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[It's been a while since he's seen you, Glacius. The obviously-not-human folks need to look out for one another, so ring ring.]
You there? Didn't melt, did you?
You there? Didn't melt, did you?
... Is that some sort of bad joke? [Glacius' voice is a little wary, but given that he recognizes Nick's voice as belonging to someone that he got along well enough with, he doesn't sound as grumpy or displeased as he otherwise might. He'll reserve judgment... for now...]
[ It's strange. There's a million things that she could feel, should feel guilty for. Thousands of things she should confess to Hadriel en masse, especially in light of recent events.
But there's one thing gnawing at her more than anything else, one thing her mind keeps concentrating on despite all the things that should probably take priority. ]
Hey.
Can we
We should
Feel like
I'd like to tell you something.
But there's one thing gnawing at her more than anything else, one thing her mind keeps concentrating on despite all the things that should probably take priority. ]
Hey.
We should
Feel like
I'd like to tell you something.
[Ever since Glacius encountered his own personal demons given form, he'd fallen back to old reclusive behaviors--as he was wont to do when the way of things in Hadriel really started to weigh on him. Receiving this message from Kate causes a pang of guilt within him as he remembers the way things were left between them, and now with a little bit of "help" from Sorrow, he's decided he should try to set things right.]
Fortuitous. I was... thinking the same thing.
Where should we meet to converse?
Fortuitous. I was... thinking the same thing.
Where should we meet to converse?
Hello, sir. I wonder if you might be willing to meet with me? Coffee would be provided, if that is something you drink.
[At first Glacius is wondering what this is about... but after some moment of mulling the message over, he's able to put two and two together, recognizing the number from the time they talked awhile back.] This is about the Guard, correct? Yes, I would be willing, though...
... I'm not entirely sure what coffee is...
... I'm not entirely sure what coffee is...
Members of the Guard,
Chris has kindly made us a tool which, when used, shall afford us all awareness of compromised allies during an extended crisis. It works by prompting one to respond through a simple touch at set intervals. The names of those who fail to respond in reasonable time are sent to those who have responded. I am sure I need not explain its advantages.
[There is an app attached for download.]
Please inform me once you have acquired it.
Chris has kindly made us a tool which, when used, shall afford us all awareness of compromised allies during an extended crisis. It works by prompting one to respond through a simple touch at set intervals. The names of those who fail to respond in reasonable time are sent to those who have responded. I am sure I need not explain its advantages.
[There is an app attached for download.]
Please inform me once you have acquired it.
I have acquired it, though I give full disclosure that its use may be... somewhat problematic for me. I do not check my phone as often as most... I do not even keep it on me as often as most. [And that's not just because he doesn't wear clothes and doesn't like the idea of always having to carry the small device in his hands! As a reclusive creature that enjoys his space, he doesn't particularly enjoy the concept of always being tethered to others. Sometimes he just likes to go off on his own without being expected to be in contact with anyone for a little bit, particularly when the network is most used for chatter between humans that he knows little about.] If this program is active during an extended crisis and only then, however... I can perhaps work with that.
( so far, nothing has gone wonky for her, apart from a little bit of finding herself disoriented. which is why this thought happens- )
( The hell am I now? )
( as for why it's ended up in Glacius' head? ... well, that whole thing about so far? yeah, that's over.
have fun with your powers going completely out of whack, Kitkat! )
( The hell am I now? )
( as for why it's ended up in Glacius' head? ... well, that whole thing about so far? yeah, that's over.
have fun with your powers going completely out of whack, Kitkat! )
[Meanwhile Glacius has already departed from Spire Two to set out on his usual patrols. The day had seemed like it was going to be normal enough at first, but it hadn't taken him long to realize that something was amiss when he meant to stop by the clinic to check on Kate (as had become habit) and instead ended up... somewhere else.
So at first, he mistakes the thought for one of his own. A moment later, however, and he realizes the disembodied "voice" that he "hears". The alien goes completely still in the streets. The invasion of his mind is something that he wouldn't take lightly even on a good day, but he recognizes this as his friend so he's not going to go off on her... in fact, this is the person that he had a conversation with about a very particular topic, so instead when he responds his voice sounds not only tentative, but extremely confounded.]
What. Is this.
So at first, he mistakes the thought for one of his own. A moment later, however, and he realizes the disembodied "voice" that he "hears". The alien goes completely still in the streets. The invasion of his mind is something that he wouldn't take lightly even on a good day, but he recognizes this as his friend so he's not going to go off on her... in fact, this is the person that he had a conversation with about a very particular topic, so instead when he responds his voice sounds not only tentative, but extremely confounded.]
What. Is this.
We're working on a project. Making a history of this place. Everything the gods have done.
You be willing to give us assistence?
You be willing to give us assistence?
Of course, though my usefulness to you in this endeavor will depend on how you're planning on archiving this history. I am still not all that accustomed to writing in your language, for example. [One of the multiple reasons he's a little bit slow via texts like this.] So it may take me longer than it would most others in this place to transcribe information.
[action at the apartment before Emily's party on January 9th]
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tongueamok
2017-01-10 09:18 am (UTC)(link)
[Carlisle is frustrated that he has nothing nice to wear.
Back home, he has a few different outfits befitting of clergy, including ceremonial garb saved for special occasions -- weddings, funerals, the occasional gathering in the square for a local holiday, etc. However, since he was taken from Bear Den over a year ago now, all he's had is his standard vestment, and in some places, it is looking worse for wear: it's been through the crash landing of a starship, months spent in a jungle, attacks from a mimic and a monster bear and a demon, as well as general, everyday wear and tear. It's sporting some new stitches here and some ink stains there, and just isn't nice enough for a party. He'd tried searching the stores for another tunic or a shirt, but that hadn't gone terribly well. It never did.
And so he's donned a black sweater and slacks with the tabard over them, as his traditional pants and jacket just won't do for this... whatever it is that Emily is having. He sighs, pushing his hair back and deciding it will just have to do -- Glacius must surely be waiting on him by now. They'd both been invited to this event, and while Carlisle had insisted the alien could go on ahead without him, they did live together. Why not simply go to the gathering together, as well?
