Brimer the Orc & Ciran the Drow (rough draft)
Added 2021-05-15 20:01:00 +0000 UTCA few years ago you had been out getting eggs and bread to take back home when you happened upon a performance. An orc was playing a lute and singing, and his voice was exceptionally lovely. You stopped to listen much like several others. The orc smiled at you and for a moment you felt the beating of your heart skip and bounce. But it was in the same moment you felt aware that someone was uncomfortably close to you. It had been a gift you’d picked up over the years. You then noticed a dark hand near your waist, and you snatched it. The drow behind you looked just as shocked as you were. The orc’s song halted for a brief moment before he started again at a much more rapid pace.
You came to know the pair as Brimer and Ciaran, two friends traveling and using their various talents to make a way in the world. Brimer was the orc, a jovial and musically talented fellow, who used his music to distract unsuspecting people. Meanwhile, Ciran the drow would pickpockets. You snatching Ciran’s hand had been a shock to both, they claimed no one had ever caught Ciran before. That’s what they told you anyways after you ran from them.
Once they caught up with you they begged you not to tell. They had gotten jumped on their way into town and just needed some cash in order to get some food and shelter for the night. Being the sucker that you were, you agreed to come let them stay at your family’s inn, but they had to earn their keep for the night. Brimer was set to performing for the usual patrons, while Ciran was put in the kitchen.
They still come through every once in a while. They show up at the door, asking for the same deal you gave them in the past. Brimer performs while Ciran goes to the kitchen to work. It was always a joy to see them, Brimer was always so kind and happy, he was like warm sunlight to be around. Ciran was flirty, he made everyone he was around feel special and beautiful. You counted the days between visits, excited to see them again. It had been a while since their last visit, and then, a few days ago, they showed up, both wounded. Brimer was horribly injured and somehow Ciran had brought him all the way here. You got them set up in a room, and tenderly attended to their wounds.
Ciran had obvious cuts and scratches, but Brimer’s injuries were strange. He was covered from head to toe in large, strange bruises. He had no visible signs of blood loss or wounds, Yet he looked so pale and sickly as if he had suffered such things.
“We’ll work all this off, love, promise.” Ciran’s expression was nothing but concern. Brimer had sustained most of the injuries and had been resting almost all this time. Ciran had barely left his side. If it wasn’t for work you would stay with them too.
“I’m not worried about that now,” you say tenderly to Ciran. “You two need to get better before you do anything.”
“I just want the big guy to wake up, you know?” Ciran takes hold of your hand, squeezing it for strength. “It’s always been us.”
“It’s okay, he’ll be fine. You have your own injuries to worry about too.” You smooth your hand up his arm then gently brushed your hand along his cheek. His skin was stone gray, but it felt so warm. Tears hang on his thick, white eyelashes and you smoothed them away. His nose was crooked, but in a way that added to his charm.
Ciran smiles softly at your gentle touch. “Thank you, it means a lot we have someone in this world looking out for us.”
“You two are trouble, let’s be certain. But I would never turn you away.” You stand up, taking their dirty clothes to go wash them. “I’ll return with some food in a moment.”
“Thank you,” Ciran’s eyes went back to sleeping Brimer. “He’s going to be so mad he missed meals.”
You go beside Brimer’s bed and check his forehead. He’s not as warm as he was, which was a good sign. He does feel sweaty though, you make a note to return with a cool, damp cloth to mop up his face.
“I’m sure he’ll make up for it.” You brush Brimer’s long hair aside. “I’ll be back.” You leave their room, seeing your two youngest siblings listening by the door. “Don’t you two have anything better to do than spy? Go on, get!”
“How did they get hurt?” One asks, trailing along behind you.
“What if the orc dies?” The other asks, timid and afraid.
You turn and scowl down at them. “Don’t say such a horrible thing!”You then thrust the laundry basket into their hands. “Go and take these down to the washroom. Make sure they get cleaned soon! And stop spying or I’ll make sure to scrub their britches on the back of your heads.”
Your siblings run off and you sigh heavily. It had been a thought at the back of your mind, but not one you allowed to see the light of day. What if Brimer did die? What if something happened that couldn’t heal?
