THE ONLY TRUTH.

affiliated + not indie friendly.

[kleinstar]

" Eh, well that's not what I..."

Eiden looks down to the roomba, then uncertainly to the man gifting it for him. It's still a fun design. Perhaps he should take it if it's going to be unused anyhow...

" ...it's just a little sudden I guess? "

Nobody gives somebody a roomba in a first meeting.

" I didn't think you were scamming me or anything but like ....these aren't cheap. You could get money out of this, is what I'm saying. "

[demisedscholar]

"perhaps it is, but I've finished what I intended." he could just leave it here of course. someone else will eventually find it and take it home, though it would be better off if done so now than later. there's no telling how long it might be before someone takes notice if abandoned to the side.

and as for money... he doesn't particularly care for an overflow of it, enough for the essentials is satisfactory. "no need. I already have everything necessary to survive.

...if you are that opposed, I'll accept a few drinks equal to the cost in exchange. is that an acceptable agreement?"

[hyposelenias]

WHATEVER WAS HE DOING HERE? going from a tranquil walk within one of the more isolated parts of the island, safe from the looming mists themselves, she had not expected to stumble across someone who seemed rather intent with whatever it was he works on. in truth, it causes her to pause her strides, almost as if she were worried that it might draw attention to her. and yet, she feels the slightest bit guilty, as if she were eavesdropping on something she should not be despite what curiosity pulls her in.

from what she can gather, it seems as if he's experimenting on something, causing an unease to begin to settle over her. within her time, she has met two people who do such things, both drastically different in their approaches and morals. thus, it makes her wonder if it's even safe here, one step taken back that snaps a twig beneath her weight.

❝ Oh. I... ❞ there was no doubt he'd notice her now, given the silence has been disturbed, making her shrink in just a little bit. especially since the creature he had been working with seems to have darted off due to the sudden noise, whether for the good or the bad. ❝ Did I... end up disturbing you? ❞

@demisedscholar

[demisedscholar]

it's apparent he'd been carried away taking a small sample of loose fur to test while chatting to a creature, despite the inability to actually converse with it. still, it never prevented him from doing so. he watches it scurry away then turns to see a woman standing in place, seeming rather wary of whatever she perceived to be happening here. while he doesn't pay her too much mind, he at least waves a hand as he turns back to his interrupted experiment. "yes, but no matter. I'm sure it will return later."

until then, he sits on the chair brought here along with the other equipment, waiting patiently for that moment. his unexpected audience doesn't seem to be leaving though, prompting him to turn in her direction again. "...why are you still here?" is she expecting something else? an explanation, perhaps? or to take the creature and leave once it makes an appearance again?

he sighs and gestures for her to step closer to observe, if she truly desires. "wait and you'll understand." hopefully that will clear up whatever she appears to be cautious of. he will of course give her the details of what he's doing as well, in case she might believe it to be anything cruel. that is reserved only for himself and true monsters.

[descensionstar]

honestly, he made her sound suspicious like a criminal refusing to properly respond to questions during an interrogation. and it was definitely starting to feel like one.

✦that's like asking 'did humans just suddenly appear one day?' and Paimon isn't struggling. it's like when a lady tells you off for asking her age because it's rude. it should be obvious that Paimon is Paimon and there's nothing wrong with that. everyone else accepts it — they don't question it just like they don't question why they're human.✦

[demisedscholar]

what is she even talking about...?

"those are not the same at all. have you not had a normal conversation with someone you're getting to know? no one asks how old another is. they do exchange other information though." he's amazed she even managed to get this far speaking to anyone brought here. it may simply be first impression, but he's certainly not having much luck and he doesn't intend to spend hours arguing with her over it.

and it's quite obvious she isn't going to learn anything. 'Paimon is Paimon' indeed, Paimon is also rather ridiculous and he's growing tired, which he makes clear with a very audible sigh. "...forget I asked. this is a waste of my time."

[empyreanlight]

NOT MANY TOOK INTEREST IN MEHRAK, or at least not so openly to ask him about them at all. so, when the other asks him directly, he seems a little surprised, though clearly happy to give an answer in turn. ❝ That'd be right. This is Mehrak, my assistant, ❞ he introduces, motioning to the briefcase that now seems to chirp happily at the recognition and attention.

