Last Resort Mods 🌊 (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
killerwaves) wrote2023-03-03 10:06 pm
killerwaves) wrote2023-03-03 10:06 pm
.GRAVEYARD
[🎵]
There is a moment of silence. That is all there is, following the end one meets, but it is wrong to say that nothing else proceeds afterward. Indeed, upon the deceased opening their eyes, there's a feeling like settling into a body that has not yet crossed over, and an undeniable bright scene in front of them.
Is it heaven? Is it purgatory? These are the questions that may unfurl when faced with a bright, vibrant sky with pleasant colors, and soft clouds. Alongside this pleasing sight are picturesque rivers, running around fields of flowers mixed with lively greenery that seems to extend to distances behind one's comprehension. But, make no mistake—there are large trees dotted here or there, where someone might feel compelled to lie under given how welcoming they look.
Perhaps most striking, however, is the floating tower, that seems currently unreachable no matter how close anyone nears it. Does it need to be blocked off with an invisible shield? Honestly, no. But nobody knows that, and maybe no one will figure it out either, despite how many times they will ask who frequents it...who so happens to be standing outside of it, but also nearby. Huh.
Who's that? Well, that's—
Merlin, Mage of Flowers
💮
What a shock, isn't it? To see someone like Merlin so soon. Yet, he hardly seems perturbed, as he says, "Oh, so you've come! What a terrible fate you've been met with. But, don't worry, there's plenty of things to keep you occupied with.
What do I mean by that, you ask? I mean yourselves, of course! And, yes, by the way, you're still dead. So sorry about that. If you need anything, though, just call my name and I'll be there."
Beat. "Probably."
Then he disappears helpfully in a flurry of petals, not even saying where this is. Wow, helpful, isn't he? But, you have more than enough time to explore, at least. And hey, where did that random shack come from far off in the distance? If one goes in, they'll find a random bookcase inside, filled to the brim with fairytales that automatically replenishes if all books have been read with new ones. In addition, there's a random 'fan magazine' of the super popular idol Magi☆Mari; a beautiful white-haired young woman with purple eyes. Huh, why does she look familiar?
...Anyway, at least this will all keep one occupied.
As a side note, off to the distance are a a massive gathering of trees, but whenever one tries to approach them they can't seem to actually get close. How obnoxious! Looks like you'll have to just continue to admire your surroundings of pink flowers, one or two solitary trees, rivers, and other flora for miles on end.
As of 'Week 3', there is now an additional, cutesy shed in the Garden of Avalon that can be accessed for arts and crafts materials. Sewing kits, canvasses, painting materials, paper, you name it! There also is a shelf full of lube as well, for your needs. They will have a hint of a flower scent.
As of 'Week 4', the forest is glowing and can at some point be entered for funtimes.
By 'Final Week', there is a small little cottage of some sort that has appeared, which is ridiculously more spacious once walked into. It appears to be like a little free-for-all clothing store, except everything is free of charge. The styles range from cutesy pink, stylish, fancy, and to even towards the gothic side of things...but also there is a spot filled with make-up and the like! Do you want to look pretty in death? No worries, you too can shine here as well with beauty products found along the shelves, and of course mirrors alongside changing rooms for your convenience.
There are also knitting tools, for those wanting to really step up their skills.
Additionally, in this large 'cottage', there are private changing rooms with mirrors and a plush long seat to sit down if you want to for whatever reason. The doors lock once someone is inside and the door is closed.
Lastly, for those feeling 'adventurous', they would also happen to find costumes. Sexy ones, likes nurses, maids, and the like, but also silly 'scary' ones like a t-rex and a sheet ghost.
The forest has also stopped glowing, and upon entering it give you view to a beautiful lake surrounded by trees (sans mist.) The sky is still a fantastical color, and taking a soak at any time is possible.
However, on the other side of the forest, is a field of beautiful blue flowers, and a perpetually midnight sky.
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It is possible for me to contact her to explain things, is it not?
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Yes, with this! It'll be convenient and easy.
How to use it is pretty much the same way we used those other devices; though there are some limitations. Since you're just contacting one person, I won't get into the difficult ones at the moment. Just that you won't have your old username.
Either way, it's a small price to pay to be able to reach someone, right?
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I could do without that username anyway, frankly.
[ hhhhhhh
anyway, he accepts the device with a small sigh of relief. ]
Yes. That is a relief, thank you.
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As Zelkov accepts the device, Merlin's smile brightens—perhaps even moreso at those words. ]
Of course! I'm happy to help in many ways.
