[ They'd agreed on two weeks. A shorter excursion back to the Continent – a compromise of sorts – to sate the worst of Lune's thirst for discovery while mitigating Gustave's chagrin to be away from his own work, his apprentices and Maelle. Perfectly aware that coming back to the Continent isn't really what Gustave particularly wants to do after their hard-earned victory over the Paintress, when they'd finally won the opportunity to lead a normal life without the fear of Gommage, without Expeditions, Lune had once more tried to argue going on her own. With Esquie's ever helpful assistance, moving between the Ancient Sanctuary for the Gestrals and Monoco's Station to see the Grandis would be a breeze. He would be so busy himself he wouldn't even notice she was gone!
Well. The result had been predictable. As much as Lune exasperates over Gustave's stubborn insistence, she also finds it annoyingly endearing. While they still haven't exactly worked out what this thing between them is, it does warm her heart that he's so adamant about coming with her. While she may not have said so with words, deciding to make Monoco's Station their first priority is an olive branch of sorts. Lune knows he didn't have as much time with the trains upon their first visit as he would have liked. Understandably, they'd been pressed for time and otherwise preoccupied. It's not really an inconvenience, as Lune herself didn't have enough time to pepper the Grandis with all her questions, either. Two birds, one stone.
Besides. The snow is beautiful, especially when one has only known the steady, temperate environment of Lumière, courtesy of the shield dome. She's not sure she wants to camp here, in the cold, but again; it's convenient to have a friendly cryptid around to whisk them off to a milder clime, if they so wish.
Taking a break from recording the myriad of fascinating tales the Grandis have to tell, Lune makes her way into one of the silent train cars, moving through them quietly until she finds Gustave in the locomotive, poking about the engine. Beautifully predictably.
Lune is normally too disciplined to surrender to random bouts of impishness, but she can't resist the impulse that comes to her then. A lone ball of loosely packed snow smacks against Gustave's shoulder from behind, followed by Lune's chuckle. ]
[ those two weeks weaved between going by quickly and dragging themselves out. time liked to work paradoxically like that. Gustave tried to remain focused on his work, wrapping up projects or getting them to the perfect stopping point so that he could resume upon their inevitable return. it wasn't always easy. Lune was the perfect distraction, for better or worse. the allure of dabbling into something as normal and mundane as intimacy called to him like a siren's song, reminding him of what it was like to get caught up in the warmth of affection that went beyond familial means.
that's why it made all the more sense not to deprive either of them of something they were clearly enjoying. if she's so adamant to return to the Continent, she needn't do so on her lonesome. Esquie may make for pleasant enough company, perhaps even Monoco if she needed some additional strength, but the advantages of having Gustave with her? mind-blowing — and definitely in the most inappropriate sense possible. he has a running bet on how long it'll take before she might get tired of how much of a distraction he will be.
but turnabout is fair play, he thinks. and he's intent on ensuring he returns his interest. ]
W— hey! [ his shock from being pelted by snow derives itself more from the fact that he was wrong in his calculations. Lune, even amidst the bristling cold, has warmed up so much to him that she has found the fun in pestering. his influence on her is duly noted. ] There could have been a rock in there, you know. Some twigs. And what if you hit me in my head, hm? Imagine the blood. Heathen.
[ her chuckle is returned as he turns to face her. he had someone already managed to get old remnants of oil and dirt on his cheek and across his nose from having touched around more than he should have. class act as always. ]
Crazy to think there's actual a chance I live long enough to see a railroad being rebuilt here. Maybe even ride a train myself. Hopefully you'll join me... even if we may need canes for assistance.
[ Lune would be lying if she claimed having Gustave accompany her over didn't have its... advantages. And at least they don't have to worry too much about being walked in on this time if they happen to get a bit "distracted", here and there. So far Gustave has managed to stave off Lune's initial exasperations at having some task or aspect of project management interrupted by something infinitely less productive, but there is a nice sense of novelty in the fact that they do actually have the time now to be distracted.
Brushing off bits of snow from her gloved hands, Lune chuffs a noise caught somewhere between a scoff and a laugh at Gustave's dramatics, rolling her eyes. ]
Please. Hit you in the head? Excuse me— [ She points at herself. ] My aim is impeccable.
[ And she'll suffer no implications to the contrary, thank you. Her lips quirk slightly at the dark stains smudged across his face, taking a step closer and impulsively rubbing a glover thumb against his cheek in effort clean one of the spots away. The fleck of thick oil only smears further across his skin, and into her glove. Oops. ]
When there's an actual, running train, I promise I'll go with you. Canes or no.
[ A welcome thought, actually; living long enough to need a cane. She hums, amused and subtly awed in equal measure. ] You have a point, though. It still doesn't feel entirely real, does it?
[ he's aware that, should he distract Lune too much, she would either need to remain here longer or want to come back quicker. there's a thin, delicate line as to what would be acceptable. this diversion towards Monoco's Station is one of them. he's aware this stop is very much for him as opposed to Lune — perhaps a gift for parting ways with all that anchors him in Lumiére. it's a swell gift, really. he feels like a young boy again now that there's nothing urgent pulling them away from the ancient relics laying around them. ]
Ehhh. Debatable. Who needs aim when you toss around the elements like they're nothing? [ a tease. his aim is impeccable, okay. kind of needs to be thanks to his penchant towards firearms. ] Snowballs, though... you've downgraded.
[ there's an urge to find some snow to give her what for, but: 1) that would require leaving what he has deemed his domain, and 2) Lune had just closed in on him in record pace. he has no idea why her hand is gracing his features, but he accepts the warmth of it against his cold skin with glee. she can messy his face as much as she wants. wouldn't be the first time. ]
We may have gotten a bit spoiled by our current means of transportation. Maybe we should put Esquie on rails instead... heh. [ he moves his hands behind him, both gripping the rail behind him for support. Gustave feels like a teenager again, especially in how he leans towards Lune like some schoolboy hoping to charm a fellow classmate. ] Don't you worry. I know you'll age beautifully. Me, on the other hand? Mm. Not sure I can pull the grey off as well as others have shown.
[ Not entirely for Gustave. Lune did genuinely want to interview the Grandis, something about the slightly sorrowful wisdom of the gentle giants striking a chord in her. And unlike the Gestrals, as much as Lune loves them, the Grandis actually answer questions and make sense when they do. Her journal in her pictos space is already filled with notes from all of her conversations that she'd have to curate and transcribe properly later.
She exhales through her nose, a little huff of reluctant amusement; that was a back-handed compliment if she's ever heard one! ]
Would you rather I threw ice or lighting at you, then? With my so-called debatable aim, hm?
[ Her gaze narrows just a hint at that even as she teases him back. Her disposition mellows some more when he goes on, giving her an actual compliment. She tips her head to the side and rubs at that stubborn smudge on his cheek with her other finger, making some headway removing it. Her glove is probably ruined, though. The things she does for him. ]
Mm, I don't know if I'd say that. I think you'd be handsome either way.
