modern gwyndolaire

[12:20 PM]   Sunlit Solaire Archambault knows he is unlikely to be lucky in his endeavors on this day, but that does not stop him from hopping off his bike, walking up to the gate of a beautiful castle-manor, and ringing the buzzer, smiling at it from under the brim of his helmet. He rarely is given permission to enter these private estates, but it's so lovely out here in the countryside, riding around with the soft Welsh sunlight warming his body and the sweet air cooling it, that he hardly minds that he's barely better regarded than a door-to-door salesman would be. Still... still! It's so lovely a day, and he hopes that the loveliness of the day will soften the hearts of whoever lives in this fine place, and he might speak to them about that which interests him most...
[12:21 PM]   Dark Sun-Gwyndolin "soft welsh sunlight" translation: its fuckin cloudy
[12:22 PM]   Sunlit Solaire LOOK, IT'S NOT TOO CLOUDY... THE OVERCAST SKY JUST SOFTENS THE LIGHT A LITTLE...!
[12:23 PM]   Dark Sun-Gwyndolin The buzzer is answered after about a minute by the voice of a woman whose voice sounds kind, yet stern, "State your business."
[12:29 PM]   Sunlit Solaire answers, brightly, "Good afternoon! My name is Solaire Archambault, and I... I'm a theologist in search of welcoming ears." He's found no better word for what he does than that, though that rarely gains him entrance to places, either. "Would you, or whoever else lives in this lovely castle, like to hear what I have to say?"
[12:33 PM]   Dark Sun-Gwyndolin there's the sound of a cut off sigh, before the speaker reactivates, and the voice starts to say, "We are not-" But then a second voice, farther away and unintelligible, chimes in, and the speaker cuts out again. And then it's back a moment later, at the tail end of another sigh. "... Just a moment. You will be escorted inside."

It takes a few minutes because the distance between the front door and the gate is really long, but Solaire may soon see beyond the gate the approaching figure of a woman, slightly tomboyish in dress, with her chestnut hair in a ponytail, and- the gates open as she gets close, and once she's a few feet away, it's hard to miss the disfigurement of about half the skin of her face, darkened and oddly textured. "Follow me, please."
[12:36 PM]   Sunlit Solaire tries not to stare, and smiles at her, and says, "Thank you..." Ahh, should he call her miss or madame? He would not care to offend by choosing the wrong... hmm... "... Madame? Miss?" There we go, she can choose!
[12:48 PM]   Dark Sun-Gwyndolin the lady looks Solaire over with a critical eye, and then turns away to lead him into the manor grounds, saying, "You can call me 'miss' if you want. My name is Líadan. I am an attendant."

The walk to the front door is a big of a long one, a couple minutes at least, but they reach it, and she leads Solaire inside, holding the door open for him. "I will lead you to my charge, but I must implore you to mind your manners and try to keep it short? Gwyndolin doesn't need too much stress." And with that said, she leads him further into the massive castle, and then into a nice, finely decorated sitting/livingroom space, with lots of comfy seating, flowers in vases, tall, curtained windows filling the room with soft, natural light, and, sitting in a cozy armchair next to a low table, is what appears to be a lovely young lady dressed in fine, airy, pale-colored (mostly ivory) clothing and golden accessories, long, flowing skirts and lace and ruffles, a shawl around her shoulders and a golden clip in her fine, well groomed, jaw-length silver hair.

The lady looks up from the book held in her lap at Solaire, looking him over with an austere gaze from white-silver eyes. "Gwyndolin," The other lady says, stepping aside to allow Solaire in. "Here's the man from the gate..."

"Hello." The fancy one apparently named Gwyndolin says, and then smiles softly. "Please, have a seat-" A dainty hand gestures to the sitting close by, another armchair or perhaps a small couch, "I'm afraid my attendant didn't give me your name."
[12:57 PM]   Sunlit Solaire smiles sunnily, and says, "It's a pleasure to meet you, Miss Líadan," before following her quietly up the path, wheeling his bicycle along beside him and admiring the house.

When they reach the front, he leaves his bicycle parked neatly to one side, then follows Líadan up into the house, where he agrees, "I'll behave myself, I promise!" with a warm smile. And then he's led to meet... what is surely the loveliest girl he's ever seen, and he smiles sunnily at her, introducing himself with a bow, "I am Solaire Archambault. Thank you for welcoming me into your home, Miss Gwyndolin." Then he sits on an armchair quite near her, carefully, and smiles at both her and Líadan. "Did Miss Líadan tell you that I am a theologist...?"
[01:03 PM]   Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles a bit more, though for a moment it looks just a bit pained, and says, "Yes, she did tell me that, at least. It's a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Archambault." Gwyndolin marks the page in the book 'she' was reading, and closes it, to set it aside. "I'd really like to hear more- would you like something to drink, or eat, while we chat?"

