Welcome to The Duality of Man, an original animanga role-play that features numerous supernatural creatures. Unfortunately, these various species have distanced themselves because of the war that occurred thousands of years ago, plaguing some with eyes that only see their dualism. While others meddle themself with their differences, two groups fight, each attempting to eliminate the other in for their definition of worldly peace. These two groups of the Terror Response Syndicate (TRS) and the Assembly of Phantoms (AP). With individuals fighting merely over their differences, it brings uncertainty to the outcome of this war.
We happily accept all role-players as long as they obey the rules and are capable of meeting our word count of 50. This does include those who are unfamiliar with this style of role-playing. The staff of The Duality of Man are willing to happily help those who are new to the role-playing world so they feel comfortable on site. Feel free to message the staff if you need help, they can be found here or in the site Discord and will gladly answer questions alongside calm concerns. If you have any suggestions we would love to hear them; guests may use the support board as a suggestion area as well. Should you decide to join, may I say welcome to the site and we all hope you enjoy your time here.
Yours Truely,
The Staff
season
Summer 2022
Heat has broken through into a glorious summer. The snow has entirely dried through the spring, leaving to the brilliance of the warmer months. Terror activity has risen as people are brought out of their homes, leaving the TRS in a position of consistent work. Each are attempting to maintain victory in the endless struggle for power.
With April, an activity check has arrived for members to do! Please post on the AC and tag all your accounts, including WIPs and OOC accounts. Failure to post on this AC will result in your accounts being marked inactive or deleted. Please note, due to a late start, the due date for this check has been adjusted for one time and one time only.
Kiernan found comfort in the embrace, desiring to remain close to Zeke as long as he was allowed to do so. His arms were wrapped around Zeke as he hugged him back, already aware that he was likely in trouble, he never could get away with lying to Zeke and now was likely not an exception, if it was, that would be a surprise to him. Zeke had been rubbing his back but it wasn't long before their silence was broken by that whisper, he flinched, proof that Zeke had caught onto his lie. He felt ashamed that it had come to Zeke pointing out the lie from him, knowing he wouldn't be able to admit it, not if he wanted to keep Zeke and his family safe. He melted as Zeke's hand touched his cheek, caressing it. The words, they sank in as he listened to Zeke's speak but he knew that he wouldn't be able to tell him the reason for his secrets so he remained silent. When Zeke had pulled away to look at him, he had adjusted so that he was standing at the ground, unable to stare Zeke in the eye for his life choices. Zeke's hand remained against his cheek, caressing it. I'm... I'm soo sorry Zeke.... but... I can't tell you. No, that isn't just it... I refuse... I won't do it. He thought to himself, continuing to stare at the ground as guilt started to consume him.
The embrace had tightened after a few seconds of silence passing between them. It was easier to dodge the question, since other people were roaming the streets. A small sigh escaped his lips as he sighed, slowly lifting his gaze to look back towards Zeke. This patience game was going to be the end of him, but first he would need to come up with an answer to explain his reason for lying without giving away too much information. "I think you know the answer to that question." He whispered his response, going silent. It wouldn't be the first time he had lied to avoid giving Zeke too much information and it likely wouldn't be the last either, but unlike the last times he was determined as ever to not break, he wouldn't be giving away his reasons for why he had chosen to lie. "I'm sorry." He added, hoping that Zeke would come to realize this conversation would not resume here.
Prayers were sent, Zeke hoping Kiernan would admit the reason behind his dishonesty in this instance. He adored his boyfriend, thus despite the dishonesty, he refused to push the precious kitsune away for it. Love existed between them, something harboured by the dragon for centuries; throughout their childhood and school years. Gently, he held Kiernan, unable to release his lying boyfriend because of his intense love for him. This long, dark-haired man was somebody crucial throughout Zeke's life, somebody who acted as an anchor upon his return from Victoria, British Columbia.
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A soft hand leading him into the luminance valley of happiness, murmuring sweet, supportive words in hopes of bettering his mental state after the devastation wreaked by PTSD. He wanted to know why exactly Kiernan was lying to him. Currently, it was Zeke's only dream to have Kiernan be entirely forthright about everything with him. Even as he pulled away slightly, the dragon proceeded to caress his cheek, silence suffocating them as Kiernan's gaze refused to meet his. A soft frown touched Zeke's lips, a sorrow breaching his brown eyes the longer he stared at the dark-haired man.
