The days seemed to pass slower than normal. Agreth tried to live his life as he normally would to ease the impatience. Bolstering lively social events and finding quiet moments of solitude and rest. But far more often than he cared to admit his mind wandered to Gale. The charming gentleman Wizard who it seemed he had a growing intertwining of fate with... and a growing affection for. He found himself thinking on his like some great riddle he was trying to unravel and each time his heart started to flutter. Just as quickly Agreth would turn his thoughts elsewhere, trying to spare himself the sensation that could quickly become a torment for him. He dare not hope that Gale may be thinking of him as fondly, or as frequently.
But the time did eventually pass, and now he stood, at their agreed time, in their agreed spot. The quiet place of solitude, a beautiful backdrop to the normally busy Baldur’s Gate, a quiet piece of nature, illuminated in golden yellows as the sun set. He wore a heavier wool blue overcoat this evening and blew into his hands to keep them warm. The weather had turned much colder in just a few days, the whispering promise of winter on the wind. He looked around as each person passes along the street, his nerves taught and expectant. This meeting was different than their previous meetings. This was the first time they had specifically planned to meet instead of leaving it up to chance.
Finally, Gale appeared at the edge of the field, his blue and purple robes slightly buffeted by the breeze, a familiar tome tucked under one arm. His expression brightened upon spotting Agreth, a genuine smile spreading across his face as he quickened his steps.
"Agreth, good to see you again," Gale greeted warmly, his eyes lighting up with the kind of sincere pleasure that comes from truly looking forward to a meeting. "I hope you haven't been waiting long. The chill seems to have crept up on us with the season's turn."
He reached Agreth, noting the heavier coat and the way the bard seemed to brace against the cold. "It's quite a bit colder than last we met. I hope you're keeping well?" Gale asked, his tone carrying a mix of concern and casual friendliness, setting a comfortable tone for the evening.
“Quite well” he retorts lightly.
Pulling from his robe a small, carefully wrapped bundle, he offered it to Agreth. "I brought something to warm us—a blend of tea known among my circle for its warmth-giving properties. Shall we?" from his robes, seeming from no where, he produces a small carafe of steaming warm water and two hearty looking but distinctly intended for tea cups ready for use, showing his thoughtfulness and preparation for their comfort during the meeting.
"It seems the seasons carry on as they do." Agreth adds to the casual conversation. "Thank you, for the tea. It was thoughtful of you." He says with a note of sincerity, peering with some curiosity at both how Gale was brewing the tea, and where he had produced the paraphernalia.
Gale smiles, pleased at his appreciation, and begins to prepare the tea with practiced motions. "Indeed, the seasons wait for no one, though they do give us reason to enjoy moments like these, with good company and warm drinks." His tone cheerful and conversational, he combines the hot water with the dark tea leaves in each cup, the aromatic steam mingling with the crisp air, creating a comforting scent that seemed to ward off the evening chill.
As the tea steeped, Gale takes a seat on the wooden carved bench meant for a brief respite for the travellers of Baldur’s Gate gesturing for Agreth to do the same, who graciously does. "I've been looking forward to this," he admits, watching the sunset's colors fade into twilight. "It's not often I get to blend the arcane with the artistic so directly. And your company, Agreth, makes it all the more enjoyable."
His eyes not quite meeting Agreths, he hands him the cup of the freshly steeped tea, its warmth comforting against the cold. "So, have you thought about how you might want to weave your music into our little magical demonstration today?" His tone was curious, inviting him to share his thoughts and perhaps any new inspirations he might have developed since their last meeting.
Agreth takes the tea, graciously taking a sip savouring the welcomed warmth. "I actually believe you misunderstand. It's our magics I'd like to share. Mine simply comes from my music." He pauses, turning to meet Gale’s eyes "I could demonstrate now. Or is that to eager?" He laughs mischievously before taking another sip.
Gale's eyes sparkled with intrigue and amusement at his clarification and the playful tone that touches the bards voice. "Ah, I see. Your magic, then, through your music. That's a distinction worth noting," he responds with an appreciative nod, his interest clearly piqued. "By all means, Agreth, I would be delighted to witness your magic now. Eager? Perhaps, but eagerness born of genuine enthusiasm is something I’m not known to waste."
Gale settles back in his chair, setting his own cup aside to give Agreth his full attention. The last vestiges of sunlight gave way to the evening's deeper blues and purples, and the field around them seemed to hold its breath, waiting for the music to fill the air.
