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Entry tags:
MARCH TDM + SETTING UPDATES
BEARING FRUIT (NEW CHARACTERS ONLY)
It starts out as a pleasant dream. You’re in your favorite place, with your favorite people. It’s a moment of idyllic comfort.
The light starts to fade, but only in time to see as the leaves cradling you immediately start to soften and crumble, and with it comes a torrent of dirt. Soft, loamy soil starts to fill the space around you in the dark as you’re buried. Or, rather, you already were. You reach out through the dirt desperately, and your hands finds a root, so you pull while you clutch that precious crystal so close that it almost feels like it sinks into you (in your panic, you don’t notice that it does). You reach out again, and this time, your hand hits open air and plenty of sturdy roots around to grab.
From a seed you’re born, and like a sprout, you make your way out of the ground.
And once you’ve clawed your way out of the soft earth and the roots, nearby, you see the soil shift. Another hand comes up to grasp desperately for something, anything, just as you had been.
You wake with a start, cradled by soft, velvety plants, and sticky with a sap that smells faintly of honey and iron. You can see the veins of the leaves that hold you, lit warmly and gently by what looks like a crystal embedded above you. Yet, it’s odd, because that crystal calls to you. When you reach out to touch it, it’s warm. Familiar. Important. You don’t know why, but you know you must hold onto this, because now it feels wrong for it to be suspended in these leaves. So, you pull it out.And then, it goes wrong.
The sky turns dark above, and as you look up, you see the black expanse of space spotted with faraway pinprick lights of stars. Yet, they’re not stars. You’re certain. They’re watching you. A billion eyes all looking down, and they spill forth as if sky itself was a dam holding back those dark waters. You reach back to the people you’re with, but they’re frozen in place. Their eyes are black, reflecting only the expanse of dark eyes.
So you run, even though you know you won’t escape it. You glance back and see it not overtaking, but consuming. The landscape around you is being devoured, and you can see it cracking apart. The world itself is breaking, and it cracks under your feet. You fall, and the billion eyes chase after you until the darkness swallows you whole. There’s agony as if you’re being ripped apart, and then—
You cannot see. You cannot feel. You simply are. Yet even so, impossibly, a woman’s voice speaks gently.
I’m sorry it couldn’t be saved. But, come, it’s time to wake.
The light starts to fade, but only in time to see as the leaves cradling you immediately start to soften and crumble, and with it comes a torrent of dirt. Soft, loamy soil starts to fill the space around you in the dark as you’re buried. Or, rather, you already were. You reach out through the dirt desperately, and your hands finds a root, so you pull while you clutch that precious crystal so close that it almost feels like it sinks into you (in your panic, you don’t notice that it does). You reach out again, and this time, your hand hits open air and plenty of sturdy roots around to grab.
From a seed you’re born, and like a sprout, you make your way out of the ground.
And once you’ve clawed your way out of the soft earth and the roots, nearby, you see the soil shift. Another hand comes up to grasp desperately for something, anything, just as you had been.
TWO CITIES, ALIKE IN DIGNITY
With the new Shard-Bearers present or en route, it is Kathova and Cetina that approach the established ones, requesting that they form mentorships with the new souls to assist them with the integration process. To this end, they have both provided a centralized zone in both Highstorm and Springstar for a small, casual meet-and-greet to be held before the new Shard-Bearers are unleashed upon Kenos as a whole.
Additionally, as Springstar and Highstorm are holding their events on different days, it is possible for the knowledge-hungry to participate in both informational sessions -- the tones and opinions held by both cities are doubtless to differ, and some Shard-Bearers who have chosen to harmonize with either faction may even find their way to the opposing faction's session as well.
Tables draped in white-and-gold-trimmed fabrics fare filled with fare typical to Springstar's warmer climate -- fruits and wines, savory smoked meats and roasted vegetables, a series of meze platters and souvlaki skewers have been lain out to encourage forum participants to snack as they speak. The atmosphere is light, ambient with informality and friendliness, though topics will inevitably stray towards philosophic, Springstar's meeting grounds are decorated with handsome chaise lounges and slouching klismos chairs in small, intimate groupings.
