Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

The mage fell with a loud cuss, and one last blast of magic. Grog roared as he extracted his axe from the mage's skull. Behind him the group lay scattered like chess pieces, all in their own states of injury and exhaustion. 
The job had sounded simple enough, a simple, single mage with a perplexing tendency to raise mischief in her wake. She possessed an array of magic spells that even Gilmore wouldn’t know, and the group had fought hard. 

“What the fuck did that mage cast? Is everyone okay?” Keyleth shrieked anxiously, patting her body for evidence of unusual magic. Some groaned in response. She jumped to her feet, hands glowing green. Her eyes lit up as she examined the people closest to her. Scanlan had minor injuries, and Grog was fine.

Vex had a nasty head injury and Keyleth went to assist with that, but none of them showed any signs of a curse. She healed her minor cuts and bruises, and then she looked over to the far end of the clearing where the battle had just gone down, spotting the two men. She immediately missed Pike, who was at her temple. 

Vax gasped, coming back to consciousness. His heart raced, his ears rang, and he felt nauseous. He didn’t remember falling.

He sat up, looking around slowly. Then something, or rather someone caught his eye. He frowned anxiously, had he died? A small distance away he saw him. He saw his body lying on the ground. He crawled over quickly, grasping for air as he did. Was this hell? He could hear Keyleth yelling in the distance. His body was breathing, groaning even, just, he wasn't in it. Vax knelt over his body in confusion. He heard himself cough, watching his own lips move.

“I don’t understand, what is happening?” He whispered to himself. He placed his hand on the one of the vessel beneath him. He was definitely real. He nudged the vessel, willing them to open their eyes, reasoning that he’d then disappear and get his body back. He touched his head, perhaps he was concussed. 

Keyleth reached the two men then, one kneeling over the other.

“Percy! Are you okay?” She asked breathlessly. Percy’s face shot up to hers then, and he looked horrified. His face was unusually pale, even for him, and his eyes were wild and worried.

“Keyleth, help me!” He said.

“Okay, buddy, what’s wrong?” She asked.

Vax frowned at her. “I’m… Keyleth, why am I outside of my body?” He asked her, panicked, his accent sounding strangely like Percy's.

She frowned at him, then looked over at Vax who lay motionless on the ground. 

“Buddy… did you hit your head?” She asked, stepping closer as she watched tears run down a pale, green-eyed face. He looked confused and terrified, and cocked his head at her.

“I don’t know. Am I dead? Can you bring me back?” He asked.

“No, you’re not dead, but is Vax okay?” She said slowly, and Percy stared back at her, fear flashing in his eyes.

“What do you mean?” He asked.

She gestured over to Vax’s body. When he didn’t answer her she made her way to Vax, laying a healing hand on him, flinching as a dark brown magic immediately fought with her green magic. She gasped, almost withdrawing her hand.

"Vax’s cursed!” She said, groaning as Percy growled at her, gesturing towards himself.

“I’m Vax!” He said anxiously. 

Keyleth blinked rapidly, trying to understand what was happening.

“No, you’re Percy. Buddy… let me check you out okay?” She said, raising the hand not resting on Vax’s head to Percy's where he knelt down over Vax. He frowned, leaning into her touch, and the same brown magic showed again.

“Yep. You’re cursed too,” she said, sighing. 

“Vex?” 

Keyleth and Percy turned to look at what was - or used to be - Vax’s body.

“No, I’m Vax,” Percy said, in Vax’s voice, and they watched him frown and begin to try and sit up.

“No, you’re Percy. That’s Vax,” Keyleth said softly. The two men stared at each other silently. The leather-clad, dark haired man sat up, reaching up to touch the glasses that used to belong to him, to his pale face, hovering over him. 

“What the fuck!” He yelled, in Vax's voice.

“Ooh,” Keyleth said, both astonished and amused. Percy and Vax turned to look at her, hopefully, desperate for an explanation.

She cleared her throat dramatically: “Percy, you are now Vax," she gestured from Percy’s body towards Vax’s. “And, you, Vax, are now Percy. You got body swapped."

The two men stared, blinked, cocked their heads, and screamed. 

By this time the group had reached them, staring on in confusion. 

The men shot to their feet, then stumbled. Percy’s legs were too long for Vax, and Vax’s body was too light for Percy. They overestimated their needs, and lifelong reflexes and muscle memory are now useless. Vax bolted towards his body, tripping. Percy tried to catch him but wasn’t used to the larger man’s weight.

They fell to the ground huffing and cursing and soon Vax knelt over his previous vessel, examining himself.

“No, no, no,” he groaned. His fingers lingered on his hair, then his coat, so Percy swatted his hand away, snarling.

“Don’t touch me!” He said.

“I’m touching me, you fucking asshole!” Vax growled. 

“What is happening? Are they hurt?” Scanlan asked.

“Uhm. Yes, but also no. They got body swapped,” Keyleth said over her shoulder. 

“Why is Percy touching Vax like that, don’t they hate each other?” Grog asked.

Vex sighed in response, rolling her eyes. 

“Hate is a strong word, they just don’t know each other yet,” she said.

“Well, they’re about to know each other quite intimately,” Scanlan joked, wiggling his eyebrows.

“I don’t get it,” Grog mumbled.

“Oh. So what I mean is Vax is going to see Percy’s dick when he pees and-.” Scanlan said, laughing when Vex interrupted him.

“They’re in each other’s bodies,” she said to Grog. Scanlan snorted, choking back a laugh.

“Stop!” Vex groaned.

“Percy is now walking around in Vax’s body, and Vax is walking around in Percy’s,” she tried to explain again. Grog nodded his head, understanding nothing.

“Would you two stop swatting at each other like children!” Vex scoffed, running up to the two men. Percy was trying to pry his glasses off of his old face, and Vax was trying his best to stay out of Percy’s reach.

“They’re my glasses, Vax’ildan! I need them,” Percy groaned, but Vax swatted his hand away again.

“I’m in your body De Rolo! I need your glasses,” he said. Percy stopped to stare at his foul-mouthed reflection, cocking his head as he considered this.

“Let’s see, shall we? Remove my glasses,” he insisted.

“Fine, but I’m doing it to prove a point not because you’re telling me to,” Vax said angrily, straightening his back as if Percy’s quirks were second nature to him. He removed the glasses slowly and carefully. Then he squealed in surprise and squinted at the world around him.

“Percy, you’re blind!” He said.

“I don’t wear them for fashion Vax’ildan," Percy said, snagging the glasses from his vessel’s fingers. He placed them on his- Vax’s - face and cringed.

“It appears you are correct, my eyesight didn’t accompany me to your body,” he said, holding the glasses out to Vax. Vax fumbled with them, sighing when he could see again. 

“Lucky me! I get the bad eyes, the octopus limbs, the short hair, the--,” he moped.

“All right! I get it! I’m not impressed either Vax’ildan,” Percy groaned, swatting long hair he wasn’t used to out of his face. Vax groaned at him.

“Don’t touch my hair!” He said.

“Don’t touch mine!” Percy retorted. Vax placed his hands on his hips, a thing that Percy would never do. It looked as ridiculous as Percy’s rim-rod posture looked on Vax’s body. 

“Keyleth? Can’t you change us back?” Vax asked anxiously. 

“I’m sorry, I can’t. This will have to wear off, or we’ll have to find Pike," she said apologetically.

Both men groaned, causing Vex to snicker. Her brother turned to glare at her with green eyes and a pout that was meant to be a grimace. She laughed, highly amused.

“This is not funny!” Vax moaned. It sounded funny in Percy’s voice, and Keyleth chuckled.

“This is truly inconvenient, and not at all amusing. How am I supposed to live like this?” Percy asked.

Scanlan, Grog, and Vex howled in amusement. Vax’s voice was deeper than Percy’s, he was older after all, but Percy’s linguistics sounded strange coming from Vax’s usually foul mouth. 

“What the fuck does that mean?” Vax asked, shoving Percy, who stumbled back.

“Wow, you are a lightweight,” Percy laughed, rolling his new vessels' lithe shoulders. Then he shoved back and groaned. His vessel - his old one, had not moved at all. Vax laughed loudly, flexing his new vessels' broader shoulders and longer arms.

“It appears you’re the lightweight,” he said.

Percy swung a fist at his old vessel, making contact. Vax groaned, rubbing at his cheek.

“At least your body packs a proper punch,” Percy snickered.

“Oof!” He shrieked as Vax punched back, leaving Percy staggering backwards. He glared, staring at the smirking reflection of himself. Vax flexed his new fingers experimentally.

“Your body is stronger than it looks,” he mocked.

Percy lunged at his old vessel, but Grog caught him.

“Grog, grab Vax as well so that we can disarm them before they kill each other,” Vex ordered. 

Grog frowned, turning to Vax’s form.

“I am holding him!” He said.

“Okay, then grab the other Vax.” Vex sighed irritably. They protested and wriggled in Grog’s grip like children as Vex and Keyleth disarmed them. Vex handled the guns with utmost care, and Percy swallowed his worry. Keyleth dropped all the blades on the floor, touching them with two fingers as if they’d bite. Vax groaned angrily. 

“You boys can have your toys back when you learn to play nice, okay? Now be good and come along. Not another word to each other!” Vex said.

The unanimous response was grumbling and groaning all the way to town.

Vax watched in disbelief as his previous body moved around with him not in it, it felt wrong. He experimented with his own new vessel, stumbling slightly. He was used to a slightly shorter form, and his agile and lithe self. Percy’s body felt sluggish and overly large. He removed the glasses on his face again, wincing at his now terrible eyesight. He would not be able to aim a dagger nearly as far as he normally could. 

Percy fell down, for the third time, getting dirt all over the black armor Vax loved so much. 

“Oh, come on Percy!” Vax groaned.

“I’m sorry! Your body is completely different to mine, okay? Your legs are so short!” Percy moaned.

“They are not! Your limbs are too long!” Vax snapped. He watched mournfully as a large shadow fell over his reflection and he vanished, it took him years to master that skill. He doubted his shock of white hair and height would allow him to do that now. 

Percy was trying to get Vax drunk, very drunk, and Vax had no idea why. He noted that Percy was not drinking much himself, but he seemed adamant to make his- Percy’s body incoherently drunk.

Quietly, Vax marvelled at just how strong his new body’s alcohol tolerance was because he was not nearly as drunk as he would be in his own body. He wanted to question the newest member of their team but didn’t waste his time, Percy never answered anything private seriously. He evaded or reflected the question effortlessly, Vax imagined that it had become a soft of art by now. Percy was extremely private, to the sense of paranoia actually. That was exactly why Vax didn’t trust him, and always had his eye on him. 

“Buckle up, we’re sharing rooms tonight,” Vex said, startling Vax from his deep thoughts.

“Ugh,” Vax groaned.

“I’ve paired Grog with Scanlan as there is only one bed large enough to fit Grog. I’m sharing with Keyleth, and you two boys get to snuggle!” Vex said cheerfully. 

“Great. I get his body, and have to share with him. What next?” Vax moaned.

“Well, you should probably go save him before he gets his first kiss wearing your face then,” Keyleth giggled as she gestured towards where Percy and Grog waited for their drinks at the bar. 

“If he’s being himself, she’ll tire of him soon enough, even wearing my handsome face,” Vax said with a slight chuckle.

“You underestimate how much shit people will put up with to get with our handsome faces," Vex teased, laughing as her brother gagged.

The expression looked terribly amusing on Percy’s face. He rarely showed more than a simple tick of emotion, always stoic and flat. 

“Do that again!” Vex asked of Vax. He cocked his head to the right, something Vax did frequently and that alone made Vex laugh.

“Do what?” Vax asked.

“Gag. Pull that face again,” Vex asked, drawing the attention of Keyleth and Scanlan. Vax proceeded to gag dramatically to the great amusement of the others.

“Do something else!” Keyleth demanded animatedly.

“I don’t know what you’re asking…” Vax said.

“Percy’s face, it looks funny to see emotions on it, show us more,” Vex explained.

Her brother’s now green eyes lit up and he started with an overly large smile, then proceeded to make as many faces as he could think of. He pouted, cooed, batted his eyelashes, scowled, glared, and smiled. The group had been laughing up until the last expression, but then they went quiet, and the mood went sombre. 

Grog walked back to the table at the exact same time and stopped dead in his tracks.

“Hey, Percy? Are you feeling okay man? You look… weird,” he said, eyeing the human suspiciously. Realization fell, and everybody’s faces fell and Vax dropped the smile. They’d never seen it before, because Percy never smiled. Suddenly, Vax wished he were drunk because he felt something other than suspicion and disdain for their human.

They sat drinking silently and completely forgot about the world around them as they all got lost in their own thoughts as they tried to compose themselves before Percy returned.

“Vax’ildan... Would you please assist me? I seem to have drawn attention of a manner that I am not familiar with,” Percy said, sitting down next to Vex slowly. The woman from the bar was not far behind, looking dazed and aroused.

“What?” Vax asked.

“Get rid of the woman, Vax’ildan!” Percy snapped. 

The mood lightened then, and Vex coughed away a laugh as she noticed the distress on what used to be her brother’s face.

“You mean you drew attention to my body,” Vax teased. He couldn’t help his amusement at seeing his own body react.

“Well, I apologize. I’m not used to it, and unless you’re prepared to have a strange woman have her way with you, do something about it,” Percy snapped. 

Keyleth chuckled as the woman joined the group, sitting down and grabbing Percy’s – Vax’s - arm. He stiffened and although the body was very much Vax’s, Percy shone right through it. His posture was rigid and his eyes wide. 

“Oh! Percy darling, who’s your friend?” Vex said, sounding as alluring as only Vex could.

The woman looked over at Vex, sitting on Percy’s other side and blinked rapidly.

“Twins, darling. Do try to keep up,” she said. The woman sneered. Okay, so Vex couldn’t help. 

“Pleasure to make your acquaintance,” the white hair man said, rewarded by a flock of heads turning sharply towards him.

“Say, Vax’ildan hasn’t given us your name. How rude of him,” Vax said. He eyed the real Percy, adopting his posture and form.

“It’s Anne, and the pleasure is mine,” the woman said sweetly. Scanlan gagged. Vax extended his gloved hand, palm up, fingers needlessly curled.

“May I?” He asked. The woman stared at him blankly for a while, before she blushed furiously and placed her hand in the gloved one.

Vax raised it gently, pulling the hand towards him as he lowered his face and looked directly at Percy. The woman squealed in delight as the regal nobleman she was staring at kissed the top of her hand before letting go. 

Vax raised a displeased eyebrow as Percy and Vex spat out their ales.

“Excuse my companions, they’re quite inebriated. My, would you look at my dear Vax’ildan, drawing all the most beautiful women in the room to yourself tonight? Rather selfish, if I do say so myself,” Vax said, embellishing Percy’s voice for the show.

“All of them?” The woman, asked, dumbfounded. She looked around and blushed.

“Oh! Am I included?” She asked, eyeing a wild-eyed, grinning Keyleth suspiciously. Vax gasped, mock insulted.

“My, of course you are, dear. Apart from those two twins and my dearest Keyleth, you are by far the prettiest,” he said, a tone so seductive Percy himself didn’t know he could muster.

“Why is Percy being so weird?” Grog whispered loudly to Scanlan.

“Shut up! Just watch,” Scanlan scorned.

Percy sat glaring at his old body stone-faced. There was nothing he could do other than accept the mockery, and the way his green eyes met his on occasion. 

Vax watched Anne shuffle away from his old vessel, letting go of his arm, and waves of emotions flashed over the other man’s face.

Percy was clearly displeased, and clearly relieved.

“I do wish I had drawn your attention first, I find myself feeling quite jealous,” Vax purred, leaning closer. The woman met him halfway, and Percy boiled.

“Oh my, I wouldn’t like to choose…” Anne said, flustered and giggly.

“Who said you have to?” Vax said, dropping the tone of Percy’s voice seductively and grinning. 

A hand slammed down on the table between Vax's new body and Anne’s, whose faces were inches apart. 

“Mine! That’s mine!” Percy snarled.

“Uhm. Okay,” Anne said, startled. She turned to look at the little steam kettle next to her with wild eyes.

“I didn’t know you felt that way about him,” she said.

“Yours? Is there something you’d like to tell me, Vax’ildan?” Vax asked, hand on his lips in mock shyness. 

Percy glared at him, gesturing wildly.

“No, no you don’t understand. That’s mine, and I’m his,” Percy rambled, a blush creeping up his cheeks and neck because of his inability to explain himself.  

“Oh, my dear man, I wish I had known this before you spent half the night wasting dear Anne’s time. It is rather possessive of you, but I understand…” Vax said, imagining the steam coming out of Percy’s ears. 

With one quick move, Percy stormed off, fussing with the long hair that kept falling into his face and stumbling. Vax watched him go as the group giggled.

“My apologies, dear lady. It appears I have a scorned lover to go appease...” Vax said, rising and giving the table a dramatic bow.

“You should tell him you love him!” Anne yelled at the retreating man with his hands folded behind his back for one last dramatization.

“What the fuck?” Keyleth asked. Anne shrugged, downing the mug of abandoned ale Vax had been drinking.

“Star-crossed lovers, you know? Sometimes all you need is a little push. I’m happy for them, they’re both beautiful men,” she said.

“Now, anybody want to confess their love for the gnome before I try my luck?” She asked. 

Vax met Percy sitting on the bed furthest from the door in their shared room. It was his preferred spot, it gave him time to pull the trigger. Guns were larger and heavier than his daggers, and Vax thought himself a man with much faster reflexes. 

“Was that really necessary?” Percy groaned.

“You wanted her to stop focusing on you,” Vax said dryly. Percy shot him a glare.

“So, to take her attention off of me, you focus it on my body?” 

Vax snorted: “Well, when you put it that way…” 

“You reek,” Vax said, making to remove Percy’s coat.

“I… well, yes, I do, but can you? Uhm,” Percy rambled, fumbling anxiously with his fingers.

Vax examined his worried face, confused. Honestly, they were both men. It wasn’t that big of a deal. They were going to have to deal with a lot more than washing up in each other’s bodies. Unless it was a hygiene matter.

“What? I was under the impression that somebody like you would have good hygiene?” He asked, removing Percy’s vest.

“I do!” Percy said with horrified eyes. "Vax'ildan!"

“There’s a reason you’ve never seen me undressed. One that I’m not particularly interested in sharing at this time. I-.” Percy stumbled. 

Oh. Vax understood, they had indeed never seen Percy in less than two or three layers of clothing. While the rest of them were comfortable with nudity and bathing together in bodies of water, Percy was not. He’d skip or go after them.

“Percy, I have scars too,” he tried to soothe.

“No. No you don’t understand…” Percy said. Vax made to remove the cravat, trying to understand the gravity of the situation. Percy visibly balked at the sight of the cravat falling away. 

“Okay, fine. I’ll do it with my eyes closed?” He offered gently. Percy’s entire body relaxed instantly, and he exhaled loudly.

“Thank you,” he mumbled.

“Eh, I’m mostly doing it for my own benefit. Don’t go soft on me,” Vax said, smiling gently as Percy shook his head and chuckled.

Chuckled, not laughed. Percy didn’t laugh.

“Now as for you… I expect my body spotless, trimmed, perfectly manicured. You find yourself blessed to be in such a fine vessel,” he teased, lightening the mood.

