Zhautas (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
zhautasmods) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
sexyspace2018-11-25 10:05 am
zhautasmods) wrote in sexyspace2018-11-25 10:05 am
Entry tags:
TEST DRIVE MEME #7
Awakening
The multiverse is sick. It’s dying. And it’s up to you to save it. Or, at least, that’s what the Zenith Corporation had told you when they announced their search for a cure across the multiverse. They hand-picked individuals to be "volunteers" for the next stage of experimentation. Maybe they made it sound dire, maybe you already had your mind set on helping, or maybe the exact specifications of how you could help were vague. Considering the alternative was wasting away on your home planet with no promise of when this cure might actually come to fruition, it ultimately wasn’t much of a choice either way.
Everything comes to life the more awake that you start to feel. "Good morning, volunteer," sounds a synthetic, feminine voice in your ear. That must be one of the fancy features they advertised about the chip that was injected just beneath your skin. A projected HUD above your torso displays and scrolls through several readings about the state of your being. "A scan of your vital signs show that everything is functioning as normal." There’s a small pause. "Wait-" The spike of alarm that should follow that single, distressed-sounding word is accompanied by a light chime. "Emotional responses are still accurate, too. Thank you for your cooperation!" Without any further explanation or allowing for protest, she continues on. "I hope you enjoyed your nap! We’ll be descending to planet #05031941 - common name designated as Zhautas - in approximately three hours. There will be a brief orientation for all volunteers shortly after landing. Due to potential muscular atrophy upon awakening from stasis, I suggest hitting the osbtacle course for a bit of nonconventional exercise!"
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to ask. My name is R.O.S.I.E. and on behalf of all of us at the Zenith Corporation, we’re happy to have you aboard.
Obstacles Ahead
- While the staff are helpful, many of them seem to be on high alert. There's an unmistakable tension in the air. If anyone tries to ask, they reassure volunteers that everything is fine. Still, the moment that anything goes wrong or they can't exactly answer a question it's clear that they grow even more troubled. Just what's going on around here?
They won't say. Maybe one or two might eventually let it slip that the Zenith Corporation isn't especially happy lately with a wanted criminal still at large on Zhautas that seems to be terrorizing the volunteer program. Her name is Hoshiko and she's a pirate that seems to be somehow escaping every attempt Zenith has made to apprehend her. The only picture they have of her is one where she appears to have posed for the camera, flashing as much cleavage as possible and winking. She doesn't look very threatening, really, but they assure volunteers that they need to be on the lookout for this woman once they get to Zhautas. Still, try not to worry about it too much. Oh, and, don't tell their boss that they let you know this. They technically weren't supposed to. - As you draw closer to the obstacle course, some intense music begins to play through the halls. It's supposed to get volunteers pumped for the challenge they're about to face! They can thank the Nevrione Guard for installing the course. They wanted to give people visiting a taste of just a little of what they do to train to join The Guard's ranks.
"Are you ready, volunteers?" asks R.O.S.I.E. as a group gathers at a pair of closed doors. An LED countdown displays above the doors, numbers in blue that read 5...4...3...2...1... Go! A loud chime ding, ding, dings as the screen is replaced with !!! only that's flashing rapidly. The doors swish open quickly, revealing a large park-sized obstacle course to explore. It has artificial sunlight, plenty of trees and nature, and even mossy ponds beneath some of the obstacles that you could very well fall into if you're not careful.
Don't worry, they'll have a change of clothes for you in the case of this happening. It just might take a little bit to deliver them so hope you don't mind hanging out in your underthings for a little bit. You likely won't be the only one, if it helps the shame of failure any.
If the main obstacles prove to be a little too difficult, not to worry! There are easy sections. Originally, they were designed for the children of Nevrione who wanted to feel like they had a chance at joining The Guard from a young age. But they work just as well for volunteers fresh out of stasis with potentially noodly feeling legs! Step across wooden cogs placed closer together or walk up a flight of stairs instead of trying to get tangled up in a net on the way up. There's something to do for just about anyone!
There's even a bench you can sit on, right over there, in case you simply want to watch fellow volunteers eat dirt or get drenched for your amusement. See! Something for everyone.