However, those who have attended the forum in the past or simply have a sharp eye may notice: food doesn’t flow as freely in a feast-like setting as before. It’s more subdued in presentation and portion because as you may hear, the Blight (see below) is an affliction that’s been affecting the food stores of Springstar and Highstorm both. The Meri are nervous about this and blame it on the Zenites since they had won the Oracle on the Scorching Isles (January's event) and with it, punished the Meridian, even if unintentionally. As such, those who are notable Zenites or who wear their allegiance openly may not be treated as kindly. The military also seems to be more present at the forum. These two things are related, as it turns out, because only a few days after the new Shard-Bearers arrive, an invasion will begin.
There are few places to be seated in the Manor's courtyard, resulting in a milling of bodies as they flow and ebb between smaller gatherings, clustering in small-to-large groups with small platters and shimmering flutes of drink held in their hands.
The mood of Highstorm is subdued as always, but still seems to be pleasant and joyous thanks to claiming the Oracle in the Scorching Isles. The Blight may be affecting the city and causing plants and the like to die, but there’s admittedly not much of it to be seen with Highstorm’s harsh winters. Maybe they’re not hit as badly as Springstar, or maybe they just haven’t noticed yet. Only time will tell. But regardless, notable Meri or those that wear their allegiance more openly will be treated politely, but perhaps with a little condescension. Highstorm is one step closer to winning than Springstar, after all.
Additionally, as Springstar and Highstorm are holding their events on different days, it is possible for the knowledge-hungry to participate in both informational sessions -- the tones and opinions held by both cities are doubtless to differ, and some Shard-Bearers who have chosen to harmonize with either faction may even find their way to the opposing faction's session as well.
SPRINGSTAR, αιώνιος ήλιος
In Springstar, the seat of the Tribune becomes available for such a forum. While a section of the building itself has been reserved for the meeting between fresh faces and experienced Shard-Bearers alike, the hustle and bustle of Heliopolis continues around them -- acolytes still gather their robes and tomes, hurrying from their quarters to lessons. A score of young militants march in step across the yard to the training grounds.Tables draped in white-and-gold-trimmed fabrics fare filled with fare typical to Springstar's warmer climate -- fruits and wines, savory smoked meats and roasted vegetables, a series of meze platters and souvlaki skewers have been lain out to encourage forum participants to snack as they speak. The atmosphere is light, ambient with informality and friendliness, though topics will inevitably stray towards philosophic, Springstar's meeting grounds are decorated with handsome chaise lounges and slouching klismos chairs in small, intimate groupings.
However, those who have attended the forum in the past or simply have a sharp eye may notice: food doesn’t flow as freely in a feast-like setting as before. It’s more subdued in presentation and portion because as you may hear, the Blight (see below) is an affliction that’s been affecting the food stores of Springstar and Highstorm both. The Meri are nervous about this and blame it on the Zenites since they had won the Oracle on the Scorching Isles (January's event) and with it, punished the Meridian, even if unintentionally. As such, those who are notable Zenites or who wear their allegiance openly may not be treated as kindly. The military also seems to be more present at the forum. These two things are related, as it turns out, because only a few days after the new Shard-Bearers arrive, an invasion will begin.
HIGHSTORM, луны-близнецы
Eternally in opposition, Highstorm provides the Manor's courtyard as the setting for their informational meeting. Formality is of utmost importance here, with attending Zenith loyalists and residents dressed in beautiful, albeit austere attire -- they are, after all, standing before Lady Yima's home. A buffet-style luncheon is spread alongside one of the largest reflecting pools, wherein you may gaze and find your memories revealed in retrospect upon the water's surface.There are few places to be seated in the Manor's courtyard, resulting in a milling of bodies as they flow and ebb between smaller gatherings, clustering in small-to-large groups with small platters and shimmering flutes of drink held in their hands.
The mood of Highstorm is subdued as always, but still seems to be pleasant and joyous thanks to claiming the Oracle in the Scorching Isles. The Blight may be affecting the city and causing plants and the like to die, but there’s admittedly not much of it to be seen with Highstorm’s harsh winters. Maybe they’re not hit as badly as Springstar, or maybe they just haven’t noticed yet. Only time will tell. But regardless, notable Meri or those that wear their allegiance more openly will be treated politely, but perhaps with a little condescension. Highstorm is one step closer to winning than Springstar, after all.
para bellum (the occupation of alenroux)
A few days after new Shard-Bearers arrive, the word spreads quickly as the campaign begins: Meridian is invading Alenroux.
