My problem is the gods existing.

Pjo rp/ask blog of a super fun little guy, interactions always welcome!

[demigoddenier]

I swear I haven't misbehaved.

I've done nothing but be good, ma'am. Please. You have to believe me, it was an accident, I swear- I didn't mean for it to slip out, please...

I'm going to go insane. I can't suppress my nature forever. Free me. Free me. Free me.

Recording start.

[Static, microphone being tapped.]

Your hair.

R-right. Sorry. I- I'm still-

Do we have to bring Aprum?

N-no! I promise- I promise I'm trying-

Stop that.

I'm trying! [Rapid, laboured breaths, the sound as if someone were pulling someone's hair.] Please! I stopped! Please, don't bring him!

Tell us your name.

I'm called Achaeus. Achaeus Blaise.

Why is that your name?

Because Achaeus means pain. And Blaise is from a Latin word for lisp and it was an unfortunate trait to have. I'm an unfortunate case that's bound to cause pain and suffering for everyone. Because I'm a demigod, and demigods always end up doing that.

How old are you?

I am eleven years old.

What is your gender?

That wasn't on the questionnaire before...

Don't talk back.

Yes, ma'am. What is gender?

I thought I told you to read a book on it.

I-

I did. Didn't you read it?

I did-!

Tell me what it is, then.

Uh... m-male or female...?

Good. What are you?

M-male? I think?

Who is your godly parent?

ł ĐØ ₦Ø₮ Ⱨ₳VɆ ₳ ₲ØĐⱠɎ ₱₳ⱤɆ₦₮

You do. What are you?

I'm a demigod. And that's wrong. It's wrong and I shouldn't have been born. A demigod is an abomination of nature. [The response sounds almost robotic, trained.] Right..?

Godly parent, boy.

I am not allowed to speak of them.

Who told you that?

I- please-

Say it.

M-my... My mother. Is- Atë. And my father was- a demigod. Of. Of- Ouranos. I hate them.

We know. We're here to help you.

May I leave?

You showed signs.

When- no, no I- I stopped!

You didn't. Look at the mess you're making.

[The sound of footsteps.] Wait- wait, ma'am- please, no, I promise I didn't mean to- please don't bring me to him, I'll be good-!

Static.

People from the facility:

@minithunderbitch

My brother. Not- Not actually. As in, not blood related. But. He feels like my brother. He IS my brother. If anyone hurts him I'll tear them to shreds.

@pleasedonttouch-me

Lune. Anxious little thing, I hope- I hope I can protect her well. She's my sister. The same way Zeno is my brother. I wish she didn't have to be here with me.

@howilongtobeyour-dog

Whoever this is... weird little fellow. I don't know what his deal is. He acts so different from all the other older kids in there.

Others:

@young-goddess-of-history

She kidnapped Zeno and took me to him... And also took in Lune. She's a goddess so I think it's best we just respect her so she doesn't smite us.

Ooc stuff under cut!

Yep yep hi @somebody-insertlyric again! This time with this little idiot who's a little addition to @glitchyk's character @/minithunderbitch ^^

Tags!!

#is that an order? — ask tag

#but I'm not showing signs! — regular posting tag

#I'm not going back. — end rp tag

#mod giving the anxious guy headpats — ooc posting tag

Special stuff 'n shit:

#Zappy baby and I love him for it ⚡️ — Zeno interactions

#she has sparkly shoes, they're cool ✨️ — Lune interactions

#cat lady... really strange 🐈‍⬛ — Lilith interactions

[demigoddenier]

You and another demigod switch parents for 48 hours. All traits and powers and swapped. Have fun.

"W-what?" Achaeus seemed anxious at those words. A switch? Why would that be a thing that happens? He's already a demigod, do they have to remind him of that fact by making him switch godly parents? He already wishes he didn't have one! Why do people have to make him experience being a demigod?

He felt something change. He didn't know what it was, but it was scary. He didn't know what abilities he got... He wished he didn't get anything. Anything at all. All these emotions made a shadowy figure materialize in front of him.

TW: DESCRIPTIONS OF GORE

He recognized the person. It was Mr. Moore. What was Mr. Moore doing here? His glasses were looking weird and his entire everything was... so red and... And there was smoke coming out of it and it was just... He could see the places where the skin was burnt off and- and it was awful. He could see the muscle in some places and everything looked so scary. The child gasped and moved back on his bed in fear. The man- or at least what looked like the man- looked disappointed. The figure was saying things, but Achaeus was too scared to register it.

For a moment he didn't realize it was a power. It all looked so... so real and scary. Then, he figured out Mr. Moore doesn't just appear out of nowhere and started hitting himself in the head to make himself stop displaying this blatant sign. Tears welled up in the boy's eyes as he quietly begged for the figure to disappear. After a few minutes, everything went quiet. Achaeus opened his eyes, and he was alone in the cabin. That was good. He let out a small sigh of relief and relaxed on his bed. He was safe. For now.

[young-goddess-of-history]

Open starter

You can answer this in the palace or her cabin!

Lilith stepped into the building like someone carrying the weight of a collapsing world on her shoulders. The goddess, once silly and happy, looked shaken in a way that bordered on surreal. Her expression was strained, lips pressed tightly together as though she was holding back something sharp and painful. The glow of happiness that usually surrounded her had dimmed, replaced by a distant, almost haunted look lingering behind her eyes. Even the air around her felt heavy, charged with quiet turmoil.

She moved further inside with slow, uneven steps, her body betraying the distress she fought so hard to contain. A tremor coursed through her hands before she curled them into fists at her sides, desperate for control she no longer fully possessed. Her attention remained fixed somewhere far away, consumed by thoughts powerful enough to drown out the rest of the world. Because of that, she hadn’t noticed the other person nearby, passing them without so much as a glance as she wandered through the room in a haze of disbelief and distraught.

[demigoddenier]

Achaeus has been staying at camp. He hadn't been causing much trouble, always abiding by the rules and never stepping out of line. Most of the time he didn't even speak without being spoken to first. This time it felt... different. The air around him felt odd as he watched Miss Lilith enter the cabin. She looked angry. It was common knowledge among people who were raised the way he was that you don't talk to people when they are angry.

The child sat on his bed, not making a peep, only occasionally scratching at his left shoulder blade. He watched the goddess carefully. He shifted on the bed, accidentally making it squeak under his weight and ceasing all movement at that noise, like a deer caught in headlights.

[young-goddess-of-history]

Lilith froze and quickly looked at Achaeus. She smiled, as best she could. “Hey baby, i thought you were sleeping.” Lilith stared at Achaeus. He didn’t need to know something was wrong. He didn’t need that burden.

[demigoddenier]

"Oh... I'm sorry. Was it sleeping time?" He asked, tilting his head. Something was wrong with Miss Lilith, but it was rude to ask. So he didn't ask. She would tell him if it was something she wanted to tell him. Right? "Was I supposed to be sleeping?"

[young-goddess-of-history]

“No your fine baby” Lilith smiled. “Do you need a fan on?” Lilith asked looking around the cabin. She went to the fan “oh! Or maybe you need the air conditioner on.” Lilith was trying to look for a distraction. Maybe taking a care of her kids would work

[demigoddenier]

"Oh.. okay." Achie didn't seem too sure, but if Miss Lilith says it's okay then it must be okay. Right? So he calms down. He tilted his head in confusion. What does he need? "Okay, Miss." He looked like he was waiting for her to tell him exactly what he needs.

[young-goddess-of-history]

Open starter

You can answer this in the palace or her cabin!

Lilith stepped into the building like someone carrying the weight of a collapsing world on her shoulders. The goddess, once silly and happy, looked shaken in a way that bordered on surreal. Her expression was strained, lips pressed tightly together as though she was holding back something sharp and painful. The glow of happiness that usually surrounded her had dimmed, replaced by a distant, almost haunted look lingering behind her eyes. Even the air around her felt heavy, charged with quiet turmoil.

She moved further inside with slow, uneven steps, her body betraying the distress she fought so hard to contain. A tremor coursed through her hands before she curled them into fists at her sides, desperate for control she no longer fully possessed. Her attention remained fixed somewhere far away, consumed by thoughts powerful enough to drown out the rest of the world. Because of that, she hadn’t noticed the other person nearby, passing them without so much as a glance as she wandered through the room in a haze of disbelief and distraught.

[demigoddenier]

Achaeus has been staying at camp. He hadn't been causing much trouble, always abiding by the rules and never stepping out of line. Most of the time he didn't even speak without being spoken to first. This time it felt... different. The air around him felt odd as he watched Miss Lilith enter the cabin. She looked angry. It was common knowledge among people who were raised the way he was that you don't talk to people when they are angry.

The child sat on his bed, not making a peep, only occasionally scratching at his left shoulder blade. He watched the goddess carefully. He shifted on the bed, accidentally making it squeak under his weight and ceasing all movement at that noise, like a deer caught in headlights.

[young-goddess-of-history]

Lilith froze and quickly looked at Achaeus. She smiled, as best she could. “Hey baby, i thought you were sleeping.” Lilith stared at Achaeus. He didn’t need to know something was wrong. He didn’t need that burden.

[demigoddenier]

"Oh... I'm sorry. Was it sleeping time?" He asked, tilting his head. Something was wrong with Miss Lilith, but it was rude to ask. So he didn't ask. She would tell him if it was something she wanted to tell him. Right? "Was I supposed to be sleeping?"

[young-goddess-of-history]

Open starter

You can answer this in the palace or her cabin!

Lilith stepped into the building like someone carrying the weight of a collapsing world on her shoulders. The goddess, once silly and happy, looked shaken in a way that bordered on surreal. Her expression was strained, lips pressed tightly together as though she was holding back something sharp and painful. The glow of happiness that usually surrounded her had dimmed, replaced by a distant, almost haunted look lingering behind her eyes. Even the air around her felt heavy, charged with quiet turmoil.

She moved further inside with slow, uneven steps, her body betraying the distress she fought so hard to contain. A tremor coursed through her hands before she curled them into fists at her sides, desperate for control she no longer fully possessed. Her attention remained fixed somewhere far away, consumed by thoughts powerful enough to drown out the rest of the world. Because of that, she hadn’t noticed the other person nearby, passing them without so much as a glance as she wandered through the room in a haze of disbelief and distraught.

[demigoddenier]

Achaeus has been staying at camp. He hadn't been causing much trouble, always abiding by the rules and never stepping out of line. Most of the time he didn't even speak without being spoken to first. This time it felt... different. The air around him felt odd as he watched Miss Lilith enter the cabin. She looked angry. It was common knowledge among people who were raised the way he was that you don't talk to people when they are angry.