[ Words that he certainly means. Life is hard all around, but if Merlin can make it easier for those he cares about, then he earnestly hopes he can make it all bearable. ]
Speaking of which, we're in a place where we can achieve that sort of thing right now~
Relief, that is. Honestly...I meant to originally show you this spot as a bit of a pleasant surprise. Well, I'm hoping you can still manage to partake in enjoyment of it, even if it might be a little more gradual than immediate. Due to everything, I mean.
I remembered how much you were into arts and crafts supplies, though this place has been up for a little while before your arrival.
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[ he really had to get creative to be able to get creative back at the resort — taking things from the gift shop and boutique apart to use as materials, substituting pencils for knitting needles...
he supposes there was some value in that experience as well, but it will be nice to be able to knit something without taking apart fifty braided bracelets first.
he's definitely going to need to try to clear things up with lacus before he starts, and that's going to be weighing heavily on his mind until he does... but he does manage a small smile in return. ]
And I appreciate that you thought to provide it. To be bored in a situation like this would be... quite intolerable for anyone, I would think.
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[ Realistically, Merlin believes it's going to still be tough going. Though all the same, Merlin understands that having something to occupy people's time in some way will make it a bit easier.
At least Merlin can say he's handed him tools that will ensure he's not pacing around, being worried, unable to do anything. Which is honestly a self-indulgent relief to him. Speaking of self-indulgence, and now that he has gotten what he believes to be some crucial matters out of the way, he has been reminded of something else... ]
By the way, I might have a little extra something I made—you'll be able to even have it with you when we come back to the living side. So, why not have a bit of fun and take one guess at what it is?
[ Idly he questioned himself if Zelkov really needed a scarf since he already wears heavy clothing? Maybe he has a million back home, but whatever. ]
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I... For me specifically?
[ that... isn't necessarily a surprise at this point, but it's still hard to wrap his head around people singling him out as something special. ]
That's a very broad question.
[ he hates guessing games, it always feels like he looks like an insensitive jerk if he can't infer what someone is thinking. ]
...Another of those flower crowns?
[ did you like the one he left at your memorial... ]
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[ Merlin says in a gentle tone that can be interpreted as teasing, but really, it's a bit warmer than that. Nobody can be blamed thinking otherwise, though.
On the other matter, he'll also be happy to try to help Zelkov continue to wrap his head around the idea. ]
But, nope, it isn't that this time! Speaking of which, though...I saw what you left for me. I'm glad that you've been keeping me close to your heart and your thoughts.
[ Evidently, he doesn't seem offended that the other man got it wrong; in fact, the reminder in a myriad respects makes him feel happy.
In a blink of an eye, a black scarf that he sewed is in his hands, and he's holding it out. There are some little animal faces on it (that look...kind of Fou-esque), help. ]
What do you think? Want to have it put on and then you can see how you look in it?
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[ he wouldn't have guessed this any time soon if they'd kept going. but he's certainly not displeased by it, just surprised. it's cute... ]
I was unaware that you engaged in any pursuits like this. You made it by hand, not with magic somehow?
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[ Merlin also has a plush he apparently has sewn of Fou before...
Though, with him pointing it out like that, he's looking a little sheepish, and mildly embarrassed. Even if he's the one who said it in the first place. But it's not a bad thing at all. It just means Zelkov pays close attention. ]
Anyway, I did. I mean...I could have made it with magic if I wanted. Still, even if the thought would be there, it's just not the same, you know? When people look at items, things, or whatnot, they can't tell how it's created. But by spending more time the traditional way, I can be sure to engrave each sentiment I want into the gift. Stuff like that, haha.
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[ he reaches out to touch it, brushing his thumb over one of the little fous. ]
And I... appreciate that you chose to put such time and effort into it. I will treasure the sentiments you have woven into it.
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Seeing him appreciate it so earnestly makes him feel warm. Even if he put so much effort into it, he can't help but be delightfully pleasantly surprised. ]
Hearing you say that means a lot. Ah, I'm a little overcome with joy... [ But, he's smiling softer now, peering at where he had touched the fabric. ] I suppose I hadn't known if you'd like it or not, despite everything. Though, you don't really need to wear it now, but if you want to, I can help you put it on.
[ The last part is not completely serious because he's certain the other man knows how to put on a scarf. ]
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[ "black but with a cute animal" kind of nails his essence.
it doesn't escape his notice that it's the second time merlin has subtly made that offer. but he takes it and starts to drape it around his neck himself. ]
I am, fortunately, quite familiar with how to wear a scarf.