He steps out of his room, tucking his new gloves under his sleeves. They don't have any holes in the palms for channeling, but they're knitted, fingerless, and warmer than the ones attached to his usual undershirt, which makes them the best part of his new outfit by far. As he makes his way into the den, he speaks, assuming Glacius is in there, or at least within earshot.]
I hope this looks presentable.
Back home, he has a few different outfits befitting of clergy, including ceremonial garb saved for special occasions -- weddings, funerals, the occasional gathering in the square for a local holiday, etc. However, since he was taken from Bear Den over a year ago now, all he's had is his standard vestment, and in some places, it is looking worse for wear: it's been through the crash landing of a starship, months spent in a jungle, attacks from a mimic and a monster bear and a demon, as well as general, everyday wear and tear. It's sporting some new stitches here and some ink stains there, and just isn't nice enough for a party. He'd tried searching the stores for another tunic or a shirt, but that hadn't gone terribly well. It never did.
And so he's donned a black sweater and slacks with the tabard over them, as his traditional pants and jacket just won't do for this... whatever it is that Emily is having. He sighs, pushing his hair back and deciding it will just have to do -- Glacius must surely be waiting on him by now. They'd both been invited to this event, and while Carlisle had insisted the alien could go on ahead without him, they did live together. Why not simply go to the gathering together, as well?
He steps out of his room, tucking his new gloves under his sleeves. They don't have any holes in the palms for channeling, but they're knitted, fingerless, and warmer than the ones attached to his usual undershirt, which makes them the best part of his new outfit by far. As he makes his way into the den, he speaks, assuming Glacius is in there, or at least within earshot.]
I hope this looks presentable.
Edited 2017-01-10 09:18 (UTC)
[Glacius is, in fact, not in the den, but is rather still standing in his room suffering his own fashion crisis. One might not expect that from an alien that tends to wear nothing on a day-to-day basis; like Carlisle, he had some dressier garments back home, though he hadn't had cause to wear them in a long time and they of course were nowhere to be found in Hadriel, which meant that it was either the partial set of armor that had shown up or nothing...
... Or the sash that Emily had made, which would normally be the perfect thing to wear to this occasion given that it was being held for her, but had now become the cause of his conflict. He hadn't even pulled it out of the drawer in his room ever since the horrific atrocity he committed against his friend--she gave it to him because she saw him as a good friend and valiant protector, and after snuffing out her life he hadn't felt deserving of those or any other accolades. As he's considered getting dressed for this event he at least managed to drag it out, but now he can't seem to do anything but have a staring contest with it. He wants to wear it for her... but would it be proper? He just doesn't know any more.
He's so busy wracking his brain over this that it takes him a moment to realize that he's just heard Carlisle's voice. Blinking, Glacius shakes his head and tears his gaze away from the beautiful silvery fabric, moving to the door--which he always keeps closed so as not to spread the chill to the rest pf the apartment. Now it cracks open, and the alien sticks his head out on that long serpentine neck, casting a gaze around the apartment until he spots the clergyman. His expression clearly says that something is amiss.]
I'm sorry, my mind was ah, somewhere else. I promise I will be ready soon. In the meantime... did you ask something of me..?
... Or the sash that Emily had made, which would normally be the perfect thing to wear to this occasion given that it was being held for her, but had now become the cause of his conflict. He hadn't even pulled it out of the drawer in his room ever since the horrific atrocity he committed against his friend--she gave it to him because she saw him as a good friend and valiant protector, and after snuffing out her life he hadn't felt deserving of those or any other accolades. As he's considered getting dressed for this event he at least managed to drag it out, but now he can't seem to do anything but have a staring contest with it. He wants to wear it for her... but would it be proper? He just doesn't know any more.
He's so busy wracking his brain over this that it takes him a moment to realize that he's just heard Carlisle's voice. Blinking, Glacius shakes his head and tears his gaze away from the beautiful silvery fabric, moving to the door--which he always keeps closed so as not to spread the chill to the rest pf the apartment. Now it cracks open, and the alien sticks his head out on that long serpentine neck, casting a gaze around the apartment until he spots the clergyman. His expression clearly says that something is amiss.]
I'm sorry, my mind was ah, somewhere else. I promise I will be ready soon. In the meantime... did you ask something of me..?
[Carlisle is awake again. Of course he's awake: his mind is heavy with his concerns, his body is still aching from magical fatigue, and then there's the ever-present fear of the future that pervades his dreams. His worries used to be solely centered around him; he's found they often revolve around another individual these days. While others might think his growing compassion is a sign of latent kindness, it troubles him... the future of not just himself, but them.
After waking from an unsettling dream and realizing he isn't going to get back to sleep anytime soon, Carlisle decides to be as productive as possible with his time. Glacius' care is appreciated, but there are times when their ideals clash, as one would always like the other to be getting more rest. Carlisle knows he needs it for his own recovery, but the alien isn't invulnerable; the injuries he sustained from his double wear on him ever slightly, more and more each day.
That's one reason Carlisle hasn't bothered to wake up Glacius for company, despite the alien's standing offer, choosing to let him sleep while he slips into the kitchen, makes himself a cup of tea, and works a bit on his glyphcrafting at the coffee table, copying some of the delicate lines from the glyph Emily wrote for him. Given his hands are shaky, his enchanted tea isn't quite as strong as he'd like due to his inability to put much energy into it himself, and he's struggling to keep a grip on his pen, it's not going terribly well.]
After waking from an unsettling dream and realizing he isn't going to get back to sleep anytime soon, Carlisle decides to be as productive as possible with his time. Glacius' care is appreciated, but there are times when their ideals clash, as one would always like the other to be getting more rest. Carlisle knows he needs it for his own recovery, but the alien isn't invulnerable; the injuries he sustained from his double wear on him ever slightly, more and more each day.
