[ At some point in the night, there is a certain mage taking a stroll!
Who else would it be other than a certain famous wizard, Merlin? That's who.
He has no intentions of meeting with anyone in particular, but he will be easy to flag down. Or perhaps, as he's turning around the corner of a building, he might bump into Sonya. Whichever choice for a wonderful meeting is up to fate, it seems. ]
[ He doesn't move a quarter, his eyes perhaps a bit brighter at this closeness. ]
Of course not. Every man and woman has different motivations and desires, unequal, but striving to reach an equilibrium. No matter the world, no matter the place, it's the same. We're all human, or at least, some degree of it.
I see, I see. It is pretty unfortunate! Why do some humans wish to make themselves more machine than not, though? I am a little curious. Is it a matter of showing off 'money' or is it a power thing?
Then simply let me know when you have the need, comrade.
[ help. ]
Well, there are those who see it as an upgrade, and those who have little choice after losing a limb or two. The bourgeoisie can afford prosthetics that are indiscernible from natural flesh to the naked eye. Doubtlessly there are some who see it as a type of power though, at least for enhancements geared with an eye towards combat.
[ Merlin will commit this to memory...remember what you have wrought, Sonya!! ]
Hmm, well when you put it like that, I can definitely see the appeal. You know, if I wasn't who I was. I find it far too scary to replace any of my limbs with anything mechanical!
...But, no matter what day and age, people really will still be people. Desiring power, monetary gains, having dreams that seem almost limitless in the scope of the universe is also human nature. Only time will tell what can be made of it, though the end result should always be something worth the trouble~
The way others perceive themselves and the world around them is fascinating to me. There are some who think they are doing well when they're barely surviving, others who think themselves important but are replaced as easily as a toothbrush, others who see think themselves a hero but take no real action.
Ah, well...I can't say it's wrong at all. If anything, it's rather flattering~
[ In his own opinion, anyway. ]
But, I don't think you're wrong either. People's perceptions of themselves oftentimes differ from what they're truly facing in reality, due to certain illusions about their own selves.
Which is a pity sometimes, though that too is a part of human nature. Even if it isn't strictly limited to humans~
[ Will you Merlin? Sonya doesn't think it'll be that easy, but he settles for his smile warming for now. ]
Closer to the latter. My hometown is an area that's frigid and desolate, which serves as a perfect barrier against monstrosities invading into the City proper.
Partially, and that the Wings have deemed my District suitable as prey.
[ This is probably the closest his voice has gotten to having any real bite in it. ]
But yes, at least it has been for quite some time. The invention of Singularities changed the world in many ways. Ah, they're technology that's capable of producing feats that aren't ordinarily within the realms of possibility. Instant regeneration, "teleportation", time manipulation, and so on.
Those rules sound awfully more arbitrary than fair.
[ He says, wondering if Sonya will fill in the blanks to back up the statement, or offer another source for this madness. ]
Singularities aren't unusual to me, but I've witnessed them capable of doing exactly the same upon human history. So it's interesting to hear of them in different worlds.
Do you think of them as hardly beneficial, then? Due to these side effects.
They're not arbitrary, but self serving. The Head and therefore the Wings, do what's in its best interest, namely, profit.
[ Human history, huh? Something else to file away for later. ]
I'm an optimist, but that doesn't mean I'm not a realist. Hands need to be bloodied in the name of change, some need to perish to invigorate the masses. It's not the sacrifice I find fault with, but the way it's unevenly applied.
I wish for a world in which everyone is equal, but to bring that to fruition, I need to dismantle the current one first.
I see, I see. That too is within human nature; hardly a glorious aspect, of course.
[ An optimist and a realist combined, but not cynical. Interesting. ]
Heroes oftentimes need to shed the blood of many to make their dreams a reality. It's only a mild consequence, after all.
[ Such words are coldly uttered, but Merlin has assisted in leveraging a ruler to the throne before. Elimination of enemies are always necessary, even in cold blood. ]
[ He smiles easily rather than acknowledge the obvious. Red stains white terribly, but if you're careful, it's nothing careful planning and a good scrubbing can't fix. ]
I'm fortunate to have many comrades. A resistance like ours is one that will need every capable pair of hands to succeed. Why do you ask?
Simple curiosity, Sonya! You can't have a movement without supporters, of course. Not that I had doubts you didn't make those kind of preparations, but this is an easier way to find out.
[ You know, instead of sneaking into his dreams. ]
Ah, well...my allies assist in ensuring that humanity doesn't come to an end. So, there's that!
