18175/A Walk in the Gardens

A Walk in the Gardens
Date of Scene:	09 June 2024
Location:	Student Gardens
Synopsis:	A chance meeting in the garden ends with more than flowers blooming within.
Cast of Characters:	Amara Aquilla, Kurt Wagner

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Amara Aquilla has posed:
It's well into the evening, the sun has long since set leaving the yard of Xavier's cloaked in deep blues and purples of night, only the twinkling of the stars and the occasional peek of the moon through the clouds to illuminate the area. The pool is still, the courts are empty. But the gardens. There's a light at the gardens. To Kurt's sensitive eyes, the light is bright as a bonfire.

Amara, while slowly gaining more confidence in her grasp on modern technology, she still ofttimes prefers the old ways. Sure, she could pull up any story in the world on her phone... but there's nothing quite like holding a book. Feeling the heft of it. Smelling the pages, the binding. Feeling each one between her fingers as she turns the page.

Dressed casually in cutoff jean shorts, sandals, and a simple t-shirt in a light yellow, her blonde hair up in a ponytail; Amara is limned in light. The soft, flickering glow of flame, wreathing around her but leaving hands, book, and bench free of fire.

Kurt Wagner has posed:
The grounds of the Xavier Institute are well and truly in blume, the warming weather, the periodic rains that have run through Weschester County in the past few weeks have left the gardens an increasing delight for the senses, something to be enjoyed by most anyone that makes time for them. Aside, perhaps, those few with especially acute allergies.

That, however, is not Kurt and while most students might not have quite as much appreciation for this particular part of the grounds, it always feels rather welcoming to the fuzzy blue elf. Not that far away from home, really. For all that he grew up in a circle.

The dark of the evening -- a little more intense out here, away from Salem Center -- is no real obstacle for Kurt, those golden eyes seeming to drink in all available light, no matter how faint, and light up the world like it was day. The little solar-powered lanterns that line the gravel paths are usually all he needs to find his way with ease, swift and silent on those unique feet.

But there is certainly a little more light then normal and when Kurt lays eyes on the young woman seated on that bench, reading by that unique firelight he smiles. And then clears his throat audible so as not to catch her by surprise. "Good evening," he says with that warm tenor voice. "It must be wonderfully handy to carry your own light with you, wherever you shall go," he suggests archly.

Not that he needs to, of course.

Amara Aquilla has posed:
A soldier is a soldier, no matter where she may end up. And Amara, for all that she was noble, was trained as a soldier. Kurt's gentle throat-clearing has her looking up immediately, one hand splaying across the binding of the book, the other holding her place on the page as she offers a smile as warm as the fire that wreathes around her. "Herr Wagner. Guten... abend? Yes, I believe that is the correct word."

She chuckles softly and holds up a hand, a single flame flickering from the tip of her forefinger. "It does come in handy, yes. Though nobody can accuse me of being stealthy. There are times when I envy you your ease of passage." Slipping a felt bookmark between the pages, Amara closes the book and sets it aside. "I take it I'm not the only one that enjoys an evening in the gardens.. I'm glad to know it isn't just me."

Motioning to the bench, she offers, "Would you care to sit and enjoy the scent of the flowers? They've started to bloom so wonderfully. Some of them are quite redolent."

Kurt Wagner has posed:
Dipping his head in appreciation, Kurt smiles once more, teeth practically gleaming in the moonlight, just a hint of those fangs showing. "Indeed. Guten Abend to you as well," the fuzzy blue elf states lightly, padding over towards the bench where she sitsm feet barely making a sound even on the gravel.

That dark, indigo fur does practically get swallowed up in shadow and Kurt has long since grown accustomed to practically disappearing at need. Between that, and his eyes, the dark is clearly his friend.

For all that it seems more natural for him to move in the light. At least by personality at any rate. "We all have our own gifts. I would imagine that I have wondered what it would be like to be able to bring light into this world, instead of being so at home in darkness," he says lightly.

No brooding here clearly, just simple fact, settling himself on one end of the bench.

"No, not just you," he agrees with that faint grin once more lighting up those vaguely demonic features. "It tends to be a little quieter here then much of the rest of the grounds. And soon enough the height of summer will be upon us, the warmth of the day lingering well into the evening. Best to take advantage of the garden now, while it still blooms," he asserts, glancing around, golden-eyed gaze sweeping over the nearby plots.

Amara Aquilla has posed:
Letting the flames die out, Amara leans in to nudge his shoulder lightly with her own and smiles at him, "Not how I would have put it, but very poetic. Thank you. And I will still envy you for that natural grace with which you move. It is something that I have never been able to manage. Balance, athleticism... those I can manage. But grace is elusive." She laughs softly and lifts a small shrug, "But I admit, I do enjoy my gifts very much."

Looking towards the garden, she smiles and gives a small nod, the air around her much warmer than normal. "I have to admit, it is much colder here than I am used to. Nova Roma is... always warm, very warm. Humid." Amara smiles faintly and glances down at the book, "I have been here for... six years. Each year, I keep hoping that father will send word that it's safe to return. But I start to wonder if perhaps word will never come. If Nova Roma has proven unable to evolve to accept mutants among them.."

There's a brief silence as her gaze falls, then she banishes the dark thoughts and smiles at him once more.

