Welcome to Gaia! ::

He'd felt marginally better about the whole catastrophe after a good night's sleep, and had seized the opportunity before it had the chance to slip through his fingers. It wasn't confidence that drove him, per say, but a grim sense of purpose of finally seeing this thing through to the end.

James had been first on the priority, and though it had taken some time, he'd tracked down the scrawny, bookish man, and however gruff his apology might have been, there was no doubting its sincerity. He hadn't meant to screw James out of his opportunity to meet with God, and after informing the other that he was off to attempt to meet him once more, well. James had been quick to come along.

Poor b*****d probably didn't have much else to do with his time besides ogling partially reborn deities.

The gardens. There was a wistfulness to the dragon's tone that made Laurence feel like he wasn't exactly paying attention, instead trying to remember something that would perpetually slip out of his grasp. I remember... No. Start in the gardens this time. Shuo corrected himself almost sternly, biting off his last sentence as though to enforce its decisiveness. An amber eye rolled to fix upon the seemingly meek man who they'd collected on their way over.

There was no retreating this time. It would be easier, perhaps, with just one other

"...I need to say a few things to Him, first." Laurence was almost docile with his words this time, distant as he focused on the task at hand. "I'd prefer if you'd let me, but." But the man had his own questions too, and had no reason to wait. Irritably, his fingers rubbed at his temples for a moment, and Laurence took a left into the lush gardens. "Shuo'll introduce you."

His eyes were peeled for any sign of the rainbow-hued deity, and that sensation of blissful calm was something he ached for. Running away once had shamed him to the core; this time, he intended to confess his sins and beg for forgiveness even if it killed him. What was the worst that could happen?

...Well, Laurence didn't exactly want to think about that.

The meeting had been far more brief than he would have willed it, but in the face of Harmodius, alone, James had quelled. He was sorry for it afterward, especially since his original company had left him by himself after only a curt word preceding his disappearance. Made to adapt and take a situation in stride, James had retired to his shared quarters with Arden to record his observations. Perhaps, in time, he would work up the gall to make his way inside once more. Creation was timeless.

Happily, he had bumped into Laurence the very next day during his morning round of the Pantheon. An apology was more than he honestly expected from the baleful young man, and truly it was not very necessary, but he took it in bemused silence. It was well enough that the other wished to make a second effort at gaining an audience with the lord of the land; just the excuse James was looking for. As they walked along, though, the Esarian could not help but wonder just what had happened the last time. Laurence had been upset, no, distraught, and the fear (whatever that may be) had driven him far from the sight of the Creator. For a man of Faith, it didn't seem to make sense to James. Well, alright, there was one theory. Shame was a curious concept, right along with sin. Sensing judgement and the hand of an angry god seemed the only answer that would fit, in his mind, to make someone flee so. Someone simply in awe, or someone considering themselves not worthy would justify more surrender than flight.

Laurence, or perhaps Shuo (he had to be methodical, for all he did like the Dragon King), had done something very, very bad.

"Certainly," Was all he said in response to the request of sorts. James did not have the penchant to be impatient, and aside from that it seemed to him as if Laurence needed this. While he wished to inquire many things, he wisely kept his mouth shut. It wasn't his business to ask anything of Laurence. Except, well, it was technically his business. Chances were that everything would be revealed soon, though, so he simply walked beside the man like they'd been friends for years, eyes continually roaming behind the facade of his glasses.

Creation lay at ease, for all appearances anyway, a perfected form languidly stretched out on his back with one white limb curving up over his head on a fan of shifting chroma hair, one knee bent and raised. A few creatures cavorted around him, chattering endless nonsense down at their lord, or busily arranging and straightening out the fan of his hair on the hillock where he lay.

Harmodius, untroubled by either activity, let them do as the please. His eyes looked up at the empty dark.

The silence was appreciated, though Laurence couldn't help but feel as though he'd frightened James into keeping his tongue permanently glued to his mouth. Though Shuo said not a word, he could almost sense the dragon's 'I told you so' just waiting to burst out. Thankfully, a distraction arrived in the shape of a pale, sprawled figure, and the priest nearly tripped over his feet. A hand instinctively flung itself upward, perhaps to stop James, but it dropped as soon as he realized what he was doing.

He looked quite at peace, and practically had a circus of animals fawning over him for one reason or another. Laurence was half tempted to turn around right then and there, but he only gritted his teeth and began a cautious, but determined approach.

