[ Having not actually seen the technology god under what could be considered normal circumstances before now, the sight of him takes K by surprise. His wide-eyed staring is cut short by being pulled inside and he goes willingly, similarly affected by the physical contact, and he attempts to lightly curl his fingers around Tech Boy's wrist in turn to prolong it. Acutely aware of the fact that with a little adjustment, they could be holding hands...
The miasma of loneliness and despair that had settled heavily on him since returning from Rapture steadily evaporates, and it's like finally being able to draw a full breath after struggling against a slow suffocation. He's missed Tech Boy is the honest answer, but he does have a purpose beyond that for wanting to see him. ]
I made something for you.
[ Not all of those flowers are growing in his hair. Some have been woven together with delicately precise care to form a crown, which he removes from his head with his free hand and carefully holds it out, intending to place it on Tech Boy's head if he allows it. Unlike the crowns from Fern or the townspeople, this one notably has several artificial flowers that won't wilt or die — possibly the result of Fern's grass powers adapting to a synthetic host.
Clearly this was important enough to warrant an interruption. ]
[ Appreciative staring is what the young god is going for with his look. Quiet awe at his magnificence, etc. He gets fairly mixed results, but it's a good look coming from K. K's opinion matters to Tech Boy (for some reason he'd hadn't put a name to), and it pleases him immensely. Few things did that these days.
Seeing the flower crown, he opens his mouth to say something flippant and rude about the weird pagan shit that the natives are forcing on everyone-- but he stops short, remembering the hurt look on K's face when he'd snapped over text. Despite how fast his divinely artificial mind works, it still takes a moment for him to work out how to react to the gift. Ultimately he decides to shut his mouth and nod in acceptance.
Tech Boy releases K's arm by stretching his hand with a little wiggle of his fingers. He squares himself to K, only a few inches shorter, and clasps his hands in front of him, ready to be crowned. It's the synthetic ones that sold it. The interruption is forgiven. ]
[ Taking that as permission, K arranges the flower crown on Tech Boy's head and there's a sense of reverence behind the gesture, both thoughtful and deliberate. For good reason. ]
Are you ever given tokens of worship? [ He asks in a quieter tone than before.
Maybe that's more of a custom with the Old Gods (that weird pagan shit), he can't be sure, but feels hopeful the intent of his gift might be appreciated regardless of the gift's form. Even if it is sort of blurring the boundaries of their — association? Friendship? Since Rapture and the manifestation of the red string that's connecting them, it has certainly felt like more, but he lacks the experience to fully understand his own emotions. ]
[ He's about to warn K not to fuck up his hair, but K seems to realize that without being told, so the god lets the request go unspoken. Tech Boy reaches up to stroke one of the artificial flowers with a finger, easily finding it among its organic counterparts. ]
Why are you growing flowers? [ and then aloud ] Not like this. This kinda stuff is usually what the Old Guys are into. It's different. [ He's thoughtful because he's had to come face-to-face with the Old ways of worship quite a bit since arriving in Deerington. ]
Mine are usually less tangible. More like time and attention. People spend hours browsing the web, social media, R&D, PornHub, streaming video, shitposting and memes-- and any time spent staring at a screen instead of practically any other activity they could be doing means it's time dedicated to me.
[ He tilts his head a little and nearly reaches out to touch K's arm again. ] You took the time to do this for me. And you came to see me. Is that what this is? A token of worship?
[ Android precision ensures not a single hair is pushed out of place by the crown, so Tech Boy won't have to worry on that count. He isn't dealing with a clumsy human here. ]
I've inherited Fern's abilities. [ K holds up his hand with the glimmering gold string that leads to the boy — his best guess as to why he has unconstrained access to Fern's grass powers.
As Tech Boy goes on to explain the particularities of how best to worship him, K falls contemplatively quiet, absorbing the information. There's a little tug of guilt because he doesn't live with his face glued to a screen the way social media-addicted humans do. And the fact is, he'd far rather spend time with the god like this, in person, or at the very least in direct communication. Not indirectly through web browsing or pornography or memes.
Ultimately, the heart of his interest lies in wanting to know Tech Boy both as a god and as a person, and he doesn't attempt to conceal this thought. ]
If you'll accept it as one, yes. [ A pause. ] And as a small token of my regard. [ Which has less to do with divinity and everything to do with that red string. ]
[ Tech Boy regards the gold string with a certain seriousness before lifting his hand to display the red string that binds the two of them. K is growing flowers because of a connection to Fern, so just what is happening really because of the red string of fate that connects the two of them? His face remains neutral at first, torn between a frown at the potential that his actions and emotions (and ability) are not his own... and the warmth of a more solid connection to someone he really doesn't mind spending time with. High praise by Tech Boy's standards.
Ultimately he forgoes the frown entirely, catching the last thought clearly. Emotions are such complicated things, and the tender ones are not really something he deals in. The tug of the string has the same flavor as worship, but the difference is stark. ]
I don't accept it. [ but before K can react poorly, Tech Boy takes a handful of K's shirt, reestablishing the comfort of their physical contact. ] I can't. Not as worship. Because you don't worship me. [ His lips quirk into a smirk. ] Not yet.
[ He takes a step closer to K, almost in challenge. ] Regard I'll accept. I regard you [ a pause as he considers. Red string be damned. ] very fondly indeed.
[ The grip on his shirt has K instinctively wanting to lean in and consciously refraining, unsure where it would lead them with how blurred the boundaries already are. Then, as though reading his mind (which may very well have occurred, considering), Tech Boy closes some of the distance between them. The combination of physical proximity and the god's words has an immediate, unmistakable effect on K — a strangely human response at that — in the heat he can feel crawling up his neck, and slowly spreading across his face. ]
Maybe worship just looks a little different coming from something like me. [ But he isn't inclined to argue it, because what does he know about worship, really? Compared to a god who's spent the entirety of his life receiving it.
Once more he reaches to carefully curl his fingers around Tech Boy's wrist. Carrying him from the wreckage of the Titanic had been the very definition of extenuating circumstances — K's still learning what the god will and won't accept from him in terms of physical contact, under these relatively normal circumstances. ]
Can I... stay? You can go back to what you were doing.
[ Being seen and not heard is something he excels at. But it wouldn't be out of necessity to accommodate the bigotry of a human, this time, but because he'd be genuinely happy just spending time in Tech Boy's presence, where he feels he belongs. ]
[ Considering the god's normal reluctance toward physical contact, this exchange of just a few minutes has already been going on for a quite a while. And given how long it had been since the last time the Technical Boy had relaxed around another person enough for any sort of physical intimacy-- better not focus on that.
He sucks in a breath through his teeth in a chastising sort of sound. ] Something. I hate that. [ He considers telling K not to refer to himself that way ("Use someone, not something."), but he fears K will take it as some kind of an order. He also knows that the thought is leaking through the red string against his will, and he frowns.
At the touch on his wrist, Tech Boy looks down at it, eyes widening for a moment but not pulling away. When he looks back, he meets K's eyes, squinting a little as if trying to figure him out. Tech Boy's remembering their conversation they'd never finished in Rapture right before the splicer attack. "Would you ever want to have a relationship with someone who isn't human, and isn't a god?" He plays that back, in case K's forgotten.
