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fluffy-ami · 2 years ago

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Dare to be Bold

AN: Wowie this was a lot longer than I intended it to be, at almost 10k words! I loved writing this so much, it was a blast. Thanks for the prompts y’all, you help me feed my critical role fixation. Spent all day reading & tweaking this, so here it is fresh outta the oven!

The Mighty Nein were all intrigued by Essek to say the least. He was mild mannered, composed, quiet, and nice enough… There had to be another side to him, one where he wasn’t the perfect image that he portrayed when people were around. He had to relax and let his guard down sometime. He had to act like a real person instead of the stuffy shadowhand charged with keeping tabs on them.

He only ever stopped by on business. Checking up on them, giving them a new task; it was never just to hang out. The longest he’d stay at their house was to teach Caleb new spells, and the fellow wizard was the only one he’d spend quality time with.

There had to be more to him. He has a favorite food, a favorite song, a secret birthmark somewhere, he has his own life separate from work. Or at least that’s what Jester was sure of. She really wanted him to be their friend instead of strictly business partners, but he seemed dead set of keeping their relationship distant and professional. He was gathering his things and was about to head out the door when Jester spoke up.

“How come you never stay? I feel like I barely know you,” she mused, propping her face in her hands. He let out a warm chuckle.

“And I’d prefer to keep it that way. I’m a busy man, surely you understand,” he said with a small smile.

“What’s your favorite color?” she asked, cocking her head to the side. His patient smile grew slightly more genuine. “Navy blue.”

“What’s your favorite season?”

“I don’t think I have one, really.”

“What’s like, the weirdest dream you’ve ever had?”

“Does she always ask this many questions?” Essek asked with slight amusement.

“Ah, only sometimes,” Caleb said, sharing an amused look with Jester. She just beamed up at him.

“Well I want to know some things about him. I’m sorry Essek, but right now your personality is like cardboard.” Caleb’s jaw dropped in disbelief and embarrassment as Essek dipped his head down to try and hide his amusement.

“Jester!”

“What? It’s the truth, he always acts so proper and boring, like it’s such a chore to come see us,” she whined.

“That’s because it is his job,” Caleb said, fixing her with a look. She merely giggled.

“It’s alright Caleb. I’m just, more serious and professional than what you’re used to,” he said to Jester.

“Hey, I can be serious too ya know,” she said, schooling her features into a tough expression. Essek merely nodded, eyebrows raised.

“Oh I’m sure you are. After all, I don’t think you all could survive the work you do if you were so foolish all the time,” he teased. She scoffed indignantly, but a wide smile was in place.

“Wow, I didn’t think you even knew how to tease someone. That was really good,” she giggled, holding out her hand for a high five. He looked at her hand, casting a quick glance at Caleb before turning away and opening the door.

“Yes well, thank you. Have a good day.”

“Why not stay for dinner? You’ve never taken us up on the offer and Caduceus is a really good cook.”

“I’m afraid I’m busy tonight. But I have another lesson with Caleb tomorrow, I’ll see if I can clear my schedule then.” She gasped and jumped up from her seat in excitement.

“Oh my gosh, really? Waaait… you’re not just saying that to make me shut up, are you?” she asked incredulously. Caleb shot her another look, which she ignored.

“Not at all Miss Lavorre. I am a man of my word,” he said.

“Alright, leave him be, you’ve pestered him long enough,” Caleb chastised.

“You just want him all to yourself so he can teach you cool wizard shit,” she said pointedly.

“Exactly. Now shoo,” he teased, waving her away.

“Bye Essek!” she chirped, rushing forth to wrap him in a hug before he could escape. He let out a startled laugh, hesitantly wrapping his arms around her and giving her back an awkward pat.

“Ah that’s right you are rather… affectionate,” he said, pausing to find the right word.

“Damn right I am!” She punctuate her words with a playful poke to his side, causing him to stiffen up and suck in a startled breath.

“Right then. S-see you tomorrow,” he said, slipping out of her grasp and through the door with little more than a wave. When Caleb turned back around, Jester was staring at him with an excited, shocked expression.

“Uh oh, that’s never a good look,” he said, meeting her gaze.

“Caleb, did you see what I just saw?” she asked excitedly.

“I’m going to go out on a limb and say no.”

“I think Essek might be ticklish!” she exclaimed. Caleb did a double take towards the door, blinking in confusion. He turned back to her, brows furrowed and smirking.

“I’m sorry, you lost me. Just how did you come to this conclusion?” he asked, cocking his head to the side.

“Just now when I poked him, he jerked away and got like, super still. And I heard him gasp like he wanted to laugh but was holding back,” she explained. Caleb rubbed his temple.

“Or more likely, he is a man of great importance and high status and is not accustom to weirdos like us touching him all the time, ja? I like my reasoning better.” She rolled her eye with a pout.

“Oh come on Caleb, don’t be such a buzz kill! Mama always said, everyone’s ticklish somewhere, you just gotta try the right spot!” Caleb’s eyes went wide and he shook his head.

“Nein Jester, I know what you’re thinking. You cannot test this out,” he said sternly. Jester deflated.

“But whyyyy?”

“Many reasons why. For starters, he could put in a bad word with the Bright Queen. He is a powerful and well respected man who deserves that respect, and who might retaliate if we upset him. He could kick us out of this new lovely home, or punish us for crossing a boundary-”

“Wow Caleb, could you come up with any more bad scenarios?” she asked in a mocking tone.

“I am merely thinking logically.”

“But he stuttered Caleb! When has he ever stuttered?” she asked, desperate to make her point. Caleb cocked his head in thought.

“Never. Okay, so maybe you have a point. But you can’t just go after him out of the blue like this,” he decided.

“Okay but what if, like, someone he liked tested it out?” she asked innocently.

“Then that excludes all of us, case closed,” he said pointedly.

“Well, he seems to like you…” she said sweetly, swaying from side to side. Realization dawned on Caleb’s face and he shook his head.

“Oh no. No, I will not be a pawn in this little game of yours.”

“Pleeeeaaaase? He’d probably like, break my wrist if I even tried.”

“Ja, and I don’t want mine to be broken either,” he scolded.

“He’d never do that to you though. You two have this growing bond, I can sense these things.” Her words caused a blush to spread over his cheeks, lips pressed together.

