Still. I should have made more effort. You weren't badly hurt, I hope?
That certainly sounds like him. [like father, like son. as best as she can tell, even with her short time of knowing both] Make sure to sit on him if he attempts to overdo it any further, or he'll never stop.
If it did, I also slept through it. I arrived late here last night.
I was in my home when it collapsed, but Law came to my rescue. If it weren't for him I would be dead.
[Like father, like son.]
Sit on him? I suppose that could be arranged when I'm more able to move, but I think we're both more or less indisposed for the near future. It seems I caught a chill, and Zephyr is sleeping so hard I'm surprise you can't hear him snoring from wherever you are.
I'm very glad he did. [And very glad you are not dead, goes without saying.
Two stubborn fools, by the sound of it, and she can feel her mouth curling up at the corners as she scribbles her reply. ]
There have been plenty of groups traveling together to get here. What were you doing out alone in the night and rain in the first place, Dohalim?
..If you're both indisposed, do you need anything? Kratos is out right now buying more food at the moment, but I am sure I can bring something simple in the market that you both can prepare and eat.
As am I. Both he and his father are impossibly good men. I owe them much.
[A few messy dots, quill settling for far too long against the page.]
Because I needed space to breathe and find myself. It's easy to become lost in the chaos and incense, and if I was going to lash out at anyone... I would rather it be myself.
In hindsight, it may have been a selfish choice, as I surely caused Zephyr more trouble than I would have liked, but I'm here now and in a much better state of mind.
I will ask him when he wakes again. How is your health? I wouldn't want you to strain yourself on our behalf.
Friends like that are precious and rare. You'll have to keep them close.
While I would wish you had not gone alone, I do understand why. Many did not leave when they had the chance to, even knowing the dangers of the incense. And this time.. It had strange effects on those who breathed it in, compared to what I've seen before. If you were able to avoid it, then be glad of it.
I'm alive, and in one piece, just very tired. It's more than I could have hoped for, all considered. The few I did receive were healed by friends before I left Kiichpan.
Please do. And even if you don't feel so well now, when you do feel up for company, I would still like to see you.
I will. At this point, I would do anything for them.
To say I entirely avoided the incense would be a lie, but in comparison to some of the side-effects others endured I would say mine were rather mild. At worst I had a mild case of apathy, which led to... a small number of foolish decisions.
I'm glad to here you're alive and well, after the last time... I try not to take my friend's health and lives for granted.
Perhaps we should have tea in a couple days? I'm a sorry sight at the moment, and would hate to be poor company to such a lovely woman.
From what I've ascertained from others affected by it, 'foolish' decisions during that apathetic state certainly seemed straight forward at the time. I suppose the loss of emotion impaired certain elements of critical thinking. That you only had a mild case is still a blessing - the friend I am staying with has also been taking care of someone who was deeply affected, and it's taken almost a week for them to come out of that state.
Last time..Yes. I am so sorry, you know..
As your friend, being able to enjoy your company any time is always welcome. Appearances are always secondary where such things are concerned.
I should be the one to apologize. If I had been more aware, less distracted by my own problems, I could have saved you. That is a personal shame I must live with.
Who are you staying with? I wonder how close we are.
I've had a great deal of time to think on possibilities.
Oh Dohalim, no. None of our group had any way of knowing what could happen. That place, the incense within, all of it preyed upon us and distracted us from what should have been obvious. Had I not been so paranoid, I would have insisted we all leave together, not attempted to depart on my own.
I am staying with Kratos. He is also a member of the Salamanders. He spent time in Coba assisting with the trails project, which is how I got to know him.
[ Well. He threw a bucket of water over her on their actual first meeting, but Dohalim gets to wait for an in-person meet up to hear about that. ]
I shouldn't have allowed you. Forgive me for saying so Lady Sophia, but I can easily overpower you. To let you venture into danger by yourself was wrong of me. No matter what else was troubling me. It wouldn't have taken much to save your life, and yet... I failed regardless.
I'm familiar with Kratos. I consider him an upstanding fellow. You should be in good hands with him. If not, I do know who he is and how to find him. Not to mention who he's related to.
Of course, I doubt it would ever come to that, but if it did.