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Guilt was obvious from a meagre glance, Zeke's fixated eyes waiting for Kiernan's precious, silver orbs to finally lift and inform him of the truth, however, the standoff was long-lasting. Despite melting at the soft caress of his cheek, the kitsune refused to spare a glance at him. Nervously, the dragon's heart palpitated as he stared at the enchanting man who enamoured him. Moments later he pulled Kiernan back into a tight embrace, worry filling the former general's heart. Years of interrogations and interacting with his boyfriend allowed him to understand what would occur next.
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He doubted Kiernan would inform him of the truth, something that disappointed the ice dragon immensely. When their gazes finally met, the dark-haired man's brown eyes gazing into his boyfriend's silver ones. Finally, whispered words escaped Kiernan's lips, those spoken words inspiring Zeke's brown to deepen. Softness and sorrow breached his eyes as he returned the kitsune's gaze, wishing to know why he was being dishonest. The large man allowed the silence to hang in the air, seconds passing until Kiernan apologized for not telling him the truth.
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"Kier... I'm worried about you," Zeke whispered immediately afterwards. "I love you... and I know you don't lie without a reason... I have known you too long to know otherwise. I know you are probably trying to protect me... but lying doesn't protect me..."
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The dragon stated his words quietly, refusing to allow random strangers to poke into their business. Slowly, Zeke's hands followed Kiernan's arms to his hands before grasping them, squeezing them softly.
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"We should get home," Zeke stated.
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A single hand of Kiernan's was taken, Zeke turning to lead the way down the sidewalk, plenty aware his boyfriend would not be providing any more information. Fortunately, the dragon knew the long-haired man was lying, however, he needed to discover a method to persuade his beloved boyfriend to confess the truth. Patience was required for these delicate situations, and Zeke was determined to discover the truth. He needed to, for a foundation of trust was needed for a relationship to beautifully flourish between them.
Kiernan knew being in Zeke's embrace, accepting of caressing his cheek was selfish but he couldn't help it, besides he knew this is what Zeke wanted and seeing as he was refusing to give answers, it was the least he could do? Or so he told himself anyway. He knew how determined Zeke could get with desiring answers from him, this secret was a struggle to keep even though he knew the consequences should he admit it to Zeke. Could you love me if you knew of my past? I don't want to damper our relationship. I hadn't meant for you to catch me in this act, I know it isn't fair to you or our relationship but I won't break. I won't tell you my reason for lying. He thought to himself, still feeling like shit for having lied to Zeke in the first place. All had been going well until Zeke had caught his lie and though he knew of what he had said to give himself away he was unsure on how he could have continued the conversation without doing so. As is stood, it would have been impossible unless he had chosen to remain silent but that would have caused problems in the long run too. However to avoid lying, silence would be his only ally from now until the end of time.
He whispered back to Zeke, before silence came between them again. He then apologized, this wasn't how he wanted his relationship with Zeke to go. Zeke whispered back to him and he couldn't help but breath slightly faster. Quickly he forced himself to calm down, this wouldn't be the time or place to freak out, it wasn't like Zeke had figured out his lie just yet, besides he was just worried for him. He flinched when Zeke finished his words, he knew that it hadn't been on purpose however, he believed in this case lying would protect Zeke and his family. "I love you too." He whispered back, refusing to comment on the other subject further. Zeke's hands trailed down his arms before meeting his hands, once they interlocked he squeezed back, unable to contain his desire to hold Zeke's. Relief overcame him at the idea of getting to go to Zeke's home, though it had been where they planned to go in the first place, it was nice knowing that Zeke still planned on taking him there when he could have easily chosen to change his mind. He would then release one of Zeke's hand's to grab his suitcase, having let it go when Zeke had suddenly reached out to hug him earlier. With Zeke leading the way, he followed him home.
