For a man with whom I've only had the pleasure of digital correspondence, it's astonishing how often your name seems to come up in relation to my research. This time, due to some project you may be working on just now?
Perhaps it is long past time I learn the face associated with the name? If I may tempt you into less business-formal enviorn, Dr. Strange.
I would not presume to know, of course. But your attentions, so long as you can afford them, would not go unappreciated.
There's a lovely little place I've heard of in your neighborhood. Quiet, dark, good for private conversations with eyes that respectfully look away when needed.The one with the purple and white sign. 'Masqurade' or something or the sort.
You might pick me up at the train station nearby for an escort.
You mean the man who signs my checks, who ensures my mind does not go to waste on some Dominant who simply desires a pretty face? I think he will surely not mind so long as I am returned as safely as I left.
Should I expect any particular danger to that arrangement? I assured him you were a gentlemen of taste.
Danger isn't the word I'd use, but you were the one who gave you assurances before even making first contact so in that sense the responsibility of anything going array surely lies with you, not me.
But as far as I'm concerned I only want to know that I'm not going to have to deal with the ruffled feathers of a disgruntled Dominant not keeping track of their property. That's not the kind of interpersonal petty drama I want to get caught up in. But you've established that you're free to chase after what you want and are willing to take the risks to get it then who am I to feign disinterest.
I assure you no such drama will fall to your doorstep on my account. That assured and aside, should I expect you at the train station or shall I be seeing myself to our meeting, dear doctor?
Your Dominant must need to get up especially early each morning to keep up with one like you. Either he's sharper than you are, or you run rings around him. Whichever it is, I honest can't tell who I envy more right now, you or him.
I'd be remiss if I weren't to meet you at the station. Check points are getting stricter and stricter these days and I'd hate to see you caught up by petty red tape.
[Essek doesn't respond again, but he is waiting at the station, not a hair or piece of opulent jewelry out of place. He's well-used to being treated like a gem and it shows. Most don't do more than glance at him and the one or two who bother making remarks or calling to him are met with a cold indifference and a raised chin. Diminutive though his stature may be, he was well above those he chose to be.
Stephen, however, is met with an honest smile and a slight bow of Essek's head in greeting.]
[Of all the things that Stephen is, he is a man of his word. Granted, he picks his words carefully to ensure that's the case, but it means that he is absolutely where he says he'll be exactly when he says he'll be there.
He's differently well-put togther than Essek, but no less so--all sharp lines of a well-tailored suit that shows off every inch of his status as a Dominant with every move he makes. And the moves take him directly toward the Submissive waiting for him, lips tugging upward into a slow, very pleased smile.]
You shouldn't say that, it's the kind of thing that would make me want to push my luck and see just how long a wait I'm really worth.
[Then, he offers an arm rather than a hand, it is supposed to be 'less business-formal environ,' after all.]
But rather than test the limits of the theory, shall we get going?
[It's offered with only a hint of cheek and temptation. There were many...uses to be found in playing with certain kinds of waiting games. For now, he takes Strange's arm, a small appreciative but polite glance given over his form before falling into step with him.
It was rude to discuss business before dinner and unseemly to allow anything more than the very light flirtation and flattery he'd offered while still in such mixed company of the city streets, so Essek kept conversation light. Asking after Stephen's work and his recent interests and only speaking very vaguely on his own research that had lead him to crossing paths with the good doctor again. It served it's purpose to pass the time nicely until they got to their destination. Where, of course, he remained primly either on Stephen's arm or at his heel as necessary until they were sequestered away in their corner. Only then did the more playful tilt return to the edge of his smile.]
I must admit, it is...refreshing to find a man so in-tune with his appearance and that appearance which others perceive. Especially to find it in a man who is willing to take such well measured steps to a more courtly dance than can often be found in our time. I said you were a gentleman and you are proving me right in the ways that matter. In short, I am impressed and, though the night is young, I am already appreciative of your company.
[A dance indeed, verbal though it may be, it was the sort of dancing Essek enjoyed. Like a mental and social puzzle to navigate. A promising partner in such a thing was refreshing.]
[For this version of Stephen Strange, there are some things he very much takes for granted given his standing in Duplicity.
He takes it as given that he will be able to go effectively anywhere he wants, whenever he wants, and with whomever he wants; the latter of those points only really has limits when it comes to people whose throats are as clear as his own.