[ See, she can be nice, too. Evidenced further by the way her lips curve into a small but warm smile, hardly missing the way he leans toward her, before she breathes a light laugh of amusement. ]
Really, did you stick your face into the engine too? You're smeared with what looks like oil. I'm a bit surprised there's any left after almost seventy years of lying out here in the elements...
Ahhh, no. Nope. Been impaled enough for one lifetime. Singed as well. I'll continue to happily take the snow, madame.
[ he's furrowing his brows and staring at her inquisitively, as if to silently ask what in the world she's rubbing at his face so hard for. it doesn't take him long to piece it together, leaving him sputtering his lips without even realizing it. Gustave withholds the comment he would like to make about how motherly she seems to be in this moment. no telling what kind of element he might get for that one. ]
Suppose only time... will tell. [ and for her motherly behavior comes some fatherly humor. at least he has an excuse. he's annoyed Maelle with that nonsense far too long in her young adulthood. ] Ahah. Yes... see, about that. I may have brought some with us. Wanted to test a theory or two when you said this would be a destination of ours.
[ he gestures down at the floor next to them, bag open and several tools and cloths laid along the floor. Gustave had intentions of stripping as much of the engine as he could, but he wouldn't be able to do that without some old fashioned lubricant. ]
Suppose I got carried away. These hands have minds of their own. Especially this one. [ the emphasized prosthetic pulls off of the rail, and with little warning, Gustave pinches two metal fingers around the side of Lune's backside. whoops. ] See? Thinking it may be time to consider a 2.0.
[ It's a small win, but she sounds a bit smug about it anyway. Lune only gives him a wry look at that dad humor that follows, since it wasn't the most egregious example possible. Not that she doesn't often chuckle at the groan-worthy lines in spite of herself... Considering they've left any concerns of unprotected sex up to fate, making no mention of any motherly fussing is probably a good thing— just another item on the list of things they really should discuss with some seriousness. Just not now, clearly.
She gives up on trying to wipe away the stains on his face and pulls her hand away, her efforts not really improving the state of things much. ]
Explains a few things. [ Now she does breathe a small laugh, glancing down at the stuff lying on the floor and gesturing toward the engine indicatively. ] I should have expected you'd want to pack as much of this away as possible.
[ His pictos space is probably halfway full by now. When Gustave suddenly sneaks a hand down to pinch at the side of her rear, he garners himself a tiny yelp of surprise and a quick, warning look that morphs too quickly into fond exasperation. ]
Mm, yes. It does seem to find itself in some interesting places with increased frequency of late... not what your apprentices ever intended, I'm sure.
[ The dryness of her delivery suffers a little from the slight flush of color across her cheeks, suddenly recalling a little too vividly their unplanned first encounter, a bit of wine-drunk merry-making somehow turning into him fingering her. And they haven't really stopped those kind of shenanigans, since. ]
[ of course it's only when she stops does he decide to bring his flesh hand up to begin touching and examining his own face. the wonders of fingerless gloves means he can hopefully find the source of her ire... and in doing so, he manages to forget those fingers were still oil-slicked from before. now he's dragged the messy further across his cheekbone and even along his nose now.
congratulations, Lune. did you know you have also brought Sciel along for this little excursion?
Gustave is probably going to figure out that he messed up by Lune's reaction, and he'll quickly pull his hand back as if to pretend he didn't do anything in the slightest. ]
Good news for them: they get to grow up and learn why it's great to ensure everyone has their limbs working and intact... to benefit others far beyond just themselves.
[ his little pinch turns into an open palm that rests firmly on the side of said rear, with Gustave finding easy confidence in her twist of fluster. he uses it to guide her forward, until her body is pressed so taut into his that he was now fully leaned back into the rail behind him. he moves to touch her face this time, brushing some idle strands of hair out from her eyes before resting them around her neck. he's careful to ensure he doesn't smear oil tracks onto her as well. for now.
he does owe her for the snowball... ]
And we're in agreement as to how much it may benefit others, hm?
[ Lune winces when he starts pawing his own face, her lips parting and drawing in a breath to tell him to stop, but it's already too late. He's smeared the oil stains further across his skin, and Lune exhales that held breath in a sigh, mildly exasperated – if only for a moment. A prick of fond, wry amusement mingles in there too, especially when Gustave pulls his hand away like a kid caught in the act, but she tries not to let it overwhelm her expression. ]
A teachable moment for the future, hm?
[ She can't help but huff a little laugh at the ridiculousness of it, but there's nothing to laugh about the way he tugs her close, her body flush against his. And oh, it's so, so pleasant, the press of their frames warm and familiar in the nipping cold. Lune definitely wonders if he isn't leaving oil on her skin now too when he touches her, but for once – for now – she doesn't object. Her own hands settle against his waist.
This is not what she came over to do, but she isn't going to complain, either. ]
Fishing for compliments? Okay, yes. But let's keep the benefits between ourselves, shall we?
[ he's careful, he's careful! his palm is free of the sins of his past, and besides — they're both used to seeing each other covered in dirt and grime. remaining clean while traveling the Continent for as long as they had during this trip felt as if they were pushing their luck. Gustave was just... resetting the scales. yes. it's only right to ensure they don't rest on their laurels.
even if this moment of warmth and shared comfort may be brief and fleeting, he's happy to have it. he's become far too used to the idea of working hours on end, from sunrise to sunset, only to return home to an empty bed. he had his sister and Maelle to fulfill him, at least, which means he can't fathom how those feelings may intensify in Lune's situation. he would never dare to assume, so he doesn't. all that matters to him is that they've been given the chance to enjoy the little things. ]
I don't knoooow... was actually hoping we could invite Monoco over. Imagine the research that could be done there. [ actually, wait. Gustave winces and immediately shakes his head: ] Don't do that. Forget I said anything.
[ some secrets can remain a secret, or perhaps discovered by someone else! there may still be a morbid curiosity there. just maybe.
either way, he's going to try and chase that image away by leaning forward to peck Lune on the lips. it's brief and chaste, but maybe that's what makes it the most interesting. "just friends" don't tend to leave butterfly kisses on each others lips, do they. ]
Did you have plans when you came in here, or did you just want to stir the pot and see how quickly I'd forget what I was doing? Because you won there if so.
[ Lune actually snorts quietly at that, shaking her head in mild amazement at the things Gustave's brain comes up with sometimes. ]
Consider it forgotten. I don't think I even want to begin to imagine what you meant by that.
[ Lune's hands slip from his waist and dive beneath his coat, slinging her arms loosely around him, clasping her hands against the small of his back. The more time they spend together in close proximity like this, the easier it seems to... almost take it for granted. Except that's not it, exactly. Maybe more that it becomes a little too natural to touch one another with such familiarity and intimacy. Lune can admit to herself that she's missed him, whenever she's lifted her head from her own work long enough to realize she's not as accustomed to being by herself as she used to be, before the Expedition. She's tried not to fall back into her old habits of isolation entirely, and she's kept in touch with Sciel— whenever the other woman can pull herself away from Verso.
