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mistymansion2025-10-21 09:02 pm
threadsbare) wrote in mistymansion2025-10-21 09:02 pm
Yes. They are...just down there.
[ Hornet hardly understands it herself, and she can't begin to comprehend what such an existence is like, living in a sea of dark. ...They seemed to be doing quite well, at least? It was a relief that her kin, an old hero, had maintained their individuality. ]
It is hard to explain. They are an individual, yet many at the same time. A lord of sorts. A lord of shade, if you will. [ She shakes her head. ]
You should know that my void kin were destined to be one thing. Yet they became another. Something else, in spite of supposed destiny. I believe you can do this too.
[ Hornet hardly understands it herself, and she can't begin to comprehend what such an existence is like, living in a sea of dark. ...They seemed to be doing quite well, at least? It was a relief that her kin, an old hero, had maintained their individuality. ]
It is hard to explain. They are an individual, yet many at the same time. A lord of sorts. A lord of shade, if you will. [ She shakes her head. ]
You should know that my void kin were destined to be one thing. Yet they became another. Something else, in spite of supposed destiny. I believe you can do this too.
A hivemind?
[No, from what Hornet was describing it didn't seem like that, but it was the closest she could think of.
She side eyes Hornet from her position lying down before closing her eyes and shifting uncomfortably. That was a lot to think about. Too much on top of everything else that had been tossed their way today.]
And what destiny was that?
[No, from what Hornet was describing it didn't seem like that, but it was the closest she could think of.
She side eyes Hornet from her position lying down before closing her eyes and shifting uncomfortably. That was a lot to think about. Too much on top of everything else that had been tossed their way today.]
And what destiny was that?
Perhaps. I do not know. Sadly, my knowledge ends here.
[ She lies down next to Lace, this time, but several feet away and facing the other direction. So much for leaving the bed to Lace only. ]
To be empty. To be hollow. To have no mind or will. From the very start, it was an impossible request.
[ Hornet frowned. It occurred to her just how much she was telling Lace. Apparently there was a mountain on her shoulders she hadn't been consciously aware of until now. It was not as if Hallownest had therapists -- she'd gone some decades if not centuries without a listening ear like this. Suddenly Hornet felt soft and vulnerable and exposed, as if her shell had an open blow. ]
Enough. I have told you too much. [ As if Lace could even understand what she speaks of at all. It must not be too far off from a fantasy story in a play, a fairy tale. It's nice of Lace to entertain her, nonetheless. She looks over her shoulder, squinting. ] You are being suspiciously patient. I do not trust you to not run your mouth to someone else later on.
[ She lies down next to Lace, this time, but several feet away and facing the other direction. So much for leaving the bed to Lace only. ]
To be empty. To be hollow. To have no mind or will. From the very start, it was an impossible request.
[ Hornet frowned. It occurred to her just how much she was telling Lace. Apparently there was a mountain on her shoulders she hadn't been consciously aware of until now. It was not as if Hallownest had therapists -- she'd gone some decades if not centuries without a listening ear like this. Suddenly Hornet felt soft and vulnerable and exposed, as if her shell had an open blow. ]
Enough. I have told you too much. [ As if Lace could even understand what she speaks of at all. It must not be too far off from a fantasy story in a play, a fairy tale. It's nice of Lace to entertain her, nonetheless. She looks over her shoulder, squinting. ] You are being suspiciously patient. I do not trust you to not run your mouth to someone else later on.
Edited 2025-10-22 02:45 (UTC)
[Lace turns to her side so she can look at Hornet and softly chuckles.]
You have no need to worry about that, spider. I have no one else to speak to.
[And with that she closed her eyes, now just as mentally exhausted as she was physically. There was a lot she had learned about Hornet this night, and a lot more she still wanted to learn about. She really, truly was a marvelous specimen through and through, and it would be a lie to say Lace didn't enjoy her company whether it be fighting, teasing her, or...even just. Talking.
But Lace still wasn't sure about this or the rest of her life or what she wanted herself. It was...frustrating to even have to think about it when she had been so ready to accept death.
But. She supposes she'll at least give it some thought.
Tomorrow.]
You have no need to worry about that, spider. I have no one else to speak to.
[And with that she closed her eyes, now just as mentally exhausted as she was physically. There was a lot she had learned about Hornet this night, and a lot more she still wanted to learn about. She really, truly was a marvelous specimen through and through, and it would be a lie to say Lace didn't enjoy her company whether it be fighting, teasing her, or...even just. Talking.
But Lace still wasn't sure about this or the rest of her life or what she wanted herself. It was...frustrating to even have to think about it when she had been so ready to accept death.