He also takes for granted that a Submissive's place is exactly where he tells them to be and expects them to defer to him entirely. After all, it's just his birthright and the way of things. That doesn't mean he needs to be cruel or unpleasant on principle, of course, but it is what he expects.
And in many respects, Essek both seems to understand his role perfectly well in all the right places, and then at the most strategic points can unveil the impression of something transgressive. And for Stephen, it's a difficult line to walk and yet when done right is one of the most enticing things imaginable.
Folding his long fingers together, he regards Essek with a steady, focused stare as he speaks, amused and intrigued by his read of things before giving a low, throaty chuckle.]
I find there's a tendency and an ease with which we can fall over ourselves to grasp onto the crass, as it were. Not that I'm opposed to it, don't get me wrong, but it's as you say--it's a little harder to find something more drawn out and appreciative of some of the finer details. Rather than complain about what's lacking though, I'd rather create it for myself. [He leans in slightly, not too close, just enough to show interest without crowding.] So I have a sneaking feeling we'll both be remembering this night for quite some time to come.
But not all Submissives would be nearly as forward as you have been and I could have very easily sent you packing. What made you bold enough to take the risk with me that you did? Surely not my professional reputation alone--I get very mixed reviews depending on who you speak to.
[Essek leans in a bit as well, his fingers coming to rest under his chin as he considers the very fair question, though the lingering in his thought is, to a degree, performative. He rarely made an unmeasured move, even now with his memories full of a life knowing his place in this world, knowing he would serve and care for his betters. He never once took that to mean being stepped on in the process. A good life could be had, if only with a bit of care and patience.]
You could have, it's true. I could have been very wrong and you'd have been in your right to respond in kind. However, I...pride myself in my observational abilities. My intuition is often a guiding factor and I have learned there are times to be cautious and times to be bold and those instances can switch with each other at a moment's notice.
Simply put: I took into consideration all reputations I could find, mixed or otherwise, noted to had...occasion to be kind, but more than that seemed to like a level of intrigue and suspense and thought perhaps you might enjoy a-hm...particular kind of attention. The kind, perhaps, that is paid in full to you, but not so far as to simply make things easy.
[His head tilts slightly and his smile grows into something almost sweet were it not for the watchfulness in Essek's eyes.] Was I mistaken in any of that?
[In so many ways, Stephen is a model Duplicity citizen. He participates in all the activities expected of him with all the types of people he's expected to do them with, he keeps his head high to show the bare throat he's been given, and he embraces all the specialised work and extracurricular endeavours of a high-flying Dominant working in Duplicity's sex-tech industry.
And then there are the things that tempt Stephen, a taste for the transgressive.
Because he knows about his temptations, Stephen has an excellent poker face, the one he wears across the table from Essek as he speaks through his reasoning, how he came to measure up the pros and cons of the risks and ultimately pegged Stephen as someone worth taking the gamble with on the one hand, but also clearly confident enough with the odds to feel very safe making it at all.
But even Stephen's poker face has limits when presented with something he is genuinely enticed by as his lips slide into a slow smile.]
No, not mistaken at all. Which is probably for the best since we both know there are a lot of Dominants who would relish thoroughly putting you in your place just for this.
[It isn't lost on Stephen that Essek has managed to put him in a pretty unique position where having gauged things entirely correctly means he's got some pretty solid leverage on Stephen socially speaking, if he felt inclined. And he's done it so effortlessly. Damn. Stephen really should feel far more nervous than he is and instead find himself entirely intrigued and impressed as his fingers tap against one another in thought.]
You're not wrong at all. Which makes you more than a little dangerous. [He points his two forefingers toward Essek from the steeple of his hands.] But if you know all this, you know that too. Which has me wondering if you do this often, or if I should consider myself special.
[His lips quirk up at the mention of dominants 'putting him in his place' of course there were, and were he ever caught flatfooted, they'd be in their right. Which was why he did his best not to be caught in a position he couldn't handle. He doesn't say I'd like to see them try, but the thought is there and gone in seconds.
He folds his hands before him in an almost demure act.] Watching your mind at work is lovely, doctor. Do I often watch and learn and file away information on others so that I might know where to step around or near them in social situations? It would be...foolish not to. Do I take an active interest in any of those who fall in my attentions? Not so nearly often as you may think. I may be dangerous, but the fact you've not yet called for anyone to remove me from you, nor taken your leave to smear my reputation, means you might just find that danger appealing. That is also interesting information and not unappreciated.