"Agreed. I enjoy the peace that comes from nightfall. The others are... I love their energy, their enthusiasm. But sometimes it... reminds me how different we are. How different *I* am." She chuckles softly and smiles at him, "Somehow, I feel as though you might understand."

Kurt Wagner has posed:
That draws a wry laugh from the fuzzy blue elf, lightly nudging her shoulder back in turn as he settles himself. That light suddenly plunging out, leaving the garden illuminated only by that faint lamps alomg the path might make a big difference to some. But to Kurt the difference is hardly notably, the garden perhaps even more ethereal in it's beauty.

"What can I say? I am a romantic at heart, whether it be in film or in speech. I may be no poet, but I do have a certain appreciation for the art," he says, grin creeping over those dark, indigo features once more. "Words have a power all on their own, far beyond anything any one mutant can accomplish with our gifts," he asserts thoughtfully.

Then shrugs and tilts his head, turning to listen to her silently, the line of his mouth smoothed of it's mirth. "It is not easy to be forced to abandon your home. Everything that you know," he finally agrees quietly. He has a little experience with that himself, afterall. Enough that he can relate without merely calling on his imagination, at the very least.

At the last her words coax that smile back onto his expression, again tilting his head in her direction in seeming agreement. "It is not an easy lesson to learn or appreciate. To embrace that what makes each of us unique. To celebrate that difference," he agrees lowly. "I would imagine that your friends celebrate you as much for those difference as the things that make you the same."

Amara Aquilla has posed:
It makes a difference to Amara, plunging the area into darkness for her, with spots of brightness from the little path lights. Still, she can see Kurt, and the path, and that's really all she needs to see at the moment. The flowers were shrouded in darkness anyways, to protect them from the heat of the flames.

She glances sidelong at him and smiles softly, "There is nothing wrong with being a romantic. Nothing at all. We had such great ballads, epics... stories of love that were older than time. We had... bards.. that would tell us these stories at events and gatherings... oh, I used to love listening to them. The music, the drama, the poetic words... it was wonderful." She lets out a small sigh and offers, "You would have liked them, I think."

As things turn a little more serious, Amara looks at him directly, reaching up to rest a hand on his arm lightly, giving a gentle squeeze. "It was easy to go, when I thought I would return soon after. It's harder, now that I wonder when I can return." She lets out a small breath, her hand withdrawing with a faint smile, "But I suppose that is simply life."

The smile returning is reflected on her own face, her features softening and warming as she nods, "And I do. Sometimes it's just... a little difficult. When they get too loud. That's when I seek out a quiet space, often outdoors. I read, or just.. sit. What do you like?"

Kurt Wagner has posed:
For Kurt, the flowers that nestle in their plots between the roaming paths that cut through the garden are as clear now as they might be by deay, individual petals and leaves still very much discernable.. What is different, inevitably, is the fading of color. A world of whites and blacks and shades of grey.

But that is okay. Kurt has learned well to see the beauty in those shadows of grey, in the shadoy places that are as comfortable for him as a sunlit field might be for others. The dark is no more uniform or all encompassing then the light. And there is appeal and mystery and wonder in both. Sometimes even in equal measure.

"I do love a good story," the fuzzy blue elf admits slyly. While that love might manifest itself in his fondness for movies, be they modern or classic, that love of story, of adventure and wonder is at the heart of that. That brings each of those tales to life in his mind, in his imagination. A refuge, perhaps for a mutant child by birth, unmistakably marked and singled out. "The world would be a very pale, very dreary place with them," he agrees fervently.

"Sometimes you cannot go home again. Not entirely at least, or permanently," he agrees gently. He very much doubts that he will ever return the circus. "Some times all you can do is be grateful for the people in your life now." Which is perhaps a little easier for the fuzzy blue elf. He still sees his foster mother from time to time. His foster sister. And while he might not always see eye to eye with her, even his relationship with his borth mother is at least warmer and less strained then it could otherwise be, given all that stands between them. he has a luxury that she doesen't. At least not without risk

"Mmmm, for me, I like to walk the paths, to take it all in," he admits. But then he is very much about the joy of motion. That boundless agility and grace, whether dancing or with the rapier. "Sometimes I just like to practice my sword forms out here. It feels... more natural then in the gym or Danger Room," he admits with a smile.

Amara Aquilla has posed:
"My father loves me. He would do anything he could for me.. but I don't know that there's anything he *can* do about Nova Roma. I fear that my home is lost to me.." Amara gives a small shake of her head before looking back to Kurt with a faint smile. "If so, I shall simply have to make a new one here. Find a new family. Make new friends."

Looking around the gardens, she can see the faint outlines of the flowers, can imagine their colors, calling up the images from daylight hours spent out here. Smiling warmly, she tries to let go of the past... no easy prospect when your present IS the past.

"Perhaps sometime I will tell you one, then. I am no bard, I will likely not do it justice... but if you wish to hear one, I believe I can recite a tale for you," Amara offers, a smile on her lips. She likely knows a great many stories, given the era she was raised in.

Mention of liking to walk the paths, or practice sword forms, has her face lighting up, "So do I! Normally in the daytime.. but I love to walk the gardens, practice swordplay amongst the blooms. Perhaps you would grace me with a spar, some time? Day or night, it matters not. I can make the night as bright as day if needed. At least for us. Or we can leave it in the glooming of low light and you can take advantage of it with your gifts..."

