...Perhaps. Even he must have indeed had loved ones, so I do not doubt that he had at least the one.
[ Argenti admittedly puts it more gently than he could have. Is this sibling even alive, considering what Ushirono has done? Perhaps he should just not think about the family angle, because his thoughts go down a rabbithole there.
Though, when she mentions something about passion, he gives pause. Memories flick over the beginning week. Then, the last images he saw of Ushirono Fuyu before the truth week. ]
...Yes, pushing him to do anything he did not wish to would be quite a stretch. [ His recall when they went to the photographer's aid, and how cranky he was then, which was kind of funny. ] I believe he only ever participated in the commission work because it had a beneficial effect on the result of his stay. And the man - well, he...I suppose I can't say I'd know how he'd react exactly. Except, yes, rather negatively.
Perhaps even simply walk away mid-conversation or cut off your attempts.
More judgment for Ushirono following his death, for sure. That is far easier for Argenti to manage, though. The man is a individual who should be judged. ]
I do agree. That is an unfortunate way to meet someone.
[ He follows her gaze to the fields, before back to the woman himself. ]
I do not think it was selfish. It was a noble wish. I believe that, perhaps, I too envisioned him changing for the better. Or rather, thought that there would be a chance to see that light in him that I had in others.
...It is only natural, I believe. Some people have no desire to change for the better, but we wish that it were so. Yet, not even the influence of Idrila may alter their course.
[ ...Perhaps indeed it is natural for people like themselves to believe others can change to the point of delusion, comes a darker thought. Though that dispels soon enough; there is nothing that can be helped about it, is all. ]
But, regardless, you kept believing in him. Even when I had lost it in him entirely. While keeping that strong of a faith in other people can feel detrimental, I cannot help that it is a trait that shows an element of Beauty. I hope you never lose the ability to believe in others so strongly. Perhaps it may be crucial not just for yourself...but for others you would endeavor to hold such faith in.
[ She clasps her hands in front of her, her thoughts straying to the orb of materia wrapped up in her bow even now, as his words sink in. ]
...I try my best to. It may sound kinda silly, but back home we're trying to save the planet. We don't have much of a lead or much time, but we all know that the planet is dying. If we don't stop the threats to it, who knows what'll happen?
[ Aerith glances over at Argenti. She knows this is straying off topic a bit, but it's relevant, she swears. ]
I think if I let my faith in others slip even a little bit while I'm here, I won't be able to keep it up as easily when we all go back. I've gotta be able to look my friends in the eyes and tell them we can do what we've set out to do with no hesitation.
Maybe this kind of faith will be a weakness here, but even if it is... I don't plan on letting go of it.
[ Argenti ends up shaking his head at that - he doesn't see those sentiments as silly either, especially in the face of a planet that's dying. Though it sounds like a fierce threat, one of the greatest he's ever heard of anyone facing in quite a long while, he ultimately believes himself that such faith is, ultimately, necessary.
Otherwise...even despite everything that has happened here, whatever they have said, whatever he has thought, he says the following with relative ease: ]
I don't believe it's silly at all. Being able to hold fast to your faith in the midst of such crisis is quite admirable. At times, I feel that those who are able to in difficult times may be able to weather them well.
And, well...I believe you put the rest of that rather aptly yourself. Perhaps that is why I cannot ever call it a quality that is a weakness, and why I am glad to hear you shall hang onto it no matter the circumstances.
[ So, even if this veered perhaps, off-topic just a bit, Argenti doesn't mind. He thinks it's all certainly related anyhow, even without the follow-up she has added. ]
I'm also certain that you and your friends shall also succeed in your endeavors, and save your world from peril. I know little about why it's dying, though I believe you have the strength and support to see it through to the end.
It's... a long story. Maybe I'll tell you why sometime.
[ But there are so many layers and she doesn't know how much he'd like a whole history lesson, honestly. ]
Still... thank you. Your words mean a lot, you know, and I can tell that you mean them. You're really not the kind of guy that shies away from how he feels, are you?
[ He did, after all, confess to a murder. Argenti isn't the type to hide anything, in Aerith's view. ]
That is alright...while I am curious, I will certainly be just fine if you do not.
[ Argenti smiles a little over at her. It is true, because he's thinking it'd be quite a potential burden on her to recite all of that.