But, yes. It's easy now to tilt her chin up a little to better accept Gustave's kiss, brief as it is. It's easy to want more, so she leans in before he can pull away too far to return the peck with another one of her own, although the press of her lips lingers a bit too long for it to be called a mere "peck". ]
Stir the pot? You make me sound so nefarious. But if I distracted you from your train, I'll take it as a compliment. [ She smirks slightly. Of course she does. ]
But, I did want to come see what you thought of the camping situation. There's only a couple of hours of daylight left. We could set up inside the station here. Or if we'd rather not risk frostbite, we could camp a bit further down the mountain where the cold is not so severe. And if we want a bit more... privacy.
[ What could she possibly mean by that? Surely nothing inappropriate. ]
[ with the cold biting away at their skin even through the layers, it may prove even more difficult than normal to separate the two. Gustave had nearly forgotten about the brisk temperature with how focused he had been on his tinkering, but the reminder sinks in quickly when he finally stands still for more than a few seconds. having Lune and her coat around him is a familiar blanket that he has grown far too accustomed to. sometimes he's too hard on himself and wonders if it was right to allow him to become so comfortable.
but then he always seems to remember that this was never a one-sided affair. the attachment that's deepened between them is hardly unrequited. they have both done a swell job in enforcing that.
the proof is laid out pretty thickly by Lune, what with her stealing a second kiss that undoubtedly tempted a third or fourth. Gustave has to will himself not to slip a little tongue in on that one; he instead distracts himself by letting the good, clean side of that scruffy beard nuzzle up into the side of her face. if he can't look at her lips, then he might not be so compelled to consume them! ]
Riiight, right. Almost forgot about the constant need for tent-pitching. You know what doesn't require tent-pitching, right? [ Lumière. he's talking about Lumière. his bed is crying in his absence right now. ] —Really putting me at a crossroads here. Body heat is one of the greatest things to enjoy about thermodynamics, but I suppose getting naked and holding each other is not meant for the Grandis to see.
[ Gustave's eyes peer out to the window of the train behind them, lazily inspecting some piece of the railroad floating in the air haphazardly. he still doesn't know what they're supposed to do about all of the flotsam strung about throughout the Continent. the amount of bodies they'd need here borders the obscene, but... again, time is on their side for a change. these two can be the only humans for a little while longer. ]
Privacy is always much-loved. Though I hope you do remember that mountains are known for their echoes...
[ what could he possibly mean by that? surely nothing inappropriate. ]
[ Lune certainly isn't turning down a third or even fourth kiss, tongue or no, giving a little purr against his lips and squeezing her arms around him a little. Opposite to Gustave, Lune has been in a remarkably pleasant, almost effervescent mood since they returned to the Continent, finally free to poke and prod everything that catches her attention here to her heart's content, without the constant reminder in the back of her mind that they have no time for detours or distractions, that every day they're running out of time a little bit more.
She couldn't be happier, and that happiness is benefiting Gustave in the form of freely administered affection — whenever she's not otherwise preoccupied with her notes and research and myriad of questions, of course.
Breathing a soft laugh at Gustave's implication and the way he nuzzles his beard against her, Lune tsks playfully. She secretly (or maybe not entirely secretly) kind of likes it when his beard gets a little scruffy, a bit unkempt, like it has gotten during these handful of days they've already spent here. ]
Oh, where's your sense of adventure? Besides, I happen to be a very big fan of the way you... pitch a tent.
[ The teasing grin on her lips is audible in her tone, and a dead giveaway the innuendo was very much on purpose. ]
Hmm— down the mountain it is. [ The choice does have so many advantages, after all. ] I'm sure we could still manage a lesson in thermodynamics without freezing while we're at it.
[ Lune arches a dark brow, pursing her lips against another grin. ] Are they? Do you plan on being noisy?
[ having succeeded in their mission really has peeled away some additional layers to Lune that he never thought he would see. it's been one of life's truly great pleasures to witness her in a state of happiness unlike anything he's seen from her in the past. they had their rapport, their shared sense of snark and a penchant for going toe-to-toe in verbal arguments before, but the difference now had been night-and-day.
and that's a good thing that they were able to find something good to cling onto. had they not decided to pursue this new avenue of interest between them, they might dwell on all of the trauma that had to occur in order for them to get to this point. the lost souls of those who stood with them and before them isn't something Gustave ever dares forget, but he imagines they'd want nothing more than for him and the other survivors to make good on their sacrifices.
so, yes. he will take that third and fourth kiss, tickling his beard right along her chin while his lips drag right along her pout. he deserves it. they both did. so much so that he will steal a fifth, one that has him not-so-subtly biting down on her bottom tier just because he can. liberté and all that nonsense. ]
Your perversions are going to get the best of me. I'm supposed to be of sound mind and body! I'm— covered in oil, and not even the good kind.
[ he hasn't done much better in that regard, but it's much easier to put the blame on her. Gustave apologies in the way his arms have now left the bar behind him so that he could wrap them around the curve of her waist. they've decided to leave, but that did not mean that they could not enjoy this private little moment inside the train for sometime longer. ]
The only noise I plan to make involves, apparently, pitching tents. So, yes. Very noisy. What're you going to do about it, mm?
[ Not-so-subtly, Lune groans softly in response at that bite, said lips pulling into another smile of amusement at his complaints that she is very obviously not taking seriously at all. This is impossibly nice, and the way his own arms wrap around her make her even less inclined to leave him alone, any thoughts of perhaps picking up her own work for a bit longer while Gustave sorts things out with his train slowly but surely slipping through her fingers.
A first for her, surely. He should be proud of himself, really. ]
I seem to recall you always being an enthusiastic participant.
[ In said perversions, she means. As if to drive the point home, she leans closer in their embrace, hips pressing into his and her arms going around him a bit firmer still. Risking any possible oil smears, she stamps another kiss against the corner of his mouth, chuckling when she pulls back. ]
I can only encourage that. Besides... the Grandis use noise to drive away Nevrons. Maybe it'll work for us, too.
[ someone is in a mood, notes Gustave internally. there is nary a complaint from him regarding this observation. their fondness towards one another has blossomed to the point where it had become almost natural for PDA and affection to be at full display. were they so bold as to even, gasp, hold hands in the streets of Lumière prior to their departure? predictions say that if she was willing to get her back blown out in his workshop... yes.
so some hugs and kisses with the Grandis hovering around outside their train is hardly a concern. that's why Gustave takes it upon himself to bring his one clean hand down Lune's spine, fingers dancing down past the prominent deep in her back and eventually resting on her ass again. no pinch this time. just pure, unadulterated groping, enough to probably lift the poor lass up to the tips of her toes. ]
You make it kind of hard, heh, to not be.
[ the innuendo and perversions will always be blatant and thick between them. ]
Terribly irrelevant question that does not apply to anything perhaps happening in these very moments... did you pack any of those bikinis the Gestral made for you?
