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The intense glow of light burst through the opened window of my bedroom, warming my face. It had been impossible for me to sleep in the last twenty-four hours.
Today marked a special occasion, not just for Taric's birthday but also because we would meet again.
Yesterday he celebrated his birthday with his Demacian friends and Targon, even if it wasn't exactly his birthday date. By Taric's gentle voice while surrounded by good company and having a blast every second, he was the happiest man imaginable.
Today I intended to give him a day full of adventure and surprise. Knowing his admiration, well… obsession with gems, his perfect present could be a ring or a necklace with shiny crystals. I always loved this side of him, never mind his eccentricities.
I hoped to make today memorable that he might never forget his day for the resto of his life.
All this week, I have been thinking of places for us to visit since Taric said once to me. I wished to visit Ionia and its beautiful land blooming with all its magic. To admire the structures and the people of your homeland you talked so much about. To see the Shurima desert with my bare eyes and the disk containing celestial power. To play a little gambling while listening to Bilgewater sailor's tales full of danger about sea monsters. To smell and contemplate the exotic fauna and creatures of the Ixtal jungle. I have heard they were the founders of the ascetics of Targon. To listen to epic tales of bravery and courage of tribes of Freljord, to have a great taste of their brew and hug poros tightly. To revisit my dear Demacia. Is it still the same? Or did my country change their architecture? And I wish to revisit Alabaster Library. And Noxus? Even if they have a short temper, maybe they have something that could capture my interest. And what about Bandle City? Is it a myth? Or a fantastic place like rumours people gossiped about?
I hoped this day would be less stressful. After all, being the Aspect of the Protector hadn't been easy for him. Behind that radiant and kind smile, there was also a man sometimes struggling to choose the best for his situation. His experience in Demacia taught him a lesson but enduring what the mountain showed him caused anxiety. However, his optimistic nature and conquering whatever tests Mountain Targon had helped transform him into a better man. But deep inside, he still remembers his dead comrades, the same ones he allowed to die. It still haunts him every day.
And with all his struggles, I wanted to make him the happiest man. I have always loved his kind and gentle nurturing comfort since the first time we met. To be honest, without his support and compassion in my life to cope with my parent's death, I can’t imagine what could become of me. He never gave up, and understood all fears and insecurities of abandonment connected with my poor childhood. He made me realise my selfishness and immaturity linked all together, always with hope for my success to overcome my trauma. And each day of improvement, he always celebrated it with m e.
Remembering the time when we met, my heart warmed with a gentle heat. I hugged myself with a smile as if to imagine his arms wrapping me with affection. It had been quite a while since the last time we met.
I was so excited to meet him again and— suddenly, my mind filled with memories of us holding hands, gazing at one another with tenderness. An itchy sensation surrounded my eyes and… and… I pressed my fingers on my body as tears ran down my cheeks.
I whimpered softly, pressing my lips tight. "Taric!"
We have been like this for a long time. Even with proper technology, I searched for weeks to communicate at a distance and still missed Taric's kind voice, the touch of his fingers on my face affectionately, his tender heartbeat on my ears, the passion of his lips kissing my forehead, the smell of his sandalwood perfume.
Everything about Taric I craved with warmth.
One day this distance between us will end. I promised myself that day would be...
Suddenly my necklace's blue gem vibrated on my chest. I grabbed it with my fingers clumsily, trying to hold the gem properly. And when they did, Taric spoke. "Ezreal, love how are you today?"
My heart escaped a strong heartbeat just listening to Taric's sweet and serene voice. I shivered as a peaceful sensation travelled in my body, smoothing my nervousness.
Smiling, I answered. "Hey handsome." My voice had a broken tone as I cleaned the tears on my eyes. "I'm good. How are you doing? Ready for today? We have a lot to catch up."
I held my necklace tightly while listening to Taric crying. He answered. "I miss you so much, my star." His voice resonated closer to my ears as if he whispered softly. "I want to stay at your side and hug you as the stars shine in the night. To feel your small hands on my cheeks with love."
Tears ran down my cheeks. His sweet words always caught my guard no matter the situation. But I crave his loving words every day. "I miss you a bunch!" I cleaned my tears. "I can't wait for today, really. I couldn't sleep for days thinking of this encounter." I confessed.
"Me too!" Taric did the same. "I imagined how our reunion would be. In my sweet dreams of us, this beautiful moment when you will be embraced in my arms again."
My heart fastened its pace to his words. A tingling sensation crawled on my spine anxiously. We couldn't waste more time like this! Time was passing by, and I wanted to give him the best birthday day ever!
