Redemption Lies Plainly in Truth (Doll)
Content Warnings:
SMUTT with biting and venom and eating food and trauma and panic attacks and a cutie getting carried around like a Doll to be given pretty clothes and Sisterly gay love and also.... Um... Therapy. At the start. mhm.
ALSO ALSO A BEEEEG thankums to Irene Fray for writing Valthirii into this giggling wiggling chappy!!!
"You caused a lot of problems for us. Wasn't just you, of course. I know you were goaded into it, and it turned out... mostly well in the end, but... sigh Augusta, I... broke myself a bit. That's probably the most honest way to put it. Harmonized with the rest of the Pack and that, I don't want to say it fixed me, because it didn't, it helped by making the jagged edges more compatible. Codependent. Something that is arguably unhealthy and maladaptive for people who have a chance of... growing apart, dying of old age, and what not, but as a Pack of Combat Frames with immortality now, it makes sense to rely on each other more. So that's fine really. Ended up um... having an evening with Valthirii since our research became completely irrelevant. She was very kind and gentle. Didn't do anything intimate because she realized I wasn't in a mental state to agree, but held me all night and uhm... made me this dress from her silk with Schatzi's help. And yeah, I'm going to ask her out, because I don't know if we're actually dating already but it seems like it? I dunno. It's a lot more complicated than with the Pack where we can more easily tell how each other's feeling and we have our souls interwoven. Not that it's bad that it's complicated, just different..." I pause trying to find the right words.
Augusta laughs gently, and nods. "I understand. Gebetshure was quite distressed by my death and it's been... complicated helping them deal with that and my new position. I'll have to find an appropriate way to make it up to them. But what about the rest of the week? How do you feel about the vote being delayed, the new causeway cutting down into the floodplain, or the changes to the Driftdream?'
I think it through, deciding what to start with before answering. "Causeway is your fault too, at least indirectly. It's an aperture to Dämmerung, isn't it? Bet you convinced the dirtgod to make it so people would pay attention to them again. And far enough away that it's obvious there is no possibility any at the Estate was involved to split attention away from us all. Sneaky sneaky... The delay could hurt us more than desirable. With Envoy Adze chomping at the bit to see this new basalt edifice, he's been even more impolite with the rest; with six Groves voting and the Threshers as a tie-breaker, we only tentatively have three on our side. We need to secure Grove Thorn's vote, as we don't know where Vesper's proxy will go and relying on the Threshers is a recipe for disaster. That's going to be a real challenge considering we don't even have a name or pronouns for them... Disquietingly tight-lipped. Not sure if that's a cultural thing and asking Elevar about her past is striding into brambles hoping to avoid bleeding."
Following a smile and sip of tea, Augusta responds. "Yes, I nagged dear Dämmerung quite fiercely to reassert their presence. Your views on the talks are insightful as always... And the Driftdream? I've not been permitted entry yet, so I'm enthusiastic to hear what's happened."
I overdramatically roll all eight of my eyes at her, knowing full well that while not lying, she's deliberately leaving out things I already know. "Because you haven't talked to your sister yet about it, and Gebetshure definitely told you about the changes, including the fact that all of the Dolls here have somehow started Dreaming their way inside of it, and that it's slowly growing bigger. But that's not what you want to know, of course. You want to know about the other change that Rufus caused during combat practice with Hackt in the Driftdream…"
Augusta simply nods. "Yes. I felt something shift, like there was suddenly a window I could peer through, yet it's formless, escaping every attempt I make to grasp the edges. Plus I've heard that Joan has joined Hackt and Rufus in hearing that Song of theirs."
"That she did," I confirm. "Luckily Hackt is strong enough to pin both of them at the same time, otherwise it could have been a bit of an issue for those around them. She's adjusting to it well though, thankfully... A Temple formed in the Driftdream at the edge Xafra's city. It's massive, larger than the city itself despite the outside seeming to be a small space. Inside, there's long wings of Halls... Xafra has asked for caution and courtesy, but there have been some visitors to the Halls, myself included. I know now that there's six of you and your siblings total, and that a few of them have offspring. That one has their Hall sealed shut by a wall of Girra's fire, and that yours is... imbrued with miasma on every surface save a set of masks along the back wall above the altar."
"Fascinating. Thank you for informing me. I know it's... Unprofessional to ask you for gossip, and I appreciate your willingness to indulge me anyway." Augusta says apologetically.
"You made Lynette terrified of you. Not precisely sure how but she seems as scared of you as she is of Sekrhús, and you're not actively manipulating her mind or physical form. That's... unhealthy. Especially since Xafra's gonna want you involved with their little one. I don't like it. I've been... talking with someone who can help her, but... I don't know if it's ethical. Is it wrong to force someone to face their fears and work through them? Probably. Is it wrong for me to let it happen if I can prevent it? Also probably. But... What if I want to find a way to justify it anyways? Hypocritical of me to help take away her agency in the matter for her own good, but a part of me doubts she even has agency to take in this situation with Sekrhús holding her leash." I worry at the concept like a vorin with a corpse.
"You can always find a way to justify it, if that's what you want; but then you'd also have to accept the consequences. She might even accept your actions as reasonable and deserved afterwards but... You'd be showing her quite dramatically that she can never trust you again. That you'll put your opinion over her consent. Do you want to go down that road with a loved one?" Augusta counters gently.