[If this Stephen knew the reference Danger, Will Robinson, that would be flashing through his head right about now and he wouldn't even care.
Because it's not only true, Essek is proving Stephen's instincts to be increasingly correct. And worst--or best--of all, Essek clearly understands all the implications and can pluck out the treads of meaning with such skill that he's probably weaving a rope together with all of them. And Stephen wouldn't even mind if he gets lassoed with that rope. Maybe it's already happened.]
How do you know I'm not just waiting for you to say something more incriminating still? Something indisputable if I were to call some SIN guards over before contacting the city authorities and your Dominant?
[There's a wicked little smile just at the edges of his lips, though not at the actual thought of doing any of that in reality. It's the anticipation of hearing what Essek has to say, the prospect of getting to see more of his mind at work, because as flattering as it is to hear that his own mental processing is pleasing, the sensation from across the table is evidently mutually shared for Stephen.]
[That falsely demure act splinters with the curve of Essek's smile. A delicate turn that couldn't possibly be a smirk because that just wouldn't be proper.]
My dear doctor...to play such a game, you must no the rules or fall to them. What could I say that would be so incriminating? I am certain that no such thing could fall to this table. I like to think I...have more care than that.
[His head tilts, the jewelry along his ear jingling with the movement.] A care that I may artfully apply when and where I so choose, of course. A counter-question, then. What, do you think, is to stop you from simply making something up and doing as you wish? I have put myself in a vulnerable position with you, you would be within your power to walk away with very little evidence to whatever words you offered. Perhaps you are no less dangerous yourself.
Sending directly into Stephen's brain | A day or so after Stephen contracts with Essek
[Wow. Okay. That's not exactly the most unfamiliar experience he's had, but it's the first time he's had this particular kind of telepathic communication.]
Do you often just project yourself into total strangers minds like this?
[This is silly, he should just wait until he gets in, he's already headed back to the high-rise building they lived in...and yet he found himself almost lingering outside as though this barrier of the device would offer some protection from the thought he'd been turning over.
He'd already made this request with his friend, with his close acquaintances...there shouldn't be much difference in with asking it of Stephen, beyond the obvious unknown. And yet, on some level, there was. Because they lived together, because of their similarities, because of his respect for the man...Essek wasn't sure. He was sure he was sick of feeling like his heart were to burst from his chest in the uncertainty.
He huffs in disgust at his own reaction and presses the button to send his message. Ridiculous, you'd think he was eighty all over again.]
Stephen, when you have time, I had hoped to discuss something with you; a small request I would like to make, if I may.
[For Stephen, the provision of giving Essek his time and space is one he takes seriously because the request was made and Stephen said in no uncertain terms he'd grant it.
He also said he'd be expecting Essek, and he is, in whatever form that takes.
Evidently, that means via a the devices for the moment, but to Stephen it sort of makes sense on a logistical level.]
I've got time. What is it you want to discuss, Essek?
[He would go in once the question was asked, he told himself. He was a hundred and seventeen, it was shameful he couldn't act like it.]
A...small alteration to our arrangement, if it can be afforded. If not, my reaction will not be negative, I can assure you. It has...come to my attention that I do not react overly well physically, mentally, or emotionally, when it comes to unforeseen or accidental touch, even in a platonic or seemingly normal sense. Even beyond the...nature of what the city's culture expects, my previous inclination to keep myself separate from others physically is not a useful nor likely option going forward.
If I may ask for your help...practicing the push of this boundary, I would be grateful. It need not be much or for long, simple contact is more than I am used to and more than enough to start.
[Stephen is entirely quiet as Essek speaks, feeling the care with which each word is spoken and the sense that he is being trusted with something quite precious here. It therefore deserves nothing short of Stephen's full and undivided attention. Though, if he's honest with himself, somehow in a very short space of time Essek already has that from Stephen at the best of times.]
You're asking for some exposure therapy, of a sort.
[There's another slight pause, then--]
That doesn't sound like an alteration of our arrangement to me. I'd be remiss in my duties to you if I denied something that assures your overall wellbeing.
