How Saros had managed to correctly guess his lead-up to power without knowing anything about him was a mystery. With the last war between Eirus and their neighbouring kingdom, Croucan, and the death of his brothers and mother, Caspian had only a few years to prepare. His eldest brother, Aeron, had had his whole life. From birth to death he had been a model crown prince, the perfect king to be. He had trained his whole life. From the moment he could walk Aeron was being raised to rule, whereas Cas? Cas had just lived his life expecting nothing but freedom in the end. He was never supposed to be in line for the throne. Aeron had always planned on having a big family and the line was to continue through him. Until the war, his late teen years, Cas had done nothing to prepare. His father had presumed that five or so years was plenty of time, and it had to be in their current situation, but five years in comparison to twenty and more? It was nothing, "What happens when I return home can wait," He mumbled. That was if he even returned home, at the moment he didn't know whether he would or not, "Have you had any other people come around here, apart from me?" He asked, changing the subject as he braided, letting his nails gently scratch as Saros' head as he did so.
Saros simply allowed the prince to be with his thoughts for a little while as he focused on the gentle fingers in his hair. It had been a while since Saros had found himself in such gentle care, so he allowed himself to melt into it. He felt no threatening air from the prince, so he just allowed himself to relax. He paused when he heard the prince's question and he hummed with thought. "Dahlia, actually. She wandered into the forest many moons ago. She mystified me. I was just newly turned, hungry, and horrible at hunting. She took pity on me, helped me learn how to use my abilities, and how to hunt correctly. How to survive." He shrugged, "In return, I guard her space. She's a free soul, never tied down to one place, but this forest- she's fond of. As for other people, yes. But they were too terrified- when I reached out a hand to help, they thought I was reaching out to attack them. They ran in fear or fought… Either way, they died." His eyes narrowed. "It's become harder and harder to trust people that wander into this forest." He hummed as he tilted his head into the fingernails scratching his scalp. A sound similar to a purr left his lips as his body instantly relaxed and slumped against the chair.
Oh, so Saros wasn't- what did they say- pure? He had been human, or of a similar being, first. He wanted to ask questions about it, but from how the vampire spoke of the people who had died, he thought better of it, "People are dangerous." He settled upon a moment later, and left it at that. The prince let himself smile when he heard the almost purr come from Saros. It was sweet. Caspian had always loved taking care of others- which was odd when he couldn't take care of himself- but if he could do something small like this in return for Saros saving his life yesterday, then he would gladly do it no questions asked and with no hesitation, "My mother used to have hair like yours," He said softly, "A little curlier, but similar length." It had taken Cas ages to learn and properly braid his mother's hair without it looking like a bird's nest. The mess of curls that she had had were difficult to tame but he thanked the Gods that his mother had been a patient woman. He guessed it was because he had been her youngest, and they had always had a bond that his brothers didn't have in exchange for one with their father. When he had been little he had often asked for a younger sister, but that had been a firm no from them both. Three boys were enough to handle, let alone having a younger sister they would taunt and tease to no end as all children did- as his brothers had done with Cas.
Saros was indeed not pure. His turning story had been painful and one against his will. The memories of his turning and the pain that came with it were pushed to the furthest depths of his mind. He could barely remember his human life at this point, only bits and pieces. But that did not matter anymore. He was free now and had a home in a forest where no one could hurt him anymore. That's all that mattered to him now. Now he had Caspain playing with his hair and he was purring like a cat. He looked so peaceful as he listened to Caspian speak. "I never had the heart to cut it. I've always liked my hair long." He muttered back, his eyes still closed. "Though I wish my hair had curls, it's just very long and straight." He chuckles softly at that, making sure to keep still so that Caspian's job was as easy as possible. He kept his head loose enough though that if Cas needed to move him around the prince could easily do so. He hadn't had someone be so gentle with him in a while. He found himself eager to lean into the touches. Dahlia wasn't a very touchy-feely type of person and she usually let the vampire do as he pleased in the house. And before that- the touches were less than gentle. They were harsh and vile, and it took a while for Saros to even get to this phase of letting people touch him again. But he found the gentle touches so relaxing… so… safe? Was that the right word?