She flashes a cheeky grin at him before rising up, book in hand, holding the free hand out towards him, "For now, perhaps you would honor me with a stroll through the gardens?"

Kurt Wagner has posed:
Sometimes even the people that we count on the most, that one might be expected to fix problems that no one else could are made helpless by circumstances beyond their control. Kurt has a little experience with that, and while a part of him will always wonder if Mystique had no choice to abandon him like she did, he has come to accept certain realities. So he tips his head towards Amara. "That is an extremely healthy attitude," he asserts with a smile. And one never knows just what the future might have in store.

The fuzzy blue life has long since come to terms with the fact that not everyone will act in a decent fashion, not everyting will go one's way. And living one's life angry and full of regret is a rather toxic way to exist. His faith helps. And for those that can't overcome that sort of thinking? Well, he'll pray for them.

Her offer to tell him a story brings a smile to Kurt's features, teeth gleaming still despite the diminished light. "I am certain that any story you may choose to share will be more then pleasing," he says confidently. And perhaps discussing something of her home will help ease the ache of being denied it. He's certainly not opposed to killing two birds with one stone. "I could always share stories of my time in the circus. Or at the very least introduce you to some of my favorite movies," he adds with a low, warm laugh.

The mansion is certainly nice enough, all things considered. And the Danger Room can at least be used to give the semblance of anywhere. But sometimes nothing beats the real thing and Kurt offers another grin. "Ahh, it is nice to meet someone else with their priorities in the right place. Fresh air and swordplay," he teases lightly, yellow eyes glinting merrily. "I would be more then happy to fence with you sometime, day or night. With classes over until the fall there will certainly be plenty of opportunity to do so," he agrees.

Clearly, for Kurt, it is not about the winning or the losing.

A delighted little laugh escapes him and he takes her hand in his own in gentlemanly fashion, bowing over it before peeking upward with mischief in that gaze. "I would be positively delighted. Let us go see what we can see."

Amara Aquilla has posed:
Smiling softly towards Kurt, she lifts a small shrug and murmurs, "I reserve the right to be upset over it.. but I will not let sadness or regret keep me from living my life, or enjoying it." Amara seems to be relatively even-keeled, likely a good thing as her emotions have been known to be an issue for her powers. She said that leaving Nova Roma had been easy, and relatively speaking, that is true. It didn't mean it hadn't hurt. She'd done everything she could to stay, even spending years in the Amazon jungle with a native tribe, just to maintain her place in her home.

Growing up Roman means she did have to deal with less than scrupulous individuals, including those that would smile at her face, then try to slip a dagger between her ribs as she turned away. She even comes with her own ancestral issues, with Selene being a self-proclaimed ancestor that consistently tries to murder Amara. Still, she's relatively safe, and able to enjoy being a young woman in the modern world. So it isn't all bad!

Her own smile grows to match his, less fanged, but no less delighted in his acceptance of her offer. "Perhaps a picnic lunch by the lake then, and a story. I will bring my favorite, and recite to the best of my ability." The offer to share some of his own stories has her face aglow with pleasure, "I would like that. But only stories you wish to share. And I am still trying to understand.. cinema.. so you may have to explain a movie to me."

Laughing richly, Amara shakes her head a little and grins towards him openly, "I do happen to enjoy both those things, yes. You should see the jungle where I grew up sometime. You might be surprised how much you could practice swordplay there while in fresh air, surrounded by trees as tall as buildings.. do you fish?" The sudden question may seem out of the blue but clearly it connects for Amara somewhere between the two topics.

The thrill of the clash and the enjoyment of the spar is more than enough for Amara. While trained as a soldier, it is not her preferred profession.

Delight and interest sparks in her own eyes over the mischief in his, tucking the book up beneath her arm and keeping hold of his hand as she starts down the path with a slow smile, "Perhaps you will find more than you sought when you decided to stroll through the gardens..."

Kurt Wagner has posed:
"As is your right of course. I would never do anything so ignoble as to gainsay a lady," he assures her, one of those golden eyes winking at her until he becomes at least a little more serious. "It is quite reasonable to feel wronged over your situation," he agrees in understanding. "I doubt anyone can begrudge you that. It is not easy to lose one's home. Worse, I imagine, for it to still be there but have it denied to you," the fuzzy blue elf muses thoughtfully. "But as you say, sometimes your family can be the one's you choose."

Certainly that's the case for Kurt. Oh, perhaps he could go back to the circus if he truly desired to. But he has made a home here, at the school and with the X-Men both. He has made friends, felt welcomed and given a purpose both. It is not one that he would readily give up.

The suggestion of the picnic by the lake brings a grin to Kurt's expression and he bods his head, those demonic features looking far less so when that grin creases them. "That sounds lovely," he enthuses. "I am certain that there shall be a day sometime soon that will be suitable. As always, he sounds very confident in that fact, as if positive thoughts can somehow remake the world itself. Who knows, perhaps they can.

"I'm cvertain I can find an amusing antecdote or two to share, never you fear. There has always been plenty of happy times to go along with the ones that are less so. Finding the people that can help draw those out is a blessing indeed," he asserts. "And fear not, I would be more then happy to share my expertise on cinema. Some might say my enthusiasm is a little too great," he admits with a wry grin. "Though in truth, in many ways what matters most is how it makes you feel.

