this is Salem, a land filled with magic and maladies. It is a place where witches and their elemental familiars gather, a home to legend and
lore that predates time itself. Yet of all the wicked and wonderful stories the past can tell us of, the most magical are the ones yet to happen.
This is Salem - this is the start of your very own journey. Welcome to starfall
Starfall is an animaga witch roleplay set in mostly modern times. Members play as witches in a world plagued by monsters, where the only safe spots are walled cities. Starfall strives to be a character-driven roleplay with expansive lore and a highly interactive plotline. We want to allow members to
create and look back on a magical journey, and mold the site and its plot as their characters grow.
“It’ll probably be something similar to what I usually wear. Though since you’re not their brother it would probably be a bit more... well it probably won’t cover that much.” The fake blonde said with a warm laugh. It would most assuredly be pretty much slutty forever 21 chic. Or something similar to that.
“You did? That’s pretty cool. It’s not everyday you fight with a celebrity.” It was a bit annoying though. Was she pretty? That was a question he shouldn’t ask. Did he think she was pretty... not objectively or anything. How did he feel. He could just reach his fingers out and figure it out. Probe the red heads mind. He wouldn’t. Shouldn’t. Couldn’t. Even these thoughts disgusted him.
“Okay. Thank you.” The young witch said shyly as the coat was pretty much forced upon his shoulders. It was warm. Very warm. It smelled nice too... like ivory and soap mixed together. It smelled like Aiden. That’s why he liked it. Stupid.
The area looked roughly the same. The vendors quality varied wildly the closer they got to the arena. Some were about what you expect from a general store and some were... well let’s just say they barely qualified as clothes.
”Some of these are... um... yeah. Even I can tell.” He was not a weaver or a fashion creator. Even he could tell a lot of these knockoffs were of subpar quality. Very subpar. There were more snack stands as they walked closer to the concert venue. Also more official looking merchandise. Or at least generally better quality. Not great but better.
[attr="class","a1lyric"]i got nothing but dreams inside[break] i got nothing but dreams
[attr="class","a1lyric2"]i'm just young enough to still believe, still believe [break]young enough not to know what to believe
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[attr="class","a1white"]
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Aiden gave a glance at Charani’s outfit one last time and while it was…a little bit weather appropriate he could only recall past outings with the boy. He hadn’t looked with intention to judge, but Aiden found himself in more…well more comfortable attire. As much as others lied to dress him up, he tended to be pleased with what he came up himself. The thought of dressing with less made him a little nervous, but if it was a one-time thing what could hurt? Right?? “Ah…well I don’t know if I could pull something like that off, but I wouldn’t mind seeing it.” He was always curious about dress up. Maybe because he had access to a wider variety of clothing than whatever he and Rosario could scrounge up together. [break][break]
“It wasn’t so much fighting as trying to get her and Emery to put some distance between the witches around them.” From what he remembered he’d tossed them a couple of healing spools and tried to help them get airborne. “I didn’t remember at the time she was a celebrity.” He added with a shrug. It felt weird seeing her album picture splattered onto cheap products, but he supposed that was a thing more Knights got used to when the coven only really accepted the rich and esteemed elite. As long as they did their work though, he couldn’t judge. [break][break]
“No problem.” Aiden said with a small nod. Even if they didn’t find anything, he probably had a scarf or one of Rosario’s sweaters in his bag to keep him warm if he got chilly. Which, judging by the masses of people they were approaching, probably wouldn’t happen. The music got louder but at least he found more things he would’ve liked to buy. The quality went up just a bit, and he imagined he would probably try buying form more official booths. He could afford it after all. “If I can find something that isn’t scratchy, I’ll call it a win.” He said as they moved right along. Still he spotted a few things that caught his eye. There were more artsy booths around selling what he could only describe as light up, rave gear. Blinking baseball caps and glowing plastic jewelry. He spotted a face painting booth with artists doing up glitter and glow paint for the party. Maybe there was a rave planned at the end of the night after all the acts had gone. He’d forgotten about the clothes already. Especially when the food truck smells started to roll in, faintly but very much in the area. [break][break]
“I can wait, but did you see that dude’s face paint?” he said leaning in towards Charani as he pointed out the now more noticeable individuals milling around with their faces painted. Some skulls, some half and half, some every just the eyes. Still it was a nice effect. “I’ve never actually been to Shatterglass. I usually watched plays with Gran and Pa.” he added looking back at his companion. “What about you? Did you come here to rave in past years?” he asked. “We could go tonight.” He added, though mostly as a joke. It sounded interesting in theory but he wasn’t a dancer. He was quick on his feet, sure, but that was street fighting, and he wasn’t allowed to do that anymore.