"Surly there's some kind of magic you could use to," He waved a hand, motioning to Saros' hair, "make it curly?" The first braid that the prince had made was tied off by a bit of the vampire's hair to keep it in place. A temporary solution considering he didn't have a band to tie it around with but he doubted they had any. The braid was pretty much perfect, only a few hairs out of place and it showed Caspian's hidden talent when it came to the skill. He started on the second, making sure to take his time, gently moving the hair around, letting himself put a soft amount of pressure on the vampire's head to add to the relaxation, "Although, I will say, the straighter the hair is the easier it is to braid." It made it neater than curls because usually they just went everywhere and stuck out and water and oil were used to try and tame them, but you didn't need that when it came to straight hair. A lot easier to work with, and Caspian enjoyed it. The time and the delicate movements that were needed. It was intimate in a way that didn't make things awkward or strange, but comforting and soft, "And yours is lovely to braid."
Saros let out a little chuckle, "I do not have the same magic as Dahlia." He cooed softly. "As much as I would love the opportunity to make it curly, I know that I cannot." He hummed as he leaned into Caspian's hand as the prince worked. "I suppose that makes sense. The fewer curls, the easier to control." He paused when his hair was complimented and he let out a soft noise of happiness. He was glad that Caspian liked his hair." Saros gazed at the ceiling for a moment, before he spoke quietly, "I must admit, I'm slightly surprised. You are not as scared of me as the other humans I have come across. It surprised me even more that you did not attempt to kill me as I rested last night, or now for example. You'd rather brush my hair and chat. I find it… refreshing. Amusing almost." He let out a little chuckle. "You are curious in general." He tilts his head. "I have never met a human like you." Saros had met his fair share of humans before. They always screamed and yelled, came after him with weapons, cursed at him… it was so odd to experience a human that was as… curious? As Caspian. No… not curious. Calm? Saros could not place his finger on it.
Caspian shrugged a shoulder gently, even if it wasn’t visible for the vampire, “I’ve seen enough battle and… I don’t know, even if I was drunk you were trying to help.” Even in his terrified, drunk state, he had known that Saros was just trying to help. Of course at first, the prince had thought otherwise, but in the moments between where he had been able to think, even just a moment, there had been no need to try and attack. In the princes state it would have been easy for Saros to attack him, but he didn’t. He had reached out gently and carefully and had led him to safety. The vampire had been kind, and so even if he had been scared to death, Caspian knew enough about people to know when it didn’t need to be on the defence, “Besides, I wouldn’t last an hour out there. I wouldn’t have last night so, I guess it was both for survival as well just curiosity.”
Saros hummed softly, "I suppose that's fair." He chuckles quietly and leaned against his chair. "Most humans, unless they have magic or something, don't usually survive the night in the forest. There are creatures out there more powerful than me. And they're much more hungry than I." He shut his eyes and fiddled with his fingers. They were long and elegant, with claw-like nails at his fingertips. "Keep that in mind for tonight. I have to hunt again, and I would prefer not to come back to the cottage to find you missing. Do not answer the door, no matter what noises you hear. There are creatures that will try to lure you out with the sounds of a child or woman weeping or screaming for help. Even if the silence feels like too much, do not step out into the night. Especially with the moons both being blackened tonight." He warns, glancing at Caspian. "I am safe, but you are not."
"I wasn't planning on going anywhere, prince's honour." Caspian hadn't even thought about leaving the cottage at night. After his near run-in with whatever it was out there in the wood before Saros came along, he was far too scared to even dare think about leaving, running, or simply exploring, even during the day. He finished up the second braid quickly enough, his thoughts turning to the vampire before he spoke again. He could tell Saros could hold his own, but that didn't stop the twinge of worry that weaved its way into his stomach. What if something happened to him while he was out? Would he be able to make it back? What if he didn't? Gods, Cas wouldn't survive if Saros left him here alone, he'd last a day, maybe two, but would probably end up being ripped to shreds by something in the end, "If there are so many creatures out there that'll be dangerous, why don't you find another place to live? Outside the forest?" Why not find somewhere else to stay if it meant a little more safety? Even if Saros could hold his own, it was still deadly for anyone.
