[Argenti doesn't get a text back, but it likely isn't a surprise at all that Fray shows up shortly. He's armed as always, that massive blade freshly cleaned after the battle and sharpened for the inevitable next confrontation and overall, Fray doesn't look any different from normal. He joins Argenti easily enough, sitting down beside him.]
...Yes, I believe so as well.
[It's a hesitant start. Truthfully, Fray would prefer not to speak on it and keep his focus ahead, but... well, that's part of the problem, isn't it? He scarcely spoke with anyone after—
No. No, that was V'rhas. Sometimes it's a bit difficult to separate the two of them.
He shakes his head as if to dismiss the thought.]
What happened to him was... [mmmngh] ...We should have been more careful. I am truly sorry for my part in it.
[Maybe it wasn't necessary to jump straight to fighting. Maybe they could have found another way around this that didn't end up with Jordi in such a position to be taken advantage of by that other being. Or maybe there's nothing they could have done - and that is perhaps the hardest idea to stomach.]
[ Well, it certainly isn't a surprise. It is funny, that even if he hadn't received a response via text that he had full faith the other man would come.
He closes his eyes at the thought. And then he hears the other man's voice, opening his eyes, turning to face Fray, gaze soft as well as considering, especially given what he says next.
There is the telltale feeling of guilt, something like sharp anger towards that creature, and deep sorrow, but...the tone that Fray uses feels reflective of that sorrow. Whatever anger is perhaps even potentially directed towards the self. ]
...At that time, we were would bound to be attacked, even if we did not throw the first blow, and even if we attempted to talk it out, I do have an unsettling feeling that the God of Conflict would have interceded nonetheless.
[ He feels wetness come at his eyes. Frustration, helplessness - the notion of failure. Argenti loathes it acutely - a Knight of Beauty failing to save someone? A dear friend, at that? He failed in so many levels. He is not used to failure. ]
That is why I cannot blame you. Not for anything that happened then. Not for this. Even if it feels like we should have been able to do more - to prevent that somehow.
[The God of Conflict... is that what it was? Yes, he supposes it must have been. That makes sense. Who else would interfere in such a way? Not that it does them a lot of good right now, as they've no way of finding and targeting the God of Conflict directly. Is this what they have to look forward to with these bizarre mindscapes? The God of Conflict interfering as it wants, harming or even killing them as it wants?
But more immediately pressing is Argenti. It's not a surprise that he's hurt by this, because Fray is hurt by this, and Argenti is similar in so many ways. They've failed to protect one of their own. Someone who was willing to rely on them. It stings both of defeat and of a great sorrow - they haven't just lost a companion, after all. It likely only hurts worse for Argenti, who seemed to get along quite well with Jordi. Fray can see those tears pricking at the corners of Argenti's eyes, and he wants nothing more than to find some way to fix this, as if such a thing would even be possible.]
Yes. I understand. If I could take the blame solely on my own shoulders I would - but it is a complicated, difficult situation, and not one we can truly blame any one person for.
[The God of Conflict, certainly, but even then...]
You're right, and I wish we had been able to do more for him, to prevent this.
[But there's no sense in dwelling in the past. They can't change what has already happened, after all. Fray keeps that thought silent, in his head where it belongs.]
[ It indeed can be no other, and it makes him think that perhaps, he has been taking this still too lightly. Perhaps they all were.
This God of Conflict has no desire to hold back in his attempts to sow discord. At such thoughts, his memories pan back to that week, and his hand raises to rest upon his own chest. ]
I am...glad that you do not take such blame upon yourself. I would not wish for you to have to carry such a heavy burden upon your shoulder, dear Fray.
...Or for anyone else to. It is truly, as you say, quite complex.
[ Not that Argenti is necessarily taking such advice himself. But, he doesn't think he has room to err so often as he has. It's...messing with his head. All the same, he's glad to hear Fray express the sentiment. They are one in that, aren't they? At this, he wipes his tears, even if they stubbornly persist as he lets out a shuddering breath. ]
Yes, I am too.
He had gone through so much, and yet...things happened as they did. Every time I think about it, I cannot even fathom what could have been done on our part to change anything. But, I can't help it.