I took a deep breath, and as my voice sounded stable enough, I added. "Can you tell me where you are?"
I could hear heavy footsteps from the blue gem from my necklace. "On my way to see you." His voice sounded distorted. The place must have a low frequency. "I think this place is called Kumangra." Taric paused for a while. Then, I hear the sounds of a male voice chatting with him in Shuriman. By their conversation, they seemed to approach Piltover in no time.
He's coming! This is really happening, like— oh my god! We have been in this situation so many times now. I shouldn't react like this like it's our first time, but I am… I really want to see him again.
I jerked around my room frantically and rushed to my wardrobe. Snatching some clothes on the floor and artefacts and reaching my closet, I pushed and took off to the floor, pulling away more clothing. The Travel Machine must be somewhere around here. I prepared everything yesterday.
The energy used in the Travel Machine had to be found around Runeterra, according to my studies. I travelled months before our encounter to find a pure magic source, mainly Shuriman, to replace what we used in Piltover. Since Taric realised our source of magic consisted of dead creatures known as the bracken, he protested unhappily. He asked me several times if the investors never found another way to use hextech. I explained that the Madrekan clan started experimenting with possible solutions to replace the original source. And despite them advancing our technology to a safer type of energy, our government would always find ways to repress it. And to clarify it, all citizens looked forward to seeing progress in the country.
Taric agreed the day would come for our country to find a better way to use magic.
Grabbing my bag and putting it inside the Traveling Machine, I quickly checked my stuff. Finally, the artefact was ready for the journey. My wallet had enough money to pay for meals and extra stuff. Next, the locations settled with the correct coordinates. And finally, a table for the fancy restaurant was reserved for later tonight.
I checked the clock close to my bed. It's eight bells right now and— damn it, oh crap! My hand trembled nervously, trying to grab my leather jacket, but clumsily fell from my fingers. Then, taking a deep breath, I retook my coat and left home.
Static came from the gem of my necklace. I heard the noise of water splashing against rocks along with the sounds of seagulls. Merchants were yelling about new inventions, and the roar of ships landing shattered with resonance.
He's coming and is so close! Oh my god! We will see each other and… and— I pressed the button from the elevator. My stare wandered still on the bottom impatiently to reach my floor.
"Ezreal, darling I reached Wharfside Docks—" Taric announced with enthusiasm as some interference blocked what he said next. But as I moved inside of the elevator, his voice returned. "Where do you want to meet?"
Meet? Uhhh… oh damn! He's really here like— oh my god. He's really here! My heart reached my throat in such euphoria that I don't know if I could keep its pace. I found myself running in the elevator with such impatience as to wait to leave and meet him. I wanted to yell to every Piltovian in the streets, 'He's here, Taric is here!'
Then I answered. "Meet! Yeah uhhh… the place—"
The elevator opened, and I rushed outside of the apartment, running in the streets like a typhoon. Around me, people being pushed stared at me with eyebrows raised in confusion and others for slowing them down in their ordinary lives. Others stepped aside for me to keep running and chucked as I slipped on the pavement of the trail and felt my ass on the paved floor.
The interference returned again, and Taric asked, visibly concerned. "Are you alright? I couldn't hear you for a while."
I got up and ran towards the closest train station. "Yeah, I am. Sorry uhhh… the place. Let's meet at Incognia Plaza. You should find a—" the interference became static again, but I directed him. "Blue big sphere with golden adornments. Seek any—" the static came again. I hoped he could hear me even just a bit. "Piltovian to give you directions."
But the background noise on my necklace's gem became louder, and I only heard what seemed to be Taric running. If my assumptions were correct, he should be in the famous street without communication for devices. Our contact would run out soon!
"Got it." Taric answered after the noises of a merchant yelling to buy the next clock's generation.
The static became louder and suddenly went silent as I reached the train station. An enormous building with a huge crowd passing their electronic cards on machines. It had been a while since I brought a new one, and time ran out at any second.
I scanned around to see if an unlucky guy would leave some tickets behind or if I could sneak past them and steal some. Or better… I could pass to the other side for free! Yeah! This sounded like a better idea.
I grabbed my gem and grinned. Taric taught me how to take responsibility for my actions, but you also knew trouble always found me around. So, a little fun will never hurt, plus an innocent action wouldn't cause much trouble. Ok, just a little.
