sticks and bones. (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
sticksandbonesmods) wrote2023-08-24 11:28 am
sticksandbonesmods) wrote2023-08-24 11:28 am
Entry tags:
NPC CONTACT
NPCs
To request a thread with an available NPC, put their name in the subject line and anything else you feel is relevant. NPC threads cannot be used for Main AC, but can be used for Bonus AC.
Available NPCs:
Shopkeeper / Heimr.
(he/him)
A tall, heavier man who dresses in slightly oversized clothing not unlike that of a wandering merchant of sorts. He has golden orange eyes and long, curly dark hair that's starting to turn silver here and there, and though he carries a certain weeriness, this does nothing to mask his kindness. He has absolutely no pokerface whatsoever. During the day and late at night he mans the General Store with the help of Plum's magic, though now that he needs to sleep, he's more prone to catnaps at the counter. That said, he'll always be ready to listen or offer a cup of tea. Late winter/early spring, he became human — but not the man he used to be. Heimr gained his name from Mizuki.
A tall, heavier man who dresses in slightly oversized clothing not unlike that of a wandering merchant of sorts. He has golden orange eyes and long, curly dark hair that's starting to turn silver here and there, and though he carries a certain weeriness, this does nothing to mask his kindness. He has absolutely no pokerface whatsoever. During the day and late at night he mans the General Store with the help of Plum's magic, though now that he needs to sleep, he's more prone to catnaps at the counter. That said, he'll always be ready to listen or offer a cup of tea. Late winter/early spring, he became human — but not the man he used to be. Heimr gained his name from Mizuki.
Trader / Ydalir.
(she/her)
A large woman who adorns herself with rich colors and baggy clothes to hide her shadowy form, and the Shopkeeper’s sister. Like her brother, she has given her name to the forest and with it, her identity and humanity. She is much more energetic, but more likely to anger as well. She runs a trading booth, armed with magical items from who knows where and a mirror that allows her to reach for items across dimensions, which she will use for the new residents of the Grove! For a price. Her name was given to her by Mizuki.
A large woman who adorns herself with rich colors and baggy clothes to hide her shadowy form, and the Shopkeeper’s sister. Like her brother, she has given her name to the forest and with it, her identity and humanity. She is much more energetic, but more likely to anger as well. She runs a trading booth, armed with magical items from who knows where and a mirror that allows her to reach for items across dimensions, which she will use for the new residents of the Grove! For a price. Her name was given to her by Mizuki.
Rusty.
(he/him)
An old dog who desperately wants to go home. Before the fence erected itself, he spent most of his days trying to get into the manor with little success. The Shopkeeper says the children of his former master are inside the manor, and he wants to return to their side. He can be fussy and has a flair for that doggy judgmental side eye, but he’s gentle and loving as well. What secrets does he hold?
An old dog who desperately wants to go home. Before the fence erected itself, he spent most of his days trying to get into the manor with little success. The Shopkeeper says the children of his former master are inside the manor, and he wants to return to their side. He can be fussy and has a flair for that doggy judgmental side eye, but he’s gentle and loving as well. What secrets does he hold?
Zahliya.
Played by purifier
(he/they)
A Gargoyle rescued from the fog who is very fond of his titles. Known as "the Purifier, He Who is the First Sentinel, the Grove's Guardian" and fifteen other things, Zahliya is short, combative, and possesses the ability to cleanse corruption by taking it into himself, or burning it out with magic. While formerly unable to conjure said magic, Zahliya is now capable of curing all but the most dire forms of Corruption. His true name is "Amun-Ra", given to him by the Goddesses who created him. He can typically be found perched on the roof of the church, and wields two holy blades called Daybreak and Nightfall.
purifier(he/they)
A Gargoyle rescued from the fog who is very fond of his titles. Known as "the Purifier, He Who is the First Sentinel, the Grove's Guardian" and fifteen other things, Zahliya is short, combative, and possesses the ability to cleanse corruption by taking it into himself, or burning it out with magic. While formerly unable to conjure said magic, Zahliya is now capable of curing all but the most dire forms of Corruption. His true name is "Amun-Ra", given to him by the Goddesses who created him. He can typically be found perched on the roof of the church, and wields two holy blades called Daybreak and Nightfall.
Zonari.
