hippocarnival | Lost Carnival

[ we are using this mailbox PROPERLY, this is a proper letter and everything. ]

To Yuya,

Truth be told, I honestly have no idea how to start this letter! But I suppose I shall start by offering you my thanks. You were a dear friend to me in Portland, perhaps a better friend than that Jonathan Strange deserved. I cannot overstate how much that friendship meant to me then, and likewise how much it means to me now. If there is anything that I can do for you, whether through my magic or through other means, simply ask and I shall be delighted to do so.

Likewise, I must apologize for my actions in that month, both for the callousness of my character as well as my attack on you in the Count's castle. I was not in my right mind then, but that does not absolve the fact that the action happened in the first place.

On a different note, I'm pleased to see that the angels' ritual worked (and shall graciously accept defeat with regards to Portland Jonathan Strange's faith in the Summer Court). Obviously I've no idea what happened as I was a little unconscious but considering that we are back in the carnival and I'm in my right state of mind, I have every reason to believe the angels' ritual proceeded as intended.

I hope this letter finds you in good health--it seems every one of us escaped with an injury of some sort.

Sincerely yours, Jonathan Strange

[It's more than a day before Strange gets a response. Yuya has no idea if he's even using the public or private channel right, he's tired. But trying to write a letter is way worse right now.]

You're forgiven. [His voice sounds hazy and distant, but he's putting as much strength into it as he can. Though he has to pause between sentences.] I'm glad you're normal again. Sorry 'bout... hitting you with a crowbar.

[ fortunately, Yuya succeeded at the private channel! Unfortunately, Strange is now IMMENSELY WORRIED. ]

Oh, don't worry about that, I deserved it. Though, may I be blunt? [ he's gonna be blunt anyway. ] You sound terrible. What's happened?

Um... I was the catalyst. It had to go through my soul to break the Severing... and Peridot. [Which hurt. What are the long term repercussions of having you're soul repeatedly mutilated, anyway? Should he be worried.]

But I'm gonna be okay. [Eventually.]

Edited 2017-08-01 16:50 (UTC)

My magic's absolutely useless with regards to the state of the soul. But if you need any food or reading material or someone to just keep you company, do not even think of hesitating before you call me.

[ because yeah! Yuya may be all 'oh, I'm gonna be okay' but he still does not sound like he's anywhere CLOSE to 100% (and also if Strange keeps busy helping Yuya, then he doesn't have to think about his own experiences. A+ coping) ]

Oh, thanks. [He sounds pleased at that, if tired. He has such great friends, making sure he's comfortable while he recovers.] Yeah, that's great... how's everyone?

[He's been unconscious and trailer bound, he has no idea what's been going on since they returned.]

Fine? [ his tone of voice is pure 'heck if I know' ] Honestly, I don't really know specifics. I've spent most of our return crafting apologies.

[Oh... well, that's fair. He already knows of a few people who weren't happy with Portland Strange.] Nobody, uh... everyone made it back?

[Strange wouldn't miss if someone died or was left behind, right?]

I think so. There are some people who aren't here any more: Miss Elsa and Mister Novak, for example--as well as Lars, my roommate. But I don't think it's because they were left behind. The Ringmaster wouldn't do that.

[ From Strange's tone of voice, he has 100% faith in the Ringmaster. ]

It's probably a trick of the carnival. Sometimes it sends people home for a while only to pull them back later.

[Huh, so people can complete their contexts in pieces... if Strange has that much faith in the Ringmaster then Yuya will just believe in her too.

That reminds him, though, of something that happened during the ritual. He hums.] One of us was... a bear in Portland? I think. Do you know who that was?

As a matter of fact, I do. The bear's name is Foster--and technically he was a werebear. Only in Portland, though. I believe he works under Psionic?

[ And there's a pause because hmm, how do you talk about Foster's everything. ]

He's...difficult.

[Foster. The one from the rescue mission. Yuya doesn't know him very well from the carnival, but that's something he's got a mind to right, now.]

Oh, okay. [He'll fine him later, though. He's far too tired right now.]

[ To Strange's credit, this is when he realizes wait, Yuya's super tired and probably needs to rest. ]

Well whatever you needed to know Foster for, it can wait until tomorrow. And again, contact me if you need anything. I'll try to have my radio on me as much as I can.

[Yuya hums in agreement.] I will. Thanks Mr. Strange.

[... Strange won't be getting any further response but Yuya also failed to actually turn his radio off before passing out so it'll be on Strange to cut the connection.]

[On B18, they will find a fancy looking gift box in his trailer with a note left on top. The handwriting is done in an over the top cursive that he might recognize as the Ringmaster's, written on aged papyrus with the ink seemingly made of shining gold.]

"Yuya-

You have done much for the carnival in your short time here. I look forward to seeing what you do in the future.

The Ringmaster❧"

[Her signature is so massive and florid that it fills up the rest of the paper. When they open the box, they'll find a crystal
staff. This staff can be used to enhance his warding magic, by drawing warding circles and symbols on objects in lines made of light. These lines only last as long as Yuya is concentrating on them, but he can train with the staff to gain more longevity. This can be used to defend from spirits, spells, magical attacks, and perhaps even physical violence with practice.]

[One day during the winter vacation, Yuya will find that a book has been delivered to his cabin, along with a small bottle and a message scribbled on a piece of paper torn out of a notebook:]

Yuya,

I found this book from Terca Lumireis. Thought it might interest you, so I'm giving it to you.

You and your friends tend to get in a lot of trouble, so I'm giving you this other thing, too.

-Rita Mordio

[The book included with the note is titled The Legend that Sleeps in Searing Sands. It contains various folklore from Kogorh, a desert civilization. The tales tell of things like mythical sand serpents, an oasis with healing water, and peculiar beast-like gods who impart wisdom or sometimes guide those who are lost in the desert. The final chapter describes a divine beast said to sleep deep beneath the Sands of Kogorh.]

[The other thing mentioned in the note appears to be a healing draft, containing two doses.]

[ There's a very large box left in Yuya's bedroom because Strange is bullshit and drops off presents via mirrors. The box is wrapped in a simple blue wrapping paper. There's a note attached to the top. ]

Dear Yuya,

While I have every faith that your barrier spell will grow and strengthen, you can't protect other people until you protect yourself first. This should help. Happy holidays and enjoy the winter.

yours, Jonathan Strange.

[ Inside the box is a set of elven armor. The armor itself is a light brown color and tailored perfectly to fit Yuya. ]

[He couldn't find what he wanted-but in the end, he had what he needed. ...Hopefully. Gongenzaka sighs, but with the pieces wrapped up and ready at least, he opens the door back to their cabin-one of these will, no doubt, be great for training in; practicing new tricks involving more dangerous feats, riding in vehicles, so on....It's lighter armor and nothing that matches anything else but perhaps Yuzu's own set-

Because no doubt it would be something they wore together, to help the other.

The other...he hopes it will work well with what Yuuya received from someone else. But for now, he comes in with large boxes...]

...Yuuya? [He calls, looking about. ...He hopes he didn't miss the other...]

[Gongenzaka definitely hasn't missed Yuya, who's dragged himself back to bed after finally relenting to his cold. There's tissues scattered everywhere.

When he hears Gon he rolls over, pushing the covers back so he can sit up to look at him.]

Oh, hi Gongenzaka. [It's said completely nasally.]

[Ooooh. That...does not sound good. Or look good. Gongenzaka finds himself looking over the small scattering of tissues with rather wide eyes, blinking through the shock.] Auh.... ....So it's gotten worse then, [He murmurs, frowning.] Mnhh...

...Perhaps it would be better if I, the man Gongenzaka, allowed you to rest then...

[Yuya frowns in response. He already hates being sick, and pity about him being sick just sours his mood on it even more. Anything is a welcome distraction.]

No, I'm fine! What--[He sneezes.] What did you want?

Edited 2018-01-09 07:12 (UTC)

You sound far from fine... [He mutters, but he comes in all the same.] ....I, the man Gongenzaka, have something for you... ...if you are up to it, then I would like to see you open it.

[Yuya sounds terrible, but all that grouchy indignation drains from his face immediately at the mention of presents.]

I'm up, I'm up! [He leans over, making grabby hands from the bed.] You can give it now!

HOH-!

Your illness is so temporary, that the idea of gifts can cure it then!? [He half jokes, unable to completely keep from smiling. Still-he passes the packages over.]

One is for training-both for the tent, and for otherwise...the other... [He grimaces, somewhat uncomfortable.] ...Truthfully, it would be best if you need never use that one...

I'm not dying. [He rolls his eyes, but there's a grin on his face as Gon hands him the packages. They're big and weighty so he rests them on his lap, muffling a cough and rubbing his nose as he does so.

Of course, he doesn't wait long before his fingers are digging into the wrapping and tearing it, but he does at least stop in the middle to look at Gon and listen.]

Eh? [He sniffs, raising a brow.] I thought you were getting something I was supposed to enjoy fully?

[So why would he never have to use it?]

[Gongenzaka does not seem willing to address that joking remark. He merely watches as Yuuya digs into the wrapping-when he opens what was noted as the second, he might understand-it's a full set of Tassets; armor that resembles a cape, to be attached at the waist. It would certainly work well with his other armor...

...But the very idea of wearing armor of such make, implies that things have become dire after all. The first package is nicer; lined with glowing accents of gold, it's the body portion of a set of hard light Tron Armor. Without such additions as boots, gauntlets, or helmets however... ....It might as well be a biking suit or similar, something meant for practicing stunts in.]

[There's a long moment of silence between them as the jovial air quickly deflates.]

... You know, you don't seem very excited to give these to me. [His tone is deceptively light, but there's no joke behind it. Gongenzaka spent their vacation wanting to find a gift he thought was worthy for Yuya. Did he think he hadn't...?

With no answer, Yuya looks back down and starts unwrapping the packages. He reveals the Tron armor first, pushing the lid for the box adise to he can lift it up.]

Oh, it's like Yuzu's! [He smiles a little, again, setting it down so he open the second package. It's obvious enough that it's armor, so when he pauses it's not because of that... he just can't recognize where it's supposed to go at first.]

MNH-! I- I, the man Gongenzaka was excited until you asked about the second package..!! [he huffs, before brightening a bit.] But yes! It is-I, the man Gongenzaka, thought you could perhaps use it for things other than combat however..! It is relatively well covering, so it could do well for when you are working with new tricks in the tent, or perhaps even vehicles, or skates...

[He's mentally counting down on his fingers, but there's a Lot of things! And....Ah.

There they are. The armor.] ....Lift it upward, [He instructs gently.] ...It should remain light-incredibly light, as though it were air.

[There it is. Yuya absently listens to Gongenzaka prattle about the Tron armor as he reviews the second set, and at his instruction holds it at high up as he can. It is much lighter than expected, being armor. It's something he wears around the waist, he assumes, but he'll have to try it on later.

He chuckles, carefully lowering the tassets back into the box.] I can always count on you to be practical.

[Neither of them truly believe they'll be out of harm's way for the rest of their contracts. If they did, Gongenzaka's second one would be null. That makes it all the more important.

Yuya's gift was just sentimental. That's not a bad thing, to him, it's just the difference in where their priorities laid.

He looks back up at Gongenzaka, with a smile full of warmth.] Thank you, Gongenzaka.

[Well-he can't even properly decide what to say to that-actually, Yuuya can probably guess what's going to happen instead, given that the great beast looks ready to break into tears. There's still a smile there of course-but first come the welling of tears, then the telling twitch in his ears, and-] NH....

I, the man Gongenzaka, merely wished for a gift to truly be good for you..! [he begins, cracking midway to let loose the waterworks.] THAT... ....Just to know that it is appreciated, is more than enough thanks..!

[And he could think of more words to say, but right now there's just too much EMOTION going on-and that means hug time. It's hug time-try and avoid these arms, but at least he isn't drunk?]

[Yuya has never successfully avoided a hug, and it's not about to start now.

He sucks in a sharp breath as he's pulled into a tight embrace, tilting his head up to keep it from getting muffled into Gon's fur. Actually, the warmth isn't so bad otherwise, and it makes the cold-chills feel a lot better... but only so long as he keeps his feverish head from overheating.]

I told you, didn't I? I'd be happy with anything you gave me! [Anything was a good gift coming from Gongenzaka, because it's a gift from his best friend and a gift selected with care.]

E-Even so...!! [He sniffs, breaking partial hug only to wipe at his eyes.] I, the man Gongenzaka... ...W-well, I shall admit, it was difficult to find what I had hoped to gift..!

Even then, what I did find...

[Well. He's quiet for a moment.] ...I, the man Gongenzaka... ....am just glad it was more than what I thought it would be.

[Yuya takes the loosening grip as an opportunity to lean back and look up at Gongenzaka (and also, to free himself). He won't ask what Gongenzaka had been hoping to find, even if he's curious, because it doesn't matter that much in the end. This is what he got, and Gongenzaka spent so much care and thought in it.

That's why Yuya knows it's something special.] Don't worry so much about it! It's perfect. And you already do so much for me, of course it means a lot.

Aaaa... [There is...a touch of relief, to hear those words from Yuuya. So Gongenzaka merely sighs, and nods.] Phew... ...Naturally, you would say so... ...I, the man Gongenzaka, only hope it fits as well as they insisted it would, at this point, [He mutters, frowning.]

[Yuya brings a hand up to muffle a cough, ducking his head as he does so.] I'm--sure it fits! They seemed really confident about that... It's probably magic.

[Magic caravan, magically fitting clothes, makes enough sense.] It's been pretty fun, giving gifts.

Mhh...They had insisted that no matter what, they could tell as soon as they'd seen someone... ..I, the man Gongenzaka, even managed to receive a fully fitted coat, [he half chokes, still astounded.]

...I, the man Gongenzaka, must say, however... ...having the opportunity to grant gifts to those one cares about... ...It was truly a worthy gift in itself..!

I, the man Gongenzaka, can only hope she enjoys what I gifted her.... [He probably means the Ringmaster but...wait what did he give then!?]

[Yuya shifts, starting to close the boxes of the armor to keep them nice and neat until he can take them back to the carnival. It takes a moment, but he thinks he picks up on who Gongenzaka means.]

The Ringmaster? ['She' could be a lot of people, but the Ringmaster was the one enabling all the gift giving.]

Aauh, the Ringmaster! I, the man Gongenzaka, have been practicing crafts using my vines and plants; so, with that, I wove something for her.

[Yuya leans back slightly to peer at the plants on his back.] It's kind of like a hobby now if you're making so many of them.

Auh...a- A hobby? ....well, that is not quite how I, the man Gongenzaka, saw it, but...

[Ahhhh well. He shakes his head.] Hmn! I, the man Gongenzaka suppose...if I continue working with things as I have so far, it would be one...

[Moving on.] ....I, the man Gongenzaka, shall let you rest, hmm? You'll need it, before we move on from here after all.

Yeah... [Yuya nods, carefully moving the boxes to the floor beside the bed. They drop a little too hard and he winces, but they're armor so it's okay.

He flops back against the bed, rolling over onto his side to get confortable.] Ugh, I can't believe I actually got sick... it better go away before performances start.

[To that...Gongenzaka merely laughs.] HAHAAAAH! Well, one can only do their best to recover, before then!