Glancing in the area, a small group of people lined up at the ticket machine. Following the queue as the last person, I waited for the man in front of me to use his ticket. And as he did, I rushed through the gates. A guard stared at me as his eyes met mine. I fastened my pace straight to the train waiting as a female voice announced the train's departure. Heavy footsteps in a hurry dashed in my direction in the middle of the big crowd.
I pushed away people on my path, reaching the train's doors. Looking above my shoulders, the guard accompanied by another followed me.
The train was at full capacity, but I insisted on going inside. Otherwise, it would be hours of waiting for the next train, and that wasn't in my plans. Not for today. I had to be in time to have Taric in my arms once again, as we always had.
I passed through a guard and came inside. She tried to stop me but already inside, she had no other choice but to ring her whistle. The guards on the train waited for her orders. Already inside, squeezing with other people on the train, I located a good spot and hid from the guard. Her heavy steps loomed round as she asked the passengers for my trail.
Not a problem. Been in these situations before. They wouldn’t catch me anyway; I’m the best explorer. I was the best for a reason, after all.
Waiting for her to give up on her search, eventually, she whistled, and the train departed. I passed to the next carriage.
Making a big effort in the crowd and asking around to pass through, I sit down closer to the train doors. I sighed, relieved, holding my necklace's gem as silence invaded the place. And despite no communication, I smiled and had the necklace tightly as I could still hear Taric's soft voice in my mind. The same tender words from this morning: 'Ezreal, love how are you today?', 'I miss you so much, my star. I want to stay at your side and hug you as the stars shine in the night. To feel your small hands on my cheeks with love.', 'Me too! I imagined how our reunion would be. In my sweet dreams of us, this beautiful moment when I will embrace you in my arms again.'
The voice in the train announced the stations, and the Incognita Plaza one approached. My heart accelerated its pace, and my pulsation raised. I got up fast as the third station was announced and people left the train. I jerked around and looked at the sign above me, all because of this anticipation.
Just more two stations and we finally—
The train was at the second station, and more people left the train. I darted my attention at the window not because the view was extraordinary or something important happened, but because the train would soon stop at the right station.
I placed my hands on the window as the train moved faster just to see the sign and meet him. Finally, after passing through some apartments, streets and monumental buildings, the train stopped at the Incognia Plaza station.
Rushing out of the train, I jumped through the tickets' machines. Running outside, heavy footsteps of piltovian police dashed towards me, yelling to stop, but I couldn't do it. Not when Taric waited for me to feel embraced in my arms.
I escaped from the guard's sight, and hiding on a dark street, I made my way to IncognitaPlaza. Despite the place full of elders, parents and young adults, I jerked my head around, searching for Taric. My heart's pace accelerated, and grabbing my necklace, I walked into the area.
Suddenly the static came back, and slowly Taric's voice echoed clear. "Ezreal, are you alright? Where are you?" He asked.
“I’m in Incognia Plaza.” My breath sounded breathless, but I couldn't contain this feeling to see him again. I had to catch him first so we could— "Are you in the area? Like… around? With a group? Or are you—"
The gem vibrated on my chest, and my heart got its pace faster than before.
"I'm closer to the sphere, at the centre of the place." Taric's voice sounded accelerated as if he had run for hours. "Any specific place I can find you? Are you closer to the sphere?"
Sounds of people walking closer by echoed in my gem; this meant one thing!
I jerked around the area and placed my attention on a fountain. A large muscular figure with gems floating in the air grabbed my attention. Oh my god, oh my— Taric… he… Getting closer, my heart reached to my throat, anxious, and my pulsation rose as my eyes found him.
Turning and gazing at me with his kind and gentle smile, Taric ran towards me without hesitation. I sprinted at him as it became impossible to endure my heart racing faster from this strong emotion. It has been so long now, seven months since we met again.
I got closer to him, and my heart exploded ecstatically at the thought of having his arms wrapped on my small figure just to listen to his voice and feel his love again.
Taric dropped his mace on the ground. I jumped towards his opened arms as finally, we embraced one another.
I caressed his strong face with my hands and rested my head closer to his. Taric held my waist and his other hand on my tights. Just like that, I wrapped my legs around his waist. We gazed at one another. Oh god! Oh my god! This was really happening! My heart reached to my throat so fast as if my breath had vanished. As our foreheads touched against each other, we kissed with passion. This sweet and gentle rhythm reached my restless heart, and running my hands on his long hair, he embraced me tenderly.
Our lips departed, and we gazed at each other once again. We said nothing and limited ourselves, smiling even though I wanted to say something, anything, just to listen to Taric's voice again. But as I opened my mouth to say a word, Taric caressed my lips with his fingers and kissed me softly with fondness as tears ran down his face.