[ They're definitely not Merlin's supporters. Not even really his friends. The closest one to him he mostly calls 'Master', so that's not really a friendship either.
Funny how that works. ]
As you can imagine, people in Chaldea are all aligned on the matter. The only ones who aren't for it are feral beasts who are trying to wipe out all humans because they think they're better than humans due to delusions, you know?
[ Merlin says this with a smile, but something about his words seem...strangely vindicative.
...
Solomon placed far too much trust in allowing his foolish creatures to run around. Maddening, about the idea of anyone taking pity on them, given the result. One that means he would never see someone important to him again. Even if the struggle was for humans to resolve in the end, Merlin thinks he might hate those things for it. Maybe, he should've did a bit more, even for it means it'd be for selfish reasons.
His mood is growing a little sour, though, so he thinks it's time for him to retreat. But, he is thankful to hear the other's opinion on the matter as well. ]
I'm happy we think the same. Though, that being said, I should head back, lest I make one of my room mates worry about me!
It was nice talking to you~
[ A small wave as he heads off with a little smile. ]
[ So, after Merlin sent a dumb-ass DM, annoying the shit out of someone (literally), he turned his attention towards a different sort of 'DM-ing'. After all, he is only (half) human, and he has needs; not to mention, Merlin believes this sort of thing can only benefit the two of them. So, he's sending a quick message on over to Sonya, also recalling what he said to him.
From mm: You told me to let you know when I have the need, right? From mm: So, comrade, why don't you come on down to the garden. I have ways to make it more...private than any of our lodgings, and I'll make it worth your while~😘
So, in the event Sonya does decide to show up to the garden, he will find it looking more breathtaking than it should, courtesy of some illusionary magic. Standing in the midst of those flowers is a certain Mage of Flowers, offering a mysterious little smile his way. ]
Sonya, I've been waiting~
Do you like the set-up so far? I thought it'd be perfect.
[ Well. Sonya knows what he said, and he knows what it implied, or possibly implied for that matter, but he wouldn't have done such a thing if he hadn't been prepared to follow through. Sonya has needs as well, the need to achieve his vision of a perfect world, and for that—he'll use everything and everyone he can, including himself.
He has faith in his ability, his destiny, to see this detour through but that doesn't mean he won't reach for every opportunity he can in that pursuit. And well, he is still a man, even if his time for such leisures is usually only in the waning hours of the night. In many ways, this suits him well. ]
I hope I haven't kept you waiting too long, but it looks like you've put that time to good use, so I'll only apologize a little. [ Said lightly, as he looks around. In the City he's seen so much and so little, but it's rare to see something like this when you come from a land of ice and snow.
He closes the distance between them with a smile. ]
The spring where I come from is more of a brief thaw than a beautiful bloom, but I see that good fortune is with me tonight. [ Of course, his gaze is directed at Merlin and not the flowers. ]
[ Merlin has always cherished whenever humans have followed through on their words. It makes them more brave—far more attractive than what words can manage to spell out. Actions are powerful, cementing what is said into history—can't be taken back, can't be diminished.
To anyone who might come along to expect to see the garden in its normal glory, they will find a wall risen from their perspective, blocking entry and sight into what is going on amongst the gentle flower fields, and ugly statues hidden by the illusionary magic. ]
Hehe, I suppose this is where I say you're forgiven?
[ Merlin's voice continues to tip towards teasing, gentle, as Sonya comes closer—and Merlin steps on over to meet him the rest of the way, letting his white cloak also drop from him, leaving it behind as it flutters in the nightly breeze. He already wears enough layers, no need to complicate it—in front of Sonya he will be able to see him in his sleeveless black turtleneck shirt, pants, and shoes.
His fingers reach out, to boldly, yet gently rest on the other's shoulders. ]
Good fortune is here with you indeed. No one will be allowed entry. They won't see this glorious sight...it's only for you and me. Like a dream, but it's only a beautiful reality.
[ He will also lean slightly upwards to start them off with a bold kiss. ]
[ Habits truly do die hard, Sonya adapting as much as he's willing to the tropical climate in a light, long sleeved shirt (white of course) with black pants and a woven belt. The patterned scarf he was wearing upon arrival having been tucked into one of his pockets as a more summer accessory than necessity, in this place. ]
Well— [ He breathes out at the touch, even as light as it is. ]
Making dreams into reality is my calling. [ It's not often that someone gets the drop on Sonya, and Merlin will be rewarded for his effort with a soft mmn. The kiss he gives in return is just as bold, experienced, and coupled with one gloved hand cupping under the caster's chin. ]
[ White goes together with black, or so says Merlin himself who prefers to dress in both, so of course his opinion is completely unbiased, and the total truth.