But. She supposes she'll at least give it some thought.
Tomorrow.]
Well? What do you think of them?
[ A question posed by Hornet to Lace, who is currently being swarmed by the fleas of the caravan affectionately. Hornet had told her fluffy little crew she would be bringing someone along next time and to give them a warm welcome.
Perhaps a bit too warm for one who, as Hornet understood it, was not used to being around so many others. She snatches a few away from Lace to give her some breathing room and holds them in her arms. Behind her the meat of the Moorwing roasts on its skewer. She would not be eating it, but the fleas found it to be a delicacy. ]
I told you that they would like you. I found them all over Pharloom on my path to the Citadel. They have congregated here together. Delightfully fluffy, and they make good noises. [ To demonstrate, she pats one on the head, earning a soft coo. ] They are fun to toss in the air with a needle or a longpin as well. Good for relieving stress.
[ There is warmth in Hornet's face. She had ingested a not insignificant amount of Flea Brew. To say she was drunk would be inaccurate; the Wyrm in her blood enabled her to consume absurd amounts of poison before intoxication occurred. To say she was sober was also inaccurate. The past few weeks had brought with them the kinds of changes and unfamiliarities that only a light touch of inebriation could fix and Hornet thought that everyone else be damned -- she deserved this for once. A toast to not dying. ]
[ A question posed by Hornet to Lace, who is currently being swarmed by the fleas of the caravan affectionately. Hornet had told her fluffy little crew she would be bringing someone along next time and to give them a warm welcome.
Perhaps a bit too warm for one who, as Hornet understood it, was not used to being around so many others. She snatches a few away from Lace to give her some breathing room and holds them in her arms. Behind her the meat of the Moorwing roasts on its skewer. She would not be eating it, but the fleas found it to be a delicacy. ]
I told you that they would like you. I found them all over Pharloom on my path to the Citadel. They have congregated here together. Delightfully fluffy, and they make good noises. [ To demonstrate, she pats one on the head, earning a soft coo. ] They are fun to toss in the air with a needle or a longpin as well. Good for relieving stress.
[ There is warmth in Hornet's face. She had ingested a not insignificant amount of Flea Brew. To say she was drunk would be inaccurate; the Wyrm in her blood enabled her to consume absurd amounts of poison before intoxication occurred. To say she was sober was also inaccurate. The past few weeks had brought with them the kinds of changes and unfamiliarities that only a light touch of inebriation could fix and Hornet thought that everyone else be damned -- she deserved this for once. A toast to not dying. ]
[Lace wasn't sure what she had been expecting when Hornet told her of her flea friends. Really, she had been more fixated on where they would need to go through to reach them and that had been a near solid "ew no."
Now that she was here, however, she has to admit she did not think fleas would be so...fluffy. Or hyper.
Lace is grateful when Hornet pulls some away from her and after some reluctance she awkwardly picks one up. The thing starts to excitedly yip, flapping its wings and kicking its feet to get closer to her but she holds it at arms length.]
An excitable lot.
[She flips it around and it remains as cheery as ever, seeming uncaring of whichever way it is being held, then she flips it back up. Even Lace could admit they were cute but right now she thinks Hornet is being much cuter. Her eyes go from the flea in her hands to the spider in question.
In the past weeks she had learned a lot about her and one of the things that had been the most surprising had been her affinity for fluffy things. More than that, however, it was just endearing to see Hornet so....at peace. Relaxed. Goodness knows she deserved it and if a trek through the Putrefied Ducts to reach this place gave her that it was worth it.]
All over Pharloom? [She looks at the flea again] And just what were you doing away from your caravan? [It responded with a resounding awooo and Lace set it back down.
Her eyes then go over to a stage where she can see several flees and even other bugs gathered.]
Is that the raucous game they were playing earlier?
Now that she was here, however, she has to admit she did not think fleas would be so...fluffy. Or hyper.
Lace is grateful when Hornet pulls some away from her and after some reluctance she awkwardly picks one up. The thing starts to excitedly yip, flapping its wings and kicking its feet to get closer to her but she holds it at arms length.]
An excitable lot.
[She flips it around and it remains as cheery as ever, seeming uncaring of whichever way it is being held, then she flips it back up. Even Lace could admit they were cute but right now she thinks Hornet is being much cuter. Her eyes go from the flea in her hands to the spider in question.
In the past weeks she had learned a lot about her and one of the things that had been the most surprising had been her affinity for fluffy things. More than that, however, it was just endearing to see Hornet so....at peace. Relaxed. Goodness knows she deserved it and if a trek through the Putrefied Ducts to reach this place gave her that it was worth it.]
