[ well, that was worlds easier than he thought it was going to be. perhaps even he underestimated the small passionate flame for music that still burned within the kapellmeister's warped heart.
still, "don't move" is more of a demand than salieri likely realizes, as happy as his concession makes him. ]
What?? You can't expect me to stand here that long, Salieri...
I'm going to go get a coffee, okay? Tell me what you want, and I'll meet you here in twenty minutes.
[ the day wolfgang amadeus mozart misses something auditory is a true sign of the end. even those things unspoken, like the whipped cream that he imagines salieri wants but didn't specify, will find its way to him eventually.
at a cafe a block away, amadeus orders the espresso for himself, and the sweet chocolate coffee for salieri, and carries them over to the front of the music hall. just under twenty minutes. ]
[It's not like Salieri needs much to head out someplace— everything on his person is sufficient enough, and everything that wasn't has also become second thought.
The Little Melody was a setting he had taken notice of in passing but nothing more. To think, however, that the city would allow for such talent to shine for once... he wonders what limitations have been painstakingly chained to such an offer. He supposes he'll find out once he reaches Amadeus.
And reaches him he does. It's not so surreal now, to see one stiff Kapellmeister approaching the composer with wide, deliberate steps. His heavy paws pad silently across the street, perfectly predatory in every. Luckily (for Amadeus), Salieri has other prey set in his sights.
Such as one mocha waiting for him, topped with cream and drizzled how he likes it. He hums when he's finally close enough.] Tante grazie, Amadeus.
... I admit I had trouble believing you earlier. [He says with a glance towards the humble music hall before them.] And yet here we are.
Guten Morgen, Kapellmeister! [ he just. shouts at the man once he spots him from across the street.
amadeus shrugs at the show of gratitude. it's a little strange to, for once, have the kapellmeister in his debt rather than the other way around (he's yet to pay him back for that cake!). as though something isn't quite right with the world.
he supposes he only has the avenger's disposition and feline limbs to thank for that.
amadeus takes a long sip from his coffee before raising an eyebrow at the other. ] About what? The event? What's the use in making that up?
Not quite. [He joins him after a moment, standing beside the Maestro with a rigidness that comes with both his tentativeness and his still adjusting posture. When he finally takes his drink he brings it to his lips first- undoubtedly tasting the whip cream there first before finally tilting the cup. A glow that wasn't there before warms his cheeks, and he takes a moment to savor the sweetness before replying.] I wouldn't doubt your word, Amadeus.
I had thought Parliament was a bit more heavy-handed than this. [With a huff. It's a bit too obvious now...] I'm suspicious.
Do you think it unnecessary? [Be honest, he can take it...]
[ a combination of that subtly sweet-enchanted expression and the admission that… well, that salieri wouldn't doubt his word has amadeus smiling a gentler smile.
… but it's onto business now. ] Heh. Again with that?
[ he raises his coffee-free arm, offers his palm up and a look at his intact middle. ] You see me, Salieri. I'm unhurt. Unpunished. I've been getting by just fine with my … [ a suspicious little glance behind him, before he turns back with a smirk ] … night troupe.
[ then he pulls back and shrugs. ] I'll admit it's unforgivably annoying. They seem to remember the rules only when it's convenient – but why worry about it? The event isn't run by Parliament. There's plenty of similarly rambunctious spirits here with a love for theater.
[Amadeus... so does know how to make everything sound easy.
Salieri begrudgingly accepts this fact— has accepted it, since the first day he willingly sat across from the man and offered him sweets with tea. As though every obstacle in their path so far was simply a trivial misunderstanding, Amadeus spreads the pathways of his thoughts with an easy smile and a flick of his wrist. A deep envy once pitted his very being at such a thought, at the very notion that the composer could and would do whatever it took to create music.
Now that envy is replaced with something warmer— something indisputably more ardent.
Still, he can't help the way his expression sours at the mention of Amadeus's shady night troupe.] By some miracle you are unhurt. I've already extended my warnings, Amadeus... [A sigh.] but I'll admit, I'm glad.