Gwyndolin doesn't really wait for an answer before turning to his attendant and saying, "Líadan, could you please bring us some refreshments?" to which Líadan nods, and politely excuses herself to the kitchen.
[01:43 PM]   Sunlit Solaire looks really, really happy, and objects mildly, "Ahh, I'm an uninvited guest, you hardly have to--" but immediately moves on to, "I really must thank you for your hospitality, Miss Gwyndolin, it's rare that I'm met with such kindness... do you get many visitors? Surely everyone must clamor to visit such a lovely young lady..." He can't stop smiling at her, cheeks a little pink and eyes bright.
[01:46 PM]   Dark Sun-Gwyndolin gives a soft laugh, "Even if you're uninvited, you're still a guest, and I'd like to give you the best hospitality I can provide... And maybe get Líadan to breathe down your neck a little less." He says that last bit in a lower voice, and then giggles softly. "I don't get visitors often, no. Even solicitors don't usually come to estates like this, and I don't know terribly many people."
[02:01 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, a little, and says, "Well, surely there are worse things than having Miss Líadan breathing down my neck... but I appreciate it, Miss Gwyndolin! It's not often I receive such a warm reception... surely the sun itself has smiled on me today, to meet such a kind person." He smiles sunnily at Gwyndolin, hands folded in his lap and absolute happiness radiating from his person.
[02:10 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin can't help but smile back in the face of such a radiantly sunny personality, his own hands folded in his lap too, save for a moment where he reaches up to brush some of his hair behind an ear. "I would like to hear more about why you came here, though, Mr. Archambault." He says softly, and a moment later, Líadan returns with a tray she sets on the table, between Solaire and Gwyndolin, with two glasses of American-style lemonade, and a plate of apple slices. "Thank you, Líadan. Anyways, you say you're a theologist... Could you explain?"
[11:35 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles, and sips his lemonade-- it's rare to have american-styled, but it's rather lovely, isn't it, refreshing and tart? And so bright a color... He lifts his glass, and smiles up at it, and asks, shyly, "Have you... ever thought about the sun, Miss Gwyndolin? About how important it is?"
[11:37 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin rather likes American lemonade, more than the sugary, fizzy sodas usually called "lemonade" here. Those are usually a little too overwhelming for him to drink. He watches Solaire curiously, his eyes following the glass, and then back to Solaire- "Ah... I'm not sure what you mean?"
[11:39 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, softly, a little pink blush on his cheeks, "The sun... without it, the lemons that made this lemonade wouldn't have been able to grow; and without it, we would not have been formed from stardust in its orbit; and we are warmed by it, all us little stardust people, and it gives us life, and there's surely nothing that could be more important to us than the sun itself. Have you... ever thought about that?"
[11:43 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin looks just a bit incredulous, but... also rather curious? He raises his eyebrows, glancing away in thought, his fingertips touching his lips a moment. "I've never quite thought of that, no... Well, I suppose I've acknowledged that the Sun IS important, we all must when we learn as children, but... never quite like that?" He isn't laughing Solaire out the door, though, and is instead looking at him curiously, "But it's not quite unheard of, is it? If this is what you're getting at, worship of the Sun goes back to the most ancient of human history, doesn't it? There have been many people in human history who see the sun as deific, or at the very least of most importance. Even if it's fallen to the wayside for more divine religions in the last few millenia, especially in the western world."
[11:53 PM] Sunlit Solaire looks at Gwyndolin for a long moment, blue eyes wide, and then-- then laughs, softly, delightedly. "Right you are, Miss! It is quite traditional, isn't it? Apollo, Ra, Amaterasu... I wouldn't go so far as to say worship is what the sun needs, for surely it will carry on doing its important business regardless, but thanks? Thanks to the sun, and thanks for all the bounty it provides, energy and warmth and the gravity that pulled our planet together out of the dust of the suns that came before it? I-- I feel that's important, to think of that every day, and be thankful every day for its glorious incandescence." He sips his lemonade, then rests it on his knee, rubbing his thumb up and down the side. "I know it probably seems a bit silly, but..."
[11:58 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin watches Solaire talk, and he does think it's a little bit out there, but not in a way that doesn't make sense... And this man is so enchanted by what he's saying, it's really delightful, and he can't help but find it really sweet. So, he smiles, and then he giggles softly from behind his fingers. "I don't think it's all that silly." He says, and holds his lemonade in both hands. "Your perspective does make a certain amount of sense, I think. And I must admit, the way you explain it is really quite engaging. You're very passionate about it, aren't you, Mr. Archambault?"
[12:05 AM] Sunlit Solaire blushes a little more, and smiles, shyly. "I-- I suppose I am. I usually don't get this far into explaining it..." He smiles into his lemonade, and sips it, slowly. "It's... it seems, to me, that thanking a god like Ra or Apollo or the god of the Abrahamic religions... it seems a little misguided, to thank them for nebulous things, like inspiration or blessings or luck. Surely it is better to thank the... the material, observable universe for what it does, and protect it from harm, instead of relying on things that are outside our understanding to take care of it... I'm sorry, I really don't usually get this far, hahaha, let me know if I'm wandering too much, Miss Gwyndolin."
[12:09 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin will take a sip or two of his lemonade too, while listening to Solaire, and being thoroughly charmed by it all. "No, it's fine, Mr. Archambault. Though, I could see why the more staunchly Abrahamic religious might take some offense... But I think what you're saying makes some amount of sense." He smiles more brightly, and then asks, "I think I'd like to learn more, actually! I'm quite curious- are you organized at all? Do you have any literature?"
[12:14 AM] Sunlit Solaire giggles, a little, and confirms, blushing, "My own father seems to think I've taken up some kind of witchcraft... not that I hold anything against the people who do! They seem quite happy with their path, the ones I've met, though I don't understand how that works for them." He rubs his thumb through the condensation on the outside of his glass again, a little nervous habit, and says, "And-- and I'm afraid I do not have any with me... but maybe I could make something for you, dear miss? I have files on my computer..." He doesn't want to say, again, that he usually doesn't get to get this far, but it's clear that "handing out literature" is one of the things he hasn't gotten to do before, and he looks shyly delighted. "I could come back again in a day or two with something for you to read...?"
[12:17 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin feels a little bad that Solaire has, evidently, usually had the door closed on his face... most likely literally. He looks at the man sympathetically, and it just makes him want to hear him out all the more. "If you could put some together for me, I'd love to read it." He says softly, and offers a smile before reaching over to the table to snatch up an apple slice, munching on it politely. "I hope it's not too much trouble for you?"
[12:20 AM] Sunlit Solaire smiles, brilliantly. "No, no, not at all, miss! I-- I quite look forward to assembling something for you to read!" Those pretty pale eyes looking over his very own words... those gloved hands touching pages he's touched... maybe Gwyndolin smiling and apparently finding Solaire's enthusiasm a positive trait, not embarrassing or funny? Oh, he... he thinks assembling literature might be the best thing he's ever done...! He's very pink, making his blue eyes all the brighter as he reaches out to get himself a slice of apple.