“No,” you say aloud to yourself. “They’re fine. They’ll heal.” You stride off again, trying to move that awful thought from your mind as you went into the kitchen. Nothing bad ever happened here. Your big brother’s protected the place, your parents made it inviting, you little siblings made it fun. You felt lucky to have been left on the doorstep when you were a baby. They took you in and loved you like one of their own. But that’s probably why you felt the need to work as hard as you did.
“How’re the boys?” Your mother asks as you slice bread.
“Ciran’s fine, just worrying himself sick. And Brimer is still resting.” You place the bread on a plate with some berries you had picked that morning.
“Such a shame, I do miss his singing,” you mother frets. For her, taking in people was natural. “These things happen though. Should be right up on his tippy toes in no time. I worry about the pretty one though.”
She always called Ciran pretty, which he was. Ciran called her the boss while she called him pretty one, it was their form of affection. You filled two bowls with the hearty ham and potato stew. It would be a good dinner, as long as they ate. Ciran had barely touched anything, and Brimer, well, Brimer was still asleep. You then took a rag, dunking it in water and rung it out.
“Does he still have a fever?” You mother asks.
“No, his forehead felt much better today.” She sighs with relief at your response. “He’s just sweaty. I wanted to wipe down his face a little.” You place the damp rag in your pocket then take the tray back to their room.
“I expect you to eat something,” you scold Ciran as you come in. “I’ll sit here and watch you if I have to-” You stop cold in your tracks, seeing Ciran is on Brimer’s bed weeping. “Oh gods no.” You feel your heart choking you from within.
Ciran turns, big, fat tears in his eyes. “He said he was hungry!”
You almost sob, but when you see Brimer’s smile you really could bawl.
“Come here, lass.” he extends his big hand. “Come give me a hug.”
You quickly set the tray aside and rush to the other side of the bed. “I’m so glad to see you!” You cry as you give him a mindful hug. “We’ve been so worried.”
“Sorry about that. I’m always a heavy sleeper when I heal.” Brimer smiles, thick eyebrows raised despite the sleepy expression in his eyes. “I do wish I saw you first upon waking, rather than this rusted eyed fool,” he chuckles.
“Cruel,” Ciran laughs between tears.
Brimer’s nose twitches. “Is that soup I smell?”
“Yes!” You jump up. “Mama made ham and potato stew.”
“She remembered my favorite.” Brimer tried to sit up in bed, but he made a horribly pained face. “Fuck, what happened to me out there?”
“Easy now,” Ciran coaxes him back to relaxing. “That fucker who attacked us knew blood magic.”
You go to Brimer’s side with a bowl and spoon in hand. “Blood magic?” You say with fright. “You met someone who knew blood magic?”
“Aye,” Brimer groans. “Took control of me, made me give Ciran a sound thrashing. Barely saw the man, but I could see he was some sort of scaly fucker.”
Ciran hadn’t been privy with this information. “He made you fight Ciran?”
“Don’t know why either,” Ciran sighs heavily. “He just asked for a song and the next thing we know-” He stops, obviously bothered by the thought.
“Every inch of me feels like it’s been pulled apart and sewn back together.” Brimer is able to sit up enough for you to feed him. “He pulled at the blood in my veins and my bones.”
“I’m so sorry,” you murmur. “That must have been-”
“Terrifying,” Ciran hisses.
You feed Brimer the entire bowl of soup, then you take the cool cloth and dab it over his face. “I’m just glad you’re still with us.”
Brimer sighs. “That feels nice, lass.”
“I can fetch some water if you’d like to clean yourself off,” you suggest.
“I doubt I could move my arms enough to do such a thing,” he grunts. “But thank you.”
“Do you mind if I see?” You ask gently. “Just to check.”
Brimer nods and you move away the blanket. The bruises are much darker than before. “You poor thing.” You gently touch his arm.
“That feels nice,” Brimer huffs.
“Looks like we’ll be working off a hefty tab this time around,” Ciran attempts a jest. “Might not be leaving for a long while.”
“We’ll work it off,” Brimer smiles at you. “Kindness will be paid back in full.”
“I’m just glad you’re alright,” you say with a bright smile. “Both of you. I don’t know what I’d do if either one of you never came through our doors again.”
“That’s why we do,” Ciran says with his trademark charming smile. “Just to make you happy, love.” He kisses your cheek, which makes your heart skyrocket through your throat and into your head, scrambling your brains like eggs.