❝ It took some time, but I managed to pull it off after finding some parts in a few desert expeditions back in my homeland. ❞ in fact, he turns fully to the mechanical helper, tapping on it to open up and exhibit a display of one of his current project blueprints. ❝ Mehrak works something like this when helping me and also surveying areas, too. ❞

[demisedscholar]

assistant? now that is interesting. he's seen others using all kinds of technology to help get their work done, but nothing like this. the name is just as fascinating, his curiosity over it growing by the minute, more so once it opens to display some plan of sorts. "I take it this is one of a kind." which he could fully understand. something as this may gain the attention of others who want to make the process of working easier, though some owners find sentimental value in them and are unwilling to share. perhaps this man could be one of those.

"do you make things like this often?" if that's the case, then what else can the other create? he must admit, he's rather excited by Mehrak alone. but imagining what possibilities there are... he finds himself filled with enthusiasm to continue this conversation and learn more.

[kleinstar]

" Why not? " Eiden asks squatting to take a better look at the item.

" The ears might not work a practical purpose but they're cute aren't they?"

Even ordinary items are designed after all - Eiden's in awe of this one for sure. It's fun! Veoc would probably would love it now that he thinks about it...

That said, he didn't expect it to be offered at him like this...

" Huh? Wait -- why? " Eiden then asks, sure he'd thought of that but he can't just take it!!

" I can't just take it?? "

[demisedscholar]

cute...? looking at it again, he supposes yes, maybe it is to some degree. he has his own preferences though. a dromas theme would be far more appealing. perhaps that's something to think about later.

"why not? if something is offered to you, there's no harm in taking it." that is what offers are for, after all. surely there's not some mysterious reason the man is refusing. "are you concerned I've stolen it? don't worry, I assure you it has been paid in full. however, I have no use for it since I am rarely at my assigned accommodation. consider it a gift for helping me put it back together."

[supremestance]

HE WAS RIGHT ABOUT THAT, though that doesn't stop him from doing so himself. nor would he listen to anyone when it serves to do as he pleases, something she knows well enough when it comes to him, having known him all too well for far too long. still, fingers trail along the wrapped gift placed upon the table, not having expected anything in return. ❝ It is far more than enough, ❞ she responds, reassuring him that he had done much more than was necessary of him.

what he requests next, however, is far more surprising, evident on the way her expression shifts ever so slightly. it wasn't negative by any means, thus she can only hope he does not take the sudden shift as so.

❝ Company? My day is not busy, no. The tailoring shop is closed for several days as to allow the employees a chance to rest... ❞ titans forbid she force hysilens and mika to work on days meant for celebration than work, even if she, herself, might choose to do so on her own. ❝ So no, I do not mind the company if that is what you wish to spend your day on. The most I would opt to do is design and tailor from the silks you brought, though I can do so any other time as to not cast you to the wayside, ❞ she reassures, stepping aside to allow him further entrance. ❝ Would you like something to drink, by chance? ❞

[demisedscholar]

is that her way of thanking him? he can only guess since she can be difficult to figure out at times, even knowing her as well as he does. or perhaps that's the complicated side of their relationship making it feel as such.

"I expected nothing else, but I am surprised you are not working." surprised but relieved. and he'll leave out the little detail that he tried the shop before coming here, though she's likely to figure that out herself, if she hasn't realised already. she always has been one to work hard when she wants something. luckily she chose not to today, otherwise he may have needed to become an unremovable thorn until she agreed to stop.

as soon as she moves aside, he steps in and makes himself comfortable on one of the seats. "you're free to do whatever you want. if that is what makes you happy, then plan your designs." he's perfectly fine just sitting and watching her as she does, with that drink she offers of course. how could he deny any generosity from Aglaea. it is a rare thing for him to see, after all. "and yes, I think I shall have a drink." but should he ask her to join him or leave her in peace... one couldn't hurt, after she has finished what she needs. "will you have one as well? once you've figured out what you're doing with those."

[descensionstar]

he—!

✦well... Paimon's not native, of course. you wouldn't seen lots of her like the Netpups in Golden Ward. but she was here before you — that's the point she's making.✦

honestly, he was so... confusing! ✦—what?!

of course Paimon knows what she is! being born is a process, and that tells someone what they are and where they came from. you talk like Paimon just spawned into existence!✦

[demisedscholar]

well, of course she's not native here, but that isn't what he was trying to say. even those from other worlds occasionally have someone of the same kind who could appear. Paimon, however... that's a little different.