(SO SO SORRY ABOUT THAT. Finals have been kicking my ass, but I'm back!)
Saros hummed softly as he nodded in satisfaction. It was always worrying when humans wandered into the forest. He had heard stories from other wild beasts out there. And the monster that lurked out at night was more dangerous than anything Saros was willing to deal with. He glanced at the braid and smiled faintly. He liked how neat it looked. His hair was something he took deep pride in, so he was grateful that the other was taking such good care of him. He hummed when he saw the human's eyes furrow in worry. He paused when asked the question. "Silly human. This is the safest option for me. I am not welcomed amongst my own kind. I am a 'wild' vampire. I am something people will hunt for sport. I will be dragged to the gallows, drowned in holy water, and stabbed repeatedly with a stake… this forest is my safest place, even if it is not the case for humans. Especially one as cute as you." He purrs teasingly. "I appreciate the concern. But I am capable of hunting in the forest, I'll be alright, I swear." He assures gently. It was… interesting seeing a human look concerned for his wellbeing. Different, for sure though.
(ahh hi hi! it's okay! i figured that was what was happening bc everyone i rp with is in the same boat rn lol, don't stress it!)
Caspian couldn't help the soft blush that spread over his cheeks at once again being called cute. Flirting with a vampire? Not exactly something that had been on his list of things to do before he died or became king. He ignored at, although he was sure it was noticeable. But the way Saros spoke about how he would be treated if he left the forest had him more concerned. He couldn't help but feel upset for him, just a little, because being shunned from your own kind and then society altogether mustn't have been a good feeling. The prince could only imagine how it must have felt for him. But, even though he didn't know the vampire, he couldn't help but trust him, just a little. The other had saved his life and he owed Saros at least a little extension of his trust. The prince continued to braid as if it would distract him from his thoughts. It didn't, but at least his hands had something to do by combing through the soft locks, "Why are wild vampires so different?" Caspian asked, "From the rest of your kind, is it just from how you turned?" He was ignorant when it came to all of this and he couldn't help but feel a little stupid at the questions he was asking.
The blush that covered the human's cheeks made Saros' lips turn up into a little smile. Caspian was definitely cute, Saros would admit that. He hummed as he leaned his head back and thought for a moment. "Wild vampires are both different in the way we turn, and we shun the current ways of the vampires." He hummed softly. "Though- I don't remember much of my turning. Some of my memories are lost." His brows furrow in pain at the thought. He had a few memories that would occasionally flash in his mind. But to him, most of his past was a mystery. "Wild vampires can be considered wild in two ways. They were born outside of the kingdom, or they reject the current lifestyle of those within the vampire kingdom. The current kingdom has an underhanded deal with various human black markets to create humans and various other creatures into cattle. You see, vampires can feed off of various things, depending on what kind of vampire they are. Some vampires, like the royals, can feed off of both blood and magic. Your average vampire can feed off blood. Some vampires, believe it or not, can simply survive off of fruit." He offered a kind little smile, glad that the Prince was so willing to listen and not just jump to conclusions. Some vampires heavily believe in the current system within the kingdom, it's tradition, after all, to feed off the blood of creatures." They offer a hesitant smile.
Caspian wasn't one to judge, even if the prospect of someone potentially feeding off of his blood was a terrifying prospect. Just as humans had their ways and customs that he was sure were strange to many other creatures and peoples on their continent, the vampires had theirs. The prince hummed a little in acknowledgement, finishing off the second braid not long after he did so, "It's unfortunate that you don't remember your turning," He settled upon, moving to create the third and final braid, "I guess it might be a good thing, depending on what happened. But regardless, as long as you're happy with how you're living then…" He shrugged. He wasn't going to tell Saros how to live his life. He figured the man had lived longer than he had, seen more, experienced more. Caspian was just human, who had lived a sheltered life in his marbled walls of 'safety' and had experienced little of the world bar that of his kingdom. Maybe that was why he had run away. Well, wandered away in his tipsy state. He may have been intoxicated but out of every place he could have wandered or ended up in, the forest of all places- somewhere no one would find him- so he could experience something. Didn't matter if it was death or a creature of the night, at least it was something that wasn't his normal life, "Happiness should always be the priority."