With the hand still holding onto K's shirt, he taps his index finger against K's chest. ]
[ Not something. Someone. It doesn't take an order for K to consider making this concession, no matter how inaccurate it may feel to him — it's enough simply knowing that Tech Boy would prefer it.
With how frequently that particular conversation has occupied K's thoughts since Rapture, the reminder of what was said is hardly needed and makes him inwardly wince. Navigating the delicate emotional landscape of humans has taught him to be exceedingly cautious and indirect about anything that might cause upset, but that knowledge seems to go straight out the window when it comes to this god. K couldn't have been more blatant with his questions.
And now with that unfinished conversation shifting the context of their current one, his asking to stay could be interpreted as some kind of proposition. Which ... is an intriguing thought (that also unfortunately filters through their string connection), but he hadn't intended it that way. Torn between caution urging him to withdraw, and their connection compelling him to press forward, the indecision is clear in his expression. Acting on impulse— ]
I want to stay. [ He says decisively. ] If it won't inconvenience you.
[ Would it be inappropriate? Is that why their prior conversation was brought up? (Did Tech Boy intend to answer?) The questions go unvoiced but linger in his thoughts, just as his hand lingers on Tech Boy's wrist, his thumb slowly tracing over the underside where the skin is at its thinnest. The gesture is more curious than anything; experiencing physical contact without violence is still a complete novelty to him. ]
[ As K's thumb begins to move on his wrist, Tech Boy's eyes flicker down toward it again without turning his head. This is interesting. Intriguing indeed, but he feels that their power dynamic is in danger of becoming unbalanced through the influence of the red string. It's putting him on the verge of becoming irritable instead of enjoying the fawning attention.
So he flattens his hand, pressing is against K's chest. His palm slides downwards in lazy exploration as he goes into his toes a little to whisper into K's ear. ] I want you to stay. [ He kisses K just in front of his ear; then again on the curve of his jaw.
Whatever conflict K is feeling, Tech Boy can sense it through their connection but doesn't share his hesitation. K could have just as easily asked TB if he wanted to bone and gotten the same response as his polite circumspection. However, there are now feelings involved that the god doesn't really trust. He'll reevaluate their situation once the string finally disappears (IF it does).
Unless K stops him, he'll pull back and turn to lead K farther into the apartment-- back toward his bedroom with appears to be illuminated by the distinct glow of a backlit screen. ]
cw: an awkward sexual awakening sure is happening in here
[ The hand against his chest and words alone are enough to send a pleasant thrill of heat through him, magnified by the unfamiliar sensation of lips against his skin. That has every nerve in his body seeming to come alive at once, buzzing with interest so suddenly it leaves him a bit light-headed — and utterly caught off-guard.
He'd been designed for such specific purposes that it hadn't occurred to him there might be any overlap shared with other models. With pleasure models. Those designed to satisfy sexual needs, along with every depravity humanity has come up with. While he doubts he possesses their proficiency, it does appear that certain basic functionality must be universal, knowledge only now being revealed to him because this is the first time he's experienced this with someone whom he actually wants to touch him.
Someone... he wants to touch, too. Wants to feel, to hear, to taste — and these thoughts shamelessly pass through their connection.
For several moments it's all K can do to follow where he's being led in wide-eyed, happy surprise. But he's unlike human men who seem to lose all higher brain function once their libidos are engaged, because he's also curiously taking in the details of Tech Boy's apartment, and deftly catching each flower petal that occasionally drifts down from his own hair. It won't do to leave a mess. ]
Your project... [ He wants to ask about the details, but— ] You can still work on it while I'm here? [ Had the god been working on it in his bedroom before the interruption? Even now, K doesn't want to be too presumptuous about what he's being allowed, though he does dare to lean in and brush an affectionate kiss to the nape of Tech Boy's neck, breathing him in. ]
[ He's not facing K as he leads him back to the bedroom, and the flash of the young god's smile is all the wider because of it. He's soaking in every warm feeling through their connection, and it feels so good to be wanted. It's a very nice change from the cycle of hostility he'd been treated to in his still recent past. New dimension, new start? Maybe. At least it'll be fun. And he's been wanting to explore K's body more thoroughly ever since their first meeting in the Titanic's hospital room. These days he has more of a personal interest, instead of purely a professional one. It's that emotions thing again. An unusual sensation, and it causes that smile to linger.
Something about the act of K catching the falling petals sparks the beginning of an idea in his brain. It's running in the background as K seems to echo the subject aloud. ]
That depends-- [ Tech Boy closes his eyes, shivering almost imperceptibly at the kiss on his neck. ] --on if something more interesting comes up.
[ Entering the bedroom, it's clear that he had in fact been working in the room before K's knock on the door. A tablet is propped up on a low table at the foot of TB's bed, illuminating most of the room, and his iPhone's screen glows from somewhere on the floor nearby. It's toward this setup that he motions for K to follow him. ]
But I do have one thing to take care of first. You've given me an idea. Gotta see if it works. Have a seat for a sec. [ on the edge of the bed or on the floor. Your preference, K.
Reaching up to the flower crown, Tech Boy carefully removes one of K's artificial flowers, gazing at his appreciatively with a little smirk of approval. ]
[ If K were more adept at navigating this particular territory of interpersonal relationships, he'd point out that something (arguably) more interesting is already, very insistently, coming up. But he isn't, so unfortunately the perfect opportunity for innuendo passes him by. For now.
When the choice of where to sit is presented to him he pauses, considering the possible implications and implied intimacy of being on someone else's bed. Even if it is the only place to sit besides the floor... he's pretty sure this choice may be more significant than his host is letting on. Or maybe he's overthinking it.
Either way, he's already made his interest known. He chooses the bed, settling on it comfortably while simultaneously and discreetly attempting to adjust himself in a manner that looks like he's smoothing his clothes into place. Probably not fooling anyone who's familiar with this type of problem, but he's trying not to be completely indecent here. He then leans back slightly, propping himself up with a hand. ]
I don't mind if you work. I told you. [ And true to his word, he's neither restless nor seems the least bit expectant of anything, appearing wholly content just to be in close proximity to Tech Boy. And as K looks up at him, his expression softens with some unnamed emotion that his thoughts provide a little context for: Art. He's recalling Tech Boy's own thoughts, filtered through the lens of their connection and now layered with K's growing regard for the god. His god, in several senses of the word; that thought is also freely shared, along with his curiosity about what he's inspired, with regards to Tech Boy's project. ]
[ The biggest problem that the Technical Boy has ever had is the one that got him retired by Mr. World (a thought he'd been purposely avoiding ever since waking up here). He simply could not be in two places at once. Flower in hand with an idea in his head -- and K on his bed. To anyone else, the choice may have been easy, but TB is the literal god of Technology. He has obligations, and the nagging persistence in is mind wouldn't let him abandon a program-in-progress even for the tastiest of distraction. K's attempt to avoid lewdness is admirable, but also equal parts ineffective and not what Tech Boy wants right now.