[12:27 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin already finds it an appealing and positive trait, so there's that! His eyes practically twinkle just a little at Solaire, completely charmed already! His cheeks go a bit rosy, and he giggles a little more before snacking a little more on some apples, and sipping on his lemonade- And then he smiles at Solaire again, before looking a bit apologetic, and says quietly, "I take it... most people don't bother to hear you out?"
[12:30 AM] Sunlit Solaire shakes his head, and swallows his apple slice-- yummmmmm-- before answering, "Rarely... I usually don't get past 'theologist' before I'm moved along. Ah, well, all the more time to enjoy the sunshine!" He laughs, sunnily, and smiles at Gwyndolin. "Truly, I can't complain too much about getting to ride my bicycle about, Miss Gwyndolin. After all... it brought me to your pleasant company!"
[12:32 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin blushes a bit, and lifts one of his hands, a silver diamond ring shining gently from his ring finger, to cover his mouth as he smiles and gives a quiet, bashful giggle. "Well...! I admit, I've found your company rather pleasant as well, Mr. Archambault..." He says, looking quite shy, "I don't get visitors often enough. Not all the way out here."
[12:34 AM] Sunlit Solaire says, almost firmly, "Then I shall have to visit you again soon, Miss Gwyndolin!" He looks at the pretty ring Gwyndolin's wearing, and says, just a little curious, "Your... fiance doesn't come to visit you?" with a gesture to his own ring finger, to indicate the ring there.
[12:38 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin looks absolutely delighted at the promise, but then Solaire indicated his ring, and, "I'm sorry, my wha- oh. Oh! Oh, ahaha, no-" He glances down at his ring, and laughs bashfully, and reaches up to tuck a bit of hair behind his ear. "While it would be nice to have someone like that in my life... this is just a purity ring, is all. I've had it for several years, now, since I was... thirteen, I think?"
[12:43 AM] Sunlit Solaire has... no idea what a purity ring is, tbh, it's not something his parents ever thought necessary to bring up with their weirdo sensitive thoughtful son, so he just blinks and digests this for a moment, then his brain spits out a totally inappropriate "so you're single?" thought that he thankfully keeps away from his lips. "I truly am surprised, Miss Gwyndolin! How did someone as kind and eager to listen as you... how are you not engaged to some truly fortunate fellow?" He smiles at Gwyndolin, shyly.
[11:34 AM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin goes quite pink and the insistence and compliments, and turns his eyes away shyly after swallowing a mouthful of lemonade. "Um! Haha, oh, g-goodness..." He laughs bashfully, and tucks his hair behind his ear again. "W-Well... I suppose it's because I don't really get out much... I actually know very few people, mostly limited to my family and staff. But... If you're really curious, yes, I am single. The purity ring came from a pledge I'd made to maintain abstinence until, or if, I got married..."
[09:58 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, sweetly, "Well... it really is a shame that you don't know more people! You're so sweet, Miss Gwyndolin..." and smiles, shyly, at his lovely host. "Surely you would make friends in an instance, if only there were people nearby to make friends with!"
[10:03 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin blushes... quite a lot! His cheeks are rosy red, and he giggles bashfully, averting his eyes shyly. "I... s-suppose so? Ehe... At the very least, I have Líadan and my security for company. I am not entirely alone." He dips a finger absent-mindedly into his glass, to swirl the ice cubes gently in his lemonade. "But I was homeschooled, and venture from home rarely. My prospects for possible friends, or a dating life, are a bit slim at the moment... I am glad you came by and spoke with me, though."
[10:05 PM] Sunlit Solaire wouldn't mind being a prospect for either! and, in fact, offers, shyly, "Well... we've only known each other for a few minutes, really, Miss Gwyndolin, but I'm sure I would like to be a possible friend..."
[10:06 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles sweety at Solaire, very genuine, eyes practically twinkling, and he says, "Well.. You already know where I live, now, don't you?"
[10:09 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, softly, and says, "Why, it seems that I do! I could come by and see if you would like to be friends anytime, couldn't I, now that I know that..." His hand sneaks up to play with his soft blond ponytail, and he smiles bashfully at Gwyndolin. "Though I would not want to exhaust your patience with me by coming uninvited too often."
[10:13 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin kinda finds that cute, the guy is playing with his ponytail, oh no,,, it's darling. "Don't worry about it. My schedule is pretty open." He says softly, and then takes his finger from his lemonade, popping his fingertip in his mouth a moment to get the lemonade off. "The worst you could do is arrive while I'm in the middle of a nap, or a bath. Then it would simply be on your patience, if you wouldn't mind waiting with Líadan."
[10:15 PM] Sunlit Solaire is pink and pleased and twirling a lock of hair around his finger as he says, bashfully, "Then... perhaps I shall come visit... fairly often... and we can become friends together."
[10:16 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is also pink, and having a bit of a difficult time looking directly at Solaire. "I would like that, I think." He says quietly, and takes a drink of his lemonade, before punctuating, "But first, you really must bring me some of your literature!"
[10:19 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, "Ah! Yes, right!" and drinks deeply of his lemonade, and suggests, "I can bring it round tomorrow afternoon, miss, if you-- if that's convenient for you? Or any other time you'd like, of course!"
[10:20 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin nods, eagerly, "Any time is fine! But don't rush yourself- I'm much more patient than I think you're giving me credit for. Mr. Archambault." And he smiles so sweetly at Solaire, and reaches over to give a friendly pat to his knee. "And I'm sure it'll be much nicer if you take your time. You wouldn't want to mix up pages or something in a hurry."
[10:22 PM] Sunlit Solaire DIES, RIGHT THERE, OH NO, HE HAS BEEN PATTED, HE IS A GOOD BOY??
[10:22 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin thinks solaire is a PRETTY GOOD BOY
[10:22 PM] Sunlit Solaire does he also think solaire is a good pretty boy
[10:22 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin absolutely does,
[10:25 PM] Sunlit Solaire WOW..... HES A PRETTY GOOD GOOD PRETTY BOY
[10:30 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin yes he is! and he should share his sun religion literature,
[10:31 PM] Sunlit Solaire WILL!!! tomorrow! for now he's going to be so incredibly fluttery and flustered in his heart that he just smiles, a lot, at Gwyndolin, because GWYNDOLIN IS PRETTY AND NICE TO HIM... WOW. SOCIAL LINK INCREASED... [b]SOLAIRE WOULD NOW DIE FOR YOU.[/b]
[10:32 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles right back, until he has to laugh, and glance away, and lift a hand to rub at his cheek. "Goodness! I haven't smiled so much in a while... Haha."
[10:35 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, a little, too, and says, "Oh no! I can't believe I've hurt my sweet, kind hostess! I'd best be on my way before I hurt you again, kindest Miss Gwyndolin." He laughs, softly, and finishes his lemonade and another couple slices of apple, before standing and taking a small step closer to Gwyndolin. "I-- I hope you have a fine evening," he says, and then, shyly, asks, "May I kiss your hand good-bye?"
[10:39 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin blushes, and giggles, and is very flattered and bashful at all this complimenting, he can hardly take it, he has NEVER been flirted at like this in his life... So when Solaire asks to kiss his hand, he looks up at him in surprise, and then glances away to giggle again, touching his fingertips to his lips. "I may live in a castle, Mr. Archambault, but I'm not actually royalty," Probably, "But... If you'd really like to... I suppose it wouldn't hurt."