[Essek obviously can't see it, but Stephen frowns at himself for a brief second, than adds--]
But even without the contract involved, of course, Essek. Time and practice--the most valuable tools for virtually anything. We'll work on this together.
Would you like to map out how we should do this, or would you rather leave it to my digression?
[There's an interesting sort of turn to those words that settles in the back of Essek's mind, but it's not for analysis in the present, he'd return to them later when the hours were late and the city asleep while he is not, as he does with anything that might warrant further reflection.
What he does know, is that there's a small sense of relief and a rush of respect for the man on the other side of the door. Time and practice, yes.]
I would not assume to be an expert on the best way to go forward, I...would like to leave it in- ah, if you'll forgive the phrasing unintentionally apt phrasing- your capable hands, with the respect and understanding on both sides that should there be a line found, we acknowledge and discuss it to either work with or over it. I have no small amount of respect for you, Doctor Stephen Strange, and with that...an offering of trust.
[There was a time in Stephen's life when the idea of engaging in something this personal and intimate would entirely unwanted. It was one of the reasons he opted for neurosurgery and only select cases at that--a very poor bedside manner and a lack of desire to get caught up in sticky emotions, both his own and other people's.
Things are very different now. A Sanctum to run, new Masters to train, knowledge to exchange and grow and pass on.
Somehow though this still feels oddly laden with something else though. More personal, more weighty.]
Regular check-ins and re-evaluation as need be. That sounds more than acceptable. Though from the sounds of it you may not like this process, especially in the earlier stages. So we'll have to be very honest about what isn't working and what's a matter of... Let's say growing pains.
In any case, I should say that I have no intention of shoving you off the deep end, but I will push you when you start to plateau. If this is something you want, I will help you through it and thoroughly, but that doesn't mean it'll be easy.
[He sighs, a bit of relief he didn't know he needed to feel settling all the uneven things in him from the conversation.]
Yes, that is what I want and I appreciate your understanding and patience, far more than humble words may express. [There's a small pause and a smile in his voice as he continues.] For better context, until the last few months, I had not had physical contact with anyone if it could be helped for many decades. Discomfort is expected, but I have found contact to be pleasant when coming from those who I am fond of and trust. Hopefully it will be more...awlward than painful to start, but I will apologize for it now, once, and be done with it.
Now...
[He floats to the door and knocks politely upon it.]
[From where Stephen stands in the room, the soft request makes him smile with a light breath of fondness pressing through his nose before shutting down the audio feed on his device and instead walking to door to open it.]
You'd best do that. Especially if we're planning to have you stay here. Kinda think they'd frown upon me making my Submissive stay in outside in the hallway.
[Compared to previous times when Stephen may have been caught in either his monk-esque robes or the clipped, stylish fashion worn during his week playing at being a local, today he's considerably dressed down--a soft, thin wool jumper, sweat pants, house shoes, definitely an indoor sort of look. Down the hallway, at Stephen's back, the Cloak of Levitation 'peers' around the corner, 'watching' the goings on and floating back and forth with both an air of curiosity and always on notice just in case it needed.
Stephen, however, pays it no mind and instead is quite focused on Essek in the doorway as he offers over a scarred hand.]
[Stephen looks comfortable -at ease- and it puts Essek in the same place with- well, with all of this, really.
From the moment he’s stepped foot out of orientation, he’s had the guise of the Dynasty’s Shadowhand firmly in place, a thing far less easy when it had been so thoroughly and unceremoniously taken apart by the Mighty Nein. He hasn’t been that Essek in some months and not needing to pretend to be had been a surprising relief. One he felt again as he took Stephen’s hand with a smile.
This wasn’t home, but it was safe and a place he might be able to slowly put that guise back down, in time.]
Small or large, we start somewhere, and here seems a good place.
[He gestures to the door behind him with his free hand and pulls it shut with magic, then gives a small wave to the cape lurking by the corner.]
[The hold Stephen offers to Essek is very measured--nothing too tight, nothing too intimate, just a steady hold with the vaguest sense of a tremor that always rolls through Stephen's fingers when he's not very focused on keeping them still.
He lets the moment settle neatly between them, just letting the contact soak up the main focus and energy for a few moments as a slow, small smile crosses his face.]
And it's very good to see you. Here.
['With me' remains firmly unspoken, though potentially implied along with the very mildest tightening of the hold he has on Essek's hand before he carefully loosens the grip and lets go to instead gesture down the hallway.]