[break][break]
[attr="class","a1notes"] Charani Petrov no homo in the club-o
“It would probably look fairly different than your normal attire but we have a similar build so you’d probably look fine.” Of course there were other differences that mattered. Aiden clearly had a more muscled figure than Charani did. More like a sports player versus Charanis lean and more delicate body. Plus Charani had more of a baby face than his friend adding a cute quality to all his looks regardless of what he wore. Aiden looked boyish but still looked somewhat manly in his features... like a pretty boy protagonist in a manga.
“I’m sure it was all that adrenaline pumping through you.” It was life or death after all. No time to worry about things like money or fame when your life was on the line.
The closer they got to the music the more wild everyone’s looks became. Face paint was prevalent everywhere. Lots of oranges, greens and other wild colors that looked like glow in the dark or black light paint. Maybe for the finale or after show?
“There seems to be a lot of body paint too. I’m sure it’ll look cool when it’s dark.” The young witch said to his friend as the redhead excitedly talked about the face painted patrons surrounding the area. It was nice. He hadn’t ever been to Shatterglass but it looked like fun,.
”I haven’t ever had the pleasure. Though lots of people I grew up with usually go.” He was of course not going to mention the excess alcohol and drugs these friends would partake in during these after parties when they were younger, it was best not to tell. “That doesn’t sound to bad. I love dancing. Or well I’ve grown to like it at least. A decade of ballet and ballroom classes forced onto you tend to do that. Though from what I remember from the last party we went too you could use the experience.” He stuck his tongue out at his friend. They had danced together like once and at a costume party where Aiden was influenced by a costumed magic. Maybe without it he would be better. It was hard to be worse.
[attr="class","a1lyric"]i got nothing but dreams inside[break] i got nothing but dreams
[attr="class","a1lyric2"]i'm just young enough to still believe, still believe [break]young enough not to know what to believe
[attr="class","a1icon"]
[attr="class","a1white"]
[attr="class","a1scroll"]
Aiden nodded along to his friend. “I get dressed by other people so often I kind of roll with it now.” Unless there were high collars involved. Even then, most often than not, he went along with his what his stylist told him to do because that’s what Marjorie and Wilhelm paid her for. It felt a little different when it came down to the subject of Charani’s family. They were taking the effort to make something for him, right? If they were then he wanted to honor it in some way. Especially when he was probably already in hot water with them to begin with. Even if Charani hadn’t told them they were related. They could tell right? Rosario and Macintosh had understood after a week or two of visits and no Charani towed along. [break][break]
“Yeah. I was rough.” He said vaguely recalling how, you know, scary that had been. One of his first calls to action for the knights too. Part of him had been excited for the opportunity. In the beginning of it anyway. “I think I did face paint once when I was eight back home. Guess it’s a festival thing.” Was Shatterglass a festival? Did they treat it like one and just try to jam pack as many festival-like activities in one day? Maybe he should’ve looked into it further. Oh well. “You’re a first timer too?” he blurted out as he looked over at his friend. He refrained from saying he had assumed, because of his money, that Charani had been coming for a while. Still, it added an element of excitement to the night didn’t it? [break][break]
He smiled before adding, “It’s cool though. I feel less out of place if it’s your first time too.” Then again, a majority of their relationship had been something like that hadn’t it? He’d been anxious when he had first met Charani, hopes low in finding someone in HK that he could genuinely talk to. Ever since they gravitated towards each other at special occasions and parties. Things were easier to get through when you had someone that understood you. Whether it was disdain or nerves, it was still comforting to know someone. A rave didn’t sound so bad if he was with him. [break][break]
But it still meant dancing, something Charani was all too quick to point out. Aiden grimaced. “I haven’t had the pleasure…” he returned, barely able to stomach the waltzing lessons he’d gotten. If you could call it that. It was more of a crash course in basic ballroom dancing so if he needed to, he could. More often than not he refused. Not because he was embarrassed either. He accepted he was terrible. He was dexterous sure, and quick to move, but dancing was awkward. He didn’t particularly enjoy it. “Ahh…I’m good with just watching…Besides if I recall correctly you kind of forced me to dance, didn’t you?” He’d also been told he’d be cute as a maid or something, but that was neither here nor there. [break][break]
As they pushed further past painted individuals, McKenna seemed to get tired of the crowd and stepped back into the ether. As they snaked past a couple of booths with speakers and people excitedly purchasing CDs and records, Aiden put his arm on Charani pulling him closer as they squeezed through. He seemed particularly focused on the path ahead now that McKenna was gone. The main stage was still ahead but the real artisan’s market seemed to open up for them, sprawling from just a couple of shoddy booths into an entire decorated street. The roar of the crowd is a little overwhelming, but its mitigated Aiden’s eyes by the smell of 30 different food trucks mingling in the same area. He could hear various instruments going off. Trumpets to bongos to cowbells as people tried to hawk their wares. [break][break]
The quality seemed to shoot up here and the variety changed too. He spotted something that looked like wing chimes in one booth, and stained glass in the next. Though, he seemed more interested in food than anything else, and he had promised Charani a snack. “I smell salted caramel popcorn. What about you?” he asked, his hand sliding off Charani's shoulder. Side by side would no longer work here this was a line formation area only it seemed.
