thenearshore | We are the children of the sun

[ Count on Archer to be able to say stuff like that- Caster thinks he should get used to it. But no, he is not. He returns the squeeze and soon his face lights up with a wide smile as he notices the building-

It's huge, and the inside isn't clearly visible- but the palm trees under the glass dome are a sight to behold. Looks like you've earned that smile Archer. ]

Woah- what's that? [ A waterpark what it is? But hey, your job here is well done Archer because Caster just can't keep his curiosity reined and when they finally arrive and move past the line he grabs a pamphlet to read about attraction- ] "A tropical island open whole year-round." I didn't think about bringing swimwear but-

[ He looks around. There is a plenty of shops for that. Although they are a bit on the pricers side- look he doesn't really know that he's earning 235 000 yen per week. Archer and his saving skills made sure that he's getting only fraction of that to his hands. ]

[The sight of Caster's smile is enough to steal Archer's breath. It's dazzling and so bright after a long gloomy time that he forgets everything else, his body going on autopilot. Caster's question brings him back.]

We can shop for appropriate clothes. [that's the actual reason he did not pack swimwear.] Though I will pass the swimming today.

[His ribs still remember the encounter on the volcano, you see.]

I'm going to cheer on you.

[ Going on all the wild slides would be a lot more fun with someone else than alone, but Archer is right. He's not in a condition to risk furthering his injury.

Still- he's AGAIN putting what he perceives as good for others over himself. Dumbass. ]

I'm not going alone. So you better the clothes or I'm not going. [ Take this. AN ULTIMATUM ]

There are other attractions, look- [ Caster moves closer to show the pamphlet. ] Rainforest garden, food, and drink stalls, relax area- there is even stroll area with shallow water. So get some shorts and a shirt-

[ to cover up the bandages. ]

-or I will get them for ya. [ Take this. A THREAT OF BECOMING A HAWAIIAN DISASTER. But for real, Archer, you need the distraction and lack of gloominess as much as he does ]

[Archer still remembers the Hawaiian disaster caused by Caster's gifts, so he rolls his eyes. Seriously. This is a distraction as much for him as for Caster.]

I am going to check everything with you, so come on. [he pulls Caster to one of the shops, stocked with tasteful albeit still colorful clothes. Bright fashion disaster is next door, though.] The only thing I'm planning to pass is swimming. After all, a date is for two, not for one participant.

[Archer plz, keep your wordy explanations for a better suited moments.]

[ You'd get a kick in the ass if you decided to stay outside. So yes, that's a good attitude. While Caster does eye the brightly colored disaster nearby he for now finds them both sets on a more subsided side. ]

Time to ignore the line again. [ He says as he moves past waiting people to buy the things he chose. At least he's...buying them. Then he does the same as they get into the actual waterpark. Time spent in the dressing room, stuff like that and eventually-- ]

Woooah!! [ That's right, here is an adult man giving a loud exclamation of amazement. It really is like a tropical island! Just under a roof! ]

[There's no better reward than Caster's exclamation and his amazed expression. It was worth all the trouble Archer went through to get tickets. He feels a sudden surge of pride that he's able to bring a smile back to his god's face.]

What do you want to check first? [he asks quietly, stopping next to Caster.] We can go explore a rainforest, check the lagoon, or just walk on our own.

[In all honesty seeing the photos and seeing the place is different. It feels amazing, the lush nature, the beach and azure water, the huge water slides... everything one can think of. Even a baloon ride.]

[ And everything is under the roof. And pretty much fake. Okay, the plants are not, but Caster suspects the bird sounds are recorded, which is a shame. But regulations and stuff. ]

Let's start with a walk along that "beach", how about it? [ He grabs Archer's hand and tugs him in that direction. ] Maybe we'll find a good spot we can claim for later.

[ He noticed people are putting towels on the lounge chairs to save the spot for later- they are in the most crowded area right now so almost everything is taken anyway. ]

[It looks just like tropical postcards, if you ignore it's a man-made paradise. Still, it's impressive and a perfect way to forget it's the middle of the winter.]