That's one reason Carlisle hasn't bothered to wake up Glacius for company, despite the alien's standing offer, choosing to let him sleep while he slips into the kitchen, makes himself a cup of tea, and works a bit on his glyphcrafting at the coffee table, copying some of the delicate lines from the glyph Emily wrote for him. Given his hands are shaky, his enchanted tea isn't quite as strong as he'd like due to his inability to put much energy into it himself, and he's struggling to keep a grip on his pen, it's not going terribly well.]
[Normally one to retreat to his own space at the end of a long day, recent circumstances have meant that lately there have been very few nights where Glacius hasn't passed out at Carlisle's bedside. He wanted to keep a watchful eye over the clergyman to make sure he wasn't getting up or exacerbating his exhaustion in any way--and ever since his doubled attacked he'd been wary of spending too much time away from his friend, for fear that he may re-enter the room and see some other insidious threat attempting to upset the human or cause him harm. Everything combined to cause a sort of hypervigilance in the alien, which was steadily wearing him down.
At least he had the sense to realize that constantly watching Carlisle like a hawk probably wasn't going to inspire a whole lot of calm in the clergyman, especially given that he'd taken to watching over the alien as much as he was trying to watch over the human. If he wanted his friend to be able to rest then he should probably try to inspire that sort of calm through his own actions, so here and there he would head back into his own room for the night--after assuring his friend that he could wake him up should he need anything at all, of course. This was one of those nights, but he wasn't exactly finding it restful; his mind was constantly tripping over recent relevations in regards to Carlisle's feelings--feelings he was beginning to experience within himself the more of themselves they gave to see the other through difficult times--and his injured gills were sore and unhappy. He'd gotten a cloth from Emily recently to hopefully protect them and now, pulling it from his neck, found it came away mottled with blood and mucus... definitely not a good sign.
Sighing sadly, Glacius decided to head into the kitchen to get some cold water to hopefully soothe them a little. As he exits his bedroom, he sees he's not the only one kept up this night; the alien stop up short, feeling a pang of frustration that Carlisle is still awake when he should be resting, but then quickly tamps it down. Things have been hard lately. It's not surprising the clergyman is having a hard time sleeping... all he really wants to do is see if he can help.]
Carlisle, I am... surprised you are still up. [The ice alien speaks softly, moving slowly and tiredly into the kitchen to stand by his friend.] Is everything alright? I'm here, if you need anything.
At least he had the sense to realize that constantly watching Carlisle like a hawk probably wasn't going to inspire a whole lot of calm in the clergyman, especially given that he'd taken to watching over the alien as much as he was trying to watch over the human. If he wanted his friend to be able to rest then he should probably try to inspire that sort of calm through his own actions, so here and there he would head back into his own room for the night--after assuring his friend that he could wake him up should he need anything at all, of course. This was one of those nights, but he wasn't exactly finding it restful; his mind was constantly tripping over recent relevations in regards to Carlisle's feelings--feelings he was beginning to experience within himself the more of themselves they gave to see the other through difficult times--and his injured gills were sore and unhappy. He'd gotten a cloth from Emily recently to hopefully protect them and now, pulling it from his neck, found it came away mottled with blood and mucus... definitely not a good sign.
Sighing sadly, Glacius decided to head into the kitchen to get some cold water to hopefully soothe them a little. As he exits his bedroom, he sees he's not the only one kept up this night; the alien stop up short, feeling a pang of frustration that Carlisle is still awake when he should be resting, but then quickly tamps it down. Things have been hard lately. It's not surprising the clergyman is having a hard time sleeping... all he really wants to do is see if he can help.]
Carlisle, I am... surprised you are still up. [The ice alien speaks softly, moving slowly and tiredly into the kitchen to stand by his friend.] Is everything alright? I'm here, if you need anything.
[Though Nick sees Glacius at the headquarters on occasion, it's usually in passing, and the old synth is often too mired in paperwork to chat. He figures it's high time he check in on one of the more unusual residents of Hadriel, and maybe give him a friendly heads up, just in case one new arrival in particular is looking to start trouble. While Nick hopes Danse will behave, he'd rather not have Glacius caught unawares should the guy mistake him for some new variation of super mutant.
Unfortunately, he knows Glacius sometimes doesn't carry his phone with him -- the alien doesn't exactly have pockets to spare -- so Nick decides he'll catch him as he heads out for his regular patrol. There's still snow on the ground, but the cold doesn't bother the synth as he waits outside the Spire. If anything, he's glad to be out and about himself on his newly repaired leg -- no more cane for him, for now.]
Unfortunately, he knows Glacius sometimes doesn't carry his phone with him -- the alien doesn't exactly have pockets to spare -- so Nick decides he'll catch him as he heads out for his regular patrol. There's still snow on the ground, but the cold doesn't bother the synth as he waits outside the Spire. If anything, he's glad to be out and about himself on his newly repaired leg -- no more cane for him, for now.]
[Though Glacius isn't aware of it, it's the last day snow will be on the grounds of Hadriel--he's simply up early to enjoy as much of it as usual, as has become his habit. He's decided to let his partner sleep in this morning, given how much he's been dragging him around as of late; as much as he loves the human's company, he couldn't bear to pry him from the comforts of his bed, especially now that it's heated by the electric blanket the alien had managed to find during one of his trips to the shops a few days ago. He'll just come back to check in on Carlisle in an hour or two.
So Nick will have to be there very early indeed if he wants to catch Glacius before he leaves--the ice alien likes to rise with the sun (or the strange artificial lighting of the cave in this case) and leave shortly after habitual stretching and breathing exercises. He's outside the spire as morning light glistens off the snow drifts, and though he spends a good moment just beyond the threshold soaking in the sight, it doesn't take him long to spot Nick. The ice alien snaps to attention, his head up and his back straight--he doesn't usually get visits at his residence from members of the Guard, so his immediate thought is that something has gone wrong and his assistance is needed.]
Nick. It has been some time since I have seen you here. Is something amiss?