[Talk about an understatement...] Also, did I hear right when you said you'd be performing? There's writing, composing, choreographing... but performing is a bit on the broader spectrum.
[Red eyes glance up from above his drink.] I'm curious as to what you have planned.
Composing and conducting, Herr Salieri. [ what else would he be doing? if they allowed him to take the helm — which they have, in part thanks to how acquainted he's become with the spread of the music scene here — then he'll take the spot in a heartbeat.
as for his plans ... ]
Well, I put myself down for a short vocal performance. [ there's some tentiveness in there, but before he explains he quickly figures he should rundown the format of the show as primer. ] Look, here.
[ amadeus, then, feels it pang in his heart before contact is even made, when he reaches out to take the avenger by the shoulder and pull him in front of the advertisement. ] Ah— [ right... right. bonds. amadeus releases his grip quickly. he has to be careful, doesn't he? ... (see if he will.) ]
My apologies, eheh. But, do you see? [ he tilted his chin down for all of one moment before moving on. ] It's a visual show, Salieri. They want a story. I plan to follow their lead and gently toe the line, if I can. [ get it?? ] It's my chance to write opera for the public again!
[Above all else, Salieri picks up on the brief hesitation that trails after Amadeus's words. His coffee and cream was enough to divert his attention between taste and thought for the most part— but now he focuses fully on the nuanced confidence lacing his tone.
If Salieri didn't know the man next to him so well by now, he might've wondered if Amadeus had ever felt true fear or doubt in his life— and if he had, if he'd ever allow himself to show it.
But you know far better than that.
A scowl threatens to deepen the frown on his lips, a telltale sign of yet another warning on his lips—
—until that hand touches down on his shoulder.
All at once a shock of heat and affection constricts his chest. Every fiber in his being bristles straight in the split second that they remain in contact and when Amadeus pries himself away the ache of the loss radiates all too acutely, too deeply. It takes everything not to allow the affect of it to show on his face, and instead he nods tightly and silently acknowledges that apology.
How... ironic.
Is it the affect of bonds that seize him in such a way, or his own concealed emotions?
To think that it could be a mingling of both has wariness tensing his every limb, brow pinched deeply.] ... If anyone could toe the line between insurrection and standard while still making it sound good, then it'd be you, Amadeus.
[A beat.]
—You mentioned illusion magic. [He gives Amadeus the briefest of glances.] Do you plan on implementing that as well?
a little lingering nervousness pricks at his expression, an awkward smile and a hesitance in his floating, clawed hand before he pulls it away for good.
salieri's compliment quickly becomes a thankful distraction, and after another long sip from his coffee, he regains his excitement. ]
Of course! I hate to say it, but I'm not yet skilled enough to simultaneously conduct and have full control of the illusions — so I'll be counting on the resident illusionists to aid me during the show.
[ there's a little — if one looks for it — tinge of humility in that smile for once. it's a welcome feeling, though, and a nostalgic one, to be able to rely on other musicians and performers and artists to put together a show like this again. ]
They're really a wonderful bunch in there, Salieri, you have to meet them. They're letting me do whatever I want! —Well, just short of having legitimate actors on stage, anyway. [ because, as you know, that would be full-blown theater then. ]
[Equal parts relief and possibly disappointment show across his expression when Amadeus wisely decides to drop his hand. He also briefly occupies himself with his drink— the whipped cream not properly incorporated into the rest of the coffee and gradually draining bit by bit.
What little remains of his sweet drink ends up on the corner of his upper lip- a tuft of fluffy white.] If they are as supportive as you say they are... perhaps I will.
—After I've assessed that they have nothing up their sleeves, rather.
[Hmph.] That being said... should you also need my assistance, Maestro- [He adds in a lower tone.] I'd be happy to assist.
[He exhales suddenly, his arms crossing over his chest as he contemplates.] Perhaps I'll do a solo violin piece.