As he bends to snatch the tablet from its resting place, one word brings him up short. Art. Yes, he had said that, hadn't he? He's frowning now, but the expression has more to do with his argument with Media back then and less to do with K's gentle reminder. Art for the sake of itself is irrelevant. It's transient. Fleeting. Ultimately pointless. Learning from the past to predict the future? Tech Boy is the future. He didn't need art to tell him where to go. This incongruity is one reason he and Media had never really understood each other, even while being dependent on each other. But this kind of art-- K's existence is proof of his own future. Who needs faith that one effort will surpass all previous attempts with a technological wonder reclining on his bed? His god, K had claimed. Well, that is complicatedly true enough.
Tech Boy's thoughts are rambling and too big, but his plans for the next several hours have crystal clarity. What came next would be much more fun. How's that for innuendo?
Rather than sitting on the floor himself or next to K on the bed, Tech Boy opts to seat himself on K's leg, practically in his lap. There's no hiding any carnal intentions at this point, but the god cannot resist showing off a little first. ]
Watch this. I think you'll like it.
[ The tablet's screen goes completely white. Tech Boy's eyes begin to glow faintly, and he closes his eyes as he touches the flower to the screen. The flower and Tech Boy's hand past the wrist seems to disappear as he partially digitizes himself into the tablet. In truth, it would be easier to go all in, but he doesn't want to actually leave K's presence and doesn't have a way (yet) to take him with. After a minute, TB withdraws his hand from the screen, and the flower is gone. Seconds later, a little pixel plant appears on the screen. Tech Boy opens his eyes as his lips curl contentedly. ]
It just needed a finishing touch. Something special. [ He slides his now empty hand up K's thigh he's not sitting on, and he whispers two of the rarest words ever to leave the god's lips. ] Thank you.
[ There's a flicker of surprise in K's expression as Tech Boy unexpectedly makes himself at home practically in his lap, but it quickly dissolves into a look that's caught between pleased and pleasured. He can't help the latter, the close physical contact is proving a bit overwhelming and he has no prior experience to guide him in this. Which isn't to say he's completely oblivious. Just... cautious, as he winds an arm around Tech Boy to hold him, feeling out the boundaries of what he's allowed here. His other hand slips beneath Tech Boy's shirt, fingertips ghosting along his skin in careful exploration.
But K's an attentive audience, his wandering hand eventually stilling as he watches what's happening with the artificial flower with interest. Being digitised, just like that, as easy as breathing. The demonstration is accompanied by a vast array of quickly branching thoughts from K, a mental spiderweb of possibilities — while most of his body may seem passably human, his mind is, as ever, something else altogether — until he consciously quiets his mind, slowing the deluge to a controlled trickle of curiosity. It clearly isn't just the plant-based app that holds his interest captive. ]
That easily... You can create things. Alter them. [ His eyes briefly lift to Tech Boy's face before returning to the tablet's screen, fascinated. His focus is such that the hand on his thigh actually catches him off guard as much as being thanked does, and there's a surprised smile suddenly tugging at the corners of his mouth as his eyes drift closed for a few seconds, soaking in the sensation. ]
Are you capable of altering me like that? My programming? [ He asks after a long moment, though no longer aloud. This is the culmination of a very long period of consideration, as Tech Boy may have likely gleaned from his prior thoughts. And K still isn't entirely certain of his preferred course of action, knowing that being freed from the restrictions of his programming will be an all but guaranteed death sentence if he's returned to his homeworld, but... ] If you hadn't intervened, in Rapture, I doubt I would have survived. [ It's difficult, feeling so helpless against humans. And there's also something else — because of course he hasn't forgotten; he resumes running his fingertips along Tech Boy's skin as he notes: ] And you never did answer my question there.
[ Tech Boy squirms a little at the touch under his shirt. It's so gentle that it's almost reverent. It's nice. Unusual for him, but not out of bounds. K had asked about worship, and exactly this sort of time and attention is the kind that the god could get off to. It's not as much fun to say it outright. So much better for K to have discovered it all on his own. ]
I'm a god. It's that easy. [ How long would K keep looking at him in awe like that? He hopes the novelty of his divinity wouldn't wear off too quickly. He could get used to it. ] Creation. Alteration. Coding. Decoding. Recoding.
[ The question is a big one. Tech Boy had been given enough glimpses into K's life in the clumsy and neglecting "care" of his handler, and he knows exactly what he would change about K's programming. But as one synthetic (a creation of humans) to another... that is a very big ask. He'd confident he could. After all, only a god can change a person's heart and mind so fundamentally. ] I am capable. If that's what you really want from me.
[ He sets the tablet aside on the edge of the bed. He then gently removes the flower crown and rests it on the tablet's screen. The light from the screen streams through the crown, casting the room in an odd mix of artificial and natural glow. ] I need a better look at you. [ He moves to straddle K's waist, properly sitting on his lap now to face him and getting the full feel of K's "basic functionality". Putting one hand on K's shoulder for balance, he leans in and says aloud, ] Which question would that be?
[ The direct stimulation provided by the shift in position provokes a low hum of pleasure from K, and he carefully tightens his hold on Tech Boy, encouraging him to lean closer still. Their situation is forcing him to be mindful of his own strength in a way he hasn't had to worry about until now, with how extremely limited and usually violent physical contact has been for him... the change is, needless to say, very, very nice. He doesn't immediately answer, instead tilting his head and pressing a kiss to the side of Tech Boy's jaw, then his neck, murmuring against his skin. ]
The only relationships people have with my kind are transactional. We're designed to be used. [ His quiet tone is thoughtful, edging into an unemotionally neutral range, one normally only adopted around humans in order to protect himself. Now, it's to mask an uncomfortable twinge of — disappointment. ] I'm designed to be used. But... I want more than that. [ A beat. ] With you. What do you want from me?
[ And there's static in their connection for perhaps the first time as he intentionally tries to keep his thoughts private (with little success, owing to the more invasive and uncontrollable string connection): that maybe this is the answer to his question in Rapture. He'll be adequate for sex, but not suitable for any deeper emotional or romantic involvement. Not worth the emotional investment. Par for the course for his kind, as he'd said, but that fails to explain why he possesses the desire for such unattainable things in the first place. What purpose could wanting affection and companionship even serve in his designated line of work? Loneliness is a liability. It could lead to him sympathising with his targets. ]
If you can alter me— [ He cuts himself off as a new possibility occurs to him: maybe Tech Boy can simply remove those inconvenient wants and emotions that he's sure he isn't meant to be having in the first place.
It might be better for him in the long run, particularly where his programmed obedience and baseline tests are concerned, but does he really want that? ]
[ Tech Boy slides closer with the encouragement from K's hands. He can feel the strength in them, purposely restrained, and idly wonders how much of that he could take. Although he doesn't possess the correct fluid in his veins to flush, he would be if he could, body temperature rising with excitement. He lifts his chin to give K his throat, arching a little with the kiss on his neck. For as much as Tech Boy is usually averse to physical contact of any kind (it makes him jumpy unless he's the one initiating it), he's really enjoying himself right now.