(she/her)
A Gargoyle constructed by the Fallen Sun/Forest who was brought back to the Grove with some reluctance. Zonari is firmly on the side of the Fallen Sun, though she will entertain being spoken to, and is operating under a truce with everyone here under the promise that they will reunite the Fallen Sun with Beiwe and repair the trust lost between the siblings. She refers to Zahliya as her brother. Her magic deals in Corrupting and modifying memories, and she has a small amount of control over Time. She rarely visits the Grove to "check on you all", and will not get directly involved in affairs of the players at this time.
A Gargoyle constructed by the Fallen Sun/Forest who was brought back to the Grove with some reluctance. Zonari is firmly on the side of the Fallen Sun, though she will entertain being spoken to, and is operating under a truce with everyone here under the promise that they will reunite the Fallen Sun with Beiwe and repair the trust lost between the siblings. She refers to Zahliya as her brother. Her magic deals in Corrupting and modifying memories, and she has a small amount of control over Time. She rarely visits the Grove to "check on you all", and will not get directly involved in affairs of the players at this time.
Moder.
(she/her)
A terrifying, two-story tall moose monster known as the Guardian of the Forest. Moder speaks exclusively in a language that sounds similar to Old Norse, but her words are automatically translated in the heads of those who hear her into something legible. She roams the Grove freely and slips in and out of the fog, regularly killing dangerous monsters to protect the people within the fog's protective bubble. If you ask nicely, she will give you rides around the Grove. During Spring and Summer, mosses and flowers grow along her back and bloom in her hoofsteps.
A terrifying, two-story tall moose monster known as the Guardian of the Forest. Moder speaks exclusively in a language that sounds similar to Old Norse, but her words are automatically translated in the heads of those who hear her into something legible. She roams the Grove freely and slips in and out of the fog, regularly killing dangerous monsters to protect the people within the fog's protective bubble. If you ask nicely, she will give you rides around the Grove. During Spring and Summer, mosses and flowers grow along her back and bloom in her hoofsteps.
Sinann.
(it/its or they/them)
The River Guardian, Sinann is a five-foot long fantail fish. It is the reason the river flourishes, and it is the reason you should return the bones of fish you take from the river back to it. Despite appearances, Sinann is just as powerful as the other Guardians. It has the ability to enter a humanoid form to go on land, but will largely still be a fish in the river. Sinann's healing water can heal all but the most fatal of injuries, and it recommends carrying a bottle of it with you just in case.
The River Guardian, Sinann is a five-foot long fantail fish. It is the reason the river flourishes, and it is the reason you should return the bones of fish you take from the river back to it. Despite appearances, Sinann is just as powerful as the other Guardians. It has the ability to enter a humanoid form to go on land, but will largely still be a fish in the river. Sinann's healing water can heal all but the most fatal of injuries, and it recommends carrying a bottle of it with you just in case.
Callan.
(he/him), art by ![[plurk.com profile]](https://plurk.com/favicon.ico)
winterbolt
The Lake Guardian, Callan, lives within the lake primarily, but his "mobile home" is in a fishtank in Pure Vanilla Cookie's house. He has the ability to charm people with his siren's song, though lately he's learnt to "be good" and ask first before he tries to take bites out of people. To make matters worse, he's also a shapeshifter, and tends to take on amorphous forms. He cannot shapeshift to something that would break his usual powers — no birds/flight, and no saltwater creatures. Mostly, he wants to play and taunt people. He acts much stupider than he truly is, but he's not going to tell you that.
The Lake Guardian, Callan, lives within the lake primarily, but his "mobile home" is in a fishtank in Pure Vanilla Cookie's house. He has the ability to charm people with his siren's song, though lately he's learnt to "be good" and ask first before he tries to take bites out of people. To make matters worse, he's also a shapeshifter, and tends to take on amorphous forms. He cannot shapeshift to something that would break his usual powers — no birds/flight, and no saltwater creatures. Mostly, he wants to play and taunt people. He acts much stupider than he truly is, but he's not going to tell you that.
The Sky Guardian/"Aurora".
(she/her)
Dubbed "Aurora" by the residents of the Grove, The Sky Guardian, the "bird of rainbow", was killed by the Fallen Sun when it Fell. Thanks to the efforts of Pure Vanilla Cookie, she has been resurrected. When she initally perished eons ago, it is said the stars fell from the sky with her; with her return, the stars, too, have come back. She is kinder and more patient than the other Guardians, and can shapeshift into various types of birds. When in her real form, she stands at three stories tall. A single rainbow tailfeather can bring people back from the dead without consequence — but the offerings required can be steep.