Nearly everything about Kiernan was absolutely perfect, the only exception being his boyfriend's dishonesty. Alas, Zeke found himself adoring his precious kitsune. Unfortunately, the dragon was attached heavily to Kiernan, thus he merely accepted it, wishing he could hear the truth escape his boyfriend's lips. Evidence was provided of the dark-haired man's decision; he would not be gaining the information he craved most. Consequences for his foolish actions could come down similar to an executioner's axe, however, he respected Kiernan and loved him immensely.
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He was enamoured with Kiernan ever since their blissful childhood together. Interactions with the kitsune was a magnificent individual who brought endless joy to Zeke's life. Thus, despite the deceptions, Kiernan occasionally manifested, the dragon found himself bound to the man he loved immensely. Emotions of euphoria would consume Zeke whenever he spent time with the long-haired man. The frown remained on the short-haired man's face even as Kiernan reciprocated the words of love, making it clear he would not be revealing the truth.
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Shortly, a hand was released, Kiernan grabbing his suitcase, but one hand remained held. The dragon provided his boyfriend's hand with another tight squeeze. Afterwards, his brown-coloured eyes returned to the path ahead, Zeke taking the lead. Together, the pair strolled down the sidewalk, the dragon remaining silent for minutes as they proceeded down the past. There was uncertainty about which topic Zeke should bring forth for the purpose of creating conversation. They were dating, however, after discovering Kiernan's lie, the dragon found himself awkward.
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Never had Kiernan essentially refuse to admit the truth. The lack of honesty was surprising and concerning because of the limited amount of time they spent together. The separation had placed a subtle strain between them, their reconnection over text message and later in reality being something recent. Thus, Zeke wished Kiernan would become truthful and explain everything without any lies or deceptions. A single desire fixated on in the dragon's mind, which was being gifted. A marvellous gift wrapped in the perfect paper was something Zeke wanted from Kiernan.
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"... Are you excited for the parade?" Zeke murmured after a few moments.
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Finally, a conversation topic was discovered and the dragon decided to discuss it. He desired to distract his thoughts from Kiernan's dishonest actions. Thus, he focused on the upcoming parade they would be attending in only a few hours. Images flashed through his mind, fabricated scenes on what the rest of Lorsette was decorated like. Undoubtedly, everything would be coated in rainbows designed to display everybody's support of LGBTQ+ relationships and genders. There was something about the occasion which brought force a sense of happiness, alas, it was bitter-sweet if anything.
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Beneath those thoughts were the lingering wolves reminding him of those lies, but the colourful display and notions of support somewhat fending them off. Ultimately, Zeke noticed his attempts to search for a distraction from those thoughts, his mind hoping conversation would begin naturally despite the earlier transgressions. The dragon loved Kiernan and he refused to allow a single incident at the beginning of their relationship to end everything he desired for centuries.
Kiernan grabbed his suitcase before squeezing Zeke's hand in return. It was comforting to do so, plus he couldn't help but hope it gave Zeke comfort just as much as it did for him. Zeke took the lead and he followed behind him, silence appearing between them. He wasn't sure what to talk about, feeling guilty that he couldn't give Zeke what he wanted. What should I do now? I hadn't expected him to find out, or at the very least, not so soon. I'm at a lost for what to do. In the past I'd cave in and tell him but this is serious. I can't tell him what I'm hiding, no matter how shitty I feel because of it. He thought to himself, being pulled from his thoughts by Zeke's sudden question. "Of course but nothing could compare to the pleasure of being in your company." He whispered in return, feeling somewhat flustered that Zeke would get the chance to hear him desiring to be around him so much. The worst that Zeke could do to him would be shoving him to the curb and losing contact with him, he secretly prayed that day would never happen.
I mean I deserve it since I lied to you and I'm not going to give in on telling you the reason. You should have somebody willing to share no secrets between you and yet I can't give you that, there are somethings I must take to the grave with me and this is one of them. He thought to himself, struggling to focus when the pit of his stomach felt uneasy from the strain he believe he had just placed between them. "Are you?" He whispered, quickly redirecting the question right back at him. Childhood memories crossed his mind and he couldn't help but smile slightly at the thought of them being children, now those were good times. Even the part where he played AP against his darling Zeke who happened to be TRS, but this was no longer a game, it was reality. I've got to get my mind off of these secrets. He already caught on to my lie but he doesn't know how many webs I've tangled myself into. The more I think about it, the more guilty I feel and I can't break now, not when I've got more to do first. He thought to himself, though despite his efforts the thoughts kept returning anyway.