That she should be proficient with the blade does not seem so strange, given her background. Nor is it hard to picture her in the jungle of her homeland, practicing. Though some of that might be Kurt's own experience in the Savage Land. Her own travels wanderings in the Amazon probably involved fewer dinosaurs one would imagine. "I would certainly like to," the fuzzy blue elf agrees. Being a mutant certainly makes it much more likely that he will. As that topic changes suddenly, he grins once more. "I know something of catching fish, though admittedly it is not one of my true expertises," he admits. "Another passion of yours?" he inquires with a quirk of his brow.

The path through the garden is well lit at least and the faintest sound of insects in the night intersperses with their words. Guding the way to the longest of those gravel paths, he casually cofers her hand with his own. "I should certainly hope so," he says lightly, flashing that ready smile her way. "These gardens are much like life itself. There is always a new wonder or two tucked away, just waiting to be explored."

Amara Aquilla has posed:
"I wish I could remember home with only fondness and caring... but I'm afraid too much has transgressed for me to not see it in both lights. And now... after six years.. I wonder if father even truly intends to send for me at all, or if I am to remain here." Amara lifts a small shrug, then smiles faintly at Kurt. She wears an expression both sad and worried, "I left with a cloud above me that has never fully dissipated... but perhaps.. perhaps it is because I allow it to remain. I may need to banish thoughts of return to NOva ROma, and simply work on making a life for myself here."

She could go back, surprise her father.. she could. But would it be right? Would she be welcome? Such worries are the things that keep her from reaching out to him, asking if she can return. If she never asks, she'll never have to hear him say that she has to stay. At least then it can be her choice, not just her only choice.

Her smile brightens when he accepts the invitation to a picnic, nodding quickly, "Perhaps for a day that is on the cooler side, so we can enjoy sitting by the lake. Hot days make being around bodies of water.. worse. The air becomes thick and heavy, like a wet blanket." Chuckling, Amara shakes her head, "I have to admit that I've grown fond of moving pictures myself. In Nova Roma, the closest we can achieve is a story played out by live people in the amphitheatre. There is much they can do with these 'movies' that simply cannot be replicated with live effects."

"As far as the story goes, I can moved as much by a book or scroll as a movie or play, but I find that it is largely up to those that are in charge of the medium. Writers, directors, sometimes the actors themselves. They are the ones that bring the stories to life, that make them so enthralling." Amara smiles at him, then chuckles, "Oh, I am certain you have more than enough wit for any three playwrights."

Her time in the Amazon involved fewer dinosaurs, to be certain. But a higher concentration of jaguars, anacondas, giant otters, bull sharks, even electric eels were something to be wary of. To say nothing of pirhana, or the number of venomous and poisonous creatures that call the Amazon home. Even the ants could be a threat to people, though less so to her. "Something that I had to learn int he Amazon. We would fish for arapaima. A very large fish that lived in the rivers and coasts.. they could grow up to ten feet long, and heavier than a pair of jaguars."

Looking up at him, her hand tucked neatly into his, Amara smiles softly, "You may be correct. How lucky I am that you found me tucked away amongst the night blooms and crickets."

Kurt Wagner has posed:
Everyone's experience is going to be a little different. And likewise, just what home is, what it means to each individual is going to vary some too.

For the most part Kurt only has positive memories of growing up in the circus. To be sure, growing up, looking as he does, being so very different from others has not always been easy. But the fuzzy blue elf is not one to dwell on the negative, but instead embrace those good times. Those in the circus, his foster family embraced him. Made him feel like he was just like the rest of them. Part of the family. That definitely means something.

Likewise his time here at Xavier's has been, for the most part a positive experience. He has found a new family. A new purpose.

As exuberant and outgoing as he can be, Kurt is still very much a good listener, and he watches her in silence as she speaks, a warm, understanding smile curved over his features. "Home, family, they are not easy to give up on. Even if they cause pain," he agrees quietly, given her hand a little reassuring squeeze. "Just trust in the fact that there are those here, in your new home that will be happy to help you," he promises, that tone just a little lighter.

At least the possibility of the picnic is enough to bring a renewed smile to her features and Kurt dips his head in apparent agreement. "This true, though sometimes it is nice to have the potenial relief of a body of water - any body of water - so close on the days when summer's heat is at it's worst," he muses before flashing a grin once more. "Still, I am sure that we can find a day suitably comfortable to venture forth. And if nothing else we can perhaps appeal to Ororo to help arrange it," he points out impishly, winking at her with those glinting golden eyes.

"I do believe I know exactly what you mean," the fuzzy blue elf agrees. "I teach history as much for the love of sotires - in all forms - as anything else," he admits with a grin. "Whatever the medium, there is something true compelling about a good story. You are quite correct, that same surge of emotion can be experienced be it the written word or the spoken one. By a humble performance on stage or in some effects-laden extravaganza. It is the story that is the key.

Her description of the fish she was would seek has Kurt's eyes practically googling, shaking his head slowly as the smile remains curved there on his lips. "That sounds most impressive. And difficult to reel in I imagine. .