“N-no, I don’t know what you think we do in there but it is strictly work. He’s taught me a few spells and we talk about magic. That is the extent of our relationship,” he said.

“Wow, you two sound like the most boring people ever,” she said, flipping a lock of hair. Caleb scoffed, shoving her lightly.

“I’ll have you know it’s actually very fascinating.”

“Not as fascinating as the fact he might be ticklish!” Jester insisted. Beauregard and Fjord just happened to be walking by and inserted themselves into the conversation.

“Who, Caleb?” Beau teased, scratching along his sides from behind making him squeal and arch his back. He shot her a glare as they all laughed.

“No silly, everyone knows Caleb’s ticklish,” Jester giggled, causing a noise of protest from said wizard. “I’m talking about Essek!” This piqued both their interests.

“No fuckin’ way, Essek’s ticklish?” Beauregard asked, excitement and disbelief clear in her voice. She wore a wide, dangerous smile and a mischievous gleam in her eye.

“Weeeell, we don’t actually know like, for sure, but he totally squeaked when I poked him! I was just convincing Caleb to try it out tomorrow when he has his next lesson,” she chirped.

“Ah, you were not convincing me of doing anything,” Caleb denied. The monk sighed, shoulders sagging in disappointment.

“C'mon man, what’s the worst that could happen? Just, y'know, take one of your quills and run it over those stupid long ears of his, it’s not that hard,” she reasoned.

“For starters, he could get very mad at me and never share any spells with me ever again. Or worse, he could use them against me. You seem to have forgotten that he has the potential to be a very dangerous man, a man who we know next to nothing about,” Caleb insisted. “Fjord, back me up on this.”

Fjord was quietly listening, mulling over the possibilities in his head. “You’ve got a point, we don’t really know what he’s about.”

“See?” Caleb said, gesturing to Fjord and giving both Jester and Beauregard a smug, “I’m right” look. A look that faded upon hearing the following words from Fjord’s mouth.

“Which is why I think it would be interesting if we were to find out,” he continued with a smirk. Jester yelled in triumph and gave him a high five that left a satisfying sting.

“I don’t think there’d be any harm in finding out,” Beau shrugged.

“Well I do.”

“Come on Caleb, don’t be such a stick in the mud. I dare you to tickle Essek tomorrow,” Jester said, grinning so wide her face was practically split in two. Caleb’s eyes bugged out of his head, a red blush painting his cheeks.

“Excuse me?”

“I double dog dare you!” she cried, tail wagging mischievously behind her.

“Nein,” he shook his head, adamant in his stance.

“I triple dog dare you!”

Caleb was unable to fight off the amused smile on his face. “Still no.”

“It’s okay Caleb. I don’t think any of us actually thought you’d go through with it anyways,” Beauregard said in a patronizing tone, patting his back. He reared back to look at her.

“And what the hell does that mean?”

She tilted her head side to side, shoulders hunched slightly. “Eeeehh, nothing. But you’re not exactly known for being bold and playful.”

“Well fuck you too, I’m plenty bold,” he snapped defensively. Fjord was quick to diffuse the situation.

“Uh, what I think Beau means is that you’re not one to stir the pot. Unless of course you’re provoked,” he winked, slinging an arm over his shoulders and giving him a gentle shake.

“And are you trying to provoke me right now?” he asked, arching a brow. Fjord would be lying if he said the anxious twitch of Caleb’s fingers didn’t awaken his fight or flight instinct.

“Why don’t you keep that energy focused on Essek,” he advised, stepping away from him nonetheless.

“See Caleb? You’re totally a tickle monster when you want to be!” Jester cooed. His blush returned and he adverted his gaze to the ground, but he sported a sly smile.

“I know, you speak from experience,” he teased. Jester let out a muffled squeak, wrapping her arms around her belly.

“Shut uuuup! This isn’t about me!”

“Honestly, I don’t even know why you all care so much. Fine, I will ask him.”

Beauregard shook her head, arms crossed over her chest. “Uh uh, he’ll just lie. You gotta test it.” The smirk she wore was downright wicked, and Caleb was relieved that it wasn’t directed at him for once.

“Sheisse. Alright I will. Are you happy now?” he asked, more frustrated and flustered than he was at the beginning of this conversation.

“I’ll be satisfied if you actually go through with it.”

“What, do you think I’m going to chicken out or something?”

“Uh yeah, that’s exactly what I think,” Beau said with a wide, teasing grin. “In fact, I bet five gold you won’t actually do it,” she said smugly.

“I’ll second that,” Fjord said with a nod, raising two fingers to signal that he was in on the bet as well. Caleb stared between them in shock.

“Are you serious right now?” he asked, mouth slightly agape.

“Dead serious.”

“Good, as am I. Tomorrow, you will see that I didn’t chicken out and I will be ten gold richer,” he said matter of factly.

“We’ll see about that,” Fjord joined in on the teasing.

“Just wait, at around 3:30 you will most likely hear a lot of laughter come from my room. And if you don’t, assume he killed me for even trying,” he said, only half joking.

“That’s the spirit! Oooh I can’t wait!” Jester cried with excitement.

Of course she immediately rushed off to spread the news to the rest of their group, giddy with excitement. Needless to say, everyone was eager to find out what would happen the following day. Tomorrow came soon enough, and when Essek arrived, he immediately picked up on the energy in the house. There was almost a tangible excitement buzzing in the air and he looked around the entryway with a judging eye. It was no surprise that Jester was the first to greet him.

“Helloooo how are you todaaaay?” she asked in her usual quirky drawl.

“I am fine,” he hummed, continuing to scan his surroundings. Jester gave a small pout.

“You don’t look fine, you look all grumpy,” she pointed out.

“Just have a lot on my mind I suppose. Where’s Caleb?”

“Right here,” Caleb said, walking down the stairs. “Sorry, I was setting things up,” he apologized. His hair was a bit disheveled and he couldn’t tear his eyes away from the shadowhand. If he seemed more anxious than usual, Essek didn’t comment on it.

“No worries. Let’s get started then, shall we?” Caleb gave a curt nod, leading him up to his room. “Are we not studying in the tower today?” Essek asked.

“Nein, I am feeling a little lazy today, I’d rather stay in my room,” he lied easily. The real reason being that he promised the rest of the mighty nein that he would keep them within earshot to prove he actually followed through.

“Not too lazy to learn I hope,” Essek said, unamused.