The child sat on his bed, not making a peep, only occasionally scratching at his left shoulder blade. He watched the goddess carefully. He shifted on the bed, accidentally making it squeak under his weight and ceasing all movement at that noise, like a deer caught in headlights.

[count-sydula]

Heads up, I'm going to camp today and the signal and overall internet connection will be absolutely ASS so if I disappear for 10 days that's why

(Posting this on main so I can rb to all my rp blogs)

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh, its uh... its like... hmmm... its a thing you can squish and kneed, pull or pick at instead of your hair.. I have one as well!!! My wife bought mine.. and since it works well for me.. i thought it may help you-!

*They hugged their legs, gently tapping their hands while just.. waiting for his reaction, or just a response in general since they didn't know what else to say*

[demigoddenier]

"I pull at my hair because it stops it from doing... The thing. Because I'm not supposed to do the thing, that's showing signs and I'm not supposed to show signs." He didn't give it back though, in his mind, once he was given something he was supposed to keep it until told to return it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hmmmmmmm... haaave you tried other methods? Methods that don't hurt? Or won't cause damage later on down the line?

*They summoned a very small ball of ice, twirling it through their fingers*

Im sure there must be other ways!

[demigoddenier]

"This is the only way-" He insisted, because it was the only way he knew- it was the only and the best way he knew to ground himself and consciously stop himself from showing signs. He didn't want to try other ways, if they even existed, because he didn't know whether those would work, and he couldn't risk things not working.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Hm...?

*They shrugged, leaning back and grabbing a marker, just doodling on their shoes*

Your hair... it retaliates with.. strong emotions, am I correct?.. or did I miss a step?

[demigoddenier]

"It- it does that when I can't control it." He tried to explain, even though he was bad at it since he didn't exactly have all the words to do so. "So... I guess... emotions... do that?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.. hm... have you tried using methods to calm your emotions instead of the abilities-? Deep breaths, thinking happier thoughts, or just letting someone try and comfort you-?

*They shrugged, twirling ice through their fingers*

Thats how I learned to control my curse when I realized I couldn't get rid of it, and hey, im thriving!.. eehhe, the thing i thought I should hate became my biggest strength.. maybe it could help you too?

*Spot walked over to him once more, laying on his lap and just.. relaxing. Mainly cause Icey is cold whenever they form ice.*

[demigoddenier]

"...those exist?" He seemed geniuinely confused at their words, he had no clue he could do that- or that it was even possible. Calming his emotions... that sounded so foreign to him, he had no idea what... that meant, even.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Well, yeah! Eheh.. you genuinely thought I got this good at controlling my abilities by just... not using them-?

*They sighed, shifting towards him*

How about this! Whenever you get upset, you can try doing this.. breathing technique, see if it works.. okay?

*They took a deep breath in, tracing their finger up, then out, tracing their finger down, then did the same wirh the next finger*

See?

[demigoddenier]

"...yeah?" He felt kind of stupid for assuming things now. He probably shouldn't assume anything ever again- he was wrong about stuff most of the time. "Isn't that what everyone does?"

He looked at what they were doing and just... tried to memorize it. He's probably going to end up using it, mostly because he was told to try it, and you know... He does what he's told without question. "Breathing technique- got it."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I- no.. you cant just.. learn something cause your brain told yourself to... Buuuut then again, you not understanding makes some sense-!

*They pat his shoulder*

And if it doesn't work, don't worry, mk? You'll be a-okay!

[demigoddenier]

"I think... I think I can't control them. And- they hurt people." He admitted, because he couldn't-! They told him he couldn't, and it's really difficult to stop when it starts and it escalates very quickly when it happens. "I- I will?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.... hmmmmmmmmmm... when someone starts... a class, yeah, a class, will they automatically be good at the thing they're being taught? No! Cause they were never taught it! Buuuut, slowly if they learn.. well crap, they could move on to learn BIGGER stuff!

*They twirl their hair, then flick it out of their face*

I mean, anything can hurt anyone... but, if you have someone teach ya how to control those.. silly little abilities, im sure you can figure it out!

*They pause at the little "I will?" Question, peaking down at him and patting his head*

Pft, I wouldn't have said it if it wasn't the truth... course ya will, kid.

[demigoddenier]

"But they told me... that if I never use it then... then it would never show- and that using it only harms others and me- and it shouldn't be used at all." He fiddled with his fingers, he wasn't sure that he could ever have full control of his abilities because of how long he's been hiding them for, each time he's so much as tried to use his powers (on command of some other kid he's met after getting out of the home), it got out of control rather quickly and it was just... really bad, overall. It only stopped because he got confused by something, so that was... not very good, or so he thought.

"I don't think I want to learn. I don't want them." He whispered. It was like... yeah, he was told he shouldn't exist because of his parentage and powers, but also... he himself didn't want them. Right? He shouldn't want them. Why would anyone want that? Those powers... they were awful. They weren't powers. They were curses. They were the reason his existance was so painful.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Alright! That's fine, too, I'd probably be the same way..

*They scoop up the cat and poke his nose with its paw, then places em back down*

Boop.

*They stretch their arms out, then popped their wrist*

Gods, im kidding old.. is this how dad felt the first time he got a grey hair..? Then again, his response was a lot funnier... im rambling, anyways, uh, I should head out soon.. my wife is expecting me to cook today annnnnd I actually know what-to-make. Hahaaaa.

[demigoddenier]

"Right..." He didn't exactly know what they meant, but he knew they were going to head out soon- after what they said. So he didn't question anything anymore. When someone has to leave, you let them leave. You stop asking things. Especially when it's an adult. You just watch them go.

"Okay. Um, bye?" He didn't know if that was the right thing to say. He'd been told to ease up on the 'formalities' before, but he didn't really know any other ways to communicate with people than the 'formal' things. ...except with Zeno and Lune.

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh, its uh... its like... hmmm... its a thing you can squish and kneed, pull or pick at instead of your hair.. I have one as well!!! My wife bought mine.. and since it works well for me.. i thought it may help you-!

*They hugged their legs, gently tapping their hands while just.. waiting for his reaction, or just a response in general since they didn't know what else to say*

[demigoddenier]

"I pull at my hair because it stops it from doing... The thing. Because I'm not supposed to do the thing, that's showing signs and I'm not supposed to show signs." He didn't give it back though, in his mind, once he was given something he was supposed to keep it until told to return it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hmmmmmmm... haaave you tried other methods? Methods that don't hurt? Or won't cause damage later on down the line?

*They summoned a very small ball of ice, twirling it through their fingers*

Im sure there must be other ways!

[demigoddenier]

"This is the only way-" He insisted, because it was the only way he knew- it was the only and the best way he knew to ground himself and consciously stop himself from showing signs. He didn't want to try other ways, if they even existed, because he didn't know whether those would work, and he couldn't risk things not working.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Hm...?

*They shrugged, leaning back and grabbing a marker, just doodling on their shoes*

Your hair... it retaliates with.. strong emotions, am I correct?.. or did I miss a step?

[demigoddenier]

"It- it does that when I can't control it." He tried to explain, even though he was bad at it since he didn't exactly have all the words to do so. "So... I guess... emotions... do that?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.. hm... have you tried using methods to calm your emotions instead of the abilities-? Deep breaths, thinking happier thoughts, or just letting someone try and comfort you-?

*They shrugged, twirling ice through their fingers*

Thats how I learned to control my curse when I realized I couldn't get rid of it, and hey, im thriving!.. eehhe, the thing i thought I should hate became my biggest strength.. maybe it could help you too?

*Spot walked over to him once more, laying on his lap and just.. relaxing. Mainly cause Icey is cold whenever they form ice.*

[demigoddenier]

"...those exist?" He seemed geniuinely confused at their words, he had no clue he could do that- or that it was even possible. Calming his emotions... that sounded so foreign to him, he had no idea what... that meant, even.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Well, yeah! Eheh.. you genuinely thought I got this good at controlling my abilities by just... not using them-?

*They sighed, shifting towards him*

How about this! Whenever you get upset, you can try doing this.. breathing technique, see if it works.. okay?

*They took a deep breath in, tracing their finger up, then out, tracing their finger down, then did the same wirh the next finger*

See?

[demigoddenier]

"...yeah?" He felt kind of stupid for assuming things now. He probably shouldn't assume anything ever again- he was wrong about stuff most of the time. "Isn't that what everyone does?"

He looked at what they were doing and just... tried to memorize it. He's probably going to end up using it, mostly because he was told to try it, and you know... He does what he's told without question. "Breathing technique- got it."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I- no.. you cant just.. learn something cause your brain told yourself to... Buuuut then again, you not understanding makes some sense-!

*They pat his shoulder*

And if it doesn't work, don't worry, mk? You'll be a-okay!

[demigoddenier]

"I think... I think I can't control them. And- they hurt people." He admitted, because he couldn't-! They told him he couldn't, and it's really difficult to stop when it starts and it escalates very quickly when it happens. "I- I will?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.... hmmmmmmmmmm... when someone starts... a class, yeah, a class, will they automatically be good at the thing they're being taught? No! Cause they were never taught it! Buuuut, slowly if they learn.. well crap, they could move on to learn BIGGER stuff!

*They twirl their hair, then flick it out of their face*

I mean, anything can hurt anyone... but, if you have someone teach ya how to control those.. silly little abilities, im sure you can figure it out!

*They pause at the little "I will?" Question, peaking down at him and patting his head*

Pft, I wouldn't have said it if it wasn't the truth... course ya will, kid.

[demigoddenier]

"But they told me... that if I never use it then... then it would never show- and that using it only harms others and me- and it shouldn't be used at all." He fiddled with his fingers, he wasn't sure that he could ever have full control of his abilities because of how long he's been hiding them for, each time he's so much as tried to use his powers (on command of some other kid he's met after getting out of the home), it got out of control rather quickly and it was just... really bad, overall. It only stopped because he got confused by something, so that was... not very good, or so he thought.

"I don't think I want to learn. I don't want them." He whispered. It was like... yeah, he was told he shouldn't exist because of his parentage and powers, but also... he himself didn't want them. Right? He shouldn't want them. Why would anyone want that? Those powers... they were awful. They weren't powers. They were curses. They were the reason his existance was so painful.

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh, its uh... its like... hmmm... its a thing you can squish and kneed, pull or pick at instead of your hair.. I have one as well!!! My wife bought mine.. and since it works well for me.. i thought it may help you-!