Deal! [Archer follows, walking hand in hand with Caster. Honestly, if he doesn't look up the illusion is perfect. Palms and exotic looking bars and snack stands crowd the edge, furthering the illusion. Archer notes one of the bars serving tropical style food they can check later, the food looks tasty.]

Hm. [most spots are claimed, which isn't surprising. Lounging on the golden beach sounds like a dream... or a challenge, as he takes a note of women in sexy swimsuits trying to catch male attention.

Well, that never changed from the ancient times.]

[ Caster wouldn't be himself if he didn't throw them a passing glance- one or three. But looks like it's only that he can turn to Archer with a sly grin. Someone else is getting checked out today. Sorry ladies, next time.

He can read a mood, it's something for both of them, for once. ]

Eyes on me, Archer. [ Caster says as if he just- wasn't the one to also take a note of the bikinis. He takes both of Archer's hands and suddenly leads them into the lush vegetation out of the beach and the official trail. ] Almost there--

[ And then their feet hit running water of a shallow "river". And guess what, some empty deckchairs are hidden in a few smaller open areas. That's no beach surely, but it looks like a stand with drinks and snacks is nearby too ]

How about this?

[ He noticed the lounge spots marked along those mini-rivers when he looked at the map, and now is very proud of himself. ]

[It's no more than a passing glance, for Archer is more interested in the guy he's with. Sorry, ladies.

When Caster takes both of his hands to pull them away from the main path Archer follows without hesitation, smile tugging at his lips. There's no need to remind him, for he appreciates his companion in beach attire. No lie, Caster looks good in anything he wears, even that horrible Hawaiian shirt. Now, in decent outfit that accents his lean figure (of course it's blue) he's hot.]

Perfect. [he answers not taking his eyes off. Why would he?] It's perfect.

[It's not clear if he's talking about the spot, tho.]

[ Sadly Caster misses that appreciative glint- or maybe he pretends to? Because he drops the towel on top of the chair, and immediately moves it closer to the another one- that's his spot ]

Of course, it is! No one in sight, and drinks in arm's reach. [ Also there are colorful birds sitting on a nearby tree-- turns out all those sounds might not have been just recorded ]

Get yourself comfortable and I'll bring you something.

Oh no, you don't. [Archer chuckles and catches him, pulling him closer and - accidentally, he swears! - kissing his cheek.]

I will be right back!

[Contrary to his words it takes him a good while to come back, as he seems to be checking all drinks and desserts on the stand. He returns with quite a selection of colorful and fruity desserts and drinks, nicely arranged on a tray.

Okay, he ignored the most colorful drinks, but the one he's choosen are fresh and delicious. No need for colorful overload.]

Sorry that it took me a bit longer. They use too much artificial flavors.

[ The kiss gets accepted with a slightest of pouts, it's only just because he can. And because he hardly expected it

There it goes, being affectionate in public. Screw the fact that no one can really see them- this was something very easy to happen with Ginia, something he tried and tested to different results with Zelda, and something he did not expect with Archer. And given what happened with the first relation- he can't help but wonder if he is being as much placated, as much as it is a testing ground for Archer.

Relax, rest, that's what they are here for and-- ]

Artificial flavors? [ Archer, you cooking nerd, what is that? Flavors that don't exist in reality or what. Caster snags a small table and puts it between their chairs so Archer has a place where to put the food. Caster grabs the pineapple-banana juice and takes a sip- ] Tastes real enough!

[ Next thing he grab is fruity slice as he lies down and turns on the side. ]

Or was that you're saying these are not up to your standards? You could make better ones, don't you?

[It's Archer's turn to pout. He knows that he tends to talk too much on the topics that interest him, for example cooking, so finding a short explanation is a bit tough.]