And so, he bashfully looks back at Solaire from under those silvery lashes, and holds out his hand, skin so soft and pale...
[10:46 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, "Are you sure? I must have been fooled by your grace and beauty! Ahhh, but I am a silly man, to make such a mistake," and bows over the offered hand regardless of Gwyndolin's lack of royal status, carefully kissing the knuckles, the tip of his nose brushing the back of Gwyndolin's hand then he straightens up and smiles at Gwyndolin, brilliantly, warm fingers squeezing his for just a moment. "... can Miss Líadan show me the way out? I'm afraid I've already forgotten it," he says, with a laugh, still holding Gwyndolin's hand in his.
[10:51 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin can't help but giggle softly at having his hand kissed so sweetly, and then his hand practically held, squeezed gently in Solaire's, and he curls his fingers slightly... "Of course- Líadan?" His attendant steps forward from where she'd been leaning against a wall. "If you would be so kind..."

Líadan nods silently in response, and makes her way to wait by one of the doors leading out of the room. But Gwyndolin looks back at Solaire, and smiles warmly. "I'm looking forward to seeing you again soon, Mr. Archambault." And then he tugs his hand back, looking almost regretful that the man is leaving. "Do take care."

[07:00 PM] Sunlit Solaire returns the next day, around noon, wearing a really nice shirt-- it's bright white and buttons up, with suns printed all over it-- and dark jeans and a silvery leather jacket, which has a sun painted on the back, and his nice yellow sneakers that only have a couple grass stains on the toes. He has the booklet in the basket of his bike, its cover bright pearlescent yellow with a hand-lettered title, and it's thick with its few pages, because he took care to double them all up, back to back, and decorate them, and fold little stars between the pages before hand-binding it with a thick needle and sunny orange cotton thread-- it was quite the project last night, though he also printed off some smaller tri-fold pamphlets for Líadan and whoever else might be around. He's just. Maybe. A little in love.
[07:01 PM] Sunlit Solaire rings the buzzer at the gate. holding his bike next to him and trying not to bounce too excitedly on his toes, though he feels energized and warmed by the light of the sun shining on him.
[07:04 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin The buzzer takes a minute to be answered- even if Solaire feels like buzzing it a second time- but finally it's answered, by a slightly out of breath voice that is definitely not Líadan's. "Hello?" The voices says, and Solaire may be able to guess who that pretty, soft voice belongs to, and then the voice asks, "Is this Mr. Archambault?"
[07:05 PM] Sunlit Solaire can't help but smile, and says, "It is indeed! Do I have the pleasure of speaking to the lovely Miss Gwyndolin?" He's pretty sure he is, but a little flattery never hurt anyone!
[07:13 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin's quiet giggle is mostly cut off before he hits the spaker button, but Solaire may hear the tail end of it before he replies, "It is! I'll come meet you- I'll be there in just a few minutes!"

He doesn't wait for an answer before he vanishes from the speaker, and, like he said he would, he appears a few minutes later walking as quickly as he can manage up the long drive from the castle, up to the gate- but when he spots Solaire at the gate, he shifts to a light jog as he heads over, a bright smile on his face. He's dressed very Pink and Gold today, with a ruffled, layered skirt, and a blouse with sheer lace at his pale shoulders, gold chains and a golden belt with the appearance of snakeskin, matching the jeweled snake on his finger over lace gloves, and a headband of pretty gold and pearls and crystal and flowers in his hair and pink tasseled earrings. He's not wearing fancy heels today, this time in comfortable looking sandals tied with ballerina ribbons up his ankles.