[ not that it matters right now! but is Gustave already remembering that one of their beaches was right around the corner at the bottom of the mountain? yes. surely there is an excuse for more research to be done at those mysterious locations. he's pretty confident he can bullshit enough of a reason to convince Lune. ]
[ The Grandis are hardly a concern in Lune's mind. She's fairly convinced they do not care about any displays of affection between a couple of humans, unlike the rest of Lumièrians who can be unbearably nosy. That freedom from the curiosities of their fellow denizens coupled with her joy of finally being able to indulge in the things she wants is, granted, making her feel a little... unruly. In a good way. A state certainly exacerbated by Gustave's closeness.
Not that them being an item was exactly a secret in the city. While they may not have been ever able to properly define this changed relationship between them, at least in so many words, every day it became a bit easier, a bit more natural, to slip her hand in his or kiss his cheek in public.
She gives a sharp little intake of breath when he grabs her ass, effectively pulling her even more flush against him and onto her tippytoes in the process — luckily she can hover, the weight taken off her poor toes entirely. ]
Could be harder, I deem. [ The sly murmur is cracked through a grin, the innuendo indeed laid on thick as their hips press flush. ]
Bikini? May I remind you that this is a serious research trip, not a beach vacation.
[ She almost manages to say that without any hint of a teasing smirk! Almost. ]
She deems, yet decides not to do anything about it.
[ cue the forced eyeroll that she probably can't see from this angle but may most certainly feel. Gustave didn't realize how cold his hand had gotten until he was blessed with the opportunity of letting it slide between Lune's thick layers of clothing. now that she's comfortable in the air, she will surely allow him to remain exactly as he is, fingers curled deeper around her shape to chase the warmth that is granted.
he's sad he already used his eyeroll before, because her next quip deserved it more! ]
Okay, well, I packed my swimsuit. There is plenty to research under the sea, if I must remind you. And then there's interviewing the Gestral and how they come up with their creative games...
[ ... games that threatened to bring them to an early end a time or two. he really is unsure if they should consider Monoco's species "friendly". spending more time with the Grandis is shifting his position on the matter. they're not as prone to accidentally murdering their human company.
but that's besides the point. thinking of the sun, warm waters and sand between his toes is comforting during times like this. no amount of Lune's teasing will stop that. ]
It's fine! It's fine. There is always skinny-dipping. Arguably better solution, really.
[ The teasing edge to her drawl could be another implication; or justification, perhaps. It's not rude, it's just a fact! Hovering a few inches off the ground as if she weighs nothing, Lune slips up his body just a bit, pulling her arms back and sandwiching her hands between their bodies, palms pressed against his chest, squeaking a little when his cool palm gets a proper handful of her. There's that lesson in body heat in action, huh. ]
I didn't say I didn't pack it, for the record. I was just curious to hear your argument on behalf of it. Surely we're staying away from those awful contraptions this time, though. You can't be hankering for another tumble off a rolling log?
[ Lune can't help but chuckle, remembering how many times he'd fallen into the water the last time. She loves the Gestrals, she really does, but those beach games they come up with are deranged. If Lune had to guess, it's the result of being hit in the head one time too many. ]
Skinny dipping, however— there could be some merit in the idea.
[ Could. Some. Hah. Snuggled up the way they are, Lune suddenly recalls something. ]
[ these two and their proclivities towards distractions. it speaks volumes about how deprived they must have been before they accepted that this was, in fact, a thing that was okay to explore and enjoy. Gustave pre-Expedition couldn't have been properly seduced even with heavy intoxication. his mind and obligations were in a purely different place — and for obvious reasons. yet here he is now, latched onto Lune and nearly forgetting what he was doing three minutes ago.
she's got a lot of power at her fingertips. it's a good thing she has no evil intent. ]
You'd be surprised the number of adjustments were done to my spine from those spills. Very refreshing. Made me feel a decade younger.
[ probably in body and mind, considering he may have suffered a concussion during them. only a mild one! it was well worth the price of admission whenever Lune might have graced his vision with the bikini on for the first time. probably the first time he realized he hadn't had sex in a long, long while.
Lune reminds him that he's not very clean right now, leaving him pulling his head back to take a look at her face properly. there is now the faintest remnants of smudges running right along the markings on her cheek. Gustave has to decide if now is a good time to cough up a white lie or not. ]
—It looks good on you? Look, you knew the risks. I really can't be blamed here.
[ and to double down on the damage, he swaps hands (careful to never leave her backside) so he can drag a tarnished finger along said smudge to spread it along the curve of her jaw. Lune strived to clean the mess from his face, yet here he is worsening the one on hers. he truly is a villain. ]
[ They were both under quite a bit of pressure and expectation prior to the Expedition. It would follow they were neither of them thinking of such things; even the way they fell into fooling around toward the end of the Expedition could be explained with simply needing to off-load that pressure and tension, to find some comfort in what could have very feasibly been their last days alive. Maybe it really isn't such a wonder they're now taking full advantage of their very changed situation as often as possible to make up for the years overtaken by duty— and to celebrate that they can. ]
Ugh...!
[ Her grunt of exasperation is coupled with a roll of her eyes at Gustave's claim of innocence, driven by the fact that he does have a point. She could have kept her greedy hands to herself, waited until later when they'd had the chance to clean up. But no. No, she didn't want to stop herself from touching him. She harrumphs again and shoots him a narrow-eyed look when he swaps hands and no doubt smudges the oil further along her jaw, lips pursing into a brief moue. ]
I don't believe you.
[ Never happened, indeed! But there's a glint of reluctant amusement in her dark eyes, too, her prissy look shifting into that of sly calculation soon enough. She will not be outplayed! The thing about literally hovering above the ground is that those svelte legs of hers are free to twine around his, which is exactly what they do. In the process, their lower halves press together even more firmly, and Lune rolls her hips once into his, exploratorily. ]
Well, seeing as how the damage is done... shall you tutor me in thermodynamics, professor, or would you like a hand packing up so we can start heading out?
[ Gustave prepared for the consequences of his actions immediately. Lune's wrath is not one to underestimate, but fortunately for him, he's done well to put himself on a special list that warrants a different kind of response. —mostly. it's still definitely possible for him to piss her off. she's cute in the way she responds, though; enough to make him smile as a chuckle rumbles through his throat low and warm. ]
I've made far worse messes of your face with hardly a complaint in the past! You look as good as new. —Mostly.
[ Lune's real response is physical, however. he did not prepare for the idea of her hopping onto him so easily, and perhaps that was an underestimation of her. he grunts and immediately moves to wrap both arms around her waist to brace her body around his. it's more instinctive than anything, because there was obviously no fear of her falling when she can keep herself in the air. neither of them will complain about this instinct, surely. ]
I'm... not sure how you think I can be convinced to leave when I have you like this now. And professor? [ typical guy, because of course it sounds attractive when Lune makes the play. ] Didn't know I picked up such a sexy apprentice from my teachings. More than happy to share some private lessons just for you...
[ they still have time yet to head out, he musters to himself. he'll even stumble around in the dark if he must. Gustave would be a fool to ignore a pretty lady latching herself onto him. ]
[ Lune can't help but bark a quiet laugh, knowing — remembering — exactly what sort of messes Gustave is referring to. Fond memories, indeed. ]
Brazen of you to remind me!