It's amusing to see the other so reactive to his advances, but not bad. He finds it interesting, and it isn't like Sonya's paralyzed, hand resting where it is under his chin. His arms encircle the other male's waist as well, and ah, with the kiss being returned with great finesse, he can only be enticed to chase more, a soft chuckle escaping him as he recalls the words uttered just a moment ago. Making dreams into reality is his calling, is it? And he thought it was only him.
Opening his own mouth, slightly, Merlin deepens this intimate expression between them, and even dares to cheekily nip a little at the other man's lower lip as his hands crawl over from where they rest against Sonya's back, to rest against his hips. ]
[ If they're using both hands now, then Sonya will move his free one to rest on the small of Merlin's back. At least until that nip, which prompts him to press their bodies together, the murmur from his throat more felt than heard. He returns the cheekiness with his tongue to draw that part of them closer, too.
They've been here moments and already they're together like this, but maybe that's the point. People are stronger together, in a union, rather than alone. It's another core tenement Sonya believes in, even if there's other ways he could express himself. But it's not like he's shy, and it's not like this has no purpose. He needs allies, and this is a rather simple need compared to all the other ones he's navigated.
Though, there's something beyond that too. He is curious, about the man who seems to have so much power at his fingertips. Well, he'll have more than just that under his fingertips soon. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
mysticpowerbroker) wrote2023-05-14 11:20 am
week 0, night-time
Who else would it be other than a certain famous wizard, Merlin? That's who.
He has no intentions of meeting with anyone in particular, but he will be easy to flag down. Or perhaps, as he's turning around the corner of a building, he might bump into Sonya. Whichever choice for a wonderful meeting is up to fate, it seems. ]
shh im not late
Out for an evening stroll?
you're just on time buckaroo!!
What about you? Trying to enjoy the scenery? Or perhaps...hoping to gain some more insight?
[ A playful wink leaves him. Fellow light-haired man, tell him the deets. ]
no subject
[ what deets hes just been vaguely sus at all the limcos!!! ]
no subject
Sitting idle is kind of boring, so that's fair~
So is finding this resort 'fascinating'. But, do you think everyone else would agree?
[ Merlin steps forward and closer to the other male, smile clear on his face. ]
frolicks in backtag land with you
Of course not. Every man and woman has different motivations and desires, unequal, but striving to reach an equilibrium. No matter the world, no matter the place, it's the same. We're all human, or at least, some degree of it.
frolicks with
[ Merlin leans in close to the other male, reaching to see if the other will allow him to boop his nose with a single finger. ]
no subject
Careful, you can never be too sure how empty a man's stomach is. [ With a smile. ]
Where I come from, plenty machines have human brains at their core. Assuming you mean true machines, well—I suppose not.
no subject
You're more playful than I thought! But, don't worry. I won't assume...after all, I know what it's like to need to fulfill that hunger too~
[ ...are they even talking about the same thing. ]
Nope, not appliances, or stuff like that.
So, do machines in your world also look like humans?
no subject
Haha, well I'll keep that in mind. [ A wink. ]
Some of them do, but that's usually a matter of cost rather than feasibility.
no subject
Is he encountering another man of culture over here? ]
Oh?
[ Merlin's expression turns somewhere between cheeky and pleased at the same time. As for the other part of the conversation, he ventures an ask: ]
A matter of cost? Monetary value, or is it something else instead?
no subject
Perhaps we can sate our hungers together, one day~. [ ✨ ]
Monetary, unfortunately. I dislike money and all that comes with it, but it is what keeps the world turning—at least currently.
no subject
I'd be all for that, of course~
[ Hecking crying, who let these two talk... ]
I see, I see. It is pretty unfortunate! Why do some humans wish to make themselves more machine than not, though? I am a little curious. Is it a matter of showing off 'money' or is it a power thing?
no subject
[ help. ]
Well, there are those who see it as an upgrade, and those who have little choice after losing a limb or two. The bourgeoisie can afford prosthetics that are indiscernible from natural flesh to the naked eye. Doubtlessly there are some who see it as a type of power though, at least for enhancements geared with an eye towards combat.
no subject
[ Merlin will commit this to memory...remember what you have wrought, Sonya!! ]
Hmm, well when you put it like that, I can definitely see the appeal. You know, if I wasn't who I was. I find it far too scary to replace any of my limbs with anything mechanical!