[ ... ]
...However, if your artistic vision involved it being tied in a particular way, I would not mind seeing your approach.
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[ Anyway, what second time? Totally only said it once (no), and absolutely not because his head was in the clouds. ]
Haha, should I consider myself so fortunate that you're willing to indulge me?
[ Light and gently teasing, but amusingly grateful that Zelkov is. He steps closer, because he can't quite do it from a distance, and because he does like the idea of the distance between them being rather short. Fingers rise first to carefully and gently brush aside any of that striking midnight hair which may be in the way, movements gentle, slightly indulgent. Then, his attention is to either end of that scarf, bringing each piece close together in smooth movements, tightening it properly at the end.
As well as deciding upon the style ala 'Italian Twist'. But, let's be real, he's not thinking about how well he just tied the scarf. ]
There you go. Dark colors always do suit you well. Though, mixing dark with light makes for a good combination as well, you know?
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I have come to appreciate that fact more recently.
[ both literally in terms of color and figuratively in terms of demeanor — alear and veyle in their white outfits with their two-toned hair and the strong, bright spirits that had overcome the darkness they were born into; kagetsu's irrepressible sunny personality shining on the cold depths that his and princess ivy's minds tended to dwell in.
lacus with her songs that held hope in spite of everything, and the project he'd worked on together with her, where the often dissonant colors representing each person on the islands became something more interesting than cacophonous when viewed all together as a whole.
...and, of course, this.
he still feels a little uncomfortable about wearing anything to make himself stand out when he's so used to staying out of sight in the shadows... but it's something to work toward, he supposes. he has no more need to hide bloodstains in black fabric, after all. ]
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What is the world—no, the myriad of universes—without its layered subtleties? Merlin himself is inexorably drawn to both. Watching from his tower, he doesn't usually experience such things personally. Even if he should stride along Chaldea's floors, and interact with the Servants, bastion of the last vestige's of humanity, he can only witness.
Exceptions were borne when he was summoned on that one Singularity. And now, here, where it seems like darkness stubbornly persists. But beautiful songs of faith still eke out through gaps of disillusionment. Persistence in despair. Sweet kindness in the face of relentless depravity.
The bright light that awaits at the end of tunnel. A sign of a good ending, after the dust has settled, despite all the pain. ]
I'll consider that more than simply a wonderful happenstance~
I've never liked the idea of viewing one without the other. Within the mix unveils a complexity that can be described as part of human nature...mm, and maybe all people.
But, maybe, most important of all is that it's something that draws us all together. Whether we realize or not. A mark of our distinct and wonderful individuality, that sparks us towards looking ahead.
Still, indulge me a little more? Tell me, what's spurred on this change within you? Was it the people you met? A single occurrence? A monumental memory?
[ Ahh...maybe he's talking words that may sound like just far-too introspective wanderings. But, Merlin leans in for a teasing kiss aimed at the other male's cheek. ]
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It is... a gradual effect that has evolved as I have grown closer to people, both at home and here. I have seen how my allies have moved forward from the darkness in their pasts into brighter futures... and though I long thought there would be no place for me outside of the shadows, they have been willing to offer me a place beside them.
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'I can have that too? No matter what I've done, no matter what's happened to me? No matter what I think of myself?' Something like that sounds miraculous indeed. Hmm, no, maybe it's something more than a miracle.
[ Sometimes it can mean it's still a bit of a work in progress too, which isn't so bad either. Merlin himself still finds surprise at what it means for people to truly care about him. He idly wonders about it some more before leaving it.
After all, hearing Zelkov acknowledge that he has found brightness beyond those shadows is something monumental. Rewarding, if he has to pick a word for it. Knowing someone he cares about can appreciate such things, potentially even ready to embrace happiness is cause for good cheer. ]
I'm glad you've been able to reach forward, past that darkness. Embracing what that looks like isn't always so easy. But, as you end up bonding with people, it can feel so rewarding...and maybe that's one of the best parts about getting to know others.
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[ his hand still lingers at that spot on his cheek for a long moment afterward, and he inclines his head slightly, looking thoughtful. ]
I... saw a memory of yours, this past week. Where you said you had no emotions of your own. [ ... ] Is that still the case? Or has something changed?
[ it doesn't sound as if he would necessarily disapprove of the answer either way, at least. he's just... curious. ]
I know what we spoke about before, but... I am still trying to understand everything.
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He never intended to even so much as tell anyone that sort of thing here. But, Zelkov knew of the memory, and now he must ha...