“Now, unless we’re swapping wardrobes as well, hand over your valuables vagabond,” Vax said, imitating Percy again. This time Vax was rewarded with the smallest hint of a smile before a massive bag was flung at him.

“Here, you can play dress up with me until this nightmare ends. You have multiple options. Let’s see, I own black, black, more black. Oh I think I have something dark grey in there… and more black!” He said, kicking over his own bag. 

“Ah, perfect. What the fuck would I do sulking around, hiding in the shadows and disappearing into thin air dressed up like a prancing peacock?” Percy imitated.

Vax stopped dead, and turned to face Percy. The man wearing his face made a great attempt at looking indifferent and unamused.

“Did… did you just imitate me?” Vax asked. Percy shrugged his shoulders, flipping the hair over his left shoulder back with a flick of the hand.

“And here I thought this night couldn’t get any stranger. Percival De Rolo the third, making a joke,” he said.  

Vax tried his best to keep his eyes closed as he washed Percy’s body. He didn’t want to, but he noticed for the first time how much bigger Percy was than he appeared, hidden underneath that coat. His shoulders were broad, and his arms muscular. He was lean like Vax, but sturdier. The next thing Vax noticed, and tried even harder to ignore, was the unevenness of Percy’s skin. He had his own fair share of imperfections, but this felt strange.

He wondered whether their human was hiding an illness, but then his soapy fingers brushed a particularly sensitive spot right beneath Percy’s throat. He squeezed his eyes tightly, but allowed his finger to follow the line. It was a strangely textured thing, rough to the touch and raised higher than the soft skin alongside it. He traced his fingers down from Percy’s throat, to his chest, to his ribs, and down to his stomach. The line curved slightly, ending close to Percy’s left hip bone. Vax winced as his fingers crossed over the spot. 

A scar. It was a long, poorly healed scar. He felt it again, it was way too precise to be the some kind of monster. A human did this. A monstrous human. Vax recalled finding Percy in a jail cell, barely breathing and yet clinging to the oversized and filthy clothing hanging from him like it was more important than the oxygen he needed. A sick feeling coiled in Vax’s stomach as he realized the truth of what Percy had been hiding. He promised himself just one more touch, before he’d respect Percy’s privacy. He touched a single finger to an incredibly painful muscle on Percy’s left shoulder, and sure enough, he found another scar. 

He stopped immediately, taking a cloth and rinsing off without lingering or concentrating on the body of their secretive comrade. Then he faced the next hurdle, clothing. 

“Hey, uh. Percy…” He spoke, sitting down on the tub.

“Yes?” The muffled answer came.

“I. I can’t dress you with my eyes closed tomorrow,” he said. He got no answer for a while.

“Just, uh, I’ll help you. You can’t sleep in my day clothes, they’ll… scratch,” Percy said.

When Vax waited and Percy said no more, he felt blindly for where he’d left Percy’s nightwear and pulled the clothing on, cussing as he went. 

He’d barely entered the bedroom before a very anxious looking half-elf darted past him into the bathroom. He blinked rapidly, either Percy was desperately in need of that bathroom or he had inherited the speed of the vessel he now possessed. 

His eyes felt heavy, and he was already close to sleep when Percy came out of the bathroom. Percy moved silently, glancing at Vax. Vax lay still, keeping his eyes half closed, and watched quietly as his reflection flexed his arms, then turned left and right, stretching out his back, then raised his arms above his head. He wondered whether his old vessel was injured, then bit his lip when Percy sat down in bed and stretched his legs, making an almost giddy sound. Vax would figure it out in the morning. 

“Okay, so…” Percy said, beginning to dress and explain things to Vax. Vax struggled to concentrate as the human dressed his old vessel in clothing Vax already felt restricted by.

“Then this goes over the button here…” Percy said.  Vax stood perfectly still, only lifting his legs unsteadily as he got dressed up like a blind doll.

“I’m not going to be able to do this every day with my eyes closed Percy, I’m already losing track,” he said gently. He felt Percy tense.

“I know. Can we just not deal with that quite yet?” Percy asked. Vax realized then that his discovery will have to remain a secret for another while at least. 

“Thanks. I’m done,” Percy said when Vax didn’t reply. Vax opened his eyes and looked down. He smiled, trying not to tease.

“You own dark colors?” Vax asked. Percy’s cheeks reddened at Vax’s soft tone.

“I. Uh. I thought you’d be more comfortable this way,” he explained. Vax tugged gently at the dark blue, long sleeved shirt and vest. Percy’s eyes shot up to his throat and panic flashed across his face. Vax watched the dark haired half-elf standing there, looking so vulnerable.

“It’s a very uncomfortable thing…” Percy mumbled. Vax lifted his hand, twirling Percy’s cravat in his fingers.

“It’s okay, I’ll wear it,” Vax said softly. Percy’s shoulders relaxed, and he placed the item in place with shaky fingers. 

“Thank you, Vax’ildan. I truly appreciate what you’re doing, I know I don’t have any right to ask you for merciful acts but I value your discretion immensely,” Percy said, clearly distraught.

Vax, as usual, deflected it casually.

“Hey, morning-after, sober regrets and all that… a gentleman doesn’t tell,” he said, giving Percy a wink.

“That outfit, it suits you. The dark hair, and -.” Vax said, trailing off as he frowned at his vessel.

“Oh! I’m sorry, I’ll undo them right away, I just needed the hair out of the way so that I could fulfill your hygiene requirements,” Percy said, beginning to fumble with the intricate braids behind each pointy ear. 

“How the hell? Those are beautiful Percy, where did you learn to do that?” Vax asked, marveling at the fine and neat braiding.

“I had sisters, Vax...” Percy said sadly.

Fuck. Yes, Vax forgot about that. He stopped Percy’s hand as it destroyed the bottom of one.

“Keep it like that, but just so you know Vex is going to lose her shit if she sees them,” Vax said, making for the door.

“No, no, no I don’t want the wrath of your sister even if it’ll be your body she assaults!” Percy said, frightened.

“I meant she’ll be jealous, Freddie,” Vax laughed. “I’m going to find breakfast."

“I’ll follow soon,” Percy said. 

“Where is everybody?” Vax asked, sitting down across from Grog with a plate full of food. He assumed Percy’s body needed more food than his, since he seemed to need more sleep.

“Keyleth went looking for a body-swap potion, I don’t know what that is. Vex went to buy stock, probably chicken stock for that nasty broth she makes us. Scanlan never came back from that woman Percy was flirting with last night. Where’s Vax?” Grog said. 

“I-.” Vax sighed.

“Vax, is still upstairs," Vax explained.

“Oh. Hey, Percy. I know Vax can be real mean sometimes, but don’t take him too serious. He's a good guy. He just doesn’t trust people easy, but he’d die for any of us. He’s family, you know? He’ll eventually figure out that you’re all right too, just don’t give up on him.” Grog said.

Vax stared up at Grog, with his eyebrows raised.

“Thanks big man, I’ll remember that,” Vax said, clearing his suddenly sentimental throat. 

“Vax calls me that too!” Grog chirped happily. Vax rewarded him with a laugh.

“I’ve never heard you laugh before, you’re real weird this week,” Grog chuckled. 

When breakfast was done and Percy hadn’t come down yet, Vax went looking for him. What he found amused and frightened him. He opened the door to their room, and looked around. At first he saw nothing, then he jolted in surprise. 

“Uhh. This is not what it looks like. I have an explanation,” Percy rambled while Vax stared.

He wanted to be highly irritated, true to his usual form, but he couldn’t help but be amused. 

“So then, explain yourself...” Vax said, folding his arms across his chest. 

“Well, I. Well I was curious to see-.” Percy said, covering his face with his hands as Vax began to laugh at him. 

“Come down from there you idiot, you’ll get me dirty. How the hell did you even get up there?” Vax asked, eyeing the crouching, mostly hidden figure on top the of the closet.  
Percy jumped down silently and as agile as a cat. Then he grinned, turning away from Vax in a clear attempt to hide the satisfaction of this achievement.

“Judging by my experiments, it appears I have your unique set of skills now. Which means I can climb on top of things, and so forth,” Percy explained.

Vax stepped around him with a large stride, giving Percy a narrow-eyed mock glare.

“And if I may ask, what other experiments have you conducted with my body?” He asked. 

Percy’s eyes popped and he blushed furiously,  stuttering over his words.

“What? No, nothing like that. Off course not, I would never,” Percy said, rolling his eyes as he spotted the way Vax was trying to bite down a laugh. "Vax'ildan!"

“I never realized quite how menacing I look, crouched like that. It’s a good look,” Vax said.

“You should go eat Percival, I promise I’ll keep my own experiments hands off,” Vax said, slapping his reflection’s ass.

Percy yelped, and made for the door, mumbling a protest. The moment the human was out of sight he groaned, rolling his left shoulder back and forth. It hurt. 

Percy might be having fun in his new vessel, but Vax was struggling. Percy’s body felt wrong. His muscles were stiff and some of them didn’t seem to work at all. The pain in his arm was constant, and the fabric of his clothing scratched the skin underneath. Vax sighed heavily, once again pulling at the cravat as he made his way to the privy.  He’d been putting this off for way too long as well. 

When he survived what he thought would be a traumatic event that turned out to be strangely normal, he decided to see what skills his new vessel possessed. Firstly, he was taller. Secondly, he had arms that could handle the recoil of a large gun. That meant he could deliver a mean punch if Vax needed it.

He ducked and rolled, and jumped around. He was quite impressed, he’d need to pay closer attention to Percy in a fight next time, when they were back to normal. The human actually had some talents. He noticed that Percy was not just a gunslinger, he would be perfectly capable of being a decent melee fighter as well. Then there was the long legs, those were useful. 

“Hey, Percy?” Vex asked, stepping into the room.

“Gods… it was bad enough to be called by the wrong twin’s name for my entire life,” Vax moped, pacing across the room with large strides.

“What on earth are you doing?” Vex asked, watching her brother with great amusement.

“I am experimenting,” Vax answered. His sister raised her eyebrows.

“Hey, you should have seen what Percy was doing with my body earlier!” He defended.

“I’d rather not,” Vex said, grabbing his arm and leading him into the hallway. 

Chapter Text

Vax groaned, and saw the same disappointment echoed on the face of his reflection. The potions the witches had made for Keyleth had no effect on them, they were still cursed. They’d also been left empty handed when they heard their employer, an apparently reputable general,  had set of for the next town, which meant they had to pursue. The mage had been a difficult job with lingering effects, and they were not to be stiffed. 

“I’m not heading out of town unarmed. We survived the night, I think we can be trusted.” Percy said at dinner. Vex narrowed her eyes at him, but pondered.

“I agree, I want my daggers.” Vax said.

“Aw. You guys are tagging up on me? How cute.” Vex cooed.

“I’m worried about your weapons and your new vessels’ abilities to use them.” She confessed.

“Both of you have a very practiced and particular skill set, and I’m afraid your skills might not be effective anymore.” She added. Both men scowled at her in response.

“Please, I can throw a dagger with my eyes closed.” Vax defended.

“You can, but can Percy’s body?” Vex asked. 

“There’s only one way to find out, hand me a dagger.” Vax said.

“I’ll go fetch the pointy, boomy things!” Keyleth said excitedly, bolting upstairs.

“Wait! Oh Gods!” Percy cried.  

“You entrusted her with our weapons Vex, really?” Vax echoed.

“She’s on a mission.” Vex groaned apologetically.

“What mission?” Percy asked. “I’m not letting her shoot my guns."

“Don’t worry darling, it’s not that. She wants to watch Vax shoot your guns,” she whispered.

“Why me, and why would I need to shoot a gun?” Vax asked.

Scanlan answered, speaking for the first time: “She has a watch-Vax-use-weapons kink.” 

“Uh.” Vax uttered, confused and a little bit flattered. 

“Let’s go!” Keyleth chirped, carrying the weapons.

Percy almost cried.

“Keyleth!” Those guns are loaded!”

“They’re not.” Vex corrected.

“Vex! You handled the guns?” Percy asked.

Vax felt a sharp sense of fear in his chest, which he chose to ignore for the time being.

The two women and Percy began to bicker, and Vax went to get another round of drinks. He rubbed at his shoulder absentmindedly, then pulled at the cravat. Something poked his leg and he looked down to see Scanlan staring up at him. He lifted the gnome onto the bar top, and eyed him. Scanlan eyed him back, reading something in his eyes. 

“How much pain are you in?” He asked.

Vax swallowed hard, he’d been trying his best not to show anything.

“Don’t do that. Calm your face, or Percy will see. He’s already scared.” Scanlan said, and Vax breathed and relaxed his face.

“What do you now?” Vax asked, unwilling to spill any more than he needed to.

“I know. Percy is in pain most of the time, and right now he’s absolutely terrified of what you’re going to say when it becomes too painful to ignore. He hides his pain very well, has from the beginning. You’re the least trusting of him and he knows that. He’s one of the bravest boys I have ever met, but he’s frightened of you. I'll bet money on him thinking you will expose him, or reject him. Don’t.” Scanlan said.

They smiled at the barkeep and left, Scanlan jumping down and Vax carrying the ale. 

Vax contemplated what to do, watching Percy sadly. Yes. Everything Scanlan had said was true, but he had never meant for Percy to be too frightened to reveal pain because of him. Percy caught him staring, and something like recognition and then deep sorrow washed over his face. 

“They can’t try their weapons now Kiki, it’s close to midnight and we’re in a town.” Vex said, patting Keyleth’s hand apologetically.

The druid looked close to tears, and Vax felt his heart drop when she gave Vex a look that resembled that of a puppy.

“I promise Percy and I will shoot the boomy things and use the pointy things soon enough. For now we should probably head to bed.” Vax said gently.

“Guns! Pepperboxes, riffles, pistols. Anything but boomy things!” Percy moaned. 

“Speak for yourself! You go to bed little boy, I have drinking to do!” Scanlan joked.

“Hey Percy, want to help get me laid again?” He asked, not giving Percy time to question him.

 
“Suit yourself, I’m off.” Vax said.

“I’ll join you.” Percy said. Keyleth giggled, attempting to hide her amusement with her hand across her eyes.

“Not. Oh gods.” Percy said, blushing. 

***

“How much pain are you in, Vax’ildan?” Percy asked, stepping into the room only minutes after Vax.

“I can handle it.” Vax said, turning his face away from Percy.  

“I have a high pain tolerance, but even I’m not completely immune to pain. I can see you’re in pain.” Percy said, gently turning Vax around by the elbow. He read Vax’s eyes, paling.

“Oh, Vax’ildan, I’m so terribly sorry. It’s my shoulder isn’t it?” He said. Vax nodded.

“Also, this thing around your throat. Don’t you have any softer ones?” Vax asked. Percy, who had gone to dig around in his bag, stiffened. 

“How bad is that pain?” He asked, somber and sad.

“I. Percy I don’t know what to tell you. I can handle it, we don’t have to dance around each other like this. I can deal with your body.” Vax said, smiling encouragingly.

Percy shook his head sadly: “No, I don’t think you can. Or should, honestly. You deserve my honesty and transparency, you’re suffering because of me.” 

Vax felt guilty, every word Scanlan had said echoed in his mind. He saw how vulnerable and anxious Percy felt. He saw how badly Percy was struggling, trying to decide whether he should hide his secrets from him in order to avoid possible rejection, or to show him the truth in order to alleviate Vax's suffering. 

He waited quietly until Percy found what he was looking for, then grabbed him gently by the arms. Percy jolted, and Vax tried not to imagine just how frightened that meant Percy truly was.

“Sit down, Freddie. Let’s talk," he said, using the comforting tone Vex used on him when he was suffering with too many emotions. Percy walked backwards to his bed, and plopped down onto it. 

“You- You can rub this into the shoulder, it takes the pain away for a few days. Uhm. The. The-.” Percy rambled, fumbling anxiously. 

“Percy, I’m not going to make you tell me what’s going on, but I want you to know that you don’t have to hide things from me. I’m not going to push you away, make you leave, or reject you. We all have our demons, and you’ve been very good to us. I apologize for making you fear me, I don’t want that.” Vax soothed.

Percy’s lip trembled and he held out the container for Vax to take.

“I don’t fear you.” Percy defended weakly.

“Will you help me?” Vax asked. Percy frowned at him in confusion.

“To apply the cream I have to see what I’m doing, or in the least touch the shoulder.” Vax explained. Percy closed his eyes, sighing.

“Right, off course,” he said. Before he could fuss Vax sat down on the floor at Percy’s feet, crossing his legs. He closed his eyes as Percy began to fumble with the many buttons of his vest and shirt. His fingers brushed against Vax’s cheek by accident, drawing a nervous apology from the shaky man. His skin was cold, and his hand clammy from all the anxiety. Vax caught it in his, looking up at Percy. 

“I’ll undo it, hold on.” Vax said. Percy smiled appreciatively, flexing his fingers as he waited. Vax frowned at the internal struggle he could see so clearly. He could somehow feel it in his own chest, a deep rooted fear of rejection and shame. He steadied his breathing as he too began to grow anxious.

“There, done,” he said, lowering his hands and closing his eyes. Percy’s fingers brushed against his vessel’s shoulder and Vax hissed at the coldness of the cream.

“Sorry! Sorry.” Percy mumbled. Then he stopped, and pulled the fabric away further. Vax frowned as he felt the fabric fall away from his shoulder and down his arm. 

“Open your eyes.” Percy said as he tried to compose himself.

“Percy… it’s okay.” Vax said.

“I trust you. Open your eyes.” Percy said, and Vax noted that his voice had steadied.

He opened his eyes slowly, looking up at his own reflection. It was his old face, his old reflection, but that wasn’t the most unnatural thing he’d ever seen. He could see Percy reflected in a way, but what hurt him was the absolute fear still evident in his eyes. Percy swallowed hard, and brushed his finger against the aching shoulder. 

“Look at what I’m doing, then you can do it when ever you need to," he instructed.

Vax gave him one last glance before he turned to look, his eyes roaming the pale skin. His breath hitched, and he tried his best to hide the emotions he knew he was showing.

“I know. It’s disgusting. I know, it-.” Percy mumbled.

“Stop. Percy, stop. There is nothing disgusting about you, or your body, or your skin. What’s disgusting is that somebody did this to you. You don’t have to hide this. None of us, none of your family will reject you or think any less of you because of this.” Vax said as he gently touched the scarred skin.

“You say that now, but this is just my shoulder. I’m not stupid Vax’ildan. Whilst you have been respectful enough to not say anything I know you must have felt something when you were bathing. My shoulder is a drop in the bucket.” Percy said.

Vax took the cream from Percy without talking, and resumed their attempt to ease the painful muscles. It worked almost instantly and he sighed in relief. 

“I didn’t look, and I’ll continue to respect your boundaries. Although, I assure you, you no longer need them with me.” Vax said, taking his eyes off of the scarred skin and turning back to face the astonished man.

He watched a range of emotion clash with each other, and stayed silent. He knew that sometimes too many emotions could leave him incredibly overwhelmed, so he gave Percy time. 

“Well, then let’s expose one of the many secrets I keep, shall we?” Percy asked, perking up.

“It’ll make dealing with this situation slightly easier for both of us,” he said as he gestured for Vax to stand up. It looked like Percy finally, believed Vax’s sincerity. Percy looked relieved.