"Whenever you're ready," Gale encourages, his demeanour attentive and expectant, eager to experience the blend of artistry and enchantment that Agreth’s music promises.
Nodding Agreth sets down his tea and stands before the Wizard, his confidence carrying a note of vulnerability. Through all of his performances, rarely were they intended for a single person.
Agreth reaches to his back and pulls out his violin and bow. Poised, and still for a moment, like a statue he still his breathing, gathering the sensation in himself, to focus into his movements. He begins, pulling the bow across the strings to produce a long clear singing note. This time was different however. This time the air around Agreth was not filled just with soothing music, but cracked to life.
The magic he controls spreading out filling the air, dancing with the tune and weaves about the two of them, at first only felt, but slowly apparating into existence, like a gentle blue smoke curling from a freshly extinguished flame. This weaving and haze thickens until it steals both of their physical forms from seeming existence. Their incorporeal forms dance into a new state, weightless in a swirling miasma of galactic colours. Everything falls away, the world, their flesh, everything but their minds, a vague representation of their bodies and the music Agreth produces.
He plays the same deep, sorrowful longing song that Gale had inspired. Polished and now practiced it speaks of unimaginable sorrow, loss, but of love and longing too. Agreth strikes a new note and with such a flaring motion that causes his shoulder length hair to dance in the incorporeal visage of him, the note and music turns hopeful, a swelling warmth instantly touching Gale’s heart. Another flair and the music turns hopeful, excited, giddy the depth and range of human emotions. As the music builds to a crescendo Agreth points his violin bow towards Gale and the music, it's sadness, it's joy it's magic moves physically to pierce the depths of his human heart, his emotional limits, both literal and metaphysical. At that exact moment the music ends, snapping like a rubber band both of them back into their physical forms. Agreth in familiarity with the sensation offers a hand to catch Gale suddenly as his shakey body is thrown off balance.
"Whoa, steady there." He chuckles.
As the final notes of Agreths performance had faded and the world snaped back into its physical form, Gale is momentarily staggered, overwhelmed by the profound depth and complexity of emotions that Agreths music, now imbued with such palpable magic, had stirred within him. He grasps his offered hand, using it to steady himself, his breath coming in short, amazed gasps.
"That was... extraordinary." Gale manages to say, his voice filled with awe and a touch of vulnerability, his eyes wide as they meet his. The experience had not only transcended the ordinary but had touched something deep and resonant within him, a magic so raw and powerful that it had left him momentarily unmoored.
"Agreth, your music—it’s not just sound, not just notes... it’s a living, breathing essence. It reaches into the soul, pulling forth emotions and memories, binding them with the present. It’s a true gift." he continues, his words heavy with the weight of his appreciation and the emotional impact of the experience.
Gale steadies himself, still holding his hand, not just for physical support now, but as a connection, grounding him back to the here and now. "Thank you for sharing that with me," he says sincerely. "It was more than I could have imagined. Your magic, it’s as profound as any spell I’ve ever witnessed."
The wizard, often so composed and in control of his surroundings, shows a rare openness, touched by the art he’s shared. "To think our magics could blend... what might we achieve together?" His mind races with possibilities.
As Agreth hold his hands steadying him gladly, he takes in his wide gray eyes, with his own blue hues. He watches seeing the genuine appreciation and stirring of emotion within that Agreth finds himself momentarily at a rare loss for words.
"I'm-" He pauses searching "-I'm glad to have shared it with someone whom understands." He says not quite being able to capture what he was feeling, but the affectionate smile that settles on his features fills in the gaps. "I've lived a comfortable life requiring little of me, so I've had to tap into the magical arts of being a Bard rarely. My touching of the Weave is often a secret thing, rarely shared and even rarer for it to be understood" He finally releases his grip on Gale’s hand, raising a hand hesitating just a moment, before touching Gale’s his cheek hesitantly "I imagine you must dance with the Weave openly and often, but I'd still like to see if you’re willing. "
Gale’s gaze meets Agreths, the touch on his cheek being met with raised brows and a look of surprise, though he makes no action to move away. Instead the affectionate smile is reflected in his own features.
"You honour me with your trust, Agreth." he says, his voice steady but soft, touched by the significance of his words and gesture. A moments pause hangs between them, before Gales eyes focus and he falls into the more calculated conversation about his magic "The Weave, for me, is indeed a constant presence—a force I interact with daily. Yet sharing its deeper mysteries, especially in such a personal and profound manner, is not something I take lightly." He offers in return, but steps back just enough to give himself space to manifest his own magic.
