The Wild Hunt were more aggressive compared to how they are usually, leaving both Flins and Illuga exhausted after their rounds through Lempo Isle. From the fights tonight spawned an unfortunate casualty: Illuga’s signature lantern is now out of commission and due for repairs.
The two Lightkeepers trekked back to Final Night Cemetery, the cold of the air sank into their weary bones. Heaving a sigh, the Lightkeeper captain collapsed onto a chair inside Flins’ living room, resting both arms on the chair’s armrests. He lifted his right arm and gently places the broken lantern onto the coffee table, a heavy metallic thud resounded throughout the room alongside the sound of Flins locking the front door. Illuga’s tired eyes gazed at his trusty lantern, regretful that he couldn’t protect it better. As if to give him a distraction, Flins offered him a glass of water.
“Drink up, Young Master.” Flins took a seat near Illuga, casting him a warm smile. “We can always fix the lantern.” He reassured the other Ratnik, resting a gloved hand atop the short man’s own hand. Flins’ hand was comforting, helping the younger Ratnik ground himself. Illuga returned Flins’ smile with his own before accepting the cup of water.
“Thank you, again, Flins.” The refreshing coolness of the water seemed to wash away Illuga’s fatigue, re-energising his body, but Flins could tell there was still a twinge of sadness beneath his demeanour. Illuga with his eyes closed, only noticed Flins had left his seat when he heard footsteps fade away into another room.
When Illuga opened his eyes again, Flins returned swiftly, carrying an unlit lantern in his hand. The appearance closely resembled the one Flins would always carry on his person—except it was not lit with a flame; the dark tarnished silver framing the glass globe glistened in the candlelight of Flins’ living room.
“You may use this lantern to guide you in the meantime, Master Illuga.” Flins handed the lantern to Illuga, who cradled it in his grasp. Suddenly, the younger Ratnik was revitalised, propping himself upright in his seat. He inspected the lantern with deep admiration, unable to hold back the grin that crept across his face. He faced Flins, ready show show his appreciation.
“It seems all I’ve been saying are forms of gratitude,” The Ratnik captain chuckled, “but, I truly mean it every time.” Treating the lantern delicately, he traced a hand over the metal detailing. “Are you sure I can use this? I’d hate to break another lantern.” He cast an anxious glace at Flins, awaiting his response.
“Please, Master Illuga, I trust you. Use it how you see fit; It’s yours now.” Flins stared back into his eyes, a warm atmosphere between them. “I hope you’ll accept it.” The words seemed to hold a deeper meaning to Flins, but it went unnoticed by the captain. At his words, Illuga got out of his seat with renewed vigour, and turned to the older Ratnik.
“I’ll be sure to take care of this lantern you’ve gifted me.” Illuga was grateful for Flins’ friendship and hugged the gifted lantern closer to his chest. “I’ll be going back to Headquarters now,” he picked up the broken lantern on the coffee table, the other hand holding Flins’ lantern. “Rest well, Flins.”
At those words, Flins also rose from his seat, wanting to walk Illuga to his front door. A heavy fabric engulfed Illuga’s vision momentarily when Flins secured a scarf around the other’s neck.
“It’s quite cold tonight, please be careful on your way back, Master Illuga.” Unable to resist the urge, Flins gave Illuga a pat on the head for reassurance. The other Lightkeeper froze on the spot, the physical contact unexpected but not unwelcoming. “…Young Master?” Flins noticed Illuga’s brain working overtime, leaving him unmoving for a few moments longer.
All of a sudden, Flins’ body was pulled forward as arms wrapped around his body. Illuga was aware he had to be careful with the lanterns, but the hug was a need, not a want. In a moment of weakness, the younger Ratnik even snuggled his head into Flins’ shoulder, humming a contented sigh. He didn’t know how to convey his appreciation for Flins at this time, so the hug was a very spontaneous decision. It doesn’t help that Flins was warm like a fireplace; Illuga found it difficult to let go as he pulled away.
