Have you heard of Idrila? I am one who follows them ardently, as a Knight of Beauty. If you ever wish to ask anything of me, I will gladly answer, and do my best to assist.
NOTE
The universe is filled with beauty. No matter where one is in the cosmos, this is a truth ingrained in existence itself. Therefore, I shall treasure every meeting between each and every beautiful soul I cross paths with.
[ Normally, such a mark on his face would have him fussing over it himself. But, he simply doesn't feel up to it and that is how it is. Starkly, Argenti doesn't feel regret, though he doesn't feel triumph either. ]
...Very well. Where? Back at the dorms?
[ Argenti tries to find his voice, blurts out words that seem silly, if only to say something. His mind registers that, well, Fray is here. Fray is still here, and...he is grateful for that. He's someone he's come to trust and to honestly care a good deal about. So, he's able to follow, ignoring the sting from the cut on his cheek. He's had worse.
He wonders if Fray has ever...no, he has a helmet on him all the time, doesn't he? He's curious about him, that secret, but Argenti wants to ask once they are where no one can overhear. ]
Truthfully, I wasn't expecting you to linger. Or...perhaps...
[ He pauses, trying to search for something. He thinks that once again he is grateful. Very grateful that Fray is here. If he wasn't, then...he doesn't know what he'd be doing right now. No, that's not right either. As he thinks on this, about Fray, he finally settles on something. ]
I am uncertain how to phrase this...my apologies. I dare to hope that it hardly isn't much trouble, however.
[The question gets a curt nod, though Fray doesn't turn to Argenti. Yes, back at the dorms. The pause that follows is almost enough to get him to pause, to turn around and...
And what? He doesn't have anything to say - or at least, he cannot find the words right now - and there's no point in hesitating. Tend to the injury first. The rest will come later. Act first; get your bearings as you do.
(Isn't that what landed them in this position in the first place, though?)]
It isn't too much trouble. [The cut? The death? Both?] You needn't apologize.
[Well. Maybe he needs to apologize, but not to Fray. As far as Fray's concerned, it's over and done with, and it's not as though he thinks Argenti's actions were wrong. He doesn't have the full picture of Fuyu's actions, but he doesn't really need it. Argenti had enough of a picture to make a judgment, and that's good enough for Fray.
He pauses only when they finally reach Argenti's room, golden eyes lingering over the cut now that he's finally stopped. It isn't a serious one. It isn't something even truly worth worrying over. He can't imagine it would even leave a scar, even if it were untreated.
...And yet here he is anyway, fussing over it like a mother chocobo. The Warrior of Light would probably laugh.]
[ It's strange, Argenti doesn't feel too off like he assumed he might. And it doesn't seem like the other man thinks terribly of him. Though perhaps that's clear, as he pointed out that the cut needed to be looked at. Even though it wasn't all that bad compared to certain kinds of wounds that could have been. And especially compared to Frey's own previous wound.
At this, he finds his own expression softening. ]
...I thank you, then. For taking care of me. I am most fortunate, to have you do so. And, to be quite honest, I would rather it you than anyone else.
[ Argenti's words are soft, but true. Even if Fray is motherhenning over such a tiny cut. His lips even curl up into a brief smile, even if it's small, fond in the temporary reminisce. Even if the situation was far more dire, he remembers doing the same for Fray.
Though, now Argenti's expression is thoughtful. ]
But, now that we are here...
May I know more about those reasons? Why you took on the name of Fray Myste.
[Ah, that affirmation lights something in him - bright and wavering and all-consuming, threatening to eclipse his worry and concern for Argenti's wellbeing with his own pride. Pride? Yes, pride; what else could it be, to know that he and he alone has gained Argenti's trust and favor more than the others here? It isn't a competition, and yet to know that he's won fills him with a deep-seated sense of joy only comparable to a few fleeting moments in his rather odd life.
But there isn't time for that, as Argenti reminds him with that question. Once the door's open and he's gestured for Argenti to take a seat so he can get a better look at the cut, Fray hesitates. Usually he has no problems with eye contact and stares unblinking at anyone he's talking to, but now his gaze has drifted.]
...It was easier to pose as someone else to guide my student. He wanted a teacher - so I became his teacher in the dark arts.
[It's Complicated, from the sound of it, and Fray isn't sure how much more he can say without getting into... well, it's a whole mess and a half to explain, but if anyone should know about it, it's probably Argenti, right? After all, the man has dared come this close to the darkness despite his own bright, blinding light. Would it truly be all that terrible if Argenti knew the truth behind "Fray Myste"?
(Or would it push him away, as it will undoubtedly push his student away, because staring it in the face and having no means to deny the truth any longer is difficult enough, particularly when Argenti is not forced to deal with it as the Warrior is. It would be foolish to think that Argenti would want to embrace the darkness so.)]
...As for why I continue to use that name here... I don't know.
[And that, perhaps, is the most truthful he's been.]
I arrived wearing his armor, and so I chose to use his name.