With a deep, grounding breath, he begins to weave his spell. His hands move through the air with precision and grace, tracing intricate patterns that glow with a faint, arcane light. The energy builds around him, shimmering and pulsating in rhythm with the unseen currents of the Weave. The movements calculated, precise, practiced and in stark contrast to the bards weaving dance. This was direction, command, control, not an invitation to play. Then, gently, Gale directs the magic towards Agreth. It’s not a spell of power or defence but similar to Agreths action of mixing emotion with sound and magic, this was a spell of sharing—visions of his past interactions with the Weave, his challenges, and triumphs, his moments of doubt and revelation. These images and emotions cascade around Agreth, like falling mirrors giving brief glimpses of a million moments in time, a gentle but profound sharing of his life’s work and passion.
As the display concludes, the magic dissipates, leaving only the echo of shared experiences and emotions in the air. Gale looks at Agreth once more, his expression open and slightly vulnerable. "That is how I touch the Weave—how I shape it and am shaped by it in return. It’s rarely so visible, so tangible, but with you, I wanted it to be seen."
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He smiles, a genuine expression of kinship and respect. "Your music, your magic, has touched me deeply, Agreth. To share this with you feels right, like a melody finding its perfect harmony." He steps closer again, bridging the small distance that had separated them during his demonstration.
Agreth was equally as impacted. His breath coming in a quiet gasp realizing he had stopped breathing as he tried to take in every moment, every aspect of the spell falling about him like rain. He had expected to be wowed by this renown wizard, but he has not expected Gale to share something so vulnerable and raw. His experiences his emotions, his fears and feelings flowing through Agreth, glimpses of places, snippets of words, experiences of the past. Stilling his breath his eyes land on Gale once more, holding his eyes with a new intensity.
"I've always been able to move others with my music.. but I've never really been moved by it." His eyes dance over Gales searching "I think I now understand how it feels." His voice lowers in genuine reflection "Thank you, Gale"
Gale watches the emotion play across his face with a deep sense of empathy, understanding the power of being moved by one's own art through the reflection of another's experience.
"You're welcome, Agreth." he responds softly, his voice barely above a whisper, resonating with the sincerity of the moment. "To move and be moved—this is the essence of true magic, the kind that transcends spells and songs and touches the core of who we are."
Stepping a bit closer, Gale reaches out, hesitating only a moment before placing a gentle hand on his shoulder in a gesture of comfort and solidarity. "It’s a rare gift to share this with someone who not only understands but reciprocates so deeply. You’ve given me a glimpse of your soul through your music, and in turn, I hoped to offer you something of equal value. That you felt moved is all I could have hoped for."
The connection between them, forged in art and understanding begins to solidify into something tangibly profound. "If ever there was doubt about the paths we’re on, this moment reassures me that they’re meant to converge, at least for now." he adds, his eyes holding Agreths, finding in them a mirror of his own feelings—appreciation, wonder, and perhaps the budding of something even deeper.
At the intensity of his look, and the whisper of unspoken words, a light blush darkens Agreths cheeks once more at his touch and words. Trying to gather his thoughts, willing his mind clear and to put on a more casual playful expression, mischief dancing across his eyes, he prompts "Well, I say we still try your plan. How now do we weave these two magics together?"
Gale's expression lightens as he picks up on his shift to a more playful mood, the spark of mischief in his eyes invigorating his own sense of creativity and adventure. "Ah, now that's the challenge I've been looking forward to," he responds with a grin, his hand falling away from his shoulder as he steps back to consider the space around them thoughtfully.
"Let's start by establishing a baseline for our magics to interact. I'll set up a few simple wards that react not just to magical energy, but to sound and emotion as well. These will serve as our canvas." With practiced motions, Gale begins to trace symbols in the air, each glowing faintly as they settle into the ground, creating a circle around them that shimmers with potential.
"As for your part, Agreth," he continues, turning to him with an encouraging nod, "begin with a piece of music—anything you feel led to play. Let it be something that embodies your emotions, your story. As you play, the wards will absorb and reflect the magic, and I will weave my spells in response, not to overpower, but to harmonize with the melody you create."