Ahh... ...I, the man Gongenzaka, shall make some tea-this will pass, Yuuya.

[With the help of some hot tea, and possibly an extra-large furry blanket-]

[ Connie delivers a wrapped copy of "Silver Soldier: Doombringer Saga", a comic book compilation with the description "The Silver Soldier faces his most powerful foe yet: the Doombringer Vasagle and his four horsemen of the apocalypse."

It comes with a handwritten note from Connie: ]

Happy Holidays, Yuya, and thanks for helping me when I first arrived!

I got you a book, I hope you like it!

If you don't like this particular one, maybe you'll find one more to your liking in at the Book Swap!

[ Included is a crude drawing of the cabin layout with a star pointing to where the book swap is located. ]

[A simple gift from Steven has been left! It's a paper star with "HAPPY SOLSTICE YUYA!" written in his best attempt at penmanship, with "FROM STEVEN" written on the back side. Inside the star, there are candies of various kinds.]

[ Dropped off at Yuya's trailer is a package with a shirt, three vials of red Phoenix fruit juice, and a small, hardbound book with illustrations depicting a step-by-step guide for surviving all sorts of situations, titled How to Survive Almost Anything. The note attached reads: ]

It's not magic, but if you were serious about getting stronger, this probably can't hurt. If you have any questions about it, you can ask me. The vials are red phoenix fruit -- if you need to wake someone up, or need a burst of energy to get through something, just drink one of these. I can refill them if you run out.

Lambert

Yuya! We're throwin' a surprise party!

[Those are two of Yuya's favorite words!] Really?! For what?

Steven! He won a gold medal! Isn't that grand?

Oh, yeah! [That, in fact, sounds like a great celebration. He'd been so awkward at the lake gathering, maybe he'll lear loosen up this time.] That's a great idea. Should we have it in the big top? And somebody needs to keep him busy until it's ready...

I'm thinkin' the cookhouse. We have karaoke equipment, and it's always fit best there.

But don't worry about the busy front! I'll have Feathers on it. [You can definitely trust an owl to do this, right...]

[Man, he hopes so. Don't be mean about it Feathers...

Anyway, it sounds like Joker already has a plan, so there's no need for Yuya to brainstorm.] What can I do?

Well, there's cookin' and decoratin' ta do! Have a preference for which ya would like? I'll be cookin', myself.

I'm probably better at decorating. [He's not awful with what little cooking he's learned to do at home, but he's not confidentin his ability to do it for a whole party.

Arts and crafts, though, he can manage. Some streamers, a big banner...] I'll be there soon!

Great! I'll be countin' on ya~.

[Gongenzaka sure isn't someone who generally panics, but this morning?

Cover. Your Ears.]

Y-YUUYA-!!

[He has a Radio, and he is SHOUTING] I...I, the man Gongenzaka, rather unexpectedly, have a great need of your assistance-!!

Oh please, we'll be FINE~

MARISHI-!!

IT'S JUST A LITTLE STAGE FRIGHT~

IT IS NOT!

[It might be best to find them instead of continuing on radio.]

[Yuya does not anticipate Gongenzaka hollering through the radio, and the loudness throws him and he almost drops the radio fumbling with it.]

What is it? What's wrong?! [Did something happen? What happened that's making him freak out?!]

A-As it turns out, I, the man Gongenzaka, am in fact competing in an event.... [He's still freaking out, and Marishi finally scored the radio.]

I took the liberty of entering us for a few competitions..~ We have the skill after all...

YOU DID NOT NOTIFY ME UNTIL THE MORNING OF-!

I didn't think I could keep that news quiet this long actually...

Event... you mean the Olympics? [It wasn't like Yuya didn't look over all of them, he just ultimately decided against signing up. He wouldn't be at his best in this body, and other people have been training for their lives so he probably wouldn't place anyway. He knows where his expertise lies.]

Which one are you competing in?

It is known as 'Eventing'... ..More specifically however Yuuya, I, the man Gongenzaka, will have to participate in a Dressage portion-!

It's, mmmm...I suppose you could say 'dancing for horses'? The rest is simple, cross country, jumping, we'll do fine, it's fi-

We do not have a 'routine', or music, Marishi..!! [HE KNOWS HOW IMPORTANT THOSE PARTS ARE IN ENTERTAINMENT

Anyway. The sound of Deep Breaths comes, and he sighs.] ...Yuuya...

...I, the man Gongenzaka, require some assistance...in obtaining both music, and a general plan for this portion...

[The event called Eventing. Who names this stuff?]

You're not a horse. [But he... thinks he understands the meaning?] But you did okay at the ball right? You can definitely dance! Uh, but dance routines are more Tamaki's thing... still, I got a bunch of music from Wismuth if you need a song.

[It's all pop and hyper dance, good luck Gongenzaka.] Do you want me to come over?

[There is. A groan.] It....would be best, I should think...

Oh please, like he said, we did FINE with ballroom dancing~

THIS IS RHYTHMIC..!! And we have extra legs while in the field..!!

[Fair Points-]

All dancing is rhythmic! [At least, he's pretty sure it's supposed to be? Dancing to the beat and all of that.] I'll be there soon.

[It's definitely easier for Yuya to get into Gon's tent, than for Gon to get into his trailer... so he grabs his Portland phone with all his music uploaded and makes short time to get across the trailer park.]

Gongenzaka! [He pushes the curtain open, sticking his head in.]

[Gongenzaka for his part is holding both the hand with a radio in it, and his other hand to his face, pacing about the room and muttering. Marishi simply looks back from this and perks up.]

Hello Yuuya...~ By the way, what Noboru meant by 'Rhythmic' is that it's specifically dance focused on foot work to rhythm...it's a show about how skilled your feet are... ...and I suppose technically, how well your steed will behave in being told to do that but...

[There's a rather sly twinkle in her eye...]

Gongenzaka's competing for himself, right? [Yuya raises an eyebrow as he looks between them.] I guess moving like that isn't what you usually train for... I'm sure we can figure something out. When does it start?

[Gongenzaka seems to be eyeing his daemon with the look reserved for traitors, right now.] Technically, yes...

We have about five hours-it is later in the afternoon, [Marishi explains, watching as Gongenzaka collapses more or less on the tent's beanbag couch.]

Moving like that, is certainly quite possible for myself...it is a matter of coming up with a form of 'routine' which will not disrespect those who put work into the matter, [he notes, ears drooping.]

We can't blame them for how poorly the entire event is being hosted after all. Best to at least show some respect.

Five hours?! [Shoot, that's so much less time than Yuya thought. They're going to have to work fast and do a lot of improvising. Luckily, that's what Yuya's good at.

So Yuya flops himself on the edge of the beanie couch, where Gongenzaka can still see and reach his phone as Yuya opens up the music app.] Let's start with finding your song. Um, most of what I bought is pop, is that okay...?

Auuh. [Frowning at the cheetah again.]

Once more, I really did not expect to do this good a job at keeping things secret from 'myself'- [That is far from the point, Marishi.

As it is, Gongenzaka nods.] Considering the focus will be finding a beat which I, the man Gongenzaka, can properly 'step' to, it should be fine. If anything... [Hmm. He considers it.] ...Variety may be the best option, within the choices you have...

It's hardly as if we'd be 'embarassed' by it, [Marishi adds, scoffing.] They'll probably consider it 'ancient song' or similar...

[They are Correct.]

Well, it's not usually your taste. [At least, the bubbly pop Yuya normally listens to isn't. He angles his phone so Gongenzaka can see, slowly scrolling through the album list. Almost all of these won't be familiar, since all the music is from Wismuth.

But there is one CD of CY-Ren's in there, an album release from a couple years ago when she first made her shift to non-classical music.]

No, you would be....correct. [It's definitely not to his taste At All, Ever. What Gongenzaka's taste likely is, who knows-bubbly pop sure isn't it though. As it is, his ears twitch occasionally as Yuuya scrolls.] However I, the man Gongenzaka, do not typically have music playing as it is... ...in this case particularly, it is your judgement which we must rely upon.

['We' being...himself and Marishi, obviously.]

Mmm, we can probably submit a 'mix', at least...though that would be a bit complicated at this point, wouldn't it...

Maybe we should keep it simple. One song would be easier to make a dance routine to, right?

[He scrunches his face in thought before clicking into one of the albums and playing a dance track. It's peppy, and the beat repetitive enough, but also pretty fast and perhaps monotonous.] What about this one?

It need only be long enough, [he notes, nodding.]

As we have been told however, 'Variety' IS the spice of life- whatever we play, it's probably best not to make it Too steady...

[Both she, AND Gongenzaka, are admittedly grimacing a bit at that though. It's a bit out of their comfort zone, but they're well aware that what's beyond the zone is...probably a bit necessary, here.]

[Yuya definitely notices that grimace. Maybe Marishi overestimated how suitable this is event is for then, but... that much means they'll have to try their best right?]

What about this? [He changes the song toone of CY-Ren's, a very experimental blend of classical and pop from an earlier CD after her internet days.]

Hmmmm...!

Ooooh.... [Well, Marishi being the less strung of the two, she at least seems into it.] ...This could work....

...I, the man Gongenzaka, can certainly trace the path of the beat...

[Admittedly Marishi figured they'd coast through cross country and show jumping, but anyway.] Hm. We shall listen to this one in full then, and move from there.

[Yuya sets the song so it'll loop continuously, giving Gongenzaka most of the song to listen to in silence. He's following the beat, too, trying to visualize moving to it.

As the song closes up Yuya pushes himself from the couch and sets his phone on the edge of it. He spins around to face Gongenzaka, tapping his foot and swaying his tail.] Okay, so how flashy is this supposed to be? Ot is it like a marching band?

[For the most part, Gongenzaka listens in silence-occasionally, his ears and Marishi's ears both twitch, in one direction or the other. He answers without opening his eyes.]

Mmmh. The latter, for the most part-as best as I, the man Gongenzaka, could determine from videos at the least.

[Marishi nods, breaking from the musical focus to speak with Yuuya.] The emphasis is on leg-work. Something such as a 'pirouette' for example is simply trotting in a tight circle. Side steps are also a unique matter...variations of speed, so on... So it's not 'flashy' exactly, though that does have a bit of influence...

Scoring appears to be one part 'technical', and another 'artistic'...

Eh, so something... [Yuya does... some sort of side-stepping, a poor mimicry of something he probably saw on TV once. It's supposed to be tap dancing, probably.]

... I guess I don't really know how you dance with four legs.

Auh...it is a little different from proper dancing, certainly... [He watches Yuuya's movements, and moves to grab his duel disk.] ...I, the man Gongenzaka, did transfer a few records of prior events while checking on Marishi's announcement...

It's good for reference at least~

[Might clear up how space horses dance anyway.]

[The waltzing wasn't too different, but it's also a very simple dance to begin with and probably easy to adapt to other forms of anatomy.

Yuya stops his own trotting and makes his way back to Gongenzaka's side, leaning over and waiting for him to display the screen. Their size difference is even greater, now, and Yuya can't just stand on his toes if he wants to see what he's looking at.] Is it going to be the whole song?

It is the gold medalist from the prior 'Olympics', [Gongenzaka answers, nodding.]

Start to finish, complete with commentary- which means we've learned what a pirouette for horses is, on that note!

[Yuya leans sideways against Gongenzaka, then, so he can get a full view of the screen. He knows nothing about horse dancing, so if he's going to be helping come up with a routine they're going to both have to learn very quickly.

Which is just fine for Yuya. He's not inclined to back down because it might be difficult.] If they won, then this is probably what they'll be looking for this year, too... but you should still make it your own.

[Not a copy. If he wants to win the audience, he has to be himself! Anyway, Yuya watches in silence so he can get a good idea of what horse dancing actually is.]

[Very...Very quickly. Though Gongenzaka seems almost insulted at the idea of not making something 'his own'.] AUH-!

N-NATURALLY, I, the man Gongenzaka, will not simply be copying this..!!

That's at least partly why we're using different music after all.

[Yuya looks up at Gon's outburst, raising an eyebrow.] I didn't mean you would!

[He was just affirming. Yuya points to ther video, spinning his finger.] Maybe you can do that on the lead up to the first chorus?

[Stress Kills, or something like that.

He sits back down, making it a bit easier for both to study the video.] Hmmm...the trotting steps certainly would work well with that sort of lead in...it is a slow 'increase', after all...

[As long as they're applying beats to things, it seems easy enough to pick up and run with. That's the fortunate part, in any case.]

Mmhmm. And then you could do that jumping thing and pick up the pace when CY-Ren does! [He smiles at that as he visualizes the routine. It might be dancing instead of dueling or flipping, but it's close enough to Yuya's zone.] Is there a place you're going to be able to practice before the competition?

Aauuh, something like that...

I'm not sure we can get away with particularly high jumps, but little 'hops' should be acceptable...

[As it is.] Hm! There is, fortunately, a fairly large arena within which to practice!

Provided it has yet to fall apart, of course...

... I guess you could practice here if it is. [Although that poses equal problems for the actual competition if it happens, doesn't it.

He's assuming the denial of jumps is a style thing, since he's seen Gongenzaka move before. Disappointing, but there's other ways to convey the drama.] Am I going to need a ticket to watch you?

Mnnhhh...somehow, I the man Gongenzaka, worry about how effective that would be... ...though given we shall require your help in getting the music to the technical crew, I cannot say for certain if a ticket will be required...

[He trails off, flicking his tail a bit before pausing.] HMMN?

Oh, she's at it again... [Who's at what being the question, Yuuya can probably see for himself as the other two turn to look (with Gongenzaka turning a little...far, as unused to his flexibility as he is)-specifically, a now much larger, and more violet pooch is tugging grumpily at the vines of Gongenzaka's tail.]

...Suzu! What have we said-!

HrrF!!

[Yuya's about to respond, but stops when his attention is drawn by Marishi's. He twists around to peer over the couch at--] That's Suzu?! She's huge!

[And dark purple and buffer. This is his first time actually witnessing the results of evolution, having spent little time in Alola.]

Hmm! Of course it is, she...

[Oh. Oh yes.] Ah, that's right...this would be your first time seeing it...

[Before any confusion can settle, Gongenzaka explains-] As a 'pokemon', Suzu's growth involves a stage of extreme change-as with many of the other creatures from her realm.

It's called 'evolution'-it happened while we were facing Papyrus...

Definitely extreme. [She hardly even looks the same.] Evolution, huh... I think I remember hearing that word, but I didn't think it'd be like this. Is she going to change even more?

[Like... get even bigger.]

Mmm...as far as we are aware, she is from a 'two stage' line...

She shouldn't get much different. Perhaps a little taller, I suppose...but nothing else.

Huh. [Yuya regards her thoughtfully. As much as he'd usually be willing to play with her, they're really on a strict timetable here if they want Gongenzaka to be ready in time.

So Yuya leans back and looks up at him.] We should see if we can use the arena to practice now.

[Or at least assure if it's unavailable and start practicing in the training yard instead.]

[Suffice to say, Suzu is whining-but with a pat on the head, Gongenzaka stands.] Hmm! Indeed!

Let us do that at once, [he declares, Marishi hopping onto his back for good measure.]

We'll come back and play later, Suzu. [He leans over to give her a pet as well before grabbing his phone and bouncing off the couch, and then they're off.]