I choose only natural flavors, all those are fine. [he licks the spoon. Natural fruits, sweetness of pineapple offset by lime in the sorbet with fresh slices of mango. Delicious.] Artificial flavor is a chemical mixture that resembles a natural one. For example, if you add a bit of strawberry flavor to plain water it will smell and taste of strawberries.

[shrug.]

Most of those colorful, eyecatching desserts [the cheapest ones] contain only a bit of fruit, with artificial flavor that tricks your senses. It's cheaper than using fruits only.

[ Ah, so that's how it is! Caster really doesn't mind long explanation, he really doesn't mind hearing Archer talk- too often it feels like he is the one to talk a lot. So he keeps nodding as he bites on the fruit slices before taking onto his own fruity dessert. ]

And you can tell the real thing from false. That makes sense. [ To think there would be fakeness in food is almost strange. The more you know, the more you learn. Caster's gaze follows the dart of the tongue on the spoon, and only second too late he notices himself staring- WELL. He is not going to avert his gaze now, okay? And if Archer notices that, he will only get a wide grin. ]

What would I have to eat without you? [ Probably the cheapest stuff, really. He sips some more of his drink, but then he takes out the straw, makes one step forward, so he can put it in Archer's drink and get a taste ] Oh, yours is sweeter!

[ It's the mango ]

[Archer does notice; it's a good feeling when Caster does stare. He's no stranger to being appreciated, but with Caster everything feels different. More intense, more honest, more real. No matter how odd it may be. The grin gets answering smirk from Archer with one more, deliberate lick. How cute.]

Who knows, perhaps you'd be a proud owner of a food stall. [he teases, knowing Caster's fondness for part-time jobs and innate talent to do everything well.

Then Caster - as usual - does the unexpected and has to stick his straw where it does ~~not~~ belong. Archer chuckles and pushes his drink forward so it's in his partner's reach.]

Huh, I should get us one of those date drinks to share.

Date drinks, what those are? [ Caster speaks through his teeth as he proceeds to drink more and more from Archer's glass. Sorry, not sorry. You will forgive him anyway. ]

Ah, those with a double straw! [ HE REMEMBERS, they had a set like that in a cafe, heart-shaped and all- It was called differently though. ]

Yeah, we can get that next. [ Because you're down a drink Archer, and Caster is good in trying to look absolutely innocent about it. It's very unfortunate for Archer, and his wallet, but Caster noticed he can gain a lot just by acting nice and cute. Or making something a challenge

A carrot, a stick, it's a strategy, yeah... ]

[Archer can see what you did, Caster. The only appropriate response is licking the straw clean ~~you can stare all you want~~ and using it to drink at least half of the ignored-not-as-sweet drink.

All's fair in love and war.]

They have coconut water too. [he offers not even trying to play innocent. Seeing Caster genuinely enjoy the fruity delight beats the stolen drink. ~~For now at least. Archer has a lot of patience, as well as a weakness for the moe fang.~~]

[ The moe fang is probably at full display since a TFS aqua park episode deserves all the Menu's icons... welp. ]

I'd try that! [ In the double drink no less. His cheer might be a bit forced, but if Archer went out of his way so far to treat him, he has to play the part. No, not even play, he simply has to do his best in enjoying it to the fullest. For all how he advocates the idea of living in the present, he never said it is easy to do. It's a conscious effort to put everything aside.

For once, the god and shinki link might be a blessing, because while quite low-key, Archer is giving a feeling of genuine content. ]

How's your healing though? Been wondering what could be a "yes" on the list of things.[ He does cast a glance to the high slide, visible even above the tropical trees. Next time, beautiful. There has to be next time. ]

[Of course he does notice that longing look. Archer gives a slight chuckle as he finishes his stolen drink and considers their options. He wants Caster to try at least several attractions here, and doesn't want to hold him back.]

I think I will be fine on a large float for couples as long as you steer it. [a wink.] You can show off your swimming skills.

[Archer is, indeed, radiating a feeling not unlike a cat basking in the sunlight. It's been a long time since they had time for each other, to just chill out together and have fun. There were others around to take care of or spend time with.]

