Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)
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		<h2 id="linktree">Play-By-Post: Bondage, D/s, S&amp;M =&gt; Bondage: Human Solos =&gt; Topic started by: Eren on 19-10-2008, 15:35:40</h2>
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				Title: <strong>Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>19-10-2008, 15:35:40</strong>
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				It was the beginning of summer, the hottest time of the year. For many it meant hard work at the field, but for some it meant something completely else. The time of the Great Lottery was again approaching, to give one young man a chance to study under the fabled Fire Sorcerer Fayren.<br><br>The common folk did not know much about him, apart from the fact that he had come from beyond the sea and thus was darker of skin and wilder of temperament than the inhabitants of this country. For ten years he had lived in the manor high above the town of Millamere, and his servants often came to the town market to buy all sorts of goods for him. He had not ever shown his face to the townspeople, and even the elders had to take the long trek up the hills in order to meet with him. And often the guards at the doors said that their master would not be receiving guests tonight. <br><br>Several times in a year there would be strange fireworks blasting into the sky in the night. What for, nobody knew. However, Fayren was good for the town's business, and Millamere was also called Sorcerertown by travelers who flocked there to get at least a glimpse of the enigmatic mage. Few had succeeded so far, but they told anyone who was willing to listen that Fayren was one of the most beautiful beings there was, with the appearance and countenance of a dragon. Not literally, they would say then and go off to try again. <br><br>At each inn newcomers could find townsmen telling them all kinds of strange stories about the sorcerer, none of which were exactly true. But it was good for business and this was why it was done. All the inns offered at least several dishes which all were rumored to be the sorcerer's favorites, and hosted all the young men that would come to the lottery. <br><br>The lottery was conducted in such a manner: at the seventh day of the first month of summer, four of Fayren's guards, attired in rich reds and chain mail, would bring a large urn to the middle of the market. Each boy had one day and a night to enter his name into the urn. Once the time was over, the collected names would be taken back to the manor, and Fayren would pick one at random. This was what the townspeople knew and told all the newcomers. Each year, the urn almost filled up with a more than hundred votes, more than hundred boys hoping the prestige of study and the hefty sum of compensation sent to their families.<br><br>Some simply wanted to get away from home, some wanted to see the sorcerer, some wanted the money for their family and some truly wanted to study. However, despite all the chosen apprentices failing for the past ten years, boys and young men still came and strove for the honor. <br><br>**<br><br>The Fire Manor was a large building that had once belonged to a count of this strange country. Fayren had however won it from the man in a game of cards and decided to take a look. He had expected it to be nothing special, but once he had stepped inside, he had known that this would the place. Here he would stay, looking for the perfect student. <br><br>His lands included the vast forest and the fields of the peasants, even if he had never had a need of exactly doing anything with them. He was satisfied as long as the town was run properly and he could focus on his studies. He had hired proper gardeners, and with some creative application of magic, aided by the earthen talents of one the gardeners, he had a garden full of fiery flowers and soft pleasant grass, made complete by trees that gave shade to the people sitting at the benches beneath. He had kept most of the interior as it had been delivered to him, but had his quarters redecorated, bringing a little piece of home along. <br><br>A few hours from now, the urn of names would be brought in and Fayren would need to start with the task of weeding out the unworthy, so that he could locate the person with the most power. Sadly, during all these years, even the strongest he had found was desperately lacking. He needed and wanted someone whose magic was so strong that it could leap off the spelled paper, someone who would be worthy of his teachings. <br><br>Fayren was in his study, leafing through a book on southern spell theory, when there was knock on the door. <br><br>“Inside!” he called. While his pronunciation of this tongue was excellent, he still retained a trace of his native accent. This, and his appearance always set him apart from the others. <br><br>The guards entered, and brought the urn to him.<br><br>“Very good,” he said, sitting up from the ottoman he had been lounging on. “Now get out.” <br><br>He barely noticed when they were gone, only the soft closing of the door alerting him to it. He took the lid off, with an almost reverent grace. The first names however, were nothing. Dead, inert. It took him an hour before he was through most of it, and only ten names were something that he would barely consider. Then he touched it. He felt a soft watery breeze ghost across his fingers. Surprised, Fayren pulled the parchment out. <br><br>'Caleil', it read, in clumsy handwriting. <br><br>With his other hand, Fayren pulled the rest of them out. No. Nothing even barely close to what he was sensing. Oh, yes. <br><br>“Caleil it is,” he said to himself, sank down onto his back and kissed the name. Yes, he could feel it. It was there. So much power, so raw and untrained. How delicious it would be. If gods had any generosity at all, they would make this Caleil at least a bit obedient and maybe even pleasant to look at. Fayren chuckled to himself. <br><br>He let the parchment fall, got up and went to the door. The guards were waiting outside, most likely having resigned themselves to being there for a long time.<br><br>“Bring me Caleil,” he said to them, flames in his light brown eyes. <br><br>**<br><br>Caleil was working out in the fields, when he saw his mother running to him. That was in itself a surprising thing, his mother had never been fleet of foot, and she never came to him in the middle of&nbsp; the day either. <br><br>“Caleil,” she said, having stopped. “There are men waiting for you. They say they are from the sorcerer.”<br><br>Indeed, Fayren had sent the four men in red livery. They bore orders to take Caleil straight to the manor, and to give his mother the gold they had brought. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>19-10-2008, 23:45:18</strong>
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				The farm clung to the borders of Millamere, a small and squat place that was nonetheless lovingly maintained.&nbsp; To one side was the rutted road that lead to the heavily traveled mountain pass and, beyond that track, the thick snare of trees and underbrush that climbed the hillside.&nbsp; To the other were the cliffs, a sheer drop to the rocky shores of a turbulent sea.&nbsp; The view was second to none.. except, of course, the manor on the hill.&nbsp; <br><br>Caleil had been but a boy when he'd first heard the rumors about the sorcerer, and stories about the enigmatic man were not in short supply whenever he visited the markets and sellers in town these years later.&nbsp; His older brother, Dakar, often came home from the taverns with the latest gossip, which both thrilled and frightened their mother.&nbsp; Working out in the fields, plowing the rocky soil or picking what harvest the earth had seen fit to give them, Caleil often found himself gazing at the dark tangle of brambles and wood, wondering what might be happening in the manor that lurked unseen atop the rise.&nbsp; <br><br>Being in his twentieth year and the middle child, Caliel was employed with the task of doing the marketing and much of the maintenance, as well as plowing and harvesting when the time came.&nbsp; His mother was so busy with the laundering and tailoring work she did from their home that she relied heavily on the tasks her six children could assist with.&nbsp; Five years ago, shortly after the birth of Caliel's youngest sibling, their father had met an untimely end at the hands of a stranger passing along the road.&nbsp; He'd claimed to be seeking shelter, though his intentions had been anything but benign. Only after the sounds of struggle awoke the children, including three teenage and able-bodied boys, did the coward flee.&nbsp; Yet they'd not woken in time to save their father, nor their mother from the man's forced advances. <br><br>When his mind wasn't filled with daydreams, with hopes that he'd never attain, Caliel would often wonder about that man and what he'd like to do to him should he ever cross his path.&nbsp; His mind was in just such a dark and despairing place when he saw his mother running across the field, and he immediately dropped his plow and ran toward her, thinking something must've been badly wrong.<br><br>His reaction to the news was at first dull surprise, even as they approached the house together and he could see the finely dressed men.&nbsp; He himself had been in working rags, as he always was, a ripped and grubby tunic and leggings a few sizes too large passed down from one of his brothers.&nbsp; Even staring at those men an the waiting carriage, he couldn't really believe that they were here to take him to the sorcerer. That he'd won.&nbsp; One glance around the family's plot could tell anyone that good fortune visited infrequently.&nbsp; <br><br>It had been a moment of silliness and pride when he'd put his name in the urn.&nbsp; A few of the more well-to-do boys had been in town when he'd gone to do the marketing, baiting him with the usual jeers visited upon those less fortunate. And especially Caleil.&nbsp; Shopping was woman's work, and any boys his age were quick to remind him.&nbsp; Then their bragging had begun, each of them certain they were the special one who would be called upon by the sorcerer, then they could show the old man that he couldn't boss <em>them</em> around.&nbsp; But a boy like Caliel, of course, would never amount to anything more than his mother's little servant girl. Did she make him wear a dress when he cleaned the house, they wondered.&nbsp; No simple-minded weakling boy would be brave enough to look in to the dragon's eyes.&nbsp; So, Caliel had torn a corner of his mother's marketing list, taken a piece of charcoal from one of the rubbish fires burning in the street, and entered his name.&nbsp; One of the few words he knew how to write.&nbsp; Then he walked away, chin up and mind amid daydreams, as the boys laughed at his back.&nbsp; <br><br>That had been real. That was his life.&nbsp; But this.. it had to be his mind playing tricks. Even when he approached the guards, confirmed that he was Caliel, and watched them pass a bag heavy with coins to his mother, it was so surreal.&nbsp; She'd packed hastily for him; he didn't own much, and now pressed the bag against his chest for him to take, tears glistening in her eyes.<br><br>"I know you will do well, son.&nbsp; You are strong in your mind and your limbs.&nbsp; You will make us proud."<br><br>He'd tried to mutter something stupid about the fields and the marketing that would need his attention, but before he could manage to form a complete sentence, his mother was pushing him in to the carriage, the doors were closed, and he was jarred and jostled along the track still thick with mud after the late spring rains. <br><br>****<br><br>Standing in a stark stone room, Caliel thought he could almost see the edge of the cliff that bordered his family's farm.&nbsp; Peering far to one side he could see the heart of the town, but on this side of the manor the jewel of the eye was the sea, glistening and churning beneath the setting sun.&nbsp; <br><br>The clothes he wore felt strange against his skin. Too soft, scented with soap.&nbsp; But they fit far better than anything he'd ever worn before, the leggings snug against his muscular legs, the tunic fit perfectly over his broad shoulders with embroidered cuffs right at his wrists.&nbsp; He had a real belt, instead of a bit of rope, around his waist, with a buckle he couldn't stop fondling with his fingertips.&nbsp; The shaggy mane of his shoulder-length hair had been gathered by a thong at the nape of his neck, it's chestnut color, which would be streaked with sandy highlights by the end of a summer spent in the fields, appearing darker from the fragrant oils they'd instructed him to apply after washing.&nbsp; <br><br>The bath itself had been divine, a soothing moment after the strangeness of being brought here, of feasting his eyes on the palatial manor.&nbsp; But now the uncertainty had returned, with teeth of nervousness gnawing at his stomach.&nbsp; He knew he was going to meet the Sorcerer Fayren, and it seemed both too-long lours and mere seconds passed before there was a resounding knock at the door and he was summoned out.&nbsp; <br><br>He reminded himself to keep his eyes low, remembering the instruction he'd received from his mother on the few occasions that nobles had come to the market or passed by on the road.&nbsp; His hands he kept folded at the small of his back, and he did his best to make his footfalls quiet, as if passing through the hallowed halls of a place of worship.&nbsp; &nbsp;