Vax stood and watched curiously as Percy began to undress the body that used to belong to him, growing more confident by the moment. It seemed as if Percy now wanted to show Vax what he had been dealing with alone for so long. He let Percy undress him as far as he felt comfortable to, it was his body. He let Percy pull the clothes off. Soon he stood in front of Percy in just his underwear and socks. 

Percy gestured towards the full length mirror on the closet, and Vax stood frozen. What ever he was about to see was something Percy held very dear to his heart. This was not as simple as getting naked in front of a lover or even a friend for the first time. This was exposing your soul.

“Are you sure?” He asked, one last time. 

“Standing naked in front of a fully dressed man is quite unnerving, even if I’m not currently wearing the skin of the naked man.” Percy said, trying his best to sound light and funny.

Vax smiled encouragingly in response, and stepped in front of the mirror. 

His mind went blank, and he stopped breathing. His entire body shivered and went cold, and his heart hurt. The world went silent, and he struggled to stay upright and quiet. Percy’s body was a mess. It looked like somebody had used him as a carving board or target practice. Deep lines and cuts covered every inch of his body, including his arms and legs. He spotted the line he’d felt last night, an angry red thing that stood out against the pale skin. 

That familiar fear he’d felt before crept forward again. It was as present as a headache.

“I’m not going to do any of the many negative things that big brain of yours is expecting me to do. I’m right here.” Vax soothed as he watched Percy wait for a reaction to the secret he held for so long. He heard Percy clear his throat, trying to steady his breathing. 

“May I?” Vax asked, gesturing towards the scar.

Percy blinked rapidly, frowning. “May you, what?”

“Touch the scars?” Vax asked.

“You’re asking for my permission to touch the body you’re in?” Percy asked, sounding rather perplexed.

“Percy, off course. It’s your body. Besides it’s good bedside manners,” he said.

Percy chuckled and Vax savored the sound. He waited, and Percy nodded.

Vex disliked Vax’s tendency to change the mood in the room with crude humor, but Percy seemed to appreciate it regardless of the countless eye rolls. He turned back, and gently touched the scar with permission this time.

As he reached Percy’s hip, he spotted why the skin was so painful. Right on the slight bone of Percy’s hip, sat a brand. A.R. Two small letters, blackened and permanent. Vax growled like an animal, startling Percy. He leaned down to examine the brand, cussing at it. 

“I’m going to fucking kill her.” Vax snarled. Percy chuckled, feeling rather honored to have Vax react so aggressively towards something he had experienced. Vax wanted to keep examining Percy’s body, but he'd consider it later. This was already a big step for the human. Percy looked back at him curiously as he turned away from the mirror.

“I have one too.” Vax said. “You should be able to feel it, it’s between my shoulders.” 

Percy raised his hand, trying to feel the brand.

“Come here, let me help you.” Vax chuckled. He guided the hand of his old vessel to the brand.

“I got it when I was a member of the Clasp.” He explained to the curious human.

“I have more scars as well, but you probably saw them last night.” Vax said.

Percy blushed.

“I, I bathed you mostly with my eyes closed,” he said. Vax snorted.

“Such a gentleman!” He said lightly.

“Well, then let me show you,” he offered. He gestured dramatically for Percy to raise his arms, acting like he was dressing a child. Percy chuckled and let Vax undress him, until he too, stood in just his underwear and socks.

“Well, go look.” Vax instructed, pushing Percy towards the mirror gently. At first, Percy stood with his eyes closed, blushing.

“What? Never seen another man naked before? Percy… I’m flattered.” Vax teased. Percy chuckled instantly, opening his eyes.

He hissed at a scar running along Vax’s ribs. “That must have hurt,” he said.

“Oh yeah, it came with three broken ribs and no healing options in sight.” Vax said flatly.

Percy pointed to one on his stomach, not touching it.

“I got that one falling out of a tree…” Vax said, blushing. Percy snickered, looking astonished. 

“You? You fell out of a tree?” Percy asked. He turned around and looked at the brand over his shoulder. Then winced.

“Yes, me. I wasn’t always as beautiful and talented as I am now. Once, I was just beautiful.”

He was rewarded with a barely audible laugh. 

“Hello? Can I come in?” Vex asked from the hallway, startling both men.

“No, we’re naked, go away.” Vax said flatly. Percy cussed under his breath, embarrassed.

“Both of you?” Keyleth asked.

A thump followed. “Ouch! I’m just asking!” She groaned. Another loud thump followed.

“Kiki! Did you just punch me? What was that for?” Vex asked.

“You punched me first!” She defended. 

Vax listened as they two bickered and their voices grew quiet as they walked away. 
He turned back to see Percy changing, and stretching.

“Why are you stretching like that? Does something hurt?” He asked. 

“No… I’m just not used to not being in pain.” Percy said. Vax felt the mood sour as Percy blushed at being caught.

“Well I’m glad you’re enjoying my body, Freddie. I am quite fond of it myself.”

Percy rolled his eyes, and a soft smile appeared on his face for less than a second.

“Although, I must say, I would trade you one thing.” Vax said, making to dress as well.

“Trade? What?” Percy asked curiously.

Vax grinned, knowing Percy would never have been able to resist. He flexed his arms, proudly displaying the pale muscles of Percy’s arms and torso.

“I’ll trade you my skinny arms for these fuckers.”

He laughed as a pillow hit his head, listening happily as Percy cussed and snickered at him. 

Chapter Text

The group made their way out of town, Vax getting some herbal remedies and healing potions quietly. He watched Keyleth in amusement as she chirped and skipped around, all the while dodging an annoyed Vex. 

Grog and Scanlan were hung over, and were at the back of the group. That left Percy and Vax in the middle. Vax felt uncomfortable, his role was to scout ahead and hide. He felt exposed, but didn’t want to risk putting Percy’s body in danger. He’d have to teach Percy to use the skills his new vessel had, until they found Pike. And he’d have to learn how to use the skills that came with the body that once was Percy’s. 

“All right! Enough, this is as good a place as any to test our weapon abilities. I refuse to keep walking around unarmed.” Percy said, unwilling to walk any further. He folded his arms behind his back, making Vax chuckle.

He’d never looked more like his father or a full elf and it was ridiculous. Percy had fixed the braids behind his ears again, and Vax had watched him do it as easily as he handled a delicate project.

It appeared he refused to have Vax’s hair look anything less than perfect. Off course, Vax appreciated it. He tried his best to maintain the style Percy preferred as well, which only made the human snort. 

“Okay. Please be careful. I’ll go set up targets.” Vex said.

“I’ll prepare healing magic, just in case.” Keyleth said, trying her best to sound serious.

Percy hid a chuckle, and Vax smiled fondly at their strange druid. He hadn’t known about her little kink, but he didn’t exactly mind it either. 

Vex handed him his daggers, and Percy his guns. Vax instantly drew a blade and began to play with it, turning it between his fingers like he’d done a hundred times before. He tossed it and caught it, and twirled it around. He didn’t bother wasting time, choosing to turn ever so slightly and release the dagger. His longer, thinner fingers would need some practice and he could adjust his grip and little, but felt confident. 

Vex went over to go look cheerfully. “Well, Vax it seems that your dagger skills are still in tact. Your aim is slightly off.  But your skills definitely belong to you.”

She retreated back to safety, watching Percy curiously. 

“Right. Hand it over.” Percy said, holding his hand out for the dagger. He chose not to perform any theatrics, taking aim and missing the target entirely. Vax stepped closer, helping Percy grip the next blade correctly and showing him how to flick his wrist. This attempt fared only slightly better.

“Wow, that’s weird.” Grog said. Percy scoffed, making to go retrieve the daggers.

“Here comes the fun part!” Keyleth giggled. 

“Not quite, I’ll try first. Vax needs to learn what to do if he’s to not injure himself.” Percy said. He chose the shotgun and reflexively gripped it correctly. He frowned slightly as he shifted it against his new vessel’s  shoulder, and pulled his long hair out of the way, and then proceeded to show Vax what to do. Vax paid close attention anxiously. His weapons didn’t usually explode. 

Percy stepped away from the group as they hid behind him, cocked the hammer and took aim. Vax’s fingers weren’t as thick as his, and it felt strange to see foreign fingers on his gun. He fidgeted around, and then pulled the trigger.

Vax watched him instead of the target, noting how Percy flinched. The group cheered, congratulations in the air. Vax looked over at the target, and hummed. That was Percy’s shooting all right. His aim was not exactly true, but with practice it would be. Their weapons were an extentions of themselves, it required many years of mental and physical training.  

“Let me try,” he said, and Percy handed over the gun. He let the human fuss with it until it rested exactly where it needed to, and Vax caught his breath as Percy’s fingers lingered on his hand, explaining the hammer and trigger for the second time. Heat shot up through his entire body and he felt his face warm.

Okay, that was odd.

Percy stepped away, and Vax carefully followed the instructed process. He cocked the hammer,  flinching at the sound. Then he took aim, sighing about his human eyesight, and pulled the trigger. The bullet left the chamber with so much force it almost knocked Vax down. Percy bolted forward to catch him.

“Gods Percy, does it hurt like that every time you shoot?” Vax groaned.

“It doesn’t hurt me at all.” Percy said, and Vax rubbed at his shoulders, wincing. 

“Is Percy’s monster back?” Grog roared, stomping over to the man holding the gun, with his axe in hand.

“No, no I’m fine Grog. Vax and I just need to swap weapons for a while.” Vax explained.

Percy cocked his head to eye Vax. Two strange things had happened in that moment. Vax had referred to himself as if it were Percy speaking (to not confuse Grog), and Percy had instinctively responded with a head movement that belonged to Vax’s body. The two men stared at each other silently. 

“Wow, that was hot.” Keyleth said, resulting in laughter from the group.

“So, does Vax shooting guns do it for you, Kiki?” Scanlan teased. She hissed at him, muttering under her breath.

“Shut up, Scanlan! He can hear you!”

"If Vax shooting a gun looks good, I bet it would be an even better look on me." Vex boasted, and Keyleth grinned wickedly at the idea.

After a few more rounds of target practice , the group set off deeper into the forest again. Vax fell quiet. He was deep in thought. When his own body made contact with Percy’s body he felt a strange and overwhelming sensation of nerves and excitement. Something about their bodies touching affected Percy’s body deeply enough that Vax could feel it as strongly as he felt his vessel’s physical pain. 

When Percy was frightened of the way Keyleth handled his guns, he felt Percy’s fear. When Percy was anxious of what Vax would say about his body, he felt the anxiety too. The anxiety and fear made sense because those emotions were probably instinctive to Percy’s body. The one that made him wonder, was the way Percy’s body had reacted to touch. His touch. 

*** 

“We should set up camp here.” Vex instructed. The group sighed in relief, happy to get off their feet after a day on the road. There was a pond nearby, and they were all muddy and full of forest fauna. 

Vax looked up as he heard his sister squeal, trying to grab at Percy’s hair.

“Don’t touch!” Percy snapped. Vax laughed under his breath at the two.

“What the fuck did you do to Vax’s hair? Does he know about this?” Vex questioned. Percy grabbed her wrist, holding it gently and just out of reach.

“Yes. He knows,” he replied bluntly.

“Vax!” She yelled.

“I saw them, yes.  Leave them alone,” he said. She placed her hands on her hips, pouting.

“You let Percy change your hair?” She asked.

“He didn’t change my hair, he just did something different with it. I like it.” Vax said. 

“I want those braids as well!” Vex snapped, glaring at Vax. He pointed a finger at Percy.

“He made them,” he said simply. Vex gave Percy a meaningful glare.

“No, they’re Vax’s. Mine. Uhm. Vax’s.” He said.

“If you’d like I can do something similar for you, but not exactly the same.” Percy offered. He received a warm, excited smile in response.

Vax smiled at Percy, perhaps the human was not as bad as he imagined. He'd learned a lot about him, walking in his shoes. Percy was shy, and unfortunately afraid of him. He suffered with a lot of pain in secret, and he had a talent for creating beautiful things.

He respected Vax’s bodily autonomy, and was clearly used to having siblings that always wanted the same new toy and wanted to touch everything. He was a powerful fighter, and competitive. He was proud, but easy to fluster. Of all the members of their group Percy appreciated Vax’s ability to deflect uncomfortable things the most.

“No, I’ll clean up after you, thank you though.” Percy said, drawing Vax’s attention.

“Percy. You’re in Vax’s body. We’ve seen him naked a dozen times.” Keyleth explained.

“Not with me in it.” Percy said. The group frowned, then shrugged and turned to look at Vax.

“I’ll join Percy.” He said, Scanlan wiggling his eyebrows at Vax seductively.  

“Piss off.” Vax scorned.

“You have a really foul mouth lately Percy.” Grog complained.

“I think it suits him Grog, it appears he has extracted that stick up his ass.” Percy said. Grog turned to stare at him, astonished.

*** 

“Keyleth is right, Vax’ildan. The gun does look rather good in the hands of my new vessel.” Percy said, squaring his shoulders dramatically.

“I’m inclined to agree, although it did look like you got hurt.” Vax said.

“Ah, yes I’ll have to adapt to your stance and calculate our weight difference.” Percy explained. 

“I’d say my new vessel looked rather dashing swinging those daggers.” Vax said.

“Quite.” Percy chuckled.

“You’ve been trying your best to make me drunk the last two days. It didn’t work, but should I drink tonight as well?” Vax questioned.

Percy visibly paled: “Unless you’re up for unraveling more deep secrets, you probably should.” Percy said apologetically. 

“How many more secrets are there?” Vax asked gently.

“I’ve lost track.” Percy said sadly.

Vax nodded at him: “Then we’ll deal with them as they come along?” 

“Thank you, again.” Percy sighed. 

Before Percy could get nervous or Vax uncomfortable with all the emotions, the group came back. They were giddy, laughing and soaking wet.

“Time for dinner, I’ll get the rations.” 

“Up for some moonlight, skinny-dipping, handsome?” Vax cooed. Percy blushed furiously, stuttering. Vax laughed as he went to gather the things he needed, watching Percy stomp away.

“No peaking!” Vax told the group, to anybody else it would sound like a joke. To those who know him, it was a threat.

 
That night Percy held no reservation to letting Vax undress and clean his body, and paid great attention to cleaning Vax’s.

“Are you opposed to me washing your hair and removing the braids?” Percy asked.

“Go ahead, but I’ll miss them.” Vax said, marveling at how easy it was to wash Percy’s short hair. The soap he used smelled amazing, and he examined it curiously.

“Do you want me to wash your hair with it, too?” Percy asked with a chuckle. Vax handed over the soap so quickly Percy laughed. It was a startling, beautiful sound. Vax decided that he’d do just about anything to hear it again. 

Vax leaned back on the rock he was using for support and watched as Percy delicately worked with his hair. He wondered if he often did this for his sisters,  and it saddened him. He suddenly felt the urge to do his own sister’s hair for her. Percy removed the braids slowly, careful not to break any hair. He worked the soap deep into the scalp, massaging. He parted the hair into two, gently running his fingers through it and untangling it. He didn’t dunk his head under water like Vax normally would. He leaned back and let it float on the water. Then he wrapped strands of it around his fingers and twirled it. The soap formed foam on the surface of the water as he worked, and Vax sat silently and watched the show.  

Percy had just taken three times as long to clean his old body’s hair as he normally did. When he was done Vax reached out to touch it, awed at how soft it felt. He ran his fingers through it, smiling as Percy turned slightly to give him better access. His hair was smooth and held no tangles.

“Wow.” Vax said. Percy turned to smile at him.

“Am I to understand I’m handling your hair with enough care then?” Percy teased.

“Yup.” Was all that Vax could say. 

*** 

“Vex?” Vax said when they reached the camp. She looked up at him from where she sat perched on a log. She had chosen first watch, and Vax decided to join her.

“What’s up?” She asked with a warm smile.

“May I…May I play with your hair?” Vax asked. She raised her eyebrows in surprise.

“Uh. Sure? You haven’t done that in years brother. What’s going on with you?” She asked. Vax smiled fondly at the worry in her voice.

“I’m fine, I just wanted to spend some time with you,” he said.

“All right… well come on then.” Vex said, turning her back to him as he sat down. 

He tried to work as gently as Percy did, remembering all the times his mother played with their hair when they were small.

“You and Percy seem to be doing okay.” Vex said, breaking the silence. Vax hummed a response. He divided Vex’s hair into three parts, then started braiding it, adding more hair from the sides as he went.

“We’re coping.” He said. “You’ve gone soft on him.” Vex said approvingly.

“Perhaps. He’s not as bad as I thought he was, he cares a great deal about us. He’s a good man.” Vax said.

His sister snorted at him, and he flicked her ear as the braid pulled unevenly.

“He’s complicated, but not impossible to read. In a way I think I’m getting to know him.” Vax said.

“Well, I’m sure you have no choice. You are inside of him...” She giggled.

“Oh, stop.” Vax groaned. 

“I love you sister, I hope you know that.” Vax said, tying the braid off with the string he’d wrapped around his wrist earlier. She turned to look at him immediately, studying his face.

“What’s going on?” She asked anxiously. Vax shook his head calmly.

“I see how Percy respects my hair, and the love he puts into cleaning and braiding it. He used to do that for somebody he loved dearly, and they’re gone now. I don’t want to have to carry that pain with me, knowing I could have done more or spend more time with you.” Vax confessed.

Tears welled up in his sister’s eyes, and she flung herself at him.

“I love you too Vax.” She muttered, nose pressed against his collarbone. 

When she pulled away she grabbed him by the shoulders, then pulled a curious face and tightened her grip. She squeezed again, and again. Vax laughed at her and flexed his arms.

“Holy shit! Percy has strong arms!” She whispered.

“Mine!” Vax teased, pulling away. 

*** 

Vax woke up gasping, listening to the group scream and cuss. He felt for his daggers, rising. He met the group outside, fighting large red-eyed wolves. Frustration filled him immediately as his new vessel struggled to keep up with his attempts to do what he normally did. His vessel’s instincts and reflexes were telling him to stand back instead of engage. Everything he had learned in order to fight close combat felt useless in a body that responsed purely on the reflexes their old host held. Stand back, slow down, spot, reload... It meant nothing when his mind refused to adjust. 

Ahead of him Percy faced the same struggles, seemingly all over the place. He moved too quickly, disappearing and reacting too fast. He seemed to struggle to stand still long enough to aim and pull the trigger. His skill set required range, that it was his brain told him. His new vessel struggled, a lifetime of instincts now useless.

They were going to need to do a lot more training if Pike couldn’t fix them. Also, Percy really needed armor. He looked a lot better at the end of the fight than Vax did. The white and blue clothing was covered in blood, and Vax winced at it apologetically. It might not come out clean ever again. 

“Scanlan!” Keyleth screamed out loudly.

Vax turned and ran to where the druid knelt. The gnome was unresponsive, a huge gash across his torso. Vax watched as Keyleth began to heal him, a familiar fear in his chest. Then suddenly it amplified two fold, and it almost consumed him. He knew fear, he felt it this strongly every time somebody was injured, but now he felt it much stronger. It felt as if he was feeling the fear of both himself and his vessel.

He looked up to spot Percy, who looked horrified. Percy’s eyes found his, and they both seemed to understand. They were in fact experiencing each other’s emotions. 
Vax sighed in relief when Scanlan gasped for air.

“Pike would have given me a kiss at least.” Scanlan moped.