[Gongenzaka hasn't really moved much from where he sort of collapsed to start weeping very quietly post-radio announcement. Joker got to him first, granted but... ...Well, for whatever talk there was there, it doesn't change how Gongenzaka feels.

He may not be reduced to a quietly weeping pinnacle of his personal image of failure, but he's certainly not exactly optimistic. Especially since, by now, the radio is likely allowing the conversation with the Count of Crows and his fellows in, albeit at quieter volume.

He doesn't look up. Not for anything.]

[Yuya's a bit delayed to the rear of them all once Gongenzaka finally releases him, tail swishing in agitation. He makes a couple attempts to try and dig thorns out of his skin before giving up--they already scratched him up getting through the vine walls anyway, a little more he's already numb to anyway.

When Gongenzaka stops, Yuya does too, coming around and collapsing to his knees before sagging against Gongenzaka. He's barely paying attention to the radio, his mind too consumed with how they just lost Steven.]

....We did what we could, [He eventually says. It's obvious what has them both in this mood, after all. Listening to the Rose Queen...does not help.]

...You reached for him....where I, the man Gongenzaka, did not.

[Ah. ...So it is that, then.]

[Yuya's not sure he believes that was everything they could have, but it's not like they can turn back time and try again.

He sighs, half burying his face against Gongenzaka. He's sore.] He responded. We--[He swallows.] We shouldn't have let her just take him like that.

To do anything else would end the same, while more of us were either buried, or sworn to her side, [He replies, though even Gongenzaka seems unable to stomach his words.]

...The moment she had him in her arms... ...we lost our power to negotiate, [he adds, choking on what he says as he looks away. Even so, some vines come from the bushes to hold his friend as if they were one of his arms-it's easier to reach the other, that way.]

We could have stayed closer to Steven. [Yuya grumbles.] So he wouldn't forget we're here.

[There's the brainwashing, but obviously something got through, when Yuya called for him. So what if they had been a stronger presence for him?]

We'll save him.

And do you feel she would have relented either way?

[There is a pause. And...]

...He heard you, Yuuya. ...Hold that in your mind. He heard you, and she reacted for that reason.

[....] ...A...Aah. ...We shall, [He breathes. He needs to remind himself of that. He needs to...breathe. And calm down. And...]

....When I, the man Gongenzaka, asked Creation for aid...

...I asked that it protect him, specifically. ...However it saw fit.

... Thanks. [Gongenzaka is Steven's friend too, so it's not like Yuya has to thank him. But it was Yuya who asked for help, even if that's not how he expected it to go.]

....It was all I, the man Gongenzaka, could do, after all.

[It's sitting rather heavily, suffice to say.]

...what comes next... ....it will no doubt not quite be what it was when we faced the Prince, but...

[It's going to have to be Some form of equal trade, and the Fae are in the greater position to bargain now.]

[Yuya hopes it won't end up like the Prince, and he's suddenly anxious to think about it.]

We shouldn't have taken the Blue Rose. [He doesn't recall the Courts pursuing them until after they stole it. These miracles are important them, personally, and now everyone's suffering for them.

His expression darkens, and he wraps an arm around himself.] They got Mr. Strange, too.

Do you feel leaving it was the greater answer?

From what they speak of now, and from what happened following Portland...

[He grimaces.] Yuuya... ...I, the man Gongenzaka, do not think this began with the rose.

At the very least, the Rose Queen has been searching from the start.

[They got Strange. ...Yes. He nods. They were both listening, after all...]

They didn't do anything until we took it! [Past grievances or not, the Blue Rose runs to be where the Court's priorities shifted. Yuya wasn't in on this quest to begin with after that, and this isn't changing his mind.]

We did not see that they did anything until we took it, [he points out.] Do you recall, while in Greysol, when the Ringmaster vanished for a brief time?

...I, the man Gongenzaka, doubt she would have approached the Prince for the Rose without reason. Not if he has had it this long.

[And he DEFINITELY had that thing...for a While.]

Juat because she made a decision doesn't mean it was a good one. [Yuya sulks a little further. Normally his trust in the Ringmaster is strong, but his faith in the miracle quest in pretty broken.

He's sure she doesn't mean to put them through this, but that's not stopping it from happening.

He pulls away from Gon, realizing when he does something feels wetter than before. He touches his cheek. Oh.] Wh--are you bleeding?

I, the man Gongenzaka, did not say it was the best decision.

What I am saying, is that there is merit to what is known from Wismuth.

Nightshade was spotted-but unable to come within the Carnival limits. That rose...has indeed kept it safe.

And the Rose Queen would certainly have pursued with or without it.

[It's true that things perhaps wouldn't have gone This way. But they would have faced her soon enough. Perhaps even sooner.

But there are other things to worry about- Gongenzaka flinches away from Yuuya's touch, before moving a finger up to it himself.] Mnhg-

That...is not blood. ..It is fine.

[you was cryin gon]

[Yuya pulls his hand from his cheek to look at it, then turns to Gon with mild offence. Just because it glows doesn't mean Yuya can't tell it's blood.

Not that he isn't bleeding a bit, too. It's just less noticeable when he's much smaller.] Let me see how bad it is.

AUH-

Th-There is nothing wrong, Yuuya..! It is merely-!

[Well, it'll be clear for Yuuya himself honestly. There are no cuts or abrasions after all, and the trail of 'red' just goes to the bottoms of the eyes. Or...sort of.

It looks more brown once it's over the fur mask. Actually, the fluid itself isn't even red, despite the stains and...

As a bit of red vine dabs at them (hardly a conscious action), he might figure it out.]

Edited 2018-05-17 18:11 (UTC)

[Yuya shifts up as he follows the trail, reaching to wipe some from Gongenzaka's face with his palm. He squints at his hand, looking between his hand and Gon's face. Potentially bleeding eyes is just as bad, he's about to say, but it's not as thick or dark as he expects on his hand.

Oh. Yuya's expression eases, because while he's seen Gongenzaka cry before it's never been like this. It's a subtle grieving that surprises him.]

Hey. [His tone is soft, and this time he reaches up to try and gently wipe some of those tears away with his thumb.]

[Not much of an answer- at least not until the boy's thumb meets his face, causing him to bow his head.]

...It is a shameful display, is it not? [he finds himself muttering quietly.]

For all of the choices I, the man Gongenzaka have made... ...I can only weep in the face of their consequences...doing nothing but that.

[One would-or at least perhaps, he would-even say he's feeling sorry for himself.

But he knows that isn't it. He knows the powerlessness trapping all of them right now, he knows what choices led them there... ...He is not sorry for himself but rather fearful, and trapped in a web of indecision.

There is nothing to be done but wait.

And it's horrifying.]

[It's funny, but seeing Gongenzaka weep actually clears Yuya's mind a little. He feels a little stronger because he has to be, and he wonders if this is how Gongenzaka feels whenever Yuya's grief gets ahold of him.

So he reaches with his other hand as well to clear Gongenzaka's face, not to discourage him but to preserve some of his dignity. The movement is a little awkward, at first, but Yuya doesn't think too far about comforting Gon. Only knowing that he needs to.]

It's not shameful. [He smiles a little, reassuring.] It won't end here.

It is tears with no purpose, [he huffs, ears folded back.] ...We know there is no end, and that we will prevail- and yet it is...something so simple as not yet knowing how...

[It should not be something he needs. He shouldn't need comfort, not because it's a weakness but simply because it means he isn't able to comfort someone else, and idly his thoughts veer back to when they had been talking over that scroll, but...

Well, old habits die hard, evidently.]

[Yuya's an enormous crybaby, so he can't really agree with the conflict of crying without purpose. And he knows if he pointed it out Gongenzaka will only come up with an excuse fot the double standard.

He doesn't want to have another back and forth about this. Gonenzaka is already weeping, anyway. So instead of trying to tell him it's okay, Yuya just continues to smooth his hands over his friend's face, smiling softly while he looks up at him.

He's a little scared they won't, truthfully, although that's a fear he pushes way down. Still, it makes it hard to find the words to comfort with.

Yuya lets the silence hang between them, so Gonenzaka can navigate his feelings at his own speed.]

Edited 2018-05-17 19:54 (UTC)

[Navigation to say the least is slow going- honestly, Gongenzaka is pretty sure he hasn't cried quite like this since Portland, and when that was the case he wasn't even entirely himself. Prior that...

...well.

He half collapses against the other, one arm draped over his friend the way it would typically before a hug, but going no further. He appreciates the silence. More than anything, he appreciates it- while the brunt of the crying is long over, the weight of emotions after all is not, and it's more than difficult to simply shake off years of training and dedication to a particular mindset. He'd come up with an excuse if it was brought up-

But without that, he can at least quietly come to terms with the idea of it being alright.]

[Yuya teeters a little, dropping his staff as his arms wrap around Gongenzaka's neck to catch him. Or brace himself, really, letting his weight sink forward so they're holding each other up.

He closes his eyes, letting the tension in his shoulders resolve as his fingers dig slightly in Gongenzaka's mane. It's scary and hard, but that's easier to bear when they aren't alone.]

... I'm glad you're here.

Aauh. [With a shuddering breath, he holds the other in a hug, as if afraid that letting go would mean they were never there at all.] I..

...I, the man Gongenzaka, am glad that you are here as well...

[Yuya nods once, settled in the embrace. They can catch up with the group in a bit, but for now he's content to just stay here and calm down together.]

[When Reira and Reiji finally return to the Carnival, it is initially with great elation. Reira, now walking ahead of the bird carrying her brother, sighs with great relief as they trot in-massive griffinthing briefly shaking its head and giving sparrow peeps.]

Ahh-! Kage-!

[Reira is then of course, stuck watching as it immediately shoots off into the air, and heads for their trailer, Reiji giving a mute yelp in shock as he's taken with. Whoops.] Mnhhh...

[Oh well. Right now honestly, she's just tired. Blearily rubbing her eyes, she wanders a few steps in on the grounds in search of a few in particular though. She thought she heard them on the radio after all, so...]

Mnhh...Yuuya? [Helloooo? Anyone else get here yet?]

[Yuya practically springs up from where he's sulking at the sound of Reira calling for him, off from the trailers. He's already rushing to her, kneeling to her level.] Reira! Are you okay?

Ah-

[Well, that was effective. Reira has to blink a little bit at how Yuuya rushes over, taking a moment to get over it.] Umnh..! I'm fine... ...Kage just flew away with niisama once we got here... [She mumbles, frowning.] ...So we're both okay, but I wanted to find you to say that too...

[After all, he probably heard her chiming in on the radio to say she was stuck out there, right?]

Umnh...I only heard some things, though, like when everyone was talking to the faeries...so are you okay too?

[She may or may not be looking slowly toward your arms Yuuya. All over, actually, but if the arms are still visibly scratched up, that's going to be attention grabbing.]

That's good... [So much has gone wrong, he was worried it'd be too close to the Manor.

As for Yuya, he's got bandages where they need to be and the scratches obviously aren't holding him back any. He doesn't look much worse than if he'd tumbled through some rose bushes.] I'm okay. But there's other people in trouble and the Fae are still out there.

Mn. Yeah- they're not trying to get us lost anymore, [she notes, leaving the fact that she was able to come home at all as proof of it,] But... ...I think that's probably just because they have some people already.

...They wanted what the Ringmaster has, right? [she asks, recalling what could be heard over Herbert's radio.] And...they're mad because of something they think she did.

...or something they want to blame her for, [she adds- after all, it had been...a pretty one sided decision, over the radio.]

... Yeah, that's right. [Yuya moves to stand, reaching to put a gentle hand on Reira's shoulders to nudge her along. Probably back to her trailer.] They're like the Prince, they don't care about how much they hurt us.

But we'll definitely get them back.

Mnnn... [Well, she's moving, at least, but she's craning her head back up to frown a little.] ....I don't know if it's 'exactly' like the Prince... ...Doing what they want to get what they want is like the Prince, but...

...It sounded like the way people were taken away was different.

...I know we'll get them back, somehow, but it feels like the way we have to do it is going to be different too... [Which is pretty worrying, but she's been trying not to think too much about what that could mean.]

It'll be less violent, hopefully. [He does not really believe it will be less violent.] If the rose was worth the trouble we had to get it, then we're stronger this time.

[From the look on her face, she, as well, does not think it will be less violent.]

....They were tricky, so it feels like it'll be more tricky too, [she partly grumbles, practically pouting at the idea.]

People have to be smarter instead of just stronger.

[On the one hand, Correct, on the other, hard blow.]

I dunno if they were tricky this time. [The shadows, the Rose Queen, they weren't exactly subtle.] They're just... stronger.

[He says it quietly. He hates it, it's awful. But the Fae are on another level.

He worries over his lip.] So you need to be careful, okay? If you have to stay with the carnival...

They made sure we couldn't get back to the Carnival. And then, some people were saying things like 'if you come with me, no one will get hurt'... ...and that's something that a lot of people here listen to, instead of running away from.

[She's not saying they aren't stronger, granted. They're definitely stronger.

But tricky isn't the same as secret. It's tricky, manipulative, and it takes advantage of who they want.

And they had that in the bag.] So...they were really tricky.

[Anyway.] ...What do you mean...'if'?

...Niisama and I tried to come home as soon as the 'Ignatius' person was on the radio, [she notes- after all, that was the one they could hear. That whole pixie business only went to the Security channel. It took until Ignatius, for that reason, before they even realized fae were about.

And by then it was too late.] ...We weren't trying to stay away from it...

[She's probably just vastly missed what Yuuya meant. (And has.)]

No, I mean... [Yuya shakes his head.] This is too dangerous, so I was thinking... maybe the Ringmaster can end you and Reiji's contacts.

[He just got here after all, and Reira is so young.]

[Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaah.]

No.

[She's pretty set on that one. But she won't leave it like that, instead ducking her head down to look off to the side.]

It's better here, than with mom.

[............. Ok that might be worrying.]

Reira, you don't have to stay with Miss Akaba. We can talk to Reiji about that! But the way things are here...

[He gives her shoulder a quick squeeze.] Maybe someone won't make it back, because of the Fae.

Niisama already has to stay with 'mom', [She counters. But that doesn't seem to really matter here. Yuuya squeezes her shoulder, and frowns.] ...

...No one's died forever here, yet, [she notes, frowning.] ...and...I'm learning more things here, than I ever learned before. I want to stay. I made the contract, because I wanted to help Zarc-but even if that still happened if the contract stopped, I'd want to be here..! [the girl insists.]

...Before, you said 'we'll get them back'. Now, you're saying 'maybe we won't,' [Reira continues.]

...Do you think they'll come back? ...or... ...do you just want to say what makes sure I'll go away?

[Owch.]

[Yuya stops, which will likely result in his hold pulling against Reira. He stares ahead, silent.]

The truth is... I don't know. People have died, maybe not permanently as long as I've been here, but... [But that didn't change the possibly. Yuya believes with a smile, because when that do that they can move forward.

But he really, really doesn't know.

Yuya lets out a breath and holds in his tears, hesitating before turning to walk in front of Reira and brings himself to her level.] People are still being hurt, and hunted, and scared. You remember the war, don't you? This might be a lot worse.