...It should not be too unusual, for enemies to try to do what they can to foil those that oppose them. And yet, I do not believe I have truly been up against the direct force of a god in opposition all that often. It is such a distinctly unpleasant experience. If only we could topple this so-called wretched God of Conflict now.
[It occurs to him briefly that maybe if he can't take away Argenti's pain, he can at least share in it - by way of physical affection. It's an odd sentiment that Fray has never experienced and one that must stem from V'rhas, but even then, when was the last time V'rhas was hugged or hugged anyone else? He can't remember. Are his memories of V'rhas naturally this hazy or have they become so over time?
It doesn't matter, Fray tells himself. What matters is the here and now. And right here, right now, there's nothing he can do to help Argenti and that incenses him, nearly as much as this God of Conflict and his actions.]
It's only natural for us to ponder what we could have done differently, I think. Even if there was nothing, it's human nature to consider the what ifs. Particularly in a situation like this, where the outcome was something so terrible.
[But just as he can't solely blame himself for Jordi's death, neither can Argenti, nor anyone else. He hopes they all recognize that, but... Well, this is exceptionally tough to deal with even for them, let alone the teenagers who have likely never experienced anything like this.]
I would prefer to take the fight to this god. Deity or not, I would rather try my chances in combat than wait for him to strike. But it seems he doesn't plan to let that be an option, for whatever reason.
[You'd think a God of Conflict would want to fight, but noooo...]
But we will get that chance. I have to believe that we will.
[Because otherwise Jordi's death - and all this suffering in these mindscapes - will be in vain. They have to defeat the God of Conflict in order to save this world, right? That seems to be where this is going. Fight and possibly kill a god... not exactly the first time he'll be doing something like that, anyway.]
[ If that happened, Argenti would certainly have appreciated it, though not expected it - such as it is, he too wishes he could reach out, and maybe he could, but...
If he is being honest with himself, he doesn't know if the other man would like it. Though, he did at least imagine holding his hand - armor or not. Maybe it still isn't entirely impossible, but amongst the sorrow in his heart, the trepidation makes it feel too distant. Still, if anything, he hears the words that the Dark Knight speak, those sentiments resonating within him.
Even if it feels like nothing is enough, he feels himself trying to grasp uselessly for it, anyway. ]
Yes...it's only human nature. You are right about that.
[ Is it not proof that they are who they are, as individuals? He hopes that will continue to remain, no matter what happens to them, but at the same...he wonders at that too. ]
That god is quite the wretched coward. That must be it.
...I had wondered if we may be able to grasp that opportunity, dealing with such an opponent.
But, you are also right that it is something that should be believed as a must. At this point, if we are not able to someday go head to head against the god, he will claim victory.
And that - that is unacceptable.
[ His hands clench tightly into fists. It isn't like Argenti hasn't heard of the idea of toppling a god at all. In his universe there are tales of Aeons being toppled or wiped out. He hasn't exactly paid them much mind, though he wishes he did now.
Regardless, anger comes to him more easily than he thought; a rage that is ready to raise immediately at being stoked. At so many things - the God of Conflict, himself, and...well, many imnunerable matters. ]
[Usually Fray would be glad to see the anger. Anger is easier to deal with than sadness - it's easier to channel into something productive, in his opinion. He tried so, so hard to get V'rhas fired up and furious about all the things he went through (they went through) and yet...
And yet right now, all he wants is to take away all the pain that Argenti's feeling, because he doesn't like seeing the knight upset like this. Fury isn't something Argenti should be forced to experience.
Without thinking, one of Fray's hands comes up to rest on Argenti's forearm, as if that will somehow make things better despite the touch being armor on armor. He forces himself not to think about it any further.]
We'll find a way to put a stop to him. If he won't come to us, then we'll find a way to come at him. We will not take this lying down.
[Bold words when he doesn't have a plan, but right now he thinks Argenti needs them more than he needs the plan. And maybe, if Fray's being entirely honest with himself, he needs to believe this too.]
[ Yes...it certainly is. Argenti has used it time and time again in order to help him clear away creatures who had dared to sink their evil claws into many worlds and many lands.
People as well.
