Welcome to Gaia! ::

Athena leaned against Alroy's body, not sure what would be better or more comfortable for him. Looking at his body seemed more right than looking at his head, but she still didn't want to do anything that would make him uneasy. She shut her eyes and concentrated on his breathing, his heartbeat. Both were more consistent now, far more relaxed. Was that her own doing? Or did he just feel more composed now that he had the space and time to think and feel?

The man spoke softly and she smiled. She? Lady Athena? A gentleman if you ask me, Master. Edgar chirped softly, ruffling his feathers and squawking as he spread them out. You're most welcome, Alroy. My companion thinks you a gentleman, and I do most agree with him. The valkyrie looked up to his body, her smile widening as she spoke. If she knew one thing for sure, that would be that giving a shy person confidence, letting them know their good qualities, gave them a lot more self-esteem than nearly anything else. And if she were to work with him, try and get him to socialize pleasantly with others, he would need confidence. He had some, sure; but only really when he was alone and didn't feel like he was being judged.

Athena looked over at the horse as the dullahan spoke, wondering what it would be like to stay silent every moment one thought they were being judged. It almost seemed like, under that premise, no one would ever speak because it's in everyone's nature to make a judgment, or a decision of some sort on someone-valid and supported or not. Old Potato? That's a very unique name for a spirit horse. She murmured, gasping and taking a step back as the horse responded. I don't think he likes that.... Ha! Old Potato?! That's almost worse than Willow Acorn! Boy, your master must hate you. What have you done to give him the impression you like being called a decomposing tuber? The plump raven strut between the spirit's ears, cackling at his own comical question. It was a fair one, but a mean thing to say. Now, Edgar. We mustn't be rude to the new guests. If he prefers that name,then leave him be. It's not a thing to make fun of. Understand?

The woman eyes were on her feathered companion before slowing moving down the neck of the gorgeous beast to his master's head. Does he actually like that? Or should I simply continue to call him dear spirit? He seemed to protest... She asked lightly, her eyebrows twitching in concern. She hoped more than anything that she hadn't done anything to bother the equine...Maybe he overly protective of his master and didn't like that they were holding hands. Could that be the problem? Her eyes fell down to their hands and she frowned a little bit. But she quite liked holding his hand... even if it was too big for her own.

Lost in her own thoughts, Athena shook her head slightly. She responded more absently, Edgar is a bold fellow. He was initially scared, but I think your companion intrigues him more than makes him feel fearful. He- I was not afraid, Master Athena! I caught a cool breeze...It ruffled my feathers. He piped up, daring to n** the horse in the ear harder than before, just to see what would happen. The valkyrie shook her head again and leaned against Alroy' body once more, squeezing his hand gently. He is a feisty creature with a lot of personality. He won't admit it, but he was afraid. A lot of squawk, not a lot of n**.

Edgar proceeded to attempt and prove his point by plopping down in the very center between Old Potato's ears, gently scratching at his scalp with his claws. You're not as big and scary as you would like to think, horse brains. He warbled softly before nestling into himself and shutting his eyes. Athena opened her mouth to protest again, her hand flying up to point and reprimand. He is who he is, Athena. Let that one slide. She thought as she dropped her hand once more against her side. So, what now Mr. Reid? She asked more hopefully, letting the light wash over her, calming her mind and soul. It was time for her to be happy again. Things were perfect now.

Athena almost immediately reacted when he looked down with her and removed his hand from hers. But what was she supposed to say? She looked to be frowning at the matter...And he could only react accordingly to her response. You dumb feathered human... She reprimanded herself, sighing softly while trying to put a smile on her face. It would require them to move in baby steps anyways. One hand-holding moment at a time.

