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Description
NO LONGER CANON, but I'm still proud of this piece TTATT

~~~~~

A birthday gift for one of my friends! We hooked up our D&D characters 👀 My wood elf ranger, Taegan, who is non-binary, and her vampire bard, Aurelius.

I’m super proud of this and it’s been a loooong time since I’ve enjoyed an art piece. Maybe it’s my depression, maybe I just miss drawing humanoids, idk! But it was refreshing!

Below is a short piece to go with the art! Pacing is a little weird but it was a nice crumb of serotonin to write.

(Other characters mentioned:
-A, a Tiefling Druid. We’re not sure what the A stands for yet.
-Doexist?, a Warforged Monk. Yes, his name IS Doexist?, WITH the fucking question mark included, because he wonders why, in fact, he does exist 😂
-Juniper, a Dwarf Cleric NPC)

—

With a gentle tug, Taegan pulled a threaded needle through the torn fabric of their cloak. They shifted their position slightly, tucking a leg under themselves. They let the other hang down, dangling over the sturdy branch of the oak tree they were perched on. The sky was painted with brilliant oranges and reds as the sun sank lazily into the distant mountains. All was quiet except for the breeze rustling through the leaves. It gave Taegan pause.

Today had been a close call. They had fought scheming goblins- eviscerated them in fact- and clobbered undead skeletons. They had explored mysterious caves and battled vicious owlbears. Up until now, they had felt confident about their choice to leave Áre Culu on their pilgrimage. Today, however, had been different. Today, Taegan's confidence had been shaken and they had seen their life flash before their eyes.

'Without the Healing Word of Aurelius, I would have perished.' Taegan thought, pulling another stitch tight. They stopped momentarily to place a hand over their chest, where a deep wound from an enemy claw had slashed into them earlier. They hadn’t remembered much as their consciousness faded in and out, save for a searing pain, lots of blood, and a cool touch as Aurelius carried them to safety. They pushed the needle through the cloak again. 'I am lucky to have him by my side…' There was another pause in their stitching as they settled into thought. ‘His antics can be tiring but... I know it is to hide his pain. In truth, he is honorable.’ A small smile played at the wood elf’s lips. ‘He goes after what he wants. He does not fear speaking out of turn. He has proven himself a great ally in all of our battles.’ They continued their silent work, weaving the needle in and out. ‘There is much to admire about Aurelius Margrave.’

“I was wondering where you ran off to!”

Taegan startled in shock, sticking their finger with the needle as the very man on their mind called out to them from below. They hissed quietly through gritted teeth, squeezing a dark red droplet from the tiny prick before nursing it at their mouth.

“You good up there?” Aurelius asked. Taegan looked down from the branch and nodded to him. He had his beloved guitar at his side and a hand on one hip.

“Yes, thank you.” Taegan replied. They smiled and held up the needle. “I was surprised by your sudden presence and nicked myself.”

“Thought I smelled blood. Sorry about that.” the blonde apologized, giving the elf a sheepish grin. His sharp fangs glinted in the light of the setting sun. Taegan noted that his smile looked oddly strained.

“There is no need for apologies. I hope I have not upset your urges, however.”

“Oh, nah. I just ate a few hours ago. Besides, elf blood’s too sweet. Makes me kinda nauseous.” He flopped down against the base of the tree before pausing. “Uh, no offense.”

Taegan let out a titter into their hand, a sound like chimes in the wind. “None taken. I suppose that is good to know, for my sake.”

Aurelius snorted and adjusted the guitar in his lap. “I wouldn’t hurt you, Tae. Don’t worry.”

“I did not mean to imply…”

“I know. I’m just sayin’.”

The two fell silent as Aurelius started to gently strum the strings and hum a low tune. Taegan glanced down curiously to observe, feeling their stomach flutter. The vampire’s golden locks waved gracefully in front of his face as he swayed to his own music. His pale features always looked so serene when he played.

“Where are the others?” Taegan asked, leaning to peer back at the makeshift camp. It was several hundred yards away but even in the growing darkness, Taegan’s elf eyes could see the dying embers of a fire.