[break][break]
[attr="class","a1notes"] Charani Petrov no homo in the club-o
“I guess so. Or maybe it’s something this city just likes to do.” Skip over the first reply. Stop bringing up the fear, the dread that comes with being powerless. At the end of the day that was what the red headed boy was I’m the face of that event. Powerless.
“Yeah, my parents love going to these kinds of things so I never had any interest in attending.” It was mostly because he didn’t really like his parents. They were wild and carefree. To the point of neglecting their duties as parents. They just wanted to be free love nomads, not parents of five children.
“Hmm did I? I don’t remember that but it does sound like me. Well dancing is fun so Im sure I just wanted you to have a little fun but like with me obviously.” The teen obviously had forced his friend to dance in order to have some fun with Aiden while also being a nice excuse to be close and touchy feely at the same time. It had been a win win for him.
It wasn’t very long until they were alone. Well alone in a crowd of people but still as alone as they could be at the festival, neither familiar present physically at least. There were plenty of booths here. Witch dogs, Double Toil and Bubble Cocktails, Salted Witches Kernels, and other such fair food lined the area. It all smelled fatty and therefore good. “I think we should get something warm to eat. Maybe some popcorn or some kind of funnel cake. Something you’ll have to work off later.” Not that either of them would have an issue with that. They were both agile young men who did a lot of physically exhausting activity through their coven. Plus with their ages their metabolism is crazy high. Damn kids. They need to be far like us. Oh well. Time for food.
[attr="class","a1lyric"]i got nothing but dreams inside[break] i got nothing but dreams
[attr="class","a1lyric2"]i'm just young enough to still believe, still believe [break]young enough not to know what to believe
[attr="class","a1icon"]
[attr="class","a1white"]
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Maybe Mirrorlight was the festival city. It did have a vast expanse of desert where it could host such an event. Was it held here? That...Witchella event? Aiden had never gone, nor had he cared much of it, until joining the knights. He’d heard tell of the more elite, younger witches gossiping about who was going and when. Wait maybe it was somewhere completely different Who would want to camp out in a desert for 3 days? Maybe Charani’s parents. He didn’t ask though. Charani had never told him much, and he had done his best not to care. If anything, it seemed his guardian was more his grandmother, much like how Aiden seemed to belong to his own grandparents. Both pairs, unfortunately. [break][break]
He couldn’t help but snort at his friend. At the time, through the haze of the very hurt ego of one majestic dragon, it had seemed more like Charani ordering him spend time and less for mutual comfort. But then again it was Charani, and even under heavy layers of magically augmented arrogance, he felt compelled to please him even if he was insulted. “It was one of the more fun things I did that night.” The redhead admitted, knowing he would’ve stayed off the dancefloor and vehemently stalking and pricking and pestering various individuals to help his studies of fellow deceased weaving powerhouse, Gloria Silverleaf. “If it was fun your you then I’m ok with it.” He better be. He was probably going to end up in the same position tonight. After all what did you even DO at a rave? Vibe? This wasn’t the Hovel. You can’t just vibe check people inside a club whose owner you Don’t Know. [break][break]
But the question of how what else he could do with his only other friend in a club slowly faded as the smell of food enraptured his brain and corrupted all his thoughts, molding them into a single objective. And like a crack of lightning, Aiden’s eyes snap to Charani, blinking slowly as he offered his hand to his friend. “Funnel cake.” He stated, nodding quickly, focused on that one word. Fresh funnel cake? Powdered with sugar? Warm? Maybe...just maybe a little chocolate or caramel drizzle? It literally felt like his wallet was about to burn a hole through his pocket. He could have easily latched onto any of these options, this just happened to be presented to him in the moment. “Wanna split a lemonade or a water?” he asked as they followed the flow of the crowd.