Watching his tears falling on his cheeks always touched me deeply. We finally met and loved each other, longing for this moment to happen once again. Kissing his hands and his tears, I tried to say something such as 'welcome back' or 'it's good to see you again, but to be honest, there were no words to describe this moment.
So, in silence, we embraced our intimacy.
As Taric pulled me down, I rested my head on his chest. While listening to the soft and tender pace of his heartbeat, an inner peace reached inside me, gentle like him. And then an itchy sensation crawled around my eyes. I wrapped my arms around his muscular figure, and without warning, tears fell on my cheeks.
As he rested his head on mine, his hands caressed my hair fondly. My body shivered as Taric gave a kiss on my forehead. I took a deep breath, but it wasn't enough to stop my tears. I love him so much. I miss him a lot.
Raising my head slightly with a passionate gaze, I placed my hands on his big ones and pulled them towards my cheeks.
Smiling with warmth, Taric held my face and caressed my cheeks affectionately, cleaning my tears. I closed my eyes to feel the gentle touch of his fingers on my skin. The soft and slow pace he pressed on my cheeks warmed with passion as if a piece of silk rested on my face.
I didn't take my hands off of his. My body got goosebumps as Taric kept touching my skin, melting me with the same affection. I waited to feel it again. Finally, I smiled happily and settled my hands to his jaws.
We faced one another, and pulling his face towards mine, we rested our foreheads against each other.
Taric opened his mouth to speak, but I broke the silence first. I craved my fingers on his back. "It's good to have you back."
Taric hugged me tidily. "Finally, we are together." Then he added. "My precious star is in my arms once again."
Then we remained silent for a couple of minutes while our hugs got tighter. Having Taric this closer to me and feeling all these emotions running inside was the best. All this affection and small things we do together meant so much for us.
Nothing in the world would replace this.
Ever.
Listening to his heartbeat, I smiled and kissed his cheek. "Yeah, it has been months but finally the day has come."
Taric caressed my hair and kissed my head. "It was worth the wait."
Glancing at my bags, I smirked and eyed him. "Which means today it's special and we will have a lot to see."
Taric tilted his head curiously. "Did you find a way to infuse raw magic in the object?"
I nodded. "Pretty much." Then I searched my bags in the Traveling Machine. With the object in my hands, I showed Taric with my chest puffed out. "See? Pretty cool, right? With this we can travel anywhere in Runeterra."
Taric's eyes had a bright sparkle. "Really? Can we go anywhere? Anytime?"
I nodded. "You bet we can." I cleaned my throat. "With this Travelling Machine we can go around Runeterra without any problems."
Taric wrapped his hands on my waist and placed his face on my shoulder. "So, this means we will be able to see each other more often?"
"That's unfortunate." I gazed at the object with magic running inside. Despite its vibration, it felt warm in my palms. "This doesn't have unlimited power so we will have to recharge every time we see each other. Plus, this is its first prototype created."
I wanted this to be capable of more! So I paid a big fortune for the guy working with me for this to function. He warned me it would be a waste of time trying to find an unlimited source of magic. But I insisted he not worry since the best explorer paid him well enough to make the Traveling Machine work.
And then he made a stupid face as if my idea came from a mad scientist. Not my problem. Everything was in control. In the future, I would improve this thing to its maximum capacity.
The promise remained. Taric and I would be together forever.
Taric kissed my cheek. "Even with all the limitations, it's good to be able to travel with you, Ezreal."
Smiling, I kissed him softly. "This will be a great chance for us from now on." Then holding the Traveling Machine, I asked. "Where would you like to go?"
"You have more knowledge of beautiful places to visit so I will hold that in your decision."
"But today is in your hands, so you decide."
"Very well then. In that case," Taric thought for a while and suggested. "Can we visit Ionia first? And then Shurima? Or Bilgewater? Perhaps it would be easier next be Ixtal or Freljord? Is Demacia possible as well? And your fabulous country?"
I chuckled and nodded. "Yeah, all that's possible."
As I typed the bottoms with Ionia's coordinates and pushed a half-moon shape out, gears rotated wildly against one another. Blue light sparkled around a sphere, and small electric waves formed a huge vortex as a passage to a colourful but wild fauna. Taric widened his eyes, witnessing the waves whirling in front of us with an astronomic speed.
I grabbed his hand and said, "Come on, Taric! Let's venture."
Smiling with great joy, Taric followed me. "Yes! Let's explore together. This is amazing!"