This feels different, he thinks, because one of the targets is a bit higher on the totem pole, so to speak. But, while he allows his thoughts to further sink into that, he feels a hand rest upon where it does, distracting him, and making him give pause as he blinks. For some reason, he feels himself relax, and he has to quickly correct his posture. He can't feel it acutely, but the gesture is...very welcoming. ]
Yes...you are most certainly correct.
I believe this God of Conflict underestimates us all far too much. When we come at him, he shall not see us coming.
[ Something resembling Argenti's usual confidence rather than pure fury trickles back into his tone, and while he still feels that anger, he thinks he will let it rest until they confront this evil god. ]
Fray, I must admit, though, at times like these...ah, well, what I mean to say is that I am glad that we have the opportunity to speak like this. It is not for any such happy occasion that we've both come together again, and yet, I would not wish for either one of us to face the aftermath of what happened alone.
[ He says this, his opposite still-armored hand reaching to lightly pat the armored one that had upon his forearm, smiling a little at him; equal parts sad, but potentially hopeful as well. ]
[That's better, he thinks, and it's a bit more like Argenti to face things head on with courage rather than anger. It centers him, seeing how Argenti settles a bit and even though Fray can't feel Argenti's hand on his, he feels warm. Comfortable, maybe. It's a nice feeling, despite everything that happened earlier today.]
As am I. I would not want you to weather this storm alone.
[And it likely wouldn't be good for him to handle his emotions alone either, because that has a terrible tendency to end in murder. Or very loud declarations of murder while the Warrior of Light refuses to actually do the killing, but the point remains.]
Thank you for seeking me out. [Or leaving a message, same thing.] I feel better after having discussed it with you. We may not have a plan just yet, but we will get our opportunity to strike. I'm certain of it.
[If he's a god who loves conflict, then surely he'll want to bring that to a head at some point - and who better for it to be against than the god himself?]
[ Argenti will just casually let his own hand lay there as well, not thinking too hard about it. It just feels right, even if he'll have to shift his posture eventually.
When...Fray says that he wishes for him to have not weathered the storm alone, something like that blooms further warmth inside. The sad ache will not dissipate entirely, alongside that currently dulled, yet simmering anger. But, there is something at least pleasant to go alongside it. ]
At least we are on the same page, in so many respects. Even so, it is no trouble at all. Seeking you out has always proven to be, well...I find, a good idea. For lack of a better way of phrasing it.
[ He smiles a little to himself, a pensive expression coming over him as his eyes flicker upwards at the lit star ocean hanging above their heads. Then, he closes his eyes for a moment. ]
This has all helped myself regain more hope as well. Though, speaking of which, I am reminded of a time long ago, when I needed something to push me through a difficult time. It is far too distant of a recollection now, but...
I feel like I once stared up at a starry sky like this one above our heads, when I was much younger, on my homeworld.
...And I realize it truly makes a difference when you do have someone beside you in such difficult times. I shall never take it for granted, and what it means to have us able to support one another like this.
[ Words feel too insignificant, and there is somewhat of a struggle to convey what he wishes to, but in the end, Argenti knows that sometimes the straight-forward, yet simplistic approach can be just as true and monumental. ]
[Fray's gaze never once shifts from Argenti's face, even as Argenti looks skyward.]
Aye. Having the opportunity to meet someone so dedicated and fascinating in another world like this is... well, it certainly wasn't what I expected when I arrived here.
[The goddess may have had half a point in bringing them both here, in other words. So he may owe her thanks for that.]
I am... glad that we have the opportunity to speak candidly like this, despite what we have faced today. The others will be struggling as well and I intend to do what small amount I can for them... but I would be lying if I said that they were my first thought.
...I'm glad you've regained some amount of hope, Argenti.
[He never thought this would break Argenti, but the idea of seeing Argenti hurt at all sets him on edge in a way he doesn't like. So knowing that his words have had an impact on the man and that he's feeling a bit better now means the world to Fray.]
[ Argenti feels his face start to warm at the compliment. Then, he manages to look back right at Fray, who is looking right at him. Though, there is a little warm smile on his face, reaching his eyes. ]
You are rather kind with your praise, dear Fray. Yet, I find myself eager to accept it, as hearing you speak it truly warms my heart. Yes, knowing that a thoughtful, compassionate, and hard-working man like yourself would say such positive words of myself in regards to us meeting feels like a blessing.
