Molly, I apologize for texting you out of the blue like this but...I wanted to make sure you knew. Hugo is quite the secretive person, so I do not know what he lets be known to others.
[He knows he is courting death with the dude possessed by Thanatos for this, but he'll happily accept it.]
His birthday is August 20th. Do with that what you will.
I simply want him to face the reality that he is wanted among his loved ones.
he has to read over it a couple of times (in part to make sure he is reading it correctly, and in part because he well... literacy isn't exactly his strongest suit) before he replies.
Hugo's birthday is this month. August 20th. knowing the man he won't be thrilled about this knowledge being shared, but Molly is terribly pleased. ]
weve never discussed birthdays and all that its one of those things you leave in the past but thank you my good man i promise not to use this new knowledge to shower our dear friend with all the love and affection he so rightly deserves ;)
[He'd told Hugo to go to him first, that he'd stay back and let them create a foundation. Scope around about this mysterious man that had gripped Molly tight enough to consider bolting.
But he couldn't wait too long--his pacing would likely cause dents in the floor from his legs.
He tries to give them as much time as possible, before sending a simple text.]
[ hm. he knew this was coming too. somewhere deep in his gut he had a feeling Lycaon would also reach out. it's touching, in a terrifying way, that he cares enough to reach out and check on him. touching and surprising.
Molly's glad for it, really, glad for the support he's somehow found in both Hugo and Lycaon. he really fucked up tangling himself up in them both, haha. ]
[Ultimately, Lia actually ended up dithering a little on what she wanted to actually bring.
Unfortunately, while Molly said he wasn't picky... Lia really would've preferred to bring him something to his tastes, and that left her with indecision paralysis... Eventually, she just grabbed a box set of a series she had on hand and a couple movies and shoved those along with her Switch into her bag.
As far as food went... honestly, they could probably just order takeout or something. This did not mean Lia was going to show up empty-handed, she did have some cookies she made earlier (lemon and blueberry ones, because listen, when you have a lot of summer fruit to get rid of...).
At least the simple part was actually getting to Molly's apartment. Never mind the quick detour she took. The detour was vital. For reasons.
All in all, despite the delays, it did not actually take her long to show up and knock on the door.]
[ a part of him regrets agreeing to her suggestion, thinks that it is a terrible idea and he should call her and just call the whole thing off. he's not the best person to be around right now, he can feel that much, but the thought of being alone makes his stomach twist and his blood run cold.
he practically jumps out of his skin when he hears the knock at his door, taking a second to remember that it could really only be Lia. he has to move Frumpkin from his lap as he gets up but the ghost cat resettles pretty much immediately. ]
Hey there, Sunflower.
[ he opens the door with a smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes, he takes a step back and motions for her to come inside. ]
[ Molly practically drops his phone as the text comes through, heart leaping up into his throat. he's back, they're back? gods he needs to do something needs to get up and just─
it's in that fumble that he hits the video function revealing one lavender tiefling missing his usual makeup and messy hair. ]
Hugo! Gods I thought I wouldn't see you again... Are you... [ okay sits heavily on his tongue, unable to leave. ] Lycaon's with you, yeah? I tried to contact him but he didn't answer even when I told him that I lost you.
[Lycaon had listened to the entire voicemail string from Mollymauk and his heart broke more with each message. What started out as an apology for something beyond his control had become a cry for help, and one he didn't answer.
It takes him a day to recover mentally. He had to take a shower and get his fur back to 'decent' before he could do any networking. It would take multiple washings and a conditioning regiment before it would be back to the softness he desired. But for now it would do.
The call does not come until late, and should Molly still be at his home, he'll likely have seen Hugo again.]
Mollymauk,
You have likely already spoken with Hugo, and seen his return. I am writing to let you know I have also returned, and have gone back to Meropide for the rest of my stay. It appears I left you in quite the panicked state, with no way to contact you and for your messages to go unanswered. I could not apologize more for that.
[A pause.]
I will understand if you are cross with me.
[Partially because of disappearing, partially because he feels responsible for what went down.]
I have not had much time over the past few days, but please click on this link I am texting you.
[There's a little 'bleep!'--the notification sound for a text. Should Molly see it, there's a link in there.]
lycaon.mp3
I apologize that I could not find a phone book on such short notice. I scoured what I could of Meropide, but to no avail. I only hope that a recipe for cheesecake will do. One of the kind people of Meropide showed me how to send this file properly. So please, listen to it should you ever need to hear my voice.
I promise, I will never allow such a thing to happen again.
[ he's lucky that he's all the way down in Meropide and thus is too difficult to physically get his hands on him. he would shake the man if he could, and then clings to him for a few moments to chase away those terrible nightmares that had haunted his sleep the last four days. ]
Why would I be angry at you? Don't be stupid. I'm not angry at you or at Hugo, neither of you chose to just up and disappear did you?
[ he's angry at himself, for being unable to stop it, for not being able to find them. he convinced himself he'd failed again, that he lost them, and there was nothing he could do to get them back. ]
I'm going to make you make this cake for me later, but thank you. I'll keep this in my back pocket in case of emergencies.
As for Hugo? Love, you don't have to thank me for looking out for him. I think we've established that no matter what I'll always be there for him and for you. Just let me know when you're back home, okay? I've got cookies to give you, Caleb's a surprisingly good baker.
[Wow how do you even... do this? Aside from hole up in a cheap inn because while you know you really should go tell your roommate you're alive and intact (plus or minus broken bones)? You don't want to. It's not the most noble thing ever. It wasn't as if he'd murdered somebody!]