As we passed through the magical gates, we reached our destinations.
During our journey, we visited many places, ate and drank local food. Watching Taric being mesmerised by everything and everyone to the point, calling me to accompany him to witness, as he liked to call, beautiful things made me smile. I loved this side of him so much.
Already in Ionia, Taric admired with curiosity the nature around us. Even fused with the houses, he showed me how the magic here linked spiritually. He told me in this country, he sensed a curious place out of the ordinary, as if everything connected in harmony and balance if taken with care. Being an Aspect had these powers, he told me once, he could sense realities that the naked eye couldn't see.
Our next stop was Shurima. I guided him through the desert as we visited some cities, including the capital and took the opportunity to see the big disk. Delighted with stuff around him, Taric watched with great interest the waters falling from the disc. He told me the disk held a familiarity to it. Its presence inside resembled his new home.
Then we travelled to Bilgewater and stopped in a good tavern we could find. With a group of sailors, Taric played gambling with them while listening to their scary tales of sea beasts. Charmed by the incredible details of the stories, he asked me if we could try to see the fantastical creatures. We did the impossible with some while the others remained a myth or mystery, and Taric accepted that with grace. As he said, there's beauty in wonder and mystery. Let it stay that way for people's imagination.
The journey to Ixtal had its limitations, but I made it exciting and adventurous. Guiding him through the jungle proved to be something he could never have expected. Not only Taric appreciated the fauna and its inhabitants, but he also grabbed some nature on his palms. He told me he could sense its life running through his soul, so magical and gentle if not disturbed.
Reaching a Freljord village, the tribe chief welcomed and offered us great hospitality to stay. We accepted but only to adventure in their cold mountains and forests, while during our journey, the guide told us epic stories. Taric had the opportunity to hug poros at his heart's content and I did too.
Visiting his country, well… former government, I hid his face since his former men still saw him as a traitor and an angry God. We avoided places that could trigger episodes of grave anxiety for him. Taric gazed around, finding no differences in the architecture; even Alabaster Library hadn’t changed, but one thing differed. Alongside the city guards, mages walked among them and the citizens. Taric smiled and said that finally, they roam free in his dear Demacia. The scar is healed, and now everything will be alright.
Our visit to Noxus was enjoyable. Taric asked questions of the people around him to try to understand Noxians in general. Finally, a group of warriors and artisans alike welcomed us in their inns. After a couple of conversations and gaming between them, Taric left the city with great admiration. He said to me, they opened his eyes even more today. Anybody can rise and pursue what people seemed to be good at, could be anything he insisted on, from art, magic or maths.
Before we could stop in my city, I explained to him that visiting Bandle City would be impossible since yordles tend to have many teleports split in Runeterra. However, I promised him we will be able to find a way to visit their city one day. Taric agreed, and finally, we stopped at our last destination.
Taric mesmerised himself with all things Piltover offered in our journey. I guided him through the capital and especially the southern part of the country. He wandered curious about all the inventions our merchants showed him, and he admired our building structures and the citizen's fashion with great interest. He was in love with Piltover and its aesthetics. He never thought it could be possible with people and the small things with a fusion of magic and technology.
"Our adventure doesn't end here." We held hands while walking in the busy streets.
The restaurant Bright Star would be his taste. It had refined and extravagant details in which I expected him to be lost in admiration. And since that place had a good reputation, I was curious to try it and see Taric dressed for a proper occasion.
"Can't wait to see what you have prepared for the rest of the day." Taric said excitedly as if he couldn't contain anticipation of my surprise. "Are we going to the place right now?"
"Nah, too soon." I shook my head. "But," I eyed him, "you need a change of clothes. Nothing against it but let's say where we will be going tonight, you will need to be dressed—"
"With a refined touch? More extravagant if you like?" Taric added.
I nodded, "pretty much, yeah."
Taric had a bright light on his eyes. "Don't tell me we will visit your stepfather's shop? The same you usually buy your own clothing?"
I smiled. "The same." We turned to a street full of buildings and people busy with their lives. "He sells clothing for all occasions. He would have something for you for sure."
"Wouldn't you buy yours?" Taric asked curiously. "Or you got one already at home?"
"Got one already, don't worry." I answered, glancing at the signs in the South High Street. We passed by a coffee shop, bakery, shoes and a clocks shop. "Plus, he received new clothing recently. So, take your time and enjoy your shopping."
Smiling with great joy, Taric said. "Thank you, I will."
