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.
[ 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.
["Kind" is such a strange word to apply to him. It isn't exactly wrong, but it isn't the word Fray himself would use. Still, it earns a soft scoff but no retaliation from him. It's accurate enough, after all.]
I'll stay as long as you want me to. As I said, I've nothing else pressing to attend to.
[He pauses once that's out there, considering. No, that's not exactly right, is it?]
...Well, even if I did, I'd be more inclined to ensure you're alright.
[It's not like Argenti was seriously hurt, and killing people isn't something that generally causes people like them problems. And yet Fray wants to linger here anyway, to truly make sure Argenti is fine for... some reason he can't quite put his finger on. It's better not to think too hard about it. The important part is that Argenti is fine, after all.]
...You do realize that opens it up to me asking you to remain even longer.
[ Argenti releases a sharp breath, trying to cover his smile, hide the way his shoulders tremor in a soundless laugh, and desperately failing, judging by the way his eyes crease a bit. He feels even more relieved at the thought, though, even if it dares to make him terribly flustered all the same. ]
I believe that in many circumstances I am naturally inclined to say that such worries are not necessary. Even now, I feel that can be the case.
But, even so, even if I feel certain that I am well, I can't help saying this:
You being here at all seems to uplift me further into the light of all that represents Beauty itself. And hearing that I am the subject of such thoughtful consideration...it is quite soothing. I fear I may be in danger of becoming quite content with such beautiful sentiments from you.
[ Argenti doesn't think it's far too embarrassing to say something like that at least. Even if he is used to being alone, to having a long space of time where he's left to his own thoughts, occupied by them to the point where he falls into peaceful self-reflection. But all the same...he thinks he likes this too. ]
[The first part gets a soft hmph from him, and while it may be accompanied by a roll of his golden eyes, there's no argument from Fray. Yes, it does open up that possibility, doesn't it? Strange how he doesn't even think to decline it any.]
You flatter me far too much, you know.
[But it's almost gentle chiding rather than the bluntness the words should have. Were it anyone else, the words would be that blunt. But it's Argenti, and Fray has a soft spot for the Knight of Beauty, and so here we are. With a soft huff that seems dangerously close to being almost amused, Fray responds:] I'm afraid you'll simply need to get used to it. There's no stopping it now.
[That much is certainly true. Regardless of their circumstances here, he's grown quite close to Argenti. Those "beautiful sentiments" are things he's always going to express, both because he thinks Argenti should hear them and because he wants Argenti to hear them. He wants Argenti to know just how much he means to Fray. What a silly thought, but one that has pestered him since arriving here. After all, he's not sure V'rhas understands just how important he is to Fray, and he'd rather not make the same mistake a second time.
Still, despite the words, he seems a bit... more standoffish than usual. Like it's a bit hard to express the sentiment, despite the fact that he clearly wants to.]
[ Argenti thinks he knows what that kind of hmph means...!! He is now an expert in Frayese. Proven correctly by the way the other man responds.
He raises a hand to rest one thumb under his own chin, and one finger against it as if in a playful contemplative pose as he 'thinks' this over, before speaking again once more. ]
Oh, with you saying so, I can hardly consider to dare stage a protest.
But, if that's the case, then you'll have to become accustomed to my well-deserved praise being directed your way quite often.
[ His eyes have softened, not just with mirth, but with something else warm; something that he thinks is everpresent whenever he is with the other man. It's almost enough to forget the craziness of today's events, though he certainly won't. It is just that right now...all he can think of is the person right in front of him. Even as he offers his next word in a gently teasing inquiry. ]
Shall I take that as a compliment?
...Though, if that's true, I hardly think it is so terrible. Your softness will never dull your admirable, formidable, and radiant qualities at all. It may, in fact, enhance them.
[ Argenti doesn't really know how, but Fray has certainly a knack for bringing out this side of him. ]
[Hmph!!!! Don't you read into it too much!! And speaking of... that gets another soft scoff and a roll of his eyes, but there's no denying the warmth in the words as Fray responds.]
I won't try to argue with you. I know it's a fight I won't win.
[But the implication there is that he doesn't agree!!! Being soft is not all that great okay, he's supposed to be an edgelord. >:( ]
...But I suppose I don't mind it all that much if it's you. Consider yourself lucky.
[Because things are different with Argenti, and softening his own edges to avoid hurting those he likes is something Fray can do now - something he should do now. He wants to let Argenti in, so he will. Even if it does mean softening his image.]