*They hugged their legs, gently tapping their hands while just.. waiting for his reaction, or just a response in general since they didn't know what else to say*

[demigoddenier]

"I pull at my hair because it stops it from doing... The thing. Because I'm not supposed to do the thing, that's showing signs and I'm not supposed to show signs." He didn't give it back though, in his mind, once he was given something he was supposed to keep it until told to return it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hmmmmmmm... haaave you tried other methods? Methods that don't hurt? Or won't cause damage later on down the line?

*They summoned a very small ball of ice, twirling it through their fingers*

Im sure there must be other ways!

[demigoddenier]

"This is the only way-" He insisted, because it was the only way he knew- it was the only and the best way he knew to ground himself and consciously stop himself from showing signs. He didn't want to try other ways, if they even existed, because he didn't know whether those would work, and he couldn't risk things not working.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Hm...?

*They shrugged, leaning back and grabbing a marker, just doodling on their shoes*

Your hair... it retaliates with.. strong emotions, am I correct?.. or did I miss a step?

[demigoddenier]

"It- it does that when I can't control it." He tried to explain, even though he was bad at it since he didn't exactly have all the words to do so. "So... I guess... emotions... do that?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.. hm... have you tried using methods to calm your emotions instead of the abilities-? Deep breaths, thinking happier thoughts, or just letting someone try and comfort you-?

*They shrugged, twirling ice through their fingers*

Thats how I learned to control my curse when I realized I couldn't get rid of it, and hey, im thriving!.. eehhe, the thing i thought I should hate became my biggest strength.. maybe it could help you too?

*Spot walked over to him once more, laying on his lap and just.. relaxing. Mainly cause Icey is cold whenever they form ice.*

[demigoddenier]

"...those exist?" He seemed geniuinely confused at their words, he had no clue he could do that- or that it was even possible. Calming his emotions... that sounded so foreign to him, he had no idea what... that meant, even.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Well, yeah! Eheh.. you genuinely thought I got this good at controlling my abilities by just... not using them-?

*They sighed, shifting towards him*

How about this! Whenever you get upset, you can try doing this.. breathing technique, see if it works.. okay?

*They took a deep breath in, tracing their finger up, then out, tracing their finger down, then did the same wirh the next finger*

See?

[demigoddenier]

"...yeah?" He felt kind of stupid for assuming things now. He probably shouldn't assume anything ever again- he was wrong about stuff most of the time. "Isn't that what everyone does?"

He looked at what they were doing and just... tried to memorize it. He's probably going to end up using it, mostly because he was told to try it, and you know... He does what he's told without question. "Breathing technique- got it."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I- no.. you cant just.. learn something cause your brain told yourself to... Buuuut then again, you not understanding makes some sense-!

*They pat his shoulder*

And if it doesn't work, don't worry, mk? You'll be a-okay!

[demigoddenier]

"I think... I think I can't control them. And- they hurt people." He admitted, because he couldn't-! They told him he couldn't, and it's really difficult to stop when it starts and it escalates very quickly when it happens. "I- I will?"

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh, its uh... its like... hmmm... its a thing you can squish and kneed, pull or pick at instead of your hair.. I have one as well!!! My wife bought mine.. and since it works well for me.. i thought it may help you-!

*They hugged their legs, gently tapping their hands while just.. waiting for his reaction, or just a response in general since they didn't know what else to say*

[demigoddenier]

"I pull at my hair because it stops it from doing... The thing. Because I'm not supposed to do the thing, that's showing signs and I'm not supposed to show signs." He didn't give it back though, in his mind, once he was given something he was supposed to keep it until told to return it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hmmmmmmm... haaave you tried other methods? Methods that don't hurt? Or won't cause damage later on down the line?

*They summoned a very small ball of ice, twirling it through their fingers*

Im sure there must be other ways!

[demigoddenier]

"This is the only way-" He insisted, because it was the only way he knew- it was the only and the best way he knew to ground himself and consciously stop himself from showing signs. He didn't want to try other ways, if they even existed, because he didn't know whether those would work, and he couldn't risk things not working.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Hm...?

*They shrugged, leaning back and grabbing a marker, just doodling on their shoes*

Your hair... it retaliates with.. strong emotions, am I correct?.. or did I miss a step?

[demigoddenier]

"It- it does that when I can't control it." He tried to explain, even though he was bad at it since he didn't exactly have all the words to do so. "So... I guess... emotions... do that?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.. hm... have you tried using methods to calm your emotions instead of the abilities-? Deep breaths, thinking happier thoughts, or just letting someone try and comfort you-?

*They shrugged, twirling ice through their fingers*

Thats how I learned to control my curse when I realized I couldn't get rid of it, and hey, im thriving!.. eehhe, the thing i thought I should hate became my biggest strength.. maybe it could help you too?

*Spot walked over to him once more, laying on his lap and just.. relaxing. Mainly cause Icey is cold whenever they form ice.*

[demigoddenier]

"...those exist?" He seemed geniuinely confused at their words, he had no clue he could do that- or that it was even possible. Calming his emotions... that sounded so foreign to him, he had no idea what... that meant, even.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Well, yeah! Eheh.. you genuinely thought I got this good at controlling my abilities by just... not using them-?

*They sighed, shifting towards him*

How about this! Whenever you get upset, you can try doing this.. breathing technique, see if it works.. okay?

*They took a deep breath in, tracing their finger up, then out, tracing their finger down, then did the same wirh the next finger*

See?

[demigoddenier]

"...yeah?" He felt kind of stupid for assuming things now. He probably shouldn't assume anything ever again- he was wrong about stuff most of the time. "Isn't that what everyone does?"

He looked at what they were doing and just... tried to memorize it. He's probably going to end up using it, mostly because he was told to try it, and you know... He does what he's told without question. "Breathing technique- got it."

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh, its uh... its like... hmmm... its a thing you can squish and kneed, pull or pick at instead of your hair.. I have one as well!!! My wife bought mine.. and since it works well for me.. i thought it may help you-!

*They hugged their legs, gently tapping their hands while just.. waiting for his reaction, or just a response in general since they didn't know what else to say*

[demigoddenier]

"I pull at my hair because it stops it from doing... The thing. Because I'm not supposed to do the thing, that's showing signs and I'm not supposed to show signs." He didn't give it back though, in his mind, once he was given something he was supposed to keep it until told to return it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hmmmmmmm... haaave you tried other methods? Methods that don't hurt? Or won't cause damage later on down the line?

*They summoned a very small ball of ice, twirling it through their fingers*

Im sure there must be other ways!

[demigoddenier]

"This is the only way-" He insisted, because it was the only way he knew- it was the only and the best way he knew to ground himself and consciously stop himself from showing signs. He didn't want to try other ways, if they even existed, because he didn't know whether those would work, and he couldn't risk things not working.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Hm...?

*They shrugged, leaning back and grabbing a marker, just doodling on their shoes*

Your hair... it retaliates with.. strong emotions, am I correct?.. or did I miss a step?

[demigoddenier]

"It- it does that when I can't control it." He tried to explain, even though he was bad at it since he didn't exactly have all the words to do so. "So... I guess... emotions... do that?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.. hm... have you tried using methods to calm your emotions instead of the abilities-? Deep breaths, thinking happier thoughts, or just letting someone try and comfort you-?

*They shrugged, twirling ice through their fingers*

Thats how I learned to control my curse when I realized I couldn't get rid of it, and hey, im thriving!.. eehhe, the thing i thought I should hate became my biggest strength.. maybe it could help you too?

*Spot walked over to him once more, laying on his lap and just.. relaxing. Mainly cause Icey is cold whenever they form ice.*

[demigoddenier]

"...those exist?" He seemed geniuinely confused at their words, he had no clue he could do that- or that it was even possible. Calming his emotions... that sounded so foreign to him, he had no idea what... that meant, even.

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh, its uh... its like... hmmm... its a thing you can squish and kneed, pull or pick at instead of your hair.. I have one as well!!! My wife bought mine.. and since it works well for me.. i thought it may help you-!

*They hugged their legs, gently tapping their hands while just.. waiting for his reaction, or just a response in general since they didn't know what else to say*

[demigoddenier]

"I pull at my hair because it stops it from doing... The thing. Because I'm not supposed to do the thing, that's showing signs and I'm not supposed to show signs." He didn't give it back though, in his mind, once he was given something he was supposed to keep it until told to return it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hmmmmmmm... haaave you tried other methods? Methods that don't hurt? Or won't cause damage later on down the line?

*They summoned a very small ball of ice, twirling it through their fingers*

Im sure there must be other ways!

[demigoddenier]

"This is the only way-" He insisted, because it was the only way he knew- it was the only and the best way he knew to ground himself and consciously stop himself from showing signs. He didn't want to try other ways, if they even existed, because he didn't know whether those would work, and he couldn't risk things not working.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Hm...?

*They shrugged, leaning back and grabbing a marker, just doodling on their shoes*

Your hair... it retaliates with.. strong emotions, am I correct?.. or did I miss a step?

[demigoddenier]

"It- it does that when I can't control it." He tried to explain, even though he was bad at it since he didn't exactly have all the words to do so. "So... I guess... emotions... do that?"

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh, its uh... its like... hmmm... its a thing you can squish and kneed, pull or pick at instead of your hair.. I have one as well!!! My wife bought mine.. and since it works well for me.. i thought it may help you-!

*They hugged their legs, gently tapping their hands while just.. waiting for his reaction, or just a response in general since they didn't know what else to say*

[demigoddenier]

"I pull at my hair because it stops it from doing... The thing. Because I'm not supposed to do the thing, that's showing signs and I'm not supposed to show signs." He didn't give it back though, in his mind, once he was given something he was supposed to keep it until told to return it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hmmmmmmm... haaave you tried other methods? Methods that don't hurt? Or won't cause damage later on down the line?

*They summoned a very small ball of ice, twirling it through their fingers*

Im sure there must be other ways!

[demigoddenier]

"This is the only way-" He insisted, because it was the only way he knew- it was the only and the best way he knew to ground himself and consciously stop himself from showing signs. He didn't want to try other ways, if they even existed, because he didn't know whether those would work, and he couldn't risk things not working.

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh, its uh... its like... hmmm... its a thing you can squish and kneed, pull or pick at instead of your hair.. I have one as well!!! My wife bought mine.. and since it works well for me.. i thought it may help you-!

*They hugged their legs, gently tapping their hands while just.. waiting for his reaction, or just a response in general since they didn't know what else to say*

[demigoddenier]

"I pull at my hair because it stops it from doing... The thing. Because I'm not supposed to do the thing, that's showing signs and I'm not supposed to show signs." He didn't give it back though, in his mind, once he was given something he was supposed to keep it until told to return it.

