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 Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:22 pm
Syrie  He had heard, through whispered words rather than a loud proclamation, that Nergal would be hosting another Day of the Dead -- it was a "holiday" that he could appreciate quite well. This year, unlike the previous, he would attend. It was in this that he found himself on the grounds slated for the event, eyes widened to take in the festivities and the stalls, the living and non-living bodies moving around in the fog.
It was beautiful and the curly-haired God of Silence felt comfortable wandering around, even with the noise; noises distorted by his transparent wings as he moved among the throng. Endiovar figured that after a while, he could go and pay his respects to both the Lord and Lady, Nergal and Echo.
Zero Dream  He had tried to go for Nergal, of course, but.. had not quite been swift enough. Already poor Underworld had found himself the center of the crowd's attention, and Ankou simply gave an amused chuckle and wandered off to do other things. He would seek to wander away from this soon enough, and that was when the Spirit Guide would be able to get to him, and not add to the unease that was surely already building. His brother, after all, was not a fan of crowds.
And so he had wandered off, going to visit the stalls. He had not been present for organization this year, only having returned from his journey with Tian Yue a few days ago, so much of what was here was new to him. He had invited the dragon king to drop by, as well as his own beloved, but he had not seen Cosine so far. Which... was odd in itself. Perhaps something had kept her busy.
Something caught his attention - the sound of the festivities sounded different to his left... so that was where he was headed, straight toward Silence.
Syrie So many energies roaming about! Not just the vibrant energies of the living young, but also the power of those in Charge and also some others present that were much like himself. Gods or other immortals, seeking diversion or simply to speak with those they once knew or loved for this one, brief moment.
Endiovar smiled to himself, lips curved gently, as he watched mortals reaching for the temporarily tangible ghosts. There were words spoken and much un-spoken also; it rushed by and around Silence like a swiftly-moving stream - he didn't mind the rush of words, thoughts, emotions. Brief and brilliant, mortals deserved to have some small comfort in this time of renewal. Nergal was at least giving them all one last chance to say what needed to be said, to touch and be touched.
While walking, watching, he felt a familiar-but-not being moving nearer to him: another of the Gods. He turned his golden head to the right, spotting Ankou through the loosely-woven crowd and recognizing - through his body language and manner - that this man was the energy coming towards him.
His wings unfurled a bit more, dampening the sound further as he paused where he was, waiting to greet this unknown deity.
Zero Dream Ankou moved slowly, carefully side-stepping mortals and spirits both as if he was quite used to do such, none of those present seemed to notice, or care much about his presence. Almost as if he was a ghost in the traditional sense.
Those who took notice were the crows - there were an abnormal number perched on the nearby trees, following the god as he moved. One of the birds was perched on his left shoulder, lazily preening one wing.
Ankou had finally found the cause of the 'disturbance' - and it was one of his own kind. "Greetings." Perhaps, if he was looking for one soul specifically, he could be of assistance ?
Syrie Yes, truly this was one of his own; one of Creation's children, reborn into this time and a new body. An attractive one, by all sights: two-toned hair, slim and neatly put together with eyes tilted in a pleasing manner. Endiovar noticed the crows as Ankou moved - they followed his every movement and one even perched upon his shoulder like a pitch-colored sentinel.
"Greetings to you as well. I am Endiovar, the Sachem Aphonic." Spoken aloud for the benefit of the other; it had taken very little time for the God of Silence to figure out that mortal and immortal alike sometimes had a hard time with his preferred manner of 'speech'.
Zero Dream Ahh... Silence ? Not one he had heard of so far. Though the idea of Silence speaking was... somehow amusing.
Ankou gave a respectful nod to the other before introducing himself. "Ankou, the Wantalon Psychopomp. Were you seeking anything in particular here ?" The year before, there hadn't been many other deities involved, he had noticed... but this whole thing was mostly catered toward mortals. "We could go somewhere more quiet, if you prefer, to talk."
Syrie As Ankou had not heard of him, nor had Endiovar heard of him - not even from the Lady Echo when they had sat and spoken on the Pantheon grounds. Ankou's amusement at his utilization of the spoken word was not lost upon the god of Silence; but he only smiled. It really was funny.
'I seek nothing special, Ankou,' Though perhaps he would have gotten a bit of enjoyment from seeing his host's family - or rather, being unable to see them - and friends. He nodded a bit at that last offer; going somewhere quiet would be splendid. Eventually, the hustle and bustle of this event would start to grate upon Endiovar. "That would be enjoyable, yes. Thank you."
Zero Dream The Spirit Guide, it seemed, was able to understand Endiovar's non-speech just fine - or, at least, understand enough to get the just of it. Which outcome was true was not readily evident, as he simply nodded in answer. "Then..." He pondered for a moment, overlooking the grounds before he remembered in which direction there would not be anything set - if it was set like last years', that is.
"Over there." He started walking away from the booths, away from the noise and the people, seemingly pretty confident in his hutch. To be honest, all that noise and such a crowd was starting to get to him.
khiarhu Without a word, the curly-haired god followed Ankou away from the bright lights and noisy booths, from the living and dead meeting, greeting and enjoying a few extra moments of closeness granted by the God of the Underworld.
Curiousity did prompt him to speak again, once they were away from the 'festivities'. 'Lord Ankou, may I ask what you are doing at such an event?'
Zero Dream "The souls of the Dead are those I lead." He explained, bare feet padding along the grass - alive and soft, in contrast to how everything had been.. dead and decayed only one year prior. So many things could, and had indeed happened in one year.
Such a short time for immortals, and yet...
"Therefore, I am keeping watch, of some kind." His presence, however, didn't seem perticularly needed, as Nergal seemed to have things under control.
khiarhu Well now, that certainly explained a few things! Ankou was another of the Lords of the Underworld; related to Nergal in some way that he could only guess at without asking outright. 'Aiding Nergal and tending your 'flock', as it were?'
Endiovar made no sound while he moved across the lush carpet of grass; less sound even than the spirts brought above the Realm of the Underworld by their King.
'Today is yours, as much as it is Nergal's then, is it not?'
Zero Dream "Yes. It is what I must do, though very nearly missed today. I have been away for a long time, tending to matters elsewhere. I was lucky to return in time. Time... It is a thing I have a hard time keeping track of."
Then, deep amusement fluttered within the Guide, betrayed by his features long before his voice would. "Perhaps, though it seems that brother of mine is quite skilled at hogging all the attention..." If Underworld wanted it, however, was another matter completely.
In a way, he was glad he still kind of melded within the crowd, so to speak. He had always been rather skilled at not being noticed unless he meant to be.
khiarhu "Ah." A vocalized sound that brought with it a grave-side sort of hush; Endiovar's spoken words carried with them a quietness that lingered on even after his lips had resealed themselves. 'Time is something that I think we all have mislearned to read properly...it is not always such a bad thing.' Though it well could be; had he himself not spent too much time waiting before bringing the Dreamer's Guide to Creation's hands?
Brothers then, as he had suspected from the moment Ankou graced him with his domain.
'Nergal does not seem the sort to wish for so much attention...' This much Endiovar knew of his friend.
Zero Dream "Indeed. You know of him, then ? Is this what brings Silence to such a loud place ?" The god's tone was light and curious, his demeanor and likewise. To get to meet more of his brethen was a good thing... he found that he knew very little of them.
It was only in this life that he had realized the importance of such bonds. His hand rose to stroke along the crow's back, the bird leaning into the touch much like a feline would have, running the side of it's break on the god's wrist.
Syrie Endiovar nodded and looked back towards the main throng; undoubtably, Nergal and Echo would be located in the thickest collection of beings - each and all supplicant to their soveriegn and his Lady. 'Indeed, I know of Nergal more than just in passing; he was kind to my mortal host and even extended use of one of his servants to aid a quest of mine.' Priya, the white-furred nekojin had joined Silence on his quest to regain one of his own followers; the hurried trek to the Forest of Silence...the subsequent finding of the broken Aoide, Hue, and then the sacrificial deaths of those delicate slyphine creatures that had dwelt in his Forest.
'Lady Echo also have I met and spent time with. I came to honor them...and also see for myself the ghosts of the past walking the earth once more.' The Day of the Dead was also - in some small way - a celebration for Silence also. So much of the exchanges between the beings was unspoken and yet conveyed via the soundlessness, that it touched onto his domain also.
Zero Dream "Not that they had been gone for very long. Half a year at most." The god mused, turning to look back. The lights were dim in the distance, and the sound faint. They were far enough that it was doubtful someone would accidentally wander off here. And so, he learned against one large tree, the flurry of crows taking perch onto it, close to their master.
"But I figure such a thing would be rather curious for you, would it not ? I have seen them always, beside the time in which I was locked to my gem, I sometime forget that most of the divine do not." Beside those with domains somewhat related such influence. Even little Kios could hear, but not see.
Syrie With a slow shake of his head, Endiovar agreed with Ankou in a manner. All the things he knew...he either learned from Gianfar, Creation or...from the unspoken that mortal and immortal alike seemed unaware they were broadcasting to him. 'They were away for a great length of time, by mortal standards. But for us, it was but a blink.' And much had been accomplished. Endiovar had felt Underworld pulling those wandering souls to him; felt when Nergal had reclaimed what had been his all along - there was Silence in those "halls" as well. In a way, Nergal was also Endiovar's brother...Silence and Underworld having long been companions of a quite familiar nature.
'In some ways, yes. I recall very little of my existence before the Fading...perhaps it is strange, but I feel only a small inclination to reclaim all that was Past. In this, I would like to know...but am afraid of knowing what Was before. That Nergal and I were aquainted closely, I do recall...and vaugely, that his former Lady was not a God.' He trailed off, bringing one hand up to push back a few unruly locks from his eyes. He remembered little, this was true, but also he didn't seem to feel the same urge that many of their kind did: to find out what they once had been, to return to that state. Colin, his host, had been a young man forever looking forward, rather than back. It was a trait that Endiovar found useful in this incarnation - even as it sometimes made things difficult.
'We too must have once been aquainted, Ankou. It pleases me greatly to meet you again.'
Zero Dream "I understand such things... I find little urge in such myself." The Guide noted. "Unless it is useful knowledge that now lies lost, things that I ought to know and remember, but other than such... it is not the past that matters, but the present, the here and now." Ankou, apparently, was not one of those who needed to know where he was from to know where he was going. "The old ways... failed, in some ways, obviously. And perhaps some things are better left forgotten."
Of Silence's last statement, Ankou held his own doubts about. What little he indeed remembered had told him he had been rather... distant from the rest of the pantheon. Withdrawn, a true loner who cared for almost no-one.
Such a nature had been greatly diminished in rebirth, and he held no such qualms now, of course. "Perhaps." He simply said. "It pleases me to meet you as well."
Syrie Perhaps it truly was an odd thing - for the newly reborn gods and goddesses to not wish for whatever they had once had...but considering that this was now and now really was all they knew... Endiovar didn't dwell on it too much; surely his face and form were different once - when his domain Came to Be - but thinking on that only brought melancholy feelings that were ill at home with the way he wanted to be.
'Knowledge lost can be but reclaimed easily if one Asks. Gianfar of Knowledge knows much...one only has to spend time in his Library or make the request. There is little he does not Know.' And he would know such things, having spent a great deal of time in Gianfar's company...though much of their time together was spent in quiet repose (thanks to Revei).
Ankou's silence said much as to his thoughts and feelings on that matter; Endiovar did not press nor pry and also to ignore the little things left unsaid by his current companion.
'Tell me, Ankou, do you spend much time with Lady Echo's children?' He still had a bit of difficulty thinking that Nergal - especially the stern, stony-faced Nergal that he'd seen this very night - had children. It also stuck with him that they were Echo's children because he and Music had chatted about them and he was curious.
Zero Dream "I used to, while they stayed with me. Both Nergal and Echo lived elsewhere, but that house was destroyed by Decay's influence. They all lived with me until they were granted their own spaces." He could not say he was not glad for it, not having been a fan of the sheer chaos the young children had caused, but he had, of course, accepted it as something children simply... did. It seemed that Silence knew of them - though Echo, most likely - but Ankou did not know to what extent.
"There are three - two boys and one girl. They certainly each are endearing and unique in their own ways." Even Sotiris, though his antics were much more amusing while observed from a distance for the most part.
Syrie Ankou spoke and Endiovar listened. All that the God with the dual-toned hair said was carefully added to the information Silence already knew of Nergal, Echo and their family. It was not that he was trying to amass information for any particular purpose, but he did feel some kinship to Underworld and so his family - so these things held interest for him.
'Decay and the weeks following were very trying times...I feel relief knowing that Nergal's family was not harmed overly much.' That their home had been destroyed was of no true consequence: they were in a time of rebirth, renewal...the Pantheon held rooms enough for them all, nevermind that Nergal had brought forth his domain in strength once more.
Endiovar's eyes crinkled at the corners and his expression went soft and warm, 'Lady Echo has invited me to meet her children at some date in the future...I look forward to it. Strong sons and a daughter to bring joy and honor to the House of the Underworld.' Here the blond trailed off, eyes catching some bright movement over in the thick of the merriment. 'And what space do you hold now, Ankou? Have you taken rooms in the Pantheon, or taken residence elsewhere?'
Zero Dream "I live at the Pantheon as well, yes... for now, at the very least." He was not there as much as he used to be, however, and the more things progressed, the more he would grow into his own self, the less likely he might be there - having multiple matters to tend to that would require him to be often on the move. As is, Cosine was certainly using his rooms more than he was. "There was relief in having a roof over my head, in the first days of my rebirth." Such would be for probably anyone, really. Tiring times for newly-remade beings. He had been there, and known it well.
Syrie Very well did the curly-haired God of Silence know of the relief felt by one newly brought into this world to have a steady place to lay one's head. He simply nodded and cocked his head to the side to show he was paying attention (which he was).
'I remember....He granted me take leave of rooms in the Pantheon when I first was reborn too...it does make things somewhat easier to take.' Times were hard, they didn't need to have shelter be yet another item they had to look into.
Off in the distance, mortals and ghosts could be seen together - it made a sweet ache in Endiovar's chest; not for himself but more for his host and the lover his host had taken. Never would either mortal be able to reconnect in such a manner. Still, it had been worth it and in the end, Colin hadn't minded so much -- he had learned from his host too; how to roll with things and the inner burning that came when you wanted to do something but weren't certain how to go about doing it.
Zero Dream "My host... had previously wandered before finally meeting with Destruction. He had lost everything... everyone he had loved." It was only now, in this life, with the experiences given to him by what little he had absorbed of the half-elemental, that he truly understood such thing. Such pain. It had been a thing often witnessed, but never truly understood, before.
And yet he had been mostly blind to those who would have gladly taken him in and protected him for what had been left of his days - Melanctha... and Kaelin, in some ways.
He also had learned much - be it good or bad... well, only the future would truly be able to tell.
Thabara  A tall figure could be seen heading into their direction, his strides by no means hurried, but quite definitely filled with the purpose to meet up with the two conversing deities.
Syrie 'Such is the way of things...of Life and Death and Rebirth.' Colin had been wandering too, hurt and alone, when Destruction happened upon him and offered that which he most wanted - for a price. But then, mortals were very keen on such things, at least this is what he had learned in his limited experiences so far.
As intently as he had been listening to Ankou's words, Silence was still attuned to the shifting of sound and unsound; Nergal's heavier steps - so solid and purposeful in weight and measure - touched upon his senses so that his green eyes settled upon that familiar-unfamiliar face and form.
'Nergal - Lord Underworld - old Friend...' Endiovar's lips pulled once more up into a pleasant and welcoming smile even as he took new measure of Underworld at full power. 'It has been too long - but you are returned to us in full glory, I see.' Words not-spoken once the imposing God was close enough to the pair to be heard without strain should he speak.
Zero Dream Ankou was not quite as perspective to the silent step as his companion was - it was only when Endiovar... un-spoke that the Guide turned, realizing belatedly that his brother had nearly sneaked up on him.
Again.
Definitively didn't take as long as he had expected for Nergal to flee the scene, so to speak... But he could not help but feel a little envious, at the same time.
Thabara „The pleasure is all mine,“ Nergal replied smoothly, giving a polite nod to both. His voice was sonorous, of the type which easily made itself known without effort, and at the same time there was a deep quality to it, as if the words were uttered from the very bowels of the Earth.
„You flatter me, but unjustified. 'Full Glory', that is a term which should not be used – not yet. There still is much work to be done …“
„Ankou …“ He touched upon his brother's shoulder lightly for but a moment. To those who knew how aversive the Underworld deity was to touch and being touched, that told a lot about the affection he held for his sibling.
If a person uninvolved were to accidentally view upon the trio, however, Nergal mused, they'd likely think of Ankou and Endiovar as siblings – both of them similar in stature and built, both of them wth the color of their hands faded and bleached.
Syrie Nergal's voice was less grating than many others; Colin had always found the voice of the Underworld to be soothing and it continued to be so with Endiovar at the fore. 'Nearly full, then. You are much restored since we last encountered one another, Lord Underworld.' The curly-haired god watched the two siblings silently; the closeness was not lost upon the god of Silence though they did not look as though they were related.
That people may have thought Endiovar and Ankou related hadn't occured to Endiovar, but certainly it had to some of the mortals in attendance.
'You are most gracious to host such an event, you and your Lady.' They had both looked so regal stepping among the throngs of people and spirits...all of whom must have felt a deep gratitude to the Lord Underworld and his chosen Lady for allowing them to reconnect once more.
Zero Dream The fact that he and Silence looked much more so like brothers than himself and Nergal did... had quite simply not really occurred to the Spirit Guide either. Neither had he seemed to notice anyone they had passed thinking such.
Ankou did not move to return the touch in turn, but he nodded his head and smiled - telltale signs of his own affections, and respect for his elder brother.
"Stay awhile. The curious mortals haven't reached this far away yet." It was all too obvious what Underworld was fleeing.
Thabara (( Yep, this definitely dropped off my subscriptions. And I'm sure I had to subscribed to it ... )) Nergal inclined his head, taking the compliments for what they were. „Thank you,“ he said quietly. „I am trying to make amends … to right the shortcomings of the Past.“ That confession, by itself, was a sign as to how much he had actually changed from his past self, even if the changes might appear subtle to those who had known him Before. Back then … would the gratitude the mortals felt at his gift even have touched him? He doubted it. He'd been too distant … Even now he shied away from their touch, their pleas. Had he not done enough for them already? „And that is a boon,“ he admitted in response to his brother, his relief rather obvious. „I have tried to … mingle. But it seems my appearance either causes the mortals to take a wide berth to avoid me, or to approach me for something they want of me.“
Syrie Nergal may have stated he was not restored to his full glory, but he certainly had been restored to something nearer to what he once had been...but with a temperance that had been learned the hard way during his rebirthing process. Even without knowing what had happened to Underworld at the hands of his captors (or even the events after), he could tell. Body-language, the unspoken words that he, politely, pushed aside so that he did not intrude upon his friend's privacy.
'I am certain that you will have success in this task, old Friend.' Endiovar smiled at the obvious relief that came from Nergal at Ankou's words - amusing, the way that the King of the Dead did his best to keep himself away from the throngs of people for the reasons he stated. 'You do cut quite an imposing figure...but I can imagine that would be distressing after a while.'