[break][break]
[attr="class","a1notes"] Charani Petrov no homo in the club-o
“I always try. Some of those parties can get kinda stuffy with all those more... conservative witches.” He was of the... let’s just say more accepting generation of witches. Less about appearance and more about being a good person. Something his parents should take a lesson from. Well that was unfair, as they were not bad people. They just were not good parents. Forgetful, wild, unrestrained like flames to hot to the touch but pretty to look at and fun to be around.
“Okay. Funnel cake it is.” It was an offer of a hand, take it. Take it, take it, take it. I don’t know what this is but it’s a different piece. A different feeling as he allows this to happen. Sweaty. War. A little rougher, almost calloused from weaving magic.
“Lemonade sounds good but I think water would be better.” The teen said to the question asked. Lemonade would taste very sour after something as sugary and sickly sweet as funnel cake after all. They just needed to get there. Quickly. Were his hands always this warm? He doesn’t remember. . “I have an idea, follow me.” He poured magic into his eyes. His green eyes looked like they lost all color. Grey toned irises as he watched the worlds color fade from existence. In its place were three paths of light, one bright and two dull. The brightest path would be the best bet. He started to tug his friend in a strange direction. Left of their current position they would be attempting to cut across foot traffic. Assuming he followed along they would cut across people towards an interesting destination. The good news was that there would be funnel cake. The bad news is that someone else one of the two knew would also be there. Never trust a path.
[attr="class","a1lyric"]i got nothing but dreams inside[break] i got nothing but dreams
[attr="class","a1lyric2"]i'm just young enough to still believe, still believe [break]young enough not to know what to believe
[attr="class","a1icon"]
[attr="class","a1white"]
[attr="class","a1scroll"]
Aiden couldn’t hold back a grimace that tainted his smile at the mention of ‘conservative’. He knew exactly what Charani was talking, having had the displeasure of having to interact with those people. The ones that his grandparents apologized to profusely, and those who they touted him around to as a ‘victory over tainted blood’. Yeah, he was tainted, but not by Cunnigham blood that was for sure. Yet another reason to be grateful for Charani being there, a genuine surprise among the noble elites of the witch families in Sundial. [break][break]
He grinned excitedly as Charani put his hand in his, grasping to it tightly now locked into place for an indeterminate amount of time. Funnel cake frenzy clouds his mind and dulls the very real guilty little voice in the back of his head going You brat! You selfish little brat!. For the first time in a few weeks now, had he reached for Charani’s hand without hesitation. In the noise of the festival, he’d forgotten his entrenched guilt. He couldn’t help but his a little ‘Yes!’ happy Charani had agreed to his sudden rush towards fatty pastry. “Oh, I guess we should hydrate before a rave. You’re right.” He added with a shrug. The lemonade would be missed but he was sure his body would be thanking him later by not horribly cramping up right on his left side while attempting to get down with it. He was banking on most, if not all witches participating on being on some kind of drug or too in the zone to notice his terrible dancing though. Except Charani, who had already experienced only half of his horrible coordination on the dance floor. [break][break]
Before he can lead Charani any further, though its mostly the crowd moving one way, Charani tugs him in a different direction and they cut through the crowd. Aiden holds on, sticking close to the blonde as they move strangely, but efficiently. As they moved past, he made a note of their changing scenery and the booths they passed. This felt a little bit like when Charani had led him to meet his mentor at the lantern festival. He didn’t think Charani was paying too close attention to anything other than going so he made the mental notes himself. The seer pulled and Aiden stepped forth without resistance eyeing the food truck parked in off the track alley, the path leading away towards what seemed like another small event. They’d hit the back of it. “Nice work.” He stated his voice a little loud after being almost deafened by all the loudspeakers in the artist alley. His eyes slowly move from the food truck over to a couple of customers as he felt the unmistakable pin prick of attention. [break][break]
Eyes snap past and around and he recognizes further out, as a courtyard opened up, was a large sculpture garden, with the lights of food trucks on the other edge. An art exhibit. A fancy one at that. Ah fuck. He lets got immediately of Charani’s hand, expression suddenly steeling as the gaze on him makes his body temperature rise out of irritation. “Let’s grab our food and go, we can find somewhere else to hang around.” Definitely not here. Not as they stepped to the line, and not as he knowingly found those eyes so deeply set on him and Charani. The eyes of a spy. “Young Master Aiden, we thought you would not make it to the Abstract showcase tonight.” An older woman greeted with a customary bow of her head. She didn’t break eye contact as she looked at him, and her companion did the same, though his attention was more on the seer. “Bellamy, you don’t have to do that here.” He stated, but it sounded more like a sharp order. Granted they were standing in a back alley, for the most part. “Good evening to you, and to young master Charani as well. The madame will be happy to know you’ve found yourselves here.” She added with a polite smile. Aiden didn’t look back at Charani, but he stepped forward to stare down at the maid, trusted servant of the matriarch of the Emerson home. “No need. I’m just here for food.” Though it seemed that Bellamy’s companion was already whispering something into the older woman’s ear and rushing away quickly. Phenomenal.