Dubbed "Aurora" by the residents of the Grove, The Sky Guardian, the "bird of rainbow", was killed by the Fallen Sun when it Fell. Thanks to the efforts of Pure Vanilla Cookie, she has been resurrected. When she initally perished eons ago, it is said the stars fell from the sky with her; with her return, the stars, too, have come back. She is kinder and more patient than the other Guardians, and can shapeshift into various types of birds. When in her real form, she stands at three stories tall. A single rainbow tailfeather can bring people back from the dead without consequence — but the offerings required can be steep.
Dragon Hatchlings.
(varies)
A clutch of seven dragon young who hatched upon the beach midwinter. The young vary greatly, but are friendly and playful little things. They like to play at the Rec Center or can be found in various places around the Grove, though they all have favored guardians and caretakers.
You may ask them for a blessing or two, threaded here.
A clutch of seven dragon young who hatched upon the beach midwinter. The young vary greatly, but are friendly and playful little things. They like to play at the Rec Center or can be found in various places around the Grove, though they all have favored guardians and caretakers.
You may ask them for a blessing or two, threaded here.
Nene.
Played by mermaidcursed
(she/her)
A young girl who was previously corrupted, but healed by the Cosmic Serpent's holy rain and Pure Vanilla Cookie's efforts. This has resulted in the more malignant plant growths on her to drop and die, but at this point she is still significantly plantlike, as she's come to rely upon these mutations to survive for thousands of years. At a glance Nene will stand out due to her eyepatch, metal legs and the flowers growing out of her hair. As she's now free of the Forest, her exuberant and bright personality is starting to really shine through. Upon death and revival, Nene will personally lead you back to the Grove. Just don’t let go of her hand on the journey.
mermaidcursed(she/her)
A young girl who was previously corrupted, but healed by the Cosmic Serpent's holy rain and Pure Vanilla Cookie's efforts. This has resulted in the more malignant plant growths on her to drop and die, but at this point she is still significantly plantlike, as she's come to rely upon these mutations to survive for thousands of years. At a glance Nene will stand out due to her eyepatch, metal legs and the flowers growing out of her hair. As she's now free of the Forest, her exuberant and bright personality is starting to really shine through. Upon death and revival, Nene will personally lead you back to the Grove. Just don’t let go of her hand on the journey.
Elsword.
Played by simplicitas
(he/him)
A young man who was once living among the Grove's residents and formerly Corrupted. Elsword formerly resided in The Garden, where he greeted and spoke to the dead, as well as researched the secrets of it. He decided to resurrect for a chance at attacking the Fallen Sun out of revenge. Fully blind, he can be found living with Mizuki, but spends a majority of his time outside camping out across the river and upstream from Vash's House.
simplicitas(he/him)
A young man who was once living among the Grove's residents and formerly Corrupted. Elsword formerly resided in The Garden, where he greeted and spoke to the dead, as well as researched the secrets of it. He decided to resurrect for a chance at attacking the Fallen Sun out of revenge. Fully blind, he can be found living with Mizuki, but spends a majority of his time outside camping out across the river and upstream from Vash's House.
Callisto Abella.
(she/her)
A merchant and 'treasure hunter' if you believe her words, Callisto is a cynical woman who has the unfortunate crime of freeing the Fallen Sun, letting him claw his way back to power. He's kept her as a personal pincushion for centuries, killing and resurrecting her at whim, and though she's still full of fire, she is also weary from years of guilt, suffering and the realization that everyone she knows and loves is dead. Callisto keeps to herself but can be drawn from her room at the inn with good company, good food and good wine- which she also enjoys making.
A merchant and 'treasure hunter' if you believe her words, Callisto is a cynical woman who has the unfortunate crime of freeing the Fallen Sun, letting him claw his way back to power. He's kept her as a personal pincushion for centuries, killing and resurrecting her at whim, and though she's still full of fire, she is also weary from years of guilt, suffering and the realization that everyone she knows and loves is dead. Callisto keeps to herself but can be drawn from her room at the inn with good company, good food and good wine- which she also enjoys making.
Semi-Available NPCs:
Semi-Available NPCs are NPCs that are only able to be spoken to under specific circumstances. The circumstances are outlined under each NPC's informational blurb. These NPCs may or may not be moved to Available or Unavailable status depending on further plot updates. Characters who do not fulfill the requirements will not be able to thread with these NPCs. They live under a cut to save page space.List of Semi-Available NPCs (Click to Expand):
The Behemoth.