"...Lord Harmodius?" At least it wasn't a croak, but he sounded hoarser than he wanted. "...D... D'you have a minute?"

The alien recognized the sound of bestial chatter before he realized the presence of a deity. Laurence's forearm connected with the smaller man's chest, but it was a small bump, a gesture that awarded him nothing more than a curious glance. James' lips twitched at their corners, as if amused. Just what did Laurence think he was planning to do? Indeed, if Harmodius were the all-knowing god that his associate believed him to be, how could it be possible for the two of them to disturb him? Perhaps Laurence just didn't trust James to keep his promise and let him have the first word.

When the priest's arm disappeared, the brunette ignored it. He stayed right where he was, and was content to be there - if it put his acquaintance more at ease, he saw no problem with doing so. Despite the low lights in the barren sky, his perception of the situation was adequate enough.

Ahead, the alabaster god sprawled at ease among the flora and did not seem to mind the local fauna that played within the prism of his mane. If nothing else, James could at least concede that Creation was aesthetically pleasing. Not quite like Laurence, who threw off symmetry with his tension. It was easy to perceive how nervous the Dragon's host was, and James had to wonder if this was part of that secret he knew Laurence was keeping or simply the correct response for mortals in the presence of the Maker. Should he comfort the other? Should he, too, quake before the lounging god? Within a moment he decided that neither would be effectual. Standing back, staying still, that was his job for the moment. Observe.

He quietly distracted himself by working on cataloguing the critters at play around Harmodius. The image capturing device in his bag was all to tempting, but even James could sense it might not be appropriate to use flash photography when meeting God.

His eyes slid from emptiness to nearer plane, and to the less critter-like visitors, staying a moment in silent appraisal.

"Yes, I do. I have many. Though I'm certain that whatever the case is, it will take more then one. It should be no trouble unless you are in a hurry, in which case I could move us to a place with longer years and therefore more minutes then this planet's days afford?"


He had seen these two before together, much the same way. Were they good friends? It would be fine news to hear of the Mediator finally being societal enough to make acquaintances. Or friends? One never knew what a dragon may see fit to collect, or call a hoard. They were wonderful, eclectic beasts. Ah, but this was the Priest still, was it not? The mortal frame that housed dragon instead of demon, as may be the otherwise expectation of a Hunter.

A place with longer--Laurence mentally shook himself to keep from staring openly at the seemingly casual statement, and he could hear Shuo rumbling with amusement underneath his thoughts. "No, I'm not in a hurry, but thank you."

The man hesitated for a moment, and the dragon in question was rattling about eagerly. If only he had his own body! He would not have hesitated to coil at His feet, ever loyal and adoring. The priest's oddly colored eyes swept back for a moment, scrutinizing James as though to make sure he wasn't overheard before he slowly sank to his knees.

"...First and foremost, I'm here to ask for Your forgiveness." He spoke lowly, head bowed and eyes fixed on the ground. "...I have sinned. I was too weak to properly protect myself... and people died because of it." Laurence's tone was flat, and his face was expressionless. If I may. It was a gentle request, and the priest wordlessly relinquished control.

""My Lord," The dragon nearly purred, "It has been so long. Laurence has agreed to become my host in hopes of better serving You. And the mortal, James..." Clearly Shuo had no intention of leaving the young man out, regardless of Laurence's previous intentions. "He has come in search to learn more about the gods of old. Who better to introduce him to than You, my Lord?"

Laurence couldn't argue with that, and stayed quiet for now.

"Laurence's generosity is blessed/ That he find fit to bring glory and shine of scales forth again of his own flesh is marvel and immortality of praise. Of ease can be bought him of my doing, I gladly offer with both hands what could be asked."

The Eldest listened, nodded, "'James'? Well enough then, and gladly I would audience with those curious. You need not fear proximity, James, and may come close as your found friend. You may call me Harmodius, or a name of your own people should it yet be preserved of lore. "

"These about me are of no ill will to you, and so harmless. Please." He offered a hand, palm up in peace, gesture that they should join him as they were willing.

Whether or not Laurence wanted it, James could hear the transpiring conversation. What he had of manners didn't stop him from absorbing the information presented and begin to synthesize it. So the priest was responsible for many deaths? Too weak to protect himself? It was a conundrum, but not one he dwelled on for long as his name inserted itself into the easy words of the Dragon King, to which he may have unconsciously straightened.