“I’ll see you later, Flins.” Illuga gave the fae a nod backwards (a wave goodbye as his hands were occupied) when he stepped out the front door. The fae held his composure quite well as he watched Illuga’s retreating back, giving a small wave of his own.
Once he closed the door, however, Flins’ ears gave away his flustered emotions. He felt his heartrate accelerate at the thought of their hug and prayed Illuga didn’t notice the way the lantern attached on his hip flashed a pale pink colour in surprise.
✧✦✧✦✧✦
A few days later, Flins opened his front door when he heard a knock, revealing Illuga with his bag of supplies slung across his back. The younger Ratnik was heaving slightly, breath condensing into clouds in front of his face. Illuga straightened up from leaning on the door frame when Flins welcomed him inside, face relaxing from the previously serious expression.
“It’s nice to see you’re doing well, Flins.” Illuga began unpacking Flins’ supplies, pulling out portions of preserved meats and other necessities. “Sorry I’m a little late; got caught up fighting the Wild Hunt.” He mentioned as he worked. No wonder he’s tired; carrying a huge weight and fighting at the same time is not an easy feat. Illuga’s lantern was in the way, so he detached it from his belt to rest it on the ground beside the bag of supplies. The sight made Flins falter for a second.
Illuga was using the standard-issue Lightkeeper lantern. It seemed silly, but Flins was devastated seeing Illuga not using the lantern he gifted the captain. It’s almost as if Illuga rejected him and turned to another. Alas, he didn’t have time to question Illuga since the Ratnik captain closed his bag in a rush and stood up, collecting his belongings.
“Alright, I think that’s everything. Did you want anything specific next time, Flins?” Illuga asked, adjusting the backpack straps and latching the lantern back onto his belt. That fact that Illuga didn’t mention the lantern stung, but Flins didn’t want to blow it out of proportion so he masked his emotions, giving Illuga a perfectly practiced smile. He hopes it doesn’t look too forlorn.
“No, there’s nothing else I need nor want. I appreciate the offer, Young Master.” Illuga considered those words, giving a calculating expression. Flins, again, watched Illuga part from his abode—this time with a hole where his heart was.
5.
Flins was on his way to the Clink-Clank Krumkake Craftshop for the maintenance of his own lantern, passing through the centre of Nasha Town. Near the Adventurer’s Guild, he could see Jahoda exchanging words with Illuga. They seemed to have been looking through the commissions posted by other people and Flins noted that Jahoda was helping Illuga count his mora. The wretched standard-issue lantern was still attached to Illuga’s body; Flins had half a mind to rip it off him.
Deciding he had time to spare, he changed his previous route to greet Illuga and Jahoda. Illuga was facing slightly away from Flins, so Jahoda noticed the fae approaching first. She perked up once she saw Flins walking closer, nudging Illuga with her elbow. Illuga startled, and Jahoda smirked, shooting glances in Flins’ direction to give Illuga a hint. Realising her message, Illuga shoved the mora pouch inside a coat pocket before redirecting his attention to Flins’ presence.
“What brings you to Nasha Town, Mr. Flins?” Illuga greeted his fellow Ratnik, caught off-guard by the chance encounter. Still, he gave a bright smile to Flins, happy to see him on a day where their schedules usually don’t align. “Enjoying a day off?”
“I was on my way to Aino’s Workshop to drop off my lantern until I saw you here with Jahoda.” Flins answered warmly, equally happy to see Illuga. “Were you doing anything interesting?”
Illuga looked like a deer caught in the jacklight, quickly flustering when he couldn’t think of a reasonable explanation. Thankfully Jahoda swoops in to same him last second, stuttering out her words.