Not long after did Alroy better explain the reasoning behind his horse's rather peculiar name. It was believable, reasonable for some reason too. In the least, he hadn't named his horse something that he absolutely hated...But to like old potatoes? That was an odd taste. Could rotting things make the spirit sick? Could he get sick by anything? Could Alroy get food poisoning or was that thing something primarily humans got...Well animals could get sick from things too-things they couldn't eat. Edgar got sick once time when he ate a cacao bean instead of a raisin. How the poor feather ball managed that was beyond her. He had said he was really hungry and so must have missed the fact that raisins are shriveled with little wrinkles and cacao beans are small and smooth.

The valkyrie smiled, commenting softly, I know that there are some potatoes in the market get thrown out if not sold within a certain-I think if they get to be too old. Maybe we could give them to your companion. She thought it wasteful and thought to salvage some of the food right before it was thrown in the piles of garbage behind the markets and shops. If worst came to worst, they could very well be used for some compost, and she could use that compost for the little planter boxes that she wanted to make. Edgar was quite fond of a few kinds of dried fruits and nuts, and she would love to make him a homemade trail mix of sorts if she could. Why was she so lost in her thoughts now? Alroy is paying his full attention to you, you should do the same.

She looked up to follow the movements of the dullahan-Hey now! That's real mean of you, you ghost animal! I have done nothing but graced you with my presence. Show some respect! he squawked unhappily- talking to his horse in a language she only vaguely could recognize. The horse, of course, could understand. Could Edgar understand? I will do my business where I like and no big baddie like you is going to tell me otherwise. The raven said with a humph before settling back down where he was. He shut his little beady black eyes, his claws scratching at the horse. He didn't know if the equine could feel it but it really was the best he had in terms of intimidation and pain tactics.

Thank you, Mr. Reid. I'm sure Edgar...Provoked him in one manner or another. She tried to smile as she spoke though was thoroughly disappointed Ed couldn't seem to behave even for a second. He doesn't always like to listen to me. Her smile became more genuine, though, the more Alroy spoke. He thought Edgar cute? Ed was her pride and joy in life, and she completely adored him! He had always been on the plumper side-which seemed to make things cuter, especially animals!- and very kind to her ever since she caught him. He was grateful when he felt he needed to be, and amusing especially when she needed a good laugh. I HEARD THAT! Must I make the man feel my wrath?! I am not cute! Athena giggled, shaking her head as she looked in the general direction of the dullahan. Ed is very cute, I must admit. He doesn't like when other people call him that...But there's not much he can do- Master Athena, I'm only cute for you. He chirped softly, and she nodded, twisting her hand in the sleeves of her dress. Yes, Edgar. You are only cute to me. But she leaned over and whispered, You can call him cute. And I apologize ahead of time for how much we banter.

Her cheeks tinted a rosy pink as she stepped back to give the man space. She wasn't sure whether he was so used to people close to him or up against him, and she had already prolonged several moment of physical contact. Surely that was enough for the day-and if he so desired, he could initiate any other times he wanted her for hugs, hand-holding, and the like. She highly doubted he would manage to kiss her anywhere in the next five years.

Athena kept her eyes trained on his movements once more as he took the head in his hands and brought it up to the area where it belonged on most people. She hadn't ever seen a dullahan reattach his or her head before...That was very unusual. Why had he done it? Was it for her sake? Because she could easily reassure him that she was far more than comfortable and used to the sight of a headless body. Dear Odin, that's morbid to mention! She squinted and watched awestruck as the head fell right into place and attached like it never had the chance of coming apart. The valkyrie nearly leapt up and went to jab and poke at the seam that had practically vanished. It was one of the most fascinating things she had ever seen, and in that moment, she felt like a babe learning about new things in the world. Why did you do that? She asked softly, bringing her hands together to hold themselves. She was nervous to question his actions, but she was wholly curious now. And she really did want to know everything about him...

She didn't want his questions to go unanswered, though, as that was inconsiderate and undeniably rude. I...Am here to stay. It's safe for me, here. I want this sanctuary to be my home, as I have never once had one. She responded, nearly inaudibly. Athena looked away for a moment as she felt a pang of sadness and regret in mentioning that. A painful reality she had yet to accept-never having some place to call a home. And to think she was actually one who ran...Who was some sort of fugitive for no longer serving the gods. She really hoped no one was looking for her. She wanted to be lost for now. At least, until she felt worthy of being found.

