eggbowl | [Dohalim/Gepard] I don't know how to feel...

[Dohalim/Gepard] I don't know how to feel...

[Dohalim wouldn't necessarily call it a chaotic disarray currently, but the sudden departure of one of his captains is, understandably, enough to shake the knights. Serval was truly one of his best, and one who upheld his ideals of coexistence to their core. so it was a surprise to receive her resignation letter, and a quick word of appreciation for the opportunity to serve under him; before he could say anything to try to convince her to change her mind, she was off. though, Dohalim is sure that anything he could have said would have been met with decline. the Landaus, for all their loyalty in serving the il Qaras family for generations (despite their own nobility), are a stubborn folk, and once they've made up their mind on anything, there would be no convincing them of otherwise.

honestly, even if the decision was abrupt, Dohalim knows that she'll be fine. that isn't what's on his mind as he heads down the ornate hallway to the barracks. perhaps a visit paid by him will lift the knights' spirits, but really, he has every intention on seeing one person. Gepard... Serval is his sister, after all. he's not sure what the man is thinking, if he knew of her resignation long before she had made it official, or if this came to just as a surprise to him as everyone else. either way, it would be nice to see Gepard and offer whatever words he can to him.

of course, as soon as he enters the barracks, he's bombarded with questions and requests by the other guards, wondering just what will happen, and how Serval's unit will be taken care of. as much as he wants to brush them aside to look for Gepard, he just can't, in good faith, so it seems like he'll be here for a while. oh well, what kind of leader would he be if he didn't listen to his people?]

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It's fine.

[and by fine, Dohalim really means it's not fine. Serval already left and while it's true that they aren't as close as he and Gepard, she's still very dear to him. now that he has the time to slowly process her departure, it's starting to sink in that he won't be walking by her in the hallways, striking up conversation whenever they do pass by. she's always been so easy to talk to, and it's like she's the big sister he never had. and now that there's also the possibility that Gepard may have to leave his side too... it seems that everyone he cares about truly does leave him in the end. but, of course, it's not like he can voice this to the man, not when he brings up a good point. it's just the nature of who he is, and what family he's from. he'd just hoped that, considering how close their families are, how close they are that he could be the exception...]

I find Serval's inventions rather innovative. She could put some of the scientists in Lenegis to shame if she were to bring them back up there. I hope that whatever path she chooses from here out, she'll be able to create whatever it is she wants. Music included.

[he supposes that's why he likes her; their love for music did bring them close, and Dohalim has to smile warmly at the countless hours spent on their craft and sheet music with hastily written out notes stacked around them. simpler days, for sure, but fond memories nonetheless. and while she understood why Dohalim refuses to play his violin anymore, he does have to lament taking away the very thing that created that bond between them]

As for me... I'm not too sure. I suppose it depends on what my family wants of me. I do wish to stay here, but... I would have to make a compelling argument. [Dohalim's voice drops a little] I just don't... I don't want this realm to fall back on old ways. To the days where Dahnans would suffer day in and day out. I don't want to hear those screams and cries of anguish again. I want to see this realm grow and flourish, both in nature, and the people alike. If I were to stay here... Perhaps I could stay as an advisor to the next lord, and pray that they see the same views I do.

I think we've known each other long enough to know that it isn't as simple as fine.

[There's no bitterness to it, just the soft reminder that Gepard is quite aware of the heaviness of his answer. He has no intention of forcing Dohalim to confront his feelings on the matter, but perhaps he hopes it will at least remind him that he doesn't need to be alone with his thoughts. For now, at least, he is ever at his lord's side.]

Innovative, yes... but innovation should not bring with it property damage.

[sometimes, it really seems like Gepard is the elder sibling, not that he's not younger and once relied on Serval to protect him. Of course, Dohalim may have missed all of those years, but he does know their ages. And while he never had the same connections, he was often there, listening in the background. It's a shame, understandable as it is, that Dohalim has put down the violin seemingly for good.

As he speaks of his intentions, the guard looks over to him again, focusing on taking in every word. It will be difficult, he thinks, convincing his family to let him stay. They aren't without compassion, but Dahna... well, most of Lenegis' denizens pay it no mind.

For a moment, he's silent, mulling over his words. Dohalim is an idealist, but he's also a visionary and a kind, warm presence. It's what originally drew him to the man, what made him so excited to follow him to Dahna.]