All over Pharloom? [She looks at the flea again] And just what were you doing away from your caravan? [It responded with a resounding awooo and Lace set it back down.
Her eyes then go over to a stage where she can see several flees and even other bugs gathered.]
Is that the raucous game they were playing earlier?
[ Dragging Lace through the ducts had been an experience Hornet had no desire to relive. Her reluctance and fussing had made the trip several times longer than it had needed to be. She was starting to think she would have to find and hire a carriage just to drag her new companion through muck and mire. What a sad shame it was that Loam had found himself victim to the Citadel. Hornet would have paid him a far better wage.
Not that Hornet was eager to take a maggot bath herself. Ah, Pharloom. She'd never looked less like royalty until she'd arrived here.
Hornet is being properly swarmed by fleas now. She seems nothing but content, burying her face in the mounds of soft fur and letting them climb all over her. ]
They were stranded and trapped. All alone, and frightened. Believe it or not, there are bugs in this world who would harm even a flea.
[ She tosses one in the air and lets it bounce off the end of her needle. Its coat was so thick her needle did not harm it nor penetrate its skin. It bounced harmlessly again and again, cooing as it was tossed in the air and back. ]
Indeed. It is known as flea juggle. A prestigious game I am something of a prodigy at, with a high score of one hundred and ten. [ Hornet. What the fuck were you doing instead of saving Pharloom.
She leaned in towards Lace's face and puffed herself out just so, as if courting. ] Are you impressed by my finesse at this game, silk creature?
Not that Hornet was eager to take a maggot bath herself. Ah, Pharloom. She'd never looked less like royalty until she'd arrived here.
Hornet is being properly swarmed by fleas now. She seems nothing but content, burying her face in the mounds of soft fur and letting them climb all over her. ]
They were stranded and trapped. All alone, and frightened. Believe it or not, there are bugs in this world who would harm even a flea.
[ She tosses one in the air and lets it bounce off the end of her needle. Its coat was so thick her needle did not harm it nor penetrate its skin. It bounced harmlessly again and again, cooing as it was tossed in the air and back. ]
Indeed. It is known as flea juggle. A prestigious game I am something of a prodigy at, with a high score of one hundred and ten. [ Hornet. What the fuck were you doing instead of saving Pharloom.
She leaned in towards Lace's face and puffed herself out just so, as if courting. ] Are you impressed by my finesse at this game, silk creature?
Edited 2025-10-22 23:49 (UTC)
[Lace could believe it. After all, cute was just cute.
And right now Lace was infinitely more charmed by Hornet than the fleas. She was actively trying not to completely burst out laughing at the act for fear that Hornet might collect herself too much, but seeing the influence of the flea juice and whatever this atmosphere was doing to her was delightful.]
My, oh my. I don't know, spider, I think I might have to see this in action to believe so impressive a feat!
[She leaned forward to meet Hornet, faces a breath away and bats her eyes.]
Perhaps I'll even give you a prize if you match your score.
And right now Lace was infinitely more charmed by Hornet than the fleas. She was actively trying not to completely burst out laughing at the act for fear that Hornet might collect herself too much, but seeing the influence of the flea juice and whatever this atmosphere was doing to her was delightful.]
My, oh my. I don't know, spider, I think I might have to see this in action to believe so impressive a feat!
[She leaned forward to meet Hornet, faces a breath away and bats her eyes.]
Perhaps I'll even give you a prize if you match your score.
[ Only a breath away now. Hornet was mesmerized as Lace batted her bright eyes. She thought about how easy it would be -- how easy it would be to just lean in and take a bite. Lace would probably like it, Hornet thought. It was only natural. Hornet was a Weaver, a spider. Nobody could fault her for her craving.
Ah. She had to control herself! She was inebriated. She could not falter mentally or the alcohol would overtake her. If only for the sake of this elusive reward.
Without saying a word, Hornet polished the last of her brew off and turned to face the stage. The sea of fleas parted for her in silence. She drew her needle.
And then the game began.
The sound of the fleas was almost deafening. Hornet danced her way this way and that with grace and a touch of madness. For a moment it looked as if she herself was Haunted. Again the fleas bounced off of her needle's tip, over and over, squealing with delight until Hornet was panting with exhaustion.
She hit her limit. The fleas ceased. She turned her head slowly to see her score, her chest pounding with a rise and fall. One hundred and twelve. She had beaten her score by two points.
The roaring applause of the audience was as deafening as the fleas had been. They showered her with praise and gifts, hung strings of rosaries and flowers over her neck. Hornet did not regard them. She merely turned towards Lace and walked towards her until she reached the end of the stage. Had the show pleased Lace? Had she been impressive?