Athena nodded to acknowledge both what Old Potato said, and what Alroy had requested. Of course, she had no idea what it was that the poor spirit horse had said, but thought that, in the least, he deserved acknowledgement. She presumed that since she had been consistent about translating what it was that Edgar said-save for the rude talk- that Alroy would be much the same with his companion as well. At least, he seemed considerate enough for her to assume he would. "Alright then, Alroy. If your companion is trying to communicate a better name to me, please do let me know. I want to make sure he is comfortable with the way in which I address him. It only seems fair, doesn't it?" She asked hopefully, trying to keep her demeanor on the more positive side. She wasn't sure if he was able to catch and interpret her expressions and body language as she did with him, so to change her tone of voice would be more easy to recognize. Right?

Darn right I won't shut up! I don't want you to forget who is in charge here! Athena sighed at her companion's demands, smiling anyways. To think a little ball of feathers and attitude was attempting to control a far larger spirit horse was amusing in its own respect, and she nearly wanted to laugh out in the open for it. Edgar, manners. She reminded him lightly, only glancing his way. She wanted to make sure that she still included Alroy in the way she stood, not to close him off. Yes, Master Athena. The bird responded, defeated for the moment. He continued to scratch the horse, figuring that he didn't wholly hate the action given he hadn't moved to buck and had called it 'pleasant'. You won this time, horse brains.

The valkyrie laughed softly and shrugged off his apology. They were in the same position with their ever-present companions. They needed just as much attention as any other creature, and with their bold and colorful personalities...It appeared they needed even more recognition than the average.She knew he meant well by his apology, however, and she was mentally grateful for that.

His next question caught her off guard for a moment. Did she have an answer for that? Had she ever spoken to the headless bodies that she was so used to seeing when she was serving? She had, that was true. Mostly to assure them they would go to Valhalla, or to wish they would stop making those awful sounds. They haunted her to this day, the way they moaned and wished for their survival to a wonderous afterlife she simply couldn't grant them. I don't mind it much either way, Mr.-Alroy. Whatever you're more comfortable with is all I ask for. And since you asked, if your head is separate...How do you prefer to be addressed? I could tell you don't quite like me looking at your face, but wasn't sure it was right to talk to your body. She caught herself before finishing his name, looking past him and then down at her hands that were gripping her dress sleeves far too tightly. Was that a dumb question to ask? Or would he be offended? Would he get uncomfortable and ask she leave him alone? Athena really wished he wouldn't...That he would just tell her it was a good question to ask, and that she was kind to consider it. Maybe it really was rude. Oh he must really hate me now, if he didn't before...

The little woman gasped softly, startled as she felt his heavy hand come down to rest on her shoulder. It wasn't heavy because he was trying to hurt her. No, it was heavy because she was small and most everything larger than her felt heavier. Anatomically, he was proportionate in weight compared to his height. Bigger bones are heavier than smaller bones, after all. You really must relax or you'll frighten him away! You didn't mean it. I know your intentions were in the right place in your heart. The term home just strikes me in an odd way. I don't know how to explain it well... Athena trailed off, letting him ask his next question.

Was that a smile? Was he trying to make her feel better? He must have known some social conventions after all, or perhaps it was by pure luck that he was doing precisely what was most comforting to some. The valkyrie couldn't help but smile back, nodding to his offer. I would love it if you would keep me company during my stay here. And if you please, I will be your company as well. We could make a home here. She wasn't sure he would understand by 'here' she meant the sanctuary, or if he thought she meant here in the forest, or here in the nearby city. But either way, the kinks of where 'here' was would be worked out, and they would decide together what their next move was.