When Harmodius hailed him, the eyes he turned to the god were bright and curious. It was apparent enough that his hanging back was not for hesitancy or fear, but courtesy. Even as he made to step forward, his gaze quickly passed to Laurence and Shuo, making sure they were alright with the trade of attention. But unlike Laurence, James had no desire to be private about what he was about to say next. They were welcome to stay.

"Harmodius it is, sir. If you are what I've heard, an amalgamation of all creation gods, then I can think of a few monikers. However, I'm not inclined to any which one - my planet doesn't subscribe to the worship of deific figures. Up until now, we had no proof of an omnipotent god-figure." And still, James did not add, they did not. May not ever, if all of Esare was destroyed in the Gehenna. "At least, not ones which could be tested and measured against more than an interplanetary definition. I'm rambling, though.

I'm pleased to make your acquaintance, Harmodius. As Shuo says, I'd be interested in exploring and recording this planet's features and inhabitants, particularly your pantheon, because it seems like --correct me if I'm wrong-- it is largely what the world functions around."

Yes, he was chatty, and though his words were almost clinical, his delivery was actually very amiable. Something about Harmodius (likely James' decision that he would probably know anyway) had made him sincere, and it was refreshing.

"Anyone who calls themselves a researcher would be squandering their time if they didn't recognize the amount of knowledge that could be gained here. And to be honest with you, sir, I am not sure that there's anything left for me to do with myself."

If Esare was gone and there was no traveling there, there would be no one to report to, no reason to garner up the research aside from the simple desire to know. His lips smiled at Creation, but inwardly, he was worried, and he was... tired. The mere thought of having nothing else to do with his life would make him feel very listless indeed, should he dare to dwell on it. Right now, he didn't allow it. He was supposedly standing before Creation himself, something no perfect Esarian had ever done. This was a triumph.

Emotion flickered for a moment across Laurence's face. Was it really all so easy? What had he been hoping for--punishment? He'd inflicted enough on himself, as was Shuo's opinion, but somehow, he hardly felt relieved. There would be time to dwell and brood later. The priest held himself stiffly as He spoke to James next, and held his tongue.

He would not be selfish now. He had allowed his emotions to run rampant in the past, but he would not deny James this chance to speak to God and perhaps learn a little about the religion he did not believe in.

The Dragon King listened with open amusement to the man and his charming enthusiasm, once again enamored with the charisma that James so openly wielded. A splendid subject, truly. True, he clashed with types that did not see the world with such optimism as he, but if he merely tempered his approach--why, Shuo could see the mousy man as a wonderful speaker.

"'If your aim then be learning, you should know that as you stand here you are no longer standing on a single planet, then. The world most easily accessible from the grounds of the Pantheon no more is made to the support of the Pantheon then any other. This place exists on all worlds, the doors were merely tethered more tightly to one specific planet long ago. I dwelt upon it long, in guise of mortal flesh, and true mortals found it easier to understand spatially in that manner."

"All worlds are leaves of Yggdrasil, the alter-body of Gaia the All-Mother. She is all Terra. If you wished to reach Esare, it would be through her passages, or with one of the older gods taking you there through use of the Doors. "

"The Keeper of Knowledge, Gianfar, is sadly missing, else he would have made you a fine companion for research and tutelage. As it is, his Library of Ages is being rebuilt by an effort of some who dwell here after the horrors of my other aspect. Still, what questions you will have of me I will gladly answer, or should you require....some proof for your research? I do not know how to prove what I am, for...I Am. And as so all have experienced so recently in the decay of my aspects to the older Origin and Gehenna, as once I was called. But you are welcome to suggest."

He paused a moment, seemingly distracted, and his attention wrested to Laurence again,
"You contemplate guilt and punishment, fair scale, but to what end?"

"For Mang....Aristogeiton's death and the failing of the Amulet of Consort were long ago and never solved. What fault there may have been fails against looming wonder....what did happen? I have not learned it, and expect no inquisition upon you for them. There is no anger in me for this. Your confusion and desperation to save him as much as my own spoke of your innocence. Only you hold trial, jury and judgment upon your past. "

"For Laurence..what guilt do you seek anger in me for? Punishment? Penance? For the murder of kin according with the beings you swore to purge? Forgiveness is extended in my palm. You already sacrifice all that you are to a worthy purpose, far more finite than word of oath. This to be glory and punishment both, and more. Can you not, will you not, see forgiveness for yourself by yourself?"