... it would be a shame to see your efforts go to waste. To lose more of the people we protect... if it is something you can convince them of, then I would apply to join you without hesitation. I like to imagine Serval would stay here too... whatever path she decides to take. Knowing she would be leaving you in a bind was plainly a regret she held close.

[He should know, really. They see less dissimilar than many realise.]

I wonder, sometimes... just what is the point in the Crown Contest? Its history is long and prestigious, and yet I can't think of a single thing that the Lords' efforts ever brought to Lenegis. Perhaps it's worth reexamining whether it's the right path, when we return home. I don't mean to say that I don't trust their judgment, but... it's strange.

You do have a point about the property damage, but you do have to admit, she has some incredible ideas. She was one of the people, if not the person who spearheaded in creating the device that gives the Dahnan guardsmen transferal technology for their weaponry. I can forgive her.

[tilting himself back a little, Dohalim leans back on his arms. his nonchalant posture is so the opposite of who and what he is, and for a moment, he just looks... normal. like a normal person without the responsibilities of upholding his family name, leading a country, making sure his peoples' needs are met. truly, it's a weight he has to bear, and he has to wonder just how much longer he can carry it gracefully]

It will be a hard argument. If the Renan people can't even fathom the idea of breaking away from societal norms, then...

[Dohalim falls silent, watching Gepard as he voices his concern. that... he never really thought of that. perhaps it's because his family had produced several lords in the last three hundred years that it was something he'd just come to accept but... the captain brings up a good point]

...You best be careful with that train of thought. It might bring you more trouble than it's worth. However, now that you mention it... [Dohalim stops himself before he can finish that thought, clearing his throat softly] The sovereign rules from Rena. Lenegis is but the planet's satellite. Perhaps they perform their duties away from the public eye, to make sure everything runs as smoothly as possible.

[he will admit that even his own reasoning sounds a little ridiculous, but what other reason does he have?]

I feel obligated to remind you that you also weren't the one helping to repair the damage and apologise to the citizens. But... you're right, of course. Her assistance can hardly be overstated.

[for him, he knows its origins. his - the Landau Family's - dedication is to the people of Lenegis, long before Rena itself. they are Renans, but the people themselves come before the planet so few of them will ever see. even so, he can't help the slightly crooked smile Dohalim's concern draws forth.]

Worry not, I have no intention of making it widely known. Likely, it's simply a flaw in my thinking, given the time we've been down here. I would be lying if I said you had no part in it. [shifting, he reaches to grasp Do's shoulder, squeezing lightly.] I know your reasons may be complicated, but... your kindness has made more of an impact than you may ever know.

[the hand on his shoulder draws the slightest dusting of pink to Dohalim's cheeks; the touch is so warm. no one else in his court would dare touch him like this, or address him without the preface of lord, so to be in Gepard's company is comforting. but at the mention of his own kindness, Dohalim pulls his gaze away, looking at anything else but the other man and the city below them]

My kindness... I am not nearly as virtuous as you believe. You should know this.

[he is, of course, speaking of the competition for the lordship. no one really knows what happened, and how it ended the way that it did, but the fact still remains. he was the one who killed Tarnigen. he'd hoped to incapacitate him, but... even he misjudged his own strength, and his fight response.

perhaps it's pointless to try to seek consolation from a soldier who's had to cut down those who've threatened the peace of the land, but it's an undeniable truth: Dohalim has blood on his hands, and there's no way he can wash it off. which is why he doesn't say anything on the matter itself, though he's sure that Gepard would pick up on it regardless]

Whether or not you're virtuous isn't my place to say... but the things you do, selfish or not, are kind. Doing them for your own reasons doesn't discount the effect they have.

[He rarely brings up the competition, aware of how deeply it had affected Dohalim. Knowing the man, he can tell there was more to it, but the fact is that Tarnigen died and that the redhead took it to guilt.

Pushing his hair back, Gepard looks out to the surroundings, breathing in to sigh deeply.]

I wish that I had something more uplifting to offer, but... it never gets easier. Especially when you feel responsible for the loss.

[Gepard doesn't talk about it much, the weight of the lost. True, he would cut down threats to his people without hesitating, but... even outside of his own regrets he thinks he can understand where his lord is coming from. What if it had been Serval, or even Dohalim, in front of him?]