.... [Reira seems to consider a lot of what Yuuya's saying- but unfortunately, not for the reasons he'd likely hope. As far as she's concerned, people always hurt each other. And hunt each other. And scare each other. It's in different ways, with different things, but it's what people do.

It was what people did at home, certainly, and why the very idea that people could have times when that wasn't happening, was confusing for a while. That just wasn't....how it went.

She still doesn't want to go back. She's practically certain if she does, it'll be back to Himika, and without a war to fight for, she's not sure Himika would want her around.

And the fact was, Himika would have the say in that. Because Reiji wasn't the one who 'took' her. It was Himika.

But if people couldn't stay dead, that was already a vast improvement, frankly. And more than that...]

...So why aren't you going home, then? If it was because I was small, you wouldn't say niisama should go too.

But you are. So why aren't you asking to go home?

I think Reiji should go so he can be with you. [That's actually still about Reira, although he'd rather everyone got to go home.] I don't know how she'd take everyone asking to go home, if she will break any contracts, so you and Reiji are priority.

[He's trying to plan more sensibly than 'beg for everyone to go home'. And he has other friends he needs to make sure will be okay.]

The Ringmaster already completed part of my contract, so I may not even be able to break it anymore.

[Um.]

...I'm not taking back what I said about Zarc.

[Perhaps mentioning the idea that a completed contract probably couldn't be broken was a bad idea- now it just feels like you don't care about hers being completed anyway.

Which...would be fair.

But she doesn't like that.]

[Truthfully he kind of doesn't.] Would you do it if I agreed to sign another contract that does the same thing?

[He doesn't sound very enthusiastic about it, but if it'd mean Reira can go somewhere safe...]

You can't do that right now, because you're on a contract already..!

[And that aside.] You don't even care about it! [She doesn't have to go off the sound of his voice for this.] You just want me to go away!

Why can't you believe your words, when you say things will be okay in the end! I believe them!

How are people supposed to fix things, and believe in things, if you only pretend to!

[Yuya lets her yell. He doesn't become incensed himself, his usual temper snuffed out by the weight of their situation. It's really just another way he's failing, isn't he? He can't compete with the Fae. Now the carnival is doing things that antagonize them further, and their whole future feels uncertain. He told their parents they'd return, but he has to admit it's a promise that may be out of his reach.

His shoulders slump, giving up on the argument faster than he normally would.] Fine. I can't make you do anything.

[That doesn't refute anything she says, but he doesn't haveit in him for another argument right now.

She listens to Reiji. He needs to make it clear to him how much danger they're all really in right now.]

[............Ah.

She goes quiet-eyes spotted a bit with tears, and face a bit red under the rocks as she finishes shouting. It wasn't fair to her, after all- not in a 'how dare he' sense, but rather...it just wasn't Fair. To say something and expect someone to believe it, but not believe it yourself. That was lying.

...It wasn't good to lie, at least not about important things like this. But now Yuuya is upset. Crushed, really, not that it's the word he'd use. So now they're standing apart from each other, Yuuya with his shoulders slumped and head somewhat down, she herself simply looking down in guilt.

After a moment, she quietly holds her hands out-not to be held, but to instead 'flick' the air somehow before both hands are reaching in a gesture not unlike an offering.

Without even a pause, a decent sized shield is before her- too low to block Yuuya's view, but then again perhaps it wasn't meant to block at all, but rather be displayed. It shines as brilliantly as moonlight, casting a glow upon them both, and refusing to falter before her hands.]

...'m not going to let anything happen. I'm practicing, and staying safe. Because even if I know things will be okay in the end, I know I have to be careful, so that people who can fight, and do things, do it right.

...but... ...you have to try to believe yourself too, when you say 'it'll be okay'. Because if you don't believe that... ...how will you be able to be okay, after?

[Yuya holds his gaze on her shield. He doesn't say anything for one long, still moment.

Then he lets out a breath, reaching to put his hand atop her head with a slight, tilted smile. His gaze is a little clearer, if not as bright as usual.]

It's not as simple at not letting anything happen. [He's had to face that the hard way again and again. He'll always save them, no matter what, but his ability to prevent it is lacking.] That's the scary part. And I don't want you to get hurt the same way. You deserve better.

....right now, it feels like you're the one being hurt.

Even if it's not that easy though, that doesn't mean things won't happen in a way that works. You still won't say anything about how you don't believe yourself, [she adds, frowning sadly. She's not going back. That's quite final. But that said-]

...instead it feels like you don't actually think it will be okay at all. ...I asked how you would feel better, if you would feel better.

...Why won't you answer, [She asks, lowering the shield and looking up from where his hand rests upon her head.]

... I don't have a good answer for that. [About if he's okay, if they'll be okay...] I say that because I want to believe it right now, but I don't really know. That's why I want to make sure you're safe.

[The carnival is notoriously bad at being organized and planned, and Yuya isn't exactly guiltless about that. He can't keep being so careless if there's someone he should be protecting nearby. He'd rather Reira not be in the line of fire at all, but... the whole carnival isn't likely to get that choice.]

I'm trying to be a little cautious before it gets worse, okay?

If you want to believe, why can't you just believe it though?

[The shield comes down. It's sort of awkward to just hold it there. It sounds as though she's honestly confused by the matter though- shouldn't something you say be something you already believe, no matter the case? That's how it Should work, as far as she knows, but...]

You can still be careful and believe something will be okay, can't you?

Yeah, you can. [That's not where Yuya's coming from, though. Belief has to come from some sort of conviction, and Yuya doesn't have a lot of it in the carnival and the Ringmaster right now.

But he's a little too exhausted to try and debate that. Reira can keep her innocent world view--if the situation wasn't so daunting, it'd be kind of sweet how plainly she sees things.] That's what you're going to do, right? If you want to stay, then I need you to be really careful, and stay where it's safe.

.... [She's going to have to accept that he won't answer, she supposes. Or perhaps even that he doesn't know how, which is somehow worse. One could wonder if it would still be an innocent view, if seen crystal clear from her eyes- truthfully, she just feels nothing possible without belief. Believing it will be is what allows it to be- but many, many terrible things could happen as consequence.

More than likely, if she even tried to explain that, a bit of the inherent hypocrisy of saying and believing things would be fine, for a price, could come through. But as it is she hair sighs- a tired, maybe somewhat frustrated sigh. "....That's what I've been doing..." She mutters, though she says little else.

It's just... "...you're the one I'm worried about..."

Reira, you don't have to worry about me. [He pulls up a much more reassuring smile.] I appreciate it. But I'm not alone and I'm going to be careful, too.

[... More careful, anyway. This is why he isn't in charge of things.]

....I'm not worried about how dangerous things might hurt you, [she corrects.]

I'm worried about how You hurt you.

[Yuya looks confused at that.] I'm not hurting myself.

[He's not sure where she's going with that.]

[REIRA LEARNED CROSSED ARMS. It only looks cute when employed by someone this small though. No one will be getting ashamed here, probably.] ....You keep thinking about things and getting worried and upset.

....And you're not doing anything to feel better either. ....That's hurting.

... Reira, these are the Fae that hurt everyone before. They've kidnapped people. [Kidnapped Yuya's friends. It's an extremely dire situation, something he thought after the Prince would be obvious.

Of course he's worried and upset. It's no light matter to 'feel better' while people he cares about are at the mercy of the Courts. He knows they won't be kind to those in their hands now.] I'm not giving up on them, you know. But I'm really not the one in trouble here.

....That's still not what I said.

[She is crossing her arms so hard!! Why isn't this working.] You can do things to feel better without giving up. But you're only thinking if the bad things...And not just as bad things, even. Otherwise, you wouldn't be saying things like 'you should leave' or 'you should stop your contract'. ....You're...

[...She's going to come out and say it, at this point. But crossing her arms like this isn't comfortable, so those are going down while she looks down.] ...You're scared. ...You're scared like you are when people you know are in trouble...But when that happens, you get more than scared, and more than sad, [she says quietly.] You hurt too much. It's what happens with other things too. [CoughZarcCough]

...I'm not asking you to believe. ...it feels like that's too hard for you, right now.

...But you have to stop hurting you. Everything already hurts you enough. That's why I'm worried about you.

[Yuya's expression eases, although it's vague and hard to read. It's not like Reira is wrong, but she's taking Yuya's stress a lot closer to heart than he expected. He thought he was holding it in pretty well this time, but maybe not.

He closes his eyes, taking a breath to push his thoughts of the current situation aside and let his emotions settle. He doesn't want to put this onto her if it's just going to make her worry about his worry.

So he gives himself the second to push all of that down, and then looks up at her with a bright expression.] I really appreciate it, but I mean it when I say you don't have to worry about me, okay?

[He gives her shoulder a gentle squeeze before moving to get to his feet.] I'm not hurting myself like that. If I trust you to keep yourself safe, then trust me to take care of myself too.

[There is really no avoiding this, is there. She frowns- not too harshly but...She's frowning.]

....I'm not going to stop worrying about people I like, [she mutters, letting out an almost sad sigh.] ....But... ....I'll try to let you stop doing that, I guess.

....I can tell when you're doing it though, [she adds, voice as strong and firm as she can dare to make it.] Even if you smile, you can't hide feelings. ....

....So....Really, really try, this time. ...ok?

[He can't hide them, huh... it's a bit of a weird notion, given how much he used to genuinely hide his feelings behind smiles and jokes and ran away from his fear. It's not exactly that he finds himself slipping into those habits with Reira, but she's a nice kid. Whenever he wears his fear or pain a little more openly, she always seems to take it so badly.

Of course he doesn't expect a seven year old to help him cope the way he would Gongenzaka. It's just still a lesson in how much more he needs to compose himself around Reira than around the kids at You Show, to keep from burdening her with it.]

Yeah, I get it. [Yuya's voice, in contrast, is light as he gently nudges her forward again.] I'll be fine... did Reiji already go back to your trailer?

Good. ....Because I can't turn that off, and happy feelings feel nicer. [she adds, as if perhaps adding a selfish spin will make it stick more.

That said, she raises her brows.] Ah...He got carried away by Kage- like I said before, right? So, he should be there...

....unless she flew somewhere else... [She half laments, sighing. Dumb NotSparrow.]

[Yuya raises a brow in return. He's not sure how he's going to manage only being positive around Reira, but... he'll figure something out.]

Who's Kage? [He didn't really pick up on that much, although confirmation was really what he was looking for... which Reira herself evidently doesn't have.]

Well, I can take you back to your trailer and if he's not there, we'll call him.

[She will, most undoubtedly, be Very Lenient and Forgiving about that, don't worry Yuuya.

It's a very specific sort of sadness after all. And, well, talking about sparrows is a good distraction.] Kage is the little bird that Foster made live again..! He gave me it, and I named her 'Kage', after Joker helped think of names..!

....She's not a little bird right now though... ...Foster told me to send her back so he could make her strong enough to take niisama and I back here if it was dangerous...

....I think...he tried to make a griffin...? [Her tone says she's not sure, but at the very least not disgusted by it anyway.]

...why do you want to talk to niisama? [she asks, entirely unsuspecting of Yuuya's goal.]

Tried to...? [The sparrow, right? He doesn't know much about Foster's abilities, so he doesn't much of a reference for what she's talking about. But he assumes it's not just a tiny sparrow anymore if it's supposed to protect her.]

Reiji only signed on recently, so he's never really met any Fae besides the Ringmaster... I don't want him to be caught by surprise by them.

[The Sparrow, indeed. Reira simply tilts her head, nodding all at once.] ....Right now, Kage still has two legs. They're lion legs, but it's only two.

Umm...-! I've been telling him about faeries, though! ....And I told Kage to bring us to the Carnival, so they should still be in here, to stay safe, at least...

Yeah, but I know most of these Fae specifically. [Portland was a trip where Yuya could not keep his nose out of Fae business.] They're... it's kind of a grudge.

[Yo what]

...You mean you...met them?

[And as an after thought-]

....you probably shouldn't tell niisama that part. [He will immediately become (more) irritating to him, she's certain.

Yeah, uh... it's a long story. [He rubs the back of his neck.] The carnival had issues with them when we visited Portland. I don't think any of them care about me, but...

[His gaze drops down a little.] Some of the people they took, they hurt before.

Mnhhh... ....are you sure they won't care..? [Spoilers: At least one cares] We have time for long stories..! It's probably a good idea to make sure you know what the story is before you talk to niisama anyway, [She adds, mostly just wanting to hear more.]

...We can walk, at the same time. And... ...maybe we'll find ways to stop them, because you're talking about them. ...Even if the book magic didn't work, [She mutters, frowning. She's not entirely clear on that, but Herbert insisted that he'd only cut the water and then the lady was gone. So that stinks.]

[Yuya genuinely doesn't believe that any of the Fae will, ultimately, look twice at him. Nightshade didn't, the Rose Queen successfully deterred him and his obsessed with Steven. He's definitely not in the position of him or Strange.] I didn't forget what happened.

[He was there, so he's not sure what she means by making sure he knows the story.] Back then, we had the help of the Angels. They're as powerful as the Fae, I guess, but even then it was hard.

I didn't say you forgot. You just need to make sure you tell a story properly, or niisama gets more interested in fighting things.

[Well, fighting isn't the right term here but...Eh.]

...Oh!

Angels are things that were made after fae! They're the ones that represent rules and 'order'... ...that's what Foster said.

I guess? [That sounds about right, but Yuya sure wasn't privy about that book.

Anyway, he has enough faith in Reiji that he won't be an idiot. He doesn't have the same influence in the carnival to act alone.] But I don't think we'll be able to ask for their help this time... [He scrunches his face.] The Ringmaster has to be able to do something.

Yeah! It went...Creation, then Faeries, and then Angels and demons...and then everything 'reflects' more and more, until you have people.

It's why Faeries are like people, but with lots of power. [People would disagree with you kid, but hey.]

...Mnh... ...I don't know how you could call an angel... I saw a book ghost that was from an 'angel' book, but that's not the same...

[Oh, what little they know,]

...The Ringmaster doesn't like what's happening, does she, [she finds herself asking, looking down.]

No. She doesn't want things to be this way. [Although he won't say she's made the best decisions for them coming to this.] It's not what she made the carnival for, but... as long as the Courts keep chasing her, and us, it'll keep happening.

[But he doesn't know how to make them stop. To make them not care?]

Mnh. So the 'miracles' are to make them stay away then. Like a big shield- big enough that everywhere we go is safe.

[Sadly, Reira is Agreeing-] ...That's what the first one is doing right now, right?

...Keeping them out of the Carnival.

It might be helping? [Yuya shrugs.] It's the Ringmaster's realm, so she's the most powerful person in it because of that... a lot like the Prince. No one can get in if she doesn't let them.

[She definitely made it sound like the host of the realm has the most control, when she explained it to him.]

Even if they really tried?

[Well, she supposes that makes sense anyway.] Um... ...So...you said you knew who all the faeries were. ...Who were the ones that weren't flowers? I remember we got warned about flower ones, but...

[Not so much the Others.]

Uh, it sounded like Ignatius and the Count are around... [He pauses, considering something.] It'd be easier to tell you and Reiji at once.

[Awww you're no fun Yuuya.] Mnnhh.... ...so...you didn't know who the lady Herbert fought was?

...It sounded like they were the same lady... [Maybe she should ask him later. Either way.]