“A went into town. She said something about getting supplies. Not sure where the metal man is. Probably staring at a tree or some shit, as he does.” Aurelius shrugged. “So I guess it’s just you and me, kid.”

“‘Kid’ is one of your words for ‘child,’ yes?” Taegan inquired, brows knitting together in confusion. “I thought I had mentioned this, but you should know that I am much older than you.”

Aurelius laughed a short and loud bark. “Figure of speech.”

“I see.” They finished their mending with a knot and bit the remaining thread off, cheeks warm. They always felt a little silly when they didn’t understand a Common word or saying. It happened more often than they liked to admit.

“Don’t feel bad.” Aurelius assured with a chuckle as he plucked some more notes. “You learn somethin’ new everyday.”

Taegan found themselves smiling at that. Aurelius used to poke fun at their blunders, but now, his words were gentle. His laughter had changed to something fonder. It was as if he found it endearing. Taegan had come to slowly realize that they found Aurelius endearing too.

They sat alone together for some time. Taegan watched the sun set lower and lower, casting a wash of red light over the forest. As they folded their cloak up and tucked their sewing kit away, they noticed Aurelius had stopped playing his guitar.

“Was it scary?” the blonde suddenly spoke before Taegan could.

“Was what scary?”

“Today, when you… got hurt.” he said, his voice sounding faint. “You lost a lot of blood. Juniper said you could have died.”

“Oh.” Taegan wet their lips, their mouth suddenly feeling dry. “I… do remember feeling afraid, yes. But that is all I remember.”

Aurelius was quiet for several moments before speaking again. “I remember feeling afraid. When, you know... when I died. But I woke up.” He gazed upwards, blue eyes piercing. “I felt scared today too.”

Taegan took this opportunity to scale down the oak tree, landing nimbly next to the vampire. They sat down beside him, neatly folding their legs. “You did?”

“Yeah.” Aurelius searched their face, debating whether to open up. “Taegan… Look, I know I joke around a lot, but… I do care about you.” he said. “And it seems like all the people I care about slip through my fingers… I was afraid you were next.”

Taegan watched him glance away, back to his guitar. Their heart beat faster in their chest at the blonde’s words. “I am okay, thanks to you.”

“Yeah…” There was that strained smile again, tugging at Aurelius’ lips. “Junie said I bought you just enough time.”

“And is this why you are not your usual self? Your smile is... sad.”

“It is, huh? You see right through me.”

Taegan studied him, repositioning to a kneel. “Aurelius. What is that phrase you are always saying? It rhymes.”

The blonde thought for a second. “What’s cookin’, good lookin’?”

Taegan shook their head. “No, not that one.”

“What’s shakin’, bacon?”

“Gods, no. It is not one of your ‘witty openers.’”

“Hm… Oh!” He grinned for real this time, as if proud of his linguistic genius. “Is it, ‘suck it up, buttercup?’ I like that one, you know. Being a vampire and all.”

“Yes, yes, that is the one.” Taegan nodded. “You said it means to cease lamenting. To move forward and leave what is plaguing you behind.”

“I think I said it much more eloquently than that, but yes.” Aurelius teased. Taegan smiled, glad to see the blonde’s humorous nature returning.

“Well, that is what I want you to do.” they said. “I am alive. There is no reason to feel sad or afraid. You saved me with your magic. You carried me to see Juniper. You did all that you could and I am here because of that.” With all the conviction they could muster, they set their jaw and locked their amber gaze on the vampire. “So suck it up, buttercup.”

There was a long pause before Aurelius burst out laughing. While it was not the reaction Taegan was going for, they couldn’t help but giggle too, despite themself. They would settle for laughing. Laughing was good. After all, they would rather see this than see him sullen. When Aurelius wasn’t happy, it felt like there was nothing right with the world.

“Thanks, Taegan. I needed that.” Aurelius chuckled after a moment, eyes sparkling in the low light. He turned his head to face them and raised his brow at their thoughtful expression. “What?”

“There is something else you taught me.” Taegan answered, leaning in slightly. “You once told me that if you want something, you have to go for it. That is all the more apparent to me after today.”

“Y-Yeah?” Aurelius’ voice hitched in a rare stammer. Taegan was awfully close and their cheeks were flushed. Their eyes flickered nervously down to his lips and back up.

