Work Text:
It began from a stray letter and an obvious exchange between two friends. Alhaitham is only interested in epistolary if they bore a beneficial result otherwise he disregards it most of the time as it tends to gravitate on personal matters.
Listen!! A story between eremite and a scholar—TELL ME you see the vision!!!!
I DO but to be honest do you think it’ll fit either of them??
OHO are you really asking me this?? Of ALL people?? The real question is who is WHO? In my opinion Prof. Kaveh fits to be eremite better with how often he’s in the desert BUT Scribe Alhaitham is fitting too because…
Those protruding muscles are simply ATTROCIOUS like have you SEEN his chest?!?
I am not blind and it’s probably the first thing I see every time he walks pass outside the Akademiya
So like… is Scribe Alhaitham will be the eremite??
I love it when you’re always down every time
I like to be challenged.
When are we going to start drafting??Come meet me
The next confiscated paper seems to be the amalgamation of their shared ideas and enthusiasm. Alhaitham needs only to skim through the first paragraph to know his mind will need preparation for this wholly and uncharted field of entertainment.
The Regal Runaway and His Savage Savior
The desert has been named as a land of barbarians, savages and unruly eremites that only follows their instincts. It is said that they will not hesitate to tear apart anyone that is proven to betray their trust and bring threats to their land.
There is however, one man that doesn’t share these ideals. Alhaitham always thought fighting is troublesome, exhausting and a foolish endeavor. Titles and triumphants are temporary, as well as fame and the current tides in the desert. There will come a day that either of the two sides need to swallow pride in order for the tranquility to continue. There will come a day one person will be enough to serve as a catalyst for the events to roll, whether for the greater good or the end of it all.
That day came one cold night. His face is brimming with anxiety and determination. Under the grace of silver rays, Alhaitham is captivated. Their eyes shone whey they met, crimson and teal.
The excerpt alone was a lot to unpack but Alhaitham remained glued and reading. The chapters are short, often than not a series of errors and confusing timelines merges but the story has dutifully focused on what supposed to be him and Kaveh, and their utterly romantic escapade as they try to stop a long war between their respected region. It was ambiguous to write and Alhaitham immediately spotted the part where the political stances made no sense other than serving as a plot—
“... Grand Sage—”
“Acting Grand Sage,” Alhaitham corrected and heeding the time, he blinked slowly at the numbers on his desk and the untouched pile of proposals that needed reviewing. “What is it?”
Ashk enters warily at his presence and Alhaitham sees the handful of reasons cradled in his arms. “Uhm.. someone dropped this at front and said you need—”
“The submission for a proposal is between 1PM and 4PM, anything that is submitted passed the said schedule is subjected to be reviewed the following day on the order it was given.” Alhaitham stated sternly. “Send it back.”
“... yes, I—Okay, what should I tell them if they ask?”
“If they have eyes and whether they can read or not. My schedule is posted outside, if they have a complaint, they are free to submit between those hours. I will not be reviewing anything five minutes before I’m off the clock.” Alhaitham gestured at the documents on his side, granted he had lost track of them reading the organized chapters that he was certain didn't belong to the Grand Sage’s desk. Has anyone read it?
The Grand Sage’s office, while glamorous, is an utter inconvenience and waste of space with the exemption of the books stored in standard shelves plastered like a wall. The trip spent waiting for the lift was enough to make one drowsy, it makes everything drawn out longer even for a quick task of simply delivering. Alhaitham cannot wait to be back at his usual quarter where everything is within arms reach and any work can be left behind a closed door.
“Do not entertain anyone, tell them to come back tomorrow only after submitting a proper request. You should head out as well,”
Alhaitham left with flourish, in his hand is the same paper he had been reading, clutched tightly in hold.
The market is a blend of street lights and continuously moving shadows. It tends to be crowded when night falls closely, the stalls are occupied and the street becomes busy.
A red cape escaping within the crowd caught Alhaitham’s attention and naturally sauntered towards the owner of it. Kaveh’s laughter drowned but Alhaitham focused on it, seeing the marks of the day linger on Kaveh’s cheeks and his utter unawareness of Alhaitham’s presence.
“It’s been getting cold at night, a stew would be lovely!”
“I would love to, but Alhai—Ah, my roommate dislikes anything classified as soup so I haven’t cooked my favorites in a while. I’m sure a warm soup would be heavenly tonight!” Kaveh retorted with the same glee, equally delighted.
Alhaitham nods quietly when the Auntie from the stall throws a knowing look. “You made it seem like I’m stopping you from cooking anything freely—”
“Gah! Alhaitham!”
“—which is not the case.” Alhaitham barely bats an eye to Kaveh’s startled look and peers at his arms carrying bags of said groceries. He frowned. “I thought we’ll be buying together?”