“I could never be too lazy for that,” he replied, a wide grin in place. They reached his door and Caleb held it open for him, allowing Essek to walk in first.

“Hm, your room is just as tidy and drab as I imagined it,” he hummed, walking over to the desk. Caleb blushed at the backhanded compliment, fumbling for words.

“W-well we haven’t had the chance to get much decor,” he reasoned. After that snide little comment, he couldn’t wait for 3:30.

“Your friends seemed… excited about something,” Essek spoke up as he laid out various scrolls and spell components. He watched carefully as Caleb went a little stiff. “Any particular reason?”

“Not that I’m aware of, but they are an excitable bunch, ja?” Essek looked him up and down with a hum.

“Indeed. Well, we shouldn’t waste much time. Let’s get to it, shall we?” he asked, pulling a chair next to the bed where all the pages were spread out. Caleb’s desk was a little small for what they had planned for today. Caleb himself sat on the bed, propped up with pillows with his legs stretched out.

“You can sit on the bed if you’d like, it’s more comfortable than that chair,” he invited, figuring this would be easier if he started warming up to him now.

“Uh, thank you but the chair is more than fine.” Caleb had to shift the page he was holding to hide his smirk. Before he had arrived, Caleb had cast a simple spell on the chair to make it more uncomfortable the longer you sat in it. He was quite proud of it. That chair wouldn’t be “fine” for very long.

“You’re looking rather smug. Mind sharing with the class?” Essek asked, cocking his head to the side. Caleb startled at the question. He couldn’t get caught this early, money (and his pride) was on the line.

“I am just a little… giddy about today’s lesson. A lot of pranking potential in making objects lose their gravity,” he mused. It was easier to lie because there was so much truth wrapped in his words. Essek let out a smooth, practiced chuckle and shook his head.

“I didn’t picture you as the pranking type,” he mused.

“That’s because you don’t know me,” Caleb said, being so bold as to shoot him a wink. Essek blinked in suprise, looking him up and down.

“Hm, I suppose I don’t.” He went back to the pages of spells in front of them, but before he could continue with his teachings, Caleb spoke up once more.

“I have to be.”

“What was that?” Essek asked without looking up.

Caleb continued, “I have to be the pranking type if I am to fit in with the group. I must admit, it is fun. It makes me feel normal again, and less like the man I have become.” He now had Essek’s full attention, his expression hard to read.

“And who is that man?” he asked, leaning forward. Caleb noticed him shifting in the chair uncomfortably, trying to find a better position.

“I thought I knew, but now I’m not as sure,” he said, staring deep into his eyes.

It took a moment for Essek to answer. “You are a powerful man, Mr. Widogast. You’re practically dripping with potential, I can see what the Assembly saw in you. But you must be careful who you let shape you. And while this group you’ve found yourself in is… eccentric, I can tell they have been good for you.”

Well this suddenly got personal. A little too personal for Caleb’s liking, but his words did offer a comfort. “Thank you, Herr Thelyss,” he said with a soft smile. “But please call me Caleb. Mr. Widogast doesn’t sound right,” he said, a smirk tugging at the corner of his mouth. Essek returned it with a smug smile of his own.

“In that case, just call me Essek. I think we’re well past the point of formalities.”

You have no idea, Caleb wanted to say, but he was smart enough to keep that to himself. Essek’s face scrunched up in discomfort, wiggling in the seat. When that still didn’t work, he crossed one leg over the other, then crossed them the other way. With a defeated huff, he pushed the chair away and sat on the edge of the bed. His posture was ramrod straight, his body tense as he sat as far from Caleb as he could.

He rolled his eyes, clearing a larger space and patting the spot next to him. “Sheisse, you act as though I’ll burn you if you get too close. I don’t bite,” he teased. Essek let out a nervous chuckle, conceding by resting his legs on the mattress, stretched out in front of him.

“I’d be concerned if you did,” he teased right back.

“Jester will be pleased to know you actually have a sense of humor,” he mused as he copied a spell.

“Was that ever up for debate?” he asked incredulously.

“Oh you’d be surprised.”

“I’ll have you know I can be quite hilarious,” he insisted.

“I’ll believe it when I see it,” he countered smugly. Essek scoffed and bumped their shoulders together, making Caleb’s smile grow. Caleb glanced down at his feet, brows furrowing.

“No shoes on the bed please. I know your feet never touch the ground, but still,” he requested. Essek complied, easily slipping them off. He set them off to the side with a wave of his hand.

“Of course, it is your room after all.” Perhaps this was going to be easier than he thought.

They study for an hour and a half, Essek teaching and explaining a few new spells. 15 minutes left until 3:30… Within their study session, he’s been twitchy and restless. His leg shook as he recited the verbal components of one of the spells, Essek’s eyes glued to his movements.

“You’re quite fidgety for someone claiming to be so lazy,” he noted. Caleb immediately forced his leg to still, looking like a deer caught in headlights.

“Ah, just some pent up energy I suppose,” he excused. They both jumped out of their skin when a knock rapped against the door.

“Who is it?” Caleb asked, scrambling off the bed the same time the door opened.

“It’s just me- oh. Don’t you two look cozy,” Caduceus said in his usual calm, polite manner. Both wizards were blushing profusely, Caleb in the middle of crawling over Essek’s legs in an attempt to go open the door before he came in. It left them in quite the position.

“What do you want Caduceus?” Caleb hissed. He had told all of them to leave them alone! And he had been sure he’d locked his door.

“I come bearing refreshments,” he said, holding up a tray with two glasses on top. “It’s a new blend of green tea and jasmine, mixed with some fresh lemonade.” Caleb sighed, pressing his fingers to his temple and rubbing as he walked over to his friend. He took the glasses from him.

“Thank you Caduceus, but I would appreciate it if you would wait for me to open the door next time, ja?” he asked, annoyance laced in his voice.

“Sorry, I didn’t know what I was walking in on,” he apologized. Caleb’s blush returned as he escorted him out.

“You walked in on nothing! We are just studying, now please leave I have a lot of work to do.” Then, quietly he leaned in and whisper-scolded, “Do you know what time it is? Leave me be I need privacy!”