"are you quite sure you didn't just appear? you seem to be struggling to give an answer to any of the questions I've asked. I wonder why that is..." for all anyone knows, she could have been created by another and placed wherever she's from.

[demisedscholar]

among the quiet areas, he prefers to linger rather than remain at assigned housing too long. there are better ways to spend time, and it seems someone else is of the same line of thought.

perhaps watching the wildlife pass, or just enjoying the scenery? it matters not which it is.

"you have a liking for these places as well?" the question is sudden and maybe unexpected, but it's that or intruding unannounced. he has no issue with either option of course. making a presence known is likely the preferable one to many though.

@amelserru

[demisedscholar]

a while has passed already since crossing paths with the stranger and mechanical device, one he could tell held more to it than the impression a quick glance might give. he inspects it as the other would allow, never overstepping should the man change his mind and decide to carry on with the day. "this device. did you create it?" it is quite a genius piece of technology, the small display shifting to another expression every so often, as if it understood what was happening around it. it's well within expectation of any list of possibilities for all he has witnessed.

@empyreanlight

[adamant-hearts]

Can’t wait for my victorian maiden wife husband Anaxa, he’s gotta come home RAHHHH

[supremestance]

WHAT REMINDERS HE GIVES ARE UNNECESSARY, something based on pure assumption that she is acting with malicious intent in some way. in truth, it has already begun to sour her mood, the want to simply stop their dance midway present, shown only by the way her hand grips just a little tighter around his own. ❝ You don't think I know that? ❞ her quip is not meant to be sharp, though she cannot help but feel she is being scrutinized in the moment for something she did not, or even has yet, to do.

and here all she wished to do was dance, though perhaps she had misjudged the partner to do so with in this very moment. much like them now, it feels their efforts are always two steps forward and then one step back.

where there is a want to speak out, she simply bites her tongue, figuring it best not to soil anything further now as much as she wishes to as she contemplates stepping away for the night. doing so proves to have been the right call, especially with his next few words. why he chooses to say them now after his earlier commentary grates at her nerves just the slightest, though it isn't enough to cause a spectacle between them.

in fact, she can only agree, just as he claims of it.

❝ ... yes. I do. ❞ she at least confirms that much, wishing to be open on that matter. ❝ I understand I have been... harsh 一 cold-hearted 一 for many a reason. Perhaps, even now, I still am despite much and more. That does not change the repercussions they have wrought, however, ❞ she relents, even if she believes they were a necessity at the time. ❝ It will be a trial not unlike taking the coreflames. For one to let go of the past is not so readily done by those who carry its weight, especially with all we remember now and its myriad of intricacies. But... it is something I have been more than willing to face for some time now. ❞ something she has wanted to mend for a length of time, a regret that lingers in her stifled heart alongside the possibility of reconciliation between her and cifera, too.

if she were able to achieve them, perhaps she might truly find a peace beyond words.

[demisedscholar]

of course he knows she's aware, how could she not be after all they have suffered. still, he won't answer lest anything he might say irritates her further. that isn't the point of this conversation now. it requires handling with care, so they can mend the rift between them.

"no need to explain. we understand each other well enough to know our flaws. I am not so blind to your methods now as I was then, that was merely my own frustration." and the very reason he wants to avoid a repeat. they cannot prevent the inevitable difference of opinion, that would be impossible for two such as them. he can, however, learn to communicate better so they can talk reasonably in future. "none of that means anything here, which is why I believe it's time to move on." a trial it may be, but it's one he's willing to face than any alternative outcome.

he's more relieved she is open to the suggestion, perhaps now they can finally put things behind them to an extent, so long as they aren't arguing as often. that may be expecting too much, but there is some hope for them. "since we are in agreement, let's enjoy the rest of the evening. we'll discuss it further once we leave." in fact, he could extend an invitation, whether she's likely to accept or not, that is up to Aglaea. "you're welcome to stay the night. you have a longer journey home than I. the living room will be suitable enough for one night, so you may use my room." if that isn't enough to convince her, then...