(she/her)
The "daughter of Callan", The Behemoth is an enormous, many-eyed crocodile who is now trapped outside of the lake due to the fog wall. She has interest in humankind, and will regularly stalk anyone near the river, but will not try to harm them unless she is harmed first. She claims that she will side with whoever makes her home better, be it humankind or the Creature in the Woods. She can only be spoken to while using the Bone Ring.
The "daughter of Callan", The Behemoth is an enormous, many-eyed crocodile who is now trapped outside of the lake due to the fog wall. She has interest in humankind, and will regularly stalk anyone near the river, but will not try to harm them unless she is harmed first. She claims that she will side with whoever makes her home better, be it humankind or the Creature in the Woods. She can only be spoken to while using the Bone Ring.
Plum.
(they/them)
A little fox spirit within the General Store, Plum is the reason that Heimr can get so many supplies and keep it stocked year-round. There is a shrine to them in the back of it. Plum can only be spoken to while using the Bone Ring.
A little fox spirit within the General Store, Plum is the reason that Heimr can get so many supplies and keep it stocked year-round. There is a shrine to them in the back of it. Plum can only be spoken to while using the Bone Ring.
Beiwe.
(she/her)
The Goddess of the Sun, Beiwe's statue rests next to the well. She traditionally wears armour and wields a sword. She is boistrous, loud, and passionate, and praying to her will make the area feel warm for a time. At one point, she rode on the back of a giant dragon named Sehul. Her statue shows her without her horn-halo cracked, but the real Beiwe does indeed sport that injury. She can be contacted via prayer, but unless otherwise noted, cannot be physically interacted with at this time.
The Goddess of the Sun, Beiwe's statue rests next to the well. She traditionally wears armour and wields a sword. She is boistrous, loud, and passionate, and praying to her will make the area feel warm for a time. At one point, she rode on the back of a giant dragon named Sehul. Her statue shows her without her horn-halo cracked, but the real Beiwe does indeed sport that injury. She can be contacted via prayer, but unless otherwise noted, cannot be physically interacted with at this time.
Ourania.
(she/her)
The Goddess of the Moon, Ourania's statue rests next to the well on the opposite side from Beiwe's. She wears a flowing gown and a scarf in her statue. Little is known about her, though she is said to be "very ill". Another humongous statue of hers lies underneath the far-off lighthouse, built into the cliff face. When prayed to, she makes the world feel colder for a moment.She can be contacted via prayer, but unless otherwise noted, cannot be physically interacted with at this time.
The Goddess of the Moon, Ourania's statue rests next to the well on the opposite side from Beiwe's. She wears a flowing gown and a scarf in her statue. Little is known about her, though she is said to be "very ill". Another humongous statue of hers lies underneath the far-off lighthouse, built into the cliff face. When prayed to, she makes the world feel colder for a moment.She can be contacted via prayer, but unless otherwise noted, cannot be physically interacted with at this time.
Felicity Morais.
Played by amethystic
(she/her)
A young witch and Star who was called to an uninhabited star shrine to empower it once more. She stays to both provide a beacon of safety to other Stars in the forest, share her power and a third, much less pleasant reason: to be live bait for that which would kill the holy lights and give them time to protect themselves best.
amethystic(she/her)
A young witch and Star who was called to an uninhabited star shrine to empower it once more. She stays to both provide a beacon of safety to other Stars in the forest, share her power and a third, much less pleasant reason: to be live bait for that which would kill the holy lights and give them time to protect themselves best.
Unavailable NPCs:
Unavailable NPCs are, well, not available for threads for one reason or another, but are listed here for bookkeeping/lore reasons. They may or may not become available at a later date. Available NPCs may also become unavailable at a later date, and will be moved to this list accordingly. To avoid clutter, this list lives under a cut, but all NPCs are lore-important and should be considered part of the story even if they aren't necessarily contactable.List of Unavailable NPCs (Click to Expand):
Aldric.
(he/him)
The founder of the Grove, owner of the manor, and Rusty’s previous master. He had planned on establishing the Grove as a pitstop town within the woods while trying to clear space for a shortcut trade route between towns. It seems that he invited people who needed to get away from their hometown as means of refuge as well. ... Recently, the Shopkeeper has confessed to being Aldric, though he can no longer call himself by name.