[ Argenti says a little cheekily, but the gentle way his tone comes across seems to indicate he knows he can kind of get away with it. Even with the man being an edgelord~
...Though the warmth in that tone does help him know that, admittedly. ]
...So, perhaps I indeed will. Whether it's by a stroke of simply fortune, or by blessing, it is the exact kind of favor I shall take care to cherish it all the same.
[ He means with every fiber of his being as he says this, though. Argenti has met many people, befriended a small amount to an extent, but it has been so long since he has felt so lucky to be considered the target of such gentleness. Or maybe he feels fortunate because it is the other man. ]
[It's a good thing he's wearing his helmet because he'd probably be turning pink right about now and Argenti would probably laugh at him!! So he just huffs again, adjusting his position a bit against the wall.]
Good of you to acknowledge it, I suppose.
[His tone doesn't match the words, of course. He truly is pleased to hear it, and that much is reflected even if the words themselves don't express as much. This is what happens when you aren't used to expressing your emotions. You turn into a tsundere.]
Though I suppose I should thank you for your presence as well. You do have a tendency to bring out the better half of me.
[ It is by whomever governs fortune indeed that Fray's helmet obscures his most assuredly covered face from turning pink in clear sight. But, Argenti may or may have tried to imagine it by now even if he doesn't know what he looks like in regards to his face.
As it is, he lets out another breathless laugh when Fray makes the comment that he does...that's twice now. The last person who amused him this much was the Trailblazer. ]
You would get along well with a friend that I know well, I feel.
[ Fortunate that Argenti likes edgelords and tsunderes, huh. ]
...That is high praise from you. Such as it is, I will gladly accept it. To be quite honest, it makes me most glad to hear you say as much. And, perhaps, a bit proud, or maybe even more privileged in the best of ways.
I also do certainly believe that you too draw out another side to me that draws me even closer to the light of Beauty.
[don't let fray and the trailblazer meet, this'll just be the dark knight quests round 2...!!]
Do I? I'm pleased to hear it.
[That may be a bit of an understatement, truly. Knowing that Argenti feels the same is somewhat of a relief - it's good he isn't alone in that - but it also makes him feel proud, knowing that he's able to bring out this side of the knight. Considering how Arenti views Beauty, bringing him closer to it is a tremendous compliment.
So it's an understatement, but it's true. Fray shifts a bit again to busy himself.]
I may not be quite as gifted with words as you are, but the sentiment is the same. Thank you for sharing it with me.
[ Honestly, that sounds hilarious as all hell. Dark Knight Quests Round 2...no idea what that'd look like, but surely is a fun time for all involved?? (no) ]
Well, I am certainly glad that you are.
I do suspect you would find some of his other eccentric qualities quite unique in a good way, but he does truly have a knack for befriending many people.
[ Indeed it is, it's praise not given lightly, even if he is well used to complimenting people...somehow with this level it's different. It always feels natural for him, but invoking such meaningful matters to him within such words makes it carries an infinitely far deeper and heavier sentiment. ]
Now you are the one that flatters me so! It is also true that it feels quite easy to share such words with you, no matter the magnitude or importance. Either way, it certainly means a lot to hear you return the sentiment and your appreciation. After all, at times even words communicated directly as you tend to are just as wonderful, and splendid as ones woven carefully.
[ Which, well...probably doesn't exactly prove wrong the allegations Fray's making here about him being gifted with words, but he is actually a touch embarrassed in a good way about the compliment. Even if it is not quite obvious here. ]
[the moment he gets argenti to blush, it's all over for him. thankfully, that is not today!!]
Hmm, true enough. The important part is the sentiment rather than the words to express it.
[Though the nice words certainly do help! Fray's still sort of feeling fussy and shy about the whole thing, which is weird because he doesn't usually feel anything like this!! Thanks, Argenti. Now make it stop!!]
I do hate to change the subject, but with regards to today's... events...
[He waves a hand as if to express "all of that". The murder and everything.]
Do you plan on telling the others?
[If Argenti asked him to keep it a secret, he'd do it in a heartbeat. But that doesn't seem quite as forthright as Argenti usually is, so he imagines there's more to it than simply pretending it didn't happen.]
It's too late, Fray. You're in deep now...it's only a matter of time before Argenti does end up getting that level of flustered. Your days are numbered.
But speaking seriously, when the man changes the topic, it seems like the red head doesn't mind. It's still rather heavy, though somehow it feels easier to handle now than if they had immediately dived into it. The segue has helped immensely. ]
No, it is quite alright. I do not wish to say I had forgotten about it, but I do admit I was momentarily distracted.