Saros looked over at the other and paused for a moment before looking away. He knew that Caspian was being open, but perhaps he didn't realize how truly fucked up the world was just yet. He sighed deeply and rubbed a hand along his face. "It… is unfortunate." His mind always pained him when he tried to remember. It drove him up a wall. He hummed and shrugged. "I'm satisfied with my living situation. The witch doesn't come by often, only when she really needs to, and I keep this place from getting overrun, get a free place to sleep, and a simple enough life." He shrugged and relaxed into the fingers on his scalp. "But it's not really living is it? It's more of surviving. Out of the entire world, apparently, this forest is the safest place to be, and yet there are creatures constantly trying to kill me." He hummed and glanced at the prince through his reflection in the mirror. "Yes, but it is not your priority." He tilts his head. "One does not simply wander into a forest that is rumored to be filled with horrible things, just for you to decide, "Ah yes, I'm going to go in completely intoxicated. You were surviving, weren't you? Not actually living." What life had to be so difficult that instead of living the life of luxury and riches you were promised at birth… what kind of expectations were placed on a child that ran into a forest that offered no safety, offered no way back… was the better option? The intoxicated mind always seemed to speak the heart when it came to these kinds of matters. But Saros did not pry more than that, simply allowing the prince to ponder his words as he relaxed into the fingers that braided away at his hair. It was not his place to judge another for their choices of coming into the forest.
Caspian's hands stilled for the slightest moment at the vampire's words. About how happiness wasn't his priority. As much as he tried to keep his expression seem as if the man hadn't just stuck a bone within him, a reminder of his own insecurities and fears and problems that he neglected to deal with, he was sure that it showed, even if it was just a flicker across his face. His hands kept moving, "I suppose we are both just surviving, then." The prince's voice was a little softer than it had been, his gaze kept firmly on the braid when the skill he had showed that he probably didn't even have to look. But he did. he had to keep his eyes down otherwise he was going to be reminded, when he looked up - looked at himself in that mirror, everything he had run from. His people, his kingdom, his father and responsibilities and most importantly, the man that everyone expected him to be. Nothing was ever simple, nothing would ever be simple in that life, no matter how hard Caspian tried it never seemed to be enough. The kingdom prospered but it wasn't because of him, as much as people said it was. This life was never supposed to be his. Caspian hadn't wanted it, desired none of the riches, the title, that came with being king, and every day he felt more and more as if he were simply surviving, just as Saros said, rather than living. But there was nothing that could be done on the matter. The only way out was death. Maybe that was the real reason he had gone into the forest, why he had listened to his drunken heart and deep desires instead of his head.
Saros paused. Perhaps he had struck a nerve within the human. Perhaps he had gone too far. He hummed as he slowly glanced back at the human again and sighed deeply. He knew that he sometimes placed things bluntly, or struck a nerve within people. But… Caspian had been nothing but kind- if not slightly stupid- since Saros had found him in the forest. And it wasn't even that the prince was stupid, the forest had a call to people with a broken heart or a lost mind. Caspian had both of those things. An aching heart and an inebriated mind. Of course, he wandered into the forest. He glanced at the human and slowly stood, his eyes gentle as he gazed at this prince who had his entire life handed to him at the cost of his own freedom. The expectations laid heavy on the prince's shoulders. And the guilt was most likely killing him. Badgering Caspian with questions on whether or not he was surviving was not something the prince needed right now. Saros could understand that much at least. He gently took the Prince's wrist and offered a gentle smile. "Come." He takes the prince towards a backdoor, where there was plenty of shade from the sun, and to the back where there was a beautiful garden. A garden he had started when he first settled at this home. "The forest isn't all dreary during the day, and the most dangerous creatures only come out at night. Enough doom and gloom. You are stuck here for the time being until we can find you a way home, whether that be in the next month or sooner. But for now, I swear to keep you safe. And perhaps while you're here, you can learn a little more and take that back with you to the kingdom… if you ever decide to go back that is. There are no expectations for you here, Caspian." He made sure to use the prince's name. Made sure to allow the prince the luxury of releasing the title, even if it was for only a little while.