The last brings a delighted little laugh from the indigo-furred figure and he once more casts those glinting yellow eyes her way. "You flatter me. But you shall not see me turn down any such kind words," he notes, the corners of his mouth curving up once more. "Let us say that we are both rather foruante on this eve. Good comapny, to be enjoyed in relative solitude and peace around here can be a rare and prized thing indeed.

"Besides, where else would I possibly find a bloom so lovely, hmm?"

Amara Aquilla has posed:
Leaving behind the tumultuous thoughts of her home and her past, Amara smiles at Kurt. Her time here has been nothing short of amazing, making new friends and learning so many things about the modern world. Even if she were never to set foot in Nova Roma again, she could make a good life for herself here. And that is something she freely acknowledges. Taking a bit of his advice and looking towards the more positive aspects of it.

Should it come to pass, Amara knows that she could fit into this world, that she could not just survive here, she could thrive here.

Smiling at the squeeze to her hand, she looks to Kurt, meeting his yellow eyes with her own blue ones, "I know. And I am grateful for all the friends I have made here. For the life I have made here. It is not normal for me to be so maudlin.. I suppose in part it is the fact that summer has arrived and there are no more classes to occupy my time. It leaves me with a great deal of time to think.. perhaps too much." Her smile tugs up a little, "I shall endeavor to fill the hours with friends and fun."

Laughing softly at his comment about the relief of a body of water, Amara shakes her head and comments softly, "I will have to take your word for it, I'm afraid. Water and I are barely on speaking terms..." Not that she doesn't bathe, if anything, she's impeccably groomed. It's more the idea of water for recreation or relief that beings the mirth to her features. "The heat does not bother me, though, so perhaps I am in a unique situation. That said, I can imagine too much heat would be a bit much to deal with, given the layer of fur. Or.. do you prefer fur or fuzz? I do not wish to offend." The smile is turned towards him, sheepish.

"I, too, love history. And not simply because I apparently lived it. There is so much of the ancient world that people don't know, or have yet to uncover. And I love that we continue to find new and interesting stories buried beneath the earth, hidden away from the world and waiting to be discovered. In itself, it becomes a compelling story." Amara glances up at him and smiles, "Story and characters. You simply can't have a truly excellent story without compelling characters. You have to invest in them."

Flashing a brief grin, she nods, "It was a three-man operation at the least. Oftentimes we had to employ an entire group. It could take hours to properly filet and portion the fish. But the meat was quite dense and packed with necessary nutrients."

Amara grins at him when he calls her out for her flattery, "That doesn't make it any less true, however!" Still, she falls silent after a moment, glancing up at him, then suddenly leaning up to kiss right at the corner of his mouth, between fuzzy cheek and smooth lip.

"Now who flatters, hm?" Pleased with it, Amara continues to move along the path, her eyes trailing around the area, not as honed as Kurt's to the night, but picking out the details that she can... and enjoying the company.

Kurt Wagner has posed:
No one is immune to a maudlin thought or two from time to time, and no matter how positive and upbeat that Kurt Wagner seems to be regardless of the situation, regardless of the circumstance, that is no different for him either. Still, he has never found that dwelling on things has done very much but made him feel worse. It is not that he believes in ignoring grief, or pushing it done. Just that it is best to acknowledge it, deal with it and the leave it behind to the extent that it is possible.

So far, it has worked out fairly well for the fuzzy blue elf.

Not that he would ever judge anyone for functioning differently. He understands the need for people to be true to themselves, even when they might benefit from approaching things in a different way.

Still, his walking partner for the evening seems to have a good head on her shoulders in that respect. "It does help considerably to have something to distract one, admittedly. Keeping the mind and the body occupied tends to do wonders at keeping those more bleak thoughts at bay," he freely admits, wry smile curving those lips upward once more. "And I commend you on your fine choices in chosing said distractions," he adds with a light teasing note, winking playfully her way. "I, personally, am very much looking forward to the summer break. If for no other reason to see what sort of things I can get up to without quite so many students demanding attention. Much as I enjoy teaching, it should still be a nice break.

That she would have a little more trouble with water is no real surprise and Kurt ruefully dips his head towards her in acknowledgement. "You would have additional challenges with that, wouldn't you," he concedes. "Though yes, spared the heat certainly has its advantages as the weather continues to warm.

Again, his eyes dance merrily at her question. "Never fear, it is particularly difficult to offend me, nor will I ever hold it against anyone for having a question," he asserts. Though again, those eyes start to gleam mischeviously once more. "Fur, fluff hair? It is all fundamentally the same thing. Call it what you will," he says lightly. "Fortunately it does not hit my as hard as one might think, even during the height of summer. Not necessarily my favorite time of year, but probably not all that much worse then it effects anyone else," he muses. "Part of my mutation perhaps," he says with an easy shrug.

"I imagine that you do have a unique perspective of that period of time," he agrees thoughtfully. "Perhaps we can call up a suitable program in the Danger Room sometime and explore it, if it would not remind you too much of Nova Roma," he suggests. "And yes, Iquite agree. Both elements tend to be essential in any good tale," he admits.

Her countering point only makes him laugh once more and he dips his head in ready concession of that point. "Perhaps, but kind nonetheless. The mark of a true lady," he asserts before her lips graze his fuzzy cheek. Again, Kurt's brilliant eyes dance merrily, and he brings their hands up, bowing over hers and grazing an answering kiss over the backs of her knuckles before straightening once more. "Me? Flatter?" the fuzzy blue elf offers up in mock astonishment. He raises that free hand to his chest, stepping lightly like he might in a dance. Then he spins her away from him, drawing her up when arms are at full extension before reeling her back in once more.