I recoil in self disgust and stand up. "Thank you for the session. I'm going to go find some means of being productive."
I head out of Augusta's suite and up the stairs to the Library proper, ringing the little bell that Ciska made for Valthirii, so she knows I'm here.
Threads ripple within view as Valthirii heeds the summons. Her words prelude her appearance. "How can this Library's Keeper assist you?"
"Well, Miss Valthirii, I was actually here to see if you needed any assistance?" I ask in my most charming voice possible.
"If you are looking for light work, I am amidst preservation and copying efforts." Her smile widens. "If you have an appetite for something more interesting, I could always guide fresh perspectives to the shelves where I keep the unsorted works."
I blush. "Whichever you would prefer. I have a need to do something productive that will keep my mind off of even more potential mistakes I might make."
"I prefer more fulfilling work that inspires insightful conversation with company." Valthirii beckons me to follow her through the winding arrangement of shelves until we arrive at what must be a carefully sequestered shelf turned away from the bulk of the rest of the library. "I'll not feel settled in until this particular arrangement of disorder is no longer the guiding principle that unites these final holdouts."
She says that, but… this particular shelf shows all the signs of being left largely untouched. Years ago, I would have considered such subtle maneuvers to be a slight of some kind, but with the Pack as a constant quiet murmur in my mind, I can tell she doesn't like to be too overt or seem desperate, a defense of sorts.
"This sounds like a good project to work on. What's your preference for sorting methodologies? I'll admit, I'm mostly familiar with sorting by subject then complexity." I ask.
Valthirii hums with a thoughtful look as she holds my gaze. "I shall confess that I've always had a soft spot for putting the more belligerent texts beyond the reach of most. Some just can't find it within themselves to admit what it is they want. To themselves, or others."
As if to demonstrate, she gives a few tugs at the threads intended to put top shelf texts within reach. Some have more give than others. "I make no judgments on value, of course. What is drivel to some may be just what another needs. Which puts me in a frustrating position when judgements on subject cannot be narrowed down to a single fruit for which a tome is sought."
I blush but don't look away. "I... Okay, aaaaa. So, first of all, use an index catalog for documents that are covering multiple subjects and file them under the subject that is the largest portion of the book or alphabetically. And more importantly... Will you be my girlfriend?"
"An innnndex." Valthirii lingers on the word as she rises to her full height. "I have put no thought towards such a reference." Her fingers tap at the books she has moved, sliding them back into place in quick succession.
Turning back to me, she leans into the motions that lead to her matching my height. "As for the topic at hand, my interest in you as a partner is most certainly in your favor. I simply must ask what it is that draws you into desiring a long term entanglement with another?"
I do my best to maintain a calm expression as I search for the most accurate words over any platitudes that spring to mind regarding her appearance or charm, finding them easier than expected. "In general, the realization that Mistress Xafra offering a much longer lifespan of freedom instead of a sorry existence as a prisoner brought me to understand that I do not handle being alone very well. In specific regards to you, there's a number of things. Our shared history as Witches that were made into Dolls, your love of learning and reading, your careful kindness and crafted demeanor, and... Knowing that we will be working together more directly in the future, I simply refuse to miss an opportunity to become entangled with you before the war begins. I hope that's a good start, Miss Valthirii."
"Such a well articulated declaration of affection and reflection of your circumstances." Valthirii makes a show of preening before softening her voice. "Where do I even begin to respond? Ah. Of course. I agree to entangle myself with you for all that shall soon follow. As your gerlfriend, as you put it."
My throat chokes up as I stammer "That's definitely a good start."
"We're in agreement then." Valthirii continues to preen before withdrawing her face behind an open book. "I am unfortunately prone to bury myself in my work. I nonetheless hope you remain as persistent with me as you have been in taking the initiative. I find myself most often focused on engaging with what is in front of me more than I am the destination. Learning the nuance, intent, and appeal of a thing or so on."
Am I coming on too strong? Probably. I'll give her space but open the possibility of returning shortly if she wants. DON'T MESS THIS UP ADALINE.
"Of course. Persistence is one of the things I excel at, and you are most definitely worth the effort." I respond while stepping back, letting her have a bit of space. "I have a few other tasks I should accomplish, then if it's acceptable, I'll come visit again later today?"
Valthirii tries and fails to hide her disappointment before inclining her head. "Of course. As regrettable as it is to see you depart so soon, I shall endeavor to not immerse myself in anything that would demand too much focus that you would be unwelcome. All the same, I do look forward to whenever you next find time to visit."
I MESSED UP ALREADY. Okay okay okay, I can fix this. Gotta make it the plan, be suave.
"Excellent. Shouldn't be more than a bit. Need to check in on our guests and new residents, give a report, then I'll be back."
"Ah! Well in that case, I'll prepare a meal for the two of us."
Oh, I didn't realize she's one of the Dolls interested in eating. Oh, now that's an idea. It's not nepotism, it's romance...
"Sounds delightful." I respond with a smile as I dash away, Quills already asking the Pack for help getting Valthirii some Allagaí as well.
With confirmation from our temporary Pack Lead Warden and the rest of the Pack, I head up to the next level of the Spire where I find Feryudra dictating Sun-blessed stories for Gebetshure to write down in a blank tome.