“We’re running out of everything, at best we’re having coffee for an entire day if I waited for you.” Kaveh huffs, his cheeks dusting in pink from the seeping cold of the night. “Anyway, did you just get off from work? You’re quite late,”
“Mn, some just don't seem to understand the importance of following a schedule. It was made and posted for a reason, they lack discipline and it’s affecting me. Give me that.” Alhaitham gestured for the bag of groceries and waited until Kaveh carefully deposited them into his arms, tucking away the little manuscript he’d taken earlier. “If you’re still buying then might as well speed it up, otherwise we’re starting the dinner late.”
“You’re such a baby,”
“Maybe I just like getting a full hours of sleep unlike someone.”
Alhaitham admired the content of the bag until he spotted the ‘anomaly’ amongst the usual list. Last time it was a zaytun peaches flavored candy, the other time it was dried mangoes with chocolate and now, it seems like Kaveh had taken a liking to anything that is strawberry. The snacks and treats are easily spotted even if Kaveh hides them, nor Alhaitham has a reason to point it out, he was not an unreasonable person to yank it out like an accusation. It takes a considerable amount of time before Kaveh starts warming up to him and the set up they’ve found themselves. Alhaitham had no intention of affecting the progress negatively when it’s going well.
Kaveh turns to the Auntie with an apologetic smile, “We’ll be going now. I’ll definitely come back for more fresh tomatoes!”
That being said, Alhaitham only notices a new bag of tomatoes in Kaveh’s hold. “That’s too much.”
“I’m going to make soup—for myself, don’t worry. We still have some bread and it will go stale if neither of us eats it this week.” Kaveh shrugged.
“Then just make two servings, it saves a lot of time than cooking two different meals. I’m not picky.”
“You’re not, you just have a complicated palate, and you don’t even like soup so why force it?”
“It was only while I’m reading that I found soup to be inconvenient, not most of the time, though I still prefer less messy and easy dishes. Am I not allowed to try something for a while?” Alhaitham glances at his side, seeing a stray hair of blonde fringes that darkens to the tips. “Well, unless you are not confident to make soup then I understand.”
The reaction was immediate and Kaveh wastes no time refuting what Alhaitham said with another argument.
Alhaitham pulls out his key, pleased at Kaveh’s already reaching hand as they both hear the latch clicks and the door opens, their shoulders brushing past each other and Alhaitham closes it with a thoughtful hum. “We’re home.”
“Did you lie to me back then?”
Alhaitham’s eyes shone with honesty when Kaveh searched for it. “It was true I did not have a rank nor in position to command, my family is humble and I greatly cherished my grandmother.”
Kaveh’s breath hitch at the implication and yet he still wanted—yearned to hear it directly. Alhaitham kisses the back of his hand gently, his lips are soft while his hand offers a warmth of comfort that has been evading him since his arrival.
“Would you tell me why you did it then and.. what forces you to get involved?”
“The right question should’ve been ‘who’ I was doing it for. All of my answers trace back to you, I’m doing it because of you and for you, Kaveh.” Alhaitham said, his tone quieter and loud at the same time. His eyes bore a fire that has not once extinguished in Kaveh’s presence.
“Do you mean it?”
“In this war, I’ll be your soldier. I’ll gladly relinquish the three vows on my knees than be on the opposing side against you, know that I mean it with life.” Alhaitham swears.
— The Regal Runaway and His Savage Savior Chapter IX
The chances of Kaveh stumbling upon the stack of paper are high, considering how he always openly invites himself in Alhaitham’s study whether to do some cleaning or search for something. More often than not Kaveh exits the study packed with a lot of ideas to scold Alhaitham for the many ways he stores his books, other times it’s for a reason that the dust has been piling on corners Alhaitham doesn’t bother with.
(“Here! Just last month you were reasoning to me how hard it is to acquire these books and the next time I saw it, it'd been discarded without a care in the corner!” Kaveh kicked the box. “Is it so hard to clean after yourself?”
“You’re doing a great job at it, why would I disrupt it? Besides, every time I do the dishes you always complain about doing it again. I simply see no reason exerting more effort than necessary,”
“It’s because you don’t know how to scrub the dishes clean! Must I tell you how and in great detail like it wasn’t a common thing—”)
It was a rather fond memory.
“Gra—Scribe Alhaitham, some students would like to access the record room, I put their permission slip on your desk and.. uhm, would like to ask if you’d seen it—”
“I did. Send it back and tell them to redo it according to the prescribed format. Some of the details are missing as well, such as the names of said students that are asking for permission.” Alhaitham pinch the edge of it, “Inform them to submit it again tomorrow with proper and complete details, if not followed, they’ll be forced to wait a week to request another form.”