Zero Dream It was hard not to be amused by that, really. Ankou, for his part, had no difficulty blending in for the most part, not exactly standing out to the mortals. Expecially not since Nergal had made his entrance.
But then, perhaps it had always been that way. He'd always prefered to blend in, and only stand out when it was important to do so. Being on the forefront, the source of all mortal attention, still made him a little uncomfortable.
The dead were a much different thing.
But then that also reminded him of something...
"Granted, it's easier to blend in when one does not tower over everything." Was it still possible for them to change their shapes as well ? There were vague memories of himself doing such, a long time ago. Easier to blend in this way, and souls were much more willing to follow something that seemed familiar. He doubted that had been a skill of his alone.
Thabara „True that,“ Nergal responded to his brother's gentle teasing. „It- When I regained form, I found it impossible to pour my Self into a shape any smaller than this. It may still change, as I grow more accustomed to things.“ Truth be told, he'd rather liked the way everyone had gazed upon him, eyes wide with fear and awe, mouths hanging open. There was certainly nothing wrong with respectful veneration, the emphasis being on 'respectful', for the intimidating effect of his appearance hadn't lasted all that long. The moment he'd found himself at the center of a crowd, the mortals pressing forward eagerly to touch him, to offer their congratulations and praise, and to literally shower him with gifts in turn for his blessings … „In some situations, however, it seems not imposing enough,“ he admitted sulkily, unconsciously rolling back his shoulders.
Syrie Endiovar's gaze wandered back to the bright lights and figures sliding/twisting/moving apart from where they stood; life and death all together but seeming so very alive at that moment...he thought wistfully of his host. Were Colin still around, Endiovar could have given him a very precious gift tonight: he could have allowed the dancer to see his mother and sister one last time. One last goodbye for his family; perhaps even his former lover Adrian. But Colin was gone and only Silence remained and he did not mourn the dead (and likely none of them wished to see him.
'Oh? Is it so bad, Old Friend, to have them reaching with awe and reverence to touch the hem of your garment?' Teasing, he was really just teasing; his eyes bright and manner light, laughing.
Zero Dream "Personal space is still a good thing." Ankou shrugged. It would have been oh so easy to team up with Silence and unleash teasing on his brother, but he actual shared the general idea. To a lesser extreme, but Ankou was used to blend in, and being in the spotlight...
Well, it did make him uncomfortable.
Just a little.
Not that he would admit it.
The Invisible Couch „If it were only the hem of my garment they wished to touch, I would have been fine,“ Nergal muttered grumpily, either not noticing Endiovar's 'words' were meant as gentle teasing, or deliberately choosing to ignore it. Both was possible. In any way, he seemed to be taking things too serious, as per usual. „But, let us stop of 'me' – how have you been faring, Silence? I have not heard from you, I think, since Priya returned. And what a strange tale that has been.“
Syrie That Nergal was...cranky towards people wanting to touch him wasn't lost on Endiovar, but he decided that the best route on this subject was to let it fizzle out and let it alone.
"Ah, Well..." The blond dipped his head a little; things had been quite...restrictive since his return. That little jaunt with Priya had pretty much been the last time that Silence had been free to roam about as he pleased (or didn't). 'I have been well, if tethered to one or the other up until this time.' He shook his head a bit and looked from Nergal to Ankou and back again before continuing. 'The Dreamer's Guide was injured trying to reach inside that shell...only by staying at his side could he gain any sort of ease.' In the gestures with his hands and the subtle shifts in stance, it could be inferred that he had fairly lived at Revei's side. 'Once Creation returned, I spent some time with Him...he granted two requests and asked for but one in return. Though I know not what it is at this time, He let it be known I could not aid him as of yet.'
Too weak in this morphling form, somewhere between God and Host, yet fully one internally. Endiovar did not explain that to either of the men before him; both had - or were currently - going through the same thing.
A thought touched upon Silence and he brightened a bit, turning fully to face Nergal for a moment. 'And how is Priya? She was a wonderful companion and a credit to your realm while with me.'.
Zero Dream Ankou listened, interested in the conversation. Revei was not one of those he knew personally, but it was still something worth knowing. Perhaps he and Dream would need to meet, one day...
The Guide had a look around - it seemed like no one had started to stem from the main ground so far, and so he focused back on the conversation, content to simply listen in.
Thabara „Ah …“ Nergal nodded knowingly. He of all gods knew (or at least liked to think he did) all to well what it was like to be bound by duty and obligations. „It is good to hear, then, that recovery is underway. I would like to talk to him later, mayhaps, to pay my respects and on … business.“ There must have been relations between their realms, at some time. People did not refer to Sleep as the 'little Death' for nothing. There were … similarities between their realms, with the souls of the mortals remaining in one for only a night's length, and in the other … well, forever, potentially. And then there were those tales numerous, of the advice of the dead, granted through sleep and dream … „If you would send message perhaps, once he is fully well again?“To have touched that … thing, truly touched, he did not want to think of the damage it must have wrought, the suffering it brought. Foolish, but also very brave to do such a thing. And what had he done? Better to change the topic. „I do not know, honestly,“ he admitted, a little embarrassed upon Silence's inquiry. „The last I saw of her was the day I left to restore my domain, and I really only returned today.“ He had his doubts he would be able to catch up with what his aoidei had been up to until the festivities were over. He cast a quick glance at Ankou, however, maybe he did know? He had noticed their aoidei, both feline, one white, one black, were getting along quite well. A bit like Yin and Yang. „However, should you require her services again …“ He inclined his head, the actual offer left unspoken. He hardly was in need of a bodyguard anymore, he could spare her. „She would be happy to volunteer, I am certain. She seemed … quite taken with you.“ That much had been obvious, even to him. Why was it that his aoidei seemed to be so eager to serve anyone but him?!
Syrie 'I would be most pleased to carry your message to Revei.' Endiovar did so enjoy being useful; he didn't often feel that he was...especially now. Creation had asked him what his purpose was - a question that Silence had been unable to answer sufficiently.
Knowing that Nergal was discomfitted by his question, Silence wisely did not press further. It was not his intent to cause his old friend to feel embarrassed about such things. 'I'm certain, Old Friend, that she has kept things handsomely while you have been otherwise occupied.' Green eyes did widen some; he had not quite understood that Underworld was so very recently returned! Returned shortly, but...to have just returned - to have just gotten to see his family again, well...that was another thing entirely.
Endiovar smiled up at his friend, wings rustling behind him as though to stretch slightly. 'I am quite fond of Priya myself...perhaps I will take you up on that again. Hue well could learn from Priya how best to serve.' Here he frowned and shook his head a bit at the Aoide that he and Priya had rescued...ah, how he had missed having servants that were able to serve in reasonable manners. Hue was still quite fractured and Endi had been spoiled not only by Priya, but also by Xedre - the spiderine Aoide that Destruction had loaned to him. 'Or perhaps I should send Hue to you, that he may learn better how to serve...'
Zero Dream "Priya is well, from what I have seen of her." Ankou interjected, as if having read his brother's mind on that subject. "Jinx and her often train and spar together, if you are to look for her." That was about as much as he saw of the white feline. He was often gone himself, after all.
He did seem amused by Silence's last statement, trying to not smile at it, but not quite succeeding. That poor aoide would probably never expect what would be coming onto him. Nergal was hard to please... That much he knew.
Thabara The irony of Silence acting the messenger did not entirely escape him; same went for the younger god's surprise upon the news of his very recent return. „Echo was with me, for much of the time,“ he explained, the affection he felt for Music blatantly obvious. There was a tinge of guilt as well, to have kept her for so long, when the mortals, their children, needed her … „I was not sure, not until I actually crossed the threshold between the realms, if I would be able to return with her. I have yet to find my children in this … crowd.“ He looked annoyed, and – for but a moment, before he managed to hide it again – simply tired. „Perhaps we should trade aoidei at some time,“ he suggested, not entirely serious about it. A mild joke, more like. His brother's amusement at the topic was rather obvious. „Though perhaps not anytime soon. I may be too strict of a Lord to serve, given his …“ He paused, struggling to find a diplomatic wording for his doubts, but already knew that he'd ultimately fail. „As I understood, his mental state was rather fragile when he was found.“ Of course, Hue might have recovered some, by now. But, if anything, he wouldn't want to damage that servant's psyche any further. Still … should Endiovar decide to take him up on that offer, he would not say 'no' to it. Priya had served well, she deserved something of a reward. And it was good to hear the feline knew well enough to not slack off in his absence, but to keep herself in form. He craned his head a little, looking past Ankou and Endiovar at the small group of mortals which had gathered in a respectful distance, just at the edge of the festival grounds – putting their heads together and occasionally casting a nervous glance at the conversing gods, apparently trying to decide if, how and when to best approach the divinities. Inwardly, Nergal sighed. This was likely to be about him anyway, so he probably should approach them, save them the trouble. (( Nergal was hard impossible to please... That much he knew. Fixed! XD ))
Syrie 'That is good to hear, thank you Ankou, Nergal.' He would have felt very badly indeed had he been given sad news regarding Priya; the feline Aoide really had grown on him in the time that she had served him. Oddly enough, the two Aoide that were not his own were the ones that he felt a closer kinship to - First Xedre, then Priya. Granted, he had gone out to seek Hue in the Silent Forest...but Hue had served Silence before the Fading - and had since lost his mind (so far, only some portion had been 'returned' to the bat-winged Aoide though he was improving over time).
From Nergal's lips to his own; quite amusing that he was to deliver missives once more - a task he had taken upon his back during the Weeks of Gehenna: prayers to Creation, to Harmodius...to anyone...silent cries moved upon the wisp-wings of Silence. Messenger-boy. At least it gave him a solid purpose, something he lacked (or felt he lacked).
'Ah, then I should not be keeping you, Old Friend. Surely you miss your children and want to hold them once more...' Endiovar looked over through the crowd, jade coloured eyes searching for small forms. Impossible to see much of anything through the milling throng, but try he did. It was because of this he nearly missed Nergal's next words. 'Ah, yes. Hue is recovering, but...being trapped so long after the Fading....he is quite broken, I fear.' Endiovar dipped his head gracefully to acknowledge that yes, they should trade and also that they should wait. When Hue was better ready to take commands, to learn how to be....well, to be an Aoide again. Then, yes, then he could go and serve at the great bone throne of the Underworld.
There, at the fringes, mortals waiting for Nergal. 'I think, old Friend, that there are some with less time than I requesting your presence...' The blond's lips curved up into a smile; of the three gods standing, he was surely the least imposing looking and yet he was the furthest removed from power in this place. 'If I may, I would like to meet your children, but perhaps at a later date. When you have rested and your supplicants have less pressing need of you.'
Zero Dream It was only when Silence mentioned other presences that he did notice them - tracking the living had never really been his specialty. It did make him realize that the three of them must have been standing here, talking and not-talking for quite awhile.
"I should..." Go see if Cosine had dropped by, really. There was nothing specific that he really needed to do... not this year. This was an odd kind of freedom. He didn't mention that, however - through his hand had reached up to fiddle with the colorful glass pendant he wore - that clashed a little compared toward the black and gray of his clothing. "Go see what Jinx and Lenneth are up to."
Yeah right. His brother knew better - and perhaps even Endiovar would, given the guide's body language.
Thabara 'Less time' indeed. There were times at which it seemed like the mortals were doing naught else but to head towards death, their life flames burning so very quickly – and yet they clung to life with a stubborness that was unrivaled. “Another time, then,” he promised, bowing his farewell to the younger god. His eyes rested upon his brother's colorful pendant momentarily. He knew not where it came from – Ishum had failed to report such to him – but he'd taken notice of Cosine's similarly colored glass bangles, and he was well capable of making an educated guess. “It is not good manners to leave a lady waiting,” he remarked, which … might be taken this way, or that. Echo, he noticed, was nowhere to be seen in the crowd. But her followers must have sorely missed her given how long he'd kept her to his own, and that was where she likely was – and ought to be. As should he. Straightening his massive frame, he began heading towards his waiting supplicants. Their worship was welcome, but – by Destruction's Seven Tails – if they dared as much as to touch him again he'd unleash a horde of poltergeists upon them before they knew what was happening! He wouldn't, of course, but the thought that he could, if he only willed it, was comforting and making the physical contact somewhat bearable.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:24 pm
Meepfur  But not usually one of Adrienne's, unless she happened to be hunting. The rest of the time, like now, she was usually talking to someone - or something, whether it be her plants or her pets. Currently, it was the latter, her near-constant Ageless companion. Phlox was playmate, confidant, and officially-appointed watch-floox...not that she needed much watching, these days, but Love had given him a job and he was going to do it, no matter how un-little Adi got!
He trotted along beside her as they emerged from the woods, headed back to the Pantheon after visiting her tree for the day, occasionally putting in some supportive floox-sound of agreement.
"I guess I'll just know or something," she mused, "But I can't know until I know someone, right? So we need to meet more people, so we need to find them...but we can't be annoying, y'know?"
Syrie With the re-awakening of Dream thanks to Creation's generous actions, Endiovar was no longer required to remain tethered on a short leash to his companions, so he was able to go out and about; speak to mortals and gods alike. He liked to remain as active as possible to help bring All that Is back to a semblance of it's former glory sooner than it might have otherwise.
It was on one of these walks about the Pantheon that he noticed a young lady with one of those strange creatures - flooxes, if he was remembering what Gianfar had said clearly. She was slightly familiar - had he seen her at the Ritual? Around the Pantheon? She was talking to the floox - something serious that concerned her, but not something bad; these things he could tell from their body language.
Endiovar's wings flared out behind him; he enjoyed the feeling of the air ruffling through his transparent, feathered wings. He didn't think he should interrupt whatever line of conversation, thought, she had going on but he would watch her with a slight smile on his lips. Seeing youth out and about made him feel better about the state of things...hope was a seed carried and cultivated within each and every blossoming life; he cherished them all for what they represented.
Meepfur Adrienne might not have noticed that she was being watched, but Phlox did! While she chattered away, happily oblivious, the floox was looking around and spotted the god. He gave a yip to let her know, effectively cutting her off, and scuttled towards the stranger to sit in front of him with a whuff.
Hey! There was someone here! Adi followed after her pet to greet the unknown god with a bright, "Hello~!"
Syrie He watched the antics of the floox with amusement; the creature yipped at it's mistress and then came barrelling over like a tiny, fuzzy tank. When it sat at his feet and looked up, Endiovar knelt down and put a hand out for it to sniff. 'Hello little one.' Adi called out to him and though he did not rise, he did return her smile and greeting. 'Hello child. This little fellow belongs to you?'
Once again, he'd forgotten that his speech-not-speech was sometimes disconcerting or difficult for others to grasp fully -- the waking minds of mortals did not want to process the language of Silence very well. Few, if any, could tolerate space devoid of sounds, let alone his "speaking". Mortals liked to have quiet more than they liked silence.
Meepfur Phlox sniffed the offered hand busily, though he soon let out another little whuff and looked around, baffled. Who was that talking? He didn't see anybody but this god and Adi!
Adrienne was less disconcerted, though still somewhat surprised. Not in a bad way, not at all - that was kind of cool! The werewolf looked suitably impressed. "He does," she answered with a nod, "His name's Phlox. And I'm Adi."
Syrie What an adorable little creature! Come to think of it, hadn't he seen some of them in the Great Library when he'd been cleaning up with Gianfar? What had his grey-winged librarian called them? Floofs? Flox? Endiovar pursed his lips together for a moment as he tried to recall -- then it came to him: flooxes. Phlox was a floox, specifically he was Adi's floox. 'Hello Phlox, Adi. I'm Endiovar.'
He almost rolled out his title and domain, but...those words (not-words) never came and never sounded into the silence to be recognized by woman or beast. Instead, he opened his mouth to speak with that grave-side quiet, prayer-heavy voice of his. "I've seen you before, but I do not recall. You live at the Pantheon?"
Meepfur When the voice-from-nowhere addressed him by name, Phlox hopped to his feet, whirling around with a yip. Where was that coming from?!
Adi giggled at her bewildered companion and bent to pick him up and cradle against her chest. "I do! I'm Rio's daughter."
Syrie Phlox was adorable; Endiovar wondered briefly if he might be able to coax one of the Floox currently hiding around in the ruins of the Great Library into his retinue. So adorable all tucked up in Adi's arms with that confused/bewildered look on his little face.
"I don't believe that I've met your father, though I believe I would like to." He smiled at Adi and Phox, reaching one long-fingered hand out gingerly to touch the pretty little Floox before leaning in to whisper at it, 'I am the one speaking to you, without words.' "Forgive me Adi, but you do not feel like one with deific blood. But your father is a god, correct?"
Meepfur It was...the god? Phlox blinked owlishly at him, but finally seemed to comprehend, tipping his head against Endiovar's hand in hopes of scritches.
Adrienne giggled once more, unable to help herself. It wasn't meant to be at the god's expense, really, it was just that no matter how many times the father thing came up, it never ceased to be funny. "He's not my father," she said after a moment, explaining her amusement, "He's my mother. His host was a girl, so he was too for awhile."
"But you're right, I'm not a god. My father's an aoide."
Syrie Phlox's soft insistence that he be on the recieving end of petting would get results. Endiovar had been quite affectionate towards the tribble that accompanied Colin's former lover and Phlox would fare no differently; the God of Silence was quite animal-lover (as his host had once been)...so he was totally happy to be crouched down, scritching the little floox.
Adi giggled and Endi read amusement in the lines of her body - a funny question, then? "Ah, I see. How interesting a situation to find oneself in." The blond smiled at the werewolf-child while scritching under Phlox's chin. "My host was the correct gender, thankfully...but the goddess of Science found a host with opposing gender." 'It makes one wonder, how often this happens. Perhaps I shall pose the question to Gianfar sometime.'
"So you are mortal then?" He could only guess, she didn't feel deific - but nor did she feel entirely mortal. The result of Aoide and god, perhaps? But that didn't make complete sense to him until he reminded himself that Rio's host was the actual parent in this case - the female body belonged to host. That was all.
Meepfur There was a Goddess of Science? Really? Adrienne's knowledge of such things was hazy at best, and most of what she did know pertained to nature. She'd come across a science book once, but had found it difficult to read and eventually abandoned the attempt.
"I'm not really sure what I am exactly," she answered, "Nobody ever has been. But that's okay, 'cause I'll be an aoide soon!"
Phlox sighed happily, clearly quite pleased by the attention paid to him.
Syrie Endiovar read her questioning curiousity quite easily - she couldn't believe that there really was a Goddess of Science. But there was and she was an absolutely terrifying Goddess, to boot; certainly he did not want to cross her.
"Oh, you will?" Endiovar smiled broadly at her; some of her excitement and joy being transmitted into him - such unadulterated joy could not help but be contagious. "How does one go about becoming an aoide?" Truthfully he was very interested in just how one went about going from mortal (er, something near mortal) to an immortal creature like an Aoide. Like Hue.
If Pholx wasn't careful, he'd end up scooped into Endiovar's arms for some full-bodied cuddling.