- After all that exertion, it's important to remember that you were asleep for a while and likely need to help your muscles recuperate proprerly. A cooldown workout is the best option in case you went just a little too hard without meaning to. Stretch those muscles still, just- Gently. For that reason, they have a yoga class that's available anytime. One of the locals from Nevrione has offered to host these sessions, a lovely ison lady who is, uh. Wow. She's impressively bendy.
While you don't have to follow the same moves she's doing exactly (you didn't even know someone could twist their body into that shape!), she does encourage volunteers to try their best. It's likely you're more pliable than even you think! If not, it is something you can work up to. If that lady can fold both of her pairs of legs, then your one pair shouldn't be that difficult to work with!
She is very motivating and does her best to accommodate volunteers at every turn. Just don't get too twisted up now. At some point, she segways into movements where you will need a partner to help you with some of them. It's friend yoga and can be a lot of fun. While some of the poses are more difficult, it's meant to foster trust with the other person you're working with! Since everyone is so new, it seems like a good idea to try and get started with the right foot... by having it be held up by someone else, apparently!
Orientation
Shortly after landing, an announcement is made to everyone aboard the ship. It’s time to find your way to the amphitheater for orientation. If anyone gripes, they are reminded that it has mandatory safety information that the Zenith Corporation is legally required to cover. In fact, there's even a quiz at the end to make sure you understand all the technical ins and outs! The Zenith Corporation only has your best interests at heart. They also can’t afford another lawsuit or PR nightmare but who can, really? It’s only a half an hour long and R.O.S.I.E. reassures everyone that it will go by faster than they think.
- Are you way too cool for school? If you try to play hooky, the crew members of the spaceship are already on guard. You're not the first one to try this and they doubt you'll be the last. Try as you might to super sleuth your way around, there’ll be someone at apparently every single twist and turn.
It’s also very likely that in scrambling to find a place to hide, you’ll run into someone else breaking the rules! Perhaps great minds think alike and you decide to try to defy the system together. Or maybe they’re totally just getting in your way and you decide instead to throw them to the wolves to give yourself a better chance at escaping the certain boredom that is an informational seminar. The choice is yours, volunteer! - Whether you come to the orientation willingly or are dragged in by one of the staff, you’ll quickly realize just how bad R.O.S.I.E. lied. A half an hour feels almost like ten hours instead. The last time you checked your watch, it was somehow later than when you check it now. Is time going backward? It sure seems like it the longer you listen to the monotone voice read over colored flavor text clearly meant to engage but missing its mark stupendously. Even the motivation of a quiz at the end that needs to be passed in order to disembark seems to do little to nothing for your dwindling attention span.
Finally, there’s a break in the bureaucratic monotony. The faceless, droning voice announces an additional seminar from R.O.S.I.E.! Do you all remember that voice speaking to you when you first awoke? If so, this digitally projected blond's soothing tone should sound familiar. She smiles wide for the "camera," clearly excited to be interacting with potential volunteers in a new way. The topic of today will be safe, sane, and consensual. Considering the location that volunteers will be arriving at has a heavy emphasis on BDSM, it seems very apt!
When the video starts, she's all professionalism. Okay, so- Mostly professionalism. Compared to most of the other lecturers of the past, this woman manages to touch on the core concepts of the topic while still adding appropriate humor to keep things interesting. Of course, her topic is a very serious one and she doesn't take it lightly despite trying to lighten things up for the code. "Make sure," she emphasizes, "that you always have an enthusiastic 'yes' from your partner and that both your boundaries are clearly set! Communication is key in these types of situations. So long as you talk and are honest, well- Everything should be a kinky good time!"
"Thank you, R.O.S.I.E.," the voice says, charmed themselves even by the entertaining seminar. "Wasn't that fun! Volunteers, what do you think about the topic of safe, sane, and consensual? Discuss amongst yourselves!" - Hopefully, you didn't forget about the quiz! The staff certainly didn't. After the pre-recorded seminar is run, papers are handed out. A quiet shuffle carries through the room as people pass them to and fro down the aisles. It all seems rather arbitrary and tedious but remember! You have to pass in order to disembark.
It isn't too hard. Or maybe it is. Perhaps it's just the pressure that you only have fifteen minutes to complete it. What was the professor's first name again? How many research facilities are there on the planet? Staff are scrutinizing your every move now, it feels like. Do you take the risk and try to whisper for help to the person next to you? Pass notes? Do what you must to succeed! ...Or you can just shamefully take the quiz again and again and again until they're legally obligated to let you off board.