Or at least he was until he could hear K pulling away. Tech Boy narrows his eyes at that neutral range in K's voice, and the static causes him to draw back a little to look at him. The red string connection is insistent, but Tech Boy's trying not to listen to it now. It's fun when it's flirting and teasing out emotions from K, but if K's going to have this particular type of spiral at this particular moment, TB doesn't want to come along on this ride. It's going to make him angry if he does.
This astonishing, powerful replicant had been crippled by the humans who were supposed to be taking care of him. Designed to be superior in every way and then programmed to be subservient. K is beautiful. His mind and body a work of art that even TB could appreciate. The God of Technology cold see the potential in K that the humans could not because they refused to. It's the limiting programming, written out of human fear, that's at fault-- not K himself. But it isn't that Tech Boy wants to 'rescue' K from his captors. K had already done that himself. Tech Boy wants that person buried under all the bullshit. Wants to know him, wants to be around him. And the god doesn't like to be around most people. If the red sting connection is good for nothing else, know that Tech Boy feels this on behalf of the man now holding him so gently. ]
Fuck what you were designed to be used for. [ His jaw is clenched. ] Fuck that you were designed to be used. [ He slides his hand from K's shoulder to take him by the back of the neck, holding onto him with deceptive strength. ] If I only wanted a toy, or a tool, or an emotionless sex doll, I would have picked someone else. Or I would have used you earlier and gotten bored with you already. I'm not a selfless god. [ He roll his hips to grind against K as if to emphasize his point. ]
You want more. That's what I'm offering. But be sure you know what you're asking before you finish that sentence. [ His tone of voice is almost pleading. ]
[ That reaction has K realising he could have — should have — presented his explanation better, to minimise the inadvertent implication that he expects to be used by Tech Boy in the same manner. Of everyone he's ever known, in his homeworld and now in Deerington, the god is easily the last person he'd expect to treat him that way. He doesn't offer a verbal correction, but his thoughts are as transparent as the guilt in his expression.
And the sad fact is, even if Tech Boy did want to use him, because of his programming and how he's been conditioned to think of himself, he can't be sure that he'd necessarily mind. But he remains certain that he'd like more than that with the god, more from him. Something that won't diminish or demean either of them.
Being held by the back of his neck causes him to tense, not out of discomfort, but with the conscious effort of not bowing his head to appear deferential and non-threatening. A learned response to physical aggression from humans. Not wanting to give the wrong impression (again), after a moment he deliberately bows his head — so their foreheads are touching. Close enough for Tech Boy to feel the hot exhale of breath caused by that roll of his hips, and it's followed by K's fingers dipping lower, pressing into the skin just above his hip, rubbing slow circles with his thumb. ]
I want you. [ Full stop. He's sure of that, so that's where they can begin. ] I want to be with you. And everything that might entail. I want you for more than a night, as more than a friend. Do you understand? [ He pauses. More importantly: ] Do you— want this with me?
[ No more guilt. No more misunderstandings. Not right now. The Technical Boy is tired, and he's tired of this place. Tired of running and of looking over his shoulder, and for whatever reason K's been there for him reliably for the last few months without asking for anything in return. Until now. The red string of fate is still shining between them, but it isn't influencing this decision. Not really. Not anymore.
When he feels K tense under his hand, an unusual pang of worry shoots through him. He inhales slowly, charged with anticipation. But then K touches their foreheads together, and Tech Boy closes his eyes. He pulls himself into K's touch using the hand on the back of K's neck as leverage. For a few seconds, Tech Boy's mind is merely a feedback signal of enjoyment. No words, no thoughts, except for the feel of K against him. It's a sensation he absolutely wants more of in the future.
The request strikes him as odd. Not odd that K would want that kind of relationship, but simply-- ] I've never had that before, [ he admits. And in all the god's years, that's the truth. He'd never had the luxury of time or a suitable companion. He'd never known anyone who wanted him around after they'd taken what they wanted from him. And an emotional connection? Unheard of. because that's when they abandon you. ]
[ He frowns to himself, clenches his jaw, opens his eyes and tries again. Binary. Ones and zeroes. It's that simple, isn't it? Do you want this with me? There are only two answers to pick from, and the young god had known it since K stepped inside his apartment. ] Yes. [ It's Tech Boy's turn to pause. ] I understand. I want this with you. For as long as you can handle being the lover of a god... and everything that might entail.
[ His lips twitch at the use of lover. It seems like such an antiquated term coming from this particular god, and this particular person. But K's more than happy to accept it, and doesn't care to make Tech Boy feel self-conscious by commenting on his choice of words. ]
It's new for both of us. We'll figure it out together.
[ And maybe it was a rhetorical turn of phrase, for as long as you can handle, but it touches on something he's already given serious consideration when thinking on what it might be like to be involved with a literal god. Which is... time. Aging, or rather the lack thereof; their respective lifespans. Probably it's just as well neither of them have been involved with humans before in this type of arrangement, or other gods, or other replicants, because what they'll have together is bound to be fundamentally different, and not just where their lifespans are concerned. And it's comforting, knowing they aren't separated by a significant gap in experience. At least not with this.
Winding both arms around Tech Boy, he fully leans back until he's lying on the bed and pulls the god down with him. Then in the same carefully restrained manner as before, he reaches to touch Tech Boy's face, gently tracing his features with the fingertips of one hand. He's barely experienced physical intimacy and it's already hard to imagine ever going without this now.
Eventually he voices his thoughts, speaking quietly. ] You'll outlive any individual human. [ It's a reasonable assumption, with everything that he knows about the type of god that Tech Boy is. ] And so will I. [ If he isn't (permanently) killed, but that's left unsaid. ]
There's no telling what the future may bring, but promising me I can have this for as long as I can handle it... [ And he's smiling as he says it, expression warm. That could be a very long time, in other words. ] Just don't be surprised when I hold you to that.
[ There are several different ways to interpret "as long as you can handle", and Tech Boy can feel it in his chest and in his groin that that's the meaning K's chosen to go with. If they're talking lifespans, their potential future together could be significant indeed. And what a time they'd have. Now to see if the young god's personality can be overcome for the longevity of this new type of relationship. He's far more concerned about being abandoned or replaced than either one of them dying of old age on the other.
But. That is looking far too distantly into the future. There are much more important things happening here now than require nothing less than his undivided attention. Tech Boy goes down easily when K leans back onto the bed until he's fully straddling K's hips with the weight of his chest pressed against K's. It's true he's always been drawn to the visual appearance of K's body as well as the advanced technology from which he's constructed. He doesn't have a very high opinion of much else about K's world, but the perfection beneath him leaves the god with no complaints. Not a one for every blessed inch of him.
He smiles with a choked little laugh. ] You can have this. [ He turns his face to kiss the center of K's palm, touching softly with the tip of his tongue. ] And I'm gonna fucking hold you to it.
[ Sitting up just enough to get a grip on K's shirt, he tugs at it a little. ] Off.
[ K obligingly raises his arms and arches his back as needed to allow Tech Boy to easily pull off his shirt. But he isn't the only one who needs to lose some clothing here. Holding Tech Boy's shirt near the collar, he gives a light tug to convey his intentions before working on removing his, too, setting it aside afterward.