Meepfur "Well," Adi began, recalling Harmodius' explanation and attempting to repeat it to the best of her abilities, "Sometimes they're made, on purpose or by accident, out of mana." The werewolf was, to be honest, still a little fuzzy on the whole 'mana' thing, but she went ahead and used the word, figuring that Endiovar wouldn't have the same problem. "Or a god can give someone some of their strength to make them an aoide."
"I just have to find a god, and then Harmodius is going to help me." This she was quite proud of, as it made her feel special.
Careful? Ha! Phlox was, in fact, considering the very same thing - that it would be wonderfully convenient to be over there, where he would be even more easily pettable. With no further ado, the floox hopped from Adi to Endi in order to best capitalize on the attention being paid him.
Syrie What an interesting little "lesson" he was learning from this lovely little girl with her adorable little pet floox. He put the information that Adi was giving him into a little corner of his brain so that he could ask Gianfar about it later...Knowledge surely would be able to fill him in on what she was talking about. After all, kne knew things - really, just about everything - though there were a few areas that the gray-winged Librarian drew blanks on: Grigori, Creation and Destruction...and well, the process withwhich one brought a mortal being up to Aoide status. Still, he would ask. Later.
"That's fantastic news for you, Adi. Have you found one that is willing yet? Or are you waiting, checking out which gods might suit you best?" He would have offered, after a bit of research, but that would have been presumptious - especially since he barely knew the girl! (Yes, Endiovar tended to really be that generous with himself and his energies and time.
Phlox hopped into his arms and Endiovar caught the silky little creature with his eyes wide in a surprised-but-pleased manner. "Ah! Well, make yourself comfortable Phlox." The blond gave Phlox just what he wanted: more pets, scritches and cuddling - he was so soft, so cuddly...it was pure pleasure to touch the floox.
Meepfur Phlox proceeded to do exactly that, settling himself and making an unmistakably pleased sound. This was very nice, yes. Not that Adi didn't pay enough attention to him, but new people were particularly enthusiastic about lovings, which made them at least temporarily superior.
"I'm waiting," she answered with a nod, smiling at her pet's behaviour, "To see who'd be best, and maybe for them to ask me. Do you think it would be rude to ask someone?"
Syrie As Adi's little pet made those oh-so-happy sounds at his affection, Endiovar contemplated on how pleasant it would be to have one of these silky, intelligent little creatures of his own. 'So soft, such wonderfully soft fur...'
"A wise decision, I think." At her question, Silence's petting of Phlox grew slightly distracted; he was giving it due thought and consideration. "I don't think it would be rude to ask, if you had already spent time in that person's company and both were comfortable." Slowly, he let the words out; measured tones and with the weight he believed her query deserved. "I believe that you will know who is right for you, when the time comes."
Meepfur "Oh, good." Adi's resulting smile was relieved. "I was worried about that." Havign feedback from an actual god on the matter was quite helpful. She had Rio, of course, but he was hardly an unbiased opinion in something like this.
"I figured it would be something like that, just knowing." The werewolf nodded. "I mean, I know it'll have to be someone nice, someone who likes plants - and Phlox, I can't leave him behind. He'd be sad."
The floox voiced his agreement with a melancholy sound.
Syrie Endiovar smiled again and his lovely, bright eyed companion; she really did have a charming air to her - an innocence that he found refreshing and rare. "You will be a treasure to whomever you lend your aid, Adi. Very likely, you will find Aoide-status gifted to you before you even form the request." He reached over gently to touch her shoulder; it wasn't random flattery, Endiovar both meant and believed each and every word.
"Who could leave such a charming fellow behind?" Phlox was still recieving the bulk of physical affection that the curly-haired god was dishing out; he nodded at her words while he was stroking the silky fur again. "If I can ever be of assistance to you, please don't hesitate."
As much as he might have enjoyed being her 'person' (being such a kind and thoughtful sort), Silence knew that he was not the one. Even so, he was determined to give her any help he could; at the very least he wished to be her friend.
Meepfur Silence's compliments - so well-worded, and all the more flattering for it - had Adrienne beaming, and even blushing a little. She was a treasure! The werewolf shuffled her pawfeet. "You really think someone would?"
And an offer of help, too? Adi was practically collecting such favors without even trying. "Thank you. I really appreciate it!"
Phlox chrred, immensely pleased.
Syrie Adi was an open-book to Endiovar; every line of her body, every expression...told him that she was pleased and feeling so very good about the things he'd said. It wasn't just flattery on his part, however; there was no doubt in Silence's mind that she merited such words. The daughter of an Aoide and a host, a woman-child both beautiful in form and in spirit - caring and considerate...oh yes, she truly was a treasure.
'I would not say it if I did not believe it, Adi.' Phlox was soaking up his attention the way that Adi was soaking up his words; it pleased the god of Silence to have done a good turn for both.
"My rooms in the Pantheon are graced with a swan, but you may also find me in Gianfar's Library. I have been cleaning it...perhaps you would care to come by sometime. A pleasant conversation would ease the hours greatly." He wasn't requesting that she help him clean in order to ask a favor someday, he really did think that just having someone to chat with would help pass the time.
Meepfur Adi was absolutely lit with happiness, so delighted to be so showered with attention. One would have thought she received none, in the way they might have suspected Phlox was not fed enough by the way he gobbled down any morsel of food offered him. Too much of a good thing? Not so, not for this pair!
"The library? Oh, I'd love to!" She did so love books, even if her reading skills were still a little sketchy.
Syrie "Wonderful!" The Library really did need attention, love and a lot of care...it had been utterly devastated by Gehenna: so many books were reduced to dust and/or rot. There was only so much he, Revei, their servants and Kios could manage...but for Gianfar, they were doing their best.
Endi grinned at her while giving Phlox ear-scritches, "I take it you enjoy books?" His expression went somber, serious; "Unfortunately, Gehenna has rendered the Library to the barest shadows of its former glory - despite our best efforts."
Meepfur "I do!" Adi's tail wagged. "I have some, Rio's aoidei find them for me sometimes. Ones about nature mostly, but stories too." About magic crayons, stuffed rabbits, and bulls who loved flowers. She could read some more complicated things, but those were still some of her favorites.
Her ears fell a little, though, when Endiovar turned serious. "What happened to it?"
Syrie Obvious and endearing was her excitement and enjoyment of the few tomes that Rio's servants had procured for her, so much so that his brief sadness at recalling the deplorable state of the Great Library was lifted momentarily.
"I have some books I could loan you, from my host's personal collection...they have survived Gehenna fairly well due to my own magic." But on the question about the Library, he worried his lower lip and sighed before continuing.
"During the Weeks, the Library fell into decay and ruin...the papers did not survive very well - some did, but not all...not nearly all. We have been trying to rescue as many as possible. Some are being held together with threads of magic until we can rewrite them or refashion them..." He gave an elegant gesture with one hand that spoke volumes of the difficult task facing them in the Library, but also of their determination to complete it.
Meepfur "Really?" Her ears perked back up momentarily. "That would be awesome! What are they about?"
Her enthusiasm, however, was muted by the details of what had happened to the Library. "That's awful. Is there anything I could do to help?"
Likely not, since she wasn't magical or anything, but it was only right to ask.
Syrie Adi's excitement was infectious and Endiovar found himself bubbling up with her enthusiasm too. "A lot of them are books from his childhood, I have one called "Wednesday is Spaghetti Day"...it's a whimsical book that I think you would enjoy. There are also some picture books from a TV show Colin liked, called Star Trek and a few about dance." He couldn't recall all of them, but most had pictures and would probably entertain the child-like woman before him.
When she offered to help, he couldn't help but feel some relief and also gratitude; neither he nor Revei had ever thought that their project to please Gianfar would be easy, but it had rapidly become apparent that the work needed was far, far more than either had expected it to be. "That would be wonderful, Adi. We could use any help...not only are we trying to save as many of the books as possible, we are also trying to clean and repair the Library. There is a lot of dust and debris...it would be a great help if you joined us, even for an afternoon." Magical powers or no, Adrienne's assistance would be most welcomed - one didn't need magical powers to push a broom, dust shelves or even help to repaint/repair cracked plaster!
Meepfur "Ooh, I like spaghetti!" It was one of the world's many, many delicious things. Oh yes, she was very interested in that one! And dancing? That was cool, too! "Star Trek?" That was a total mystery.
"Oh, I can do that!" She was pleasantly surprised that there was some godly thing she could help with, even if dust messed up her nose a little. Helping was totally worth a few sneezes~
Syrie He took joy in her light-hearted laughter, in the way that she didn't hold herself back and fully enjoyed even just the thought of something. 'Star Trek is a mortal television show about space...it's basically a magic picture box, if you don't know what a television is. He was very, very fond of it...but I find that I would rather share the things Colin enjoyed than keep them to myself. He would have wanted it that way.'
Colin had been generous, save for one possession - and that he was keeping safe via magic, tucked away in a special place where nothing could touch it.
'Wonderful, thank you Adi - truly Gianfar and myself appreciate your aid.' A small chuckle and a fleeting look of sadness came from the god of Silence before he contined, 'Or he would, if he were around to do so.'
Meepfur "My Uncle Ea has a TV! We watch movies on it sometimes, but I don't think we have Star Trek. I have seen Star Wars, though!" It was more of a Kin sort of thing, but Adi liked it well enough - there was a princess and a tiny bit of romance, so it held her attention decently. And the ewoks were adorable! She sort of wanted one. "It's good to share things."
The girl tilted her head curiously when the briefly sad expression passed over Endiovar's face. "Has he gone somewhere?"
Syrie Oh fantastic! Many of the gods and their servants were technologically savvy, but some weren't and he'd had to try and explain such things...especially to his own Aoide Hue, trapped for centuries in enchanted statuary. 'It's a bit like that, but - if my host was correct - better' Though he could 'remember' via Colin that there had been two camps: Star Trek and Star Wars...and neither had liked the other much; going so far as to claim each was the 'best' and slandering horribly those that thought otherwise.
With a sad, soft smile the god of Silence nodded at Adi's question, 'Yes...though we know not where or when Gianfar may have gone to...but he will return. He always does - eventually. He gets very wrapped up in his books and scrolls, likely he's just lost track of time.' It wasn't uncommon for that to happen, after all.
Meepfur "Better?" Well, that was even more intriguing; she'd have to share this potential awesomeness with Kin, next time she saw him.
"Oh, that sort of happens to me sometimes, but then I get hungry..." There was nothing like a grumbly tummy to remind one of the passing of time - if your tummy was wont to grumble, anyway. "He must've found something really interesting."
Syrie "That's what Colin believed, yes." Endi's eyes crinkled at the corners as he smiled at the female werewolf's description of how she got lost in projects/whatnot until her stomach rumbled and brought her back to the reality of things.
'I would say so, yes...Gianfar is not one to stay away from Revei and myself for so long without a very compelling reason.' He hoped said compelling reason wasn't one that would end with he and Revei mourning the loss of their lover and companion - but Nergal had no notice of Knowledge in his realms...so at the very least, there was that assurance. "I will make certain to have food and drink in the Library when you are there to help, so that you don't become overly hungry."
Meepfur "Do you know if he was looking for something to start with?" Even if Adi didn't get hungry, she would surely get lonely eventually and come back to her friends - wouldn't Gianfar? But maybe it was something really important? But then...wouldn't he tell someone? Other people could be very hard to figure out.
Endiovar, however, was officially one of the best gods ever - he gave good advice, offered all kinds of really exciting stuff, was going to let her help with the Library, and promised her food too! Food was certainly one of the admittedly many ways to her heart, and the thought was more fuel for her wagging tail. "I'll make sure I don't get it on anything!"
Speaking of such things..it was almost time to eat...but! "When do you want me to come and help?"
Syrie Good question, werewolfkin! Endiovar thought a momment and then gave a small, helpless sort of shrug. 'He may well have been looking into the Grigori...or perhaps just the nature of Names - the way that All That Is comes into Being...and stays that way. But I do not know, he didn't mention anything the last time that I saw him.'
Gianfar was different. He got lonely for company, yes, but his books, tomes and scrolls - and the knowledge they held - were plenty of company for him. Usually.
'Ah, would you be able to join us tomorrow afternoon, or perhaps the day after? We are working as often as possible to return the Library to it's former glory.' Just as they - the True Gods - were working as hard as possible to return the Pantheon to it's former glory...or to a new, more glorious version of itself. What a rich doubling of intent and action that was!
Endiovar could read her hunger and wouldn't hold Adi longer than he already had - they had a date, of sorts, in the works and he would do well to go and meditate a bit - or perhaps just go and make arrangements to marshal all of the "troops" helping with the Library. By this time, there were a small but fair number of them; all requiring sustenance to continue their efforts. Oh yes, Silence had a fair stretch of work to do himself! 'Thank you, Adi. I appreciate your offer and your company, today as well as in the future. Perhaps you would excuse me...there are matters I need to attend. Surely you have some of your own also?' His nice way of telling her that she should go get some food and he would see her soon.
Meepfur Names, All That Is...such mysterious, exciting things. Scholarly pursuits did have some amount of appeal to Adi, given her sheer curiosity, but she did not have the patience. She was too interested in doing things. Maybe when she was much, much older...but probably not.
"Tomorrow works! Maybe even the next day, too," she giggled. "I'd better get used to helping, hadn't I?" If she was going to serve a god, she might as well get a little bit of a head start. It would be like practice!
The werewolf was not too disappointed to part from Endiovar when he decided to take his leave, even if she did like him a lot, because she was sure to see him again very soon. Phlox, gathering that it was time to go, gave the god a little goodbye nuzzle and hopped back to his mistress. "We'll see you tomorrow!"
Syrie He smiled at her enthusiasm again and nodded. 'I believe you might be onto something with that. It's never too early to start working on skills you might need.' Phlox would get a good-bye cuddle and one last pat before he hopped back to Adi and the werewolfkin would get herself a very gentle clasp of her shoulder in thanks.
All too soon he was gone, back to working on the Library, getting others involved in the project and (of course) seeing to it that all were fed properly - his work was never done, but at least they were making good progress...and of course, now Adi would be coming to help. Even just one day would be wonderful!
'Ah...what a charming young lady...she truly will be a wonderful servant for one of the Pantheon once she settles into devotion...' Endiovar thought to himself as he marshalled the 'troops'.
~Fin~
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:26 pm
Meepfur After emerging from his rooms, Desiderio stopped at the top of the stairs for a moment to stretch before heading down. He'd spent the last hour carving an arrow, and needed a little bit of a break after all the concentration involved. Tomorrow, he'd go looking for his intended target, but for now? He felt like stretching his legs and going for a walk. Not that he wasn't eager to finally use his bow again, but Ashoka had specifically said tomorrow, and who was going to argue with a prophet about timing?
Love, who had yet to decide where his walk was going to take him - if anywhere at all - set to meandering.
Syrie With silent steps, Endiovar moved among the mortals that had yet to leave the relative safety and peace of the reformed Pantheon. He gave comfort and aid when and where he could, wanting - no, needing - to find a purpose now that Creation was back. Before he had been the vessel upon which mortal prayers had moved through All that Is...but now it wasn't needed...not really.
Besides, he'd been thinking about it since Creation had asked him that very question. No answers had come to Silence yet, but he was certain that so long as he was being useful he was moving towards figuring out what his place and purpose was.
Meepfur Aimless wandering did have its benefits, such as coming across other people - in this case a god, from the looks of it, and one he'd never met. How delightful! Immediately curious, Rio angled the course of his walk in the direction of the other. He preferred not to yell across distances, at least to those he didn't know. However you phrased yourself, it more or less boiled down to 'Hey you!' which was hardly polite.
Syrie A colorful deity shifted his line of wandering and started on his way towards Endi; a move that was not lost on the God of Silence. He didn't call out to Rio - a deep-seated dislike of loud noises and the like restraining his tongue rather than any sense of propriety he may have shared with the other God.
Mortals parted from his side at the arrival of Love; Rio looked nothing so much as a pirate from some randy romance novel set 'way back when' - not scary though, just alluring in a strange way. Endi smiled at the newcomer in welcome, his body language inviting, open. 'You cut quite the figure, yet I know not your name.'
Meepfur As he neared, he took in the sight of the other god - and then found himself spoken to, but not. The combination was enough that he was able to identify the blonde, though they'd never met; Adi talked to him about practically everything, especially 'new' people, and Silence had been no exception.
Love grinned and bent in a casual bow. "I believe I know yours - Endiovar, yes?" His tone was playful. "But that is an unfair advantage. I'm Rio."
Syrie Rio's bow brought a smile to Endiovar's lips and his eyes; if he could say nothing else about his new companion, it was that he had style. There was also something oddly familiar about him too, but the God of Silence couldn't quite place it.
"Ah! That explains much." Rio. Adi's parent. Knowing these things made everything clear to him; how Rio had known his name, why the pink-winged god felt strangely familiar...and the coloration of Adi's wings. 'I am pleased to meet you, Rio. Adi spoke very well of you when we met, though she did not mention your domain.' He returned the informal bow with a gracious inclination of his head. 'Your daughter represents you well, you are no doubt very proud of her.' Briefly, Endi felt that he would have enjoyed having a child of his own; but he pushed it aside - now was not the time!
Meepfur Rio and his daughter had much in common both in appearance and otherwise, the same bright expressions and cheerful manner, though Love was the more mature version - less blissful innocence, and more conscious of himself. No less, the smile that dimpled his cheeks and lit his eyes was clearly the origin of Adrienne's. And he was near as pleased by compliments as she! Especially in regards to his children, treasures who tended to distract him from other duties, but he couldn't say he was unhappy for it.
"Adi speaks ahead of herself, sometimes." The god chuckled. She'd forgotten that particular detail, had she? "It's one of her many charms. I am Love."
Which, he knew full well, explained many things about the both of them. "She and her brother are my greatest joys."
Oh yes, he was proud. He was a parent!
Syrie The joy, love and pride that Rio had in his children was an obvious, glowing thing in Endiovar's eyes; how could anyone not see just how much positive emotion was present in that family?
'So I gathered.' He chuckled, eyes bright and expression gentle, 'She is truly a special woman and though I have not met her brother, I am certain he too shares that trait. Whomever she pledges herself to shall count themselves very lucky.' Silence had said the selfsame thing to Adi when they'd talked; he felt Rio should hear the same from the 'horse's mouth' so to speak.
Love. That made a lot of sense. "Ah, so you a Love God. I believe Gianfar told me both aspects had been reborn." Not that he'd known either of them, 'And you are fortunate, to have children...though that too seems only fitting.'
Meepfur Adi was truly of Love, an embodiment of it in her own way. A young, shining, feminine ideal in a sense. With tasty gummi for wings and adorable paws for feet, but she ultimately held attention for herself and not the oddities of her appearance.
"They shall," he agreed, though his smile turned wistful. He was proud, he wanted every happiness for Adrienne, but it was never easy to be 'left' by one's child. Not that he would ever truly lose her, but he wouldn't see her every day, listen to all her adventures, or kiss her head at night. He'd miss her.
"We are," Rio confirmed with a nod, "Though I've not seen Khiviance in some time."
A return to the easier of the topics, then. "It was the happiest of accidents, certainly." It had been such a strange period in his life, but worth every moment. "And yes, I suppose it is."
Syrie With the swift-moving cloud of sadness that seemed to course through Rio's body, Endiovar felt that he should reach out and offer a physical touch in comfort. They had known each other only briefly, but with who he was and how his powers worked...there was a closeness rapidly blooming between them - at least, on Endiovar's end!