Welcome to Zhautas
- Volunteers will be dropped off at the outskirts of the city of Heawood. The market is bustling, the streets are full, and most homes have their doors and windows open to peer out at passerbys. For the most part, everything seems fairly busy throughout. Volunteers will be directed by staff to the Nevrione Inn. It has a dining hall and bar, fireplaces to cozy up to, and plenty of places to tuck away if you want to gossip about what's going on with Zenith staff. Though perhaps you just want a moment or two to yourself instead.
Once you're done getting settled in, why not stop and explore a little bit? The locals certainly don't seem to mind the company.
- Suddenly, R.O.S.I.E. turns on one of her newest features to help volunteers blend in a little better. Someone next to you might sprout cat or dog ears. Don’t mind if you get knocked in the face suddenly by someone’s new butterfly wings. It happens! It’s also possible they take on the long whiskers of a Coeurl or plumage of a Chocobo or other animals entirely unfamiliar to some. Either way, everyone just got a lot more animal-like. While it doesn’t look exactly like the natives, it does bring a smile to the faces of the locals and they seem a bit more generally receptive to the people waltzing into their homeland.
This feature is extremely customizable. Volunteers can toggle it off if they don’t want it at all. Additionally, they can have as many or as few animal features as they’d like. They can also change what creature they’d like to take after with just a thought! The only limitation seems to be that they can only appear as one animal at a time.
While all the add-ons seem to be mostly for aesthetic, it is a lot of fun to play around with! 
In Nevrione the current seasons is clearly Autumn. There’s orange, red, and yellows everywhere in varying shades and varieties. There are a lot more leaves missing from the trees than before as the season starts coming to a close. Everything starts to look a little more sparse as Winter creeps ever closer and the temperature grows increasingly colder.
If you head out and about, there's a marketplace to peruse and locals to mingle with. Volunteers shouldn't want for things to occupy their time here. They've landed just after the Harvest Festival and it seems to have been a fun time indeed. Some might ask for assistance in taking down decorations or cleaning up a bit from all the festivities. They've got to start gearing up for Winter now and figuring out their stores for the coming cold. You'll be compensated with a couple of bronze seedlings for your time, of course, and might even get some fun festival stories like-
Oh, uh. This story is really explicit. Did they say there was an orgy? And you missed it? Well, you might be glad that you did... Of course, just because there was an orgy doesn't mean that all the fun has been had. The natural growth enhanced by the Selva are still growing and especially at night, milky wafts of pollen might tickle your nose and cause a stirring in your nethers you don't quite expect. Maybe you're lucky and immune to these plant's effects but if not, don't worry! You'll likely find someone else feeling just as friendly as you are before long. Or maybe a kind soul will help alleviate this (sexually) tense situation you've found yourself in.
Network/Bangr
During all the goings-on, R.O.S.I.E. will prompt you to set up your presence on the network. Pick a username, a profile picture, and commence to shitposting immediately if you so desire! Additionally, if you want to get a headstart on your contribution to the volunteer program, why not set up your Bangr? R.O.S.I.E. even has an icebreaker question ready for you! They change every month. This month's question is:
(*Despite what you might actually put, know that R.O.S.I.E. is a little glitchy. What you wrote might not actually be what's displayed! I.E., you can totally use this as a misfire type deal in case your character wouldn't answer this question.)
bangr
Professor Quintalian | 35
I have already. Several times, in fact. Exhibitionism is such a fun kink, I think, and really allows for such a unique feeling of freedom.
| ✓ | ✕ |
| YES |
NO |
PLEASE NOTE: This BANGR code is the COMMENT-FRIENDLY version, there is a separate code for entries! If you're testing this code before posting it here please do so in a comment to an entry for accuracy!
Extra Notes
- Remember that all prompts are OTA! It can now be assumed that after the ship lands, current volunteers in-game were able to board and hang-out for a little bit before it leaves again! That means established volunteers can welcome new members, show them around parts of the ship they're familiar with, and explore new areas that weren't open during their own arrival! Only new volunteers will be taking the orientation quiz, but established volunteers are free to peek inside the room or try to help with the quiz!
- A reminder that the TDM can be considered game canon and timeline-wise the TDM takes place on the 8th when the arrival ship arrives, as shown on the calendar.