How about I show you around and we see if we can't help you to make yourself at home.
I am beyond intellectual staleness and might be slipping into a state of numbed trance I wasn't aware possible. The prisons I have had cause to be familiar with where less pleasant and yet more eventful. This is tedious.
A torture of boredom. I take your point about the kind of torment it is for those with an active mind, but I imagine you'll forgive me for saying I'd prefer this for you in particular than the potential alternatives in this world.
And you could say I've had some experience with repetitive stretches of time as a kind of torture, so don't worry about me. In the grand scheme of things, I'm fine.
I'm not sure apologies are necessary, not to me at least.
If anything, it's me who should be apologizing for you. As your Dominant presumably I should be in a position to bail you out of this situation, handle the fine and take responsibility for your actions.
I prefer it this way, if I am to be honest. Your decision to take part in our venture was your own as was my decision my own. The city will, no doubt, force my existence to be your responsibility often enough, that need not be the case when we might help it.
As to our crime, I must admit my feelings on it are a complicated mixture, as are my feelings on our like-minded ambitions.
Well now you've got me wondering if our ambivalences on this little venture are also shared. For my part, I can't exactly claim to have been entirely optimistic going in, but even a narrow chance is probably worth the risk.
Plus, on the topic of chance, there's always the risk we did some cross-dimensional damage in this attempt. As far as I can tell, it's not like we had a lot of magical practitioners who were all that well-acquainted with the multiverse beyond being pulled here against their will.
It was worth the risk and the knowing that it didn’t work. It is a point of reference and information we lacked before. No matter what anyone else may say or think.
I agree we should not attempt it again without full knowledge of all variables and, I admit, there was far less research done than I typically like to work with.
I have broken reality around me only once before. I was aided by another wizard of equal caliber, but neither of us could have done it without the Dunamantic focus we broke to do it.
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Text; UN:Shadowhand | Duplicity AU Event
Perhaps it is long past time I learn the face associated with the name? If I may tempt you into less business-formal enviorn, Dr. Strange.
text: un: dr.strange
Did you have a particular nook in mind to get to know my face better up close and personal?
no subject
But your attentions, so long as you can afford them, would not go unappreciated.
There's a lovely little place I've heard of in your neighborhood. Quiet, dark, good for private conversations with eyes that respectfully look away when needed.The one with the purple and white sign. 'Masqurade' or something or the sort.
You might pick me up at the train station nearby for an escort.
no subject
And what if I find myself receiving some choice words from your Dominant? Might that put a damper on my night?
no subject
Should I expect any particular danger to that arrangement? I assured him you were a gentlemen of taste.
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But as far as I'm concerned I only want to know that I'm not going to have to deal with the ruffled feathers of a disgruntled Dominant not keeping track of their property. That's not the kind of interpersonal petty drama I want to get caught up in. But you've established that you're free to chase after what you want and are willing to take the risks to get it then who am I to feign disinterest.
no subject
I assure you no such drama will fall to your doorstep on my account. That assured and aside, should I expect you at the train station or shall I be seeing myself to our meeting, dear doctor?
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I'd be remiss if I weren't to meet you at the station. Check points are getting stricter and stricter these days and I'd hate to see you caught up by petty red tape.
no subject
I'll meet you there, then. And for the record: I prefer gold ribbon over red tape, if I am to be caught up by anything.
I look forward to an evening with your peerless wit and gracious company, doctor.
no subject
Guess we'll be seeing each soon, won't we.
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Stephen, however, is met with an honest smile and a slight bow of Essek's head in greeting.]
Seeing you is well worth the wait.
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He's differently well-put togther than Essek, but no less so--all sharp lines of a well-tailored suit that shows off every inch of his status as a Dominant with every move he makes. And the moves take him directly toward the Submissive waiting for him, lips tugging upward into a slow, very pleased smile.]
You shouldn't say that, it's the kind of thing that would make me want to push my luck and see just how long a wait I'm really worth.
[Then, he offers an arm rather than a hand, it is supposed to be 'less business-formal environ,' after all.]
But rather than test the limits of the theory, shall we get going?
no subject
[It's offered with only a hint of cheek and temptation. There were many...uses to be found in playing with certain kinds of waiting games. For now, he takes Strange's arm, a small appreciative but polite glance given over his form before falling into step with him.