“A-Uh— He was just helping me with a few jobs, so—so, I was paying him for his time!” Jahoda swung her arm around Illuga’s back and latched her hand on his shoulder; the pose was used to resemble their aforementioned partnership. The sight of the physical contact made Flins’ body crawl with envy, wanting to wrench the two away from one another. On his exterior, the fae seemed as nonchalant as ever.
“Yes, Jahoda just needed some assistance.” Illuga couldn’t hide his guilt from Flins’ sharp eyes; the Lightkeeper captain was clearly hiding something from Flins. Even if Illuga was the best liar in the world, Flins would see through him.
“It’s okay, Young Master, I won’t pry.” He wanted to pry so badly. He felt like a hypocrite. He felt so selfish—wanting to monopolise Illuga’s attention, touch, everything. The turmoil of emotions became worse when Jahoda leaned into Illuga’s ear, whispering something that Flins couldn’t make out. The proximity they shared made Flins’ stomach drop, and he had to force himself to not react. Jahoda, as soon as she was done, swiftly separated from Illuga and turned to leave.
“Don’t be late, okay? Have fun with Flins!! …” Jahoda’s voice faded the further away she jogged, waving goodbye to the duo. Illuga’s face started blushing even more furiously than before, his pink cheeks darkening to a red. Flins didn’t know what the response was a reaction to; was it their scheduled meeting later? Or the comment about spending time with Flins? He hopes it’s the latter.
“Did you plan for something later, Master Illuga?” Flins was terribly curious, and attempted to get an answer out of the Lightkeeper captain. The younger Ratnik only sheepishly laughed, rubbing his neck nervously.
“Ah-It—It’s nothing. Just helping Jahoda again…” Illuga’s face stayed warm; did thinking about the meeting with Jahoda give such a big reaction? Flins could feel himself getting upset again—curse these pesky thoughts. It’s not like Flins has any right to dictate who Illuga interacts with.
“I see… Am I not trustworthy enough?” Flins averted eye-contact, pouting a little. Maybe his bratty act could pull out more information from Illuga’s mouth. After all, the other Ratnik did seem taken aback at Flins’ grumpiness.
“That won’t work on me this time, Flins.” Illuga settled with a resolved sigh, choosing to stay secretive. So it is important… The one time Illuga didn’t give in to his bait. “Let’s go meet Aino and Ineffa together?” Illuga suggested, hoping to change the subject. Fine, Flins gave up, choosing to enjoy his day with Illuga instead and pushing his worries away for a later date.
✧✦✧✦✧✦
At The Curatorium of Secrets, Flins gave a pet to Ashru’s head (who was lounging on the receptionist table) as he walked past and making a beeline for one of Nefer’s other rooms. At her office table, the green-haired woman looked up from her paperwork with a knowing glint in her eyes, as if she expected his visit.
“Flins. To what do I owe the pleasure?” Nefer set down a file, propping an elbow on the table and leaning her chin on her hand. She definitely knows. Flins could see she was not even attempting to hide the amused glint in her eyes.
“Nefer.” Flins greeted amicably. “It’s nothing serious; I just wanted to know where my colleague, Illuga, and your employee, Jahoda, were planning to go ‘later’?”
“Depending on the reason for their meeting—work or leisure—I’m afraid may be confidential…” Nefer feigned disappointment, shaking her head lightly, as if she was in a predicament. “Besides, if it’s not serious, then you wouldn’t need to know.” A cat-like grin emerged on her face. They both know Nefer is having way too much fun torturing Flins.
“Is it too much to ask for—as your friend?” Flins tried to bargain, starting to get even more curious. Is Nefer trying to hide their relationship? There’s no reason to keep anything hidden… unless Illuga knows about how it would affect Flins. He bit the bullet.
“… Does Illuga know?”
“I don’t know what you’re referring to unless you specify.” Taken aback, Nefer looked a little guilty, not expecting the confirmation from Flins himself. She never meant to make him confess.
