[ A lot has happened as of late and soon the time of reckoning will be upon them...swifter than any single one of them might imagine, Argenti presumes. Given the timeframe of expected events and occurrences that are happening here or there, at that.
Argenti himself will track Aerith down immediately, hoping to at least speak with her before anything else crazy happens. Besides, he needs to express his appreciation as well; he foregoes sending a message and leaves it in the hands of Idrila, locating her in the shopping district sooner rather than later. ]
Lady Aerith! There you are. Might I have a bit of your time, provided you are not busy?
Window shopping...I have not done much of that as of late.
[ Argenti enters into the cute little boutique. As he does so, he pauses, looking at the jewelry. Should...he get a new piece of jewelry? He has had only the singular earring thus far, but...
Well, as he considers this, he does wish to speak on one other reason he tracked her down. ]
Lady Aerith, I wanted to also tell you that I am most grateful for your assistance in my dearest Fray's time of need. Though I was rather certain that you would be one that would make certain to help out as you said you were, every little effort I feel has made the difference.
[ He should definitely get a new piece of jewelry, and if he voices that thought aloud, Aerith will tell him as much.
But when he begins to peak, she sets down the purse she had been eyeing so she can focus on him fully. ]
I'm glad I could be there. I don't know how much I really helped in the end, but... I think there's something to be said for so many of us showing up when he needed it. I think, of all the people here, he needed to be reminded the most that he's cared about.
[ Good, because he is going to pick up one piece to examine, as if taking stock in it - though, Argenti is listening closely to what Aerith has to say as well. ]
I believe it helped immensely. Dear Fray shall remember well that he has cultivated deep bonds of his own - and even those he doesn't know well showing up likely has had an effect on psyche. For the better, of course.
[ Instead of being seen as a shadow of a man...it shows how many people saw him as him. Which, Argenti thinks, has proven integral for his most loved one. ]
Speaking of helping...I was thinking of also adding a piece of jewelry to my collection. But, I am afraid I never purchased much when it comes to these things.
Argenti seems to be looking at one of these. Essentially, a rose-shaped earring...he is so predictable, isn't he?
It also happens to come in a shade of black too, from where he's picked it up. ]
Something that speaks to me. I cannot say that I usually do purchase such items. You see, as a Knight of Beauty, we were always taught never to make such actions that could be considered participation in indulgence. Especially since I had originally taken an oath of poverty.
[ But...well, here he is. ]
Which means I hardly have much jewelry in my collection other than the one earring I usually wear.
[ He gestures to the earring in his icon, which is shaped in something close to a Fleur-de-lis. You know, as the French do. ]
[ Sometimes...it's nice being predictable if it means having something that represents his individuality. ]
...It is.
[ There's a soft, but bright smile on his face at this. Is this what shopping with other people is like? He remembers, back when he was with Aubrey, and though he was looking at clothing...he never really ended up picking things out. Over time following his Palace, he's gotten comfortable with getting more items beyond the necessary amount, but this is different. ]
I am not sure. I think that, perhaps, I would like the rose. But, maybe I might like something else different too. [ Two separate purchases! He's indulging...! For himself. He feels a little powerful about it. ] Do you see any other kinds of jewelry that would seem suitable?
[ Two purchases! It says a lot to Aerith that he's thinking about getting multiple things—he's allowing himself to indulge in the material, but it also means he's allowing himself to build up his belongings too. It's a sign, she hopes, that he isn't planning on moving around so much anymore. ]
Hmmm...
[ There is one thing that catches her eye, and she pulls the pair from the display. ]
They're still flowers so I guess they're not that different, but lilies are my favorite, so I can't resist. Besides, I think this color would look great with your hair.
[ She grins, taking the compliment enthusiastically and not completely seriously—though, really, it does mean a lot coming from him. It's why her smile softens as she plunks them into his palm. ]
I dunno. I was thinking a necklace, maybe? It would be a gift, probably, and I'm not the best at picking those things out...
Well, you can probably guess. She's not the kind of girl who wears a lot of jewelry, and I bet she wouldn't wear a bracelet or anything... so I think a necklace is the next best option. What do you think?
[ There's no way he doesn't know, which is why she doesn't bother to say Maika's name. ]
[ Argenti decides to pick up a pair of rose black earrings, as a thought that occurs to him; not just for himself, though also related. But, there is also a little smile that makes its way across his face. ]
I cannot figure it out, Lady Aerith. You will need to drop more hints.
[ His tone is appropriately jocular here. ]
Jesting aside, I believe I do have an idea. And I also agree a necklace would be suitable for who you are pondering. It is an easy accessory to put on and hide even in the thick of battle, making the possibility of such an article of jewelry being caught on anything extremely low.
I hope not too, and I don't like being pessimistic, but... our worlds are pretty hectic.