“U-understood..”
Alhaitham sighs. “If there’s nothing else..”
“A-ah actually, a professor from Haravatat Darshan would like to inquire when can they request an appointment regarding their recent proposal—”
“It was rejected.”
“Yes, but I believe their appointment is to appeal about the proposal again and wish to revise it—”
“Everything that required changes in their proposal was written on the paper when it was sent back to them. There was no need for a presentation and it was unnecessary,” Alhaitham pinched between his brows. “If any more inquiries come from then, decline every single one.”
“... Okay.”
“If there’s nothing else I’d like to work alone,”
Approximately three hours into reading when Ashk comes knocking again and he enters with a rather pale complexion. “Scribe.. uh, Mr. Kaveh demands to see you.”
“Let him in.”
“.. Okay, but he sounds very displeased.”
Alhaitham could guess by the absence of the bag next to his pen and wonder why walking to the office felt lighter this morning.
Kaveh stepped in and with the door barely shutting behind, “You! I can’t believe you made me walk all the way here! Do you know how the lift on this establishment is incredibly slow? Most especially the lift to the Grand Sage’s office—which is you..—”
“Acting Grand Sage.”
“Don’t interrupt me!—I can’t, for the love of god, wonder how you never forget to steal my keys every time you leave but somehow you always completely missed your own lunch box on the counter. It’s near the door, Alhaitham, don’t reason to me you didn’t see it because my key is only one finger compared to your handful of food—you know what? Give me your key and see if you’ll like sitting outside the door while waiting!”
Kaveh places the bag on the table carefully opposed to his sharp and demanding attitude. Alhaitham chose to prod the box instead, smelling something savory inside. “What did you bring?”
“You’re welcome by the way and it’s just roasted chicken with some rice. I packed some candied ajilenakh nuts along in hope to sweeten whatever bitterness that runs in your veins.”
Alhaitham hum appreciatively. “I can accept this,”
That, of course, made Kaveh scoff. “You made it sound like I’m offering it to you when in fact I’m doing you a favor.”
“In what sense?”
“You should really pick up a book that teaches you basic manners. Thanking Alhaitham, when someone did something nice to you the first thing you should do is to thank them and not insult them.”
From this low, Kaveh’s not comically large frame made a shadow hovering his own. Originally, Kaveh used to be a lot taller than him back in the Akademiya, Alhaitham was reminded for every time he would reach for a certain book in the House of Daena and Kaveh’s shadow pressed on his back. Though they were not officially competing about height, since it was more of a petty bragging anyway, Alhaitham recalled wishing to be a lot taller for a specific reason.
Kaveh’s blonde curls that darken to the tips rest easily on his shoulder, fluid as it falls that captures its weightless nature. Kaveh looks incredibly miffed, a sight Alhaitham has been privileged enough to be the receiving end. His earring dangles, fluttering near his neck and jaw every time Kaveh moves. Alhaitham stares.
“What? Had I finally made you speechless?”
Alhaitham wishes for his afternoon break. “I don’t recall demanding to have my own lunch delivered, you were the one who insisted I should eat real food. If you find coming here to be so bothersome, you could’ve asked one of the matra to deliver it to me.”
“Hah, and bother them for some nonsense just because the Acting Grand Sage forgot his own lunch?”
“Yes.”
“Of course you’d say that,” Kaveh grits, looking as if one touch away from pulling out his hair. “Anyway, try to come home a bit early on Friday. I specially reserved a table in Lambad’s together with Tighnari and Cyno for a small celebration—special because everything is paid by me.”
Alhaitham dragged his eyes off the table and up. “Small celebration?”
Kaveh grins proudly, his eyes disappearing and his pink lips stretched into a pleasant smile. “I sealed a contract earlier, just before coming here—which I wanted to share by the way but forgot—I’m not as needed during the actual work and this client is not only kind but also generous, she does have specific request but at least she didn’t made me redo several blueprints for a minor changes. So, 7PM sharp!”
“I don’t remember agreeing nor are you entitled to offer my time.” Alhaitham said, already noting the time.
“You’re insufferable! I am not offering your time when I’m inviting you! There’s a difference!” Kaveh pointed, nearly yelling.
“So you were asking for it?”
“Alhaitham,”
“Did you bring your own lunch?”
“My own—why?”
“So we can eat, my lunch break is an hour and you don’t appear as someone who is meeting a client this afternoon, surely you have no reason to not dine with me?”
Kaveh spluttered, his arms flailing continuously. “But here?”
“Does it make a difference?”
“... fine.”
Alhaitham made a quick note:
Minor correction: Kaveh shows his care a little more subdued, but he is excessive when it comes to worrying and that tends to make him talk a lot.