So Nick will have to be there very early indeed if he wants to catch Glacius before he leaves--the ice alien likes to rise with the sun (or the strange artificial lighting of the cave in this case) and leave shortly after habitual stretching and breathing exercises. He's outside the spire as morning light glistens off the snow drifts, and though he spends a good moment just beyond the threshold soaking in the sight, it doesn't take him long to spot Nick. The ice alien snaps to attention, his head up and his back straight--he doesn't usually get visits at his residence from members of the Guard, so his immediate thought is that something has gone wrong and his assistance is needed.]
Nick. It has been some time since I have seen you here. Is something amiss?
Edited 2017-02-20 17:27 (UTC)
( She sends this a little while after talking to the clinic's staff. So many people have disappeared lately, and while Kate's been here a long time now, Bruce was here even longer and-
Well. He's gone now.
The number of people she'd begun to think of as fixtures in her time here seem to slowly be dwindling down, and more often than not, she finds herself looking at those who remain and wondering will you be next?
Will I?
It's that second question that drives her to action. Any one of them could disappear, and if she does, she doesn't want the clinic scrambling. It leads her to start writing a list of actions to be taken in the event of her disappearance - where she keeps her notes and lists, what certain pieces of shorthand mean - until she gets to one last thing:
The notes she has about Glacius. The fact that his biology is something different and that he's trusted her with the secrecy of them. )
Several members of the clinic have been taken by The Door recently. Started thinking about what might happen if it takes me. Rather make sure the staff left are prepared if it happens.
Like to know what you want me to do about the notes on your biology in that case.
Well. He's gone now.
The number of people she'd begun to think of as fixtures in her time here seem to slowly be dwindling down, and more often than not, she finds herself looking at those who remain and wondering will you be next?
Will I?
It's that second question that drives her to action. Any one of them could disappear, and if she does, she doesn't want the clinic scrambling. It leads her to start writing a list of actions to be taken in the event of her disappearance - where she keeps her notes and lists, what certain pieces of shorthand mean - until she gets to one last thing:
The notes she has about Glacius. The fact that his biology is something different and that he's trusted her with the secrecy of them. )
Several members of the clinic have been taken by The Door recently. Started thinking about what might happen if it takes me. Rather make sure the staff left are prepared if it happens.
Like to know what you want me to do about the notes on your biology in that case.
[Don't talk like that is what Glacius wants to respond with first and foremost, having been made all too aware recently that he doesn't know how to process the thought of losing his friends here, whether it means one of them up and disappearing or all of them being returned to their own worlds somehow. Still, he knows it's always a possibility... and he knows that he really does need to begin sorting through this issue, because the feeling of being pulled between the life he left behind and the one he has here is clearly not going to go away. Maybe Kate's question is well-timed in that regard--maybe beginning with a matter that's more clinical should be an easier starting point... though the alien still finds himself hurting at the suggestion that he might one day be without her--or vice versa.
So when he speaks his voice is solemn, serious, his answer probably not all that surprising given his views on the necessity of self-sacrifice.] Store it in a secret, secure place, and then relay its location to me in person. In the event of your absence I will reclaim it and safeguard it myself, only to reveal it once more to those that prove themselves worthy. That information belongs to the people I that I trust, and only them... even if that ends up putting me at greater risk once more. [Despite being pulled between two worlds, his loyalty to his people is still as strong as ever. He'd rather uphold the tenets of their culture and protect them by keeping information about his biology out of the hands of those whose motives he cannot entirely discern.]
So when he speaks his voice is solemn, serious, his answer probably not all that surprising given his views on the necessity of self-sacrifice.] Store it in a secret, secure place, and then relay its location to me in person. In the event of your absence I will reclaim it and safeguard it myself, only to reveal it once more to those that prove themselves worthy. That information belongs to the people I that I trust, and only them... even if that ends up putting me at greater risk once more. [Despite being pulled between two worlds, his loyalty to his people is still as strong as ever. He'd rather uphold the tenets of their culture and protect them by keeping information about his biology out of the hands of those whose motives he cannot entirely discern.]
[Carlisle is still in bed long after Glacius has left for his patrol -- the days of drinking, long nights without sleep, and their intimate activity that morning have left the clergyman worn, so he leaves Glacius a message rather than outright calling him. Perhaps the alien is busy, after all, trying to do good for the city.
Not that Carlisle thinks for a second that Glacius wouldn't drop what he was doing to speak to him. He can feel himself redden at the mere thought of such dedication, devotion of which he still feels he is undeserving. It will take time to adjust to that, as it does for all things; for now, he speaks quietly.]
Glacius.
[He inwardly chides himself the instant his partner's name leaves his lips, belatedly realizing there's no need to address him as though this is a letter.]
I apologize for not waking when you departed for the day. I... suppose some mornings are harder to greet than others, and though we spent much of this one, ah. Together, I would have liked to have seen you off.
[A pause, then the unmistakable sound of him pulling in a breath and putting it back out again. He sounds tired; he hasn't been awake long.]
I wanted to thank you for your understanding and patience with me, even when I have none for myself. You have been terribly kind in this venture that we have embarked upon together, and um.
[Another brief pause; words are difficult to string together when they're not just sputtered in a nervous reaction to cover for his uncertainty.]
It was nice, what we did. Us. I believe the warmth you instilled in me could sustain me for a week, and I'm not sure I've ever felt my heart beat so fast, as though it'd escape the prison of my chest if given the chance. I... have never felt like this before, neither emotionally, nor physically. I'm not sure I want to feel that way ever again, or with anyone else, as who could possibly compare to you?
[Oh, no wait. He kind of knows the answer to that. Don't answer that, Glacius; his nerves push him to do it regardless.]
N- no one, obviously. It is only you who has managed to stoke a fire within me, making me feel more alive than I have... well, ever.
[This isn't going as well as he thought it would, so he wraps it up.]
So thank you, my friend -- my partner.
[They're more than that, but he's hanging up for now, before he makes a mess of this. Click.]
