[ hey, dante! first, a message through the oculars. ]
Dante, heads up. I'll be delivering the goods to you as promised. I'll make time to practice with you soon. You're welcome.
[ then, a hummingbird drone will suddenly follow them around - a cute white birb with a suspicious-looking red patch on its chest - with a wrapped-up box in its beak. it will keep relentlessly pecking at them until they receive the present.
[It takes them a moment to realize that the small bird that keeps trying to peck at their shoulder isn't actually a bird and is in fact, some sort of drone--a drone with the package Ishmael promised them, even.]
Just got it. Thanks again! I owe you one.
[Now to go put something on that shoulder... At least their flames kept it away from their head.]
private to @hearse, @redgaze, @rodya -- guess who learned how to make a group chat
it may seem so dante though i don't know what you've experienced. maybe you got every single golden bough and you have yet to tell us. share the good news with the class
Okay... That's... Still not ideal, but I'm glad to hear I misunderstood.
[As long as it's only one person and not half the people currently here.]
So from what I'm gathering, it was an intense situation that was made worse by that kid and something happened that made you angry enough to lash out. Right? At least the first time.
Yeah. That guy was rubbing in salt in our wounds for what happened in Seoul on top of that too. So it wasn't just me who was pissed off.
I don't... know if I regretted doing it, though. Not until that kid learned his lesson, I guess. He seemed like one of those guys who really need to be taught a lesson the hard way.
[...No, this they have to push back on. At least a little.]
Hey, a start's a start. Every path is different, so some steps may be harder to take than others. That's why I have to give credit for the steps that *are* taken.
Always happy to help. Just let me know if you guys ever need anything, okay? Not that I don't intend to check in, but all of us being on different teams makes it a little more difficult than usual.
Dante, you will be getting a visit from a little birdie from me soon! Keep an eye out for your present!
[Another hummingbird drone has been flying around the door to Dante's room for some time after the first message was sent, this one almost looks like it's made of ice. It's carrying a small box containing a particular ring. A second message comes shortly after the first one-]
Oh yeah, I am sending you a little box code. Scan that and download the file, it will upgrade your implant so you can wear digital clothing! It's safe and it will get you set up, I swear~
[Attached is an one-use QR code meant for Dante, in which it will upgrade their implant software for the style upgrade.]
[ and so comes time for the promised fishing trip.
it's cheap to rent a pair of rods and a boat to go out on, captain in tow. though he warns the two that they might be waiting a while time lest they head to the warmer waters of okinawa; it doesn't bother malkuth any, apparently, so maybe fish... isn't what she's after.
nonetheless. they can sit on the far end of the fishing boat, trapping wriggling worms on their hooks. ]
It's harder than it looks, huh?
[ making sure you don't get hooked in the process......... ]
[Now that they're on the boat like this, this whole outing doesn't seem anything at all like a date--or, at least, nothing they imagined a date would be like. It's for the best in the end, now that they've had time to connect the dots and let the facts sink in.
Malkuth: one of L Corp's "Sephirah," head of the Control team who, from the documents Meursault summarized during the team's brief appearance in L Corp's Headquarters, treated her employees like parts of a machine.
She doesn't seem the type, but... they aren't one of her employees either. And her voice does match the one they've heard from their PDA--an "announcer" plugin dredged up from Mephistopheles's engine during one of the four Walpurgis Nights.
To think they'd be out on a "date" with one department head and neighbors with another... The world--this world in particular--works in mysterious ways.]
No kidding. Wish I'd had an older pair of gloves to bring.
[Though given all the nicks and scrapes their current pair has acquired from their clumsy attempts at hooking the worm, they were well on their way to becoming just what they'd needed to begin with.]
I keep thinking I've almost got it, but it moves at the last second.
[They manage to get it hooked well enough, but bungle the cast. Too much force, with their movement stopped too late, leaving the bobber in the water surrounded by a little too much fishing line.
They reel it in slowly, stopping once they see the bobber twitch.]
There. Harder than it looks, but this has got to be the easy part.
[ the waiting. excellent. malkuth turns back to watch her own, taking a seat on the side of the boat. there's an ulterior motive to her asking them out here, where it's just the two of them and nothing but the dark sea... but in time. ]
When I meet someone new, I like to find out what sort of hobbies they're interested in, or food they like to eat -- you can't eat, and if you're from the same City as Ishmael and Rodya, then hobbies are a little beyond you, too. Not many are afforded the luxury to finding something they enjoy. So! It's time to try something new!
Ouch. [About hobbies being beyond them] You're not wrong, though.
[Even if they're not sure why she's pretending she isn't from the same place they are]
Even when trying to keep up to date with what I can around here it still feels like I have a lot of time on my hands. So I might as well see what's out there.
That's a great outlook to have! There's no harm while you're here.
[ none at all... they seem. okay. and more importantly, if they're with vergilius and his... then there's a chance they already know who she is, if not what she's done.
oh, well. it's been a while. ]
So. You're... pretty familiar with Vergilius? He told me he was a guide once, so I'm assuming you're who he's guiding. I was... kinda curious after your heartfelt thanks to him.
[ and ely had mentioned them as rodya's manager, so chances are dante is ishmael's, too. their familiarity with her would agree. ]
I always pay close attention when it involves him. Kind of a side effect of...
[ ... well. it'll kill two birds with one stone, and she sighs sheepishly. ]
We were involved for a while here, and my feelings for him haven't faded -- but it's history, and history it'll remain. I'm one of the few people that could get away with it, but I know he's got a little bit of an image to keep up.
[ and. maybe, still, if she hugged him, she wouldn't want to let go. definitely not wanting to test that. ]
They wish they could take the cloak down for this conversation. It feels like the sort of thing they should be showing their true face for.