(A brief explanation about the three vows mentioned is likely needed) This chapter is acceptable with fewer mistakes.
Alhaitham heard the clatter from the kitchen first and the entry way smells pleasantly of butter. Quietly, he placed his key onto the dish bowl, sliding beside Kaveh’s lion keychain. Alhaitham shrugged off his coat and draped it on the divan, not halting his steps until Kaveh’s swaying hips came into view, too absorbed in his own music and humming. Alhaitham watched with muted interest, tracking every swift movement with unhidden fascination.
An array of aromatic spices occupied the counter while waiting bowls covered their table. A clutter of organized mess, Alhaitham thought.
Kaveh is still very much into his own show, the forgotten strands of hair on his nape flutter every time he moves and his usual half-up braid turned into a sloppy bun. Something clutch at Alhaitham’s chest, clawing up his throat as his lips twitch and quirked, resorting into an amuse grin while he watch the realization dawns on Kaveh and he shrieked—
“Gah! Alhaitham! Never sneak up on me like that!”
“I have no reason to sneak into my own house.”
“That’s why I said don’t sneak up on me and not the.. why are you—nevermind of course this is your house.” Kaveh’s cheeks puff, he was still holding a knife and Alhaitham would appreciate it if he’s not flailing his arm. “You never mentioned anything about going home early today!”
“I finished my work and saw no reason to stay so I left.” Alhaitham decided to be generous and granted a second of silence, “Have you ever thought of joining Zubayr Theater?”
The blush bloomed on Kaveh’s cheeks instantly and he turned, mumbling: “Creep. Not another word from you.”
Alhaitham sat himself obediently until dinner was served. It’s warm. Kaveh sat across, rambling about his day between sips of wine that Alhaitham was sure came from his cabinet. Alhaitham would share a bit of his sentiment while Kaveh readily refutes each point he thinks isn’t right. It was loud, with their forks and spoon clattering as they continued to argue (bicker) and the creak of the chair underneath Alhaitham’s every time he leaned his back to listen to Kaveh.
Evenings used to be an inane affair and meals are chores. Alhaitham can point when everything in the house, in his life, shifts and it is for the better.
“Wait, you’re carrying something.” Kaveh stops him. “What was your word again? Ah yes: keeping work related things strictly at work place establishes both physical and mental boundaries—then why are you carrying a document I see you brought from your office?”
Alhaitham didn’t dare to point out the implication of Kaveh watching him. “This is different.”
Kaveh crosses his arms and tilt his head to the side as if to show he was observing. Alhaitham appreciates the lines of his neck and fringe of blonde hair escaping its tie. “Well yes, you’ve never looked at a single document about work with glee and excitement like how you take this one. You’ve been carrying it since yesterday, what is it?”
“A rejected proposal. I find the contents to be an entertaining read, fanatic at some parts but still interesting.”
“You’re the only one who read rejected proposals as some source of entertainment. You’re close on par with Cyno and he recently became more insufferable—who hid a classic book jokes under their bed like some sort of illegal paraphernalia—”
“Good night.”
“Alhaitham!”
“The ‘rules’ of the desert are ‘no rules’. We do not follow such written rules, only blood and individual worth matter in this place. If you’re weak then you shall die, bend your heart and you are inept to lead, let yourself be driven with emotion and the desert will claim you. Do you understand, Alhaitham?”
“I refuse.” Alhaitham did not waver despite the sweat and pain, salt mixing with blood, his eyes did not waver.
“You really are a stubborn one. I admit you are too valuable to be discarded early. Alhaitham, you have the mind, the attitude and skill to lead our tribe, must you ruin yourself for.. some runaway? You have far more potential than this,”
Alhaitham closed his eyes and let the darkness have a claim on him. The fire crackled in the distance while the air had been thick, swallowing is an ordeal and he can hear the tiny scratches on the walls.
This, Alhaitham thinks, is something he was willing to endure to ensure Kaveh’s safe journey and return. He trusted him and not a single second of hope ever wavered. Kaveh promised him and Alhaitham would pour himself until he was empty. Kaveh wanted to escape but Alhaitham didn’t want to, running away is temporary and a short term freedom is not worth it of everything they’ve endured.
“He has a rather stronger endurance than most, you ought to think of another way to break him. It’s clear his resolve outweighs those whips. Make him submit until those outsiders have been killed.”
Alhaitham heard the stretch of leather elsewhere, in the quiet cave void of the sun and the air had not once filtered all the sands. Alhaitham kept Kaveh’s name on his lips, the only anchor that keeps his mind sane.
— The Regal Runaway and His Savage Savior Chapter XIV
Alhaitham had some thoughts and that he liked the current chapter.