I understand why you don't want to think about it, and I won't ask you to. Just know that if you want to talk to someone, you always have my ear.

[all Dohalim wants is to lean against Gepard, feel his strength and warmth, and forget both of their positions for a while. if only it were so easy to fall into those inhibitions, but would they ever be reciprocated? Dohalim thinks not. no, they're just really close friends, with a divide between them, a barrier that shouldn't be crossed, even if the captain has the same feelings. he holds a position of power over Gepard, as much as he doesn't like to think about it, and it just wouldn't be appropriate. and again, they're just friends. there's no way Gepard feels the same way.

right?

his gaze lands back onto the other man, there's a slight guilt in the smile that forms on his lips. ah... leave it to him to offer comfort when he isn't obligated to]

We were supposed to be here consoling you, not the other way around. I apologise for turning the conversation onto me. However, I appreciate the offer.

[it's a matter of Dohalim actually accepting said offer that's the real question. he's always willing to lend a helping hand, but when it comes to accepting help himself? that's a sort of weakness he doesn't like showing]

[Gepard can't help but laugh, shaking his head.]

I turned the subject... besides, you truly needn't worry about me. At worst, I'll brood for a few days over the argument, but this is how we always are.

[He doesn't miss that Dohalim doesn't seem apt to take his offer, but there's no offense in that. It was given freely and because he wanted to, not for the hope of acceptance.

If only he could actually say what he thinks, what he's felt since before Dohalim became Lord. It would have been frowned upon in Lenegis, if the redhead even felt the same way, and here... he's little more than a soldier. Dohalim may not realise it, but he truly is a kind-hearted person; it'd surely be his misunderstanding if he leaned into the feeling of appreciation too far.]

Are you hungry? I'm sure I've something that will go well with the scenery.

[so he moves on, quietly and delicately guiding the conversation too innocuous small talk. There's always a trace of his feelings on his face, though; he's never been the best at hiding them, at least not since they left Lenegis. As long as he can stay near Dohalim, it's fine, he tells himself.

Maybe that's why the idea of him staying here, of duty taking Gepard back, stings so much. He has no intention of talking about it in any case, already moving to rummage through the snacks he's brought and set up somewhere comfortable for them to sit and eat.]

[if he's honest, Dohalim isn't particularly hungry, but he also doesn't want Gepard's effort of putting a meal together and lugging it all the way up the hill to go to waste]

I suppose I could nibble on something. However, I wish I had brought a bottle of wine to go with the food.

[so typical of him to think of libations when eating. so what if he enjoys a bottle... or two to himself while he eats; a meal just isn't the same without the pairing of a nice vintage.

as Gepard gets the food settled, Dohalim watches the city down below, the sun just about to disappear completely in the horizon. he reaches over to nudge the captain gently, before gesturing to Viscint]

You may want to see this.

[as it starts to darken, the lanterns start to light up one by one, starting from the city bazaar, and spreading down the streets to the residential areas. the palace illuminates itself in the same light, warm and inviting. while watching the city come to life at night from the balcony of Autelina, to see it up here in its splendor is an entirely different experience. it only makes him more protective of the realm itself, even if it is for a completely selfish reason. to keep Menancia this beautiful... he'll find a way to keep it this way, even after his tenure]

A fair regret... though probably for the best, under the circumstances. I hope water will nonetheless suffice.

[There's just too many variables out here, and the idea of adding another is... rather unpleasant for Gepard (even if Dohalim is manageable even drunk). And the snacks, at least, are small enough to not be a problem even if the other isn't that hungry. They're mostly light little finger sandwiches and some pastries, all soft and flavorful.

When Dohalim nudges him, he turns his gaze to the man, then to Viscint. There really is something truly magical about watching it come to life, the flicker of lights as they draw over the city. It really has become something of a true home for him, and he's so comfortable even with the Dahnans... a warm smile joins the expression of splendorous awe in the sight.

Really... the idea of being anywhere else seems completely unreasonable.]

It's beautiful... I rarely get to see how it all lights up. No wonder you like it here.

[quietly, he shifts to ensure the blanket is laid out comfortably for them both. Perhaps a drink would have been nice... it certainly would have complemented the view.]