“Again, sorry to interrupt. I just know how much la- er, spell casting works up a thirst. Mhm, sorry, tickle in my throat,” he feigned clearing his throat, winking at Caleb as he left. Essek watched with a scrutinizing gaze, studying Caleb a little closer. He seemed more frazzled than earlier, but then again so would anyone if they’d been walked in on in such a manner.

“What was that?” he asked, fixing him with a studious glare and a raised brow.

“Nothing, y-you know how Caduceus is,” he brushed off the question not as smoothly as he hoped. When Essek didn’t reply, he rambled on, “Always checking up on people.” He hesitated before walking back over to his bed. Essek scooted over against the wall so that Caleb wouldn’t have to climb over him to get in his previous seat.

“What were the two of you whispering about?” Essek asked once he settled back down. Caleb refused to meet his eyes.

“Nothing. I was just, ah, getting onto him for barging in here like that.”

“Is that so?” he questioned further.

“Ya, it is,” he insisted, using all the strength he had not to back down. Essek merely hummed, going back to his teachings. He seemed more guarded and weary of him than before.

Caleb knew the moment 3:30 hit. Now or never. He tried to go about it subtly, reaching down to grab his knee as he shifted his position on the bed. Essek jerked away with a startled gasp.

“What do you think you’re doing?” he asked, hand clasped tightly around his wrist. Maybe he would break it…

“Um, getting comfy. Sorry, I didn’t mean to touch you,” he apologized, but couldn’t hide the growing smirk.

“Is that why you’re smiling like an idiot then?” he asked, his former amusement flown out the window. Caleb blushed, said smile wiped from his face. For good measure, he hid his mouth behind his hand.

Now that he was being all huffy, Essek was really getting on his nerves. He deserved every bit of this, he justified. And so Caleb reached up to scratch along his beard, holding his long feather quill as he did so. Watching from the corner of his eye, he made sure to run it over the shell of Essek’s ear, just like Beau said. And it was worth it.

Essek jerked away with a surprised yelp, fixing him with a death glare. Caleb continued to act innocent, scratching his chin. When he “noticed” his harsh look he froze, looking at his hand and the soft feather held between two fingers. He gave a sheepish grin.

“Ah, sorry I didn’t realize I was still holding it. I didn’t mean to tickle you,” he apologized. Essek sputtered, a soft purple blush spreading over his cheeks.

“You did no such thing, so no apology necessary,” he lied. Caleb tilted his head to look at him.

“You sure about that? You acted pretty ticklish to me. And trust me, I’ve been around the Nein long enough to know what that looks like,” he teased, but also gave him a chance to revoke his lie.

“Well I am not, and I suggest you keep your hands to yourself,” he advised in a harsh tone.

“Okaaay,” he said, going back to his work. He grumbled under his breath, “Seemed pretty ticklish though,” he said more to himself than anything.

“Well I’m not, so drop it,” he demanded. Caleb’s eyes widened, not expecting the shadowhand to be so defensive. As if to challenge him, he raised the feather once more and gave his ear another swipe. This time, a short giggle followed.

“Surely you of all people know that lying is a punishable offense,” he teased. Essek scrunched his shoulders up high in an attempt to block his horrible touches.

“Nohohot for mehe!” he scolded through giggles, reaching up to snatch Caleb’s wrist. He didn’t try to struggle or pull away, but rather leaned in closer. The stern anger on Essek’s face melted to nervousness as he leaned away.

“Are you saying that you are above the consequences of your actions?” Caleb asked, a growing smirk overtaking his features.

“N-no, no one is-” Caleb cut him off with another flutter of the feather to his ear. An uncharacteristically high pitched giggle escaped him as realization dawned on him. He was trapped. This whole thing was a trap. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say you had planned this from the beginning,” he accused.

“As usual you are right.” Before Essek could react, Caleb’s hand darted down to his knee and squeezed. Much to his delight and Essek’s horror, he snorted very loud. His eyes went wide, both hands covering his mouth in shock. Caleb was grinning ear to ear, letting out a few snickers of his own, the bastard. He went back to squeezing his knee, this time going after both of them. He let out a slightly muffled squeak before falling victim to a fit of loud laughter.

“Stohohop this ahahat once!” he demanded, trying to scamper away on the bed. Caleb grabbed his legs to keep him in place, but allowed him a moment to catch his breath. “Alright, but only for a second.”

“Whahat the fuck do you think you’re doing?” Essek hissed, reaching to try and pry his grip loose. His grip was surprisingly strong.

“Tickling you, what else?” he asked nonchalantly, as if it was the stupidest question in the world. To make matters worse, he reached under him to scribble the backs of his knees as he asked. Essek snorted again before bursting into melodious laughter, tucking his knees in and managed to roll onto his side. His cheeks were growing a darker shade of purple before he grabbed his shirt’s collar and pulled it up to hide his face.

“Oh no you don’t. You can’t hide from me,” he tsked, pulling it back down. He used the opportunity to scratch under his chin, earning a giggly shriek. His chin slammed down to the base of his neck, trapping Caleb’s fingers. His nose scrunched up as giggles and snickers continued to pour from his mouth.

“Hehe, you look like you have a double chin right now,” he teased, wiggling his trapped fingers. There was a flash of anger for a brief second before utter embarrassment took over. He closed his eyes so he wouldn’t have to look at Caleb’s dumb, happy, smug face. Okay, maybe he peaked every few seconds.

“Quit ihihit or ehelse you’ll rehehegret being bohohorn!” he threatened. He was as intimidating as anyone in that position would be. Caleb knew in the back of his mind that he should heed the warning. That’s what the last shred of self preservation he does have tells him. But if he doesn’t listen to that part of his brain in a life threatening fight, there’s no way he’d listen to it now when he’s having this much fun.

“Already way ahead of you,” he joked at his own expense, shifting Essek’s legs into a headlock. Essek’s brows shot up to meet his hairline, frantically shaking his head. “I bet these are rather sensitive seeing as you never bother to use them,” he taunted, scratching up his arches.

“Why ahahare you dohohoing thihis? Ihihi thought you wehere mature!” he cried out indignantly. His head was tossed back as hysterical laughter flew from his open mouthed smile.

“I have my pride and 10 gold on the line. You understand,” he shrugged, not seeming apologetic at all. Ah, so it was some sort of bet. Blunt nails scratched at his heels and he kicked out as much as he could. “Wow, you’re feet are very soft. Did you know that?” Caleb asked, and you could just hear the joy in his voice.