“I… have never done this before.” they admitted shyly, taking a deep breath. “But it is something I want.”

After a beat longer, Taegan closed the distance with a soft press to Aurelius’ mouth. He couldn’t help but be caught off guard; in all the times he had played this scene in his head, he never imagined not being the one to make the first move. In fact, he was so dumbstruck that Taegan pulled away, looking worried.

“Was that not to your liking?” they asked meekly. Aurelius shook his head.

“No, no, I just wasn’t ready. Hit me again.”

With a bit of hesitance, the elf kissed him a second time, a little clumsier but still as gentle as a spring breeze. Their thin mustache tickled Aurelius’ upper lip and he couldn’t help but smile against Taegan’s mouth. The contact broke again.

“You laugh.” Taegan stated, hurt in their delicate features. “I knew I would do this wrong.”

“No! I’m not laughing at you, I swear.” Aurelius said, putting his hands up. “You’re not doing anything wrong.” He patted his lap. “Here. Come closer.”

Taegan obliged, drawing nearer. Aurelius set his guitar down next to him in the grass. He offered a smile and took Taegan’s hand, lacing their fingers together.

“Go ahead. I’m ready.”

Taegan nodded, feeling a bit more confident now. They went in again, kissing a little harder, but stiff as a board. Aurelius tucked a loose strand of copper hair behind their ear, shaking his head slightly and pulling back.

“Tilt your head. And try moving your mouth against mine. Otherwise, it’s just a friendly hello.”

Taegan made a displeased face at their third failed attempt and licked their lips, feeling self-conscious. Tears of embarrassment pricked at their eyes. Aurelius noticed this and took them by the chin.

“Hey. Hey...” he murmured softly. “It’s okay. You’re fine. Want me to show you?”

Taegan swallowed thickly, giving a shy nod. Their face felt like it was on fire. They felt Aurelius squeeze their hand.

“Put your arms around my neck.” he said, patting his shoulder. Taegan did so, feeling a little less closed off but a whole lot more bashful. Their heart drummed hard against their ribs as Aurelius wrapped one arm around their slender waist and another under their knees, coolly and quietly. A gasp escaped them as they were suddenly pulled into the blonde’s lap, flush against his body. They felt a shiver run down their spine at his touch. They were sure their gulp was audible as Aurelius’ steely blue gaze bore into them. It felt as though he was staring into their very soul.

Then, surprisingly soft and sweet, Aurelius did indeed show Taegan. And as the crickets started to chirp, he showed them again, with more fervor. And again as night fell, with playful, little swipes of tongue. And when he thought they’d had enough, they pulled him back in for more.

—

“Wow, Tae, I know I’m irresistible, but you can’t get enough of me, can you?” Aurelius smirked as the elf broke away to catch their breath. Their cheeks burned red as they smiled sheepishly.

“I am… enjoying myself.” they said, running a finger down his jawline. Aurelius chuckled and went to reply, but stopped as his eye caught something. Something he hadn’t noticed before while distracted by their make out. Two purple eyes, glowing ominously from the treeline several yards away. Aurelius felt a burning mortification inside him as he recognized the tall, bulky outline of a Warforged with a flower pot on his head.

“Hey metal man, what the fuck?” Aurelius shouted, startling Taegan. “Have you been standing there the whole time, you creep?”

“I have been here since the sun set.” Doexist? boomed in his loud, monotone candor. “This is the optimal clearing for star-gazing.” He paused, tilting his head. “I assumed that is why you two were here as well, but you have not detached from each other’s faces for some time. I thought you were stuck.”

“Oh my fucking god.” Aurelius muttered, cheeks ablaze as he put his head in his hands. Taegan started to laugh, nervously at first, then with full vigor at the situation.
“We are just fine, Do.” they said, stifling themselves. “Could we… maybe get some privacy?”

“Ah. Yes, I will leave you alone. If you get stuck again, call and I will come help.”

“Thank you. We will do that.” They watched with a giddy smirk as the Warforged clunked away and turned to Aurelius. “I did not think you could turn so red.”

“Shut up and kiss me again.”

Description
NO LONGER CANON, but I'm still proud of this piece TTATT