- Going into DECEMBER, we are continuing with an APPLICATION CAP of (40).
no subject
I am Era Ra de- [ It's habit by now, to use her married name. A way to hold on to one of the few remaining pieces of her husband. She nearly bites her tongue bloody when she cuts herself off. ] I'm Era. You may call me that, if you like.
[ But she knows this isn't the answer Estinien is seeking. Era is her name, but not who she is. Era is irrelevant here. ]
...I'm Warrior of Light of my world. A world likely identical to yours, save for my existence.
no subject
If anything, merely curious of such a reaction. His curiosity is graciously sated in no time as she continues to explain who she is, and why she's chosen to speak with him. The Warrior of Light, supposedly. Estinien's face twists slightly into something among the realms of incredulous, because he would remember the Warrior of Light should they approach him, and she is not—
The twist of Estinien's expression falls, and there's something closer to puzzlement as he tries to recall the features of the Warrior of Light only to be met with a gap in his memory. Naught more than a blinding and burning silhouette of light fills what he should be recalling as his friend. His gut twists with unease at this, and he's left wondering what's true, and what might be part of the machinations of Zenith.]
You mean to tell me that beyond my star, that there are varying versions of it? That you are the Warrior of Light of one, and thus you know me, but not I you simply because another Warrior of Light has filled such a role?
[He doesn't sound as skeptical as the words might otherwise imply. He seems to be trying to process, more than anything. This entire thing has been a bit Too Much, even for him. However, he's...trying, it's not easy, especially when he's come to just accept that there are so many multiple worlds out there, but that there might be multiples of him, or others—his whole world...
He is far from a simple man, but he's also not been one to contemplate such possible realities either.]
no subject
[ Her fingers reach for the ring that dangles from her throat, mostly hidden under a scarf, but still always, always there. Era runs her index finger over the gemstones and engravings, letting the familiar, comforting texture relax her. Her tail dangles behind her and she moves it to curl over her thigh instead. ]
We were all of us separated and I awoke in yet another world on my own. There was another Warrior of Light there - a Lalafell woman who favoured crafting and healing. When Thancred arrived he knew me, not her.
Here I was reunited with my own dear Aymeric. Then... And then Haurchefant arrived. Whole and hale. [ And if this Estinien did indeed live through the events of the Vault he would likely understand the impact that would have had. ] He pretended he recognized me. Eventually I learned his Warrior of Light was a Raen woman who favoured arcanima and was unable to speak.
Then Zenith took them both. I sent my Carbuncle after Aymeric's scent and it returned... [ There is a small sound of distress that bubbles up as she recalls that day, but she is quick to smother it out and continue on. ] When Emmy returned it was horrified. Terrified. Whatever it saw and learned traumatized it. My magic was traumatized.
[ With her other hand she reaches into a pocket and pulls out her Soul of the Dragoon. Era hesitates when she places it on the counter between them, but there are few people she trusts more than Estinien. ]
The Aymeric that spent a year with me in Xistentia is dead, Estinien. [ Or worse, but she has already spoken so much. Era isn't sure how much she should share. She doesn't want him to be left in the dark, but also she has no confirmation. Just suspicions. ] Whatever Zenith told you to ensure you volunteered... The disease exists - that much is true - but I do not believe that we are truly here to help find a cure. I do not believe anything they've told me.
[ Her fingers turn white with how tightly she has them curled around her husband's ring. ]
I will search for a cure, find a way home, and avenge those they have taken from me. It is my duty.
no subject
Haurchefant back from the dead? Aymeric going to some different world, and becoming what he can only assume to be is intimate with this self-proclaimed Warrior of Light, and then Aymeric dies? There being multiple Warrior's of light? It all seems like such... asinine nonsense, that towards the end Estinien's annoyance is plain as day.]
I am no fool—
[He begins, a certain edge to his voice as his eyes give that stone a cursory glance, before settling on Era's face. His grip on his own drink leaving him white-knuckled, but his gauntlets do well to cover the evidence.]
—I trust not Zenith, nor what farce they intend to keep alive. My agreement is not to be taken as complacency. However, I know not whether to believe your tales.
[Her theatrics are definitely good, but this is a world of deception, and she may very well be part of it. He must keep his wits about him.]
You speak of Aymeric's demise, yet I spoke to him a few bells ago. You speak of me—a copy of myself... 'tis too absurd to entertain. Were you Aymeric babbling such incoherent nonsense, I would likewise wonder the state of his sanity.