[ Emotions can be fun like that, can't they? Argenti himself takes a seat as directed, though his eyes land back on Fray, watching when the other male's own drift away for once. He can only wonder, whatever is going through his head, and even though he can't see his face, not truly, he takes in the gaze of those thoughtful golden eyes. Fray has always been a mysterious man, though, now he's laying out, it appears he is a...
A teacher in the dark arts. That in of itself should have been alarming, perhaps, but for some reason...he doesn't find it so. He has heard of what feats Fray's student has accomplished under his tutelage. Staggeringly amazing and if he were out to corrupt the Warrior of Light, he would not support him in the good he has done. Also, he knows how slow Fray is to praise himself for his own efforts too...yes, his humility is one of his many good qualities. Oh no, he is getting a tad distracted.
Still, perhaps that is why he feels himself always drawn so closer, without any fear of that darkness even coming close to eclipsing his light. Fray has never really given him much to fear (except for that close one with the man's own life) ]
It makes sense he needed a someone to instruct him. Even I had a teacher, when I initially joined the Knights of Beauty. Though, it wasn't anyone in the dark arts. But, how did you two manage to cross paths? And you must have known Fray in some way, right?
[ Argenti doesn't sound judgmental, his green eyes gazing at Fray curiously, and with rapt interest. ]
Perhaps you've become quite accustomed to using the name. But, I also feel as if there could be some other reason too. It could be sleeping deep within your heart.
Though, you do have your own original name, then? Is it something that you plan on using again?
[Explaining all of this without getting at the core of who he is - what he is - is too complicated. To keep Argenti in the dark for longer would be pointless. Yet still he hesitates, because he knows there's no going back once he's admitted the truth for the Knight of Beauty to see. With the spotlight shining on it, there's simply no way to hide it back under the cover of darkness again.
So he exhales and rests a clawed gauntlet to his chest. The truth, this time.]
Allow me to properly introduce myself. I am V'rhas Tia - the Warrior of Light. Or rather, a part of the Warrior of Light - the darkness that dwells within him; a being without a form to call my own until now. I made use of Fray's body so that I could guide my other self into accepting me - us - for who and what we are. Consider me all of V'rhas's negative emotions and thoughts made manifest.
If Argenti has been honest with himself, perhaps it is not entirely too surprising the man turned out to be well-tuned in dark arts. The dark armor and the way his helmet obscured his visage along with those foreboding eyes makes it seem apt. But, he's essentially stating that he is...a being of pure darkness, isn't he? Which is a much larger leap from simply working with such magic. ]
Fra—no...V'rhas, then. It's good to know of you properly by your real name, now.
[ Yet, he can't think of this man as evil. He should be wary, he should view him in a different light. But, his mind keeps supplying him an entirely set of different emotions...and his heart, is warm. Happy, that he told him that. That Fray — that V'rhas told him these things. His eyes fluttered closed for a moment, and he smiles, small but true. ]
A being full of negativity, from someone who exemplifies light. It is true, then. There can be no light without darkness.
Though, perhaps I am fortunate, to have seen more than what you sum yourself up as.
[ His green eyes open again, soft. His words are a light tease. Though he doesn't go far on that one. If he has accepted the truth that V'rhas grants him, he will treat it with respect. Argenti is also certain he has witnessed this man's light, in his own darkness. ]
It's still surprising to hear all of that, and I am truthfully not certain that my fellow Knights of Beauty would have accepted this graciously. But, I am honored you told me so, and I feel at ease all the same hearing this truth from you. Perhaps, I am overwhelmed by your starkly honest admission; yet, all the same...I have not forgotten. That even in the shadows, there can be Beauty. And I feel as if I am witnessing it immensely right now, at this very moment.
But, I wonder, what would that look like when you two are able to harmonize to that extent? You seem to me like your own person, even if you've came from him originally.
[Absently, his hand comes up as if to trace the mark Fuyu left behind across Argenti's cheek. He catches himself before he can do that and clicks his tongue against his teeth, chiding.]
You really should bandage that.
[Not that it'll require much to take care of, but apparently it's very distracting. Shush.]
I wouldn't have thought of myself as my own person prior to arriving here. My experiences, my memories, they are all his. I am but a part of him. However, being dragged here has afforded me experiences of my own - those that he does not share, that he has no say in. So I have little choice but to accept we are separate beings, at the very least in the eyes of the goddess.
[Though it makes even less sense why she chose him instead of the Warrior of Light... She probably just snagged the wrong one. He's going to believe this until she proves him wrong.]
Regardless, you... have my thanks. For the kind words. I didn't expect you to so readily accept me for what I am - but perhaps that was doing you a disservice. You have ever been a stalwart pillar of strength and consideration.
[.........i mean never mind that argenti just murdered a dude—]
[ When that hands comes up, Argenti hopes that he would bring it a bit closer. Though, it seems that knights have a certain amount of restraint, and there is a halt in such movement.