[ She smiles, just a little. While Aerith has no idea how bad Maika's world is, she has gleaned a few hints, so she knows that things won't be easy for either of them here on out.
[ He will nod at her words in which she has made an agreement - to ensure that there is no regrets. But, also... ]
...And, I shall have faith that you two will find harmony in the midst of even the most turbulent of storms within each of your worlds.
[ Argenti has a good idea of how fraught both are by now, actually, so he will not say her worries are unfounded. But all the same, he will give his support nonetheless.
He wishes them the utmost happiness, no matter what. ]
[ She smiles, softly, her eyes landing on a necklace with a delicate sword pendant attached to the chain. It's almost like she's drawn to it, immediately reaching out to hold it in her hands. ]
Hearing you say that makes me feel like we really will.
Also he will gesture suddenly and animatedly as she asks him this. ]
Oh yes! I am very certain she shall!
She will no doubt be quite very flustered and likely be very pleasantly surprised. But as you are important to her and she is important to you, she will doubtlessly also end up happily accepting it gently in her own way.
[ Argenti can picture it right now! Maika huffing a little, maybe making an expression half-way between at first surprise and something soft, before accepting it. ]
Then, of course she shall show her appreciation!
...That is to also say I will not witness it, but I can picture her rough yet somehow gentle and loving reaction to you entirely in my mind.
[ Of course Argenti would say that...but, he does mean it.
As for Aerith's expression of gratitude, though, there is a warmth in his eyes that begins to settle; obviously and clearly so. Such that it also touches the way he smiles on over at her, gentle and easy as ever. ]
...It truly is no trouble at all. I am glad to be able to support you in all that I could.
You've been there for me when I needed it most, after all. But even if it were not the case, I know I would have always endeavored to lend a hand to you. Whether it is with my own, or just by listening.
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Post-Fray Palace
Argenti himself will track Aerith down immediately, hoping to at least speak with her before anything else crazy happens. Besides, he needs to express his appreciation as well; he foregoes sending a message and leaves it in the hands of Idrila, locating her in the shopping district sooner rather than later. ]
Lady Aerith! There you are. Might I have a bit of your time, provided you are not busy?
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Of course you can! Come on, let's do some window shopping.
[ She'll motion for Argenti to follow her into a cute little boutique filled with jewelry, handbags, and clothes. ]
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[ Argenti enters into the cute little boutique. As he does so, he pauses, looking at the jewelry. Should...he get a new piece of jewelry? He has had only the singular earring thus far, but...
Well, as he considers this, he does wish to speak on one other reason he tracked her down. ]
Lady Aerith, I wanted to also tell you that I am most grateful for your assistance in my dearest Fray's time of need. Though I was rather certain that you would be one that would make certain to help out as you said you were, every little effort I feel has made the difference.
no subject
But when he begins to peak, she sets down the purse she had been eyeing so she can focus on him fully. ]
I'm glad I could be there. I don't know how much I really helped in the end, but... I think there's something to be said for so many of us showing up when he needed it. I think, of all the people here, he needed to be reminded the most that he's cared about.
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I believe it helped immensely. Dear Fray shall remember well that he has cultivated deep bonds of his own - and even those he doesn't know well showing up likely has had an effect on psyche. For the better, of course.
[ Instead of being seen as a shadow of a man...it shows how many people saw him as him. Which, Argenti thinks, has proven integral for his most loved one. ]
Speaking of helping...I was thinking of also adding a piece of jewelry to my collection. But, I am afraid I never purchased much when it comes to these things.
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[ It has to mean something, for him to have enough of an impact as himself that so many would rally to the cause of ensuring he came back.
It seemed to have worked, at least.
But as Argenti mentions jewelry, Aerith is quick to get to his side so she can get a good look at what he’s picked up. ]
Good thing you’ve got me to tell you what to get! What are you looking for? Is there something specifics you wanna add to your collection?
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Argenti seems to be looking at one of these. Essentially, a rose-shaped earring...he is so predictable, isn't he?
It also happens to come in a shade of black too, from where he's picked it up. ]
Something that speaks to me. I cannot say that I usually do purchase such items. You see, as a Knight of Beauty, we were always taught never to make such actions that could be considered participation in indulgence. Especially since I had originally taken an oath of poverty.
[ But...well, here he is. ]
Which means I hardly have much jewelry in my collection other than the one earring I usually wear.
[ He gestures to the earring in his icon, which is shaped in something close to a Fleur-de-lis. You know, as the French do. ]
no subject
Then it’s time you got some things for yourself!
[ Though his reasoning for holding off this far makes a lot of sense… and to Aerith, it means he really needs something new. ]
I like what you’re looking at already. The rose really does suit you. Unless… you’re looking to change things up?
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...It is.