“You old sap,” Brimer grunts. “She deserves more than a cheek peck, and you know it. If I could sit up, I’d give her the snogging of her life.”
Ciran scowls down at him. “I bet you would, you old dog.”
“Wait a second-” You’re excited by the prospect, but unsure if they are teasing you or not. They always have teased you, always gleefully flirted to get you to giggle or make you react. But this didn’t feel like teasing, this felt serious.
“All these years and you’ve been too nervous to pull the trigger. But everytime you leave all you do is whine about how there wasn’t a good moment,” Brimer laughs. “Stop bellyaching you cad.”
Ciran’s smirk looks vicious. “Like you have any room to complain! You write her those ridiculous love songs and then don’t have the nerve to tell her either!”
“What are you talking about?” You huff.
The two of them stop their brotherly arguing and look at you. Ciran looks uncharacteristically shy, and Brimer’s smile becomes boyish and cute.
“Well now,” Ciran sits back and clears his throat. “Suppose there’s nothing but time here to confess.”
You glance between them. “You both like me?”
Ciran’s stone colored cheeks darken to a lavender shade. “Maybe.”
“Yes,” Brimer comes right out and confesses. “We’ve both fancied you for quite some time. But since we both have feelings, we’ve been dancing around it waiting for the other to do something.”
You sit in shocked silence, staring between these two men who you have held affection for as well. But that confused you. It was always both of them, never just one. “You could have said something,” you say sheepishly.
“Easier said than done,” Ciran murmurs.
“How does it make you feel?” Brimer asks with concern.
You take a deep breath and swallow. “I’m surprised I-” A small smile appears. “I’ve barely had one confession, let alone two. And I care deeply for both of you.”
“You don’t need to say anything or even make any sort of decision. We don’t expect that,” Ciran sounds breathless. “We want to remain your friend always.”
“I do too.” You try to piece your thoughts together in a way that would make sense. But right now they were too scrambled and mixed up to put together a clear picture. “Thank you for telling me. It’s actually nice to know.”
You leave them to rest, and to try and think through this. You go to your parents, telling them what happened. A thoughtful look comes to your father’s face, and he approaches you with an idea.
“You’ve always wanted to travel,” he says. “To have your own grand adventures. Unfortunately, my darling, you’ve never had the skill or chance for such things. But maybe, with those two boys, you could finally accomplish your dream.”
Your mother looks at him in alarm. “Dear, you’re not suggesting-”
“Who better to send her off with than two people who care about her? Not to mention we know them quite well now. They’ll have a tab to settle once they’re healed, and they can’t stay here forever.” He gets a smile. “So why not pass on this offer?”
It did sound tempting, but you did not want to use their feelings for you just for the chance at adventure. You said you’d think it over before offering it and you went to bed. You toss and turn most of the night though, your thoughts plagued by images of a romance with Brimer or Ciran. How could you choose one or the other when they came as a complete set?
Come morning, you check on them before breakfast and deliver them their clean clothes. Peeking inside, you see that both of them are fast asleep. You set their clean clothes on the dresser then glance over them. Brimer looks so cuddly and warm. Ciran looks beautiful and huggable. You can’t choose between them, you know this. You like them both, it would feel wrong to just choose one over the other. But was that sort of thing allowed?
“Morning already?” Brimer sighs sleepily.
You go to his side. “Did I wake you?”
“No, no,” he grunts. “I was already coming to when you came in.” He looks up at you with dark eyes. “Do you mind helping me up? I need to stretch these weary limbs.”
“Of course.” You let him hold onto you, helping his rise off the bed with grunts and groans. He sighs with relief as he sits up, popping his neck then his knuckles.
“Thank you, lass.”
“How do you feel?” You rub his shoulder.
He frowns then leans into your touch. “Like a dropped peach.” Brimer places his hand upon your lap. “But better than the mash I felt like yesterday.”
You take hold of his hand. “I’m glad.”
Ciran stirs in bed, stretching out then slowly raising himself up. “Damn, morning already? And I was dreaming so sweetly.” He rests back upon his pillow, curling up so he looked so welcomingly cozy.
That’s when you decide. “If you’re both up to hearing it, my parents have an offer for you so you can pay off your tab.”
“Hmm?” Ciran peeks open his eyes. “What sort of offer?”