...He never imagined that he would have such a wish, even if it is just for something like this. But, stranger than anything, he doesn't think too hard on it.
Instead, he smiles a little at the other man, and even though the day has been quite an unfortunate experience, Argenti finds it within himself to be at least capable of some good cheer. ]
Perhaps you could attend to it instead, my dear midnight knight?
[ But as for the rest, he feels something like satisfaction fill him, and a bit of soft warmth. Though he assumes it's probably something similar or very much the same. ]
Goddesses work in mysterious ways. Though, if it means I have had the opportunity to meet you, despite the complications, I can't say that I'm ungrateful.
That said, I feel that those words for you were well-deserved, so it truly is not a problem at all. I too am happy to hear you think such things of me. [ Even if he just murdered the hell out of somebody. It's fine!! ] I only hope that I can continue to live up to what you think of me.
[That gets a soft tch from him, as though such a thing is at all a pain and not something he was already considering doing anyway. It isn't difficult to find a bandage for the injury, and assuming Argenti holds still for him, he'll apply both the antiseptic and the bandage with careful precision. He's mindful of his gauntlets, of course, touch remarkably gentle despite the cool metal claws.]
You hardly need to worry about that. [It's chiding, as though the very thought is a silly, easily-dismissed one.] Though I would ask a favor of you regardless - keep my identity a secret, for just a little longer. I do not want to attempt to explain it to everyone, particularly right now.
[After all, the aftermath of Fuyu's death is going to be Something, so trying to explain that he's a being created by the negative emotions of the world's best guy is kind of... something. Yeah. It's something. Let's not deal with that today.]
You may continue to call me Fray around the others as well.
[Though whether he wants to use V'rhas in private is... well, that's up to Argenti. Both names may as well be his, at this point. Sorry, Fray.]
[ Argenti holds back a snicker, but it is probably evident in his eyes once more that he's plenty amused at the other man's reaction. He doesn't flinch from the application of antiseptic or bandage, though. Even so, the red-haired man marvels at the way he handles it all with a caution that speaks well to his thoughtful nature. ]
Thank you for your assistance...I dearly appreciate it.
[ He raises a hand to gently press against where the bandage now rests, and honestly the slight sting feels like nothing. It is at this point that when Fray mentions that he wishes to keep what's told to himself, well...he doesn't blame him. ]
I understand well why you would wish to keep it from everyone else. I see no reason to be the one to ever grant anyone such information about you for any reason. That is something I believe wholeheartedly that you should have control over; or, of course, be the one to have the only say.
So, I shall call you Fray or refer to you as Fray when I'm talking with others.
...But, what may I call you when it's just us? Do you prefer Fray, or V'rhas?
[It's Complicated would probably be a more accurate statement, because V'rhas has always been the Warrior of Light and not him, the dark side. Fray is closer to accurate, but even then it's the name of a dead man repurposed to better serve him in guiding his other self down this path. Both names come with their own baggage.]
Whatever you'd like to call me is fine, Argenti.
[But in the end, that much is certainly true. It's not as though he hates either name, anyway. They're simply two different brands of his issues.]
[ Argenti's brows furrow for a bit as he sits here in contemplation; he knows the man doesn't exactly seem to prefer either one, though all the same he considers it important. Part of him wants to call V'rhas, because it seems that it is the name that very certainly originated with the man, before the decision to take on Fray. And he is the only one here (besides, maybe the goddess) that knows of the other man as also V'rhas. Therefore, there is something also like an indulgent feeling - that he alone would have the opportunity to call him as such.
But, the man is also used to calling himself Fray, so could it be that he somehow has become used to that identity more now? And to separate himself further from his original half; there is also admittedly a part of Argenti who likes the way the name sounds. Though, in the end, as knight ponders this even further, he feels he's already settled on it, especially if he has summed things up this way. ]
...Fray, then.
Even if it isn't the name you started with, somehow it feels as if you have made it truly your own; even with your reasons for having taking it on. And I have very much always liked the sound of it.
[ He doesn't let the thoughts linger for long in his head without saying them aloud. That has always been the type of person he is. ]
Regardless of its origin, it is the name I've been using for myself.
[It puts distance between him and V'rhas, the Warrior of Light. It isn't fair to think of them as the same person, despite the fact that they share experiences and memories. After all, V'rhas would handle things very differently here; he would have been far better suited to this.]
You have my thanks for listening. And... for keeping my secret.
[That's not quite what he wants to say, but Fray can't figure out how to word "thank you for not freaking out about it" in any sort of halfway coherent way. His situation is certainly an odd one, and it's one he could see causing problems for people, so it's good that Argenti is handling it well. "Thank you for accepting me" might be more accurate, truthfully.]
[ It certainly does. It might sound odd, but truthfully speaking, Argenti thinks of Fray as his own person. He has never met this Warrior of Light, but deep inside he believes he can never think of him as simply a part of another person. Perhaps because he has had time to know the other man. ]
Of course. I am always happy to listen to you speak, but also truly have understanding to what you are saying.