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 00:06:14</strong>
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				Fayren had been brought word of the boy's arrival by his butler, just when he himself had been lounging in a wonderful bath, reading a book and feasting on some grapes. He had thanked Zalar, who had been beside himself at receiving true words of thanks, and had prepared to receive the young man. <br><br>Caleil was brought into a small foreroom. The door was red, and the serving woman who had come along with him, ushered him in, saying that he should be polite and not anger the master. The door closed right after, and he found himself in a room that was even bigger than his entire house back at the farm. The floor was made of white marble, and covered with exquisite carpets of different make, size and pattern. The windows were framed with heavy colorful curtains. There were no chairs, but large comfortable-looking pillows instead. Several instruments hung on the wall, amongst intricate paintings which were like nothing he had ever seen. The whole place seemed like it had been taken out of an exotic fairy tale, like the ones Caleil's mother had used to tell him. <br><br>There were several cosy corners and spots where a couple or three could converse amongst each other. but in the center of the room, there was a circle of these large pillows and a set of draperies falling right from the ceiling. If Caleil peeked forward, he could see that a man was elegantly sprawled on a pillow, reading a book.<br><br>Fayren did not look up when the door opened, but he sensed the potential within the young man. It was a good feeling, and he could not help a very small smile. He let the other approach, before closing his tome and looking up. Hmm. A farm-boy. It was obvious from the way the boy carried himself, and his physique. They had cleaned him well, however, and he looked pleasing to the eye in these blue clothes. <br><br>He rose gracefully and walked towards Caleil.<br><br>The Fire Sorcerer was barely the same height with Caleil, and that was the only thing they had in common. It was obvious that Fayren was from a different land, his skin was a golden tan, while his hair was a veritable cascade of fire, worn open except for a set of clasps keeping it from falling into his face. His light brown eyes were sharp and intense, his face akin to a bird's, with an elegant nose and lips that were slightly too plump for a man. He was slender and clothed in a long heavy-looking skirt of red and orange, with golden embroidery. His upper body was bare and hairless, and his nipples were pierced. On his wrists he wore different golden bracelets, most of them inlaid with precious stones.<br><br>"Welcome to the manor, Caleil," he spoke. His voice was smoky and had a strange, exotic accent, while his eyes roamed over Caleil's body in a very open manner. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 00:23:02</strong>
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				Those nervous teeth in his gut were accompanied by the feathery wings of anticipation.&nbsp; On the farm his days were each the same, full of labor and a monotony of hopelessness that threatened to suck him down a well of despondency if he let it.&nbsp; Now he was living moments unexpected, things happening to him that he could not plan and could not know.<br><br>And, he was surrounded by more riches and luxury than had ever been known by his family's members combined.&nbsp; So much to see, too much, that his eyes ached from trying to see them and his heart clenched at the beauty and his peasant's demeanor feared he was too meager to experience this and his pride grew angry that someone should live in such opulence while others suffered in the dirt.&nbsp; &nbsp;But this whirlwind of emotion fell to silence and stillness within him as he was left in the room and first saw the man.<br><br>He'd seen many travelers, those from distant lands, but never a man like this one.&nbsp; That he wasn't a stooped old man as many had described him, that he was sound and firm of body, was but one of may shocks. He was dappled in brightness, and though striving to keep his eyes downturned he could not help but be drawn to the jewels on his wrist, the finery of fabrics he wore, and the strange bits of metal pierced through his nipples.&nbsp; Apart from his brothers, he'd never seen another man wearing so little clothing, and found himself colored by a warm blush he never would've anticipated.<br><br>What glimpses Fayren could see of those eyes, he would find the choice of clothing a spectacular one, as the blue of his tunic brought out the stormy sea that was the color of his gaze.&nbsp; Blue and deep and just then a turmoil of emotions that could be so easily read through them.&nbsp; <br><br>"Thank you, sir."&nbsp; His voice was gentle with youth, the sort that could likely carry a melody with ease yet deep enough as to never have a problem being heard.&nbsp; He forced himself to study the hem of Fayren's robe just over his feet, his head thus bowed.&nbsp; "Yours is a.. great home.&nbsp; I am honored to be here."&nbsp; Having searched his mind for a word to best describe such a place, 'great' was the best his unschooled mind could grasp.
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 00:39:42</strong>
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				Fayren watched the flickering emotions on Caleil's face with interest. Though he had never admitted to such, he was quite intrigued by people and how they worked. The more layered in secrets, thoughts and feelings they were, the more interesting. On the darker side, he also liked playing, liked saying certain words and seeing how people reacted to it. <br><br>He smiled as Caleil looked at him, but it was not a soft smile. Ah, but the boy had such beautiful eyes. Fayren already longed to see them filled with the spark of awakened magic, or with the knowledge of his power. What a thing of beauty that would be. If he passed the tests. If he did not run away from here. <br><br>"Come, sit with me."<br><br>It was not an order, more like the words of a man who knew that nobody wanted to say no to him. He turned to walk towards his earlier resting place, but stopped for a moment and looked at Caleil again.<br><br>"Keep your head up, I don't want a timid slave to be my companion." <br><br>Without looking at Caleil's reaction, he walked to his seat with a subtle sway of his hips and sank down, making himself comfortable. Food had been laid out on the carpet in the middle of the pillow-arrangement, along with drinks. The whole assortment of dishes was straggering and it was big enough so that Caleil's entire family could have had a feast. There were meats, and eggs laid out, along with pastries and bread that smelled like it was still warm. There were fruits, both fresh and sugared. Some of them were familiar, but some were unknown and most likely brought from far-away lands. The drinks were served in high-necked jugs, both juices and wines. Two goblets had been laid out, along with napkins. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 01:48:29</strong>
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				The weight of Fayren's penetrating gaze was nearly tangible as it moved over Caliel, making him painfully aware of how out of place he was.&nbsp; Expecting at any moment that his prestigious host would decide he'd made a mistake and send him back to the mud and rock and poverty of the farm, he remained still and quiet.&nbsp; Waiting. <br><br>Thus it was with a healthy measure of surprise that he moved forward at the invitation to join the man, to sit.&nbsp; Caleil followed as asked, though the lack of sternness in the sorcerer's voice was noted, making the farmboy curious as to what had driven the others away.&nbsp; He did not seem a bad man.&nbsp; Not the gnarled, bitter old man he'd expected.&nbsp; On the contrary, the power and command of the individual was paired with an alluring attractiveness.&nbsp; Caliel frowned. Where had that come from?&nbsp; He'd never before judged a man by how pleasing to the eye he was.&nbsp; There was scarce little time to look at girls in that way, much less to breach the borders of nature and assess a man by his appeal. <br><br>Pulled from his thoughts, his head snapped up, making him seem so readily obedient.&nbsp; There was color on his cheeks still, though he nodded to his keeper's request and forgot the trail his mind had meandered down.&nbsp; Had any disquieting thoughts remained at all, they were completely banished as he saw the feast laid out amid the comfortable piles of pillows and fabrics.<br><br>"Oh.."&nbsp; The single word of astonishment slipped from his staring face, and one hand came to his lips as the other arm folded across his stomach, keenly aware of the sharp hunger pains there.&nbsp; Hunger was a constant state for people of his misfortune, and one he was able to ignore as a constant low rumble.&nbsp; He was tempted to abandon all pretense of propriety and lunge at the food on all fours, burying his face in the bowls of sugared fruit and loaves of bread, and clawing handfulls of meat to his lips.&nbsp; <br><br>As it was, he followed Fayren's example, seating himself with as much grace as he could muster.&nbsp; Chin up, his features bearing the potential for a regal bearing now that the poverty had been washed from them. <br><br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 09:22:34</strong>
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				Fayren was pleased to see that Caleil complied. However, he wanted some life from the boy as well. He would need to find the delicate balance between independence and annoying one's master. But at least there was material to work with. He eyed Caleil intently, having poured himself some wine, he drank slowly. <br><br>He could almost feel the hunger in Caleil, which was most likely intensified by the sumptuous lunch before him. The poor boy wanted to eat so much.<br><br>"Eat," he said. "Eat all you want."<br><br>Fayren himself nibbled on some raisins. He had always been a peckish eater, with the eating habits of a small bird. But he imagined that Caleil would eat a lot, considering that he was a farm boy who had to share his food with many siblings. Fayren had heard about the boy's family's situation from the men who had brought him, and would make sure to send more money than usual. Just to reward the woman for producing a son with such delightful magic. <br><br>He would not tell this to the boy, though. Let him figure it out himself. 