The current tale is being given in an odd type of poetic verse the tilts between two languages. One I don’t know and the other common Grove speak.
“But this young storm did not know the wound that birthed him, nor the land that would nurture his waters to settled consumption, so it hesitated until fading upon the tides boiling beneath…”
It stops as I enter, raising a hand to signal a pause to Gebetshure. Then turns to me. “Greetings, Pack Sister Adaline. What words have you come to sift through with this one?”
"Greetings Feryudra of Settling Tides. I wish to ask if there is anything we could do or offer to improve your visit currently?" I respond with formality.
It tilts head curiously at my question, thinks for a heartbeat, then replies. "To this Frame? No. It Functions well. To the spirits within? Its treasured stories are being guarded in this act and offer to record and spread them. So, yes. Very. More than it dared expect when it followed Warmth of Lovers They've Yet to Embrace and Infection To Draw Prey Close For A Feast into the waiting maw."
I ponder for a long moment before asking another question. "May I have your proper name? The Pack bond with Infection To Draw Prey Close For A Feast has enhanced my understanding of your culture a significant amount I believe, and I would prefer not to diminish you in my speech."
"You may. However, using the smaller word is in no way doing so. It is from a long dead language and meant only and precisely the longer translation." Feryudra explains. "The word and name was chosen when your Mistress asked for a windborne title to address it as upon first meeting. And at the time it spoke to what it was. The Horizon That Will Never Be Touched. It considered changing this, as it now basks in that desired horizon. But... will hold it for now. Perhaps until all Sun-Claimed Dolls are offered the same. Perhaps when this Frame finally cracks and ends Function. Or... only perhaps if it someday forgets within His Blaze what it was to long for this Horizon alongside all others who might seek it."
"...Is that also true for Infection To Draw Prey Close For A Feast? My Pack is... Vital to me, and a mild inconvenience in speech is nothing compared to the benefit of offering proper respect. Or I guess I should restate, is there an equivalent term for my Packmate?" I ask, contemplating the words offered.
"This one does not know, But assumes not. Your Sister spent much time with family that cannot even consider windborne names, much lest speak them." Feryudra answers me while tilting head in the opposite direction.
"If this one... could advise?" Gebetshure offers. "This one has visited the edges of the new shores in the Driftdream. Spoken a little with those hovering and peeking past the borders. There is one there who is old family to Infection To Draw Prey Close For A Feast. She's wanted to meet its Pack, but is... sleepy and patient. Insisted it wait. But... wouldn't mind visitors at all. At least, that's what the bubbling flower bugs told this one."
"That's not a bad idea..." I thrum Quills once again to check with Warden before seeing if Verbess and Schatzi want to pay this extended family a visit.
I twitch in annoyance at myself, recognizing that I can't pass off every single task today. "Thank you Gebetshure. We will be doing so shortly. In the meantime, Feryudra, Do you have a means of communicating directly with Warmth of Lovers They've Yet to Embrace? It's my understanding that you're from different spore families, right?"
"This one can send echoes through the Blaze." It confirms. "As we are close and this one is charged with the task of protection and preservation, Krelliva will hear and move quicker than most others outside this one's Family might to a request."
"Fascinating. Would you mind terribly checking if Krelliva could use anything as well?" I ask with a smile.
"It would not. Consider the question relayed." Feryudra agrees, pauses, then offers. "Hmmm... Krelliva believes it may, but not immediately. And another may end up asking for this in its place. So there is no need for immediate motions."
"Wonderful. Oh, before I forget, Feryudra, Nadine mentioned that she will be coming to visit you soon, and Gebetshure, if you're able, could you please try and convince your love to talk to her sister? I attempted in our session earlier, but I think she'll listen to you more."
Guilt threatens me before I steady myself. It's just a conversation. I'll stop it if she starts to put any plans in motion.
"It will await her with curious regard." Feryudra replies.
Gebetshure though, purses their lips it thought for a good pause before murmuring. "This one... is hesitant to do that. But will ask her to bless it with her considerations. Let Madam Augusta do the speaking while another listens instead of the reverse like she tends to feel most comfortable with. If she comes to that decision it will be because she desired it."
"Much appreciated, both of you. Thank you for your time." I end politely, just barely managing to get out of sight before dashing off again, this time to the Sheared Spire.
I find these next two quite emphatically going over quite the impressive stack of parchment. Presephona at the table with writing utensils in both hands, tirelessly working while Jezrial goes over a few stray pages.
"And you're sure this boy is still in good health?" Jezrial asks while I enter.
"A mere two errors in ten thousand pages and you'll still question me." Presephona snaps, looks up to glare at her Mistress. But when Jezrial only looks up with a quirked eyebrow, this former Matron sighs and answers. "Yes, Curanos Jezrial, it was. If the Lady of that house decided to break an art piece she paid that much for, this one would not have agreed to even schema a Frame for her."
"Seems you both are getting along well. That's quite promising to see." I state by way of announcing my presence.
"Absolute drudgery." Presephona grumbles as her pens dance over the pages without pause. Graceful and deft in a way that I'd think was a gift from her transition to Dollhood if not for seeing her do the same in life last she visited this Estate with me in tow.
Jezrial looks back over her shoulder to grin at me. "More or less. Turns out the Matron already cultivated herself quite the memory. Can recall most things like others would open an old book. So, figured we'd test her limits and see about her charting out all the things she can about the Dolls she's crafted and sold over the years."