And, it truly is no problem - in regards to keeping your secret, Fray. It honestly feels as if that is one of the easiest things that I have done.
[ Argenti is glad himself that somehow this is working out well between the both of them. He can't say that he has known for certain if everything would have gone necessarily well before this point, but isn't the point that it has? ]
Hah. Perhaps it isn't as big a deal as I've convinced myself it is.
[After all, it isn't as though they know the Warrior of Light. It isn't as though he's ever had to walk in V'rhas's shadow here. They've only ever known Fray, for better or for worse. What an odd thought. Perhaps there was some reasoning in the goddess's decision to bring him instead of his other half, though he can only guess at that for the time being. For now, he shakes his head, the words amused.]
Regardless, it is something I will approach with the others when I feel the time is right. It isn't as though it's a secret I intend to keep forever.
[Shame about the timing on the goddess's part back home... but eh, he'll cross that bridge when he returns.]
I believe it is at least clearly quite important to you, so perhaps knowing that I'd think I too would continue to treat it as large as a deal as you feel it is.
[ They all certainly don't, though...he thinks it is definitely and solely Fray's right to go about this in the way that he feels is most comfortable. And, of course, Argenti respects him for that, and he has every intention of keeping his promise.
That said, he isn't expecting Fray to entirely leap out of his room yelling at the top of his lungs in a couple of days about his identity. This kind of revelation takes time. ]
...Whenever you do feel that time has come, I shall support you as I already have, every step of the way.
[ Because when that secret is no longer that, Argenti knows it will be quite an important turning point for Fray, and he will ensure he's right there with him in every way that matters. ]
[But he knows Argenti wouldn't offer it if he didn't mean it, and trying to deter Argenti is about as effective as trying to deter the Warrior of Light from his given course at any point in time. It just isn't happening. You've gotta accept it. Fray can certainly be stubborn in his own right, but he has nothing on people like them. So with a sigh that sounds a bit more amused than put-off, he continues.]
But I imagine you'll want to do what you can for me regardless. Am I wrong?
[ It is true. Argenti is truly the epitome of stubbornness incarnate; such that when Fray begins to say that he doesn't need to go out of his way, he begins to already open his mouth to protest.
Only to hear the knowing questioning following the amused sound, and so Fray can in turn receive a smile from the red head in question. It's a touch sheepish, but also not all that bothered all the same. ]
...No, you are not wrong in the slightest. Doing what I can for you would be no trouble for me at all. Not when I'd really wish to in the first place.
You know me decently well by now; and so, you likely also know that I would truly not be dissuaded so easily from such matters. You see, Knights of Beauty can be quite determined. But, even if I were not to ever necessarily brag, I would like to consider myself as one of those who shows that to an incredible degree - to even Idrila's satisfaction.
[ But, most importantly, to be able to support Fray like this would be right...and it would make him happy. ]
[ Argenti's voice sounds pleasant - pleased, to hear that. Also, definitely something like a tinge of amused underneath all of that as well.
Which probably shouldn't be a thing considering he's being called stubborn, but also it is taken as a compliment just in general. A Knight needs that level of determination to resist temptations and the like; yeah, he's practically sparkling now... ]
To remind you of someone who you hold in such high esteem...I cannot be more grateful! Of course, in general, many Knights of Beauty are also quite determined and dedicated. We must be unwavering in our decisions, and in following our Path; a heart that bends so easily could never hope to pass any of Idrila's many Trials either!
[It isn't often you find someone so dedicated and determined, it's true. These Knights of Argenti's truly are the embodiments of the very idea of knighthood, unlike the ones Fray has seen and faced enough times. Of course there were good knights among them - it would be hard to forget them - but there are so many more who use the position for their own ends, or simply enjoy the power rather than using it for good.
Knowing that there are people like Argenti in his world certainly goes a long way to restoring Fray's faith in people. Though to be fair, the people he's met here have generally helped in that regard as well.]
Tell me about Idrila's trials sometime. I am curious what exactly it is you've been through.
[But maybe that would be better saved for another time. For now... Well, for now Fray finally pulls back after having been in Argenti's space for entirely too long. The cut is bandaged, he's doing just fine, and there's really no other reason to linger.
The words almost fall seamlessly from his lips, particularly when the man asks if there is anything more that he can do for him. But, that is such a big ask; it skirts far too into indulgence than he likes, though he's tempted. He's always been good, always devout; dedicated. Why now?
It's also true that he feels fine and calm. Killing someone has always been easy; sometimes, frighteningly so, and he has done it so many times. The thing he doesn't understand...is how his mind starts to race. No, he should send Fray on his way. He should- ]
You have assisted me well, dear Fray. I could not dare to ask much more of you.
...Still, if you wished to exchange a couple of more words with me, I doubt it would be a terrible idea. Unless you have other matters to attend to?