Athena shook her head, forcing herself to not reach out for his hand and hold it in her own. She didn't want him to feel bad for what he had done, he had simply startled her from her own thoughts. She got so far lost in them that half the time when she was in the presence of company, she forgot altogether that they were there. Not to mention things just affected her more easily because she was somewhat weak, being as small as she was.

As he spoke once more, standing taller than before, she moved to stand straighter too and unfurl her hands from her dress sleeves. Now it just seemed a little too formal, but there was something about mirroring body language that seemed to go over well for most. Her crystalline eyes dragged up from the ground to look him in the eyes as he asked, and they were soft with compassion and desire to understand. Though he asked of her that she look him in the eyes, as that was the normal thing to do, she didn't think that would be the best option for him. All he seemed to want was to blend in, to be what was deemed socially 'normal'; but what he wasn't considering was his own comfort levels. Stepping out of the box, as they call it, was good and healthy sometimes. But eye contact was a sensitive thing, and in some cultures was even rude. Surely he didn't know this...Wasn't that what she was there for?

Athena moved to take his hand in hers, not being able to stand the way that he scratched at himself with the nervous tension. I understand and will follow what you ask, but I do want to say this... If you feel anxious, offended, or upset in any manner when people look you in the eye, it is best you don't request that as the way in which they should address you. I know it seems okay and normal, but you may not feel the same way. She gently squeezed his hands, smiling as she looked up at him. She wasn't so sure his facial expression, or if he was even listening and looking at her. It really is hard to see things from way down here...Perhaps I should acquire some stilts. She thought to herself, her eyes wide and hopeful still.

The valkyrie waited for his response, or for him to say something more. Perhaps she had said too much already...She wasn't sure how much advice or perspective was too much. She just wanted to tell him and teach him everything she knew, particularly the things that were relevant in the moment. If she didn't, Freyja only knows she would forget. What use would it be then if an accident were to occur? Then he might blame her, and it really would be all her fault for not warning him ahead of time. Gods, she would feel guilty and awful for causing a commotion or uproar over something so simple. Yet, were social conventions really simple? Every culture managed to have their own, and so to remember every single regions ways of interacting...How did anyone do it? Athena, you're getting away with your thoughts again.

The woman shook her head to jumble the thoughts once more. She could only imagine what he thought as she stared blankly up at him with her thoughts floating around like bubbles flying away with the wind. She caught the end of his comment regarding his horse, even managing to giggle a little. He thinks she's bothered by that? He hadn't fully understood how understanding and patient she was. With time, right? She brought her hands together as it appeared he had let them go in the process of removing the helmet he was wearing.I don't find it weird at all. Edgar does much the same, but seeing as he is most serene right now between your spirit companion's ears...He is quiet. The day has only begun, but he naps quite often. That much was true, and in fact, Ed had fallen asleep, unconsciously still scratching at the horse. He had a tendency to do funny things in his sleep like peck at his safety pouch straps and bite Athena's neck, but she was so fond of him that it didn't matter much. If anything, the valkyrie loved the little gestures. That was her life, and she was content with it.

The dullahan was speaking a lot more now. It was very awkward, and it almost seemed like he had lost the confidence he had only just gained in favor for a lot of deep breathing and, she could only presume, a lot of internal arguing. He knew the words he wanted to say, she could see it in his eyes, but looking at her hindered them from ever leaving his brain. She nodded and smiled encouragingly, trying to give him something to regain that confidence. It does matter. It really does matter to me, Alroy. She said with a slight frown. Why did he discount himself so quickly? Like what he had to say didn't matter? She would take anything he said and store it in her memory for later-it gave her insight as to what he did know and what he needed more work on. It gave her a checklist of things to talk about as they walked idly around, or while they sat down to eat. Nearly every moment was a moment where she could teach; and though teachable moments were rare for everyone else, they were invaluable and often for someone like him.