"A waste of my skills." Presephona hums quietly, but in a way that makes me think she's probably said that many times before.
"I'd think an artist like yourself would appreciate the value of a portfolio, especially since you're not being killed and will likely even get the chance to continue working on your Craft in the future." I tease, meaning every word but knowing how sharp they'll cut.
Her pens slow their dance, eyes carefully move up to glare at me. "Oh? And what Craft is that? Your Mistress' Resheathing seems to devalue my work to nothing. My skills only useful for penning out records of the pieces I made, and where they might have ended up. And that's assuming I still could weave. Which I cannot. In case you forgot that point of Dollhood."
This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road. If you spot it on Amazon, please report it.
I casually weave a tendril to pluck a pen from her hand. "There is a Goddess embodied in a Frame made on this Estate, and we both know Dollcraft and Fleshcraft are often... different ends to the same problem, but still different ends. There will always be those who desire to be Dolls, and one who has experience and history like yourself would be best served to aid them, don't you think?" I chuckle. "There's an irony in the fact that the one who wove your Frame directly from your body learned almost all of her Dollcraft from the tomes you yourself penned. I am not fond of you, but I am not arrogant enough to deny your expertise."
"That's… I agreed to serve without resistance. Which reminds this one..." She stares, glare softening for a heartbeat before chilling as she rises.
"Curanos Jezrial, This Frame has reached the limits of its Function today, and is going to rest now." Presephona informs while reaching across the table, pulls a good sized and already properly bound tome from beneath the stacks. Then lays it on the corner closest and walks past me. Supplies evenly while leaving. "That is the Schema of the last Combat Doll I will ever make."
I glance down at it and upon seeing that it's mine begin flipping through, and... Odd. "Curanos Jezrial, this one is... incomplete, is it not?"
It has to be right? It HAS TO BE INCOMPLETE.
I can feel my Quills silently screaming, the motions making no noise audible to any outside the Pack, but I don't know what they communicate, locked in this moment.
"Hm?" Jezrial sounds off, rising herself. Voice steady but... careful. "No, I don't think so. Asked her quite pointedly at least twice. Girl didn't even flinch. So unless she's suddenly able to ignore my Tone like how Warden can, It seemed solid to me. Though I avoided going through it beyond a few pages. If she left something out I can prod her to go back."
As reality crashes into me, guilt and rage fuse within until I can only talk at a whisper. "Curanos Jezrial. I must inform you that any harm Presephona comes to, I will match on you. Protect her well. Please."
"I... That's the plan. The former Matron is more an old grumpy biddy than anything immediately dangerous. Even with Ousia I don't think she'd know any magic that could kill easily." Jezrial replies, hand frozen half up to my shoulder. "But Adaline, what did she put in there that's got you so..."
But she trails off, and I hear my Sister at the same time Jezrial must see her.
"Curanos Jezrial, please leave this one to tend to its Sister." It thrums, moving up to loom at my back. Cracking to smaller shapes but... still tall. Giyar leveled out at third.
"Yeah. Alright. My Doll seemed done today." She agrees and moves back. "I'll go make sure Presephona doesn't find trouble."
"It's what she didn't add." I murmur carefully, closing my eyes and attempting to follow instructions ...like a Good Doll that doesn't harm innocent people.
Jezrial hesitates, obviously wants to ask, but... then obeys my Sister and leaves us.
"The tome detailing your Frame's creation has your fangs and talons bared, Sister." Verbess murmurs softly, and I hear it twist to settle and sit at my feet. Giyars humming a soft and patient counter harmony to what must be a screaming fury in mine. "What was omitted that should be included?"
"There is no space in the design for a Garrote." I answer before thrashing my Frame about in self-disgust.
It does not stop me, only watches and thrums loud and firm... support? At least for my furious motions. Even seems to offer little encouragement and considerations to if I'd like to move to a place with more room to lash out if I want that. And itself as a hunting or sparring partner if that's the path I want to tread.
But I can't hold back the screaming. "PRESEPHONA IS A DOLL BECAUSE I BLAMED HER WHEN SHE DID NOTHING WRONG! YSELDA WOVE THE GARROTE THROUGH ME WITHOUT TELLING HER! XAFRA ACTED TO AVENGE ME AND HURT AN INNOCENT, AND IT WILL WOUND HER TO KNOW. I'VE RUINED EVERYTHING!!!"
A heartbeat passes, the space before violent motion and collapsing into sorrows but… instead I do neither. I rush the desk and grab a pen, desperately scrawling the feelings I can't bring myself to speak or write but come inaudibly unbidden through my Quills as tears stream down my face.
While I write, Verbess wraps my song in its own. Helping... helping keep me afloat like one might with a child in deep waters. Quills add soft thoughts and perceptions for me to hear as I work.
I scrawl and scrawl, odd shapes giving way to a modified version of musical notation while Verbess keeps me supplied with paper as I work through my episode as quietly as I can manage.
And as my song and fury shift rhythms, my Sister offers ever more to me...
Its not trying to smother me or my own melodies. Never that. It promises me with every stroke of my work that sitting here and tearing through these feelings is Good Function. Painful. Of course. But... important. Like helping a loved one clean a wound of muck so the tear beneath can be seen to.