[ -ah. Ah well. Even if it's just for a short while longer, it won't be bad if he does linger. Not that he'd object if he left immediately! Either way, he is certainly not giving into any sort of temptation by suggesting as much, so it is fine. Very much so. ]
[He tries to keep it out of his words and actions, the silly, pointless sense of relief that wells up within him when Argenti asks him to remain, for just a bit longer. He could chalk it up to any number of reasons - both his own reaction and Argenti's words - but he chooses not to overthink it. To overthink it would prove... annoying, Fray supposes.
So instead he merely moves to make himself comfortable, leaning back against the wall where he can keep an eye on both Argenti and the door. Despite the armor and positioning, this seems to be about as comfortable as Fray gets. After all, he's in the presence of someone who knows the truth about him, and someone he's come to trust immensely over the weeks - so why wouldn't he be at ease?]
You need but say the word and I'll do what I can for you.
[A pointless sentiment to express, as he's sure his actions have already spoken as much far louder than the words themselves, but he wants to say them. He wants to make sure Argenti knows.]
Argenti has no plans of what even to say, but he is...glad, that the man decides to linger a little bit longer. Truth be told, while he will need time to reflect on what has occurred today, to decide on a course of action going forward, having Fray beside him beyond whatever that moment of his was, is comforting. And his words make him smile warmly. ]
Aren't I quite fortunate to have such a kind companion with me?
[ Argenti's voice is gentle, though sincere. It is true...Fray's actions have spoken louder than words. That is the type of man he is, and it is one of the things he has cherished about him. Though he does very much enjoy it when the man speaks as well...ah, here he goes again, on a mental tangent. But, maybe that isn't so bad either. ]
I already thanked you earlier. And to be honest, I can't think of anything else to ask you as of now. But you still being here at all means a lot to me. Sometimes, that of which can be referred to as acts, are something that can be no less than so bright and beautiful that those are more than enough.
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linknet2024-07-25 09:10 pm
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...Very well. Where? Back at the dorms?
[ Argenti tries to find his voice, blurts out words that seem silly, if only to say something. His mind registers that, well, Fray is here. Fray is still here, and...he is grateful for that. He's someone he's come to trust and to honestly care a good deal about. So, he's able to follow, ignoring the sting from the cut on his cheek. He's had worse.
He wonders if Fray has ever...no, he has a helmet on him all the time, doesn't he? He's curious about him, that secret, but Argenti wants to ask once they are where no one can overhear. ]
Truthfully, I wasn't expecting you to linger. Or...perhaps...
[ He pauses, trying to search for something. He thinks that once again he is grateful. Very grateful that Fray is here. If he wasn't, then...he doesn't know what he'd be doing right now. No, that's not right either. As he thinks on this, about Fray, he finally settles on something. ]
I am uncertain how to phrase this...my apologies. I dare to hope that it hardly isn't much trouble, however.
no subject
And what? He doesn't have anything to say - or at least, he cannot find the words right now - and there's no point in hesitating. Tend to the injury first. The rest will come later. Act first; get your bearings as you do.
(Isn't that what landed them in this position in the first place, though?)]
It isn't too much trouble. [The cut? The death? Both?] You needn't apologize.
[Well. Maybe he needs to apologize, but not to Fray. As far as Fray's concerned, it's over and done with, and it's not as though he thinks Argenti's actions were wrong. He doesn't have the full picture of Fuyu's actions, but he doesn't really need it. Argenti had enough of a picture to make a judgment, and that's good enough for Fray.
He pauses only when they finally reach Argenti's room, golden eyes lingering over the cut now that he's finally stopped. It isn't a serious one. It isn't something even truly worth worrying over. He can't imagine it would even leave a scar, even if it were untreated.
...And yet here he is anyway, fussing over it like a mother chocobo. The Warrior of Light would probably laugh.]
no subject
At this, he finds his own expression softening. ]
...I thank you, then. For taking care of me. I am most fortunate, to have you do so. And, to be quite honest, I would rather it you than anyone else.
[ Argenti's words are soft, but true. Even if Fray is motherhenning over such a tiny cut. His lips even curl up into a brief smile, even if it's small, fond in the temporary reminisce. Even if the situation was far more dire, he remembers doing the same for Fray.
Though, now Argenti's expression is thoughtful. ]
But, now that we are here...
May I know more about those reasons? Why you took on the name of Fray Myste.
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But there isn't time for that, as Argenti reminds him with that question. Once the door's open and he's gestured for Argenti to take a seat so he can get a better look at the cut, Fray hesitates. Usually he has no problems with eye contact and stares unblinking at anyone he's talking to, but now his gaze has drifted.]
...It was easier to pose as someone else to guide my student. He wanted a teacher - so I became his teacher in the dark arts.
[It's Complicated, from the sound of it, and Fray isn't sure how much more he can say without getting into... well, it's a whole mess and a half to explain, but if anyone should know about it, it's probably Argenti, right? After all, the man has dared come this close to the darkness despite his own bright, blinding light. Would it truly be all that terrible if Argenti knew the truth behind "Fray Myste"?