But if she does feel free to truly speak it to him someday, he will listen. ]
I am not. I suppose I am used to being that way in general. Though to be honest, a Knight of Beauty is meant to be true; engaging in deception would most assuredly not be forgiven by Idrila, and it would certainly result in breaking at least one oath.
[ What is hiding things? While obviously Argenti does not air out private things unnecessarily, he certainly sees no reason not to ever obscure what he's thinking or what he's done when he thinks it should be revealed. Though there are times where he may hold his tongue for reasons according to tact, artifice does not become him. ]
[ Ah, there's that kindness again—the sort that really puts a light on the shadows of doubt about him that had creeped up during the meeting. While it only adds to the complicated mixture of her thoughts toward him, she wonders if it can't eventually overpower those mixed up feelings and blossom into friendship instead.
It's certainly possible. ]
An oath, huh? I guess knights really do have those...
[ Said more to herself than anything else, but his being a knight still happens to be a little bit novel for her. ]
You've mentioned Idrila a few times. Is she your ruler?
[ Argenti may have high hopes himself, which might honestly be selfish, but their beginning conversation went so well, and she didn't like say he was demonspawn or anything like that so he doesn't think it's impossible, even in the worst case.
Which may be delusional in some instances, he recognizes, yet all the same he doesn't know if he doesn't try to just continue to be himself.
Even if it is hopeless. Ironically enough, though her comment about the oaths make him nod. ]
We swear ourselves to chivalry - those of the Knights of Beauty, and various oaths. Such as to exterminate evil, to the idea of mercy, to honesty, as well as an oath to keep ourselves in poverty, and various other ones.
[ He's keeping it short because she mentioned Idrila and so he immediately turns his attention to that. He thrusts outwards to the sky and suddenly petals are swirling around him alongside sparkles. ]
...To phrase it more accurately, she is my goddess, and the one to all of those who follow the Path of Beauty. She is the Aeon of Beauty, and represents it in every sense of the word. All those who follow her Path are Blessed by her power, and her grace.
As a Knight of Beauty and as her ardent follow, I endeavor to spread her name as well as protect the nature of Beauty across the universe. This means upholding that code of chivalry I have spoken to you, to never stray from my Path, to always raise up others whenever I can, to save those who need a helping hand, and to ultimately make sure that beautiful light that exists in the many wonderful, yet radiant aspects of life that we witness never goes out!
It certainly is! It is not for everyone - or rather, being a Knight of Beauty isn't.
...Even if I would like very much for those to consider following the Path of Beauty.
[ There are reasons for that! Argenti thinks, perhaps, it takes a certain kind of dedication at times, even if it isn't always necessarily needed for someone to be as intense as himself about it. ]
I once heard about the Knights of Beauty while I was residing on my home planet and became enamored with the stories, as well as their deeds. Even if the group originated from an entirely different planet, they were like radiant stars to myself back then! I had wondered if I could achieve what they could. Helping people, without selfishly turning their backs on them, and devoting themselves single-mindedly as well as blindly to a goddess that pleasantly showed them on a righteous, yet beautiful path...
[ So he's from a world that's perfected space travel, isn't he? As far as Aerith knows, that hasn't been accomplished by Shinra just yet (and also because Cid's space backstory wasn't in Rebirth). ]
How'd you hear about them? Do they travel from planet to planet?
[ Argenti confirms right away, because he has no issues doing so. He kind of forgets from time to time other people do not do space travel, but he is always happy to talk about it.
Exhibit A: ]
You would also be correct that they do travel from planet to planet. That is indeed how I heard of them. I suppose it became like that due to the fact that Idrila went missing one day, and so in order to find her, as well as protect and spread Beauty across the universe, those of the Knights of Beauty must have started to travel throughout space itself. The same goes for the Mirror Holders, as well.
Oh, and I am not entirely sure if space travel is common where you're from, however it certainly is in my universe!
[ Argenti smiles at that and shakes his head, composure returning swiftly. ]
I think I was simply just caught off-guard! I have no trouble answering, and, in fact...
...Well...to be frank, a Knight of Beauty must always be duty bound to make their journeys alone.
I do happen to go long stretches of time without contact of my friends at times, so they know not to miss me too much.