You look between them, feeling almost excited. “I’ve always wanted to travel, see some of the world beyond this village. But, lets face it, I’m not one who should be going on adventures.”
Ciran sits up again.
“In exchange for clearing off your tab, they would like for the two of you to protect me out on an adventure.” You look at each of them. “What do you think?”
“Is that something you would want?” Ciran asks. His long hair falls in front of his face. “To be out alone in the world with us?”
Your cheeks darken. “I’ve given it some thought,” you say simply.
Brimer nudges your cheek and chuckles. “Is this your confession, lass?”
Your face is growing warmer and warmer.
Ciran rises out of bed, keeping the blanket around his waist. “Don’t make me excited before I have my eggs.”
“I can’t choose,” you murmur. “I like you both. I can’t imagine being without either one of you. I know that sounds selfish maybe. But that’s how I feel.”
Ciran’s eyes sparkle as he looks at you and Brimer’s arm tightens to bring you into a hug. “Thank you for your honesty.”
“Where would you like to go?” Ciran asks with a smile. He climbs into Brimer’s bed with you, kissing your cheek while Brimer kisses the top of your head.
You laugh happily, trembling with excitement.
Once their healed and Brimer can walk without issue, you prepare to leave for your journey. Your parents have a long talk with them, and your elder brothers give them a talking to as well. You’re given a knife and a dagger for the journey, as well as supplies to last you for a while.
You leave early one morning, almost breathless with the thrill of having your dream come true. But also, because you’re going with them.
Ciran extends his hand to you. “Come along, love.” His warm hand wraps around yours. “We’ve got you.”
Brimer takes hold of your other hand. “No need to be scared, but if you are, just tell us and we’ll take care of it.”
You beam at them both. “Right now, I’m just so excited! I can’t wait.”
The first few days is a lot of walking, which aside from working in the inn and going around the village, you aren’t used to. Your feet get sore and you even get a blister, so at one point Ciran carries you on his back.
“You look rather smug over there,” Brimer teases.
“She’s warm and soft, why wouldn’t I be?” Ciran throws back.
“We’ll find you better traveling shoes once we get to the next village. I know there is a cobbler there who does good work.” Brimer says with a smile.
“I’m sorry I wasn’t prepared,” you pout. “You don’t have to carry me.”
“I like it,” Ciran chuckles. “And no worries, that’s what this journey is for right? So you can learn and be prepared.”
“I suppose so.” You feel bad he’s carrying you, but at the same time to revel in it. You’re close to him and can smell the soft scent of his hair.
Brimer teaches you how to build a fire and set up shelter with some basic supplies. He gives you your own piece of flint, so you can practice starting fires with it. Ciran teaches you about setting traps and scavenging. You know a bit already about some foods in the wild, but he shows you tips and tricks specifically with fungus and mushrooms.
Ciaran shows you two different mushrooms. “See, this one here isn’t edible, but we can sell them to an apothecary and make some pretty good pay from them. Also, keep a sharp eye out for ginger, if you find some, it’s good to have on hand, but the money you can make from it is even better, so start getting good at spotting things while on the trail. It can mean a night in a tent or a night in an inn.”
“No wonder you two were always so willing to work at the inn for room and board.”
“It was a selling point,” Brimer chuckles. “It was easier than most tasks we’ve had to do. And we didn’t have to resort to our back handed tactics.” He looks up into and sky and sighs heavily. “Looks like we might have bad weather tonight.”
“How bad?” Ciaran asks.
Brimer rubs his chin while his brow crinkles. “Judging from the clouds I would say heavy rain.”
“We won’t make it to the next village by then,” Ciran sighs heavily. “We should probably move ahead and start looking for a place with adequate covering.”
“I want to say I saw an abandoned cottage last time we passed through here.” Brimer hefts up his bag back onto his back. “If it’s unoccupied we could probably take cover there to at least escape the worst parts of the rain. We’re used to it, but I don’t think our lass would take kindly to it.”
“I’ll be fine really,” you reply. “Whatever we have to do.”
You find the old cabin in the woods. It has been taken over by vines and moss, and there are signs of a tussle having happened outside. There’s dried blood and scuff marks all over and signs of a fire. Ciran goes inside to inspect the cabin to make sure there’s nothing there.
“How are you faring so far, lass?” Brimer rubs your back gently. “Has the journey been okay for you so far.”