[ Any outrage, faked or otherwise, seems completely wiped away by the time she has her thighs firmly squeezed about his hips, smiling at the way he instinctively moves to hold her even though he doesn't really need to. Truthfully, her intention was just to tease him a little, to remind him of what he has to look forward to once they make camp further down the mountain, but she's rapidly changing her mind. Especially since he's responding so eagerly, particularly after she drops that little moniker. It's all very flattering, a small grin tugging at her lips.
A quick little tryst in a train? Now how can they pass that up? The cold around is negotiable— perhaps even proving a bit of additional spice to this. ]
Oh yes, sir— do impart your wisdom. [ Lips twitching, her hands slip between them and start unbuttoning her own waistcoat, then the shirt beneath, gooseflesh prickling at the pale skin of full cleavage revealed. ] Teach me.
[ the lady who has decided to mount her boy right there on the spot does not get to call him brazen. pot meet kettle! could he accept a reality where they are both brazen? of course, but it's always more fun to blame Lune for all of the trouble they have been getting into as of late.
this is fairly harmless, in the grand scheme of things. the train is far enough away from most of the foot traffic of the station, and the Grandis don't tend to move very far from their delegated spots anyway. there are windows, of course, but fortunately the doors were still functional and they were left to their own machinations in relative privacy.
how much sound may or may not travel through her is a different matter. there is a non-zero chance that the mountains are the last thing to be worried about now that their minds are drifting a certain direction. ]
I might not have much left to teach with how quick you are! Talented little thing, aren't you?
[ Gustave snickers as his arms release their coil around her waist. he knows she is secure now, and he can't let her be the only one stripping away at a moment's notice. he's pulling his scarf off from around his neck and dropping it lazily on the bar beside them, and his jacket is soon to follow when he manages to shrug it off. the cold becomes much more obvious as his body becomes more exposed to the elements, but he doesn't even have the time to process it. there are other pressing matters on the agenda — specifically, Lune's body pressing into his. ]
Though I suppose I can come up with a thing or two. You can start by unbuckling my belt... stuff your hand in there and fetch for my cock.
[ he'd remind her that this is exhibit A for how thermodynamics benefit them, but the nerd-talk can be shelved temporarily now that they're properly into this. ]
[ Lune can admit to being the instigator plenty of times in these sort of situations. And why not, when he always plays along so beautifully? Maybe they're still working on that backlog of repressed sexual and emotional desire they both have, not (just) for each other but in general; duty and responsibility outweighing personal needs for far longer than they should have. No longer having to repress every impulse and need is a rather wonderful thing. If they're taking full, unapologetic advantage of that, Lune doesn't see a problem. ]
What can I say? You're inspiring me.
[ With a low chuckle of her own, she pops the last button of her shirt while Gustave gets rid of some clothing of his own, the fabric gaping and baring her down to her navel, clinging to her shoulders as she's still wearing her coat. The nip of coldness makes her skin prickle and nipples perk, but she hardly feels it when the warmth of arousal is gathering deep between her hips.
The brazen instruction has her smirking, those quick, nimble hands now diving between them. She pulls her hips back, giving herself enough room to work open his belt buckle with an audible, metallic click. The button and fly of his trousers follow, made quick work of— her dominant hand slips beneath the waistband of both trousers and underwear, unerringly finding her prize like he'd told her to. A humming purr of approval escapes her when those slender fingers wrap around his cock without coyness. ]
Friction is good for keeping warm, isn't it?
[ Grinning outright, Lune pulls his cock out of his pants, shielded between their bodies. Without waiting for response, that hand begins to move, fisting him up and down. How about those thermodynamics, hm? ]
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Well. The result had been predictable. As much as Lune exasperates over Gustave's stubborn insistence, she also finds it annoyingly endearing. While they still haven't exactly worked out what this thing between them is, it does warm her heart that he's so adamant about coming with her. While she may not have said so with words, deciding to make Monoco's Station their first priority is an olive branch of sorts. Lune knows he didn't have as much time with the trains upon their first visit as he would have liked. Understandably, they'd been pressed for time and otherwise preoccupied. It's not really an inconvenience, as Lune herself didn't have enough time to pepper the Grandis with all her questions, either. Two birds, one stone.
Besides. The snow is beautiful, especially when one has only known the steady, temperate environment of Lumière, courtesy of the shield dome. She's not sure she wants to camp here, in the cold, but again; it's convenient to have a friendly cryptid around to whisk them off to a milder clime, if they so wish.
Taking a break from recording the myriad of fascinating tales the Grandis have to tell, Lune makes her way into one of the silent train cars, moving through them quietly until she finds Gustave in the locomotive, poking about the engine. Beautifully predictably.
Lune is normally too disciplined to surrender to random bouts of impishness, but she can't resist the impulse that comes to her then. A lone ball of loosely packed snow smacks against Gustave's shoulder from behind, followed by Lune's chuckle. ]
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that's why it made all the more sense not to deprive either of them of something they were clearly enjoying. if she's so adamant to return to the Continent, she needn't do so on her lonesome. Esquie may make for pleasant enough company, perhaps even Monoco if she needed some additional strength, but the advantages of having Gustave with her? mind-blowing — and definitely in the most inappropriate sense possible. he has a running bet on how long it'll take before she might get tired of how much of a distraction he will be.
but turnabout is fair play, he thinks. and he's intent on ensuring he returns his interest. ]
W— hey! [ his shock from being pelted by snow derives itself more from the fact that he was wrong in his calculations. Lune, even amidst the bristling cold, has warmed up so much to him that she has found the fun in pestering. his influence on her is duly noted. ] There could have been a rock in there, you know. Some twigs. And what if you hit me in my head, hm? Imagine the blood. Heathen.
[ her chuckle is returned as he turns to face her. he had someone already managed to get old remnants of oil and dirt on his cheek and across his nose from having touched around more than he should have. class act as always. ]
Crazy to think there's actual a chance I live long enough to see a railroad being rebuilt here. Maybe even ride a train myself. Hopefully you'll join me... even if we may need canes for assistance.
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Brushing off bits of snow from her gloved hands, Lune chuffs a noise caught somewhere between a scoff and a laugh at Gustave's dramatics, rolling her eyes. ]
Please. Hit you in the head? Excuse me— [ She points at herself. ] My aim is impeccable.
[ And she'll suffer no implications to the contrary, thank you. Her lips quirk slightly at the dark stains smudged across his face, taking a step closer and impulsively rubbing a glover thumb against his cheek in effort clean one of the spots away. The fleck of thick oil only smears further across his skin, and into her glove. Oops. ]
When there's an actual, running train, I promise I'll go with you. Canes or no.
[ A welcome thought, actually; living long enough to need a cane. She hums, amused and subtly awed in equal measure. ] You have a point, though. It still doesn't feel entirely real, does it?