He struggled to force a straight face but he was feeling uneasy about all of this. Even if he could keep Zeke from his secrets, he still wasn't sure if he could keep him safe from AP, of course he was determined to try but the fear of him not being good enough made him uneasy. His worry slowly started to consume him, what once had been an attempted straight face had turned into him breathing somewhat deeper, trying to control his nerves, hoping Zeke failed to notice.
Something simple and minor, a hand squeeze which reassured Zeke about his relationship with Kiernan. Love still existed between them, their strong connection feeding the dragon's confidence and assurance about the future. He adored the kitsune's affection, however, proceeded to fear the consequences of those lies his boyfriend gave. There was warmth between their hands, an admirable trait that resulted in Zeke maintaining a tight grip around his hand. A deep breath was sucked into the dragon's lungs before being slowly released.
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Calmness arrived, subtle and just enough for comfortability to exist for the former general. He desired the lies to cease, but knowing Kiernan's protective nature, it would take plenty of time. Shifting the conversation's topic was the only method to break the uncomfortable silence. Their date plans were to enjoy the Pride Month Parade and celebrate the rights of the LGBTQ+. It was oddly befitting for Kiernan and himself to be officially dating one another during a day where those relationships were respected and supported by those of the community in Lorsette.
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The dragon listened to Kiernan's comment, the positive remark prompting a weak smile to trace Zeke's lips and a tint of red across his cheeks. Softly, the former general squeezed Kiernan's hand, approving of the compliments. The negatives were unable to shove Zeke away from his attractive boyfriend, the individual who anchored him and assured calmness would conquer chaos. If the kitsune desired, he could potentially manipulate the lovestruck father. Those were notions that never entered Zeke's head, however, his traumatized mind required a soft place to land after everything horrible.
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Thus, in all regards, Kiernan was visualized as the individual who gave him strength and supported him whenever he found himself vulnerable to those abhorrent memories or victimized by atrocious nightmares. The whispered return inquiry caused Zeke to smile at his beloved.
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"Well... it would be our first date in my opinion," Zeke answered bashfully, a nervous chuckle escaping his lips. With his free hand, the dragon rubbed the back of his neck. "Sooo, of course, I'm excited... and nervous... It has been forever since I have been on a date."
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Since breaking up with his girlfriend and the mother of his children, Zeke never entered another romantic relationship until now. Those days, he was distracted with the responsibilities of his high-ranking TRS position and the ones of being a single father with two children. Joint-custody was shared of the children and while transitions were done between both homes, it never altered the hefty list heaved onto his shoulders. Alas, the opportunity finally presented itself to cautiously enter the waters of dating.
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As years transgressed, Emily and Lucas were becoming older and maturing, providing Zeke with the opportunity to test these waters. He already planned on introducing Kiernan as his boyfriend in a slow, careful manner to allow his children to form opinions on his choices. As their only living parent, Zeke desired comfort to be created between the individual he wished to date and his precious children. The one fear which maintained wary were his children disliking Kiernan or possibly, Kiernan disliking the kids.
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Despite those worrisome thoughts, the dragon knew who he wished to spend the rest of his years with. The handsome, long-haired kitsune walking beside him, holding his hand tightly as they gradually returned to the home. Now he prayed to achieve those wishes and to discover a sense of calm and support between them when moving into the future, even with those difficult road bumps. Gradually, the familiar shape of his parent's home entered Zeke's visuals. The large home stretched over a fair bit of property, however, it failed to possess the size required to dub it a manor.
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There were three floors, the basement, the main floor and finally the upstairs. A majority of the bedrooms were upstairs, however, Zeke's was an exception since he was returned to his previous bedroom. His parents were kindly people, having moved around their furniture to make two additional rooms upstairs for the children. They even went lengths of heading downstairs to check on their mentally burdened son, something which Zeke valued whenever he listened to the soft squeak of the bedroom door opening. They worry they displayed was genuine loved, and even with the addition of his roommate and boyfriend, Zeke appreciated everything his parents had and would do for him.