“No she wouldn’t, shut up!” Keyleth giggled light-heartedly.

“Well, I’m awake now…” Vex complained, squinting into the early morning.

“Should we set out then, hopefully catch the bastard before he slips away again?” Percy asked.

“Let’s.” Vax agreed. 

The group watched on in amusement as the white haired man bolted around, then tripped. Then tried to run up and perch on a tree, only to cuss as he slowed down halfway. Then he’d tried to dodge and roll, only to get tangled in his long limbs. They watched on as Vax tried to get his new vessel to move the way he wanted it to, and cussed the whole time. 

On the other side the black haired half-elf experimented as well, handling guns and adjusting them against his shoulder and fiddling with hammers and triggers. On occasion he’d grin and giggle as he looked down the barrel of a gun and spot something much further away than he normally could.

But his body moved faster and way more nimble than he accounted for and he often dropped things, dangerous things that could explode. Percy, in his new vessel, was trying to slow the thing down. His new vessel wasn't meant to slow down. It was built and trained for its purpose, a rogue through and through. 

“Could you stop already!” Percy groaned, eyeing the filthy clothing on Vax.

“What? It’s dirt Percy, it’ll come off.” Vax said dryly. Percy furiously swatted and pulled leaves from his old coat, and Vax scoffed at the disheveled hair and fauna covering his old black armor. 

Then he found himself feeling nostalgic and sad, and pressed his palm to the leathers. Percy, similarly, ran his knuckles over the fabric of his blue coat. 

Their eyes met and without another word they swapped. The black coat made the pale skin look horrible, but Vax immediately felt comforted by the smell and heaviness of his coat. He touched the fabric and the feathers, pulling it up to his cheeks until only his nose and eyes poked out. Percy took his old coat and pulled it on quickly. It hung quite loose from his now shorter and skinnier vessel, and then sleeves were too long. But he was happy. His coat represented a part of him, it smelled like things he loved and it felt familiar. 

In front of them the group watched, worry in their hearts and sadness in their eyes. Scanlan elbowed Keyleth, and she cussed at him.

“I didn’t say anything!” She snapped.

“No, but you were thinking it, your perv!” Scanlan teased. She gasped in response, whacking him on the head.

“You’re the pervert!” She defended. 

Scanlan shrugged and made no attempt to deny it, he was eyeing the pair just as much as Keyleth was. There was nothing wrong with looking, the two men were both beautiful creatures and nobody would deny it. They meant no harm, and by the way the two men kept sending each other secretive glances, they clearly approved of each other’s new attire as well. 

Chapter Text

“I will negotiate with nobody other than him. That is who I spoke to when we met, and that is who I will speak to now,” the employer – an elderly army general - said, pointing his finger at Percy’s body.

The group flinched.

Vax was not good at negotiating, or dealing with crooks with words, or diplomacy, or people… All their previous experiences showed that he’d rather get what he wanted from somebody by pointing a dagger at their throats. 

“I will speak in his place, the incident with your contract has him under the weather.” Percy said.

The old man snorted, eyeing Vax’s body up and down. “I have no words for you, half-breed,” he said. Percy growled, stepping forward. Vax felt the familiar sting of the racist remark, and sighed. This wasn’t going well. His heart was racing and he was begging for Percy’s help in his mind. This was Percy’s home ground. He felt useless and his hands were sweaty and he didn’t know what to say and…

He found himself moving and talking then, as if in a trance. 

“As you wish, but I will have you address my companions with respect.” Vax said, squaring his shoulders and folding his arms behind his back. He raised his chin, and stood at full height. 

“Who do you think you are? You’re a paid mercenary!” The man snapped. 

“I am Percival Fredrickstein von Musel Klossowski de Rolo III, Lord of Whitestone, and if it is an audience with me that you seek you shall address me as such, general. I did not come here to exchange pleasantries. I came here to collect on a debt that is owed, one that your cowardice cost us a great deal more than what was agreed upon. You have wasted our time. I am to collect the debt owed to Vox Machina, saviors of Emon and Whitestone. If you do not wish to comply, it will be my understanding that you are not worthy of your post and that I am to inform those in command of such. It is most unbecoming of a man of your stature to show such cowardice, racism and then refuse to honor  payment of work done.” Vax said. The words slipped from his tongue effortlessly, as if he had no control over them. 

“You hold strange company for a Lord, and you threaten like one too,” the general replied, making for a door to his left.  

“My choice of company is none of your concern, however if you choose to keep defying my promises I will have no choice but to use my name to greater extent.” Vax warned. 

“Very well, your payment is in my office. Step inside,The man said. Vax froze, suddenly unsure and back to himself.  

“Come along Vax’ildan.” Vax said flatly. Percy frowned at him, but moved.

“Bodyguard?” The man laughed.

“Equal. Albeit one with the ability to slash a throat and vanish before a guard can spot him… You do not presume to think I will blindly follow you into a room unaccompanied, do you?” Vax said.

The moment Percy stepped up to his side, everything inside him calmed. 

*** 

Vax and Percy left the general sitting in his office holding a cloth to his nose, and met the group waiting in the foyer. Vax handed over a large sack of coins to Vex, who happily took it. They walked at the back as the group stormed ahead to find a pub. Percy flexed his bruised knuckles. Vax hummed approvingly.

“Thank you for that, I’ve always wanted to punch somebody like him,”he said cheerfully.

Percy gave him a mischievous grin: “So have I, but I got the opportunity to do it without smearing my own name or reputation. It’s your hand I bloodied.” Percy said. 

“By the way, what happened back there?” Percy asked, eyeing Vax suspiciously.

“If you were imitating me, you did a fantastic job.”

Vax stopped, judging the distance between them and the group. When he was sure nobody could hear he stepped closer to Percy and leaned his head down.

“I didn’t imitate you. I became you.” 

Percy’s eyes glazed over in confusion.

“It happened so suddenly, and I had no control over it. I just bore witness, your mind was in full control.” Vax explained. 

Percy blinked, and blinked again. 

“Well… that’s rather concerning,” he said, scratching his head.

“If it’s going to happen to you I’d be concerned. This time it was beneficial.” Vax said, shrugging. He held out his hand, counting the coins he’d kept. He divided them evenly, and handed half to Percy.

“The two extra days’ pay you forced out of the man, I assume?” Percy laughed, pocketing the money.

“I merely renegotiated, Percival. I did not force.” Vax teased.

“Are you two coming?” Vex yelled.

“Gods, you’re an impatient one! We just took down a general and got all our money back. Give us a fucking break.” Percy scoffed, picking up pace.

Vax laughed at the stomping half-elf as he and his twin fell into a familiar bicker. Percy was showing more personality by the day, although in that moment his personality was much more Vax’s than his. This concerned Vax slightly.

Percy wasn’t the only one who had secrets and deep emotional baggage. He wondered how long it would take before Percy became aware of – or consumed by – his depression and anxiety. For now, he focused on the positives. They had money, they could afford boarding, food and ale.

***

The place was nice, far above decent. Vex had negotiated private rooms, and Vax swallowed down a strange feeling of disappointment. The group gathered around a clean table, and set into their warm meals and drinks as Vax watched them fondly. He tried to remember exactly what had happened earlier, but it was getting fuzzier by the moment.

It was not him speaking. He didn’t have that effect on people, he was not that articulate or intimidating with words. He would also never throw around Percy’s titles like that. That was Percy.

The human he’d spent so much time distrusting and being weary of. That was him defending their group and using his own reputation against the general, and he was immensely powerful. Vax had felt extremely offended and unsettled by the general until what ever it was that happened, happened.

The moment it did happen he felt calm, quietly resolved and settled, noble even. He felt secure in his image and aware of the gravity of his status. He felt defensive and angry. And very protective. 

Vax wanted to feel boastful and a little cocky, but he knew that honor belonged solely to Percy. The emotions and words, they all belonged to Percy. He was just a vessel. He had wavered in his actions when the general wanted privacy, until Percy joined him. 

Then there was the moment Vax had contemplated punching the general, and seconds later he watched himself do it. Percy punched the man square on the nose, blood began to flow from his nose instantly. He watched Percy loom over the man ominously, and say: “Nobody will believe you if you tell, besides, I wouldn’t take the risk.” Vax felt immensely proud of him.

He wondered whether that action was because he was thinking about doing it, or his own body just took over, or whether Percy had willed it.

So, he curiously leaned forward, staring intently at Percy. He narrowed his eyes and willed the man to push over his drink. Nothing happened. Vax shrugged, slightly disappointed. 

“That was really impressive, Vax. You did a really good job of imitating Percy.” Vex congratulated. Vax met Percy’s eyes, and shrugged.

“Yeah, well, it was a very rewarding experience. Percy punched him.” Vax said, smiling at the blushing man. 

“What?!” The group yelled. Grog looked up from the bar at the sound. Percy lifted his hand, holding it out for the group to see.

“Wow! That’s awesome, Percy, I like this side of you.” Vex said, gently stroking the bruised knuckles. Keyleth leaned over the table and kissed Percy’s forehead. Vax watched Percy blush all the way to his newly adopted pointy ears. She giggled happily when Percy stuttered a 'thank you'.

“So when are we getting a Vax impersonation?” Keyleth asked.

“Hmm?” Percy asked, eyeing the wild eyed druid who looked suspiciously animated.

“Come on, do it!” Scanlan encouraged.

“Oh, I’d rather not.” Percy said gently, frowning at his mug.

“Are you afraid he’ll attack you if you’re too accurate?” Scanlan teased. 

Percy glared at him, and Vax flinched at the honest truth Scanlan didn’t know his words held. “Go on then, Percival. Give it your best shot.” Vax encouraged, winking at the man when he looked up at him. 

The next moment the half-elf they were looking at disappeared from next to Keyleth and appeared at Vex’s side. She giggled happily as he pressed his head against her shoulder. He relaxed his posture, placed his elbows on the table and burped. 

Vax couldn’t help but laugh as well, it was amusing to watch Percy be so relaxed and dramatic. He couldn’t picture the man behaving like this in his own body, and wondered whether his new vessel presented him with a temporary outlet to just be without any of the expectations. 

Percy stretched like a cat, crawling into Vex’s lap with one flexible stretch. She laughed fondly and wrapped her arm around him. The other went up to his head and he swatted it away with a loud – and very realistic – hiss.

“Don’t pet me! I only allow petting when I want it,” Hh said sternly.

“Oh, sister, don’t saddle me with Lord Fancypants tonight I need space to sulk. I mean brood. Yeah. Brood. That sounds more attractive. Ugh...” he sighed, snuggling Vex’s collarbone. 

“Oi!” He said a few moments later, lifting his head to look up at Vex with narrowed eyes.

“Commence the petting!” He demanded. He purred when Vex did so.

“Why does nobody pet me, do I always have to beg? It’s not like I’m going to stab them when they try to approach me when I’m being mean. I mean they can just come find me, it’s not like I literally disappear into the fucking shadows at my choosing. Why won’t somebody love me?!” He cried dramatically. 

“Oof! What the-. Fuck a duck,” he whimpered as he was viciously pulled from Vex’s arms and into the warm arms of a sniffling and clearly worried Grog. He received a sloppy kiss on the head, and Percy squirmed as Grog’s grip tightened. 

“Aw! Don’t cry Vaxy,  we love you. Grog loves you! It’s nice when you use your words. You’re so nice when you’re not being an asshole. I’ll pet you!” He moaned sadly, ignoring the cusses coming from Percy. 

“Okay Grog, let him breathe!” Vex laughed eventually, wiping her fingers under her eyes to get rid of the tears from all the laughing. Percy had stopped struggling, giving in to just hanging in mid ear with his feet off the ground. Grog reluctantly let him go. 

The group was a sniffling, snotty mess by the time it was over. Vax assumed none of them knew Percy had a fun side, he sure as hell didn’t. He knew that Percy’s version of him was exaggerated and held no bad intent, it was all in the name of fun. 

Percy gave Vax a nervous, questioning look and found him grinning back. Vax felt honored to see how observant Percy was of him, even if it was a little too accurate. He also felt incredibly flattered. Grog sniffled again and Vax gave Percy a kick under the table, gesturing towards Grog with his chin.
“I love you too, big man.” Percy cooed. 

*** 

Vax sat on his bed, alone. He’d soaked in the warm bath for a long time, laughing at the reflection in the mirror. When Percy’s hair was wet it fell limply into his face, and it looked adorable and silly. His pale skin was flushed, and as Vax leaned closer to the mirror resting on the bath’s edge he spotted a tiny brushing of freckles across the nose. He traced the pale nose, then the cheekbones, then the jawline and chin. Percy was incredibly beautiful. Vax blinked at himself, wondering why he’d never noticed this before. 

He wondered whether Percy was doing the same, and blushed. He was not shy, he knew he was attractive enough. He had no issue with Percy seeing his body, but this was extremely intimate. His shoulder hurt again, so when he was done he went looking for the cream. When he didn’t find it, he realized it must be in Percy’s bag. 

“Percy?” Vax asked, knocking softly. “Hold on, coming,” came the response.

A very flushed, dark eyed half-elf stood in the door. Vax frowned at him. Percy cocked his head, raising an eyebrow. His eyes were fully dilated and he was breathless.

“What were you doing?” Vax asked, peeping over his shoulder and into the room.

"Bathing."

“Okay…” Vax said, laughing.

“To what do I owe the pleasure, Vax?” Percy asked.

Vax smiled softly, so it was just Vax now. 

“I can’t find the cream you use for your shoulder. It’s acting up again.” Vax explained.

Percy turned and began to dig in his bag.

“Oh, I meant to ask. Do you want the rest of your daggers? I know you like cleaning and sharpening them frequently. When we swapped bags we also ended up carrying each other’s gear.

“Please!” Vax said excitedly. “Be right back.” 

Percy stood frozen in place, staring wide eyed when Vax returned with his guns and the tools he found in Percy’s bag.

“What? Would you prefer I clean them?” Vax asked.

“You… you just disappeared. Then reappeared, in seconds.” Percy explained.

Vax stared at him. “Uh. I normally do that,” he said.

“Not since you’ve got your new vessel, Vax. You just made my body disappear into the shadows like you do yours.” Percy said. 

“You did the same earlier with your valiant attempt of imitating me.” Vax said, reminding him. 

He watched in amusement as a childlike excitement danced across Percy’s face. “Did it work? I want a race!” 

Vax scoffed at him in amusement.

“Even in my body you won’t best me, Freddie," he said.

Percy flexed his shoulders, and rolled his neck. “I don’t know… this vessel is particularly talented and sneaky. All the skills I’ve never had are an art form to it. I’m pretty sure I can best a trained assassin.” Percy boasted. 

Vax laughed, punching Percy’s shoulder fondly.

“Percy… I. Oh boy. You have a lot to learn about me.” He said.

The human’s eyes popped, and he paled.

“You’re a terrifying man, Vax. Absolutely frightening.”

Vax took that in, noting that the words held no actual fear now, just adoration. He stood quiet for a while, then said:

“I’m a trained swordsman, if that means anything.”

Vax nodded his head, choosing to hide his amusement. “That is a great skill set, Lord De Rolo.” He said. Percy smiled at Vax’s praise. 

“Can you play any instruments?” Vax asked genuinely, curiously, but Percy misunderstood.

“Fuck off."

“What are you going to do with my hair this time?” Vax asked curiously.

Percy smiled at Vax’s excitement. “How much liberty will you allow me to take?”

Vax narrowed his eyes at him, but smiled. “I trust you.” 

Percy looked at Vax as if he’d just been slapped. Or kissed. Or both. His expression was one of pure astonishment, pride and happiness. Vax read his eyes, unsure of what had caused this reaction. 

I trust you.

Oh. He decided that he’d need to say that again at a more decent time to see if it had the same effect. He wished he could have seen the expressions on Percy’s own face and wondered if those stoic, serious eyes would light up. He thought it would look beautiful.  

“Vax?” Percy asked, sounding confused.

“Yeah? Sorry, do what ever you want Freddie. I should… I should uh… go.” He stuttered.  

“You came for the cream.” Percy chuckled, extending his hand towards Vax.

“Thanks.” Vax said, taking the container. He found himself wanting nothing more than to stay and talk to Percy longer, but couldn’t find a reason. 

“Do you want me to… ugh… show you how I… uhm…clean my guns? With all of the strange things happening, who knows if you might need to.” Percy offered, smiling softly.

Vax eyed him, worried that Percy had just read his mind.

“Yes!” he said, clearing his throat in embarrassment as he cringed at his over-excitemement.

He paid great attention, much to Percy’s enjoyment. Then he showed Percy how to clean and sharpen his blades. The human gave him the same attention and the weapons the same respect. Vax felt confident that if they did need to change weapons, they could. Whilst he was happy to still have his daggers he wouldn’t be opposed to learn a new skill. As silly as it was, it had also given them both an excuse to stay in each other’s company.

“Percy… If I’m seeing things and feeling things that you feel, does than mean you feel things that I feel?” Vax asked curiously.

Percy looked up from his spot across the table, cocking his head. Vax waited patiently for an answer.

“I’m curious about that too, but I didn’t want to bring it up if you’re not comfortable with it. I have noted that in certain moments I feel intense emotions that I would not necessary feel, and I have come to the conclusion that those are your emotions and that they must be linked to your body,” he said. 

“Like what?” Vax asked, hoping Percy would elaborate so that he didn’t have to.

“For example, when Scanlan got hurt the amount of emotion I felt was severe, it almost felt physically painful. When Keyleth handled your weapons I felt fear, and when I look at Vex’halia I feel intense love and adoration. While I am fond of her, it makes no sense for me to feel that strongly about your blades or your sister.” Percy explained. 

Vax nodded slowly, taking it all in. “When you spoke to the general when he wouldn’t speak to “the half-breed”, I felt infuriated and defensive. When Scanlan was injured I also felt as if I was feeling the fear of two people. I felt worried about your guns, and I feel negative emotions that I think belong to you.” 

He regretted the last few words instantly as he watched worry set on Percy’s brow.

“Like what?” He asked, shifting on the chair.

“Uhm. I think it’s just…” Vax stammered. 

“What do you know, Vax?” Percy asked. Vax sighed, putting his pristine daggers away.

 “When I-, when you were worried about me seeing your body, I felt immense anxiety. I felt how afraid you were that I’d be repulsed or push you away. I felt how much you were afraid of me. Of me.” Vax said softly, watching Percy become anxious and self-conscious.

“I want you to know that I regret ever making you fear me, I never meant to make you feel unsafe or unwelcome. I never meant to make you feel like you need to hide from me.” Vax said genuinely, keeping his eyes on Percy’s to prove a point. 

“You can’t blame me, you are rather frightening.” Percy deflected. Vax allowed it.

“I don’t know what you mean, I think I’m adorable.” Vax said. Percy chuckled in response, shaking his head. 

“You worry a lot about the team, you care very deeply about their safety and well-being. You and I have that in common, along with the fear of losing them and the fear of the abuse of our weapons. You’re afraid to express yourself so you withdraw instead. You will offer your soul for the sake of others but you struggle with letting people in.” Percy said, pushing the guns to the side of the table. 

“Mind reading is an impressive skill, I hope I get to keep it when we swap back.” Vax teased. Percy flinched, and Vax eyed him, waiting for the human to say more.

“What if we can’t, Vax? What if nobody can fix us?” Percy asked. Vax heard the uncertainty again. The fear.