[Yuya shakes his head.] I didn't recognize any Fae that pulled people into the water like that. I guess... she was probably from the Winter Court.

[He's pulling back on what he learned from his brief, alternate life. The Summer Court had more of a presence there, but he's pretty sure something like that is closer to Winter's domain.]

Hmnnhhh...

[Well. She sighs anyway.] ...I have to say sorry to Doctor Herbert...

[Well that's a topic shift. ...Maybe?]

You were trying to help... but he'll probably appreciate that. [He guesses? Reira's not terribly self-guilting, so he assumes if she feels like she should say sorry, she was rude or something.]

Mnh. It's not that. He said the sword cut the water, and then they got away... ...but he also said, he didn't say 'I'm here to fight you!', like heroes in books.

...I said, that was probably why he lost. But... ...I guess even though he cut her water, she probably would have been stronger than him still...so I wasn't right...

[She sort of feels like she was Very Mean to Herbert now.]

[Well, there it is. Yuya's expression twists in a bit of wry amusement, and he sets his hand on her head as they walk.] Yeah. We didn't know it yet, but... you can apologize to him soon, okay? After we find Reiji.

M..Mnh.

[It doesn't sound entirely confident, but she can at least tell herself it'll be over and done with soon enough. Until then...time to find Reiji, wherever that bird brought him...]

[It is somewhat late into the night, when Gongenzaka comes by. He had many things to settle- to discuss, to check upon, and so on. So many things that he almost simply turned in for bed.

Almost.

Something tells him he shouldn't put this off...this talk that Joker told him he needs to make sure to have. So he walks there, and then sighs.

...Well. ...Here he goes.]

Yuuya? Are you in there?

[Yuya looks up from his place half-draped off the bed, staring at the door curiously.] Gongenzaka?

[He rolls himself over, hitting the floor with a soft sound before opening the door. He's surprised to see him at this hour, but it's not unwelcome.] What's up?

Auhh...

[Somehow, it feels even more awkward, now that Yuuya has answered.

Crap.] Mmmn...there is...something that I, the man Gongenzaka, feel we should perhaps discuss, regarding earlier- auh!

That is, if you yourself are willing, naturally..! [Normally he wouldn't be this lenient about it but...well.

What happened earlier was rough. He'd understand if they ALL needed some recovery time first.]

Discuss? [Yuya pinches his brow, confused. But after a second he steps back to open the door wider.] We can talk. Did you, uh, want to come in?

[Squeeze in, more like. He wonders what there is to talk about, though. Is it Steven?]

Aauh. Thank you, Yuuya.

[And...Squeeze he shall. Oof! He'd almost forgotten what this was like, thanks to the time during Wismuth...

As it is, he makes it in somehow, sighing.] ...I, the man Gongenzaka...

...Mnh. [How does he start.] ...When we were discussing who should leave through the hole... ...When you insisted upon going last...

...Did you feel, perhaps, that my insisting upon otherwise was an attempt for protection..? [He trusts his friend. He trusts him more than anything. But then...

...That's exactly why he's asking, he supposes.]

[Yuya closes the door, pausing before moving back across to the beds and sitting on the lower bunk. His trailer is notably clearer this time, a little emptier since Tamaki's possessions have all cleared out.

He shrugs.] I--maybe. I'm not mad at you about it. I just wanted you to go first, so... there was less people who had to leave if I could have saved Steven.

[He wanted to go last so he could reach out to him. He wishes he could have just grabbed him and ran, but Yuya knows where his physical limits lie.

He'd still failed, he knows. He's not holding it against himself, but the reality of what's happened to Steven still settles sadly in him.]

Yuuya...

[He sighs, and more properly sits, looking around a bit until Yuuya himself has sat down.] The first thing that I, the man Gongenzaka, should make clear is this...

...This is not about what occurred with the Rose Queen- while what it is about is something which happened then as well, it is something which I, the man Gongenzaka, should have spoken to you about before hand.

We made our agreement, to allow you to stand as protector more, rather than I myself rushing forward...correct?

[Yuya looks up with a nod, putting a hand to his chest.] I remember. It's hard to forget, now that you've signed another contract.

[Absently, his fingers curl around his pendulum as he looks a little insistent.] My shield worked, I'm getting stronger! You can trust me to keep my promise.

Yuuya...

[He closes his eyes.] I, the man Gongenzaka, do not doubt that you shall...however...

[His voice unfortunately starts to crack here, as he bows his head. It was somehow easy enough to confess the matter to Joker. But trying to bring it to words now just brings up the core of the issue that it carries. Doubt.

Doubt. For his friend. For-] I, the man Gongenzaka...Must apologize, for I fear that you have been doubting my own dedication to allow it..! Such doubt in the one whom I, the man Gongenzaka, consider my greatest friend...

Though unforgivable, I cannot put aside the matter any longer..!

[He. May be at least part way through a bow, by the time he says that.]

[Yuya stares, expression falling into bewilderment as Gongenzaka apologizes. Dramatically. He's silent at first, watching him.

And then, while Gongenzaka's head is still bowed, a grin cracks upon his face as laughter bubbles up in his throat. And then he can't contain it, giggling openly as he puts his hand on Gongenzaka's shoulder to steady them both.]

I didn't expect you to stop protecting me at all, Gongenzaka. [He was secure in himself despite all of this because he knows Gongenzaka would come for him through anything. Being strong enough on his own wasn't just, even mostly, for his sake.] I'm not doubting you.

[He does not raise himself from his awkward bow, though his voice is not...Quite as strong and loud as it would be.] ...Yuuya...

...had I grabbed you immediately with my vines...

...Had I insisted further, for you to go through the exit, that I, the man Gongenzaka, would not delay anyone's escape due to the struggle with the hole...

[He cannot finish the statement, for after all-mere moments earlier, Yuuya himself had said that perhaps he had assumed Gongenzaka was trying to stay behind to protect him.

Something that in Gongenzaka's eyes... ...would, in fact, have been doubting his ability to take Yuuya seriously.]

I, the man Gongenzaka, do not ask if you doubt my ability.

I, the man Gongenzaka...ask if you doubt my ability to let you protect instead.

[It's going to be like that, is it? Yuya tilts sideways, then, forcing himself back into Gongenzaka's field of vision.] And I just said no. You let me try in the end, didn't you? If you really didn't believe in me, you could have just picked me up and left.

[Like, literally, there's never been a contest of physical strength here.] But you didn't, and... I'm glad. I know I have a long way to go. [He's getting there. He'll match that strength at some point.] But I'm really glad you believe in me right now.

[.... Ah-!

Well, that's one way to get him to bolt back upright. Good on Yuuya for ducking under like that, though. Despite Yuuya's words, Gongenzaka's ears merely fold back. After all, with the vines...]

...When the Queen attacked... ...I, the man Gongenzaka, wished only to snatch you without question. ...Yuuya...

...If I had done so, it would not have been because I, the man Gongenzaka, lacked faith in you, but... ...I...

...I, the man Gongenzaka, ask of you- for as unforgivable as it is that I must ask at all... I must know that if such a situation arises, I, the man Gongenzaka, will not have to wait for you to grab my hand or similar-that I can simply take hold, that we can both escape harm..!

[He really really has been letting this one fester, hasn't he.]

[Yuya's momentarily content to have forced looking each other in the face again. But then Gongenzaka continues, and... Yuya still, his hand slipping a little as his expression shifts.

He purses his lips, already feeling a knot in his stomach at what he's about to ask.] If... if I told you not to, would you?

[It depends, really, and but he wonders if Gongenzaka could agree to leave him behind in any circumstance.]

[That....is a question that freezes him. And for a moment it looks very much like he would like to weep as he had earlier, the emotion still caught in his chest.

But he nods.] .................after all, Yuuya, [He manages with a cracking voice,] ...I, the man Gongenzaka...

...did as much...just earlier, did I not? It is...

[He takes a breath in.] ...It is what we prepared for...

[It is what they're preparing for. For Yuya to be able to take the same burden. For Gongenzaka to have to carry a different burden, because Yuya knows the agony of being the one left behind.

Yuya blinks rapidly, his vision swimming briefly as his eyes are wet with tears that won't yet fall. He exhales, heavy, his hands falling limply into his lap.] You did. Gongenzaka...

[His words get stuck in his throat, almost catching his breath as he looks up at him.]

Edited 2018-05-20 04:49 (UTC)

Yuuya...

[He cannot keep from weeping. It is the second time in but a short period, when it has been so long since he has at all. But the fact is, these were not stakes that existed, before. They were not stakes that existed at all before, or at least not while they were in their proper mind.

Even the manor had with it, a layer of magic to coat their thoughts.] I, the man Gongenzaka...will do everything in my power, to do as you request...

But I beg of you...

[...If at least for that one particular sort of scenario...]

If it comes to us both leaving...

[Yuya knows it's really cruel to ask of him. He knows this, and there's no way to make it right or fair so long as they're stuck in this cycle of pain. Instead of getting out, it's a constant transference. Yuya can't bear all of only one side, and yet it's the same side that hurts both of them most.]

Gongenzaka. [Yuya leans forward, his hand reaching up again--but it stops, and hands tensely in the air near Gongenzaka's face. Yuya swallows, his voice heavy.]

If... I don't tell you not to... [What if he has to tell him not to?] Save me. Like you always do.

[For now, that's enough. He can take silence- silence is immediate, silence means it could be there's no time to discuss it. IT is a brutal, and sneaky way of looking at it that his heart detests but-

He pulls the other close, and he does not let go.]

....I, the man Gongenzaka, swear to you, I shall.

[Yuya's drawn forward easily, and there's only a second of hesitation before Yuya throws his arms around Gonenzaka and holds on tight.

He hates this. He hates how far they've been pushed, he hates that he has to ask this.]

I'm sorry. [He can't hold his tears back anymore, either.] 'M so sorry. I'm not...

[Strong enough. Not physically, not emotionally.]

It is alright, Yuuya. [It is not alright. They're two teenagers crying in a cramped trailer and an even more tight embrace, with no idea of what comes next. It is not alright, but when Yuuya is saying 'not' about himself, it is all Gongenzaka can bring himself to say.]

....We will be...alright. I, the man Gongenzaka, swear it- whether by your actions, or mine, whatever we do...

[And yet his words falter, and stop, until he is simply repeating himself in a different way.]

....We can do this. ....You can do this, [He adds, breath shuddering.] ...Your heart is just as strong as mine, if not stronger, after all.

[Yuya stutters on a sob, his hands gripping tighter. It's hard for him to stomach that strength right now, when it feels like he's dragging Gonenzaka down. He sinks down a little, like a weight, feeling heavy.]

We--we have to because... I can't go home without you. [His voice is quiet. At least, this time, he isn't chasing his friend blindly, not knowing where they are. Gongenzaka's right here.

It's still a hole that couldn't be filled, if he was gone.]

Aauh.

I, the man Gongenzaka, shall not be returning without you either- not without all of us, he swears, face rubbing against the other.]

...No doubt, you shall make certain of that, aah? [He says it with an edge of optimism. An attempt to ease the pain, and mood. And...]

...Yuuya. Whatever the case, [He says softly,] Know that you are truly, my greatest friend.

...And I shall not doubt you any longer.

Not without all of us. [Yuya mumbles against him. That's certainly easy for Gongenzaka, who has the longest contract now.

He falls quiet at that, the crying starting to abate a little as he listens to Gongenzaka's words and wraps up in his comfort.]

I know. [Absently, his fingers curl around Gongenzaka's sash. He knows, but it still makes hims happy to hear it. And a little guilty.] So are you. Gongenzaka, I... thanks. For everything.

[Yuya... doesn't quite pull back, because Gongenzaka's grip is tight, but he leans back enough to try and look at Gongenzaka. Hopefully that nuzzling puts his face in view.] I really appreciate it, more than I can say! You knows it's not... it's not because everything you've done doesn't matter to me. It's because it does that I want to do the same for you.

[He says it earnestly, as if he can impress all of his feelings into those words. Yuya wants him to know, it isn't doubt either. He hasn't lost his trust.]

Edited (cause I decided I wanted this all in one tag) 2018-05-20 16:40 (UTC)

Hm-k-! [There is something of a snort, caught in a hiccup and a cough all the same.] Yuuya. ....More than anything, that has never been my fear. Believe me..!

....if there is anything I, the man Gongenzaka, have never doubted...it is that it mattered. If it had not after all...

....You would not have insisted so strongly upon the agreement we have now, aah?

[He does not quite break the hug, but he does at least move to beam down.] But yes...naturally, we must make certain the others come! Not only Yuugo, and Yuzu...but after all, now we have both Akabas here, to worry for! [Those Darn Akabas! ...But also...]

...We will get him back, Yuuya. ....we shall get everyone back, no matter what.

[That's too many people to worry about, it's a little overwhelming... but he doesn't preoccupy himself with it, not right now. He knows in the moment they're safe.

Yuya smiles back, soft and warm, nodding.] Mmhmm.

[Yuya's glad that he understands. He's glad he has his friend here, who's so faithful that Yuya's distress is easily overtaken by it.

He reaches to wipe his own face dry.] Um... do you want to just stay over? Tamaki's gone, so...

[So Yuya's trailer is pretty otherwise empty, although he doesn't think about the other issue of Gongenzaka's size.]

[It is a far more pleasant silence that settles over them, after their agreements. He still has his arms around the other, but no longer quite so tightly, or firmly. It is such that the hug properly seems 'over' when Yuuya asks the question.]

Mm? Tamaki is? [He asks, only to frown.] Hmnnn...typically, I, the man Gongenzaka, would be thrilled but....

[He looks around. It. It's fucking cramped, man-] ....perhaps instead, the reverse would be wise? While I, the an Gongenzaka, have another in the tent, they tend to keep to themselves..nd with Mari gone, it is just as quiet, I should think!

[Yuya follows Gongenzaka's gaze around, eyes widening slightly with realization. His expression twists wryly.] You really are too big now.

[Well, has been too big for a while but it is pretty notable to look at the way Gongenzaka's actually filling up the space.] Yeah, we can go to the tent. I kind of like your pillow bed, anyway.

[Not that he's feeling tired, although he's much less wired than before. It's just a light joke to keep the mood bright.

He doesn't try to force Gongenzaka out of the way to move first, instead waiting patiently for him to move back on his own.]

A..Aaauh, unfortunately...! It would seem I, the man Gongenzaka, can only be too large or too small, now! [He laughs, standing up with a ducked head. He doesn't take long to squeeze out the trailer door, waiting for Yuuya from there.]

Saaah, take what you will need, in that case..!

[Yuya laughs, standing once he has the space and looking around. He grabs his phone, and deck, slipping them into his pockets before following Gongenzaka out the door and shutting it behind them. He won't try and keep Gongenzaka up, necessarily, but...

He looks sideways at Gon as they walk.] Have you ever had a sleepover before?

[They never did, but they also never met until Yuya was eleven. He never thought much about it, and it never felt like something missing. He's just a little curious.]

....

[Ah. Well.] ...Technically speaking, having a tent shared with another, is a sleepover, is it not?

[ N O !! ]

No! [Yuya grins, speeding ahead slightly and twisting on his feet to face Gongenzaka.] It's only a sleepover if you don't stay there. I mean staying up and playing games and eating junk food.