Not that Carlisle thinks for a second that Glacius wouldn't drop what he was doing to speak to him. He can feel himself redden at the mere thought of such dedication, devotion of which he still feels he is undeserving. It will take time to adjust to that, as it does for all things; for now, he speaks quietly.]
Glacius.
[He inwardly chides himself the instant his partner's name leaves his lips, belatedly realizing there's no need to address him as though this is a letter.]
I apologize for not waking when you departed for the day. I... suppose some mornings are harder to greet than others, and though we spent much of this one, ah. Together, I would have liked to have seen you off.
[A pause, then the unmistakable sound of him pulling in a breath and putting it back out again. He sounds tired; he hasn't been awake long.]
I wanted to thank you for your understanding and patience with me, even when I have none for myself. You have been terribly kind in this venture that we have embarked upon together, and um.
[Another brief pause; words are difficult to string together when they're not just sputtered in a nervous reaction to cover for his uncertainty.]
It was nice, what we did. Us. I believe the warmth you instilled in me could sustain me for a week, and I'm not sure I've ever felt my heart beat so fast, as though it'd escape the prison of my chest if given the chance. I... have never felt like this before, neither emotionally, nor physically. I'm not sure I want to feel that way ever again, or with anyone else, as who could possibly compare to you?
[Oh, no wait. He kind of knows the answer to that. Don't answer that, Glacius; his nerves push him to do it regardless.]
N- no one, obviously. It is only you who has managed to stoke a fire within me, making me feel more alive than I have... well, ever.
[This isn't going as well as he thought it would, so he wraps it up.]
So thank you, my friend -- my partner.
[They're more than that, but he's hanging up for now, before he makes a mess of this. Click.]
Edited 2017-03-20 19:30 (UTC)
[It is some time before Glacius gets back to this message, as he's not one to bring his phone with him when he patrols the more dangerous areas of the city-- though in all honesty probably not as long as Calrisle might expect given that he's caught the alien on the tail end of one his circuits. The marshal checks his phone upon return to the headquarters and plays the message while he begins filling out his report for the day, thumbing through papers as a familiar voice addresses him by name.
Well. That's enough to get him to stop what he's doing and scoot closer to the desk so that he can hunch over the phone.
The clergyman may feel like he's making a mess of things, but Glacius is simply delighted that he's on his mind--that he was one of the first things his partner thought about when he woke up, no less. More than that, he's touched that Carlisle is putting so much effort into expressing his thanks for everything they've been through--even fiercely capable galactic warriors like to feel appreciated.
He can't help but listen to the message once, then twice more, but then he ultimately picks up the diminutive communications device and dials his partner back, a warm smile on his face that Carlisle can probably pick up on through his tone, given how good he's gotten at reading the alien lately.]
This is a beautifully poetic proclamation, Carlisle. Are you trying to outdo me? Do I need to come home and sweep you off of your feet? [He might just do it regardless, given how the clergyman has managed to stir his hearts.]
Well. That's enough to get him to stop what he's doing and scoot closer to the desk so that he can hunch over the phone.
The clergyman may feel like he's making a mess of things, but Glacius is simply delighted that he's on his mind--that he was one of the first things his partner thought about when he woke up, no less. More than that, he's touched that Carlisle is putting so much effort into expressing his thanks for everything they've been through--even fiercely capable galactic warriors like to feel appreciated.
He can't help but listen to the message once, then twice more, but then he ultimately picks up the diminutive communications device and dials his partner back, a warm smile on his face that Carlisle can probably pick up on through his tone, given how good he's gotten at reading the alien lately.]
This is a beautifully poetic proclamation, Carlisle. Are you trying to outdo me? Do I need to come home and sweep you off of your feet? [He might just do it regardless, given how the clergyman has managed to stir his hearts.]
[Lance is always a little hesitant to message people he doesn't know, and that's no different now that he's in Hadriel; in fact, it's just more so, because he's so out of his element. And considering he not only has never met Glacius but knows exactly nothing about him except that he's in the Guard, and Lance has not at all been getting along with Maketh, he's cautious about how he approaches this message.]
Hello; my name is Dr. Lance Sweets. I was told by Maketh that you were one of the people to contact for information regarding an incident involving an attack on the Guard headquarters. Would you be willing to speak with me about that?
Hello; my name is Dr. Lance Sweets. I was told by Maketh that you were one of the people to contact for information regarding an incident involving an attack on the Guard headquarters. Would you be willing to speak with me about that?
[And Glacius is similarly wary with people he's never met before! He spends a few minutes mulling the message over, and when he does finally try to respond, he's choosing his words carefully.]
Hello, Dr. Lance. I may be able to provide you on information with the incident. But first I must ask: why are you asking me this? What do you intend to do with the knowledge?
Hello, Dr. Lance. I may be able to provide you on information with the incident. But first I must ask: why are you asking me this? What do you intend to do with the knowledge?
Edited 2017-05-13 16:51 (UTC)
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[File this under messages Glacius wasn't expecting to receive. For some time, it goes unanswered, as the alien considers not answering it all--Shadow had been completely unrepentant to the point of arrogant dismissal the last time they conversed, so he has a hard time believing anything his partner's abuser might have to say would be worth his time.
But this isn't exactly about him. It's about what Carlisle would want. Glacius doesn't know why he continues to waste his breath on this cur, the one who has abused him emotionally and physically repeated times over, but he does; time to find out once and for all if there's even a shred of a redeemable quality within the hedgehog, or if he needs to be dealt with.
So his response eventually does come in, and even through text one can probably feel the coldness to every word:] Give me one good reason why we should.
But this isn't exactly about him. It's about what Carlisle would want. Glacius doesn't know why he continues to waste his breath on this cur, the one who has abused him emotionally and physically repeated times over, but he does; time to find out once and for all if there's even a shred of a redeemable quality within the hedgehog, or if he needs to be dealt with.
So his response eventually does come in, and even through text one can probably feel the coldness to every word:] Give me one good reason why we should.