"Mr. Archambault!" He waves as he catches up to the gate, and hits the button for it to open and let Solaire in. "It's very nice to see you again, I've been looking forward to you coming back...!"
[07:20 PM] Sunlit Solaire is glad that it takes a while for Gwyndolin to reach him, because he's almost remembered how to have coherent thoughts that aren't PRETTY! SO PRETTY! THE PRETTIEST! OH WOW! WANNA HOLD!!! by the time Gwyndolin reaches him. "Miss Gwyndolin!" he greets, happily, and says, warmly, "I'm glad you haven't decided I'm really a madman since we last spoke... and astounded that you seem to have become even more beautiful since I last saw you! Did you do something with your hair? Perhaps you were blessed by Aphrodite to be the loveliest thing anyone could ever see? Or maybe you just shine like a pearl in sunlight..."
[07:24 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin goes about as pink as his skirts, and covers his mouth with his hand, giggling in fluster from behind it. "You're a flatterer!" He says, turning his eyes away shyly. He tries not to think about the fact that he may have dressed like this in the hopes to impress. "Anyway, are you only here a moment to deliver your literature, or would you like to come in...?"
[07:26 PM] Sunlit Solaire beams, sunnily, and says, "Well, I could hardly turn down an invitation to spend more time with you, dear Miss Gwyndolin, if I wouldn't be a bother..." YES HE WOULD LIKE TO COME IN!! PLEASE. PLEASE OH PLEASE LET HIM COME INSIDE WITH YOU, GWYNDOLIN!
[07:28 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles sweetly at Solaire. "Of course it isn't a bother- I am inviting you, aren't I?" He giggles softly, and steps aside so that Solaire can bring himself and his bike in through the gate, so that Gwyndolin can close the gate behind them, "Please think of yourself as a wanted guest."
[07:31 PM] Sunlit Solaire offers her his arm, to walk up the path with him, his other hand on his bike to guide it along beside him. "I'm flattered that you've already decided such a thing... I hope I don't destroy whatever good impression I gave you, Miss Gwyndolin, to make me so welcome in your home so quickly..." He's really more than a little amazed that she likes him so much, so quickly, even with his mad admiration for the sun and drive to explain it to all he meets. Surely there must be some kind of magic at work, to make her welcome him so!
[07:34 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin blushes slightly, but accepts Solaire's arm, lace-gloved hand resting delicately against Solaire's bicep. "I think you're very sweet, and very nice to talk to." He says, walking with Solaire back to the front doors of the estate. "I meant it when I said I've been looking forward to your return- I'm itching to read your literature on your beliefs."
[07:41 PM] Sunlit Solaire blushes a little back, when he's called sweet, and walks slowly with Gwyndolin on his arm, feeling like... like... like he's quite entirely crushing on this pretty, pretty, kind and lonely and sweet and attentive and interested girl. Gosh... "W-well, I have it right in the basket of my bicycle for you... I can give it to you once we reach the house and it's parked. I-- I also printed a couple extra copies, if there's anyone else you might think is interested-- though of course you don't have to take them if you don't want to! I know you said you don't get out much, I wouldn't want you to feel you have to go find people to tell about it, it's just if you would like to..."

He's very pink, and apologizes, "I'm sorry, I'm very silly today." Don't mind him! Just please keep liking him!
[07:45 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles brightly up at Solaire. "I don't think you're being silly, your enthusiasm is charming." He says calmly, and then adds, "I'd be happy to pass the extras to my staff! There's only a few people here, but it's more than none."

He admittedly peers across Solaire to peek at the basket, already excited about the booklet... Finally, they reach the front doors, and Gwyndolin slips away from Solaire while the other handles his bike, so that Gwyndolin can get the door- only to be beaten by Líadan, who was apparently waiting, opening it and holding it for the both of them.
[07:49 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles up at her, and says, "Hello, Líadan! It's a pleasure to see you again! Have you been well the past day?" while he kicks down the kickstand of his bike. Here's the book he put together, and the pamphlets, and, hidden underneath both, a loaf of his mother's best bread recipe, wrapped in a clean cloth... he may have hoped to be invited up. "Will you be joining us again today?" He'd quite forgotten she was there the day before, but he's determined not to this time!
[07:52 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin goes past Líadan into the massive house, only to pause and wait for Solaire to follow so that he can lead the way to some cozy sitting room somewhere. Líadan, meanwhile, waits for Solaire to get inside so she can close the door, eyeing him critically. "I'm fine, thanks for asking." She says softly, crossing her arms once Solaire is inside. "I'll be keeping an eye on things, yes." A bit short, isn't she?
[07:54 PM] Sunlit Solaire practically sparkles at her, his smile warm and wide, and says, "I'm glad to hear it, Miss Líadan! It shall surely be a pleasure!" before going to follow Gwyndolin, smiling happily. ALL IS WELL IN THE WORLD AND HE HAS A (PRETTY) FRIEND WHO WANTS TO TALK TO HIM AND HE'S SO HAPPY...
[07:56 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles brightly now that Solaire is caught up, and he leads the way! And they arrive at a cozy sitting room! With cushy couches and armchairs and a coffee table! Gwyndolin sits himself down on a couch, and pats the seat beside him, while Líadan makes her way to an empty patch of wall, to lean against, arms crossed, and to watch intently. "May I see the booklet?"
[08:01 PM] Sunlit Solaire sets the bread on the table first, and the extra pamphlets, and then sits next to Gwyndolin, offering the book with both hands. "Of course you may," he says, softly, and smiles at Gwyndolin, the book in his hand pretty and shiny, clearly hand-made and clearly lovingly assembled-- Gwyndolin can surely see that the extra pamphlets are just printed with little orange suns as bulletpoints, but the book he's being handed was made especially for him, from the hand-lettered front to the sky-blue papers on the insides of the pearly yellow covers.
[08:04 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin says, as Solaire puts things down, "You brought bread?" and then, "Oh- Líadan, the extra booklets are for you, Ornstein, and Smough, if you're interested..."

But then his attention is properly taken by the booklet he's given, which is VERY clearly much more lovingly made, and his eyes practically sparkle as he takes it in his hands, and runs his lace-covered fingers over it. "Oh, Mr. Archambault, it's pretty!" He says, and even opens it to glance inside at a couple pages, marveling at how much effort Solaire clearly put into it. "You really worked very hard, didn't you? I didn't realize you were so artistic."
[08:07 PM] Sunlit Solaire blushes, and says, shyly, "My mother liked to make memory books... hers are much nicer than mine, I really had to rush to get it done in one night..."