[He pauses.] We don't have to do that. I know we do a lot together already.

....it is a party then? [Part of him wants to ask, Is this the time for a party!?

But then, perhaps a small 'party' is what they need. So he nods in partial understanding, looking very much like he doesn't understand at all.] A-auh...

...Well, to remain awake too long, and simply eat snacks, may be unwise, but...

....I, the man Gongenzaka...do have a console...

[IF THE GAMES ARE A MUST...]

It can be. I only ever had sleepovers with Yuzu. [Yuya was not popular enough with the other kids to get invited to big sleepovers. But maybe that's an idea, once everyone's safe again...

Of course, then Gon has to go and be all responsible about it. Yuya snorts.] I guess it's not a good time... it's supposed to be fun, not responsible.

[Ergo, who cares if it's unwise to stay up all night eating junk food. That's the opposite of the point.]

[In the way that he Typically does when continuing that path of responsibility, he huffs- practically pouting, if the expression could be called that.] I, the man Gongenzaka, am certain we can enjoy ourselves AND remain responsible...

[Gongenzaka's pout doesn't effect Yuya, who stops right in front of him and puts his hands on his hips, puffing his chest up.] Yeah, but maybe just once you could loosen up. I wonder what Gongenzaka would look like, not holding back...

[Yuya honestly can't envision it, he's so used to Gongenzaka being the picture of restraint. Doesn't mean he isn't going to tease him, though.]

Th- That-

It would be a horrible sight..!! An irresponsible matter-!!

Responsibility does not mean no fun-!! [ Stop him-]

You looked like you were having fun being irresponsible in the Summerlands. [That wasn't exactly irresponsible, but the point remains.

Gongenzaka might be flustering further, but Yuya's only grinning wider. The conversation is distracting, and it's easy to get swept away in it and forget for a moment the bleakness of the situation surrounding them. They can't do anything now, anyway, and Yuya will probably be back to worrying about it through the night.

But right now, there's an ease in his heart as if he's back home, before the war or the carnival or the truth or anything. It's a peace he wants to dearly to return to, and when he finds it here...]

Come on, what would you do if you didn't have to be 'responsible'. Anything at all!

Th- it would be the same things, naturally!! Training, and reading, and-

[He was about to add that he does, in fact, take time to play his game console or read, but 'in the summerlands' catches his ear, and naturally he thinks of what he did Alone rather than anything else- going glowing red in embarrassment.] Y- You...

What do you mean, 'in the Summerlands'...

[Yuya wiggles his fingers, which is probably a more obvious clue even without his explanation.] When we visited the garden, remember? eh, but you were kind of scared at first weren't you?

[It wasn't very daring, was it. Yuya had to pull him along for even that much. If only he knew about the flower rolling...]

....Oh.

[AHEM. The blush fades almost immediately. Suspiciously so, in fact.] Ahh...well, I, the man Gongenzaka, could not tell that they would not set me aflame, after all...

... Why, was there something else? [Yuya's tone is lightly curious, and yet he's looking expectantly at Gongenzaka.]

MMMN-!

[And naturally, as is the norm, there is no hiding the answer.] D...Do not be ridiculous!!

[That's a Big Yes.]

You're telling me that? [Yuya raises a brow before crossing his eyes and squishing his cheeks, sticking his tongue out in a totally stupid expression while his tail swishes back and forth like a metronome. Yuya is the last person Gongenzaka should suggest isn't ridiculous.

Which, really, means it's even more unnecessary for Gongenzaka to hold his dignity in Yuya's presence. It won't change Yuya's mind any, he's clearly revoked enough of his.]

N...Naturally..!

Not a thing happened, that is worth knowing..!

[ WORTH IS A MATTER OF OPINION GON... [

[Yuya holds his stupid expression for a second longer before releasing his face.] Okay, you don't have to tell me.

[He turns on his heels, stuffing his hands in his pockets to continue walking back to Gongenzaka's tent.]

Right..!

[....That concrete OF COURSE I DON'T attitude lasts about five minutes of walking, with Gongenzaka gradually growing more and more shifty as they go. He is predictable, in the end. Yuuya knows there is something.

...So now, he can't let Yuuya imagine what it might be!! (Naturally)]

I...

....I, the man Gongenzaka... ...May have taken a run through their flower fields...

[That sounds a bit too normal to be an embarrassment buddy.]

[Yuya stops, looking over his shoulder at Gongenzaka when he admits it just outside the tent. There doesn't seem to be a lot of response from him, although his eyes do light up slightly.

And then suddenly Yuya grabs for Gon's hand to try pulling him in the opposite direction. Or, really, he expects Gongenzaka to just follow Yuya's guidance because it's not like he can forcibly drag him anywhere.]

MNNGGH- [WHAT HAS HE WROUGHT UPON HIMSELF-

Gongenzaka jolts- he may be more than strong enough to resist, but surprise has him following Yuuya's lead with ease, slightly slouched as the other pulls at his hand.] Wh-wh-

Where are we going..!?

We're taking a detour. [Yuya flashes him a grin. He releases Gon's hand when he's sure he's following after a minute or so, leading him past the trailers, the lake, and up the stone steps that lead to the hot springs.

There's an excitement to his step, but he's not being terribly forward.]

Auh- A detour...!?

What for..?! [So he asks, but really, he doesn't argue as he's led off. And....] ...The springs...?

[That's his Guess, anyway...]

Because--[When they get to the springs, Yuya deftly moves around the pools to start climbing up on the rocks and get over the ledges to the backside of it. He gestures for Gongenzaka to follow.] Come on! I want to see this.

See..?

[Things are now making even less sense, as they move toward the back ledges. Frowning, he looks to his friend.] Yuuya...

[YUUYA PLEASE THIS IS BAFFLING...WHAT IS GOING TO BE SEEN...]

[Yuya hauls himself up, looking up from the rocks. The sky is always clear in the carnival, under the Ringmaster's control, and up high on the mountain there's just enough space to see it as close as they can, two moons and everything.

Yuya points, turning to Gongenzaka.] Look, it's really bright up here.

[It's a compromise, right? Gonenzaka breaking his curfew just this once, but to sit out in nature instead of stuffing his face with sugar.

Yuya scoots sideways, to give him room to get closer.]

[All things considered Yuuya, he had been ready to break curfew by offering a round of NotMarioKart- but hey, your loss. He'll take this, anyhow.

In fact, as he's led to the clear spot, he finds himself lost for words, blinking up at the sky with relatively wide eyes.] Auh...

[He stares up at the stars and moons, ears twitching slightly against the breeze that rustles his mane. It's quite peaceful, despite all that is going on, he must say...it is...] Auh...it is...

[It's definitely not a loss for Yuya. He watches Gonenzaka for a minute, gauging his reaction. He smiles warmly when he's satisfied, turning back to look at the sky himself as his tail curls around and falls over his leg.

He counts and connects the stars in his head to keep his thoughts distracted, and for the moment he soaks up the peace around them. It's not always his thing, but he can understand the value Gongenzaka finds in it.]

[Well. If they are going to be sitting here, he decides, then they might as well get comfortable. Gongenzaka lowers himself down and lets the lower body slump on its side as if laying down, the rest of him more comfortably sitting back against himself as he looks upward.

....They can handle doing this for a little bit... ...Yeah....]

[Yuya's attention breaks as he hears Gongenzaka shifting around, and a slight victorious smile crosses his features. At least in this moment he's managed to make someone smile.

Especially since he made Gongenzaka agree to such an awful promise ten minutes ago. And that the Fae are hanging over their heads, and Yuya's gaze drifts down as those thoughts start to cloud his mind again. Not so much to break the moment, but the light in his eyes dims just a little to remember it.]

... You're probably flexible enough to be an acrobat, now. [Really, though, that position.]

Hn!

[It is both hard, and easy, to not think about what got them here in the first place. The conversation in the trailer, the promise that was made... Stretching only slightly to put himself more at ease, he has to give a half-smirk; it is still to warm perhaps, too much like a smile, to be called a true one.]

Flexibility is nothing without speed and technique, aah? Between us both, I, the man Gongenzaka, should say that you are still far more suited for the role! [He laughs.]

[Yuya leans back on his hands, raising an eyebrow.] I wasn't competing with you.

[There's space in the carnival for more acrobats! Not that he actually expects Gongenzaka to venture out of his role and into the big top. Still, his new unnatural flexibility probably makes him bendier than Yuya.]

Mnn?

....Did....it sound like a challenge, what I said? [He asks, honestly confused.]

I, the man Gongenzaka...simply feel that 'acrobats' would still be far more skilled than myself, in other ways..! [He laughs.] Ways that you, and others, have certainly spent more time working with.

I, the man Gongenzaka, shall keep my feet upon the ground..!

[Yuya snorts. Gongenzaka is still so serious in the end... But Yuya wouldn't have him any other way.]

Sure, sure! [He laughs a little, putting a hand to his chest.] I'll take it as a compliment, then.

[Which he sounds absolutely shameless about. He sure doesn't mind flattery.]

Mn... [There is a bit of staring...but when Yuuya begins laughing he relaxes, laughing warmly himself as his tail shifts.]

Hah-! As you should, Yuuya..!

[And with that he quiets once again, settling to stare at the sky. At least this much can be enjoyed.]

[It's quite late when whatever Gongenzaka is practicing takes any notice. But it will. Yuuya will feel as though Gongenzaka is...right there. Maybe he even sees him! It's almost like in a dream except...Not?

Gongenzaka for his part, seems quite thrilled. IT WORKED!

...why can't he talk.]

[Yuya was about to get ready to sleep, but the sensation of something else inside (around?) him makes him stop halfway to getting the toothbrush in his mouth. He blinks rapidly, looking around like he expects someone else here with him.]

Gon... genzaka? [That's what it feels like, but--wait, where ia he?]

[RIGHT. It's him! To that end, have a flash of Gon smiling- normal Gon. That's how you likely see him.

...This is very hard to explain however, and the confusion permeates into the feeling. Shoot. Um. Hmm.

He tries showing a shot of him meditating instead. It was like that- except...now he's....TALK...ING???

Sort of.

help]

[Yuya puts a hand to his chest as he feels that spike of confusion, meeting it with his own confusion as he blinks rapidly at the mental images flashing in his head.

He drops his toothbrush and scrambles for his radio, dialing Gongenzaka's number.] Gongenzaka?! Are you doing something?

[Bursts of...Panic. And echoes of Yuuya's own radio call! And-

And rather abruptly it's over, and while Marishi groggily answers the radio, Gongenzaka can be heard yelping with shock in the background.]

Ooogh...I really do not get enough appreciation for how tricky it is to do this while one half is meditating....

...He 'was' doing something, on that note...'Was'...

[Yuya pauses as the sensation in him dissipates. This is so weird...] It was like I could feel you in my heart, and kinda see you. Was that you?

[Or is Yuya just, like, losing his marbles because if he's having hallucinations about his best friend he's really worried what that's saying about him.]

[Briefly, Yuuya will hear the distant sounds of Marishi- not to mention a pile of animals- trying to awkwardly console the largest in the room. Apparently he's grumbling about some sort of headache.]

Mnhh...probably...it certainly felt like we'd made a connection at least... ...It's how we reached Creation, but we were hoping for words...

[So much for that.]

No, I didn't hear anything. But I saw you smiling, and I also felt you get confused. [A pause.] You definitely made a connection. Wait, could you feel me too?

[Was this a two way street, like Steven's empathy could be? In reverse?]

Hmm... ...I think there was something...it's rather fuzzy on my end, you understand...did you try saying anything through your own mind?

No... should I try that? [He scrambles to the couch, flopping backwards onto it.] Okay, I'll put the radio down and you can tell Gongenzaka to try it again! I'll be ready this time.

[There's no better way to figure out how well they can communicate than by just messing with it, right? They'll figure it out.]

At the very least it's worth a shot!

He's finished a small cup of tea at least, so he should be ready to go back at it again. Brace yourself~

Or perhaps don't...it isn't as though anyone we're trying to reach will know we're coming necessarily...

[Yuya hums in response before he sets the radio on the seat beside him, sinking against the couch and... waiting. Even if he can't anticipate it, he's still focusing to see if he can sense right when he starts to get aware of Gongenzaka. Or at least, when Gongenzaka is most prominent in his head. At least he has a little idea what to expect, now.]

[Radio silence, for at least a few minutes. And then suddenly, a feeling of...cheer? Arrival?

Does arrival have a feeling? It's at the very least the sort of happy feeling one would have when coming to something good after a long day perhaps.

The image of waving comes to mind. Literally. Hellooooo, Yuuya-!]

[Yuya's mostly initially a little expectant, trying to be patient. It makes the cheer stick out quite noticeably, and Yuya's own emotions light up in excitement now that he understands what's going on. This isn't some weird trick, but really Gongenzaka reaching him from afar.

Can you hear this?

He barely remembers not to just say it out loud.]

[A wash of consideration- pondering, thinking. And then a sense of agreement- or at least confirmation. He heard!

Though whether he heard it in Words is...questionable. That fact doesn't come over though.]

[That's good enough for Yuya, who has even less sense precisely how this works then Gongenzaka. The confirmation pleases him, his excitement spiking up again.

I can't hear you, but I can feel you! You agreed, right?]

[He sure did!!

The image and also feeling of the Largest Hug ever is coming in now. He's excited! What a break through!

Further images that convey the idea of hours of practice and focus on this are patched through, mingling in with this. He's happy to finally have some success!]

[Unsurprisingly, the hug is a lot more tolerable when his back isn't literally being squeezed to death, although there's the brief experience of bracing himself for it anyway. He lets the feeling sink into his chest--it feels so close, and it draws out clear affection from Yuya. It feels nice.

There is, also, a sense of pride in Gongenzaka that his hard work has paid off. Good job! Even if it's not words, he can understand Gon's feelings clearly. Although that might be as much just how well Yuya knows him.]

[Phew. Well, with that out of the way...hmm.

Oh- here's his question. What's Yuuya doing right now? He can't really...get the question across entirely. It's more a slight curious concern, with the idea of Yuuya standing around in empty space. He doesn't know where Yuuya is (well, he does, technically), what he's doing...

Let's see if that message can come in!]

[Yuya pauses at that sense of himself being alone, and it takes him a second to decipher what Gongenzaka is trying to ask.

He shakes his head, even though nobody can actually see that, least of all Gongenzaka who's somewhere else.

I'm in my trailer. He looks up, trying to imagine what he looks like sitting on the couch. Can he push an image back as well?]

[Hey~! He did indeed see it! Or at least he would if Yuuya has a clear memory/view of it all.

Considering it's his trailer, he would Hope So. That said, that same curious feeling hits, this time with the trailer in mind. Alright, in the trailer. And..

Oh- He has the image of the couch. Some slight embarrassment- just enough to get the feeling of 'ah, of course!', and he leaves it at that.

...Hm. Now what to talk about though. Er. Feel about.]

[Yuya's a little amused at his embarrassment. Using this for an actual conversation is a little difficult, trying to piece together images and feelings.

He was an empath in Portland and he's felt it with Steven so falling back on just focusing the emotions is easiest. He's curious--how does this feel to Gongenzaka? Can he understand Yuya wants to know?]

[It was the easiest way for him to convey the idea!! Or so he protests. Or so it seems he protests?