"I speak the truth. Never sell yourself short Amara."

Amara Aquilla has posed:
Chuckling softly, Amara turns a warm smile up towards Kurt, "I like to think I have gained a better taste in companions after the misadventures with my previous choices." THe hand clasped with his gives a small squeeze as her smile softens, leaning in a little towards him, skin brushing against fur briefly, "Besides, who else is there for me to get a fun, friendly spar with? So few people use swords anymore.." His mention of looking forward to the break has her laughing again, her head bobbing agreeably, "Yes, I can see that. Well, hopefully you won't mind spending some time together without the teacher/student relationship getting in the way?"

Glancing in the direction of the lake, she quirks a small smile and lifts a shrug, "Less challenge for me and more... there would be no lake if anything were to happen that causes an emotional outburst. My powers, they are tied to my emotions. It can make it difficult to truly express myself as I don't wish to hurt anyone." Turning her gaze back to him, she smiles softly, "That said, I am excellent company come winter."

Amara lifts a brow, mischief showing on her face as she murmurs, "I'll remember that the next time I have a question for you. It may test that resolve. Or.. perhaps not.. perhaps you will like the quesion." She lifts her free hand, stroking her fingertips along the fuzz on his forearm, "Either way, it is as soft as down. You must be a delight to cuddle with." Her eyes lift to his, one lid dropping into a wink before she gives a small nod. "The heat resistance is certainly part of mine, so I can understand that."

Her expression shifts, her face lighting up at his suggestion, "That would be wonderful! I might be able to help refine the program to make it more realistic... and it would be enjoyable to wander the streets again. Or train with Roman Centurions. Fight the ancient battles of legend."

Smiling as he pauses to bow over her hand, kissing her knuckles in a courtly gesture. "You flatter. Even if it is the truth, it is still flattery... and I appreciate it." She doesn't say anything more, spun away from him before being drawn back in. She moves with him, ending with her free hand on his shoulder and her face tilted up towards his with a warm smile on her lips.

"I am not selling myself short. I am readjusting the bar I strive for to meet another's view of me. Something for me to attain. And perhaps they will enjoy the effort.."

Kurt Wagner has posed:
Very few people are infallible in every choice they make, every association they keep. "Every experience holds at least some small reward, even if it is only a lesson in who best to avoid or how to choose one's company a little better," he grin over at her, the lighting just a little better in this section of the garden, a string of little twinkle lights winding it's way up what on the hanging planter poles, those little dots of sparkling illumination adding just a touch more light to evening, to the path. "And as to those inclined to a friendly little spar - or an intense workout perhaps - you might be surprised. There is no shortage about. Betsy of course, and Tarot. One of the newer students, AJ. And Logan of course, though that might be more of an intense workout then anyone truly wants," he says wryly shaking his head. "And bewave Kitty," he adds ruefully.

Clearly he has had some experience there. And it doesn't sound as if he came out on top in that particularly sparring match. "Mind? I'm positively looking forward to it.

Breakstone Lake is practically an institution at this point, for almost all the students at the school. And probably the vast majority of the faculty as well., Like her, the fuzzy blue elf's features turn towards it, perhaps even able to see make it out clearly from here with those eyes of him. "Mmm, yes, that would be most unfortunate. And probably upsetting to much of the student body. Not to mention all of the wee fishies," he muses, eyes glinting just a little. "Maybe I can at least to convince you to dip a toe in on a particularly warm day," he suggests, that smile broadening impishly. "Afterall, if you can't play with a little fire, I don't know who else can..."

If nothing else Kurt is very positive company and a low laugh slips from him at that, leaning in and nudging her lightly, pressing that soft indigo fur up against her arm. "I look forward to the test," he replies, the corners of his mouth dancing with mirth. "Though I suspect that it is more likely to be the later rather then the former. I suspect you can come up with some very interesting inquiries indeed," he murmurs, eyeing her speculatively.

Then he grins once more, giving her hand another squeeze. "Mmmm, I think that it is safe to say that you're likely not to be the only pleasantly warm armful when the weather turns. Whatever problems it might cause at the height of the summer, said fuzz more then compensates come the autumn and the winter," he agrees, that impish note creeping back into his voice.

That enthusiasm to venture into the Danger Room's ancient Rom program brings that glint back to his eye. "Excellent! I look forward to seeing what sort of reinfinements we can make to it, be they fun or factual. Perhaps an especially appealing retreat on those days when the weather turns a little too warm," he muses

There is a sort of simply joy in motion for current, much like he approaches everything else in his life it would seem. And while the gravelled path underfoot might be a far cry from a properly polished ballroom floor, he never the lessseems to move as if it is, arm slipping around the small of her back as he reels her back in, sweeping circles along the garden path, the tiny little stones underfoot hardly disturbed by his passage, each step surpisingly light.

"An observation," he counters cheekily. "A compliment at the very best. And a well deserved one at that," the fuzzy blue elf insists. that last brings that smile dancing through those golden eyes once more. "Ahh! Fair enough then. It is no bad thing to have something to strive for," he agrees. "And anyone that cannot appreciate the effort, or indeed you, is a fool indeed."