"consider it an opportunity to celebrate a new beginning. we could have another drink before retiring to rest." before she does, at least. he isn't so certain he'll be able to sleep easily after such a lively event.

[descensionstar]

what a—!

✦when we met, Paimon WAS the local. and we made plenty of friends in Natlan who pronounced these names, but they're so long and complicated. it takes time to get them right.✦

she had half a mind to make a jab in return, about how easy it was to see what she was. but with that eyepatch... well, most people wore them for an actual reason, and there was a fine line between disrespectful and offensive that she'd rather not cross under most circumstances. ✦Paimon is Paimon — she's the Traveler's best friend and guide.✦

[demisedscholar]

"wouldn't that imply there are more? if you were to look around, let's just say for example, you might see a group of humans carrying out their daily tasks. they would be the locals. I haven't seen another of your kind though." at this point, he's messing with her just to see what reactions he can get. a little harmless amusement to fill the time.

Paimon this, Paimon that. it's hardly an answer and he's incredibly dissatisfied with the lack of information she seems to have. "that explains nothing, you're simply repeating your name. do you even know what you are? I'm inclined to think not."

[demisedscholar]

"you may not have intended gifting in person, but I prefer to hand these over to avoid anything ruining them. and to thank you." he sets the neatly wrapped package on the table, ready for whenever she decides to make use of the items in contains. "it isn't much, just a few bundles of silk. that's all. I thought you might be able to make yourself some clothes."

there is more to his visit of course, though it depends how she feels about him hanging around for a while. until she wants time for herself, at least. he could respect that having isolated himself in the past. "I also... wanted to ask if you'd mind company for the day. as long as you're not busy."

@supremestance

[sanctummilitis]

19th December. The eve of Chaldea's final mission.

Taken to a space between parked cars so not to obstruct already bustling walkways, the King of Knights stood transfixed under streams of lights celebrating adorning Archimedes' streets the coming holidays, ever impressed by their majesty. yet no matter how beautiful they may be, a concoction of bright blue and blinding white could not shake from her thoughts. The destination of one final push that would decide the meaning of their everything. A sort of haunting disconnect that persisted.

How odd, to be here yet feel her mind a million miles away.

[demisedscholar]

"you." he stops upon seeing her fixed in place, as if she were somewhere else rather then here. wherever that may be, it still isn't a good idea to just stand and do nothing for too long. "what are you standing around for?"

perhaps he can find a way to convince her to move along, even if by way of offering to listen to what trouble seems to be bothering her. there is clearly something that distracts her, why else would a person be so still and appear out of sorts? "if you have nothing better to do, then walk with me for a while."

[supremestance]

IT WOULDN'T BE THE FIRST TIME SHE'S ACCUSED THUS, especially not from him when she recalls one of their last meetings within their own world. they had never been intimately familiar with one another to this point, not like her garmentmakers have seen her and, in turn, a few others such as tribios. perhaps that is why he reacts the way he does, all before accepting it despite his earlier claim. so, when he takes her by the hand and finds a place, though tucked away in a more discreet manner, she ensues, positioning herself comfortably for their little dance.

the night was all going well... until he speaks again, that is, of a small reminder that causes her to scoff ever so slightly.

❝ Must you make the mood so dour with your words now? ❞ perhaps she should have expected as much and, truthfully, had. though she had also hoped he might simply go with the flow of the evening's atmosphere, too. but that would be unlike him in some cases, always marching to the beat of his very own drum. at last, she takes a step, beginning to guide them into the fray with care not to collide with anyone else. ❝ What plans would I have in asking you for a dance beyond dancing? If you had any doubts of such a thing, you should have spoken when we came together after I fitted your suit. ❞

[demisedscholar]

it isn't as if he intends to spoil the mood on purpose, being reactive to her has become a habit he finds difficult to shake even here. "I was merely reminding you whether I remain neutral depends on your actions. that's all." though he supposes he could hold his tongue a little more, for the sake of allowing her to enjoy the evening, at least.

he follows her guidance without complaint, careful not to disrupt the flow of her movement as they exchange words. "I haven't the faintest idea, that is why I mentioned it. problems are not simply fixed because the setting is different. you and I have much to accomplish in terms of... whatever you want to call it." in truth, he's not quite sure what it should be when there isn't much to begin with after everything, but he does want make an attempt at reconnecting with her properly.