[It's just worse coming from someone he doesn't know nor recognize, and it's honestly just so much at once he's defaulting to just rejecting it outright.]
no subject
[ It... hurts. To call herself that in relation to him. But she has dealt with worse and will deal with worse, she's sure. She just needs to separate him in her mind from the Estinien she knew. She can do that, certainly. It's easier when she isn't looking at him. His presence is familiar, as is the voice that thrums through her horns. But...
He is an Estinien.
An Estinien who speaks of speaking to Aymeric naught but a few bells ago.
All thoughts of avoiding his face vanish like so much smoke in the wind. Her heart throbs a painful beat and her breath catches in her throat. She stares at him, eyes wide and filled with so many emotions (hope, fear, disbelief, anger, pain--).
Era can't find any words to say and so is silent for a long, uncomfortable moment. When she finally stumbles across the question she needs to ask her throat is uncooperative. Her tail taps rapidly against her thigh as her anxiety rises and her breath quickens. She will not tolerate her voice failing her now. There is a small note that escapes her, unbidden. It speaks more of her pain than her words ever could. Era ignores it and promptly rips the words from her throat - tight, and strained; a slightly higher pitch than before: ]
How long have you been here, Estinien?
no subject
Instead she seems set to keep his company, even looking as distressed and pained as she does. Ever not one for social interaction, this is topping the list of interactions he never asked for nor wanted, yet he's not going to be the one to get up and leave.
Her question gives him pause as he tries to figure out what she might get out of knowing this information. If she's truly of Zenith, should she not already known this?]
Long enough to question my decision.
[Which is honestly not very long, but considering this interaction...]
no subject
This is a trick.
[ As happy as she is to have had the chance to see Estinien again, she wishes he were not here. This has to be a trick. A trap. She knows Zenith can play mind games more effectively than any monster she's encountered.
Era doesn't know what they would gain from it, since it isn't as though her actions and words have been truly hidden from the corporation all these moons. Perhaps simply to cause her more pain for daring to spread word of their misdeeds? For sowing further doubt among the volunteers?
She stares at him, as if she could will away any glamours with just her eyes. ]
He cannot be here. He can't. Not him.
I came here to keep you all safe. Neither of you should be here.
[ This place is hellish, and she can't bear the thought of losing any of her friends again. Even if they never view her as a friend - if she is forever someone to distrust and view with disdain - she will love them all the same. It would not make losing them any easier. ]
What lies did they tell you to make you agree to this?
no subject
He is steady and still, and even how he answers seems somewhat calculated, though his tone is blunt as ever.]
You do not have the power to decide the fates of others. 'Tis a fools' errand that you would think your perceived sacrifice would keep likewise fools from the harm of their own autonomy.
[In other words: only a fool would think they are the only one with the right to self sacrifice. But moving on, Estinien finishes his beer, placing the glass down on the bar top with a loud clatter, before turning to face Era fully once more.]
What they told me matters not. 'Tis inconsequential, anyroad, seeing as it changes naught. I am here, regardless of what lies they have spewed.
no subject
What she does wish is that she could take everything upon herself and spare her friends the burden, even if the weight of it all crushes her. She wishes they would let her. (Worse than a fool)
She remains curled in on herself, hands clutching her soul crystal close to her chest. Shoulders hunched. Era does not look like a Warrior of Light - she looks like a woman who just recently rose from her deathbed, in all honesty - but the stubbornness is there. A wholehearted desire to protect at any and all costs.
The sound of his glass against the bar top startles her. She jumps a little in her seat. ]
I am not certain you are truly him. There is so much trickery and they have so much power, with these implants in our skulls...
For all that I had hoped to see you again one day, I had so dearly wished it would not be in this world, Estinien.
[ She huffs a small, humourless laugh. ]
I suppose I was not wishing for the correct thing.
[ Era doesn't want to keep him, but she also doesn't want to let him go. She is afraid for him. She is afraid for Aymeric, should he truly be here. ]
...If there is anything you need that you believe I may be able to help with, you are more than welcome to contact me. I arrived with the second group of volunteers, so I have been here a while, you could say.
Likewise if your or... [ She can't say his same. ] Or he have need of a private room you are welcome to use mine. It is in suite seven. You need only ask and I will leave.