Just Sophia, remember? And no forgiveness is necessary, because you have done nothing that requires my forgiveness. And I hardly need to forgive you for stating the truth, now, do I?
I am just as much at fault for splitting from the group. And that was after I was the one who insisted we stay together in the first place. All the should haves and shouldn'ts cannot change what happened....But I am still here, and..I'm grateful for that, even I don't understand how or why.
He's very thoughtful, and quite capable. He very kindly escorted me here from Tikal, after I left Coba. I do not think you'll have reason to doubt him, I certainly don't.
[ The smiley face definitely earns a faint laugh. ]
[ Lets hope those forces are deserving of the thanks they both feel - even if Sophia does not dwell further on it. ]
Do you really think so? He's quiet, and very focused, I've not really seen anything odd. I have found his company enjoyable.
[ Quite a bit, actually. (The awkwardness is rather endearing.) ]
Ah, so I am to be replaced as your erstwhile partner in coterie 'crime'? ;)
More seriously, if you feel that they would be a better fit for you, Dohalim, then you should consider it. A man with your skills will be sorely needed and greatly welcomed by them, I think.
Odd can be enjoyable. You do enjoy spending time with me, after all.
I wouldn't say replaced, as I don't think Zephyr is well-versed in mechanics and doubt he could pull off your fabulous hairstyle, but I imagine we'll remain roommates for at least the near future.
After all that happened in Kiichpan, I think it will be some time before I can return. I won't deny there is an element of cowardice to my decision. When I think of Kiichpan, all I see is pain and suffering. Loss. Of people, history, and culture.
I must admit... I still have nightmares about the collapse.
Hmmm, well, that's true, you are odd, and an absolute dear. I was very fortunate to spill coffee over you that one evening.
He might need to grow his own out quite a bit to manage that, it's true. Still, it sounds like you're quite comfortable together. I'm glad. He could use the company, I think, more than he'd like to admit.
...Ah, my friend. There's no cowardice in that. That sort of trauma lingers long after these sorts of events, and applies to the mind as well as the body. You must take time for your own healing, before you can look to offering the same for others.
I, too, feel extremely fortunate for our meeting, and also the kind launderer who removed the coffee stains from my attire before they could set.
I was a little worried to start, as I've never had a roommate before, but we live very well together, if I do say so myself. Zephyr is interesting to talk to, and more laid back than one would think. I've been reading to him in the evenings, and he tolerates my poetry and singing. When I cook for us, he tries what I make without complaining.
There really is a difference between a mature man and the 'boys' I am accustomed to. I mean no offense to Alphen or Law. I love them dearly, but their energy is on a different level.
We have been talking some, about Kiichpan and other issues. It's good to have someone who understands much of what I've been through, and has come through the other side.
I know you know how that feels, so I hope you and Kratos can do the same, and alleviate your own internal tempests.
Your poetry is lovely, Dohalim, and I'm sure he must enjoy it, otherwise why share the time with you to listen to your reading? Friends do not have to "simply tolerate it", after all. And he's grown enough that I doubt he'd shy away from such a conversation with you. I do understand what you mean, though. About energy levels. I'm sure much of the difference comes from age and experience.
Having that support is important. I'm glad he's willing to provide that for you, but do not let him think he is alone either.
Ah.. I don't think— He has enough to deal with, especially with taking care of Lloyd up until now. He has been generous enough to grant me safe harbour while I find my feet, and I won't linger any longer than necessary. he does not need that sort of burden I'll manage, as I always do.
Finding a new home here will be my first task now that I've more knowledge of the lay of the land..
The support is mutual. We have spoken of many things, some more personal than others. If someone had told me I would be bosom friends with the leader of the Crows, I would never have believed them.
But I suppose that speaks to much of what I've experienced both here and back home. What happened on Dahna was hardly more believable than what's going on in this place.
It sounds as if someone is being a tad hypocritical. You can't encourage me to seek comfort and security in others if you refuse to do the same. If Kratos asked you to stay with him, than I'm sure he is comfortable helping you through any issues you may have.
Will you return to Kiichpan, or are you considering remaining in Coatepec?
None of what has happened here could occur where I am from, but...It's funny, isn't it? The opportunities we are afforded here, and the bonds we have the opportunity to form with those we meet.