Then we passed through another street until we reached a hidden small one full of shops of all kinds. Finally, I could see my adoptive father's shop with a large golden sign written with elegant calligraphy and carvings of leaves: Zalie's Expeditionary Outfitters & Haberdashery. A huge crowd lined up at his shop and the thought of waiting a long time made me nervous.
I made a reservation at the restaurant, and not being on time for the first time in my life caused me to be anxious. Then, realising my gaze darting on the crowd and on the shop's window, Taric caressed my hands and comforted me. "Everything is alright, Ezreal. Don't need to rush to the place you have prepared for today."
Well, we had to… kind of. "Well, yeah but— I mean…" I hugged him and tried to find the right words. I didn't want to ruin his birthday. He deserved everything to be the happiest man. "We have to be on time in that restaurant, otherwise we will lose our table." I explained.
But Taric calmly, as usual, nodded and smiled tenderly, he added. "That's alright. Even if we lose it, I trust you know other places we can have dinner. Plus, the company of my cute explorer is everything."
Words like that, calling me a cute explorer, always teased my heart to beat fast. Then, my cheeks ablaze and hugging him tidily, I rested my head on his chest. And just like that, Taric wrapped his massive arms in a gentle hug and settled his head on mine.
Small moments like this meant so much in his company. I was fully aware the next day we wouldn't be like this, that he would have to go back to his Protector responsibility and I to my explorations; we always made sure each time we spent time together had to be the best of all.
And when we had the day in our hands, we didn't mind stuff around us.
We kept the promise as usual. One day we would definitely be together forever. This distance between us must end soon. With my explorations and more stuff prepared with the right people at my side, our promise would become true for real.
Wait for this moment, Taric. Be patient as I know you have been, and I promise you the day will come.
But as we minded our affectionate moment, the crowd waiting in the queue cried out for us to move. We chuckled, and after some people ahead of us, we entered inside.
The huge shop had a lot of variety of clothing for all possible occasions. Each section for males and females was organised by dressed mannequins and signs everywhere. He also had sections for customers that didn't identify both sexes and those who transitioned for their opposition.
In the last section I imagined myself grabbing clothes in Taric’s company while experimenting what would suit me the most. I moved my hands towards my shoulders as if his gentle hands settled on them, comforting me with his gentle smile. A soft smile escaped my lips as one day I would be like that with him.
Realising my interest in the clothing section, Taric wrapped his arms on my waist. He kissed my cheeks with affection. “It isn’t long now, right?”
I held his hands on my waist, rubbing them. “I have almost all the money I need for the operation and hormones injection.” Then added. “Just a couple of more explorations, a promotion of the Guild and everything will be in place.”
Taric tightened his arms on me and added, “I want to be present when that time comes. You will not face it alone.”
I smiled and said. “Thank you, Taric.”
As we approached the counter, my stepfather greeted us with open arms. "Ezreal, glad to see you again, son." Then he glanced at Taric. "Ah, shopping with your boyfriend I see. There's great stuff for you guys to look at."
I hugged him and, with a massive smile on my face, said. "Yeah, we just come from a long journey." Then continued. "We visited all and everything! You should have seen the places like… great food and drink, new discoveries, in which I intend to return and revisit again, and… and— oh! I took some pictures together with Taric for our album. Great stuff dad."
Taric smiled gracefully. "It was a delight. He showed me many beautiful things around Runeterra."
"That's great guys." Zalie glanced at the queue outside then he faced us. "My son always returns with new places to explore each time he stops here."
"He always does." Taric nodded. "It's part of his beauty after all, discovering what we can't and showing the world the mysteries of Runeterra."
Zalie cast a curious gaze at me, puffing my chest with pride. I wiggled my eyebrows confidently with a smirk. Not gonna lie; all the flattery Taric gave made me feel amazing. Not surprised here; he knew his boyfriend was the best.
Dad smiled. "Aah… it's good to see you guys together. It warms my heart. When you aren't here, Taric my son doesn't shut up about you— And speaking of couple and love, we have got great outfits today," he faced me. "Unless it's for your adventures again…"
"Nah it's for Taric." I pointed. "We are going to Bright Star restaurant later."
Dad whistled. "I see what you are after. We've got just what you are looking for."
I grinned. "That's super! Thanks dad!" Then I faced Taric with a curious expression on his face. "Choose what you like, it would be on my account."
While checking my bags with my purse ready to pay, Taric placed his hands on mine. "You paid for our meals my dear, but paying for an outfit—"
"Hey it's ok." I caressed his hands. Besides saving money for my travels and my operation to change my sex, it was also reserved for Taric's birthday. His special day meant to be memorable. "Enjoy at your heart's content what you love, ok?" Facing him with a soft smile, I added. "This will be your taste, plus we rarely have time for this stuff. So I want you to have something today."