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				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 18:21:16</strong>
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				His strong, long-fingered hands had knotted themselves in to the fabric of his tunic as he eyed the food, the gnawing nervousness in his stomach replaced by ravenous hunger.&nbsp; He'd never seen so much food, save in one of his daydreams.&nbsp; In those dreams, though, it was upon his family's table that such a banquet was set out, with the faces of his mother and siblings grinning and contented.&nbsp; So even as he began to eat, trying his best not to stuff his face or make a mess of crumbs but still by his actions displaying how starved he was, he felt a pang of guilt that all of this should be his while his family supped on the last rind of the hog they'd slaughtered weeks ago and a few bits of potato.&nbsp; <br><br>"This is kind of you."&nbsp; It was only after the ache in his stomach began to subside that he was able to slow his eating enough to speak, just then working his way through a thick slice of bread.&nbsp; At least his mother had taught him not to talk with his mouth full.&nbsp; The wine had been of particular interest to him. He'd never had it before, and found the pungent bittersweet taste appealing, as was the way it seemed to warm him from within and relax muscles he didn't even realize were tense.&nbsp; His feasting having slowed, he began tracing a finger over the globe of his goblet, drawing swirled patterns through the condensation as he chewed the bread.<br><br>Looking closer, though, Fayren might've seen that the boy's finger wasn't touching the glass.&nbsp; The pad of his finger hovered just above the beads of water, which followed the movement of his fingertip as if magnetized. Then he glanced up, letting his daydreams dissipate and found himself meeting those flame-bright eyes.&nbsp; His gaze flickered to the table, noting how little the other man ate then returned to Fayren.&nbsp; There was a horrible moment of thinking that perhaps the food had been tainted, charmed, poisoned.. but the comfort of a full belly overrode that bit of panic, and besides, it was too late to do much about it anyway.<br><br>"You do not eat much.."&nbsp; It was a meek effort to fill the silence, to alleviate the weight of it that accompanied the sorcerer's intent study of him.&nbsp; Had he thought about it, he might've realized that mentioning one's eating habits was not quite couth. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 19:13:38</strong>
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				Fayren watched as Caleil ate and was content to see that the boy had some manners. He had no mercy for those who were ill-mannered, ill-spoken and rough, coarse and completely rigid, both in mind and body. This one here seemed a bit different and for the first time Fayren honestly thought that he could succeed. Of course, he had expected success from all of his students, but this time he did not feel as if he was deceiving himself about the probable qualities of his student. <br><br>Ah, Caleil was saying that Fayren was kind. The sorcerer would disabuse him of the notion quickly. He might have seemed benevolent now, but he was a harsh and intense teacher, and this often made them label him as an old wicked dragon. Which he probably was. The brutes knew nothing about him. With interest he saw that Caleil liked the wine, and with even more interested he noticed how his magic was unconsciously showing itself. Such a small sign, yet so promising. Could he truly be able to call the storms from the heavens once trained enough? <br><br>Fayren's eyes glazed over a moment as he considered the potential power Caleil might hold inside himself. Briefly after they exchanged a glance. <br><br>"How perceptive of you to notice. Why do you think this is?" <br><br>He drank from his own cup, and did not bother to mention that the question might have been a little too impertinent. However, he would use the chance to challenge him, and to see whether the boy could think for himself. Caleil looked worried, it must have been for his poor family. Fayren decided that if he was satisfied with the first week, he would tell the boy how his family was faring. He would not let Caleil go and visit, because that would mean that the boy had given up his chance of being here. It would be a terrible pity, of course, but Fayren had no intention of letting the young man go. 
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 20:26:23</strong>
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				He suspected the man might be teasing him, and that uncertainty read in his face.&nbsp; It niggled at his mind that mentioning how much the man did or did not eat might not have been polite, and he wanted to weigh his answer before he got himself in any more trouble.&nbsp; Those with means could be tricky to please.&nbsp; He recalled quite clearly how the nobles had made a sport of him when he was younger, an indignity now visited upon his junior siblings.&nbsp; A bait was offered, a bit of chocolate or a small handful of grapes, simple delicacies as could not be afforded by the waifs on the street, and the child was made to curtsy or bow or kiss a noble's boot in just such a way, often asked to do it over several times before getting it 'right' and receiving their reward.&nbsp; The unashamed relish they took in their treat, tender and unsuspecting in their youth, brought riotous laughter amongst the nobles.&nbsp; As if they'd taught the dog a new and amusing trick.&nbsp; <br><br>Feeling that way now, as if the proper thing was expected of him, he worked his fingers over the bubbly crust of the bread, tempted to let his gaze slip away yet resolute in keeping their thoughtful blue depths locked upon the fiery gaze of the other.<br><br>"I would guess, sir, that you aren't hungry."&nbsp; Or perhaps this man, mysterious and powerful, nourished himself and his unusual abilities through a means other than food.&nbsp; Perhaps he drank potion all day.&nbsp; Caleil nearly smiled at his own thoughts, recognizing them for the superstitious nonsense they were. <br>
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			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>20-10-2008, 21:11:57</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I merely dislike eating too much. Of course, tastes vary," Fayren replied. "Now, do you have any more questions for me, my apprentice?" <br><br>He smirked and shifted like a snake on his resting place, the rich material of his skirt making whispering sounds as it moved. However, their eyes were still locked, one gaze blue, other an almost orange brown. He had already had a room made ready for Caleil, something a little less exotic, having thought that the boy would most likely appreciate something at least a little familiar. <br><br>Ah, yes. He would begin with theory, but first he would have to make sure whether Caleil could read. Fayren thought it unlikely. These people here usually taught their children what they knew themselves, surely a peasant woman did not know reading and writing. At least Caleil seemed strong - it was better for the mage to be strong in body and mind both, so that the magic and the lust for it would not overwhelm them. Fayren knew it very well. Despite years of schooling and careful discipline, there were still moments when he wished to set the whole world on fire and dance upon the ashes. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>21-10-2008, 13:22:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Too many to count."&nbsp; Then he did smile a little, though it was an unaffected thing not meant to charm or entice or impart humor, it was simply an open and guileless admittance of how perfectly lost he was.&nbsp; "But I will not waste your time with them, sir.&nbsp; I know answers will come.&nbsp; Though I would ask how you want to be.. addressed."&nbsp; That was a weighty word, and he was a little proud of it.&nbsp; Though arrogance was not in his nature, and his pride would never swell to those proportions.&nbsp; Well.. perhaps it might, once that power in him was acknowledged and harnessed at his whim.&nbsp; <br><br>He was full, uncomfortably so, but managed to finish the bit of bread he'd been toying with.&nbsp; And the remnants of the wine in his goblet. He'd not been shy about refilling it from the jug, after his first tentative attempt at doing so was not reprimanded.&nbsp; The heady warmth from the drink was pleasantly noticeable, and though he wasn't quite drunk his body was unaccustomed to drink at all and quite susceptible to it's liquid charms.&nbsp; <br><br>This man was impossibly interesting.&nbsp; After all of the stories, the spooky tales and warnings heaped upon visitors, Caliel found himself indeed charmed by the fellow.&nbsp; This place smelled sweet and his belly was full and the pillows were so comfortable and his eyes.. they were dazzled by all he saw. Especially Fayren.&nbsp; Bold and blazing and so unlike what the boy had expected. Caleil still feared him, but whether it was superstition pounded in to his brain by the myriad tales popular among the village or a looming threat perceived by his subconscious, the boy wasn't sure.&nbsp; &nbsp;He feared the sorcerer the way he feared the storm clouds when they began to churn the skies over the sea, knowing he should flee for cover but too entranced by their power and beauty to heed caution.&nbsp; <br><br>A want of sleep had begun to show in his eyes, though his mind was still reeling and his senses overloaded.&nbsp; <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>21-10-2008, 14:18:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mmm. Interesting. <br><br>Fayren regarded Caleil with something that might have been approval or satisfaction. His glance was too strange for the boy to tell anything definite from it, especially when he was feeling so sleepy. Fayren had also noticed that Caleil seemed sluggish. So he would make him go to sleep and start lessons tomorrow. Oh yes. <br><br>"Master will suffice," Fayren spoke. "Now, your body wishes for sleep and this is not yet a time to deny one's urges. Come."<br><br>He rose, took a few steps and held one slender light brown hand out for Caleil, and pulled him up. Oh indeed, Caleil looked a bit tipsy, Fayren thought as he pulled the young man along with him. His hand was warm, even hot compared to Caleil's own. They went through two more doors, until they reached the room that was meant for Caleil. <br><br>Now, it was smaller than all the rest, but big enough for someone who had never had his own room, instead having to sleep with all his siblings, crammed together. The ceiling was light in color, as were the floor and the walls. There was a nice one-man bed, with large pillows and a thick blanket. A closet made of dark wood was in one corner. The desk had been placed in front of the window, so that the door remained on the sitter's left side. There was also a bookcase, currently bereft of books. Those would come there later, Fayren decided. There was also a nightstand with a candle and holder on it. <br><br>"This will be your room during your stay with me," the sorcerer said. "Sleep. There are clothes in the closet for you to wear tomorrow. A servant will come to wake you, this once." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>21-10-2008, 17:51:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A solemn nod was his answer as Fayren informed him of his preferred title, a hand of fingers rising, surprisingly delicate in their movement as they tucked back a lock of thick chestnut hair that had slipped loose from the thong at the nape of his neck.&nbsp; He mouthed the word 'master' to himself, his gaze the thoughtful one of someone who'd picked up a particularly interesting stone and stood polishing it with their thumb to see if they wanted to keep it.&nbsp; 'Master'.. He'd never called anyone master, had actually come to dread the day when he might have to, as he'd seen humbled slaves and servants in the market, trailing their aloof 'masters'.&nbsp; But, as he stood admiring the term, rubbing the grit from it to see what might shine beneath, he realized that this man had been his master long before the lottery.