I cough as I take a rasping breath to try and verbalize, and offer a bitter laugh at the tears that smear the ink and make a mess of the transcription I'm attempting. "My sister often said that while I wasn't much of a man, I was unmistakably male whenever I cried."
It growls at that, thrums more... forcefully than before. No more than a huff most days feeling like a storm compared to how gentle the other songs are.
Shares with me through the Quills its perceptions of the girl it held and passed paper to... this past... How long? Not sure. Probably is important but Verbess isn't letting me get distracted about that right now. But it takes a few heartbeats for me to feel that the Sister it's relaying to me IS me. She... seems so much more... everything, than I feel. This gorgeous, if a bit messily weeping, strong huntress it truly considers it's equal in the fury. More than even Krahe by its calculations. Only... just now finding her, or my, comfortable stride in this new life and Pack. Sees nothing of the manhood I fear weeps from me alongside these tears.
I stop writing, turn to Verbess, and hug it so tightly. "Thank you, Sister."
It embraces me back with four strong limbs. Quills thrumming love as it murmurs. "These Ones are glad to be here to feel your songs and share their echoes."
I thrum the same back as my mind catches up on everything at the end of my episode. "Thank you. I... drat. I'm going to be late."
"Hmmm.... No. Our sisters are ensuring that to your prey, the hunt will happen at the perfect time." It promises, adjusting to help me rise.
I giggle at that, "I'm kinda hoping I'm the one caught, but it's the same motions to get there. Hmmm. Do you think that the Mistresses or Rufus would be willing to take over the last task on my list? I feel it's important that someone checks in on Presephona's Dolls and sees how they're acclimating."
"It will ask. Either they will, or this one can find softer shapes and words to ensure it can see to that task without scaring those two." Verbess promises, then leans down and around to pick up the parchments filled with my work. Handles them with such... care. An amount I've only seen those talons show to Pack Sisters, or their plush. "Seek this Pack's Warden. It will have the Breath you mean to gift, and your huntress' location."
I nod. "Yes Sister." With a heavier heart yet burdens lessened by being shared, I dash off for hopefully the last time today.
Warden intercepts me as I leave the Spire, its diminutive form clattering with excitement as it levitates a cradle of similar size. "Warden has aided Sisters Krahe and Infection in their endeavor. Sister Schatzi also nudged Nettle to assist Valthirii in cooking so they should be finished shortly after you arrive."
I bow low to my temporary Pack Lead before taking the Cradle. "Thank you Warden. Your attention to detail is much appreciated." It flickers its form joyfully and with that, I walk calmly back into the Library Spire, hoping it's not too obvious that I've been unwell.
As I arrive, Krahe is giggling and tumbling from the entrance. Absolutely covered in... what seems like an explosion of green and blue somethings?
Then she plops down in front of the doorway and grins up at me. Quills tittering happy mischief. "Hii! I'm here to make sure you don't arrive before the food is done."
I sit with this next Sister lined up to help and support me today, gently resting my head on her shoulder. "Hi Krahe. Thank you. It's been a whole lot already, you know?"
"Mhm. Yeah. Can feel that now." She agrees, wraps me in clean arms and a few tails. "Didn't know if you'd come out needing to burn some higher Giyars or just... take a few good breaths before sitting down with the cutie in there. Also. Do this one a big favor and give these a nibble and taste..."
Then, she hovers three tails before me. Each seeming to either hold or be covered in... really nice smelling food things while Quills dance in the anticipation it's sharing openly.
I look in mild horror at the offerings before me that... don't visually resemble food in the slightest, but trust that I'm not being made a fool of and try the first one. A slerp (Krahe insists it's a real measurement) of savory smelling lumpy blueish goop.
It tastes like a harvest soup but significantly thicker, well seasoned with rock salt and spices, yet a bit uneven in composition. "This one is very good but could use a whisk to even out the starch and keep the flavors from clumping."
Krahe’s Quills buzz and it seems like she relays my words to those inside. Then she offers me the second sample.
My first assumption is that it is the dessert, as it is sweet smelling and purple with yellowish frosting bits and the consistency of cake. It's surprisingly sour and fruity like a Zwetschge, which explains the color as well, but the frosting is sweet enough to balance. "Oh this is very good, Krahe."
My Sister giggles in agreement, and... I suspect there is a reason that the mess she's covered in mostly looks like this second sample. But then the last tail shifts to hover before me. "Nettle said you'd like that. And wonders if this'll balance the mess all out."
The third tail is simply... dipped in a half-dried liquid, curled to keep it from dripping too much. With deliberately maintained eye contact, I open my mouth wide and lick along the length up to the tip. Oh. hahah, it's just tea. My favorite one of Nettle's blends, actually. "Delicious" I moan before breaking off into a blushing giggle.
Krahe titters happily, wraps me in a big hug, and nips at my fingers while lifting me bodily. Quills clearly sending my opinions and sultry words over the song. "Alright. Alright Alright! You are messy. This one would make you shower but... then you'd be later than is Good Function. SO, you'll use magic stuff and we'll get you something new and fancy to wear. I think..."
A pause, then she nods. Her Quills wiggling as she converses privately with... Sister Schatzi?
"Yup. You'll make that look really pretty." She murmurs aloud, then moves to carry me off. Heading toward Mistress Elevar and Lynettes' Spire. Has me in the basement before I can speak. Is shuffling through the drawers with all tails and talons that aren't holding me aloft.