... And then he pauses as he takes in the physical perfection that's been very well-concealed by Tech Boy's customarily loose, oversized clothing, raising his eyebrows as the thought made in god's image comes to mind, passing through their string connection. K's aware of how he was created to look, the same general aesthetic that most replicants share — lean muscle and smooth skin that defies scarring, though in his case he's still sporting a few from the last month that will eventually heal without leaving a trace — but he hadn't quite known what to expect of the god. This is an interesting surprise. And he's still staring without shame. (That's his prerogative now, isn't it?)
He reaches to press his palms against Tech Boy's bared skin, fingers splayed as he runs his hands appreciatively along the expanse of his chest, and lower, mapping his body with all of the wondering, unselfconscious curiosity of someone who's experiencing touching another person for the first time. His thoughts are a steady, quiet thrum of discovery and affection. ]
[ Tech Boy had seen K soaked to the skin and had felt him up through his clothes, but he is very pleased with the reveal. Tossing K's shirt aside, he consents for K to undress him as well, smiling at the particularly pleasant yet unfamiliar ritual... and thinking that maybe he'll hang onto that shirt for the good memories later on.
Perfect and remarkable, K's human designers had clearly known what they were doing, but his body shone of divine inspiration. The sentiment of calling K "art" returns to his mind but, rather than being embarrassed by the word (they're quite beyond that now), K's echoing thought of made in god's image causes him to giggle delightedly--which he promptly stifles with one hand. Maybe it ruins the mood or his godly image a bit, but it truly may be one of the only times he's genuinely laughed in years.
To make up for it, he lightly places his hands on the backs of K's as they explore, encouraging a firmer touch here and there, showing K what he likes. His eyes flicker closed in enjoyment. He thought he'd been hard for K already, but the affectionate curiosity is really going to his head. Grinding against K so he can feel his cock through fabric, Tech Boy's only thought is lamenting the existence of pants. ]
That's a complicated question involving serious theological kōans like "which came first, the god or the belief?" [ he smirks. ] I have my own ideas about that.
[ Quite contrary to ruining the mood, Tech Boy's amusement is infectious, provoking an answering smile from K that's nothing short of adoring. He'd really like to hear that again, especially if he's able to be the cause.
Discovery isn't limited to his exploration of Tech Boy's body, but also occurs within himself as his restless shifting beneath the god gradually resolves into deliberate intent. Driven by an unfamiliar instinct, he begins to rock his hips upward to meet Tech Boy's movements, seeking more friction and sighing as his eyes momentarily slip closed once he finds it. It puts him in mind of the first time the biting chill of nuclear winter in Los Angeles stung his unprotected face, and later his first proper shower with hot water, the way the heat rapidly enveloped him in the small, enclosed space — incredible sensations that had previously only existed as concepts to him, and nothing could've prepared him for what actually experiencing them would be like.
Just as nothing could've prepared him for this. Well... maybe not nothing, but it's never occurred to him to touch himself beyond what's necessary for maintaining good hygiene, and for better or worse now Tech Boy's aware of that as well courtesy of the glimmering red string that connects them. ]
I like the way you look. [ Stating the blatantly obvious here, but he suspects the words will be appreciated all the same. ] I just wanted to know whether I should compliment you or compliment your taste. [ He manages to keep a straight face until the last moment, where his teasing smile gives him away. But his tone is serious when he requests: ] Tell me about your ideas.
[ Because he's genuinely interested and is entirely capable of multitasking, as he demonstrates by happily accepting the guidance offered by Tech Boy's hands on his while continuing to touch and explore every inch of the god's body that's within his reach. ]
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brandnewtech) wrote2019-09-29 05:00 am
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The miasma of loneliness and despair that had settled heavily on him since returning from Rapture steadily evaporates, and it's like finally being able to draw a full breath after struggling against a slow suffocation. He's missed Tech Boy is the honest answer, but he does have a purpose beyond that for wanting to see him. ]
I made something for you.
[ Not all of those flowers are growing in his hair. Some have been woven together with delicately precise care to form a crown, which he removes from his head with his free hand and carefully holds it out, intending to place it on Tech Boy's head if he allows it. Unlike the crowns from Fern or the townspeople, this one notably has several artificial flowers that won't wilt or die — possibly the result of Fern's grass powers adapting to a synthetic host.
Clearly this was important enough to warrant an interruption. ]
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Seeing the flower crown, he opens his mouth to say something flippant and rude about the weird pagan shit that the natives are forcing on everyone-- but he stops short, remembering the hurt look on K's face when he'd snapped over text. Despite how fast his divinely artificial mind works, it still takes a moment for him to work out how to react to the gift. Ultimately he decides to shut his mouth and nod in acceptance.
Tech Boy releases K's arm by stretching his hand with a little wiggle of his fingers. He squares himself to K, only a few inches shorter, and clasps his hands in front of him, ready to be crowned. It's the synthetic ones that sold it. The interruption is forgiven. ]
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Are you ever given tokens of worship? [ He asks in a quieter tone than before.
Maybe that's more of a custom with the Old Gods (that weird pagan shit), he can't be sure, but feels hopeful the intent of his gift might be appreciated regardless of the gift's form. Even if it is sort of blurring the boundaries of their — association? Friendship? Since Rapture and the manifestation of the red string that's connecting them, it has certainly felt like more, but he lacks the experience to fully understand his own emotions. ]
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Why are you growing flowers? [ and then aloud ] Not like this. This kinda stuff is usually what the Old Guys are into. It's different. [ He's thoughtful because he's had to come face-to-face with the Old ways of worship quite a bit since arriving in Deerington. ]
Mine are usually less tangible. More like time and attention. People spend hours browsing the web, social media, R&D, PornHub, streaming video, shitposting and memes-- and any time spent staring at a screen instead of practically any other activity they could be doing means it's time dedicated to me.
[ He tilts his head a little and nearly reaches out to touch K's arm again. ] You took the time to do this for me. And you came to see me. Is that what this is? A token of worship?
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I've inherited Fern's abilities. [ K holds up his hand with the glimmering gold string that leads to the boy — his best guess as to why he has unconstrained access to Fern's grass powers.
As Tech Boy goes on to explain the particularities of how best to worship him, K falls contemplatively quiet, absorbing the information. There's a little tug of guilt because he doesn't live with his face glued to a screen the way social media-addicted humans do. And the fact is, he'd far rather spend time with the god like this, in person, or at the very least in direct communication. Not indirectly through web browsing or pornography or memes.
Ultimately, the heart of his interest lies in wanting to know Tech Boy both as a god and as a person, and he doesn't attempt to conceal this thought. ]
If you'll accept it as one, yes. [ A pause. ] And as a small token of my regard. [ Which has less to do with divinity and everything to do with that red string. ]
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of fatethat connects the two of them? His face remains neutral at first, torn between a frown at the potential that his actions and emotions (and ability) are not his own... and the warmth of a more solid connection to someone he really doesn't mind spending time with. High praise by Tech Boy's standards.Ultimately he forgoes the frown entirely, catching the last thought clearly. Emotions are such complicated things, and the tender ones are not really something he deals in. The tug of the string has the same flavor as worship, but the difference is stark. ]
I don't accept it. [ but before K can react poorly, Tech Boy takes a handful of K's shirt, reestablishing the comfort of their physical contact. ] I can't. Not as worship. Because you don't worship me. [ His lips quirk into a smirk. ] Not yet.
