light the way.

affiliated with isola radiale not indie friendly

[kleinstar]

" ....mm. I mean. I guess you end up kind of getting used to missing things too. "

Kind of. Time dulls the ache at least. He still finds himself thinking something in the track of 'oh one of them would like this and this'. Talking like this ...definitely also is a reminder.

" That'd be nice", Eiden hums softly.

" Or well, I guess I already have? Found companionship here and there. "

He glances the other, then offers fist for a bump.

" But dude, hey, you too! We can definitely become buddies yeah? "

[bythegraveside]

from that alone, he can tell the other is definitely missing whatever awaits, no matter how long the man has been here. he learned to observe and pick up many different shifts in emotion during the time spent with people.

"I'm glad you have." it helps having those you can rely on and trust. whether in times of need, or simply to have a little company when one wishes to be surrounded by friends.

his head tilts the slightest in confusion at the next part, however, before finally offering his own fist. "hmm? oh... yes, of course. I see no reason to refuse, but there is one problem. we haven't introduced ourselves." on this occasion though, he'll spare the long introduction and keep it simple. "you may call me Flins."

[descensionstar]

@bythegraveside

the Inn no more a prison for a fraction of the city, Lumine had been eager to keep on the move, take in the fresh air and keep busy. close to the Black Fens, a looming frame who might blend into the environment caught Paimon's eye, drawing the pair towards him like a solitary flame in the darkness.

✦Flins. hey Flins! is Paimon glad to see you. feels like a while since we saw a friendly face.✦

a knot tied in the Traveler's stomach — that wasn't entirely true. Kaveh had been there, and she was still trying to piece together exactly what happened on their end with her double. for the moment, there was one line they could pursue — something she'd intended to pass on before all the interference.

"thanks for that sketch. it's already being put to use".

his artistic skill on par with Albedo and familiarity with Dottore's appearance, Flins was naturally the best for defining the Doctor in a visual for warning those who felt susceptible to his attention. although proud of her doodles, anything Lumine tried to craft would be closer to Varka's rendition of the Lightkeeper, and the more accurate, the better for those who needed to know.

[bythegraveside]

"good day to you both." they are greeted with his usual polite nod and raised hand as he turns to face them proper. but has it really been a while since they last met up? it hardly feels as if much passed since then, or perhaps that's just the nature of this place compared to Teyvat which makes it seem so.

he doesn't have much of a chance to think anything more of it, Lumine opting to move the conversation straight into what he assumes is the main reason for stopping him. it's one that he waves off with ease. "think nothing of it. you asked for help and I was happy to oblige." after all, if not for her then he wouldn't have realised Dottore was here at all. in return for the warning, it was the least he could do, especially if it meant giving others the chance to remain cautious. "would it be correct to guess you've run into some trouble with him recently? you seem to have a habit of finding yourself in such situations."

[empyreanlight]

THAT SMILE OF HIM NEVER LEAVES, brilliantly sunny as always as he listens to what flins speaks. when he mention the wine selection, he finds himself in a better mood already than when he had entered, let alone seeing a familiar face he could speak to than being on his lonesome with just alcohol. ❝ I had a feeling it would be good liquor. The host really seems to have pulled out all the stops on this one, ❞ he mentions, crimson turning about the room swiftly before falling back upon flins himself.

and when offered some to try, the expression on his face is all he needs to say 'don't mind if i do,' reaching out for the glass to give it a little taste.

❝ This one is pretty good, I'd say. But I'll admit I'm a little curious about the second one you would suggest. Once I'm finished with this one, I can give that one a try just as well, ❞ he comments, taking another sip of the wine happily enough. ❝ Are you familiar with the wine industry back home? You seem to be in your element when it comes to knowing the tastes. Maybe one day I can show you some Sumreu wine and drink to compare. ❞

[bythegraveside]

he hums while watching his company scan the room in brief response to the words. "indeed. everyone appears to be quite pleased." Kaveh included, but perhaps that's the invitation of drinks and a pleasant evening.