After you've been here for a month you will be assigned to a group of four to share a small home with at the original facility. Here each suite is comprised of two groups of four. Both the small homes and the suites afford you your own private room.
no subject
Like an unceasing waterfall you babble, and like the tides you turn. What is your angle—your aim?
[He's viewing her with suspicion, as if she's some sneaky snake waiting for a chance to sink her fangs into his unguarded flesh. At this moment, she's more or less that in his mind because he doesn't know what to think of her, and Estinien is ever guarded. It's all too tragically easy for him to slip into his defenses, into those walls that had once been torn down. This world—this place does wonders in resurrecting what was once thought dead.]
Your offer will be considered, however I advise you not to hold your breath. Forgive me for taking your offered assistance with a grain of salt, for I am too cautious to err on any other side.
[However, Estinien is far from a strange of assigned anything. That's military life for you, but he's also enjoyed far too long the freedom not only his position of Azure Dragoon allowed him, but the newfound freedom he's gained since casting off the chains of his old life. The idea of living with others tastes foul in his mouth.
While he doesn't fully trust her word, he sees no reason for her to lie about this at least. Even if she worked for Zenith, there does not seem to be any good reason she would misinform him of this answer, and even if she did, it's not like her answer will truly change his intent.]
...Answer me this: how strict are they in maintaining the use of this shared home?
[In other words, if he wanted to hobo it up, how likely could he do just that without Zenith throwing a fit? Not that he cares, it's not like he cared about the fits Ishgard could have thrown with his conduct, and he's pretty used to a strict society anyways.]
no subject
She wishes things could go back to how they were. ]
Because if you are truly Estinien - from my Hydaelyn or any other - and not Zenith seeking to punish me further I...
[ She falters, takes a breath, then gathers herself. Straightens her posture out and looks him in the eye. ]
It does not matter who you are or where you come from. I would not offer my room to just any new volunteer, nor the... specific information I shared, but I have information to share with new arrivals and so I shall. Whether they believe me or not - whether you believe me or not - is irrelevant. I have told you some of what I know. You have the information, and it is up to you what to do with it.
[ Era allows her gaze to drop down again. She runs her thumbs along the smooth surface of the soul crystal resting in her palms. It helps her to keep her hands from shaking. ]
The fact that you are someone I love dearly has admittedly made it more... complicated. So I suppose my aim is to make sure that not only are you aware of things, but that you both have all you need to keep yourself safe in this hellish realm.
[ Away goes her Soul of the Dragoon and out comes a small handful of seedlings. A single gold and five silver. Era allows him to see what her hand contains, then curls her fingers closed lightly around them that she won't drop anything as she holds them out for him to take from her quivering hand. ]
This should be enough for a satisfactory lance and a greatsword. If it falls short of what you need, ask and I will give you more. Should you find yourself in need of anything else and lacking the funds I will give you the rest of what I have.
[ She has bought her tomes and a few clothes. She has little to no need of anything else and would happily give him the rest of her money.
In answer to his last question she huffs: ]
Not very. Though I would advise against sleeping outdoors for a time. The Selva - creatures that are a mix of fairy and Elemental - have spread pollen around during the festival that so recently ended. It functions as an aphrodisiac. You may have heard of an orgy happening during the festivities. That was the cause of it, and the effects still linger.
no subject
I know my words are but air to you—as likewise yours are to me—but know well my claims are as true as the winter that blankets Ishgard.
[Her explanation of her aim, however, does not necessarily ease his mind. As previously stated, he cannot take her words for much more than wind, and for his own safety he will do just that. She could be aiming to lead him into a false sense of security—for reasons he may not know, but absence of evidence is not evidence of absence.
Not to mention that hearing "love" in reference to him is odd to hear. He's not so arrogant to assume she means anything romantic, but that word is far from an easy one for him in any sense. To hear it uttered from a woman he has only just met, one who acts far more familiar than she should be... It rests ill.
Though it would be a fools' errand to also dismiss everything she says. Instead, he will keep them in mind, and he will put them to the proof. If they hold true, then they shall support his trust. The weight of his trust cannot be suspended on faulty foundation, after all.
He's momentarily lost to his thoughts, and only brought back to reality when he notices her hand moving. Hawk-like eyes focus on what she offers, and he looks confused. He's not so proud to turn down money, but also he's not entirely sure of the intent. The mention of his lack of a lance does dig at him, having lost Nidhogg is something that sits rather ill within his breast, but there is naught to be done. The powerlessness almost hurts more than the loss. Almost.