The small man's head canted at the first statement, forgetting so much as a knit of brows to make it clear he was thinking. This was not a concept he found unfamiliar, but it had never been what he and his found quantifiable. It didn't make Harmodius' statement less true, it just meant the means for exploring it were untouched by the technology the Tzech knew. That seemed hardly possible, but James certainly couldn't correct the god of Creation, could he?

"The tree Yggdrasil is an Earthling's old myth... I assume you're speaking literally when you say a body and leaves?" He hadn't said anything about Esare. To hear it on the other's lips made him focus again. There was a small quirk of lips to the mention of a return. "Perhaps, then. It is a knowledge that would shake our foundation, I'm certain."

If they would hear it. James was also fairly certain he had been sent to die on this planet.

"It would have, at the very least, made traveling more of a convenience." He huffed a soft laugh.

He agreed that Gianfar, Knowledge, was definitely an entity he would have been ecstatic to meet, and it was too bad he had disappeared. That would have been too lucky, wouldn't it? The Library of Ages, though... He would have to ask if he could have some sort of access to that.

When Shuo and Laurence were addressed, he fell silent, quietly watching the one body that housed them both sidelong. The message seemed to be the same for them both, ultimately. A glory and a punishment ... He wondered if Arden would be in agreement with such a term. Then again, his savior had not seemed so fortunate regarding his own bearing. Had it been Shuo, James was inclined to think the soldier might see things a little differently. At least a little.

A beat more, waiting for Laurence's reaction, before the Esarian returned his attention to Harmodius.

"Creation gods vary in lore and involvement, but core module doesn't. Whether they created things by ash, by fire, or humoral fluid, they produced life from nothing or inanimate objects. If I could see you make something of your own devising, that'd surely be enough for me."

There might have been a twinkle in those green eyes, perhaps a little hopeful.

The Pantheon existed everywhere else? That was a concept he had to struggle to take in--but then again, was it really so different from Heaven? The only difference was that this place rested on the mortal plane. The priest was rapt with attention as He explained how, impossibly, James could somehow reach his-- wait.

James... wasn't from Earth? Laurence twisted himself around to stare at the other, his gaze burning both question and accusation into his seemingly human flesh. They would have words, later. It all made sense now--his nosiness, his impossible naivety. He didn't like surprises, and this was one that was unexpected.

He could feel Shuo's concern at the mention of this Gianfar's absence, but the prospect of so much intellectual wealth open for all to plunder was also of great interest to the dragon. It felt almost greedy, but when pushed about it, Shuo immediately withdrew his thoughts as though ashamed.

When he was addressed unexpectedly, the man dipped his head, a mixture of embarrassment and respect once more. For a moment the pair was quiet, each wresting with their emotions in search of an answer worthy of His hearing. The silver-tongued Shuo was the first to gather his wits, and the priest soundlessly lent him his voice.

"I could not bring him back to You, my Lord. He was what You needed, and I failed--not only there, but with my first host, and I cost him his life," The deep, smooth voice was tempered with sorrow. "But no more. For You, I will focus on the future, and what this union will provide You once we are One."

Laurence was painfully aware of James' presence, but would not meet the man's eyes. "That's because You are kind. Too kind, but I expected nothing less." No, he hadn't been disappointed in the least--only satisfied. "...I'm afraid that by forgiving myself, I'll forget them, and what they gave their lives for." And did that make him weak?

He crossed the small distance and set a heavy hand to the dragon's shoulder.
"'What weakness is there in beautiful Mourning? In Human condition? Your only wrong is that time has come to turn pages, chapters of life over and new one beginning, and you delay...staying to earlier pages and refusing to turn to the new. What forgetting is there in world where walks Lament and Grief? The soft heart of Mother Gaea, who has borne all in turn? Or my own, where the start and end of every Fate resides?"