Caspian let himself be led away and towards the back. The touch of the vampire was strange, but not unwelcomed. Saros' hands slipped around his wrist and the touch was gentle but cold compared to his own skin, and the prince couldn't decide whether he like it or not. Either way, the thought process was interrupted by the vampire speaking and the beautiful garden before him. He couldn't help looking up at the vampire, tilting his head to give him a look that clearly showed that he was amazed by what was in front of him. Because then he was moving. Moving out of Saros' grasp and into the garden to get a closer look at the plants, "Saros…" Caspian breathed. The flowers caught his attention the most and he couldn't stop himself from kneeling down to get a closer look at the bright colours and the soft petals that ended up in his hands. Maybe the vampire was right, maybe the forest wasn't so bad in the daylight. He could feel the sliver of the sun beaming down on his face from the position he had ended up in, letting it light up his features and those deep green eyes. It helped when the vampire didn't use his title, Caspian physically felt his shoulder sag a little at the use of his name from it had rolled off the vampire's tongue. Just for a little while he might be able to just forget, especially in a garden as beautiful as this. A soft spot that the prince had, even if Saros hadn't known about it. The prince picked up a fallen flower, the deep blue petals were delicate and fragile in his fingers, much like his sanity at the moment as well as his tired brain, "These are beautiful."
Saros decided that he wanted to help the human get out of his slump, so Saros made it an idea to keep the human entertained while he was stuck here- that was the goal at least. He hummed as he made sure to stay out of the sunlight. He could handle being in the sunlight for small amounts of time, but the sun would eventually burn him… badly. He hummed as he glanced at the other and chuckled faintly. The garden was full of wonders. Plants that could be eaten, mysterious fruits, beautiful flowers… There was so much to explore and it seemed like the gardens went on for ages. "Tomorrow night is the full moon, and I'll show you a special treat." He coos sweetly. "But, while you're here, you'll be able to help me with the gardens, no? The extra hands would be appreciated." He glanced at the beautiful flower in Caspian's hands and chuckled faintly. "Ashel Nightshade, similar to its sister plant, the deadly nightshade. But she's not poisonous. Quite the opposite really, she's quite useful for healing potions and the like." Saros, in the blink of an eye, melted into the shadows before reappearing beside Caspian in the shade of a dark oak that sat among the flowers. There was no structure to the plants, other than they were wild and allowed to grow wherever it seemed. "This garden is something I've been working on for years, so please- feel free to explore. It's rare I get to show someone my hard work." He chuckles faintly and sweeps his hand out among the vast field of plants of all sorts.
Caspian turned the flower over in his hands. Such a beautiful space in amongst the forest of such danger. It almost didn't feel real, but the softness of the petals was real, the sweet aroma of the flower was real, and there was a vampire, of all creatures, beside him, just as real as the flower in his hand, "You have done a wonderful job," The prince complimented, and moved so he was more comfortable and seated next to Saros. There was still space between them as Caspian was more in the sun than the other, but they were still closer than they had been previously. He was starting to warm up to the vampire more, with his kind word and beautiful garden, not so afraid, and a lot more clear-headed now that there was no alcohol in his system, "I always wanted a garden of my own," The prince continued on, picking up a few more colourful, fallen flowers that were within reach, forming a soft bouquet of colour in his hands, "Back when I wasn't going to be king I dreamed of having a place away from Eirus with a big garden. It was going to be beautiful." The gardens in his city, in his palace, were stunning as is, but they weren't his. As much as technically they were, since he was royalty and was supposed to be taking the throne, they hadn't been grown by his hands, had been tended to and loved by him. It wasn't the same. Caspian had tried to help the gardeners but they had refused, and his father had practically forbidden him from trying again. 'You're a prince. Princes don't work in the gardens.' It had only gotten worse the closer his coronation became, freedoms taken away in favour of his father wanting him to focus on the coronation, on the kingdom the important things.