To those who have Harmonized with Meridian, they’ll be contacted by Cyrus through Communion 48 hours before the invasion begins. As he explains, Springstar is a city that depends on Alenroux far more than Highstorm (because of its much larger population), and with Alenroux currently under Zenite control, it’s imperative that they make sure that Zenith isn’t able to cut off access and cause a famine for Springstar. Zenith won’t be denied access to Alenroux or its bounty either, he makes that clear. This is just a matter of being proactive in their defense to protect their people. For the Meridian, their goals in supporting this effort are clear:
It takes some time for Yima to learn more about the events herself, but Zenith will also be contacted through Communion. With the air of a disappointed mother, she’ll explain that Meridian’s choice is regrettable since she thought they would be better than this. Yima explains that there’s no need to turn Alenroux into an open warzone and cut off both cities from their breadbasket. Instead, she lays out the following direction to gently break Meridian’s spirit first before turning to open hostilities:
To those who have Harmonized with Meridian, they’ll be contacted by Cyrus through Communion 48 hours before the invasion begins. As he explains, Springstar is a city that depends on Alenroux far more than Highstorm (because of its much larger population), and with Alenroux currently under Zenite control, it’s imperative that they make sure that Zenith isn’t able to cut off access and cause a famine for Springstar. Zenith won’t be denied access to Alenroux or its bounty either, he makes that clear. This is just a matter of being proactive in their defense to protect their people. For the Meridian, their goals in supporting this effort are clear:
- Create secure outposts. Well-built, defensible outposts are needed, so anyone who can assist with building efforts, and quickly are appreciated.
- Defend the outposts and the Meri soldiers at large. Alenroux is still dangerous because of the monsters, and soldiers will be staying overnight. Fighting off monsters is something that will also eventually make Alenroux inhabitable.
- Prevent Zenith interference. Highstorm surely won’t be happy about this, so make sure that the soldiers and the outposts are protected from Zenites just as much as from the monsters that roam the lands.
It takes some time for Yima to learn more about the events herself, but Zenith will also be contacted through Communion. With the air of a disappointed mother, she’ll explain that Meridian’s choice is regrettable since she thought they would be better than this. Yima explains that there’s no need to turn Alenroux into an open warzone and cut off both cities from their breadbasket. Instead, she lays out the following direction to gently break Meridian’s spirit first before turning to open hostilities:
- Collect information. Where are the outposts, how many soldiers are assigned to them, and what are their general movements. Scouting and spying will be valuable. Learning more about the Meri Shard-Bearers’ capabilities while they’re fighting creatures rather than Zenites is also useful.
- Create dissent. The people that work and visit Alenroux regularly have mixed feelings about the occupation unless they’re Meridian loyalists. Making the campaign unpopular with the people can push Meridian back without needing to raise a finger.
- Sabotage. But don’t get caught doing it, at least for now. Whether breaking defenses or leading more powerful monsters to the encampments, it’s best to break morale before needing to fight back openly.
SETTING UPDATES
In both locations, information passes between all in a forum, spread and disseminated among the masses - it's a good opportunity for city residents, faction loyalists and interested new parties to share and share alike. Once the meet-and-greet has concluded, twin missives from both faction leads are read out -- invitations for all present to explore the cities to their heart's content, and warnings about stumbling ill-prepared ( or at all ) into the Below, or worse yet, the Beyond. As Shard-Bearers new and old take in their cities, they'll all see it change throughout the month...
OOC, these are all updates to the setting at large that players both new and old are free to interact with as little or as much as they wish! Feel free to use them as prompts on this post, in your characters on-going lives and arcs, or just let them go "that's none of my business" and ignore it. The world of Kenos is shaped by our playerbase, and these are some of the wider reaching effects of various player plots and actions.
OOC, these are all updates to the setting at large that players both new and old are free to interact with as little or as much as they wish! Feel free to use them as prompts on this post, in your characters on-going lives and arcs, or just let them go "that's none of my business" and ignore it. The world of Kenos is shaped by our playerbase, and these are some of the wider reaching effects of various player plots and actions.