&nbsp; He knew that Fayren owned most of the land surrounding the village, and must've certainly held keeping over their meager farm as it clung to the strip of soil between the cliffs and the sorcerer's mountain.&nbsp; And in that time they hadn't been taxed within an inch of their lives, or had their crops claimed by the lord of their land. His mother or older sister had received no unexpected visits from their lord come to claim gentler taxes paid in warm flesh.&nbsp; All these things that tyrants did, that was within their damnable right to do, Fayren had not done, and it was all Caleil could do not to blabber on some nonsensical string of thanks. So, he simply nodded.&nbsp; <br><br>The offered hand caught him off guard, and his boyish grin again surfaced, it's frequency perhaps lubricated by the wine.&nbsp; Indeed his flesh was warm, though regrettably calloused, and his step heavy once he got to his feet.&nbsp; But he managed to keep those feet well under him and not sway or shuffle or tumble as a drunkard might've.&nbsp; He followed Fayren, content with his hand in the older man's, squinting and blinking at the richly appointed halls as they passed through them. Had the torches been so bright before?<br><br>He stood with his hand to the wall, his wall, once they reached his room, and despite the deepening haze of sleepiness he looked it over with obvious appreciation.&nbsp; "It.. it is so nice.&nbsp; Thank you."&nbsp; Words meek, he knew they were, but they were the only tribute he had to conversation and expression, his simple farmboy words.&nbsp; He released Fayren's hand, almost regrettably, and moved to the bed as if enchanted by the beckoning of plush pillows and warm blankets.&nbsp; Yes, this was far better than the roughly made straw bed and worn wool blanket he shared with his siblings in a cramped and drafty room. <br><br>Standing at beside, he began carefully peeling off the tunic, laying the garment out reverently at the end of the bed.&nbsp; Bare, his torso was tan and lean, well-muscled as one would expect from a life spent toiling in a rocky field.&nbsp; Pleasing curves were also described by the snug fit of his breeches, though he didn't bother with those before climbing in to the inviting bed. He was asleep nearly as soon as his head hit the thick, soft pillow, though not before he managed to murmur a drowsy "Goodnight, Master."<br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>21-10-2008, 18:20:05</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren even smiled when Caleil thanked him. It was nothing to him. He had brought so many riches from his homeland and besides...there were many commissions from lords and even the King sometimes. He knew that the old man was afraid of him. With good reason. Many rumors had traveled with him to the new land, one more unflattering than the other. <br><br>The sorcerer watched as his new charge undressed, and appreciated what he saw. He kept the small stir inside him back. While his country had very...loose views about one's sexuality, he had learned that this place was a bit more uptight about them. He would not ruin what he had by trying to seduce the boy (though he would most likely succeed, considering he knew about a hundred ways to do that). Throwing these thoughts out of his head, Fayren walked closer and stopped right beside Caleil.<br><br>"Sleep well, my apprentice," he whispered, then turned around and left the room. He closed the door very quietly, and retreated to his own quarters, where he discarded the book of magic theory and turned to some literature instead. <br><br>**<br><br>In the morning, when the sun had already been out for several hours, there was a soft knock at Caleil's door. <br><br>
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>22-10-2008, 17:35:01</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Strange dreams visited his slumber. Dreams that filled him with sensations of power and heat, the sort of heat that burned within and brought ecstasy rather than agony.&nbsp; He hadn't had such fantastic dreams since first reaching puberty, when all the world was ripe and raw and undiscovered.. and unendingly sexual.&nbsp; In the dreams that marked the passage of his first night in Fayren's manor, he revisited those budding sensations, what it felt like to stand at the precipice of greatness, of Future and Fate.&nbsp; <br><br>Age passes quickly for those of Caliel's social standing. He hadn't had such a reaction to his dreams in a long time, despite still being at what was for most men the peak of lustiness.&nbsp; Perhaps it was the softness of the bed, or the few hours of extra sleep.&nbsp; Or, perhaps it was something else. Something perceived deep within his mind that his conscious was not ready to recognize. <br><br>Whatever the case, he woke with a start despite the gentle knocking, and was immediately disoriented.&nbsp; His head throbbed from last night's wine, his groin throbbed from his dreams, and his heart throbbed rapidly in his chest as his blurry eyes revealed strange surroundings.&nbsp; He must be sick. Yes, that was it. That was the only reason he'd still be in bed after the sun was up. A fever dream, all this was.. <br><br>But no. He remembered now. He pushed the heels of his hands against the eyes, rubbing away the sleep and trying to press away the headache behind them.&nbsp; "Yes.. I am awake."&nbsp; He called to whomever was on the other side of the door, expecting it to be a servant.&nbsp; &nbsp;Hadn't his master said something about a servant coming to wake him?&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>22-10-2008, 17:54:34</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				While Caleil slept soundly, Fayren had tossed and turned all night. Anticipation had fired him up in such a manner that even a cold bath was not enough to cool him. The morning found him in a snappy mood, and he even threw the food so that the poor servant had to duck in order not to get hit with it. Once he had had enough of it, he ordered a servant to go and wake Caleil, and had some ice-cold sherbet brought to himself. <br><br>He wanted the boy here. Maybe Caleil's closeness would calm his fire. The sorcerer sighed and turned his eye to the paper he had been writing. He hated it. The words were inlegible and the idea foolish, he snapped his fingers and felt the fire come from his body to burn the material into ashes. He liked flames. They were so simple and uncomplicated. Just heat and light, passion and hate. So beautiful. <br><br>**<br><br>"The master wishes to see you once you have dressed," the servant said from the other side. "Breakfast will be served to his quarters." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>22-10-2008, 18:08:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Despite the wooziness and disorientation, he was up and out of bed and pulling on the tunic he had lain over the end of the bed before collapsing in to the covers last night, dressed nearly before the servant had finished speaking.<br><br>"Yes! Thank you!"&nbsp; His voice was full of excitement, as he was. Why should he not be?&nbsp; This would be his first real day in Fayren's service.&nbsp; When he'd truly begin being an apprentice, begin learning.&nbsp; The tightness in his stomach was equal parts nervousness and anticipation and glee.&nbsp; Sure, the man, his Master, had seemed somewhat intense and of course he'd like having his way.&nbsp; But he'd been generous and gentle and had humored Caliel's country ways.&nbsp; The boy intended to do his best to make the man happy, to do his best in serving him and learning from him.&nbsp; Ignoring the minor hangover and the arousal that was only grudgingly fading as he woke and moved around, he pulled on the simple, slipper-like shoes he barely remembered kicking out of the night before, washed in the basin that the servants had apparently placed for him, and hurried out of the room.<br><br>In his haste, he forgot that he had no idea where he was going, even though he'd already been lead to and from Fayren's chambers the previous day.&nbsp; Fortunately there was a servant nearby to point him in the right direction.&nbsp; He hesitated before the door, combed his fingers through his hair and smoothed his tunic self-consciously,&nbsp; then knocked.&nbsp; "Master?&nbsp; You sent for me?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>22-10-2008, 18:24:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Come in," Caleil heard Fayren say. The sorcerer sounded a bit different than yesterday. <br><br>The place was the same as it had been yesterday, but this time the food on the carpet was different. It resembled more of a traditional breakfast. Fayren lounged on his pillows, dressed in a cream-colored robe that looked to be made of thin silk and left almost nothing to the imagination, every curve and line of his body caressed by the luxurious material. His hair had been pulled into a braid.&nbsp; <br><br>He took a look at Caleil. Yes. Beautiful, sleepy and completely delicious. It was obvious that Caleil was not aware of the picture he presented to a discerning eye, and it made him all the more attractive. Arrogance and vanity were things Fayren did not find appealing, even if he himself had been accused of these things. <br><br>"Here is your breakfast. Eat," he said, pointed at the food and continued reading.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>22-10-2008, 19:11:39</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				After a bolstering exhalation, Caliel pushed open the door and entered Fayren's chamber.&nbsp; Before invited to where the food was spread, he came to a stop several paces away, nodding his head in a semblance of a bow though keeping his eyes upon the man.&nbsp; "Good morning, Master."&nbsp; It wasn't difficult, gazing at Fayren.&nbsp; Caliel never would have predicted how preoccupied he became with following the silk-sheathed lines of the robe, aware of and intrigued by the shapes hinted at beneath the luxurious fabric.&nbsp; And once he <em>did</em> become aware of how his attentions lingered, and the reaction it had begun to have on him.. tingling warmly through parts of him already well awake that morning.. he was shocked at himself, and he blushed hotly.&nbsp; <br><br>"Thank you."&nbsp; For now, the sorcerer's more brusque tone was unquestioned, as he sank to his knees on the pillows and wondered where in the world such strange and inappropriate thoughts had come from.&nbsp; How ashamed his Master would certainly be if he knew where Caliel's mind had gone. He might send him away for such sickness.&nbsp; So, rather than speaking and risk betraying himself, he kept his mouth occupied with eating hungrily, managing a measure of decorum despite it all. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>22-10-2008, 20:57:12</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren looked at Caleil again as the youth had sat down to his level. Their eyes met for one instant, before the sorcerer turned away again. Caleil seemed a bit agitated. Blushed too. Wonder why, Fayren thought. He should not have been surprised, however, as they usually were nervous when he met them. <br><br>Still. He could feel the power inside Caleil and it almost made him swoon, and it definitely made him wish he could take off his robe and go to pull his wonderful new apprentice down on the pillows and kiss him insane. He snorted - eventually they started to hate him, especially when he drove them too hard. And he would start to hate them, and conspire to drive them away in shame. He let Caleil eat, but when he was finished, Fayren turned to look at him.<br><br>"Wipe your mouth. It is time to start." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>23-10-2008, 04:58:48</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Stealing surreptitious glances at his host, Caliel still managed to eat with enthusiasm.&nbsp; Even though he'd glutted himself the night before, he was amazed to find that his hunger woke anew and ravenous.&nbsp; He avoided sweeter things, as they tended to cloy his stomach unaccustomed to such things, favoring the meat and breads and eggs.&nbsp; A couple pieces of fruit.&nbsp; And the fragrant tea sweetened with honey. <br><br>He answered quickly enough to fluster himself.&nbsp; "Yes, sir- er.. Master."&nbsp; His fingers clutched at a napkin, bringing it to his lips as he straightened his posture, folding his legs beneath him, prepared to stand and follow his master.