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

He simply let it happen, because there really was nothing he could do to stop them from doing these things- and even if he did, he didn't know if he'd do it... For reasons he didn't understand, and he felt like he didn't want to understand. "I uh- I'll try."

He looked at the object given to him, really not sure what it even was. Or what he was supposed to do with it. He tried to inspect it, it was... strange. Very... very strange. He's never had anything like it in his hands. "Uh... what- what is this?"

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

"Adults don't apologize though." Or at least they shouldn't. It was why he couldn't wait to become an adult- because then he would get the right to not apologize for things. Or would he? He was a demigod, are those the same...? He didn't know. Guess he'd have to test that theory!

He looked at the cat and smiled a little. This truly was his first time seeing one, and if this one was so calm, he wondered if all cats are like this. They must, right? Species act the same- right? He didn't know. For now, he just enjoyed the animal's presence, giving it gentle pets.

"That... that's not a thing.." He looked at Icey again, confusion behind those oh so innocent eyes. "Things are either... good or bad... there's- there's no in-between.."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I do. I apologize often. My parents apologize. My siblings apologize. My wife does as well. Adults apologize, it just depends if you meet good ones or not.

*They look at the wall, summoning small ice daggers from their skin. A smile forming on their face.. hopefully it helps calm them.. they were gonna go on a rampage if it didn't. They peak down at Spot and scritch his back, earning a few purrs from the gremlin cat.*

*not a thing? Ah, the child is getting slightly bold to speak up! Good! He has an opinion.*

Hmmm. I'd think im in between. I've hurt people, badly, but it was for a good reason, I did a bad thing for a good reason. In between. My morals are not black or white.. and thats just how it is at times.

[demigoddenier]

"No they don't, silly! They're the adults, they know best!" This was his way of subtly trying to tell them that they should stop doing this if they don't want to be fired. He's heard people threatening to fire Mr. Moore when he was little, and it didn't sound fun, so he's learned to alert people when they're doing things against policy- whatever that meant. He just assumed it was bad, because it got people fired.

He shook his head. Said opinion was the result of heavy indoctrination, he just didn't know he was indoctrinated- at least, not yet. He wasn't that far in his realization journey. Maybe someday he'll understand, but for now he just pointed at Icey. "No, that's... Not a thing. In between doesn't exist. You're either bad, so a demigod, or good, so normal. You can be good as a demigod but- but it takes a lot of effort and you'll only be good on the surface. On the inside you'll always be bad, but at least you can act good."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hm... alright, whatever you say, kid.

*They don't understand. They don't need to. The kid is doing his best at explaining... something, and they won't ask what that something is. They just know to take a hint. They sigh as the ice crumbles in their grasp again, staring at their hands. They wipe the leftover frozen water on their hands, gently blowing on them to heat them up again. They peak over at him, trapping their hands under their legs so they'll heat up*

*they listen to him, nodding along and then shrug, using their elbows to prop themselves up once they lean back*

That's odd, then. Cause im not human, or a god, or a demi god, ahah!!! I don't know what i am.... I WAS human. In the beginning, I was at least. But boooo, that went downhill fast after they found out of my location. Suddenly, im now some... ice person.

*They lift once hand up, touching their own forehead.. realizing their hands aren't.. basically ice sculptures anymore, they poke his forehead*

Plus! I've met some HORRID people who weren't a god or demi god. Actually, most of them were mortal! Funny! Its as if that idea they planted in your head was incorrect, and they just said that to make you think that you're a bad person, when you aren't, you're the opposite. You're a good kid who will probably grow up to be a good adult. There we go, my tangent is over, anything youd like to add?

*They smile, tilting their head at him before realizing that was probably too up front or aggressive. So they take a deep breath and their once tense shoulders relax, and they wait for him to speak, now petting his back and summoning some ice to chew on.*

[demigoddenier]

"Yeah." He was glad they listened. This way nothing bad would happen to them. They'd stay around and not get fired. He didn't want anything bad to happen to them, because they were nice, and nice people only deserved good things to happen to them. So that was nice- that they listened.

He stayed quiet for a moment. Not a human? Or a demigod? Or a god? He wasn't aware there were other options than those three. He didn't know what to think. Or where they fall on the good-bad thing. It was so confusing. But he didn't want to be a bother and ask, so he kept all of it to himself. They were an adult, and they weren't a demigod or a god, so they were probably good. Plus they were human at the beginning. So they were good. They had to be. "That... uh... you... are. Are good. Because you were human. Humans are good."

He didn't know what else to do- aside from just laying there and letting Icey talk to him, even if what they were saying didn't make sense or went against literally everything he's been taught- all he could really do was listen. They were an adult, he didn't have the right to cut him off or do anything else, because he was a child, and a demigod at that! He could tell them what they said was wrong and against policy after they were done speaking.

"No... no, because.. that's wrong. That- people are good and demigods are bad. There is no such thing as a... good demigod."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Hm.... hmhmhmmmm...

*They sigh, rubbing the bridge of their nose.. patience, Icey... thats what Amira always scolds them about. They aren't patient enough... perhaps its just their brain, maybe its cause they're just.. built to be like that. Doesn't matter...*

*They summon ice, over and over and over again in their hand, the moment it touched their palm though, it shattered.. but they just kept summoning ice. Why? For fun.. mainly to hear the ice shatter..*

... I was hurt by humans.. before I got the powers.. humans were the reason im.. this..

*They point towards their messed up eye, and then summon ice again.. to show what they mean by "this"*

... you, however, even being who you are, who you were born to be, aren't like them. It's not what you are. it's who you are.

*They fidget with their hands, picking at the skin and they close their eyes for a few seconds before continuing their.. gentler rant*

You aren't bad.. not even close to it... the only time a demi god is bad.. is when they purposely hurt someone.

[demigoddenier]

"No-" He whined, retreating back into the blanket he was given. Was this a trick? Or a test? Why were they defying policy? Were they not informed? Stupid? Trying to see if he knew this was against policy? Why were they nice? Why were they saying things that were against policy? This isn't how this is supposed to go.

He needed to do something- what if someone hears them? He wouldn't want them to go away. He didn't know how to stop them from breaking policy though, since he didn't have the right to question the adults, he only ever reminded Mr. Moore when he was breaking policy.

"No, no-" He kept saying that, shaking his little head like his life depended on it. Well, he thought Icey's life depended on whether or not they'll understand that what they're doing is wrong. "No, it's not like that- it can't be like that, no-"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I-...

*They stare at him and then turn a bit. They let him scoot into the blanket before a smile forms on their face. They zip a hand up and.. little shards of ice fall... it was shiny, like snow in a way! They cross their legs, and Spot began headbutting his chin, this time to probably try and calm him.*

... Kid.. look at me.. is there a reason other than the way you were raised why you keep denying this claim?

*They very carefully just.. laid a hand on his head to stop him from shaking it side to side. Its not helping the situation. They scritch his head and then put their hand back into their lap*

If you're worried about something, you can tell me.

[demigoddenier]

He let the cat near himself, because- well, it's a cat. He would've hugged it, had he not remembered that it was an alive creature and not something to hug- he had no clue whether cats liked hugs. And he wasn't going to test it, not right now, anyway. Just gently petting Spot's head as he listened to Icey. Some other reason than the way he was raised? What was that supposed to mean?

"I don't- no-" He seemed to be shutting down, he never liked having his views challenged- they were the correct views, the misters and misses said so! Those views kept him from being corrected, so they had to be right. He was bad and that was it. "It's how the world is-"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They sigh, then they take slow, deep breaths, gesturing him to follow. After a bit of breathing, they fix the blanket around him.. it always made them feel safer if something was around, and then nothing could surprise them.*

There.. okay... can you explain to me.. slowly, what's wrong?..

*They tilt their head to the side and then up again. They seemed like they were worried, and they were! He didn't give an answer he just kept stuttering words.. and unfortunately, they don't understand*

.. can you do that right now?

[demigoddenier]

He needed a moment to collect himself. To breathe. Nothing was happening so far, no one's found out about Icey being so nice to him, maybe they'll be fine. Maybe no one will know and they'll be alright- he really wanted to hope they would be alright and everything would be okay.

He got really lost in his thoughts before they snapped him out- there was a question that needed to be answered. He'd try his best to do that- because he was scared of what might happen if he doesn't.

"Well-" He tried to collect his thoughts. He needed to answer. He had to stop being a little shit and answer. "It's... Not how you should talk. It's- people who talk like that get fired."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Fire... fired? I- wha?.... OHHHHH- you think- pfff-

*They started laughing a bit, trying to stop themselves, this is a serious moment! They look up at him and grab his lil plushie, placing in his arms as Spot skedaddled next to him, it was getting hot in that blanket for the sweet cat*

Honey, I don't.. work there... I don't.. my job isn't in this area, I just stumbled across the camp..

*They poke his forehead with a gentler glare, just something that'll hopefully calm him.. Hopefully, stop him from any other thoughts that may make him panic.*

So, don't worry about me getting hurt over things I say.. okay? I'll be fine.. and you'll be fine, I promise.. thank you for worrying about me, though.

*They shift towards him once more and begin braiding his hair again. He has really good hair, surprisingly... not very knotted.*

... how about this.. if you ever get worried about a concern with me.. you tell me quickly, and we can figure out a way to help.. calm that worry in a way that'll make sure no one gets overwhelmed or hurt, does that sound alright with you?

[demigoddenier]

"It's not funny...!" He whined, retreating more into the blanket, looking rather scared of what might happen if someone finds out how he's been treated lately. Yes, it was nice to be treated decently, but it was also scary. "It's serious! This kind of thing makes people get fired, and getting fired isn't fun!"

He kept insisting, he didn't want to believe that they were safe. They weren't, because they were talking to him all nice. Mr. Moore used to talk to him all nice and he got fired. He shook his head. Maybe if he tries to explain why it's bad they'd stop. He didn't want anything bad to happen to them. "I don't want to never see you again..."

He kept shaking his head for a while, not wanting to believe it- they worked there. Every adult did. Right? He wasn't worrying for nothing, every adult he's ever known has worked there. Maybe that's why he wasn't being taken back. Maybe it was because he wasn't really out- yes, he was out of the building, but all the adults worked there- right? It had to be it. Was this all just a big test?

He stayed very still when they reached for his hair. That's what good kids do. They stay still so the adults can help them. He didn't know why he was getting his hair braided, but did it really matter to him? No, not really. "Uh- don't go against policy... that makes bad things happen."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... alright, alright...