“Then I get to become Lord of Whitestone and order people around all day, and you get to play knight in shining armor and sneak around in the shadows.” Vax said, ensuring Percy saw a large smile instead of the fear he also felt. 

The room went quiet, only the sound of the fireplace crackling in the corner.

“I should probably go.” Vax said.

“Don’t.” Percy replied immediately.

Vax looked from the fireplace to the blushing, shy face of Percy. “I mean, yes. If you want. Uhm. I wouldn’t be opposed to you staying. I’ll sleep on the floor.”

Vax smiled warmly, happy to oblige. He had no idea why he wanted to stay, but by the end of the night he would be happy that he did. 

“I’m sure we can survive one night sharing a bed, your back won’t survive the floor. Nor will my manners.” Vax said, making for the bed. He plopped down, and fluffed a pillow.

Percy sat down on the other side. He grabbed a comb from the bedside table and began to work on the long hair belonging to his vessel.

“Does my hair still bother you so much?” Vax asked curiously. Percy shook his head, already parting the strands.

“No, I find it rather lovely now, and caring for it is quite lethargic.” Percy said, focusing on the ends. Vax watched him move, eyes growing heavy at the rhythmic and steady movements. Soon Percy had made three small braids behind Vax’s left ear, frowning and shivering every time his fingers brushed against the tip of Vax’s ear.

Vax watched this in amusement, then touched his vessel’s ear. It felt different, not because it was round but because it was less sensitive. 

Percy caught Vax smiling at him, and blushed. He quickly turned to make the other three braids, then began to make a long one down the center. Percy’s fingers brushed the skin of his neck, and he shivered. Vax bit his lip, clearing his throat.

Percy had just discovered two more things about him that were a little unorthodox even for their situation.

“Enjoying yourself?” Vax teased. Percy glared at him, instantly folding his fingers in his lap.

“Turn so I can see the back, please.” Vax asked. Percy turned, facing away from Vax. 

“You’re very good at this.” Vax said, touching the thicker braid. Percy turned back to face him, smiling sadly.

“Lots of practice,” he said.

“I’m sorry.” Vax said, feeling Percy’s pain in his own chest. Percy smiled, shrugging. “In a way doing your hair has been healing for me, allowing me to remember the good times I had with my family.” 

“Oh, well in that case I’ll just leave you in charge of my hair from now on. Even when I have my body back.” Vax said lightly, but seriously. Percy laughed, really laughed.

“I’m not sure I can award you the same honor, I have no idea what you’re currently trying to do with my hair.” Percy said, tugging at the damp, messy hair.

“Oh, this? It’s fashion darling, all the rage in the west.” Vax dramatized. Percy snorted, lying down next to Vax. 

Vax closed his eyes and took a few deep breaths. “Fuck!” He cursed as his shoulder chose to make itself known. Percy jolted, eyeing Vax curiously.

“Pass me the cream, please.” Vax asked, sitting up.

“Oh, off course.”

He watched quietly as Vax applied the cream, looking apologetic when Vax sighed in relief. 

He lay back down, and Percy soon began to breathe deeply.  The room was warm and cozy and neither bothered with blankets. The silence was comfortable. Percy fell asleep first, and Vax followed not long after. 

Vax had hoped for a good night's sleep, but it was not to be. 

Chapter Text

Vax felt cold, and hungry, and was experiencing the most pain he’d ever felt in his life.

Everything smelled like blood, leather and cleaning chemicals. Vax looked around, frowning at his environment.  

He was sitting on a chair, tied down. In the back of his mind he knew that this wasn’t real, but it definitely felt real. He looked down, trying to figure out what to do. He was still in Percy’s body. The pale fingers flexed as Vax flexed them, and he winced at the shape of the broken fingers that no longer had any nails.  He felt bile in his throat, and felt like he couldn’t breathe. He turned to the side to empty his stomach. Nothing happened, just painful dry heaving.

Pain coursed through his body at the movements, his head hurt enough to almost leave him unconscious again. He kicked and tugged at the chains on instinct, and then cussed. The pain was consuming, and he lost consciousness. 

But he didn’t wake up. He woke to the same room, but tied to a table. Something felt incredibly wrong, and he lifted his head off the table to see what was happening. Somebody stood by his stomach, carving into it with a scalpel and a medical tool Vax didn’t recognize. He could feel everything. He could feel the skin tear, the muscle rip, and everything underneath. He screamed. The person laughed wickedly, and when they turned Vax stopped breathing completely. Anna Ripley. She sneered, eyes full of delight.

“Good morning Percival, welcome back.” She mocked. “Fuck you.” Vax snarled, his voice sounding like Percy’s, but younger. He remembered then that this had happened while Percy was still young, perhaps only seventeen. 

The scalpel shifted, digging deeper, and suddenly Vax lost himself in the smell and the screams. All sense of his own individual consciousness was gone. He was just Percy. Alone, terrified, feeling hopeless and wishing for death. There was nothing he could do, and he no longer had the grounding knowledge that he was just dreaming to hold on to.

Laughter filled the air as his eyes struggled to stay open, blood and gore covered his stomach, warm liquid on cold skin. His limbs trembled violently, and his lungs begged for air. Tears rolled down his face. He could hear himself scream, and then he couldn’t scream anymore. He begged himself to just lose consciousness, but the severing of nerves and moving of muscles and flesh kept him rooted in the present. 

Then it went dark, and he thought that it was over. He felt himself be tossed roughly against cold stone walls, and coughed violently. The room reeked. He opened his eyes wearily, touching his bandaged stomach. It felt like somebody had covered it with healing potions haphazardly. Something pale caught his eye, and he looked up. It was the most horrific sight he had ever seen, or could have ever imagined. 

In the same cell as him, against the wall, sat the corpses of his family all neatly propped up in a display of mockery and distain for the titles they held. They were in various stages of decomposition, and some of them bore marks clearly indicative of torture. Even the children. 

Even the children. 

“Vax’ildan, wake up!” 

Children. 

“Vax! Please wake up!” Percy yelled. 

Something warm touched his arm, and Vax followed it, begging for more. 

“Oof! Uhm.” Percy said as Vax’s squirming resulted in a punch to his gut. He turned around to face Vax. Vax grabbed onto his arm, and tugged. Percy let him, and fell forward as Vax finally woke up. Vax screamed, tears rolling down his face. He needed warmth, he needed something solid to hold onto. He needed…

 
He breathed deeply, smelling soap. The presence was warm, solid, and strong. He didn’t look up, he just pressed his head deeper into the shoulder of the man holding him as he cried. Percy stroked his back, apologizing profusely. His tone was soft and comforting. He held Vax against him, their bodies pressed firmly  together. Percy ran his fingers gently through the white hair, rocking back and forth slowly. He began to soothe Vax, and held.

 
The need to be held, to Vax, hurt almost as much as the pain. He cried about what he’d just experienced first hand and at the thoughts of Percy experiencing this. Vax had always had Vex to hold him, heck, he had Vox Machina.

He wondered how many times Percy had relived this nightmare, and how many times he had nobody to hold him. He knew sometimes Vex would hold Percy, especially in the beginning. He also knew that when Percy had nightmares and woke up he’d storm of into the night, emptying his stomach and not letting anybody close. That wasn’t strange though, Percy didn’t let anyone close. 

Afterwards, Percy wouldn’t speak at all the next day, or eat. He wouldn’t sleep for days, and he’d be particularly aggressive in fights. He’d distance himself from everyone, and looked pale and sickly. 

Vax always thought that Percy was frequently shivering because he was cold, that he was just sensitive to cold weather and was trying to warm himself up by rubbing his arms against each other. Now he wondered whether that was a subconscious effort to comfort himself.  

“I’m gonna be sick.” Vax mumbled, pulling away as quickly as he could, making for the bathroom. He leaned over the privy and emptied his stomach for what felt like hours. His body was still reeling and shivering when he made it back to the room.

Percy sat waiting on the bed, a large mug of water and a healing potion next to him. Vax took the water  wordlessly, downing the content. He gestured towards the potion questioningly. “The pain was just part of the nightmare.” Vax said. He didn’t take it, making for the now untucked bed instead. Percy held the blankets up and he crawled underneath. 

Percy kept watching him, waiting. Vax frowned but tried to relax. He was cold, and the shivering hadn’t quite stopped. Vax felt nauseous and his head felt heavy. Then he felt it, and he understood. The pain was suffocating, as if he'd just jumped into an icy lake.

Percy saw it happen and quickly handed over the healing potion. Vax downed it quickly, gasping. The pain was most definitely not just part of the nightmare. The nightmare was life. There was no denying it, day and night didn’t matter, the nightmares were always present in Percy’s mind. The pain followed, as did the grief. There was no relief. 

“How often does that happen?” Vax asked, closing his eyes. He didn’t really want to know but if he wanted to help Percy he needed to. “More often than not. I truly wish that I could spare you from it, Vax. I’m so sorry.” Percy said sadly. Vax felt around until he found Percy’s hand, and grabbed onto it. 

“It’s not your fault, Freddie. None of this is your fault. None of what happened to you was your fault. It has never been your fault.” Vax said. The fingers Vax held in his hand twitched, and Vax listened to Percy choke back a mournful sound. He lay with his eyes closed respectfully as Percy sniffled, which he then tried to cover it with a cough.

 
“Can you…uh… Will you hold me? Or just stay with me, please?” Vax asked. He wasn’t quite sure to whose benefit it would be, but he asked anyway. Just a few days ago he wouldn’t have let the human near him,  and now he was begging him for comfort.

Percy climbed into the bed beside him, and tugged Vax against his chest, arms around him. Vax wanted to cry, and he knew that Percy was close to tears. The human was stiff and awkward at first. He wasn’t used to this, he probably hadn’t held somebody in years. Vax, although rarely needing to hold others, had spent his entire life having somebody to hold.  The mood was heavy and cold. 

After a while something in Percy softened, and he pulled Vax closer to him as if he were comforting one of the many siblings he no longer had.  Vax pictured it. Growing up with siblings came with a fair share of fighting, but it also came with safety. If you got lucky, you’d always have a sibling to help you through life, someone to hold and be held. He pictured a younger Percy, a different person. He pictured a warm and loving boy who’d comfort a younger sibling like this and hum them a lullaby. Then he pictured the human he’d thought he’d known, and shivered. He couldn’t connect the two images. He heard himself sniffle, and changed the topic his mind had wandered blindly into. He needed this to end, so he deflected it. 

“I have really nice body, no wonder people like snuggling with me.” Vax said, pressing his cold nose to his old vessel’s neck. Percy gasped. “You’re cold!” He shrieked, forcing Vax’s head down with his chin. “Pfft!” He puffed, cussing at the short white hair now tickling his face. Vax wiggled his head, deliberately tickling Percy. He just needed to lighten the mood slightly. “Vax’ildan!” Percy cussed, but Vax felt him smile.

***

Vax felt even worse the next morning. He understood why Percy didn’t eat after those nightmares, but forced himself to eat something regardless. The group's voices were too loud, and they moved too quickly. It felt like a terrible hangover, except this one wouldn’t go away with more alcohol. He tried to drown the voices out. His muscles were stiff and aching, and his head felt like it was going to explode like one of Percy’s fancy bullets. 

“How long can we stay here?” Vax asked, squinting at Vex. “Are you okay?” She asked anxiously, eyeing him over her cup of tea. “No. I think I’m sick. Can we stay around here for a few more days?” Vax asked. They had no upcoming jobs and he really wanted to reach a messenger and send money and a note to Gilmore’s. He wasn’t sick, but the truth wasn’t his to tell. Percy kept giving him apologetic looks and glancing over at him nervously the entire morning already. 

“We can stay a few more days, but you need to rest then.” Vex said sternly. “I just need to make a small trip, then I’ll be back.” Vax countered. “Absolutely not. Bed or nothing.” Vex said. Vax sighed in defeat. 

“We have healing potions, and I can try to help?” Keyleth offered helpfully. “Thanks, Kiki. I think it’s just a human thing that needs to work itself out.” Vax lied remorsefully. 
He waited until the group dispersed for town, then drew Scanlan’s attention. The money he was sending to Gilmore was what he’d kept from Vex, which meant he couldn’t ask her to deliver the message.

“Can you please take this to a messenger for me? It’s just a request to Gilmore along with some coins.” Vax asked. The gnome took the envelope, tugging it into his belt.

“Nightmares, huh?” Scanlan asked. Vax nodded his head, too tired to do more. “Looks like you’re going to have to deal with all of Percy’s secrets. I’m sorry, I wish I could help.” Scanlan said. “Yeah, if only there was medicine for nightmares.” Vax said dryly. 
Scanlan’s eyes lit up. “Why the fuck didn’t we think of that before?” He cussed. Vax meant to shrug, but closed his eyes instead. The small movement had made him feel even worse. 

“Humor me, what’s the note for Gilmore say?” Scanlan asked. He wasn’t expecting an answer, but when he got one he felt immensely proud of Vax. “I’m asking Gilmore to make clothing for Percy that’ll hopefully be pain-free to wear.” Vax said, quickly walking away. The tips of his pale ears were a dark red. 

***

They sat in Percy’s room again, comforted by a fire and its warmth. 
“In the nightmare I saw some horrible things, were those memories or something else?” Vax asked softly, laying with his head on Percy’s lap as the human gently massaged his aching head. Not even a healing potion or the coffee he had with breakfast seemed to help.  

He had expected Percy to stiffen or flinch at the invasive question, but he didn’t. Instead he just sighed. “My nightmares are memories of my past, all of the things you saw are real. The reason you aren’t able to simply shake them off like a run of the mill one-eyed-monster is because I’m reliving the past every single time. I’m mourning, and my body reacts to the nightmares with real physical and emotional pain. It’s something I wouldn’t wish on my greatest enemy.” Percy explained. 

“I can think of a few people I’d wish this on.” Vax said honestly. Percy rewarded him with a soft smile. “Anna will meet her end, just like the Briarwoods did. At my hand, or the hands of this silly group of misfits I find myself so fond of, is yet to see.” Percy said. 

“You’re fond of us?” Vax asked lazily. Percy grabbed a fistful of hair, tugging gently. “Read my mind, you tell me.” He said lightheartedly. Vax closed his eyes, concentrating.

Sure enough, when he focused on the familiar faces of his friends he could feel what Percy felt for them. It was a deep sense of sentiment and fondness and love.  Percy felt something different for almost every member. He seemed to be especially fond of Scanlan – who Vax thought he hated – and Keyleth. He loved her the same way Vax loved Vex, like a sibling. Percy felt protective of them, and sadly, Percy felt as if he didn’t deserve any of them.

Vax felt the familiar sting of that, he understood it all too well. It hurt to know that Percy felt it too. He wondered how much of that was because of his actions.

Curios, he focused on him, on Vax. An imagine popped up, and Vax zoned in on it. The image of himself was old and from a long time ago. He was looking over his shoulder at Percy with a look of pure distain and suspicion. Then he saw himself look at Percy with bored, disinterested brown eyes as Percy explained something he found very important. He saw himself sneer at Percy the first time the human ever dared to make a joke. He saw Percy trying to get to know him and gain his trust. He saw Percy risk his life for his friends, for him, again and again. He saw Percy repairing his favorite broken blade in Scanlan’s mansion, and felt the pride Percy felt. Then he felt the sting his snarky indifference had caused. 

It hurt to see what Percy felt when he thought about him. 

Then the image shifted, and although the pictures were  blurry, the emotions were not. Instead of seeing himself, he heard himself. He heard himself say things like: “I trust you” and “I never meant to make you fear me” and “thank you”.  He heard himself imitating Percy and joke around with him. He heard memories of stupid things he’d often say, and then felt warmth.

He heard himself deliver a long line of crude jokes and felt Percy’s relief as the mood shifted. A fondness and feeling of acceptance outweighed the older memories, and on the very tip of the emotions Vax felt something he couldn’t quite name, but could recall feeling before. It was an extremely vulnerable and sensitive feeling.

Almost like falling in love.

Chapter Text

Eventually Vax managed to fall asleep, too tired to fight. Percy’s body was very vulnerable to lack of sleep and exertion, including the mental kind. He didn’t see any more memories, instead he felt the presence of something dark and consuming grow in the dark.

He could feel it clawing deeper and closer into his soul and mind, like a festering wound. It bore anxiety, fear and death in its wake. It bore a weight that Vax felt too weak to carry.

Soon enough it was whispering, making sweet promises of revenge and salvation. For all it promised and gave, it took. It made Vax physically sick, it made him want to cry in desperation and fear. It made him unable to ignore the pain of starvation and lack of water. It made the fear of sleeping outside in the cold, fully exposed to the environment and what ever else lingered in the dark impossible to accept.

It exploited just how young and inexperienced Percy was, preventing him from adapting like the current Percy so easily did.

It devoured his soul, slowly leeching any other emotions from its host. It only left fear and anger. The fear kept Percy dependent, the anger kept Orthax necessary. 

Vax noticed how the presence then shifted and made him feel less alone, less frightened, less broken. It felt like an evil, cruel, insatiable friend that bullied you but protected you from other bullies. It made you thankful for the beatings and the pain, because the other options were worse. 

Vax felt the starvation, cold and misery affect him less. He felt less hopeless, less sad. He just felt so, so empty. Then, he just felt angry. It was the only emotion that the leech didn’t consume.

He saw him then, looking into a blacksmith’s workshop. He saw the reflection of the emaciated, exhausted, filthy young Percy. The beautiful green eyes from the past were emotionless and empty. The face was expressionless, true to its most recent form. 

“I will give you everything you want.”

“At what cost?” The young boy in the window’s reflection asked. 

“Nothing you won’t willingly hand over. Nothing you’d care to lose.” 

Life. Percy’s life and his soul. That’s what Orthax wanted. 

Vax woke with a nasty growl in his throat, bolting upright. Percy sat sleeping next to him, head against the headboard, with the pillow Vax’s head had been resting on still in place. He looked like shit. Vax reached out slowly, carefully touching the human’s chest. He was breathing. Off course he was, but Vax felt compelled to check. Percy was alive. Orthax was gone. Anna Ripley still lived, but the demon was gone. 

Vax shifted and shuffled the sleeping human until he lay flat on the bed, and covered him with a blanket. He felt an impulsive desire to kiss his forehead but didn’t. Instead he stroked his cheek. 

The irony wasn’t lost on him, nor was the similarities he noticed between the darkness of his own mind and what Percy’s demon did to him. Vax’s own mind often felt empty and yet too full at the same time. Sometimes he felt wrong and dark, as if he can’t see the light around him. He felt disconnected from the world, sad, and hopeless. 

It felt like he’d always be different. It felt like instead of participating in life, he just observed. Sometimes he didn’t feel happiness or joy, sometimes he struggled to even feel love. The darkness was heavy, like Orthax. It felt like the darkness destroyed his soul and devoured him day by day, leeching off and never had enough . It felt like it was never going to end. 

While he’d been in Percy’s body he’d felt like that less often, but now it was back. He felt an intense hatred for Orthax and for his own mind. What concerned him though, was how much of this Percy would be able to feel. If he could feel Percy’s emotions then Percy could feel his. There was no doubt about it, Percy was going to learn the truth. 