“It’s not as if Cyno and Tighnari haven't seen you so ruffled before.”
“It’s called courtesy and manners, Alhaitham. Just because we know them doesn’t mean I won’t dress up every time we get together! Why don’t you start fixing yourself too?”
“I am already dressed appropriately, there’s no need to hassle myself. Unlike you I do not fuss over my own appearance,” Alhaitham spared a glance while Kaveh continued to be a passing shadow around. “If we were delayed it’s not going to be my fault.”
Kaveh peaks from the bathroom, enough to expose his still unbraided hair. His red clips hold out his bangs while there’s still remnants of foam at his cheeks. Alhaitham sits back on the divan quite comfortably, if Kaveh complains on the way he’ll just mute him off. Surely.
“And whose fault it’s going to be, huh?”
Alhaitham clips his cape onto his shoulder and taps at it to stable. “Certainly not me who purposely finished my work on time and rushed here. I even put in the effort to buy the gifts you asked me to.”
“You did one small thing and look at you boasting already.”
Alhaitham only sees a shadow of Kaveh’s hair and the sound of running water. “We could’ve bought the gifts together on the way and yet you insist you need a minimum of an hour to get ready. I’ll be the one dragging you back home in the end,”
“An exaggeration and we’ll just end up fighting over which one is the better gift so I took it upon myself to avoid that. Now get up and we’re leaving.” Kaveh returns with a slam. “You carry the bag, I’m leaving Mehrak.”
Alhaitham follows, swiftly taking both their keys and locking the door behind him. Kaveh waited a couple of steps, taming his hair against the evening air. Alhaitham is a natural observer and Kaveh has always been the subject of his following eyes. Kaveh didn’t do much to his appearance, he still had his braid, his shirt though he decided to leave his cape at home (a decision Alhaitham knew Kaveh will regret in the end) but he is radiant, simply as that.
“I don’t see you preparing this much every time you go out to meet with your old acquaintances.” Alhaitham nudges when he catches up.
“That’s because I know I won’t be staying longer, we are in a tavern to catch up and all they do is annoy me with academic talks! This must be some sort of curse or trauma that even after graduating the Akademiya still haunts me!”
Alhaitham smiles, reserved, and for an inexplicable reason. He looked forward. “You’re as avoidant as I am but people won’t believe me if I tell them.”
“It’s because I'm not as excessive as you.” Kaveh points and pokes at his arm as if to make his point direct.
“I failed to see the difference.”
“I smile and you don’t.”
“A fair point.”
“Your tone is suspicious.”
________
There was a saying ‘drunk minds are sober thoughts’ which, in another aspect, is a dubious way to see it. At least.
Alhaitham had never been kissed though that is not to say he is not curious. It’s just a matter of who he was going to kiss and will lose all his interest if it wasn’t Kaveh. It should be Kaveh and if not then he might as well imagine what kissing would feel like—point is, Kaveh is drunk and out of his mind.
“I’ll go get him some water before you drag him back.” Tighnari takes a quick brisk step, Alhaitham can still see his shoulder trembling from holding whether a laugh or a cry for help.
“Haitham…”
“At least you two have the decency to tell us personally though you’ve done it indecently.” Cyno stares, waiting.
Alhaitham is not exactly in the right state of mind to refute and acknowledge the hidden joke, his lips are slicked and taste very much of the wine Kaveh just sipped. Said person is nearly sitting on his lap and breathing on his neck as if he hadn’t just give Alhaitham the most unimaginable and less dignified first kiss Alhaitham will ever experienced, unless it was sucked out of his mind , something Alhaitham will refuse stron—
“Get it? Decency and indecently contradict each other.”
Sure.
Kaveh is often quiet when drunk, he only rambles at the start but would quiet once it gets past to a point of tipsiness and he’s purely functional because of alcohol. Picking up Kaveh from the tavern is far different from walking him back to their home. Others might assume he’s a loud drunk, flailing and talking your ears off until it falls, yet some nights Alhaitham had seen some clarity and truth in Kaveh’s drunk words that sometimes hit too close. Words that he wouldn’t dare say without the push of alcohol and Alhaitham always hope Kaveh does find the courage, because then he can assure him the ending result is not going to be a disaster that Kaveh always fears.
“Kaveh, you’re drunk.” Alhaitham shields his mouth and lets Kaveh’s lips kiss his palm. He’s warm and close and he smells like the perfume he whisked at himself earlier. As composed as he was, it would be a blatant denial to say Alhaitham isn’t a bit nervous. He is. “You don’t know what you were doing.”
Kaveh let his displeasure known, glaring and pouting as if he hadn't been doing that when he climbed his lap.