'Believe that Adrienne will never leave you. She adores you, Rio, and she will always return to you - you are the source of life and love for Adi. In you, she is restored, lifted up and made whole.' Obvious to him, and surely also to those parties involved, was just how much each meant to the other; Endi just couldn't see either being separated too long from the other and he wanted to convey that to Rio.
"Khiviance is the other Love aspect?" He filed that away to possibly meet this person or at least ask Gianfar, should Knowledge ever return from whatever important work had devoured him so intensely as of late. On children, Endiovar had some questions. "There are not many children here...Nergal and Echo have three, you have two...and I believe the Dragon King Yu Five Claw has two children, though I have only glimpsed them from afar."
Meepfur It was exceedingly rare that he felt anyone was being too familiar with him, and so Endiovar's assumption of closeness didn't ruffle him at all; in fact, he rather liked it. He was always happy to have another friend, regardless of how long he'd known them. Some people just clicked, whether in a friendly way or in a romantic one, or even as rivals...some sort of natural inclination that was just there.
Love was comforted by his new friend's words, and even pleased, gratified that the strength of his ties to his family was so clear to another. "You have a way with words, Silence." He dipped his head in grateful acknowledgement. "I think that Adi would be as pleased with them as I."
"She is," Rio confirmed with a nod, before continuing on the subject of children. "Hunt and Wind have two daughters also, as does Water, but none of them have dwellings here, so far as I'm aware. Little River is a friend of Adi's, and Suffocation as well." It was easiest to use domains rather than names when speaking of gods someone else was not acquainted with - to say Eamnonn or Una would give little insight.
Syrie Well, Rio was one of the more laid back and gentle-seeming gods, just as Endiovar was (though certainly either held within the potential to be terrible and violent) so it made sense that they would click pretty quickly. But there would be no romance from him for Rio - Endiovar was very happy with Gianfar and Revei...and there was that funny business with his "man-crush" on Creation.
He smiled, amusement twinkling in his eyes at Rio's words - very funny, that! The god of Silence being good with words! 'You both draw easily words and thoughts of love and caring - were I a coarser man it would still ring true. Perhaps it is not words so much as love and truth?' Either way, Silence was glad that he had perked his new friend up; having the god of Love looking downcast smacked of sacriledge to Endiovar. Love could hurt, scar and break, yes...but for all of that, love was meant to be uplifting, joyful...pleasurable. Ah, he knew well both sides: Illario's love with Colin had been both, and his for Revei and Gianfar...and yes, Harmodius too.
"Hunt and Wind, hmm?" What a fantastical coupling! Endi couldn't quite figure how the two had gotten together; both domains were varied from each other in nearly every way. Opposites attract was apt moreso than ever at that very moment; it tickled him to think about it. Little River, Suffocation. Two others. And then there were Nergal and Echo's children! Seven godlings plus the two and two again halfling children - Rio's and Yu's, of course - for a total of eleven babes brought to life, harbingers of hope, born when hope and joy was most needed. "Eleven children. So many little children...I hope they have been brought to Creation's feeet...He does so love children..." He remembered Creation once speaking of that...or had it been a dream? No matter.
'It is a wonder they were born at all. Gehenna being what it was, of course. Adi and her brother born before, but still...incredible. Perhaps one day I will be coming to you for advice on children.' A soft laugh from Silence and the gentle sussuration and strange skewing of things behind him caused by his wings as they stretched behind him briefly accompanied those non-words; even when he was purposefully "making noise" Endiovar didn't make much at all!
Meepfur "Either way, it was very well-put." And yes, it was funny that Silence would be good with words - but also somehow appropriate.
"Caolan and Tera-Ilana - Suffocation and Archery - are actually older than Kin and Adi, though you wouldn't know it by looking at them. They haven't grown so quickly." He hadn't seen the little green goddess since he'd been Alex, but he assumed she'd been developing at the same rate as her sister. There was, presumably, more involved in the growth of young gods than there was for halfing-children. Maybe it was the canine in his that had made them grow so fast. "I know Caolan spoke with Destruction, but I don't know if she's met Him since."
"Advice?" Rio laughed and teased, "It was easy, my children started perfect." Not entirely true, of course, but it had never been especially hard. Neither child had ever been very inclined towards real trouble. "Nonetheless, if you find yourself in such a situation, I would be delighted."
Did Silence have a lover? That would be delightful! While he was always interested, it also made him very happy when someone was 'taken.' But asking such a question would be too presumptuous.
Syrie 'Ah, slow-blooming roses are they? No matter, some of us surely grow differently than others, just as many mortals do. It would make sense that there is much more to the growth of deific babes, would it not?' Curious to think that perhaps Creation had not gotten to "meet" each of the children when He did so enjoy them.
Endiovar chuckled quietly with Rio; he really did like this Love god. Rio seemed kind, friendly and quite well-spoken. 'I thank you, my new friend. Certainly I would need it.'
Did he? Oh yes. Truthfully, Endiovar had two lovers and considered himself exceptionally blessed, graced as he was by being with Gianfar and Revei. Rio might have thought that asking Endiovar about his status was presumptuous, but the silent god could all but hear the question; reading Love's unspoken communication as clear as a bell.
Nonw the question was: did he want to potentially freak Rio out by answering a question that was not expected to be answered. No matter how amusing it would have been, Silence decided to keep his mouth shut and not "tease" Rio for thinking such a "question."
Meepfur "It would," Rio agreed. "There is much for them to learn, and to grow into. Not so different from us, in many ways." Yes, they all had growing and learning to do, though of different kinds. The older gods, specifically, had remembering to do. So much valuable information and history, lost.
Syrie With one hand he pushed his bangs back, tucking some of the longer hair back behind his ear carelessly. 'Very true...and so much to recover from before. Perhaps we can do better than our mortal followers, learn from our past mistakes and correct them. I for one hope to do so...who I was Before is not who I am now.' For one, before the Fading, he had been far, far more neutral a god when it came to his dealings with mortals.
Either way, I think the small ones give us the most hope...after Harmodius himself. Seeing them, hearing of them...' Oh yes, he absolutely felt hopeful when he saw the kids or heard from others that there were more wandering around on short, stubby legs - eyes bright, hearts and minds open and seeking knowledge.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:27 pm
Meepfur Itztlac had been...scarce, one could say, for most of his new life. To be perfectly honest, he liked it that way - Night was, for the most part, a rather solitary god. He was not, however, foolish, and knew full well that he couldn't just skulk around by his lonesome all the time. He'd been reborn for a reason, and that reason was most certainly not to dawdle. Perhaps his reluctance had something to do with his host, imparted to him by the recalcitrant Finn-att along with his body.
Not that he was gone, no - there centaur was still very much there. Itztlac could feel him, quiet but every bit as grumpy - if not more so - as he ever had been. Resentment seethed in the back of his mind even as he thought about the herd-chief. Finn-att had never been quite so amused by his situation as Tlac, who found it quite pleasing that his host had been a follower of the Sun God.
...who, as far as he was aware, didn't even exist at the moment. Truth be told, though, he wouldn't have minded seeing the sun. He was no happier about the lack of sky than anyone else.
Carefully, Night folded his four muscular legs beneath him, settling in one of the teahouses to enjoy a drink.
Syrie It was his custom, now that Revei no longer required his presence for all hours of the day and night, to walk the lush garden Creation had brought with him. Often Endiovar stopped to speak with - or was stopped by - mortals; it seemed that they found comfort in being near him; not nearly so much as they may have found with Creation, but Silence did seem a balm for some of those troubled souls. It helped that he had a gentle expression and was very approachable-looking, unlike a number of the other gods (Nergal, Phaedra or any of the Dragon Kings - to name a few).
Walking the pathways lain out for the use of all brought Endiovar by the teahouses; he could not help but look over, peeking at whomever might be inside this time. The teahouses were quite popular at various times of the day (though the differentiation of day and night was currently not as well marked as it once had; not since Universe had been devoured.
On this day he found the current inhabitant quite surprising; a large centaur-creature that tingled of god-magic had settled there for a drink. Endiovar's eyes widened and he found himself moving towards the doorway so that he might address this god he did not know. "Excuse my intrusion..." Once he had Night's attention, he dropped some of the spoken words in favor of his manner of unspeak. 'Might I join you in your respite?' Meepfur Thanks to the keen ears of his host, Itztlac typically heard someone coming before they ever got close, and he'd gotten quite used to it. As such, it was quite the surprise when he suddenly heard himself addressed. Not that he showed it! No, he remained quite tranquil, still at first but for a flick of his ear before he turned his head.
And heard/did not hear what followed. How odd. Night regarded the other carefully before allowing, "If you wish." Syrie That he had surprised the burly half-equine was quite obvious to Endiovar, but he managed to keep his expression from showing much amusement. Once he had permission - rather, an open-ended sort of negligence towards being accompanied at that time - Silence wasted little time in settling into the teahouse.
It was quite pleasant, though Itztlac really did take up most of the space. 'I am pleased to join you.' His transparent wings twitched, causing the wall behind him to shimmer strangely, 'I am Endiovar. May I have your name?'
Though a great many of the True Gods always accompanied titles or the realms they governed, Endiovar rarely did. It was not a calculated omission really, he was not hiding anything. He simply didn't think to lay everything out all at once - announcing that he was Silence before anyone cared to know was to him something akin to a mortal walking around going "Hi, I'm Colin Hargrove, bisexual dancer and university student." or something of the sort. Meepfur His new companion's form of speech was quite intriguing to Itztlac; could he not speak normally, or did he simply prefer it? And if so, why? Nothing he would ask, of course; he kept his curiosity to himself.
"I am Itztlac," the god answered with a dip of his head, the bits of ornamentation that hung from his antlers clicking against them and each other. He was curious, too, as to the other's domain and why he did not offer it. Again, however, he did not ask, and simply followed suit by doing the same. Syrie Ah, that was the tricky thing about dealing with the God of Silence: even if you meant to keep something - a thought, a feeling or anything of that sort - to yourself...he still knew. It would have been inconsiderate and disconcerting for him to always bring his knowing to the attention of those he kept company with - even more disconcerting than his presence typically tended to be - so Endiovar tried to keep such things to himself. Let his companions reveal things in their own time, rather than his...and only if they wanted to (or felt the need, if that happened to be the case).
'Itztlac. A good, strong name for one with such a large, stable form as yours.' He read the centaur-morphed god's interest about his domain and smiled softly before giving the information requested without words, switching also to spoken words as though to prove that he certainly could speak aloud; voice carrying with it that comforting, quietude one found in libraries or altars in Buddhist temples. "I am the Sachem Aphonic, the God of Silence," 'I believe now you understand my reasons for not speaking aloud in a more garrulous manner.' Meepfur Itztlac accepted the compliment, such as it was, with another nod of his head. This form had its advantages, of course, impressive and intimidating as it was, but it could also be terribly inconvenient. And in general, not very...like him. There were other things to think about, rather than dwell upon what could not be helped - and was unimportant, besides.
Silence. Now that was interesting. His ears twitched to attention. "That I do." It was odd, to think of ordinary speech as 'garrulous,' but he supposed it would be to such a god. "You will forgive me for not doing the same, but I have only the voice that was left me."
"I am Night," he supplied also. Syrie The promise of laughter rose from Silence's throat; thrumming around them like a mirage in a desert that never quite materializes fully.
One long-fingered hand lifted as though to dismiss Itztlac's apology while accepting it just the same. "No need, Itztlac of Night." 'Although I find more ease in this manner of "speaking", I do not expect others to use the same. Would it be more comfortable for you if I spoke aloud?' The tone, if one could call it a tone, was soft and respectful.
If nothing else, Endiovar was a very conscientious god. Meepfur "I have no preference," Itztlac said with an indifferent shrug. "Speak as you wish." He truly didn't care one way or the other, though he could see where some people might. His host, for instance, would have found someone speaking into his mind rude at the very least, if not disturbing. Syrie 'Then I shall continue in this manner, thank you.' Endiovar adjusted his position just a bit, taking a moment to straighten his clothing. 'Please forgive me for being too forward...but I feel I must ask. If you wouldn't mind...can you tell me how you fared since Creation's return? I...fear it must be somewhat difficult for you, with Universe gone...' Perhaps it was too personal or deep a question for having just met, but here was another that had ties to Universe and to himself, in a manner of speaking.
Night dwelt in the house of Silence just as Universe once had. Endiovar felt that loss acutely and was quite curious to see if Night did also...there were very few gods he had found to speak with that did. Creation felt it - He had asked him to give aid in mending the situation, once he had grown more powerful, more into his domain - but who else did? Meepfur It was a more personal question than Night would have liked, but not in a way that offended him. He just wasn't the sort to share more...vulnerable emotions, and was not quick to answer questions that dealt with them. He was an intensely private individual.
Still, it wasn't something he'd refuse to answer. "The End was averted, and I am returned. I cannot say that I do not fare well." Itztlac shrugged, though the movement wasn't careless, but resigned. "There is nothing to be done for it, to my knowledge. I regret the loss, but I do not dwell on it."
Well, not overly so, and he certainly wasn't going to admit it. Neither would get him anywhere. Syrie While the curly-haired god awaited the centaur's reply, he surreptitiously looked around the tea house. The calming beauty of the location was one he quite enjoyed in any company. His ears pricked a bit and his focus returned to Night as he felt his companion begin to speak. 'Have faith, friend Night, that He will find a way to return the Universe into Being. He brought all of us back, did he not? Perhaps it will not be so...simple, but...' Loathe as he was to think about continuing without the Universe in some form (oh, how he did love the sky!), Endiovar had infact thought about it often.
And there was the matter of the 'favor' he owed to Harmodious...Creation had asked a favor of him, yes...and he couldn't but feel that it might have something to do with Universe. The lines of Creation's face and form suggested it - as did the 'delay' due to his being far below full strength; just too young! Tlac would not learn of that, however, unless he specifically asked; Endiovar did not wish to spread suppositions - gossip just wasn't his thing. Friendly conversation, information gathering or sharing...oh yes, but gossip? No,thank you. Meepfur  "All in time." Calm, always calm, and patient. He was not worried about whether or not something would be done as to the matter of Universe, or the lack thereof; it was not as though Harmodius would let the worlds linger forever without new skies. It was a sad thing, when spared much thought. Universe, Lucius, was gone, and now needed to be replaced in some fashion. How many actually mourned him, and how many more were only concerned with the problems his end brought? Night could not say honestly that he was the former, having so few memories as he did, but the sadness was certainly there.
His turn to say something...how odd that Silence was more conversational than he. "And how have you fared, friend Silence?"
There was some hesitation at the word 'friend,' a small twitch of a smirk - not mocking, but amused. They were not friends so soon, despite being perhaps loosely associated by domain.Syrie The blond nodded in agreement with Tlac; the centaur seemed so...steady, so solid and stable - and it wasn't just a product of his build either. There was simply an air to Night that lent itself to such steadying serenity.
Being young, having had a host that had liked to converse and that had craved knowing people had left Endiovar being a bit more effluent with new people than he might have otherwise been. Once, long ago, Silence had been near-mute, tacturn and hard to get to know. That had obviously not worked so well for him, so this time around he was making more of an effort...but still preferred to use not-speak whenever possible.
Tlac's subtle, added touch of syllable, hesitation and twitch was not lost on Endiovar - he chuckled a bit, expression amused - no, they were not friends yet, truly...but it did not hurt either to address each other in a like manner. Mostly, Silence did it with everyone...a sort of disarming technique meant to help ease off some of the strangeness that came of his talking without talking.
'I have fared well for the most part, thank you.' Silence settled for a moment, looking off thoughtfully; he could not help but think aobut the lack of Universe nor could he keep his brain from trying to come up with some ways in which he might have 'fixed' the problem had he that much power.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:28 pm
...// PRP - Brand New Day (Flashback RP) It should be noted that this happened previously, far prior to this point in time. It is a flashback and nothing more...enjoy it as such. Perri Indiya  Illario hummed as he washed the last of the shampoo out of his hair and turned off the shower. He loved water - had ever since his family moved to San Francisco because of his father's job when he was in grade school. He'd spent ever waking moment in some sort of body of water, to the point that he managed to get chronic antennae infections for eight summers straight. He'd moved away from all the swimming as he aged, but he still preferred a water shower to a sonic one.
Going to his room for a clean pair of boxers, he had to search a bit since in his weeks of poor sleep he'd gotten behind in laundry. When he finally found some he tugged them on, leaving his room to wander through the kitchen. He wanted to do something for Colin, to show his appreciation for him just being there. Should he make breakfast? He was more of a food assembler than a full cook. But he could make coffee!Syrie Colin was at an early-morning audition to be a back-up dancer in some pop-stars music video. He'd been up at 3 that morning and would not be back until around 10; the audition preparation was part of the reason their shared apartment had 'gone to the dogs' so to speak. Neither he nor Illario had been able to get out to the laundry much of late, so they were at the dregs of clothing (luckily, one of his friends from the studio - Coby - was nearly the same size as he was, so he had been able to borrow clean duds for the AM audition).
On his way home, Colin stopped by the store to pick up some detergent and fabric softener. Laundry preparations! Mentally he was girding himself for the 'battle' that awaited: a day of laundry while he waited to hear back if he got a spot or not.
As if they were going to call him the same day! Bah! Illario growing a second head was far more likely. Anyway, with his purchases in 'hand', the dancer started on his way home...and perhaps to breakfast? Or at least coffee, right? biggrin Perri Indiya The coffee had not gone as easily as expected, and the kitchen was rather covered in hot water and grounds. So was the formerly clean Andorian, but despite brown liquid dripping from his hair and one of his hands beginning to mottle bright blue from a third degree burn, he was beaming. Two small, entirely perfect cups of java sat on the counter, a tiny island of poise amidst the chaos. Syrie Colin would come home, calling out a greeting as he turned and locked the door behind him. "Illa, I'm home--what's that smell?" He set the detergent and softener down and moved quickly into the kitchen where the smell was coming from. Burnt coffee, flesh...and oh good lord. What a mess. Colin's eyes went wide with shock. "Illa!? Are you okay?"
The Andorian was a mess, he had what looked like a weird mottling - probably a burn - on one hand...and the entire kitchen was trashed, except for this one tiny spot with two cups of coffee sitting, steaming. Perri Indiya The Andorian turned to Colin and beamed. "I made you coffee! I apologize for the mess, but I had some trouble with your primitive technology."
He shoved his hair out of his eyes, accidentally sticking it up in funny ways due to the brown liquid it was doused with. He bounced over to his human companion and threw his arms around the other man's shoulders. "I'll clean everything up, don't worry. How are you?" Syrie "Illa, you--" Colin couldn't help smiling and laughing a little; his Andorian was a delicious mess - all for him. To make some coffee, of all things! "Thank you. I'm only worried about you. by the way." After squeezing the blue-skinned alien in an affectionate, warm hug, he stepped back to tell Illa about his day - the good feeling he had after the tryout, but the sick-ish feeling in his guts at having to wait so long to find anything out - while sipping the coffee that had taken so much work.