It was rude to discuss business before dinner and unseemly to allow anything more than the very light flirtation and flattery he'd offered while still in such mixed company of the city streets, so Essek kept conversation light. Asking after Stephen's work and his recent interests and only speaking very vaguely on his own research that had lead him to crossing paths with the good doctor again. It served it's purpose to pass the time nicely until they got to their destination. Where, of course, he remained primly either on Stephen's arm or at his heel as necessary until they were sequestered away in their corner. Only then did the more playful tilt return to the edge of his smile.]
I must admit, it is...refreshing to find a man so in-tune with his appearance and that appearance which others perceive. Especially to find it in a man who is willing to take such well measured steps to a more courtly dance than can often be found in our time. I said you were a gentleman and you are proving me right in the ways that matter. In short, I am impressed and, though the night is young, I am already appreciative of your company.
[A dance indeed, verbal though it may be, it was the sort of dancing Essek enjoyed. Like a mental and social puzzle to navigate. A promising partner in such a thing was refreshing.]
no subject
He takes it as given that he will be able to go effectively anywhere he wants, whenever he wants, and with whomever he wants; the latter of those points only really has limits when it comes to people whose throats are as clear as his own.
He also takes for granted that a Submissive's place is exactly where he tells them to be and expects them to defer to him entirely. After all, it's just his birthright and the way of things. That doesn't mean he needs to be cruel or unpleasant on principle, of course, but it is what he expects.
And in many respects, Essek both seems to understand his role perfectly well in all the right places, and then at the most strategic points can unveil the impression of something transgressive. And for Stephen, it's a difficult line to walk and yet when done right is one of the most enticing things imaginable.
Folding his long fingers together, he regards Essek with a steady, focused stare as he speaks, amused and intrigued by his read of things before giving a low, throaty chuckle.]
I find there's a tendency and an ease with which we can fall over ourselves to grasp onto the crass, as it were. Not that I'm opposed to it, don't get me wrong, but it's as you say--it's a little harder to find something more drawn out and appreciative of some of the finer details. Rather than complain about what's lacking though, I'd rather create it for myself. [He leans in slightly, not too close, just enough to show interest without crowding.] So I have a sneaking feeling we'll both be remembering this night for quite some time to come.
But not all Submissives would be nearly as forward as you have been and I could have very easily sent you packing. What made you bold enough to take the risk with me that you did? Surely not my professional reputation alone--I get very mixed reviews depending on who you speak to.
no subject
You could have, it's true. I could have been very wrong and you'd have been in your right to respond in kind. However, I...pride myself in my observational abilities. My intuition is often a guiding factor and I have learned there are times to be cautious and times to be bold and those instances can switch with each other at a moment's notice.
Simply put: I took into consideration all reputations I could find, mixed or otherwise, noted to had...occasion to be kind, but more than that seemed to like a level of intrigue and suspense and thought perhaps you might enjoy a-hm...particular kind of attention. The kind, perhaps, that is paid in full to you, but not so far as to simply make things easy.
[His head tilts slightly and his smile grows into something almost sweet were it not for the watchfulness in Essek's eyes.] Was I mistaken in any of that?
no subject
And then there are the things that tempt Stephen, a taste for the transgressive.
Because he knows about his temptations, Stephen has an excellent poker face, the one he wears across the table from Essek as he speaks through his reasoning, how he came to measure up the pros and cons of the risks and ultimately pegged Stephen as someone worth taking the gamble with on the one hand, but also clearly confident enough with the odds to feel very safe making it at all.
But even Stephen's poker face has limits when presented with something he is genuinely enticed by as his lips slide into a slow smile.]
No, not mistaken at all. Which is probably for the best since we both know there are a lot of Dominants who would relish thoroughly putting you in your place just for this.
[It isn't lost on Stephen that Essek has managed to put him in a pretty unique position where having gauged things entirely correctly means he's got some pretty solid leverage on Stephen socially speaking, if he felt inclined. And he's done it so effortlessly. Damn. Stephen really should feel far more nervous than he is and instead find himself entirely intrigued and impressed as his fingers tap against one another in thought.]