(Or would it push him away, as it will undoubtedly push his student away, because staring it in the face and having no means to deny the truth any longer is difficult enough, particularly when Argenti is not forced to deal with it as the Warrior is. It would be foolish to think that Argenti would want to embrace the darkness so.)]
...As for why I continue to use that name here... I don't know.
[And that, perhaps, is the most truthful he's been.]
I arrived wearing his armor, and so I chose to use his name.
no subject
A teacher in the dark arts. That in of itself should have been alarming, perhaps, but for some reason...he doesn't find it so. He has heard of what feats Fray's student has accomplished under his tutelage. Staggeringly amazing and if he were out to corrupt the Warrior of Light, he would not support him in the good he has done. Also, he knows how slow Fray is to praise himself for his own efforts too...yes, his humility is one of his many good qualities. Oh no, he is getting a tad distracted.
Still, perhaps that is why he feels himself always drawn so closer, without any fear of that darkness even coming close to eclipsing his light. Fray has never really given him much to fear (except for that close one with the man's own life) ]
It makes sense he needed a someone to instruct him. Even I had a teacher, when I initially joined the Knights of Beauty. Though, it wasn't anyone in the dark arts. But, how did you two manage to cross paths? And you must have known Fray in some way, right?
[ Argenti doesn't sound judgmental, his green eyes gazing at Fray curiously, and with rapt interest. ]
Perhaps you've become quite accustomed to using the name. But, I also feel as if there could be some other reason too. It could be sleeping deep within your heart.
Though, you do have your own original name, then? Is it something that you plan on using again?
no subject
[Explaining all of this without getting at the core of who he is - what he is - is too complicated. To keep Argenti in the dark for longer would be pointless. Yet still he hesitates, because he knows there's no going back once he's admitted the truth for the Knight of Beauty to see. With the spotlight shining on it, there's simply no way to hide it back under the cover of darkness again.
So he exhales and rests a clawed gauntlet to his chest. The truth, this time.]
Allow me to properly introduce myself. I am V'rhas Tia - the Warrior of Light. Or rather, a part of the Warrior of Light - the darkness that dwells within him; a being without a form to call my own until now. I made use of Fray's body so that I could guide my other self into accepting me - us - for who and what we are. Consider me all of V'rhas's negative emotions and thoughts made manifest.
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Oh.
If Argenti has been honest with himself, perhaps it is not entirely too surprising the man turned out to be well-tuned in dark arts. The dark armor and the way his helmet obscured his visage along with those foreboding eyes makes it seem apt. But, he's essentially stating that he is...a being of pure darkness, isn't he? Which is a much larger leap from simply working with such magic. ]
Fra—no...V'rhas, then. It's good to know of you properly by your real name, now.
[ Yet, he can't think of this man as evil. He should be wary, he should view him in a different light. But, his mind keeps supplying him an entirely set of different emotions...and his heart, is warm. Happy, that he told him that. That Fray — that V'rhas told him these things. His eyes fluttered closed for a moment, and he smiles, small but true. ]
A being full of negativity, from someone who exemplifies light. It is true, then. There can be no light without darkness.
Though, perhaps I am fortunate, to have seen more than what you sum yourself up as.
[ His green eyes open again, soft. His words are a light tease. Though he doesn't go far on that one. If he has accepted the truth that V'rhas grants him, he will treat it with respect. Argenti is also certain he has witnessed this man's light, in his own darkness. ]
It's still surprising to hear all of that, and I am truthfully not certain that my fellow Knights of Beauty would have accepted this graciously. But, I am honored you told me so, and I feel at ease all the same hearing this truth from you. Perhaps, I am overwhelmed by your starkly honest admission; yet, all the same...I have not forgotten. That even in the shadows, there can be Beauty. And I feel as if I am witnessing it immensely right now, at this very moment.
But, I wonder, what would that look like when you two are able to harmonize to that extent? You seem to me like your own person, even if you've came from him originally.
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You really should bandage that.
[Not that it'll require much to take care of, but apparently it's very distracting. Shush.]
I wouldn't have thought of myself as my own person prior to arriving here. My experiences, my memories, they are all his. I am but a part of him. However, being dragged here has afforded me experiences of my own - those that he does not share, that he has no say in. So I have little choice but to accept we are separate beings, at the very least in the eyes of the goddess.
[Though it makes even less sense why she chose him instead of the Warrior of Light... She probably just snagged the wrong one. He's going to believe this until she proves him wrong.]
Regardless, you... have my thanks. For the kind words. I didn't expect you to so readily accept me for what I am - but perhaps that was doing you a disservice. You have ever been a stalwart pillar of strength and consideration.
[.........i mean never mind that argenti just murdered a dude—]
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...He never imagined that he would have such a wish, even if it is just for something like this. But, stranger than anything, he doesn't think too hard on it.