"Of hosts, the fault cannot be yours. Did thine own will prevail your scales to fall from your form afar, your power and life leeched invisible, and throat twisted to screams as I held each of you in turn? Nay. It is my own eagerness, having found some semblance of the frame, that doomed those poor souls to shore up what was a candle set to flame only half-formed from the hot wax...still bending and incomplete. You do not wear their badges...these unlucky fates. But theirs is lamentable, and your empathy is commendable. See it commemorated some day in your strength. "


Lifting his hand, he looked back to the scholar. Ash, fire, or humoral fluid? Interesting requirements, though unnecessary unless part of some desired design. He stretched out one hand, for the first, the palm turning black and cracks like lava running up the flesh to sear the perfect white "Then two in one, let ash that gather here be the body. Rise, Salamander, and speak in tongues of smoke. Your belly will be embers, and you will consume ....plants....to fuel your fire. A hard thing, so rare a meal excepting nearby, but there is only one of you. "

The serpent uncoiled, living, and made its way as a beast disturbed by so many predatory, looming shapes, away from the group. Harmodius' hand restructured itself again to white.
"Humoral...fluid...? That was your next mentioning. Should you like such a demonstration as that as well, and then one without any sacrifice? Or will the single suffice?"

James watched the way Creation made across to his dragon, and the kindness that he bestowed upon the mortal host and the god did not go unnoticed. The words of the consolation were strange and lyrical, but it moved a part of the Esarian in a manner that would have been shameful. Passion, or for that matter, compassion was so foreign a thing to be seen that the inch of him that felt was feeling rather helpless in the wake of it. Luckily, he was only the observer. He was definitely beginning to see why others were so quick and eager to be near him, to serve and protect him. The charisma was definitely there.

Then Harmodius turned to him and blackened his own palm, using words to call forth a new and craggy life. He named it and told it what it would eat, and then it scampered away into the wilderness. Needless to say, James was a bit awestruck. His eyes watched its fiery form wheedle through the weeds with open intensity. He had no doubt it was just as its Maker had said.

All he could give the deity for a minute was a bright-eyed, wry grin behind his glasses. His head of curls shook with the question, though.

"I only meant them as a handful of examples. In the Earthling's Judaism and Christianity, the god of creation makes the first man from the soil -or ash- of Earth. On the world Peledra, the ruling beings believe their god forged them in the fire of the volcano, and that all lower creatures arose from their ash. Indeed, I have seen a world at war on debate of whether their god made them from his spit or his semen. There are tales as numerous as the stars... or, I suppose the better metaphor now would be grains of sand. It would be good for me to know the truth of creation, but I think it is clear that you may synthesize from whatever material you wish.

I've seen Your power with my own eyes. The Scientific Method would require I ask more trials of You, but I am satisfied. How magnificent You are! And wonderful for indulging me. I would not ask more of Your time on the matter, but surely would not object to anything further."

He glanced over at Laurence - was that not spectacular?

The weight reminded the man of the burden he had accepted when Shuo had finally spoken to him, and his shoulders slumped as though the memory had managed to relieve him just a little. He could not deny the truth of His words, though his teeth gritted themselves quietly. Much as he didn't like it, it was a natural process--and if he didn't take care of it soon, he might lose the chance entirely, if Shuo were to take over before he could come to terms with himself, and what had transpired after his possession. "They'll be remembered," He finally muttered under his breath, more of an assent to himself than anything. "...Thank you, Lord."

"No, they will not be forgotten. Nor will you," The dragon added firmly, having seized hold of His words with his teeth and using them to serve his own purposes. "That may very well be, my Lord, but even so, I will redouble my efforts. I will remember them all, and they will be honored. This, I promise." The once-skilled liar meant every word, and his promises were not ones to be broken. For Shuo Huang Zhe, even now, a promise was not to be given unless he fully intended to keep it. It was a trust that he would never betray.

Though his mind was uneasy, the priest had much to think about. All he'd been doing these past few weeks was moping, and the thought was enough to make his lip curl with disgust. No longer. Still, before he could brood for too long, the murmurings of God and the way His hand suddenly began to char was enough to make him recoil with shock. A salamander... There was a smug sort of satisfaction that was shared by both dragon and man, though it was Laurence who was looking at James as though to savor his reactions. He could not doubt, now. Shuo was content to admire His work, as always, and likely would have crooned after the tiny creature if he were able.

"Don't tire Yourself too much." The baritone rumble was slightly anxious, unwilling to watch Him tire Himself while he could do nothing to offer aid. Fortunately, James understood, though the dragon had not been concerned that he might push Harmodius--it was simply his nature to protect Him and coil at his feet.