Athena continued on after assuring him that what he had to say was of value to her. Just to remind him that he did have value, thus his words had value as well. I haven't been living anywhere in particular, honestly. I roam around the city and the forest when twilight settles...I don't have to sleep. I've never needed to-though I really do wish I could. If you would like a home out here, we will find someone in the city to help us. I have made one friend who appears a jack-of-all-trades. Surely he knows a thing or two of building a home. Would you like to meet him in a few days time? She offered, her hands clasped together as if pleading for him to agree. Well now she was just excited. This friend of hers, bless his soul, was so sweet and kind it made her heart thud with elation. His company was really one of the most wonderful things. He had a store in town, he told her. Perhaps she could visit with Alroy so that they could get food. Would he be alright with that?

The silver haired woman laughed softly, tilting her head ever so slightly to the side as her eyes shut in happiness at the thought. He hadn't quite understood what she meant by what was comfortable, and that was quite alright. Though, his logic still followed and she wouldn't make much more a fuss than she already had. If he was set on stripping away the comforts he had in order to actualize the person he wanted to be, who was she to hinder the process by questioning him, and making him think that he was wrong to conduct himself as he was? As you wish, so long as you promise to tell me if and when anything I do has you ill at ease. I don't find it beneficial in terms of teaching to have the one learning discomforted by anything I do.

Just the thought of her being a teacher made her eyes light anew, sparkling with the precious excitement and will to do what was good and right by her new friend. She did truly hope and pray he would find confidence and comfort in her presence, and should she come to be someone who was hurting more than helping, he would request her leave without feeling any level of guilt or sorrow. She would have to come to terms with any decisions he would make regarding their companionship, too. The thought of being rejected still made the valkyrie frown ever so slightly, but it was all so quickly replaced... The soft tone of his voice, the eagerness in his eyes, the gentle touch of his hand-it all forced the pain out of her chest, and instead left a lightness. She felt like their were clouds letting her float, no longer her wings doing the work. She felt like he was bringing her higher, to a place of truer peace and internal serenity.

Athena blushed softly at the squeeze of his hand, her heart stuttering. That was a feeling she had never once had before. As if her chest contracted and felt tight, yet, it was in some nice way.Though you thank me, I find no reason for it. It, quite honestly, is just me being decent to another creature much like myself. Beyond our race, our place of origin, and our intended purpose...On the inside, we are like one in the same. We act kind to receive the same kindness, we work toward comfortability around the greater population, we seek compassion and friends that do not judge us. We expect respect from others when we grant it to them-there is nothing to repay in that. So I will have to decline your desire to 'repay' me. Your companionship is all I ask for. She responded quietly, realizing her gaze had been at the floor for a majority of her little spiel. The winged creature looked up to face the dullahan once more and found some admiration in the man's emerald eyes. So sweet...Others were wrong to turn away from him.

His following admission had her eyebrows quirked in confusion. He would, essentially, pretend that he functioned as a normal person? He would eat what he deemed 'good food' and would hope only to dream something nice? The valkyrie looked around for a long thirty seconds as her thoughts ran away from her.

Why would one want to pretend to live a life that wasn't meant for them? To appear average, when they weren't? It seemed an odd desire, to want to eat and sleep if it wasn't necessary for survival. What evoked Alroy to want these things? Did he actively think about how the food tasted? Or when he awoke from unconsciousness, did he consider what feelings and emotions his dreams gave him? Were they good feelings? Did he ever have a night terror? Or was he, somehow, immune to feeling fear because he practically produced it in others as an inborn trait of his? Athena's eyes widened at the thought. Was he a fearful creature despite being one to have formerly terrorized others, and thus invoked fear in humans? That seemed a bitter irony... If he became visibly upset and really wished she would stay as his friend, there had to be a fear of others. A fear of being rejected...or abandoned, left behind like a stray pebble on the shore. Did he realize the irony in that? That he- a dullahan, a being that epitomized fear and terror and conscious nightmare- was afraid himself of the tendencies of humanity. He's still right there. His lips are moving! Open your ears! She scolded herself, bringing her fuller attention on him once more. She would have to think about that another time. Perhaps, if she had the courage, they could talk about it.