Humbly, Hornet knelt to her maiden, head bowed. ]
Ah. She had to control herself! She was inebriated. She could not falter mentally or the alcohol would overtake her. If only for the sake of this elusive reward.
Without saying a word, Hornet polished the last of her brew off and turned to face the stage. The sea of fleas parted for her in silence. She drew her needle.
And then the game began.
The sound of the fleas was almost deafening. Hornet danced her way this way and that with grace and a touch of madness. For a moment it looked as if she herself was Haunted. Again the fleas bounced off of her needle's tip, over and over, squealing with delight until Hornet was panting with exhaustion.
She hit her limit. The fleas ceased. She turned her head slowly to see her score, her chest pounding with a rise and fall. One hundred and twelve. She had beaten her score by two points.
The roaring applause of the audience was as deafening as the fleas had been. They showered her with praise and gifts, hung strings of rosaries and flowers over her neck. Hornet did not regard them. She merely turned towards Lace and walked towards her until she reached the end of the stage. Had the show pleased Lace? Had she been impressive?
Humbly, Hornet knelt to her maiden, head bowed. ]
[At first Lace was laughing. The whole thing was so silly and the constant tink, tink, tink of the fleas being propelled upward as they let out their joyous little yips and awoos was almost too much to take. Once she calmed down, however, she watched with a silent grin.
Ridiculous as it was, Lace could see it did require intense skill. Her wrist hurt just at the thought of having to propel all those little critters with the bell helmets up over and over. Soon she was getting just as invested as the rest of the crowd (though there was a brief moment she had to yank one of the babies out of the flea juice) and she held onto it until it managed to calm down.
Well, as much as they could in any case.
Lace...was having fun. When Hornet had first presented the idea of visiting the fleas she had been highly skeptical but their cheer had finally infected her and watching Hornet's skill was always a marvel to behold. When she finished, Lace joined in the applause.]
Well, you certainly proved your mettle. I'm impressed~
[As for Hornet's reward...would she dare? Yes. Yes Lace would dare. Especially with Hornet putting on such a knightly act, it seemed only fitting. The cornette she lost to the bellways had been replaced, but this she took off. Her hair was pinned up, and she used the headdress to lightly wrap around the back of Hornet's head. The silk maiden used it both to obscure their faces from the crowd and to reel Hornet in.
Lace leaned in and hesitated only for a brief moment--enough to give Hornet the time to realize her intent and pull away if she so chose but if she did not...Lace would lean in to kiss her.]
Ridiculous as it was, Lace could see it did require intense skill. Her wrist hurt just at the thought of having to propel all those little critters with the bell helmets up over and over. Soon she was getting just as invested as the rest of the crowd (though there was a brief moment she had to yank one of the babies out of the flea juice) and she held onto it until it managed to calm down.
Well, as much as they could in any case.
Lace...was having fun. When Hornet had first presented the idea of visiting the fleas she had been highly skeptical but their cheer had finally infected her and watching Hornet's skill was always a marvel to behold. When she finished, Lace joined in the applause.]
Well, you certainly proved your mettle. I'm impressed~
[As for Hornet's reward...would she dare? Yes. Yes Lace would dare. Especially with Hornet putting on such a knightly act, it seemed only fitting. The cornette she lost to the bellways had been replaced, but this she took off. Her hair was pinned up, and she used the headdress to lightly wrap around the back of Hornet's head. The silk maiden used it both to obscure their faces from the crowd and to reel Hornet in.
Lace leaned in and hesitated only for a brief moment--enough to give Hornet the time to realize her intent and pull away if she so chose but if she did not...Lace would lean in to kiss her.]
[ At first contact Hornet can only freeze.
Foolishly, she hadn't expected this.
She hadn't had any intimacy like this in countless years. She had sat with Lace and embraced her and carried her, but this was more.
Hornet forgets how a kiss works or even what it is for a brief moment -- when she remembers she reciprocates, presses back against Lace's mouth. Her hands raise to cup Lace's face. They are impossibly gentle, as if Lace will crack like porcelain if she holds her too hard. The tips of her fingers are lifted just slightly to keep her claws off.
Lace has none of the coldness that other bugs do; no solidness of chitin or wiry antennae, just silk, softness.
When they part, she stares at Lace, blinking. It hadn't lasted terribly long and Hornet was out of practice, but it was tender all the same. Hornet's heart is in her throat. ]
You are softer than any flea. Than any flower.
[ The audience has left them to themselves. Hornet had forgotten they were there at all. Well. That was a way to sober up. ]
Foolishly, she hadn't expected this.