You nod. “I’ve been fine. But I can’t help but feel a little like extra weight to you two. If I get to annoying we can just go back to the inn.”
“Nonsense,” he scoffs. “We all start somewhere. And to be honest having you around makes everything feel a little bit new.” He takes out his lute and begins strumming. “Ciran and I are as close as we can be without blood. But it always has been us. With you here it’s like a whole new adventure to us.”
You smile shyly. “Thanks for agreeing to this.”
Ciran comes out of the cabin. “Stinks to high hell in there, but it’s a port in the storm, so we can’t complain.” He leaves the old door open to air out then sits down with you as Brimer begins to play.
After a while, storm clouds converge, making the sky dark and thick. The sky rumbles and in the distance there are warning flashes of light. You get into the old cabin, setting up your tent for when the roof leaks. Ciran builds a fire while Brimer goes to find water. Meanwhile, you set up the inside of the tent with your sleeping bags, hoping to make it a bit cozy.
“Oh wow, got us in there quite tight,” Ciran teases. “If you wanted a snuggle, all you had to do was ask.”
Your cheeks burn and you look up at him, knowing you’ve been caught. “It’ll be chilly tonight. I thought it would be best.”
Ciran smoothes his fingers along your forehead then through your hair. His touch is gentle but has intent behind it. “I’m not very good at these things. I may talk a big game, but when I am face to face with acting upon it, well-” His eyes go wide and starry, he looks quite youthful. “I did mean it when I said my feelings run deep. I just panic when I want to act.”
You place your hand over his. “I’m not experienced myself. I’ve never-” you frown a bit when you think about what you’re going to confess.
“What is it?” Ciran tilts his head.
“I’ve never been kissed,” you murmur. You try to look at him but find it impossible. It’s far too embarrassing. “Don’t laugh.”
“Why would I?” He cups your cheek in his hand. “I can be your first, or Brimer can. It’s up to you if that’s what you want.”
You want to look at him to gaze into his silver eyes and silently beg for his lips upon yours. But you can’t pull yourself to lift your chin. His thumb brushes against your lip, his fingers curl under your chin.
“I want to kiss you,” Ciran breathes against your skin.
“Okay.” You brace for impact.
“You’re so cute,” his voice trembles before touching your lips. It’s so soft and warm, a hint of moisture on the edge. You place your hands upon him for balance, tilting your chin up more to reach. You part and catch your breath, smiling at him in a goofy sort of way. He kisses your cheek and neck affectionately.
“How was it?”
“Very good,” you chuckle. “At least, I think it was.”
“It was good.” He dips down to kiss you again, but Brimer returns, slinging canteens down off his shoulder.
“Oy, that was a rough walk.” he walks up to the tent, seeing you and Ciran so close together. He chuckles. “Did I interrupt something.”
“A little,” Ciran pouts.
“And what did I miss?” Brimer sits down upon his sleeping pack.
You smile again, giggling to yourself. “It’s silly. But Ciran gave me my first kiss.”
Brimer’s brows go up and a smile crosses his lips. “Not silly at all. I had my first kiss with him too,” he chortles.
“Shut it,” Ciran scoffs.
You giggle and slip closer to Brimer. “Could I kiss you too?”
Brimer look to Ciran then you. “Yes, of course. I’d welcome the affection right now.” He scoops you up, holding you in his big arms. His embrace is strong, his kiss a little scratchy from his stubble. But it’s just as soft and sweet as the one Ciran gave you.
The storm turns the whole world dark and it comes so fast and loud it frightens you. Cuddled between Ciran and Brimer, you’re able to feel relaxed again. You kiss them, silently thinking them for staying by your side. It grows, much to your surprise. Something changes in your kiss, it becomes more desperate, more suggestive. Something about being so close to them both opened your mind to a fantasy you had tried to forget.
Ciran’s lips brush down your neck, Brimer’s big hands squeeze around your waist. Their bodies are so close and so warm. You catch your breath at one point, realizing how you almost lost yourself for a moment.
“Sorry, I got excited.” Your head was spinning. “I barely even know what I’m doing.”
“Nothing to apologize for.” Ciran wraps his arms around you. “Did you enjoy it.”
You nod shyly. “I...I did.”
“Would you like to keep going then?” Brimer suggests. “We can stop anytime.”