Saros was glad to see that Caspian was easing into the forest. While it was a dangerous place at night, the forest was fairly peaceful during the day. He chuckles dryly at the compliment. A fair few moons ago he would have preened at that compliment, after all, this garden was his blood, sweat, and tears. This garden was his everything. But now- it was just a testament of how long he had been here. He still loved it of course, but… this life was not the best life. It was a simple one, yes. But he was aching for something new in his life… perhaps that is why he had not killed Caspian off when they first met. He hummed as he glanced over at the other. "But I suppose the weight of the crown stopped you. That is not the case here. You will need to get your hands dirty, Caspian. And you will do your fair share around here. This place needs care and someone to look after it. That is my job, and now I am offering you some part of this work." He was actually glad to have a pair of helping hands. It meant he could care for his garden both in the sun and in the moons light. That was ideal for him. He cleared his throat and gently picked a red flower. It was similar to a rose with the thorns, but more like a Dahlia in bloom. He pricked his thumb on one of the thorns, but he did not even wince as silver blood dripped down his finger. The plant seemed to thrive off the blood though, the bloom tripling in size. How beautiful it was as it grew. The thorns fell off and Saros carefully handed the bloom to Caspian, the flower now safe to touch.
"I have no qualms with getting my hands dirty," Caspian replied as he took the flower with gentle hands. Even if Saros did not look phased by the blood that appeared from the thorn, the prince didn't like seeing it, but maybe that was just because his worry seemed to have increased from being in the woods. He didn't comment, only because he didn't want to make a big deal out of something that Saros wasn't worrying about. Now that he had a good selection of flowers in his hand, without thinking, he began to weave them together. It was something to keep his hands occupied while they spoke, just as braiding the vampire's hair had been a way for him to get to know the other and keep his hands busy, keep his mind busy, with something, "In fact, I would feel rather useless if you wouldn't let me help." He couldn't help the soft chuckle that escaped him at his own words. After not being able to do anything physical when it came to things around the palace he was looking forward to it. Any other prince, Caspian knew, would be appalled at the thought of having to do physical labour of any kind, helping out when usually everything was done for them, but all he wanted to do was help out. Caspian didn't care, however, because if it meant making things a little easier when it came to helping Saros then he would do it. Considering he had wandered into the forest pissed drunk, had nearly died, and the vampire had saved his life and let him stay with him, it was the least he could do to show his thanks. The flower crown in his hands took shape and he held it out to Saros, "You did save my life, the least I can do is do a bit of work around here."
A gentle hum of satisfaction left the vampire's lips as he stretched casually against the tree. The wound on his finger had already healed, the only thing left was the streak of blood but he easily licked that away. He glanced over at the prince and paused when he noticed the prince starting to weave the flowers together. Saros smiled hesitantly. "Good to have your help then. The only thing is that there are some things that we need to worry about. But of course, I'll give you the safety rundown before we work with the plants. Don't want you to accidentally touch something that might hurt you. Most of these plants are harmless, but a few like that one," he motions his head towards the flower now in the prince's hands, "can prick ya. It doesn't hurt much, but it's definitely surprising when it does." He chuckles faintly. He found it interesting that the prince was so eager to help, it was… something different. Then again, Saros was used to always working alone. He glanced up at the sun before blinking away. It was always kind of dumb to do something like that, but Saros- oddly missed the sun. Saros chuckled faintly when Caspian spoke. "Ah, yes. Saved your life." He shrugged slightly, "I suppose I did- but there isn't much more to be grateful for. I scared you shitless and then brought you here. Plus- what makes you trust me? I'm a scary vampire after all." Despite his words, he could feel his chest well with a feeling that wasn't all that familiar. It left him confused. What was it that he was feeling? Pride? Content? He couldn't place a finger on it.