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Ehhh. Debatable. Who needs aim when you toss around the elements like they're nothing? [ a tease. his aim is impeccable, okay. kind of needs to be thanks to his penchant towards firearms. ] Snowballs, though... you've downgraded.
[ there's an urge to find some snow to give her what for, but: 1) that would require leaving what he has deemed his domain, and 2) Lune had just closed in on him in record pace. he has no idea why her hand is gracing his features, but he accepts the warmth of it against his cold skin with glee. she can messy his face as much as she wants. wouldn't be the first time. ]
We may have gotten a bit spoiled by our current means of transportation. Maybe we should put Esquie on rails instead... heh. [ he moves his hands behind him, both gripping the rail behind him for support. Gustave feels like a teenager again, especially in how he leans towards Lune like some schoolboy hoping to charm a fellow classmate. ] Don't you worry. I know you'll age beautifully. Me, on the other hand? Mm. Not sure I can pull the grey off as well as others have shown.
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She exhales through her nose, a little huff of reluctant amusement; that was a back-handed compliment if she's ever heard one! ]
Would you rather I threw ice or lighting at you, then? With my so-called debatable aim, hm?
[ Her gaze narrows just a hint at that even as she teases him back. Her disposition mellows some more when he goes on, giving her an actual compliment. She tips her head to the side and rubs at that stubborn smudge on his cheek with her other finger, making some headway removing it. Her glove is probably ruined, though. The things she does for him. ]
Mm, I don't know if I'd say that. I think you'd be handsome either way.
[ See, she can be nice, too. Evidenced further by the way her lips curve into a small but warm smile, hardly missing the way he leans toward her, before she breathes a light laugh of amusement. ]
Really, did you stick your face into the engine too? You're smeared with what looks like oil. I'm a bit surprised there's any left after almost seventy years of lying out here in the elements...
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[ he's furrowing his brows and staring at her inquisitively, as if to silently ask what in the world she's rubbing at his face so hard for. it doesn't take him long to piece it together, leaving him sputtering his lips without even realizing it. Gustave withholds the comment he would like to make about how motherly she seems to be in this moment. no telling what kind of element he might get for that one. ]
Suppose only time... will tell. [ and for her motherly behavior comes some fatherly humor. at least he has an excuse. he's annoyed Maelle with that nonsense far too long in her young adulthood. ] Ahah. Yes... see, about that. I may have brought some with us. Wanted to test a theory or two when you said this would be a destination of ours.
[ he gestures down at the floor next to them, bag open and several tools and cloths laid along the floor. Gustave had intentions of stripping as much of the engine as he could, but he wouldn't be able to do that without some old fashioned lubricant. ]
Suppose I got carried away. These hands have minds of their own. Especially this one. [ the emphasized prosthetic pulls off of the rail, and with little warning, Gustave pinches two metal fingers around the side of Lune's backside. whoops. ] See? Thinking it may be time to consider a 2.0.
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[ It's a small win, but she sounds a bit smug about it anyway. Lune only gives him a wry look at that dad humor that follows, since it wasn't the most egregious example possible. Not that she doesn't often chuckle at the groan-worthy lines in spite of herself... Considering they've left any concerns of unprotected sex up to fate, making no mention of any motherly fussing is probably a good thing— just another item on the list of things they really should discuss with some seriousness. Just not now, clearly.
She gives up on trying to wipe away the stains on his face and pulls her hand away, her efforts not really improving the state of things much. ]
Explains a few things. [ Now she does breathe a small laugh, glancing down at the stuff lying on the floor and gesturing toward the engine indicatively. ] I should have expected you'd want to pack as much of this away as possible.
[ His pictos space is probably halfway full by now. When Gustave suddenly sneaks a hand down to pinch at the side of her rear, he garners himself a tiny yelp of surprise and a quick, warning look that morphs too quickly into fond exasperation. ]
Mm, yes. It does seem to find itself in some interesting places with increased frequency of late... not what your apprentices ever intended, I'm sure.
[ The dryness of her delivery suffers a little from the slight flush of color across her cheeks, suddenly recalling a little too vividly their unplanned first encounter, a bit of wine-drunk merry-making somehow turning into him fingering her. And they haven't really stopped those kind of shenanigans, since. ]
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congratulations, Lune. did you know you have also brought Sciel along for this little excursion?
Gustave is probably going to figure out that he messed up by Lune's reaction, and he'll quickly pull his hand back as if to pretend he didn't do anything in the slightest. ]
Good news for them: they get to grow up and learn why it's great to ensure everyone has their limbs working and intact... to benefit others far beyond just themselves.
[ his little pinch turns into an open palm that rests firmly on the side of said rear, with Gustave finding easy confidence in her twist of fluster. he uses it to guide her forward, until her body is pressed so taut into his that he was now fully leaned back into the rail behind him. he moves to touch her face this time, brushing some idle strands of hair out from her eyes before resting them around her neck. he's careful to ensure he doesn't smear oil tracks onto her as well. for now.
he does owe her for the snowball... ]
And we're in agreement as to how much it may benefit others, hm?
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A teachable moment for the future, hm?
[ She can't help but huff a little laugh at the ridiculousness of it, but there's nothing to laugh about the way he tugs her close, her body flush against his. And oh, it's so, so pleasant, the press of their frames warm and familiar in the nipping cold. Lune definitely wonders if he isn't leaving oil on her skin now too when he touches her, but for once – for now – she doesn't object. Her own hands settle against his waist.
This is not what she came over to do, but she isn't going to complain, either. ]
Fishing for compliments? Okay, yes. But let's keep the benefits between ourselves, shall we?
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even if this moment of warmth and shared comfort may be brief and fleeting, he's happy to have it. he's become far too used to the idea of working hours on end, from sunrise to sunset, only to return home to an empty bed. he had his sister and Maelle to fulfill him, at least, which means he can't fathom how those feelings may intensify in Lune's situation. he would never dare to assume, so he doesn't. all that matters to him is that they've been given the chance to enjoy the little things. ]
I don't knoooow... was actually hoping we could invite Monoco over. Imagine the research that could be done there. [ actually, wait. Gustave winces and immediately shakes his head: ] Don't do that. Forget I said anything.
[ some secrets can remain a secret, or perhaps discovered by someone else! there may still be a morbid curiosity there. just maybe.
either way, he's going to try and chase that image away by leaning forward to peck Lune on the lips. it's brief and chaste, but maybe that's what makes it the most interesting. "just friends" don't tend to leave butterfly kisses on each others lips, do they. ]
Did you have plans when you came in here, or did you just want to stir the pot and see how quickly I'd forget what I was doing? Because you won there if so.
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Consider it forgotten. I don't think I even want to begin to imagine what you meant by that.
[ Lune's hands slip from his waist and dive beneath his coat, slinging her arms loosely around him, clasping her hands against the small of his back. The more time they spend together in close proximity like this, the easier it seems to... almost take it for granted. Except that's not it, exactly. Maybe more that it becomes a little too natural to touch one another with such familiarity and intimacy. Lune can admit to herself that she's missed him, whenever she's lifted her head from her own work long enough to realize she's not as accustomed to being by herself as she used to be, before the Expedition. She's tried not to fall back into her old habits of isolation entirely, and she's kept in touch with Sciel— whenever the other woman can pull herself away from Verso.