[ So dedicated and fascinating, is he? Look, that may be simple positive words, but from Fray? It's like he called him the mirror image of Idrila - okay, that is perhaps an exaggeration.
That said, when Fray voices that essentially he is the one who has been his first thought, he feels as if he has left that rage behind, laughing lightly (it still exists, like the pain of that sorrow, but feels so far behind for the moment.) ]
...Something about being a priority to you is like witnessing a flower in bloom. I cannot talk, though, seeing as you are the first that I thought of as well. That is not to say that I will not see to others myself as well, [ Until, well. Things happen but that is a problem for future Argenti!! ] but the sentiment conveyed between us feels nothing short of beautiful. It is a bridge of splendidly radiant mutual sentiment that dares persist in times where events exist to challenge our entire beings.
[ Oops, he is falling down the hill of his flowery yappery...ah well. ]
It is thanks to you, I feel. I know that I would always keep some alive, deep within my heart, it is true - my hope shall never die. But, with you, I feel as if the hope in my heart can always and readily bloom so much more swifter.
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linknet2024-07-25 09:56 pm
no subject
...Yes, I believe so as well.
[It's a hesitant start. Truthfully, Fray would prefer not to speak on it and keep his focus ahead, but... well, that's part of the problem, isn't it? He scarcely spoke with anyone after—
No. No, that was V'rhas. Sometimes it's a bit difficult to separate the two of them.
He shakes his head as if to dismiss the thought.]
What happened to him was... [mmmngh] ...We should have been more careful. I am truly sorry for my part in it.
[Maybe it wasn't necessary to jump straight to fighting. Maybe they could have found another way around this that didn't end up with Jordi in such a position to be taken advantage of by that other being. Or maybe there's nothing they could have done - and that is perhaps the hardest idea to stomach.]
no subject
He closes his eyes at the thought. And then he hears the other man's voice, opening his eyes, turning to face Fray, gaze soft as well as considering, especially given what he says next.
There is the telltale feeling of guilt, something like sharp anger towards that creature, and deep sorrow, but...the tone that Fray uses feels reflective of that sorrow. Whatever anger is perhaps even potentially directed towards the self. ]
...At that time, we were would bound to be attacked, even if we did not throw the first blow, and even if we attempted to talk it out, I do have an unsettling feeling that the God of Conflict would have interceded nonetheless.
[ He feels wetness come at his eyes. Frustration, helplessness - the notion of failure. Argenti loathes it acutely - a Knight of Beauty failing to save someone? A dear friend, at that? He failed in so many levels. He is not used to failure. ]
That is why I cannot blame you. Not for anything that happened then. Not for this. Even if it feels like we should have been able to do more - to prevent that somehow.
no subject
But more immediately pressing is Argenti. It's not a surprise that he's hurt by this, because Fray is hurt by this, and Argenti is similar in so many ways. They've failed to protect one of their own. Someone who was willing to rely on them. It stings both of defeat and of a great sorrow - they haven't just lost a companion, after all. It likely only hurts worse for Argenti, who seemed to get along quite well with Jordi. Fray can see those tears pricking at the corners of Argenti's eyes, and he wants nothing more than to find some way to fix this, as if such a thing would even be possible.]
Yes. I understand. If I could take the blame solely on my own shoulders I would - but it is a complicated, difficult situation, and not one we can truly blame any one person for.
[The God of Conflict, certainly, but even then...]
You're right, and I wish we had been able to do more for him, to prevent this.
[But there's no sense in dwelling in the past. They can't change what has already happened, after all. Fray keeps that thought silent, in his head where it belongs.]
I am sorry that it came to this.
no subject
This God of Conflict has no desire to hold back in his attempts to sow discord. At such thoughts, his memories pan back to that week, and his hand raises to rest upon his own chest. ]
I am...glad that you do not take such blame upon yourself. I would not wish for you to have to carry such a heavy burden upon your shoulder, dear Fray.
...Or for anyone else to. It is truly, as you say, quite complex.
[ Not that Argenti is necessarily taking such advice himself. But, he doesn't think he has room to err so often as he has. It's...messing with his head. All the same, he's glad to hear Fray express the sentiment. They are one in that, aren't they? At this, he wipes his tears, even if they stubbornly persist as he lets out a shuddering breath. ]
Yes, I am too.