When James' eyes met his own, the priest's expression softened slightly, and he and the smaller man likely shared a moment of understanding. So long as James knew, now. Of course, their earlier, less-than-flattering argument might have been avoided if the man had told him he wasn't even from the goddamn Earth to begin with.

Creation smiled at reactions and words altogether. "'More then one accord is met, then, and I am glad of it. Though oaths be dangerous to take in company."

"So having repaired ourselves, how can I offer you further service? Having a proven creature that can enact spontaneous generation of matter, or destroy it, what more? Your race compiled great scientific learning, needing little anymore of the older gods for comfort or survival, finding myriad more limited gods to offer devotion to. Great learning asks more specific, if sometimes less questions....mulling answers more over than more primitive societies. "

"There are gods, they live and are reborn here, in this confluence. They can travel anywhere, when they have regained sufficient strength. They are ageless, failing only to powers great as themselves...and even then it is a conscious Death: painful dissolution of the highest mana into all the threads of what Is. Is there more that your mission requires? And if not, what then shall you seek?"

Delighted by their shared moment, James' task was primarily not to look too happy while Laurence and Shuo tied up their more grave subject. He might have offered his own reassurance, but he remembered that he was trying to be respectful by not getting involved. It didn't stop him, however, from giving the priest a warm, if slight smile when he was directly looked at. He was aware that Harmodius was in a recovery period, but not knowing quite what that meant in terms of a god, he didn't know what sort of extent of energy he was requesting. As far as he knew, the creation of life was as simple as a breath. The best course of action was always to ask, not demand - he expected that the god knew he was allowed to deny a request, and that he, of all Things, should know his limitations.

Indeed, Creation seemed to be little phased by Shuo's request not to overexert Himself, so James didn't plan to dwell on it either. He may have stood a little taller at Harmodius' words, taking them as a compliment to his race. That Creation itself classified the Esarians as creatures of higher knowledge in what James presumed to be the respect of all worlds... Well, as estranged as he felt from his homeworld now, there was joy in such a confirmation, and pride for his origins despite the shortcomings he had come to perceive in them (and in himself). It also raised an interesting point - the Esarians coveted knowledge, then science over everything, and therefor worshiped a god they had neither known nor accredited. The Esarians did not adhere to religion, for none had ever found a true god to fit their standards. It was actually something of a joke among them, but also one of the most important concepts in prepping their young for their missions. If all the 'true' gods were here, though, recovering from the Fading... it made perfect sense why they had never been found. Until now. And it was happening to him.

"If what You say is true, then these ones You call 'gods' are indeed very powerful creatures. The definition, thus the standards, of calling someone a 'deity' by my race fit them in all respects except two:

First, that they may 'die' as an individual does not put them in line with the majority of recorded religious philosophy. The adherence to the concept death is a process by which we have defined mortals. However, You spoke of 'lesser' gods, a concept Esarians have not known other than to say they are less powerful than an omnipotent god. Should I create a subclass for Your gods, which allows death? A colleague here has informed me of the 'Fading' by which Your gods did perish of malnutrition regarding worship. If You will confirm for me, Your gods do not need to subsist on anything physical?

Secondly, a 'god' must have a following. I admit I have met and spoken with few of Your gods to confirm that they met this requirement, but the majority of samples were still host-bound and, thus, I presumed they were not yet fully capable of forming their adherents. I see this standard now as one that can be grown into as much as publicity and fame.

Only You have met all of the requirements, Harmodius. I have not heard of You dying, and I have observed Your following. I should stress that science is ever-fluctuating with discovery, and with exceptions come new rules by which we measure everything. What you tell me already challenges much of what we believe to be true of the universe, and in time I would seek to prove these things for myself if it is possible. I can record everything, but to construct a theory and make it law... you understand much more will have to pursue the matter in much greater detail. I must. Assuming space returns and provides my people transport again, this world shall not see another Esarian for a good millennium or more. Though, exceptions have been made - if my word and my evidence holds any gravity on my people now... I would expect a team to come as soon as possible. As it stands, I have nearly broken every Procedural Law, and to answer your question would shatter another..."

A faint smile at that, though the gesture did not reach his eyes.