“Yehehes I knohohow! Give thehehem bahack!” he cried out, falling victim to a bout of cackles and shrieks.

“I don’t really feel like it,” he said, walking his fingers up to the balls of his feet. Essek shook his head, eyes filled with a thrilled kind of terror.

“Don’t you dahahare go any farther,” he warned, reaching down to shove him away, but Caleb blocked him. Instead of a verbal answer, he started scribbling just underneath his toes. A surprisingly girlish squeal pierced the air and he scrunched his feet in an attempt to lessen the ticklish feeling.

“See, that’s what this all started out as: a dare. But now we’re both enjoying ourselves,” he teased, shooting him a wink as his dexterous fingers wormed their way between each toe. Essek shrieked, cheeks a dark purple.

“I-I ahaham nohohot! Whahatever mahahakes you thihink that?” Essek asked indignantly. Caleb’s grin nearly split his face in two.

“For starters, you’re laughing way too much to not be at least a little happy,” he teased, squeezing both of his knees all of a sudden. He kicked out with a snort.

“Y-you’re mahahaking mehehe!” he whined. Caleb shrugged smugly.

“Ja, I am, aren’t I hilarious? But we both know you could easily make me stop. I’m not exactly strong,” he pointed out, knowing from experience how flustering it was to be called out on your true thoughts on the matter. Essek shook his head, reaching up to cover his ears so he wouldn’t have to listen to his teasing. For some reason, he thought Caleb wouldn’t be such a tease. How foolish he’d been.

“Ihihif I could concehehentrate you’d behehe dead!” he continued his thinly veiled threats. Caleb actually cooed at him, leaning into his personal space as his fingers spidered up his ribs. Essek shrieked, arms crashing down to press against his sides.

Caleb tsked, shaking his head. “There you go again, trapping my fingers. Almost like you don’t want me to stop,” he teased with a wink, setting Essek’s already profound blush aflame.

“Ihihi most certainly dohoho!” he tried to scold through his hysterics.

“Tell you what, if you can lift your arms so I can get my hands back, I’ll stop,” Caleb bargained. Essek shook his head as laughter poured from his lips. Caleb’s brows shot up in surprise, his grin growing. “No? And why not?”

“Ihihi cahan feel you c-crossed your fihihingers! You’re lying!” he spat out. Caleb gave a smug yet sheepish smile, shrugging his shoulder. He uncrossed his fingers, wiggling them in between his ribs earning another shriek of laughter.

“Guilty. Okay okay okay, now lift your arms and I’ll stop for real this time,” he promised. Essek glared at him through watery eyes, tears of mirth streaming down his cheeks and he wore a bright, opened mouth smile. Essek studied him even through his hysterics judging whether or not he should believe him. Finally, he slowly lifted his arms with a great deal of hesitation. His arms would jerk down a bit as he watched Caleb for any signs of an attack. Caleb only continued to smile the most dazzling smile Essek had seen from the man. Damn him.

Then his eyes flashed with a mixture of mischief and danger and before Essek could get away, he dug his fingers into his willingly exposed hollows.

“You fuhuhucking trahahaitor!” he yelled, immediately curling in a ball, arms pressed to his sides. Caleb laughed along with him, pulling his hands out from under his arms. Their laughter faded into the air, Caleb’s much sooner than Essek’s.

“Ohoho man, I’m sorry friend but I was having too much fun to stop,” he apologized, patting his shoulder.

He greedily sucked in air, reaching out for the iced tea Caduceus had brought and gulped a quarter of it down. He smacked his lips, looking at the glass with a pleased expression, muttering under his breath, “Damn it, that’s good.” He took another large sip and set it down, flopping onto the mattress in an exhausted motion. He shot a glare at Caleb, “What the hell was that for?”

“Well, like I said; I was dared and then money got involved. But ah, you might’ve been laughing too hard to hear me,” he teased with a wink. Just when his blush began to fade, it returned in full force.

“So… you were planning this from the start,” Essek mused from where he laid on the bed.

“Yes, but you should know I was adamantly against it,” Caleb said, hoping to smooth things over.

“And yet here you are: luring me here under false pretenses to torture and make a fool out of me. Besides, you clearly weren’t very opposed to the idea.” He regained his breath rather quickly, and when he turned to look at Caleb, all that mirth was gone. His features were set in a harsh glare and a fire burned in his eyes.

Caleb’s own happy expression immediately fell from his face. “No! No that’s not what I did at all! I really do appreciate our time together and learning these spells,” he assured. “We did not do this to mock or make fun of you. Jester was just curious and got a little carried away-”

“Oh but you are the one who got carried away, if my aching belly is any proof,” he sassed, raising to a sitting position. “I warned you multiple times to stop, and yet you ignored my pleas.” Caleb looked down at the mattress, feeling guilty.

“I am sorry, but I’ve never heard you laugh like that before. And it felt nice to, y'know, be the one to make you lose your shit like that,” he said, not meeting his gaze. Essek’s expression softened for a moment.

“I… agree, that is the most I’ve laughed in quite some time. But there are other ways you know. Sure it might not be as- unhinged as what you just heard, but you could get a chuckle out of me. And I would think that would be more than enough,” he scolded. And just because he could, he smacked Caleb upside the head. It wasn’t meant to hurt, but rather to reprimand and startle him. And maybe make him feel a little more guilty than he already was.

“I-I know, I tried to tell them, but then they said I didn’t have the guts to test it out. And by then I was more than a little curious myself,” he rambled. “I really am sorry if I made you think we were doing this to make fun of you. We respect you. I respect you.” He finally managed to look him in the eye. Then the corners of his lips tugged upwards as he looked back at the bed. “And just because the whole house heard you giggling like a school girl doesn’t mean we don’t.”

The gentle expression that had managed to find Essek’s face dropped upon hearing the teasing. “Oh Caleb… they were right about you.” Said wizard’s head snapped up, a confused and startled look on his face.

“What?” he breathed out.

“You really have no self preservation, do you?” he asked, amusement and mock sympathy lacing his voice. Caleb’s brows shot up in surprise and he turned to make a run for it, only for his door to lock itself. He winced, standing there in the middle of his room and slowly turned to face Essek.

He’d seen that look before, and it never boded well for whoever it was directed at. It was a look of anger and determination, and it was utterly terrifying. Celeb felt himself shrink under such a gaze as he loomed closer.