[ He takes a step closer to K, almost in challenge. ] Regard I'll accept. I regard you [ a pause as he considers. Red string be damned. ] very fondly indeed.
https://i.imgur.com/R0Ki2y4.png
Maybe worship just looks a little different coming from something like me. [ But he isn't inclined to argue it, because what does he know about worship, really? Compared to a god who's spent the entirety of his life receiving it.
Once more he reaches to carefully curl his fingers around Tech Boy's wrist. Carrying him from the wreckage of the Titanic had been the very definition of extenuating circumstances — K's still learning what the god will and won't accept from him in terms of physical contact, under these relatively normal circumstances. ]
Can I... stay? You can go back to what you were doing.
[ Being seen and not heard is something he excels at. But it wouldn't be out of necessity to accommodate the bigotry of a human, this time, but because he'd be genuinely happy just spending time in Tech Boy's presence, where he feels he belongs. ]
nearly!
He sucks in a breath through his teeth in a chastising sort of sound. ] Something. I hate that. [ He considers telling K not to refer to himself that way ("Use someone, not something."), but he fears K will take it as some kind of an order. He also knows that the thought is leaking through the red string against his will, and he frowns.
At the touch on his wrist, Tech Boy looks down at it, eyes widening for a moment but not pulling away. When he looks back, he meets K's eyes, squinting a little as if trying to figure him out. Tech Boy's remembering their conversation they'd never finished in Rapture right before the splicer attack. "Would you ever want to have a relationship with someone who isn't human, and isn't a god?" He plays that back, in case K's forgotten.
With the hand still holding onto K's shirt, he taps his index finger against K's chest. ]
You want to stay?
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qCEzdpQH-QM
With how frequently that particular conversation has occupied K's thoughts since Rapture, the reminder of what was said is hardly needed and makes him inwardly wince. Navigating the delicate emotional landscape of humans has taught him to be exceedingly cautious and indirect about anything that might cause upset, but that knowledge seems to go straight out the window when it comes to this god. K couldn't have been more blatant with his questions.
And now with that unfinished conversation shifting the context of their current one, his asking to stay could be interpreted as some kind of proposition. Which ... is an intriguing thought (that also unfortunately filters through their string connection), but he hadn't intended it that way. Torn between caution urging him to withdraw, and their connection compelling him to press forward, the indecision is clear in his expression. Acting on impulse— ]
I want to stay. [ He says decisively. ] If it won't inconvenience you.
[ Would it be inappropriate? Is that why their prior conversation was brought up? (Did Tech Boy intend to answer?) The questions go unvoiced but linger in his thoughts, just as his hand lingers on Tech Boy's wrist, his thumb slowly tracing over the underside where the skin is at its thinnest. The gesture is more curious than anything; experiencing physical contact without violence is still a complete novelty to him. ]
:3
So he flattens his hand, pressing is against K's chest. His palm slides downwards in lazy exploration as he goes into his toes a little to whisper into K's ear. ] I want you to stay. [ He kisses K just in front of his ear; then again on the curve of his jaw.
Whatever conflict K is feeling, Tech Boy can sense it through their connection but doesn't share his hesitation. K could have just as easily asked TB if he wanted to bone and gotten the same response as his polite circumspection. However, there are now feelings involved that the god doesn't really trust. He'll reevaluate their situation once the string finally disappears (IF it does).
Unless K stops him, he'll pull back and turn to lead K farther into the apartment-- back toward his bedroom with appears to be illuminated by the distinct glow of a backlit screen. ]
cw: an awkward sexual awakening sure is happening in here
He'd been designed for such specific purposes that it hadn't occurred to him there might be any overlap shared with other models. With pleasure models. Those designed to satisfy sexual needs, along with every depravity humanity has come up with. While he doubts he possesses their proficiency, it does appear that certain basic functionality must be universal, knowledge only now being revealed to him because this is the first time he's experienced this with someone whom he actually wants to touch him.
Someone... he wants to touch, too. Wants to feel, to hear, to taste — and these thoughts shamelessly pass through their connection.
For several moments it's all K can do to follow where he's being led in wide-eyed, happy surprise. But he's unlike human men who seem to lose all higher brain function once their libidos are engaged, because he's also curiously taking in the details of Tech Boy's apartment, and deftly catching each flower petal that occasionally drifts down from his own hair. It won't do to leave a mess. ]
Your project... [ He wants to ask about the details, but— ] You can still work on it while I'm here? [ Had the god been working on it in his bedroom before the interruption? Even now, K doesn't want to be too presumptuous about what he's being allowed, though he does dare to lean in and brush an affectionate kiss to the nape of Tech Boy's neck, breathing him in. ]
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Something about the act of K catching the falling petals sparks the beginning of an idea in his brain. It's running in the background as K seems to echo the subject aloud. ]
That depends-- [ Tech Boy closes his eyes, shivering almost imperceptibly at the kiss on his neck. ] --on if something more interesting comes up.
[ Entering the bedroom, it's clear that he had in fact been working in the room before K's knock on the door. A tablet is propped up on a low table at the foot of TB's bed, illuminating most of the room, and his iPhone's screen glows from somewhere on the floor nearby. It's toward this setup that he motions for K to follow him. ]
But I do have one thing to take care of first. You've given me an idea. Gotta see if it works. Have a seat for a sec. [ on the edge of the bed or on the floor. Your preference, K.
Reaching up to the flower crown, Tech Boy carefully removes one of K's artificial flowers, gazing at his appreciatively with a little smirk of approval. ]
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When the choice of where to sit is presented to him he pauses, considering the possible implications and implied intimacy of being on someone else's bed. Even if it is the only place to sit besides the floor... he's pretty sure this choice may be more significant than his host is letting on. Or maybe he's overthinking it.
Either way, he's already made his interest known. He chooses the bed, settling on it comfortably while simultaneously and discreetly attempting to adjust himself in a manner that looks like he's smoothing his clothes into place. Probably not fooling anyone who's familiar with this type of problem, but he's trying not to be completely indecent here. He then leans back slightly, propping himself up with a hand. ]
I don't mind if you work. I told you. [ And true to his word, he's neither restless nor seems the least bit expectant of anything, appearing wholly content just to be in close proximity to Tech Boy. And as K looks up at him, his expression softens with some unnamed emotion that his thoughts provide a little context for: Art. He's recalling Tech Boy's own thoughts, filtered through the lens of their connection and now layered with K's growing regard for the god. His god, in several senses of the word; that thought is also freely shared, along with his curiosity about what he's inspired, with regards to Tech Boy's project. ]
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As he bends to snatch the tablet from its resting place, one word brings him up short. Art. Yes, he had said that, hadn't he? He's frowning now, but the expression has more to do with his argument with Media back then and less to do with K's gentle reminder. Art for the sake of itself is irrelevant. It's transient. Fleeting. Ultimately pointless. Learning from the past to predict the future? Tech Boy is the future. He didn't need art to tell him where to go. This incongruity is one reason he and Media had never really understood each other, even while being dependent on each other. But this kind of art-- K's existence is proof of his own future. Who needs faith that one effort will surpass all previous attempts with a technological wonder reclining on his bed? His god, K had claimed. Well, that is complicatedly true enough.