A solo, Kapellmeister? No accompaniment? [ where's the creativity, the inspiration! he knows full well that salieri is still taking his time adjusting ... but still.
amadeus, for a moment, silently contemplates salieri's earlier offer, looking thoughtful with his hand pressed to his mouth before bringing it down once he has an answer. ] I could certainly use you in the orchestra, Salieri, if you really meant that. [ a sincere smile warms his face. ] Or perhaps you'd like to join the voices? [ his smile, just as warm, widens – quiet hope and energy sparking his eyes. ] Have you maintained your squillo, Herr Salieri?
—Oh, but I don't want to distract you from your performance. [ up, and then down his hand goes as ideas come to him and then quickly pass out his lips. now his excitement is truly visible, words overlapping each other, thoughts coming at him with overwhelming speed.
suddenly, he shakes his head. ] No, no. You should really meet them before you decide! It'll give you a chance to see what's available, and what's already on the list. I'm sure you'll find some ideas— [ there are those backhanded words meant to help salieri again ] here, let's go in! We're right here – I'll introduce you.
[ they are indeed right here, just on the side of the theater building and chatting away. enough talk, it's time for action! but —
distracted and focused as he is, amadeus quickly forgets his reason for keeping his hands to himself — and, suddenly takes salieri's unoccupied wrist to tug him along. this time his heart leaps, and he stops. hesitates ... before throwing caution to the wind – his long-lived rival and victim – and continues along, fingers wrapped just at salieri's cuff. ]
Amadeus's thoughts— his expressions and reservations, they show all too plainly upon that face. Salieri sees it just as Amadeus makes his move— the quick reach for his wrist that nearly prompts a warning to fall from his lips. "Amadeus, wait—"
But he doesn't wait, and once again he is seized with an jolt of exaltation.
And like melting honey the sensation spreads and seeps throughout his chest, into his heart, his core. Salieri lets out an uneasy breath, but at that point is simply too overcome to pull back. As Amadeus tugs him along into the theater he wonders if this infliction will persist even after they've parted... if it will remain his bones and stay with him until he's returned home.
... But that would merely be an affect of being near Amadeus, wouldn't it?
Salieri simply cannot give bonds all of the credit. Somehow, he knows that it has always been this way— that Amadeus has already woven himself so deeply into his mind— so intricately that Salieri long gave up hope of ever untangling himself from him. And now, he's certain he doesn't ever want to. The feeling lessens somewhat with Amadeus holding his cuff, but it doesn't prompt Salieri to pull away. Rather, he feels his own fingers inching toward Amadeus's— just barely brushing against each other.
No, he is content like this. He is grateful for this second (third? fourth?) chance. The chance to remain beside him, the chance to speak to him... and sing for him, apparently.
Yes, perhaps that isn't such a bad idea.
Have you maintained your squillo, Salieri?
Salieri huffs silently. What does Amadeus know? He'll have to prove he hasn't lost his touch after all... after they've spoken to this apparent troupe, that is.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
video.
still, "don't move" is more of a demand than salieri likely realizes, as happy as his concession makes him. ]
What?? You can't expect me to stand here that long, Salieri...
I'm going to go get a coffee, okay? Tell me what you want, and I'll meet you here in twenty minutes.
video.
A cafe mocha with chocolate drizzle on the top. If not that then an espresso will do.
I'll be seeing you shortly, Amadeus. [Ok, there goes his feed. Did you hear everything correctly, Amadeus??]
video ⇾ action.
at a cafe a block away, amadeus orders the espresso for himself, and the sweet chocolate coffee for salieri, and carries them over to the front of the music hall. just under twenty minutes. ]
action.
The Little Melody was a setting he had taken notice of in passing but nothing more. To think, however, that the city would allow for such talent to shine for once... he wonders what limitations have been painstakingly chained to such an offer. He supposes he'll find out once he reaches Amadeus.
And reaches him he does. It's not so surreal now, to see one stiff Kapellmeister approaching the composer with wide, deliberate steps. His heavy paws pad silently across the street, perfectly predatory in every. Luckily (for Amadeus), Salieri has other prey set in his sights.
Such as one mocha waiting for him, topped with cream and drizzled how he likes it. He hums when he's finally close enough.] Tante grazie, Amadeus.