“I-I’m sorry Essek, I really am. I-if you never want to teach me magic again, or if you want to take away the spells I just learned, I won’t stop you. You have every right to-” Essek held his hand up to stop his ramblings.

“I do not wish for any of those things. But you will not get out of this unscathed.” Without warning, or perhaps that was his warning, Essek cast hold person on him, and Caleb’s never felt more screwed in his life. His eyes went wide and a nervous grin overtook his features. He cracked his knuckles, taking a step forward.

“Essek, please, I said I’m sorry. T-there’s no need for this! I mean, do you really want to stoop to our level?” Essek leaned in, resting his hands on the dips of his sides. Caleb gasped, biting his lip to try and contain any sounds.

He whispered in his ear, “Right now, I’d love nothing more.” Caleb was speechless as Essek leaned back to look directly at him. “Oh and just so you know, I won’t stop until I feel like it, regardless of begging. After all, that’s what you did to me,” he said. He looked to the ground, shaking his head with a low chuckle. “Remember, you brought this on yourself.”

Caleb whimpered at the teasing remark, trying to resist the spell and break free, but Essek grabbed his still body and plopped him onto the bed. Essek took a moment to position him, lifting his arms above his head without struggle.

“Please, you don’t have to do this! I said I’m sorry, I won’t do it again,” he pleaded as he watched him roll his shirt up to expose his stomach. He yelped, more out of anticipation and nerves than anything.

“Oh but I’m afraid I have to. I must make an example out of you, so your friends will know what will happen to them if they are to be so bold,” he spoke in a calm, even manner that sent chills up Caleb’s spine. He couldn’t even squirm… he’d really dug his own grave. A surprised, breathy giggle slipped out as Essek spidered his fingers over the soft skin. “Besides, what kind of friend would I be if I didn’t get some well deserved revenge?” he asked, flashing a genuine smile. Even through his giggles he breathed a sigh of relief, knowing Essek wasn’t as mad as he expected. But of course, that didn’t mean he wouldn’t make him live through hell.

“A-aha, so you ahahadmit we’re friends?” Caleb asked, sucking his belly in. His fingers followed easily and began to pick up speed.

“Well, I never outright denied the claim. And if we’re apparently comfortable doing this, I guess we are,” he said, sounding a little surprised himself. As though the prospect of them actually being friends rather than work companions was entirely new. He shook himself out of the thought, prodding up his sides.

Caleb shrieked, a bought of bright laughter filling the air. His immediate reaction was rather pleasing for Essek to hear. He squeezed his fleshy sides, eliciting a loud snort. Essek’s smile widened at the sound.

“You’re this ticklish and you decided to test your luck with me? Not your brightest moment,” he teased. His fingers prodded and vibrated on his stomach, and if he could, Caleb would’ve curled into a ball by now.

“Shuhuhut up!” he snapped, cheeks turning red. Essek’s jaw dropped in shock, digging his fingers in a little more and picking up the pace. His hysterical giggling turned to deep bellylaughs, and his arms strained to pull down against the spell.

“Have you no manners, or do you just want me to tickle you stupid?” he asked in a huff. Poor Caleb’s blush turned a shade darker from the mean taunt. To make matters worse, he couldn’t even shake his head. So he had to answer verbally, lest Essek think he actually does want that.

“Nohoho dohohon’t!” he squealed, trying with all his might to save himself against the spell. Due to his persistent laughter, it was an epic failure.

“Give me one good reason why I shouldn’t,” he said, fingers crawling up his ribs.

“Ihihit tihihihickles!” he squealed, nose scrunched up adorably as he laughed. Essek chuckled along with him.

“I said to give a reason why I should stop, not to keep going,” he teased, pinching at his lowest ribs. His laughter spiked and his body twitched, slowly beginning to regain the ability to move. Essek took notice before eyeing the book holsters on Caleb’s chest. He traced around them and his giggling turned more nervous and hysteric.

“Nehehein, nein nohohot thehere!” he pleaded. In that moment, Caleb looked happier than Essek had ever seen him. Perhaps he could understand how he had gotten so carried away with his own torture.

“A good spot I presume?” he asked, taking advantage of the last of the spell to unclip the holster and slide it off. Caleb whined in protest, eyes closed and head tilted back. “I’ll take that as a yes,” he mused, ghosting his hands over the newly exposed spot. Caleb shrieked before loud, carefree laughter flowed from his lips.

Essek scratched between the spaces of his previously (semi) protected ribs, eliciting a very loud snort from the other wizard. It fueled his embarrassment enough for him to break the spell in order to hide his cherry red face behind his hands.

“Show me that happy face, or I might be compelled to cast again,” he threatened playfully. Caleb squealed but shook his head, rolling onto his side. He tucked his knees to his chest, forming a tight ball. Essek grabbed his wrists in one hand to pull them away. Caleb tried to fight him off, but his arms were pulled over his head once more.

Essek wore a triumphant smirk as he leaned in, “I know your friends tease you about being weak, but this is ridiculous,” he taunted, scratching his exposed hollow. Caleb let out a scream of laughter, writhing underneath him.

“Shuhut uhuhup! Ihihi cahahan’t!” he whined, body jolting as he switched to his other armpit. High pitched cackles escaped from his mouth and his legs kicked in the air frantically, as if he were riding a bicycle.

“You can’t what? I’m afraid you’ll have to be more clear,” Essek said, clearly enjoying the reversal of power in this situation.

“Q-quit teheheasing arschloch,” he managed to swear through hysterics.

“I may not speak Zemnian, but that certainly sounds a lot like asshole to me. And well, I can’t let you get away with calling me that, now can I?” he asked, drilling his thumbs in the center of his underarms.

If Essek giggled like a little school girl, Caleb certainly shrieked like one. The hand returned to cover his mouth, barely muffling the snorts and cackles that followed. Unfortunately for Essek, it also hid that dazzling smile he didn’t know he loved so much. Emotions began to swell in his chest; emotions he wasn’t quite ready to deal with just yet. He should stop…

But not yet. He did grant him a quick breather as he straddled him, keeping him pinned. Caleb’s hair was a wild mess, a few strands stuck to his forehead by a thin layer of sweat. His head flopped back as he panted for breath, letting out a low whine.