“I’m.. a responsible—drunk!” Kaveh reasoned with a concerningly strong determination.
“Clearly,” Alhaitham almost said fondly.
“I can guarantee the news will travel faster than you two can walk home,” Tighnari came back with a pitcher and poured them a glass, he pointed at Kaveh’s whines. “You negotiate with him to drink, at this point he’s only going to listen to you.”
“What a privilege.” Alhaitham held the glass carefully and Kaveh drank with a bit of protest, spilling at his own shirt and lap. He’s going to get cold outside. “He’s drunk, if he doesn’t remember what happened tonight then we have no reason to tell him unprovoked.”
“He kissed you.”
Alhaitham draped his coat around Kaveh and watched him snuggle into the warmth. He turns to Tighnari and Cyno. “While drunk.”
Tighnari made a noise while Cyno, “Do you wish he wasn’t when he kissed you?”
The answer should’ve been obvious and Alhaitham was not the one to lie to save himself (and begs the reason why he hasn’t told Kaveh the words that could either change the tides of their mending relationship, for better or worse)
“Yes.”
Kaveh shivers in his hold.
“You two effortlessly exceed the light novels Collei tried and failed to read secretly, but they all have the one thing your geniuses couldn’t get a hold of. Most of these can be fixed if you two learn to communicate openly.” Tighnari made an agonizing slow sip of his drink. “As a friend that’s my advice.”
“Advice is only given when asked.”
“My advice is the same as Tighnari’s ‘cause I agree.” Cyno added helpfully.
The noises faded when they left. Kaveh shivers and clings until they reach their doorstep. As if a trigger, Alhaitham steady Kaveh carefully on his waist when he tried to spring inside the house, skipping clumsily and yet with a relentless smile. Fondness forces its way out his throat, watching Kaveh hopelessly key the house, brows knitting in concentration his mind isn’t capable of at the moment. It was cute.
There were times Alhaitham felt their relationship was stagnant but progressing, it was moving but it wasn't there. (Though his mind argues the reason for it is because it’s not stirring in the direction he wants) Kaveh was an anomaly that pulled him into this series of complex and unwarranted events, affecting the phases of his life—something that without a doubt Alhaitham would go through again. No regrets, only silent hopes.
Alhaitham heard the click first before he shot up, not quite gaping at the fact Kaveh managed to unlock the door and once again attempt to throw himself on the floor. Their feet tangled, the door slammed on the wall and something flew off, a metal of some sorts. Kaveh vibrated on top of him, Alhaitham would be worried if it weren’t for the obvious glee of Kaveh’s shaking shoulder, no wonder drunk. He felt the pain on his back eased and focused on the weight settled on top of him, cushioning comfortably in his hold.
It was too much and not at the same time.
Kaveh smells heavily of the wine and fruits, the cold air lingers on his skin while it makes the flush on his cheeks apparent.
“The rug, Haitham—they’re moving..” Kaveh whispered, close and warm, inching impossibly nigh as if what he was about to say is illegal. “They’re worms, Haitham.. we’re laying down on worms..”
It was quite the night, putting Kaveh on the bed and refusing his drunken tantrums. He sulked at the corner before falling asleep and Alhaitham counted the red clips then put it carefully where it was usually stored. Kaveh falls asleep with even breath, unaware of the world and the mayhem he’d just caused. Alhaitham never branded himself as a patient man, his sanity can only extend for long, what’s another day of waiting?
The next morning Alhaitham brewed their coffee, anticipating. Kaveh stepped out of his room like a mess incarnate, sat across and mumbled a sleepy thank you towards him when he pushed a steaming cup of coffee. Alhaitham waited and watched the realization come to Kaveh in the form of spilled coffee and burnt fingers.
Kaveh stares at him, wide eyed, mouth gaping in disbelief. “Oh my god..”
Alhaitham dutifully wipes the mess and tends to Kaveh’s reddened fingers though he hardly reacts. The shock must’ve been enough to cover and dull both the pain and hangover. Alhaitham finished calmly, putting down the clean towel though he didn’t leave where he stands and instead placed Kaveh’s hand on his thigh as if some touch of assurance.
“What is it?” Alhaitham asks and even without words, Kaveh manages to be loud. He felt content to watch, observing the same brave crimson eyes under the influence of drink and the way it shakes right now. Then slowly, “Does it still hurt? It’s worth a trip to Bimarstan, your hand is your—”
“I kissed you. Last night.” Kaveh said, abrupt and almost accusing.
Alhaitham nods once. “You did.”
“I.. was drunk,” Kaveh swallowed, frowning at nothing in particular but his hands or the spilled coffee or the stains on their table cloth. “I kissed you.”
“We established that.”