Kiernan couldn't help but feel overwhelmed slightly as he was reminded of the guilt of keeping secrets from Zeke. It couldn't be helped, however, for Zeke and his family to remain safe he would have to be quiet on the subject. He couldn't help but blush when Zeke answered him back, mentioning how it would be their first date in his opinion. "Yes." He whispered in return his agreement. He squeezed his hand in return, knowing fully well he had never been on a date before. A small smile was on his face at the thought of Zeke being rusty, verses him never entering a relationship before. "You'll show me how it is done? Yes?" He asked playfully, glancing at Zeke before looking forward once more.
The house became in view, once to the door, he waited for Zeke to get it before planning on following him inside. He then would follow Zeke to the bedroom with the plans on ditching his suitcase in there. Now what? We could continue talking about the parade. He thought to himself, feeling somewhat awkward. "Then our vacation is our second date." He added, planning on resuming the conversation away from his secrets. Slowly he would move around the bedroom before shoving the suitcase in the corner, having tugged Zeke along because he really badly didn't want to release his hand, finding their intertwined hands comforting.
Blood pumped into Zeke's cheeks when his ears detected Kiernan's comment about the dating. The playful comment about showing Kiernan how dating was done flustered the dragon. Shades of embarrassed red covered his face, darkening at the cheeks, but still covering the bridge of his nose and even a portion of his forehead. The notion of being the individual most knowledgable about dating made his heart flutter wildly. Years had passed since the former general last dated since his fixation was placed on his occupation and children.
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Flirtatious offers were offered by people impressed by his muscular nature and his high ranking position in the TRS, however, when those remarks arrived from Kiernan's lips, it felt special. For centuries, Zeke harboured an adoration for the stunning kitsune. Happiness felt infinite as the dragon glanced away, face red and breathing fast as he attempted to organize his emotions and soothe himself. Eventually, the former general found himself gradually regaining composure, his eyes returning to Kiernan, face still retaining some of his red shade.
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"I would be honoured to teach you what I know," he playfully, albeit, bashfully responded with a smile.
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They approached the front door, heading up the stairs onto the large deck complete with a slanted room and patio furniture. In the summer months, Zeke's parents would lounge outside, enjoying warm weather from the shaded area or sometimes watching the lightning strikes from a frightening storm. Those days were distant memories, the ones involving electricity being forcefully shoved out of Zeke's mind. Despite those instances having pleasant conversation and interactions, memories of his traumatic experience at the hands of the Assembly of Phantoms scarred him.
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Those days spent watching white cracks of lightning contrast against the darkened, stormy skies would involuntarily bring shaking. Electricity was primarily used to inflict pain on Zeke throughout his captivity among other twisted methods that landed him in the hospital for days. The scar created on the bridge of his nose occurred during his imprisonment and it was a constant reminder of what happened. There were instances where the dragon found difficulty in staring at himself in the mirror because of the imperfection.
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Alas, entering the deck area brought a smile to Zeke's face as he remembered the childhood days where himself and Kier would play games on the front lawn while his mother watched from the deck. A joyous exhale escaped his lips as his hand reached for the door, opening the passage for Kiernan. Once his boyfriend entered the home, Zeke followed closely behind him while still holding the adorable, long-haired man's hand. As they entered, Zeke wasted no time kicking off his shoes and leading Kiernan through the living room and towards his bedroom.
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An explanation would be owed to his parents, but first, he wished to have Kiernan's items placed in his room. When they arrived at the threshold to his bedroom, Zeke opened the door for his beloved again. He closed the door behind them, a broad grin touching his face as he led the long-haired man to the bed.
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"Put your stuff where you want," he happily stated.
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Quietly, Zeke gave Kiernan the opportunity, however, their intertwined fingers made it difficult for him to release his hand. A comment was added to the initial date conversation, red embracing Zeke's cheeks again.
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"Yeah... I guess it will be," he responded, voice quiet and nervous.
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The former general watched as Kiernan placed his suitcase in the corner. There was little to organize into the room considering how much the kitsune downsized. Everything that belonged to the long-haired man fit inside the suitcase he brought with him. The notion was sorrowful, however, Zeke silenced his opinion, wishing to keep gloom out of the air.