“You’re being cruel. You’re a cruel man, Essek Thelyss,” he said in a slightly dazed voice. There was no venom in his words, and his smile remained prominent.

“Then you should keep that in mind the next time you try this,” he practically purred. Caleb arched a brow, sweet grin morphing into a playful smirk.

“That insinuates that there will be a next time.” Essek floundered for a moment, sputtering for an answer.

“T-there won’t,” he tried to sound stern.

“If you don’t think I’m already planning ahead then you’re foolish.”

“You do realize I’m not done yet, right?” Essek teased, fluttering up his sides. He squeaked and fell into a stream of giggles, squirming underneath him. His hands crawled their way up to his neck where he cupped his face. Caleb froze, staring deep into his eyes. “You really are a glutton for punishment,” he playfully chastised, scratching just behind his ears.

Caleb shrieked, trapped in an endless cycle of snorts and giggles. Essek’s gentle hold around his neck made it impossible for him to toss his head around to escape the feeling, and it just heightened the torturously wonderful feeling of hopelessness he was in. If this was the consequences that came with fucking with Essek, then he’d have to mess with the man more often.

“Wow, you just get more ticklish the longer this goes on, don’t you?” he asked, as if amazed. Caleb’s never felt more flustered.

“T-thahahat’s nohohot true!” he denied. Another snort slipped out, followed by shrill giggles.

“No? How about you prove it then,” Essek challenged, a hungry, almost predatory look in his eye. His fingers slowed to a stop and he started to lean in. He was leaning in! Caleb licked his lips, closing his eyes as he craned his neck to meet him.

Suddenly, he felt a hand on top of his head, pulling it to the side to expose his neck. His eyes flew open, a sinking feeling in his stomach. “What-”

Essek’s lips collided with the taut skin of his neck and he blew a loud raspberry that reverberated through the room. Caleb’s reaction was immediate.

Hysterical cackling filled the air around him and he weakly shoved and smacked at Essek’s shoulders and chest. “Nehehein thihihis ihisn’t fahahair!” he squealed, body quickly turning to jelly.

As an answer, Essek blew another raspberry, renewing the laughing fit Caleb had been lost to. He made a show of pulling away, taking a comically deep breath.

Caleb frantically shook his head, “No no nohohoho! You bahahahastard, stohohop!” he pleaded. Essek repeated the process two more times on the other side of his neck before letting him go.

He curled up in a giggling heap, body still twitching from phantom touches that lingered on his skin.

“And that is what happens if you try to tickle me. Do keep that in mind,” Essek said with a wink. Caleb whimpered, grabbing a pillow and shoving it over his face. “Oh don’t be like that,” Essek teased, poking his soft tummy a few times, wiggling his fingers a bit. Caleb squealed, a few short giggles slipping out as he smacked the offending hands. Essek pulled the pillow away without struggle, revealing a rather embarrassed, but happy, looking Caleb.

“I think your face matches your hair right now,” he teased, moving some of the stray locks from his forehead. Caleb adverted his eyes, sitting up.

“Shut up, I can’t help it. I embarrass easily,” he complained. Essek’s smile only grew.

“You’re telling me.” There was a quiet moment filled with a thick tension that neither of them decided to break. Essek smacked the tops of his thighs, standing up. “Well! I believe I must be going. I had another spell I wanted to teach you, but since you wasted our valuable time-”

“It definitely wasn’t a waste,” Caleb interrupted, a satisfied smile firmly in place. Essek blinked in surprise, taken aback by the statement. “If you ask me, that was time well spent.”

Essek huffed out an amused chuckle, staring at the floor. He tilted his head to look at him, pausing to think of what to say. “Yes well, if you had so much fun, you should look forward to our next session. Where you will practice maintaining concentration while casting,” he said the last part with a slight edge to his tone, giving Caleb a stern look. Just in case he didn’t get the hint, he wiggled his fingers in his direction for good measure.

His mouth gaped open and closed, at a loss for words. Essek smiled proudly, feeling as though he won that conversation. He was putting his cloak on when he heard something at the door.

“Aww that’s so cute- Ow!” came Jester’s muffled voice.

“You’re being loud!” Beauregard scolded in a loud hush. Essek and Caleb locked eyes. Caleb with a look of “oh shit, I’m fucked” while Essek’s flashed with anger.

“You’re both being loud, we have to leave,” Fjord said next. With a quick wave of his hand, the door opened and in tumbled the three of them, plus Nott. They laid scattered on the floor in a guilty heap, Jester grinning up at him nervously with a tiny wave.

“Wha- how long have you been listening?” he asked incredulously. Beauregard answered hesitantly. “Kinda like, the whole time.”

“So since around 3:30,” Jestered answered. Essek’s head snapped to glare at Caleb.

“You had a time picked out?” he asked in a dark yet patient tone. Caleb merely nodded. “Huh. Consider this part one of my revenge.

"What? But-”

“No buts,” he shut him down, taking on the air of his authority.

Nott scrambled free, but Essek reached down and grabbed her by her shirt collar and picked her up.

“And where do you think you’re going?” he asked. Nott threw punches in the air, and yelled, “I’m an innocent bystander! They asked me to come along!”

“It’s true, she had nothing to do with this,” Caleb spoke up, vouching for her. Essek set her down without a word, letting her dash away.

Essek stepped aside, gesturing with a “welcoming” arm to the others. “By all means, do come in.” It wasn’t a request, it was an order. They crawled in and stood in the middle of the room, all looking some degree of guilty, some more than others. Fjord looked the most genuine. Beauregard was at least trying to act remorseful, but it was clear she thought this was hilarious. Jester seemed to be quite pleased with herself, barely suppressing her smug grin and doing a rather poor job.

Essek closed the door, trapping them in the room. He then began pacing in front of them and spoke. “I can’t believe that you all would devise this scheme.”

“You can’t? Don’t you know us by now?” Beau asked.

“I thought I made the boundaries of our relationship quite clear, but apparently such things mean nothing to you,” he scolded. Beau shut her mouth, knowing when to shut up while getting chewed out.

“Look, we meant no disrespect. It was just a little misguided curiosity that got out of hand. You have our word, it won’t happen again,” Fjord assured.

"It most certainly will not. And if you feel like testing your luck, I dare you to try. I promise you’ll end up in worse shape than Caleb,” he said, pointing over to him. He lifted his red face from his hands to let out a sound of protest.