...But, no matter what day and age, people really will still be people. Desiring power, monetary gains, having dreams that seem almost limitless in the scope of the universe is also human nature. Only time will tell what can be made of it, though the end result should always be something worth the trouble~
no subject
And who is it, that you are, Merlin?
no subject
Jokes aside, he's a little caught off guard, even as he answers: ]
Huh? I'm me.
Where did that question come from?
no subject
[ That's half of it, at least. ]
The way others perceive themselves and the world around them is fascinating to me. There are some who think they are doing well when they're barely surviving, others who think themselves important but are replaced as easily as a toothbrush, others who see think themselves a hero but take no real action.
no subject
[ In his own opinion, anyway. ]
But, I don't think you're wrong either. People's perceptions of themselves oftentimes differ from what they're truly facing in reality, due to certain illusions about their own selves.
Which is a pity sometimes, though that too is a part of human nature. Even if it isn't strictly limited to humans~
no subject
[ Sorry they're just here now. ]
I can't say I have much experience with true non-human beings, monsters aside. But I'm willing to learn~.
[ Monsters is putting it lightly since gazes at Limbus Company. ]
no subject
[ Merlin just laughs, the sound airy and amused. Merlin will take his compliments where he can get them, thankies. ]
Oh? You made friends with monsters back home? Or were they simple trouble-makers?
[ People might think of him as a monster. Half-incubus, half-human...a veritable freak of nature. ]</small.
no subject
Closer to the latter. My hometown is an area that's frigid and desolate, which serves as a perfect barrier against monstrosities invading into the City proper.
NOT MY LITTLE HTML FAIL...it's ok tho
Yikes! Rabid beasts don't like the cold though, hm?
Has it always been like that? Your world being full of monsters, you know?
pats
[ This is probably the closest his voice has gotten to having any real bite in it. ]
But yes, at least it has been for quite some time. The invention of Singularities changed the world in many ways. Ah, they're technology that's capable of producing feats that aren't ordinarily within the realms of possibility. Instant regeneration, "teleportation", time manipulation, and so on.
no subject
[ He certainly hears the bite enter into Sonya's tone, and well then! That's interesting...
...
Singularities, huh. ]
Ah, Singularities also introduced these monsters, then? Is the implication I'm getting here! Whether created them or somehow let them in...
no subject
[ A slight incline of his head. ]
Yes, you can imagine such power comes with side effects, meant or not.
no subject
[ He says, wondering if Sonya will fill in the blanks to back up the statement, or offer another source for this madness. ]
Singularities aren't unusual to me, but I've witnessed them capable of doing exactly the same upon human history. So it's interesting to hear of them in different worlds.
Do you think of them as hardly beneficial, then? Due to these side effects.
no subject
They're not arbitrary, but self serving. The Head and therefore the Wings, do what's in its best interest, namely, profit.
[ Human history, huh? Something else to file away for later. ]
I'm an optimist, but that doesn't mean I'm not a realist. Hands need to be bloodied in the name of change, some need to perish to invigorate the masses. It's not the sacrifice I find fault with, but the way it's unevenly applied.
I wish for a world in which everyone is equal, but to bring that to fruition, I need to dismantle the current one first.
no subject
[ An optimist and a realist combined, but not cynical. Interesting. ]
Heroes oftentimes need to shed the blood of many to make their dreams a reality. It's only a mild consequence, after all.
[ Such words are coldly uttered, but Merlin has assisted in leveraging a ruler to the throne before. Elimination of enemies are always necessary, even in cold blood. ]
Are you alone in pursuing your goal?
no subject
I'm fortunate to have many comrades. A resistance like ours is one that will need every capable pair of hands to succeed. Why do you ask?
no subject
Simple curiosity, Sonya! You can't have a movement without supporters, of course. Not that I had doubts you didn't make those kind of preparations, but this is an easier way to find out.
[ You know, instead of sneaking into his dreams. ]
no subject
[ He's thinking less supporters and more comrades/friends. ]
no subject
Ah, well...my allies assist in ensuring that humanity doesn't come to an end. So, there's that!
[ They're definitely not Merlin's supporters. Not even really his friends. The closest one to him he mostly calls 'Master', so that's not really a friendship either.
Funny how that works. ]
As you can imagine, people in Chaldea are all aligned on the matter. The only ones who aren't for it are feral beasts who are trying to wipe out all humans because they think they're better than humans due to delusions, you know?
no subject
[ He smiles in earnest support. ]
Beasts will always be beasts, but there will always be beast tamers to put them in their place.
fgo spoilers for anyone reading later on, i guess...