It's possible she's lying. They could always contact Vergilius and ask, but... would he tell them even if it was true? It could just as easily end with them being told to mind their own business or an answer that would leave them just as confused and off-balance as they are right now.
But they've been quiet for too long. They sit down and lean forward, elbows resting on their knees.]
they're a good person. if only because vergilius wouldn't outstretch his hand to someone who wasn't, and malkuth trusts in that. the comment and posture makes her laugh though, and she pats dante's back comfortingly. ]
Well, Vergilius is one of the people I've known for closer to a year now! It only makes sense you've missed out on a lot, especially on the more "behind closed doors" things. Don't stress too much about it, but-- know that I'm not an enemy, okay? Whatever you know about me right now.
I've been careful every time someone from the future... that is, someone who's ahead of where I am, comes in. Sorry. I don't mean to distrust you, but I had a bad experience with someone off the bat -- I even hid who I was from Vergilius for a little bit, I just... kind of assume you've been told by one of them.
[ a small shrug, then turning her gaze back to the bobbers. they sure are bobbing. ]
Yesod is another one us -- but he's actually a Sephirah right now. I'm a Librarian at this point, along with Gebura.
[They don't correct her assumption, but they do nod to show they're listening.
The Library and L Corp share the Sephirot... And there's someone named "Gebura" who's one of them too. A name they haven't heard yet, but that they make note of.]
It's fine. It wasn't like I intended on telling you what I knew until you said something anyway.
[And technically they're still keeping their cards close]
And you can't get more "future" than me. Well... until someone else shows up.
But for what it's worth, I don't hold any grudges toward any of you.
... So you're like Rodya. That's good. I'm pretty different than how I was back then, so I'd like it if you got to know me as I am now.
[ a real relief, actually, and she relaxes a little more. ]
Ely let it slip you were Rodya's manager, so I was curious to know of what. An Office? They both say they're Fixers, but those usually have Directors...
[ and thus. the true nature of this fishing trip begins to peel off. she wants to know more about them, yes... but definitely more in one sense than another. ]
Sounds easy enough. Consider yourself the only Malkuth I've ever met.
[An interrogation already? A friendly one, sure, but... They're glad they started going over how to answer some of these questions in their downtime earlier.]
Not an Office, but they do have their Fixer licenses. We work for Limbus Company, taking care of Distortion-related incidents. I'm the executive manager of our department.
[ yeah!!!!! dante's a good person!!!!! great!!!!! ]
Distortion, huh.
[ ... yeah, she vaguely recalls something like that being said now. but a whole company that handles it, huh? that's interesting. ]
Um, thanks for taking care of them. I wish we could do more ourselves, but apparently we're outside of City limits... and it's not like we could leave the Library anyway, I think.
[...They're not sure they should be thanked for this. And so instead of acknowledging it, they move on to a question of their own.]
Speaking of... [Since she's asking about the company] What is the Library? You hear a bunch of stories back home, but it's different hearing about the place from the people who were there.
[ ... it's been ages, now. since she was there. but when she closes her eyes, it's easy to recall. ]
The Library is a tall, towering structure that took root right where L Corp used to be. [ hmm. she'll open her eyes again, tilting her head. ] Have you ever heard of the White Nights and the Dark Days, Dante? That's the name they gave it in contemporary history, if I'm not mistaken.
I'll be as open as I can be, since... well, whatever contract I was under before's pretty null and void now, but I'd still appreciate it if you didn't tell everyone who asked. Confidants only, okay? Vergilius knows pretty much everything too -- pretty much.
[ the whole "involved" thing sort of. kind of. made it necessary. malkuth turns her gaze to the ocean, voice quieting. ]
It goes back farther than L Corp. Back to a group of hope filled idealists, who wanted to change The City -- who were gathered by a woman that spoke the dream they held unspoken in their hearts. She, along with two other researchers, began The Seed of Light Project, which sought to free The City and its inhabitants from the "disease of the mind" that had become so prevalent. To bring about hope and equality, so that no one would ever see harming another as a viable option to rise their own ranks. Everything that makes The City, The City, they wanted to get rid of.
... But things didn't go as planned, [ softer, now, ] and she ended up dying. The Project continued on under her successor, one of the researchers who'd helped found it, but... it was different. More aggressive, in a way. And it ended with the deaths of the team that'd once followed her. One by one, those that'd been a part of that revolutionary research group were taken apart and given new life -- as the Sephirot of L Corp, the heads of the varying Departments necessary to make the Corporation function best, though we didn't have a single memory of our previous lives until we were forced to a breaking point. The goal of L Corp, at that point, was to meet a certain quota day by day, and through it as a well as a certain "script" build up Light within the walls, so that it could germinate and bloom as she'd always dreamed.
Well, it did. And then Angela, who was the assistant manager, betrayed us all and put a stop to the Project, which is why it ended the way it did. There's a lot that happened in between, but that's the short version if you can believe it! She struck a deal with us, we were forced to take it, and sometime after the seventh day the Library rose from where L Corp had once been, readying to send invites out to anyone who might seek fame, knowledge, and revenge... all to recollect the Light that hadn't been properly released. Distortions come from that phenomenon too, along with E.G.Os.
The Library itself is a towering, imposing building with as many Floors as there were Departments. I was one of the first to awaken, so I've been watching it grow since pretty much the beginning. The guests we fought didn't die the way we thought they did then, but it doesn't make what happened any less wrong... nor does it cleanse the blood we waded through to our goal from our hands and hearts. But we, as Librarians, sought a second chance to see The Seed of Light Project come to fruition, for the White Days to last the full seven they should've, and to free the minds of our peers from loneliness, despair, and violence.