Kiernan couldn't help but recall the past when they were children. Being outside on the lawn while his parents would over see them playing while they lounged on the patio furniture. To him, they brought back good memories, of course he didn't dare bring up the past, fear of Zeke remembering his torture, had crossed his mind and he didn't want to be the reason behind such horrible memories. Once they reached the door, Zeke had opened it for him and he walked inside. He made sure to kick his shoes off before walking with Zeke towards his bedroom. Once in the bedroom Zeke told him that he could put his suitcase where ever he wanted before he made the comment about their second date. He hoped that Zeke was as thrilled about their date as he was feeling. He placed his suitcase in the corner of the room. I want to tell him what my thoughts are, but I know it isn't safe for him to know. This really sucks. He thought to himself, glancing towards Zeke briefly before side glancing towards the wall and floor.
What should I say to him? What can I say to please him without causing any problems? If I chose not to say anything, he might push me away. I don't want to be pushed away but it would be for the best. I don't know what I want to do. His thought were making him upset, he wasn't even having this conversation with Zeke and yet he knew how unfair it was for him not to share his secrets with him. He closed his eyes, allowing his thoughts to wonder as he debated on what he should do now. It wasn't fair to Zeke to keep such secrets, but at the same time, it wasn't fair to drag Zeke into his mess to begin with. What should I do? I finally got what I want, but he isn't safe around me. He thought to himself, becoming frustrated because of his thoughts trying to convince himself of what would be the right decision.
Giddiness filled Zeke as he took Kiernan to the bedroom they would officially be sharing. The notion of his precious boyfriend becoming his roommate was exciting for the dragon, especially after those feelings of love manifested again. As his brown eyes gazed upon the stunning kitsune, a slight smile traced his lips despite the past transgressions. His anchor would be standing beside him, the individual who stabilized him and assisted with mending his broken mind. Something was reassuring about Kiernan's presence, the notion of knowing he had somebody there to inspire emotions of calmness and happiness.
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The dragon was thankful for Kiernan's presence, he always was. The dark-haired man stood beside him and was frequently providing words of encouragement and helpful advice whenever Zeke seemed to require it. During those moments of complete uncertainty, Kiernan listened and gave the words he needed to hear. The former general watched his precious boyfriend, a subtle smile on his face while he attempted to push away the thoughts from earlier. Although, when Zeke saw Kiernan's face, he witnessed the frustration and guilt.
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It prompted a frown on Zeke's face the longer he gazed at the attractive kitsune. A step was taken as the dragon closed the little distance between them. Slowly, his hand reached up, caressing Kiernan's cheek to gain a better view of his magnificent face. He stared into those silver eyes should the opportunity arrive, taking a moment to watch him. Alas, he despised the expression. It prompted sadness and concern from Zeke to witness his boyfriend like that.
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"... What's wrong?" Zeke murmured. "Am I going too fast?"
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Slowly, Zeke attempted to pull Kiernan closer to hug him tightly. He wanted to be reassuring to the precious man he adored, who provided him with constant consolation whenever he required it. He desired to view the kitsune being happy after their agreement to share a room; they were dating after all. Endless concerns about moving too fast through their fresh relationship entered Zeke's mind, thus he wished to promote the idea of addressing those concerns and discussing them properly. It was the only method to honestly eliminate those negative feelings.
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Couples were expected to be teammates through life, intimate partners who were meaningful to one another. Thus it was something Zeke desired to witness transpire between them. He wanted a positive relationship with Kiernan and he would try hard to promote those emotions.
Kiernan knew that all Zeke was trying to do was have a honest relationship between them. It was logical, it was fair, but he couldn't bring himself to do it. Not if it meant Zeke or his family being placed in danger. Of course it didn't ease his guilty conscience and he should have figured Zeke would ask him about it. He melted when he felt Zeke caressing his cheek, looking back at him in return. None of this was fair to Zeke and yet he wanted to be in this relationship without harm coming upon those he cares about. He briefly chuckled before side glancing. "No." He mumbled before adding, "That isn't the reason." He was so ashamed and Zeke hadn't even questioned him further about the subject. Zeke pulled him into a hug, he wrapped his arms around Zeke to return the hug, finding comfort in their embrace. "I've wanted this for a very long time. I wouldn't trade it for the world." He mumbled, hoping to comfort Zeke further.