*They sigh, dragging their fingers through his hair, then removing the braid they made. They lay down and Spot bapped em on the forehead, leading to them just.. sitting up once more.*

You'll see me again... I promise I won't just.. dissappear on ya, cause I don't work there. I work at a bar, kid! My wife works in a hotel by the bar, so I have no connections even through her. This isn't a test. This isn't a way to see if I can bring you back.. THERE. You aren't in danger, kiddo, neither am I.

*They sigh, calming from their rant. Perhaps they need a different approach? Actions do seem to speak louder than words... they just need to.. to wait.*

... Kid, I can't really go against policy, I don't know what it is.. but how about this. Every time I do, tell me..

[demigoddenier]

He didn't really believe it. How could he? Most of his life's been littered with tricky questions and searching for correct answers even when there wasn't one. It wasn't like he could just magically stop being on edge all the time or stop looking out for behaviors that would make bad things happen. He couldn't- because what if all of this is just one big trick? Yes, he's being reassured a lot, but what if it's all lies?

"Nooo..." He pouted and looked at Icey, he didn't really want to sound mean or anything, just- he was looking out for them. So that they don't end up like Mr. Moore did. He'd hate to see them end up like that.

"Promise to follow policy if I tell you?" He asked, getting hopeful. He looked at them with those big innocent eyes, almost pleading with them to comply with whatever policy he had in mind.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They nod their head, a small look of defeat, what can they do? Just suddenly go back on their word..? Shame... well, they understand.. when they first went outside the wall, they were jumpy at everything... no one was safe, thats just what they grew up believing it, too.*

Yes.. I promise.

*They poke his nose and then lift up Spot. Who just bites their hand. Kindly. They take a deep breath and pat his head with the kitty paw*

See? Even he promises.

*The cat is just meowing. Rapidly. Then squirmed from their grasp and slapped their paw like six times.*

... I promise he's not normally like this. I think he's just pissy cause I didn't get home til late last night...

[demigoddenier]

"Okay-" That seemed to ease him a little. At least they'd follow policy- as long as no one catches them going against it, then nothing bad will happen. Maybe they'd stay around longer than the man who was nice to him before they ame around. He wanted them to stay around. They were nice. Maybe they could be nice to him in secret? No, no, people always find out about that and that gets people fired... He shouldn't be getting his hopes up, anyway.

He decided to boop the cat, just to see how it'll react. He didn't know what Spot's behavior meant, he didn't associate it with anything, honestly. He just wanted to be able to live without getting taken for corrections, discover a little of the world that felt so foreign-

He then remembered one thing he needed to tell them- just in case an adult that knew policy saw them here. "You shouldn't let me ask questions.. that's against policy."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They blink... jesus, they... oh wow, this policy thing will be hard... if Amira comes over she'd be screwed. She does nothing BUT answer questions, literally her way of comforting people in a way*

Uhhhhhuh. uh. Wow.. this will be harder than I thought, ahaaaa...

*They sigh and lay down, summoning ice from their hands and then slamming them together to make a pop sounds. They then drop their hands and shift over to boop him*

Hm.. do you like brownies?

*They ask, swinging their leg to get themselves up.. cause they didn't wanna use the muscles given to them. They're lazy.*

[demigoddenier]

He looked more scared when they said it was going to be difficult following the rules. He knew it wasn't easy, his caretakers made sure he knew he was making it oh so difficult for them, even when he didn't mean to. Miss Keller always said she felt bad whenever she had to correct him or send him off to Aprum for corrections. He almost looked like he was going to pounce on Icey out of worry. "You have to- or- or they'll fire you! You promised-"

He tilted his head at the question. That was more predictable. He could deal with questions. He knew how to answer them. Either truthfully or with the correct answer. If he didn't know what the correct answer was, then he'd just need to guess. "I- I have never seen brownies. I don't know what they are."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They pause and look over at him, then sigh.. they shift over and pull him into a hug to calm his nerves, trying to make sure he doesn't panic. They promised, and they won't go back on that promise.*

I didn't lie to you, kid. I'll be fine. You'll be fine.

*They scritch his hair, looking to the ground and then toning out anything happening so they don't do something.. irrational. They tilt their head back up and smile*

How about i bring some next time I visit? My wife makes really good homemade brownies... im sure you'd like em.

[demigoddenier]

He seemed to calm when they hugged him. He always liked to imagine it was Mr. Moore who was hugging him, that man always knew just how to calm him down. He let them embrace him, staying there contently, almost like a puppy about to fall asleep. "Good, that- that's good. We'll be fine. Because you promised."

"If- if you want to... then yeah." He almost smiled at the gentle hair scritches, when he felt it getting flowy- and immediately his hands went to his head, trying to flatten out the hair, patting it like he was trying to put out a fire. He looked at Icey with this absolutely terrified and remorseful face, holding his hands at the sides of his hair like he'd just commited a crime.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They nod and continue to hold him. Spot found himself a very comfortable spot by the foot of the bed, so he's just sleeping there.*

Mhm!

*They seemed.. confused on the sudden panic, not even noticing.. or caring about his hair flying up. She slowly removed the hands off of his head and continues to give him pets*

Hehe, you alright, lil dude? Do you need me to like.. help brush it out so it's a bit flatter again?

[demigoddenier]

That seemed to ease him a little. He was slowly getting used to people not hiding double meanings behind their words or trying to get something out of him, or making him second guess himself and tell them what he thinks they want to hear, not what he wants to actually say.

He did cower at the mention of the hair though, pressing his hands to his head tighter, as if scared something was going to cut it. He knew the adults never liked it when he cowered or tried to run away, but he just didn't want to get corrected- maybe being with nice people really did make him weak... "Please don't cut it-"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Ah-.... cut? I don't even.. have those materials on me... I ain't gonna cut your hair, kiddo.

*They.. seemed concerned how. Cut it? Why would they cut it? What would be the purpose in that? Sure, they cut their OWN hair.. then again, that was just their form of rebellion after they left.. THAT place.*

*They tried to think.. could they just... take back what part of their statement... try to move on in hopes that would calm him?... they shouldn't.. they've done that a lot throughout this conversation now that they think about it.. changing subjects left and right..*

... We don't have to do anything if you don't wanna, okay? No one's gonna mess up your hair in a way you can't fix by yourself. I may ruffle it up, but I won't cut it.

*Time to go the.. reassuring route.. it normally worked for Raine... or their siblings. If it doesn't work, they have other ideas to make him calm down..*

[demigoddenier]

"The misters and misses always cut my hair when I show signs like that..." He backed up on the bed, not entirely sure what was going to happen to him if he tried to escape being corected again. He's already done it once, maybe something even worse would happen to him if he tried again?! But he really didn't want to have his hair cut!

"So-sometimes I move too much and- and they cut me on accident-" He didn't want to have to go through that again. He had such a good streak- he hasn't been corrected in years! Why did he have to mess it up now?!

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I- oh... sweet boy...

*They scoot towards him, carefully removing the hands he practically glued to his own head. They thought for a bit before tapping the bed gently. Leading to Spot walking over and laying by their side, in which they lifted the cat up and placed him down beside him*

I won't.. "Correct" you. I won't cut your hair.. or you. I won't take you to someone who will.

[demigoddenier]

"You're supposed to... it- it's what happens to people who show signs. They get the correction and- and they-" He was terrified of corrections. So... so scared of even thinking about them being a possibility, or that he'd have to go through them again. "It's- it always depended on what kind of sign people showed.. I re-remember Zeno ha-having-"

...And that's when he stopped talking. Realizing he was never allowed to mention his little brother's corrections. Almost kicking himself away before he stopped himself. "I- sorry. I sho- shouldn't-"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... kid. Kid. Hey, deep breaths, slow deep breaths.

*They shift towards him and lay a hand on his head and gently scritch their fingers. They wanted to give him something to distract from, and he seemed to enjoy whenever they did this.. at least they thought he did..*

Can you relax your shoulders and breath in for 4 seconds, then out for 4..?

[demigoddenier]

The little one trembled under touch, hands gluing themselves to his hair again as he lightly tugged on it to sort of ground himself. Stopping his hair from flaring up again- it always worked. The little tugs, sometimes they needed to be harsher than normal, but they helped him control himself. He tried to listen to Icey, he really did-! He even mentally counted to four with each inhale and exhale he took.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Okay, this ain't working...

*They remove their hand and sit criss cross in front of him. They grab another plush from their bag and lay it in his lap.. this one seemed to weigh more than the other one, like it was made with a different material on the inside.*

..alright.. keep breathing and try to make your way to the stuffed animal. Once you do, I need you to tell me if you want me to stay or leave.. okay? Im fine with doing either.

[demigoddenier]

Being told to do things helped. It always did, because then he could do something with himself. He didn't exactly know what to do unless an adult told him to do something... He really didn't like this entire 'you're free to do anything' thing people keep telling him he can do. He didn't like freedom... how is he supposed to know what's allowed and what isn't with it? He slowly reached his shaky hands towards the plushie. "I- I don't- it- I don't have a say in whether you stay or not.."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They seemed to grip their fist a bit, then they scoot to sit next to him and rub his back slowly*

Right now, you do.

*Once he took the plush, they snapped their fingers, and a little ice top hat appeared on the silly plush.*

There we go, good job.. Alright, do ya want a hug? You seemed to enjoy those.

[demigoddenier]

"I don't- no it- I don't have a say in anything-" He insisted, flinching a little at the contact, then flinching again at the sudden noise when they snapped their fingers, before relaxing, kind of stilling almost completely as he brought the stuffie to his chest.

"If you'd like to give me one, I can't really say no.." He explained, he really didn't think he had a say in anything, he was so sure he didn't actually have autonomy.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.... hm... well. Then, I'll stay right here.. and not give you a hug unless you start the initial contact... now..

*They twirl their fingers while humming gently. They peak over at him and exhale, then slide him a small orange*

... Eat up, just something small to give yourself something to do.. after that.. maybe i can grab a pen and paper and we can draw?

[demigoddenier]

He didn't understand why he was being given a choice. Was there a correct answer? There always was. But he didn't know what they wanted from him this time. Was that bad...? He didn't want to disappoint.

He looked at the fruit for a moment, examining the... odd orange ball. He was told to eat it though, so he just nodded to everything they said and slowly raised the orange thing to his mouth and just... bit into it, without peeling it. Oh, the skin tasted very yucky... But he was told to eat, so eat he did.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Ah- oh my stars, no- nono- ehehe. Silly goose..