But, yes. It's easy now to tilt her chin up a little to better accept Gustave's kiss, brief as it is. It's easy to want more, so she leans in before he can pull away too far to return the peck with another one of her own, although the press of her lips lingers a bit too long for it to be called a mere "peck". ]
Stir the pot? You make me sound so nefarious. But if I distracted you from your train, I'll take it as a compliment. [ She smirks slightly. Of course she does. ]
But, I did want to come see what you thought of the camping situation. There's only a couple of hours of daylight left. We could set up inside the station here. Or if we'd rather not risk frostbite, we could camp a bit further down the mountain where the cold is not so severe. And if we want a bit more... privacy.
[ What could she possibly mean by that? Surely nothing inappropriate. ]
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but then he always seems to remember that this was never a one-sided affair. the attachment that's deepened between them is hardly unrequited. they have both done a swell job in enforcing that.
the proof is laid out pretty thickly by Lune, what with her stealing a second kiss that undoubtedly tempted a third or fourth. Gustave has to will himself not to slip a little tongue in on that one; he instead distracts himself by letting the good, clean side of that scruffy beard nuzzle up into the side of her face. if he can't look at her lips, then he might not be so compelled to consume them! ]
Riiight, right. Almost forgot about the constant need for tent-pitching. You know what doesn't require tent-pitching, right? [ Lumière. he's talking about Lumière. his bed is crying in his absence right now. ] —Really putting me at a crossroads here. Body heat is one of the greatest things to enjoy about thermodynamics, but I suppose getting naked and holding each other is not meant for the Grandis to see.
[ Gustave's eyes peer out to the window of the train behind them, lazily inspecting some piece of the railroad floating in the air haphazardly. he still doesn't know what they're supposed to do about all of the flotsam strung about throughout the Continent. the amount of bodies they'd need here borders the obscene, but... again, time is on their side for a change. these two can be the only humans for a little while longer. ]
Privacy is always much-loved. Though I hope you do remember that mountains are known for their echoes...
[ what could he possibly mean by that? surely nothing inappropriate. ]
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She couldn't be happier, and that happiness is benefiting Gustave in the form of freely administered affection — whenever she's not otherwise preoccupied with her notes and research and myriad of questions, of course.
Breathing a soft laugh at Gustave's implication and the way he nuzzles his beard against her, Lune tsks playfully. She secretly (or maybe not entirely secretly) kind of likes it when his beard gets a little scruffy, a bit unkempt, like it has gotten during these handful of days they've already spent here. ]
Oh, where's your sense of adventure? Besides, I happen to be a very big fan of the way you... pitch a tent.
[ The teasing grin on her lips is audible in her tone, and a dead giveaway the innuendo was very much on purpose. ]
Hmm— down the mountain it is. [ The choice does have so many advantages, after all. ] I'm sure we could still manage a lesson in thermodynamics without freezing while we're at it.
[ Lune arches a dark brow, pursing her lips against another grin. ] Are they? Do you plan on being noisy?
[ No, it's definitely her, more often than not. ]
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and that's a good thing that they were able to find something good to cling onto. had they not decided to pursue this new avenue of interest between them, they might dwell on all of the trauma that had to occur in order for them to get to this point. the lost souls of those who stood with them and before them isn't something Gustave ever dares forget, but he imagines they'd want nothing more than for him and the other survivors to make good on their sacrifices.
so, yes. he will take that third and fourth kiss, tickling his beard right along her chin while his lips drag right along her pout. he deserves it. they both did. so much so that he will steal a fifth, one that has him not-so-subtly biting down on her bottom tier just because he can. liberté and all that nonsense. ]
Your perversions are going to get the best of me. I'm supposed to be of sound mind and body! I'm— covered in oil, and not even the good kind.
[ he hasn't done much better in that regard, but it's much easier to put the blame on her. Gustave apologies in the way his arms have now left the bar behind him so that he could wrap them around the curve of her waist. they've decided to leave, but that did not mean that they could not enjoy this private little moment inside the train for sometime longer. ]
The only noise I plan to make involves, apparently, pitching tents. So, yes. Very noisy. What're you going to do about it, mm?
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A first for her, surely. He should be proud of himself, really. ]
I seem to recall you always being an enthusiastic participant.
[ In said perversions, she means. As if to drive the point home, she leans closer in their embrace, hips pressing into his and her arms going around him a bit firmer still. Risking any possible oil smears, she stamps another kiss against the corner of his mouth, chuckling when she pulls back. ]
I can only encourage that. Besides... the Grandis use noise to drive away Nevrons. Maybe it'll work for us, too.
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so some hugs and kisses with the Grandis hovering around outside their train is hardly a concern. that's why Gustave takes it upon himself to bring his one clean hand down Lune's spine, fingers dancing down past the prominent deep in her back and eventually resting on her ass again. no pinch this time. just pure, unadulterated groping, enough to probably lift the poor lass up to the tips of her toes. ]
You make it kind of hard, heh, to not be.
[ the innuendo and perversions will always be blatant and thick between them. ]
Terribly irrelevant question that does not apply to anything perhaps happening in these very moments... did you pack any of those bikinis the Gestral made for you?
[ not that it matters right now! but is Gustave already remembering that one of their beaches was right around the corner at the bottom of the mountain? yes. surely there is an excuse for more research to be done at those mysterious locations. he's pretty confident he can bullshit enough of a reason to convince Lune. ]
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Not that them being an item was exactly a secret in the city. While they may not have been ever able to properly define this changed relationship between them, at least in so many words, every day it became a bit easier, a bit more natural, to slip her hand in his or kiss his cheek in public.
She gives a sharp little intake of breath when he grabs her ass, effectively pulling her even more flush against him and onto her tippytoes in the process — luckily she can hover, the weight taken off her poor toes entirely. ]
Could be harder, I deem. [ The sly murmur is cracked through a grin, the innuendo indeed laid on thick as their hips press flush. ]
Bikini? May I remind you that this is a serious research trip, not a beach vacation.
[ She almost manages to say that without any hint of a teasing smirk! Almost. ]
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[ cue the forced eyeroll that she probably can't see from this angle but may most certainly feel. Gustave didn't realize how cold his hand had gotten until he was blessed with the opportunity of letting it slide between Lune's thick layers of clothing. now that she's comfortable in the air, she will surely allow him to remain exactly as he is, fingers curled deeper around her shape to chase the warmth that is granted.
he's sad he already used his eyeroll before, because her next quip deserved it more! ]
Okay, well, I packed my swimsuit. There is plenty to research under the sea, if I must remind you. And then there's interviewing the Gestral and how they come up with their creative games...