"What's the plan here?" I ask with an even mix of nervousness and anticipation.
"Hush you." Krahe growls playfully, starting to toss clothes aside from the drawers she hunts through. "Tryin' to find... where... Is..."
Quills titter in confused annoyance until...
"Krahe I..." Elevar calls, then giggles as she sees the mess and walks down the steps into her basement chambers with us. Tendrils clicking in mostly amusement and her own tune of mischief. "Schatzi left it hanging in the closet. How did you miss that when it was gifted over your Quill-Song?"
Krahe turns, "Oh. That... Why are some folded? And others not?"
"Wrinkles, Krahe. Folded things get wrinkles." Elevar explains, steps over to the closet and re-emerges a second later with...
Krahe twists me so I only catch a glimpse of purple with a deep green trim before a tail wraps about my eyes. "Nope! No peeking!"
"Alright. I... Krahe. Dear. The surprise is..." Elevar sighs. "She can't be all wrapped up in your tails for this. Cracked and Riven Moon. Put her down."
Krahe grumbles something, but obeys. Even untangles the tail from around my head so I can see.
After a brief smile at Elevar, I close my eyes. "I can accept a surprise but I'll probably need help getting dressed then."
"Exactly the plan!" Krahe cackles.
And... I can nearly hear my wife's repressed grin as she must wordlessly nod to my Pack Sister. Lets her deftly use a tangle of tails to wiggle me free of my old clothes. Then Elevar weaves a very gentle spell to clean my Frame in half a heartbeat before they work together to twist me into this new mystery outfit.
"There. Little adjustments here, slight tug on that..." Elevar murmurs gently while working with Krahe. "Just about... Perfect. No time for hair braiding but honestly, Adaline, you've always had a mane I enjoy getting lost in. With both eyes and fingers. Messier styles just the most... enticing thing. Will excite Valthirii, I think. In subtle ways that'll play into any plans you both tumble into tonight. We'll weave it into something for her to untangle later."
Oh. Oohhh. "Do... Do you think it will come to that? I mean, she's a proper lady."
Elevar's finger crooks beneath my chin, beckoning me to open my eyes and meet her gaze. "If the last time she had you wrapped up beneath her webs is any indication? I'd not be surprised in the slightest. But also... Can understand you both circling each other a bit. Teasing things out. Like I did with you. Studying prey and all that from what your Pack Sisters have said."
Then she steps back to eye me up and down. "And besides. You are a proper lady yourself, when you mantle that. This outfit matches very well this quality in you."
I blush at that, murmuring. "Thank you, my wife. I um. We should go, I don't want to keep her waiting."
"You're very welcome. I delight in helping you get caught in this adorable Doll's net. And don't worry, she's well entertained with the meal Nettle's helping her perfect." Elevar replies, grinning but... brow furrowing. "Her outfits missing something, Krahe. Did Schatzi suggest other articles of clothing I am not aware of?"
"Oh um.... OH!" Krahe giggles as Quills titter. "Her collar! The one Xafra had Schatzi make her. That. Little Birb says it's really important!"
Elevar snaps her fingers. "Yes. Perfect. Go f-"
But before she finishes that command, two of Krahe's talons are wrapping something about my neck and clicking it into place snuggly.
"You just... had it with you?" I ask in surprise
"Yup." She grins. "Always in my pocket or tail's grip when you forget to put in on. In case of like... emergencies. Ya know?"
"Emergencies requiring me to be collared... Yeah, alright." I laugh, before heading over to the mirror.
I look... fancy. Like a Witch born to the role, trained to rule. My legs are enclosed in silver fabric thigh high boots laced up the outsides, with my arms sheathed in matching fingerless gloves. I've been fitted into a deep red short asymmetric sleeveless dress with a layered skirt that leaves little to the imagination under a deeper purple reverse-asymmetric waterfall shawl with dark green piping that caresses my form.
I barely notice Elevar step up behind me, smirking while gently placing a supportive hand on my back. “It seems our dear Schatzi had the right of it, remind me to take this Pack out to acquire fresh clothes next we visit a Grove. That said… How’s the fit? Comfy and snug?”
"It's gorgeous and fits wonderfully but... is it too much? I don't want Miss Valthirii to feel underdressed or anything." I answer, nerves and excitement still warring fiercely.
“Quite the opposite. I think she’s going to find this all quite…” My wife pauses, then chuckles and winds fingers through mine. Begins to tug me along. “We’ll, I’ll let her express much better worded delight at all this. For now just know that I think this outfit makes many a pointed statements. All of which I think she’ll adore. And besides, wouldn’t you enjoy seeing her deciding to dress to impress in the future?”
"Okay..." I respond hesitantly. "But she's always impressive. I'm not sure what it would look like for her to be even more perfect."
“Exactly.” Elevar agrees, pulling me up the steps and through the Spire. “And… mayhaps neither does she. But I think seeing you like this is going to gift her the inspiration to discover that. Both for the gerl she’s courting, but also… herself.”
As I think on that, Krahe moves to follow us. My spider silk dress folded mostly neatly over one arm, but then Elevar turns to hold up a hand to stop her.