[It's embarrassing, what happened, okay. It's embarrassing and the way he'd flown off the handle made him reconsider these attempts at friendship. Especially when circumstances then leave you as the last man standing out of them. Again.]
Greetings.
[That's painfully formal, and Zevran even winces typing it.]
My apologies, I did not intend to part ways unannounced. Do not worry - all is fine. Although... I am now on my feet, as they say.
So, that said, I am sure you would like your home back. Please, do not worry, I intend to pay for the hospitality. I mean no offense, you have been very generous. More than you must be, but it is time, I think.
[Because I don't want to be reminded losing friends hurts by being around friends.]
Thank you, truly. But I will not trouble you further, dear Molly.
[ he reads (text-to-speech) this once, twice, then a third time before he all but throws his phone down onto the nearest soft surface he could find. had he figured Zervan was fine because the man hadn't reached out to him? yes, yes he had. did he not think to reach out to the elf while he was pacing a hole into Lycaon's living room? double yes.
good job, Mollymauk. you did amazing.
it takes him about ten minutes to pick up his phone again and reply, beyond glad for whatever program converts his words into text so Zervan can't hear the sound of his voice. ]
first off - you've never been a trouble, so cut that shit out immediately second - i won't beg you to stay if you don't want to if you have to go you have to go but let me come see you first, yeah?
[ because he has a terrible, sinking feeling that Zervan's disappearance was exactly like Lycaon and Hugo's. ]
you've got to say goodbye to frumpkin or he'll never forgive you
[Despite the intense few days of moving back from Meropide and getting himself situated into his house again, getting his house CLEANED, and accommodating for newfound arrivals (a new Lycanroc), Lycaon had indeed remembered a certain Tiefling's birthday. Thankfully, the brainstorming had taken place earlier in October, and with one last minute change, he was set on what he wanted to do.
After an evening in the kitchen and with some gift wrapping magic, he finishes, sa
Not one to be late, he asks Butler to deliver the gift. Unlike the telltale steps of metallic feet, Butler could move quite stealthily, and he's able to drop the gift off in its rightful place outside of Mollymauk's apartment door on the handle.
The gift bag is decently sized, and looking at it, it's not a 'gift bag' at all, but a leather tote one could use in everyday wear with pockets and a sizable interior. Practically overflowing out the side is a rather cozy looking, brightly colored shawl, crocheted. Lycaon unfortunately didn't have the time to learn to do this himself, but he found a wonderful artisan in the city.
The treats, however, were a Lycaon special. In a nice celophane gift bag were a colourful assortment of gummy dice. Lycaon had remembered Molly saying he wanted some quality gummies, and he kept that in mind as he was making them. One taste will show they're made of fruit puree with the gelatin, but not only that, if you bite into them, they will have sweetened fruit juice inside (rich people Gushers). Not only THAT. But the flavour? Will not match the flavour of the gummy.
Mismatched, chaotic, and a surprise each time. Just like Molly.
There's also some Plumeria scented lotion inside, as he can only imagine how stiff those horns must get in the cold. And finally, some loose leaf lavender tea. Please relax.
And finally, a note, with a bit of rosemary attached. It's handwritten, but it will also have a text sent at conveniently the same time should Molly need the text to voice to read it.]
Mollymauk,
I deeply apologize that this is all I can do for your birthday in the immediate. With everything that had occurred in October, as well as my isolation in Meropide, I did not have the tools to assemble something the way I intended. I hope you will forgive me, and I will do better next year.
I say next year, because I know you will still be here. You've found your roots and you've really started to show how much this city has changed you. You've even taken in someone like yourself, and offered them a home. I could not be more proud of how far you've come since we've met.
Naturally, I want to thank you again for everything you've done for Hugo. I truly do not think he would've arrived at Kaisou, nor have been in a state where he would've spoken to me had it not been for you. To say that you probably kept him from the darkest corners of his mind is an understatement. I am truly in your debt for this, even if you will likely argue this.
But more importantly, thank you for giving this city a chance. It won't let you down. Hugo and I won't let you down.
You are an essential part of this city now, so grow strong, and use those branches to do what they do best. Give others shade.
Have a wonderful birthday.
-Lycaon 🌙
P.S. I did the honour of telling Caleb your birthday, seeing as you did not do so yourself. I cannot shield you from any sort of face he will make at you.
[ if Mollymauk were to be honest he would gladly admit that he had been expecting to wake up on the morning of his birth to unavoidable surprise party or something to that affect. retribution finally catching his scent and going in for the kill. but he doesn't. the apartment is quiet when he finally stirs, Frumpkin staring at him judgingly as he pads bare foot into the kitchen and went about the haphazard series of tasks formally known as a 'morning routine'.
it was nice, if not a little unsettling. the lack of swift retribution felt like an axe hanging dangerously close to his delicious, delicious neck so it all left Mollymauk more than a little on edge. at least that is how he felt until he found the leather tote hanging from his apartment's doorknob and the brightly colored shawl resting inside of it.
that... bastardous, sweet, wonderful wolfman─ because this was Lycaon's doing, it practically screamed that was Lycaon's doing and it was the gummies that ratted him out before he even got to the note! naturally the note, and the conveniently timed text, would have lifted the veil on that little mystery if his sleep addled mind hadn't caught on earlier.
it's only after he consumed his morning coffee and washed his face that Molly actually sits to read the note (it takes him far longer than he'd openly admit, but he reads it) and wraps himself up in his new shawl. it's strange having someone say they are proud of him, people don't say that to devils. they don't say that to liars or cheats or the veritable incubus there to drain you dry pleasure and consume you soul─ ah, but Lycaon isn't just people, is he?
he is a moon to a not-so-distant star, close but just out of reach, and Molly wants nothing more than to just bask in their light.