"The Esarian mission is to observe everything a planet has to offer. One unit is assigned per planet or other formation, sometimes more depending on size of the astral body in question and its surroundings. Usually it is a planet. During the allotted time, the Esarian must conform itself to the system in place to cause no disturbance, and to keep our identity as classified as possible. Sometimes infiltration is necessary, if dealing with nomadic races. The goal is simple; the execution is the difficulty. We may not abort the mission early, nor may we return late unless a dire circumstance occurs. Once we return, we make the presentation of the planet to our people and those guests who have been allowed. Everything is then stored in the archive or our specimen district.

What that means is I am here for some time. My last mission was the planet Earth, and the time I was allowed there was the equivalent of thirteen years. I stayed seventeen.

Truth be told, I am not entirely certain as to what I will do. My circumstances are no longer quite what they were. I wish to explore this land, hopefully with the help of the craft I came in. It is broken for the moment. Other than that, I have no other option than to do that which I was made for, though Esare is..."

Esare was not a home to him. He didn't know how to say as much. James was treated much as he would have been if he were simply trading missions, but he felt as if he were no longer welcome on that planet, with its artificial culture and its clinical disposition; its overlords who honored very little. There was sorrow there, but it wasn't something he showed on his physical features, hands lifted and empty in a similar gesture to a shrug.

"I suppose I'll then begin working through the system I have, being sure to make an allowance for what changes may occur to this planet, since I assume it is... still 'under construction', if you will. I must confess, however, that I am sorely tempted to linger here, if I am welcome, and call the Pantheon my base of operation. Whatever Your gods may be... I find myself charmed by each of them in turn, mostly by simply seeing who they are." His eyes flickered over to Shuo and Laurence, "To that extent I wonder what would be the more noble cause. Lord Harmodius, I know I am weak and long-winded, but if you could see any part of me useful to Your Pantheon, I am diligent. You see more than I could ever hope to; I would value any guidance You have to offer me in this matter."

And now they were launching into a whole different level of conversation--one that Laurence valiantly attempted to keep up with at first before he subtly shook his head to himself and wisely gave up. There'd be time for him to be more blunt with James afterward, and turned his thoughts inward for now.

Even if he wasn't going to listen, the dragon was attentive as always, gathering up information almost thoughtfully processing just what it all meant. He wouldn't dare interrupt though, feeling his heart swell with pride that Creation and the enthusiastic little man seemed to be getting along so well. Perhaps there was a place for him yet--

--and, of course, the revelation that James chose to not return home, disobeying his superiors to remain on the planet Earth was something that fascinated Mang. Had James lost his way? Well, certainly a loss for the planet of Esare, and a momentous gain for them. The man was charismatic, delightfully so, and Shuo only wished that he was strong enough to trade stories with the younger on a more frequent basis. Ah, well, Laurence would have to serve as an interpreter.

The priest silently twitched at the mere thought.

Creation smiled at reactions and words altogether. "Great may be the cause of learning, the wisdom of its secrey and the mastery of the forethought not to pollute the experiment or the source. But what is it to ever be apart? To live in comfortable inaction, watching the cat eat the poisoned fish while extolling the horrors of chemical pollution? It breeds indifference, which is the sown seed against the orders of nature: stagnation and sapping of creativity and vigor from the mind. Inaction is safe, but it builds.....nothing."

"You speak as one who would build. Would you test this in yourself? My advice lays on this, if you would do the utmost for these cause and more. A great and costly experiment on one hand, like Victor Frankenstein to become the monster? Or would it be to act as the control group? Look at the stones gathered, and see if one calls you. See if you may be a Builder, not just observer... "

"Even if this advice be not amenable, I would gladly open the doors of our home, welcome you to stay here at this Pantheon and be among us. Learn and help others learn. "

"Happy is he who has the pure truth in him. He will regret no sacrifice that keeps it," Came the reply, a quirk of lip that was almost sly, "I trod heaven in my thoughts, now exulting in my powers, now burning with the idea of their effects. From my infancy I was imbued with high hopes and a lofty ambition."

The expression faded slightly to bemusement as he realized what Harmodius truly meant by 'Builder', just as well as he realized those 'stones' may actually be literal. "You wish for me to be host to one of Your gods?" He hesitated, not wanting to suggest anything toward himself but asking for a clarification. Thinking on it, James corrected himself to say that Harmodius wasn't offering, but suggesting a possibility. Wouldn't Creation know if he was suited to the task? Was Harmodius not the one to decide who was allowed to nurse his own?