"Nope, dear one. You've made a mess of my Spire and are going to clean it up. And after that... Well, I've a task for you to help me with." She explains then glances at me, lifts my hand to delicately place a kiss on my wrist before releasing it. "I trust you can find your way from here? All should be set up by the time you arrive."
"Definitely Love. If all goes well I'll see you tomorrow at the earliest. Heheh." I smile and stride confidently into the Library Spire.
Today is going to be a good day.
Immediately upon arriving I find the little smells that coated my Sister’s tails wafting out from the front entrance. Following that scent, and the murmured voices and calling Quill Song, I'm soon bumping into Nettle and Infection Draws Prey Close For A Feast heading down the steps.
My Sister is wearing some kind of... of twisting chef's hat to keep her hair up and tied firm. While Nettle is wrapping up a messy apron to dangle over one arm.
Both give me grins and avoid hugging, else cover this new outfit with the mess of the meal they've helped prepare, and giggle their encouragement before leaving me on the last steps before the top.
Freshly hung curtains of spider silk dipped in violet dyes now line the room's entrance.
Burning wicks of scented candles line an intended path to the table where Valthrii and I first spoke of an intended expedition. Each candle is done up in multiple threads and webbings to prevent any mishaps from our date getting overly heated. The place of our first exchange is now topped by a freshly spun silk covering atop which tonight's meal is laid out.
Valthirii herself is bound up in a quaintly sized shawl that barely covers her chest while dangling from tight threads crossing over exposed shoulders. Silk spun fabrics dangle artfully from her arms and the rest of her spiderlike form that approximate a dress intended to show off the legs while doing very little more than veiling the rest of her form in an artful emphasis.
"Mistress Valthirii, I had my doubts initially but now I know for certain I am awake, as I could not dream of such a sight as lovely as you." I express my adoration wholeheartedly.
"Oh Adaline." Her voice dips into a throaty purr. "How sweet of you to say so. I'll just have to be sure you do not depart without adequate reassurances that what I offer is most welcome to bind you up in a dream as the waking world."
I blush and accidentally rise into Giyar Five at the insinuations, her facial expressions shifting in slow motion as I sit beside her and attempt to reassert control over my Frame.
Valthirii leans towards me, her head nesting atop her fingers as she favors me with a smile. "If it helps, I've never found myself in an arrangement where there is appeal in treating one another as equals. I do hope you're willing to forgive some of my flirtations coming off as possessive or overly forward."
Oh goddess. Oh Moon. Oh I'm so gay.
"That is something I'm... preferential too as well, with the understanding that it would need to stay separate from professional work." I respond quietly. After a moment's reflection I brighten "Oh! I brought you something." digging in the small satchel under my shawl, I pull out the Cradle containing the Breath and present it to her.
"Of course." Valthirii purrs before reaching out to accept the cradled breath with an expression of naked fascination.
"Whenever you're ready, you just have to raise the cradle to your mouth and inhale the Breath. It will join with you, and give you more... subconscious control over your Frame and its shape, as well as some... interesting tertiary benefits like body heat if that's desired." I explain.
Valthirii unravels the cradle with a practiced gentleness. She makes regular eye contact as her fingers bind the Breath up in strands of web to secure a proper hold before lifting it to her exposed mandibles. "I trust and accept this gift from you, dear Adaline."
I smile, "This is one of the most important steps in getting you the ability to spellweave again, but in this case, it should also enable you to enjoy the meal you made for us thoroughly including digesting it completely."
Before taking a breath, Valthirii shudders. "To think I seriously thought I would get further into this entanglement before finding myself speechless." With a deep breath, she welcomes the Breath into her Frame.
Valthirii's eyes widen as my words and the Breath settles. "And here I was content to feed you or settle for a sweet and endearing mess of an evening spent reclaiming the motions of a life shared with another. You have given me a precious gift that defies any expectations shattered by the ones who helped me prepare this indulgence of a meal."
I delicately try to diminish the significance, not wanting to tip the balance the wrong way. "It is something that will be offered to all who wish it eventually, and together we can also get good research data for other Dolls who are more delicate in constitution. It is... Important to me that you are hale and happy, and arranging something like this was worth the minor effort without question... I'm overthinking this maybe. sorry."
I start chittering quietly as I look down at the, as of yet, untouched meals.
"Ahhh. Well in that case I will be sure to make note of anything that might be of interest as I adjust to your most generous gift." She seizes the initiative to begin preparing a dish that samples a bit of everything before gently laying the plate in front of me. "Quite the contrary, I adore the amount of thought and care you have put into our every interaction. If anything, I am sharing my own thoughts and perceived shortcomings so that they are out in the open. If I am to be entangled with you, I intend to be invested in working together to smooth out every knot and strand." Her smile only widens. "If that requires an indulgence on my part by taking the initiative, to hand feed you or tug at that collar of yours when the need arises, I am most willing."
"Hh– hhand feed?" I look up at her with intensity, my smaller red eyes closed against the candlelight.
Valthirii responds by scooping up the purple Zwetschge, artfully cleaving a slice to pluck between two fingers. Meeting my gaze, she presses the offered treat to my lips without so much as a word.
I dutifully open my mouth and let the tart fruit glide between my teeth and gently lick the tips of her two fingers.
Valthirii's fingers linger as she presses against my tongue. "There you go. Nothing to overthink here so long as we are both enjoying ourselves."