[ but
obviously that didn't turn out the way it should've either, from her expression. ]
Some parts leave them feeling a little dizzy, a little distant, but the world always comes back into focus in the end.
Other parts seem... uncomfortably familiar.
And then they think of Hod's words in the Headquarters before they left. Her uncertainty and despair. The way she seemed to be on the verge of a breakdown. An unfamiliar, yet familiar sight, of despair and anguish and war with oneself.
Whether or not it's all a coincidence doesn't matter. Not really. But it's close enough that their mind begins to wander, and the question is asked before they can even think to stop themself.]
That first time, before things were shut off. Was it worth it? If things had gone as planned, would you have had any regrets?
[They stop and shake their head, getting up on their feet to lean against the railing and stare down at the bobber, watching as it's tossed by the waves.]
That's probably too personal a question to ask someone you just met.
[ because it is. but malkuth had long resolved to look her history, their in the face, and come to terms with everything without looking away or making excuses.
... though she still lingers quietly for a moment before she answers, giving it another turn in her thoughts before coming with the same answer she does every time. ]
No, I wouldn't. Not just because that project would've been The City's salvation, not just because the agents we'd employed had been those without anything left to lose... but because we would've died at the end, too. I wouldn't be standing here if it'd gone without a hitch, and I used to curse Angela every day for making us live anyway.
[ but death would've been welcome. would've been its own atonement. why was ayin allowed it, but no one else? she shakes her head. ]
I'd do it all over again. There's things I'd change, with the knowledge I have now, but I'd join Carmen, I'd keep on with the Project, I'd work until my last breath to change that city.
[It's her honest answer, and they can't fault her for feeling the way she does, but so little of it sits well with them.
The name "Carmen" for one. A name they're sure isn't a coincidence. Flashes of white and red and a kind voice like the sun peeking from behind stormclouds, offering a form of succor that nearly served to trap Heathcliff in his moment of despair. Just like the Distortions they'd faced before.
And death: the only guaranteed reward to lay at the end of the long road. The death of the Sephirot, of this "Angela," and of the countless employees of L Corp, buried beneath the ruins of every branch. Yuri, who'd never had a chance to recover her life before it was lost, who'd nearly buried beneath the ruins of her old workplace, whose coworkers beat eachother to death in those ruins in a bid to survive for just a little longer... Had she known this would happened? Had she agreed to die? Or was she swept along Lobotomy Corporation's flow, washing briefly ashore only to drown in the waters like all the rest?
All for a dream. A dream of a kinder, better world, one that they can't fault the people involved with the project for having. How could they, when they know what the City is like? When they have nothing better to offer?
They wish they knew what to say. But staying silent feels wrong too, so...]
That's the best you can hope for sometimes. A lack of regret. Finding some meaning in it all...
That's what history is all about. Accepting what happened, learning from it, and living with it. That includes any regrets you do have, Dante -- one of the biggest mistakes people make is they let their regret consume them instead of coming face to face with what happened and pushing on. Finding what they can do to avoid repeating the same things they came to regret.
[ but it's hard to do, she knows. so easy to talk about. malkuth twirls her hair, then gives the rod a little shake to see if she can attract a fish.
no... ]
Any other questions? I'm serious, I'll answer everything~. And anything I can't, Gebura can. She's nice once you get past her gruff attitude.
She's right, though. You can't live a life in "maybe"s forever.]
It's kind of hard to pick. [Not unless they want to give away something they shouldn't.] ...You said you were following someone named Carmen, right? Tell me about her.
[ being able to write your own history is a rare gift. one she knows exactly two other people can say they're able to do. at the question her gazes softens, warms, and there's nothing but affection in her tone. ]
... A smart, warm woman who would walk the streets, whether the Nest's or the Backstreet's, and speak of the dream she had for the future. A lot of people turned their nose up at her -- I mean, who wouldn't? -- but enough of us were drawn, obviously. Carmen was someone who always looked forward, determined to see things through, and never had a bad word to say about anyone at all. She saw the good in everyone, and could even turn someone's faults into something worth being proud of.
I said I was clumsy, right? She said I was extremely passionate, so much that I'd fumble over my own feet -- like it was just a side effect. She led us all without hesitation, put herself in all kinds of danger just to have a single chance at changing someone's mind, but... she was the kind of person who's light could burn so, so bright, and be snuffed out in the next moment, too.
[ memories of that day flood her mind and she closes her eyes. ]
It was an accident. She didn't want to endanger anyone, but one of the kids we'd picked up in the Outskirts had just as high potential for furthering our research as she did -- and Carmen had wanted to use herself, since she wouldn't ask anything of anyone she wasn't prepared to do on her own, but the boy -- Enoch -- insisted, because he wanted to repay her kindness. He died during the experiment and Lisa, a girl we'd picked up at the same time, hated Carmen beyond belief for it.
Carmen hadn't wanted to hurt anyone. She did everything she could to avoid that. To cause someone pain, to kill them -- they weren't part of her ideal world, which rooted out violence and hurt -- and being the cause of Enoch's death tore her apart. It sucked out the spirit we'd come to love, dulled the shine that led our way, and eventually...
[ ... a wave. ]
Anyway, she was someone worth looking up to. And I did. I wanted to be just like her, and I think I've made steps towards that while keeping true to myself, too. You might've liked her-- well, anyone would. She was easy to get along with!
[They'd hoped Malkuth's description might put things into perspective, but all it does is muddy the waters. It's not impossible for the woman she talks about to become the Voice of the Distortion, after all, even if Dante's not entirely sure how point A got to point B, even with the story of Lobotomy Corporation added to it all.