[break][break]
[attr="class","a1notes"] Charani Petrov no homo in the club-o
“Hydration is important after all” He was correct, hydration is very good for the body. While the lemonade would also quench a similar thirst it was second fiddle to the true master of bodily hydration. H2-oh no this was not the path they should have chosen was it. Maybe the path was brightest because it would cause the most branching paths. Like the closest ripple of a stone thrown into a pond.
Aiden is correct in that Charani isn’t really paying much attention to where they are going. It’s more just following the light. Following the path his eyes can see before them.
“What???” The music and noise is very loud as they passed through. This was some kind of high fancy party or something. Only rich people were this obnoxious... especially since the music hasn’t really started yet so it couldn’t be from that. A small look showed a rather impressive looking courtyard that opened up into a large sculpture garden. There were the lights of food trucks on the other edge and what looked to be people everywhere in formal attire or at the very least fancied outfits than what the two boys were wearing. An art exhibit perhaps? Or something like that. A charity event?
There was a quick release of his hand after a moment of being around one of the food trucks. The prison of their prize. Maybe they had churros too. He did love dipping those in some questionable concoction that passed for chocolate. “You okay?” His eyes turned back to their normal color as he let go of his spell. His question was answered when someone familiar approached them. He didn’t know her name. She worked for the estate or something like that didn’t she? Or at least he had seen her in the estate at least one of the times one of the maids had barged in on his cuddle time with Aiden. God he had been so obvious. How had it taken Aiden so long to figure it out? Oh right he’s kind of dumb. Well in that way at least.
“Oh. Um hello. Nice to see you again.” That was obviously a lie. He should let Aiden take the lead. He was the one who would have to deal with them more after than he did. He purposely avoided going to that place unless he was running low on Aiden charge. It was worth it for a hug or some small talk to assault the demon kings fortress to spend time with the prince. Or something like that.
Telepathy time. He really didn’t like talking with them around... and he also didn’t like using his telepathy without getting a permission from Aiden first. He was sure the redhead would be fine with this intrusion though, “Well this is lovely. They’re already whispering. Conspiring. Whatever they do.” He smiled and tried to keep a straight face as he sent his message. This was not how he wanted their not date to go.
[attr="class","a1lyric"]i got nothing but dreams inside[break] i got nothing but dreams
[attr="class","a1lyric2"]i'm just young enough to still believe, still believe [break]young enough not to know what to believe
[attr="class","a1icon"]
[attr="class","a1white"]
[attr="class","a1scroll"]
There’s a nod of Aiden’s head, and his spine is straighter than it’s been all night. The relaxed slouch is gone along with that excitable smile. Replaced by something sterner but trying terrible hard to give nothing away. Serious Aiden. That’s what this was, even if his clothes weren’t the usual suit and crest that he wore day to day when he was with them, representing them. He was wound up tight, ready to pounce but with no target in sight. “Ah, I don’t mean to intrude on your evening. However, the Madame very much would like to have a chat with Master Petrov.” The woman spoke, which seemed to make Aiden flicker between panic and annoyance. [break][break]
Bellamy then turned her gaze to Charani, nodding once. “We have missed your company at the estate.” Which, to Aiden, was the worst thing to hear about his best friend when he had done everything in his power to keep Charani away. “We actually wanted to visit a specific artist, and we’re trying to grab a snack before they leave for the night.” Aiden said, trying to say something remotely diplomatic despite the little voice in his head shrieking ‘Fuck off already.’ That voice gets cut off by another and he felt relief balm some of his frayed nerves. He forgot to guard himself, falling headfirst into the connection. Anger, disgust, and spite flare up before Aiden speaks to the connection. ‘They’re getting Marjorie. I’m sorry. I don’t think we’ll be able to grab out food and get out before she shows.’ He focuses back on Bellamy’s words, eyes flickering from behind the maid to her sharp, dark eyes once more. “It’ll only be a moment. The madame understands you have reserved your evening for your companion.” Its barely there but he sees it, hears it. That hesitation to name exactly what the hell Charani was to him was like a jab in the gut, and even if he wanted to he couldn’t guard him thoughts form the roiling fury it seemed to stir up. [break][break]