Without a word, he accepts the money, eyeing it with skepticism, before looking back at Era.]
Scant would I ask another to suffer destitution for my sake, but your questionable generosity is obliged.
[Though he's not completely sure if he will use it, for now it seems a more beneficial route to accept her offer. He will hold onto it, make a decision about it once his mind has settled, and he has a better sense of his surroundings. All of this is too much, too fast, and the sooner he can break away the better.
The following answer, well...]
So, that's the way of it, then.
[Zenith didn't mention specifics to him in how he'd be assisting them, in what ways he would contribute to their testing. They certainly made it seem far more obscure in the sexual sense than what Estinien would otherwise agree with... but he's far from stupid, far from unobservant, and he's caught on to the tapestry of lies they had woven for him.
But at the end of it, truly, what choice did he have?]
I will take my leave of you. Should I find that your claims are true—we might yet not be enemies.
[The implication here is that should she be a liar, he fully intends to view her with hostility.]
no subject
I would not be destitute - I have what I need. [ Era would suffer through far worse than destitution for his sake, but knows better than to say it. ] But they do not supply weaponry and so it is best to acquire it whilst here, where the quality is sound. Thus if you find a suitable weapon and cannot afford it let me know. If the Lord Commander does not have a weapon and finds none to his taste, I can loan him...
[ The Naegling she keeps is hers now. Aymeric - no matter his origins - would be entitled to it, but... It was her Aymeric's. The thought of parting with it makes her nervous, and she can feel the anxiety swelling in her chest-
Or it could just be an urge to cough that reminds her she's so very far from fully recovered. Era muffles it politely with a hand, though she cannot hide the way the force of it shakes her shoulders, and it's still loud enough that the barkeep and a few nearby patrons frown at her.
She crinkles her nose at the too-familiar tang of iron on her tongue and she makes sure to remove it from her teeth before pulling her hand away. Era is quick to curl it into a fist and lay it on her lap, then cover it with her other hand. ]
My apologies.
I can loan him Naegling, if he can find nothing else.
[ She frowns at the thought of being enemies to Estinien, but cannot fault him for his statement. So she shrugs, but says with utmost honesty: ]
Should you learn I have knowingly told you falsehoods you are welcome to kill me. I would deserve it.
no subject
The information about getting a proper weapon is certainly noted, and he will do just that should he decide to spend the money. Especially if what she says is true, and he has a limited time to arm himself proper. He feels naked and exposed without a lance, yet somehow getting a new one feels almost like... a betrayal?
It's a good thing that Estinien is ever practical, however, because that tinge of guilt will not keep him from arming himself proper.]
Naegling, hm?
[He speaks without thinking, but he is curious. Not curious enough to ask this woman to show him the weapon while unarmed, but he's definitely going to keep that in mind.]
I will make him aware that you are in possession of his sword. Whether or not he wishes to seek regaining it from you is his decision.
[But like hell Estinien will allow Aymeric to confront her over his weapon without back up. You bet your ass Estinien will be nearby and armed for that exchange. He does not trust Era, and he won't for a time.
However, that reply leaves Estinien a little perplexed on what to think. Easily she could just be saying that to try and win some points of credit, and to his chagrin it somewhat works.]
All the better. Makes matters far more simple when one knows the cost of their own transgression.
[With that, he's certain to attempt to head out of the bar. She's free to attempt to stop him, but the man does seem otherwise determined to end this whole exchange—and quickly.]
no subject
[ There is a conviction in her voice that is difficult to fake, but Era does not care if Estinien believes her or not - just that he's aware she is not willing to part with what has become her sword. ]
If you seek to kill me pray inform me first, that I might assure my friends and brother do not thirst for revenge should they find out.
[ It's... a legitimate worry. Or would be, if Era had any fear that Estinien would find her speaking falsehoods.
She makes no attempt to stop him, but does speak out one final time: ]
And Estinien? Please... Have caution, and do not be afraid to take advantage of what I offer. All I have is yours and his - you need only ask it of me.
no subject
[His voice is sharp as a knife, and so too is his steely gaze as he speaks. Unwavering is his tone, and it almost seems like a challenge for her to argue it. Something about this woman claiming rights to a close family heirloom of Aymeric's truly digs under his skin—almost worse than her claim to Aymeric's death.]