There is a vague understanding, which he gets across with a sort of thoughtful pondering, the image of waving a hand in the 'so so' gesture coming to mind. It's...Hazy.

Better for emergency conversations he thinks, adding the sensation of fulfillment alongside a driving ambulance. Emergency contact!]

[Yuya chuckles at the mental image, although he's initially uncertain how to take 'hazy'. Outwardly, he closes his eyes as he focuses on the sense of comfort he feels in this. He gets a clear sense that what he's feeling is Gongenzaka, not the muddled blending that happened with his counterparts... in fact, it's a lot like their experience with daemons, except with the ability to impress their actual emotions to each other.

Is this hard for you to do?]

[Is it hard...

Once again he gets more of the feelings than the words, but somehow the question still comes in pretty clearly. He has the image of himself crossing his arms, to indicate he's giving it some thought.

But then the image moves to his earlier shots at water walking, and tree walking, which all went to falling and so on.

It's hard in the sense of needing practice, is what it is.]

[Hm, he must have just learned to do this, then. Was Yuya the first person he tried to reach out to?

Yuya's completely welcoming to the idea of helping Gongenzaka practice. He wants to support him, no matter what, because Gongenzaka is that important to him. There's warmth in there, too, and it's very clear this is a direct line to Yuya's feelings with even less filter behind it than normal.

He doesn't mind that, though. This is Gongenzaka, and he trusts him with anything.]

[The answer is a resounding OF COURSE!! Get ready for a tidal wave of friendship and trust and hugs- he's his best friend! The number one guy he can think to count on!

So of course he's first!!]

[Yuya's eyes snap open as he's hit by a lot of strong emotion at once, sinking back against the couch. And then he laughs out loud, his head tipping over the back of the couch and frankly it's probably a good thing he's alone right now.

Of course, but it still fills Yuya with a sense of honored joy at being Gongenzaka's first choice. He's so happy he is Gongenzaka's best friend, that he cares that much, and Yuya's chest feels both lighter and heavier with adoration.

Yuya's an emotional person, and there's something so much more real in actually feeling it than just hearing it. There's a flutter in his heart, a desire to respond back but Gongenzaka's a little overwhelming, sometimes, so he'll ride out these emotions first.]

[This is probably going to create a feedback loop if they aren't careful. At least it's a nice one- it takes a bit before he calms down enough to pause in his thoughts however.

New image- a VHS entering 'pause'. They should probably take a break, and talk with Words for a bit.]

[They are definitely about to enter a feedback loop because, especially with how much pain they've been bouncing back and forth, it just feels good. There's still a definite sense of love from Yuya, if a little quieter under the strength of Gongenzaka's feelings. When it starts to subside, Yuya almost speaks up--and then stops, utterly baffled at the image of a VHS. Those things were going out of style when he was a toddler, why is that his first reference?

Oh. Gongenzaka said this is hard, this must be tiring him. Yuya sits up.

Tent? Where is he, anyway?]

Edited 2018-07-01 00:35 (UTC)

[Tiring indeed- the connection soon cuts short, but not before the tent flashes back in full image. Yep yep, he's there alright. He'd sort of expected the radio, but hey in person works.]

[It's probably fine. Yuya smiles to himself as feels the connection leave, before pushing off the couch and heading out the door. It's late, but he's figuring this is going to be just a brief visit.

He pushes his way into the tent when he arrives quickly, forgetting for a moment Gongenzaka has roommates--if they're even around. The nice thing about his current size is he's absolutely impossible to miss, and when Yuya spots him he crosses over immediately.]

Hey. How long were you working on that?

[By the time Yuuya gets there, Gongenzaka is nursing a tea again, his daemon banished. Instead, what greets him are one large and awkward raven thing (cocking her head very curiously), and Suzu. It looks as though the bird is taking Suzu's friendly greeting to mean she can stay Chill.

As it is, Gongenzaka gives a slight wave.] Aah, Yuuya!

It is...something I chose to work with after we left the library, actually...I, the man Gongenzaka, had thought about how I had spoken with Creation, and what you had said about Steven's own ability to join others in their dreams...

[He trails off, but it seems as if he had figured it could work similarly.]

[Yuya's aware of Foster's... 'gifts' by now, at least, so although he briefly eyes the bird warily he at least isn't too (outwardly) alarmed.

He jerks his attention back to Gongenzaka with a smile.] You figured it out that quickly? You're getting really good at magic.

[It's not a spell he can think of having seen already, even with Gon's described inspiration. So he came up with it on his own...?] Creation didn't really talk much with words, either. [He puts his hand to his chest.] It was more like it was in here, and that's what I was getting from you! That and pictures.

[There's no second head inside, she swears-

Anyway.] Auh...w-well, admittedly, I, the man Gongenzaka, attempted to put it to practice using the magic of the Athenaeum already...so there was an idea of how it could be done, at least...

[He continues.] What I, the man Gongenaka, attempted, was not how Creation spoke to me, specifically- but rather, how I personally had to speak to them!

They are not a being which uses...words, it seems... ...the most that could be done was conveying the desire to protect Steven, at the time...

[Yuya nods. He remembers when Creation spoke to him, so he's got an idea how that is. Although, he's pretty sure Gon could have used his words if he wanted.]

It worked. [Gongenzaka already knows that, but he repeats it anyway.] Creation helped Steven make it through so we could find him. That was a really good idea! You'll learn to do something similar with this, right?

Aah, so it seemed...

[As it is.] ...That is the hope though. Perhaps I, the man Gongenzaka, cannot protect another that way...but at the very least, I can offer comfort, and be a grounding force for another who is far away..! To be able to at least reach them would be something more than what we have right now!

[Yuya smiles softly as Gon finishes his explanation. Gongenzaka always protects people physically, but here he is looking to protect people's hearts as well.]

Yeah, I think that'd be nice. [He points to himself, tapping his chest.] Now that you know how to reach me, you can practice on me whenever you need. That way you'll definitely be ready when it's needed.

[The ways things are going, that's probably going to be sooner rather than later.] I'm going to keep working on my magic so I can help everyone too.

Aauh! Though...

I, the man Gongenzaka, shall admit, [He coughs,] ...Locating you was not entirely difficult... ...making the connection itself, and reaching that, with myself, is where the struggle lies- otherwise, it is no different from how I typically track others.

[Speaking of magic however.] Hnmn..! Is there anything you intend to work on, beyond what we practiced earlier..?

[That synchronize thing, and the shields, are all he can think of...]

I asked Mr. Strange to show me more about how the magic he does with reflections works. You know how he can travel through them and talk to people? I thought... maybe that'd be useful.

[He doubts Strange would have any suggestions for the mind-synchronization, but as his magic teacher there's still other things Yuya can continue to learn from him.] And you came through really strongly, I think you just need to improve your stamina.

You are looking into mirror magic then? [Huh. Somehow not what he expected! But alright.]

AUH- A-Actually, the reason I, the man Gongenzaka, thought it wise to take a break was due to the risk of getting distracted...mental focus is perhaps the thing I should practice, first... [It won't be great if communicating requires blocking out everything going on around him.]

[Yuya nods, although he doesn't confirm anything further in regards to his own magic. He's learning, it's Strange's specialty, but he's still seeing where they're going to go with it.]

You were meditating, right? I remember you doing that when you were learning to walk on water, too, but that doesn't require so much focus anymore, right? [He waves his hand vaguely.] If you have to learn to deal with distractions, I can get some pans.

[Yuya no.]

Auh- correct..! Though it was more than meditation...in this case, the focus is far more similar to when I, the man Gongenzaka, am tracking another.

If you recall, it took a few moments of focus to start this bef...

[wait.] NH-

P-PANS ARE FAR FROM NECESSARY..!

[Yuya laughs, spreading his hands wide with a wink.] You sure? I can make a lot of noise, I know how to be distracting.

[And then the rest of the carnival would surely come and kill him. He's kidding! Mostly.]

Th- Such things would be distracting even to a master, Yuuya...

Isn't mastering succeeding even though it's distracting? [Is he just teasing now? Probably.] Maybe I can just start with yelling your name. You can do it in close range, can't you?

[He's frowning at you so, so hard Yuuya.] Hrnnn...I can...

...I, the man Gongenzaka, am not entirely certain attempting that while also communicating with you specifically will have the proper 'distracting' effect however... [If they're working with this, anyway.]

Oh, because you'll already be focused on me, right? [Good point. Yuya taps his chin, thoughtful.]

We'll get Yugo to yell. [Yugo loves yelling.]

Aauh, correct. As I, the man Gongenzaka, am already communicating with you, a shout from you would hardly be more jarring than an 'echo'.

[And. Uh.]

...He does appear to have a differing voice, to a point...

[Must be accent or something...]

[Yuya would assume it's an accent, but then again they all have different hair and eye colors so maybe those genetics aren't 100%.]

So we'll try it! [He gives a thumb's up.] Uh, maybe tomorrow though so we don't wake anyone up...

[Hooboy. Well, Gongenzaka simply shakes his head.] That would be wise, yes...

We must make certain our new work schedules allow for it, of course.

[It should though, to be fair.]

Well, I don't have any more performances to practice for. And as long as we're in the carnival, it's safe, right?

[He purses his lips, knowing that inside the carnival is probably the only safe place for Gongenzaka now. He didn't argue it with Strange at the time, trying to get the man to listen to Yuya's concern for him, but Gongenzaka really is in more danger than before. He'll be their front line, won't he?

Absently, Yuya reaches to put his hand on Gongenzaka's arm.] I'm still going to be there for you, no matter what happens.

Mnh?

[He pauses, just for a moment. Truthfully as the 'defense'... ...well, he probably is still on the front lines, but he's not going to say much on that.] Aauh- short of being called out for battle, I, the man Gongenzaka, shall be able to remain with you, [He confirms, nodding.]

So neither of us have anything to fear, for the time being..!

[Called out to battle is kind of what he's worried about... but Yuya determines, he'll be strong enough to go with him.

Although, now that his job is diffusing potential fights, maybe he can make that less of a reality. It's a different kind of power, isn't it?

Yuya smiles, nodding once as Gongenzaka confirms staying by his side. Yuya's glad to hear it.] That's good.

[Best to not think too hard about battles and such, at this point. As it is.]

Mnh...though, given where we are likely to be heading, there is a chance we will all be on the 'field' as it is...

...It appears a partnership may come sooner than we thought..! [He hopes at least. But then, each department will likely have different duties...]

The Ringmaster didn't say much about what Eden's going to be like, did she? [He hopes it's just because she doesn't know herself, but she wasn't very forthcoming who her allies were either... maybe he should have asked, but the people she trusts haven't steered them wrong before (he's sure she didn't really trust the Prince).

Yuya pauses, his gaze drifting down before he looks back up at Gongenzaka.] Hey, are you going to keep practicing tonight?

Aaah, she did not... [He's trying not to worry about that, but...hmm.

He takes the distraction that is 'magic practice'.] For tonight, I think not. ...However...

...I, the man Gongenzaka, feel I may attempt this at least once per evening, for the next few days at least...

I think we should get as good as we can before we go. You know... just in case. [Just in case it's awful, scary, dangerous.

Yuya's grip tightens just a little, the tips if his claws pressing against Gongenzaka's arm.] I'll help.

Aah, [Gongenzaka agrees, and nods- saying no more or less on what Yuuya is implying.] We shall both practice what we need, aah?

[Yuya hums and nods in confirmation. Then he pulls his hand back and points to the tent exit.] Then I'm going to go back to bed now.

[Getting ready for bed, either way.]

Hnn!

Rest well, Yuuya- I, the man Gongenzaka, shall see you in the morning.

[Over the last few days, various others coming upon new abilities or improved abilities, has spurred Gongenzaka on to work at his own powerset again. For a short time, he tried to focus on tracking. But while he meditated in thought, his mind drifted, and drifted to the scroll he had on his person for healing.

And to the healing spell he used, which had been unable to offer Yuuya much relief in Shabon.

It was frustrating, in the most despairing of ways- to have been right there, and been unable to do anything at all beyond get him away from the other fae. It does little to dwell on such thoughts, of course...

...But it does lead him to at least consider...something.

Gongenzaka slowly closes his eyes, and thus meditates specifically for Yuuya. Specifically, it's 'soul phone' time.

Ring ring hello? You there?]

Edited 2018-12-29 19:06 (UTC)

[Yuya pauses, responding quickly with confirmation that Gongenzaka's reached him. Then, there's a sense of casual curiosity. What's up?]

[Only positive feelings through the line- just good stuff, so nothing to worry about. There's as good an image of a map as he can manage, along with Yuuya's face, and a question mark.

Where is he?]

[Yuya offers an assuring feeling back, and the image of what's around him through his eyes--he's sitting by a fountain in the city, somewhere deep in the streets in a courtyard. It's probably a miracle room.

He was kind of wandering, though, so the attempt at drawing a map is... hesitant and confusing.]

[There's a sense of reassurance- just seeing the fountain is fine, and from there, Gon sends the image of where he is. ...A more isolated field. The image of Yuuya moving from the fountain to the field comes to mind- could he come meet him? If he's able?]

[Yes! Yuya's already moving to stand as he confirms it. It takes a minute to grasp the map, but he can follow the reflections to get closer...

Give him about ten minutes, he'll make it.]

[And in ten minutes, the connection will be gently cut as Gongenzaka stands- Marishi is there as well but...

Eh, she seems to be 'napping', or as close as she gets to it. As it is.] Yuuya!

You arrived rather quickly! [He compliments, beaming.]

[Yuya looks between the two of them, offering Gongenzaka a smile and a wave as he heads up.] Your directions were a lot better than mine.

[He looks around, putting his hands on his hips.] Did you want to show me something?

[Gongenzaka's the kind of person more likely to say when he doesn't have a purpose, and hint when there's something to ask. So, Yuya has expectations.]

Actually, I, the man Gongenzaka, wished to ask you something, [He replies.] Do you perhaps recall the healing technique I practiced, through Foster's assistance?

[Well it's the reason there's a zombie chipmunk in his mane so thanks for reminding the poor guy about that,]

Uh... the poison healing, right? [He didn't tend to associate with Foster, but he remembers it. Gongenzaka is... probably not asking him to poison himself for practice.] What about it?

Aauh, correct. When I, the man Gongenzaka, practiced the spell, we required a method of making certain no one would be harmed while learning to cure the other...however...

[And...this, of course, is the part where Gongenzaka bows.] ...When you yourself were poisoned, it proved nearly useless..! I, the man Gongenzaka, was unable to properly help...

..In my dedication to avoid the harm of others, I failed to familiarize my technique with those I would be treating..! Therefore, Yuuya...

[He lifts his head.] Though it will not involve any such harm or injury...I, the man Gongenzaka, wish to ask if I could practice my technique through your body, in order to understand the flow of energy in a truly living being.

[Oh. When he bows Yuya starts to wave his hand, trying to assuage him before he gets too far. That was a fae's poison, so maybe thay just made it too strong for him. It's a reasonable explanation to Yuya.]

It probably was--huh? [He blinks rapidly, stopping in confusion.

Huh.] Practice your technique through my...?

Through your spirit! [He repeats, at least somewhat.] I, the man Gongenzaka, could only ask this of one I trust completely...but for the same reason, I must ask, and swear upon my own soul, that I will not bring harm to your own!