1pm is the exact time that Lycaon gets a picture of Molly in a loose cotton shirt and the shawl, alongside a message: ]
if i'm being honest (and we'll blame my sobriety for this surge of honesty) i didn't expect anything from you from any of you really so this was a pleasant surprise and i don't what to do with all the terrible feelings you've stirred up in me you monster
in all seriousness, you thank people from gifts and these are probably the best gifts i've ever gotten in my life so thank you lycaon thank you for the bag and the shawl and the gummies and everything
you're right by the way i am going to argue with you over thanking me again for hugo it's only natural to help the people you love and part of me fell in love with him years ago i think that same part of me is what you managed to wrap around your finger so damn fast would explain a lot really
thanks for the gifts again thanks for making a day i'd usually go through high off my kite actually worth remembering when you've got some time you should drop by so i can thank you personally and you can see that i've been keeping the kitchen clean
- m.t
p.s you're a bastard but thank you i appreciate it
[Luckily for Lia, she had been working on Molly's gift ever since she'd found out when it was.
Delivering it is simple enough. She leaves a box outside Molly's door, one containing a trio of glass jars that have been decorated with various pressed flowers, tealight candles in two of those jars (one actually contains two candles) and the third contains a pair of bracelets made with leather cord and sea glass. There's a colorful scarf (one with a pocket sewn into it!) wrapped around the jars as if to cushion them.
The box also contains a second box, actually--this particular box contains a chocolate mud cake.
And rather than a note, she'll just leave a message over Gemini:]
Hi, Molly, happy birthday. I left your gift outside your door. Thank you for being around and for being my friend. Here's to many more birthdays in the future.
[ the more gifts he finds the more emotional he gets! this is frankly the worst and he doesn't know how he's supposed to survive all of this sober!!
still he holds these gifts to his chest as if they are the most precious gifts in the world, giving himself a few hours to sort out his emotions before sending a quick message to Lia in response. ]
Thank you, Sunflower. You're an absolute gift I didn't know I needed until I met you.
[It's nothing dramatic Lycaon, but a little bird told him that today just happened to be an important day for his roommate. So there's a simple chain set where Molly is sure to find it. Normally he'd leave a note, and just bail, but...]
[He'll just leave a quick and easy voicemail and bail, instead.]
[Smart decisions with Zevran!]
If you find something in the apartment, please, take it. I ah. Received it from an admirer and thought it to be more to your liking. If not? Perhaps it is worth some money.
[ do you think you can just leave him a chain with a beautiful gem, bail, and leave him with little more than a quick and easy voice mail? good sir, while you may be right you are a fool! Mollymauk Tealeaf isn't going to let you get off that easy!
you can run but they both know that he'll be back sooner or later, the siren song of Molly's bed and his body is near impossible to ignore.
either way Zevran is getting a response in a picture of Molly wearing said chain, a white cotton shirt unbuttoned to his navel, and the colorful shawl that Lycaon had gotten him. oh, and the following voice message: ]
No need to be coy. I know a little bird spilled the beans. Regardless I quite like it, so thank you. It would've been a thousand times better if you gave it to me in person with, oh I don't know, breakfast in bed or something to that affect.
[There's one more among the presents left on Molly's doorstep for his birthday. It's an iridescent sparkly gift bag, with only tissue paper visible from the top, but it's quite heavy. Inside are two bottles of liqueur, one plum and one pomegranate, and a little box of something called "Brew Glitter" which appears to be food-grade glitter meant to mix into cocktails.
There is a card with this gift. In addition to the printed text, a note is neatly handwritten inside it:]
Did you know they stopped making that glittery drink from a few years back? I found the ingredients to make your own, instead. Feel free to show off whenever you'd like.
[ it takes Molly a little bit to read the card (about as long as it took him to read the note Lycaon had left him in his gift) but he does manage it! it goes over quite well, giving the tiefling enough of a laugh that he decides to put it on his coffee table in a place of pride.
alas it isn't visible in the picture that Molly sends Caleb in response some hours later; wide-eyed, grinning ear to ear, a smear of glitter decorating his neck as he holds a cocktail possessing some of that same glitter up to see. Caleb did say he could show off anytime he wanted and, well, Molly had decided he had been sober for a touch too long when he took that photo. ]
[ On the table, Molly would eventually find a letter. Attached to the letter is a black card with numbers on it and Molly's name. It certainly looks like a credit card or a bank card, but not of the normal flavor. Of course, since it's a letter, there is an audio message sent along to his phone around the time that Molly would discover the letter, just in case some of it is hard to read. ]
Mollymauk,
I did say I would repay you once your birthday came around, and I never miss an appointed notice time. First, happy birthday. You've made it another year and have grown older for it. See it as your revenge to the world. Every moment you persist against the ideals or intentions of others is a win for yourself. So treat the days and years with the reverie you deserve.
As for your gift, I left it with the letter. There isn't a limit. Even if you just flash the card with no intention to spend, you will be treated a prince. Money talks, as they say. Just remember to carry yourself with the air of someone who should have it. If there's ever a problem, call me and I will handle it.