"I'm glad to hear that, hopefully the second will suit you just as well." though Kaveh's question and offer are rather interesting, especially his mention of Sumeru. "you could say that, yes. I order a crate every now and then to pick up at the local tavern. while they are quite enjoyable, my preference is Snezhnaya's fire-water. perhaps we can exchange our favoured choice? whenever that day comes." in the meantime, he places the second glass within sight for when the other is ready.

pausing for a spell before he speaks again, he brings a hand to his mouth in thought. "may I ask, would you be willing to share stories alongside those drinks? it's quite alright if not, I am simply accustomed to doing so with colleagues and friends back home." he wouldn't push were the man to decline, respecting any boundaries that might be placed upon such things.

[stellatiratore]

“Well met, Flins,” the pirate lass says with a sharp-toothed smile. “And yeah, you could call him a friend, I guess.”

She shrugs and takes a sip of her drink as she leans a little against the wall not far from where she had grabbed her drink - opting to keep out of the other partygoers’ way it seems.

“He drug me here ‘cause I played too dirty in our spar.”

[bythegraveside]

"ah, I see. so this is a way of repaying him?" or not? it may be more of a punishment than anything else, considering she seems to prefer standing to one side for the moment.

he wouldn't necessarily encourage such things, but there are times when it's a much needed advantage depending on the situation. "I suppose you have time to refine your strategy for the next occasion, at least. a little friendly trickery here and there among friends isn't entirely bad... as long as both are aware it's nothing serious." he hopes such is the case with these two as well.

[kleinstar]

" Ohhh true. Those are good too! Love the ciders for one-- "

" And I know what you mean! The area's are so different so something's bound to be similar at least. "

Sure, there were always exceptions but for Eiden certain parts like Cotes for instance reminded him of Klein's Wood Territory. It's also fairly natural to look familiar in foreign.

This guy didn't seem too upset though.

" Ah yeah, heard it's like no time passed once you return -- though sometimes people seem to skip ahead in their time here. Gaining new memories and stuff like that... "

Or losing them. Eiden pauses a second before nodding.

" Mm. Like... near 4 years ? I'm pretty good at adjusting anyway haha.. "

[bythegraveside]

he gives a slight nod at this information. "yes, I have also gained memories once during my stay so far. it's a strange experience, to suddenly have something you did not upon arrival." this place has some rather interesting ways in which it works. some less so, but he isn't particularly eager to think about those for the moment.

"oh? that is quite some time to be away from home. I imagine you miss it." who wouldn't in that case. it may be a few years, but with the difference in passing time, it must feel as if it were longer. "perhaps one day, you may see familiar faces again." at least there's endless possibilities for new friendships in the meantime, what with the frequent newcomers being placed here.

"may you find companionship around every corner until then."

[castilium]

She could understand how such a festive period might be exhausting to those not wired for abundant socialisation. It must be a true dilemma to be pulled here at a time when the months ahead were to be frantic with activity and abuzz with preparation.

In spite of that, he had taken the news pretty well, not grumbling or cursing about holidays that some others were thrilled to experience.

"Alright, then I'll have it written up shortly. Would you prefer a paper copy or digital? If you'd like the latter, I can send over the information in a text, and attach relevant links. Exchanging numbers won't be a concern, as we're all listed automatically — I'm Mashu Kyrielite, so you'll know the notification that comes up with that name isn't spam".

[bythegraveside]

he would prefer to avoid anything digital as much as possible, even knowing how tiresome it can become to write too many papers. hopefully not many others have asked as such of her. "paper, if it's no trouble. you are still most welcome to contact me in future should you wish to. Kyryll Chudomirovich Flins. just Flins will do."

but of course he needs a way to thank her for helping. there had been no need to do so, yet she offered anyway. "if there is any way I can repay you, please don't hesitate to ask. I am in your debt until then, Miss Mashu." well... as long as it doesn't involve machinery or robots, that is.

[castilium]

"Yes, I'm afraid if you're not a fan of the commotion, the next several weeks might be challenging. After this holiday is a series that follow in rather rapid succession. There's a lot of excitement for each, but you get to see the city lit up.

If you'd like some areas that should be more peaceful to spend some time, I'd be happy to write out a list".

[bythegraveside]

"ah, what unfortunate timing." but if it makes the people happy, then it isn't all bad, he supposes. smiling faces are well worth enduring for.

there is gratitude for her offer though, and he is quite tempted, if only to familiarise himself with routes. it would serve well in future, should he be stuck here for a length of time. "I would be most grateful for your help, Miss. rest assured, I shall keep it on my person at all times until they are memorised."