You're not wrong at all. Which makes you more than a little dangerous. [He points his two forefingers toward Essek from the steeple of his hands.] But if you know all this, you know that too. Which has me wondering if you do this often, or if I should consider myself special.
no subject
He folds his hands before him in an almost demure act.] Watching your mind at work is lovely, doctor. Do I often watch and learn and file away information on others so that I might know where to step around or near them in social situations? It would be...foolish not to. Do I take an active interest in any of those who fall in my attentions? Not so nearly often as you may think. I may be dangerous, but the fact you've not yet called for anyone to remove me from you, nor taken your leave to smear my reputation, means you might just find that danger appealing. That is also interesting information and not unappreciated.
no subject
Because it's not only true, Essek is proving Stephen's instincts to be increasingly correct. And worst--or best--of all, Essek clearly understands all the implications and can pluck out the treads of meaning with such skill that he's probably weaving a rope together with all of them. And Stephen wouldn't even mind if he gets lassoed with that rope. Maybe it's already happened.]
How do you know I'm not just waiting for you to say something more incriminating still? Something indisputable if I were to call some SIN guards over before contacting the city authorities and your Dominant?
[There's a wicked little smile just at the edges of his lips, though not at the actual thought of doing any of that in reality. It's the anticipation of hearing what Essek has to say, the prospect of getting to see more of his mind at work, because as flattering as it is to hear that his own mental processing is pleasing, the sensation from across the table is evidently mutually shared for Stephen.]
no subject
My dear doctor...to play such a game, you must no the rules or fall to them. What could I say that would be so incriminating? I am certain that no such thing could fall to this table. I like to think I...have more care than that.
[His head tilts, the jewelry along his ear jingling with the movement.] A care that I may artfully apply when and where I so choose, of course. A counter-question, then. What, do you think, is to stop you from simply making something up and doing as you wish? I have put myself in a vulnerable position with you, you would be within your power to walk away with very little evidence to whatever words you offered. Perhaps you are no less dangerous yourself.
Sending directly into Stephen's brain | A day or so after Stephen contracts with Essek
[ The cartoonishly ominous waggling of fingers can almost be heard in her delivery.
Wait, shit, she has one more word. ]
...rawr!!
no subject
Do you often just project yourself into total strangers minds like this?
Voice; un: shadowhand
He'd already made this request with his friend, with his close acquaintances...there shouldn't be much difference in with asking it of Stephen, beyond the obvious unknown. And yet, on some level, there was. Because they lived together, because of their similarities, because of his respect for the man...Essek wasn't sure. He was sure he was sick of feeling like his heart were to burst from his chest in the uncertainty.
He huffs in disgust at his own reaction and presses the button to send his message. Ridiculous, you'd think he was eighty all over again.]
Stephen, when you have time, I had hoped to discuss something with you; a small request I would like to make, if I may.
audio; un: dr.strange
He also said he'd be expecting Essek, and he is, in whatever form that takes.
Evidently, that means via a the devices for the moment, but to Stephen it sort of makes sense on a logistical level.]
I've got time. What is it you want to discuss, Essek?
no subject
A...small alteration to our arrangement, if it can be afforded. If not, my reaction will not be negative, I can assure you. It has...come to my attention that I do not react overly well physically, mentally, or emotionally, when it comes to unforeseen or accidental touch, even in a platonic or seemingly normal sense. Even beyond the...nature of what the city's culture expects, my previous inclination to keep myself separate from others physically is not a useful nor likely option going forward.
If I may ask for your help...practicing the push of this boundary, I would be grateful. It need not be much or for long, simple contact is more than I am used to and more than enough to start.
no subject
You're asking for some exposure therapy, of a sort.
[There's another slight pause, then--]
That doesn't sound like an alteration of our arrangement to me. I'd be remiss in my duties to you if I denied something that assures your overall wellbeing.
[Essek obviously can't see it, but Stephen frowns at himself for a brief second, than adds--]
But even without the contract involved, of course, Essek. Time and practice--the most valuable tools for virtually anything. We'll work on this together.
Would you like to map out how we should do this, or would you rather leave it to my digression?
no subject
What he does know, is that there's a small sense of relief and a rush of respect for the man on the other side of the door. Time and practice, yes.]
I would not assume to be an expert on the best way to go forward, I...would like to leave it in- ah, if you'll forgive the phrasing unintentionally apt phrasing- your capable hands, with the respect and understanding on both sides that should there be a line found, we acknowledge and discuss it to either work with or over it. I have no small amount of respect for you, Doctor Stephen Strange, and with that...an offering of trust.