"If he could help me... then I would love to meet him," The valkyrie nodded encouragingly again, gripping his hand tighter with joy. If ever there were another that could understand you, I do really think it would be my friend. I would say it, though, that it would be much safer for you to meet him once you have settled her. So...if you like to sleep, the idea of liking unconsciousness muddling her thoughts. What was there to like? I suppose the forest is open to you. There are inns in town. Athena pulled out her coin purse, her delicate fingers pulling the drawstrings apart. She poured the little amount she had left into the palm of her hand and held it up to offer it to him. A few nights stay, if you like. She beamed up at him, far more than content knowing that she had worked hard to make the meager amount. If the money was going to be spent, it would be for someone who needed it more than she did.

Her smile kept up, not faltering a moment as she shook her head. Difficult or not, she wasn't one to believe that she should receive something more than what she desired because something was 'hard' to do. Being understanding and compassionate wasn't something that was hard-she had the capacity, she used it to the best of her ability. Putting in effort toward being kind to all she met...That wasn't hard. And she chose to be that way. To be rewarded for being yourself? That seemed beyond ridiculous, but she wouldn't say it that way to him. She would simply choose to explain her feelings further. Perhaps it has been more a struggle because you didn't and continue to not know how to socialize efficiently and effectively-but that doesn't mean that my efforts, my trying to help out then deserves something special. If anything, I would argue that your company is something special, and that you've awarded me already. Would he be stubborn enough to argue more?

But when her money was refused, the corners of her smile twitched and fell to a straight line before curling downward in a gentle frown. Surely he hadn't meant it so harshly? The way he had said he didn't want her money and stepped away? She lowered her hand and waited hopefully for an explanation. Had he never heard of an inn? Perhaps her offering money was offensive to him because he hadn't a cent. Well then...wouldn't that mean that his pride and ego were in the way? To not accept help from a stranger? He couldn't possibly have thought of this consciously...He didn't seem like a vain creature in the slightest.

Edgar gave a squawk of a laugh before peeling open an eye, looking at the dullahan. You really are stubborn, headless horseman. She's not confused about what you said-you're just a deer in the headlights. He warbled before shutting the eye and itching the horse's head with his claws. And you better be thankful, horse-for-brains. Not everyone gets to feel the luxurious claw-scratching abilities I have.

Athena hushed her companion softly, trying to turn the frown upside down. Though, despite her efforts, she could feel the lack of genuineness in it and settled for a concerned look instead. It is mine, yes. But it is nothing that couldn't be earned again. I know you don't need sleep, but I offer you this so that you can sleep somewhere comfortable tonight if you so choose. Or any other night. It's just money, it doesn't have value to me. She kept her voice as calm and level as she could, giving a simple explanation.

Alroy persisted, saying once more that he didn't want it and that he would rather make some of his own to get the things he desired. She nodded, feeling discouraged by her efforts, and dropped her gaze to the bag in her hands. The valkyrie slipped the coins back in the little purse and pulled the drawstrings apart to tighten the bag before sliding it back in her pocket. Maybe he is prideful after all...Maybe even unknowingly so. She didn't return his gaze, feeling his intent eyes staring at the back of her head. I use mortal healing recipes for pastes, poultices, and the like. I am a healer, after all. I haven't the courage to walk around offering my healing powers, so I've settled with this. It's relaxing too... Athena trailed off fiddling with the stray string on her sleeve.

She glanced up and gave him a quick smile before looking back down, the string wrapped tightly around the tip of her index to the point of purple flesh. The woman released it, feeling childish for doing so. I'm sorry if my offers were insulting-to mean that you couldn't get what you wanted by working yourself. I just wanted to help you feel comfortable and at peace. She whispered, the thump and tightening in her chest a result of her intensified anxiety and sadness at the rejection, which had replaced the good happiness and stutter she had felt before.