Otherwise, this is my so-called revenge for everything that happened on my day. You gave me your key and stability, so in return I give you an asset I know I'm able to share with you. Saying it that way, it almost seems my 'gift' is a blending of lives. Perhaps you can see it that way if that's what you wish.
I'm sure Lycaon has also given you something far more personal, so I didn't want to clash with his talent for handcrafted, thoughtful gifts. The last thing I'd ever want is to clash with that dog. However, if I must compete with him even in this arena, I will make sure to perform in a way only I can.
[ he is all for surprises (not really but he's choosing to overlook all that today) but he honestly hoped he'd be able to at least catch one. but alas, each one of his dear friends slipped through his fingers and left behind their gifts leaving him to wrestle with the resulting feelings all on his own.
how utterly terrible of them! on his birthday no less!
what Mollymauk won't say out loud is that he is glad for it, what he won't say out loud is each of the gifts touched him deeply, leaving him feeling venerable and exposed. it's Hugo's gift that leaves him feeling all of that the worst of all. he damns the vampire with curses he doesn't mean, curses himself for not catching the devious thief in the act. it was for the best, if he had caught Hugo in the act then they'd be forced to confront the bubbling torrent of emotions building in Mollymauk's chest and no one wants that, do they?
(they're looking after each other with their gifts and that is what strikes Molly deep in his core.)
so it's only after he's gathered himself, after he's wrapped himself in the shawl and watched Frumpkin make a little nest out of the scarf Lia made, that he finds it in himself to send Hugo an audio message in response. ]
Well, the scoreboard currently stands at Lycaon: 1, Hugo: 3. His gift was indeed personal and thoughtful but yours managed to make me shed a tear. Multiple tears.
[ Molly laughs, desperately trying to cover the emotion still in his voice. ]
I don't think 'thank you' covers it, love. For the first time in my life I'm at a loss for words.
[Molly will once again be denied of catching Lycaon in the act of giving a gift. Most likely because Butler was the one who delivered it (Using the key Molly gave Lycaon. Praise him on his stealth, Robin's been teaching him in their spare time). It's not anything big as far as size goes. It's a little bucket that can be used to hold anything. it can be an ice bucket for wine, or to hold trinkets, or even if you wanted to make a vase out of it.
Inside the bucket with the crimped confetti for padding are two bags. One is a bag of Christmas Themed Puppy Chowwrapped with a purple bow at the top. Inside the bag is a card that displays the name of the treat, with a little drawn wolf. The second bag, separated in half by cardstock, are treats for Frumpkin and Daisy respectively. Daisy uses berries that he learned Litleo like, thanks to Rika's help in researching.
Second, there's a candle with its scent labeled Plumeria & Sandalwood. Weird and a bit store-bought for Lycaon's tastes...
Third is a recipe for blueberry pancakes. Not the same one that Lycaon made that one morning after Molly's decision to stick around, but a simplified one for a man with simple cooking skills could make if he were feeling daring.
Fourth is a small bottle about half the size of an index finger, with a chain attached about necklace length. Inside the bottle is a tuft of white fur.
If one were to look underneath that little bottle, there's an enveloped note:]
Check your phone.
[Lycaon knows that reading isn't Molly's strong suit just yet, so an audio recording has been texted to him. If he hits play...]
Mollymauk,
I know it is your goal to try and catch me in the act of giving these gifts, but I simply cannot yield. Especially now, for I feel I would likely die of embarrassment. I'm sure Butler succeeded in dropping this off. Please let him know next time you see him that he did a wonderful job. I try to encourage positive reinforcement.
I wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas. You are not one for gifts or holidays, but please make another exception, if you would.
The first bag of treats is for you and Zevran to share. I learned of this treat when I was in purgatory, oddly enough, and the name seemed quite amusing. It's called Puppy Chow, and its chocolate and peanut butter melted over checkered rice cereal, and then tossed in powdered sugar. I've put pretzels and some peppermint in as well to help balance out the sweet. The other bag is treats for Frumpkin, and Daisy as well, if you visit Caleb. I split them in half so you do not have to worry about them being mixed up.
The candle...I bet looks very strange coming from me. Truth is I spent quite a bit of time searching the stores for such a candle. It's a bit embarrassing to admit, and I'm sure you'll laugh about it...but this is your scent. Wolfmen can detect the scent of a person beyond just their cologne. It's the scent of one's self, if you can imagine it that way. So you can understand why it took me some time to find this one. Because this scent belongs only to you. It is not something Lucien can have, or take from you. This scent proves you are Mollymauk Tealeaf and no one else.
The recipe...Well, Zevran can cook, so if you would like pancakes when I am not there, I've made a recipe. It's not the same one as the ones I prepared for you that fateful morning, but more of a simplified version. I of course will always be ready to make them for you.
The final item is a tuft of fur from my ears. I don't know if one could call it a good luck charm like a rabbit's foot or protection, but I hope you keep it nearby. You have a wolf's protection, and this is proof of it. Please don't feel like you should wear it, I only attached the chain so that it wouldn't look so empty.
I...admit that I do not have the shared history that you and Hugo have. Hugo understands you better than I could. It's something that you only learn through shared strife together. If that's the case, I would rather be in the dark about those details of your life if it meant saving you another one of those moments. So instead I will gift the way I know how. I will continue to give homemade food. I will continue to nag you to make better life choices. And I will continue to roll my eyes at your flirtations.