... I admit I had trouble believing you earlier. [He says with a glance towards the humble music hall before them.] And yet here we are.
action.
amadeus shrugs at the show of gratitude. it's a little strange to, for once, have the kapellmeister in his debt rather than the other way around (he's yet to pay him back for that cake!). as though something isn't quite right with the world.
he supposes he only has the avenger's disposition and feline limbs to thank for that.
amadeus takes a long sip from his coffee before raising an eyebrow at the other. ] About what? The event? What's the use in making that up?
action.
I had thought Parliament was a bit more heavy-handed than this. [With a huff. It's a bit too obvious now...] I'm suspicious.
Do you think it unnecessary? [Be honest, he can take it...]
action.
… but it's onto business now. ] Heh. Again with that?
[ he raises his coffee-free arm, offers his palm up and a look at his intact middle. ] You see me, Salieri. I'm unhurt. Unpunished. I've been getting by just fine with my … [ a suspicious little glance behind him, before he turns back with a smirk ] … night troupe.
[ then he pulls back and shrugs. ] I'll admit it's unforgivably annoying. They seem to remember the rules only when it's convenient – but why worry about it? The event isn't run by Parliament. There's plenty of similarly rambunctious spirits here with a love for theater.
action.
Salieri begrudgingly accepts this fact— has accepted it, since the first day he willingly sat across from the man and offered him sweets with tea. As though every obstacle in their path so far was simply a trivial misunderstanding, Amadeus spreads the pathways of his thoughts with an easy smile and a flick of his wrist. A deep envy once pitted his very being at such a thought, at the very notion that the composer could and would do whatever it took to create music.
Now that envy is replaced with something warmer— something indisputably more ardent.
Still, he can't help the way his expression sours at the mention of Amadeus's shady night troupe.] By some miracle you are unhurt. I've already extended my warnings, Amadeus... [A sigh.] but I'll admit, I'm glad.
[Talk about an understatement...] Also, did I hear right when you said you'd be performing? There's writing, composing, choreographing... but performing is a bit on the broader spectrum.
[Red eyes glance up from above his drink.] I'm curious as to what you have planned.
no subject
as for his plans ... ]
Well, I put myself down for a short vocal performance. [ there's some tentiveness in there, but before he explains he quickly figures he should rundown the format of the show as primer. ] Look, here.
[ amadeus, then, feels it pang in his heart before contact is even made, when he reaches out to take the avenger by the shoulder and pull him in front of the advertisement. ] Ah— [ right... right. bonds. amadeus releases his grip quickly. he has to be careful, doesn't he? ... (see if he will.) ]
My apologies, eheh. But, do you see? [ he tilted his chin down for all of one moment before moving on. ] It's a visual show, Salieri. They want a story. I plan to follow their lead and gently toe the line, if I can. [ get it?? ] It's my chance to write opera for the public again!
no subject
If Salieri didn't know the man next to him so well by now, he might've wondered if Amadeus had ever felt true fear or doubt in his life— and if he had, if he'd ever allow himself to show it.
But you know far better than that.
A scowl threatens to deepen the frown on his lips, a telltale sign of yet another warning on his lips—
—until that hand touches down on his shoulder.
All at once a shock of heat and affection constricts his chest. Every fiber in his being bristles straight in the split second that they remain in contact and when Amadeus pries himself away the ache of the loss radiates all too acutely, too deeply. It takes everything not to allow the affect of it to show on his face, and instead he nods tightly and silently acknowledges that apology.
How... ironic.
Is it the affect of bonds that seize him in such a way, or his own concealed emotions?
To think that it could be a mingling of both has wariness tensing his every limb, brow pinched deeply.] ... If anyone could toe the line between insurrection and standard while still making it sound good, then it'd be you, Amadeus.
[A beat.]