[ As for his family, Argenti does not really see reason to speak on it; he thinks in the end, answering on the portion regarding his friends is far easier. ]
[ Argenti smiles a little at that. Yeah...he hopes so. ]
Perhaps a normal amount. I would not want to make them be so sad by my absence, even so.
[ But, he supposes it may be normal, no? He certainly can't control their emotions...part of how people experience their own feelings individually is also something beautiful. Though, he pauses at the question, as if searching for it within himself.
Next, he simply offers her another smile in turn. ]
I am accustomed to a solitary journey. The fact that I must take it by myself at times does not bother me.
Well... if you say you're not bothered by it, then I believe you!
[ Even though she still wonders if he might get lonely from time to time, but that's something personal for him to deal with and none of her business. ]
It looks like you don't have any regrets when it comes to the path you're on anyway, which is what really matters.
[ Argenti seems to be at least happy that she has faith in him ... somewhere.
So he offers her a brighter smile at this. ]
I appreciate it!
[ But, he also grants a nod. ]
All the same, you are correct in that I walk this path with no regrets. Difficulties will naturally abound, but I am prepared for those. I believe that goes the same for most people, does it not?
To an extent, I think. Not everyone is as dedicated as you are.
[ Because really, Argenti's ability to push through difficulties is stronger than the average person's. She's seen it firsthand when he bore the brunt of criticisms at that meeting. ]
Lots of people are scared to do things because it'll be hard.
[ Argenti says softly...maybe, it's true. He doesn't know.
It isn't too egotistical to admit that others are not as dedicated as he is, right? ...No, it isn't, though he gets stuck on that for a bit - struggles with it, just looking at it from his own point of view. After a moment, he does nod, though. ]
You're correct. A lot of people refrain from taking on certain actions because of the difficulty.
Unfortunately, it doesn't end up making what is necessary to do go away. Though, people can have reasonable decisions for being scared or hesitating. I do not have that kind of leeway, even if I understand why other people would.
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[ Argenti admittedly puts it more gently than he could have. Is this sibling even alive, considering what Ushirono has done? Perhaps he should just not think about the family angle, because his thoughts go down a rabbithole there.
Though, when she mentions something about passion, he gives pause. Memories flick over the beginning week. Then, the last images he saw of Ushirono Fuyu before the truth week. ]
...Yes, pushing him to do anything he did not wish to would be quite a stretch. [ His recall when they went to the photographer's aid, and how cranky he was then, which was kind of funny. ] I believe he only ever participated in the commission work because it had a beneficial effect on the result of his stay. And the man - well, he...I suppose I can't say I'd know how he'd react exactly. Except, yes, rather negatively.
Perhaps even simply walk away mid-conversation or cut off your attempts.
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[ Which wouldn't be all that surprising either, really. ]
Y'know, I saw him slide a knife into his pocket right when I walked into our room. Not the best way to meet your roommate, if you ask me.
[ It's why she never felt fully safe sleeping in that room, though she didn't think she was in any real danger either.
She sighs, looking out over the fields as they stroll by. ]
So... maybe wishing for him to be better was pretty hopeless after all. Or selfish. I wanted him to be better, but that's not what he wanted.
[ She was putting her desires to see someone become better onto him, which wasn't exactly fair of her, now that she thinks about it. ]
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More judgment for Ushirono following his death, for sure. That is far easier for Argenti to manage, though. The man is a individual who should be judged. ]
I do agree. That is an unfortunate way to meet someone.
[ He follows her gaze to the fields, before back to the woman himself. ]
I do not think it was selfish. It was a noble wish. I believe that, perhaps, I too envisioned him changing for the better. Or rather, thought that there would be a chance to see that light in him that I had in others.
...It is only natural, I believe. Some people have no desire to change for the better, but we wish that it were so. Yet, not even the influence of Idrila may alter their course.
[ ...Perhaps indeed it is natural for people like themselves to believe others can change to the point of delusion, comes a darker thought. Though that dispels soon enough; there is nothing that can be helped about it, is all. ]
But, regardless, you kept believing in him. Even when I had lost it in him entirely. While keeping that strong of a faith in other people can feel detrimental, I cannot help that it is a trait that shows an element of Beauty. I hope you never lose the ability to believe in others so strongly. Perhaps it may be crucial not just for yourself...but for others you would endeavor to hold such faith in.