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>23-10-2008, 13:26:49</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				They went through a hallway once more, turning left and right until they came to a blue door Caleil had not seen earlier. It seemed to have no possible way of opening it. Instead Fayren simply waved his hand over the large flame sigil carved into it and the door swung open. <br><br>"Do not ever try to open it yourself without permission," the sorcerer said. When Caleil had entered after him, the door closed slowly. The room was large as most of the rooms in this manor were. Contrary to the other rooms which had mostly been done in warm and deep colors, and all sorts of decorations, this place seemed bare. Even cold. At the same time, Caleil could feel that the temperature here was definitely higher than in other parts of the house. Fayren seemed unaffected, demeanour outwardly calm. However, something was off about him. <br><br>There was one large window, framed by dark curtains. The floor was bare, and the furniture simple. There was a classical desk-chair arrangement, the desk full of papers, books, and many kinds of tools that Caleil could not recognize. There were a few adorned knives, a candleholder, several amulets, pots with herbs and little colorful glass bottles. Fayren moved to the candleholder, and touched the tip of the half-melted candle briefly, letting a small fire fan out and light it up. Candles were all around them, on walls and on the ground, on top of the bookcases which were full with tomes of knowledge. Beside the bookcases there was also a large, closed closet.<br><br>"That contains the more dangerous tools," Fayren said, trailing his fingers over the lock. "You may look, but ask before touching."<br><br>Fayren himself sat into his chair, and presented the other to Caleil. <br><br>"Sit."<br><br>They were opposite each other. Fayren leant back and twirled one his rings, a band of gold inlaid with an orange-colored stone. <br><br>"Now. What have you been taught? If anything." <br><br>His eyes were piercing, almost harsh in their intensity.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>24-10-2008, 04:03:27</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Wonder and awe were his primary emotions as he was lead through Fayren's domain. Even the stone walls themselves, so sturdy and thick and old, were something to stare at.&nbsp; His home was made of crumbling wood and mud and straw.&nbsp; Impermanent. Vulnerable.&nbsp; This place was like a fortress, and despite the tales of all the other boys that had suffered and been shamed within it's halls, and finally banished, he felt safe here.<br><br>That wasn't to say he was at ease. Far from it.&nbsp; His wide blue eyes revealed as much as he beheld the door and the sorcery used to open it.&nbsp; "I will not, Master."&nbsp; &nbsp;He almost scoffed in awe at the instruction never to open it, for how could he ever hope to pull off such a trick.&nbsp; He stared at it even as it closed behind him, then looked to the monastic room they'd entered.<br><br>The sight of the books thrilled him.&nbsp; And filled him with dread.&nbsp; This was the part he'd been the most apprehensive about. He knew he could please Fayren by completing any feat of physical labor asked of him, and happily so.&nbsp; He wasn't the sort of worker who complained.&nbsp; But the pitiful amount of proper education he'd had was where he feared he'd fall short.&nbsp; There was frustration in his shame, not focused upon Fayren but upon the fact that he was, and most likely always would be, an ignorant peasant. <br><br>Caleil regarded the closet as one might stare at a malignant-looking fungus, then took his seat as Fayren instructed.&nbsp; It was then that he focused fully on his master, his own face solemn and attentive.&nbsp; Though uneducated, there was a sharpness and brightness in his eyes.&nbsp; He did not miss much.&nbsp; He might prove a quite capable pupil, but just then he was focused upon the evident change in the man across from him.&nbsp; Was the other boot to drop, now?&nbsp; Would Fayren reveal himself to be every bit the tyrant the other lottery winners had claimed?&nbsp; Even so.. Caleil knew he was strong.&nbsp; He had his family to think of. Despite the pain of being apart from them, he could do them even more good by being here than lending his back and his hands on the farm.&nbsp; He would endure it.&nbsp; He would make his mother, and himself, proud, even if this man proved impossible to please.&nbsp; His back was straight, his chin up, his eyes on Fayren.&nbsp; And a bead of sweat trickling from his temple down along his cheek.<br><br>He was resolute, yes, but still uneasy about his lack of education.&nbsp; "I can count things and count money.&nbsp; To make sure the vendors in the market do not cheat me.&nbsp; I know some cooking.&nbsp; I can write my name, and read lists of things to shop for."&nbsp; It was a start, at least.&nbsp; If he could read and write 'tea' and 'grain', then he could probably figure out how to spell other things that had never been on his shopping lists, like 'tree'.&nbsp; As if feeling the need to put a few positive things on his resume, he continued speaking.&nbsp; "And I know crops, how and when to plant.&nbsp; How to make a wall of field stones that won't fall down even after the ground freezes and heaves.&nbsp; And I'm strong, sir- um, Master. More strong than I look."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>24-10-2008, 20:29:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Caleil looked apprehensive, Fayren decided. Was he afraid? Fayren was not surprised, considering that usually when they came, they shook with fear and had to be calmed by others before he could meet them. It was refreshing to deal with a young man who had potential and was not completely afraid of him. <br><br>He listened, as Caleil spoke. While the fact the boy could not read or write, was of no surprise, he found it pleasant that whoever had raised the boy had at least taught him something. Fayren smirked when Caleil finally stopped, and held himself back from making a comment that would have far too much innuendo in it. Things were done differently here. While he often had not been able to resist the temptation, he tried to, and would be very careful with Caleil, considering that he needed the boy. <br><br>"That is satisfactory for someone with your upbringing, but very far from what I want you to know eventually. At first you will learn to read and write. You are also going to learn meditation, how to clear your mind and make it ready to use magic. This will merely be the beginning of the things to come. One does not do this easily. You must want to learn, to find out what is inside you. The work will be hard, but rewarding if you stick to it. Understood?" 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>25-10-2008, 01:14:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Oh yes, Master."&nbsp; There was a low reverence in his voice, almost whispery.&nbsp; Blue eyes large and innocent, so ready to absorb.&nbsp; It was the eagerness of one enchanted, yet it was a spell the boy had put himself under.&nbsp; He was desperate to be more than what fate and birth had made him.&nbsp; Daydreams of just such a thing made the hours toiling in the field tolerable, made the teasing by the young noble boys bearable.&nbsp; <br><br>Caliel had often wished he were not such a dreamer.&nbsp; To be plain of mind and to accept his lot might have been easier, but with his fertile imagination and the undying belief in him, no matter how awful things got after the death of his father, that he and those he loved were meant for better things, he was always left wanting, waiting.&nbsp; Then this had come, and he must believe that this was the thing he'd felt waiting in his future, like the glorious sight, beautiful and unknown, one might see if they'd just persevere enough to continue on a difficult road and get around the next bend. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>25-10-2008, 01:24:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Good. Of course, understanding is not enough, but we will get to that eventually."<br><br>Fayren hoped that the boy did truly understand him. Or that he was smart enough to understand. Usually, determining the boy's element would have followed, but in this case, Caleil's magic was so strong that there was no need to. So, he could play a little game and see if the boy could figure out himself what kind of magic he possessed. Nevertheless, hearing the words from such lips caused a different kind of warmth inside him. <br><br>"Now, what element do you think you are?"<br><br>Everyone knew that there was fire, water, earth and air. There might have been variations, like water mages who used ice, and earth mages who commanded metal instead of soil, but there were only four elements. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>25-10-2008, 01:53:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Elements, sir? -er, Master?&nbsp; Do.. you mean like the weather?"&nbsp; 'Out in the elements' was the only reference the boy had to the word.&nbsp; His mother used that phrase a lot... 'Caliel, you've gone and left Henry out in the elements!&nbsp; What's a dog to do in the rain but get mud to track in?'&nbsp; Caliel himself was usually the one getting in trouble for being out in the elements.&nbsp; The rain drew him as surely as it sent everything else in to hiding.&nbsp; He loved the way it felt against his skin, the energy of the clouds above him as they churned and wept.&nbsp; The only other thing to so enchant him.. before meeting Fayren.. was the sea.&nbsp; The power of the waves, the force of the spray and the damp smell of it on the air-<br><br>This thoughts running as they were, his answer was immediate upon Fayren explaining what he was looking for.&nbsp; "Water!"&nbsp; He felt as if he'd accomplished something, but he didn't know quite what.&nbsp; <em>He</em> wasn't made of water.&nbsp; Isn't that what Fayren had asked, what element he was?&nbsp; He was made of meat and bones like all the other beasts of the earth.&nbsp; Apart from the tears that had need to flow too frequently and the sweat that was almost constant and the spit that seemed to be failing him just then to leave him with a parched throat, he wasn't water.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>25-10-2008, 14:58:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren watched Caleil as the boy tried to think about it. He seemed to be slightly confused as to what the sorcerer was wanting from him, but eventually he seemed to come to a correct conclusion. First of the boys he had ever picked. He could not let Caleil know however. Pride was not something to be nurtured in the young man. Not yet. Pride would have to come last, lest it destroy all Fayren was working for. <br><br>"Yes, water. You are correct." <br><br>He looked moderately satisfied. <br><br>It would make certain things harder, considering that fire and water were opposite elements, but much of making magic was the same for all elements. The boy would just have to find out certain things for himself. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>26-10-2008, 03:25:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Master?"&nbsp; Caliel spoke after a few moments of silence, during which his eyes had strayed to the cabinet he'd been warned of, eyeing it as if something might leap out of it to get him.&nbsp; But his attentions were back upon Fayren, water enchanted by fire as would never happen in nature.&nbsp; The heat was getting to him, felt as if it had crept beneath the suddenly too-thick tunic and giving the sensation of his entire body blushing.&nbsp; And there was another burning.. thus yet only a small and unfed ember.. stoked both within his loins and his mind.&nbsp; It grew ever so slightly when Caleil was availed of the opportunity to look upon Fayren for any undisturbed length of time, to feel the power and heat, both literal and figurative, that he radiated.&nbsp; &nbsp; <br><br>"What.. well.&nbsp; What does that mean?"&nbsp; Full of curiosity, hesitant to express it and thus prove his ignorance.&nbsp; In the end his desire to learn won out.&nbsp; "To be an element.. water for me.&nbsp; What does it mean?"