[as the blanket and snacks are laid out, Dohalim goes and makes himself comfortable. it's slowly starting to become dusky, but just light enough that he can see what little sandwiches and pastries are laid out in front of them. he definitely should eat considering that they may stay here well after nightfall, and past dinner time. at least, when they do arrive back in the city, Gepard will be with him and there won't be as many raised concerns of him being out so late. and thankfully, the other man is so high up in his rankings that no one should be questioning him, either.

and really, as much as he likes being alone, being up here with Gepard is nice, as well. he couldn't even think of another person he'd rather be up here with. there's the quickest flash of longing on his face as he looks at the captain, before turning his attention onto the food and picking up a sandwich. the food itself is so simple and modest, but even the first bite is flavourful. even the bread itself is as fluffy as it looks]

There are other vantage points I like to go up to, depending on how long of a walk I'd rather go on, and depending on my mood. But this is one of my favourites. And... I'm glad I could share it with you.

[a small admission, and one he's sure the other man won't reciprocate in the way he wants him to. perhaps, with their positions though, it's for the best]

Perhaps... sometime in the future, you can show me more of them.

[in the gentle quiet of this secluded place, Gepard can practically feel some of the rigidity he carries in his work fall away. It's hard not to, in this calm place with Dohalim by his side - close, but not close enough. Maybe, if he was a little younger, if their roles were a little different...]

It's... a little strange, really. [laughing, Gepard picks up his own snacks to nibble on, weight resting just a little closer to Dohalim. Just a little, surely not a problem.] there's so much to see from up here, yet I find myself lost for words. Maybe... it's more that the quiet is enjoyable, and the company.

[It's a lot more... stripped down and raw than his usual self is. A little closer to the young man Dohalim hasn't seen since he was very young, before the awkward, relatively introverted child became a proper guard.]

Feel free to use this spot as you wish, then. If you ever need the company as well, I am always up for a walk.

[Dohalim's voice is soft as his gaze turns to watch Gepard again. even in the dimmed light, he still looks radiant, softer now that he's a little removed from his post. despite wanting to talk about Serval and the man's feelings about her leaving, this is also an acceptable turn of events, even if the conversation pivoted onto him for a moment.

eyes trail along the side of his face, and down, noticing that he's leaning just a little closer, enough that it wouldn't be any effort enough to reach out and touch him. but it must be his imagination, a trick of his eyes in the creeping night sky. maybe it's just more comfortable for him to sit like that, or something. all Dohalim can do is deny anything, and himself, and push away any of those thoughts that there could be something more than their friendship with each other. however, it doesn't stop him as he speaks next, not being able to catch the words as they slip from his lips]

...Would you join me later for wine in my chambers?

I think I would rather prefer it with company, so perhaps I'll take you up on that.

[his expression is far too soft, too open, like this. it's something even he doesn't notice, scattered with surprise when Dohalim speaks again. the request isn't that surprising, just... he never expected it. just the idea of joining him for a drink, especially in his chambers? he can't quite help the tinge of pink it brings to his face, hoping the fading light might hide it.]

That... if you don't mind the fact that I don't drink much, I would happily join you.

[doesn't drink, can't drink... well honestly, he doesn't know which it is for sure. before now, he's only had little drinks here and there. something about always working, he supposes.]

[before he could retract the offer, Gepard had gone and accepted it, and all Dohalim can do is tell himself he's being stupid for even offering it. even if it's just to have drinks between friends, having wine in his chambers of all places is a little inappropriate, right? but... Gepard had said yes. is it because he just can't say no to him? is he just being polite?

but he said yes.

there's a warmth in Dohalim's chest that bursts, happy that Gepard had accepted his offer. but he can't help but think he needs to give him some sort of excuse as to why he invited him. or, he could keep his mouth shut, but would that come off as seeking some sort of ulterior motive if he doesn't tell him anything?]

You don't have to drink much... I am aware I can drink quite a bit so you don't have to feel obligated to drink along with me. But I figured you would like to continue this conversation somewhere a little more comfortable.

That would be more than acceptable, though I think I've been lost for much more conversation than the scenery here.

[Gepard can't help but wonder, too. if it wasn't his chambers, perhaps it would be less so, but... is there a possibility it could mean anything? and even if it did, how would they manage to get around to the confirmation of it? really, he shouldn't even be going to the Lord's own room, even for drinks. it doesn't stop him, the sense of yearning too strong.

he'll... he'll figure it out. and he's curious about how much Do really drinks anyway.]