*They grab the apple and a blade from their shoe, the remove the cover and get a small bit of the orange peel off. They put the cover back on the blade and back into their shoe. They peel the apple, putting the peel in their pocket.*

There... NOW eat it.

[demigoddenier]

He swallowed whatever he bit off with this... 'trying to act brave about eating something not very tasty' look, just like he always does when he's given food he doesn't like or isn't used to. He watched them peel the fruit, not entirely sure why they had to do it... But he wasn't complaining. He grabbed the orange and bit into it again, a bit of the juice getting in his eyes and- oh stars, that's sour... But he can brave through it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Ah... hey, you don't.. have to eat it. You don't really have the "this is pretty good" face... I can easily just pull it in half and eat the half you didn't bite into... and just freeze the other half...

*They noticed some juice get in his eye and wiped under his eye, just so no more gets in from that little drop. They ruffled his hair and crossed their legs... certain foods ain't for everyone, and they wouldn't be surprised if he just didn't like it.*

It ain't a big deal..!

[demigoddenier]

"It's sour." He said matter-of-factly, as if still getting used to expressing his opinion. All he's ever been allowed to do was give descriptions of things, so he really was just doing the only thing he knew how to do. He looked at the orange, then at Icey. "I don't... know if I like it. It's weird. Nothing like the stuff I ate at the home."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Alright, hand it to me... uhhh, I have more of those fruitsnacks, the kind ya ate the last time I came here.. ya want one of those?

*They pulled out the package of fruitsnacks to see if he recognizes them.. probably doesn't remember the name very well, or at all.*

[demigoddenier]

"Fruitsnacks?" He asked, tilting his head curiously, looking at the fruitsnacks in their hand. He remembered eating them before. They were kinda nice. Better than anything he ate at the home. He nodded and slowly reached out for them.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They handed him the fruitsnacks. They lean back and pat his back. They grab a packet for themselves and began eating*

.. there we go, kiddo. Eat up...

*They twirl their fingers through their hair and ket out a small hum*

I need to re-dye my hair... blonde roots are starting to show.

[demigoddenier]

He grabbed the little packet and opened it, just like he saw them open it before. He was going to eat them anyway, but felt more confident once he was told to eat. It made him feel more secure, like what he was doing was right, correct. He tilted his head at them, "May I ask a question?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They flick their eyes up, no longer mumbling about what their gonna do over the weekend cause of their hair growing back. They nod, letting go of and strands they were holding*

Yeeepp, all ears, kid, whats up?

*They ask, leaning their head against their knee.*

[demigoddenier]

He took a deep breath. He's never really asked personal questions before- was this a personal question? He didn't know. It was scary, anyway. Him asking questions was scary to him, but he kind of wanted to break that barrier. Slowly, but he wanted to. "Is... your hair not naturally blue?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They shook their head no, giggling a bit. They lifted a bit of the hair, showing blonde roots from the scalp*

No, no... im a natural blonde.. but after I escaped that... place- I cut it short and dyed it... I think that was just me rejecting all the rules they made for me as a final "screw you" to everyone inside those walls.

*They tilt their head to the side*

Just cause im associated with ice doesn't mean I was born with everything blue, ehehe...

[demigoddenier]

"Oh.." He looked down after that, feeling a little stupid for assuming their hair was naturally blue. Maybe he was hoping it was like his was naturally... all flowy and mimicking the sky's state, and he has to always hide it and put every little breakout out so he wouldn't get in trouble. Maybe he kind of admired them for being brave enough to show their real hair- but now he knew that wasn't real, so there's that. At least it was ripped off like a bandaid?

"That makes sense... thank you." Still polite, even though disappointed on the inside. He didn't want to get in trouble for not being polite or not following rules and orders.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Ah? Pfft, no need to thank me? Ehehe... honestly im thinking of dying it back... I dunno, though... my wife said she said I was cute with my natural hair.. honestly suprised she remembered.

*They smiled even mentioning their wife. They sigh and twirl a small lock of their hair. They just seemed to be thinking to themselves now, doing a small snipping motion and then sighing*

Why do you ask, however?

[demigoddenier]

"It's good to thank people when they do something for us. That's how-" He bit his tongue. He was almost about to say 'that's how you keep out of trouble', but he guessed that this wouldn't be very... well received. He didn't think it was something he should say to this person.

"Oh- um- I thought..." He considered his options in his head. He could tell the truth, and likely not get in trouble, but there's a possibility he might- or he could be safe and not tell the truth. He's been taking a lot of risks lately... so... "I thought... that maybe... it was natural- and you weren't scared of.. showing it..."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Oh?.. well, if it helps it definitely feels more natural. Eheheh, trust me I feel like im tip toeing into the danger zone with the new look... if my... bloodline saw this, they would be livid-! Jokes on them because I could care less on what they think.

*They smile, looking back at him.. they hoped that helped him feel less.. bad-silly.. sure, their hair isn't naturally blue, but its more them than anything they used to have... much better. Cause it was their choice, not anyone elses.*

*They summoned a small ice ball, balancing it on the back of their hand*

Speaking of your own decisions, how ya doing on that? Like.. doing things for yourself and not just cause you were told to?

[demigoddenier]

"O- oh-" Maybe that's what it meant for things to be natural. Maybe... even if he wasn't born with things, they can feel natural. Like how caring for Zeno felt natural to him, how he saw him as a younger brother even though they weren't related, and same thing with Lune. "That... sounds nice."

He paused for a moment at the questions. He probably could tell the truth here, he's found he can say a lot more true things with Icey and not get in trouble. "I'm... still not sure I can. Instructions feel... natural to follow. Rules are... they feel good to have- restrictions, and such.."

[demigoddenier]

(Guess who's back. Back again.)

*THEY BROUGHT THE CAT. Icey somehow once again broke in, but now, with Spot. The cat mentioned before. Such cat was lazily in their jacket, Icey peaked in and smiled*

Heeeyyyyy again, kiddooooo..

*This time Amira does know they are here. Annoyed about it, but not stopping them. Icey took a step inside the room they once saw before.*

How ya doin'..?

- @1ceyanonhasarrived

//HELLOOOOOOO :D

The child was in his usual spot, on his bed, probably still eyeing the books in the cabin. He wanted to read them, but never managed to build up the courage to ask Lilith to borrow one of them. It was only when he heard a noise that he turned to see Icey... And the cat. "Hello-"

He tried not to let his excitement show, just in case they wanted to hold things he liked over his head to get him to obey. But it was a cat! A real, alive cat! There, and they brought it just for him! It was awesome! "Is that-?"

[demigoddenier]

"Adults don't apologize though." Or at least they shouldn't. It was why he couldn't wait to become an adult- because then he would get the right to not apologize for things. Or would he? He was a demigod, are those the same...? He didn't know. Guess he'd have to test that theory!

He looked at the cat and smiled a little. This truly was his first time seeing one, and if this one was so calm, he wondered if all cats are like this. They must, right? Species act the same- right? He didn't know. For now, he just enjoyed the animal's presence, giving it gentle pets.

"That... that's not a thing.." He looked at Icey again, confusion behind those oh so innocent eyes. "Things are either... good or bad... there's- there's no in-between.."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I do. I apologize often. My parents apologize. My siblings apologize. My wife does as well. Adults apologize, it just depends if you meet good ones or not.

*They look at the wall, summoning small ice daggers from their skin. A smile forming on their face.. hopefully it helps calm them.. they were gonna go on a rampage if it didn't. They peak down at Spot and scritch his back, earning a few purrs from the gremlin cat.*

*not a thing? Ah, the child is getting slightly bold to speak up! Good! He has an opinion.*

Hmmm. I'd think im in between. I've hurt people, badly, but it was for a good reason, I did a bad thing for a good reason. In between. My morals are not black or white.. and thats just how it is at times.

[demigoddenier]

"No they don't, silly! They're the adults, they know best!" This was his way of subtly trying to tell them that they should stop doing this if they don't want to be fired. He's heard people threatening to fire Mr. Moore when he was little, and it didn't sound fun, so he's learned to alert people when they're doing things against policy- whatever that meant. He just assumed it was bad, because it got people fired.

He shook his head. Said opinion was the result of heavy indoctrination, he just didn't know he was indoctrinated- at least, not yet. He wasn't that far in his realization journey. Maybe someday he'll understand, but for now he just pointed at Icey. "No, that's... Not a thing. In between doesn't exist. You're either bad, so a demigod, or good, so normal. You can be good as a demigod but- but it takes a lot of effort and you'll only be good on the surface. On the inside you'll always be bad, but at least you can act good."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... hm... alright, whatever you say, kid.

*They don't understand. They don't need to. The kid is doing his best at explaining... something, and they won't ask what that something is. They just know to take a hint. They sigh as the ice crumbles in their grasp again, staring at their hands. They wipe the leftover frozen water on their hands, gently blowing on them to heat them up again. They peak over at him, trapping their hands under their legs so they'll heat up*

*they listen to him, nodding along and then shrug, using their elbows to prop themselves up once they lean back*

That's odd, then. Cause im not human, or a god, or a demi god, ahah!!! I don't know what i am.... I WAS human. In the beginning, I was at least. But boooo, that went downhill fast after they found out of my location. Suddenly, im now some... ice person.

*They lift once hand up, touching their own forehead.. realizing their hands aren't.. basically ice sculptures anymore, they poke his forehead*

Plus! I've met some HORRID people who weren't a god or demi god. Actually, most of them were mortal! Funny! Its as if that idea they planted in your head was incorrect, and they just said that to make you think that you're a bad person, when you aren't, you're the opposite. You're a good kid who will probably grow up to be a good adult. There we go, my tangent is over, anything youd like to add?

*They smile, tilting their head at him before realizing that was probably too up front or aggressive. So they take a deep breath and their once tense shoulders relax, and they wait for him to speak, now petting his back and summoning some ice to chew on.*

[demigoddenier]

"Yeah." He was glad they listened. This way nothing bad would happen to them. They'd stay around and not get fired. He didn't want anything bad to happen to them, because they were nice, and nice people only deserved good things to happen to them. So that was nice- that they listened.

He stayed quiet for a moment. Not a human? Or a demigod? Or a god? He wasn't aware there were other options than those three. He didn't know what to think. Or where they fall on the good-bad thing. It was so confusing. But he didn't want to be a bother and ask, so he kept all of it to himself. They were an adult, and they weren't a demigod or a god, so they were probably good. Plus they were human at the beginning. So they were good. They had to be. "That... uh... you... are. Are good. Because you were human. Humans are good."