Instead, he smiles a little at the other man, and even though the day has been quite an unfortunate experience, Argenti finds it within himself to be at least capable of some good cheer. ]
Perhaps you could attend to it instead, my dear midnight knight?
[ But as for the rest, he feels something like satisfaction fill him, and a bit of soft warmth. Though he assumes it's probably something similar or very much the same. ]
Goddesses work in mysterious ways. Though, if it means I have had the opportunity to meet you, despite the complications, I can't say that I'm ungrateful.
That said, I feel that those words for you were well-deserved, so it truly is not a problem at all. I too am happy to hear you think such things of me. [ Even if he just murdered the hell out of somebody. It's fine!! ] I only hope that I can continue to live up to what you think of me.
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You hardly need to worry about that. [It's chiding, as though the very thought is a silly, easily-dismissed one.] Though I would ask a favor of you regardless - keep my identity a secret, for just a little longer. I do not want to attempt to explain it to everyone, particularly right now.
[After all, the aftermath of Fuyu's death is going to be Something, so trying to explain that he's a being created by the negative emotions of the world's best guy is kind of... something. Yeah. It's something. Let's not deal with that today.]
You may continue to call me Fray around the others as well.
[Though whether he wants to use V'rhas in private is... well, that's up to Argenti. Both names may as well be his, at this point. Sorry, Fray.]
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Thank you for your assistance...I dearly appreciate it.
[ He raises a hand to gently press against where the bandage now rests, and honestly the slight sting feels like nothing. It is at this point that when Fray mentions that he wishes to keep what's told to himself, well...he doesn't blame him. ]
I understand well why you would wish to keep it from everyone else. I see no reason to be the one to ever grant anyone such information about you for any reason. That is something I believe wholeheartedly that you should have control over; or, of course, be the one to have the only say.
So, I shall call you Fray or refer to you as Fray when I'm talking with others.
...But, what may I call you when it's just us? Do you prefer Fray, or V'rhas?
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[It's Complicated would probably be a more accurate statement, because V'rhas has always been the Warrior of Light and not him, the dark side. Fray is closer to accurate, but even then it's the name of a dead man repurposed to better serve him in guiding his other self down this path. Both names come with their own baggage.]
Whatever you'd like to call me is fine, Argenti.
[But in the end, that much is certainly true. It's not as though he hates either name, anyway. They're simply two different brands of his issues.]
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But, the man is also used to calling himself Fray, so could it be that he somehow has become used to that identity more now? And to separate himself further from his original half; there is also admittedly a part of Argenti who likes the way the name sounds. Though, in the end, as knight ponders this even further, he feels he's already settled on it, especially if he has summed things up this way. ]
...Fray, then.
Even if it isn't the name you started with, somehow it feels as if you have made it truly your own; even with your reasons for having taking it on. And I have very much always liked the sound of it.
[ He doesn't let the thoughts linger for long in his head without saying them aloud. That has always been the type of person he is. ]
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Regardless of its origin, it is the name I've been using for myself.
[It puts distance between him and V'rhas, the Warrior of Light. It isn't fair to think of them as the same person, despite the fact that they share experiences and memories. After all, V'rhas would handle things very differently here; he would have been far better suited to this.]
You have my thanks for listening. And... for keeping my secret.
[That's not quite what he wants to say, but Fray can't figure out how to word "thank you for not freaking out about it" in any sort of halfway coherent way. His situation is certainly an odd one, and it's one he could see causing problems for people, so it's good that Argenti is handling it well. "Thank you for accepting me" might be more accurate, truthfully.]
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Of course. I am always happy to listen to you speak, but also truly have understanding to what you are saying.
And, it truly is no problem - in regards to keeping your secret, Fray. It honestly feels as if that is one of the easiest things that I have done.
[ Argenti is glad himself that somehow this is working out well between the both of them. He can't say that he has known for certain if everything would have gone necessarily well before this point, but isn't the point that it has? ]
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[After all, it isn't as though they know the Warrior of Light. It isn't as though he's ever had to walk in V'rhas's shadow here. They've only ever known Fray, for better or for worse. What an odd thought. Perhaps there was some reasoning in the goddess's decision to bring him instead of his other half, though he can only guess at that for the time being. For now, he shakes his head, the words amused.]
Regardless, it is something I will approach with the others when I feel the time is right. It isn't as though it's a secret I intend to keep forever.
[Shame about the timing on the goddess's part back home... but eh, he'll cross that bridge when he returns.]
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[ They all certainly don't, though...he thinks it is definitely and solely Fray's right to go about this in the way that he feels is most comfortable. And, of course, Argenti respects him for that, and he has every intention of keeping his promise.
That said, he isn't expecting Fray to entirely leap out of his room yelling at the top of his lungs in a couple of days about his identity. This kind of revelation takes time. ]
...Whenever you do feel that time has come, I shall support you as I already have, every step of the way.