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[Since the dissipation of the illusionary world, Carlisle has been hard at work with a tempered energy that's generally uncharacteristic of him. There have been more hours of prayer, more times for study and personal reflection, and, of course, more note-taking. His notes in particular have been focused around Glacius' Mote: what he knows of it, how it looks, and most importantly of all, how the connection between them affected him on levels both physical and aural. If they're going to do some experiments with this, they ought to be prepared.
And Carlisle is aware he should probably not think of something as culturally significant to Glacius as the Mote and allowing another to interact with it as an "experiment." It's more than just a way to imbue them both with one another's powers, or a method through which they can delve into each other's souls; it is, as Carlisle understands it, an exchange generally shared only with those the aliens would hold in highest regard, such as a spouse or a mate.
Or a partner. Something about the permanence of such a bond is intimidating to Carlisle in a way he has been able to put into neither spoken nor written words. If they did go through with something so final, he'd need a gift of his own. That's how things are done back in Bear Den.
But he focuses on the Mote for now, trying to distract himself from the fury he feels toward the false gods for stripping them of their memories, for making him blaspheme in the first place. After a morning spent at his garden and a midday of intense prayer and study, he decides he'll see if he can't catch Glacius on his patrol while he records another page in his journal, trying to properly illustrate the flow of the Mote's energy into his channels. It's a little hard to remember how it had all happened, given the intimacy of the moment, but he does his best regardless.
He takes a deep breath before making the phone call, trying not to sound as flustered as he is from remembering that passionate encounter -- perhaps the most passionate they've had. It's difficult, given Glacius instills within him feelings no one else can.]
Good afternoon, Glacius. Are you busy at the moment?
And Carlisle is aware he should probably not think of something as culturally significant to Glacius as the Mote and allowing another to interact with it as an "experiment." It's more than just a way to imbue them both with one another's powers, or a method through which they can delve into each other's souls; it is, as Carlisle understands it, an exchange generally shared only with those the aliens would hold in highest regard, such as a spouse or a mate.
Or a partner. Something about the permanence of such a bond is intimidating to Carlisle in a way he has been able to put into neither spoken nor written words. If they did go through with something so final, he'd need a gift of his own. That's how things are done back in Bear Den.
But he focuses on the Mote for now, trying to distract himself from the fury he feels toward the false gods for stripping them of their memories, for making him blaspheme in the first place. After a morning spent at his garden and a midday of intense prayer and study, he decides he'll see if he can't catch Glacius on his patrol while he records another page in his journal, trying to properly illustrate the flow of the Mote's energy into his channels. It's a little hard to remember how it had all happened, given the intimacy of the moment, but he does his best regardless.
He takes a deep breath before making the phone call, trying not to sound as flustered as he is from remembering that passionate encounter -- perhaps the most passionate they've had. It's difficult, given Glacius instills within him feelings no one else can.]
Good afternoon, Glacius. Are you busy at the moment?
Edited 2017-08-04 03:10 (UTC)
[Carlisle's tempered energy has not gone unnoticed by his partner, who is happy to see the clergyman working on something with vigor, especially if it's to a more productive end than simply fuming or fretting over the latest trick of the gods. Prayer, gardening, and note-taking were all good uses of energy in the alien's mind, even if the way he could involve himself with some of those were a little bit limited--and he did try.
Gardening was easy enough to fold himself into like usual, but prayer was a time solely for Carlisle himself, and he'd been... a bit more secretive about his note-taking as of late, not wanting to talk about it much when Glacius asked if there was anything he was interesting in sharing. That was fine, the otherworldly being reminded himself; though he liked hearing about his partner's studies and interests, keeping a journal was a personal pursuit, too. He couldn't be expected to always share it. The ice alien could only hope that his partner would find time to open himself up for a bit more quality time together soon.
If only he knew just what Carlisle had been working on so intently these past few days! Though it hadn't been consuming nearly all of his focus lately as it has been for Carlisle, it would be a lie to say that the thought of exploring the Mote hadn't been on Glacius' mind. He'd been eager enough to try when his partner had first brought the possibility up during the illusion, and he was still eager to do so now... but it wasn't his place to push. The clergyman had backed down days ago and hadn't brought it up since; the ice alien would simply have to trust that his partner would broach the subject again when he was feeling ready.
Today was that day, though Glacius has little inkling of it, yet. It wasn't unusual for Carlisle to call him during the day, or on occasion to visit him in person, though he... usually waited until a time when he knew the alien wouldn't be patrolling the streets. The timing of the call plus the faint hint of something out of place in his partner's tone had the ice alien curious, maybe even mildly concerned, though his own voice was steady and well-measured as always when he replied.] I am never too busy for you, Carlisle. What can I do for you? Are you alright?
Gardening was easy enough to fold himself into like usual, but prayer was a time solely for Carlisle himself, and he'd been... a bit more secretive about his note-taking as of late, not wanting to talk about it much when Glacius asked if there was anything he was interesting in sharing. That was fine, the otherworldly being reminded himself; though he liked hearing about his partner's studies and interests, keeping a journal was a personal pursuit, too. He couldn't be expected to always share it. The ice alien could only hope that his partner would find time to open himself up for a bit more quality time together soon.
If only he knew just what Carlisle had been working on so intently these past few days! Though it hadn't been consuming nearly all of his focus lately as it has been for Carlisle, it would be a lie to say that the thought of exploring the Mote hadn't been on Glacius' mind. He'd been eager enough to try when his partner had first brought the possibility up during the illusion, and he was still eager to do so now... but it wasn't his place to push. The clergyman had backed down days ago and hadn't brought it up since; the ice alien would simply have to trust that his partner would broach the subject again when he was feeling ready.
Today was that day, though Glacius has little inkling of it, yet. It wasn't unusual for Carlisle to call him during the day, or on occasion to visit him in person, though he... usually waited until a time when he knew the alien wouldn't be patrolling the streets. The timing of the call plus the faint hint of something out of place in his partner's tone had the ice alien curious, maybe even mildly concerned, though his own voice was steady and well-measured as always when he replied.] I am never too busy for you, Carlisle. What can I do for you? Are you alright?