Should I choose to kill you, I would care little and less about such thoughtful warning. I would welcome their challenge should they find your life worthy to avenge. 'Tis their right.
[Not that he's the biggest fan of vengeance, with how his own flopped and left him feeling more empty than whole at the end of it. However, while she might not have aimed to stop him, he has stopped with this turn of conversation, caring not for the scene they have made, nor how this might be taxing her frail form.
Her coughing earlier did not go unnoticed, after all. Nevertheless, Estinien's resolve is like steel, and he has no interest in lessening his guard in this moment. To her—let alone anyone—at this point.]
I will not grow dependent upon a woman I hold no trust for. Should you prove worthy of my reliance, then so be it. However, if you truly did know me, you would know I am ever a man of caution, and I have little need for your insistence.
no subject
I am Era Ra de Borel, widow to Ser Aymeric de Borel of my world.
[ She has never been one to back away from a challenge. Occasionally this is to her detriment. Particularly when she feels threatened in some way.
Her eyes flash dangerously but she makes no move whatsoever toward him. Her hands remain upon her lap. Her tail is deathly still across her thigh. Her Carbuncle, while hissing, otherwise makes no move either. ]
This Naegling is mine. It is of my world. It is one of few things I have left of the man I loved so dearly, and it will not be taken from me. Should I die you would still be unable to pry it from my grasp, and should you fight me for it you would lose, even if you had your lance.
But I am naught but a stranger to you - someone to look at with disdain and distrust. Buy yourself a weapon and do what you will. You may be all but a brother to me, Estinien, but that does not mean I will refrain from defending myself if need be.
no subject
Admittedly, she is not quite that, nor is she even scratching the surface of that sort of reality, but he's notably pissed. Certainly her words are doing nothing but stoking those flames of that aggression, and the arrogant way she boasts who he's certain she isn't helps nothing.]
I ever grow weary of these lies.
[With an accusing jab of his finger towards her, he continues with the same ferocity:]
You are naught more than a mummer with fraudulent and twisted beliefs swarming her head. While Aymeric is an open and good man, he would not take a wife that would sooner sew discord in Ishgard, than bring about the peace and change he has sacrificed so much for. Your constant slander to his name with these falsehoods do naught but incriminate you further.
[There's a pause, before he continues, as if he was contemplating bringing up the sword again. That perhaps his point was well enough on its own, but he clearly decides that isn't true.]
Nor would he bequeath a treasured heirloom so thoughtlessly—particularly when he has known many things, but death's embrace is not one of them! I have suffered the prattling of your fantasies long enough.
[His voice growls, low and threatening. It's been a good while since he's been this agitated, and in a way it almost feels good to feel this anger. In the sea of anguish and mourning he's otherwise been saturated in, the spark of hostility is an all too familiar friend.]
Know this: I will sooner betray Aymeric than entertain your egregiously fatuous claims. You are a woman rife with delusion—begging me to abandon my senses to believe a world and reality that never were—you should pray that our paths do not cross again.
If truly you are familiar of me as you continue to boast—though my doubts are absolute—then by your account you should know well of the enemy you have made.
[With that, he'll turn once more to head out. They've quite the audience as it is, and he doesn't care to continue. Not when emotions are this high, and he is without his lance.]
no subject
If he sees her as an enemy then so be it. Naegling is hers, and neither he nor Zenith will ever pry it from her hands. But no matter what Estinien does he will never be an enemy to her.
It was unfortunate timing.
Era stares at her unappetizing food, the disapproving looks, then climbs down from her stool to offer apologetic words and a bow for the wasted food. She waits until Estinien has moved far enough away that she can make her way outside without appearing as though she is following him. Stairs are still difficult, so she heads to her room's window, pulls out her lance, and jumps inside.
It was an unwise exertion, though she cannot be sure if it was that alone that leaves her shaking and nauseous. She is suddenly incredibly grateful for the sink in her room as it saves her from rushing to the restroom. It seems she would have wasted her food either way. She changes into one of Aymeric's shirts, wraps herself in a blanket, and holds his sword tight against her chest as she waits for Emmy to return.
Perhaps she can send word to her other friends to help her keep an eye on Estinien? From afar, of course.
Loki might help.
She will keep Naegling close and consider it. ]