Tech Boy's thoughts are rambling and too big, but his plans for the next several hours have crystal clarity. What came next would be much more fun. How's that for innuendo?
Rather than sitting on the floor himself or next to K on the bed, Tech Boy opts to seat himself on K's leg, practically in his lap. There's no hiding any carnal intentions at this point, but the god cannot resist showing off a little first. ]
Watch this. I think you'll like it.
[ The tablet's screen goes completely white. Tech Boy's eyes begin to glow faintly, and he closes his eyes as he touches the flower to the screen. The flower and Tech Boy's hand past the wrist seems to disappear as he partially digitizes himself into the tablet. In truth, it would be easier to go all in, but he doesn't want to actually leave K's presence and doesn't have a way (yet) to take him with. After a minute, TB withdraws his hand from the screen, and the flower is gone. Seconds later, a little pixel plant appears on the screen. Tech Boy opens his eyes as his lips curl contentedly. ]
It just needed a finishing touch. Something special. [ He slides his now empty hand up K's thigh he's not sitting on, and he whispers two of the rarest words ever to leave the god's lips. ] Thank you.
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But K's an attentive audience, his wandering hand eventually stilling as he watches what's happening with the artificial flower with interest. Being digitised, just like that, as easy as breathing. The demonstration is accompanied by a vast array of quickly branching thoughts from K, a mental spiderweb of possibilities — while most of his body may seem passably human, his mind is, as ever, something else altogether — until he consciously quiets his mind, slowing the deluge to a controlled trickle of curiosity. It clearly isn't just the plant-based app that holds his interest captive. ]
That easily... You can create things. Alter them. [ His eyes briefly lift to Tech Boy's face before returning to the tablet's screen, fascinated. His focus is such that the hand on his thigh actually catches him off guard as much as being thanked does, and there's a surprised smile suddenly tugging at the corners of his mouth as his eyes drift closed for a few seconds, soaking in the sensation. ]
Are you capable of altering me like that? My programming? [ He asks after a long moment, though no longer aloud. This is the culmination of a very long period of consideration, as Tech Boy may have likely gleaned from his prior thoughts. And K still isn't entirely certain of his preferred course of action, knowing that being freed from the restrictions of his programming will be an all but guaranteed death sentence if he's returned to his homeworld, but... ] If you hadn't intervened, in Rapture, I doubt I would have survived. [ It's difficult, feeling so helpless against humans. And there's also something else — because of course he hasn't forgotten; he resumes running his fingertips along Tech Boy's skin as he notes: ] And you never did answer my question there.
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I'm a god. It's that easy. [ How long would K keep looking at him in awe like that? He hopes the novelty of his divinity wouldn't wear off too quickly. He could get used to it. ] Creation. Alteration. Coding. Decoding. Recoding.
[ The question is a big one. Tech Boy had been given enough glimpses into K's life in the clumsy and neglecting "care" of his handler, and he knows exactly what he would change about K's programming. But as one synthetic (a creation of humans) to another... that is a very big ask. He'd confident he could. After all, only a god can change a person's heart and mind so fundamentally. ] I am capable. If that's what you really want from me.
[ He sets the tablet aside on the edge of the bed. He then gently removes the flower crown and rests it on the tablet's screen. The light from the screen streams through the crown, casting the room in an odd mix of artificial and natural glow. ] I need a better look at you. [ He moves to straddle K's waist, properly sitting on his lap now to face him and getting the full feel of K's "basic functionality". Putting one hand on K's shoulder for balance, he leans in and says aloud, ] Which question would that be?
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The only relationships people have with my kind are transactional. We're designed to be used. [ His quiet tone is thoughtful, edging into an unemotionally neutral range, one normally only adopted around humans in order to protect himself. Now, it's to mask an uncomfortable twinge of — disappointment. ] I'm designed to be used. But... I want more than that. [ A beat. ] With you. What do you want from me?
[ And there's static in their connection for perhaps the first time as he intentionally tries to keep his thoughts private (with little success, owing to the more invasive and uncontrollable string connection): that maybe this is the answer to his question in Rapture. He'll be adequate for sex, but not suitable for any deeper emotional or romantic involvement. Not worth the emotional investment. Par for the course for his kind, as he'd said, but that fails to explain why he possesses the desire for such unattainable things in the first place. What purpose could wanting affection and companionship even serve in his designated line of work? Loneliness is a liability. It could lead to him sympathising with his targets. ]
If you can alter me— [ He cuts himself off as a new possibility occurs to him: maybe Tech Boy can simply remove those inconvenient wants and emotions that he's sure he isn't meant to be having in the first place.
It might be better for him in the long run, particularly where his programmed obedience and baseline tests are concerned, but does he really want that? ]
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Or at least he was until he could hear K pulling away. Tech Boy narrows his eyes at that neutral range in K's voice, and the static causes him to draw back a little to look at him. The red string connection is insistent, but Tech Boy's trying not to listen to it now. It's fun when it's flirting and teasing out emotions from K, but if K's going to have this particular type of spiral at this particular moment, TB doesn't want to come along on this ride. It's going to make him angry if he does.
This astonishing, powerful replicant had been crippled by the humans who were supposed to be taking care of him. Designed to be superior in every way and then programmed to be subservient. K is beautiful. His mind and body a work of art that even TB could appreciate. The God of Technology cold see the potential in K that the humans could not because they refused to. It's the limiting programming, written out of human fear, that's at fault-- not K himself. But it isn't that Tech Boy wants to 'rescue' K from his captors. K had already done that himself. Tech Boy wants that person buried under all the bullshit. Wants to know him, wants to be around him. And the god doesn't like to be around most people. If the red sting connection is good for nothing else, know that Tech Boy feels this on behalf of the man now holding him so gently. ]
Fuck what you were designed to be used for. [ His jaw is clenched. ] Fuck that you were designed to be used. [ He slides his hand from K's shoulder to take him by the back of the neck, holding onto him with deceptive strength. ] If I only wanted a toy, or a tool, or an emotionless sex doll, I would have picked someone else. Or I would have used you earlier and gotten bored with you already. I'm not a selfless god. [ He roll his hips to grind against K as if to emphasize his point. ]
You want more. That's what I'm offering. But be sure you know what you're asking before you finish that sentence. [ His tone of voice is almost pleading. ]
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And the sad fact is, even if Tech Boy did want to use him, because of his programming and how he's been conditioned to think of himself, he can't be sure that he'd necessarily mind. But he remains certain that he'd like more than that with the god, more from him. Something that won't diminish or demean either of them.