( She keeps hearing Faith, the way her voice cracks on Kate's nickname, seeing the defeat etched in her face which the vision of her ignores. She can almost feel the tunnels underground crumbling around her, the shock-shudder of Jay's ability as a Creature defends itself by taking him over.
Drinking and running only does so much to deaden the sounds and sights, and it's the near-dead of night when she calls Glacius, leaning against the outside wall of the Speakeasy, hand digging into her hair- )
C'mon.
( She has no one from home to talk to about this. No one who'll get exactly why this vision makes her breath so shallow or her movements so twitchy.
But she has Glacius.
If he picks up or not, it's the same words that come out of her mouth- )
Hey.
You, uh, mind if we meet up?
( She's not good at this. She just needs... someone she trusts, for a while. )
Drinking and running only does so much to deaden the sounds and sights, and it's the near-dead of night when she calls Glacius, leaning against the outside wall of the Speakeasy, hand digging into her hair- )
C'mon.
( She has no one from home to talk to about this. No one who'll get exactly why this vision makes her breath so shallow or her movements so twitchy.
But she has Glacius.
If he picks up or not, it's the same words that come out of her mouth- )
Hey.
You, uh, mind if we meet up?
( She's not good at this. She just needs... someone she trusts, for a while. )
[Thing have not necessarily been great for Glacius either, but then who could consider themselves well off when every reflective surface paints a picture of a fate they'd do anything in their power to avoid? Because of this latest torment, the alien is, understandably, not really feeling up to entertaining company... but with Kate it is different. It always is. He could never turn her away.
So he replies nearly immediately; his tone is strained and weary, but he's making an effort to sound approachable.] I never mind, my dear friend. Let me guess-- our overseers are subjecting you to visions as well?
So he replies nearly immediately; his tone is strained and weary, but he's making an effort to sound approachable.] I never mind, my dear friend. Let me guess-- our overseers are subjecting you to visions as well?
You got a minute, Glacius? I need a favor.
Edited 2017-10-29 06:57 (UTC)
[It's over two days into the Null's invasion before Glacius gets a long-overdue call from his partner. Carlisle sounds a bit weary on the other end, but more frightened than fatigued. There's still so much he should do, but finds that he can't when he comes face to face with the constructs. Though they more or less ignore him, as unfeeling as the undead in their apathy as he skirts the streets, he cannot help the terror that grips him at the mere sight of him.
But they were not as frightening as the fires, as the rubble, as the Clinic under assault, as the injuries he's seen. It's best he stays out of trouble, he's told himself. Glacius will do his duty, and the best he can do for his partner is to stay out of the way. Let those who need saving be saved, and keep himself from needing the same.
Their separation wears on him, though. He worries the icy warrior will fall, and that he will not be there to mend his wounds; he fears so deeply that Glacius will be melted away, and that he'll never return. Does he stay by his side? Or does he remain safe so Glacius doesn't worry about him, worrying all the while himself?
As worrying is what Carlisle does regardless, he chose the latter for the past two days. He cannot stave off his concern any longer.]
Are you there, Glacius?
But they were not as frightening as the fires, as the rubble, as the Clinic under assault, as the injuries he's seen. It's best he stays out of trouble, he's told himself. Glacius will do his duty, and the best he can do for his partner is to stay out of the way. Let those who need saving be saved, and keep himself from needing the same.
Their separation wears on him, though. He worries the icy warrior will fall, and that he will not be there to mend his wounds; he fears so deeply that Glacius will be melted away, and that he'll never return. Does he stay by his side? Or does he remain safe so Glacius doesn't worry about him, worrying all the while himself?
As worrying is what Carlisle does regardless, he chose the latter for the past two days. He cannot stave off his concern any longer.]
Are you there, Glacius?
[It may have been just over two days, but said days have been filled with more destruction and bloodshed than Glacius has seen in recent memory, and as such-- though he's always happy to hear from his partner-- he can't remember the last time he's been so glad to hear Carlisle's voice. He'd hoped that the cleric would fall back and keep himself safe, but every moment he's not able to confirm his partner's safety for himself is one that similarly wears on the alien, so he jumps to respond when he's contacted.]
Carlisle--yes, I am here. And I know it has been too long since I have been there for you, and I--I'm sorry. It's just... everything is falling apart. Whole buildings have been destroyed, with the Clinic and the Guard's Headquarters under relentless assault, surely to follow. People are injured, dying in the streets. I have never seen such widespread devastation before, never had to fight in a war despite my years of peacekeeping, and I... I don't know what to do.
[He doesn't know what he can do to stop this; he just knows he can't give up, even if it seems like everyone's efforts are amounting to too little to stop the death and destruction tearing Hadriel apart.] I know I have to keep fighting, but... right now I just want to come home. This world may be falling apart around us, but I need to protect the one who is mine... I need to see you and know that you are safe. [Maybe that will give him the resolve and support he needs to keep going in the end.]
Carlisle--yes, I am here. And I know it has been too long since I have been there for you, and I--I'm sorry. It's just... everything is falling apart. Whole buildings have been destroyed, with the Clinic and the Guard's Headquarters under relentless assault, surely to follow. People are injured, dying in the streets. I have never seen such widespread devastation before, never had to fight in a war despite my years of peacekeeping, and I... I don't know what to do.
[He doesn't know what he can do to stop this; he just knows he can't give up, even if it seems like everyone's efforts are amounting to too little to stop the death and destruction tearing Hadriel apart.] I know I have to keep fighting, but... right now I just want to come home. This world may be falling apart around us, but I need to protect the one who is mine... I need to see you and know that you are safe. [Maybe that will give him the resolve and support he needs to keep going in the end.]
sorry for the butt punch btw
[of all the things to remember, she has to remember THAT]
[of all the things to remember, she has to remember THAT]
Why are you sorry? You don't have to be sorry. You were a child. You didn't know any better. And it didn't hurt. It was like a little bump. Practically nothing. So.