[ So removed from the trappings of home, while still bearing the lessons (and the scars, literal or otherwise.)
GOOD, call her out, she deserves to be. There's a stutter of ink, words half started before being scratched out, before finally, she settles on what she wants to say. (Probably still a hypocrite, though.) ]
Bear in mind the closeness you share with Zephyr is not the universal experience for everyone's friendships. And I am not refusing! Am I not speaking with you about such things? I simply...
I do not wish to alienate a new friend who's company I enjoy by oversharing. I am still learning where the boundaries lie, I suppose. And this arrangement has always been temporary.
For now, yes. Kiichpan is..unsafe, right now, for Vipers who bear no fangs. And with Coba housing many who've been displaced, Coatepec felt the better fit, for recovery. Perhaps in time, I will return.
Forgive me for saying so my friend, but for someone so concerned about oversharing I have known you to be quite... nosy. Relationships cannot be one-sided. Interest and action must be mutual. If you are interested in learning about him, then it's only fair you tell him about yourself.
Whether or not the arrangement is necessary or temporary, if you wish to become closer to someone than certain steps must be made to close the gap.
Then it seems we feel the same way about Kiichpan. At least we understand one another. The city I left was not the city I grew to love. I don't want to return before it looks alive again. Perhaps we can make the journey together someday.
[ Evidently that first reply is not at all serious, but the follow up certainly is. ]
You're not wrong, though. I do know that. I do. It is not as though we are uncomfortable in each other's presence, after all. But I do not wish to presume about any interest, mutual or otherwise.
Just...know that if I am choosing to take cautious steps forward, I do so out of past experience.
A city can be rebuilt. But it is the peoples' hearts I worry for. If both can be restored...then perhaps we can. I know I'd like to see it in good company.
If I don't say it, who will? Isn't that what friends are for?
;)
Regardless of the desired outcome, getting to know each other can only be a good thing. At best something may come of it, and at worst... you will be friends. Simply approach him the same way you approached me. He doesn't become a different beast than any other man simply because you may have feelings for him or vice versa.
I agree. The buildings may be restored, but the culture and community... that is what worries me.
You may yet rue the day you accepted my friendship.
I'm not sure how I should feel about "different beasts" and men in this context, but I think a wire may have been crossed somewhere — I am not sure what sort of desired outcome you seem to think I'm looking for here.
Kratos is just a friend.
I was worried, before. With the false Viper group. Concerns were waved away, like they were merely an inconvenience to be ignored. I might wish... Well, it cannot be helped now.
Perhaps. We can continue this discussion another time.
[Dohalim will be curious to hear how friendly they are in another few weeks.]
You might wish what? I was also concerned about the false Vipers. To see the way they took advantage of the chaos, and inflicted harm upon their fellow citizens to sate their greed... I remember facing a handful on my way out of the city, and I don't think they will be bothering anyone ever again.
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That certainly sounds like him. [like father, like son. as best as she can tell, even with her short time of knowing both] Make sure to sit on him if he attempts to overdo it any further, or he'll never stop.
If it did, I also slept through it. I arrived late here last night.
[ Sophia, sleep? Stranger things have happened. ]
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[Like father, like son.]
Sit on him? I suppose that could be arranged when I'm more able to move, but I think we're both more or less indisposed for the near future. It seems I caught a chill, and Zephyr is sleeping so hard I'm surprise you can't hear him snoring from wherever you are.
He ran through the night and rain to find me.
Stubborn fool.
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I'm very glad he did. [And very glad you are not dead, goes without saying.
Two stubborn fools, by the sound of it, and she can feel her mouth curling up at the corners as she scribbles her reply. ]
There have been plenty of groups traveling together to get here. What were you doing out alone in the night and rain in the first place, Dohalim?
..If you're both indisposed, do you need anything? Kratos is out right now buying more food at the moment, but I am sure I can bring something simple in the market that you both can prepare and eat.
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[A few messy dots, quill settling for far too long against the page.]
Because I needed space to breathe and find myself. It's easy to become lost in the chaos and incense, and if I was going to lash out at anyone... I would rather it be myself.