She hadn't had any intimacy like this in countless years. She had sat with Lace and embraced her and carried her, but this was more.
Hornet forgets how a kiss works or even what it is for a brief moment -- when she remembers she reciprocates, presses back against Lace's mouth. Her hands raise to cup Lace's face. They are impossibly gentle, as if Lace will crack like porcelain if she holds her too hard. The tips of her fingers are lifted just slightly to keep her claws off.
Lace has none of the coldness that other bugs do; no solidness of chitin or wiry antennae, just silk, softness.
When they part, she stares at Lace, blinking. It hadn't lasted terribly long and Hornet was out of practice, but it was tender all the same. Hornet's heart is in her throat. ]
You are softer than any flea. Than any flower.
[ The audience has left them to themselves. Hornet had forgotten they were there at all. Well. That was a way to sober up. ]
[Is this what people spoke of when they made comment of "lumaflies in their stomach?"
It was a strange feeling, both electrifying, sweet, and anxiety inducing. For all her vain and flirty comments there had been a tiny part of Lace prepared for rejection so when Hornet begins to reciprocate a wave of happiness and relief washes over her. Perhaps too big a wave, a tiny voice in the back of her head warns, but for now she ignores it. Both Hornet's kiss and touch are sweeter than anything else she had ever experienced.
Lace's eyes crinkle in mirth when they part and she looks at Hornet. She had clearly caught the spider off guard which she couldn't help but feel a little smug about.]
That is high praise coming from you. I've seen how endeared you are to soft and fluffy things. I will have to take advantage of this knowledge in our future spars.
[She's joking in her usual manner but something she's not even aware she's capable of happens--a very light dust of color rises to her cheeks. Her hands drop to Hornet's shoulders to then curl around them so she can hold Hornet in a quasi embrace.]
But you on the other hand, dear Hornet, are so utterly adorable. Might I have stolen your first kiss?
It was a strange feeling, both electrifying, sweet, and anxiety inducing. For all her vain and flirty comments there had been a tiny part of Lace prepared for rejection so when Hornet begins to reciprocate a wave of happiness and relief washes over her. Perhaps too big a wave, a tiny voice in the back of her head warns, but for now she ignores it. Both Hornet's kiss and touch are sweeter than anything else she had ever experienced.
Lace's eyes crinkle in mirth when they part and she looks at Hornet. She had clearly caught the spider off guard which she couldn't help but feel a little smug about.]
That is high praise coming from you. I've seen how endeared you are to soft and fluffy things. I will have to take advantage of this knowledge in our future spars.
[She's joking in her usual manner but something she's not even aware she's capable of happens--a very light dust of color rises to her cheeks. Her hands drop to Hornet's shoulders to then curl around them so she can hold Hornet in a quasi embrace.]
But you on the other hand, dear Hornet, are so utterly adorable. Might I have stolen your first kiss?
Not my first. [ Well. Her first in a few centuries. She'd forgotten what it was like to have a maiden against her mouth or even just sleeping next to her bed, not having expected to ever come to such affection again. ] But certainly my sweetest.
[ Hornet focused on her breathing. In, out. Lace had a leg up on her here. It was wise to not give her any more advantage. She was the spider and she would keep Lace in her web. And quite some effort it took -- Hornet was charmed. Lace had always been an endearing little thing even when they were at each other's throats. Oh, why oh why did she have such a weakness for the bratty ones? ]
Looking to exploit my weaknesses and strike the killing blow on me while I am vulnerable? Conniving little imp. Just as I thought, my kindness has meant nothing to you all these weeks.
[ Just a tease, of course. So close to her like this, Hornet's certain Lace can feel the hammering of her heart. And when Lace sets her hands on her shoulders, Hornet's go to Lace's own, linger there for a moment, then down to her lower back, resting on her with the gentlest touch, not wishing to rush her into any touches she objects to.
It's then Hornet notices Lace's face has color in it.
Had it ever been like that before? ]
You are flushing, silk girl. I did not know you were even capable of such a thing.
[ Hornet focused on her breathing. In, out. Lace had a leg up on her here. It was wise to not give her any more advantage. She was the spider and she would keep Lace in her web. And quite some effort it took -- Hornet was charmed. Lace had always been an endearing little thing even when they were at each other's throats. Oh, why oh why did she have such a weakness for the bratty ones? ]
Looking to exploit my weaknesses and strike the killing blow on me while I am vulnerable? Conniving little imp. Just as I thought, my kindness has meant nothing to you all these weeks.