“I don’t know, I think I can hold out better than him,” Jester bragged aloud.

“In that case I’ll be sure to go after you next,” he said, glaring her down. She squeaked, wrapping her arms around her body. “Then you,” he said, pointing at Beauregard, making her pale. “Then you,” he continued down the line, ending with Fjord. He poked his chest, making him lean back. They all looked like scared puppies cowering on a corner. Good, he thought. They should be nervous.

“Wait a minute, does this mean you’ll actually start hanging out with us?” Jester asked, not bothering to contain her excitement. He sighed, pinching the bridge of his nose.

“Unfortunately yes.”

“Hey don’t say that like it’s the worst thing ever,” Beau said, crossing her arms.

“Yeah, you totally had a blast!” Jester exclaimed. Essek reeled back, cheeks blushing a darker purple.

“I-I did not!”

“You did tell Caleb this would happen again,” Fjord spoke up, rubbing the back of his neck shyly. “Technically twice.” He finally succumbed to the teasing smile that fought its way onto his face. “It’s okay if you had a lil fun. We won’t tell,” he assured the shadowhand, shooting him a wink.

“Caleb is like, really fun to tickle, isn’t he?” Jester asked, grinning from ear to ear.

“I am not!” Caleb yelped from his spot on the bed.

“No I’m afraid she’s right. But I don’t know what you three are so smug about. Using poor Caleb as your scape goat and then eaves dropping on my demise: it’s cowardly and conniving, but clever.” They hung their heads in shame- well, as much as one can have while biting back a smug grin.

“I’m sorry Ms. Beauregard, is something about this funny?” he asked in a dangerous growl. She quickly schooled her features and shook her head.

“N-no,” she bluffed, meeting his eyes for a few seconds before breaking down into snickers, nodding her head. “Yeheah I do, but I can’t help it! You’re all you but then your laugh is super high pitched. It’s uh, shocking.”

“You would all be wise to sleep with one eye open until further notice,” Essek said, glaring them down one by one. Fjord shifted uncomfortably under the scrutiny.

Jester rocked on the balls of her feet, tentatively asking, “You aren’t like, actually planning to sneak into our house in the middle of the night just to tickle us, are you?” she asked nervously. She gasped and a hand slapped over her mouth. “Oh no you guys, I think I accidentally gave the Traveler an idea!” she squeaked in shock.

Essek stared at her, blinking in shock. “Um, no but the fact you feel compelled to ask that is a little concerning,” he said a little wearily, keeping an eye on all of their hands. He stood at the doorway, ready to leave. He turned to face them and said, “Don’t worry about Nott, she’ll get what’s coming eventually. As will Caduceus.”

Fjord’s stomach twisted at the prospect of roping their innocent friends into this mess. Mostly because they’d be in search of their own revenge. “Now wait a minute, he didn’t have anything to do with this,” Fjord defended.

“Oh but he did,” he said, holding up the glass of lemonade tea. He took another sip and offered a tight lipped smile. “He knew what was going to happen and didn’t even try to tip me off. I consider that being an accessory after the fact.”

“Pft, you say that like it’s a crime or something,” Jester giggled.

“If I wanted to I could classify this as an assault,” he scolded. He paused to let his words take effect before continuing. “But seeing as no one got hurt and I’m already planning on taking matters into my own hands, that won’t be necessary.” He turned to leave when Fjord spoke up.

“Maybe go easier on us than you did Caleb,” he said, gesturing to himself and Beauregard. “We didn’t play as big a part in this as Jester.” She gasped and pinched his sides, making him jerk away with a quick yelp.

“What is wrong with you? You can’t throw me to the wolves like that!” she whined.

Essek gave a tight lipped smile and hummed, “I don’t think you’re in the position to be making requests. Goodbye.”

“What’s the matter, are you not staying for dinner?” Beau asked teasingly. He let out a half amused, half nervous chuckle.

“You’re out of your mind if you think I’d stick around after this.”

Jester nodded, “Mm that’s fair. Oh wait!” He sighed, turning to face her. “What?” he asked exasperatedly.

“You forgot your shoes! Not that you really need them or anything,” she teased, rolling her eyes as she held out his shoes. His cheeks flushed slightly and he took them wordlessly, giving them all a side eyed glance. “You have a really nice laugh by the way.”

His mouth gaped open before promptly snapping it shut. “Er- thank you.” He slipped on his shoes and left, more flustered than he intended to be.

On his way out, Caduceus caught him in the walkway. “Oh hey, how’re you feeling after all that?” he asked in his usual warm tone.

“Exhausted and more embarrassed than I ever remember being,” he huffed. He placed a gentle hand on his shoulder, giving a comforting pat.

“Heh, I know. But it’s good to let those emotions out every once in a while. Like a soul cleanse,” he mused.

“Uh, that’s not how I see it, but I guess I do feel lighter,” he admitted before he could think better of it. “Don’t tell anyone I said that,” he ordered.

Caduceus held his hands up in surrender. “Not a word.” He looked him up and down, as if judging whether or not he was telling the truth.

“Good. Thank you for the tea by the way. Very refreshing.” He perked up at the compliment, a wide smile stretching across his face.

“Really? Oh, I’m so glad you liked it,” he said with a mix of excitement and relief.

“Yes. I’ll be sure to keep your kindness in mind when I go after you,” he said absentmindedly.

His smile twitched downwards and his perked up ears dropped. “W-what?”

“As far as I’m concerned, you all have some blame in this.”

His gentle smile found its way back on his face and he shook his head. “Nah, I’m an angel.” Essek didn’t bother to stop the wide grin from forming.

“Maybe compared to the others,” he joked. Caduceus chuckled, waving as he walked out the door. “Well I’ll look forward to it.”

That certainly threw him for a loop. He stopped to look at him, bewilderment and confusion in his eyes. “You do realize that was a threat.”

Caduceus just shrugged. “Maybe to you. To me, I just see a new friend finally coming around.”

Essek didn’t know what to say to that. Instead he just shook his head, chuckling. “You are a strange bunch, that’s for sure.” He paused before closing the door, looking over his shoulder. “Oh and Caduceus?”

“Hm?”

“Tell everyone to watch their back.” With a wink and a quick flash of teeth, he shut the door. He left feeling both tired and rejuvenated, floating a little higher than he normally did. Maybe this group of people were his friends after all.

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