Taric hugged me so tight as I could burst my face on his chest. Never mind his big hugs. In fact, they always warmed and comforted me. Plus, I could always listen to his gentle heartbeat. I always loved when he hugged me like this.
"Thank you Ezreal." He said softly. "But the thought of you not having enough money for your stuff concerned me."
I caressed his strong jaws. "That's more than fine. And to be fair I'm kinda curious to see you in a fancy suit."
Taric winked. "I sense you will look fabulous in one. Excited to see you dressed like that," Then he glanced at my dad, waiting for our decision, and then went back to me. "What do you say we surprise each other? We can meet at Bright Star's entrance?"
"That sounds a good idea." I nodded and asked dad. "Would you tell Taric where the restaurant is?"
Dad nodded. "No problem. I will give him directions, plus your sister can drop him at the entrance and leave you guys then."
Taric nodded. "Sounds perfect, Mr. Zalie. I appreciate your kind gesture."
"Well, if he agrees, I will be going then." Then, departing from his tender hug and kissing him, I waved. "See you later."
Taric retributed affectionately to me and winked. "See you later, darling."
Reaching home, I prepared for tonight. In my wardrobe, I choose my most stylish suit. Undressing, I began to dress my long purple shirt and black tie, then my black tuxedo pants and bright shoes. I turned around and smiled with admiration at seeing me so well dressed. Feeling confident, I smirked and continued. Wrapping my purple vest underneath, I added a white tuxedo jacket open, finishing with white evening gloves on my right hand.
Approaching the big mirror in my bedroom, I glanced at my messy hair. Opening drawers, I found my special hair gel and combed my hair with small pieces falling on my face and the rest to the back.
I turned again and checked my face. Again, everything was perfect except maybe… glancing at a small glass with a transparent liquid, I spread some perfume on my neck and clothes.
Now I was ready!
***
The place was filled with extravagant Piltovians of the city. Two guards stood at the entrance as the guests presented their invitation card and passed through an elaborate door.
Glancing around, my breath escaped from my throat nervously. The butterflies in my stomach grew as the thought of Taric showing up invaded my thoughts. How will he be dressed? Will he show some kind of surprise? Or… uh— darting my attention around, still trying to find him anywhere possible, I looked at the clock above me.
Still, ten minutes for him to show up.
Taking an accelerated deep breath, I walked around, moving my hands to my face and hair. Maybe it was too early? Or should I have brought something? No idea but— glancing again at the clock, the Pendle didn't move much, just one more minute.
After five minutes, one car stopped, and my heart jumped to my throat. I observed the car's door open. Couldn't tell who it was, but it has a tall figure… wait—
Rushing in the shadow direction, I stopped moving. As Taric walked in my direction, his long hair floated while he held his hands covered with white evening gloves and a bouquet of red roses. I followed him, darting his attention as to find me. I raised my hand, and as he saw me, he walked in my direction.
His radiant, soft smile combined so well with what he had dressed for today, a black unbuttoned tuxedo coat with a white double-breasted vest underneath. Taric adjusted his bowtie with a ruffled tuxedo bib.
He was… perfect!
Taric smiled, "You look beautiful my dear, just like I imagined." Then he gave me his hand. "Shall we?"
I smiled and placed my hand on his. "You look amazing! I love it." I pointed to the entrance. "Let's go."
We held our hands tied and reached the entrance, I presented our invitation card, and the guards granted us passage. As we passed through a corridor with elegant designs on the walls, another guard opened the door.
Stepping inside, Taric stopped and gazed around with great admiration as the other guests sat on their seats.
A stage with some musical instruments could be seen afar with red curtains pushed apart. The walls had Piltoven decorations serving as columns with golden designs painted to contrast with the puffy red chairs. As Taric walked more into the room, he paid attention to the vast crystalised chandeliers above the tables.
People inside found it funny as he gazed around with great interest, and some looked confused as to why a big guy like him was so in love with the small details inside.
My heart filled with joy as he smiled, so pleased to see a place like this. A sophisticated spot for him to admire and contemplate at his heart's content.
Approaching him, I asked. "Do you like this place?"
Taric placed his attention on me, and with his joyful smile, he said. "I love this so much." He hugged me. "Thank you for bringing me to this beautiful place. Can we come here again some time?"
I hugged him. "Yeah. Let me know when."