Caspian chuckled softly, the flowers in his hands woven into a crown that he held out for Saros to take, "I think I can handle a few thorns here and there." He had seen battle at a young age. That war that had taken majority of his family away from him had changed his life, changed him in more ways than one. It would probably one of the reasons as to why his father refused to let him do anything reckless, to partake in another that might get him hurt - even things like gardening. Being the only living heir, if anything happened to him then the kingdom would be left with no one to rule once his father died, and the last thing the king wanted, Caspian knew, was someone random taking the throne with no training or ability or knowledge on how to run the kingdom. But that had clearly backfired since the prince had ended up in one of the most dangerous places since the war and wouldn't return to his home for at least a month or more. Caspian could handle himself in the right situations, and he was more than capable of a few deadly plants. They were easier than people.
But the prince didn't have much of an answer when it came to the vampire's other question, all he could really do was shrug in response to Saros, "It might not have been the best situation, but I am grateful that you found me, because without you I would be dead. It's something to be acknowledged." His body would be lost to time out there and Caspian didn't want to think about what might have found him that could have caused such a death, "I don't know whether I trust you or not, but so far, you haven't given me a reason to be weary. You might have scared me, but so far you have saved my life, been kind and offered me a place to stay that is safe. Counteracts that first scary impression you gave off."
Saros carefully took the flower crown and inspected it for a moment. He slowly placed it on the top of his head and let it rest amongst the braids. He chuckled faintly. "I am not questioning whether or not you can handle a few thorns and whatnot. I'm just wondering if you're up to the task is all." He seemed content with Caspian's answer though. He did not know the prince's story, or what his background was like. But it was certainly different- the way the prince was willing to raise his hand and help. It made Saros wonder what the prince had experienced in his life that made him into the man he was now. Saros wanted to ask, but what on earth would he ask? What would he even say? 'Ah, yes. Tell me more as to why you ran into the woods in the middle of the night, drunk and like you were ready to lose your mind.' People just didn't do that. And while Saros might be a wild vampire, he still had manners.
Saros subtly raised his brow before chuckling faintly. "You are a very curious human, Caspian. I think I might enjoy having you as company." He glanced up at the sky, "Though I do wonder what made me so scary when I first met you when first found you, other than being a vampire of course." He tapped his bottom lip in thought before shrugging and standing. He cracked his back and stretched before glancing down at Caspian. "You're more than welcome to stay out in the gardens while I cook dinner. You're also welcome to join me. It is up to you. I do not want to leave you hungry while I go off and hunt this evening." He melted into the shadows before appearing again on the porch of the cabin. "Do you have a preference for something to eat, any allergies? Or shall I simply go wild?"
The magic that the vampire used was curious indeed, and Caspian wanted to ask about that aspect of the man however was too distracted by the flower crown on his head than anything else. If the vampire had called him cute, then Saros was, too, especially with the array of colour that now bloomed from the flowers atop his head. He would have made a very handsome prince all things considered, but now wasn't exactly the time to be making comments such as that. Or even if it would be the time at all, to be making such comments. They had only just met. Regardless, Caspian wasn't well versed when it came to giving and receiving compliments. Even if he was a prince and people figured that he would be, he was far from able to accept or give without blushing. There had been a few nobles in his time that had used that to their advantage and it hadn't ended well.
But the prince was drawn out of those thoughts by the premise of food and he was quick to stand, "I was drunk, I had fallen, and then you came creeping out of the shadows like you did," He shrugged, running a hand through his mess of soft waves as he waded through the garden, basking in the sunlight for a few moments as he stretched, "You were scary then, you're not so scary now." Especially not with the crown on his head. He made it to the porch and offered Saros as smile, "Go wild with the food, I have no preferences or restrictions and I think I'll come and bug you while you cook."
Saros never really figured himself as cute. In the eyes of society, he had always been called a monster. Unlovable and hideous, simple as that. He never found it in himself to believe otherwise. He glanced over at Caspain and offered a quick smile. He was careful not to let the flower crown fall off of his head, a small hum leaving his lips as watched the prince think. He didn't know what the prince was thinking, but he was curious. He wanted to understand what was going through the other's mind- wanted to understand Caspian more. What an odd feeling for him. How different it was, wanting to understand someone.
He chuckled softly and shrugged. "Well, I am glad I appear less scary now." But I don't doubt that would change if you saw me for what I really am. His face fell slightly at that thought, but he moved into the cabin before it was noticeable. He nodded at the orders for the food before setting to work.