The desire to not worry Zeke was a struggle, not for the fact of wanting to do so but because he knew how protective Zeke could be and how he wasn't being fair with not sharing facts with him. It is the other thing... that I can't tell you about. He thought to himself, feeling like a shitty boy friend. Oh how Zeke would be better off without him. A ting of fear entered into his gut at the thought of Zeke being able to replace him just like that, he never wanted to part ways with him. "I know you mean well." He started, "I'm just disappointing." He mumbled, continue on with their new conversation. "You deserve somebody so much better than me." He mumbled, feeling ashamed to be saying such a thing. However, since Zeke had them in an embrace, he didn't plan on willing letting go, having started to cling.
The sorrowful expression displayed on Kiernan's countenance was upsetting for Zeke to view. The dragon's heart ached observing his boyfriend's sadness captured upon his face... Never would he wish those emotions to plague the man he adored, admired and ultimately, loved. Throughout his struggles with PTSD, Kiernan transform into a symbol of calmness, somebody to assist with sorting the hectic emotions that frequently conquered the dragon's brain. The assistance was happily given by Kiernan without complaint or hesitation.
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A mumble escaped the long-haired man, Zeke somewhat relieved by the answer. The haste displayed towards their relationship was not pushing Kiernan away. The former general maintained a tight embrace, muscular arms secured around his boyfriend as he gently snuggled him. One of his hands softly rubbed the kitsune's back as he tightly hugged him. Each action was designed to promote calmness in hopes his boyfriend would be more comfortable confessing his issues. The dragon placed his chin on Kiernan's shoulder as he capitalized on their closeness.
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Mumbled proceeded to leave those beautiful, plush lips as Kiernan spoke further. A soft redness encompassed Zeke's cheeks while he hugged the long-haired man he loved. There was comfort discovered in their embrace, the ice dragon refusing to release the wonderful kitsune who brought him happiness. He required answers to his beloved's abrupt change in mood, although, the former general feared it was related to hiding the truth. There was something Kiernan was hiding, however, it was something he refused to reveal.
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"What's wrong? You can always tell me," Zeke whispered when there was a pause.
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There was a reassuring tone to his softly spoken words, something designed to prompt Kiernan to speak about the bothersome things on his mind. The saddened tone of his boyfriend's mumbles reached his ears, the dragon's eyes widening as he heard the horrible things Kiernan stated about himself. The grip tightened again, Zeke rubbing the kitsune's back as he listened to those blasphemous words.
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"Don't ever call yourself that... You're not a disappointment, Kier," he whispered sadness in his voice. "I don't want to deserve somebody else... because I want to be with you."
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Those despicable words were worlds away from the truth. In Zeke's eyes, Kiernan was a significant piece in his life, somebody willing to stand beside him with loyalty and love. The notion of the long-haired man being a disappointment was a completely foreign concept. Kiernan was somebody charming with bewitching looks that resulted in Zeke's hazel eyes admiring his slender frame. He was a summoner of happiness, someone capable of parting the darkened clouds crowding his burdened mind whenever it was required of him.
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The kitsune trapped within his embrace was a valuable ally, somebody who invested precious time to assist in his recovery. Caring, benevolent, friendly and magnificent were words Zeke would use to describe the long-haired man rather than the word "disappointment". In every regard, Kiernan represented the positive portions of the dragon's life and never the foreboding negative one that haunted him.
Kiernan continued hugging Zeke in return, finding comfort in their embrace. He enjoyed Zeke rubbing his back, perhaps it was a tad bit selfish out him but he enjoyed all of this attention. Though the affection made him feel more at ease, the guilt was still nagging at him. He had paused, listening to Zeke's whisper. "Oh Zeke." He whispered back in return, unwilling to answer that question. "I wish it were that simple, but it isn't." He whispered some more, proving to be rather difficult with sharing some light on what he was hiding, even though he didn't want secrets between them. The grip had tightened, he felt defeated as he continued hugging Zeke in return. He listened as Zeke spoke, melting in his embrace. Then why am I keeping secrets from you? How could this be so? Answer is that I am though and I'm so sorry for this. He thought to himself, not daring to say the words out loud because Zeke had already given his answer to him, that wasn't about to change his thoughts on the matter, however.