Vax made his way back to his room, anxious and sleepy. He felt like he’d invaded Percy’s space more than enough already. He didn’t know why he felt insecure, he was living Percy’s nightmares and pain. He was handling this, and yet, suddenly everything felt reversed. Vax hated the idea, he was suddenly frightened by the idea of having somebody in his head. He recalled the way Percy looked at him when his secrets began to come out, and he understood. 

Being the strong one who was helping another was easy, but being the exposed one… That wasn’t. So Vax did what he always did when things got too much, and shoved it down deeper and focused on something else. He held out his hand in front of his face as he lay on the bed, and recalled Percy’s response to his touch.

*** 

“I need you to do something strange for me, just humor me.” Vax said, cornering his sister in her room. She stared at him wide eyed. “Okay…” She said with curious eyes. “Touch me.” Vax said. Vex’s expression changed, and she looked dumbfounded. “What? Why?” She asked. “I’ve never touched Percy unless he’s not waking up and needs me to wake him or help him.” She said nervously. “I just need to check something. I’m going to make the others do it as well, just… Please just do it. Don’t make it weird. Put your hand on my cheek.” Vax said. 

Vex narrowed her eyes at Vax, but gently cupped his cheek. Vax concentrated hard on the sensation. It felt nice. Okay. “Thanks. Bye.” He said, walking away. “What the fuck?” She yelled. 

“Grog, buddy. I was just looking for you!” Vax said, spotting Grog outside of Vex’s room. “Hey Perc. What’s up?” He said cheerfully. “Can you check if I have a fever?” Vax asked. Grog wouldn’t be persuaded unless he thought Percy was in danger or very, very drunk. 

Grog raised his hand gently, frowning in concentration. He touched two fingers to the forehead of who he thought was Percy, and smiled happily. “I think you’re okay,  but I don’t know much about humans, dude. Maybe ask Keyleth?” Grog instructed. Percy’s body enjoyed the touch in the same way it had Vex’s, it just felt nice. He made his way outside, looking for other members of the team.

“Kiki, I need you to help me out with something please.” Vax asked, sitting down next to the druid on the grass outside. She looked up from the flower she had grown, and smiled happily. “Sure Percy. Uh. Vax. What can I help you with?” She asked.

“Touch my cheek, please?” Vax asked. Keyleth narrowed her eyes, examining Vax. She hummed, then simply did as asked. It felt nice, a little nicer than when Vex touched him. He felt a deeper sense of connection from Percy’s body. Percy and Keyleth were very close, it made sense. “Examining how Percy responds to touch, are you?” Keyleth asked. 

“Uhm.” Vax mumbled, caught out. He must have blushed, because Keyleth giggled. “Touch is different for all people, some of us are more sensitive to it. Percy avoids it, but when he gets subjected to it like say, when I hug him… he likes it. He’ll respond differently to each of us.

Although, I’m warning you, unless you’re prepared to learn some things you’re not necessarily ready to deal with I’d suggest you stop now.” Keyleth said. Vax had never heard her sound more stern and serious. 

“Why?” Vax asked. Keyleth shook her head, turning back to her flower. 

"I love both of you as if you were my family, whether I think you're both kind of hot or not. You're like brothers to me. Don't you hurt him Vax’ildan."

*** 

“Hey Percy, have you seen Vax?” Grog asked.

“I have not, has he not come down yet? That is rather peculiar.  I’ll go searching for Vax’ildan this instance.” Vax said.

Vex stopped eating to stare at him, dropping her spoon. “You’re Vax. You’re speaking just like Percy…”  She said. “I’m aware, thank you.”

Vax said, making for the stairs and leaving a group of confused friends at the table. They watched as he walked up the stairs with his hands behind his back and his posture stiff. 

“Percy?” Vax called, knocking on the bedroom door. He got no answer. After three more attempt he went to find his lock picks, hoping for the best. He forced the key from the lock, proving that it had been locked from the inside. The door unlocked with just a few moves, Vax felt proud of himself for a second, pocketing the picks.

 
He stepped into the dark room quietly, breathing softly. The fire had gone out and the room was cold. He waited silently until his eyes adjusted as much as the human’s bad eyes could, and then searched the room. The bed was empty and messy. Clothes and oddities from Vax’s bag lay strewn haphazardly across the bed. “Percy?” Vax asked anxiously. 

He listened for breathing or movement, and eventually zoned in on slight breathing from a distance away. He followed the sound quietly, and found his friend sitting in the bath, shivering. Vax couldn’t move at first, it was difficult to see himself - his actual vessel-  like this. He knew instantly what was happening, although he’d obviously never seen what it looked like when depression finally knocked you on your ass.

He stepped up to the bath, touching Percy’s cheek. The human’s eyes were closed, he was cold and his lips were trembling. Vax crouched and touched the water, flinching at the icy feel of it. Percy had been sitting in the bath for a long time. “Freddie?” Vax asked, gently tapping a freezing knee. 

He got a soft mumble of protest, followed by more shivering.  “Okay buddy, let’s get you out of the bath.” Vax said, straightening up. Percy’s eyes shot open, and he looked wrecked. “Vax?” He asked, his voice was soft and broken. “Yep. Come on, get up.” Vax said, grabbing Percy by the arms and pulling his limp body out of the bath and onto his feet. He flinched as his own shirts got drenched.
“Let’s dry you up, okay?” Vax asked, looking into Percy’s eyes. He had to pull hair out of the way and noticed just how messy it was. “I can. I can do it.” Percy stuttered, reaching for the towel beside him. He shivered enough to drop it, and Vax caught it. “I just became so overwhelmed and so sad,  I thought a bath would help.” Percy rambled.

Trying to dry somebody else was harder than Vax imagined, but it got done. When the shivering little mess was dry, he gently pulled Percy out of the cold bathroom by the hand.

“Where did you put my- your sleepwear?” Vax asked. “I don’t know. Everything is so messy. I tried to find something that might help and…” Percy stuttered. Vax sat Percy down on the bed with a little pushing and guiding, and began to look around.

“Unfortunately I don’t own creams or potions to deal with this. He found a discarded shirt and pulled that over the naked man. 

“All right. Into bed.” Vax said. Percy listened wordlessly, sighing contently at the comfort of the blankets. “I know you feel awful, but you need to try and keep the fire going at least. If you can’t manage to do anything else, just try to keep yourself warm okay?” Vax said gently. “I’m sorry.” Percy whispered.

“It’s not your fault, it’s my emotions you’re feeling.” Vax confessed. “What?” Percy asked, turning onto his back to peer over at Vax who was kneeling at the fireplace. 
“The way you’re feeling right now, that’s me. You’re experiencing my emotions like I’ve been experiencing yours.” Vax said apologetically. He was happy to have his back to the human, feeling exposed and embarrassed. 

“Wow. I’m sorry Vax. You don’t deserve this.” Percy said. “Nobody does, and yet, there doesn’t seem to be anything I can do about it.” Vax sighed, warming his hands in front of the growing fire. He removed his wet shirts and made his way over to Percy. Percy shifted up so that Vax could sit down next to him on the bed.

 
“Do you want to talk about it?” Percy asked. He rubbed at his eyes as he spoke, as if he hadn’t slept in days. “I suppose after us being stuck in your head, it’s only fair. Although I don’t really know what to say.” Vax said.

“Well, I can feel it, so you don’t need to explain it. I’m just wondering how often you feel like this?” Percy asked. “Often, I suppose. Sometimes it’s easier, sometimes it gets as bad as you’re experiencing right now.” Vax said. “I’ve learned to always do the basics regardless of how I feel, eat and drink water, clean, and do my job. It’s hard, but I have to do it.” Vax said.

“Does the group know? Vex?” Percy asked, sitting up to lean back against the headboard. Vax shook his head. “Ah. So we both harbor secrets then.” Percy said. There was no judgment or anger in the words but Vax felt guilty. “I don’t think I can tell anyone else, I don’t think they’ll understand.” Vax said honestly. 

“For what it’s worth, I understand.” Percy said. “That’s because you’re currently living inside my dark, moody, and grumpy body.” Vax teased. Percy gave him a sad smile. “It’s not, although I've never experienced it quite like this.” Was all he said. “Oh!” Vax replied.

Perhaps he’d been so focused on other things inside Percy’s mind that he missed it, or perhaps he’d just become that used to living with it.

“You didn’t exactly have a choice in sharing this with me, but I am happy that I know. Please, if you ever need to, come and speak to me.” Percy said. “You don’t have to struggle on your own.” He added. Vax smiled fondly at him.

“Will you please fix my hair? It’s a mess and I just can’t seem to deal with it but it's bothering me something awful.” Percy said, trying to untangle the wet mess. “Turn around.” Vax said. Fixing hair was easy, this he could focus on. All things considering, Percy still being bothered with his hair was a good sign.

He untangled it gently, and made a simple braid that Percy could easily maintain. When Vax felt like this the smallest things felt overwhelming and it had taken time for him to learn how to cope better.

“You left last night…” Percy said. Vax smiled at himself, wondering why Percy sounded so very disappointed. “Hmm. I also had a visitor.” He said gently. Percy jolted. “Who?” He asked curiously.

 
“Orthax. I saw him, I saw what he did to you.” Vax sneered. The sound gave Percy goose bumps. Vax inhaled and smoothed his breathing, he didn’t want to make this worse.

“He was a smelly thing, wasn’t he?” Vax replied lightly. Percy’s shoulders rolled gently as he chuckled under his breath. 
“Orthax smelled?” Percy asked with a highly amused chuckle.

“Yeah, something awful. Like smoke and black powder.” Vax explained. Percy stiffened and Vax slowed his fingers.

“I smell like that…” He said sadly. Vax wrapped the braid around his fingers, knotting it, and pulled Percy closer, making a big show of sniffing his neck. Percy squealed and squirmed away with a laugh. “Nope. You smell delicious.” Vax said lightly.

“Do you want me to stay?” Vax asked as he watched Percy turn around and lean back again. The human nodded, blushing. Vax smiled at him softly, and went to lock the door. Then he cleaned up the mess Percy had made, refusing apologies from the apologetic man. The more he tidied up, the calmer Percy seemed to get. Vax understood that feeling too.

It was difficult to finally gather the strength to pick up the pieces, and sometimes a little help went a long way. He kicked off his shoes and socks and got into the bed next to Percy, laughing as Percy squirmed at the accidental brushing of their feet. The feet belonging to Percy’s body was always cold.

“Hey, Vax…” Percy mumbled. “I know. I know. Between us we’re wearing a pair of pants and a shirt. Now shut up and go to sleep.” 
Vax lay on his back, trying to calm his mind.

He might be able to sleep tonight. He just lay like that for a while. Then he decided to disobey Keyleth, and reached over quietly and kissed the forehead of the mostly sleeping human. 

Percy's body reacted immediately: warmth, happiness, giddiness, nerves and just a little bit of excitement. Vax felt himself blush and lay back down to hide his face. Percy hadn’t moved, but he definitely knew what Vax just did. 

Vax pondered it, letting the situation sink in. While he couldn’t exactly picture Percy having feelings for somebody he feared until recently, he knew. There was no denying what Percy’s mind and body was telling Vax. 

Vax let his mind wander to the man he’d gotten to know this week, and as Percy’s emotions subsided his sprang forth: curiosity, warmth and happiness.

He held his secrets dear, but to Percy almost everything had been laid bare and the man still wanted his time and affection. He didn’t easily let himself trust, love was even harder, but he wanted to let himself trust. More than anything he wanted to let himself love. The Percy he knew now was so easy to love, and it was clear that Percy thought the same of him. 

He thought about all the times he'd felt unloved and alone, and knew that if he just let Percy in he'd never have to feel like that again. 

He thought about all the pain and suffering Percy suffered and wondered whether him letting himself love Percy would be enough. He could hold him, truly hold him. Percy could finally have somebody to love him with the same ferocity that the human loved others. 

Vax was probably being presumptuous, and scorned himself for allowing to let his mind wander quite this far. 

Chapter Text

Vax woke up feeling rested and feeling happy. Also, he felt suffocated. He lifted his head to look down at his body. Then he laughed, biting his lip. So this was what it felt like with him wrapped around somebody like an octopus. Vex often complained about this. Vax was a rather flexible and nimble little thing.

The man's hair was everywhere, conflicting with his new vessel’s pale chest. Vax couldn’t move. One leg was between his, another wrapped around his ankle like a snake. An arm covered his chest completely, and somehow ended under his ribs. The other arm was trapped between their sides. Breath tickled his neck, and he turned his head slightly to try and figure out where Percy’s face was.

He gently pulled hair out of his old vessel’s eyes, and the sleeping man pressed their nose deeper into Vax’s neck. Vax felt tears well up in his eyes as he tried to hide his amusement. It was an absurd situation to be in. This was a man he’d gone from fighting with to sharing a bed with. This was another man inside his body, and he was technically curled against Percy’s body. The amount of comfort and emotion that they’d developed in the last few days was unbelievable.

Vax should be upset, he should be uncomfortable. He should feel like his space was invaded, he should feel… All he felt was fondness and happiness. He couldn’t remember the last time he felt like this. He could breathe.

Percy sneezed, his own hair tickling his nose, and Vax laughed out loud. He couldn’t help it. He couldn’t stop, the laughter was affectionate and genuine and the trembles shook Percy awake.

The man jolted, groggy and confused. Vax heard him gasp and immediately try to extract himself from the situation. Vax pinned him down by capturing his legs between his, and forcing his weight down on the hand beneath his ribs.

“Oh Gods, I’m so sorry.” Percy apologized. Vax couldn’t stop laughing. Percy cussed at him, wiggling helplessly. Then. He laughed. He stopped fighting, buried his bright red face in Vax’s arm, and joined in on the moment.

“Percy, I haven’t felt this rested in years. Then I wake up to this…” Vax chuckled breathlessly. Percy snorted. “I can’t quite make out my current mental state yet. Although this is extremely embarrassing.” Percy said. “Oi! I’ve wiped your ass!” Vax teased. He laughed even more when an awkward punch connected with his shoulder as Percy finally wrangled himself loose.

“As have I for you! Vax’ildan let me go.” Percy chuckled, trying to withdraw and end the embarrassment. “You’re holding on to me!” Vax said, gesturing down to where Percy’s hand rested on his arm. Percy let go immediately, stomping to the bathroom loudly.

Vax dressed, enjoying the emotions Percy’s body felt. The embarrassment mixed with happiness effortlessly, like fresh cream into warm coffee. He felt the same. It was all moving too fast, but he didn’t want to stop it. He knew the depression Percy was feeling hadn’t gone away, but Percy was going to be okay, and when he wasn’t Vax would be there for him.

***

Vax placed a cup of tea down in front of Percy, sliding in next to him at the table for breakfast. He bit into his egg and cringed, so Percy handed him the salt. Percy took a sip of tea, then gagged. Vax passed him the sugar bowl. Vax picked up a butter knife, and Percy reached over and handed him the butter. Grog greeted Vax looking at the white haired vessel. Percy greeted back in Vax's accent. 

Vax leaned his elbows on the table, then quickly removed them, apologizing. Percy tilted his head to the side in a manner that  only Vax ever did, when Pike laughed at them. Vax separated his food until it didn't touch, the way Percy preferred it. Percy scooped up egg and bacon together. 

“Okay, enough. This is getting too weird.” Vex said. The two men looked up at her wordlessly. “First you started behaving like each other, then you started referring to yourselves by the other person’s name and talking like them, and now you’re apparently reading each other’s minds and... what ever just happened?” Vex said.

“They’re also sharing a room and were giggling like girls this morning.” Grog added usefully. Vex fumed. “That’s a waste of money!” She yelled.

“That’s the part that you’re focusing on, then?” Scanlan said. “Should I be concerned?” Vex asked, genuinely worried. She eyed the men suspiciously.

“There’s nothing wrong, sister. We are just choosing to help each other adjust and are learning more about each other. Sometimes we both feel like we are not fully in control of the vessels, and it’s frightening. We have to cooperate if we are to make this work. Sometimes I feel Percy’s emotions and he feels mine. Being stuck in my head can be frightening, I’m just making sure Percy doesn’t end up a wild, bewildered animal. I promise I won’t share all your secrets with him.” Vax said.

“My secrets? Can he see yours?” She asked. Vax nodded, shrugging. “You’re very comfortable with that for a man who hides his secrets better than he hides his presence. You hide stuff from your own sister.” Vex snapped.

“I have no choice! Right now Percy has to deal with emotions so strong even I normally can't process. My emotions. I don’t have a fucking choice. Neither does Percy. I can see all his secrets too Vex!

I can see everything he’s been dealing with, and has had to overcome. I can see how much I hurt him. Me. Do you have any idea how shit that feels? Percy didn’t want to tell us his secrets and yet here I am sitting in Percival De Rolo Library with a front row seat to everything.” Vax yelled back.

The group sat in silence, and Vex frowned nervously at Vax’s tone. He sounded mournful, guilty, and so distressed. He sounded like he thought Vex was accusing him or trying to hurt Percy, and she knew that look in his eyes. He was going to bite her if she tried to come any closer.

Percy placed his hand gently on Vax’s shaking one. “It’s all right Vex’halia. I understand that you care for Vax deeply, and that you are as frightened as he is. Fighting is not going to help, we have to deal with this together.” Percy said gently.

“I care about both of you, Percy, not just him. I worry that the two of you will hurt each other and that I might lose you.” She confessed. Percy looked down at his tea frowning while the twins kept glaring at each other.

“Uhm… so I got a letter from Pike. She’s two towns over. She is quite sure the priestesses will be able to find a cure. I can’t take us there though, I’ve never been there.” Keyleth whispered, interrupting the conversation. Scanlan and Grog sighed in relief.

“There’s a bounty out for some orcs in the next town, we could take them out on the way and collect.” Scanlan said. Maybe a good fight would help. He made eye contact with Vax and gestured up the stairs.

When the table took to eating again Vax made his way to his room. The package from Gilmore had arrived in a much larger bag than Vax was expecting. He opened it to find many sets of long sleeved shirts, trousers, cravats and vests that looked exactly like what Percy wore. He picked one up, examining the texture. It felt soft, and the fabric was good quality and durable. The cravats were softer than silk.

“Is it what you wanted?” Scanlan asked from the doorway. Vax nodded happily. He found a note, which he read. It made him laugh fondly. “Gilmore added enchanting to the clothing to help Percy with the pain. At the behest of somebody unnamed he also included a ring that will counter the effects of nightmares.” Vax explained. He eyed Scanlan, who blushed and shrugged.

“Sounds like a nice somebody. I hope it helps. Things seem to be going well.” Scanlan said. Vax beckoned him into the room and closed the door. The gnome lifted his eyebrows suspiciously, but made himself comfortable on the bed regardless.

“There are some strange things happening. I would like to talk to you about it, if I may?” Vax asked, fumbling with his hair.

“I’ve noticed, I’m dying to learn more. Do tell.” Scanlan said, always ready for some drama.

“So, first we started sharing emotions. I’d pick up on things Percy felt particularly strongly about, and vise versa. Then we met that general and Percy’s mind just took back control. It felt like I was just there witnessing it. All the things I said was not me, it was Percy. Then I wanted to punch the general, but I didn’t say or do anything. Next thing I know Percy is punching the man.” Vax rambled, the world’s spilling from his tongue almost too fast to be understandable.

“So that’s what happened that day, I was wondering how you did that. It sounded a little strange. I know you wouldn’t throw Percy’s name around.” Scanlan said. “Off course not, I do respect him.” Vax snapped. Scanlan raised an eyebrow in disbelief.