Many things can render Kaveh speechless and Alhaitham found this might be his favorite. He can hear Kaveh’s mind, spewing and thinking things too much. It wouldn’t be a stretch to say he probably already thought of something worse, the aftermath and what comes after this. Alhaitham waited with a resolve that everything will be talked out.
“Senior,” Alhaitham calls, slow and feeling. “What’s going on in that mind of yours?”
A beat and Alhaitham decided he wouldn’t allow that fear and distress to fester. Kaveh didn’t lean, didn’t have to. Alhaitham waited a moment for the jolt, for Kaveh to push him away and yell but Kaveh didn’t and it was enough of a fire. Alhaitham surge, tasting the hint of coffee that barely touches Kaveh’s lips and reeled on its faint bitterness. His hand moved and cupped his cheek. Kaveh let out a shuddered breath, Alhaitham swallowed it and pressed more confidently when Kaveh clung to him tightly. Wanting and overwhelming.
Kaveh’s cheeks possessed a flush that differs from when he’s usually drunk, it travels down to the soft line of his neck and pooled teasingly on the expanse of his collarbones. A shade that border between pink and red just became his preference only applied to one person.
Alhaitham retracted his previous statement, this was the most preferable method to render Kaveh speechless. The one where it requires him to touch.
Dry lips and wet sands collided. Kaveh barely hears the storm miles away, uncaring of its stormy wind and the possible death it brings. Alhaitham held him dearly like a lifeline, tight and consuming, and he was leaning into it. Tears rolled down his closed eyes, a tiny drop of emotion escaping from the vast emptiness he’d felt when they were separated. Alhaitham felt warm, bruised but soft, bloody but Kaveh held him with equal possessiveness until their bodies merged.
“Alhaitham, I.. I’m..”
“You’re here. That's all that matters to me.” Alhaitham said, barely breathing. “You’re brave, you came back and you didn’t break your promise.”
Kaveh sobs, aware of the stubborn tears. “I took too long. They hurt you, you’re bleeding while I—and I…”
“Kaveh,” Alhaitham’s voice had always held this sincerity when talking, something that makes him instantly believe everything he says and by the end Kaveh found himself captivated. Every time Alhaitham calls out his name he sounds earnest, his whisper means a prayer and Kaveh had never had someone so devoted to him in his life. “It’s going to be worth it.”
“I do not deserve you,”
“You don’t need to deserve me in the first place,” said Alhaitham. “We’re here because I also chose to stay. I’m exactly where I wanted to be.”
Kaveh laughs, wet but it was genuine after a while. “You’re ridiculous.”
“I’ve been told. Let me hold you more.”
The storm struck, sending everything in the air as if it weighed a stick. It howls outside and even when it roars, Kaveh only hears his own breath and thumping of heart. Lost in every moment he’s sharing with Alhaitham.
— The Regal Runaway and His Savage Savior Chapter XVIII
The story doesn’t read The End nor it depicts as last, it was simply the last chapter in his possession and Alhaitham is not thrilled. The following page was filled with scribbled and attempts of pointers for how the story goes, a telltale sign that it has a continuation. It landed more in his favor, then it was only a matter of seeking the rest of it. The compiled chapters aren't long to begin with, it’ll only take an hour to read but for an obvious reason, Alhaitham felt the need to stop every period to reflect (and write down his criticism and comment for every chapter, it’s nearing four pages for suggestions alone.)
“You’re working at home?”
Alhaitham looked up to Kaveh already leaning down, a hint of shyness brushed up his cheeks. Alhaitham pulled him close wordlessly, tucking away the papers discreetly. “I’m only reading.”
“Reading is also your job so you’re working. What is it?”
Alhaitham notices the improvements. Following their confession and the kiss, the aftermath is a lot better than he’d initially thought. Kaveh lets him touch and do so in return, every quiet moment acts like a trigger and they would stumble for anything solid to hold while refusing to let go of each other, too drunk in the noise of their kiss. There wasn’t a drastic change, just that they no longer need to worry about whether what they’ve been trying to keep as a stable relationship between them wouldn’t crumble.
It was enlightening and Alhaitham began to see clearly how some parts of the story would make sense. How can mere bystanders come up with a whole story about their life anyway? It was a question for another day.
________
“Look up these two scholars and find which Darshan they were enrolled in and report it to me.” Alhaitham slid a piece of paper across. “Don’t do anything else I didn’t instruct you to.”
“Of course Gra—Acting Grand Sage.”
He nodded, satisfied. “Inform the Sages that the meeting regarding Sumeru’s Healthcare will be moved as per instruction, there were still no selected representative from the boards.” Alhaitham pinches between his eyes. “No decision is finalized until it gets my and the Dendro Archon’s approval, relay the added message that I will not be attending the rest of the meetings they listed. My presence is not essential and it’s a matter they can decide for themselves, if they fail to come to a conclusion they are free to consult the Archon themselves.”