Edited (I can html) 2019-01-12 17:02 (UTC)

[ Oh, right, he saw that. The river- some of the rides used those floats and people ended into that river. He quickly grabs a pamphlet to check on the map- it seems to be circling a large part of the aquapark. A scenic attraction- be lazy and let the currents carry you. ]

Let's go then! [ He jumps off the chair and grabs Archer hand to tug him- It's still chilling, right? Just with more water. And he doesn't take a "no" as an answer either, so soon enough they are going the shortest way to a nearby slide of the smaller scale. There is a bunch of floats nearby, and Caster does find one of those double ones Archer mentioned. ]

Ta-daah! [ He presents it proudly and then jumps into the water with it- the rivers turns out to be a bit deeper than he expected! it's almost up to his chest in the place he got in. It makes him shiver just slightly - it's not truly cold, just a reaction for suddenly lower temperature. He flips his hair onto his back already feeling the weight of the dumb mullet ] Come on, crawl onto it, I'll hold it still for ya.

[ He's helpful. And maybe a bit mocking. ]

[Seeing Caster's face light up with excitement is the best reward that Archer can wish for. His joy is infectuous, that's why Archer follows the tug without hesitation. When was the last time he did allow himself enough freedom to just enjoy whatever happens without thinking. Is it even possible-

Cu Chulainn makes everything possible.

Archer chuckles quietly, amused by his own thoughts. Perhaps he needs it as much as Caster does. It's not that easy to shove everything aside and focus on here and now. A conscious effort, huh. Well, if Caster mastered it that means he can try too, at least for a day.]

Wait-- [Archer shields his face from the sudden splash, his expression of genuine amusement not fading. That's one way to get both of them wet. He makes a face and does as he's told, careful of his ribs. But he still can be a troll, sending a wink as he taps Caster's nose.] Thanks, you're a real gentleman.

[ The tap on the nose surprises him. Great, now he has a droplet of water right on top of it. ]

Don't flatter me too much. I can try, but only occasionally. [ That's him being cheeky as he crawls onto that float, now that Archer settled in properly. Contrary to the "occasionally" part, he still does it carefully enough. Instead of just- jumping right on top of it as he would usually do. Since nothing is really anchoring them to the bottom of the river anymore, the water current takes them on a slow, leisurely ride. ]

What made you pick this place? [ Caster asks as he (carefully) rests his head at Archer's shoulder. Looks like Archer is sitting front to where the current is taking them, while Caster sits exactly on the opposite, facing the view as they go by. ]

[It's a slow but surprisingly pleasant ride, offering truly scenic views. Archer pays as much attention to their surroundings as to his partner, comfortably sprawled so close to him.]

I was looking for something that you haven't seen so far. Something that offers options for those less active, giving us a chance to enjoy it together. [Archer explains resting his cheek on Caster's hair.] This looks like exotic paradise and offers so much it's impossible to try everything during one day.

[A pause. Now they have w view of the lagoon, with sandy rocks and water in that intense hue so typical to tropics.]

When I saw the photos I thought that you're going to love it. It's so different from all the places that you've seen.

Edited 2019-01-27 22:29 (UTC)

Nothing like a lazy day by a sea, basking under the sun? [ Even if it's a bit fake... It's January, the sun isn't at it's warmest, but you couldn't tell it inside here.

Caster reaches to give Archer- an awkwardly placed pat/pet onto his forehead. He aimed for the top of his head, but their positioning is kinda weird. Which just makes him laugh and reached for Archer's nose because why the hell not. ]

Once you recovered I will have no mercy for you in a place like this. [ ALL THE SLIDES ] But today, yeah, lazy is good.

We are the children of the sun

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I am so late to everything

it's okay! <3

flops on delicately

/is flopped on ฅ(๑^o^๑)ฅ

where do you find those faces? I need the answer for science

chinese forums, they have best kaomoji (๑•ั็ω•็ั๑)

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