That is the way that I, Lycaon, will give.
Merry Christmas, Molly.
Your stalwart ally and friend, as always, Lycaon.
By the way. Your moon sign for 2026 is the Frost Moon, Waning Crescent. It symbolizes a period of rest. I hope you take that to heart and enjoy the peace you have earned for yourself. I know you won't completely, that's not your style. But it is something to keep in mind.
[ Molly lamented before about not being able to catch anyone when they were dropping off gifts. So, this time, Hugo didn't merely leave them on the table and disappear. Gratitude and emotion may still be a weird spot, but he would rather give Molly this one thing.
Thus, once evening after dark, Hugo sends Molly a message. Maybe the Tiefling had left to take a shower or maybe just left the main space for just a moment, but that was when his phone buzzes. ]
To the living room, please.
[ As one would expect, there wasn't any noise. The sound of the door opening or the lock being undone never resounded. Yet there was a blond man sitting on the couch with one leg over the over, his hands folded on his knee. Three gifts sat on the table, facing outward, wrapped in colorful paper and a red ribbon.]
[ a hot shower is always nice on those colder nights, which is exactly what he was doing when he hears his phone's text notification go off. he finishes up quickly, drying himself off enough to toss on his favorite pair of stripped pants and a loose fitting shirt with a deep v neck. that's about as far as he gets with dressing, upon seeing the message and who it was from Mollymauk forgoes socks and any other layers for making a beeline to the living room half expecting it to be empty of a blond haired vampire.
so to say he is pleasantly surprised to see Hugo seated comfortably on the couch is something of a understatement. happy? yes, most definitely if the excited way his tail flicks behind him is any indicator to how he feels. ]
Hey there, handsome.
[ Molly's gaze flicks over the man himself, then to the coffee table and the three gifts sitting patiently upon it. he raises an eyebrow as he pads over leaning down, hand hovering centimetres away. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
August 1; Text; un: lycaon ; Private; Extra Layer of Encryption;
[He knows he is courting death with the dude possessed by Thanatos for this, but he'll happily accept it.]
His birthday is August 20th. Do with that what you will.
I simply want him to face the reality that he is wanted among his loved ones.
1/2
no subject
he has to read over it a couple of times (in part to make sure he is reading it correctly, and in part because he well... literacy isn't exactly his strongest suit) before he replies.
Hugo's birthday is this month. August 20th. knowing the man he won't be thrilled about this knowledge being shared, but Molly is terribly pleased. ]
weve never discussed birthdays and all that
its one of those things you leave in the past
but thank you my good man i promise not to use this new knowledge to shower our dear friend
with all the love and affection he so rightly deserves ;)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
1/2
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
text |un; mockingbird - after.. well, you know.
no subject
so
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
> action.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
Text; un:lycaon, a little while later
But he couldn't wait too long--his pacing would likely cause dents in the floor from his legs.
He tries to give them as much time as possible, before sending a simple text.]
How are you faring?
no subject
Molly's glad for it, really, glad for the support he's somehow found in both Hugo and Lycaon. he really fucked up tangling himself up in them both, haha. ]
you saw it too huh?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
1/3
2/3
3/3
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
...
early September; text; un: gingerly
no subject
text -> action
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
...
action; backdated to the August prophecy post
Unfortunately, while Molly said he wasn't picky... Lia really would've preferred to bring him something to his tastes, and that left her with indecision paralysis... Eventually, she just grabbed a box set of a series she had on hand and a couple movies and shoved those along with her Switch into her bag.
As far as food went... honestly, they could probably just order takeout or something. This did not mean Lia was going to show up empty-handed, she did have some cookies she made earlier (lemon and blueberry ones, because listen, when you have a lot of summer fruit to get rid of...).
At least the simple part was actually getting to Molly's apartment. Never mind the quick detour she took. The detour was vital. For reasons.
All in all, despite the delays, it did not actually take her long to show up and knock on the door.]
no subject
he practically jumps out of his skin when he hears the knock at his door, taking a second to remember that it could really only be Lia. he has to move Frumpkin from his lap as he gets up but the ghost cat resettles pretty much immediately. ]
Hey there, Sunflower.
[ he opens the door with a smile that doesn't quite reach his eyes, he takes a step back and motions for her to come inside. ]
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
Text; un: devilchild
no subject
it's in that fumble that he hits the video function revealing one lavender tiefling missing his usual makeup and messy hair. ]
Hugo! Gods I thought I wouldn't see you again... Are you... [ okay sits heavily on his tongue, unable to leave. ] Lycaon's with you, yeah? I tried to contact him but he didn't answer even when I told him that I lost you.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
Voice; Attached Audio File; After the Horror Event
It takes him a day to recover mentally. He had to take a shower and get his fur back to 'decent' before he could do any networking. It would take multiple washings and a conditioning regiment before it would be back to the softness he desired. But for now it would do.
The call does not come until late, and should Molly still be at his home, he'll likely have seen Hugo again.]
Mollymauk,
You have likely already spoken with Hugo, and seen his return. I am writing to let you know I have also returned, and have gone back to Meropide for the rest of my stay. It appears I left you in quite the panicked state, with no way to contact you and for your messages to go unanswered. I could not apologize more for that.
[A pause.]
I will understand if you are cross with me.
[Partially because of disappearing, partially because he feels responsible for what went down.]
I have not had much time over the past few days, but please click on this link I am texting you.