~~~~~

A birthday gift for one of my friends! We hooked up our D&D characters 👀 My wood elf ranger, Taegan, who is non-binary, and her vampire bard, Aurelius.

I’m super proud of this and it’s been a loooong time since I’ve enjoyed an art piece. Maybe it’s my depression, maybe I just miss drawing humanoids, idk! But it was refreshing!

Below is a short piece to go with the art! Pacing is a little weird but it was a nice crumb of serotonin to write.

(Other characters mentioned:
-A, a Tiefling Druid. We’re not sure what the A stands for yet.
-Doexist?, a Warforged Monk. Yes, his name IS Doexist?, WITH the fucking question mark included, because he wonders why, in fact, he does exist 😂
-Juniper, a Dwarf Cleric NPC)

—

With a gentle tug, Taegan pulled a threaded needle through the torn fabric of their cloak. They shifted their position slightly, tucking a leg under themselves. They let the other hang down, dangling over the sturdy branch of the oak tree they were perched on. The sky was painted with brilliant oranges and reds as the sun sank lazily into the distant mountains. All was quiet except for the breeze rustling through the leaves. It gave Taegan pause.

Today had been a close call. They had fought scheming goblins- eviscerated them in fact- and clobbered undead skeletons. They had explored mysterious caves and battled vicious owlbears. Up until now, they had felt confident about their choice to leave Áre Culu on their pilgrimage. Today, however, had been different. Today, Taegan's confidence had been shaken and they had seen their life flash before their eyes.

'Without the Healing Word of Aurelius, I would have perished.' Taegan thought, pulling another stitch tight. They stopped momentarily to place a hand over their chest, where a deep wound from an enemy claw had slashed into them earlier. They hadn’t remembered much as their consciousness faded in and out, save for a searing pain, lots of blood, and a cool touch as Aurelius carried them to safety. They pushed the needle through the cloak again. 'I am lucky to have him by my side…' There was another pause in their stitching as they settled into thought. ‘His antics can be tiring but... I know it is to hide his pain. In truth, he is honorable.’ A small smile played at the wood elf’s lips. ‘He goes after what he wants. He does not fear speaking out of turn. He has proven himself a great ally in all of our battles.’ They continued their silent work, weaving the needle in and out. ‘There is much to admire about Aurelius Margrave.’

“I was wondering where you ran off to!”

Taegan startled in shock, sticking their finger with the needle as the very man on their mind called out to them from below. They hissed quietly through gritted teeth, squeezing a dark red droplet from the tiny prick before nursing it at their mouth.

“You good up there?” Aurelius asked. Taegan looked down from the branch and nodded to him. He had his beloved guitar at his side and a hand on one hip.

“Yes, thank you.” Taegan replied. They smiled and held up the needle. “I was surprised by your sudden presence and nicked myself.”

“Thought I smelled blood. Sorry about that.” the blonde apologized, giving the elf a sheepish grin. His sharp fangs glinted in the light of the setting sun. Taegan noted that his smile looked oddly strained.

“There is no need for apologies. I hope I have not upset your urges, however.”

“Oh, nah. I just ate a few hours ago. Besides, elf blood’s too sweet. Makes me kinda nauseous.” He flopped down against the base of the tree before pausing. “Uh, no offense.”

Taegan let out a titter into their hand, a sound like chimes in the wind. “None taken. I suppose that is good to know, for my sake.”

Aurelius snorted and adjusted the guitar in his lap. “I wouldn’t hurt you, Tae. Don’t worry.”

“I did not mean to imply…”

“I know. I’m just sayin’.”

The two fell silent as Aurelius started to gently strum the strings and hum a low tune. Taegan glanced down curiously to observe, feeling their stomach flutter. The vampire’s golden locks waved gracefully in front of his face as he swayed to his own music. His pale features always looked so serene when he played.

“Where are the others?” Taegan asked, leaning to peer back at the makeshift camp. It was several hundred yards away but even in the growing darkness, Taegan’s elf eyes could see the dying embers of a fire.