[ Because when that secret is no longer that, Argenti knows it will be quite an important turning point for Fray, and he will ensure he's right there with him in every way that matters. ]
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[But he knows Argenti wouldn't offer it if he didn't mean it, and trying to deter Argenti is about as effective as trying to deter the Warrior of Light from his given course at any point in time. It just isn't happening. You've gotta accept it. Fray can certainly be stubborn in his own right, but he has nothing on people like them. So with a sigh that sounds a bit more amused than put-off, he continues.]
But I imagine you'll want to do what you can for me regardless. Am I wrong?
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Only to hear the knowing questioning following the amused sound, and so Fray can in turn receive a smile from the red head in question. It's a touch sheepish, but also not all that bothered all the same. ]
...No, you are not wrong in the slightest. Doing what I can for you would be no trouble for me at all. Not when I'd really wish to in the first place.
You know me decently well by now; and so, you likely also know that I would truly not be dissuaded so easily from such matters. You see, Knights of Beauty can be quite determined. But, even if I were not to ever necessarily brag, I would like to consider myself as one of those who shows that to an incredible degree - to even Idrila's satisfaction.
[ But, most importantly, to be able to support Fray like this would be right...and it would make him happy. ]
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I didn't have any doubts about that.
[It's confident, certain. That's just who Argenti is, as far as Fray's concerned.]
You remind me of him, you know. V'rhas. He's just as stubborn - for better or for worse.
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[ Argenti's voice sounds pleasant - pleased, to hear that. Also, definitely something like a tinge of amused underneath all of that as well.
Which probably shouldn't be a thing considering he's being called stubborn, but also it is taken as a compliment just in general. A Knight needs that level of determination to resist temptations and the like; yeah, he's practically sparkling now... ]
To remind you of someone who you hold in such high esteem...I cannot be more grateful! Of course, in general, many Knights of Beauty are also quite determined and dedicated. We must be unwavering in our decisions, and in following our Path; a heart that bends so easily could never hope to pass any of Idrila's many Trials either!
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Knowing that there are people like Argenti in his world certainly goes a long way to restoring Fray's faith in people. Though to be fair, the people he's met here have generally helped in that regard as well.]
Tell me about Idrila's trials sometime. I am curious what exactly it is you've been through.
[But maybe that would be better saved for another time. For now... Well, for now Fray finally pulls back after having been in Argenti's space for entirely too long. The cut is bandaged, he's doing just fine, and there's really no other reason to linger.
...And yet that's exactly what Fray wants to do.]
Is there anything more I can do for you?
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The words almost fall seamlessly from his lips, particularly when the man asks if there is anything more that he can do for him. But, that is such a big ask; it skirts far too into indulgence than he likes, though he's tempted. He's always been good, always devout; dedicated. Why now?
It's also true that he feels fine and calm. Killing someone has always been easy; sometimes, frighteningly so, and he has done it so many times. The thing he doesn't understand...is how his mind starts to race. No, he should send Fray on his way. He should- ]
You have assisted me well, dear Fray. I could not dare to ask much more of you.
...Still, if you wished to exchange a couple of more words with me, I doubt it would be a terrible idea. Unless you have other matters to attend to?
[ -ah. Ah well. Even if it's just for a short while longer, it won't be bad if he does linger. Not that he'd object if he left immediately! Either way, he is certainly not giving into any sort of temptation by suggesting as much, so it is fine. Very much so. ]
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[He tries to keep it out of his words and actions, the silly, pointless sense of relief that wells up within him when Argenti asks him to remain, for just a bit longer. He could chalk it up to any number of reasons - both his own reaction and Argenti's words - but he chooses not to overthink it. To overthink it would prove... annoying, Fray supposes.
So instead he merely moves to make himself comfortable, leaning back against the wall where he can keep an eye on both Argenti and the door. Despite the armor and positioning, this seems to be about as comfortable as Fray gets. After all, he's in the presence of someone who knows the truth about him, and someone he's come to trust immensely over the weeks - so why wouldn't he be at ease?]
You need but say the word and I'll do what I can for you.
[A pointless sentiment to express, as he's sure his actions have already spoken as much far louder than the words themselves, but he wants to say them. He wants to make sure Argenti knows.]
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Argenti has no plans of what even to say, but he is...glad, that the man decides to linger a little bit longer. Truth be told, while he will need time to reflect on what has occurred today, to decide on a course of action going forward, having Fray beside him beyond whatever that moment of his was, is comforting. And his words make him smile warmly. ]
Aren't I quite fortunate to have such a kind companion with me?
[ Argenti's voice is gentle, though sincere. It is true...Fray's actions have spoken louder than words. That is the type of man he is, and it is one of the things he has cherished about him. Though he does very much enjoy it when the man speaks as well...ah, here he goes again, on a mental tangent. But, maybe that isn't so bad either. ]
I already thanked you earlier. And to be honest, I can't think of anything else to ask you as of now. But you still being here at all means a lot to me. Sometimes, that of which can be referred to as acts, are something that can be no less than so bright and beautiful that those are more than enough.
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