Being held by the back of his neck causes him to tense, not out of discomfort, but with the conscious effort of not bowing his head to appear deferential and non-threatening. A learned response to physical aggression from humans. Not wanting to give the wrong impression (again), after a moment he deliberately bows his head — so their foreheads are touching. Close enough for Tech Boy to feel the hot exhale of breath caused by that roll of his hips, and it's followed by K's fingers dipping lower, pressing into the skin just above his hip, rubbing slow circles with his thumb. ]
I want you. [ Full stop. He's sure of that, so that's where they can begin. ] I want to be with you. And everything that might entail. I want you for more than a night, as more than a friend. Do you understand? [ He pauses. More importantly: ] Do you— want this with me?
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When he feels K tense under his hand, an unusual pang of worry shoots through him. He inhales slowly, charged with anticipation. But then K touches their foreheads together, and Tech Boy closes his eyes. He pulls himself into K's touch using the hand on the back of K's neck as leverage. For a few seconds, Tech Boy's mind is merely a feedback signal of enjoyment. No words, no thoughts, except for the feel of K against him. It's a sensation he absolutely wants more of in the future.
The request strikes him as odd. Not odd that K would want that kind of relationship, but simply-- ] I've never had that before, [ he admits. And in all the god's years, that's the truth. He'd never had the luxury of time or a suitable companion. He'd never known anyone who wanted him around after they'd taken what they wanted from him. And an emotional connection? Unheard of.
because that's when they abandon you.][ He frowns to himself, clenches his jaw, opens his eyes and tries again. Binary. Ones and zeroes. It's that simple, isn't it? Do you want this with me? There are only two answers to pick from, and the young god had known it since K stepped inside his apartment. ] Yes. [ It's Tech Boy's turn to pause. ] I understand. I want this with you. For as long as you can handle being the lover of a god... and everything that might entail.
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It's new for both of us. We'll figure it out together.
[ And maybe it was a rhetorical turn of phrase, for as long as you can handle, but it touches on something he's already given serious consideration when thinking on what it might be like to be involved with a literal god. Which is... time. Aging, or rather the lack thereof; their respective lifespans. Probably it's just as well neither of them have been involved with humans before in this type of arrangement, or other gods, or other replicants, because what they'll have together is bound to be fundamentally different, and not just where their lifespans are concerned. And it's comforting, knowing they aren't separated by a significant gap in experience. At least not with this.
Winding both arms around Tech Boy, he fully leans back until he's lying on the bed and pulls the god down with him. Then in the same carefully restrained manner as before, he reaches to touch Tech Boy's face, gently tracing his features with the fingertips of one hand. He's barely experienced physical intimacy and it's already hard to imagine ever going without this now.
Eventually he voices his thoughts, speaking quietly. ] You'll outlive any individual human. [ It's a reasonable assumption, with everything that he knows about the type of god that Tech Boy is. ] And so will I. [ If he isn't (permanently) killed, but that's left unsaid. ]
There's no telling what the future may bring, but promising me I can have this for as long as I can handle it... [ And he's smiling as he says it, expression warm. That could be a very long time, in other words. ] Just don't be surprised when I hold you to that.
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But. That is looking far too distantly into the future. There are much more important things happening here now than require nothing less than his undivided attention. Tech Boy goes down easily when K leans back onto the bed until he's fully straddling K's hips with the weight of his chest pressed against K's. It's true he's always been drawn to the visual appearance of K's body as well as the advanced technology from which he's constructed. He doesn't have a very high opinion of much else about K's world, but the perfection beneath him leaves the god with no complaints. Not a one for every blessed inch of him.
He smiles with a choked little laugh. ] You can have this. [ He turns his face to kiss the center of K's palm, touching softly with the tip of his tongue. ] And I'm gonna fucking hold you to it.
[ Sitting up just enough to get a grip on K's shirt, he tugs at it a little. ] Off.
K: [ surprised pikachu face ]
... And then he pauses as he takes in the physical perfection that's been very well-concealed by Tech Boy's customarily loose, oversized clothing, raising his eyebrows as the thought made in god's image comes to mind, passing through their string connection. K's aware of how he was created to look, the same general aesthetic that most replicants share — lean muscle and smooth skin that defies scarring, though in his case he's still sporting a few from the last month that will eventually heal without leaving a trace — but he hadn't quite known what to expect of the god. This is an interesting surprise. And he's still staring without shame. (That's his prerogative now, isn't it?)
He reaches to press his palms against Tech Boy's bared skin, fingers splayed as he runs his hands appreciatively along the expanse of his chest, and lower, mapping his body with all of the wondering, unselfconscious curiosity of someone who's experiencing touching another person for the first time. His thoughts are a steady, quiet thrum of discovery and affection. ]
Do you choose the way you look?
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Perfect and remarkable, K's human designers had clearly known what they were doing, but his body shone of divine inspiration. The sentiment of calling K "art" returns to his mind but, rather than being embarrassed by the word (they're quite beyond that now), K's echoing thought of made in god's image causes him to giggle delightedly--which he promptly stifles with one hand. Maybe it ruins the mood or his godly image a bit, but it truly may be one of the only times he's genuinely laughed in years.
To make up for it, he lightly places his hands on the backs of K's as they explore, encouraging a firmer touch here and there, showing K what he likes. His eyes flicker closed in enjoyment. He thought he'd been hard for K already, but the affectionate curiosity is really going to his head. Grinding against K so he can feel his cock through fabric, Tech Boy's only thought is lamenting the existence of pants. ]
That's a complicated question involving serious theological kōans like "which came first, the god or the belief?" [ he smirks. ] I have my own ideas about that.
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Discovery isn't limited to his exploration of Tech Boy's body, but also occurs within himself as his restless shifting beneath the god gradually resolves into deliberate intent. Driven by an unfamiliar instinct, he begins to rock his hips upward to meet Tech Boy's movements, seeking more friction and sighing as his eyes momentarily slip closed once he finds it. It puts him in mind of the first time the biting chill of nuclear winter in Los Angeles stung his unprotected face, and later his first proper shower with hot water, the way the heat rapidly enveloped him in the small, enclosed space — incredible sensations that had previously only existed as concepts to him, and nothing could've prepared him for what actually experiencing them would be like.
Just as nothing could've prepared him for this. Well... maybe not nothing, but it's never occurred to him to touch himself beyond what's necessary for maintaining good hygiene, and for better or worse now Tech Boy's aware of that as well courtesy of the glimmering red string that connects them. ]
I like the way you look. [ Stating the blatantly obvious here, but he suspects the words will be appreciated all the same. ] I just wanted to know whether I should compliment you or compliment your taste. [ He manages to keep a straight face until the last moment, where his teasing smile gives him away. But his tone is serious when he requests: ] Tell me about your ideas.
[ Because he's genuinely interested and is entirely capable of multitasking, as he demonstrates by happily accepting the guidance offered by Tech Boy's hands on his while continuing to touch and explore every inch of the god's body that's within his reach. ]
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can probably ftb or wrap here (also loling @ sex with k not being fun IT'S TRUE BUT HE TRIES.....)