"Oh...um, speaking of things that shouldn't wait...we might want to do something about your burn." Very worried and lacking the awesome technologies of Illario's homeworld (home universe, even), Colin wanted to do whatever they could to fix the raw looking patches of flesh.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:29 pm
Syrie So much of what happened was carried to Endiovar through the still-quiet; because of this he tended to be privy to things that many were not. Nevermind that he could extend himself just a bit and figure out many other things, just by asking through the silence, how things were. It was in this manner that he discovered that Glyph, God of the Forest, had been reborn. It was cause for a quiet sort of excitement on Endiovar's part - after all, it had been the God of the Forest that had originally supplied both the secluded and protected area Nergal had visited when collecting the living-not-living body of Aristogeiton and also his own Silent Forest.
Thinking about the Silent Forest brought a great sadness to the curly-haired godling: the spirits that had dwelt there for ages had given their lives for him...and with the advent of Gehenna and the subsequent destruction across All That Was, he was quite certain his lush haven had been reduced to ash and nothingness. Even with the life brought back by Creation's return would likely not have reached far into that space.
Of course, if he went and spoke with Glyph...perhaps they could work out an arrangement that would return the Silent Forest to him. Even the God of Silence needed somewhere that he could go and just be.
With his mind made up to seek out his friend of old, Endiovar left his rooms with the Aoide Hue in tow. Finding the God of the Forest wouldn't be too hard, certainly only one would have a doorway marked so heavily with vegetation, surely. And what better time to reinforce that Hue's purpose was to serve than on a visit to a sibling god? SkieBorne  As it was, Glyph was not actually in his room. He hardly ever was anymore... his nature demanded he be outdoors and it was there he spent his 'days' and 'nights', often leaving the pantheon for extended periods of time before coming back to check in on his Aoide. And, indeed, today was one such check-in.
Yawning and stretching as he moved down the hall, Glyph ruffled his hair and fluffed his leaves. They'd grown in fully now and trailed down his neck and grew in a vibrant bloom at the back of his head like a fledgling crown. It pleased him greatly and helped to tell him it was full spring despite the lack of sky and sun. The land was awake, he was awake, and the forest he was tending was brimming with life once more.
However, he might be awake but that didn't mean he wasn't tired. He was working hard at his small gesture, his personal project and it taxed him.
Only glancing up as he passed Silence, he offered a brief, friendly smile in greeting then pushed against his door with the air of an inhabitant. His feet and hands were dirty, with flecks of loam and soil stuck to them - he'd given up shoes when he'd settled into this form - and seemed quite comfortable despite the soil covering him. "Aelondrael? Is there any fruit on hand? I'm hungry..." He called as he stepped through the door, answering the greetings that met him.Syrie Certainly if Glyph was not in his rooms, Endiovar could have extended himself a bit and felt out where the Forest God were located, but with luck he had all but bumped into his friend of old in the hallway before his rooms...even if that God did not recognize who he was or what he might wish. Endiovar watched as Glyph pushed open the massive door, calling to one of his servants for food and then answering the greetings that rose from within.
He lifted one delicate hand and paused; should he bother the Forest now? Before he'd eaten? Endiovar shook his head and then smiled to himself; they could sit and enjoy some fruits while speaking, that was fine - or should have been. Even if he did feel a bit forward and invasive, he moved closer to the door and reached out to knock and speak in his low, quiet voice.
"I am sorry to bother, but may I have a moment of your time?"
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:30 pm
Syrie Endiovar took a steadying breath - he never liked putting things off unless he had to (doing so just made things worse) - but going into Gianfar's Sacred Lair, his Library...to see the damage to all of Knowledge's prized possessions had been something that he couldn't quite make himself do.
Yes, he and Revei wanted very badly to clean the Library for their lover, to save what could be save - and perhaps save some things that almost couldn't? - so that when Gianfar returned to them, he would at least have a neat place to think and to start anew from.
But it was still going to be painful. He missed Gianfar dearly - not in the 'missing a piece of my very soul' sort of way that he now missed Universe (though he'd never realized the place Lucius had held until he'd been Eaten) - and being surrounded by so much of him would only press that loss deeper.
'Oh come now, wasting time. Colin would be disappointed with me - time to bite the bullet.' Thus girded, the God of Silence brought one elegant hand to the door before him. How long had he been standing there, poised to enter the Library? How long with Hue standing there, ready and attentive to anything his Master wished? It didn't matter; time was irrelevant. He pushed, opening one of the two great doors; his senses were immediately assaulted by the scent of dust, parchment, ink...and Gianfar.
Broken shelving, books turned to dust...a realm in filthy chaos greeted his searching eyes. Even just at the entrance, it was disheartening. So much so that he actually spoke aloud: "This is going to be even more work than I first thought..."
Hue followed his Master, eyes wide at the destruction Gehenna had wrought upon the Library - he'd seen it, before. This was horrifying! Zero Dream It turned out that the library wasn't as empty as Silence was expecting it to be - the clues were all there, scattered for the god to notice after he recovered from his shock - footprints in the dust, tables that were wiped clean now starting to one more gather dust again.
Whoever dwelt here hadn't been taking much care of the place, but it would make sense once Endiovar saw just who it was that had occupied the library while it's owner hadn't. A sneeze and a cloud of dust later, a pale-haired head darted back from a row of bookshelves. This... hadn't meant to happen, though thankfully most of the books that had remained there had already been damaged - he remembered, what seemed forever ago now, that most of the books and tablets that had been pristine had been moved close to entrance by Gianfar. That had been the say of his first lessons.
And then, only a few lessons later, Knowledge had all together vanished. Had it been Akakios' fault, he wondered ? Had he been a bad student ? There were no answers to these questions, but he knew that not all the non-damaged books where near the door.
And Lament had become determined to find them - even if it sometime got a little hazardous. "Whoops..." He said to no one, not yet realizing that he had company. Syrie As quiet as the Library was - and as empty as it had seemed initially, Endiovar did indeed begin to see the signs of occupancy left by an unknown inhabitant. He paused, one hand reaching back just slightly to keep Hue from speaking - the Aoide hadn't yet opened his mouth, but Endiovar had felt that he would and wanted to arrest the delivery of unborn words into the world. 'Look, Hue...but do not speak. Can you see the footprints? The disturbances in the dust and the stacks of books that are more ordered than others?' Yes, there was someone else there - but who?
His eyes caught a glimpse of pale purple hair and his ears the sound of a sneeze and feet padding about. Ah, a child then! Definitely small and light enough to be a child...but what was a child doing in the Great Library? Moving forward, towards Lament's slender frame, "Hello, young scholar. Please, don't be startled. I am Endiovar, God of Silence...companion of Gianfar, this Library's Master." Although Endi would have much preferred not speaking aloud, he felt that once more a voice was necessary to communicate. Jade-green eyes swept over the child and he sent out a tendril of magic, trying to discern whom he was speaking with - if was familiar, but nothing he'd felt before.
An answer would simply have to wait until the dusty child answered him. At least Hue wouldn't be afraid that some child was going to harm his master! The Aoide could be so stuffy and fretful when it came to things that might take Endiovar away again...but who could blame him? Poor fellow. Zero Dream As Silence and his aoide came closer to the child, the reason of the 'whoops' became a little more evident - a shelf had caved in, sending up a cloud of dust, both the normal and paper kind. Most of the books on this self, apparently, had already been beyond hope of doing much with them.
Akakios shook his head to clear some of the dust away, and it was then that he noticed something unusual - he was no longer alone, and was now looking at Endiovar and Hue with wide eyes.
There was familiarity in the name, and Lament drummed his fingers against the side of his tunic before it seemed to come to him. "You're dad's friend !" He said. "Im Kios."
He tilted his head to the side, inquisitively. "Is Gianfar okay ? I haven't seen him in a long time." Syrie In the slowly sinking dust, the child sat, big eyes wide and startled - not just from the falling shelving, but also from seeing someone where he had obviously not expected to see another. Closer than before, Endiovar could feel that strange familiarity even more strongly and wondered but that he didn't already know this child in some manner.
"Ah! That explains much." Golden curls caught bits of paper and dust as the taller God knelt, bringing himself closer to Akakios' height. Now that he could place the parents of the fair-haired child before him, it made sense to him why Kios would seem familiar to him despite the fact that they'd not met prior to this. "Yes, and you may call me Endi, if you wish." He smiled at the diminutive godling before answering the last question.
"Would that I knew with certainty...I believe he's gone off on one of his trips, gotten sucked into Knowing. Gianfar does that, from time to time." What Endiovar didn't say was that he and Revei had no true idea as to where their lover might be, but that they felt he was okay. "Kios, have you been cleaning in here? Do Echo and Nergal know that you've been alone in the Great Library?" Questions, gently put without the tone of an adult going over a child's head; Silence was beautifully fair about things: he tended to treat children as small adults, not as inferior creatures to be guided without regard for their own wills or wishes. Zero Dream Oh, so it hadn't been anything he'd done... ? Oh, that was a relief ! He really hadn't wanted to scare his teacher away.
So that was kind of like when he read for hours and hours without noticing until everyone else was asleep ? Except longer than that.
"I've been trying to move the okay book to the front." Kios admitted, nodding at Endiovar. It was much better this way ! Why did everyone else need to be so tall, anyway ? "Gianfar started on that when he first taught me, but I don't think he finished. I found a few books here that arn't falling apart." Not cleaning, and perhaps a bit of a selfish journey.
He said, however, nothing about if his parents knew what he was doing here, which was in itself quite telling. Syrie All of the thoughts running through Kio's mind were - to use a very apt pun - an open book to Endiovar, but he tried his best to avert his eyes and not read the child. It was hard, something akin to ignoring someone screaming their secrets with a bull-horn during a prayer at church, but he always tried.
"You've done a wonderful job, Kios. Gianfar would be very pleased to see how well you've done for him." He couldn't help chuckling at the child's lament at the tallness of the shelving in the Library; for a child it would absolutely seem distressingly loftly. "Some can be fixed with an application of magic...some we will hold together with magic just long enough to copy them..."
Knowing that he would gain nothing by remarking on it, the curly-haired God of Silence kept his mouth shut about his companion having left his parents in the dark as to his whereabouts. 'Having you helping would make this much easier on me...' He gave Kios a thoughtful look before continuing, "Revei and I are planning on cleaning up in here...and saving what we can. Would you still be willing to help?" Zero Dream It wasn't that Kios was genuinely trying to be an open book - he simply was. Like most children, he simply lacked the idea of such body language restrain - and the thought of controlling his thoughts and body to such a core level simply never crossed his young mind.
No matter how much the boy thought and would pretend otherwise, there was still plently of child-like innocence in him.
He beamed at the paise he got, again much like any child would have - who didn't like to be told they where doing good, after all ? He didn't understand the whole magic thing, but that was fine.
"Sure !" The boy nodded his head for emphasis. He'd be very glad to help ! Syrie For all that he was no child, Endiovar hoped beyond hope that Kios and his siblings would remain children for as long as possible...there was just something so beautifully refreshing about the bald innocence of children. Unfortuantely, in all worlds, such precious attributes rarely suffered to last long...it was the nature of things.
Kios' obvious pleasure at being verbally rewarded for his work shone brightly and warmed the God of Silence, leaving him with the sort of fuzzy feelings that some associated with adorable puppies or kittens.
"Wonderful. Today I'm just going to look around and take stock...I know it will be a big job, but I'm sure we'll be able to get it taken care of." Kios was, of course, included in the we Endiovar spoke of; there were others: servants to Endiovar and Revei...and any other mortals or immortals that they were able to conscript or cajole into aiding the cause.
It was not long into his walking the varied sections of the batted Library that another would join them: one with an over-powering aura of magic. A creature with nightmare proportions and fur so plush and inky it seemed to absorb the light around it.
The Dragon King, Yu Five Claw made his way into the Great Library via the door that Silence had left open upon his entrance. He sought Gianfar in the Library, but swiftly acertained that the grey dove was no where in the flesh, though his signature could be found on all things inside the Library, save Akakios. His multiple eyes narrowed; the child-scent he did not know, but the other - that one he did! Endiovar, one of Gianfar's two mates - and one that mayhap could answer his questions...after all, he too had been a party to the event that he wished information on.
Yu's heavy frame made his way to where Silence and his diminuative companion were; obviously Endiovar had felt Yu's arrival and had stiffened - while he was not quite afraid of the beastial King, he did understand that there was a fine line between violence wrought and violence restrained within the Emblem Pillar. "Greetings, god of Silence, small child of Underworld."
For the Dragon King may not have known the child, he knew the parents. At least, he knew who had brought this one and it's siblings into Being. Zero Dream Take stock. This wasn't exactly something Kios was very knowledgeable about. For all his good intentions, he lacked in organization... unless he was writing. This, however, wasn't writing, so he'd simply gone wherever he wished that day and rummaged though remains.
Before he could answer the god, though, something happened - a large black beast with many eyes, something seemingly out of the wildest nightmares. Had Kios been older, he might have had the sense to reach out to feel this other's mana, figured out that Yu was a deity - but this was not the case. Lament froze, and when the dragon king came closer, downright bolted behind silence, clinging to whatever fabric he was able to reach.
Kios looked sideways in a mix of fear and curiosity when the beast actually spoke, but only offered a barely audible "Hi." as answer. Who knows, he might get upset if he didn't answer, and that would certainly be a bad idea.... Syrie Endiovar inclined his head regally towards the Dragon King - he knew this Dragon! Not well and certainly not in a friendly manner, but at least he had some sense of who Yu Five Claw was; reassuringly, Silence reached down to touch Kio's shoulder. "Greetings to you as well, Yu Five Claw. To what do we owe the pleasure of your company today?"
Yu was intimidating, but he wasn't going to have Akakios being afraid of him - after all, this Dragon King was the one that was at Creation's side nearly always...Kios would likely see him often - it was best if the child learned that Yu would not harm him. Endiovar took a moment to wrap tendrils of comfort around the child, buffering him from the abrasive Dragon as best he could. 'Do not be afraid, Kios - the Dragon King will not harm you. He is Creation's guard, His mouthpiece.'
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Oh, but if Endi only knew! There were times that Yu felt the Fragment's nature surging to the fore, begging him for release...begging to be allowed to devour children or mortals - to hunt without prejudice. Thankfully, Yu was stronger than the left-over urges from the Fragment! Instead of trying to devour either of his new companions, Xia Lu Ling instead closed his eyes briefly and chuckled.
"Kios, is it? Be well child, I will not harm you." His long, thick tail swished behind him, causing dust and paper bits to move once more. "I have come seeking Gianfar of Knowledge. There are questions that I wish answers for." Before Endiovar (or Akakios) could inform him that Gianfar was nowhere within the Great Library, he made a rumbling sound and cocked his great head to the left and gave Endiovar a long look, sizing him up.
"Knowledge is not here...it seems he has not been here for some time-" The mess told him that much, as did the faintness of Gianfar's energy-signature. "But you, oh Mute Swan...perhaps you have the answers I desire. You were there as well; smaller part played, but a part is a part." Yu's words were enigmatic and obtuse; they made Hue and his Master give the Dragon King a pair of frowns.
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Nearly invisible wings twitched, feathers making no sound even as the feathers rubbed together, distorting everything behind and around them, "Whatever you wish to know, Dragon King, I will gladly tell - if I can recall. However, I would ask that we walk the Library...Kios, Hue and I have much work to be done." With Yu's acquiescence, Endiovar would usher Kios beside him on one side, Yu on the other - if the bestial God had questions for him, that was fine - but he wasn't going to waste time just standing around talking! Zero Dream Ah... Well.
Kios didn't seem to certain of that, and he fell into step easily once Silence started to walk. He listened, the only sound created by the child being the one of his bare feet walking along the floor, but curiosity seemed to be slowly winning - he was listening rather intently, whenever something or other didn't catch his attention. Syrie As they walked, Endiovar kept his body between Akakios and the Dragon King - no matter that Yu Five Claw had spoken his amiable intent, Silence knew there was a barely restrained violence about him; definitely one that he did not trust. Especially not when one took into consideration that the child was one of Nergal's brood. With searching eyes, the curly-haired god took stock of the Library's over-all condition and with well tuned senses and ears he took in the tale spun by Yu.
Long ago, the Grigori we know as Samyaza entered Harmodius' court; she wormed her way into Gianfar's graces (though he was known by different names in that time), spending much time with Knowledge & Law...learning all she could. Because Knowledge did not Know her, he assumed that she had been created by Harmodius and he spared no details when teaching her...including the very delicate nature of Names. During this time Knowledge also was holding many secret meetings with some of the other True Gods; plotting against Creation and the Imperial Monarchy by which All was ruled.
He and his band of Gods believed that All should not be ruled by the whims of One Man, but should be ruled in a more democratic manner. In order to do these things and not be "sniffed" out, they had enlisted Silence's aid - he provided them the shelter necessary to hold their meetings, to allow the conversations to flow freely within that small group. Silence was devout and did not actively participate...but his aid did make him a party to the horrors that happened.
Samyaza, once she had exhausted Knowledge's teachings, had gone after Creation. The Dragon Kings, of course, stepped in to defend their Master; the end result being that several were severely injured by the Void the Grigori wielded. Void-rot left gaping wounds that even Creation was hard pressed to assauge.
There was a trial afterwards - Knowledge and his small band of Gods were brought up on charges of betrayal, mutiny and insurrection. And, of course, of causing harm to Creation's beloved Dragon Kings...something that caused immeasurable sadness and heartbreak within that opaline breast. Over the trial presided the ever-fair Creation - had it been Destruction, those deemed guilty would not have faired so well.
It was here that the Dragon King's deep rumble came more haltingly and held a questioning tone; clearly he didn't recall - these were all things that had been told to him previously. It was the punishment meted out he felt he wanted to know - as well as the whole of the damage done. Gianfar of Knowledge hadn't told him - but he thought that Endiovar might be able to. WOULD tell him. Endiovar read that from the lines of Yu's furry body and felt a little twinge of trepidation. What would the bestial King do if he were unable to deliver? What of Akakios then?
Endiovar's brows knit as he tried thinking back; though he felt incredibly worried about the outcome of whatever was - or wasn't - said, Silence couldn't help but give as much aid as he possibly could. Unfortunately, the blond couldn't recall much at all...and certainly nothing that was going to be spoken before a child. "Yu, what I can recall isn't much more than what you know...my own punishment was not overly harsh but...the pain I felt knowing how badly He was hurting was far, far greater than any punishment He could have given. Whatever punishment Gianfar suffered, you can be certain that it was more than enough. You need not be overly concerned in this time, Dragon King."
The answer wasn't satisfactory to the Dragon King; he skinned his lips away from his teeth and let a low growl rumble up from deep in his chest. "Insufficient, oh Mute Swan...but well you knew that before I spoke the words." Even so, the blond merely pursed his lips together and gave the Dragon King a long, steady look. Yu didn't appreciate that look, but he didn't say anything as they walked a bit further along the Library - he didn't need to; without words, Silence could understand him perfectly and he knew it. But Akakios couldn't and that was important...if he'd spoken aloud, the child might have been frightened and run off...or accidentally injured himself.