[ There's a pause as he considers this. He thinks there is no way he wouldn't reveal it. ]
...Yes, I do. If it were someone unrelated to the group perhaps I may not feel the need - no, even then I would say as much. Everyone deserves to know.
I know that some people will not be happy, but I am not afraid of anyone's disapproval.
In order to be a Knight of Beauty, I must promote honesty. As a part of the group, they must know what happened and why. And...this is a trial I must overcome as well.
[ A short recollection of certain reactions to being a Knight of Beauty come and go in his mind. In light of that, he thinks he's fully prepared. ]
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linknet2024-07-25 09:10 pm
no subject
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. ]
no subject
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.]
no subject
[ 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?
no subject
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!
no subject
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?
no subject
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.]
no subject
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.
no subject
I'll stay as long as you want me to. As I said, I've nothing else pressing to attend to.
[He pauses once that's out there, considering. No, that's not exactly right, is it?]
...Well, even if I did, I'd be more inclined to ensure you're alright.
[It's not like Argenti was seriously hurt, and killing people isn't something that generally causes people like them problems. And yet Fray wants to linger here anyway, to truly make sure Argenti is fine for... some reason he can't quite put his finger on. It's better not to think too hard about it. The important part is that Argenti is fine, after all.]
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...You do realize that opens it up to me asking you to remain even longer.
[ Argenti releases a sharp breath, trying to cover his smile, hide the way his shoulders tremor in a soundless laugh, and desperately failing, judging by the way his eyes crease a bit. He feels even more relieved at the thought, though, even if it dares to make him terribly flustered all the same. ]
I believe that in many circumstances I am naturally inclined to say that such worries are not necessary. Even now, I feel that can be the case.
But, even so, even if I feel certain that I am well, I can't help saying this:
You being here at all seems to uplift me further into the light of all that represents Beauty itself. And hearing that I am the subject of such thoughtful consideration...it is quite soothing. I fear I may be in danger of becoming quite content with such beautiful sentiments from you.
[ Argenti doesn't think it's far too embarrassing to say something like that at least. Even if he is used to being alone, to having a long space of time where he's left to his own thoughts, occupied by them to the point where he falls into peaceful self-reflection. But all the same...he thinks he likes this too. ]
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You flatter me far too much, you know.
[But it's almost gentle chiding rather than the bluntness the words should have. Were it anyone else, the words would be that blunt. But it's Argenti, and Fray has a soft spot for the Knight of Beauty, and so here we are. With a soft huff that seems dangerously close to being almost amused, Fray responds:] I'm afraid you'll simply need to get used to it. There's no stopping it now.
[That much is certainly true. Regardless of their circumstances here, he's grown quite close to Argenti. Those "beautiful sentiments" are things he's always going to express, both because he thinks Argenti should hear them and because he wants Argenti to hear them. He wants Argenti to know just how much he means to Fray. What a silly thought, but one that has pestered him since arriving here. After all, he's not sure V'rhas understands just how important he is to Fray, and he'd rather not make the same mistake a second time.
Still, despite the words, he seems a bit... more standoffish than usual. Like it's a bit hard to express the sentiment, despite the fact that he clearly wants to.]
...You're making me go soft, you know.
[Yes, this is all Argenti's fault. Nailed it.]
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He raises a hand to rest one thumb under his own chin, and one finger against it as if in a playful contemplative pose as he 'thinks' this over, before speaking again once more. ]
Oh, with you saying so, I can hardly consider to dare stage a protest.
But, if that's the case, then you'll have to become accustomed to my well-deserved praise being directed your way quite often.
[ His eyes have softened, not just with mirth, but with something else warm; something that he thinks is everpresent whenever he is with the other man. It's almost enough to forget the craziness of today's events, though he certainly won't. It is just that right now...all he can think of is the person right in front of him. Even as he offers his next word in a gently teasing inquiry. ]
Shall I take that as a compliment?
...Though, if that's true, I hardly think it is so terrible. Your softness will never dull your admirable, formidable, and radiant qualities at all. It may, in fact, enhance them.
[ Argenti doesn't really know how, but Fray has certainly a knack for bringing out this side of him. ]
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I won't try to argue with you. I know it's a fight I won't win.
[But the implication there is that he doesn't agree!!! Being soft is not all that great okay, he's supposed to be an edgelord. >:( ]
...But I suppose I don't mind it all that much if it's you. Consider yourself lucky.
[Because things are different with Argenti, and softening his own edges to avoid hurting those he likes is something Fray can do now - something he should do now. He wants to let Argenti in, so he will. Even if it does mean softening his image.]