But as they grasp for examples and comparisons, they land upon La Manchaland, and it starts making some sense. Was it serendipity or fate that one of L Corp's branches would become part of that amusement park one day?]
Sounds like the kind of person you don't see very often back home. I wonder if she would have had an easier time in a place like this.
[Maybe they would have liked her. Maybe they wouldn't. It's hard to tell with memories rose-tinted by death and admiration.]
Of course! Well-- if I can do for someone what she did for all of us, then I'l consider that goal complete. But I'm short on giving people dreams or a future.
[ haha... ha...... ]
But enough about me, Dante. Tell me a little about yourself!
[Not what they were expecting, but a good question. A hand goes to their chin as they consider the question seriously.
There's one obvious answer in Demian, but most of their reasoning behind that is the fact that they're unable to get a read on the guy. Other than that...]
Probably some of the people around here. I still need to out and actually talk to everyone more, but it's not every day that other people stick out more than I do.
If I were to choose from back home... Hm... I guess it depends on what you mean by "interesting."
[For once they aren't trying to skirt the question. People in the City are weird as hell.]
[ weak but fair answers. there are a lot of interesting people here, and it feels like she meets another every week... and a lot of the people back in the city are weird as hell. ]
If it's surprising, then... I'll go with something recent. There was this Fixer we came across from the Cinq. The guy was hard to take seriously--he had a selfie stick on him at all times so he could stream everything he was doing--but he was more skilled than I gave him credit for.
Or if you want to go earlier than that, there was the first Distortion we encountered. He had these raw chickens that could attach themselves to people's heads and make them do what he wanted.
[ Following the Christmas party, Dante will find a small package by the entrance of their door. Inside!!! Is a collection of different hair waxes and gels.
Merry Christmas, my new friend!
As convenient as it is to let the style upgrade do its work (and magic!) with your hair, nothing beats the freedom and fun of being able to style things for yourself. Try it! Try it and let me know how it goes.
[Dante wasn't expecting many gifts at all, and certainly not from anyone who wasn't a Sinner, and so the gift is accepted with an eager chime of delight!]
[only to immediately be followed by awkward disappointment. And some amount of guilt. Maybe they should suck it up and do video and voice replies more often.]
< This is Dante. Just thought I'd send you something to thank you for the gift. I think Thank You cards are the norm, but I'm not sure those are even in use around here anymore, so this will have to do. >
[That crpytid mini baba yaga ice hummingbird is back and it stays stationed to protect it's parcel of a wrapped present until Dante takes notice and it flies away.
Inside the box contains a pair of black leather gloves and a friendship bracelet. It's made of black, yellow, gold, and various reds along with 13 charms: A clock and 12 stars. She had to best guess Dante's hand and wrist sizes, but both items should give comfortable fits.
"Happy holidays, Dante!" - Rodya]
Edited (my html keeps breaking) 2024-12-23 16:40 (UTC)
[Christmas is a bit of a touchy time for him, so....he waits a few days for his return gift on this one.]
[The hummingbird drone delivers really nothing especially outwardly fancy, with a little plainly packaged box, but there is a folding knife on the inside of it, inlaid with metal and reddened wood.]
[Also, a note.]
I won't always be around to protect you, Dante. At least have a little something to defend yourself. Ask your Sinners for some pointers.
I know. It doesn't change the fact that she's not here.
[Hm...]
Is there anything you'd like to tell her? We'll all have to go back eventually, so maybe when that time comes for me I might be able to pass along the message?
[They're not sure that's how it works, but there's nothing that says it isn't possible either. It wouldn't be the first time they remembered something everyone else was supposed to have forgotten.]
[ It's hard to think of something to say that doesn't sound overly sappy or corny. It bothers her more than she wants to admit. Still, she wants to convey to Ishmael that she believes in her, that she had an impact, that she mattered. But nailing so many feelings down into a single phrase Dante will be able to remember when they meet her again is a trial she's embarrassed to struggle with. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
followyourstar) wrote2024-11-04 09:27 am
delivery!
Dante, heads up. I'll be delivering the goods to you as promised. I'll make time to practice with you soon. You're welcome.
[ then, a hummingbird drone will suddenly follow them around - a cute white birb with a suspicious-looking red patch on its chest - with a wrapped-up box in its beak. it will keep relentlessly pecking at them until they receive the present.
it's two handguns with some bullets. have fun. ]
no subject
Just got it. Thanks again! I owe you one.
[Now to go put something on that shoulder... At least their flames kept it away from their head.]
private to @hearse, @redgaze, @rodya -- guess who learned how to make a group chat
Anyone want to tell me why we have a reputation for punching teenagers?
no subject
no subject
no subject
the teenager sounded like they deserved it
no subject
[YOU SAID YOU WERE MANAGING EVERYONE. YOU'RE SUPPOSED TO BE ONE OF THE RESPONSIBLE ONES]
no subject
besides it was just one teenager
no subject
no subject
rodion did it too? news to me
no subject
no subject
either way, talk to ishmael if it bothers you so much. don't get worked up so much over public perception, dante. looks bad on you
no subject
no subject
elysium has his head twisted wrong
no subject
[they're not going to get into the conversation with Godzilla.]
This was the only one that involved you guys at least?
no subject
i wasn't involved in any incidents. if there was any others they were not brought to my attention
no subject
Okay, good. That's a weight off my shoulders.
no subject
[yet.]
no subject
no subject
Just, um, do me a favor and save that "yet" for something big and important?
no subject
[that's all she gotta say for now, but she will still keep an eye on this group chat conversation.]
no subject
[hi she's here.]
no subject
no subject
no subject
no subject
I'm going to kill Elysium for this
[ damn ]
no subject
no subject
no subject
no subject
Frankly, I was expecting to deal with this alone. But everyone backed me up back there. It's a little surreal.
no subject
but that's how it goes in this world. its no longer everyone for themselves
no subject
Maybe you should beat that kid up next time.