[Was that an awfully wordy response from an alien who normally prefers to be as succinct as possible? Certainly. Someone is still clearly a little befuddled by that interaction, and by having it suddenly brought up again when he was happy to ride right on by it!]
[Was that an awfully wordy response from an alien who normally prefers to be as succinct as possible? Certainly. Someone is still clearly a little befuddled by that interaction, and by having it suddenly brought up again when he was happy to ride right on by it!]
Ah. You saw that, did you? [It's not hard to detect the shame and embarrassment underscoring that inquiry; while he's normally able to catch on to the influence of the gods before they push him too far, that was behavior that the alien is not proud of.]
I would hazard to say that I am feeling about as normal as anyone can be in this place. I, ah, perhaps have some damage control to do but... well, if I am being honest, I am not all that invested in explaining myself to total strangers. [The people that he knew that replied, though—that's a different story.]
I would hazard to say that I am feeling about as normal as anyone can be in this place. I, ah, perhaps have some damage control to do but... well, if I am being honest, I am not all that invested in explaining myself to total strangers. [The people that he knew that replied, though—that's a different story.]
Edited 2018-03-08 17:00 (UTC)
[It's only a couple of hours after Kate's post that Glacius might feel a sense of urgent longing coming through the Mote, unfettered worry and desperate determination all wrapped into a singular, heavy pulse. Carlisle hasn't yet mastered the metaphysical Bond between himself and his partner, and as his body draws upon the Mote's energies, his emotions bleed through, reaching out for the one the clergyman holds so dear. Glacius' phone, seemingly reacting to that unfocused calling, comes to life with one of its own.]
Glacius, I hate to be a bother on your patrol or whatever it is you may be doing, but I need to speak with you.
Glacius, I hate to be a bother on your patrol or whatever it is you may be doing, but I need to speak with you.
[Today is apparently going to be a whirlwind of unexpected happenstances; Glacius is only a few steps down the road from Kate's apartment after discussing her sudden and alarming post to the network. The conversation gave both of them the chance to cool off a bit and measure their options... but now there's someone else who has just caught wind of it and needs the same.
Glacius, of course, does not know yet that is what Carlisle is upset about; the security showed that the post was locked from him, and he knows the clergyman doesn't have the aptitude to hack into the post. All he knows is that there are definite pings of distress coming across the Mote, so he answers the summons immediately.] Never a bother, my partner, and your timing is actually fairly fortuitous as I have just wrapped up some business. Where shall I find you?
Glacius, of course, does not know yet that is what Carlisle is upset about; the security showed that the post was locked from him, and he knows the clergyman doesn't have the aptitude to hack into the post. All he knows is that there are definite pings of distress coming across the Mote, so he answers the summons immediately.] Never a bother, my partner, and your timing is actually fairly fortuitous as I have just wrapped up some business. Where shall I find you?
[While it's not completely out of the question for Carlisle to spend some extra time in his garden, him not being home when the sun starts setting is a little odd. Perhaps he's maintaining the Memorial Garden; perhaps he's just rearranging his pots so they are better bolstered against the winds that sweep across the islands.
Or, perhaps, he's been so euphoric from all the enchanted tea he's been drinking that he completely and utterly lost track of time. Somewhere in the haze of his mind, he realizes that while the tea makes him feel fantastic, there's someone else who does an even better job -- and that's when the call comes.
Or calls, rather.]
Glacius?
[And then he hangs up. Whoops.]
Or, perhaps, he's been so euphoric from all the enchanted tea he's been drinking that he completely and utterly lost track of time. Somewhere in the haze of his mind, he realizes that while the tea makes him feel fantastic, there's someone else who does an even better job -- and that's when the call comes.
Or calls, rather.]
Glacius?
[And then he hangs up. Whoops.]
[Have another call, this one starting with audio of him chuckling in the background.]
Aheh, didn't, ah. Mean to do that. It's funny how the buttons work on- on these devices. There aren't really buttons at all in some cases, but you merely press your finger to the screen, and it works regardless. Isn't that marvelous? And terrifying, just a little, but- but truly marvelous at times.
[Was there a point to this call? We just don't know.]
Aheh, didn't, ah. Mean to do that. It's funny how the buttons work on- on these devices. There aren't really buttons at all in some cases, but you merely press your finger to the screen, and it works regardless. Isn't that marvelous? And terrifying, just a little, but- but truly marvelous at times.
[Was there a point to this call? We just don't know.]
Hello, Glacius! I was thinking of what wonderful work you did on Seel's orchard irrigation project. I wondered if you'd be interested in helping a crew of workers build a pier on each of the islands? It would help those who are using any of the various boats we have available to us now.
Our main problem is not the construction itself but driving the piles. Some of us can do that with sledge-hammers, but there might be a faster way. Can you change your form in some way that would make it possible to pound an upright log halfway into the muck at the bottom of the water?
We should be ready to start construction in a week or two.
If you could help us, it would be greatly appreciated!
Our main problem is not the construction itself but driving the piles. Some of us can do that with sledge-hammers, but there might be a faster way. Can you change your form in some way that would make it possible to pound an upright log halfway into the muck at the bottom of the water?
We should be ready to start construction in a week or two.
If you could help us, it would be greatly appreciated!
Edited 2018-07-03 00:27 (UTC)
When you are done with your rounds, would you meet me in the garden? I have something for you.
[He sounds a bit tired, the sort of out-of-breath that comes with either mild exercise or excitement. With Carlisle, it's not hard to guess which one it is.]
[He sounds a bit tired, the sort of out-of-breath that comes with either mild exercise or excitement. With Carlisle, it's not hard to guess which one it is.]
[That chipper tone immediately piques Glacius' curiosity; it is not one he really hears all that often from his partner, so he must really appreciate whatever it is he has found.] Something for me? Ah, I am sure you did not have to. I am guessing you want it to be a surprise for when I arrive?
[She does not, because she has always been the only other person whose resolve matches his own when it comes to doing something about Carlisle's condition.] Yes. But after meeting up we should head somewhere more private. This is not the sort of thing we can discuss where others could overhear, not until we have a plan.
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