—You mentioned illusion magic. [He gives Amadeus the briefest of glances.] Do you plan on implementing that as well?
no subject
he would have to truly be trying to miss that.
a little lingering nervousness pricks at his expression, an awkward smile and a hesitance in his floating, clawed hand before he pulls it away for good.
salieri's compliment quickly becomes a thankful distraction, and after another long sip from his coffee, he regains his excitement. ]
Of course! I hate to say it, but I'm not yet skilled enough to simultaneously conduct and have full control of the illusions — so I'll be counting on the resident illusionists to aid me during the show.
[ there's a little — if one looks for it — tinge of humility in that smile for once. it's a welcome feeling, though, and a nostalgic one, to be able to rely on other musicians and performers and artists to put together a show like this again. ]
They're really a wonderful bunch in there, Salieri, you have to meet them. They're letting me do whatever I want! —Well, just short of having legitimate actors on stage, anyway. [ because, as you know, that would be full-blown theater then. ]
no subject
What little remains of his sweet drink ends up on the corner of his upper lip- a tuft of fluffy white.] If they are as supportive as you say they are... perhaps I will.
—After I've assessed that they have nothing up their sleeves, rather.
[Hmph.] That being said... should you also need my assistance, Maestro- [He adds in a lower tone.] I'd be happy to assist.
[He exhales suddenly, his arms crossing over his chest as he contemplates.] Perhaps I'll do a solo violin piece.
no subject
amadeus, for a moment, silently contemplates salieri's earlier offer, looking thoughtful with his hand pressed to his mouth before bringing it down once he has an answer. ] I could certainly use you in the orchestra, Salieri, if you really meant that. [ a sincere smile warms his face. ] Or perhaps you'd like to join the voices? [ his smile, just as warm, widens – quiet hope and energy sparking his eyes. ] Have you maintained your squillo, Herr Salieri?
—Oh, but I don't want to distract you from your performance. [ up, and then down his hand goes as ideas come to him and then quickly pass out his lips. now his excitement is truly visible, words overlapping each other, thoughts coming at him with overwhelming speed.
suddenly, he shakes his head. ] No, no. You should really meet them before you decide! It'll give you a chance to see what's available, and what's already on the list. I'm sure you'll find some ideas— [ there are those backhanded words meant to help salieri again ] here, let's go in! We're right here – I'll introduce you.
[ they are indeed right here, just on the side of the theater building and chatting away. enough talk, it's time for action! but —
distracted and focused as he is, amadeus quickly forgets his reason for keeping his hands to himself — and, suddenly takes salieri's unoccupied wrist to tug him along. this time his heart leaps, and he stops. hesitates ... before throwing caution to the wind – his long-lived rival and victim – and continues along, fingers wrapped just at salieri's cuff. ]
no subject
Amadeus's thoughts— his expressions and reservations, they show all too plainly upon that face. Salieri sees it just as Amadeus makes his move— the quick reach for his wrist that nearly prompts a warning to fall from his lips. "Amadeus, wait—"
But he doesn't wait, and once again he is seized with an jolt of exaltation.
And like melting honey the sensation spreads and seeps throughout his chest, into his heart, his core. Salieri lets out an uneasy breath, but at that point is simply too overcome to pull back. As Amadeus tugs him along into the theater he wonders if this infliction will persist even after they've parted... if it will remain his bones and stay with him until he's returned home.
... But that would merely be an affect of being near Amadeus, wouldn't it?
Salieri simply cannot give bonds all of the credit. Somehow, he knows that it has always been this way— that Amadeus has already woven himself so deeply into his mind— so intricately that Salieri long gave up hope of ever untangling himself from him. And now, he's certain he doesn't ever want to. The feeling lessens somewhat with Amadeus holding his cuff, but it doesn't prompt Salieri to pull away. Rather, he feels his own fingers inching toward Amadeus's— just barely brushing against each other.
No, he is content like this. He is grateful for this second (third? fourth?) chance. The chance to remain beside him, the chance to speak to him... and sing for him, apparently.
Yes, perhaps that isn't such a bad idea.
Have you maintained your squillo, Salieri?
Salieri huffs silently. What does Amadeus know? He'll have to prove he hasn't lost his touch after all... after they've spoken to this apparent troupe, that is.]