[There's a little 'bleep!'--the notification sound for a text. Should Molly see it, there's a link in there.]
lycaon.mp3
I apologize that I could not find a phone book on such short notice. I scoured what I could of Meropide, but to no avail. I only hope that a recipe for cheesecake will do. One of the kind people of Meropide showed me how to send this file properly. So please, listen to it should you ever need to hear my voice.
I promise, I will never allow such a thing to happen again.
...Thank you, for looking out for Hugo.
[He hangs up.]
no subject
Why would I be angry at you? Don't be stupid. I'm not angry at you or at Hugo, neither of you chose to just up and disappear did you?
[ he's angry at himself, for being unable to stop it, for not being able to find them. he convinced himself he'd failed again, that he lost them, and there was nothing he could do to get them back. ]
I'm going to make you make this cake for me later, but thank you. I'll keep this in my back pocket in case of emergencies.
As for Hugo? Love, you don't have to thank me for looking out for him. I think we've established that no matter what I'll always be there for him and for you. Just let me know when you're back home, okay? I've got cookies to give you, Caleb's a surprisingly good baker.
[ and totally wasn't stress baking, not at all. ]
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
text; some time after The Beach Episode
[It's embarrassing, what happened, okay. It's embarrassing and the way he'd flown off the handle made him reconsider these attempts at friendship. Especially when circumstances then leave you as the last man standing out of them. Again.]
Greetings.
[That's painfully formal, and Zevran even winces typing it.]
My apologies, I did not intend to part ways unannounced. Do not worry - all is fine. Although... I am now on my feet, as they say.
So, that said, I am sure you would like your home back. Please, do not worry, I intend to pay for the hospitality. I mean no offense, you have been very generous. More than you must be, but it is time, I think.
[Because I don't want to be reminded losing friends hurts by being around friends.]
Thank you, truly. But I will not trouble you further, dear Molly.
no subject
good job, Mollymauk. you did amazing.
it takes him about ten minutes to pick up his phone again and reply, beyond glad for whatever program converts his words into text so Zervan can't hear the sound of his voice. ]
first off - you've never been a trouble, so cut that shit out immediately
second - i won't beg you to stay if you don't want to if you have to go you have to go
but let me come see you first, yeah?
[ because he has a terrible, sinking feeling that Zervan's disappearance was exactly like Lycaon and Hugo's. ]
you've got to say goodbye to frumpkin or he'll never forgive you
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
text > action.
action.
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
Delivery!; Nov 4th; Morning
After an evening in the kitchen and with some gift wrapping magic, he finishes, sa
Not one to be late, he asks Butler to deliver the gift. Unlike the telltale steps of metallic feet, Butler could move quite stealthily, and he's able to drop the gift off in its rightful place outside of Mollymauk's apartment door on the handle.
The gift bag is decently sized, and looking at it, it's not a 'gift bag' at all, but a leather tote one could use in everyday wear with pockets and a sizable interior. Practically overflowing out the side is a rather cozy looking, brightly colored shawl, crocheted. Lycaon unfortunately didn't have the time to learn to do this himself, but he found a wonderful artisan in the city.
The treats, however, were a Lycaon special. In a nice celophane gift bag were a colourful assortment of gummy dice. Lycaon had remembered Molly saying he wanted some quality gummies, and he kept that in mind as he was making them. One taste will show they're made of fruit puree with the gelatin, but not only that, if you bite into them, they will have sweetened fruit juice inside (rich people Gushers). Not only THAT. But the flavour? Will not match the flavour of the gummy.
Mismatched, chaotic, and a surprise each time. Just like Molly.
There's also some Plumeria scented lotion inside, as he can only imagine how stiff those horns must get in the cold. And finally, some loose leaf lavender tea. Please relax.
And finally, a note, with a bit of rosemary attached. It's handwritten, but it will also have a text sent at conveniently the same time should Molly need the text to voice to read it.]
Mollymauk,
I deeply apologize that this is all I can do for your birthday in the immediate. With everything that had occurred in October, as well as my isolation in Meropide, I did not have the tools to assemble something the way I intended. I hope you will forgive me, and I will do better next year.
I say next year, because I know you will still be here. You've found your roots and you've really started to show how much this city has changed you. You've even taken in someone like yourself, and offered them a home. I could not be more proud of how far you've come since we've met.
Naturally, I want to thank you again for everything you've done for Hugo. I truly do not think he would've arrived at Kaisou, nor have been in a state where he would've spoken to me had it not been for you. To say that you probably kept him from the darkest corners of his mind is an understatement. I am truly in your debt for this, even if you will likely argue this.
But more importantly, thank you for giving this city a chance. It won't let you down. Hugo and I won't let you down.
You are an essential part of this city now, so grow strong, and use those branches to do what they do best. Give others shade.
Have a wonderful birthday.
-Lycaon 🌙
P.S. I did the honour of telling Caleb your birthday, seeing as you did not do so yourself. I cannot shield you from any sort of face he will make at you.
[The note ends.]
no subject
it was nice, if not a little unsettling. the lack of swift retribution felt like an axe hanging dangerously close to his delicious, delicious neck so it all left Mollymauk more than a little on edge. at least that is how he felt until he found the leather tote hanging from his apartment's doorknob and the brightly colored shawl resting inside of it.
that... bastardous, sweet, wonderful wolfman─ because this was Lycaon's doing, it practically screamed that was Lycaon's doing and it was the gummies that ratted him out before he even got to the note! naturally the note, and the conveniently timed text, would have lifted the veil on that little mystery if his sleep addled mind hadn't caught on earlier.
it's only after he consumed his morning coffee and washed his face that Molly actually sits to read the note (it takes him far longer than he'd openly admit, but he reads it) and wraps himself up in his new shawl. it's strange having someone say they are proud of him, people don't say that to devils. they don't say that to liars or cheats or the veritable incubus there to drain you dry pleasure and consume you soul─ ah, but Lycaon isn't just people, is he?
he is a moon to a not-so-distant star, close but just out of reach, and Molly wants nothing more than to just bask in their light.