[ Just a tease, of course. So close to her like this, Hornet's certain Lace can feel the hammering of her heart. And when Lace sets her hands on her shoulders, Hornet's go to Lace's own, linger there for a moment, then down to her lower back, resting on her with the gentlest touch, not wishing to rush her into any touches she objects to.
It's then Hornet notices Lace's face has color in it.
Had it ever been like that before? ]
You are flushing, silk girl. I did not know you were even capable of such a thing.
Flatterer.
[She gives a happy little hum at Hornet's teasing.]
If it will land me a win, I might just have to resort to such methods.
[Her expression then becomes quizzical because. Well.]
I am not? [The statement comes out automatically but even as the words escape her Lace knows it must be happening. Hornet doesn't strike her as the type to lie, and what point would there be in her saying such a lie?
She lifts a hand to her face, frowning, as if doing so would let her feel what was going on.]
[She gives a happy little hum at Hornet's teasing.]
If it will land me a win, I might just have to resort to such methods.
[Her expression then becomes quizzical because. Well.]
I am not? [The statement comes out automatically but even as the words escape her Lace knows it must be happening. Hornet doesn't strike her as the type to lie, and what point would there be in her saying such a lie?
She lifts a hand to her face, frowning, as if doing so would let her feel what was going on.]
I do not lie. You are.
[ Hornet lifts one hand and pokes Lace's cheek with a finger, letting it sink into the plushness like a cloud. ]
Fascinating.
[ Hornet pondered for a moment, looked around for something she could use to show her. Lace's reflection in flea juice, perhaps? Then she fiddled in her pouch and produced a posh gold and carmine mirror she'd snatched off Trobbio, holding it up glass-side up to Lace's face. ]
Have a look for yourself.
[ Hornet lifts one hand and pokes Lace's cheek with a finger, letting it sink into the plushness like a cloud. ]
Fascinating.
[ Hornet pondered for a moment, looked around for something she could use to show her. Lace's reflection in flea juice, perhaps? Then she fiddled in her pouch and produced a posh gold and carmine mirror she'd snatched off Trobbio, holding it up glass-side up to Lace's face. ]
Have a look for yourself.
[There was a very brief consideration of giving that finger a playful nip, but it was overshadowed by her curiosity.
She took the mirror and looked at herself, frown deepening when she saw that Hornet was indeed right. It wasn't much, but the black of her fabric had become a tiny bit white around her cheeks.
How................odd.
Has she always been capable of doing that? Lace doesn't know what to think. What is the point? She didn't feel anything on her face and isn't there supposed to be some sort of sensation when that happens for real bugs? She could just ask but it makes her feel stupid that she needs to.
The color fades and she just gives a shake of her head.]
My Mother's Design continues to confound me.
She took the mirror and looked at herself, frown deepening when she saw that Hornet was indeed right. It wasn't much, but the black of her fabric had become a tiny bit white around her cheeks.
How................odd.
Has she always been capable of doing that? Lace doesn't know what to think. What is the point? She didn't feel anything on her face and isn't there supposed to be some sort of sensation when that happens for real bugs? She could just ask but it makes her feel stupid that she needs to.
The color fades and she just gives a shake of her head.]
My Mother's Design continues to confound me.
Edited 2025-10-24 01:31 (UTC)
[ Seeing Lace's frown, Hornet mirrors her. It seemed Lace did not like -- or was at least confused -- about the white on her cheeks. Hornet does not know why. She finds it not only fascinating, but pleasant to the eyes. ]
Does this revelation displease you?
[ Lace's next words prove revealing. Hornet imagines it is frustrating to not understand what one's own form is capable of, and the lack of control and predictability that came with that. In her own way, she understands. The women who raised her did not know nor understand what sustenance a crossbreed like her would require, nor the abilities she would grow to develop, leaving it up to a game of chance and learning that had, at times, been painful. But was everything that Lace was truly a result of her Mother's wishes? Grand Mother Silk had intended for her to never grow up nor question her rule, yet Lace had anyways. ]
I find it curious, myself. Perhaps your Mother gave you unintentional or hidden functions, or perhaps you even developed them over time yourself. It is clear that regardless of the circumstances of your creation, you are your own unique being with Soul, as am I. Soul is unpredictable, and cannot be shackled and commanded forever, regardless of your Mother's plans to do so.
Does this revelation displease you?