“What else?” Scanlan asked. He examined Vax curiously. The man was blushing, and looked like Scanlan had busted him stealing his oil.

“Uh. So I started having Percy’s dreams, then he started feeling my depression. Then we started sharing a room. Then I picked up on how Percy’s body reacted when I touched him, and now I think he’s falling in love with me.” Vax said.

Scanlan’s eyes popped and his jaw dropped. “Okay… that’s a lot of things to process. Let’s try again.” He said, grinning.

“So sharing each other’s demons must have been scary?” Scanlan asked. Vax nodded, flinching.

“You seem a lot less troubled about that than I thought you’d be.” Scanlan confessed. “What can I say? There’s nothing I can do. I can’t hide anything from him, or he from me. I know almost everything now, I know why he is who he is. I think I know all the little De Rolo secrets.” Vax said.

Scanlan nodded slowly: “And he knows yours…” Vax nodded again. “Yes, and I feel relieved that he does. He knows almost everything and he still wants to talk to me, he’s still spending time with me.” Vax said. Scanlan picked up on how excited Vax sounded, but kept it to himself.

“Lastly, how do you know about him being in love with you?” Scanlan asked, a large grin on his secretly romantic face.

“Well, it started when I accidentally touched him-me. The way Percy’s body responded was strange to me, so I tried to pay it more attention. Then he told me to read his mind about what he felt for the group and I could. He really likes you by the way, and I could see how he felt about me. I proved it when I kiss-.” Vax said, glaring as Scanlan cut him off.

The gnome practically bounced up and down in excitement. “You kissed Percy?” Scanlan squealed. “Shh.” Vax groaned, looking at the door. “Technically it was my forehead, and he was basically asleep. I just wanted to make sure.” Vax said, smiling.

“AND?” Scanlan yelled. Vax held his head in his hands, blushing. Scanlan giggled at him. “Oh Gods… what’s wrong with me? I don’t think I’ve fallen that hard, but I might…” Vax complained. “I like seeing you happy. Now tell me the fucking story!” Scanlan growled.

“Okay. When I kissed his forehead I felt all of these emotions in my vessel - his body. He felt so happy, and a little nervous. He felt as giddy as I do now, and warm. He felt warm, and wanted. Oh, and safe? I’m not sure I understand or got that emotion correct though…” Vax said.

The room went quiet and he looked up through his fingers to find the gnome staring at him fondly.

“You’re slow Vax’ildan, really slow. I’m happy you’re clued in, and in a way I’m glad it only got through your thick skull now because you’d have broken his heart before all of this happened. B-.” Scanlan said, huffing as Vax kicked him softly.

“You knew?” Vax asked. “Scanlan The All Knowing sees many things.” He said, squaring his shoulders and pushing out his chest.

Vax pondered this. Keyleth… “I asked Keyleth to touch me, because I was trying to figure out if Percy’s response to touch was the same with others as it was to me. She told me to stop because I’d find out truths I’m not ready for. She knew.” Vax said fondly. Scanlan nodded.

“Does everybody know?” Vax asked. “No, only me and his best friend. That druid will rip you to pieces if you hurt him. I’m not exaggerating.” Scanlan said.

“It depends on the weapon I use.” Vax shrugged proudly. “Cocky little shit.” Scanlan laughed.

“What do you intend to do about this, Vax’ildan?” Scanlan asked seriously. Vax bit his lip, frowning.

“Nothing, because… Because when I kissed him and I gave it some thought I felt like I might be beginning to feel the same about him.” Vax confessed, laughing as Scanlan fell backwards dramatically with a hand on his head.

“This is too beautiful. Are you sure you’re all right? You’ve shown more emotion in the last week than I’ve seen in months. You’re like a brand new person. You’re smiling and laughing, and you’ve made Percy laugh and smile. Percy. The stone-faced king of stoicism. Even with all of the pain you’re going through you’ve made each other happy.” Scanlan said cheerfully.

“I’m better than all right.” Vax said truthfully. “Scanlan The All Knowing.” Vax said. “I like it.”

He found Percy in his room, reading by the fire. He took a random book from Percy’s stash and joined him quietly. It was comfortable silence. They didn’t always have to talk. His mind was clear and calm, and the smile on Percy's face assured him that he was okay as well. 

It was okay, it would be okay. 

The last week had been exhausting, and sleep was welcome. 

Chapter Text

The next day they left town, making for the location where the orcs could supposedly be found at. They both looked rested, and Vax was happy to have slept through the night.

Vax scouted, like he normally would. On his other side, wordlessly, Percy scouted as well. Vax spotted his old vessel only because he knew where to look, and with a hood over his now white hair Vax made a good job of scouting ahead himself. It felt nice to have somebody else to entrust their safety to like this. As their only scout and rogue Vax often felt solely responsible for the prevention of any sneak attacks or surprises. He’d kept an eye on Percy for the remains of the depression, and Percy kept convincing him he was okay. His body told Vax that he was telling the truth.

He and Percy merged flawlessly, communicating and supporting each other without words. He knew the group was watching them. Some of them were amused, some were worried. Grog kept startling every time Percy’s tall form appeared out of nowhere. He was used to Percy being at the back. 

Vax held his daggers close, and Percy had his hand on the trigger of one of his guns. “On our right!” Percy said through the earring, and Vax darted towards him. Grog roared from behind them, and soon the battle ensued. 

This time Vax was in full control of Percy’s body, capable of all of his usual stealth and close combat skills. He wasn’t held back by their weight or height difference, and didn’t find the clothing suffocating. On the other side or the battlefield Percy clearly felt the same. He switched between weapons effortlessly, adopting his own preferred style. The heavy armor no longer seemed to bother him. 

It was just another battle, until Keyleth screamed. Vax bolted over to her, panicked. Percy stood guard over her fallen form as she healed her wounds quickly, with Percy firing at an oncoming orc. Vax sent his daggers flying at it. Grog roared to Vax’s left, and before Vax had time to react he went flying across the battlefield.  He hadn’t had time to recall his daggers, and lay against the trunk of a tree unarmed. 

Nobody had time to look at him, the orcs were now on top of the team. Vex’s bow was becoming harder to operate and she bolted back and forth for space to aim. Keyleth used magic to raise vines to give the team time to move, and Percy began to use the speed and sneakiness that Vax’s body leant him to hide and reload his weapons. 

Vax lost sight of his weapons, trying desperately to recall them. He struggled to move and sit up, broken ribs pressing into his chest. 

He lost track of what was happening, his head heavy and ears ringing. Everybody else held their own, but he was out of action. Fear gripped him as he worried for his team, and he felt Percy's worry for him.

“Vax! Grab the gun!” Percy yelled from somewhere far away. Vax raised his head from his chest and off the ground and looked around with one eye open. He spotted Percy’s shotgun close by, and crawled over to it. 

Vax heard Vex scream and saw arrows fly in his direction, Percy shouted and loud bangs filled the air. Keyleth raised a boulder between Vax and the enemy he was too weak to notice. The boulder broke easily. Vax coughed up some blood as he finally reached the gun. 

He rolled onto his back, gun in hand, and the gun roared to life. 

*** 

“Vax?” Vex yelled anxiously as she shook her brother’s shoulders. “Stop that, I’m still busy healing him.” Keyleth groaned. Vax opened his eyes, squinting at the bright sky. 

“…Did I pass out?” He asked. “Yes!” Percy said. Vax looked around at the group of people staring down at him. “Well. Uh. It looks like we survived?” He asked. 

“You shoot like a fucking bad-ass!” Scanlan yelled. “Uh. Percy always shoots like a bad-ass.” Grog said, insulted for Percy’s sake. “I shot?” Vax asked. 

“You seemed to have become me again, or rather my mind took back control. You took the gun and just went wild. It was most impressive.” Percy congratulated. He looked extremely smug and proud of Vax. 

“Ah man, I don’t remember any of that. I don’t even remember the battle.” Vax complained. Percy pulled him to his feet, apologizing as Vax hissed and put a hand over his ribs. 

“Gods your body is not indestructible Percy, I know you love looking hot but you need armor.” Vax groaned. Percy laughed.

“Perhaps. If you’re going to keep wearing my skin I’ll have to seriously consider it.” Percy said easily. The two men must have blushed at the flirty comment because everybody laughed and shook their heads. 

Vax and Percy fell back as the group searched the fallen foes and moved on, Percy keeping an eye on a slightly limping Vax.

“At least I know you’re safe, and that armor looks really good on you.” Vax said. “Gods you’re vain.” Percy laughed. “I’m really not, while I’m not insecure about my appearance I still get self-conscious about what people I’m interested think of me.” 

… Vax lowered his head. He’d just said that out loud. Percy looked away, face flushed. They didn’t speak, and Vax felt Percy’s body react to the confession. He wondered how his own was reacting. This was not supposed to move so fast, he’d only just accepted the truth a day ago. And yet the words came easily, and he meant every single one. 

He couldn’t help focusing on Percy’s reaction though. It felt warm. He suddenly really wanted to kiss the human but then he realized he’d be kissing his own body and that didn’t sit quite right. 

*** 

“I got the two of you one room.” Vex said, looking up from her ale. The group sat cheerfully celebrating their victory and the large payout Vex had collected. Both men looked up, meeting Vex’s eyes. “Okay.” They said, blushing.

“Well aren’t you two pleased?” Vex teased with a fond giggle. Keyleth sighed from the other end of the table, admiring the men. Scanlan wiggled his eyebrows at her, and she glared at him. "What? I think everybody's hot, get over it." She piped. 

“Hey, handsome.” A man said, speaking to Vax as he made his way to the bar for a new round of drinks. “Good evening.” Vax replied politely. The man grabbed his shoulder, stopping him in place. “Not so fast, may I get your name?” He asked. Vax eyed him with an irritated scowl. “You may, but I’d rather not give it. Have a good evening.” Vax said, wriggling away from the invasive man. 

“What is a rich boy like you doing here, anyway?” The man asked, giving Vax a seductive once over. Vax cringed, and it sent the hair at the back of his short hair rising. “I’d suggest you walk away amicably, what ever you’re attempting to get out of me is not going to happen.” Vax said. 

He grabbed the tray of drinks that just appeared and made to leave. He cussed as the man wrapped his arm around his waist, laughing. The ale spilled over the top of the mugs. “I’m asking for your name, darling. Don’t play so hard to get.” He said, lowering his tone. Vax growled at the dangerous sound he knew so well. “Walk away, now.” He warned. 

“Your type always think you’re so much better than everybody else, like you’re better than me. I can show you a good time, darling. Just give me a chance.” He said. Vax snorted. “You’re not my type, darling. Get your hands off of me.” Vax warned. He felt his heart begin to race, he’d definitely need to teach Percy how to handle situations like this. He was surprised that it didn’t happen more frequently. 

The man tightened his grip, pressing Vax into his side. The tray balanced precariously on Vax’s palm, and he cussed as even more ale spilled. He pictured smashing a mug on the man’s head, or kicking him, or punching him until he forgot his name. “Hmm. Rich, pretty boys like you are so nice to convert.” The man purred, lifting his other hand to touch Vax’s cheek. 

A hand caught it mid air, and another grabbed a mug of ale and smashed it against the man’s face. The man growled angrily, and Vax finally extracted himself from the gross man’s grip. He didn’t wait around, walking to the table to place the tray down before turning to watch the show. The nimble, fast little half-elf that once used to be Vax bolted across the room and made quick work of destroying the man’s dignity. 

The drunk crowds cheered happily at the performance as the man tried to land punches between the quick, deliberate moves being dealt to his already staggering body. Percy cussed something vicious.
Vax bit his lip in amusement, then suddenly he felt sick. He felt nauseous, and disgusted by the man. A rage he had never felt in Percy’s body crept forward and he wanted to kill. This wasn’t jealousy, this was both protectiveness and repulsion. Percy hated this man, not because he was flirting with Vax as much as the very idea of him existing. 

Grog rose from his ale, cussing. “Vax! You gonna get us kicked out. Kill him and get it done, buddy.” He scowled. He grabbed the two men, separating them. Vax stepped forward and grabbed the furious Percy, laughing. He dragged him back to their table and shoved a mug of ale in front of him. 

“Well… didn’t you just put up a valiant show of protecting my brother’s honor.” Vex teased. “He’s perfectly capable of protecting his own honor, I hate men like that. I’ve dealt with more than enough of them.” Percy snarled.

“Both men and women alike, they feel entitled to other people’s bodies and think its perfectly okay to bully them to get their way. People like him go out and tell their targets that they’re ugly so that the person feels too self-conscious to hope for better. My sisters fell for it every time.” He added before downing his ale. "I fucking hate watching it happen to the two of you and Keyleth, all the damn time, I just want to smash. I'll admit it felt really satisfying." Percy said with a heavy sigh.

Both twins stared at him wide eyed, taken aback by his aggressive tone. Percy never raised his voice unless absolutely necessary, and he definitely didn’t get this angry about anything less than life or death situations. Perhaps he did, but never showed it. It was nice watching him just give in and let his emotions out, and let his fists loose.

*** 

“How are you feeling?” Percy asked, walking out of the bathroom attached to their room. He was towel drying the long black hair carefully. “I’m fine, Percy. Keyleth healed me.” Vax sighed. “That’s not what I mean, you know that.” Percy said. “Oh… I’m good. I slept last night, and I feel better than I have in a long time.” Vax said honestly. 

“What about you?” Vax asked, grabbing his things to head to the bathroom. “I’m good, I no longer feel as overwhelmed or sad, although today was rather hard. I slept as well… Tomorrow…” Percy said, sitting down on the edge of the bed. 

Vax sighed, he didn’t want to think about it yet. Whilst he was excited to have his own body back, he knew that meant he no longer had the connection he had with Percy, or the same reasons to be around him. He would no longer feel what Percy does, and he’d have to use his words instead. 

“Right, tomorrow…” Vax echoed. The water was warm and calming, and Vax lay in the bath for a long time after he’d cleaned up. 
When he was done he swept his hand across the steamed mirror leaning on the basin, and examined his reflection. Soon it wouldn’t be Percy’s face anymore. He smiled, watching the beautiful young face light up. The smile didn’t reach his eyes, and it made Vax scoff at himself.

He really hoped that when those beautiful eyes looked at him with their true host in tact, they’d smile genuinely. He touched the lips in the mirror, and wondered what they’d feel like on his. Then he softy touched Percy’s face, just to touch. He wondered whether it would feel the same when he was touching Percy with his own half-elf, calloused fingers. 

He looked down at his vessel’s pale hands, feeling guilty. He’d always assumed the pompous rich boy would have soft, gentle hands. Percy’s hands were rough, calloused and damaged. They didn’t belong to a man living in a castle doing taxes, they belonged to a fighter. 

He walked out of the bathroom dressed and ready to end the day, a heavy yawn on his lips. Percy sat on the bed playing with the long hair he soon wouldn’t have anymore. Vax had no words to describe what Percy had done to it, it was too fine and detailed. It was all pinned up with only a few deliberate pieces hanging loose around his face.

Vax never tied all his hair up, but he wasn’t opposed to it at the moment. The numerous braids held beads and… a gold clip? He stood in the doorway, just watching. He ran his fingers gently through his own white hair, gently styling it backwards and away from his face like Percy used to do. He'd even taken the time to apply ointment to Percy's shoulders and the other places he now knew frequently hurt. Percy had taken good care of his vessel, and he wanted to show the same respect to his own current vessel. 

Percy’s eyes were closed as he focused on what he was doing and for the first time Vax realized that he’d never needed a mirror to perform his art. His tongue darted out as he worked on something behind the pointed tip of the ear that he liked to touch so much, and his nose scrunched up when something didn’t quite work the way he wanted it to when he worked lower down.

Percy was a talented, creative, good man. He was a good fighter, protective, and he loved his friends. He was strong, he’d survived a lot and was the better for it. He didn’t judge Vax for his demons, he simply accepted them. 
He kept being friendly and good to Vax even while Vax constantly didn’t show him the same respect.  

The thought saddened him, he wanted to withdraw from Percy because that would be easier than having to live with the regret. He wanted Percy to have the best, even if that meant he had to lose him.

Then Percy looked up, and Vax saw him. He saw Percy reflected through the brown eyes that stared at him with so much fondness and happiness. He realized that Percy wanted him, Vax, even as flawed as he was. If that’s what the human wanted then that’s what he’d give him, in any way that he could. If after they changed back Percy no longer felt for him romantically then he’d be his friend, and his equal, and his teammate. In his heart he hoped though, that Percy would still love him. 

“You’re staring at your own body.” Percy said disapprovingly. “I’m staring at you.” Vax said, clearing his emotional mind. Percy narrowed his eyes at him, and clearly read his mind. Vax saw him do it, and he saw that Percy now knew some of what Vax felt as well. 

He wanted to feel embarrassed, but he wasn’t. Percy could see the truth, he could see everything. He could see the things Vax didn’t have the words to say. Vax walked over then, sitting down next to Percy on the bed. “I want to show you something.” He said.

Percy narrowed his eyes, and examined Vax with an eyebrow raised. They were facing each other on the bed, both sitting with one leg folded under the other. “Give me your hand.” Vax asked. Percy held out his hand immediately, and Vax flinched at the memories of how frightened he had been the first time he simply lay his hands on Percy’s shoulders. 

“Close your eyes, and focus on what I’m thinking. You’re going to see things, and some of it might be hard to look at but please just keep looking.” Vax instructed.

Percy swallowed hard, watching Vax place his hand on his forehead. “You want me to read your mind again?” Percy asked. Vax nodded, closing his eyes. After a minute he opened one to see if Percy’s eyes were closed. Then he let his mind wander. 

He let Percy into the darkest corners of his mind, let him see his insecurities and fears. He let him see the secrets of what he'd done before Vox Machina, that he never spoke about. Not even to his sister. He let Percy see his pain and his hopes for the future. Then he let Percy see himself. He allowed his mind to freely picture Percy from the moment he unlocked the jail cell,  until where they sat now, sharing a room and a mind. 

The picture in Vax’s mind of that moment was a fond one, full of warmth and happiness and beauty. It was a comfortable feeling of having somebody who knew you completely in your presence, somebody you cherished with every part of your soul. 

Percy pulled his hand away, and Vax feared the worst had happened. He knew Percy had seen the truth of how Vax initially thought of him but he had hoped that the human would see how he felt now. He didn’t want to feel the rejection he felt coming. He focused on Percy’s body and felt… conflicted. Percy didn’t know how to feel. He was overwhelmed and slightly taken aback.

“I’m sorry… I shouldn’t ha-.” Vax said, flinching when Percy punched him in the chest. “Ouch, I suppose I deserve that…” Vax sighed. 

“Could you not have waited until we had our own bodies back to share that with me? You’re insufferable!” Percy groaned. Vax stared at the red face and angry glare in Percy’s eyes.

“I’m not sure you’ll still be able to read my mind then. I. I could see things in your mind and I thought I should show you the truth.” Vax said softly. 

Vax happened to picture kissing Percy in that moment, and cringed. Percy cleared his throat, blushing. They both chuckled nervously. Vax flung his arms around Percy’s shoulders instead, letting himself breathe again. “This is weird.” He thought, trying to see if Percy could hear his thoughts without him speaking. “Truly.” Percy said, his body shaking as he chuckled out loud. 