But-- but if someone beautiful thinks... "But if someone pretty thinks it's pretty, then it must be," he says, shyly. "And-- and yes, I brought bread. It's my mother's best recipe, too. I thought you might like it."
[08:13 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles at Solaire, and then down at the book. "I think it looks wonderful, thank you... I can't wait to read it! But maybe later, I'd like to speak with you a bit first." He pauses, and looks at the loaf, "... And try some of that bread, it smells great. Líadan?"

Líadan had just come over to pick up the pamphlets, curiously opening one to glance in, but she looks up at her name. "Could you bring us some hot tea? Lavender, please, with milk and honey." Gwyndolin asks, and Líadan nods dutifully before making her way out of the room- taking the pamphlets with her.
[08:17 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles at her, and smiles at Gwyndolin, and can't seem to stop smiling, his heart beating just a little faster in his chest when they're alone, though he knows nothing is going to happen. "What would you like to speak about, Miss Gwyndolin?" he asks, voice sweet and eager.
[08:18 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin laughs sheepishly, and replies, "I'm not sure- I'm just happy to have your company, really." He says, turning his eyes down. "Perhaps... you could tell me more about yourself?"
[08:19 PM] Sunlit Solaire makes a hmming noise, and asks, "Are you sure it would not bore you? I am not the most interesting man in the world..."
[08:21 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin touches his fingertips to his lips and giggles softly. "Trust me- you are plenty interesting to me already." It's because his life is boring as hell, Solaire's the most interesting thing to happen to him in years probably. "Also, should we wait for Líadan to get back, or can we dig into the bread now..." It's making him hungry.
[08:28 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, and says, "Well, unless you have a bread knife up your sleeve, we should perhaps wait for her... unless you would like to take a bite out of the loaf directly? I'm sure it would still be good." He's teasing, gently, but if Gwyndolin wants to chow down on unsliced bread, he's free to, in Solaire's opinion! "And... about me... well, I... um... I once won the regional division of a fencing championship... and my mother is American?" Those are the most interesting things about himself that he can think of, to be honest, and he's blushing even at those.
[08:30 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin had thought maybe Solaire had a breadknife up HIS sleeve or something, so he blushes a little in embarrassment... But then he's clearly enraptured as Solaire starts to talk about himself, and he smiles warmly. "You fence? I would've loved to do fencing, but my father always felt it would be too physically strenuous to me. I have dabbled in archery a bit, though..." He says, folding his hands in his lap, over the book. "But please, tell me more. Do you work, or go to school? Other hobbies? I'd love to know more about you, Mr. Archambault."
[08:40 PM] Sunlit Solaire brightens a little, though still pink, and says, "Oh, I quite enjoy archery as well! I-- I worked as a reenactor for a few years, actually, doing the... the whole bit for festivals, jousting and archery and swordfighting... have you ever been to the Kaltenberger Knights Tournament in Bavaria? I was one of the knights for a while..." Gwyndolin seems like the kind who might enjoy medieval reenactments and renfairs...!
[08:44 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin ABSOLUTELY enjoys that stuff, and his eyes POSITIVELY SPARKLE as Solaire starts to tell him about it, and he claps his hands together in delight. "No, but I wish I had! I've actually never left the United Kingdom- I rarely even leave Wales. Goodness, I would've loved to see you as a knight! That sounds delightful!" He looks so excited! Lookit that, Solaire, does that look like someone who thinks you're weird or boring? "All the way in Bavaria, though- are you well-traveled, then? Do you go around Europe a lot?"
[08:53 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, a little, shy under this kind of attention, and says, "Oh, it's not that far from-- my father's family is French, so it's not that long a trip from Marseille to Munich, only about half a day's train ride, you know? And I would visit them every summer for a while, after I left university..." He twiddles his thumbs, and confesses, "My father wanted me to go to a trade school, to become a carpenter like him, but I thought I'd rather be a professor of French literature. Then I realized that I only loved Dumas, and that Victor Hugo's dwellings on the sewers of Paris were the least interesting thing in the world to me..."
[09:00 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is completely enthralled, to be honest, leaning forward just a bit as he listens happily to Solaire talk about his life. "I had a guess that your family must be French, with a name like Solaire Archambault." He says with a soft giggle. And then, Líadan arrives again, with a tray in hand, that she places on the coffee table. There's two teacups with saucers and a little spoon each, filled with delightfully aromatic lavender tea, with a dish of honey and a little creamer filled with cool milk. She also has a pamphlet still in hand- but only one! The others appear to have gone missing... Gwyndolin thanks her, and she excuses herself back to her spot against the wall, this time reading the pamphlet... Also, a bread knife has been brought with the tea, for the loaf.

Gwyndolin happily claims one of the teacups, which he adds a dollop of honey and a splash of milk until his tea is creamy looking and smelling very sweet. "I'm sure the bread will go wonderfully with this- could you cut it please, Mr. Archambault?" He says softly, "And then, maybe tell me... I'm curious, what did you study at University? Do you have a degree?"
[09:06 PM] Sunlit Solaire goes to slice the bread and laughs, just a little, with only a hint of pain. "Ahh, well... when I discovered I really didn't care for French Literature as much as just Alexandre Dumas, I decided to leave University to find my passion, and come back when I found it... and now it seems a little too late to go back, to become an astronomer or environmentalist, when I'm already on the bad side of thirty." No degree, and nothing studied, and a worry that he's too old to do anything new... "But I get by. I-- I do some copywriting, and medieval reconstruction, and weekends at a warehouse, and it's enough to get by on, you know?"
[09:07 PM] Sunlit Solaire hands Gwyndolin a slice of bread, and suggests, "You could try it with honey, if you like sweet things."
[09:12 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin will try it with honey! But in a minute, he's a little busy looking kinda sadly at Solaire, even as he sets his teacup down to accept his slice of bread. "Well... I doubt there's an age limit to attending a university." He says softly, sympathetically, "If it's what you're passionate about, I think... I think you should go ahead and try! It would be a waste to throw away an opportunity you can take, if there's nothing truly stopping you besides fears."