"I think we can agree both of us have taken things too far." who hasn't said something they've later regretted after certain events, and a change of perspective as a result. had he not been given the chance to resonate with her coreflame, to see the state of her being then, he wouldn't be so open to her views, nor extending the offer he proposes now. "if you're willing, then perhaps we should leave the past behind. let us start anew."

[supremestance]

wintertide ball

THE NIGHT HAS DRAWN ON, enjoyably so, when she finds herself beside the man she accompanies here tonight. drinks line the wall as they stand, arms crossed one over the other as she observes all those dancing across the floor to the sway of the music at hand. ❝ It's quite the lively night, I'd say, ❞ she comments briefly, the sip of champagne small and swift, eyes flitting between those friendly faces she knows and many who are but strangers.

the clink of the glass is all that can be heard over the music, setting aside her drink for the time being. she allows some semblance of silence to befall them, seemingly content with his company, figuring this was no place for discussions of myths or theories alike. in that case, it left room for something else entirely一

an idea comes to her, impulsive as she is come times, as she turns to him. ❝ Will you dance with me, Anaxagoras? ❞

@demisedscholar

[demisedscholar]

lively certainly is one way to describe it, if not for the drinks he would complain and find elsewhere to occupy himself. much like he doesn't offer a reply to her comment because it doesn't need one. the noise alone reminds him of stepping foot in Okhema, which he prefers not to dwell on now everything is said and done.

her question, he thinks, is odd and unlike her, confusion easy enough to see in the way he simply stares before saying anything. "...have you lost your mind?" what could even lead her to ask him of all people such a thing. it would be a lie though, were he to pretend he isn't curious what might be going through her thoughts in doing so.

contrary to the usual opposition, she would be met with agreement for once, despite it sounding somewhat reluctant. perhaps it's the volume of empty glasses that sway his choice, he is in quite high spirits tonight. as long as she doesn't make him regret it, that is. "I suppose amusing you once won't do harm." taking her hand and finding a space for them to dance freely, if a little hidden to one side in hopes no one they know will notice, he adjusts his hold and places an arm around her waist.

but first, a small reminder... "if you're planning something, I will be just as quick to leave."

[supremestance]

IT HAD ALL BEEN AN ACCIDENT, REALLY. fabrics and papers flying into the air, overlapping upon the ground due to a rush of pedestrians on the street. honestly, she might have thought it was her fault, were it not for the undescriptive man who seemed more than eager to pass by everyone else just as he had done to them. ❝ My apologies. Let me help you with those, ❞ she offers, kneeling down to help collect the papers, some which seemed to be hypothesis about this city.

while her fabric lay bare on the streets, it wouldn't fly away so easily as parchment might, so it was a matter of urgency there. once she could grab as many as she could, she hands them over before looking at the man they belonged to, smile upon her features and all.

❝ Your theories 一 some of them seem quite intriguing. At least from the little I was capable of glancing at them. ❞ perhaps that was rude of her to do, only realizing it thereafter. hopefully he didn't mind so much, her already busying herself with the fabrics and needle kit. ❝ I believe that's all of them. Unless some managed to hide beneath my fabrics? One moment, let me see. ❞

@demisedscholar

[demisedscholar]

only moments ago, he had a mind to snap at the offender but that soon dissipates when she speaks, the voice belonging to someone familiar. something is... off, however. Aglaea seems quite different, much so that he cannot find the words to respond just yet. a thought then, is this what she was like before her trial? while he struggles with the contrast, she takes it upon herself to retrieve some papers of her own free will, which is also rather strange, unheard of actually. she would never offer to help him with anything, surely? they disagree far too often for such things.

with the pages collected and back in his hands, he frowns as she smiles. a sight he's never witnessed for himself before and not one he knows how to react to. it is a pity to have lost something so bright, but never mind that thought.

checking through to make sure everything is accounted for, he is quick to interrupt before she can search, not bothering to answer the prior comment. "that won't be necessary, they're all here." perhaps he should at least put in some small effort to be polite since she had done so as well, despite the ever present reluctance when it involves her. "...your items. are they damaged?" even if they were, there isn't much he could do about a hobby he knows little of.