[Technically he probably couldn't deliberately do anything- but that's the thing. He wouldn't deliberately. So he's promising that he won't accidentally cause anything either.]

Eh--[Yuya creeps closer, putting his hand to Gongenzaka in an easing manner.] I trust you. If you need me for this, then I'm here.

[He smiles sincerely.] ... You'll just have to tell me what to do.

[There is a moment of silence as Yuuya suddenly seems closer (rather, he pays attention only then), and after a slow blink, Gongenzaka nods.] Mn- Auh.

Very well. For now, you simply need to lay down- I, the man Gongenzaka, will pass my energy through the pathways your energy takes.

[Which, to Yuuya, will look an awful lot like waving his hands above the other so that's cool.]

Okay. [Yuya draws his hand back, looking behind himself to make sure there's no rocks in the way before sitting down and laying back on the grass. He stays still, looking a little expectant at Gongenzaka.] I'm ready whenever you are.

[Is this going to feel weird? He wonders if it's going to feel weird. He was not at all present enough to tell Gongenzaka was doing this at the bathhouse.]

Hmn!

[That's a good question. It might feel a bit like water flowing over certain areas, if anything...and who knows how it'll interact with the little creation nodes.]

[Yuya goes a little cross-eyed as he watches Gongenzaka work. Despite how much they speak directly to each other's hearts, even after just doing it--it doesn't quite prepare him for the sensation of this magic. It's harder to get a sense of the familiarity, but he's sure he's just as close, but the deep sense of movement is distracting and makes it harder to focus.]

Whoa. [The aspect of Creation brings a warmth to Yuya's soul, but it's not like he has much sense of the feeling of his soul like that. Gongenzaka probably has a better sense of that, and how reactive it is to the sensation of healing.]

[There is a twitch as he tries to keep focus- he can't afford to let himself answer Yuuya right now, not when he's focused on feeling through the pathways that the other's energy takes. Yet he himself cannot help but feel astounded as well. There is something brilliant about what he is in contact with, right now- more than even when he simply chats with the other spirit to spirit. It reminds him of when he was a stand-in familiar in Wismuth-

He has a feeling he knows why.]

[Yuya thinks he's probably not supposed to move, so he keeps himself firmly in place staring up at Gongenzaka. With Gon's eyes closed, Yuya knows he's trying to focus and he probably shouldn't disturb that, but it's increasingly awkward to be laying here in silence with nothing to focus on but the feeling of... Gongenzaka?

Oh, that's not just some magic spell that's rolling under his skin. He's picking it up now, that fleeting feeling he knows is Gongenzaka's own soul.

A choked sound catches in his throat and his face flushes deep red.]

Mn-? [He doesn't quite stop, but he does pause...enough for Marishi to blink over.]

Mmn? Yuuya, is something the matter?

[Yuya snaps his attention to Marishi, now just twice as shy as he digs his claws into the dirt to anchor himself.]

No! No, it's fine. Just feels--[He bites his tongue and can't find a way to explain it that isn't going to make this situation turn sour.]

[The cat yawns, and Gongenzaka fumbles a bit as he tries to focus.]

Mnnn, you should make sure to be honest...if we do anything to hurt you after all, it could be difficult to recover from...

It doesn't it! [He reaches to rub his cheeks like that's going to disrupt the blushing, which really just smears dirt on his face.] It really, definitely doesn't hurt.

Oh~ Good. [...Marishi has immediately rolled over to go back to sleep.

On the upside, since Yuuya's energy pathways don't line up with old traditional chakra ideals, it shouldn't get more awkward than it already is. Heck he's already on the way back up along the body, focusing around the heart and lungs for a bit. Things seem to be a bit more complicated around up here, go figure.]

[Yuya proceeds to hide his face behind his hands, sucking in a sharp breath that settles when Gon stops moving up and settles around his chest. It probably shouldn't be this embarrassing--he knows Gongenzaka didn't learn to do this for its intimacy. But he knows the feeling of Gongenzaka's soul against his way too well to not be aware of it. Is he really going to do this with other people?!

Yuya peeks up between his fingers, narrowing his eyes.]

[Probably not this heavily, Yuuya. He's literally trying to figure out how paths Work right now. And-]

Auh....

[He pauses, cracking an eye open.] ...You moved your arms..?

..Yuuya, are you truly alright?

[Yuya stops his mild glaring and stares back at him when Gon opens an eye.]

I'm fine! [He squeaks, barely resisting the urge to squirm. ] I just... I can.

C. Can. Can feel you moving in me.

[There was absolutely no good way he could have explained this.]

[YEP SPELL COMPLETELY OVER AND GON IS JUMPING BACK.] HAUH!?!

[Marishi for her part also leaps up with a rather feline yowl, stammering as well.] Wh-Wh- You know what that sounds like, don't you!?

Y-Yuuya..!! I, the man Gongenzaka, would have certainly put more effort into using less energy if you spoke..!!

I know what it sounds like! [Yuya almost shrieks, hiding his face in his hands again. He knows and that's why he was trying not to say it.

Wait.] How hard were you doing it?!

AaaAAAAAAAAAhhhhh... [Ignore the squawking cheetah in the background.]

I-

I was merely attempting to feel through the pathways..! There was no restraint employed at all..!

[Yuya stares Gongenzaka down from between his fingers, his nerves on fire for a couple reasons. He's really made this worse, hasn't he.]

How did it feel like to you?

It is...akin to swimming, [He hesitantly describes, trying to find the words for it.] If anything, however, it feels almost like when I, the man Gongenzaka, bore a connection to Creation, as a familiar...

[Yuya slowly sits up.] I guess that makes sense, since there was still something of Creation left in me.

[But that description doesn't sound like he was as concsious about navigating Yuya's body the way Yuya was. Which just makes his panic even more embarrassing, because if he'd just shut up they wouldn't have had a problem.] So... was what you were trying to do working?

Aauh- that is what I, the man Gongenzaka suspected as well... [Though he wonders if those glowing flecks might be drawing from it...ah well.]

Mn- at this point, I, the man Gongenzaka, was attempting to pass through as an 'observer' in a sense. I am familiarizing myself with the flow of the energy, and where it belongs- only then can I, the man Gongenzaka, properly guide a patient's energy along those lines to heal an area.

So are you... going to have to do this with everyone to be able to heal them? [Yuya gestures.] Familiarize yourself like that.

No.

[What.

Marishi steps in.] We aren't exactly trying to get a perfect map, [She explains.] But the energy seems to flow differently, and rest differently in various limbs between a living person and whatever Foster 'created'.

Certainly, no one here has the same type of body...

But at the very least we can all agree that no one here is undead.

Oh. [Yuya's shoulders sink a little, before he looks off to the side. He's not going to admit the relief, because this is supposed to be productive so Gongenzaka can better help people who are ailing.]

Uh--since I interrupted, if you still need to... it's okay to keep going.

[Initially he simply nods- but he does look to Yuuya with a bit of concern.] ...Are you certain?

Yes, we'd rather not open our eyes to find you hiding your face again, [Marishi says dryly.]

[Yuya shoots Marishi a glare, his face heating up again.] It's fine. I'm not going to get surprised by how it feels this time!

[Marishi simply huffs. But, all the same...] ...Right- Then, I, the man Gongenzaka, will continue from where I left off from...

Okay. [There's a moment before Yuya just falls back to lay on the ground. He assumes Gongenzaka still needs him in this position.]

[He does indeed. And with that, Gon will resume carefully bringing his hands through the air above Yuuya, a flow of energy once again tangible through the other's pathways.

It'll probably be this way for a while, so just uh. Work with it.]

[Yuya purses his lips, but he's prepared for the sensation this time. It's not actually bad, one he's less surprised by it. It feels close, but so does talking through their souls. This is just a more present spiritual connection, when hr can feel it running through his limbs.

Idly he watches Gongenzaka's hands. Is talking going to be too distracting? Well, he can only see.]

Does moving your hands help?

Mn-? [He sniffs a moment, flinching somewhat- and when he answers, it is a little clipped.] Mnh- it is what feels...correct, at least, [He murmurs, keeping his eyes shut.] ...I, the man Gongenzaka, must guide the energy after all so...

Oh. [Yuya's a little bemused, but he can tell from that clipped tone that he's breaking Gon's focus. He's heard it plenty of times disrupting his meditation after all.

So he quiets himself, and when that starts to get boring he lets his mind wander. He lingers on how it feels, then how Gongenzaka looks with his face scrunched up, hovering over him. How that'd look before the carnival changed him and if he'll see Gongenzaka look like that again. Wondering what's going through his head when doing this, and how long he's worried about what happened in Shabon.

Right in front of Yuya, he's just the most obvious thing to think about. He's still except for soft breathing, staring up at Gon.]

Edited 2019-01-02 03:20 (UTC)

[The work continues. Up through the shoulders, down each arm...and eventually, up along the head.

Which is going to feel Hella Weird given those freckle-looking bits, but hey.

If he had a clue what Yuuya was thinking about, he'd probably start panicking. But as it is, he simply eases his own energy back for the moment, nodding.] Hmn...I, the man Gongenzaka, think I have a clear idea, now...

[Yuya continues to stare blankly at Gon while he spaces out for another minute.]

... Huh? Oh, yeah? [He blinks rapidly, coming back around as he offers Gongenzaka a smile.]

[He shakes himself, and nods.] Aauh! If you like, I, the man Gongenzaka, can attempt to pass a healing spell through? It should not affect anything, but at the very least, we shall both notice it passing through!

[A pause, and he adds.] ...It will not be the sort of experience from passing my energy through, however...

Uh... sure. [That seems kind of foreboding, that's probably not how Gongenzaka means it.] Should I just... keep laying here?

[He pats the ground. At least it's grassy.]

Auh...it would be easiest, certainly... [And more accurate for that matter.] ...Unless you wish to sit up?

[Yuya looks side to side, then back at Gongenzaka and stretches comfortably, like he's going to take a nap.] No, this is fine.

Hm!

[In that case, he'll just beam rather wildly.] Then, I shall begin..!

[It won't feel like his soul this time. If anything it feels more like someone has applied a massage pad over the areas Gongenzaka works with. It should be a bit pleasant.]

[Yuya just kind of sits back again, feeling a little settled that the way Gongenzaka heals others won't be that intimate. You won't catch him admitting to slight jealously, though.

Yuya stretches his fingers.] It's like a massage~.

Mnh? Is it? [He asks, pausing briefly to answer. He clearly doesn't have to disappear into focus as much, for this part.] So it is pleasant then?

Yeah. [He pauses, fluttering his eyes open.] I mean--the other thing wasn't unpleasant either! But I think anyone else would be okay being healed this way.

Auh-

As long as it is not invasive... [He mutters, grimacing somewhat. That...seems to be the key here now after all.]

[This is a hard moment to navigate between them, Yuya thinks. He wants to assure Gongenzaka, of course, but... he doesn't know how. Would it calm the mood if he joked about it, is it better to put some distance between them now, or... let things be closer. Are they ready for closer (whatever closer even means)?! Is that even in Gongenzaka's head at all or is Yuya just going to embarrass himself, make things uncomfortable for perceiving intimacy in it?

Yuya looks aside shyly, absently picking at his cape.] No, not for healing someone.

[It's a tough call to make- on either end, truly. But for the purposes of the conversation now at least, it's something they can focus on and stick with. Maybe it would be better to truly think about later- about after, when the Ringmaster is saved and...hopefully things go back to normal.

Hopefully.

So-] Phew.... ...that is a relief then, [he replies honestly.] Not to say that I, the man Gongenzaka, wish to need to heal anyone...but I would rather not make anyone uncomfortable doing so..!

[Or maybe Yuya could be a little shit.

He pushes himself to sit up, shaking his head.] We're going to need it anyway, but... no, it isn't uncomfortable.

[He smiles crookedly, slightly teasing.] You just weren't very shy about running your soul through me, were you?

Aah, that is my thinking, so-

[He trails off, and proceeds to immediately sputter.] TH- That..!!

I, the man Gongenzaka, did not realize it would feel that way, Yuuya..!! [He croaks, face beet red.]

But you knew what you were doing, right? And then I told you... [He moves to stand up this time, casually dusting grass off himself.] So maybe you just enjoyed it?

[The sputtering continues.] TH- THAT-

Wh-whether I enjoyed it or otherwise, that should not-

It shall not be something I, the man Gongenzaka, repeat without your permission, after all..!! [He's getting lost in his own words a bit, here.]

And if I gave you permission? [Yuya's getting lost with his thoughts, and what was just supposed to be some gentle teasing to test the mood between them is getting a little away from him now.

He leans in, though it doesn't do much to close the distance between them.] Like now?

A-AUH....AUH...

Goodness Yuuya, stop teasing us like this..!! [Yelps the daemon at the side, no doubt forgotten in all of this. It's enough to give Gongenzaka himself a bit of a boost though, and the other one coughs.]

W-We are still working with kisses, are we not..!? I-

Th-Though if you truly wish for it, I could....auh...

[YUUYA YOU ARE GOING TOO FAR.............]

[Well. That confirms that the intimacy wasn't all in Yuya's head.

Marishi is a little forgotten, sorry, as Yuya's whole brain screeches to a stop and he's frozen, wide-eyed at Gon with his face deeply flushed.]

I... uh, I--[He shakes himself back to awareness, looking away and he rubs the back of his neck.] W-well I'm not really in a rush to... just--since it already happened, that was... nice.

[Why did he throw them in this hole.]

W...Th...As long as it was nice, I suppose...! Auhh...

[Still half frozen on the spot, Marishi again fills the blanks.] Perhaps you two could try something like that later..? Another day..? [She laments, her partner still beet red but latching onto the idea quickly.]

Mnh! Y...yes... ...If it is something you wish to...try again...? [He offers, only now able to look at Yuuya's face again.]

Yeah! Another day. [Yuya presses his hand to his cheek, his gaze still averted as he flusters.] I mean, if you want to. Just when you want to!

O-Of course..!!

[GOD....] Auh...

....Sh...should....we perhaps have something to eat? Maybe? [Practicing magic seems like it's going to make this worse now.]

Food sounds good. [Can he save himself by latching onto this topic change? This is just embarrassing both of them, isn't he, why can't he keep his mouth shut.] In the city, right?

Mn- Auh! [Gon stands, nodding rapidly.] Yes! Let us go, hm? [Maybe some tea can cool them off.]

Yeah! Yeah. [Yuya shakes his head, drawing his hand back and looking between Gongenzaka and Marishi both. He briefly regards how they're looking at him before turning to lead the way back to the city.]

[They look mostly embarrassed, though they're definitely doing the same awkward look back at Yuuya to see how He is doing. By the time they get to some food they'll be a lot more relaxed and back to themselves though. ...Which is good.]

Lost Carnival | Inbox

letter, sent at the start of the summerlands

Attempt over the radio

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LONG BOX IN HIS TRAILER: WITH NOTE

Mailbox - Holiday Gift

holiday gift!

ON THE FINAL DAY ON THE MOON...

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Annnd a wrap-!

B19

BREAK DAY 24

Backdated to Solstice, post-Magic Club

operation "gold medal surprise party for steven"

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S2 : D35 - MORNING

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