The founder of the Grove, owner of the manor, and Rusty’s previous master. He had planned on establishing the Grove as a pitstop town within the woods while trying to clear space for a shortcut trade route between towns. It seems that he invited people who needed to get away from their hometown as means of refuge as well. ... Recently, the Shopkeeper has confessed to being Aldric, though he can no longer call himself by name.
Renard.
(he/him)
Aldric’s best friend and the co-founder of the Grove. Currently, he is deep within the forest, sealed into a tree and awaiting rescue. He is said to have taken a magic artifact long ago that the forest wants, intending to hide to protect it.
Aldric’s best friend and the co-founder of the Grove. Currently, he is deep within the forest, sealed into a tree and awaiting rescue. He is said to have taken a magic artifact long ago that the forest wants, intending to hide to protect it.
Olivia.
(she/her)
Aldric's sister, who lived within the grove. Apparently she guards the star shards. Through magic and great sacrifice, Olivia gave up her name and with it, her humanity, to become the Trader.
Aldric's sister, who lived within the grove. Apparently she guards the star shards. Through magic and great sacrifice, Olivia gave up her name and with it, her humanity, to become the Trader.
Audrey.
(she/her)
Aldric’s youngest child. Her body was discovered in the manor, laid to rest within her bedroom. She has a gravestone outside of the manor, and both Rusty and the Shopkeeper can be found there sometimes.
Aldric’s youngest child. Her body was discovered in the manor, laid to rest within her bedroom. She has a gravestone outside of the manor, and both Rusty and the Shopkeeper can be found there sometimes.
Rillian.
(she/her)
Aldric’s oldest daughter, the middle child. She remains within the manor for reasons unknown, and refuses to exit, insisting that it’s for something necessary.
Aldric’s oldest daughter, the middle child. She remains within the manor for reasons unknown, and refuses to exit, insisting that it’s for something necessary.
Evan.
(he/him)
Aldric’s oldest son. He remains in the manor alongside Rillian, and refuses to exit, insisting that it’s for something necessary.
Aldric’s oldest son. He remains in the manor alongside Rillian, and refuses to exit, insisting that it’s for something necessary.
"The Forest".
(he/it)
Or rather, the entity possessing the forest as a whole. Childish, sadistic, and power-hungry, the Forest has invited you to play! And you will play, whether you like it or not. Though it can show acts of kindness, it views all life as its toys, and will not be convinced otherwise. Known also as the Creature, the False God, and the Fallen Sun, the entity possessing the Forest was formerly a God that Fell and has seen fit to wreak havoc upon the world. The Guardians will tell player characters to call it anything other than a God so that it doesn't regain any more power. While not available for direct threads on request, the Forest will interact with characters through major events and storylines. At one point, it was named "Suri" by Affogato Cookie, though this name is not known by other player characters and should never be used ICly due to that. Do not do a metagaming, thank you.
Or rather, the entity possessing the forest as a whole. Childish, sadistic, and power-hungry, the Forest has invited you to play! And you will play, whether you like it or not. Though it can show acts of kindness, it views all life as its toys, and will not be convinced otherwise. Known also as the Creature, the False God, and the Fallen Sun, the entity possessing the Forest was formerly a God that Fell and has seen fit to wreak havoc upon the world. The Guardians will tell player characters to call it anything other than a God so that it doesn't regain any more power. While not available for direct threads on request, the Forest will interact with characters through major events and storylines. At one point, it was named "Suri" by Affogato Cookie, though this name is not known by other player characters and should never be used ICly due to that. Do not do a metagaming, thank you.
Sehul.
(they/them)
A long-dead Guardian, formerly Beiwe's mount and said to be a flame-coloured dragon. Sehul was killed by the Fallen Sun in an attack. The Guardian's skeleton can be found at the lake's edge, sunken into the sediment.
A long-dead Guardian, formerly Beiwe's mount and said to be a flame-coloured dragon. Sehul was killed by the Fallen Sun in an attack. The Guardian's skeleton can be found at the lake's edge, sunken into the sediment.
The Cosmic Serpent.
(any/all)
Lying in the whirlpool in the middle of the ocean viewable from the cliffside, the Cosmic Serpent is a long, glittering leviathan who feasted upon the fallen stars eons ago. They will not entertain conversation, and their preferred hobby is taking a nap.
Lying in the whirlpool in the middle of the ocean viewable from the cliffside, the Cosmic Serpent is a long, glittering leviathan who feasted upon the fallen stars eons ago. They will not entertain conversation, and their preferred hobby is taking a nap.
no subject
He’ll notice that his eyes aren’t black anymore, with pinpricks of amber. They’re fully amber now with dark pupils, like the colors completely reversed.]