He had gone through so much, and yet...things happened as they did. Every time I think about it, I cannot even fathom what could have been done on our part to change anything. But, I can't help it.
...It should not be too unusual, for enemies to try to do what they can to foil those that oppose them. And yet, I do not believe I have truly been up against the direct force of a god in opposition all that often. It is such a distinctly unpleasant experience. If only we could topple this so-called wretched God of Conflict now.
no subject
It doesn't matter, Fray tells himself. What matters is the here and now. And right here, right now, there's nothing he can do to help Argenti and that incenses him, nearly as much as this God of Conflict and his actions.]
It's only natural for us to ponder what we could have done differently, I think. Even if there was nothing, it's human nature to consider the what ifs. Particularly in a situation like this, where the outcome was something so terrible.
[But just as he can't solely blame himself for Jordi's death, neither can Argenti, nor anyone else. He hopes they all recognize that, but... Well, this is exceptionally tough to deal with even for them, let alone the teenagers who have likely never experienced anything like this.]
I would prefer to take the fight to this god. Deity or not, I would rather try my chances in combat than wait for him to strike. But it seems he doesn't plan to let that be an option, for whatever reason.
[You'd think a God of Conflict would want to fight, but noooo...]
But we will get that chance. I have to believe that we will.
[Because otherwise Jordi's death - and all this suffering in these mindscapes - will be in vain. They have to defeat the God of Conflict in order to save this world, right? That seems to be where this is going. Fight and possibly kill a god... not exactly the first time he'll be doing something like that, anyway.]
no subject
If he is being honest with himself, he doesn't know if the other man would like it. Though, he did at least imagine holding his hand - armor or not. Maybe it still isn't entirely impossible, but amongst the sorrow in his heart, the trepidation makes it feel too distant. Still, if anything, he hears the words that the Dark Knight speak, those sentiments resonating within him.
Even if it feels like nothing is enough, he feels himself trying to grasp uselessly for it, anyway. ]
Yes...it's only human nature. You are right about that.
[ Is it not proof that they are who they are, as individuals? He hopes that will continue to remain, no matter what happens to them, but at the same...he wonders at that too. ]
That god is quite the wretched coward. That must be it.
...I had wondered if we may be able to grasp that opportunity, dealing with such an opponent.
But, you are also right that it is something that should be believed as a must. At this point, if we are not able to someday go head to head against the god, he will claim victory.
And that - that is unacceptable.
[ His hands clench tightly into fists. It isn't like Argenti hasn't heard of the idea of toppling a god at all. In his universe there are tales of Aeons being toppled or wiped out. He hasn't exactly paid them much mind, though he wishes he did now.
Regardless, anger comes to him more easily than he thought; a rage that is ready to raise immediately at being stoked. At so many things - the God of Conflict, himself, and...well, many imnunerable matters. ]
no subject
And yet right now, all he wants is to take away all the pain that Argenti's feeling, because he doesn't like seeing the knight upset like this. Fury isn't something Argenti should be forced to experience.
Without thinking, one of Fray's hands comes up to rest on Argenti's forearm, as if that will somehow make things better despite the touch being armor on armor. He forces himself not to think about it any further.]
We'll find a way to put a stop to him. If he won't come to us, then we'll find a way to come at him. We will not take this lying down.
[Bold words when he doesn't have a plan, but right now he thinks Argenti needs them more than he needs the plan. And maybe, if Fray's being entirely honest with himself, he needs to believe this too.]
no subject
People as well.
This feels different, he thinks, because one of the targets is a bit higher on the totem pole, so to speak. But, while he allows his thoughts to further sink into that, he feels a hand rest upon where it does, distracting him, and making him give pause as he blinks. For some reason, he feels himself relax, and he has to quickly correct his posture. He can't feel it acutely, but the gesture is...very welcoming. ]
Yes...you are most certainly correct.
I believe this God of Conflict underestimates us all far too much. When we come at him, he shall not see us coming.