"I concern myself, Endiovar of Silence, because I am missing woefully large chunks of my past. You can return to old memories and draw them forward nearly like new, but what was left to me could but fill a thimble. I thirst to know...but not for revenge or anything you might believe." Zero Dream Endiovar spoke of all sort of odd things - Grigoris, Samyazas, and many other things - it was a nice story, and he was easily able to follow it, though he certainly did not understand, and simply couldn't link it to the one grigori who had showed up to wound Destruction before he had even been born.
For the child, this was simply a story, and it was perhaps better for it to remain that way for the time being.
Akakios did not understand even the undertone, though he could feel the tension slowly rise - through not to a point where the boy truly seemed worried yet - but then, they passed a row of books that he hadn't seen before.
....Silence and the scary-dragon looked like they weren't paying attention to him... and so Lament started to tip-toe his way into that row of shelves even as the two other deities continued their march. Oh, he'll find them again before they were too worried... later. Syrie The Silent God glanced at his diminutive companion and was relieved to see that Kios believed it all to be some fairy-tale or fanciful story; it was best to not flood such a young one with things that didn't matter for him, and the time Before the Fading was so far past as to be 'ancient history'. The story, as it were told, was from the Dragon King's twisted muzzle, not his own, though he had cushioned it some to soften the effects of Yu's harsh voice.
Now, they continued moving, talking back and forth - Endiovar being quietly firm, not backing down and Yu Five Claws being demanding, his voice rising and falling as he gestured with sharp claw-tipped hands. Akakios was able to tip-toe away from them without drawing attention, though both elder gods knew he had done so; Silence knew the child would be back, once they were done with their 'boring talk' (he wouldn't have wanted to stick around for that either if he wasn't involved!)
And yet, he could not but wish that there were others in the Library to temper the bestial Dragon King's manner - Idhren, perhaps...and her god? Their energy signature was everywhere, strongly, but not freshly present - a day, perhaps two days ago? It was no matter; he was here and this was now and Yu wanted information that he didn't really have to give. 'The past truly is the past, Yu Five Claws...I would think it better to ask Harmodius the questions you seek answers to than I. Surely He would not deny one of His beloved Dragons?'
"Your pint-sized friend has left you to the wolves, O' Mute Swan." The Dragon King's tail lashed behind as they walked, his deep rumbling laughter carrying across many shelvex, aisles and scattered debris. "It is better this way...Creation is busy returning All to it's proper state. Far too busy for me to n** at his heels over bits of ancient history, dear as it is to my peace of mind." His eyes opened and closed slowly, tail stilling near to complete - Endiovar's words were soothing in manner and meter; also they were true. But he had his reasons for coming to Silence - answers were there, oh yes - answers like ripe fruit waiting to be plucked and consummed.
"Share what you know, Voiceless Voice, lest I grow tired of fencing words with you and strike that pale cheek to pink and red."
A mild threat, delivered with mellow tone; promise in every line, curve and syllable. It made Endiovar blanch, ever so slightly though Yu read no fear in his companion. Just mild distress - what a brave creature to be such a...seemingly useless creation of Creation - no, of Destruction. 'There is some hidden thing in you, Mute Swan...something I cannot see yet. Yet. I will see, one day. Oh, yes...and I will know too - all that I wish and want!' An unholy light gleamed in Yu's sapphire eyes at the thoughts running through his heavy head and his fur twitched with anticipation and pleasure; Yu wasn't precisely tame with the Fragment's blood coursing through his veins! There were times when he felt irresistably drawn to the 'darker side' of things - not all bad, really: he was support to both aspects of the Twin Crown: Creation and Destruction. In other times, he'd been known as Metatron to God...and to the Devil.
It was that devilish side, the darker side, that was pooling beneath the surface, waiting to come out and strike - wanting badly to do damage if refused.
'Do not threaten, Dragon, when asking works just as well. I will not be pushed around, even by you, O' companion to the Crown! I would think being so near unto Him would grant you better manners and more patience, but I see that is not to be.' He was mocking Xia Lu Ling ever so slightly, but it set the other aback and blue-eyes narrowed, then closed as yet more laughter rumbled from Yu's throat - laughter joined, after a moment to read the intent (purely amusement and a relaxed sort of respect), by the Silent God himself.
Truly, Silence was a kind God and would have told Xia Lu Ling all he wished to know that was available via memory without any threats to coerce his participation, but...being ordered about in such an autocratic manner just made him want to balk and keep the information to himself. Still...he could well imagine how difficult it was for the Dragon King, not having his memories - the Past was the Past and had little bearing upon Now and the Future, but having it was comforting.
'All that I know, I will tell you - but not today, Sir Dragon. Today is for the Library. You may come to my rooms in three days and I will share with you all that I know - for now you must leave me with Akakios, we have much work to do and I have spent enough time with you.' Endiovar would brook no argument from the hulking Dragon; no amount of fang or claw would change his mind either - this was something Yu could tell in the lines of his body, in the proud way Silence held his head; in the very air around him.
Yu agreed with the terms, mostly - "I will seek you out, but if you do not see me three days hence, come to me, Silent One. There is much you can share and my patience only stretches so far..." Teeth flashed red and the beastial Dragon turned, hair spinning out as a cloud behind him, tail a banner of scale and fur. Yu left the Library quickly; returning to his Master's side or to make his 'rounds', either way.
Endiovar shook his head a bit, watching Yu Five Claws retreating form. After a few moments he backtracked to search out Akakios again, calling gently for the young Lament. Zero Dream By the time the conversation in between the two older gods had taken place, the young Lament had wondered pretty far away from the two of them. It would take a few minutes for Silence to track down his current companion, who was trying to reach the top shelf toward one of the heavy tomes without much in term of luck.
Really, little of the reborn pantheon had to deal with being so short. Akakios frowned to himself, then attempted to reach out again, standing on his tip-toes as if it would magically make him any taller. Syrie By the time Endiovar relocated Akakios, he'd managed to take pretty good stock on the condition of that section of the Library as well as mentally extrapolating the fairly uniform deterioration for the balance. Truly, this was going to be a herculean task! Labor of love from him and Revei...and from everyone else? Well, there would be some sort of reward for anyone that assisted the god of Silence; he would make sure of it. Nothing motivated mortals quite like the promise of a reward! For the gods...well, the Library was fairly important for them, having (once) held their histories and the sum of all written Knowledge.
Along the way, he'd picked up a few items along the way: scrolls not yet crumbling to dust, tomes that remaind bound and a small assortment of other salvagable items, so when he found Kios on his tippy-toes trying to reach a rather hefty object high above him, he dropped everything (as gently as possible) so that he could go and help. "I think you'd best let me get that down, but do not worry - height will come in time. Your father is quite tall - I'm sure you will be too." Endiovar wasn't excessively tall or anything, but he was a good bit higher up than child-Lament. He plucked it down with careful hands and then felt it's weight, felt the frayed edges crumble slightly under his touch and decided he would carry it if Akakios agreed to help carry some of the other items he'd dropped.
'Can you carry the things I dropped? Not all, I will cart some of those along, but this book feels fragile...and even weaving mana into it won't hold it forever.' He'd have to make a copy...somehow. Soon, perhaps. Or he could ask Creation if He had any ideas on restoring the badly abused Library. Zero Dream Akakios pouted - in a particularly adorable way - but eventually relented and let Silence reach out for the tome. He wanted to be tall now, was the problem ! Really. Being so tiny really wasn't handy at all...
He did, however, scoop up the discarded scrolls and books. It looked like he would be able to carry most of it, save for a few of the heavier books that Endiovar or Hue would need to take care of themselves.
Even with the small pile he was carrying, Akakios' frowny face was clearly seen. That wasn't good ! "I can rewrite it if you hold it together for me ! I write really, really well." The little godling all but puffed up with pride. Syrie Ah, children were so wonderfully open - bold and guiless, they hid nothing (even when they were trying to. He fought to keep from smiling, knowing that if he did that would only serve to make his companion upset/angry - how many stony silences had he known from children under those selfsame conditions? Countless. Endiovar gave a wordless command and Hue stepped in only once Akakios had gathered what he could; the Aoide collected the remaining items and straightened, falling into place at Silence's side.
"Can you? That would be wonderful, Akakios." 'It needs to be done soon, perhaps you would be willing to start on that while Hue and I continue taking the measure of the Library?' By stretching himself out beyond form, he could do so easily - Yu had reminded him by pulling the past to the fore of his memory - especially as it would not be the first time he'd tried it in this incarnation (nor the last). "I will hold it together for as long as you need, my young friend. Hue will fetch anything you need."
Even as they continued back to the entrance of the Great Library, Silence felt out the breadth of the space; each nook and cranny unfolding to him in it's quiet. It was a bit like seeing the world in 360 degrees when you were used to the normal range of vision - disorienting, nauseating and uncomfortable to process immediately; once he was used to it again, the discomfort eased and he quickly had an idea as to just how far and how deep the corruption had gone in Gianfar's beloved space.
Prognosis was bad, but not impossible. With the aid he'd managed to gather...it should prove to be a strenuous - but not exhausting - task. Now, holding the tattered tomes together long enough for Lament, Dream and himself to copy the information within...well, that was another story entirely!
Definitely a labor of love on their part. Zero Dream Kios padded after Silence and his aoide, following with no objection howsoever, though every now and then something seemed to catch his attention and make him stop for a few seconds before he noticed the two were still going, and scrambling along to catch up, careful not to drop any of his burden.
Typical child-like behavior, mostly.
"I can ! Is there some paper around ?" Paper, he knew, was a somewhat rare thing - fragile, easily undone by the narrowly avoided end. Syrie He knew each time that the child stopped to look and loiter, but merely slowed his steps so that the child would not have to go quite so far on his smaller limbs to catch up. At Kios' question, Endiovar smiled. 'Yes, near the doors I will have Hue set up a desk with all the paper you might need. I will leave him with you to attend your needs - but please do not overly strain yourself Akakios. You must stop when you are weary and rest. The Library will hold by my hand for as long as we require.'
There, not fifteen steps (his steps) ahead the doorways loomed; Hue moved quickly with his burdens, setting them down and then running off to compile the things Endiovar requested from outside the Library. Ten minutes later, the Aoide returned with a sturdy desk and all the writing utinsils that Kios could ever require - naturally, he had been unable to cart it all back and had drafted Piallo, an ice demon, as well as a demoness Aoide by the name of Alaska.
'Ah, Alaska, Piallo - before you make your leave, this is Young Lord Lament, Akakios. Son of Underworld and Music, Lord Nergal and Lady Echo. Kios, these are two of my trusted companions, Piallo and Alaska.' The ice demon winked at Kios and then bowed deeply before poofing away in a cloud of snow (the Library was far too hot for him to remain comfortably) and the siamese-colored Aoide Demoness bowed, her large breasts all but falling out of the skimpy top she wore (much to Endiovar's disapproval), and greeted Kios properly by his title.
"Ain't you just the most adorable little thang? Lord Lament, I'm atchur service!" Zero Dream "Uh uh." He nodded, absent-mindedly - sure, it was easy to agree now, but given a task, and well, that child-like want to impress... Well, it was probably better that someone kept a close eye on the child.
Oh, more people ! The little godling seemed a little surprised for a moment, reverting to his more shy demanor, which turned to total wonder when Piallo all but poofed in thin air.
How had he done that ?!
"Hello !" He said, nonetheless. Syrie Endiovar knew these things - he may not have had children of his own, but between the clear-read on Akakios and the memories left to him from Colin on how kids could be told Silence plainly that Kios would need help and looking after for such an ardous task as the one that lay before them. Naturally the boy-god would not be alone with his task - Hue would help, the other Aoide....Silence and likely Dream too. They would all help with getting as many of the battered, near-destroyed tomes renewed, with dusting and carpentry...fixing the Library, cleaning it and all the other varied tasks necessary.
There was no part of Endiovar's plan that said "half-assed is good enough". Oh no, they would do a good job of it, that was guaranteed. Mana, blood, sweat and tears, mixed with love and great care - that was the plan, loosely speaking.
"Akakios, I'm going to walk the Library again...I'm leaving Hue and Alaska here to help you...I'll be back shortly." After speaking aloud, he left Akakios with the two Aoide, introductions made, so that he could return to his former task of taking stock and perhaps figuring what areas needed the most attention, especially with repairs. Cleaning wouldn't be terrible...but the Library needed to be whole and hale again before that sort of action could be taken.
Alaska and Hue settled in with Akakios to work on the books - Hue more than Alaska, she was far more interested in the adorable "kid" with the strange eyes. "Hi sugah, so you're gonna help fix aaaahll these books?" But Alaska also caught the boy's mild awe at Piallo's dissappearing act. "Oh, don't mind him, it's too hot in here. He does that a lot, goes and sprawls out in a freezer or something." She was so helpful, wasn't she? With her horns and swishing tail.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:31 pm
...// Solo - Missive to the Forest Endiovar sighed and pushed one hand through the soft curls crowning his head; if Colin had been anything more than a fond memory, he would have insisted they get a hair cut ASAP...but as it was only the God of Silence residing in their once-shared body...a hair cut was a moot point. He could have it as long or as short as was desired...all that it required was a slight application of will, of mana...and it was done.
That was not what was bothering Silence this dark eve, no, it was much, much more difficult to 'fix' this issue. Gianfar was missing. Missing...or eaten? He didn't know.
Theories, he had in spades. Gianfar had been captured (or run off with) Samyaza, the Grigori that had nearly ended everything. They had a history, of which Endiovar hadn't remembered initially but that had become clearer and clearer as he reflected inward. That he himself had been a party to the events those long Ages past, that he had escaped dire punishment by Gianfar's request and Creation's generosity was something he felt some measure of shame for. But he, Silence, was different now...Colin had seen to that. Endiovar was softer in some ways...and harder, more capable in others. It was a good change, he felt. One that allowed him to love more easily, to open his heart to others more completely whereas he had once been fairly closemouthed to those that had not worked their way(s) into his "inner circle".
Or perhaps Gianfar's beloved Library had devoured him? Or he'd merged with it somehow? Either way, Endiovar was fairly certain that the Library had something to do with it, far more than any sort of plot involving the Grigori. He was still planning to fix the Library up, regardless of whether or not Gianfar currently dwelt there in body, spirit or mind. He knew well how much the damage to the Great Library had hurt Gianfar's spirit...it was as dear to Knowledge as he or Revei were to the grey god. In some ways, it was moreso.
Every page, every stitch of binding...was imbued with Gianfar's spirit. Losing so much of himself was difficult. Endiovar knew that well; the loss of Universe had left a great gaping wound in his middle...part of his soul missing. Or so it seemed to him. Emptiness that even Revei and Gianfar were unable to wholly fill. The only one that could come close was Creation himself...and as much as Silence wanted to be at His side, he was loath to do such a thing.
There were others that needed Him more.
Of course, that was not the issue at hand...the issue at hand was that he had planned to return to his Forest with Glyph, but was now unable to go. He gathered a piece of parchment and a pen, eyes closing briefly as he sought a way to bring words together; explaining why he would be unable to travel with the Forest at this time.
Endiovar felt sorrow as he wrote; he had wanted very much to make the trek with Glyph, to return the likely 'dead' Silent Forest to it's former glory -- his heart's wish! But with Gianfar gone, there was no way he could leave yet. He needed to talk to Revei first...at the very least. Revei was going to accompany him with Glyph as well, but neither felt that they were able to go just yet.
A Letter for Glyph Dearest Friend Glyph, It is with the greatest regret and respect that I write you today. Events have transpired that require I postpone our sojourn to the Silent Forest. I remain hopeful that you and I will be able to go there, if only to take stock of the damage Gehenna wrought. It is still my wish to travel with you and Revei, and my most cherished hope that you will be able to restore the Forest for me. Gianfar has taken to missing. Neither Revei nor I know his whereabouts and I feel that I must make an effort to track him down before I leave the Pantheon grounds. It troubles me greatly that one so dear to my heart has disappeared and in this time of rebirth and regeneration, uncertainty and quiet wariness...well, I must admit, I am at a loss. I will come to speak with you in person as soon as I am able - a social call as well as perhaps a time to discuss when our travelling plans can be rescheduled. Thank you, old friend, - Endiovar, Sachem Aphonic
He sighed a bit and then added a flourish to the end of the missive, signing it and then adding his mark, a magic sigil that would show Glyph the letter came true and from him. With the letter signed and sealed, Endiovar placed it in Hue's now-steady hands. 'Hue, take this to Glyph, God of Forest. His room you have been, so you will know the way. Do not deliver the missive to any but Glyph himself. Not even into the hands of his servants - you will wait there until his hands are available. Please also give him my regards as well as my regrets.'
It wasn't the end. Just a delay. A temporary delay. He hoped.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:33 pm
...// PRP - A Small Romantic Interlude OOC Note: A short, sweet AIM RP between myself and Prolixity; and we just ended it when we had to get to bed. Please note that I have not filled in much from the orginal, quick-rp format as I dislike god-moding other people's characters. The rooms they inhabited as a trio had seemed cozy and filled with warmth and love; now that only two remained they seemed somewhat empty...an almost tangible haze of worry dwelt in those rooms. It was in this atmosphere that Revei and Endiovar sat together to speak.
They were discussing what had happened to Gianfar - Endiovar believes his beloved Library devoured him for some project or other...while Revei believed he just got wholly involved to the exclusion of all else...."You know how he gets." *somewhere between irritated and concerned*u_u "Yes." *unfortunately also knows that there are a few dragon kings hunting him down; has been worried ever since Yu gave HIM the shakedown**leans on Endi; prickly and irritable lately, apologizes mostly by being cuddly and handsy**winds one of his nearly invisible wings around Dream's shoulders and leans back, fingers light to touch as acceptance of an apology and as offering**tips his head back on Endi's shoulder, relaxing slowly; too much prickly pride to apologize verbally, but does try to make it up to Endi when he's been a pain**luckily doesn't need words; gently takes one of Revei's hands to make light patterns on the back while smiling softly. Happy with Revei - and Gianfar - even when things aren't perfect**kisses Endi's hand like a gentleman, smiling softly**fluffs his wings and tilts his head a bit, reaching up to touch Revei's lips* *gently relates the state of the library; since they were still planning on cleaning it up as a gift; not as bad as they thought - one of Underworld's children has been cleaning some!**will help as he can~**tucks wings flat against his back and twists to face Revei, putting both hands to Dream's face; a smile playing on his lips even as he leans closer to give him a proper kiss- in thanks or just because**always up for proper kisses! wraps his wings around both of them**laughs without sound at the feeling of Revei's wings touching against his skin; winds his arms around Revei's neck; definitely interested in having a nice little interlude within Dream's wings and arms~**affectionate smirk - this will be a nice break, oh yes**runs his fingers through Revei's hair and puts his mouth to Dream's neck; as always is totally happy to give affection**kisses lightly at Endi's jaw and ear, petting and stroking the bases of his wings**half closes his eyes and sighs softly; fingers lightly going down Revei's spine*And so they spent the afternoon together, drawing comfort from one another in ways timeless and intangible...
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:33 pm
...// Solo - ??? + Alaska & Vargas come to pantheon! **do backsolo that goes with it, stupid!*
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:34 pm
Syrie With the excitement of the recent days having died down - namely, the arrival of the Aoide Demoness Alaska and her companion, Vargas - Endiovar's mind was once more able to turn inward to contemplate the state of things.