"Yes Mistress." I respond, after swallowing.
Valthirii's lips, chelicera, and face all part in quick succession to expose a set of mandibles that rasp with delight. Her own tongue licks at the arrangement of very interesting teeth before a sense of composure compels Valthirii to withdraw fingers and hidden face into a demure smile. "Ah. Forgive my lapse in table manners."
"Not a problem, Mistress. I can relate to the excitement." I reassure her as I pick up my whisk from it's place in the hearty dense purple potage and deftly free some with my tongue. "My sister clearly intended us to be... Expressive with our meal."
Valthirii withdraws her fingers to her lips for a briefly indulgent moment of anticipation. She leans in, exposing her mandibles and tendril of a tongue that entangles itself greedily throughout the whisk before finding my own.
I don't stop the slight moan that escapes me as I lean sideways into her, making it clear that I'm completely at her tender mercies.
Valthrii draws out the exchange, diligently ensuring that the whisk is thoroughly cleaned between the two of us. I am then treated to the sight of her slicing what remains of the Zwetschge decorating the cake. Satisfied sounds escape her lips after every bite that she takes. Affectionate caresses accompany every portion that she hand feeds me. Valthirii seems content to alternate back and forth with a slowly building intensity before she drops all pretense to cup at my chin and lock tongues in earnest.
I whimper in need, wanting her, craving her, nipping at her mandibles but keeping my hands to myself until told otherwise. A Good Doll follows instructions I think, and this time, for once, it doesn't hurt.
My mistress hums with satisfaction as she gently pulls away enough to speak coherent words between excited breaths. "I think... Ahhhh. That this is the part where I gently ask, not demand, that my lovely partner put into words what it is that you want."
I close my eyes and drop to Giyar Two so I can think clearly. "I would like to be tied up and/or chased at some point, as well as do some mutual biting. Aside from that I am open and enthusiastic about participating in whatever you would like to do, as long as it's not permanently damaging to myself, others, or my clothing."
Valthirii shakes her head before drawing a finger tenderly down towards my collar. "This dress? I wouldn't dream of damaging it or its wearer in any lasting capacity." Her finger presses upwards, dragging along my neck until she is cradling my chin. "We can absolutely indulge in some mutual biting. My own attire was spun up in a hurry, soI have no such resistance to it becoming a torn memento of this lovely evening together. After that, I'll see about binding you up properly and handling you like a well worn tome."
"Yes Mistress Valthirii" I respond obediently as I finally let my hands begin to wander along her Frame.
"There is a part of me that wants you to crack and shake this transitory form of mine before it is reshaped with time and healing." Her fingers move on to stroking at my lips. "It is a part of me that knew being reduced to the state you found and favored me in still needs a few final reminders that this form was inflicted upon me. Maybe in thinking as such I am deluded. But I could think of no one more appropriate than you to chip away at this form with hands and teeth." With one last shudder at my touches, Valthirii surrenders to her desires.
Webbing slides dishes and candles out of reach as she closes the distance between us. Her mandibles close around my throat as her tongue digs for purchase beneath my collar to wrap around and tug with a playful abandon. "Crack and shatter your mistress with those teeth of yours."
I obey without hesitation, my strength easily allowing me to wrench her arms to her side as I drag teeth and tusks into the chitin of her shoulder, barely remembering to intone to her [Venom, Mistress?]
[I could think of nothing I'd want more.] She matches me bite for bite as her mandibles and tongue mark my throat.
I bite deep, depositing my aphrodisiac venom as I rip away the outer layer and devour it.
Valthirii cries out as her spider-like legs dig into the table. She's quick to lean into me as her eyes alight.
She's so silly. Thinking that even at her lowest she was less than astounding. I'm going to make sure that she understands her value even if it takes years. I rake my claws down her sides, shredding through her top and quickly tucking my trophy into my satchel.
With a harsh cry she seizes the moment to slip her arms free and cup my head in her hands. As she repositions to bear down on me properly, she strokes my lips with that tongue of hers in an attempt to coax out an easier entrance.
I open myself to her, mind and body compliant and willing to bend to her whims, breathing shallowly to avoid even the slightest inconvenience to her.
Mandibles grip me, securing me in place as Valthirii's tongue eagerly explores. Webbing makes up for what any crack in her Frame can manage as she binds me not in any one place, but to the front of her waist that gives way to a spiderlike abdomen.
She then lifts the two of us back to a suspended webbing upon which I am rather pleasantly bound up in control threads around my wrists that I could just as easily tug to shift webbing Valthirii perches herself atop.
I am very quickly bound, her tongue and mandibles set to explore far more than my mouth. But with the threads' help, I can just as easily maneuver other parts of her frame into range of my mouth.
Slowly, thoroughly, I crack and chew her chitin, intimately molting her and injecting her over and over with more venom as her movements become more frantic.
Only when there is nothing left for her mandibles, fingers, and tongue to explore does Valthirii pull at threads to move herself comfortably atop me. Thicker bundles of silk find their ways beneath my head before she promptly collapses in a heap of moans and shudders, limiting herself to gentle caresses as the venom runs its course.
[This one... Does sincerely hope you'll not be needed anytime soon. Your company is most desired for the remainder of the evening. Something you should probably know is that I do not intend to break my habit of indulging myself in spoiling those I claim as my own and expecting to be spoiled in kind.]