1pm is the exact time that Lycaon gets a picture of Molly in a loose cotton shirt and the shawl, alongside a message: ]
if i'm being honest (and we'll blame my sobriety for this surge of honesty) i didn't expect anything from you
from any of you really
so this was a pleasant surprise and i don't what to do with all the terrible feelings you've stirred up in me
you monster
in all seriousness, you thank people from gifts and these are probably the best gifts i've ever gotten in my life so thank you lycaon
thank you for the bag and the shawl and the gummies and
everything
you're right by the way i am going to argue with you over thanking me again for hugo
it's only natural to help the people you love and part of me fell in love with him years ago
i think that same part of me is what you managed to wrap around your finger so damn fast
would explain a lot really
thanks for the gifts again
thanks for making a day i'd usually go through high off my kite actually worth remembering
when you've got some time you should drop by so i can thank you personally
and you can see that i've been keeping the kitchen clean
- m.t
p.s you're a bastard
but thank you
i appreciate it
(no subject)
November 4th, delivery + voice message (un: petaltothemetal)
Delivering it is simple enough. She leaves a box outside Molly's door, one containing a trio of glass jars that have been decorated with various pressed flowers, tealight candles in two of those jars (one actually contains two candles) and the third contains a pair of bracelets made with leather cord and sea glass. There's a colorful scarf (one with a pocket sewn into it!) wrapped around the jars as if to cushion them.
The box also contains a second box, actually--this particular box contains a chocolate mud cake.
And rather than a note, she'll just leave a message over Gemini:]
Hi, Molly, happy birthday. I left your gift outside your door. Thank you for being around and for being my friend. Here's to many more birthdays in the future.
no subject
still he holds these gifts to his chest as if they are the most precious gifts in the world, giving himself a few hours to sort out his emotions before sending a quick message to Lia in response. ]
Thank you, Sunflower. You're an absolute gift I didn't know I needed until I met you.
choo choo birthday train + voicemail;
Lycaon, but a little bird told him that today just happened to be an important day for his roommate. So there's a simple chain set where Molly is sure to find it. Normally he'd leave a note, and just bail, but...][He'll just leave a quick and easy voicemail and bail, instead.]
[Smart decisions with Zevran!]
If you find something in the apartment, please, take it. I ah. Received it from an admirer and thought it to be more to your liking. If not? Perhaps it is worth some money.
It is yours now.
no subject
you can run but they both know that he'll be back sooner or later, the siren song of Molly's bed and his body is near impossible to ignore.
either way Zevran is getting a response in a picture of Molly wearing said chain, a white cotton shirt unbuttoned to his navel, and the colorful shawl that Lycaon had gotten him. oh, and the following voice message: ]
No need to be coy. I know a little bird spilled the beans. Regardless I quite like it, so thank you. It would've been a thousand times better if you gave it to me in person with, oh I don't know, breakfast in bed or something to that affect.
Maybe next year, hmm?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
11/4
There is a card with this gift. In addition to the printed text, a note is neatly handwritten inside it:]
Did you know they stopped making that glittery drink from a few years back? I found the ingredients to make your own, instead. Feel free to show off whenever you'd like.
no subject
alas it isn't visible in the picture that Molly sends Caleb in response some hours later; wide-eyed, grinning ear to ear, a smear of glitter decorating his neck as he holds a cocktail possessing some of that same glitter up to see. Caleb did say he could show off anytime he wanted and, well, Molly had decided he had been sober for a touch too long when he took that photo. ]
you should come by for drinks sometime magic man
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
backdated to 11/4 now that my hand is better
Mollymauk,
I did say I would repay you once your birthday came around, and I never miss an appointed notice time. First, happy birthday. You've made it another year and have grown older for it. See it as your revenge to the world. Every moment you persist against the ideals or intentions of others is a win for yourself. So treat the days and years with the reverie you deserve.
As for your gift, I left it with the letter. There isn't a limit. Even if you just flash the card with no intention to spend, you will be treated a prince. Money talks, as they say. Just remember to carry yourself with the air of someone who should have it. If there's ever a problem, call me and I will handle it.
Otherwise, this is my so-called revenge for everything that happened on my day. You gave me your key and stability, so in return I give you an asset I know I'm able to share with you. Saying it that way, it almost seems my 'gift' is a blending of lives. Perhaps you can see it that way if that's what you wish.
I'm sure Lycaon has also given you something far more personal, so I didn't want to clash with his talent for handcrafted, thoughtful gifts. The last thing I'd ever want is to clash with that dog. However, if I must compete with him even in this arena, I will make sure to perform in a way only I can.
- Vlad:
no subject
how utterly terrible of them! on his birthday no less!
what Mollymauk won't say out loud is that he is glad for it, what he won't say out loud is each of the gifts touched him deeply, leaving him feeling venerable and exposed. it's Hugo's gift that leaves him feeling all of that the worst of all. he damns the vampire with curses he doesn't mean, curses himself for not catching the devious thief in the act. it was for the best, if he had caught Hugo in the act then they'd be forced to confront the bubbling torrent of emotions building in Mollymauk's chest and no one wants that, do they?