Amara Aquilla has posed:
"Well... given that my last boyfriend was Mephisto... I feel as though I can truly only go up from there," Amara smiles laughingly up into Kurt's face, then drops a sly wink at him. "Perhaps I was looking for the wrong type of devilishly handsome rogue." Her free hand lifts to trail along some of the hanging planters, enjoying the touch of the leaves and flowers, the soft petals and waxiness of the leaves. Following those pale lights along the path. "Excellent. I will remember those names and seek them out soon enough... well, perhaps not Kitty. But hopefully one day." She flashes a quick grin at him as they continue through the gardens.

Laughing softly, she gives a small nod, "Precisely. I've managed the pool for short periods of time. I suppose the lake would be no worse." Amara glances sidelong towards him, those blue eyes dancing with mischief and daring, "I don't know that I'm the one playing with fire just now.. but you do so very well. You do fiery folks justice.." Amara reaches up to flick a lock of his hair away from his face, offering a sly smile his way.

"Well then, allow me the first," Amara chuckles lightly over the nudge, nudging him in return and dancing around to walk backwards in front of him, lightly swinging their clasped hands between them. "Are you seeing anyone just now?" That mischief is all over her face, deviltry dancing in those blue eyes.

With that little bomb of a question dropped, Amara laughs in delight and gives a nod, "I think that would be excellent! There are a few days in the coming weeks that are going to be horridly hot and humid if the forecast is correct. Perhaps over the weekend we can refine the program, then when the heat arrives, we can escape to the Danger Room." She certainly seems eager to get a chance to recreate her home at Xaviers, even if it's only a hologram.

While she doesn't have his natural light step, Amara is a noblewoman, trained in dancing as well as swordsmanship. Each sweep of her foot leaving neat little swishing patterns in the tiny stones around the divots left by the turning foor as she moves along with him in this dance. She smiles up at him and murmurs, "I feel underdressed for this activity... I feel I need a dress to properly sweep about and flare with each twirl... perhaps another time we can do this again.. appropriately attired?"

Her eyes lift to his, blue on yellow as she keeps a soft gaze on him, her fingertips stroking inward from his shoulder towards the back of his neck. "I enjoy having goals to strive towards.. but I do think that I know at least one person that appreciates me. I just have to figure out how to show my appreciation in return."

Kurt Wagner has posed:
Certainly Kurt has had a romantic entanglement or two that might not have been the wisest decision he has ever made. But as per his sseeming guiding principle, he doesn't look back on those, mmm, errors in judgement with regret. But a chance to grow. To learn and change. From that prespective no interaction is entirely bad. "Still, his eyes widen a little at that, giving her a wondering shake of his head. "Then, it would seem that you have better reason then most to be wary about just who your friends and paramours might be," he admits before winking playfully at her. "Still, you have my solemn oath," he begins, managing to keep a straight face though thosegolden eyes continue to glint brightly in the increased light, those little pinpricks of illumination seeming to dance there. "That I have no interest in stealing your soul. I make no promises about anything else however," he adds, that impish grin sliding back over his expression.

The path in this part of the garden widens here once more, another little decorative display in the center of the gravel square and benches lining the edges where the paths diverge. Again, he casts that sly grin her way, starting to steer her around that little courtyard, still gripped lightly in his arms. "Perhaps," he conceeds. "But some flames are simply too alluring to stray too far away. They are worth the risk of a burn or two," he points out archly.

As she swings about, falling into that graceful backpeddle, easily matching his strides, Kurt lets his free hand slip into hers as well. "I am not, in truth. Though what better time to find some suitably stimulating companionship then the summer, hmm? When the days lengthen, and the heat rises. Yes, I would say that there is the distinct possibility of change hanging in the air," he says lightly.

Then his laugh joins hers and he continues those slow steps, no longer quite dancing, but still taking the slow circuit around the display instead of making directly of for the path that leads to the fringe of the garden. "Excellent! It is settled then! We shall bundle up a blanket and a basket and head down to the lake with our picnic on one of the cooler days and secret ourselves in the Danger Room control room on one of the warmer ones to improve upon the Ancient Roman sim," he says, that easy grin flashing across his expression as natural as can be. It might not be home for her, but it might be enough to ease some of those feelings of lose for a few hours.

With the right companion.

Completing that curcuit around the statue, the fuzzy blue elf continues to let those joined hands swing gently. "I do admit a certain fondness for certain courty rituals," he agrees without shame. "Though the modern trends have their place true. Though they are a little loud to speak much," he says before lips twitch. "Though I suppose there are times that can be an advantage too," he admits with a hint of a smile. "Still, should you care to dance another time, I'm certain we can find somewhere appropriate. Given how stunning you are without any such accoutrements, it would certainly be my priviledge and my pleasure to escort you around the ballroom a time or two," he says, those yellow eyes dancing once more.

The last draws another low laugh from him, warm and rich, hands slipping to rest on either side of her hips for the moment, framing them there between them. "Ahhh, but I think you have given them the very gift of all. The gift of your time," he points out with a warm smile. "And more time to come," he adds with a firm nod. "And for that you certainly have more then my appreciation. I thank you for the dance," he says, leaving in, one softly furred cheek grazing against her own before he presses a kiss there. Then he is doing the ame on the other side as well. And when he finally draws back it is only to presses warm lips one last time, this time grazing the line of her mouth.