“It’s nothing, please forget it.” Flins had already given up. He knows Nefer wouldn’t share the information at this moment in time, maybe to respect Illuga and Jahoda’s privacy. He saw Nefer contemplating before he walked to the exit of the Curatorium.
“Flins, wait.” Nefer stopped him. “I wanted to apologise, I only meant to tease.” Flins nodded in acknowledgment, waiting for her to continue. “And… I’m sorry, I can’t share what they’re planning. I’ve been told you will find out later.” She gave him a reassuring look, hoping it eased his anxieties.
Flins hummed, showing Nefer he heard her. He thanked the Curatorium owner for the help before leaving the building, the words rolling around in his brain. They did nothing to soothe the dread weighing his heart, thinking about what Illuga could possibly be telling him later.
+1.
It was the day for Illuga’s regular visit to the Final Night Cemetery, the weather was surprisingly agreeable. The winds were soft and, in turn, the waves crashing the shore were more gentle like they were attempted softening the devastation his heart may face. Flins couldn’t stop thinking about what Illuga would tell him ever since Nefer confirmed he would be finding out soon. He really doesn’t want to see him today.
Flins decided to give a late-night visit to The Flagship, wanting to wash his emotions down his throat with something strong. The fae left after leaving a note on his front door which reads:
‘Dear Master Illuga, I will be at The Flagship tonight. Feel free to leave the supplies by my shed; I won’t be returning until dark.’
Seated at the bar with Varka, they both downed a glass of Dandelion Wine (Varka’s treat). Flins didn’t expect to see the Knight of Boreas in The Flagship tonight, but thought a little company wouldn’t hurt. Varka even offered to listen to his woes when he noticed his troubled expression. The two men continued to bask in silence until Varka struck up a conversation with the fae, concerned about the lack of flattery and smug words from Nod-Krai’s resident ragebaiter.
“So, did something happen?” The Grandmaster of the Knights of Favonius tried to ease Flins into the heart-to-heart chat as nonchalantly as possible. They finished the last drop of wine before refilling both their cups; Varka bought a whole bottle, anticipating a long night of consoling Flins.
“I suppose I wasn’t explicit with my feelings upon gifting Master Illuga one of my lanterns… I wanted him to use it for work.” Flins pondered over his words, then continued. “When I saw him using the standard-issue Lightkeeper lanterns—it hurt.” Varka understood the context instantly, gaze softening.
“I couldn’t find the time to ask him about it afterwards, unfortunately.” The fae added more. “Last week, I happened upon Illuga and Jahoda near the Adventurer’s Guild,” The blue-haired man seemed to hesitate until, “I have no ill feelings towards Jahoda, however, I only felt jealousy when I found out they scheduled a meeting for a later date.” Flins gave a weak laugh.
“Something he refused to share with me.” Varka looked around, nodding in deep thought at the fae’s words. “It’s unreasonable, I know.” Flins’ face was veiled with guilt.
“Love isn’t unreasonable,” Varka pulled Flins into a half-hug, left arm swung over Flin’s back, “your reactions are well within reason.” He gave a pat to Flins’ shoulder, rocking them side-to-side slightly. Flins’ ears started burning in embarrassment, with the colour in his face following after. He turned away from Varka slightly, to hide the growing warmness appearing on his complexion—it was a cute look on the fae, admittedly.
“While it is true, to say it outright is a little…” flustering.
“Ever thought about confessing? I’m sure Illuga likes you a lot.” Varka winked. Flins gave a small smile in return.
“I contemplated it.” Flins knows Illuga is like the light; guiding everyone, everywhere, home. A lot of people rely on the future Starshyna; Flins felt it was selfish to keep the light for himself, to leave everyone in darkness. “I didn’t want him to feel pressured to agree,” Flins settled on saying. “He has a hard time refusing people, after all.” He giggled to himself, but Varka thought it was funny and also barked out a laugh in agreement.
“Sir Flins?”