Wh…what’s goin’ on…?
[He whispers that, looking back up at the sky as the serpent slowly swims overhead, the brunt of the rain hitting their area first as it moves over towards the rest of the beach.]
no subject
[Vash matches Adrian's volume. ANd hey, now that he's talking, Vash feels a little less hesitant about taking a step or two forward. He's seen the man lucid before, but never like this. Another glance toward the sky leaves him feeling more confused and curious than ever.
But for now...]
I think the rain might be helping you.
[Both of them, really. It can't do much for the nearly eradicated wing, at least aside from easing the pain. But its upper counterpart seems to be mending itself, to say nothing of the state of his arm.]
How do you feel?
no subject
[Which is a weird thing to say, he realizes, but.]
The Voice…ain’t so loud anymore.
[He brings a hand up to cradle his head, which is quite frankly throbbing, but the water continuing to drip down his face is helping soothe whatever aches he’s feeling. The corruption is a much taller order, but…it’s done something.
For the first time in hundreds of years, Adrian is more lucid than he’s ever been before. He can’t leave the lighthouse- that much is evident by the pain he expressed trying to leave the steps- but…he isn’t trying to kill Vash either.
…
He grimaces, and decides…that he has to sit down. So he’ll slide down the door of the Lighthouse, so he’s half-in, half out, sort of angled towards the inside yet still in the doorway enough for the rain to hit him.]
no subject
He shifts a few feet, eventually settling down beside him. For the first time, he can really take in Adrian's appearance. It goes beyond the corruption, taking in his eyes, the posture, all of it.
After a moment, he holds out his hand.]
Guess I should say it's a pleasure to meet you! Since we've never been properly introduced. Name's Vash.
[He doesn't know if this will last. Even if it does, everything that has chased Vash up until this point, the fight with Wolfwood and the knowledge of what he'll come to do, will come crashing back in. But for right now, he can hold it at bay.]
no subject
…he huffs and seems to decide, fuck it, as he takes Vash’s equally corrupted hand in his own.]
…Vash. Yeah. You’re the blonde guy.
[He sounds a little breathless just sitting down. It’s clear he’s not super okay still, but he’s at least no longer in the danger zone of snapping and ripping Vash’s head off.
When they part, Adrian looks back up towards the sky, eyes half open as he lets the rainwater patter against his cheeks, saturating his skin and continuing to heal what little bits of him it can.]
You…prolly shouldn’t stay here. Dunno…how long I’ll be like this.
[Who knows if the rain is just temporary, like how the Goddess helping him was?]
no subject
[At least he flashes his winningest smile! It won't do much to help Adrian feel better, but maybe the mood will prove to be contagious.]
I won't linger too long. Especially if you feel like you're gonna start biting and clawing again. But some company won't hurt for awhile, yeah? Seems like you've been alone for a long time. [He pauses, eyes sliding downward. he stares at the stone of the steps beneath them.] Maybe I can relate.
no subject
[…He looks confused. Then a little stressed, grimacing as pain lances through his head.]
I…I think… […] S’…Adrian. Yeah. Adrian.
[It takes him a while, but he gets there. His memories are hazy, his ability to form coherent thoughts is still trying to claw its way back to the surface, so Vash is going to have to be a little lenient with him here.
Anyway, Adrian exhales slowly, keeping his arms to himself just in case.]
You could…say that.
[Time has been strange for him. Like it’s gone by quickly, but extremely slow all at the same time. And then there’s…
…
He’s quiet for a bit. No longer looking at the sky, but down at the ground in front of the stairs. He’s realizing that he still can’t leave, and it may be some time- or, honestly, never- before he can actually set foot outside of it again.]
I ain’t…really in a position t’ask, after I’ve almost killed you so many times. But I need a favor from you, before you leave.
no subject
[And it is. From the moment they met, or perhaps the moment Vash realized there was someone in there that could be spared, he's wanted to know this man. Now that he has a name, it gives him hope. Or maybe it's just the rain, and the way it seems to cleanse both of their sins away in one fell swoop.
Maybe things couldn't be mended in his world. But if that was true, he could at least stay here and try to make something right.
Busy as Vash is making promises to himself, he doesn't see the way Adrian's posture shifts. It's only once the man speaks and Vash's attention flickers back to reality that he sees... something isn't quite right. It's why he doesn't hesitate to offer a gentle smile.]