THE BLIGHT
During the events of the Scorching Isles, Shard-Bearers encountered an affliction upon the island and unintentionally brought it back to Highstorm and Springstar with them. Known simply as “the Blight,” this condition steals time from the things it infects. It most frequently infects inanimate objects and will cause them to rot or degrade rapidly (such as a piece of metal rusting within hours) but is able to infect living things as well. Most notably, the Blight is infecting plants and animals in the two cities. Plants both decorative and necessary will wither and die, and small animals grow sick and die seemingly of old age. This has been seen in small amounts throughout the past month OOC but is greatly increased in frequency in March and beyond.FURTHER DETAILS
- Within the NPC populace, there’s a low-grade fear of the Blight intensifying and being able to infect larger animals/the people. There’s no evidence of this yet, but Shard-Bearers that were on the Scorching Isles will know this is possible.
- Some characters will be aware that the rare, blue flowers that grow in the barren portions of World’s End (February’s event location) seem to reduce the effects of the detrimental effects of the Oracle and the Blight. Because of some drops of characters that knew this information, you can assume that characters are able to learn this information if they’re interested enough to dig into it.
- Dr. Julia Melnik of Springstar is openly researching cures for the Blight and will recruit anyone interested to be research assistants to test formulations of cures on afflicted plants/creatures. You can handwave these interactions and use them for prompt(s), if you’d like!
- Finally, if curing the Blight is something your character would specifically be interested in, please note it in your Character Survey so that the Loremasters will be able to help you pursue this organically.
THE OCCUPATION OF ALENROUX
As mentioned above, Meridian has launched a surprise invasion and occupation of Alenroux. Because Meridian was able to successfully keep their efforts a secret throughout the months (!) they’ve been planning this, Zenith will not be able to repel their advances… Immediately, at least. After roughly a week OOC from this log’s posting, the Meridian outposts in Alenroux will be stable and will change the island in the following ways:If Zenith would like to repel these advances, this is a response that will be purely in player hands (but will be assisted by Zenite NPCs, of course!). If they want to reclaim Alenroux, they can, or they can simply let Meridian continue. It’s up to you! This is something that Zenite players should discuss both IC and OOC, and if this plot develops further, Loremasters will help facilitate the ongoing conflict as a part of our changing game environment.FURTHER DETAILS
- Outposts have been established in well-chosen, defensible locations throughout the island of Alenroux. They’re clustered more heavily closer to the Cornerstone and are non-existent in the more dangerous Northern portion of the island where little farming is done anyways.
- Meridian soldiers will be always staying in the camps and outposts. For now, they’re a more supervisory force that are protecting the farmlands of Alenroux. During the day cycle, the military will respond with hostility to anyone that threatens the farms. If your character would antagonize or outright fight Meridian military, please contact a Loremaster, since this will have repercussions! Otherwise, the soldiers will assist workers and visitors to Alenroux in a professional manner.
- During the night cycle, the military will defend their outposts from monsters and make occasional offensive excursions to reduce the threat of monsters. The secondary goal of the Meridian military is also to make Alenroux a place that people can live, though this is a longer term effort.
- Meridian Shard-Bearers will be strongly encouraged to assist with the effort. “Assist” is purposefully defined broadly so that characters can help in whatever way suits them. Scouting, building, monster killing, or just morale improving are all valid ways that will gain favor with their faction and may lead to further opportunity. For now, abstaining will not have consequences, but may in the future.
- Zenith Shard-Bearers will be treated with suspicion in Alenroux and are not allowed to approach any of the Meridian outposts, or at least not without triggering a fight. The military will not outright attack Zenites (unless provoked) and essentially encouraged to move along. However, they may wish to gather information about the outposts and Meridian forces to attempt to push back against the occupation.
- Unharmonized Shard-Bearers are not treated with hostility, but similar to Zeniths will not be allowed to enter any of the encampments.
- If your character has an interest in continuing or stopping the occupation, please note it in your Character Survey so that Loremasters will be able to help you pursue this organically.
SMALLER CHANGES
HIGHSTORM: GREENWOOD YARDS
Considering the affliction that threatens the well-being of flora and small fauna alike, the greenhouses are far more discerning with those who are permitted inside its gates, afraid of the contagion affecting the precious, invaluable greenery of long-dead worlds. After the occupation of Alenroux, Meridian will be outright turned away, and while Zenith possesses no formal military or police, the greenskeepers appear to be prepared to defend their property with physical force should it come to that. Unharmonized are still allowed inside. The rest of the Yard beyond the greenhouses are still open to all factions.