“A went into town. She said something about getting supplies. Not sure where the metal man is. Probably staring at a tree or some shit, as he does.” Aurelius shrugged. “So I guess it’s just you and me, kid.”

“‘Kid’ is one of your words for ‘child,’ yes?” Taegan inquired, brows knitting together in confusion. “I thought I had mentioned this, but you should know that I am much older than you.”

Aurelius laughed a short and loud bark. “Figure of speech.”

“I see.” They finished their mending with a knot and bit the remaining thread off, cheeks warm. They always felt a little silly when they didn’t understand a Common word or saying. It happened more often than they liked to admit.

“Don’t feel bad.” Aurelius assured with a chuckle as he plucked some more notes. “You learn somethin’ new everyday.”

Taegan found themselves smiling at that. Aurelius used to poke fun at their blunders, but now, his words were gentle. His laughter had changed to something fonder. It was as if he found it endearing. Taegan had come to slowly realize that they found Aurelius endearing too.

They sat alone together for some time. Taegan watched the sun set lower and lower, casting a wash of red light over the forest. As they folded their cloak up and tucked their sewing kit away, they noticed Aurelius had stopped playing his guitar.

“Was it scary?” the blonde suddenly spoke before Taegan could.

“Was what scary?”

“Today, when you… got hurt.” he said, his voice sounding faint. “You lost a lot of blood. Juniper said you could have died.”

“Oh.” Taegan wet their lips, their mouth suddenly feeling dry. “I… do remember feeling afraid, yes. But that is all I remember.”

Aurelius was quiet for several moments before speaking again. “I remember feeling afraid. When, you know... when I died. But I woke up.” He gazed upwards, blue eyes piercing. “I felt scared today too.”

Taegan took this opportunity to scale down the oak tree, landing nimbly next to the vampire. They sat down beside him, neatly folding their legs. “You did?”

“Yeah.” Aurelius searched their face, debating whether to open up. “Taegan… Look, I know I joke around a lot, but… I do care about you.” he said. “And it seems like all the people I care about slip through my fingers… I was afraid you were next.”

Taegan watched him glance away, back to his guitar. Their heart beat faster in their chest at the blonde’s words. “I am okay, thanks to you.”

“Yeah…” There was that strained smile again, tugging at Aurelius’ lips. “Junie said I bought you just enough time.”

“And is this why you are not your usual self? Your smile is... sad.”

“It is, huh? You see right through me.”

Taegan studied him, repositioning to a kneel. “Aurelius. What is that phrase you are always saying? It rhymes.”

The blonde thought for a second. “What’s cookin’, good lookin’?”

Taegan shook their head. “No, not that one.”

“What’s shakin’, bacon?”

“Gods, no. It is not one of your ‘witty openers.’”

“Hm… Oh!” He grinned for real this time, as if proud of his linguistic genius. “Is it, ‘suck it up, buttercup?’ I like that one, you know. Being a vampire and all.”

“Yes, yes, that is the one.” Taegan nodded. “You said it means to cease lamenting. To move forward and leave what is plaguing you behind.”

“I think I said it much more eloquently than that, but yes.” Aurelius teased. Taegan smiled, glad to see the blonde’s humorous nature returning.

“Well, that is what I want you to do.” they said. “I am alive. There is no reason to feel sad or afraid. You saved me with your magic. You carried me to see Juniper. You did all that you could and I am here because of that.” With all the conviction they could muster, they set their jaw and locked their amber gaze on the vampire. “So suck it up, buttercup.”

There was a long pause before Aurelius burst out laughing. While it was not the reaction Taegan was going for, they couldn’t help but giggle too, despite themself. They would settle for laughing. Laughing was good. After all, they would rather see this than see him sullen. When Aurelius wasn’t happy, it felt like there was nothing right with the world.

“Thanks, Taegan. I needed that.” Aurelius chuckled after a moment, eyes sparkling in the low light. He turned his head to face them and raised his brow at their thoughtful expression. “What?”

“There is something else you taught me.” Taegan answered, leaning in slightly. “You once told me that if you want something, you have to go for it. That is all the more apparent to me after today.”

“Y-Yeah?” Aurelius’ voice hitched in a rare stammer. Taegan was awfully close and their cheeks were flushed. Their eyes flickered nervously down to his lips and back up.