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...I try my best to. It may sound kinda silly, but back home we're trying to save the planet. We don't have much of a lead or much time, but we all know that the planet is dying. If we don't stop the threats to it, who knows what'll happen?
[ Aerith glances over at Argenti. She knows this is straying off topic a bit, but it's relevant, she swears. ]
I think if I let my faith in others slip even a little bit while I'm here, I won't be able to keep it up as easily when we all go back. I've gotta be able to look my friends in the eyes and tell them we can do what we've set out to do with no hesitation.
Maybe this kind of faith will be a weakness here, but even if it is... I don't plan on letting go of it.
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Otherwise...even despite everything that has happened here, whatever they have said, whatever he has thought, he says the following with relative ease: ]
I don't believe it's silly at all. Being able to hold fast to your faith in the midst of such crisis is quite admirable. At times, I feel that those who are able to in difficult times may be able to weather them well.
And, well...I believe you put the rest of that rather aptly yourself. Perhaps that is why I cannot ever call it a quality that is a weakness, and why I am glad to hear you shall hang onto it no matter the circumstances.
[ So, even if this veered perhaps, off-topic just a bit, Argenti doesn't mind. He thinks it's all certainly related anyhow, even without the follow-up she has added. ]
I'm also certain that you and your friends shall also succeed in your endeavors, and save your world from peril. I know little about why it's dying, though I believe you have the strength and support to see it through to the end.
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[ But there are so many layers and she doesn't know how much he'd like a whole history lesson, honestly. ]
Still... thank you. Your words mean a lot, you know, and I can tell that you mean them. You're really not the kind of guy that shies away from how he feels, are you?
[ He did, after all, confess to a murder. Argenti isn't the type to hide anything, in Aerith's view. ]
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[ Argenti smiles a little over at her. It is true, because he's thinking it'd be quite a potential burden on her to recite all of that.
But if she does feel free to truly speak it to him someday, he will listen. ]
I am not. I suppose I am used to being that way in general. Though to be honest, a Knight of Beauty is meant to be true; engaging in deception would most assuredly not be forgiven by Idrila, and it would certainly result in breaking at least one oath.
[ What is hiding things? While obviously Argenti does not air out private things unnecessarily, he certainly sees no reason not to ever obscure what he's thinking or what he's done when he thinks it should be revealed. Though there are times where he may hold his tongue for reasons according to tact, artifice does not become him. ]
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It's certainly possible. ]
An oath, huh? I guess knights really do have those...
[ Said more to herself than anything else, but his being a knight still happens to be a little bit novel for her. ]
You've mentioned Idrila a few times. Is she your ruler?
[ here she goes, opening a can of worms— ]
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Which may be delusional in some instances, he recognizes, yet all the same he doesn't know if he doesn't try to just continue to be himself.
Even if it is hopeless. Ironically enough, though her comment about the oaths make him nod. ]
We swear ourselves to chivalry - those of the Knights of Beauty, and various oaths. Such as to exterminate evil, to the idea of mercy, to honesty, as well as an oath to keep ourselves in poverty, and various other ones.
[ He's keeping it short because she mentioned Idrila and so he immediately turns his attention to that. He thrusts outwards to the sky and suddenly petals are swirling around him alongside sparkles. ]
...To phrase it more accurately, she is my goddess, and the one to all of those who follow the Path of Beauty. She is the Aeon of Beauty, and represents it in every sense of the word. All those who follow her Path are Blessed by her power, and her grace.
As a Knight of Beauty and as her ardent follow, I endeavor to spread her name as well as protect the nature of Beauty across the universe. This means upholding that code of chivalry I have spoken to you, to never stray from my Path, to always raise up others whenever I can, to save those who need a helping hand, and to ultimately make sure that beautiful light that exists in the many wonderful, yet radiant aspects of life that we witness never goes out!
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Petals? Sparkles? She takes a half-step back. Huh. So this Idrila lady is serious business, isn't she? ]
Wow, sounds like following her is intense.
[ Not a bad thing at all! But now it has her curious. ]
What made you decide to devote yourself to her?
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...Even if I would like very much for those to consider following the Path of Beauty.