[ ... games that threatened to bring them to an early end a time or two. he really is unsure if they should consider Monoco's species "friendly". spending more time with the Grandis is shifting his position on the matter. they're not as prone to accidentally murdering their human company.
but that's besides the point. thinking of the sun, warm waters and sand between his toes is comforting during times like this. no amount of Lune's teasing will stop that. ]
It's fine! It's fine. There is always skinny-dipping. Arguably better solution, really.
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[ The teasing edge to her drawl could be another implication; or justification, perhaps. It's not rude, it's just a fact! Hovering a few inches off the ground as if she weighs nothing, Lune slips up his body just a bit, pulling her arms back and sandwiching her hands between their bodies, palms pressed against his chest, squeaking a little when his cool palm gets a proper handful of her. There's that lesson in body heat in action, huh. ]
I didn't say I didn't pack it, for the record. I was just curious to hear your argument on behalf of it. Surely we're staying away from those awful contraptions this time, though. You can't be hankering for another tumble off a rolling log?
[ Lune can't help but chuckle, remembering how many times he'd fallen into the water the last time. She loves the Gestrals, she really does, but those beach games they come up with are deranged. If Lune had to guess, it's the result of being hit in the head one time too many. ]
Skinny dipping, however— there could be some merit in the idea.
[ Could. Some. Hah. Snuggled up the way they are, Lune suddenly recalls something. ]
...Did you get oil on me?
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she's got a lot of power at her fingertips. it's a good thing she has no evil intent. ]
You'd be surprised the number of adjustments were done to my spine from those spills. Very refreshing. Made me feel a decade younger.
[ probably in body and mind, considering he may have suffered a concussion during them. only a mild one! it was well worth the price of admission whenever Lune might have graced his vision with the bikini on for the first time. probably the first time he realized he hadn't had sex in a long, long while.
Lune reminds him that he's not very clean right now, leaving him pulling his head back to take a look at her face properly. there is now the faintest remnants of smudges running right along the markings on her cheek. Gustave has to decide if now is a good time to cough up a white lie or not. ]
—It looks good on you? Look, you knew the risks. I really can't be blamed here.
[ and to double down on the damage, he swaps hands (careful to never leave her backside) so he can drag a tarnished finger along said smudge to spread it along the curve of her jaw. Lune strived to clean the mess from his face, yet here he is worsening the one on hers. he truly is a villain. ]
There, like it never happened. Heh.
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Ugh...!
[ Her grunt of exasperation is coupled with a roll of her eyes at Gustave's claim of innocence, driven by the fact that he does have a point. She could have kept her greedy hands to herself, waited until later when they'd had the chance to clean up. But no. No, she didn't want to stop herself from touching him. She harrumphs again and shoots him a narrow-eyed look when he swaps hands and no doubt smudges the oil further along her jaw, lips pursing into a brief moue. ]
I don't believe you.
[ Never happened, indeed! But there's a glint of reluctant amusement in her dark eyes, too, her prissy look shifting into that of sly calculation soon enough. She will not be outplayed! The thing about literally hovering above the ground is that those svelte legs of hers are free to twine around his, which is exactly what they do. In the process, their lower halves press together even more firmly, and Lune rolls her hips once into his, exploratorily. ]
Well, seeing as how the damage is done... shall you tutor me in thermodynamics, professor, or would you like a hand packing up so we can start heading out?
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I've made far worse messes of your face with hardly a complaint in the past! You look as good as new. —Mostly.
[ Lune's real response is physical, however. he did not prepare for the idea of her hopping onto him so easily, and perhaps that was an underestimation of her. he grunts and immediately moves to wrap both arms around her waist to brace her body around his. it's more instinctive than anything, because there was obviously no fear of her falling when she can keep herself in the air. neither of them will complain about this instinct, surely. ]
I'm... not sure how you think I can be convinced to leave when I have you like this now. And professor? [ typical guy, because of course it sounds attractive when Lune makes the play. ] Didn't know I picked up such a sexy apprentice from my teachings. More than happy to share some private lessons just for you...
[ they still have time yet to head out, he musters to himself. he'll even stumble around in the dark if he must. Gustave would be a fool to ignore a pretty lady latching herself onto him. ]
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Brazen of you to remind me!
[ Any outrage, faked or otherwise, seems completely wiped away by the time she has her thighs firmly squeezed about his hips, smiling at the way he instinctively moves to hold her even though he doesn't really need to. Truthfully, her intention was just to tease him a little, to remind him of what he has to look forward to once they make camp further down the mountain, but she's rapidly changing her mind. Especially since he's responding so eagerly, particularly after she drops that little moniker. It's all very flattering, a small grin tugging at her lips.
A quick little tryst in a train? Now how can they pass that up? The cold around is negotiable— perhaps even proving a bit of additional spice to this. ]
Oh yes, sir— do impart your wisdom. [ Lips twitching, her hands slip between them and start unbuttoning her own waistcoat, then the shirt beneath, gooseflesh prickling at the pale skin of full cleavage revealed. ] Teach me.
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this is fairly harmless, in the grand scheme of things. the train is far enough away from most of the foot traffic of the station, and the Grandis don't tend to move very far from their delegated spots anyway. there are windows, of course, but fortunately the doors were still functional and they were left to their own machinations in relative privacy.
how much sound may or may not travel through her is a different matter. there is a non-zero chance that the mountains are the last thing to be worried about now that their minds are drifting a certain direction. ]
I might not have much left to teach with how quick you are! Talented little thing, aren't you?
[ Gustave snickers as his arms release their coil around her waist. he knows she is secure now, and he can't let her be the only one stripping away at a moment's notice. he's pulling his scarf off from around his neck and dropping it lazily on the bar beside them, and his jacket is soon to follow when he manages to shrug it off. the cold becomes much more obvious as his body becomes more exposed to the elements, but he doesn't even have the time to process it. there are other pressing matters on the agenda — specifically, Lune's body pressing into his. ]
Though I suppose I can come up with a thing or two. You can start by unbuckling my belt... stuff your hand in there and fetch for my cock.
[ he'd remind her that this is exhibit A for how thermodynamics benefit them, but the nerd-talk can be shelved temporarily now that they're properly into this. ]
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What can I say? You're inspiring me.
[ With a low chuckle of her own, she pops the last button of her shirt while Gustave gets rid of some clothing of his own, the fabric gaping and baring her down to her navel, clinging to her shoulders as she's still wearing her coat. The nip of coldness makes her skin prickle and nipples perk, but she hardly feels it when the warmth of arousal is gathering deep between her hips.
The brazen instruction has her smirking, those quick, nimble hands now diving between them. She pulls her hips back, giving herself enough room to work open his belt buckle with an audible, metallic click. The button and fly of his trousers follow, made quick work of— her dominant hand slips beneath the waistband of both trousers and underwear, unerringly finding her prize like he'd told her to. A humming purr of approval escapes her when those slender fingers wrap around his cock without coyness. ]
Friction is good for keeping warm, isn't it?
[ Grinning outright, Lune pulls his cock out of his pants, shielded between their bodies. Without waiting for response, that hand begins to move, fisting him up and down. How about those thermodynamics, hm? ]
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