“I… have never done this before.” they admitted shyly, taking a deep breath. “But it is something I want.”

After a beat longer, Taegan closed the distance with a soft press to Aurelius’ mouth. He couldn’t help but be caught off guard; in all the times he had played this scene in his head, he never imagined not being the one to make the first move. In fact, he was so dumbstruck that Taegan pulled away, looking worried.

“Was that not to your liking?” they asked meekly. Aurelius shook his head.

“No, no, I just wasn’t ready. Hit me again.”

With a bit of hesitance, the elf kissed him a second time, a little clumsier but still as gentle as a spring breeze. Their thin mustache tickled Aurelius’ upper lip and he couldn’t help but smile against Taegan’s mouth. The contact broke again.

“You laugh.” Taegan stated, hurt in their delicate features. “I knew I would do this wrong.”

“No! I’m not laughing at you, I swear.” Aurelius said, putting his hands up. “You’re not doing anything wrong.” He patted his lap. “Here. Come closer.”

Taegan obliged, drawing nearer. Aurelius set his guitar down next to him in the grass. He offered a smile and took Taegan’s hand, lacing their fingers together.

“Go ahead. I’m ready.”

Taegan nodded, feeling a bit more confident now. They went in again, kissing a little harder, but stiff as a board. Aurelius tucked a loose strand of copper hair behind their ear, shaking his head slightly and pulling back.

“Tilt your head. And try moving your mouth against mine. Otherwise, it’s just a friendly hello.”

Taegan made a displeased face at their third failed attempt and licked their lips, feeling self-conscious. Tears of embarrassment pricked at their eyes. Aurelius noticed this and took them by the chin.

“Hey. Hey...” he murmured softly. “It’s okay. You’re fine. Want me to show you?”

Taegan swallowed thickly, giving a shy nod. Their face felt like it was on fire. They felt Aurelius squeeze their hand.

“Put your arms around my neck.” he said, patting his shoulder. Taegan did so, feeling a little less closed off but a whole lot more bashful. Their heart drummed hard against their ribs as Aurelius wrapped one arm around their slender waist and another under their knees, coolly and quietly. A gasp escaped them as they were suddenly pulled into the blonde’s lap, flush against his body. They felt a shiver run down their spine at his touch. They were sure their gulp was audible as Aurelius’ steely blue gaze bore into them. It felt as though he was staring into their very soul.

Then, surprisingly soft and sweet, Aurelius did indeed show Taegan. And as the crickets started to chirp, he showed them again, with more fervor. And again as night fell, with playful, little swipes of tongue. And when he thought they’d had enough, they pulled him back in for more.

—

“Wow, Tae, I know I’m irresistible, but you can’t get enough of me, can you?” Aurelius smirked as the elf broke away to catch their breath. Their cheeks burned red as they smiled sheepishly.

“I am… enjoying myself.” they said, running a finger down his jawline. Aurelius chuckled and went to reply, but stopped as his eye caught something. Something he hadn’t noticed before while distracted by their make out. Two purple eyes, glowing ominously from the treeline several yards away. Aurelius felt a burning mortification inside him as he recognized the tall, bulky outline of a Warforged with a flower pot on his head.

“Hey metal man, what the fuck?” Aurelius shouted, startling Taegan. “Have you been standing there the whole time, you creep?”

“I have been here since the sun set.” Doexist? boomed in his loud, monotone candor. “This is the optimal clearing for star-gazing.” He paused, tilting his head. “I assumed that is why you two were here as well, but you have not detached from each other’s faces for some time. I thought you were stuck.”

“Oh my fucking god.” Aurelius muttered, cheeks ablaze as he put his head in his hands. Taegan started to laugh, nervously at first, then with full vigor at the situation.
“We are just fine, Do.” they said, stifling themselves. “Could we… maybe get some privacy?”

“Ah. Yes, I will leave you alone. If you get stuck again, call and I will come help.”

“Thank you. We will do that.” They watched with a giddy smirk as the Warforged clunked away and turned to Aurelius. “I did not think you could turn so red.”

“Shut up and kiss me again.”