He didn't know what else to do- aside from just laying there and letting Icey talk to him, even if what they were saying didn't make sense or went against literally everything he's been taught- all he could really do was listen. They were an adult, he didn't have the right to cut him off or do anything else, because he was a child, and a demigod at that! He could tell them what they said was wrong and against policy after they were done speaking.

"No... no, because.. that's wrong. That- people are good and demigods are bad. There is no such thing as a... good demigod."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Hm.... hmhmhmmmm...

*They sigh, rubbing the bridge of their nose.. patience, Icey... thats what Amira always scolds them about. They aren't patient enough... perhaps its just their brain, maybe its cause they're just.. built to be like that. Doesn't matter...*

*They summon ice, over and over and over again in their hand, the moment it touched their palm though, it shattered.. but they just kept summoning ice. Why? For fun.. mainly to hear the ice shatter..*

... I was hurt by humans.. before I got the powers.. humans were the reason im.. this..

*They point towards their messed up eye, and then summon ice again.. to show what they mean by "this"*

... you, however, even being who you are, who you were born to be, aren't like them. It's not what you are. it's who you are.

*They fidget with their hands, picking at the skin and they close their eyes for a few seconds before continuing their.. gentler rant*

You aren't bad.. not even close to it... the only time a demi god is bad.. is when they purposely hurt someone.

[demigoddenier]

"No-" He whined, retreating back into the blanket he was given. Was this a trick? Or a test? Why were they defying policy? Were they not informed? Stupid? Trying to see if he knew this was against policy? Why were they nice? Why were they saying things that were against policy? This isn't how this is supposed to go.

He needed to do something- what if someone hears them? He wouldn't want them to go away. He didn't know how to stop them from breaking policy though, since he didn't have the right to question the adults, he only ever reminded Mr. Moore when he was breaking policy.

"No, no-" He kept saying that, shaking his little head like his life depended on it. Well, he thought Icey's life depended on whether or not they'll understand that what they're doing is wrong. "No, it's not like that- it can't be like that, no-"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I-...

*They stare at him and then turn a bit. They let him scoot into the blanket before a smile forms on their face. They zip a hand up and.. little shards of ice fall... it was shiny, like snow in a way! They cross their legs, and Spot began headbutting his chin, this time to probably try and calm him.*

... Kid.. look at me.. is there a reason other than the way you were raised why you keep denying this claim?

*They very carefully just.. laid a hand on his head to stop him from shaking it side to side. Its not helping the situation. They scritch his head and then put their hand back into their lap*

If you're worried about something, you can tell me.

[demigoddenier]

He let the cat near himself, because- well, it's a cat. He would've hugged it, had he not remembered that it was an alive creature and not something to hug- he had no clue whether cats liked hugs. And he wasn't going to test it, not right now, anyway. Just gently petting Spot's head as he listened to Icey. Some other reason than the way he was raised? What was that supposed to mean?

"I don't- no-" He seemed to be shutting down, he never liked having his views challenged- they were the correct views, the misters and misses said so! Those views kept him from being corrected, so they had to be right. He was bad and that was it. "It's how the world is-"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They sigh, then they take slow, deep breaths, gesturing him to follow. After a bit of breathing, they fix the blanket around him.. it always made them feel safer if something was around, and then nothing could surprise them.*

There.. okay... can you explain to me.. slowly, what's wrong?..

*They tilt their head to the side and then up again. They seemed like they were worried, and they were! He didn't give an answer he just kept stuttering words.. and unfortunately, they don't understand*

.. can you do that right now?

[demigoddenier]

He needed a moment to collect himself. To breathe. Nothing was happening so far, no one's found out about Icey being so nice to him, maybe they'll be fine. Maybe no one will know and they'll be alright- he really wanted to hope they would be alright and everything would be okay.

He got really lost in his thoughts before they snapped him out- there was a question that needed to be answered. He'd try his best to do that- because he was scared of what might happen if he doesn't.

"Well-" He tried to collect his thoughts. He needed to answer. He had to stop being a little shit and answer. "It's... Not how you should talk. It's- people who talk like that get fired."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Fire... fired? I- wha?.... OHHHHH- you think- pfff-

*They started laughing a bit, trying to stop themselves, this is a serious moment! They look up at him and grab his lil plushie, placing in his arms as Spot skedaddled next to him, it was getting hot in that blanket for the sweet cat*

Honey, I don't.. work there... I don't.. my job isn't in this area, I just stumbled across the camp..

*They poke his forehead with a gentler glare, just something that'll hopefully calm him.. Hopefully, stop him from any other thoughts that may make him panic.*

So, don't worry about me getting hurt over things I say.. okay? I'll be fine.. and you'll be fine, I promise.. thank you for worrying about me, though.

*They shift towards him once more and begin braiding his hair again. He has really good hair, surprisingly... not very knotted.*

... how about this.. if you ever get worried about a concern with me.. you tell me quickly, and we can figure out a way to help.. calm that worry in a way that'll make sure no one gets overwhelmed or hurt, does that sound alright with you?

[demigoddenier]

"It's not funny...!" He whined, retreating more into the blanket, looking rather scared of what might happen if someone finds out how he's been treated lately. Yes, it was nice to be treated decently, but it was also scary. "It's serious! This kind of thing makes people get fired, and getting fired isn't fun!"

He kept insisting, he didn't want to believe that they were safe. They weren't, because they were talking to him all nice. Mr. Moore used to talk to him all nice and he got fired. He shook his head. Maybe if he tries to explain why it's bad they'd stop. He didn't want anything bad to happen to them. "I don't want to never see you again..."

He kept shaking his head for a while, not wanting to believe it- they worked there. Every adult did. Right? He wasn't worrying for nothing, every adult he's ever known has worked there. Maybe that's why he wasn't being taken back. Maybe it was because he wasn't really out- yes, he was out of the building, but all the adults worked there- right? It had to be it. Was this all just a big test?

He stayed very still when they reached for his hair. That's what good kids do. They stay still so the adults can help them. He didn't know why he was getting his hair braided, but did it really matter to him? No, not really. "Uh- don't go against policy... that makes bad things happen."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... alright, alright...

*They sigh, dragging their fingers through his hair, then removing the braid they made. They lay down and Spot bapped em on the forehead, leading to them just.. sitting up once more.*

You'll see me again... I promise I won't just.. dissappear on ya, cause I don't work there. I work at a bar, kid! My wife works in a hotel by the bar, so I have no connections even through her. This isn't a test. This isn't a way to see if I can bring you back.. THERE. You aren't in danger, kiddo, neither am I.

*They sigh, calming from their rant. Perhaps they need a different approach? Actions do seem to speak louder than words... they just need to.. to wait.*

... Kid, I can't really go against policy, I don't know what it is.. but how about this. Every time I do, tell me..

[demigoddenier]

He didn't really believe it. How could he? Most of his life's been littered with tricky questions and searching for correct answers even when there wasn't one. It wasn't like he could just magically stop being on edge all the time or stop looking out for behaviors that would make bad things happen. He couldn't- because what if all of this is just one big trick? Yes, he's being reassured a lot, but what if it's all lies?

"Nooo..." He pouted and looked at Icey, he didn't really want to sound mean or anything, just- he was looking out for them. So that they don't end up like Mr. Moore did. He'd hate to see them end up like that.

"Promise to follow policy if I tell you?" He asked, getting hopeful. He looked at them with those big innocent eyes, almost pleading with them to comply with whatever policy he had in mind.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They nod their head, a small look of defeat, what can they do? Just suddenly go back on their word..? Shame... well, they understand.. when they first went outside the wall, they were jumpy at everything... no one was safe, thats just what they grew up believing it, too.*

Yes.. I promise.

*They poke his nose and then lift up Spot. Who just bites their hand. Kindly. They take a deep breath and pat his head with the kitty paw*

See? Even he promises.

*The cat is just meowing. Rapidly. Then squirmed from their grasp and slapped their paw like six times.*

... I promise he's not normally like this. I think he's just pissy cause I didn't get home til late last night...

[demigoddenier]

"Okay-" That seemed to ease him a little. At least they'd follow policy- as long as no one catches them going against it, then nothing bad will happen. Maybe they'd stay around longer than the man who was nice to him before they ame around. He wanted them to stay around. They were nice. Maybe they could be nice to him in secret? No, no, people always find out about that and that gets people fired... He shouldn't be getting his hopes up, anyway.

He decided to boop the cat, just to see how it'll react. He didn't know what Spot's behavior meant, he didn't associate it with anything, honestly. He just wanted to be able to live without getting taken for corrections, discover a little of the world that felt so foreign-

He then remembered one thing he needed to tell them- just in case an adult that knew policy saw them here. "You shouldn't let me ask questions.. that's against policy."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They blink... jesus, they... oh wow, this policy thing will be hard... if Amira comes over she'd be screwed. She does nothing BUT answer questions, literally her way of comforting people in a way*

Uhhhhhuh. uh. Wow.. this will be harder than I thought, ahaaaa...

*They sigh and lay down, summoning ice from their hands and then slamming them together to make a pop sounds. They then drop their hands and shift over to boop him*

Hm.. do you like brownies?

*They ask, swinging their leg to get themselves up.. cause they didn't wanna use the muscles given to them. They're lazy.*

[demigoddenier]

He looked more scared when they said it was going to be difficult following the rules. He knew it wasn't easy, his caretakers made sure he knew he was making it oh so difficult for them, even when he didn't mean to. Miss Keller always said she felt bad whenever she had to correct him or send him off to Aprum for corrections. He almost looked like he was going to pounce on Icey out of worry. "You have to- or- or they'll fire you! You promised-"

He tilted his head at the question. That was more predictable. He could deal with questions. He knew how to answer them. Either truthfully or with the correct answer. If he didn't know what the correct answer was, then he'd just need to guess. "I- I have never seen brownies. I don't know what they are."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They pause and look over at him, then sigh.. they shift over and pull him into a hug to calm his nerves, trying to make sure he doesn't panic. They promised, and they won't go back on that promise.*

I didn't lie to you, kid. I'll be fine. You'll be fine.

*They scritch his hair, looking to the ground and then toning out anything happening so they don't do something.. irrational. They tilt their head back up and smile*

How about i bring some next time I visit? My wife makes really good homemade brownies... im sure you'd like em.

[demigoddenier]

He seemed to calm when they hugged him. He always liked to imagine it was Mr. Moore who was hugging him, that man always knew just how to calm him down. He let them embrace him, staying there contently, almost like a puppy about to fall asleep. "Good, that- that's good. We'll be fine. Because you promised."