In hindsight, it may have been a selfish choice, as I surely caused Zephyr more trouble than I would have liked, but I'm here now and in a much better state of mind.
I will ask him when he wakes again. How is your health? I wouldn't want you to strain yourself on our behalf.
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While I would wish you had not gone alone, I do understand why. Many did not leave when they had the chance to, even knowing the dangers of the incense. And this time.. It had strange effects on those who breathed it in, compared to what I've seen before. If you were able to avoid it, then be glad of it.
I'm alive, and in one piece, just very tired. It's more than I could have hoped for, all considered. The few I did receive were healed by friends before I left Kiichpan.
Please do. And even if you don't feel so well now, when you do feel up for company, I would still like to see you.
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To say I entirely avoided the incense would be a lie, but in comparison to some of the side-effects others endured I would say mine were rather mild. At worst I had a mild case of apathy, which led to... a small number of foolish decisions.
I'm glad to here you're alive and well, after the last time... I try not to take my friend's health and lives for granted.
Perhaps we should have tea in a couple days? I'm a sorry sight at the moment, and would hate to be poor company to such a lovely woman.
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Last time..Yes. I am so sorry, you know..
As your friend, being able to enjoy your company any time is always welcome. Appearances are always secondary where such things are concerned.
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I should be the one to apologize. If I had been more aware, less distracted by my own problems, I could have saved you. That is a personal shame I must live with.
Who are you staying with? I wonder how close we are.
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Oh Dohalim, no. None of our group had any way of knowing what could happen. That place, the incense within, all of it preyed upon us and distracted us from what should have been obvious. Had I not been so paranoid, I would have insisted we all leave together, not attempted to depart on my own.
I am staying with Kratos. He is also a member of the Salamanders. He spent time in Coba assisting with the trails project, which is how I got to know him.
[ Well. He threw a bucket of water over her on their actual first meeting, but Dohalim gets to wait for an in-person meet up to hear about that. ]
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I'm familiar with Kratos. I consider him an upstanding fellow. You should be in good hands with him. If not, I do know who he is and how to find him. Not to mention who he's related to.
Of course, I doubt it would ever come to that, but if it did.
;)
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I am just as much at fault for splitting from the group. And that was after I was the one who insisted we stay together in the first place. All the should haves and shouldn'ts cannot change what happened....But I am still here, and..I'm grateful for that, even I don't understand how or why.
He's very thoughtful, and quite capable. He very kindly escorted me here from Tikal, after I left Coba. I do not think you'll have reason to doubt him, I certainly don't.
[ The smiley face definitely earns a faint laugh. ]
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That's good to hear. He's an odd man, which is likely why we get along so well.
Zephyr is also quite thoughtful and capable. I'm beginning to think throwing my lot in with Salamander would be advantageous in more ways than one.
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Do you really think so? He's quiet, and very focused, I've not really seen anything odd. I have found his company enjoyable.
[ Quite a bit, actually. (The awkwardness is rather endearing.) ]
Ah, so I am to be replaced as your erstwhile partner in coterie 'crime'? ;)
More seriously, if you feel that they would be a better fit for you, Dohalim, then you should consider it. A man with your skills will be sorely needed and greatly welcomed by them, I think.
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I wouldn't say replaced, as I don't think Zephyr is well-versed in mechanics and doubt he could pull off your fabulous hairstyle, but I imagine we'll remain roommates for at least the near future.
After all that happened in Kiichpan, I think it will be some time before I can return. I won't deny there is an element of cowardice to my decision. When I think of Kiichpan, all I see is pain and suffering. Loss. Of people, history, and culture.
I must admit... I still have nightmares about the collapse.
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He might need to grow his own out quite a bit to manage that, it's true. Still, it sounds like you're quite comfortable together. I'm glad. He could use the company, I think, more than he'd like to admit.
...Ah, my friend. There's no cowardice in that. That sort of trauma lingers long after these sorts of events, and applies to the mind as well as the body. You must take time for your own healing, before you can look to offering the same for others.
I
[ there's a bit of a pause. ]
I know how that feels, a little.
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I was a little worried to start, as I've never had a roommate before, but we live very well together, if I do say so myself. Zephyr is interesting to talk to, and more laid back than one would think. I've been reading to him in the evenings, and he tolerates my poetry and singing. When I cook for us, he tries what I make without complaining.