[ Merlin says this with a smile, but something about his words seem...strangely vindicative.
...
Solomon placed far too much trust in allowing his foolish creatures to run around. Maddening, about the idea of anyone taking pity on them, given the result. One that means he would never see someone important to him again. Even if the struggle was for humans to resolve in the end, Merlin thinks he might hate those things for it. Maybe, he should've did a bit more, even for it means it'd be for selfish reasons.
His mood is growing a little sour, though, so he thinks it's time for him to retreat. But, he is thankful to hear the other's opinion on the matter as well. ]
I'm happy we think the same. Though, that being said, I should head back, lest I make one of my room mates worry about me!
It was nice talking to you~
[ A small wave as he heads off with a little smile. ]
dm ---> action, week 1, late wednesday evening
From mm: You told me to let you know when I have the need, right?
From mm: So, comrade, why don't you come on down to the garden. I have ways to make it more...private than any of our lodgings, and I'll make it worth your while~😘
So, in the event Sonya does decide to show up to the garden, he will find it looking more breathtaking than it should, courtesy of some illusionary magic. Standing in the midst of those flowers is a certain Mage of Flowers, offering a mysterious little smile his way. ]
Sonya, I've been waiting~
Do you like the set-up so far? I thought it'd be perfect.
no subject
He has faith in his ability, his destiny, to see this detour through but that doesn't mean he won't reach for every opportunity he can in that pursuit. And well, he is still a man, even if his time for such leisures is usually only in the waning hours of the night. In many ways, this suits him well. ]
I hope I haven't kept you waiting too long, but it looks like you've put that time to good use, so I'll only apologize a little. [ Said lightly, as he looks around. In the City he's seen so much and so little, but it's rare to see something like this when you come from a land of ice and snow.
He closes the distance between them with a smile. ]
The spring where I come from is more of a brief thaw than a beautiful bloom, but I see that good fortune is with me tonight. [ Of course, his gaze is directed at Merlin and not the flowers. ]
no subject
To anyone who might come along to expect to see the garden in its normal glory, they will find a wall risen from their perspective, blocking entry and sight into what is going on amongst the gentle flower fields, and ugly statues hidden by the illusionary magic. ]
Hehe, I suppose this is where I say you're forgiven?
[ Merlin's voice continues to tip towards teasing, gentle, as Sonya comes closer—and Merlin steps on over to meet him the rest of the way, letting his white cloak also drop from him, leaving it behind as it flutters in the nightly breeze. He already wears enough layers, no need to complicate it—in front of Sonya he will be able to see him in his sleeveless black turtleneck shirt, pants, and shoes.
His fingers reach out, to boldly, yet gently rest on the other's shoulders. ]
Good fortune is here with you indeed. No one will be allowed entry. They won't see this glorious sight...it's only for you and me. Like a dream, but it's only a beautiful reality.
[ He will also lean slightly upwards to start them off with a bold kiss. ]
no subject
Well— [ He breathes out at the touch, even as light as it is. ]
Making dreams into reality is my calling. [ It's not often that someone gets the drop on Sonya, and Merlin will be rewarded for his effort with a soft mmn. The kiss he gives in return is just as bold, experienced, and coupled with one gloved hand cupping under the caster's chin. ]
no subject
It's amusing to see the other so reactive to his advances, but not bad. He finds it interesting, and it isn't like Sonya's paralyzed, hand resting where it is under his chin. His arms encircle the other male's waist as well, and ah, with the kiss being returned with great finesse, he can only be enticed to chase more, a soft chuckle escaping him as he recalls the words uttered just a moment ago. Making dreams into reality is his calling, is it? And he thought it was only him.
Opening his own mouth, slightly, Merlin deepens this intimate expression between them, and even dares to cheekily nip a little at the other man's lower lip as his hands crawl over from where they rest against Sonya's back, to rest against his hips. ]
no subject
They've been here moments and already they're together like this, but maybe that's the point. People are stronger together, in a union, rather than alone. It's another core tenement Sonya believes in, even if there's other ways he could express himself. But it's not like he's shy, and it's not like this has no purpose. He needs allies, and this is a rather simple need compared to all the other ones he's navigated.
Though, there's something beyond that too. He is curious, about the man who seems to have so much power at his fingertips. Well, he'll have more than just that under his fingertips soon. ]