[kleinstar]

" And yet you're here eh? --ohhhh, are you here for the food? "

That seems pretty regular reason to attend parties. Eiden did like them of course but back in his own world he would sometimes attend to just fill his stomach a little.

" Hehe, I suppose so~~ At least it's nice meeting people, new and old faces. "

" So how it is for you? Arriving to a strange world like this? "

[bythegraveside]

no, definitely not the food, but he can understand why it would be the first thought that comes to mind. "that may be the main appeal for plenty of attendees. however, I am more drawn to the drinks." what he can agree with is the opportunity to meet new faces, and there is no shortage of them tonight.

before giving an answer, he takes a moment to think. this place does have its own qualities, after all. he cannot say much for the noise though. "I suppose it is neither good or bad. there are some areas reminiscent of places at home, perhaps even other nations I have not seen for myself yet." or better said, he doesn't particularly mind the change, aside from missing the time alone.

"I have heard in passing that time is different here, so I'm not too concerned at present. you, on the other hand, seem rather comfortable. hmm... are you a long-term resident?"

[bythegraveside]

"how curious. I did not think height could be such an issue between people."

[stellatiratore]

Reinite just shook her head. "You didn't interrupt me," she said with a tiny smile as she sipped her drink. "Good evening to you."

She looked to the dance floor, and then the drinks table, before going back to her newest conversation companion. "Absolutely. I'm not one for high-falutin' fancy wines, but I do have to say the host's tastes are impeccable. Really knows how to throw a shindig."

"The name's Reinite Roux. You can just call me Reinite. You are?"

[bythegraveside]

he cannot fault her for that, some things are not to everyone's liking, but at least she seems to be enjoying herself in some capacity. "oh, full name? then allow me to return the gesture. Kyryll Chudomirovich Flins. to keep things simple, please call me Flins." to expect others to remember has never been of importance, and he prefers keeping it short anyway.

"since you are not one for the finer things, what brings you here? a friend, perhaps?"

[empyreanlight]

THE MORE THE TWO TALK, the more at ease he feels, that sensation of loneliness not so apparent when dealing with whatever spirits are here. honestly, he wasn't such a coward as he might seem now, but it had been so tangible that he thought it was truly someone there. still, he does his best to take the words of the other to heart as to not cause too much trouble for him. ❝ No! It's quite alright. I'm suppose I'm just not as used to this type of thing... after all, anything is possible, ❞ he says, heaving a small sigh out to calm his nerves just a little.

besides, he would rather remain dedicated to why he was here in the first place, having offered to clean one of the many tombstones. were he to leave in the middle of it, he would feel like an utter failure at being able to do that much.

❝ I wouldn't say I frequent them, necessarily... but I've been to enough mausoleums to have a specialty in them if needed of me. I visit them for inspiration for my architectural work mostly. You never know what a client might need of you, so I'd rather be prepared. ❞ hands are quick to begin their work again, gentle as ever in cleaning off the tombstone, wanting to restore it back to how it was originally. and as he does so, he focuses on the words between them and, certainly, not the ghoulish face that lurks in the shadow from afar... ❝ You seem fairly calm being here yourself. Are you used to places like this? If that's alright to ask, of course. ❞

[bythegraveside]

if the man insists then he'll leave it be and finish his own cleaning, it would be ill mannered to stop another who seems so determined to see it through. "indeed. the world is full of surprises, I'm sure here is no exception." though he can't say much yet, perhaps once he's more familiar with this place.

again, he listens carefully as the other speaks, quite interested in these mausoleums that are mentioned, and of the work. "you're an architect? it must be very demanding on your time. a pity I won't have the chance to see your craft, unless you decided to continue it here?" as for the question sprung upon him... he wonders whether to answer at first, if only because it isn't a thing any person would do under normal circumstances, or even by choice. "yes, you could say that. I watched over a graveyard before being dragged here so suddenly. it's a small island, so visitors are a rare sight, other than colleagues dropping off supplies at the lighthouse."

the headstone is given one final wipe before he wanders across, standing nearby to block any unwelcome sights from view, if it helps the other relax until leaving. "would you like any help? my task is complete, but of course I don't mind simply staying to chat a while longer."