Hey. I've never once held that against you, so don't start with me there. [He leans forward, just a little too eager.] Tell me what you need. I can make it happen.
no subject
He brings up one of his hands, eventually, and rubs at the space between his eyes.]
…I need you t’dig me a hole. Next to the Lighthouse.
cw: decay
[He doesn't finish his sentence. Vash, despite all pretenses, isn't stupid. He knows what's being asked of him. He might have been "used" to the smell of rotting flesh, the pervasiveness of death, but that doesn't mean he hasn't been painfully aware of what's waiting inside that lighthouse.
Moreover, he knows what it's like to bury people. He'd only just buried his brother a few months ago.]
I can do that. [There's no hesitation. In fact, he's already standing up.]
Y'got a shovel inside, or do I need to go dig one up?
[He's so serious he's not even laughing at the accidental pun.]
no subject
All you gotta do is dig. I’ll handle the rest.
[Meaning, he’s got enough old bed linens and things to prepare a body, he’s not going to put Vash through that. Especially not when they barely know each other.]
…m’sorry, I just. I dunno how long “this” is gonna last for.
[He nods between them. The cleanse from the corruption, it seems, Adrian thinks might be temporary. He doesn’t trust it, that’s for sure.]
I cant leave him in there.
no subject
I get it.
[Like Adrian, he doesn't anticipate this lasting. Good things never do. So he doesn't waste time with words. He takes the shovel and trudges down. He'll make it as quick as he can, without taking away their dignity.
It's a bit harder than digging in sand, he'll admit. But he got his practice before. Besides, his palms have long been worn over with calluses. He's used to harder labor. Sure, the mud makes it a slicker process, and he winds up caked in it, but eventually he has a hole. Maybe it isn't quite six feet deep but... it'll do.
They only have so much time.]
cw: child death/decay cont
But the boy, he'd never forget.
The body he brings out is covered by a sheet and wrapped up enough that Vash won't have to see who he's carrying, the passage of time strange enough that the body is still intact enough to be buried. If Adrian could actually set foot outside of the Lighthouse, he would do it himself, but this is where he has to trust a near perfect stranger with the only thing that ever mattered.
So he'll watch in silence from the doorway, making sure to stay uncovered from the rain so it never once stops falling on him, keeping him coherent and in the moment.]
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He doesn't say anything to Adrian, merely gives him a careful nod. The body is taken to the hole and laid to rest with all the reverence and respect that Vash might give to one of his own loved ones. And once the child has come to rest, Vash stops and closes his eyes.
He's never really believed in prayer, or gods, or anything like that. Not until here. There's irrefutable proof all around him, but he doesn't know if that makes things better or worse. It does give someone to direct his thoughts to as he forms an internal prayer for the child.
Let them find happiness somewhere.
His eyes open, and he finds himself staring toward Ourania. He's confident, at least, that there is someone looking out for them all. That will have to be enough for the time being. A balm to ease his mind as he begins burying the child once and for all.
When he's finally finished, he looks up the stairs at Adrian, but doesn't immediately approach. Instead, he offers:]
I know you're worried about people being here. But... I want to bring him something, if you'll let me. Flowers. Something to mark the space. Is that okay?
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And that is enough to get him to volunteer something.]
He was my son. I ain't gonna really be able to make this up to you, so...thank you.
[He's sitting back down on the steps now, looking tired. Even with the rejuvenating qualities of the rain, it's been so long since he's been able to turn off the aggression that the exhaustion is catching up to him ten-fold.]
You can. Just...tell the others they shouldn't come here. Not right now.
[Not until he knows it's safe. Vash...well. It's kindof too late for that.]
And. ...I'm sorry for what I did to you. I wouldn't wish this on anyone.
pointing. rosso spotted.
You don't have to thank me. I can't say I'm glad to do it but... figure I owe you one for all the trouble I've caused.
[He props the shovel up against the stairs, somewhere Adrian can reach when he's ready. He thinks about sitting down himself but.. he knows he's overstayed his welcome. Neither of them know how long the rain will last, or how long lucidity will cling to Adrian this go around.]
I'll do what I can, at least. I'm sure you've figured it out, but we're a real stubborn bunch. [A pause.] I'm sure they'll ask, and maybe I'm curious too. Do you need anything? We're a little stuck right now, but we still have resources. And just in case you're back with us for the time being, you might need supplies.
[He has more or less avoiding the apology for as long as he can. When he runs out of things to say, though...]