Then a waitress brought us to a table. And once again, Taric admired stuff like the red table cloth with golden designs and the frames, the white plates with black designs and the tall glasses.
He placed the bouquet on the table and put his hand on mine. The warmth of his fingers caressing my hand felt so relaxing after the long journey we had to visit the other parts of Runeterra. My heart escaped a soft beat, and I smiled, moving my hands to his jaws. Then he held my hands with care and kissed them softly as if holding something delicate and fragile.
I felt my cheeks ablaze even though we have done this so many times. Taric had a certain way to make me blush with happiness and content. I liked when he treated me like this.
I cared about him so much. The thought of every day he could die while protecting someone or something never left my thoughts, so I wanted to show him he would always be loved.
I travelled my hands to Taric's cheeks and caressed his face. His passionate and tender gaze closed as his soft smile embraced my attention. His peaceful expression was hypnotic and radiant I couldn't take my eyes off. Taric was beautiful. My thumbs caressed his jaws, and my little fingers touched his lips. A tingling sensation crawled on my body, excited to keep giving this affection to him.
"Can we wait for the food? I want to feel your beautiful hands on my face a little longer." Taric pleaded.
"Yeah." I caressed his nose as he tilted his face, pleased.
But he couldn't resist moving his hands to mine. I found myself leaning— no, not leaning but moving my chair closer and being wrapped with his arms on my waist. Sitting on his thighsand leaning my head towards his, our foreheads touch on one another. My heart raced as our lips kissed on a soft and passionate rhythm.
While we enjoyed this intimate moment when suddenly, a female voice spoke behind me. "Sorry to interrupt your loving moment but, would you ask for your dinner?"
We departed our lips, and Taric said, "Of course, bring us your finest
menu my dear."
Then after we asked and received our meal, we caught up on our conversation. Taric told me about the great dangerous situations he faced while protecting others and helped them realise great things within them. I listened with full attention, and then I told my new adventures, my discovery on the Traveling Machine. Taric nodded and listened to me closely, admiring my discoveries in detail.
Next, the group on stage played soft and mellow music. Taric got up and offered his hand to dance. Accepting it, we danced a couple of songs, always wrapped our arms around each other. Even with the music playing, we moved to a large balcony, and Taric brought the bouquet with him.
I gazed at him and wrapped my arms around his waist. We both knew what this moment meant. This small piece of seconds, minutes and hours we have spent today would be gone tomorrow. He wouldn't be with me in the morning again. I wouldn't be able to listen to his gentle voice, feel his tender touch on my skin, or smell his favourite perfume. My heart ached from the sad realisation.
He placed the bouquet on my chest as he realised my fingers pressed vigorously on his tuxedo. I felt my eyes itchy, and glancing at him, Taric had his warmth and kind smile with tears falling gently on his cheeks.
I travelled with my hands to clean them, but Taric placed the bouquet on my hands instead. "It's for you, my bright star."
I'm crying. I'm definitely crying. "But it isn't my birthday—" My voice sounded broken.
More tears ran on his face. "I know, darling."
And then he hugged me so tidily as I smelled his sandalwood perfume mixed with the freshness of the roses. Then, finally, he rested his head on mine as I held the bouquet and wrapped my arms around his neck.
"Thank you, Ezreal for everything." Taric said, whimpering. "For making me the happiest man in Runeterra." He tightened his hug further. "Thank you for allowing me to visit so many places, for making every second count. For showing me how important I am to you, my love."
I listened to his heart pacing softly but agitated. I had to comfort him to rest his mind at ease since today was his special day. So, I raised my head and gazed at his tender but wet eyes. I caressed his face and cleaned his eyes as he did to mine.
The stars in the sky brightened just like Taric, the light and the beacon of hope shining in my life with joy and encouragement. Yet, none of us could stop crying.
And just like that, silently, we hugged each other like none of us wanted to go away. I felt Taric fingers craving my tuxedo, gentle and caring. His long hair fell against mine as he settled his head softly. His heartbeat accelerated, yet there was something peaceful about its pace, in peace and tenderness I always felt in love to listen. Just like him, a man with a big, kind and gentle heart full of love.
I caressed his head and gave him a kiss on his forehead. He raised his head slightly, and with a tender smile, he caressed my face fondly and kissed me back on my forehead.
I promise Taric, one day we'll be together. This distance between us will be gone.
We faced one another, and as we kissed, I placed my hands on his jaws and smiled with tears said, gazing at his gentle expression with tears. "Happy Birthday, Taric."