[kleinstar]

@bythegraveside

Eiden's sat down on the sofa, nibbling on one of the sandwhiches and humming along the song being played. He's sitting there when he feels the other end of the sofa go down a little. Curiously he glances who's taken a seat.

" Oh well hi there... "

He said that aloud - not that greeting's bad but the emphasis on hi rolls off a little too suspiciously.

" Krhm. I mean. "

" I mean... greetings!!! How's the party going? "

[bythegraveside]

"good evening, sir." he returns the polite greeting, even if the other sounded a little conflicted in which way to do so. "it's quite lively. the noise is not something I am too fond of, but it is nice to see everyone enjoying their time." and watching the groups that gather is rather interesting.

then he looks back at the gentleman beside him, offering the slightest hint of a smile. "I'm sure many of them will have lasting memories of this event." those who aren't drinking over their limit, or at all, at least. "I only hope yours is one to remember as well... or one that offers you great joy, if temporary."

[empyreanlight]

wintertide ball

STRANGE HOW IT FEELS, truth be told, leaving the house on his lonesome without the usual suspect at his side. of course, the other had been asked, though he had been (expectantly so) declined on the matter, leaving it at that. so here he is, entering on his own as he scans the crowds, only to see a familiar face from not too long ago. was it relief that settles in him, knowing he wouldn't be just some wallflower to the wayside all night?

he decides to head over, taking note of the drink in hand. ❝ Am I glad to see someone familiar here. I thought I'd end up just hanging out by myself all night at the drink table, ❞ he speaks, addressing flins directly now.

❝ How's the drink? Any you would recommend? ❞ considering the glass so confidently in hand, he can only assume the other must have some type of knowledge about which ones might be the best to go for.

@bythegraveside

[bythegraveside]

it is quite a pleasant surprise to see one he's familiar with, and for it to be this gentleman in particular. their previous encounter hadn't been what any would call ideal. a social setting as this, however, was much better to converse properly without lingering worries. "Sir Kaveh. I hope you are faring well since our last meeting."

when the other points out his drink, naturally he's happy to let the conversation flow as directed. "I am rather partial to the wine selection, but I believe everything here is of exceptional quality." for the sake of giving an answer though, he reaches to slide a glass away from the rest, retracting his hand soon after.

"perhaps you might like to try this one? if you find it isn't suited to your tastes, there is a second option I would suggest." if Kaveh wishes, that is.

[bythegraveside]

"I see you're making the most of everything while you can." said quite direct at how frequent her trips have been back and forth, between here and the designated area for dancing. there is no judgement, having witnessed plenty of others doing the very same. actually, he finds it refreshing to see everyone enjoy a little freedom from their normal routine, if only for the night.

he offers a slight nod out of politeness, hand resting over his chest to signify his next comment as genuine. "it is good to see so many cheerful faces, and for you to be one of them."

@starmament

[bythegraveside]

among all the guests tonight, one in particular is impossible to miss. her appearance is unexpected yet a most welcome surprise. "Miss Lauma? I never would have guessed I'd be seeing you here." for one, there is all the chatter, and paired with the music... there was no certainty she would decide to attend.

"if you intend to stay, would you care for a dance?" only if she wishes to of course, but he holds out a hand regardless in case she needs something to focus on above the noise.

@crescentscion

[bythegraveside]

"the atmosphere is becoming more lively by the minute." without much thought to it and no warning, he speaks aloud before turning to the person next to him once he realises he may have interrupted, if they were here for a brief pause.

"ah, my apologies. good evening to you, are you enjoying these delightful celebrations?" though it would be somewhat awkward if not. "if you're in need of a boost, however, the selection of drinks is nothing to frown upon. the owner of this fine home certainly knows good quality."

@stellatiratore

[bythegraveside]

wintertide info.

as someone who was very used to events like these, naturally Flins will be attending the festivities and enjoying a few drinks while watching everyone have fun (you won't catch him near the food though). this will be his outfit and once again minus the mask.

he may look unapproachable, but don't let that stop you! he is actually incredibly polite and will engage in conversation if spoken to. just be warned, he's very talented in the art of handing out compliments, so he will slip them in wherever they fit. there is also dancing if that's something people are interested in, he's not one to refuse small requests like that.