[ There are reasons for that! Argenti thinks, perhaps, it takes a certain kind of dedication at times, even if it isn't always necessarily needed for someone to be as intense as himself about it. ]
I once heard about the Knights of Beauty while I was residing on my home planet and became enamored with the stories, as well as their deeds. Even if the group originated from an entirely different planet, they were like radiant stars to myself back then! I had wondered if I could achieve what they could. Helping people, without selfishly turning their backs on them, and devoting themselves single-mindedly as well as blindly to a goddess that pleasantly showed them on a righteous, yet beautiful path...
[ ...
...And, it gave him hope, when he needed it. ]
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[ So he's from a world that's perfected space travel, isn't he? As far as Aerith knows, that hasn't been accomplished by Shinra just yet (and also because Cid's space backstory wasn't in Rebirth). ]
How'd you hear about them? Do they travel from planet to planet?
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[ Argenti confirms right away, because he has no issues doing so. He kind of forgets from time to time other people do not do space travel, but he is always happy to talk about it.
Exhibit A: ]
You would also be correct that they do travel from planet to planet. That is indeed how I heard of them. I suppose it became like that due to the fact that Idrila went missing one day, and so in order to find her, as well as protect and spread Beauty across the universe, those of the Knights of Beauty must have started to travel throughout space itself. The same goes for the Mirror Holders, as well.
Oh, and I am not entirely sure if space travel is common where you're from, however it certainly is in my universe!
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It's not, but I won't be surprised if Shinra tries it sometime. They're doing just about everything else anyway.
[ That said, however! ]
Did they ever find Idrila?
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Quite ambitious, aren't they?
[ At the answer, Argenti gives pause, even if he's still smiling ever-so-slightly. ]
No, not a single one of us has not as of yet. But to be certain, Idrila must be out there.
Until I see that light once more, I shall not stop not even for a single moment. I'm sure you understand.
[ He says 'I'm sure you understand' like that's a normal thing... ]
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[ She wants to say that she does, but honestly? ]
I don't know. What about your loved ones, Argenti? I bet they miss you.
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...I'm sorry?
[ His friends, perhaps? Not that he's exactly all that close to them as of yet. Or...well... ]
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[ She smiles, unsure, before she looks away and back out at the fields before them. ]
That was probably overstepping, though. You can forget I said that if you want to.
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I think I was simply just caught off-guard! I have no trouble answering, and, in fact...
...Well...to be frank, a Knight of Beauty must always be duty bound to make their journeys alone.
I do happen to go long stretches of time without contact of my friends at times, so they know not to miss me too much.
[ As for his family, Argenti does not really see reason to speak on it; he thinks in the end, answering on the portion regarding his friends is far easier. ]
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I bet they still miss you anyway.
[ That's the nature of friendships, after all. Argenti can say they know not to, but the way their emotions manifest could be different. ]
Don't you get lonely?
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Perhaps a normal amount. I would not want to make them be so sad by my absence, even so.
[ But, he supposes it may be normal, no? He certainly can't control their emotions...part of how people experience their own feelings individually is also something beautiful. Though, he pauses at the question, as if searching for it within himself.
Next, he simply offers her another smile in turn. ]
I am accustomed to a solitary journey. The fact that I must take it by myself at times does not bother me.
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[ Even though she still wonders if he might get lonely from time to time, but that's something personal for him to deal with and none of her business. ]
It looks like you don't have any regrets when it comes to the path you're on anyway, which is what really matters.
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So he offers her a brighter smile at this. ]
I appreciate it!
[ But, he also grants a nod. ]
All the same, you are correct in that I walk this path with no regrets. Difficulties will naturally abound, but I am prepared for those. I believe that goes the same for most people, does it not?
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[ Because really, Argenti's ability to push through difficulties is stronger than the average person's. She's seen it firsthand when he bore the brunt of criticisms at that meeting. ]
Lots of people are scared to do things because it'll be hard.
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[ Argenti says softly...maybe, it's true. He doesn't know.
It isn't too egotistical to admit that others are not as dedicated as he is, right? ...No, it isn't, though he gets stuck on that for a bit - struggles with it, just looking at it from his own point of view. After a moment, he does nod, though. ]
You're correct. A lot of people refrain from taking on certain actions because of the difficulty.
Unfortunately, it doesn't end up making what is necessary to do go away. Though, people can have reasonable decisions for being scared or hesitating. I do not have that kind of leeway, even if I understand why other people would.
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