[ HELLO ]
no subject
no subject
Well, it doesn't have to be that kid anyway.
no subject
no subject
[ what with his EGO and all. ]
no subject
when was that
[ONE OF THESE DAYS I WILL CANON UPDATE THIS BINCH]
no subject
Long story. Seriously. You're better off asking Dante for details.
no subject
so i guess you won't tell me why i was fighting. did everyone die?
no subject
[ yet another victim to the memory wipe... ]
no subject
dante it is, then.
though really please don't tell me you'll turn into don quixote and wax poetic about my fighting style don't need that in my life
no subject
no subject
no subject
Wait, you don't remember
Am I really the furthest one along?
no subject
private
We just collected the bough located in La Manchaland.
private
[Well. That says a lot.]
so you know about don quixote
private
[Even when they know it all works out in the end.]
private
how did she take it? remembering it all
private
"We," I say, but the Sinners were the ones who did most of the work. I would never have reached her without them.
private
the group holds its power. it seems that even through this inferno the bonds between your sinners holds stronger than most
private
[And maybe they think of everyone that way too.]
private
family....what a bloodstained word that is
private
[...]
I won't ask you what happened, and you don't have to feel the same way either but...
[But what? ...The words die the moment they come to mind, before they can even fully form. They don't even know what they wanted to say there.]
Sorry. I've put you in an awkward position, haven't I?
private
[...]
what? no. not really
what do you want to ask, specifically
private
Most of my questions are kind of difficult to ask without you knowing the context.
[What did you give up for us? What was it about the manor's basement that made you step in? Did you regret helping us in the end?]
You said you left your weapon in the hands of another, once. What was their name?
["Names matter," as Ryoshu once said.]
private
[So he brought up that young man, didn't he? He again, wonders what context may have brought that on. But a question is a question.]
his name was garnet
no subject
[Sorry Ishmael, they've already put together that you were one of the culprits.]
no subject
pissing everyone off and was not helping the situation at the time.
And... at the time, he was kidnapped. You know I wasn't going to be in the right state of mind.
no subject
[As long as it's only one person and not half the people currently here.]
So from what I'm gathering, it was an intense situation that was made worse by that kid and something happened that made you angry enough to lash out. Right? At least the first time.
no subject
I don't... know if I regretted doing it, though. Not until that kid learned his lesson, I guess. He seemed like one of those guys who really need to be taught a lesson the hard way.
no subject
That explains why all three of you were saying he deserved it, too.
All right, I'll give it a pass. It's not often I see you all in agreement that quick, and I mostly wanted to figure out what was going on anyway.
no subject
[ rip sinclair (sinclair is not a kid anymore) ]
no subject
[RIP Sinclair being called a kid in his 20s.]
no subject
no subject
no subject
[ looks at rodya ]
But it's a start, I guess.
no subject
Hey, a start's a start. Every path is different, so some steps may be harder to take than others. That's why I have to give credit for the steps that *are* taken.
no subject
[ sighs. ]
I'm just glad you're here now to oversee us, Manager.
no subject
no subject
delivery!
[Another hummingbird drone has been flying around the door to Dante's room for some time after the first message was sent, this one almost looks like it's made of ice. It's carrying a small box containing a particular ring. A second message comes shortly after the first one-]
Oh yeah, I am sending you a little box code. Scan that and download the file, it will upgrade your implant so you can wear digital clothing! It's safe and it will get you set up, I swear~
[Attached is an one-use QR code meant for Dante, in which it will upgrade their implant software for the style upgrade.]
no subject
[A year really does make all the difference, doesn't it?
Now they just... need to figure out how all this works.]
12/7 backdate,
it's cheap to rent a pair of rods and a boat to go out on, captain in tow. though he warns the two that they might be waiting a while time lest they head to the warmer waters of okinawa; it doesn't bother malkuth any, apparently, so maybe fish... isn't what she's after.
nonetheless. they can sit on the far end of the fishing boat, trapping wriggling worms on their hooks. ]
It's harder than it looks, huh?
[ making sure you don't get hooked in the process......... ]
no subject
Malkuth: one of L Corp's "Sephirah," head of the Control team who, from the documents Meursault summarized during the team's brief appearance in L Corp's Headquarters, treated her employees like parts of a machine.
She doesn't seem the type, but... they aren't one of her employees either. And her voice does match the one they've heard from their PDA--an "announcer" plugin dredged up from Mephistopheles's engine during one of the four Walpurgis Nights.
To think they'd be out on a "date" with one department head and neighbors with another... The world--this world in particular--works in mysterious ways.]
No kidding. Wish I'd had an older pair of gloves to bring.
[Though given all the nicks and scrapes their current pair has acquired from their clumsy attempts at hooking the worm, they were well on their way to becoming just what they'd needed to begin with.]
I keep thinking I've almost got it, but it moves at the last second.
no subject
[ ... after a few more attempts... she's got one. poorly. it's a little squished and definitely not alive. ]
Well, maybe the fish won't be picky. Food's food, right? In theory?
[ how... did he do it? forearm back, then toss. oh. okay. easy. looking over at theirs to see how it goes. ]
no subject
[They manage to get it hooked well enough, but bungle the cast. Too much force, with their movement stopped too late, leaving the bobber in the water surrounded by a little too much fishing line.
They reel it in slowly, stopping once they see the bobber twitch.]
There. Harder than it looks, but this has got to be the easy part.
[The waiting.]