And though it may seem an odd place for such a gathering, the indoor bathhouse at the far end of the Yards appears to be gaining popularity for mysterious reasons; if asked, none of the locals will explain the abrupt uptick in visitation. But should you investigate yourself, the reason why becomes apparent through experience: the tea served by the attendants here has changed properties. Should you be a Zenite, you will be served a cup that decreases your body's natural need for food and drink for 24 hours - an effort to test a concoction to relieve the need to deplete resources and lessen the city's reliance on Alenroux. Should you be a Meridian, the tea you're served will increase your appetite a considerable degree even if you normally do not require sustenance, and you will find yourself unfulfilled even if you are unwise and eat yourself to the point of illness; this lasts for 24 hours. The Unharmonized will find the tea might make them vaguely woozy, and either cause mild increase or decrease in appetite.
KOWLOON: DRAUMAHOL (cw: drugs)
Those that frequent Kowloon may have heard about the sudden disappearance of the former owner and operator of the drug den Draumahol, though it was only really noted because of the business being closed for a few days. Practically unheard of, since the desperate of Highstorm and Springstar come to Draumahol for their various fixes that are a little more taboo on the surface. But, never fear. After a brief closure, Draumahol reopens.
While it may not be obvious early in the month, it'll be increasingly so that Draumahol is under new management. Those that frequent the business enough will be able to figure out that the new owner is Silco (or, if you personally know him, it's fairly obvious). If you would like to plot anything regarding Draumahol, we encourage reaching out to Silco's player, Jill!
SPRINGSTAR: THE CHURCH
After the loss of the first Oracle, the Church of Heliopolis has been busy tending to its flock as the numbers coming to seek comfort swell. The gatherings aren't formal "services" so much as they're chances for people to come together and inspire each other with their homes and dreams of home. One formal process that does stick out though is that with each "service" one member will tap into the world shown in their sunbeam and open their minds to Communion. Anyone that wishes to can also experience this member's home, see their friends, loved ones, and the sights. It's a intimate bonding activity, but seems to be very cathartic for those that partake.
Additionally, those that come by the Church frequently enough to be known faces at the "services" may also be approached by priests and priestesses and invited to join in smaller ceremonies. Always taking place during Springstar's dawn or dusk, these ceremonies have a markedly different vibe and are lead by Hieropoios Natalia herself. Attending these ceremonies is an exclusive honor that will reduce attendees' Discord and has a subtly addictive quality that will encourage them to return. Hm!
OOC NOTES
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kenoslogs.
i
However, the actual celebrations were interesting, at least.
He had attended Highstorm’s last time, so it only seemed fair to see what Springstar offered while he still could. He’s sure Zenites wouldn’t be welcome eventually. And indeed, clad all in dark colors (though matching the Meridian’s Greek aesthetic), he’s probably the most obvious Zenite here. He’s polite though as he merely watches and takes in the sights of Springstar’s effort, and his nonintrusive presence eventually brings the two of them to stand near each other, though he doesn’t acknowledge the young lady.
At least, not until he hears a very distinct growl. ]
Ah— Are the offerings not to your liking? [ Since, well, it’s free! It’s not like he’s getting any himself, but that’s for different reasons… ] Of course, do pardon me for the comment, but I could not help but to overhear, as it were.
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Is it typical for everyone to trust free food?
[Especially when it comes from one of more polarized entities around here? Though his attire does catch her eye. Does he bat for the other team, or is a color palette too little to judge someone by?]
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[ He laughs gently in response, though it's not at her expense in the slightest. Truthfully, her comment is much closer to his own thoughts on the matter since he's surprised that not only were Zeniths allowed to such affairs, but that such opportunity for what he would be polite to call sabotage would be presented. Ah, well. They'll learn in time, he imagines.
Though the full extent of that thought isn't quite appropriate conversation. He keeps it light as he nods towards the nearest table of offerings. ]
Though at the very least, I have seen more than a few people partake of that particular table quite happily. This has been a good enough spot to people watch a bit, so... Watch I have.
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This at least gives her enough courage to pick up a plate for inspection.]
Are you not a "local," then?
[A Zenite she means. His color palette is much more subdued than the brightness found on others. She took notice, most definitely.]