[ There's a soft, but bright smile on his face at this. Is this what shopping with other people is like? He remembers, back when he was with Aubrey, and though he was looking at clothing...he never really ended up picking things out. Over time following his Palace, he's gotten comfortable with getting more items beyond the necessary amount, but this is different. ]
I am not sure. I think that, perhaps, I would like the rose. But, maybe I might like something else different too. [ Two separate purchases! He's indulging...! For himself. He feels a little powerful about it. ] Do you see any other kinds of jewelry that would seem suitable?
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Hmmm...
[ There is one thing that catches her eye, and she pulls the pair from the display. ]
They're still flowers so I guess they're not that different, but lilies are my favorite, so I can't resist. Besides, I think this color would look great with your hair.
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He goes to see what she picked out, though, and looks at them curiously. ]
Yes, the bright contrast would look absolutely beautiful! You are most certainly talented at picking out things that are very suitable.
I appreciate it very much, Lady Aerith.
[ White lilies, huh? He'll hold his hand out for them. ]
What are some things you have been considering getting? Earrings as well? Necklaces?
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[ She grins, taking the compliment enthusiastically and not completely seriously—though, really, it does mean a lot coming from him. It's why her smile softens as she plunks them into his palm. ]
I dunno. I was thinking a necklace, maybe? It would be a gift, probably, and I'm not the best at picking those things out...
[ Not when it's important, at least. ]
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[ Oho. Is it for who he thinks it is? Argenti's eyes crease a bit in genuine joy, but with a playful mischievousness.
Watch out, Aerith! ]
Might I ask who you are thinking of getting it for? I assume it is an important person, since it is a gift.
[ Naturally! ]
Though, if you would, I can do my best to assist you.
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With a little smile, she shrugs. ]
Well, you can probably guess. She's not the kind of girl who wears a lot of jewelry, and I bet she wouldn't wear a bracelet or anything... so I think a necklace is the next best option. What do you think?
[ There's no way he doesn't know, which is why she doesn't bother to say Maika's name. ]
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I cannot figure it out, Lady Aerith. You will need to drop more hints.
[ His tone is appropriately jocular here. ]
Jesting aside, I believe I do have an idea. And I also agree a necklace would be suitable for who you are pondering. It is an easy accessory to put on and hide even in the thick of battle, making the possibility of such an article of jewelry being caught on anything extremely low.
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That's what I was thinking too. Plus... it's something she can keep close if we ever get separated.
[ They'll probably find a way to world hop together, if at all possible, but Aerith likes to prepare for the worst if she can. ]
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You certainly are thinking quite far ahead! I do hope that doesn't end up the case, however.
[ That she isn't separated from Maika, anyway. ]
I suppose it is also a way of ensuring that there are no regrets made, either.
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[ She smiles, just a little. While Aerith has no idea how bad Maika's world is, she has gleaned a few hints, so she knows that things won't be easy for either of them here on out.
But... ]
You're right. No regrets between us.
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...And, I shall have faith that you two will find harmony in the midst of even the most turbulent of storms within each of your worlds.
[ Argenti has a good idea of how fraught both are by now, actually, so he will not say her worries are unfounded. But all the same, he will give his support nonetheless.
He wishes them the utmost happiness, no matter what. ]
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[ She smiles, softly, her eyes landing on a necklace with a delicate sword pendant attached to the chain. It's almost like she's drawn to it, immediately reaching out to hold it in her hands. ]
Hearing you say that makes me feel like we really will.
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He can already imagine how Maika would in her own way. ]
...I'm glad to hear it, my dear friend.
And, if it helps, I believe she shall like what you have chosen.
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I sure hope so.
[ For what? That she'll like it or that they'll make it through their own trials? Both, probably. ]
You think she'll get flustered?
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Also he will gesture suddenly and animatedly as she asks him this. ]
Oh yes! I am very certain she shall!
She will no doubt be quite very flustered and likely be very pleasantly surprised. But as you are important to her and she is important to you, she will doubtlessly also end up happily accepting it gently in her own way.
[ Argenti can picture it right now! Maika huffing a little, maybe making an expression half-way between at first surprise and something soft, before accepting it. ]
Then, of course she shall show her appreciation!
...That is to also say I will not witness it, but I can picture her rough yet somehow gentle and loving reaction to you entirely in my mind.
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[ She laughs. As if that's hard for Aerith to get anyway. ]
But thanks, Argenti. Your support really means a lot, y'know. Just in general, not even about my relationship with her.
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[ Of course Argenti would say that...but, he does mean it.
As for Aerith's expression of gratitude, though, there is a warmth in his eyes that begins to settle; obviously and clearly so. Such that it also touches the way he smiles on over at her, gentle and easy as ever. ]
...It truly is no trouble at all. I am glad to be able to support you in all that I could.
You've been there for me when I needed it most, after all. But even if it were not the case, I know I would have always endeavored to lend a hand to you. Whether it is with my own, or just by listening.
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