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>26-10-2008, 14:49:41</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"It means that your power comes from water, as mine does from fire. It means that it is the element you have greatest affinity with."<br><br>Fayren regarded Caleil carefully again. Oh, the boy was blushing. Well, that was not a reaction he had gotten before from his apprentices. But then again, everything about Caleil seemed different. He was not stupid like the rest were, ungrateful little pigs with no flight of thought, no willingness for anything but a comfortable existence. <br><br>"Now, you will be assigned a tutor, since I do not have the time to teach you something as simple as reading and writing is. However, you will be learning meditation with me. I expect you to be present at each lesson and do what you're told to do. You may not understand, why, but it is in your own best interests." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>27-10-2008, 00:56:50</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The heat would not be something he'd mention, and he'd do his best not to let it show how it hampered his comfort. His master was obviously content with the temperature, and all things considered a bit of sweat was nothing new to him, nor too great a thing to endure to be in the sorcerer's company. <br><br>He let Fayren's words sink in, giving them thought without words though he knew more questions would be nagging at his lips before long.&nbsp; There would be time here, plenty of it if he was fortunate enough and brave enough to survive the sorcerer's ongoing company.&nbsp; He found it strange that any others had been willing to leave, and thought that they must've told their horrible lies because they were saddened and angry by being sent away from Fayren.&nbsp; It was daunting, yes, sitting before this man and turning ones self over to his care and keeping, but it was also thrilling, new.&nbsp; Enticing.<br><br>There was a little disappointment as he realized that he would be passed off to another for more remedial teachings, though he understood the logic of it.&nbsp; He was nearly incapable of guile, and that disappointment surfaced in his eyes, though as easily as he nodded in acceptance it would be difficult for Fayren to mistake that shadow in his eyes as an unwillingness to be schooled.&nbsp; Indeed, the boy was quite different.&nbsp; Hungry and able.&nbsp; His mind.. and perhaps his body.. an unsullied territory where he would let the sorcerer tread. <br><br>He also saw the reason in taking his more unusual teachings with a leap of faith, to follow instruction even if the need for his action was not entirely understood.&nbsp; His simple tasks of farming were much the same. He did not know the course of nature's magic as it opened a seed to a sprout and spurred the crop to grow.&nbsp; He only knew the part he must play, the sowing and watering and keeping the freeze away, to allow it to happen.<br><br>"I understand, Master.&nbsp; I will do all you ask."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>27-10-2008, 01:06:42</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren studied Caleil's face, with an almost soft smile. As the young man spoke, he laughed in open mirth. He stopped quickly however, and leaned forward. Their distance prevented him from becoming too close to Caleil, but his orange eyes were intense nonetheless. <br><br>"You tempt me to put your words to the test, apprentice," he said, quietly. <br><br>And why could he not just walk to Caleil and make the boy prove what he had spoken? Of course, Fayren was quite sure that his apprentice had not considered all the things Fayren could and would ask of him. However, he was playing it too robustly, he needed to draw back. He could not scare him...not too much. <br><br>Fayren stood up and glided gracefully over to Caleil, stopping beside the sitting young man.<br><br>"You seem to be too hot," he said, conversationally and brushed his hand along Caleil's brow, letting his fingers rest on the young man's hair for a delicious moment before drawing away. "Do not be shy," he continued, "in my homeland a little nudity is nothing too scandalous if one is truly too hot. I can have some ice drink brought to you, if you wish. While comfort should not be the end of all things, one should not neglect it."<br><br>This close the heat was even more present, seeming to radiate off Fayren's body. The material of the robe was almost sheer, and the sorcerer smelled of exotic spices and a little of musk, along with a small whiff of smoke. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>27-10-2008, 02:00:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There was a gentle frown as Fayren laughed, and a flicker of fear as he worried he'd done something wrong.&nbsp; He'd opened his mouth to again proclaim his devotion to Fayren's service, though was stopped both by the intensity of Fayren's lingering gaze and by the sorcerer rising to stand.&nbsp; Blue eyes followed his movement, studying what might be seen upon the man's face and finding himself only more unsure.<br><br>When he finally did manage a word, it was barely above a whisper.&nbsp; "Oh.."&nbsp; Gently spoken as if embarrassed by the obviousness of his discomfort.&nbsp; Then his jaw tightened and froze as the man stroked his brow and his hair, the simple touch stoking that unnamed ember of lust and making, for a moment, a heat more sultry than physical in the boy's belly. As Fayren continued to speak, that coiling grew, sending tingling tendrils of confusing warmth through him.&nbsp; <br><br>"I.. I do not wish to offend, Master."&nbsp; The words finally tumbled out, though he'd nearly forgotten what it was he referred to.&nbsp; He did want to remove his shirt, several instincts told him it was precisely the thing to do, though shedding as to be half disrobed was something not even a peasant like him would readily do amongst such company.&nbsp; <br><br>His eyes had shifted sidelong, coming to rest upon the lean muscles of Fayren's torso through the gauzy fabric, and the glint of metal that pierced the man's nipple. He remembered seeing that adornment the day before.&nbsp; Without being aware of the pleasurable sensations associated with such a piercing, a deep part of him still knew that the adornment bore intimate connotations.&nbsp; The scent of the man was intoxicating, this near and in the heat of the room, which made all those scents stronger.&nbsp; A sensation that was like sleepiness, but not quite, and a warm tingle that emanated from part of him that had begun to wake and swell... <br><br>He drew in a breath, sounded almost like a gasp, then spoke purely for the purpose of distracting himself and avoiding an entirely different brand of discomfort.&nbsp; "A.. a cool drink.&nbsp; That might be nice, Master."&nbsp; Perhaps he could contrive a way to pour the glass squarely on his crotch to quell the growing.&nbsp; He'd rather have the sorcerer think him clumsy than as some sort of lewd miscreant. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>27-10-2008, 16:26:53</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"You are not offending," Fayren said, still looking down at Caleil. He looked still so discomforted, in an almost endearing way. Confusion, without anger. Why yes, Fayren often confused his apprentices, by being so different and so alien. It had ceased to surprise him. But there was something else...he made no notice of the boy's arousal, even if it did intrigue him. He would find out later if the boy had inclinations...and if he did, then of what kind. <br><br>"Get up and follow."<br><br>He thought that a more peaceful setting might help to make Caleil a little looser, for he definitely could not try to wake the boy's magic if he was so rigid and stressed. They returned back to the living room, Fayren having given orders to a servant met in the hallway. The drink requested for Caleil was present, and someone had also placed a bowl of water on the carpet though no towels were present. <br><br>Fayren made himself comfortable, lounging like a sleek cat. <br><br>"Go ahead, drink." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>28-10-2008, 02:13:14</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The movement was welcomed, for even in the warm room it stirred a bit of a breeze over his sweat-damp skin.&nbsp; He let his eyes close for a moment once falling in to step behind Fayren, and in that time admonished himself for his disturbing and distracting thoughts.&nbsp; Being a boy his age, inconvenient arousal was a quite regular state of existence.&nbsp; Given that he shared a room with most of his siblings, there was little time to satiate such desires in the depth of night without drawing attention.&nbsp; <br><br>Sometimes, though, when plowing the rocky fields of his family's farm, he would strike a rare pocket of soft earth, and the phallic blade would part the soil and sink deep inside it. Even if his mind weren't on tawdry things, the sensation of easing his blade forward into that deep, soft soil would make his manhood spring to life and demand attention.&nbsp; Often it would be ignored until the ache subsided. But sometimes if the day's work was nearly done and he was near a tree or boulder large enough to conceal him from the house and the road, he'd slip the swollen flesh from his pants and stroke and squeeze himself to release, letting his cries and his spend flow free in to the open air.&nbsp; <br><br>He'd heard the stuff that came from him called seed, and as he kicked dirt over the evidence of his solo tryst he wondered if something might ever grow there.&nbsp; That was stupid, of course, he knew what that fluid's purpose was; to be deposited in some deep and secret place inside a woman and make a child.&nbsp; But he'd heard stories of demons and devils that were made of the earth, that pried and clawed themselves up out of it, and he wondered if human seed so selfishly and lewdly spent might sprout and spawn such a horror, an embodiment of the shame of the lone act.&nbsp; <br><br>They reached the greatroom by the time Caliel realized that the path his thoughts had taken was doing little to help his suffering abate.&nbsp; He settled on to the cushions across from Fayren, noted the single cool drink delivered on the ornate tray, and the bowl of water, and at the urging of the sorcerer to quench his thirst was initially thrown.&nbsp; He frowned, glancing at the bowl, as he assumed the glass was for his host.&nbsp; "You.. wish me to drink from-"&nbsp; Then he realized his mistake, that Fayren hadn't wanted a drink, and Caliel had to laugh a little at the sudden fear of being so humbled and shamed that had swiftly welled in him during that moment of confusion.&nbsp; <br><br>"My apologies, Master."&nbsp; Flushed with the embarrassment of assuming that his master was capable of such a thing, he reached for the glass and brought it to his lips.&nbsp; The first swallow was divinely cool, lightly sweetened, the very flavor of relief.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>28-10-2008, 17:24:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				It seemed to be an uncharacteristically hot day. While it was indeed the beginning of summer, it had never been so warm as today. Even Fayren felt it, the air too heated even for one such as him. What were the others feeling then? At least there was a place one could go to expel that excess; hidden far beneath the earth, one little cave and a clear pure lake. <br><br>Fayren remained calm all the way through Caleil's confusion, but there was a narrowing of his eyes once he thought that yet again his apprentice would take offense, just like all of them before him had, at some tiny thing. However, the apology came swiftly after, and Fayren found himself sufficiently appeased.<br><br>"If I wished to humiliate you," he spoke, watching Caleil intently, "I would choose ways subtler than that. It was merely brought so that we could test your element's receptiveness to your magic." <br><br>Could he fault him for fearing the worst? Gods knew what kinds of stories were told about him. The grains of truth usually tended to drown amongst the overwhelming vitriol at his address; only because he had been honest - no talent, no brains, no willingness to learn, what should I do with you...Fayren did not pride himself on courtesy or tenderness, since magic itself offered none. And if they could not withstand his cruelties, then magic would have eaten them and their minds, leaving only empty husks of flesh behind. He did it for their own good...and none were sharp enough to understand it. <br><br>Each time he thought that the tradition of failure could be broken, he had been proven wrong. Each time it became a little harder to take in. Fayren was not a man who liked to fail, or was content with failure; he wanted progress and destinations and goals reached. A little passion from his apprentice, had it really been so much to ask for? 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>31-10-2008, 09:27:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				There was a niggling warning in the boy's mind as Fayren spoke, and he chose to ignore it.&nbsp; He couldn't imagine what Fayren might mean by&nbsp; humiliation, but did not doubt that the man was indeed capable of it.&nbsp; He would just make sure his master had no cause to ever be unhappy with him.&nbsp; That wouldn't be so hard, would it?<br><br>"Oh.. I see."&nbsp; Though he really didn't. Eying the bowl of water, he wondered just what he might be expected to do with it. He'd finished every drop of the drink he'd been given, and set the still cool cup aside as he focused somewhat blankly on the bowl of water.&nbsp; The uncomfortable arousal had, thankfully, gone and been forgotten.&nbsp; Only later would he wonder about it, and bring it to timid resurgence with thoughts of his master. <br><br>But at this moment he was eager to undergo intellectual.. and perhaps supernatural.. means of pleasing his master.&nbsp; He focused on the bowl, as he assumed he was supposed to, thinking that perhaps if he focused hard enough he could make a little ripple across the surface, or a little cyclone like those he saw in the tidepools when he braved the treacherous cliffside path to the solemn stretch of sand at the bottom.