So... Out of curiosity, why fishing?
no subject
When I meet someone new, I like to find out what sort of hobbies they're interested in, or food they like to eat -- you can't eat, and if you're from the same City as Ishmael and Rodya, then hobbies are a little beyond you, too. Not many are afforded the luxury to finding something they enjoy. So! It's time to try something new!
no subject
[Even if they're not sure why she's pretending she isn't from the same place they are]
Even when trying to keep up to date with what I can around here it still feels like I have a lot of time on my hands. So I might as well see what's out there.
no subject
[ none at all... they seem. okay. and more importantly, if they're with vergilius and his... then there's a chance they already know who she is, if not what she's done.
oh, well. it's been a while. ]
So. You're... pretty familiar with Vergilius? He told me he was a guide once, so I'm assuming you're who he's guiding. I was... kinda curious after your heartfelt thanks to him.
[ and ely had mentioned them as rodya's manager, so chances are dante is ishmael's, too. their familiarity with her would agree. ]
no subject
You heard that, huh? I didn't think anyone but Vergilius and the guy who gave me the dare would be listening.
[Honestly, they should have known better.]
I meant what I said, though.
[And they stand by it.]
You know him pretty well too though, don't you? Enough to know whether or not he likes to be hugged.
no subject
[ ... well. it'll kill two birds with one stone, and she sighs sheepishly. ]
We were involved for a while here, and my feelings for him haven't faded -- but it's history, and history it'll remain. I'm one of the few people that could get away with it, but I know he's got a little bit of an image to keep up.
[ and. maybe, still, if she hugged him, she wouldn't want to let go. definitely not wanting to test that. ]
no subject
You and he were...
[That changes things. It changes them a lot.
They wish they could take the cloak down for this conversation. It feels like the sort of thing they should be showing their true face for.
It's possible she's lying. They could always contact Vergilius and ask, but... would he tell them even if it was true? It could just as easily end with them being told to mind their own business or an answer that would leave them just as confused and off-balance as they are right now.
But they've been quiet for too long. They sit down and lean forward, elbows resting on their knees.]
I've really, really missed out on a lot here.
no subject
they're a good person. if only because vergilius wouldn't outstretch his hand to someone who wasn't, and malkuth trusts in that. the comment and posture makes her laugh though, and she pats dante's back comfortingly. ]
Well, Vergilius is one of the people I've known for closer to a year now! It only makes sense you've missed out on a lot, especially on the more "behind closed doors" things. Don't stress too much about it, but-- know that I'm not an enemy, okay? Whatever you know about me right now.
no subject
[An easy admission, especially when it means everyone's had double your life experience.
Anyway, if she's ripping the bandaid off now, they might as well do the same.]
Is that why you made it sound as if you're from a different City at first? Because you thought I'd see you as an enemy?
no subject
[ a small shrug, then turning her gaze back to the bobbers. they sure are bobbing. ]
Yesod is another one us -- but he's actually a Sephirah right now. I'm a Librarian at this point, along with Gebura.
no subject
The Library and L Corp share the Sephirot... And there's someone named "Gebura" who's one of them too. A name they haven't heard yet, but that they make note of.]
It's fine. It wasn't like I intended on telling you what I knew until you said something anyway.
[And technically they're still keeping their cards close]
And you can't get more "future" than me. Well... until someone else shows up.
But for what it's worth, I don't hold any grudges toward any of you.
no subject
[ a real relief, actually, and she relaxes a little more. ]
Ely let it slip you were Rodya's manager, so I was curious to know of what. An Office? They both say they're Fixers, but those usually have Directors...
[ and thus. the true nature of this fishing trip begins to peel off. she wants to know more about them, yes... but definitely more in one sense than another. ]
no subject
[An interrogation already? A friendly one, sure, but... They're glad they started going over how to answer some of these questions in their downtime earlier.]
Not an Office, but they do have their Fixer licenses. We work for Limbus Company, taking care of Distortion-related incidents. I'm the executive manager of our department.
no subject
Distortion, huh.
[ ... yeah, she vaguely recalls something like that being said now. but a whole company that handles it, huh? that's interesting. ]
Um, thanks for taking care of them. I wish we could do more ourselves, but apparently we're outside of City limits... and it's not like we could leave the Library anyway, I think.
no subject
Speaking of... [Since she's asking about the company] What is the Library? You hear a bunch of stories back home, but it's different hearing about the place from the people who were there.
no subject
[ ... it's been ages, now. since she was there. but when she closes her eyes, it's easy to recall. ]
The Library is a tall, towering structure that took root right where L Corp used to be. [ hmm. she'll open her eyes again, tilting her head. ] Have you ever heard of the White Nights and the Dark Days, Dante? That's the name they gave it in contemporary history, if I'm not mistaken.
no subject
The light that shot up from L Corp some time back.
[They don't know too much about it, but that much they're pretty sure is true.]
sorry dante you asked the most talkative nestborn. lobco spoilers
[ casually. ]
I'll be as open as I can be, since... well, whatever contract I was under before's pretty null and void now, but I'd still appreciate it if you didn't tell everyone who asked. Confidants only, okay? Vergilius knows pretty much everything too -- pretty much.
[ the whole "involved" thing sort of. kind of. made it necessary. malkuth turns her gaze to the ocean, voice quieting. ]
It goes back farther than L Corp. Back to a group of hope filled idealists, who wanted to change The City -- who were gathered by a woman that spoke the dream they held unspoken in their hearts. She, along with two other researchers, began The Seed of Light Project, which sought to free The City and its inhabitants from the "disease of the mind" that had become so prevalent. To bring about hope and equality, so that no one would ever see harming another as a viable option to rise their own ranks. Everything that makes The City, The City, they wanted to get rid of.