The two tall men sat upright at the deep voice, recognising the owner instantly. Illuga was clearly out of breath, likely having ran here from the cemetery—backpack nowhere in sight. The young Ratnik’s eyebrows furrowed upon seeing Varka’s arm flung around Flins’ body, the urge to rip off the Knight’s arm was strong, but Illuga ignored it. He, in lieu, opted to deepen the scowl across his features, glowering at Varka. Future Illuga would probably look back at this moment in contrition, but he’s being fuelled by his jealousy right now. Varka sensed imminent danger and quickly raised his hands in surrender, palms out to show Illuga he means no harm, even leaning back a little to create distance with the fae.
“Mr. Flins, Mr. Varka, is it alright if I join you?” Illuga visibly relaxed, seeing Varka physically back away from the fae. He wasn’t sure if Flins left the note to invite him here or not; still, he showed up at The Flagship, just in case. It was hard to read Flins at present; his features betrayed nothing.
“Apologies, Master Illuga. We were just about to leave.” Flins avoided making eye contact with the Lightkeepers’ captain.
“I’ll walk you home, then.” Illuga proposed.
“No need; Varka already offered.” At the mention of his name, Varka looked dumbfounded, verifying the fact that he did not indeed offer. One of them internally thanked the blond Knight whilst one cursed him.
…
“Did I do something wrong, Flins? …”
“It’s nothing important.” Flins couldn’t bring himself to face Illuga.
“It is; it’s hurting you.” Illuga insisted. “Please… I want to fix it.” At this point, Varka sat in the backlines, watching everything unfold, hoping to let the duo communicate their way through it. Flins closed his eyes and sighed in defeat; there’s no hiding it anymore.
“The lantern I gifted you,” Flins finally turned towards the younger Ratnik who was standing beside the fae at the Flagship’s bar. They met each other’s eyes, with Illuga looking earnest, concerned and relieved all at once. “…you didn’t use it. Why? …”
“Wh—?” Illuga was shocked, eyes widening. “Of course I wouldn’t use it!”
Before Flins could react to the words, Illuga placed a hand by his heart.
“It’s from you. I’d treasure it forever.”
Flins’ reaction was immediate; he covered his mouth, quickly flustering. Illuga watched in real time as the fae’s ears turned a bright red and the captain thought the way Flins’ face turned ruddy was just as pretty. The fae cleared his throat, not expecting such a heartfelt quote from Illuga.
“I wanted you to use it during patrol, Master Illuga… Like I’m there with you.” Flins felt vulnerable admitting that aloud, but he felt like Illuga needed to hear what he was experiencing these past few weeks. “It stung like a rejection when I saw you holding a different lantern.”
“Flins… When you gave me the lantern, I was ecstatic, truly.” Illuga reached out to hold Flins’ hand in his own, “I thought maybe I was projecting my own wishes onto the gift when I took it like a confession; ‘it’s too good to be true’, I thought.” Illuga chuckled softly, the rumble soothing.
“I was unbearably jealous seeing Mr. Varka so close to you. My fears that the lantern was just that: a gift, was true.” The young Lightkeeper poured his heart out to Flins.
“Your fears? Pray tell, what was so important with Jahoda that you couldn’t tell me?” Flins straightened his posture, countering in indignation.
“That—? …We were talking about—” It was Illuga’s turn to blush this time, “… My affections—for you…” He trailed off, not expecting his own boldness. Now the two lovesick idiots mirrored one another.
“… As were Varka and I.”
Varka, sipping on his drink, gave an ‘mhm’ as if to confirm. There was a beat of silence as the three basked in the ridiculous situation. Suddenly, Flins started giggling; what once was a small chortle turned into a full laugh.
“It seems there had been a significant misunderstanding in our communication.” The twinkle in Flins’ eyes returned, now knowing the full context.
“So we’re both stupid.” Illuga returned his own laugh, knuckles to his lips in embarrassment. With Flins’ hand still in his left hand, Illuga placed the right one on top, cupping it. “Actually, I wanted to be more open with you from now on.” He gave the fae’s hand a squeeze; it was reassuring and it give Illuga a tiny ounce of courage.