...Actually, he hadn't shown an angry or disappointed reaction to him, despite seeing what he had. From that tone, Merlin feels encouraged to try to be honest. ]
...I'm not human. Of course, you know that. Half-human, half-incubus, to be exact.
Given my inhuman nature, since I can take emotions in as energy, that's the sort of thing I had thought. Whatever emotion I seemed to express would be left over from what I'd taken in from others. That it never really truly existed within me.
But, recently, through all of this—through all of the people I met, including you, I realized that I might have been wrong. So, all I had originally distanced myself from, I wanted to try reaching for instead.
Including everything involving what I said to you. Haha...then again, you heard my own words, in my own memory. If you believe what I'm saying now to sound ridiculous, I won't blame you.
[ Does he even believe himself? This is one of the reasons why he usually doesn't bother getting close to anyone, truthfully. But, every time he thinks about it, he has an urge to stubbornly and persistently not to take back his choices. And sometimes, he barely understands that, when running away was so much easier. ]
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No... I believe you mentioned something along those lines before, and I simply did not have the context to comprehend what you meant.
[ so it isn't as if this is something he's just making up now. ]
If it is truly possible for me to help you feel any of what I have described just now... I would very much like to do so.
[ there's a pause, then he extends his hand with a soft smile. ]
I would just ask that you not try to pretend if it turns out that I cannot do for you what you hoped. I much prefer reality to fairy tales, no matter how bitter.
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[ Zelkov believes him. The shock of that can't be measured in mere words.
Before, when he had said those words, he didn't know the truth of them. What they originally meant, what deep down they had meant. How could he? He never allowed himself to cherish the true sensation of those feelings, if they should have originated within himself, merely denying he could feel them at all. But through it all, he's found himself so troubled, finding himself choked by things like an intense black hatred, or suffocated by a pleasing pleasant surprise that can't be explained away by vestiges. Then even a bright intensity when around those who want to share in his presence, because they actually didn't mind him.
Now...this.
The sort of smothering flame that had begun to grow, like a blossom born from embers; a feeling without a name he could place upon it. ]
I would never want to hurt you so, Zelkov. I won't fake anything for you...I promise.
[ Merlin looks at the hand, trying to say everything that's welling up inside of him, yet for once he feels struck senseless. ]
I...
[ But now, just like a certain someone said, he feels so clumsy, and his chest so tight, as if it's overwhelming. 'Ahh, so he was right, after all,' Comes the thought.
But, that's fine, even if his heart feels like a sieve, as if it's been pierced by a blade. Seeing that soft smile, it does things to him. Merlin reaches out with a hand of his own to grasp the one reaching out to him, first unsteady, but the grip becoming more firm. For awhile, he hesitated still, even if he wanted to hold the man. Because he hadn't been sure even now of the validity of his own feelings. But, no more of that. With his other hand, he slides it forward so that his arm is around Zelkov's waist in one smooth motion, pulling them closer. Next, he moves in forward to claim his lips in an affectionate, yet gentle kiss.
Merlin will take responsibility, chase this feeling, discover what it all means even more, and show Zelkov all that he has to give. He wants to be by his side. That promise of his...even after he's exhausted so much, he will be sure to honor it. ]
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the kiss feels more natural than he would have expected — though then again, they'd sort of been building up to this for the past week — and despite his utter lack of experience, he instinctively returns it without hesitation. this will be another art to pour his passion into and perfect, he supposes.
when he eventually pulls back and opens his eyes, there's a sheepish smile on his face. ]
I, uh...
[ lightly clearing his throat and looking to the side... but he gives the hand he's still holding a gentle squeeze. ]
...There are still others I need to see here, and I need to collect my thoughts so that I can explain that night's events to Lacus as soon as possible.
But, after that... I will come and find you again.
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If it's a little ticklish, he's not going to mind either way. He's just extraordinarily happy that the other man returned to him the kiss. With or without experience, the sheer emotion, and simple meaning behind the action delights him. More than anything, it feels like.
As if the sun has risen over the mountains and its light spilled past their peaks.
That being said...his own cheeks are darkened with a happy blush, even as the other pulls away, looking to the side. He feels the squeeze, and lightly slides a finger over the other's in a brief, but gentle innocent caress. ]
Haha, of course. I'll have more than enough time to spend with you.
[ His expression remains warm despite him reluctantly pulling his hand away. He doesn't want to keep Zelkov from doing what he needs to do. ]
If you don't see me when you come looking, just call my name, okay?
[ Merlin will be there in a heartbeat for him. No matter what. ]