Gale steps back into the circle, his eyes alight with excitement. "Think of it as a dance, where each step, each note, and each spell is both a move and a response. We’ll build it slowly, see how our energies interact, and adjust as we go.” He pauses a moment surveying again, once satisfied he nods “Ready when you are, Agreth." He gestures grandly, inviting the bard to begin this unique performance where magic and music would intertwine.
In response Agreth walks the circle looking down at the glowing runes admiring his form of magic once more. "It's beautiful" he utters more to himself, although aloud. It's complexity is truly striking and the ease to which he created it impressive to him. As he walks the circle admiring his work, he raises his violin, poised to play once more. Agreth nods in agreement as well and begins.
This time he plays a song that speaks of himself. It's soft, sweet, perhaps a bit simple, but safe and comforting. Like the breeze on a summers day, or the warm smell of a hearth on a cold night. It speaks to the sheltered and comfortable life he had lived. The benefits of a noble with a living family. He plays with these beginning notes, keeping his eyes open this time, not wanting to miss anything that was about to happen.
As the first notes of his violin fill the air, gale watches him play, his attention focused not just on the music but on how it interacts with the magical wards he has set up. As the notes drift over the glowing runes, they begin to pulse in time with the music, their light shifting subtly in hue, reflecting the warmth and safety conveyed by his melody.
Gale then begins his part of the dance, his hands moving in small, precise gestures. With each motion, threads of magic weave into the air, picking up on the tones and emotions of his song. These threads shimmer like morning dew caught in sunlight, enhancing and echoing the music rather than overwhelming it. His magic does not merely mimic; it responds, creating a harmonious interplay between spell and sound.
As the song progresses, Gale gradually introduces elements that complements Agreths narrative—a gentle breeze manifested through a spell that lightly brushes against the skin, a warmth that mimics the feeling of comfort on a cold night. These magical responses are subtle, crafted to enhance the sensory experience of his music without stealing the spotlight.
The area within the circle becomes a cocoon of magic and melody, a shared space where art and arcane beautifully merge. Agreth attentive, looking around at the glowing world around them, notices how each note he plays not only influences the patterns of light and magic but also inspires him, and the narrative of his song in return, creating a feedback loop that deepens the connection between the two.
The performance becomes more than a demonstration of skill; it evolves into a dialogue, a deep and meaningful exchange between two individuals speaking through their respective crafts. As the song nears its conclusion, the magic and music slowly wind down, leaving a lingering absence as the skillful dance between the two stills.
Gale lowers his hands, the final threads of magic dissipating into the air, and looks at Agreth with a smile of genuine appreciation. "It’s a rare thing to find such a connection, and even rarer to see it manifest so beautifully." He steps closer, his expression one of triumph and joy.
Agreths blue eyes watch Gale carefully as the connection stills around them, a smile touching his lips at the wizard echoing his own thoughts. The beauty of the moment was captivating, moving and one of the experiences he knew even in this moment he would never forget. Seeing Gale take a step towards him, the yearning to not yet wanting to let go of the profoundly deep connection they had established quite yet, and at a total loss for words on how to capture what he was feeling, he closes the little space that remained between them, taking Gales jaw in the hand that held his bow, pulling him in for a kiss.
Caught by surprise but not resistant, Gale responds to the kiss, the intensity of the moment and the shared magical experience merging into a single, profound gesture of a different kind of connection. The spontaneity of Agreths action, driven by the powerful emotions evoked through the shared magic, seems to suspend time, allowing the world around you to fade away as you both linger in the moment.
As the kiss breaks, Gale steps back slightly, his expression one of astonishment, his eyes searching Agreths for understanding. The magic they created together had opened a door to a new level of connection, and this kiss had crossed a threshold that neither had explicitly acknowledged before.
Breathing deeply, Gale steadies himself, his voice soft but clear. "That was... unexpected. But not unwelcome." His eyes hold his, his initial surprise giving way to a thoughtful consideration, choosing his words with care, sensitive to the gravity of the moment and the feelings it has stirred. "I find myself deeply moved, not just by your music and your magic, but by you, by this," he gestures slightly between them. "If this is the path you wish to explore," Gale continues, his voice steady but filled with emotion, "then I am here, with you, ready to discover where it leads." He says with a note of earnest sincerity. His hand reaches out, hesitating just a moment before touching his arm, seeking to reaffirm the physical connection that the kiss had ignited.