There really is a difference between a mature man and the 'boys' I am accustomed to. I mean no offense to Alphen or Law. I love them dearly, but their energy is on a different level.
We have been talking some, about Kiichpan and other issues. It's good to have someone who understands much of what I've been through, and has come through the other side.
I know you know how that feels, so I hope you and Kratos can do the same, and alleviate your own internal tempests.
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Your poetry is lovely, Dohalim, and I'm sure he must enjoy it, otherwise why share the time with you to listen to your reading? Friends do not have to "simply tolerate it", after all. And he's grown enough that I doubt he'd shy away from such a conversation with you. I do understand what you mean, though. About energy levels. I'm sure much of the difference comes from age and experience.
Having that support is important. I'm glad he's willing to provide that for you, but do not let him think he is alone either.
Ah.. I don't think— He has enough to deal with, especially with taking care of Lloyd up until now. He has been generous enough to grant me safe harbour while I find my feet, and I won't linger any longer than necessary.
he does not need that sort of burdenI'll manage, as I always do.Finding a new home here will be my first task now that I've more knowledge of the lay of the land..
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But I suppose that speaks to much of what I've experienced both here and back home. What happened on Dahna was hardly more believable than what's going on in this place.
It sounds as if someone is being a tad hypocritical. You can't encourage me to seek comfort and security in others if you refuse to do the same. If Kratos asked you to stay with him, than I'm sure he is comfortable helping you through any issues you may have.
Will you return to Kiichpan, or are you considering remaining in Coatepec?
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[ So removed from the trappings of home, while still bearing the lessons (and the scars, literal or otherwise.)
GOOD, call her out, she deserves to be. There's a stutter of ink, words half started before being scratched out, before finally, she settles on what she wants to say. (Probably still a hypocrite, though.) ]
Bear in mind the closeness you share with Zephyr is not the universal experience for everyone's friendships. And I am not refusing! Am I not speaking with you about such things? I simply...
I do not wish to alienate a new friend who's company I enjoy by oversharing. I am still learning where the boundaries lie, I suppose. And this arrangement has always been temporary.
For now, yes. Kiichpan is..unsafe, right now, for Vipers who bear no fangs. And with Coba housing many who've been displaced, Coatepec felt the better fit, for recovery. Perhaps in time, I will return.
[ She fucking fled, is what she's not saying. ]
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Whether or not the arrangement is necessary or temporary, if you wish to become closer to someone than certain steps must be made to close the gap.
Then it seems we feel the same way about Kiichpan. At least we understand one another. The city I left was not the city I grew to love. I don't want to return before it looks alive again. Perhaps we can make the journey together someday.
1/2
how dare, mr il qaras. how very dare! ]
Hmmph! Well I never! I'm not sure I want to share anything further with you right now.
:P
2/2
You're not wrong, though. I do know that. I do. It is not as though we are uncomfortable in each other's presence, after all. But I do not wish to presume about any interest, mutual or otherwise.
Just...know that if I am choosing to take cautious steps forward, I do so out of past experience.
A city can be rebuilt. But it is the peoples' hearts I worry for. If both can be restored...then perhaps we can. I know I'd like to see it in good company.
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;)
Regardless of the desired outcome, getting to know each other can only be a good thing. At best something may come of it, and at worst... you will be friends. Simply approach him the same way you approached me. He doesn't become a different beast than any other man simply because you may have feelings for him or vice versa.
I agree. The buildings may be restored, but the culture and community... that is what worries me.
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I'm not sure how I should feel about "different beasts" and men in this context, but I think a wire may have been crossed somewhere — I am not sure what sort of desired outcome you seem to think I'm looking for here.
Kratos is just a friend.
I was worried, before. With the false Viper group. Concerns were waved away, like they were merely an inconvenience to be ignored. I might wish... Well, it cannot be helped now.
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[Dohalim will be curious to hear how friendly they are in another few weeks.]
You might wish what? I was also concerned about the false Vipers. To see the way they took advantage of the chaos, and inflicted harm upon their fellow citizens to sate their greed... I remember facing a handful on my way out of the city, and I don't think they will be bothering anyone ever again.
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