He hated it anytime these people tried to get close to the seer. He didn’t know why, exactly, but there’s a certain level of protection Charani deserved when around such calculating family. His family. The result of focusing all his attention on one upper class relationship instead of branching out. At least, that’s what his grandparents would say. Behind them the line cleared, and Aiden cuts in front of his own maid. “One large funnel cake with extra sugar and a big water.” He said before looking at his date and then staring down at Bellamy. She continued to assure them it wouldn’t be that long, and what a stroke of luck they had shown up together as Marjorie was thinking of inviting the blonde over tea. And wouldn’t you know it, since the auction isn’t really going on, she’s not really that far or that busy and is certainly on her way- no- her companion assured her she’s bringing her this instant. And the urge to punch Bellamy in the face grows but you couldn’t do that. You didn't punch your employees, or old ladies. That was beyond rude, Aiden. But the thought lingers. [break][break]
‘I’d bolt but I have to go back home to that.’ He said to Charani. “Aiden.” The voice cut through the air, carrying a chill as an elegantly dressed woman with sharp features and thing nose appear. Golden eyes aren’t glued on to her prey like Bellamy’s no. There was no need when the woman had a hold on her bastard of a grandson. He knew better than to run. She’s wrapped in a dark fur stole to match her navy dress. “And you’ve brought Charani with you, how fortunate.” She said with a thin smile. Her presence is looming, choking even and Aiden hates being so vulnerable around her. When he was by himself, there was nothing to hide. When Charani was around there was everything to hide. She couldn’t know and yet she knew too well because she was old, and Aiden was terrible at guarding his own thoughts form others. “I hope your grandmother is well. My regards to her and your parents.” She added, as she closed in on the twinks. He’s said nothing, but something in her grandson’s demeanor amuses her. “We missed your during Christmas. Won’t you join us for dinner sometime, Charani?” she added turning her eyes to the blonde as Aiden lowered his head in submission, quietly taking his grandmother's jab. He was far less plucky under Marjorie's gaze, than her direct servants.
[break][break]
[attr="class","a1notes"] Charani Petrov no homo in the club-o
“Oh. I see. Yes I guess it has been a while. I’ve been pretty busy lately but it is nice to see you again ma’am.” He was doing his best, what he often did at parties. False niceties that were hollow and empty. His words had a sweet tone to them but were lacking feeling, empathy that his voice usually did when speaking to Aiden.
Aiden seemed to be screaming obscenities inside his head. It made him smile. It was a genuine smile with full teeth he tried to turn towards the monsters who cornered them. They didn’t need to know it wasn’t for them. ‘Language Aiden. Don’t make me tell Rosario about your foul mouth.’ He teases inside the rd headed boys mind,
“Okay. We shall just be in line here if you need us. A pleasure as always.” The lies rich people told were so annoying. He never liked to do it but naturally did so with a practiced ease thanks to his upbringing. ‘She’d catch you. She’s scary enough I don’t doubt she’d send some kind of special police force after you. Seems like something the evil grandmother character would do.’ That wasn’t exactly... implausible now was it? You never know.
The elderly woman made her debut. All sharp angles and cuffing raw power. It was easy to see how she held her power as the matriarch of this family. She reminded him of his grandmother... well taken up to eleven. That kind of oppressive power was the same... but there was no warmth to this soul. “I’m having dinner with my grandmother this week actually so I’ll be sure to give her your regards ma’am. My schedule has been pretty busy but I shall definitely take you up on that offer thank you. Though I do hope you’ll let me steal Aiden for the next holiday.” His smile didn’t reach his eyes. His eyes gave off a soft glow as he used his magic to watch the woman’s aura. The color, the intensity, the shape were all indications of feelings she probably kept on a tight leash.
