Costumes
Part 3
Tayend smirked. "Alright then. But I wouldn't mind singing romantic songs for you… or perhaps the original versions in Vindo!"
Determined to remain cool, Dannyl replied, "You don't usually need an excuse to whisper dirty things to me in Vindo."
The scholar grinned proudly. "Well, that's only because I know how much you secretly like it. Oh! What about me dressing up as a stable boy?"
Dannyl spat out the mouthful of wine he was in the process of swallowing. "WHAT?"
Adopting an innocent expression, Tayend continued, "And you'd make a fine horse for me!"
"You can go find another horse to ride!" The magician cried indignantly.
"Now, now Dannyl," Tayend explained cheerfully, "If your aren't a good horsey, I'll have to get my whip out!"
Dying of mortification suddenly seemed like a good way to escape Tayend's teasing. But Dannyl managed to announce sternly, "If I ever catch you sneaking around with a whip, I'm going to lock you out of my bedroom at night."
"You better make sure to lock your windows while you're at it."
Dannyl rolled his eyes at Tayend's jibe. "I'm surprised you haven't suggested dressing up as a magician by now!"
Tayend's eyes brightened. "Actually, I was saving that for last. I'd make an impressive Warrior, don't you think?" The scholar did his best tough-looking impression.
"Impressively awful, if that's the look you're aiming for. And I don't think magician robes come in sizes small enough to fit you."
The Elyne sighed heavily. "You just don't want to admit that I scare you sometimes!"
"Of course I admit to it. Anyone who isn't intimidated by you is a fool."
Not sure how to respond to this, Tayend moved on. "How about a novice?"
Dannyl felt a mad urge to throw something at Tayend. "What the hell makes you think I'd be excited by you dressing up as a teenager?"
The scholar said loftily, "Not all novices are under twenty. Look at Farand! He certainly looks good in those novice robes… and I bet I'd look even better! And if you like, you can pretend to be my teacher!" Tayend gave his friend a rueful wink.
Dannyl pointed out that brown wasn't really Tayend's colour.
Tayend just grinned gleefully. "You're just too embarrassed and reserved to admit that you can't wait for me to buy all these outfits! So, what do you want me to dress up as first?"
Dannyl drained his wine, and took a few moments to decide. "An Elyne courtier! Or a scholar, either works for me."
Tayend looked disappointed for a second, before his face lit up and he replied joyfully, "Oh! What excellent taste you have, Lord Dannyl. I'll go put it on now, shall I?"
The scholar leapt out of his chair and strode out of the living room, pausing only to give the magician's hair an affectionate ruffle.
Dannyl grabbed the wine bottle, and refilled his glass to the brim. He had a feeling he was going to need it.
(Thanks for all the reviews so far :) I was very nervous about posting this fic. I hope the ending is satisfying, please let me know what you think!)