[ Something resembling Argenti's usual confidence rather than pure fury trickles back into his tone, and while he still feels that anger, he thinks he will let it rest until they confront this evil god. ]
Fray, I must admit, though, at times like these...ah, well, what I mean to say is that I am glad that we have the opportunity to speak like this. It is not for any such happy occasion that we've both come together again, and yet, I would not wish for either one of us to face the aftermath of what happened alone.
[ He says this, his opposite still-armored hand reaching to lightly pat the armored one that had upon his forearm, smiling a little at him; equal parts sad, but potentially hopeful as well. ]
no subject
As am I. I would not want you to weather this storm alone.
[And it likely wouldn't be good for him to handle his emotions alone either, because that has a terrible tendency to end in murder. Or very loud declarations of murder while the Warrior of Light refuses to actually do the killing, but the point remains.]
Thank you for seeking me out. [Or leaving a message, same thing.] I feel better after having discussed it with you. We may not have a plan just yet, but we will get our opportunity to strike. I'm certain of it.
[If he's a god who loves conflict, then surely he'll want to bring that to a head at some point - and who better for it to be against than the god himself?]
no subject
When...Fray says that he wishes for him to have not weathered the storm alone, something like that blooms further warmth inside. The sad ache will not dissipate entirely, alongside that currently dulled, yet simmering anger. But, there is something at least pleasant to go alongside it. ]
At least we are on the same page, in so many respects. Even so, it is no trouble at all. Seeking you out has always proven to be, well...I find, a good idea. For lack of a better way of phrasing it.
[ He smiles a little to himself, a pensive expression coming over him as his eyes flicker upwards at the lit star ocean hanging above their heads. Then, he closes his eyes for a moment. ]
This has all helped myself regain more hope as well. Though, speaking of which, I am reminded of a time long ago, when I needed something to push me through a difficult time. It is far too distant of a recollection now, but...
I feel like I once stared up at a starry sky like this one above our heads, when I was much younger, on my homeworld.
...And I realize it truly makes a difference when you do have someone beside you in such difficult times. I shall never take it for granted, and what it means to have us able to support one another like this.
[ Words feel too insignificant, and there is somewhat of a struggle to convey what he wishes to, but in the end, Argenti knows that sometimes the straight-forward, yet simplistic approach can be just as true and monumental. ]
no subject
Aye. Having the opportunity to meet someone so dedicated and fascinating in another world like this is... well, it certainly wasn't what I expected when I arrived here.
[The goddess may have had half a point in bringing them both here, in other words. So he may owe her thanks for that.]
I am... glad that we have the opportunity to speak candidly like this, despite what we have faced today. The others will be struggling as well and I intend to do what small amount I can for them... but I would be lying if I said that they were my first thought.
...I'm glad you've regained some amount of hope, Argenti.
[He never thought this would break Argenti, but the idea of seeing Argenti hurt at all sets him on edge in a way he doesn't like. So knowing that his words have had an impact on the man and that he's feeling a bit better now means the world to Fray.]
no subject
You are rather kind with your praise, dear Fray. Yet, I find myself eager to accept it, as hearing you speak it truly warms my heart. Yes, knowing that a thoughtful, compassionate, and hard-working man like yourself would say such positive words of myself in regards to us meeting feels like a blessing.
[ So dedicated and fascinating, is he? Look, that may be simple positive words, but from Fray? It's like he called him the mirror image of Idrila - okay, that is perhaps an exaggeration.
That said, when Fray voices that essentially he is the one who has been his first thought, he feels as if he has left that rage behind, laughing lightly (it still exists, like the pain of that sorrow, but feels so far behind for the moment.) ]
...Something about being a priority to you is like witnessing a flower in bloom. I cannot talk, though, seeing as you are the first that I thought of as well. That is not to say that I will not see to others myself as well, [ Until, well. Things happen but that is a problem for future Argenti!! ] but the sentiment conveyed between us feels nothing short of beautiful. It is a bridge of splendidly radiant mutual sentiment that dares persist in times where events exist to challenge our entire beings.
[ Oops, he is falling down the hill of his flowery yappery...ah well. ]
It is thanks to you, I feel. I know that I would always keep some alive, deep within my heart, it is true - my hope shall never die. But, with you, I feel as if the hope in my heart can always and readily bloom so much more swifter.