Gianfar was still missing, with no sign of returning any time soon, the Library project was getting underway and the encounter with Yu Five Claws fading from his thoughts more and more. Through it all, he had Revei at his side; ever a comfort, companion and balm to the center of his very being.
Within the rooms shared with Dream and Knowledge, the curly-haired god rested on a chaise with his long legs curled up under him, elegant fingers splayed out across the pages of an open book that he wasn't reading; he was focused inward instead. One of the paragraphs he'd been reading had brought back into his mind the still-distressing question posed by Creation that he had been entirely unable to form an answer to.
"What is your purpose?"
During the Weeks of Gehenna, Endiovar hadn't had time to dwell on anything: he had been of use as a vehicle for thoughts, hopes, fears and prayers. He had surrounded All and been filled with purpose. And then Universe had been Eaten, ripped from the core of his being and devoured completely. Then Creation returned to them - a joyous occasion save that it had ended Silence's usefulness to the whole, and only Revei had truly needed him until his healing.
When that question, that thought caught him, he felt bereft...useless. Worse than useless. And while there were some concepts for his usefulness roiling around inside his head, he had been unsuccessful in bringing them into the world, fully formed. Prolixity The korat pawed at Revei's legs, insistent, demanding his attention; he looked down, and found it opening its beak, giving him a message with no sound at all. He bent to stroke its head. Then he went in search of Silence.
He found Endiovar sitting quietly, not reading a book. The other god stared into space, a tiny frown furrowing the spot between his brows; while his silence wasn't unusual, it bore the look of deep thought, of worry and uncertainty. Revei padded quietly over to the chaise, settling down on the edge beside Endi. He laid a hand on Endi's shoulder and spoke softly. "What troubles you so?"
Syrie Despite his deep inward focus, Endiovar registered Revei's arrival, as well as the presence of the korat though he did not move in recognition save for a slight twitch of his nearly invisible wings and a soft out-curling of power to touch each one in turn.
It wasn't until Revei touched his shoulder and spoke that the blond's eyes slowly refocused; he did not turn his head wholly, just enough that he could look up into Dream's eyes. "Revei..." Saying that much aloud, he could do...but the more complex concept of why he were so troubled would come without words.
'Not long after He returned, when I asked of Creation to aid you, He pressed a question to me that I have yet been unable to answer...What my purpose here, now is.' The blond reached up to touch Revei's hand lightly, drawing comfort from his being there as much as the touch. Prolixity Purpose? Revei blinked, studied his lover carefully. It had never occurred to him to doubt his own purpose; he was here to be lord of Dream, one of two, his direction as ingrained and unconsidered as the wings that had sprung from his back when he took this host-body to be his own. But if Creation asked ... perhaps he would not have been able to give so glib an answer.
Silence. What was Silence? Revei's eyes half-closed as he considered; he took the opportunity to pull the book gently from under Endi's hands, closing it and setting it aside as he wrapped arms and wings around the other god. He leaned warmly against Endi's side, invading his personal space in comfortable familiarity.
Silence, in dreams. Silence, in all places; Silence, in life and death and sleep.
Without words, he spoke.
Silence. In silence is mystery,
and secrecy, and awe;
silence lives in cathedrals, in libraries,
in graveyards, and barren plains,
in cities, when sleep claims the living,
in prayer, when all looks inwards in contemplation, in reverie.
In silence, words have no meaning.
Without words, one must sense.
Act, instead of speak.
Hold back and wait,
or remain silent to protect.
In silence is peace. In silence is rest.
Silence serves all gods
though we never speak of Silence,
necessary, though never spoken,
present in all domains,
silent in its realm,
silent in its purpose.
Revei kissed Endiovar's forehead. "If nothing else," he added irreverently, "Gianfar appreciates you - there's no noise in his libraries, when you are here." Syrie He allowed Revei to remove the book and enfold him into a warm, welcoming embrace; leaning against each other, touching, it was even easier than usual for Silence to 'read' his lover, his friend.
All that Revei unsaid, was caught and understood; unspoken words pouring through him, warming him as they swirled around him - nearly as real as the strength in Dream's arms, the silk and soft of the feathers against his skin.
The most important thing of all, was that it was putting to words the concepts and feelings that he himself had been unable to. In him there was something to be had for All in some manner - even Creation. The difference there was that Creation did not need him the way others would, the way they might require his services, require him.
Endiovar smiled at Revei; the air around them lightened, shimmered a bit as Revei's words lifted him from the dark and the melancholy. When there was made reference to Gianfar and his Library, amusement sparkled in his eyes, the promise of laughter rising from his throat.
'Very true. And with all the mortals about to make noise and drive him crazy, that may be my most important job.' Ah, poor Gianfar! So many mortal hands and feet, mouths and eyes that even should they wish to be quiet, it was nigh impossible...and the Library held the most interest for most -- things to read, to take their minds off of things. A quiet corner for a peaceful nap. If he weren't around to keep it spelled silent...their lover would likely end up losing all of his feathers in an anxiety-inspired molt! Prolixity "And when I must walk my lands again - ah, then, then will I appreciate you, as much as I always do, and more," Revei teased gently. He rested his forehead against Endi's.
We all serve, though we rule. We live by the sufferance of Creation and by the fickle adoration of our servants, our masters. Once, I took for granted what I should have courted and respected, and died for it. I do not remember much of it; but I remember the hunger, the long decline, starving as I grasped for what I had cast aside in my arrogance. I rule Dream, and I serve it; I am god of Dream, as I serve and protect my followers.
You, lover - perhaps we do not understand it as well, but the Pantheon, too, should give you your due. Arrogant and proud we are; fickle and ridiculous we are, but once again we are granted our very existence, and in Silence, in prayer, in reverance and awe, we take our nourishment.
He brushed a careful kiss across Endi's mouth.
Be not afraid. We love you. We need you. He needs you no less; or why would he ask you? We all love him. That is very nearly a given. What purpose have you? What purpose have we all? We live because we serve some need, some longing; and longing is born in silence, in Silence. Perhaps you have not known it, but you are necessary, necessary to us all. Syrie Revei would earn himself two hands pressed to his cheeks as they rested there, forehead to forehead; shielded by Revei's wings. 'You are wise beyond your years, my love.'
And his words made so much sense; they tingled up and down his spine and brought forth images of the times before the Fading, much as speaking with Yu previously had. Of the times when he had provided aid to Gianfar for his meetings, of providing silence even when it was not requested but was necessary.
So many words that knit together the loose concepts in his mind, heart and soul - things he knew but didn't Know properly until Revei finally made clear the connections. It was so very true: they were all inclined to be faulted, flawed and imperfect...and yet each was strong and held the potential to grow past these things, these ways that had led them to their demise in ages past.
The kiss had Endi half-closing his eyes in pleasure; solace, warmth and comfort found in his lover's arms. 'Thank you, Revei...you have no idea how much I needed to hear those words.' Hands that had been on high-boned cheeks slid down to wind around Revei's neck, fingers toying with the tiny, fine curling hairs at his nape that were usually hidden by the silky fall of Revei's hair.
"I cannot be afraid, with you at my side." He pressed his mouth to Revei's in much the same manner as Dream had brushed a kiss to his, but more firmly; a more physical manner of expressing how much he appreciated what had been said. Prolixity Gentle and soft, warm and sweet. Revei let his kiss speak for him, the trust and affection and need of the gesture shining clear.
When their mouths parted quietly, he laid his cheek against Endi's shoulder. "Yours is the silence," he said softly, "in which knowing is born; mine is the dream, soaring and irrational, knowing in ways that waking can never know. You give me peace, and I give you words. I think, perhaps, that I have the better end of the deal." His eyes sparkled with gentle mischief. "Perhaps I should give you a dream in which your wishes are granted, every one. Have you wishes? We will see to them."
He placed a hand on Endiovar's chest. "I feel your heart," he said seriously. "Here, touch me; you and I are still half mortal, not yet fully grown. Sometime I think that for the best. It keeps us humble. As humble as we can be, you and I, as lovely as we are!" Syrie The arms that had been holding Revei to him for the kiss slid further down and wound around his shoulders, fingers touching at the feathers lightly as the angles of their embrace shifted and changed.
'I believe that I am the fortunate one.' Silky-quiet wordlessness, stroking over Revei's consciousness like the most delicate of caresses. Ah, being offered such a wonderful dream; not a gift to be taken lightly, but rather with a wholly open mind and heart to show appreciation. "Within these walls, with you and Gianfar, my dreams are fufilled whether awake or dreaming."
Endiovar placed one hand over Revei's heart, feeling the strength that beat within Dream's breast so steadily. His lips curved up into a smile that was promise, wicked sin and love. "These hearts, given to us, are strong enough to keep us humbled, even after we are wholly grown into ourselves and more stunning than now." Oh yes, they were beautiful - both of them. Absolutely lovely to gaze upon for mortal and god alike; difficult to remain humbled when one had power and a fair form! Prolixity "Ah, flatterer." Revei's smile widened, pleased; Endi's melancholy was lifting, and his coconspirator returning. He lifted a hand to run a thumb gently across Silence's cheek.
I think, perhaps, it may be time to seek our own abode. Perhaps we can surprise our too-studious Knowledge with a library and an altar. What think you?
A chapel, too, for his host, who had been subsumed long ago; but he had promised a place for the boy, and mercurial and forgetful as he was, he had not forgotten. When his temple was raised, he would devote a place to the mortal who had given him flesh.
It was just that now, he could not but feel that his temple would be lonely, were it only his. Syrie Yes, yes indeed - he was absolutely recovering to his usual self; a willing and eager partner for love, laughter and everything inbetween.
His eyes widened and his expression took on a brighter aspect - this was an exciting prospect as well as being one that would further cement their already strong bond. 'Truly? I think it's a perfect idea, Revei. Gianfar will love it, when he returns...and I would prefer to share a temple. I cannot imagine doing so alone...now.'
And oh, how he would enjoy the creation of their home, from design to build. Leaving their rooms at the Pantheon was no great loss - Creation had said they were theirs, as long as they wanted and beyond. Perhaps they should seek Creation's blessing? That would add just the right touch, oh yes. Endi's fingers made light patterns over Revei's heart, eyes bright Prolixity Yes, yes, and yes. "A fine idea," Revei smiled. "A blessing, that we may bless; approval from our Father, our love." He kissed Endi's chin, playfully. "We will ask, and do; and when Gianfar comes back to us, we will say - welcome home!"
A small flicker in the back of his eyes betrayed his concern at Gianfar's long absence; but he was determined to remain cheerful and optimistic. He had sulked long enough, and he wouldn't sulk when his loves needed his support. A flash of memory intruded briefly - brother/counterpart/maybe-lover looking to him, his pride refusing to accept need - but he pushed it back firmly. He was the same, but he was another, softened by death and the humility of a mortal form. He would not fail again. Syrie Revei's acceptance and enthusiasm at his idea pleased Silence greatly; he cupped his lover's face in both hands again and planted a series of small, sweet kisses to his lips, cheeks and even forehead. 'He will do it, with a glad heart, I am certain.' Ah, to welcome Gianfar home; open arms, smiles and a new home for each of them to be worshipped, venerated and visted by mortals.
Before the dark shadows of worry and concern could pull either of them in further, the blond shifted so that he could rise up on his knees and draw Revei closer. "He will return to us with wonderous tales...and a sheepish look for having gotten so wrapped up with whatever he's found." His hands and mouth kept touching, drawing him from thinking too darkly on anything.
'What can I do for you, as you have done so much for me this day?' Prolixity "We must be wary of fine libraries and their siren song," Revei laughed. He turned his head to kiss the palm of Endi's hand, gentle and affectionate; he leaned into the embrace, comforted and pleased by the shift in Silence's mood.
I do no more than return your care. He touched the tip of Endi's nose with his finger. But, greedy thing that I am, I shall gladly take advantage of your gratitude. Spend some time with me. Perhaps a game. The amiably wicked spark in his eyes suggested all sorts of amusements planned.
Syrie 'Indeed, indeed. The strength of the Call requires effort to explore...I'm sure with both watching, wary we can think of ways to ignore it...' Revei laughed and he couldn't help but chuckle softly; being with Revei was balm and soothed him - just what he needed.
Wide green eyes almost crossed trying to follow the finger touched to his nose; but quickly went to rights. Revei was greedy, but no more than he himself was. 'With such compelling offers, how could I but stay?' Oh, a game! Endiovar's eyes sparkled and his feathers fluffed out - he was quite intrigued; there was no way he would miss this, not with Revei's expression and body language.
Oh no, he would be going nowhere anytime soon that wasn't in Dream's company.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:35 pm
Ithiltari Since speaking with the young God Akakios, Idhren had been paying closer attention to those going in and out of the Library. While she did not often want to interact with new people, she would always make exceptions for those who shared her passions. In this case, it was an apparently mutual desire to see the great Library restored to a more functional status. So it was that the pair had been spending more time closer to the entrance instead of further in, to see if they could spot Endiovar. "I don't even know what he looks like," the elf bemoaned quietly as she departed for 'lunch' one day. Tilion sighed in the back of her mind. As if one reborn would be able to get past us without noticing, he chided her gently, again. The elf was getting a little more nervous every day that passed without sight of the other god. Had Akakios mentioned her to Endiovar? The godling had seemed to spend much time in the company of the other, from the way he'd expected to see him within. Maybe they kept missing each other by minutes; a thought that amused Tilion, but caused Idhren to rub her hands nervously against her long skirt. It will be alright. His attempt at soothing his host was mostly futile, as the elf kept glancing behind her as they walked carefully down the grand stairs, on the way to enjoy a meal outside. Syrie Most of the time, Endiovar and his servants could be found within the Great Library; working on the extensive clean-up and preservation required to bring the once glorious space back to some small semblance of it's former glory. He was committed to the task, but also realistic as to just how much work was required and just how long that work would take, even with all of the help that was being offered by various persons. Not only were he and many of his servants involved, but Revei and his retinue were as well; they had the the wont to surprise and please their shared lover.
Above those numbers belonging to Dream and Silence, there too were others that seemed to have stock or stake in the Library's restoration; others that were willing to work with them, along side them until the project found it's completion. Akakios and Ashoka. The Dragon King, Yu Five Claws had offered up some of his servants - he himself was too busy attending to Harmodius' needs, but wished to aid them in some way. And had not Kios said there was a god-in-host that wished to speak with him, to offer help? The Lady Idhren, he believed. The woman he'd once asked - as a morphling - to help him find the map for his Forest; she had aided him, the host of Tilion, but he had not seen her since. It would be nice to have another deity's aid, especially one that so clearly cared for the Library!
It wasn't hard to fall in love...the fell of the Library had always been wonderful, calling to those immortals with like minds...never mind the numbers of mortals that had fallen in love with the Library and now wished to help however they could. Cleaning the dust and debris, the rot and mold; building or re-building shelving, bins and other containers...gathering the stable tomes, books, maps and artifacts and letting the deified beings know where the other, more fragile, items lay. Mana could 'fix' smaller damages or could be used to hold mouldering items together while they were replicated. It was no job to be done quickly or without care; even with the numbers already dedicated to the task, Endiovar knew that they would need many more hands to finish, deified or otherwise.
Soundless feet walked marbled halls, stepped over green growing grasses and dirt paths or even newly cobbled walk-ways made by survivors wishing to "upgrade" their dwelling places. Endiovar was almost always busy - be it one of his projects or just conversation with another being; he was kind and easy to open up to. Busy as he could be, Silence did try to visit the Library at least once daily to put in some work and to see what had been done, if there were need of his instruction, of direction. Idhren would be in luck this day, for he came during a time when she had settled herself in to await his return.
Dressed in a loose garment belted at the waist with a richly patterned sash and flexible sandals, the pale-haired, pale-skinned god came into the Great Library with an air of calm and assurance. There, walking down the steps, was Tilion's elfin hostess; that she would not recognize his face would not trouble him. Since they had last spoken he had changed much, regained a great deal of his power, his former glory.
"Greetings. Lady Idhren, I believe?" 'And Lord Tilion, unless I am mistaken.' Had they been waiting long? He did wonder. Ithiltari Idhren's skirt swirled about her ankles as she came to a stop on the steps. Someone had said her name, as if they knew her. The elf could count on the fingers of one hand the number of people who could claim enough familiarity with her to actually use her name; most workers within the Library didn't know that much about her. She kept largely to herself, staying on the outskirts of the activity within. "Yes?" she answered, turning to face the speaker. Idhren had gained some measure of self-assurance since arriving at the Pantheon and finding Tilion's gem, so her voice was steady and held not the nervous waver it would have previously. He was obviously a god; he certainly had the look of one of the Pantheon. Was this Endiovar, finally? He feels familiar, Tilion mused, more sensitive to the flow of mana than his host, even after all the time they'd spent together. The god chuckled. I believe we have met this one before. Idhren was confused for a moment before he gently prodded her memory - a flash of helping a younger god with a task, laying out a map before him. "Your map! And journal," the elf added, clapping her hands together in an expression of surprise. "Did you ever find your way to the Forest?" she asked, genuinely curious. It had seemed to hold a great measure of importance to him at the time, and she hoped indeed that he had found whatever it was before Gehenna likely ruined it. Syrie Endiovar was quite pleased to see that the delicate elfin host had gained much more assurance of self than she had possessed the last time they had met. Her expression read easily that she felt him familiar, but did not quite place him immediately. Silence waited to see if she would place him - if not her, then perhaps the Lunar God within? If not, he would certainly refresh her memory, but...it would be nice to be remembered, even if he'd been somewhat strange at the time.
"You remember." He smiled, nodding to her recollection, 'Yes, and I found the one I was looking for while there.' A soft mental echo followed those non-words, giving forth the idea that it was a very good thing that he had done so at that time. "I fear Gehenna destroyed it. The Forest God has confirmed this...but offered to one day help to remake it." He had so loved being in the Forest of Silence before the Fading; the idea of having such a safe, sacred space to himself once more was a very attractive one. Definitely something that he had cherished and would cherish once more if Glyph were willing and able to recreate it, supposing, of course, that Endiovar would find something worth the exchange of mana.
Her expression, so bright and pretty with genuine care, brought a smile to his own. "I never did thank you properly, Lady Idhren, Lord Tilion." Yes, he did speak so formally...at least at first he did. With familiarity he would drop the titles unless around mortals or those that seemed to need to hear such things. 'Nor did I give you my name. I am afraid I was preoccupied at the time...and after, well...we all were preoccupied.' Sadness and worry crossed over his features fleetingly, "My name is Endiovar, god of Silence." Sure, he could have spelled out his official title, but why? This was no formal court - it was unnecessary in his mind to be so utterly stuffy and staid.