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[ There’s another genial and lightly self-deprecating laugh, but he doesn’t keep it mysterious. Mostly, at least. Starting out with the simpler of the set than his nature is a better way to start a conversation, ultimately. ]
I have only been here in Kenos overall for a few months, and for Springstar, well. [ He shrugs with a playful smile as also gestures towards himself ] I hold no ill will towards them, but Zenith held a stronger draw for me. I will not frown upon their hospitality and good nature, though. It is good to spend a bit of time outside of Highstorm.
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[Tohsaka doesn't want to be brash, but not being able to access her abilities gnaws at her every time she comes across a situation in which it would have been easier just to use a bit of magecraft.
The plate she picked up contains vegetables roasted in oil and aromatics. Delicately crisped with a savory palette and a sprinkle of salt. Ultimately she decides to taste one.]
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[ He bows his head lightly as if sheepishly, then gives a helpless little shrug. ]
Near immediately, I must admit. It may sound a bit strange, especially if you hail from a place where the fantastic is rare, but I simply have an affinity with Zenith. Not as a group, but as the force that backs it. I suppose it could be called magical, but I do not know if that is accurate.
[ And besides that, Lady Yima had given him something he deeply wanted. Sitting in his elegant home in a quiet place is a single Shard. It's not kept anywhere esteemed or loved like others who had recieved Shards, though. It's simply tucked away and waiting for the day that Sebastian decides it's the perfect indulgence. He had cultivated Ciel's soul for nearly four years, after all. With his perfect opportunity to eat it stolen from him, he has to settle for this.
He'd much rather be honest about his being (as it's hardly a secret in the first place) than to reveal that vicious truth. ]
I feel rather certain that Meridian would simply reject me. A rather disappointing and incomplete answer, I know, but it is the truth.
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She wonders if once she has settled she should keep a notebook on such interesting things.]
What's your name?
[Isn't it polite to give hers first? Hah. She still hasn't decided whether or not to use her real name.]
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[ He gives her a polite and genial nod, though he hides his curiosity at why she would ask now. He assumes that she must be wondering if he’s someone with a notable name, and, well… Of a sort, yes, though he’d be delighted if anyone were to pick up on his (FUCKING AWFUL?) joke. As it is, he laughs gently as he continues. ]
Why, and even now, I feel as if I should continue with the titles and formalities of my previous profession… But as I am certainly no longer in the service of my former lord, I shall simply call myself a Shard-Bearer of Zenith. Though if you have questions, I am happy to answer them, regardless of which faction may call to you.
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That's very generous of you, Mr. Michaelis. I suppose it's only polite to give my name as well: Rin Tohsaka.
[Considering his western name she feels this might be easier for than trying to back track and correct it later.]
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It is a pleasure, Miss Tohsaka.
[ But, for now, he’s a gentleman. He brings a hand up to his chest lightly and gives a little bow, though it’s little more than a slight lean forward. The extreme formalities of his previous employment weren’t so useful anymore, so he’s at least more casual. ]
…Though, I do hope your “arrival” was not too bad. It seems to vary at times, and I did not make it down to the Tree myself for this particular set, so I have not heard if it presented extra difficulties beyond simply coming from the ground.
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[The noise of surprise leaves her before she can reel herself back in to play the part of elegant mage. Disbelief sits clear on her face as she leans in — almost forgetting the banquet despite the protests of her stomach earlier.]
It gets worse than that?
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[ He nods and hums out a thoughtful note as he considers just how much to explain of what that means since his own case was rather... Unique. But he decides that there's not really a reason to withhold it, so honesty it is. ]
I was personally a part of the trial twice before being rescued by the Tribune, as a matter of fact. In one, I gave a finger, and in the other, well. It was with someone who has a rather poor opinion of me, so she killed me.
[ He says, extremely casually... ]
Quite obviously it was not real. But it did certainly feel it, I shall say.
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A suspicious name and someone who wanted to kill him despite his polite and helpful demeanor.]
How unfortunate for you. Though it seems you've either made your peace with it, or it didn't really throw you in the first place.
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[ He gives a little shrug as he moves into the more “difficult” part of the explanation, but it’s really only so because the reactions tended to be wide and varied. For some, his existence was an impossibility, something left only to myth, but others, not so much! It was at least always interesting to discover where each person tended to fall on the scale, so to speak. ]
Before being brought here to Kenos, I was immortal, you see. The experience of actually dying was rather new… But the violence of it was not. That part did not bother me too terribly, as a result, and it was easy to make peace with. Considering it did not hold, I do not find it anything to be overly concerned about.