(they're looking after each other with their gifts and that is what strikes Molly deep in his core.)
so it's only after he's gathered himself, after he's wrapped himself in the shawl and watched Frumpkin make a little nest out of the scarf Lia made, that he finds it in himself to send Hugo an audio message in response. ]
Well, the scoreboard currently stands at Lycaon: 1, Hugo: 3. His gift was indeed personal and thoughtful but yours managed to make me shed a tear. Multiple tears.
[ Molly laughs, desperately trying to cover the emotion still in his voice. ]
I don't think 'thank you' covers it, love. For the first time in my life I'm at a loss for words.
audio call
(no subject)
Christmas Delivery 12/25;
Inside the bucket with the crimped confetti for padding are two bags. One is a bag of Christmas Themed Puppy Chowwrapped with a purple bow at the top. Inside the bag is a card that displays the name of the treat, with a little drawn wolf. The second bag, separated in half by cardstock, are treats for Frumpkin and Daisy respectively. Daisy uses berries that he learned Litleo like, thanks to Rika's help in researching.
Second, there's a candle with its scent labeled Plumeria & Sandalwood. Weird and a bit store-bought for Lycaon's tastes...
Third is a recipe for blueberry pancakes. Not the same one that Lycaon made that one morning after Molly's decision to stick around, but a simplified one for a man with simple cooking skills could make if he were feeling daring.
Fourth is a small bottle about half the size of an index finger, with a chain attached about necklace length. Inside the bottle is a tuft of white fur.
If one were to look underneath that little bottle, there's an enveloped note:]
Check your phone.
[Lycaon knows that reading isn't Molly's strong suit just yet, so an audio recording has been texted to him. If he hits play...]
Mollymauk,
I know it is your goal to try and catch me in the act of giving these gifts, but I simply cannot yield. Especially now, for I feel I would likely die of embarrassment. I'm sure Butler succeeded in dropping this off. Please let him know next time you see him that he did a wonderful job. I try to encourage positive reinforcement.
I wanted to wish you a Merry Christmas. You are not one for gifts or holidays, but please make another exception, if you would.
The first bag of treats is for you and Zevran to share. I learned of this treat when I was in purgatory, oddly enough, and the name seemed quite amusing. It's called Puppy Chow, and its chocolate and peanut butter melted over checkered rice cereal, and then tossed in powdered sugar. I've put pretzels and some peppermint in as well to help balance out the sweet. The other bag is treats for Frumpkin, and Daisy as well, if you visit Caleb. I split them in half so you do not have to worry about them being mixed up.
The candle...I bet looks very strange coming from me. Truth is I spent quite a bit of time searching the stores for such a candle. It's a bit embarrassing to admit, and I'm sure you'll laugh about it...but this is your scent. Wolfmen can detect the scent of a person beyond just their cologne. It's the scent of one's self, if you can imagine it that way. So you can understand why it took me some time to find this one. Because this scent belongs only to you. It is not something Lucien can have, or take from you. This scent proves you are Mollymauk Tealeaf and no one else.
The recipe...Well, Zevran can cook, so if you would like pancakes when I am not there, I've made a recipe. It's not the same one as the ones I prepared for you that fateful morning, but more of a simplified version. I of course will always be ready to make them for you.
The final item is a tuft of fur from my ears. I don't know if one could call it a good luck charm like a rabbit's foot or protection, but I hope you keep it nearby. You have a wolf's protection, and this is proof of it. Please don't feel like you should wear it, I only attached the chain so that it wouldn't look so empty.
I...admit that I do not have the shared history that you and Hugo have. Hugo understands you better than I could. It's something that you only learn through shared strife together. If that's the case, I would rather be in the dark about those details of your life if it meant saving you another one of those moments. So instead I will gift the way I know how. I will continue to give homemade food. I will continue to nag you to make better life choices. And I will continue to roll my eyes at your flirtations.
That is the way that I, Lycaon, will give.
Merry Christmas, Molly.
Your stalwart ally and friend, as always, Lycaon.
By the way. Your moon sign for 2026 is the Frost Moon, Waning Crescent. It symbolizes a period of rest. I hope you take that to heart and enjoy the peace you have earned for yourself. I know you won't completely, that's not your style. But it is something to keep in mind.
At some point in December idk
Thus, once evening after dark, Hugo sends Molly a message. Maybe the Tiefling had left to take a shower or maybe just left the main space for just a moment, but that was when his phone buzzes. ]
To the living room, please.
[ As one would expect, there wasn't any noise. The sound of the door opening or the lock being undone never resounded. Yet there was a blond man sitting on the couch with one leg over the over, his hands folded on his knee. Three gifts sat on the table, facing outward, wrapped in colorful paper and a red ribbon.]
no subject
so to say he is pleasantly surprised to see Hugo seated comfortably on the couch is something of a understatement. happy? yes, most definitely if the excited way his tail flicks behind him is any indicator to how he feels. ]
Hey there, handsome.
[ Molly's gaze flicks over the man himself, then to the coffee table and the three gifts sitting patiently upon it. he raises an eyebrow as he pads over leaning down, hand hovering centimetres away. ]
These for me?
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
(no subject)
During Barcelona
no subject
of course i do i love souvenirs
surprise me with something fun ;)
(no subject)
(no subject)