He says that very firmly, a little frown on his face. Mostly because, meanwhile, he doesn't have the opportunity himself, to do or become anything. But he doesn't mention that part. Instead, he does as suggested, slathering a bit of honey across the bread, before taking a bite- "Mmh!" He swallows, and takes another, and another, and then takes a napkin from the tray to wipe at his mouth, giggling once he's swallowed. "Mr. Archambault, it's delicious! You- and your mother- are quite the baker!"
[09:19 PM] Sunlit Solaire smiles, affectionately, at Gwyndolin, and says, "Miss Gwyndolin, you're absolutely the sweetest person I've met in years." Even the sweetest person in the universe can't overcome years of self-doubt and being told your dreams are foolish, but... Gwyndolin is still sweet. "And I'm glad you like it! Perhaps next time I come, I can bring some of my mother's American-style biscuits with me, and you can try those...?"
[09:22 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin blushes, deeply, and makes a few 'trying to talk but too flattered to Words' noises, glancing away from Solaire shyly. "I-I'd love to try them, if you don't mind..." He says quietly, still being very sheepish about the compliment. "I wish I could return the favor, but I'm afraid asking a cook to make something for you would rather defeat the purpose of something sweet and homemade, and I'm hopeless in the kitchen."
[09:29 PM] Sunlit Solaire hesitates, then suggests, "Well, then, perhaps we could make the biscuits together...? They're very, very easy..."
[09:31 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin's eyes light up, and he says, eagerly, "I'd love to! I'm sure I'd be a little less helpless if I had a guiding hand." He giggles softly, and then goes to finish his honeyed bread slice, and drink some more tea. "You know, I'm not sure how you may have thought you were a boring person. You're terribly interesting, Mr. Archambault."
[09:33 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, modestly, "I-- I'm sure it's only because I'm the only new person you've met recently, Miss Gwyndolin, though I'm flattered you think so." He's also going to have a bite of the bread himself, and a sip of the lavender tea, which is truly delightful.
[09:37 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles a little more, and reaches for another slice of bread to smear honey on. "I highly doubt that. Líadan gets out sometimes- Líadan, is he boring?" He asks, and glances over his shoulder at Líadan, who had already closed the pamphlet after reading, and she smiles a bit and chuckles.

"I must admit," She says quietly, "He is a rather interesting fellow..." She probably thinks he's a little bit weird, though. But only a little. But she's still got her eye on you for now, Solaire.

"See?" Gwyndolin says, looking back at Solaire. "And anyways, what in the world is boring about a man who's been to multiple countries, does reenactments and jousts, and is so artistic? Not to mention this Solar theology of yours... I say again, I think you're terribly interesting." And with that, he triumphantly bites into his slice of bread.
[09:40 PM] Sunlit Solaire burns quite red, and says, "I-- I'm flattered," to both of them, and nibbles his bread with his gaze fixed shyly on his tea. "But-- well, surely I'm not the only interesting one here, Miss Gwyndolin. What about your life...?"
[09:43 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin looks a little bashful himself, but less from flattery, and more from mild embarrassment. He waits until he's finished his bread slice and had a sip of tea before answering, and doesn't look up from his own cup. "Now I would say I am the boring one. I don't do much of anything, besides sit, and read, and sometimes do some needlework, or a jigsaw puzzle..."
[09:47 PM] Sunlit Solaire asks, encouragingly, "What kind of needlework? Crewel? Cross-stitch? Something with yarn? What are you favorite kinds of books?" because he thinks Gwyndolin is surely the most interesting person he has a crush on right now! And wants to know more about her!
[09:50 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin he blushes a bit, and his voice is a little mumbling as he replies. "A... A few different types, mostly with yarn. Embroidery. A few methods of making lace." He sips at his tea, cheeks still pink. "I like historical fiction, and fantasy. While you reenact being a knight, I just... read about them."

And then he clears his throat, feeling a little embarrassed, and says, "I-I'm not... keeping you from anything today, am I? I hope not."
[09:54 PM] Sunlit Solaire says, "No, no, not at all! I'd love to see some of your lace and embroidery! Do you have any projects right now, or are you between? And who are your favorite fantasy authors? Have you ever read The Lord of the Rings?" He's leaning in a little, hands wrapped around his teacup but all of his body language interested-- eager-- to absorb Gwyndolin's words, his blue eyes bright with his smiling interest.
[10:02 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin blushes further, because now it's his turn to be shaken by how interested in him someone actually is- that's never happened before! "I-I-... Well, of course I've read The Lord of The Rings. And the Hobbit, and the Silmarillion, The Children of Hurin, the Unfinished Tales... I've been quite a fan of Tolkien for years. I have some very nice copies of his books..."

He clears his throat, and takes another sip of his tea. "I've... crafted most of the lace you might see decorating the castle, and some of the embroidered cushions and things..." Such as that nice ovular doily in the middle of the coffee table, half hidden under their tea tray. "I'm not terribly interested in needlework, though. It's just..." There's a pause, and he glances away. "It's just something to keep my hands busy."
[10:10 PM] Sunlit Solaire goes 'oh!' very quietly, and says, "I-- I haven't read half of those! Just the Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit. But I'd love to read some of the other ones... and maybe we can talk about them once I do?" He smiles, warmly, and says, "And it's nice to be able to do things with your hands, though I suppose it's nicer if you like what you're doing... have you ever tried origami?"
[10:17 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin smiles, and looks at Solaire, feeling a little better. "I have, actually! I'm quite skilled at that, as well, I think. I have a few paper crane mobiles around... I use nice patterned rice paper for them and everything." He shifts, and crosses one leg over the other, all ladylike. "You know... If you'd like, you may borrow some of my books, if you wanted to read more Tolkien. I wouldn't mind."