"I try and not to be." He slowly started up again, knowing Zeke wouldn't want to hear it and yet he believed this as the truth. "Your the best, Zeke." He whispered, continuing to hug Zeke because this is comfortable and because he wanted to try and comfort Zeke as much as he was being comforted in return. To choose, this happiness or to keep them safe. Which is better, the freedom to choose or to keep them all safe? I'm not safe, surely that would answer that question right off the bat and yet, I can't shake the feeling that parting ways right now would be a hug mistake. Plus I wouldn't want to do so. He thought to himself, curious on how long it had been since the parade was bound to start soon and they wouldn't want to be late arriving there.
Reassurance was naturally given whenever it came to somebody close to Zeke. A person like Kiernan was beyond important in the PTSD-ridden man's life. The supportive kitsune gave him everything he needed to hear and the comforting embraces when stress was weighing heftily upon his mighty shoulders. The gentle behaviour his closest friend exhibited was welcomed, oftentimes becoming the driving force to soothe intense emotions of anxiety. Grasped tightly in Zeke's arms was his beautiful boyfriend, somebody he refused to release after listening to the self-depreciation.
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The notion of anybody hating his precious boyfriend was impossible to conceive. He loved Kiernan immensely, believing the dark-haired man could never accomplish anything wrong. The dragon proceeded to rub the kitsune's back, holding him tight, an arm secured around his hip. He kept his head on Kiernan's shoulder, allowing their chests to remain close. A warmth was shared between them, something welcomed by Zeke as they embraced. He listened to Kiernan's wishes of simplicity, tightening his hug and snuggling the attractive man.
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"It's okay," he murmured.
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The short-haired man kept holding his precious Kiernan, snuggling him and showing affection. Red coloured Zeke's cheeks when Kiernan commented about him being "the best". Rapidly, the dragon's heart thumped hard against his sternum, blood flowing quickly through his bloodstream because of the sweet comment. There was hesitation as Zeke prepared himself to speak, planning on complimenting his boyfriend.
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"You're better," Zeke whispered. "You've helped me so much, Kier... If it weren't for you, I wouldn't have ever gotten this far... Thank you."
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Slowly, the dragon pulled away, smiling broadly at Kiernan. There was a brightness replenished in Zeke's face as he stared at his boyfriend, a slight redness evident on his cheeks. The larger man kept an arm around the long-haired man's hip, the other hand stationed on the kitsune's shoulder. This kept their bodies close while allowing Zeke to view his boyfriend's attractive face. He stared deeply into Kiernan's eyes, admiring the steel colour as he gazed into those brilliant eyes. The grin on his face broadened, the hand on his boyfriend's shoulder soon reaching to caress Kiernan's face.
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The long-haired man was ravishing, somebody Zeke adored throughout their childhood together and teenage years. Everything he desired was here, the opportunity to support and love Kiernan as his boyfriend. After knowing the kitsune for years, the dragon always wanted to date the precious man.
Kiernan melted as he heard Zeke's words, returning the hugs. Oh how he enjoyed being in Zeke's embrace. He had managed to fluster Zeke only to hear him counter. He felt his cheeks go pink from embarrassment at the compliment. Zeke pulled away slightly, most likely admiring his face. He stared back, having found himself in a trance as he stared at Zeke's. They were both flustered and this was bliss. He melted when Zeke's hand had moved from his shoulder to cares his face. He couldn't help but wonder how long they've been at this. Knowing that the parade would be starting and how they wouldn't want to be late. He had been hoping to hear a time being mentioned but when it didn't come, he side glanced. "We should head out soon, so that we aren't late for the parade." He mumbled, feeling ashamed that he had interrupted their moment like this. Slowly he glanced back towards Zeke, unsure of what reaction he would see when they'd make eye contact again. Assuming that the parade was just around the corner, he'd wait for everybody to be ready before making plans to head outside so that they'd be able to walk there.
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