I wouldn't either. But I don't hold it against you. You weren't exactly yourself. And I - [He catches himself before he says it. "I deserved it." That probably wouldn't go over well.]
:)
[He had to have been subsisting off pure spite or the Creature's influence or something, to be completely tethered to the Lighthouse this entire time.
Adrian shakes his head a little, rubbing at his face again with one of his free hands.]
I guess...if you can spare any, that's fine. But if not, don't worry 'bout it either. I've survived this long, I'll figure it out.
[And then he glances up, his claws falling back down into his lap again. He truly is a bug-person, even moreso now than Vash is. His wings are huge despite the way they're folded against his back, and his antennae are long and fluffy, though currently matted down a bit by the rain. His body is still unfortunately covered in black thorns, so...might be best that people don't get too near him on principle.]
Even if I could leave this place...I can't. I ain't gonna just leave the cove unguarded.
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[His smile is reassuring, gentle. He's already making lists in the back of his mind, things Adrian will need to survive out here. Caring for others is easy, even if he doesn't always do it right. And if he throws himself into it just that little bit extra, well. Adrian isn't going to know any better. The distraction, if nothing else, is nice.]
This is your duty. I get it.
[He knows a thing or two about putting duty above all else. Especially when there is nothing else.]
I might see if we can get you a notebook. You don't have to use it to stay in touch or anything. Just... if there's an emergency, at least you're not disconnected from people that are willing to help. I'm not the only corrupted person back at the Grove. More people can step in without you feeling like you're putting them at risk.
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Adrian looks a little perplexed though, when Vash says that.]
Notebook? How's that gonna...
[He looks aside, rubbing at the back of his neck.]
Does anybody else even know I'm out here? It's prolly for the best they...don't.
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Guess they're all magicked or something. Anything you write in it, the rest of our notebooks pick up. It's not perfect, considering how far away you are, but it'll be something, right?
[At his question, though, Vash looks a little guilty. He glances down at his feet, shuffling a little awkwardly.]
I told them when I first got back. Mostly because I didn't want anyone else getting hurt. But I also didn't want anyone hurting you.When I first met you I... [The laugh that bubbles up is an awkward one.] I've always had a good eye for people. I could tell there was someone worth saving beneath the corruption.
And hey! Looks like I wasn't wrong about that!
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[He's not sure how much he'll use it. Or, if people will want to hear from resident corrupted-guy from the Grove's past that they wouldn't reasonably be able to remember probably. But if Vash wants to, he won't stop him. Having an avenue open to him for emergencies isn't the worst idea in the world, thinking on it.
When Vash sheepishly admits to telling the others about him, Adrian just shakes his head.]
If that's the case, then it's for the best. You...seem like the only person who mighta' given me that chance.
[Even if he didn't maybe deserve it.]
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[Pure Vanilla certainly would have. Probably Beat, too. Livio might have, if he'd been allowed to stay in control for long enough. The list went on.]
One day you'll be able to meet them. If you want, I mean. We've got people working on a cure.
[He won't assume Adrian wants to come live a big, happy life with the rest of the Grove. Maybe one day, though, he'll be amenable to visitors.]
Anyway... I'll also bring back plenty of water. And some cans of food. You might not have had to eat before but... you never know what might happen now.
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[This is just how Vash is Adrian dwbi.]
This place...my home has been suffering for a real long time, so. If you all are tryin' to do what you can to fix it, then that's really all I could ask for. Just sucks I can't do much more all the way out here.
But yeah. I don't...remember a lot of those days. It feels like time passed without me even realizin' it. So you're probably right.
[Just him riddled with corruption, never sleeping, never eating, holding constant vigil over this part of the forest.]
Just...be careful goin' back. Even the stretch of woods between here and the beach is dangerous. All of it's dangerous, really, but...yaknow.
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[Because they're friends now. And that means regularly bothering Adrian and checking in on him.]
I can't guarantee we'll make meaningful progress in any short amount of time but... we've made progress. More other folks than me. I've just been sorta bumblin' around. But we're all trying. And knowing that you need help just makes us all want to try more.
[Vash shoots a quick glance toward Adrian, before looking away once more —sheepish as can be. He makes a faintly nervous sound before finally saying:]
Think I've gotten myself in enough trouble lately. You can count on me playing it safe.
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[He'll wave a hand dismissively now, as if to usher Vash back towards the forest.]
Get goin' back to your friends, then. I ain't goin' anywhere, obviously.