And it'd give Solaire more of an excuse to come back, at least...
[10:18 PM] Sunlit Solaire makes a really pleased noise, and says, "Are you sure? I'm certain the library ought to have them as well..." but, like, in a way that he wants Gwyndolin to insist on it.
[10:26 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin insists on it! "What use is there in having nice leatherbound copies if I have no one to show them off to?" He says, and grins, and then looks over his shoulder- "Líadan- could you please fetch my copy of The Silmarillion?" Líadan nods quietly, and off she goes. She's only gone a minute or two, when she returns with a very beautiful leatherbound copy of the book, with a case, and gold lettering, and probably gilded edges within that case... She hands it to Gwyndolin, who looks QUITE proud as he holds it out to Solaire. "Please, I insist. All I ask is that you take good care of it. And that means no dog-earing the pages!"
[10:27 PM] Sunlit Solaire takes it almost reverently, and coos, "Ohhh, this is a lovely book," turning it carefully over between his hands-- then glances up through his lashes and asks, teasingly, "No dog-earing... what about highlighters and doodling in the margins?" He would never, not in someone else's book, but he really has to tease.
[10:43 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin realizes Solaire is joking, but still, he says very firmly (if jokingly), "Absolutely not!" Oh, but look at that look of pride on Gwyndolin's face as he admires the way Solaire admires his book... "And now, we're even. You've given me a book, and I'm letting you borrow mine. And I won't do any dog-earing or highlighting or doodling in this one, either..." He says, and brushes his fingertips appreciatively over the cover of the booklet Solaire made him.
[10:50 PM] Sunlit Solaire pinks up a little, and says, "Thank you, Miss Gwyndolin. You're so very kind to me..." He holds The Silmarillion to his chest, and asks, shyly, "Will you still be here in a couple days, when I finish reading this? So we can talk to each other about it?" In case Gwyndolin doesn't find the origami star tucked into the pages of the books, with Solaire's phone number and 'would you consider going out for a date with me?' written on its rays in bright gold ink.
[10:52 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin beams brightly, the biggest smile he's had since he saw Solaire at the gate for the first time today, and replies, eagerly, "I will, and I'd love to! It's been ages since I had someone to talk about it with!" He's practically wiggling with delight! "Goodness, I have half a mind to kick you out just so you can get home and read it! But I do like your company..."
[10:54 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, softly, and says, "Well, if you kick me out now, you won't have to share any more of the bread with me! Though Miss Líadan should get a piece, too, instead of just watching us eat..."
[11:03 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles softly, and says, "I'd insist you at least take a few slices with you when you do go- you put in all the hard work of making it after all." He says softly, "But you're right, Líadan really should have some. Líadan! It's really delicious, you ought to have a slice!"

Shrugging, Líadan agrees and comes over, to take up a slice, and do what Gwyndolin had done earlier, smearing some honey onto it... When she takes a bite, her face lights up, and she gives a some hum of approval. "Mmm!"
[11:05 PM] Sunlit Solaire is practically glowing, and says, "No, no, keep it all, Miss Gwyndolin! I can always make myself more, you know!" He smiles at Gwyndolin, and at Líadan, and asks, "Miss Líadan, don't you think you should keep all the bread?"
[11:06 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin is going to extra insist, but instead Líadan nods, and agrees, "Absolutely. All ours now. Gwyndolin will be lucky to get a few more slices- I like this." At that, Gwyndolin huffs, and pouts, and crosses his arms.

"Fiends, the both of you." He says with a pout, but then can't help but smile.
[11:11 PM] Sunlit Solaire laughs, and says, sweetly, "Oh, don't worry! Now that I know her weakness, I can bribe Liadan to let me slip loaves of bread into your kitchen every night." He's joking, and also wants to kiss Gwyndolin a lot, and also can't help but giggle.
[11:13 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin giggles as well, his cheeks all pink. "If only I could be so well-stocked on such lovely bread! Such a shame." He says, while Líadan is getting herself another slice. "Anyways, I am thinking maybe we should part- if only so I can finally read this booklet you've made me. I didn't want to read it in your company, as I'm terrible about multitasking reading and conversation."
[11:15 PM] Sunlit Solaire nods, and stands, slowly, and smiles down at Gwyndolin. "Then I must thank you again for the kindness you've shown me, Miss Gwyndolin. You... you've been really wonderful, and I'm looking forward to seeing you again soon... and we can talk about our books, and see what the other person thinks, and hopefully it will be as lovely as you."
[11:19 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin stands up a moment after Solaire, holding the booklet against his chest, and smiling warmly, cheeks pink. "I look forward to seeing you again soon, too, Mr. Archambault." He says softly, looking up at Solaire through his pale eyelashes. Somewhere out of their lines of view, Líadan is rolling her eyes. "I hope you like the book! I can't wait to talk to you about it."

And then, he pauses a moment, before regretfully looking over at his attendant. "Líadan? Could you show him back to the gate, please?" Líadan nods, and snatches one more slice of bread, before going to lead Solaire out.
[11:23 PM] Sunlit Solaire is trying not to bounce too happily on the way out, but there's a definitely spring in his step, and he bids Líadan a very, very cheerful and happy farewell, clearly even happier going than he was arriving, because he has a lovely book and Gwyndolin might find his phone number soon and-- ah! Gosh! Goodness! What a good day! He's going to be humming as he takes his bike down to the gate with him and Líadan, and hum all the way back into town, where he'll settle in bed in his flat to read the book he was given.
[11:26 PM] Dark Sun-Gwyndolin Líadan leads Solaire back to the gate, though on the way out, if he pays attention, he might catch the sight of a tall man with orange-blond hair leaning against an outdoor wall and reading one of Solaire's pamphlets... But Líadan bids him a good afternoon at the gate, and makes sure his bike is well out of the way before closing the gate, and waving him off...

Gwyndolin takes his time finishing his tea, and sharing the bread with Líadan, shifting over to a cushy armchair to set about reading the booklet he was given as well. It really is very interesting... And just wait until he finds that origami star.