Amara Aquilla has posed:
Seeing his eyes widen at her revelation, she offers a sheepish smile and murmurs, "In my defense... he was always a perfect gentleman to me. He desired to be treated as a normal person for once, without the pomp and terror that being him generally brought. It.. ended rather quickly, he was keeping things from me because he knew that I wouldn't approve of. But he was very nice and respectful when we were together." Amara lifts a small shrug, "A leopard cannot be made to change its spots."

Mention of not stealing her soul has her giggling, though when he makes no promises for anything else, Amara smiles up at him, reaching up with one hand, trailing a fingertip along the edge of his jaw, "And if you didn't have to steal anything else? It seems to be being offered up freely and gladly..." There's a wink sent his way s she strokes her fingertips along his face.

"At least you are not a moth, to worry that you draw too close... but not to worry, I will not singe you." Pausing, she flashes an impish grin and murmurs, "Too much. I'll be sure to kiss your burns to make them better." She leans up towards him, close enough he can feel the warmth of her breath on his lips, "Unless, of course, you don't want me to.."

Then they're moving around the gardens once more, circling around that centerpiece as they continue to turn. Not dancing, perse, but staying in close to one another and swaying their arms lightly back and forth. "A summer-born romance *does* sound delightful. A heating of feelings, of closeness, to come together in the heat of the season..."

These past minutes have done wonders to help ease the sense of loss and dread she feels towards her home, replaced with the sparks of interest towards her companion and the delight in the activities they have planned. Nodding eagerly, eyes sparkling, Amara smiles brilliantly up at him, "I am thrilled and excited for our plans, and I look forward to more of them to come." She lets out a breath and looks quite pleased, "This is going to be fun. I'm so glad that we happened upon one another tonight, Kurt."

Her brows furrow a bit when he mentions courtly rituals and the loudness of modern ways, then blinks and lets out a smlal laugh. Shaking her head, Amara swings their hands together, bringing them up between their bodies and smiling softly at him, "Not in a dance hall, or... ah, club? I thought perhaps a quiet dinner.. and a few turns around the ballroom to some appropriate music? I have friends that I can enjoy the clubs with.. none really appreciate the old ways. Not until now." The smile turns a touch coquettish, "Will you dance with me, Kurt?"

Each soft press of his lips leaves a warm beacon of blush in their wake, but its the press of his lips against hers that has Amara giving a soft sound of surprise and pleasure, both hands lifting up now to bracket his face as she leans in towards him. Pressing her lips more firmly to his as she arches into the kiss.

Kurt Wagner has posed:
Life is full of countless mysteries and wonders. Things that just do not make any real sense, that defy understanding. And isn't that part of what makes it all worth living? With playing things through and allowing oneself to be surprised? That the Big Bad Evil Guy might not be the very worst date that a young woman could have. Surprising, perhaps? Certainly. But the sort of revelation that one never expects to be a party to. "I can see the appeal. And the difficulty, I would imagine. I do not no if every leopard is forever doomed to wear each and every spot. But I can certainly see the difficulties for some to change them," he conceeds.

With that dance ended, at least for now, he tilts his head ever so slightly against the tips of those fingers that chase the line of his jaw, that indigo fuzz seeming a little shorter, a little more closely cropped beneath her stroking hand. "So much the better then, I would say," he murmurs, though those corners of his mouth are quickly curling upward. "Thought that is not to say that it might still not be fun to make a game of it," he points out lightly, laughing once more.

I certainly do appreciate your restraint," the fuzzy blue elf allows. "Though I fear there would certainly be a temptation to see if I can raise the temperature a bit," he points out with that teasing smile. "At least I know that you will be there to sooth if I were to be a little too successful in said endeavors."

That dance might be done, for the moment at least, but he certainly seems to be taking his time in releasing her, hand still very much present at the small of her back, resting on one of her hips. "It has it's appeal, does it not?" he murmurs once more, that brilliant golden gaze meeting her eyes, leaning in just a little closer perhaps. "And so much the better if it carries right on into the colder season, with that kindled heat to warm and comfort."

There is no doubt that the chance encounter in the garden is rather fortuitous. His late night ramblings only occasionally leave him to run into anyone. And it feels safe to say that those nocturnal adventures have never been quite as enjoyable as this. Logan is a fine fellow - though generally not the sort one wants to wonder up on in the dark - but not really his type. "I think we both have much to look forward to," he agrees with a smile. "I'm increasingly glad that the term is over and the school should not be so hectic, at least for a couple of months," he concedes wryly.

"Pl ease do not get me wrong. There is a joy in movement, a stirring to the rhythm of modern music to be sure. But it does lack a little of the romance and charm of a waltz around a hardwood floor," he says with a smile and a small shrug of one shoulder. "But dinner, dancing, you and I, that sounds like a lovely night indeed. Fair warning, I might not let you dance with any one else," he teases.

Then he is leaning it to meet her lips with that light caress of his own. No matter his intent, that kiss lingers, hand slipping up for her hip, those long fingers cradling her chin gently. And as that hand on her back slips higher, to the base of her neck, to tease through her hair there, that simple, brief kiss is no longer brief or anywhere quite so simple.