[ Lace's next words prove revealing. Hornet imagines it is frustrating to not understand what one's own form is capable of, and the lack of control and predictability that came with that. In her own way, she understands. The women who raised her did not know nor understand what sustenance a crossbreed like her would require, nor the abilities she would grow to develop, leaving it up to a game of chance and learning that had, at times, been painful. But was everything that Lace was truly a result of her Mother's wishes? Grand Mother Silk had intended for her to never grow up nor question her rule, yet Lace had anyways. ]
I find it curious, myself. Perhaps your Mother gave you unintentional or hidden functions, or perhaps you even developed them over time yourself. It is clear that regardless of the circumstances of your creation, you are your own unique being with Soul, as am I. Soul is unpredictable, and cannot be shackled and commanded forever, regardless of your Mother's plans to do so.
[Lace lowers the mirror and considers Hornet's words, closing her eyes. It still was a little unnerving just how much kindness and patience she showed her. It had happened multiple times over the weeks and in the earlier days if Lace didn't end up distracting from the conversation with a joke or taunt she'd just clock out of it entirely.
But.
But she'd been having a good time with Hornet and she didn't want her Mother's memory or machinations to ruin that.
She opened her eyes and held out the mirror, returning it.]
Not displeasing, but yes, frustrating to not know what all I am and am not capable of.
[She leans into Hornet again, this time hugging her.]
It matters not. I suppose I'll find out more in due time. At the moment I'd rather find out what brings the color to your cheeks, dear spider. You do look oh so pretty in red.
But.
But she'd been having a good time with Hornet and she didn't want her Mother's memory or machinations to ruin that.
She opened her eyes and held out the mirror, returning it.]
Not displeasing, but yes, frustrating to not know what all I am and am not capable of.
[She leans into Hornet again, this time hugging her.]
It matters not. I suppose I'll find out more in due time. At the moment I'd rather find out what brings the color to your cheeks, dear spider. You do look oh so pretty in red.
[ Hornet inhales. She shoos away a stray flea away with the butt end of her needle, but not before it drapes a string of flowers over Lace's shoulders. They were starting to attract a lot of attention like...this. If it turned into proper snogging not appropriate for little flea eyes, she was never going to hear the end of it from Mooshka.
She peers around them, searching. Kratt. Spa. ]
Does warm water please you, Lace? [ She held Lace tight to her, arms around her waist, and her voice went low with unmistakable heat. ] When I tossed you into the lava of the Docks, your form seemed to do fine. One of the fleas here has a private bath, if you wish to join me somewhere more...isolated.
She peers around them, searching. Kratt. Spa. ]
Does warm water please you, Lace? [ She held Lace tight to her, arms around her waist, and her voice went low with unmistakable heat. ] When I tossed you into the lava of the Docks, your form seemed to do fine. One of the fleas here has a private bath, if you wish to join me somewhere more...isolated.
[Lace couldn't hold back a little derisive snort. That was unfortunately only her second most embarrassing memory of their fights.
...
Third. Third most embarrassing.
She looked at Hornet, that tingle returning to her chest and nodded.]
I think I would like that very much.
...
Third. Third most embarrassing.
She looked at Hornet, that tingle returning to her chest and nodded.]
I think I would like that very much.
[ She gathers Lace in her arms, trots over to Kratt's carriage, and locks the door behind them both. Not without giving him a little poke from her needle, of course. A fair warning.
She deposits Lace on the ledge at the end of the hot water with upmost care, then stands up and prepares to disrobe.
Wait.
Hornet freezes with the hem of her cloak in her hands. Ahem. ]
...I would not disrobe, if it makes you uncomfortable.
She deposits Lace on the ledge at the end of the hot water with upmost care, then stands up and prepares to disrobe.
Wait.
Hornet freezes with the hem of her cloak in her hands. Ahem. ]
...I would not disrobe, if it makes you uncomfortable.
Oh, please do not hold back on my account.
Lace would be the opposite of uncomfortable to see Hornet without her cloak.
On her own part she carefully sets aside the string of roses the flea had adorned her with and covers it up with her hat. After a brief consideration she offered the same question.]
What of you little Hornet? Would you be uncomfortable if I disrobed?
Lace would be the opposite of uncomfortable to see Hornet without her cloak.
On her own part she carefully sets aside the string of roses the flea had adorned her with and covers it up with her hat. After a brief consideration she offered the same question.]
What of you little Hornet? Would you be uncomfortable if I disrobed?
i don't mind if it gets sexual from this point, also fine if not
threadstorm
2025-10-24 06:03 pm (UTC)(link)
No. I do not mind.
[ At that, Hornet sheds her cloak. It drops to the floor like a fallen flower petal. Underneath is her black shell, fluff around her neck and elbows and hindquarters, complete with a spider-like tail, normally obscured.
She ruffles out the shaggy fur on her neck, waiting for Lace before she steps into the water. ]
Your turn. Silk girl.