Cooking- despite not needing to eat normal food, was always a calming habit for Saros. Cooking was therapeutic. It always was to him. He set to work making pasta, carefully kneading the dough until it was smooth and it came out in the shape he wanted. He then set to work creating a soup filled with potatoes, herbs, meats, celery, carrots, and other various veggies. He was quick with the work, allowing himself to be immersed in the familiar patterns of cooking.
Caspian followed the vampire into the kitchen, although made sure to stay to one side as to avoid being in the way. He didn't want to disturb much. It seemed as if Saros was comfortable and found it easy to move when he cooked, from the way the man chopped the vegetables and worked them into a soup. Impressive, really, for someone who drank blood and had no need to cook, "Where did you learn to cook?" The prince asked.
Had it been before he had been turned? Caspian assumed it wasn't if Saros couldn't even remember much of his turning, to begin with. But if he had learnt afterwards, was it because of the witch? He had no doubt that she would have been more than capable to make her own food and if the vampire had no need, why would he? It was strange to him to think that this was a habit, a hobby, that he might have picked up over the years he had lived in the forest. What else was Saros able to do? He was clearly full of interesting talents and possibilities that Caspian wanted to learn about. He hadn't been so interested in wanting to understand another in so long. Maybe it was because they were the only people around, the prince didn't know. Either way, he didn't question it, he just let himself be curious and ask questions. But he wouldn't deny he was slightly worried that his questions may become and annoyance to the other after a while. It was an intrusive thought that he pushed away quickly, but it would always be there. Not that it showed in the slightest, there was still a light smile on his face as he tracked Saros' movements.
Saros let out a faint hum at the question. "I suppose when you live alone for the majority of your life, you pick up on skills to kill the boredom." That wasn't truly the reason he cooked. He remembered gentle hands guiding him, teaching him to cut a veggie, helping him move hot things from the stove and over to the counters, the soft reminder of laughter. They were phantom memories, but Saros could not place where they came from. He could not remember much before he changed, or even after he changed. It was a blur, blocked by migraines. Saros wanted to hold onto those phantom memories. Wanted to keep them tucked into his heart. He glanced over at Caspian slightly raised his brow, "Surprised?" There was no malice in his words. Just understanding. Of course, the prince would be curious as to how a vampire came to learn how to cook when all a vampire needed to survive was blood. "Not to mention, some vampires can still eat human food. They usually do it to pass off as a regular human and attempt to live a normal life… but those vampires do not last long." He carefully started to knead the dough. "Here, come. If you know how to knead the dough, lovely. If not, I shall teach you." If the prince were to stay here, he would need to be able to handle himself if Saros was gone longer than a night. He wanted to make sure the prince would not starve if Saros had to wander off for a weekend or so.
Caspian was quick to shake his head, "No! No, Not surprised, just curious." He was more than aware that there had been no malice in the vampire's voice, but he couldn't help but be concerned that the question had been taken the wrong way, or maybe had been the wrong one to ask. He was clueless. Once again, the prince felt as if he were a baby taking his first steps into the world, learning about the universe and what lay beyond the comfort of his home borders. An odd feeling when all he wanted to do was learn. But the one thing he didn't want to do, was upset the vampire that he was living with.
Even though he was a little hesitant to move from his spot, mainly because Caspian didn't want to fuck up the dinner and make things worse or whatever reason, but, he moved. He moved until he was standing next to Saros and was making sure his sleeves were up and out of the way before he took the dough in his hands. They were unsteady, even more hesitant than the man himself had been when he had stood and walked over. That lack of knowledge on anything other than princely duties was as clear as day as he fumbled with the dough, doing his best to knead it out but definitely not as well as Saros could, "Gods, I really am incompetent when it comes to these sorts of things."
Ask him how to negotiate with a foreign political figure or king and he could do so in a heart beat. Plan the next city expansion, the next trade route, organise funds and disperse them throughout the city and he had no trouble. But house work? Manual labour? It was almost ridiculous that he wasn't able to do any of them. Quite frankly, Caspian couldn't help but be a little embarrassed.