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I am glad that you shall not.
[ Argenti says a little cheekily, but the gentle way his tone comes across seems to indicate he knows he can kind of get away with it. Even with the man being an edgelord~
...Though the warmth in that tone does help him know that, admittedly. ]
...So, perhaps I indeed will. Whether it's by a stroke of simply fortune, or by blessing, it is the exact kind of favor I shall take care to cherish it all the same.
[ He means with every fiber of his being as he says this, though. Argenti has met many people, befriended a small amount to an extent, but it has been so long since he has felt so lucky to be considered the target of such gentleness. Or maybe he feels fortunate because it is the other man. ]
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Good of you to acknowledge it, I suppose.
[His tone doesn't match the words, of course. He truly is pleased to hear it, and that much is reflected even if the words themselves don't express as much. This is what happens when you aren't used to expressing your emotions. You turn into a tsundere.]
Though I suppose I should thank you for your presence as well. You do have a tendency to bring out the better half of me.
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As it is, he lets out another breathless laugh when Fray makes the comment that he does...that's twice now. The last person who amused him this much was the Trailblazer. ]
You would get along well with a friend that I know well, I feel.
[ Fortunate that Argenti likes edgelords and tsunderes, huh. ]
...That is high praise from you. Such as it is, I will gladly accept it. To be quite honest, it makes me most glad to hear you say as much. And, perhaps, a bit proud, or maybe even more privileged in the best of ways.
I also do certainly believe that you too draw out another side to me that draws me even closer to the light of Beauty.
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Do I? I'm pleased to hear it.
[That may be a bit of an understatement, truly. Knowing that Argenti feels the same is somewhat of a relief - it's good he isn't alone in that - but it also makes him feel proud, knowing that he's able to bring out this side of the knight. Considering how Arenti views Beauty, bringing him closer to it is a tremendous compliment.
So it's an understatement, but it's true. Fray shifts a bit again to busy himself.]
I may not be quite as gifted with words as you are, but the sentiment is the same. Thank you for sharing it with me.
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Well, I am certainly glad that you are.
I do suspect you would find some of his other eccentric qualities quite unique in a good way, but he does truly have a knack for befriending many people.
[ Indeed it is, it's praise not given lightly, even if he is well used to complimenting people...somehow with this level it's different. It always feels natural for him, but invoking such meaningful matters to him within such words makes it carries an infinitely far deeper and heavier sentiment. ]
Now you are the one that flatters me so! It is also true that it feels quite easy to share such words with you, no matter the magnitude or importance. Either way, it certainly means a lot to hear you return the sentiment and your appreciation. After all, at times even words communicated directly as you tend to are just as wonderful, and splendid as ones woven carefully.
[ Which, well...probably doesn't exactly prove wrong the allegations Fray's making here about him being gifted with words, but he is actually a touch embarrassed in a good way about the compliment. Even if it is not quite obvious here. ]
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Hmm, true enough. The important part is the sentiment rather than the words to express it.
[Though the nice words certainly do help! Fray's still sort of feeling fussy and shy about the whole thing, which is weird because he doesn't usually feel anything like this!! Thanks, Argenti. Now make it stop!!]
I do hate to change the subject, but with regards to today's... events...
[He waves a hand as if to express "all of that". The murder and everything.]
Do you plan on telling the others?
[If Argenti asked him to keep it a secret, he'd do it in a heartbeat. But that doesn't seem quite as forthright as Argenti usually is, so he imagines there's more to it than simply pretending it didn't happen.]
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It's too late, Fray. You're in deep now...it's only a matter of time before Argenti does end up getting that level of flustered. Your days are numbered.
But speaking seriously, when the man changes the topic, it seems like the red head doesn't mind. It's still rather heavy, though somehow it feels easier to handle now than if they had immediately dived into it. The segue has helped immensely. ]
No, it is quite alright. I do not wish to say I had forgotten about it, but I do admit I was momentarily distracted.
[ There's a pause as he considers this. He thinks there is no way he wouldn't reveal it. ]
...Yes, I do. If it were someone unrelated to the group perhaps I may not feel the need - no, even then I would say as much. Everyone deserves to know.
I know that some people will not be happy, but I am not afraid of anyone's disapproval.
In order to be a Knight of Beauty, I must promote honesty. As a part of the group, they must know what happened and why. And...this is a trial I must overcome as well.
[ A short recollection of certain reactions to being a Knight of Beauty come and go in his mind. In light of that, he thinks he's fully prepared. ]
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