"I'm sorry I was-" Agreth starts his voice husky with emotion, trails off as Gale makes physical contact once more. Agreth places his hand over his on his arm, holding it welcomingly there. "I was overcome," He finishes with genuine transparency "By your magic, by mine, by what they could do together. I could think of nothing else but to steal a kiss and echo that closeness with physical touch." He pauses a moment, his smile turning apologetic "It should not have been stolen. I should have waited until it was freely given."
Gale's features soften his hand remains steady on his arm, anchoring the moment with a gentle assurance. "No apologies needed, Agreth," he responds his voice lowering with a new gentleness. "In that moment, you acted from the heart, a place of genuine emotion. That is never something to regret."
He takes a small, steadying breath, eyes meeting Agreths, clear and bright. "That kiss, though unexpected, was a reflection of the moment. You acted from the heart, a place of genuine emotion. If anything, it has opened a door—a door I am also willing to explore further with you, Agreth. Not just our combined magic, but whatever else might arise between us."
His voice is steady, each word imbued with the weight of his offering to explore this new, unfolding chapter between them. "So, let us take this step together, not as a theft of a moment, but as a shared journey forward, wherever it may lead." with his light determined words, he gives his arm a gentle squeeze to reaffirm his words.
"I would like nothing more." Agreth responds an air or relief and excitement evident in the wide smile that creeps over his face. With a mischievous tone he adds. "You know you are quite something... Gale of Waterdeep."
Gale's smile grows until it matches Agreths. "And you, Agreth, are quite the enchantment yourself," he replies with a playful yet sincere tone. His eyes twinkle with affection and a hint of wonder at the path that's unfolding before them.
The light of the setting sun casts a soft glow around them, highlighting the magical ambience of their surroundings. Gale steps a little closer, his presence reassuring and warm. "Now that we've opened this door, shall we continue this journey then, Agreth? Together?"
With the evening gently closing in around them, the possibility of new adventures, both magical and personal, hangs in the air, ripe with potential. Gale's expression is one of contentment and anticipation.
In response Agreth as he had some days ago offers Gale his arm. “Let’s simply take a walk together for now, starting with small steps, perhaps a journey through the city or a stroll in a quiet park, where we can talk freely and see where our steps lead us."
Gale's expression brightens at Agreths offer, and he accepts his offered arm with a graceful nod. "A walk it is, then. An excellent choice."
Together, they begin to stroll away from the magic-infused field, moving slowly towards a path that winds through a nearby wooded area. The trees are serene under the twilight sky, their leaves whispering softly with the evening breeze, creating a tranquil ambience that complements the intimate nature of your walk.
As they move along the path, the conversation flows naturally. Gale speaks of his adventures and the intricate beauty he finds in the Weave, sharing stories of magical discoveries and the occasional misadventure. He listens equally attentively as Agreth recount tales from his performances, the places his music has taken him, and the people he’s met along the way.
The walk becomes more than just a physical journey; it's a gentle exploration of each other's pasts, a verbal dance as intricate and revealing as the magical one they had performed earlier. As the walk continues, the city's lights begin to twinkle in the distance, signaling the encroachment of the urban on the natural world, yet the spell of the evening remains unbroken.
Gale squeezes his arm gently, a silent expression of gratitude for the shared time.
"Thank you, for this evening, for the magic, and for the walk," he says as they begin to approach the more lit areas of the city. "I find myself greatly looking forward to our next meeting, wherever and however it may be."
The night drawing to a close, their movements still, giving each other their final moments of attention, reluctant to step away from each other.
"Thank you Gale. You’ve shown and shared more with me tonight than I thought possible. I'll be dreaming of this moment in my sleep and in my waking hours until we meet again." Agreth offers with the well practiced romantic flair of a bard.
Gale chuckles in an appreciative air for the flourished and complementary words. “I, too, will carry this night with me. As we part ways tonight, know that I am already looking forward to our next encounter.” As their walk has stilled, the ambient lights of the city casting gentle glows on the path they stand upon, Gale's demeanor is reflective for a moment, appreciative of the unexpected turn their relationship has taken. With a final, lingering look that promises more conversations, more walks, and more shared magic, Gale releases his arm, stepping back with a respectful bow, a traditional gesture mingled with a newfound affection. "Goodnight, Agreth. Take care until we meet again."
“Goodnight Gale, until then.” Agreth offers in return, offering a bow in return, his eyes lingering on him as Gale turns walking back toward the heart of the city, leaving Agreth with the memories of an evening where the world seemed to pause, allowing magic and music to speak in place of words. The promise of future meetings hangs in the air, a quiet assurance of more shared moments to come.