“Noted. Regarding the two scholars, when should I deliver their reports?”
Alhaitham ponders the time, “Today.” and it’s not an abuse of power.
“Yes, Grand Sage.” Ashk left quickly, briskly walking as if he’ll be singed when the title slips.
The lift always made a low motor sound then a whirring noise before it finally settled steadily. Someone ought to check lest an accident happen if it was proven faulty and trapped him in the Akademiya.
Three figures walk out behind the console, with careful steps and quiet, nervous glances. The Grand Sage office is not exactly the sort to host audiences, apparent from the lack of spare chairs and table, while the standard bookshelves remain as its strong point. The only thing worth looking out for.
Wordlessly, Alhaitham pulled out the neat pile of documents, wrinkled on the edges but otherwise intact. Ashk left quietly, scurrying behind, which was unnecessary with how stricken and panicked the students looked. It doubles when their eyes land on the desk where the papers are carefully perched, Alhaitham waits and neither greets him.
“This,” Alhaitham taps where the bold title was masterfully stroke and reads: The Regal Runaway and His Savage Savior. He was never a fan of waffling and preferred the direct approach and so, “Where are the rest of this?”
They were students enrolled under Kshahrewar and Vahumana. It wasn’t surprising given how some aspects of the story showed a bit detailed of combined old puzzles linked with historical decryption, not to mention the setting was set in the desert with no clean timeline and made full use of what remains of the scattered ruins.
“Grand Sage we’re deeply—”
“Was it still in the process of getting written?” Alhaitham asks.
A gasp, “Pardon?”
“This joint project between you,” Alhaitham sighs and demands, “Was it still on going?”
“We are currently revising it, Grand Sage. It’s.. we’ve decided to change some scenes and include heavily.. intimate interactions.. but it’s already completed!” they said, cheerful only for a while and froze as they caught themselves so sudden. “Apologies Grand Sage..”
Alhaitham looked up once again, pondered and nodded after a while as if coming to a conclusion. “Bring it to me until today, you may come back again after I review it.”
“What?”
“A feedback from a test audience would bring more insight.” Alhaitham flips to the page where his handwriting was visible. “I already included my input and annotations here, whether you take it is to your choice.”
“Grand Sage are you..”
“In exchange, bring me a fully revised and published copy. You mentioned proofreading so I assume this was done with an intention of limited publishing.” he offers. “I’ll look over the revisions, in return deliver two copies to me.”
A neatly wrapped box parcel arrived through the mail a month later. Underneath the carefully placed ribbon is a letter of gratitude (formally formatted and written) It felt more substantial than average, sturdy when gripped and no dents on the edges.
“What’s that? Oh, It’s quite hefty..” Kaveh slid at his side, snuggling closely and squeezing him a little. He still has bed hair. “You found a scarce book somewhere?”
“It is a book,” Alhaitham guides them back to the living room, sitting on the divan and sighs pleasantly when Kaveh drapes himself at him, finding comfort in his lap. “I supposed it is rare given there were only five copies ever printed.”
Kaveh’s eyes are wide, curious and anticipating. “Five copies?”
Alhaitham nodded, inhaling deeply while a sudden surge of contentment rushed inside him. “The coffee’s nearly done and I was planning to reheat the leftovers from last night. Do you mind waiting?”
Kaveh is already reaching for the parcel when Alhaitham gets up, nodding once and walking at ease. The sound of paper ripping and Kaveh’s appreciative hum when he finds the letter—“It says here it’s from your students and they were thankful for your feedback.. Vahumana and Kshahrewar?”—Alhaitham carried two mugs, setting them on the table while the thin white vapor dissipated, smelling the rich toasted beans Kaveh favored.
A silence followed after a faint shuffling, then a thud and Kaveh’s furious declaration. “ALHAITHAM!”
_______
Extra:
The door to the study slammed open, nearly causing the wall to shake and Alhaitham only knew one person who had enough valor to disrupt his time. Kaveh stomps inside, fuming with imaginary smokes steaming from his ears, clutching a familiar book in hand. Ah.
Alhaitham sat and adjusted his glasses when Kaveh threw an accusatory finger at him—“You! Your awful taste in furniture bleeds in the story. I’ll dive head first into the abyss before I settle to something utilitarian void of creativity!”—and stormed out, just as fast as he arrived and wanting no more words.
Blinking, Alhaitham stares into the empty space, deciding today’s threat was mild compared to yesterday’s: “.. I will gently remove your bookmarks and fold the top corners of your books instead. See how you like it.”