... But things didn't go as planned, [ softer, now, ] and she ended up dying. The Project continued on under her successor, one of the researchers who'd helped found it, but... it was different. More aggressive, in a way. And it ended with the deaths of the team that'd once followed her. One by one, those that'd been a part of that revolutionary research group were taken apart and given new life -- as the Sephirot of L Corp, the heads of the varying Departments necessary to make the Corporation function best, though we didn't have a single memory of our previous lives until we were forced to a breaking point. The goal of L Corp, at that point, was to meet a certain quota day by day, and through it as a well as a certain "script" build up Light within the walls, so that it could germinate and bloom as she'd always dreamed.
Well, it did. And then Angela, who was the assistant manager, betrayed us all and put a stop to the Project, which is why it ended the way it did. There's a lot that happened in between, but that's the short version if you can believe it! She struck a deal with us, we were forced to take it, and sometime after the seventh day the Library rose from where L Corp had once been, readying to send invites out to anyone who might seek fame, knowledge, and revenge... all to recollect the Light that hadn't been properly released. Distortions come from that phenomenon too, along with E.G.Os.
The Library itself is a towering, imposing building with as many Floors as there were Departments. I was one of the first to awaken, so I've been watching it grow since pretty much the beginning. The guests we fought didn't die the way we thought they did then, but it doesn't make what happened any less wrong... nor does it cleanse the blood we waded through to our goal from our hands and hearts. But we, as Librarians, sought a second chance to see The Seed of Light Project come to fruition, for the White Days to last the full seven they should've, and to free the minds of our peers from loneliness, despair, and violence.
[ but
obviously that didn't turn out the way it should've either, from her expression. ]
no subject
A lot.
Some parts leave them feeling a little dizzy, a little distant, but the world always comes back into focus in the end.
Other parts seem... uncomfortably familiar.
And then they think of Hod's words in the Headquarters before they left. Her uncertainty and despair. The way she seemed to be on the verge of a breakdown. An unfamiliar, yet familiar sight, of despair and anguish and war with oneself.
Whether or not it's all a coincidence doesn't matter. Not really. But it's close enough that their mind begins to wander, and the question is asked before they can even think to stop themself.]
That first time, before things were shut off. Was it worth it? If things had gone as planned, would you have had any regrets?
[They stop and shake their head, getting up on their feet to lean against the railing and stare down at the bobber, watching as it's tossed by the waves.]
That's probably too personal a question to ask someone you just met.
no subject
[ because it is. but malkuth had long resolved to look her history, their in the face, and come to terms with everything without looking away or making excuses.
... though she still lingers quietly for a moment before she answers, giving it another turn in her thoughts before coming with the same answer she does every time. ]
No, I wouldn't. Not just because that project would've been The City's salvation, not just because the agents we'd employed had been those without anything left to lose... but because we would've died at the end, too. I wouldn't be standing here if it'd gone without a hitch, and I used to curse Angela every day for making us live anyway.
[ but death would've been welcome. would've been its own atonement. why was ayin allowed it, but no one else? she shakes her head. ]
I'd do it all over again. There's things I'd change, with the knowledge I have now, but I'd join Carmen, I'd keep on with the Project, I'd work until my last breath to change that city.
and then the Dante Big Thoughts...
The name "Carmen" for one. A name they're sure isn't a coincidence. Flashes of white and red and a kind voice like the sun peeking from behind stormclouds, offering a form of succor that nearly served to trap Heathcliff in his moment of despair. Just like the Distortions they'd faced before.
And death: the only guaranteed reward to lay at the end of the long road. The death of the Sephirot, of this "Angela," and of the countless employees of L Corp, buried beneath the ruins of every branch. Yuri, who'd never had a chance to recover her life before it was lost, who'd nearly buried beneath the ruins of her old workplace, whose coworkers beat eachother to death in those ruins in a bid to survive for just a little longer... Had she known this would happened? Had she agreed to die? Or was she swept along Lobotomy Corporation's flow, washing briefly ashore only to drown in the waters like all the rest?
All for a dream. A dream of a kinder, better world, one that they can't fault the people involved with the project for having. How could they, when they know what the City is like? When they have nothing better to offer?
They wish they knew what to say. But staying silent feels wrong too, so...]
That's the best you can hope for sometimes. A lack of regret. Finding some meaning in it all...
ough... i love them
[ but it's hard to do, she knows. so easy to talk about. malkuth twirls her hair, then gives the rod a little shake to see if she can attract a fish.
no... ]
Any other questions? I'm serious, I'll answer everything~. And anything I can't, Gebura can. She's nice once you get past her gruff attitude.
no subject
She's right, though. You can't live a life in "maybe"s forever.]
It's kind of hard to pick. [Not unless they want to give away something they shouldn't.] ...You said you were following someone named Carmen, right? Tell me about her.
no subject
... A smart, warm woman who would walk the streets, whether the Nest's or the Backstreet's, and speak of the dream she had for the future. A lot of people turned their nose up at her -- I mean, who wouldn't? -- but enough of us were drawn, obviously. Carmen was someone who always looked forward, determined to see things through, and never had a bad word to say about anyone at all. She saw the good in everyone, and could even turn someone's faults into something worth being proud of.
I said I was clumsy, right? She said I was extremely passionate, so much that I'd fumble over my own feet -- like it was just a side effect. She led us all without hesitation, put herself in all kinds of danger just to have a single chance at changing someone's mind, but... she was the kind of person who's light could burn so, so bright, and be snuffed out in the next moment, too.
[ memories of that day flood her mind and she closes her eyes. ]
It was an accident. She didn't want to endanger anyone, but one of the kids we'd picked up in the Outskirts had just as high potential for furthering our research as she did -- and Carmen had wanted to use herself, since she wouldn't ask anything of anyone she wasn't prepared to do on her own, but the boy -- Enoch -- insisted, because he wanted to repay her kindness. He died during the experiment and Lisa, a girl we'd picked up at the same time, hated Carmen beyond belief for it.