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[Not actually immortal, but his desperate desire to be one twisted him and those in his "family". So congrats on being compared to Zouken, Sebastian. How awful to think that he'd be so intimately familiar with "violence" that would precede death. Was this man dangerous, unlucky, or some secret third thing?]
—You wouldn't be some type of summoned familiar, would you?
[Something similar to a Servant?]
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However, his curiosity fades quickly in the face of her actual question. Sebastian laughs a few light notes since it’s a rather telling question. She has some familiarity to jump right to a familiar, but he gives a somewhat noncommittal shrug first before he answers. ]
…Well, that is partially accurate, albeit not here in Kenos so much. Where I came from, I was indeed summoned to the human realm, but I am something a bit more than a familiar.
[ He brings a hand elegantly to his chest as he gestures to himself, and his smile is easy and genial. It’s perhaps shockingly pleasant considering, well. ]
I am a demon, as it would happen.
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Her gradually relaxing posture stiffens back up. Perfectly poised and on guard.]
I see. That makes a lot of what you told me fall into place.
[With this new knowledge she decides everything he previously told her must have been the truth. It all makes sense for a demon, doesn't it? In fact everything seems more like the truth after this reveal. Though this does little for her current opinion of Zenith — yet it won't stop her from throwing her hand in on that side either. Ugh, and now she's thinking about that "violence" bit again.]
Is that why you're not eating?
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For what it is worth, you needn’t worry. I know my kind does have a rather… strong reputation, shall we say? I prefer to be more hospitable than my brethren, as I like humans. Ah, or I suppose it would be more accurate to simply say “mortals” here in Kenos…
[ He trails off with a little shrug, since the distinction doesn’t actually matter to him too much. What he likes about humans are qualities that he hasn’t found lacking in the non-human people here, so. He lowers his hand to rest at his side again and gives a nod to her question. ]
Well, regardless. You are correct. The food here tastes quite foul to my tongue, in truth, but I know enough to say that it is decent. [ Another little shrug ] I like cooking, funnily enough. So, I am good at judging a dish’s quality even if it is not to my preference.
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Is that right? Even without tasting your work? I have a hard time believing that, sir.
[She wonders if he's the type to rise to a challenge just to prove his skill.]
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Well, it was a difficult thing to learn, I admit! I do taste my work, but I simply do not find it palatable myself. Figuring out the flavors and smells that humans enjoy was a matter of trial and error, but perhaps luckily, a previous master of mine was extraordinarily demanding and strict. I learned the skill rather quickly, all things considered.
[ Even if Ciel’s method of “teaching” was also infuriating… No, he won’t get into that. He has a chance to show off, so he gives a little nod to her. ]
This may be a rather bold offer, seeing as we have just met, but still. I do sincerely enjoy cooking, but I will not do it wastefully. Should you ever wish to try my cooking, I would be delighted to prepare a meal for you.
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Oh my, a demon insisting he can be trusted and in the next breath trying to get me to eat his meals? How bold! I can see why you'd think Meridian would refuse you on principle.
[Tohsaka lets that sink in a moment before a bit of follow-up:]
How about this? If I join Zenith I promise to take you up on such a generous offer. As "teammates" I can be more certain you have no ill-intentions with the food.
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…But, well, demon. So it’s not an unfair assumption. ]
I know, I am positively incorrigible in my boldness. I do hope you shall forgive me.
[ He laughs out the apology, but nods his head lightly. ]
But that is perfectly fair. I had the bias to start, but now I hope you shall consider Zenith for the much more self-serving reasons that I may get a chance to cook. So I may at least consider it, are there particular foods you like or dislike so I may take them into account?
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[If she never has to see that man again it'll be all too soon.]
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Well, that should be easy enough, as I admit, I am not familiar! The cuisine of Asia as a whole is in fact quite new to me, though I will brag for but a moment to say that I make an excellent Indian curry.
[ Something he’s now a bit more grateful for since the unique palate of spices that he’d needed to learn was incredibly useful, as it turned out. He gives a little nod as he brings a hand to his chin thoughtfully. ]
Indeed, I may need some time to experiment and learn a bit more, but I would be delighted to do so.
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