Percy hugged him back, and they sat like that thinking and talking about trivial things. Vax could see snippets of Percy’s childhood, fond memories and painful things. He could see Percy’s family, and feel his longing for them. He could see Percy’s visions and mental blueprints for projects. He could see his hopes and fears, regrets and accomplishments. Percy could see his.

He could see his life before Vox Machina and all the darkness that had come with that, including the evil things Vax had to do. Percy could see Vax’s childhood and the struggles the twins faced at the hands of their father and after they left. 

They shared a lifetime in a few hours, and would never quite be the same. 
“I want to go to sleep but I’m worried that you see my dirty dreams.” Vax yawned. Percy snorted at this, rubbing his eyes. “How do you know I haven’t already?” He asked.

Vax hid his head in his hands, blushing. Then he rolled onto his side and maneuvered around until his head found the pillow. He didn’t look at Percy who was laughing at him wickedly. 

“I haven’t seen anything truly inappropriate Vax, I’m just teasing.” He soothed. “No clever comebacks ?” Percy asked, lying down as well. “Read my mind, I’m sure you’ll find one.” Vax said. Percy kissed the top of his head,  and Vax felt him smile. “Yep. That tells me enough.” Percy said. 

The mood and the room was warm and cozy, and both men knew they’d sleep well that night. 

“Don’t even think about it!” Percy snapped, pulling his feet away. Vax chuckled to himself, he was going to miss having cold toes. 

Chapter Text

“Why are you undoing my hair?” Vax asked, waking up to the sight of Percy gently removing beads. “Good morning to you too. I didn’t think you’d approve of walking around with your hair tied like this. It’s more akin to a formal dance.” Percy said. “And? I like it. Please leave it.” Vax said through a loud yawn. Percy chuckled and began to redo the hair. This might be the last time Percy did his hair for him, and he'd keep it up like that for ever if he could figure out how. 

“I used all of your hair accessories, I hope that’s okay.” Percy said. “Where did you find the clip, I don’t recall having something like that.” Vax asked. Percy stilled for a moment, then gently removed it and held it out for Vax to examine. “Ah. I apologize for even placing it there in the first place. I just wanted to see what it looked like in beautiful hair again… instead of in my pocket where it’s been for so many years.” Percy said.

Vax examined the delicate thing, a round clip with a faint, faded image of a bird on it. A gold item from Percy’s past. “Whose was it?” Vax asked sadly. “My youngest sister’s. I did her hair the most frequently, she’d say I have the gentlest fingers. I think she just enjoyed having the fanciest hair.” Percy chuckled. Vax handed the small clip back, and Percy stood and placed it back into the front pocket of his blue coat.

“If all goes well you get your handsome self back today.” Percy said, smiling gently at Vax who was now getting dressed. “I’d have you know I am currently rather dashing, Vax’ildan, how dare you?” Vax dramatized. Percy blinked at him, mouth open. “Okay, you’re starting to frighten me with those imitations now.” He said. “Get your pretty self decent and let’s go eat, Freddie. Keep up.” Percy imitated, vanishing into the shadows. It should have bothered them that they'd just referred to each other by the other's names, but they didn't even notice. Why did it matter? Who was truly who?

***

The group was in a good mood, happy to get out into the open. Percy and Vax scouted ahead, and fell to the back of the line when they got close to the town. They were both quiet. Vax couldn’t read what Percy was thinking, it was like his mind was too busy. His own mind was busy too.

“Vax?” Percy asked when they finally reached the entrance of the city. Vax turned to look at Percy, the anxiety clear on his face. “This has been the strangest experience of my life, and I just want to thank you for how you’ve handled it.

I know that it was difficult, and you had to see a lot of things you had no control over or wanted to see. In fact you saw things about my emotions towards you that I’d have chosen to guard closer than any of the other things you now know. I’m glad that you truly know who I am, and the other way around. I will guard your secrets and respect your privacy. If this is over and you no longer feel any of the connection we currently feel…I will respect that.” Percy said.

“Freddie, we’ll be okay. We’ll take things day by day and see what happens. I am afraid of losing this as well, but I believe if this… what ever this is… is deeper than being body-swapped, we’ll find each other again.” Vax said.

“I suppose we should swap bags again, here.” Vax said, handing over Percy’s bag. He swung his own over his shoulder as Percy slowly handed it back. “I left something in there for you, I hope it’ll be helpful.” Vax said quickly, looking away. “Okay… uh. Thank you?” Percy said.

They fell silent then, walking again. The group ahead of them immediately began to search for a pub, an inn, and brothels. Keyleth, Vex, Vax and Percy quietly searched for the temple of Sarenrae.

***

“Everything is ready, should we start?” Pike asked. She stood between two other priestesses, bright golden light coming from the hands of all three. Vax breathed deeply, pressing his shoulders into the cot he lay on. He turned his head to look over at his reflection, who was lay in a cot not far away.

He closed his eyes as the ritual started, and swallowed hard. Soon he’d be himself again, he’d have his own body and memories and everything that made him Vax back. Soon he’d lose his connection to the human he’d grown so fond of in just a week.

He focused on Percy and everything he’d learned as the voices in the room spoke. He tried to cling to Percy and any the threads of fate that had connected them. His mind protested, and a sadness and fear filled him. He felt the stings of the threads unravel.

Then something in him ripped, and he gasped. Tears filled his eyes and he tried to sit up. Percy moaned softly from next to him and Vax wanted to run to him. He wanted to cry, because he didn’t want to let go. He felt like he was going to lose his mind and his soul.

He felt like he was going to lose the deepest connection and best friend he’d ever had. He was going to be alone again, after gaining a companion who now knew everything. He wanted to hold on for dear life. He fought the thing that ripped and he held.

“You’re going to have to let each other go.” A priestess said. “You’ve already began to merge into each other, if you stay on this path you’ll lose your individuality. You’ll have to let go in order to become whole again. If you’re meant to be as connected as you are right now, then you’ll find each other again.” She said.

Vax sighed and tried to breath. He wanted Percy to be happy, to have his own autonomy and freedom. He wanted him to have his own free will and life. He wanted him to be independent and unique. Even if that life didn’t include him. So, with a tear rolling down his cheek, he let go. He pictured the hopes and dreams Percy had shown him, and pushed him towards it.

When he did he felt peaceful, but Percy didn’t. He felt lonely, and his fear of loss was threatening to shatter his already shattered mind. Vax pushed against Percy’s mind and body. “Freddie. I trust you. "He said, simplest words he should have said a million times before. 

"I will always be here for you.” Vax thought, without speaking. He felt Percy become less anxious and then he also felt the peace.

His vision went dark, he was drifting in a void. He couldn’t find the place where Percy began and he ended. Their minds and souls were merged and now had to separate. It felt like extracting claws and ripping skin in the process. It hurt, the worst heart ache that Vax had ever felt. The loss, the pain, the what-could-have-beens consumed him and he cried out in sorrow.

Everything that had once been intertwined separated like water and oil, and Percy disappeared. He was left alone in the void with only his own thoughts and fears. Then it went dark.

Chapter Text

Vax came back to his body and mind, and Percy to his. Along with it came a sense of calm and peace, they were themselves again. They were going to be okay, but they had a long way to go. 

Vex had convinced her brother to stay at the temple and learn from the scholars and priestesses, and Keyleth had taken Percy home to the temple of the Dawnfather in Whitestone to learn from their scholars and priestesses.

The agreement had been that the two men had become co-dependent and had trauma bonded, and that it wasn’t a healthy start for any type of relationship. Their minds had completely merged at the end, and that wasn't good for anyone. They weren't individuals anymore, and they needed to be.

The rest of Vox Machina, now including Pike, had gone off adventuring. 

It had been a month. In that time they had exchanged letters, and Cassandra and Vex would update each other on the progress the men had made. 

Separating the two men had been hard, like unsticking magnets. Whilst they both understood the intentions of the others and knew it was for their own good, they were reluctant to let go. 

They were sad. They missed each other terribly, and reread each other’s letters all the time. Percy had sent Vax his sister’s hair clip, asking that he only wore it if he still wanted him.

***

Vax sat scratching at the table of the inn they’d decided to stay in to wait for Percy to return. The rest of the team sat on the other side of the room, chatting and drinking and celebrating.  They were happy to be reunited. Only Vex kept looking up at her brother where he sat alone, hiding in a corner. He looked much like a young man going on a first date. His face was drawn in an expression of self-doubt and his eyes were wide. He radiated nervous anxiety, even though Vex knew he didn’t need to. 

“Percy!” Grog roared suddenly, rising from the table and knocking it over. Curses and cups echoed along with the joyful laughter of welcoming Percy back. He laughed as Grog drew him in for a tight hug, lifting him off of feet. Percy threw back his his head and laughed, and wasn’t that just the most beautiful sound. He held the man, still off his feet, and looked deep into his eyes. 

“Are you Percy?” Grog asked. Percy laughed, and nodded his head. He chuckled as Grog finally let him down and he was embraced by Keyleth who almost tackled him off his feet. 

Vax looked on fondly at the bickering that ensued about who gets to hug and welcome Percy back next. He smiled, watching the commotion. He couldn’t find it in himself to move though, choosing to just observe. 
Percy paid them each attention lovingly, as if he were greeting his family. He looked at them with great fondness, and allowed them to touch and kiss him as if it was the most natural thing in the world to have his space invaded. 

“Another round of ale, plus one!” Pike yelled. Percy shook his head at her, laughing gently at her resulting pout. Vex patted her hand, and said something softly.

Her mouth formed a large ‘O’ and she grinned. Vex gave Percy one last peck on the cheek before pointing in Vax’s general direction. 

When he looked over, their eyes met. His entire face lit up, and he smiled properly. It felt like he was seeing Percy for the same time, and yet, if felt like looking into the face of his oldest friend. Vax returned the smile with one of his own, still feeling uncomfortable. 

“Figured you’d be sulking in a dark corner, I’m glad to see that hasn’t changed.” Percy said as he walked over and sat down opposite Vax. “I’m not sulking. I’m brooding, it’s much more attractive.” Vax replied,  echoing words Percy had imitated him saying a lifetime ago. 

Percy scoffed at him and Vax got caught up in those beautiful, happy eyes. 
“You look good.” Percy said, examining Vax.

“So do you… how are you doing?” Vax said. He kept fidgeting with his blade although Percy folded his hands together and rested them calmly on the table, so perfectly composed.

A barkeep came over to ask if they wanted more drinks and Vax watched quietly as the polite noble interacted with her. When Percy turned back to Vax, he had to stop himself from leaning in and kissing the human. 

“Well, I learned a lot. I feel different. I feel lighter, and like I’m no longer living in the past.” Percy said, smiling contently. He raised his hand to show Vax the ring Scanlan had ordered from Gilmore.

“This has been incredibly useful, as has your marvelous mage’s clothing. Thank you, Vax’ildan.” He said. Vax flinched at the formal address. “And you?” He asked. 

“Ah… I’m doing better. I learned a lot as well. I feel content, but I also feel excited to see what the future holds. I’ve learned to accept that I might never be at rest until I find what my purpose is, and that’s okay. Let the cards fall where they may. I’ll be more careful from now on though, less reckless. I still have a part to play here, now, and I’m happy with that. I learned how to deal with my depression and talk to people when I’m not doing well, and I’m trying.” Vax explained. As he said it, he believed the words, and his heart felt lighter. 

“Speaking of being more careful, Percival, Lord of Whitestone, what happened to your coat?” Vax asked curiously, gently running his finger over the thick leather coat Percy now wore. It was the same color his old coat had been, and bore the same crest. In fact, a less observant person might not even notice the change. 

“Ah. I left it in Whitestone, where it belongs for now. I do believe I was once told that an adventurer requires armor.” Percy said, excitedly holding his arm out for Vax to inspect.

“This, is armor. I have designed a new sort of armor, intricate bonding of chains and things you won’t care about… It is light to wear, but very sturdy.” Percy explained. Vax felt the leather, noticing the gentle chaining between the double lining. He grinned at Percy, then laughed louder and happier than he had in weeks.

“This is perfect, nothing less than what I’d expect from a fine craftsman.” Vax complimented. 

“I reckoned that the Lord needed to be left in the past for now.” Percy said. “For now I’d just like to be this new version of myself and see what the future holds.” He added. 

The barkeep returned with their drinks then, and they smiled warmly at her as they took the ale and the glass of wine. 

“To being the best versions of ourselves then?” Vax said, raising his mug. Percy smiled genuinely, raising his glass in cheers. They took their sips, and fell silent. The mood was tense.

“I… I don’t know where we stand now, and I’m afraid to ask.” Percy said, frowning at his glass. Vax watched the beautiful man blush and swallow hard. 

“I don’t know either, Freddie. I can’t read your mind anymore, and I just got you back. I’m not prepared to lose you again. We can give it time, if that is what you want?” Vax asked. 

He watched Percy’s shoulders slump forward, and decided to have mercy on the struggling man. He took Percy’s other hand and kissed the scarred knuckles. His hand was full of new marks and nicks, he’d been in his workshop. 

Percy grabbed his fingers, intertwining them as he eyed Vax cautiously. Vax inhaled, and squinted at Percy dramatically. Percy laughed at him, and gave him a questioning look. 

“What are you doing?” He asked.

“I’m trying to tell you how I feel about you without having to use my words.” Vax explained, as if it was the most obvious thing in the world. Percy blushed, looking down.

“Words are not easy for me either in this regard…” He said shyly. 

“Gods Percival, you’re as stubborn as I am. Look at me.” Vax said gently. He smiled warmly at the green eyes meeting his. 

“My feelings for you haven’t changed… in fact they’ve only grown. I-.” Vax said, clearing his throat. “I know you probably need space and that. Oh!” 

He said, stopping as Percy leaned forward and grabbed his chin. Percy was waiting for permission, Vax realized, so he gently clasped the wrist of the hand touching him, and leaned in. Percy moaned contently as their lips met, and Vax needed him closer. He refused to break the kiss for a second longer than necessary, until it sounded like Percy’s lungs were going to give out. 

"I love you, Lord Percival De Rolo." Vax said so softly that he was sure Percy might not hear him. "I love you too, Vax’ildan, but don't call me that. To you, I'm just Freddie." Percy said, just as softly and with a soft smile. 

Just Freddie indeed. This was Percy, all of him. He was whole and content, and he was sitting right there with Vax. He still wanted him, he still loved him. He looked like a brand new person, like an beloved art piece that had been restored to its full glory. And he was there. Right there. 

“I’m curious… how much of my skills remained with you?” Vax asked. Percy wiped his mouth after the kiss, frowning. He didn’t understand what Vax meant for a second, but then it dawned on him.

“Oh!” Percy chuckled, a wicked grin growing on his face. “You wish to slip away without being seen?” He asked. Vax nodded at him contemplatively. 

“How many rooms did your stingy sister pay for?” Percy asked. “Seven.” Vax said. Percy blinked, raising his eyebrows.

“Well now, that’s a waste of money!” He said, imitating Vex. Vax chuckled, knowing his sister would smack Percy regardless of how good the attempt had been.

“Let’s test those skills then, shall we?” Vax said, before he disappeared. Percy followed him quietly, disappearing as well. He smirked at how nobody in the team seemed to notice and felt rather proud.

The door to their room was closed, and Percy slipped inside smiling. Perhaps he'd beaten Vax in that race after all.

The room was dark, and he made his way to the table in the corner to light a candle. 

“Gods!” Percy yelped as he was quickly flung around and pushed towards the bed where he was unceremoniously shoved down onto his back. Vax followed him down, kneeling over him to draw him into another kiss.

Percy’s eyes turned to look at something on Vax’s shoulder, and he smiled happily as he recognized the clip he’d given Vax. “You’re wearing it.” He said with an emotional moan.

“It’s been there since they day I got it. It’s never left.” Vax said. They smiled at each other fondly, just savoring the love.

They exchanged soft kisses, then loving ones, then hungry ones. 

“Tell me what you want to do, tell me what you want from me?” Vax asked breathlessly. Percy threw his head back, exposing his neck. Vax took hold of it immediately, kissing and nibbling.

“I want you, Vax.” He mumbled, moaning softly.  Vax kept his lips on Percy’s as much as he could as he began to remove his coat and leathers. 

“That’s a good start.” Percy chuckled, watching the show enthusiastically. 
“Hmm, lose the coat Freddie, and the rest while you’re at it.” Vax said urgently, removing the last of his clothing. 

Percy stepped away from the bed to undress, and when he turned back Vax was lying on his back eyeing him. “Enjoying the show?” Percy chuckled. 

“You’re as beautiful as the day I lost you.” Vax said honestly, pulling the human onto his lap. 

Their fingers roamed, memorizing everything. Vax felt his hair come undone from it’s half up-do as Percy clawed at it when he began to touch him and prep him for what was about to happen. 

He pulled the human closer, and soft moans filled the room as their bodies met and pressed together. They felt warm and connected and loved. 

They made turns to moan as they both finally got what they wanted. Vax laughed and teased Percy about how they’d almost kissed their own vessels.

Their eyes stayed locked, even when their movements increased to meet their hunger, their need, for each other. 

Percy was done before him, arching his back and throwing his head back happily. He stayed put for Vax to follow, resting his head against Vax’s shoulder. Vax kept Percy there when he was done, and they just relaxed into each other’s embrace.

He never wanted to let Percy go again. He didn’t intent to. Percy still looked at him the same way, regardless of how many nightmares he had about losing him, Percy still hadn't changed his mind.

Vax eventually rolled them over so that Percy was lying on his back, and looked down to touch the human’s body. He roamed his fingers all over, marking every inch of skin. 

“I’ve been wondering what you feel like when you’re hard.” He mumbled happily, stroking what he wanted.

“It’s nice exploring your body like this. I didn’t get to-.” Vax said. 

Percy stiffened and hid his face behind his hand. Vax wiggled him around so that he could see his reddened face and straddled him. 

“You…” Vax started. Then he remembered seeing the dark eyed, disheveled look on his vessel’s face when he’d gone to ask for the cream one night and laughed loudly.

“Wicked creature!” Vax teased, blushing too.

“I just touched it once, just for a minute. I swear. You were hard, it got overwhelming and I forgot who I was touching for second.” Percy defended quickly.

“I was hard? You were hard!” Vax chuckled. “And what was it, a minute or a second?” He added. 

“You never touched me? Uhm. Yourself? ” Percy asked incredulously. 

Vax snorted. “I’m a guy, and I forgot whose vessel I was wearing once or twice too.” He said flatly. 

“So…come on, tell me what it was like?” Vax cooed. Percy was still blushing, but they were both giggling. 

“Tell me how you touched it.” Vax said, tickling Percy’s sides as he kissed his nose affectionately.

“No. Fuck you.” Percy giggled. 

Vax spread his legs over Percy’s dramatically and rolled his hips, much to the delight of Percy, who grabbed Vax’s ass immediately. 

“Well, come on then you foul mouthed creature.” He teased. 

Percy pounced. 

It was love. It was lust. It was everything they never knew they wanted, and everything they needed. 

From that moment on, they'd have to use their words, and from that moment on they'd be their best. For each other, for themselves. 

Vax had walked a mile in Percy's shoes, and he now knew the man. He knew everything that lay behind, and everything that Percy hoped would lie ahead, and gods if Vax wasn't going to be there every step of the way.