We can go whenever you're ready. I'm quite comfortable just sitting here with you until then.

Mm, we should head back soon. The weather is mild, but the winds from Mahag Saar tends to pick up later in the evening.

[an excuse, perhaps, to get back to the city soon, now that he has something to look forward to. however, it is still early enough in the night that they both have their respective responsibilities to tie up for the day, and being up here definitely had pushed them back a little. oh well, in his eyes, this was worth it. and, at least, he knows not to worry too much over the Landau siblings. if Gepard isn't so concerned for Serval, then he shouldn't be, either. and he knows that the elder sister can handle herself.

now that he's thinking about her departure, Dohalim is sure that's what it is. perhaps he's just seeking the company of a friend. it's the reason why he'd invited Gepard up here after all, right? that has to be it. he knows he can be a bit emotional, and perhaps he's mistaking his feelings of separation as something more. and friends invite each other over for drinks. that has to be what it is.

...right?

it's what he's going to keep telling himself, ignoring all of the other lingering stares and need for the other man's warm touches and presence. a shiver pulls Dohalim out of his thoughts, a breeze passes by them]

Perhaps now would be a good time...

I'll take your word on it.

[as reluctant as he is to step away from Dohalim, there is enough for them to do that reconvening is probably the best choice. by the time a breeze passes over them, rustling his hair and plainly pulling a little shiver from the redhead, Gepard is already moving to pack everything back up.]

Indeed, it seems so.

[climbing to his feet, Gepard offers Dohalim a hand to help him do the same. after that, once he's gotten the blanket folded and put away, they can get on their way... with no particular rush, at least.]

Is there a time I should wait before joining you? I should be done with my remaining duties before too long when we return.

[Dohalim's hold on Gepard's hand lingers for a moment longer than it should, before he pulls away in favour of slipping his shoes back on. the breeze is still rather gentle, but with the thinner linens of his regalia, it does go right through it. he doesn't show just how much the chill gets to him, but he's so used to the mild warmth of Menancia that any sort of bite feels too cold.

he's lost all sense of time, as he usually does when he's walking along the hills surrounding the city, but it shouldn't be too late. he hums softly, and leads the captain down once everything is packed up again]

A couple of hours. That should be sufficient enough time to finish up any of our duties for the day, as well as have a proper dinner. And that will give me enough time to bathe and turn down for the night. Would that be alright with you?

[it's a couple hours too long, but they do have their own things to do. but it's not like it's forever, even if it might seem like it]

[Gepard keeps himself between Dohalim and the breeze as much as he can while they walk; he's not blind to the man's reactions, nor unaware of the comparatively thin fabrics of his regalia. there's only so much he can do, of course, but still.

there's a cursory nod that the other probably can't see, and an affirmative hum in turn before he responds.]

That sounds just fine. We'll reconvene in a couple of hours then... ah. Is there anything I should bring? Admittedly I... don't know anything of the protocol on this subject.

All you need is to bring yourself. And the nightguard will be on shift so you can relax for the night.

[honestly, Gepard works himself so hard sometimes that a night off would do him some good, much like this little break.

as soon as they get back into the city, and to the palace, he (reluctantly) parts ways with the man, off to finish up whatever it is that needs finishing up. and while it isn't a full scolding from Kelzalik, he could feel a little bit of the man's ire for his sudden disappearance, when he should be overlooking Serval's former unit and choosing a suitable replacement for her. of course, Dohalim had made up some excuse, saying that he was with Gepard to discuss the very same topic, and that a decision will be made soon. that seems to get the advisor off his back, and Dohalim makes a mental note to thank the captain later.

with everything signed off for the night, dinner quickly eaten and after a short bath, Dohalim is dressed down to his sleepwear, still modest enough that he could still host and entertain the blond when he arrives. and when Gepard does and is let in, Dohalim will be on the couch, lounging against the armrest, a glass of wine in one hand and a book in the other]

I- will do my best to relax.