"When Akakios said you wished to speak with me, I was both relieved to find you both well and pleased with your interest in our Library restoration project." Ithiltari Idhren looked mildly indignant at the statement; of course she remembered. The pair had not met so many of the Pantheon that they would forget one so easily. It quickly faded, however, turning into genuine regret. The Forest had sounded like someplace both elf and god would have enjoyed visiting. "I am sorry to hear that," Idhren replied, bowing her head in respect. "Though I am glad to hear that you were at least able to se it before it's destruction." So much lost, during Gehenna. So much lost, that would take so much time and effort to rebuild. At his thanks, the elf startled slightly. "I didn't - you're welcome," she said, shaking her head, as though to minimize her assistance. Her blonde hair fell over her shoulders as she placed one hand over her heart and bowed. "A pleasure to meet you again." She looked up, eyes sparkling slightly. And it is nice to know a name, Tilion remarked, the remark the cause of his host's amusement. "We didn't know it was you, that Akakios was looking for," she explained. "So we only wished to meet with whoever had taken such an interest in the Library." She smiled again. "A welcome surprise to meet you again." Syrie Idhren's flash of emotion at his words read loud and clear to the God of Silence; he took a moment to send out tendrils of calming mana, assuring the woman that he had meant no offense without having to speak a word of apology. Endiovar had no issue with verbalizing such things, but he felt that it suited their conversation better to do it in such a manner. Surely she would forgive him that, since he'd meant absolutely no harm? He would not have known that Tilion and his elfin host were so very reclusive, though if he'd not been purposefully trying not to 'read' Idhren so much he likely would have known.
"It is most distressing to have lost such a restful place...but I am extremely pleased that I was able to go, with your help." And with Underworld's white-furred catgirl, Priya. That the woman was clearly uncertain that she should be thanked only served to make him press it further. Without her aid - since no other had been in the Library with the knowledge to help - Endiovar would never have found his Forest in time. Hue would have remained in that crumbling statuary until Gehenna devoured him as well. The little faeries that gave their lives to send them home died serving the Master they loved best, rather than from a wasting sickness. Yes, it was exquisitely sad for him, but for those others that had been involved...well, they would have their own sort of immortality. Endiovar was certain to never forget their gifts, their sacrifices; he had thanked them, thanked Priya...and now he had thanked Tilion and Idhren.
With a gentle smile, he nodded as she finally accepted his thanks without hesitation, as she spoke of Akakios and the Library project. "Gianfar is dear to me, the Library extremely dear to him, and so this project has become a labor of love. Even without such a personal interest, the Great Library has too much value to leave in such a...distressed condition." Returning Idhren's smile brought a crinkle to the corner of his eyes. "A welcome surprise indeed, to have you interested in this project - to be able to work with you, once more."
He looked over the entrance-way of the Library; walking in it was fairly clean with many signs of work being done. If you went further in, the destruction was far, far more obvious. "I do not know how much young Lament has told you about our plans, but I have written out my designs so that any coming in know what needs done first, what has been done and what cannot be done until other steps have been cleared. Deific focus has been on the preservation and restoration of the surviving tomes, scrolls, maps and artifacts. If mana cannot be used to repair the damage, we use it to hold the item together as much as possible until it has been copied." He sighed a bit; this project had caused him to speak aloud more than ever before; it could be tiring and distressing to one that preferred the sepulchral hush of tombs.
'Even as we copy the crumbling items, more is lost. In some places we can only make note that whatever knowledge was once held is now lost. Without Gianfar's hand, it is the best we can do.' Ithiltari Idhren waved a hand, as though to say that of course they would be working within the Library. Where else would they be? Tilion had no great place to call his own, in these times. And his host was still shy of meeting new people, which tended to limit the amount of time they spent among the mortals still flocking to the Pantheon's environs. He was not inclined to press the elf regarding the matter, either; there was something to be said for a less reckless style of life. Not that he intended to remain a recluse! The Library project was an excellent way to get out and make their small presence known. Like many things since the end of Gehenna, it was a start. "Akakios and I spoke only for a short time, and he did not mention how your work was being done." Of course, they had found that out themselves later; easy to follow instructions were certainly welcome. "We help as we can, though we do not have the strength to repair many items." Indeed, their focus was usually on copying things too far gone to restore, or using Idhren's knowledge of restoration techniques to do manual repairs. The elf frowned slightly. She had heard often of Gianfar, and it seemed terribly irrespensible to leave the Library untended, as he seemed to have done. But Endiovar's care was much, much better than nothing. Idhren bit her lip thoughtfully. "I do not know how your assistants were trained, but do you know if any worked in a library or museum before? There are methods to preserving books or scrolls that may be useful in halting the spread of damage until deific aid is available." Syrie 'Excellent. I am pleased you feel so strongly for the Library as well. I thought you might be interested in lending your aid, but did not wish to presume' Indeed, the reclusive shyness of Tilion's host was well known to Endiovar - she fairly glowed with it - and he had no doubts but that this place, regardless of it's present state of disrepair, was where they spent much of their time. She had less use for the hustle and bustle of mortals than Endiovar himself had for the cacophony of sounds that accompanied them; it made him wish to offer her a place within his rooms, but then Glaucon still lingered there...as did the pooka, Enekpe and her gem-kept Goddess, Kikechum. Not to mention the various entourages for each deity other than himself and his.
Still...if she wanted a quiet place, perhaps he should offer at least that? But then again, there were some rather comfortable places within the Library (once upon a time) with chaises, chairs and other places of rest and relaxation -- all things that Endiovar planned to return to being. In some way, shape, form or fashion.
"Save your energy for more important things, Idhren, Tilion. There are enough of us with greater resources to hold things together. I believe you have experience with repairing and restoring such things? That would be invaluable as I do not. For Revei and I, we can hold things together, put our servants to transcribing things...but the restoration of certain items...well, it needs a finer hand." Perhaps a woman's hand? He would not say such, but a lighter and steadier hand truly would be better put on such things; Silence could see that was what she herself felt suited to.
"Hue, perhaps would know some things. Of the others, I know not. I believe the Dragon King, Yu Five Claws said some of his servants had experience. I shall send them and any others with such knowledge to you, Lady Idhren, for guidance, if you do not mind." Sadly, few of his servants had much use for even the usual sort of library...but he thought one or two would do well to learn. Alaska, the demoness, perhaps. Or the quiet, gentle Karlan. Ithiltari Idhren perked up slightly at the suggestion that she might be still more helpful in the effort to restore the Library. "I do not mind, at all," she said, smiling sincerely. She had been a teacher, after all, before coming to the Pantheon. A teacher of history, but preservation techniques had been learned, and taught, as those who ventured out to learn often had need of such skills. "There are many tricks and techniques, and while many are very general, some require a delicate touch." Perhaps some of those Endiovar could find would be able to master those more advanced skills, which would help the elf immensely. She could not be everywhere, after all. Especially since her Aoide kept her on a fairly firm schedule, with clearly defined times for meals, and breaks. And, truth be told, she had grown used to such a schedule, as her stomach's small growl alerted her. "Ah, forgive me," the elf said, blushing a bit. "We were on our way to eat," she continued by way of explanation. "Would you care to join us?" Syrie Her subsequent perking up and verbal acceptance of his offer pleased Endiovar, and not only because he did not wish to see Idhren upset. In this incarnation, the God of Silence had a bit of a soft heart, but he also felt the importance of knowing one's place, of being able to do something that provided aid or import. There had been times when Endiovar himself had questioned why he had been reborn, what his purpose was...so when he felt another questioning the same thing - or just wondering and feeling lost about it - he could empathize.
Being a 'gentleman' meant that he did not make a big to-do over the rather loud growling of the elfin host's stomach, "Think nothing of it, I am the one keeping you from your meal." He smiled again, but shook his head to decline the invitation. "Thank you Idhren, but I must decline...perhaps another time? I have a few...errands that must be done."
"If you'll excuse me, I will catch up with you later, in the Library?" And with that, he would say his good-byes to the host and her resident God; leaving her to satiate that rumbling in her stomach without needing wait longer. They would certainly be seeing a great deal more of each other in the near future! Word Count: 2123 (Endi), 1164 (Idhren/Til)
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:36 pm
Syrie Cleaning up the Great Library - even with the help of Akakios, Revei, Hue and the various other members of his retinue - was slow going. For every one book, manuscript or scroll that they were able to save three were beyond help or repair. There were endless piles of dust and debris to be cleaned and removed (burned or disposed of in a manner that would allow them to reuse the remains), shelving that either had to be fixed or removed...the list went on and on. It was a daunting task, to be sure - and add onto that the fact that Endiovar and Revei had plans to begin a temple for themselves (and Gianfar, of course)...well, there were times when the curly-haired god of Silence felt that they would never complete the work.
And yet, day after day, he labored; with love in his heart and a sense of purpose in his mind. There were other things to be done, outside of the Library - his promise to Creation...his wont to return to the Silent Forest and have it remade with Glyph's help...the Towers of Silence planned with Nergal...
Many things to be done. Things that would be done - in their own time.
At this moment, he had the doors to the Great Library held wide open; a small table set with food and drink. Break time, apparently. He nibbled at cheeses and fruits, sipped at hot tea with honey and cinnamon...and sat quietly on his own; enjoying the silence. Tsunake As expected, Arden was tired. It was becoming far too easy to fall asleep these days, and far too difficult to wake up. His strong, angular face was becoming rough with stubble, and the dark shadows clumped underneath his eyes gave him a sickly hue. The soldier had taken to roaming mindlessly about the Pantheon, tuning out the sympathetic whispers and chuckles floating just behind his consciousness. He tried not to think about how this was likely all of Bazyli's doing, and how, inevitably, his strength was beginning to fail him. The only reason he took any notice that he had wandered into a library of sorts was when he bumped into what appeared to be a small table of sorts, which rattled its dishes disapprovingly at his lack of sense. There was a sluggish sort of blink, and Arden took in the sight for a moment, slowly tracing it until, he realized with a faint ping of alarm, his eyes settled upon someone. Something. "Sorry." He muttered, armored fingers pressing woozily at his forehead. He was unaware that his physical state might have been alarming to some--particularly with out of it he seemed to be. Where Arden was oblivious to whom he had interrupted, however, Bazyli was not. The god gently encouraged his host to lift his head and take in the pale being a bit more closely, studying the telltale signs and feelings that this was one of his... kin. How delightful. "Forgive him, brother, he was never one for manners..." It was a dry rasp of sound, like the wind rattling through dead leaves. Arden mistook the voice for merely being inside his head again, and didn't bother to correct him. Even the buzz of speech against his lips was, mostly, ignored. Syrie A haggard looking ghost of a man came wandering into the Great Library with empty, soulless eyes and an expression that was faintly distressing. Endiovar watched him nearly stumbling through the door, wondering when - indeed if - the man would notice him; it was even more disconcerting to realize that whomever this person was...he obviously had no idea where he was or even that there was another person nearby. Granted, Silence was probably one of the True Gods that people found easiest to pass over, but still...The man had all but been looking right at him (or at least in his direction!).
It was quite obvious to Silence that there was something very unwell about his new companion: by face, form and also by the faint thread of diefic energy that could be felt winding away from the sunken eyes, sallow cheeks and bowed body. 'Another host...and one that is not doing well at all...' Endiovar sadly thought to himself, kind eyes watching Arden as he bumped into the table, rattling the dishes - he had meant to call out, one hand raised up as though it would help, but he had not. Something had kept his tongue still...Arden seemed like utterly dispondent and Silence was loathe to force him from the stupor he had retreated into.
'Do not apologise my friends. Please, sit and rest...I would like if you would join me. As he not-spoke to Arden and whomever was being reborn through him, the curly-haired god rose so that he could gently guide the armoured man into a chair at the table; he would even set some food and drink out for him, encourage Arden to eat and drink. That rasping, buzzing sound that came from the man's mouth was colored with mana - definitely the God's voice. Familiar and yet not...interesting.
"I am Endiovar of Silence. Know that within my presence you need not struggle to speak, for I 'hear' what is unspoken and intended." He didn't want man nor God to strain themselves...not when it was painfully obvious one was not doing well and the other should be resting for the emminent rebirth. Tsunake His weary limbs nearly folded in upon themselves as gentle hands eased him into a nearby chair, but he only stared dully at the food for a moment, taking a mild interest in the colors and nothing more. His very will to live was, currently, being suppressed. A useful trait, to be sure. I am Bazyli. Famine. It would not do for this body to perish before he had obtained it, and carefully, the god unwound his will from the more primal instincts of the mortal. Arden suddenly was aware of how hungry he was, and he set upon the food ravenously, only able to comprehend the stabbing ache in his gut. How long have you walked in this realm again? Bazyli wanted to know, pleased he could still communicate while ignoring his host altogether. It was no different than a servant, though he'd have struck down any lesser being for such noise. Of course, it wouldn't be much longer now. Of that, he had no doubt. Syrie 'Quite, yes.' As long as Arden would eat, Endiovar would ply him with food and drink while mentally chiding the weary host's immortal 'houseguest' for being so rough with him. Mortals required food and drink, closeness and touch, to survive - granted, this mortal was not slated to 'survive' much longer, but still...
Ah, to each deity their own, really - who was he to try and make another God treat their host with more respect? They could be as kind or unkind as they wished.
'I have been here some time now...before the Grigori removed His name, much before. None of the children were yet in this world...so much was not around, friend.' Whether this god would prove friend or foe in time was a moot point; Endiovar would not treat his guests as anything but.
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Posted: Sun Jan 15, 2012 10:37 pm
Syrie He was taking a break from working on his current "pet" project (and labor of love): cleaning up the Great Library - everyone needed a day or two of rest, even the God of Silence! Endiovar was enjoying himself; he had a small tray with fruits and cheeses and was walking the Pantheon's halls on his way outside. He planned to take his 'meal' in the grass, perhaps relaxing against a tree trunk? There was no big plan there, just a vague wont to sup out of doors.
It was in this walking that he spotted a small, strange bed-type thing; it was pressed against the bottom of one of the supporting pillars with a small creature curled in it...a small creature that somehow seemed familiar to Endiovar...and also had the faint-but-unmistakable power signature that belonged to a host!
The curly-haired god of Silence moved towards this strange bed, the familiar power and form; smiling just a bit. "Hello? Is someone there?" Meepfur Enekpe was having a marvelous nap - a long nap, actually, nearing on three hours now. But such was the way of little creatures, especially ones who'd had a breakfast of pancakes and bacon courtesy of their accomodating aoide. A little too accomodating, perhaps, because said little creature was on the verge of surpassing 'pudgy.' She was used to people walking by, courtesy of the placement of her bed, and it didn't often wake her anymore. Unless, of course, they talked to her. One large ear flicked to attention, and she yawned hugely before opening her sleepy eyes. "I am~!" Freshly awake, but no less cheerful. "Hullo!" The stranger seemed awfully familiar, hmm. The pooka blinked, clearing the fuzziness from her vision. Hmm, hmm. Syrie An ear flicked, bright eyes flicked open and then a very cute voice called back to him in greeting. Endiovar knelt down next to the fluffy bed with his tray of food and smiled down at the adorable fuzz-ball. It was just then that he remembered - this was Enekpe! The pooka that Colin had met so long ago!
"Oh! You're Enekpe, right? We've met, before....ah, you met my host...Colin. I'm Endiovar..." Meepfur Ooh, was that food~? Ever-distractable, she started sniffing towards the tray even before the stranger - oh, not stranger! - spoke. No wonder he seemed so familiar! Colin was quite memorable, having both aided and fed her distressed self. "Oh, hello!" she chirped with a wag of her fluffy tail, now quite awake. "I didn't know Colin was a host!" Actually, she hadn't known hosts existed, but that was beside the point. "What god are you?" Syrie When he noticed her interest in his fruit-and-cheese tray, Endiovar smiled and folded his legs more securely under him before offering her a small morsel of cheese. 'Would you join me, Enekpe?' So he had planned to go outside to eat, so plans had changed. He remembered that Colin had promised to care for and visit the little pooka again...something that his host would never be able to do now.
Endiovar smiled down at her, fingers deftly selecting a grape to offer after the cheese; he obviously enjoyed caring for others - man or beast. "I am the Sachem Aphonic...which is just a fancy way of saying that I am the god of Silence." And he was mostly trying to speak aloud for her benefit.
"Tell me, you've become a host yourself? I felt..." 'The touch of the divine, twining with your spirit....' Meepfur The offered cheese was quickly consumed, all but disappearing in an instant. But oh, goodness! Had she just heard him in her head? How cool! Even as she marveled, another morsel was offered, and the grape went the same way as the cheese. Num num num. Sachem Aphonic, huh? That was so fancy it didn't even sound like real words. Very impressive! "I am," she answered proudly, sitting up and puffing out her chest to display the vibrant blue gem set there. "She's Kikechum, Animals!" Syrie As quickly as his diminutive companion could eat, Endiovar would provide more for her though it might come slower than she might have wanted since he planned on eating some of it himself!
"Kikechum of Animals? How wonderful and fitting!" He chuckled a bit, a very quiet sound but one that tended to leave those around him with 'warm and fuzzy' feelings from it. "And you are happy, Enekpe?" He didn't want her to be unhappy with her lot in this life, though there was nothing to be done about it, even if she weren't... Meepfur "Mm-hm!" Her bushy tail swished in confirmation as she downed another piece of fruit. "She's really nice! Everyone is. I like it here a lot. It's not like being home, but it's still nice." Especially after all that 'Gehenna' nastiness. She was finally safe again, and very well-fed, and she'd made friends! Syrie Pieces of fruit and cheese were shared as they spoke; Endi was pleased and set at ease hearing that Enekpe was happy (as happy as she could be, all things considered). His long, delicate fingers reached out to stroke along her spine; touch feather light but hopefully comforting.
There were some cracked grain rolls and he tore one in half, then quarters, offering one to his diminutive friend before popping another into his mouth and chewing thoughtfully. "Why are you sleeping here, in the walkways?" Meepfur Ooh, bread! Also tasty! This too was more or less inhaled. If not for her chunkiness, one might have thought she was being starved, but like many a too-spoiled mutt, her tummy had no 'off' switch - except for oh no, too much! indigestion. "'Cause it's where my bed is," she answered, leaning a little into the petting. Unable to resist boasting, as she did to anyone anytime the subject came up, she added, "Harmodius made it for me." Syrie Endiovar couldn't help a gentle, quiet laugh at the way the little pooka inhaled the food he put before her - she certainly didn't appear to be starving, and her body-language was not one of deprivation...so he could conclude that Enekpe was an adorable glutton.
"Ah, well then, that makes sense." He pursed his lips together briefly and then popped another bit of fruit in, chewing thoughtfully even as he stroked her so-soft fur with gentle fingers. "Perhaps it would be safer if you made your bed in a more private location? It would be upsetting if someone accidentally stepped on you or ruined your bed.
Green eyes glittered as a thought formed; Silence took a moment to turn the thought over in his mind - he found nothing lacking. It was a sound idea on all fronts! "Enekpe, would you be interested in moving your bed into my rooms? I would make certain you had your own, comfortable space, if you wished." Meepfur "I don't like getting stepped on..." she admitted thoughtfully. For any housepet, especially a small one, getting stepped on was an occasional occupational hazard. But where would she put her bed? She didn't have an actual place to stay! You know, not like a h- "Really?" The pooka's eyes widened, and she wagged her tail so hard it wiggled the rest of her. "I could live with you?" Syrie 'No one likes being stepped on, dear one, but especially not ones too small to defend themselves properly.' Endiovar shook his head just a bit; Colin had always been the champion of the "little guy" - it seemed that noble trait would remain part of the God of Silence this time 'round.
"Yes. I would be most honored if you would join me in my rooms, to stay." An open-ended invitation and one from the heart. Endi hoped that she would accept