“Oh. Aiden, we should get going soon or we will miss the concert.” That was obviously a lie. He should let Aiden take the lead. He didn’t though, he was going off trying his best to be diplomatic without making any actual promises. Promises can’t be broken if they never existed, right? ‘Oh my god this is insufferable. Don’t eat all that either I’m watching you.’ MADE BY SUNBUNS
[attr="class","a1lyric"]i got nothing but dreams inside[break] i got nothing but dreams
[attr="class","a1lyric2"]i'm just young enough to still believe, still believe [break]young enough not to know what to believe
[attr="class","a1icon"]
[attr="class","a1white"]
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Aiden could only hope to be as convincing as Charani one day. He had been told by Wilhelm that kind of speech was something he would grow into as heir. It was something that all heirs had to master. To hide their truths, to leave nothing on the table. He was as intense as Marjorie in his own way. She was a oppressive, a sheer intimidating presence with sharp memory and wit to back it up. Wilhelm, he was convinced, was far more underhanded. The researcher, the politician. The one who instead of handling business deals handled connections with others, the press, the coven, the families scattered through out Salem. While Marjorie made him feel small and heavy, Wilhelm made him feel cold. He could only imagine the kind of horrible aura his own father held under their tutelage his entire life. He wondered if they would succeed in making him like that too. He wondered if he would be ok with letting it happen? [break][break]
Charani’s vice soothes away those thoughts and he felt embarrassed Charani had herd his more vulgar thoughts on his family tonight. He tired to keep most of it under wraps when he was with him after all. Even back in the hovel, he tried to stay prim if he could. It’s more embarrassment than fear that washed over him in that moment, and he looked at the floor with wide eyes for second. ‘I’ll teach you some of Pops’worst if you keep it a secret from her.’ He offered in trade, unable to be better in the moment. [break][break]
There’s a sense of unease but Aiden replies silently anyway. ‘She’s good at waiting. Eventually I’d come back to the house and she’d just strike me down there- uh well catch, you know.’ And for a moment Aiden focused very intently on his shoes absorbing the image of it, if only to push away any of Marjorie’s more aggressive training memories. He didn’t have to know how she’d ramped it up after the Empyreal Cup. ‘You think she’s evil?’ Did it count as being evil willing to sacrifice your grandson to kill your real son? Then again, did Marjorie see anyone as more than pieces on a chess board? Sure, he was heir, and fairly impressive but he was merely keeping up, replicating results of those past him. It wasn’t an achievement to earn his rank. He should’ve by now. It was only natural. [break][break]
The woman is a master of feigning emotion, for she gives no sign that she is. Her face carefully concealed a flurry of hidden truths and calculations taking place. Aiden couldn’t gage her very well, but he had spent enough time to know that’s what she did when around others. Marjorie Emerson ambitious, if anything else. “I’d appreciate that, dear.” She returned simply with a nod before slowly tilting her head, all-knowing eyes moving back to Aiden. “Well I’m sure we could arrange something. You’ll have to break the news to Layla though…You know how she just adores seeing you every holiday.” The woman sighed at Aiden, though her eyes were entirely on Charani, and for a moment, that intense aura locked under a carefully crafted mask seemed to flare up, and whatever stirring emotions locked down seemed to be given a slight slack and flare up dangerously. In an instant, its gone, and it’s just Marjorie, thinking to herself something that pleased her. [break][break]
Aiden turned around, arms holding a comically over sized water cup, probably meant more for slurpies or soda, and an almost equally funny large funnel cake absolutely douses in powdered sugar. There was already a trace of it on the side of his mouth. “Wha- Oh, yeah we should hurry.” He agreed, eyes darting from his food to Charani then Marjorie then back as his food. Well, their food but you know. “You know the way better than I do. Grandmother, if you’ll excuse us.” He said nodding at Charani to turn and head back into the dark alleyway as Marjorie watched on, silently, her gaze never left their backs until they’d moved on and even then, Aiden could still feel her eyes like barbs on his and Charani’s backs. ‘Go, go, go, go, go and check yourself for weird shit.’ He said hurriedly in his head. “I’m sorry. It’s getting worse- I need more friends-“ he huffed, taking a big slurp of cold water to calm his nerves.
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[attr="class","a1notes"] Charani Petrov no homo in the club-o
“Sounds kinky. Why Aiden I didn’t know you had it in you~” He could no doubt hear the teasing tone and laughter the boy was holding back in reality but was full forced in his mind. Teasing, plain and simple. Plus it was kind of fun. Fun to be able to talk like this again with out that oppressive air.
’Evil? I wouldn’t say evil. Maybe empty? Like a black hole. That’s the feeling I get.’ It was what he read with her aura. There was a small slip in the facade for just and instant, that was all. Whatever it was, years of built up facades and masks held together way to tight even for his magic to see easily. He couldn’t just probe her mind either. That was unethical and difficult to do. Especially without her noticing.
“Thank you for your time ma’am.” The boy would grab the food from his friend, assuming he didn’t fight back. Not that he really easily could given both his hands were full and the evidence he was already eating easily discovered. The big bite and powdered sugar on his mouth were very telling signs.