You nod again, moaning as Ciran’s touch becomes more intense. His elegant hands open up your blouse and touch your bare skin while Brimer watches. You reach for Brimer, kissing him as Ciran’s tongue goes down your neck and his teeth touch your shoulder.
“Sweet lass,” Brimer growls. “So beautiful.” He kisses you hungrily then moves his mouth down to your exposed breasts. You cry out as his tongue licks you nipples, then his lips suckle gently. Ciran breathes against your ear, turning your head to kiss you.
“Your sweet voice is making me dizzy,” he says to you. “Those adorable little moans. Is this the first time you’ve felt this way.”
“I’ve touched myself before,” you whimper.
Ciran grins. “What a lovely thought.” He takes your hand and kisses each finger tip. “These lovely fingers touching your folds and nectar. I’m jealous.”
“Ciran,” you gasp.
Brimer kisses your neck bringing you into his lap so your bare chest touches against his. His body is hair and strong, much thicker than Ciran’s. It feels good having him so close, his skin pressed against yours. He takes off your skirt and you’re now bare before them both. Ciran’s bare skin tickles up your back. His lips. His tongue. Both their hands are on you, caressing you and filling you with a raw, overwhelming desire.
“Mind if we touch more?” Ciran murmurs into your ear, his fingers going down your belly.
“Please,” the word escapes your lips before you have a chance to think. Ciran’s fingers find your first, going between your thighs to touch the pleading bud at the top of your folds. Brimer’s fingers go between the cheeks of your rear, slipping snuggly between where a thick finger rubs your slit.
“How do you feel, love?” Ciran looks into your eyes. “Do you like us touching you?”
“Do you want more from us?” Brimer moans.
You grunt and moan, trying to get your words to come out. “Inside-” is all that escapes.
“You’re first.” Ciran kisses you as Brimer’s finger eases inside. How come that feels so good? Especially while Ciran’s fingers rub that sensitive bud.
“She’s squeezing me so tight,” Brimer gulps.
“Do you like him inside?” Ciran hisses into your ear. “Does it feel good? Does it make you want to come?”
“Yes,” you plead.
“We can give you so much more,” Ciran’s tongue licks over your lips. “If you want us. We will give you our all.”
You nod, closing your eyes as Brimer’s finger goes deeper. “I want it. I want you both so badly!”
Ciran helps ease you back and Brimer moves his finger away. He holds you close, lifting you up so he can place something else inside you. His cock is thick and heavy, falling without Brimer’s hand holding it up. Ciran kisses you, continually touching your clit as Brimer’s cock fits inside. You cling to Ciran, who stands and places his own cock upon your lips. Holding his hips, you taste him, licking and sucking the gland at the tip. He feels good on your tongue, you enjoy sucking upon him while Brimer moves inside you.
“Beautiful,” Ciran whimpers. “Beautiful girl.”
“You feel amazing, lass,” Brimer whines in your ear.
You can feel yourself unraveling and coiling all at once. Each time they slip inside you, you feel full and wonderful. You taste yourself upon Brimer’s cock while Ciran slips inside. You grow dizzy with the ecstasy. Your first tussle with arousal and release has you behaving like some lust starved succubus. You want them both so badly, you need their kiss and touch. For our first time, you’re shocked at what releases from you.
It’s still raining come morning, much gentler than during the night. The pitter patter of rain is actually soothing. The warm bodies tangled around you and the chill in the air is so inviting. You curl into Ciran’s chest while Brimer’s body presses to your back.
“Is she back to her senses?” Brimer teases.
You glance over our shoulder at his smile. “I’m sorry I don’t know what came over me last night.”
He lovingly kisses your cheek. “I was all too happy to fulfill you. And I’m sure when he comes to, he'll say the same thing.”
You pout. “I swear, I’ve never been like that before.”
Brimer chuckles and kisses you. “It’s okay. It will be our little secret.”
Ciran presses his face between your breasts. “It’s too early. And it’s still raining so go back to sleep. Enjoy yourself after working so hard last night.”
Your body feels strangely sore and tender all over. “I didn’t startle you did I?”
“Not at all.” Ciran kisses you. “I rather liked seeing that side of you.” He then smirks. “Like Brimer said, our little secret.”
You smile shyly, snuggling back between them until the sun comes through the cracks of the cabin. A new day has started, and a new you has emerged.