[clearing his throat, Gepard glances away from Dohalim as he says it. it's not that he intends not to, but he's... very bad at relaxing. they both know that, at least.

there's nothing to it when they get back to the city, and even Gepard has to admit his disappointment when they split ways. no one really questions him - perhaps because he's just always been a workaholic, so they assume he was just, well... doing that. it's easy to talk with his men and guide them on the coming issues, the possibility of new members with Serval's unit being changed, and how to handle any questions the others might have. there's a lot they don't know, and it brings his mind back to everything that happened, but he just has to believe it'll all work out.

dinner and dressing down is easy, and the blonde has to quell the antsiness pitted somewhere in his stomach. it's not just because it's his Lord, nor that it's in his personal room... really, it's just that it's Dohalim, but he can hardly admit that. at least he's not wringing his hands when he's let in, brushing a hand through his hair when the servant closes the door behind them.

it's... ah. seeing Dohalim there, he has to make sure he's not blushing or anything - the man just looks so... elegant, even like this. god, this was probably a terrible idea, wasn't it?]

Sorry to keep you waiting.

[he's dressed down out of his normal uniform too, shirt well-fitted but light. it's pretty rare that he gets to dress like this anyway, outside of actually sleeping. with as... little knowledge as he has of how his drinking limits are, it just seemed smarter. without letting himself question any further, he does step over to the couch to join his Lord, trying not to seem nervous.]

[as soon as Gepard speaks, Dohalim looks up from his book, already reaching up to slip his reading glasses off. there's a small smile on his face, glad that the other man had taken up his offer for wine, and company; not that he expected Gepard to go back on his word. tucking his glasses in between the pages of the book, he moves it to the table with his wine glass as he stands in an act of courtesy. he's already reaching for the wine bottle as Gepard sits down]

Worry not, I was just catching up on some leisurely reading.

[Dohalim doesn't fill the glass up nearly as much as he would for himself, just enough that Gepard would be able to finish it. it's true that he's never seen the man drink, even during dinner events in the palace, but then again, he was always working. and perhaps that's one of the reasons why he invited him to his room. or, so he keeps telling himself, at least. there are no emotionally driven reasons at all.

he hands Gepard the glass before sitting back down and reaching for his own, fingers wrapped delicately around the stem as he swirls the deep red contents of it]

How was the rest of your evening? Have the other guardsmen calmed down?

Mm. Thank you.

[Gepard takes the glass without hesitation, not quite as delicate but at least with an understanding of etiquette. The longer he's here, the more he struggling to remove himself that this is just... a friendly request. There's nothing more to it, and he should want nothing out of it.

What would he even want? It's a ridiculous train of thought, even for a moment, but it doesn't keep his expression from softening in Dohalim's presence.]

My men tend to be more understanding than most, I think. The others relaxed when I assured them that we're already drawing up ideas, and that no one will be unheard in any concerns.

[As daunting a task as it is, Gepard is rather used to it. He's practically always on duty anyway... so it feels a little strange, taking the first sip of wine. Even following Dohalim's movements somewhat, he feels clumsy.

The drink itself is exquisite though, he has to admit. That's hardly a surprise with a connoisseur like the Lord, but it's still pleasant to learn.]

... ah. I think I understand now why you enjoy this so, just a little. [He laughs then, soft and warm.]

Mm, that's good to hear.

[at least Dohalim can relax a little in regards to that, then. not that the other captains weren't equipped to deal with something like this in the first place. but Gepard is such a smooth talker and so highly regarded that he's not surprised he was able to calm down the guards from the different regimen.

he takes a sip of his wine before holding the glass up to peer into the contents in the dim light. the wine itself is a nearly opaque burgundy hue, the light barely seen through it. honestly, it's one of his favourite vintages, and while he doesn't agree with his predecessors, the one thing they can all agree on is that Menancia is fertile enough to grow several vineyards, and that the wine produced is the best]

This particular wine is one I keep stocked in my personal stores. While different regions produce different flavour profiles, and while they are rather delicious, the soil around Viscint gives the grape a certain flavour profile that cannot be unmatched. Not to mention, it's full bodied without the presence of too much tannin, and delicately semisweet, and very easy to drink. Its bouquet--

[Dohalim brings the glass down, inhaling the inside of the glass and letting out a soft, happy sigh]

Oaky, and bearing scents of dark berries. Fruity, yet earthy at the same time-- Ah...

[Dohalim looks up at Gepard sheepishly, a slight flush in his cheeks. he hadn't meant to go off on a tangent about the wine, and unless he doesn't stop himself, or if Gepard doesn't stop him, he could go on all night about it]

I'm sure you don't want to listen to me prattle on about wine. My apologies.

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