As the walked away down the alley he felt the annoyed eyes of that woman staring at their backs. It annoyed him. Aiden could probably feel that annoyance through their shared connection. So to take some control back he stole his friends now foodless hand as they walked taking a big bite of the sweet treat. Suck it grandma. 🏳️🌈
“Finally out of earshot thank god. She’s just as lovely as I remember” The teen said with an annoyed tone. He really didn’t like that woman. It should be no surprise to the redhead though. He has been very clear that they share this opinion, “Anyway lets go get drunk and dance the night away.” He said wiggling his eyebrows at his friend. He was only partially kidding after all. Maybe just a drink or two as they danced the night away. You know to loosen up after this debacle. The concert would start soon anyway.
[attr="class","a1lyric"]i got nothing but dreams inside[break] i got nothing but dreams
[attr="class","a1lyric2"]i'm just young enough to still believe, still believe [break]young enough not to know what to believe
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Charani may have only been teasing him, and that was fine and dandy, but his choice of words brought up reminders of thoughts he had buried deep into his subconscious. Dreams he wouldn’t dare speak about with Charani out loud, if ever. No, he was pretty chill with dying and taking one sadistic, guilt laden dream seer with him. Sometimes he wondered if that’s what his brain was trying to do to him. It wasn’t Charani’s fault either, he hadn’t done anything...intentionally. He tries not to let his brain allow images of Dream Charani leak out into their shared connection by biting the inside of his cheek. There's just so many, maybe he needed to make more dream catchers....Pale cheeks flush bright and he tries to play it all off as embarrassment. ‘Please, not in front of her.’ He begged, even if Marjorie wasn’t that much of a problem anymore. He’d stopped paying attention to her since she was so focused on the seer instead. [break][break]
He allowed Charani to take their food, about to reach up to his face to clean it. Though he supposed his shoulder was just as good. As the blonde slipped his hand into Aiden’s own, he gave a small squeeze, unable to pat him on the back. “Me too. Me too every time I sleep there.” He said, looking momentarily overwhelmingly exhausted before perking up once more. “She’s a real…uh…” he couldn’t even finish his thought. There was a lot you could say about Marjorie Emerson, but Charani had already warned him to be polite and so he would try. Because he’d asked. And he dind’t want him to ever say the word ‘kinky’ to him ever again. ( Except in his dreams ) But that was totally different matter entirely, and it would be handled accordingly. Aka never. [break][break]
“Drunk??” the redhead echoed eyeing his friend nervously. He was pretty sure he was joking, but then again, he wasn’t always 100% sure with Charani. It was closer to like, 95% certain. He looked down at their hands now linked once more. He supposed if they were to indulge a little...they’d be fine right? They were together after all, and they were both powerful witches. Maybe they could call on their familiars but…did familiars get drunk? Was that a thing? He didn’t remember in the moment. “Feed me some of that funnel cake then, I’m not carrying all of this into a mosh pit of people.” The redhead returned as they slowly made their way back towards the music and the yelling of the artisan market, ready to shove half of what was his into his mouth. He didn’t worry too much about the booze, his stomach eliminating the worry of underage drinking. Not that he would’ve cared before the Knights. [break][break]
Not that he cared now either. Probably. Ok, just a little, but for the most part he didn’t because maybe if he was drunk, he wouldn’t super-duper care about being a Horrid Dancer. “Gotta get rid of a lot of this before we hit the crowd too.” Perhaps they would be making a pit stop in this alley but even if it wasn’t quiet, at least it was away from prying eyes.
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[attr="class","a1notes"] Charani Petrov no homo in the club-o
He felt a light squeeze from his friend as they walked away from the dragon of the west. Er, wicked witch of the west was probably more accurate than that.
It only took a few moments for that woman to vanish from sight. Like black smoke in the distance; forgotten. He for the nervous side eye though as he suggested drinking away their last encounter, well not per say telling him that but mildly alluding to it.
“Well probably not drunk just a bit tipsy. You don’t wanna see me drunk it’s a hot mess.” The boy was very touchy feely and maybe just a little bit to sexual while drunk. He did not want to spend the night with Aiden awkwardly denying awkward advances and dances the tried to veer into lap dance territory. He did wonder what Aiden was like though. He was probably either a sleepy drunk or an energetic drunk. Like hyper mode.
Charani used his funnel cake hand to push the treat in front of his friends mouth for a bite. Purposefully shoving it close enough that he could easily take a large bite. “Sounds like they’re starting some of the openers.” He said as he could hear some strumming sounds behind the recorded music and small artists doing their thing around the place. He didn’t really know many of the bands playing and the little he could hear told him he didn’t know this band.