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>02-11-2008, 20:15:28</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren stood up and moved towards Caleil. He sank down right beside the boy, so Caleil could feel his warmth.<br><br>"I will guide you through the process," he said quietly. "First, take a deep breath."<br><br>He looked faintly amused. The poor boy was trying so hard. It seemed as if he wanted to do this. Not just because of his large family, but for himself as well. Fayren could only hope that it was so. He slipped closer to Caleil, so that the young man could feel his master and placed his hands on both sides of the boy's head. <br><br>"Try to calm yourself. It is the easiest when you are calm." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>03-11-2008, 11:45:32</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A few moment's ago Fayren's closeness would've made Caleil anything but calm.&nbsp; Yet as he focused upon the bowl of water, the sorcerer's warmth and, eventually, touch only served to both soothe and focus him.&nbsp; He nodded slightly, not wishing to move his head too much as his master placed his hands upon it.&nbsp; <br><br>"What should I make it do?"&nbsp; His thoughts were many, untethered by his lack of knowledge and thus unfocused.&nbsp; Energies and willpowers and abilities so great all drifting through him, directionless, seeking to be guided.&nbsp; Clouds cruising the sky before gathering for the storm.&nbsp; But the boy himself was steady, intense blue gaze locked upon the bowl, body relaxed as Fayren's warmth surrounded him, a far more pleasant experience in this larger and cooler room.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>03-11-2008, 16:44:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"Describe to me what you feel," Fayren whispered to him. His fingers were soothing, tracing little circles in Caleil's hair, yet they were hot. <br><br>Then I will direct you, the sorcerer thought to himself. The youngster appeared calm, but Fayren himself needed to fight off arousal. He had mastered his mind a long time ago, yet there was still one vice he succumbed to - that of the flesh. He could not help it. It was the supreme vice of his entire people, learning from young age how to seek the highest pleasure in everything, as long as it brought no harm to the others. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>05-11-2008, 21:10:56</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				"I feel.."&nbsp; So soothing, that touch.&nbsp; It persuaded one to relax, to trust, to open.&nbsp; In his mind, the sea began to churn beneath the surface, spiral patterns traced in phosphorescent seafoam like those ghosted upon his scalp by Fayren's heated fingers.&nbsp; How they tingled as they slipped through the soft strands..&nbsp; <br><br>"..it isn't sleepy.."&nbsp; He murmured, searching for the descriptive word he wanted and coming up empty.&nbsp; But it didn't frustrate him, like it normally did.&nbsp; On the contrary, every fiber of him seemed to loosen, soften.. save for the peculiar and especially potent tingle that began to gather low in his belly.&nbsp; Excitement prickled with an arousal he couldn't yet name.&nbsp; "..I feel very much like the water.&nbsp; Calm waters with a current beneath.."
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>06-11-2008, 22:40:15</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren felt the magic inside Caleil, its purity and strength. How tempting it was...to coax that magic out and mix it with his own. He sighed softly, knowing that he would need to restrain himself and not think these thoughts about his apprentice. He would not have this ruined by his lust for anyone who was powerful, appealing and also intelligent. <br><br>"Touch the water," he said, too gently for it to be a command. More like a soft nudge. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>08-11-2008, 13:39:08</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A soft nudge was all he needed, open and relaxed as he was.&nbsp; His body shifted only slightly as he reached forward, resting his thumb on the edge of the bowl as his other fingers hovered over it.&nbsp; A tremor shivered over the surface of the water, though it was not from the bowl being disturbed.&nbsp; It was the substance inside it that had set to motion, however slight.<br><br>Gasping gently at the first obvious, undeniable visual evidence of what he was able to do, Caleil then touched the pads of his first and middle fingers to the surface of the water.&nbsp; Again the tremble, and one that Fayren could this time feel through Caleil's slender body as medium and mage introduced themselves, and began to commune. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>10-11-2008, 19:34:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren watched, delighted, how the water responded to Caleil. Yes. The boy had great potential, and repeating this thought in his head would not bore Fayren at all...if ever. He shifted closer to Caleil, so that if the young man had been concentrating on something else, he might have felt his master's body against him, just the velvet and the silk separating them. <br><br>"Just do anything that feels right," Fayren whispered, his breath hot against Caleil's ear. Mmm...how young and appealing. He had always said that the scent of washed skin was one of the most arousing smells in the world. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>13-11-2008, 19:13:03</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A part of him felt it, perceived the closeness and enjoyed the rather intimate press of his master's body.&nbsp; It bolstered him.&nbsp; He lifted his hand just above the surface of the bowl, and the untidy tremor became still.. then, as his fingers began moving in the several inches of empty air, the water below began to respond in kind.&nbsp; Waves rippled across the surface.&nbsp; The fingers again played the air, strumming it as one would a lyre, and an orderly procession of waves marched across the bowl, lapped with minute sounds at the lip and sloshed a little over the rim. A tremor of excitement passed through him, easily perceived by the body pressed to his.<br><br>Caleil stared with wide eyes, black pupils eclipsing the cerulean as his concentration focused beyond what he'd ever demanded of it before.&nbsp; Staring at the bowl, seeing nothing but it's liquid contents and feeling the charge as he communed with those wild and willful molecules.&nbsp; His heat pulsing and climbing as if striving to match that of his master. <br><br>His body instinctively responded to the warm caress of Fayren's breath as it slipped over his ear and neck, his shoulder drawing up as if to embrace the sensation and his head rolling just enough to the side to encourage another touch.&nbsp; Such a movement brought his head to rest against Fayren's shoulder, his throat bared in a gesture of supplication of which the farmboy was unaware.&nbsp; His eyelashes kissed his cheeks as his gaze remained fixed upon the bowl.<br><br>Focus unwavering, Caleil nonetheless felt the need for a tether, felt himself slipping into a realm where such impossibilities as speaking water and obedient storms existed, and he reached back with his unemployed hand, finding purchase on Fayren's thigh and gripping there. Steadying himself.. and finding himself at least a little aware of the pleasing firmness of muscle beneath his grasp.&nbsp; He did not move his hand away.<br><br>"It must be you that makes me able to do this.. some power you've given me."&nbsp; Awe in his voice.&nbsp; Open and innocent with pure gratitude.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>14-11-2008, 22:53:20</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Slowly it began to rise in such a way that Fayren felt the stirrings of Caleil's magic. It was a heady, pleasant feeling to be able to sense this and he made a few appreciative sounds, but tried to be as quiet as possible. He succeeded, barely. The whole world seemed to have a slightly blue tint in his eyes, but Fayren figured that it was happening since he was so attuned to his apprentice.<br><br>Fayren reveled in the power that was pouring out of Caleil and his eyes hungrily drank in the sight of the boy's bare skin. It would be so easy just to lick over it, taste and tease, see if he could conjure wonderful reactions out of the young man.<br><br>"It is all yours, my apprentice," Fayren replied with a husky, almost breathless voice. Did the boy have any idea how much pleasure his touch, however simple, brought? He shivered a little and tried to hide his hardness, but since they were so tightly pressed together, he really had no chance of doing so. While Caleil would not notice right away, the spell upon him would not last forever. Yet move now, and risk breaking his concentration. It was not an unpleasant dilemma, but the slight fear of having Caleil run out on him after he learned of his master's inclinations did unsettle the sorcerer a bit. <br><br>"It is your power." 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>17-11-2008, 18:12:44</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Through the humming within him, the humming that gave no sound but seemed to vibrate every fiber be it sinew or bone, Caleil separately perceived his master's closeness, his heat.&nbsp; He became aware of it gradually, as the flare of his powers began to lose luster, the fledgling mage yet inexperienced at keeping that supernatural glow burning.&nbsp; &nbsp;He felt the firm muscle of the man's thigh beneath his hand, and the curious pressure and warmth pressed against his lower back.&nbsp; With a tremor that was shockingly pleasant, he recognized what presence was.&nbsp; Equally shocking was finding himself similarly afflicted, his awareness slowly shifting from the bowl of water to the tingling ache that strained at the front of the snug leggings he wore. <br><br>A heady, not unpleasant weakness threaded through him as the magic receded, the water stilling as the hand with which he'd guided it's movement came down to rest on Fayren's other thigh, as he was flanked by them.&nbsp; His weight was entrusted to Fayren, the slim body leaned in to his chest, his head upon his master's shoulder.&nbsp; A turn of his head nuzzled his face against the older man's neck, his breath warm as he murmured softly, incredulously.<br><br>"My power.."&nbsp; It would be difficult for him to believe once life proceeded beyond this room, beyond this moment, but just then he was emboldened by awe, by the belief that he had any strength, any power, whatsoever.&nbsp; It was not something often felt by a peasant.&nbsp; His hands in unison smoothed over Fayren's legs, pressing just enough to feel the contour of muscle beneath the fabric that covered him.&nbsp; Caleil's breathing had deepened, quickened, as had the strong beat of his heart. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>17-11-2008, 19:45:36</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The flow of magic was ebbing, but Caleil had kept it up longer than anyone else, and that alone made him special. Fayren's arousal had not faded, instead he felt harder than ever and only his training kept him in check. Mostly. A part of him wished to strip Caleil naked and visit all sorts of delicious tortures on his soft skin and that strong body. A glance downwards showed that Caleil was excited too, but Fayren was not sure, why. It could have been the magic, not Fayren's presence. <br><br>Fayren smiled as Caleil went slack against him, and as those lips brushed his skin, he moaned. He hoped that Caleil did not notice. <br><br>"Yes, your power," Fayren spoke, threading through Caleil's hair with his fingers. "And this is merely the beginning. With enough practice you will be able to perform far greater feats. If you make it through the teaching."<br><br>Oh...he was being touched back, those wonderful strong hands sending shivers of pleasure into his groin. The images in his mind took an even more erotic turn, as he imagined how pleasant those hands would be on his hips, with Caleil's hardness driving into him. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>17-11-2008, 22:24:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Caleil finally moved his gaze from the water in the bowl, now still, and rolled those large blue eyes up to Fayren.&nbsp; A small thrill snaked through him as he visually confirmed how close his master was, able to see the fine stubble on his jaw and the brightness of his eyes, so close.&nbsp; He thought he could feel the bit of metal that pierced Fayren's nipple pressed against his shoulderblade, though that might've been more his imagination than true sensation.&nbsp; Nevertheless he rolled his shoulders a bit, rubbing in to Fayren much as a feline would arch into a touch.&nbsp; <br><br>Fayren's words brought a flickered image of the others, those had been rejected, and he couldn't fathom how they spoke ill of this place or this man.&nbsp; He was intoxicated on the wake of his magic and the closeness of the heated, unimaginably powerful sorcerer.&nbsp; Sensible thoughts were fleeting and few.&nbsp; His lips, almost effeminate in shape and hue, brushed Fayren's neck as he spoke, having nuzzled in again.<br><br>"I will do anything to learn, Master."&nbsp; Caleil had felt this way before, the rummy and pleasantly serene sensation that overcame him after working himself to release in private, shameful moments.&nbsp; This feeling of dreaming while awake did not always follow, but sometimes it was so strong as to nearly bring him to collapse.&nbsp; And what he was feeling then was far more potent than ever before.&nbsp; He wanted more of it.<br><br>His hands had slipped downward over the outside of Fayren's thighs to cup his hands beneath them, his touch acting on it's own in a need to bring his master ever closer, pulling not hard enough to move the man but to encourage his nearness and convey Caleil's desire to remain pressed close.&nbsp; His hips shifted as well, instinctively, rubbing against the length captured against his back. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>17-11-2008, 22:38:17</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				A better man would have pulled away and sent the source of his temptation out of his sight. Yet Fayren was not a man of such virtue, having been raised to seek sensual pleasure above everything else. However, his partners had never been this virginal and innocent. Caleil seemed to seek his closeness and touch, so Fayren would oblige. He brushed his hand over Caleil's shoulder and traced downwards, until he could caress Caleil's thigh. The touch was tentative, almost gentle at first, but his fingers trembled. <br><br>He could have lost himself inside those dark and deep pools of blue. It seemed like a romantic thought, but it was one born of sheer animal attraction to the boy's potential might. Fayren could create something wonderfully terrifying out of what had been handed to him. Was the world ready for such? Ah, but why should he care for the world? <br><br>"Anything?" Fayren asked with a smirk. "Would you truly do anything?" <br><br>It was a cruel question, but he had a reason. Many, in fact. Or maybe he simply wanted to make it seem as if he was in control. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>17-11-2008, 22:55:55</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				His master's touch elicited a sigh, the boy amazed at how warm those fingers were.&nbsp; Never before possessed of a wanton imagination, such a mind came to him as he imagined how his master's touch would feel on his bare skin, how it might feel upon the aroused flesh between his legs.&nbsp; He should've been shocked by this, by not only imagining but craving the intimate caress of another man, but his inhibitions were lubricated enough to let those concerns slide away without impressing.<br><br>"Yes."&nbsp; A slow nod brushed the features of his face, his smooth forehead, against Fayren's jaw and neck.&nbsp; "Anything."&nbsp; Voice as soft and precious as was the boy it came from.&nbsp; "Please, Master.."&nbsp; Though he did not know what it was he begged for.&nbsp; He only knew he <em>wanted</em>, and he wanted from this man. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>17-11-2008, 23:11:23</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren had enjoyed Caleil calling him Master, but now it sent waves of lust through him to hear that title from the boy's lips. He would show him, at least, what it meant to be touched by the Fire Sorcerer. Maybe he would not be rejected and cursed this time. Caleil certainly seemed to like his attentions. <br><br>Anything. Ah, but he would not hold the boy to a promise made in the haze of lust and magic. He certainly could, but he found that he did not want to trick Caleil. Not in such a way at least. <br><br>"Perhaps something like this for you, my apprentice," Fayren said. <br><br>The sorcerer shifted, so that now he was not entirely behind Caleil's back. He took hold of the boy's chin with slender fingers and then dipped his own head lower to touch his mouth to Caleil's lips. His other hand smoothed down Caleil's back, until he could slip it under the tunic and touch more of that skin. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>18-11-2008, 00:01:09</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				He disliked the loss of contact, feeling too cool without Fayren pressed against him.&nbsp; But his words suggested something else to come, perhaps something better.&nbsp; And that was precisely what it was..&nbsp; Malleable at his master's guidance, his head moved as Fayren cupped his chin.&nbsp; Those blue eyes attentive, bright, the pupils wide with heat and the intoxicating aftereffects of his supernatural endeavor.&nbsp; &nbsp;They did not close as Fayren kissed him, angling his head up, lips too inexperienced to do more than part invitingly and murmur a contented sound.&nbsp; <br><br>His heart jumped, raced, but he did not move away and found himself rewarded for his willingness as Fayren gathered the tunic away and slid his hand across Caliel's lower back.&nbsp; His own hands were eager, yet reverent, beginning at Fayren's sides and feeling the textures of the strange fabrics he wore beneath them, then sliding around and upward to climb his master's back and feel the shallow etching of muscle there.&nbsp; The cloth gathered against his hands, and Caleil found himself slowly pushing it away until he felt his master's skin beneath, fingers trembling yet needy as they stroked the smooth, warm skin. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>18-11-2008, 00:10:00</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Fayren slipped his hot tongue into Caleil's mouth, tasting and teasing him. The kiss burned him, and the sweetness of Caleil's lips was indescribable. Again, he could not help voicing his lust as he was touched in return, the fumbling movements of his apprentice enflaming him even more. He wished to strip the robe away, but instead he just took one of Caleil's hands and put it right on his waist, where the sash of the robe had been tied. <br><br>This was a dangerous thing to do, and yet he loved every moment of it. Caleil's taste, his fresh scent, his power. How could such an enchanting being be a simple peasant boy? It was delightful, in an ironic way. Having let go of Caleil's chin, Fayren traced tiny caressed downwards, until his fingers could brush over the hardness hidden within the boy's breeches. His own was also noticeable through his flimsy clothing. 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>djin</strong> on <strong>18-11-2008, 00:54:25</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				The touch of Fayren's tongue was new, foreign and exciting.&nbsp; He made soft, throaty sounds that conveyed pleasure words never could.&nbsp; Timid attempts made to mimic the movements of&nbsp; Fayren's tongue with his own, enticed by the silky brush of tongue against tongue and the texture of the other man's mouth.&nbsp; He drew back only when in his excitement he neglected to breathe, and gasped in a breath followed by a shuddery exhale, only to lean in again for more.&nbsp; <br><br>At first his hand merely rested at the knotted sash, then realization dawned upon him and without breaking his clumsy attempts at a kiss he began to unknot it with trembling fingers.&nbsp; It wouldn't go away fast enough, but presently the knot relented and allowed the lapels of the robe to come open.&nbsp; The man's hard chest greeted his hands, palms and splayed fingers moved over the skin, blindly coming across the nipple with it's adornment, which his fingertips gingerly explored and caressed.&nbsp; <br><br>He'd managed his breathing, yet cause to gasp again came as Fayren touched him.&nbsp; Lips remained against his master's, eyes that had finally fallen shut fluttering open to lock blues upon fiery hues.&nbsp; In a moment where others had likely rejected and fled the sorcerer, Caliel followed his moment of stillness with a needy yet timid arc of his hips in to his master's touch.&nbsp; <br><br>"Please.."&nbsp; Again he begged, whispered against Fayren's lips, though now a little more certain of what it was he wanted, if not how to achieve it.&nbsp; All those lonely explorations gave suggestion to what he might expect from the interests of this man, but the possibilities were wonderfully wide.&nbsp; 
			</dd>
			<dt class="postheader">
				Title: <strong>Re: Master and Apprentice (Deathstalker and Djin)</strong><br>
				Post by: <strong>Eren</strong> on <strong>20-11-2008, 18:46:45</strong>
			</dt>
			<dd class="postbody">
				Mmm. Seemed that his apprentice liked very much what Fayren was doing. The sorcerer eagerly drank all the little moans and noises from Caleil's lips, while his own skin burned from lust. He moved closer, so that Caleil's touches would be stronger against his flesh. His nipples were hard and sensitive, each brush against them eliciting a noise almost akin to a whimper from the mage. <br><br>He looked into Caleil's eyes and saw desire in them, and that desire flamed his own in turn. He knew he should have stopped this - not thrown himself so blindly into enjoying, but he could not. How could he stop when the boy asked for this? If he truly liked Fayren's attentions, who could say that they should not have more? And Fayren was so deprived, since there usually was not anyone he could sate himself with. <br><br>Fayren laughed softly, then began working the laces of Caleil's breeches open, at the same still kissing him. 
			</dd>
		</dl>
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