“I wanted to ask…” Illuga reached into his coat pocket, pulling out a dark velvet box. “Flins, what’s your answer? There’s a room in my heart that I, now, know no one but you can fill.” The captain looked extremely nervous, but he soldiered on, opening the box to reveal a lustrous gemstone resembling the colour of the flame that’s housed in Flins’ lantern. Flins was speechless, awed at the thoughtfulness the Ratnik leader’s confession.
“I saw it at the auction house and it reminded me of you…” Illuga looked away, abashed. “That’s why Jahoda was helping me save up. Apologies for the misunderstanding.” He closed his eyes, awaiting Flins’ answer.
“Master Illuga…” Flins reached out, tracing his fingertips on the gemstone acting as if it would break from a breath of air. This was the cause of their miscommunication; they truly were two idiots. “I don’t know how to express my joy; it’s beautiful… You have my sincerest gratitude.”
“Is that a yes—?”
The captain was softly yanked downward as Flins guided his lips into a kiss. Flins’ left arm wrapped around Illuga’s neck while his right arm caressed the other’s cheek. Illuga was startled, but he went back into action just as fast. He places the closed velvet box onto the table before cupping Flins’ face with both hands, deepening the kiss. It ended way too quickly, Illuga thought, as the other Ratnik pulled away. Flins’ lips were unbelievably soft…
“Now we have more reason to spend time together, Master Illuga.” Flins teased, playfully. Illuga then collapsed on the stool behind him, the adrenaline no longer keeping him standing.
“When you go drinking with Varka, can you invite me too? He’s way too comfy in your personal space…” Illuga tiredly grumbled, feeling a little possessive thinking about earlier. Now that there’s no more misunderstandings to clear, Illuga began backtracking to what Flins and Varka were doing prior. He leaned on the bar table with an elbow and rested his chin on it, pouting at his, now, lover. Flins and Varka both laughed, thinking it was endearing.
“Of course, Young Master.”
“C’mon, drink up! I got another glass for you,” Varka passed the Dandelion Wine to Illuga. He supposes maybe one drink wouldn’t hurt…
✧✦✧✦✧✦
After a couple drinks, Illuga fought to walk Flins back to the cemetery. ‘It’s on the way to Piramida!’ the young captain protested, and this time, Flins relented. He happily let the captain escort him home, strolling hand-in-hand. They were both buzzed from the alcohol, Illuga a little bit more tipsy than his taller half, so the captain seemed more relaxed and carefree tonight. There was more bounce to his steps and he admired everything on the path back to the Final Night Cemetery.
At Flins’ front door, Illuga look downcast, reluctant to leave Flins’ side. He contemplated his next actions, then tugged Flins down with his right hand (the one holding Flins’ hand), and his other hand cupped the fae’s right cheek. He kissed Flins tenderly, noting the subtle shock that ran through his body and the hum of electricity in Flins’ skin he failed to notice back at The Flagship. Illuga greedily nipped at Flins’ lower lip, and swallowing the low whine that left his taller half’s mouth.
They reluctantly parted, both wanting to continue, but alas they have duties to fulfil on the morrow and it was nearing three o’clock at night. With that in mind, Flins made an offer.
“It’s quite late. Would you like to stay the night, instead, Master Illuga?” he tightened the hold on Illuga’s right hand, eyelashes fluttering as he glanced at the shorter man’s lips. Illuga ignored the flirty behaviour, laughing instead; the fatigue was catching up to him once the excitement of tonight had began to die down.
“I’d love to stay over. Only to sleep, okay?” he teased. Flins dragged him inside as soon as he accepted, Illuga’s amused laughter echoing behind the closed door. They fell asleep in each other arms that night, dreaming of more days together under the twinkling lighthouse.