"If- if you want to... then yeah." He almost smiled at the gentle hair scritches, when he felt it getting flowy- and immediately his hands went to his head, trying to flatten out the hair, patting it like he was trying to put out a fire. He looked at Icey with this absolutely terrified and remorseful face, holding his hands at the sides of his hair like he'd just commited a crime.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They nod and continue to hold him. Spot found himself a very comfortable spot by the foot of the bed, so he's just sleeping there.*

Mhm!

*They seemed.. confused on the sudden panic, not even noticing.. or caring about his hair flying up. She slowly removed the hands off of his head and continues to give him pets*

Hehe, you alright, lil dude? Do you need me to like.. help brush it out so it's a bit flatter again?

[demigoddenier]

That seemed to ease him a little. He was slowly getting used to people not hiding double meanings behind their words or trying to get something out of him, or making him second guess himself and tell them what he thinks they want to hear, not what he wants to actually say.

He did cower at the mention of the hair though, pressing his hands to his head tighter, as if scared something was going to cut it. He knew the adults never liked it when he cowered or tried to run away, but he just didn't want to get corrected- maybe being with nice people really did make him weak... "Please don't cut it-"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Ah-.... cut? I don't even.. have those materials on me... I ain't gonna cut your hair, kiddo.

*They.. seemed concerned how. Cut it? Why would they cut it? What would be the purpose in that? Sure, they cut their OWN hair.. then again, that was just their form of rebellion after they left.. THAT place.*

*They tried to think.. could they just... take back what part of their statement... try to move on in hopes that would calm him?... they shouldn't.. they've done that a lot throughout this conversation now that they think about it.. changing subjects left and right..*

... We don't have to do anything if you don't wanna, okay? No one's gonna mess up your hair in a way you can't fix by yourself. I may ruffle it up, but I won't cut it.

*Time to go the.. reassuring route.. it normally worked for Raine... or their siblings. If it doesn't work, they have other ideas to make him calm down..*

[demigoddenier]

"The misters and misses always cut my hair when I show signs like that..." He backed up on the bed, not entirely sure what was going to happen to him if he tried to escape being corected again. He's already done it once, maybe something even worse would happen to him if he tried again?! But he really didn't want to have his hair cut!

"So-sometimes I move too much and- and they cut me on accident-" He didn't want to have to go through that again. He had such a good streak- he hasn't been corrected in years! Why did he have to mess it up now?!

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

I- oh... sweet boy...

*They scoot towards him, carefully removing the hands he practically glued to his own head. They thought for a bit before tapping the bed gently. Leading to Spot walking over and laying by their side, in which they lifted the cat up and placed him down beside him*

I won't.. "Correct" you. I won't cut your hair.. or you. I won't take you to someone who will.

[demigoddenier]

"You're supposed to... it- it's what happens to people who show signs. They get the correction and- and they-" He was terrified of corrections. So... so scared of even thinking about them being a possibility, or that he'd have to go through them again. "It's- it always depended on what kind of sign people showed.. I re-remember Zeno ha-having-"

...And that's when he stopped talking. Realizing he was never allowed to mention his little brother's corrections. Almost kicking himself away before he stopped himself. "I- sorry. I sho- shouldn't-"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

... kid. Kid. Hey, deep breaths, slow deep breaths.

*They shift towards him and lay a hand on his head and gently scritch their fingers. They wanted to give him something to distract from, and he seemed to enjoy whenever they did this.. at least they thought he did..*

Can you relax your shoulders and breath in for 4 seconds, then out for 4..?

[demigoddenier]

The little one trembled under touch, hands gluing themselves to his hair again as he lightly tugged on it to sort of ground himself. Stopping his hair from flaring up again- it always worked. The little tugs, sometimes they needed to be harsher than normal, but they helped him control himself. He tried to listen to Icey, he really did-! He even mentally counted to four with each inhale and exhale he took.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Okay, this ain't working...

*They remove their hand and sit criss cross in front of him. They grab another plush from their bag and lay it in his lap.. this one seemed to weigh more than the other one, like it was made with a different material on the inside.*

..alright.. keep breathing and try to make your way to the stuffed animal. Once you do, I need you to tell me if you want me to stay or leave.. okay? Im fine with doing either.

[demigoddenier]

Being told to do things helped. It always did, because then he could do something with himself. He didn't exactly know what to do unless an adult told him to do something... He really didn't like this entire 'you're free to do anything' thing people keep telling him he can do. He didn't like freedom... how is he supposed to know what's allowed and what isn't with it? He slowly reached his shaky hands towards the plushie. "I- I don't- it- I don't have a say in whether you stay or not.."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They seemed to grip their fist a bit, then they scoot to sit next to him and rub his back slowly*

Right now, you do.

*Once he took the plush, they snapped their fingers, and a little ice top hat appeared on the silly plush.*

There we go, good job.. Alright, do ya want a hug? You seemed to enjoy those.

[demigoddenier]

"I don't- no it- I don't have a say in anything-" He insisted, flinching a little at the contact, then flinching again at the sudden noise when they snapped their fingers, before relaxing, kind of stilling almost completely as he brought the stuffie to his chest.

"If you'd like to give me one, I can't really say no.." He explained, he really didn't think he had a say in anything, he was so sure he didn't actually have autonomy.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

.... hm... well. Then, I'll stay right here.. and not give you a hug unless you start the initial contact... now..

*They twirl their fingers while humming gently. They peak over at him and exhale, then slide him a small orange*

... Eat up, just something small to give yourself something to do.. after that.. maybe i can grab a pen and paper and we can draw?

[demigoddenier]

He didn't understand why he was being given a choice. Was there a correct answer? There always was. But he didn't know what they wanted from him this time. Was that bad...? He didn't want to disappoint.

He looked at the fruit for a moment, examining the... odd orange ball. He was told to eat it though, so he just nodded to everything they said and slowly raised the orange thing to his mouth and just... bit into it, without peeling it. Oh, the skin tasted very yucky... But he was told to eat, so eat he did.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Ah- oh my stars, no- nono- ehehe. Silly goose..

*They grab the apple and a blade from their shoe, the remove the cover and get a small bit of the orange peel off. They put the cover back on the blade and back into their shoe. They peel the apple, putting the peel in their pocket.*

There... NOW eat it.

[demigoddenier]

He swallowed whatever he bit off with this... 'trying to act brave about eating something not very tasty' look, just like he always does when he's given food he doesn't like or isn't used to. He watched them peel the fruit, not entirely sure why they had to do it... But he wasn't complaining. He grabbed the orange and bit into it again, a bit of the juice getting in his eyes and- oh stars, that's sour... But he can brave through it.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Ah... hey, you don't.. have to eat it. You don't really have the "this is pretty good" face... I can easily just pull it in half and eat the half you didn't bite into... and just freeze the other half...

*They noticed some juice get in his eye and wiped under his eye, just so no more gets in from that little drop. They ruffled his hair and crossed their legs... certain foods ain't for everyone, and they wouldn't be surprised if he just didn't like it.*

It ain't a big deal..!

[demigoddenier]

"It's sour." He said matter-of-factly, as if still getting used to expressing his opinion. All he's ever been allowed to do was give descriptions of things, so he really was just doing the only thing he knew how to do. He looked at the orange, then at Icey. "I don't... know if I like it. It's weird. Nothing like the stuff I ate at the home."

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Alright, hand it to me... uhhh, I have more of those fruitsnacks, the kind ya ate the last time I came here.. ya want one of those?

*They pulled out the package of fruitsnacks to see if he recognizes them.. probably doesn't remember the name very well, or at all.*

[demigoddenier]

"Fruitsnacks?" He asked, tilting his head curiously, looking at the fruitsnacks in their hand. He remembered eating them before. They were kinda nice. Better than anything he ate at the home. He nodded and slowly reached out for them.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They handed him the fruitsnacks. They lean back and pat his back. They grab a packet for themselves and began eating*

.. there we go, kiddo. Eat up...

*They twirl their fingers through their hair and ket out a small hum*

I need to re-dye my hair... blonde roots are starting to show.

[demigoddenier]

He grabbed the little packet and opened it, just like he saw them open it before. He was going to eat them anyway, but felt more confident once he was told to eat. It made him feel more secure, like what he was doing was right, correct. He tilted his head at them, "May I ask a question?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They flick their eyes up, no longer mumbling about what their gonna do over the weekend cause of their hair growing back. They nod, letting go of and strands they were holding*

Yeeepp, all ears, kid, whats up?

*They ask, leaning their head against their knee.*

[demigoddenier]

He took a deep breath. He's never really asked personal questions before- was this a personal question? He didn't know. It was scary, anyway. Him asking questions was scary to him, but he kind of wanted to break that barrier. Slowly, but he wanted to. "Is... your hair not naturally blue?"

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

*They shook their head no, giggling a bit. They lifted a bit of the hair, showing blonde roots from the scalp*

No, no... im a natural blonde.. but after I escaped that... place- I cut it short and dyed it... I think that was just me rejecting all the rules they made for me as a final "screw you" to everyone inside those walls.

*They tilt their head to the side*

Just cause im associated with ice doesn't mean I was born with everything blue, ehehe...

[demigoddenier]

"Oh.." He looked down after that, feeling a little stupid for assuming their hair was naturally blue. Maybe he was hoping it was like his was naturally... all flowy and mimicking the sky's state, and he has to always hide it and put every little breakout out so he wouldn't get in trouble. Maybe he kind of admired them for being brave enough to show their real hair- but now he knew that wasn't real, so there's that. At least it was ripped off like a bandaid?

"That makes sense... thank you." Still polite, even though disappointed on the inside. He didn't want to get in trouble for not being polite or not following rules and orders.

[1ceyanonhasarrived]

Ah? Pfft, no need to thank me? Ehehe... honestly im thinking of dying it back... I dunno, though... my wife said she said I was cute with my natural hair.. honestly suprised she remembered.

*They smiled even mentioning their wife. They sigh and twirl a small lock of their hair. They just seemed to be thinking to themselves now, doing a small snipping motion and then sighing*

Why do you ask, however?

[demigoddenier]

"It's good to thank people when they do something for us. That's how-" He bit his tongue. He was almost about to say 'that's how you keep out of trouble', but he guessed that this wouldn't be very... well received. He didn't think it was something he should say to this person.

"Oh- um- I thought..." He considered his options in his head. He could tell the truth, and likely not get in trouble, but there's a possibility he might- or he could be safe and not tell the truth. He's been taking a lot of risks lately... so... "I thought... that maybe... it was natural- and you weren't scared of.. showing it..."