[Which feels...bizarre at best, but not bad.]
no subject
Things are very different now. A Sanctum to run, new Masters to train, knowledge to exchange and grow and pass on.
Somehow though this still feels oddly laden with something else though. More personal, more weighty.]
Regular check-ins and re-evaluation as need be. That sounds more than acceptable. Though from the sounds of it you may not like this process, especially in the earlier stages. So we'll have to be very honest about what isn't working and what's a matter of... Let's say growing pains.
In any case, I should say that I have no intention of shoving you off the deep end, but I will push you when you start to plateau. If this is something you want, I will help you through it and thoroughly, but that doesn't mean it'll be easy.
Is that still what you want?
no subject
Yes, that is what I want and I appreciate your understanding and patience, far more than humble words may express. [There's a small pause and a smile in his voice as he continues.] For better context, until the last few months, I had not had physical contact with anyone if it could be helped for many decades. Discomfort is expected, but I have found contact to be pleasant when coming from those who I am fond of and trust. Hopefully it will be more...awlward than painful to start, but I will apologize for it now, once, and be done with it.
Now...
[He floats to the door and knocks politely upon it.]
If I may come in...?
no subject
You'd best do that. Especially if we're planning to have you stay here. Kinda think they'd frown upon me making my Submissive stay in outside in the hallway.
[Compared to previous times when Stephen may have been caught in either his monk-esque robes or the clipped, stylish fashion worn during his week playing at being a local, today he's considerably dressed down--a soft, thin wool jumper, sweat pants, house shoes, definitely an indoor sort of look. Down the hallway, at Stephen's back, the Cloak of Levitation 'peers' around the corner, 'watching' the goings on and floating back and forth with both an air of curiosity and always on notice just in case it needed.
Stephen, however, pays it no mind and instead is quite focused on Essek in the doorway as he offers over a scarred hand.]
Better start small, hm?
no subject
From the moment he’s stepped foot out of orientation, he’s had the guise of the Dynasty’s Shadowhand firmly in place, a thing far less easy when it had been so thoroughly and unceremoniously taken apart by the Mighty Nein. He hasn’t been that Essek in some months and not needing to pretend to be had been a surprising relief. One he felt again as he took Stephen’s hand with a smile.
This wasn’t home, but it was safe and a place he might be able to slowly put that guise back down, in time.]
Small or large, we start somewhere, and here seems a good place.
[He gestures to the door behind him with his free hand and pulls it shut with magic, then gives a small wave to the cape lurking by the corner.]
Hello to you as well.
no subject
He lets the moment settle neatly between them, just letting the contact soak up the main focus and energy for a few moments as a slow, small smile crosses his face.]
And it's very good to see you. Here.
['With me' remains firmly unspoken, though potentially implied along with the very mildest tightening of the hold he has on Essek's hand before he carefully loosens the grip and lets go to instead gesture down the hallway.]
How about I show you around and we see if we can't help you to make yourself at home.
text; un: shadowhand
text; un: dr.strange
How are you holding up?
no subject
I am beyond intellectual staleness and might be slipping into a state of numbed trance I wasn't aware possible. The prisons I have had cause to be familiar with where less pleasant and yet more eventful. This is tedious.
What about you?
no subject
And you could say I've had some experience with repetitive stretches of time as a kind of torture, so don't worry about me. In the grand scheme of things, I'm fine.
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That might be precisely why I would worry about you.
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If anything, it's me who should be apologizing for you. As your Dominant presumably I should be in a position to bail you out of this situation, handle the fine and take responsibility for your actions.
At least our crimes are very neatly aligned.
no subject
As to our crime, I must admit my feelings on it are a complicated mixture, as are my feelings on our like-minded ambitions.
no subject
Plus, on the topic of chance, there's always the risk we did some cross-dimensional damage in this attempt. As far as I can tell, it's not like we had a lot of magical practitioners who were all that well-acquainted with the multiverse beyond being pulled here against their will.
no subject
I agree we should not attempt it again without full knowledge of all variables and, I admit, there was far less research done than I typically like to work with.
I have broken reality around me only once before. I was aided by another wizard of equal caliber, but neither of us could have done it without the Dunamantic focus we broke to do it.