[ At that, Hornet sheds her cloak. It drops to the floor like a fallen flower petal. Underneath is her black shell, fluff around her neck and elbows and hindquarters, complete with a spider-like tail, normally obscured.
She ruffles out the shaggy fur on her neck, waiting for Lace before she steps into the water. ]
Your turn. Silk girl.
[Hornet is lovely to behold, shell sleek and shiny, fluff voluminous and soft looking. Lace finds herself staring for a moment before her mind catches up with the rest of her, and she quickly averts her gaze.
There is the briefest moment of self consciousness before she pulls her top off over her head, being mindful not to yank off any of the pins keeping her hair up. Next she wiggles out of her poofy pants and folds up both articles of clothing, setting them next to her hat.
Her fabric is dark like most shells, but there is no sheen to it. If anything, it almost seems to absorb light. Her body curves in a way atypical of most bugs, and her legs eventually give way to metal resembling the ends of scissors. The edges and color have long since become dull and Lace is quick to scoot forward and slide them into the water to obscure them.
With an impish expression Lace lowers herself down further so her body is only visible from the shoulders up and swims closer to Hornet.]
Beautiful as always, spider dear. I can only imagine how many broken hearts you've left throughout the kingdom. [She teased, finding one of Hornet's hands to intertwine her finger's with the weaver's]
There is the briefest moment of self consciousness before she pulls her top off over her head, being mindful not to yank off any of the pins keeping her hair up. Next she wiggles out of her poofy pants and folds up both articles of clothing, setting them next to her hat.
Her fabric is dark like most shells, but there is no sheen to it. If anything, it almost seems to absorb light. Her body curves in a way atypical of most bugs, and her legs eventually give way to metal resembling the ends of scissors. The edges and color have long since become dull and Lace is quick to scoot forward and slide them into the water to obscure them.
With an impish expression Lace lowers herself down further so her body is only visible from the shoulders up and swims closer to Hornet.]
Beautiful as always, spider dear. I can only imagine how many broken hearts you've left throughout the kingdom. [She teased, finding one of Hornet's hands to intertwine her finger's with the weaver's]
[ Hornet takes Lace's hand. Lace is, of course, beautiful, and wholly unlike anyone else Hornet has ever lain with. She has a burning urge to see more of her, learn more of how this unique form of hers reacts to touch.
The hot water is delicious and invigorating. Hornet can see both of them in the pearly and sparkling reflection. It is even better, of course, that she has such nice company with her. She feels the lingering light buzz of alcohol and warmth filling her body and face, but not enough yet to give color. ]
I have left many. It is for the best. I believe most do not understand what they would be getting themselves into, trying to pursue one with my strange blood.
[ She hesitates for a moment, then puts her mouth close to Lace's neck, enough for her to feel Hornet's hot breath. But she pauses, there. What is this that they are doing? This is Grand Mother Silk's daughter. She supposes it is not strange that inviting another bug into her home would eventually lead to...physicality, but is this only a satiating of fleshly desire and nothing more? She does not even understand if Lace feels such desires, or if she is doing this for her amusement and curiosity.
Lace has a fresh and clean scent to her that cuts Hornet's train of thought off. The fur on her nape ripples and puffs, making herself appear larger, another courting display. ]
But you do not seem to have such concerns. None at all. You do not fear being so close to Weaver and Wyrm in this way? You do not fear that I will snap? It would be easy for me to break your fragile form, little pale thing.
[ The statement is punctuated by a soft yet daring bite to Lace's neck. ]
The hot water is delicious and invigorating. Hornet can see both of them in the pearly and sparkling reflection. It is even better, of course, that she has such nice company with her. She feels the lingering light buzz of alcohol and warmth filling her body and face, but not enough yet to give color. ]
I have left many. It is for the best. I believe most do not understand what they would be getting themselves into, trying to pursue one with my strange blood.
[ She hesitates for a moment, then puts her mouth close to Lace's neck, enough for her to feel Hornet's hot breath. But she pauses, there. What is this that they are doing? This is Grand Mother Silk's daughter. She supposes it is not strange that inviting another bug into her home would eventually lead to...physicality, but is this only a satiating of fleshly desire and nothing more? She does not even understand if Lace feels such desires, or if she is doing this for her amusement and curiosity.
Lace has a fresh and clean scent to her that cuts Hornet's train of thought off. The fur on her nape ripples and puffs, making herself appear larger, another courting display. ]
But you do not seem to have such concerns. None at all. You do not fear being so close to Weaver and Wyrm in this way? You do not fear that I will snap? It would be easy for me to break your fragile form, little pale thing.
[ The statement is punctuated by a soft yet daring bite to Lace's neck. ]
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