Carmen hadn't wanted to hurt anyone. She did everything she could to avoid that. To cause someone pain, to kill them -- they weren't part of her ideal world, which rooted out violence and hurt -- and being the cause of Enoch's death tore her apart. It sucked out the spirit we'd come to love, dulled the shine that led our way, and eventually...
[ ... a wave. ]
Anyway, she was someone worth looking up to. And I did. I wanted to be just like her, and I think I've made steps towards that while keeping true to myself, too. You might've liked her-- well, anyone would. She was easy to get along with!
no subject
But as they grasp for examples and comparisons, they land upon La Manchaland, and it starts making some sense. Was it serendipity or fate that one of L Corp's branches would become part of that amusement park one day?]
Sounds like the kind of person you don't see very often back home. I wonder if she would have had an easier time in a place like this.
[Maybe they would have liked her. Maybe they wouldn't. It's hard to tell with memories rose-tinted by death and admiration.]
Do you still want to be like her now?
no subject
[ haha... ha...... ]
But enough about me, Dante. Tell me a little about yourself!
no subject
[They should have seen this coming. The amount of information she gave compared to them is hardly equal.]
What kinds of things would you like to know?
no subject
[ start easy. it says a lot, they don't know how much. ]
no subject
There's one obvious answer in Demian, but most of their reasoning behind that is the fact that they're unable to get a read on the guy. Other than that...]
Probably some of the people around here. I still need to out and actually talk to everyone more, but it's not every day that other people stick out more than I do.
If I were to choose from back home... Hm... I guess it depends on what you mean by "interesting."
[For once they aren't trying to skirt the question. People in the City are weird as hell.]
no subject
Let's go with... "surprising" for today.
no subject
Or if you want to go earlier than that, there was the first Distortion we encountered. He had these raw chickens that could attach themselves to people's heads and make them do what he wanted.
no subject
Sorry, roll that back. Selfie stick? Streaming? He was streaming-- his work? As a Fixer?
no subject
🎄🎁 DELIVERY, forward-dated to the 25th.
Merry Christmas, my new friend!
As convenient as it is to let the style upgrade do its work (and magic!) with your hair, nothing beats the freedom and fun of being able to style things for yourself. Try it! Try it and let me know how it goes.
Your new? Old? Now official! Stylist,
Elysium! ]
1/2
2/2 -- @durante; voice
< This is Dante. Just thought I'd send you something to thank you for the gift. I think Thank You cards are the norm, but I'm not sure those are even in use around here anymore, so this will have to do. >
🎁 delivery, 12/25
Happy Holidays, Dante. Glad you're here to celebrate with us this year. This scarf won't bite, promise.
- Ishmael ]
🎁! 12/25
mini baba yagaice hummingbird is back and it stays stationed to protect it's parcel of a wrapped present until Dante takes notice and it flies away.Inside the box contains a pair of black leather gloves and a friendship bracelet. It's made of black, yellow, gold, and various reds along with 13 charms: A clock and 12 stars. She had to best guess Dante's hand and wrist sizes, but both items should give comfortable fits.
"Happy holidays, Dante!" - Rodya]
🎁 12/28
[The hummingbird drone delivers really nothing especially outwardly fancy, with a little plainly packaged box, but there is a folding knife on the inside of it, inlaid with metal and reddened wood.]
[Also, a note.]
I won't always be around to protect you, Dante. At least have a little something to defend yourself. Ask your Sinners for some pointers.
Thanks for the gift.
-Vergilius
@kijyo
have you seen her?
no subject
Oh.]
No, I haven't. I... think she might have gone back home.
I'm sorry.
no subject
She holds the ribbon Ishmael gave her in her hands, gripping tighter. ]
you don't need to apologize
not your fault
no subject
I don't know if it makes it any better, but she'll be fine there. I can promise you that.
no subject
heh
she was always saying it sucked
no subject
[Yeah, no. There's no point hiding it.]
Okay, she's not wrong. At all. Things are very different back home.
But we're still going, and we don't plan on giving up anytime soon.
no subject
I know she's tough
if anyone can make it it's her
still
[ Knowing she won't be able to speak to her again just...hurts. ]
no subject
[Hm...]
Is there anything you'd like to tell her? We'll all have to go back eventually, so maybe when that time comes for me I might be able to pass along the message?
[They're not sure that's how it works, but there's nothing that says it isn't possible either. It wouldn't be the first time they remembered something everyone else was supposed to have forgotten.]
no subject
tell her I'm happier for having met her
no subject
Put it somewhere I know I won't forget.
So... don't worry, okay? It'll reach her.
no subject
I'm glad she got to see you again before she left
no subject
no subject
she'd probably tell us off for getting sappy about it
but I was happy to
she taught me a lot
no subject
Hey.
If you need anything, let me know. Doesn't have to be right now.
no subject
but same to you okay?
@greatvalue, a while after they notice ishmael is gone
no subject
no subject
It's just you and Vergilius now though isn't it/
no subject
...I'll let him know soon.
no subject
[ he knows gebura, malkuth, and yesod all know each other..... but he doesn't know they're from the city. he hasn't connected the dots yet ]
SorrY. Shouldn't have asked. Just wanted to make sure you were ok.a.y
no subject
Hunter, you didn't do anything wrong. I'm a little down, but really, it's fine. Just one of those things I gotta get used to around here.
But, uh. I appreciate it.
no subject
[ he didn't realize yesod was from the city.... he files this info away for later ]
It's fine. Just ask if you need anything .