"I see no harm in reviewing potentials," But his voice did so suggest the barest of tension, "If nothing else, seeing your collection would be beneficial to my study."

James as a potential host? Laurence wasn't sure how he felt about that--but what would the harm be? If the man wanted to devote his life to something more noble than himself, then the priest could only respect his decision, and, grudgingly, admit that he found it admirable.

But you still would be bothered by the notion. You do not feel as though he has any reason to repent. The dragon noted, and the priest tried not to sigh. Having his own head-space was something he missed. Yes. He'll die if he does this, right?

That depends on the god, but yes, that is a possibility.

"Before I forget, my Lord--" Laurence interjected hastily, unsure if they were going to leave to conduct the choosing somewhere more private. "...The Night Elf, Illisia, graciously offered me her quarters as a place to stay, but I was wondering if I could beg You to provide Mang and I a place of our own to reside."

James as a potential host? Laurence wasn't sure how he felt about that--but what would the harm be? If the man wanted to devote his life to something more noble than himself, then the priest could only respect his decision, and, grudgingly, admit that he found it admirable.

But you still would be bothered by the notion. You do not feel as though he has any reason to repent. The dragon noted, and the priest tried not to sigh. Having his own head-space was something he missed. Yes. He'll die if he does this, right?

That depends on the god, but yes, that is a possibility.

"Before I forget, my Lord--" Laurence interjected hastily, unsure if they were going to leave to conduct the choosing somewhere more private. "...The Night Elf, Illisia, graciously offered me her quarters as a place to stay, but I was wondering if I could beg You to provide Mang and I a place of our own to reside."

He slowly moved his hand through the air in an arc before himself, a series of jewels materializing there, suspended in the air as though in water. They threw out the light from the Eldest as living stars would. "Here are those that have been gathered, and one among them may call to you. If it is not so, then it is not so. If it is so, it remains your choice, but you will feel the weight of the decision."

"Illisia is a generous woman, indeed. Seek the door that of banner sigils and layered shields bearing the coats of arms of noble houses, shifting as do fortunes of politics and dragon's own scales. This is yours to form as you wish. "

James did not gawk or gape when the gems manifested before their maker, but he did seem to admire the collection. With permission, he was unafraid to wander freely among their suspended forms, only minding his step to keep from disturbing them. This was so simple a trick, yet it was instinct to hypothesize the forces which kept the stones aloft.

Truth be told, he wasn't expecting much of anything. When the voice filtered through his mind, he was in the process of removing his glasses.

there you are...

James, who folded his glasses and looked at the world unchanged and blinked.

it's been too long...

Sclera, pupil, and iris bled together into one smooth, emerald surface. Everything was different now. The stones were like pinpoints of light all around him, and the deity nearby a marble slab of hot and cold. His lips did part faintly, as he felt something distinctly not his creeping through his thoughts.

"Can they speak?" He ventured aloud, wondering if anyone else was aware of the cool, subtle trickle of sound.

but I am patient...

James continued to wade through the sea of stars, some brighter than others. He didn't know what he was looking for, if anything, until he found it. It was so simple.

I suppose it's better late than...

I do not recognize you. Came the bemused thought.

You wouldn't.

Smug? Exasperated? It was hard to tell when each word was a sigh.

The priest found himself gaping at the easy display of power, captivated by all of the different gem stones that threatened to blind him if he looked straight at them. The dragon, however, quivered within the man's soul at the sight of so many kin, an ache of longing filling him for a moment. There were so many still, so many that He had gathered and protected... would they ever find their hosts? Though the Gehenna had devastated the mortals so, they were a strong and hardy bunch. The worlds would recover with enough time. Creation would see to that.

"She is," Laurence murmured, bowing deeply for God's generosity. "Thank you, my Lord. I will." A coat of arms? Sigils and layered shields? Shuo had all but swelled at such a fitting domain for he and his host to reside, but before he could speak, James' question was enough to make him pause. Had he found something? Or was it idle curiosity that prompted him to ask?

It was impossible to say, but both host and Dragon King were watching in silence now. The anticipation in the air was a little stifling.

His expression was a dead neutral, betrayed only by the brilliance in the mismatch eyes, "They do, but to myself and prospective hosts alone ."

"Can you find which it is you hear?"