[ The indeed more rabbit-like animal perks up as Wei Wuxian comes on over, moving from attacking the wizard's pantleg over to near the black-haired male for pets, making the mage mutter something like, "Fou, behave yourself..." as Merlin smiles sheepishly.
Then, he flexes an arm despite that he's wearing long sleeves that cover both of his arms. He's just being a little silly. ]
Strong enough indeed! Anyone will be sorry to think we're to be underestimated.
Not to mention, you must be rather used to some strange phenomenon too, hm?
[ Fou makes happy noises from being pet and showered with attention. Merlin comically huffs at the little beast but with no real heat. He is Fou's caretaker, after all. ]
All mages are familiar with such things, of course.
[ He says with a slight smile, though for once it fades a little at the question. But he keeps it for appearance's sake. ]
I'm not sure either. Not that I'm too concerned, of course! We have a strong group of people among us. If something odd happens, I like to think we'd be able to make it through. Including even if someone plays dirty.
Human nature is interesting sometimes. Both bad, both good. But you can say that about other creatures too, you know? [ ... ] Do you have any concerns? From one magic user to another?
[ Ah, his smile faded, unless Wei Wuxian's mind is playing tricks on him. He hums at the question, flopping down onto the sand so he can more properly pet Fou. ]
My magic has mostly to do with resentful energy, but... I do. [ Can it be rightfully called magic, in that case? He doesn't know. ] Our purpose for being here might be for the reasons our captors stated after all. This island really might need death.
[ Wei Wuxian is not imagining things! Merlin likes to think he can hide when he worries, but he doesn't acknowledge the emotion properly...so it shows a little when it comes. Though, he has no intention of letting it diminish his hopes. ]
Haha, well, magical energy is still energy, no matter whichever form it so happens to take.
[ Merlin says lightly. It's still as valid to him. White magic, black magic...whatever the source, or method, he does not discriminate. It is how one uses the medium that matters.
Fou, in the meanwhile, is enjoying the pet scratches, relaxing to the point where the animal doesn't want to move. ]
...Yes, it looks like this island is so clearly afflicted whenever lacking 'death' or [ He does a poor impression of 'Ho-Oh's voice': ] 'superhuman energy'.
Ahh, well, so goes my doubts on the matter. But I'm powerful, not omnipotent. Though, I do know some people who think of themselves as exactly that! History is filled with those personalities, but so is Chaldea.
[ Well, if Merlin considers his abilities to be magic then... Wei Wuxian can allow that. He smiles a little bit at that impression as he continues to pet Fou. ]
When someone becomes powerful enough, they begin to think of themselves at omnipotent, though no one really is.
[ Or at least, Wei Wuxian seems to think so.
He sighs. ]
I've lost quite a few of my powers here, though. I can't hear spirits and I can't summon anything when I play the flute. There's an eerie lack of death on this island, though I suppose that goes to show with the phenomenon from earlier, doesn't it?
[ Fou chirps out something that sounds like an agreement somehow, clearly somehow understanding the line of conversation despite being properly pampered, hah. ]
Mm, I think that's certainly true. That kind of attitude seems always so frequently present, even when the Age of Gods is so far behind us, haha.
[ Merlin has existed for ages. He has seen such hubris time and time again...
Not to say he isn't arrogant, of course, but he likes to think it's his own loveable kind! ]
It's entirely possible, though I'm not sure...
It's clear death happened on this island before, given what those two boneheads said. But someone in-tune with that sort of thing and not being able to sense it is surely strange! Though, speaking on my end, normally I'd been able to 'see' what our enemy looks like by now...and I can't teleport off the island, and forget having anything to do with dimensions right now!
But, if there were a way to deal with that sort of power interference, it'd make it easier...though, I have been thinking about it for awhile now, kind of like a magic spell against it or something...
[ Fou lifts its head up to say 'Fou!' At this, Merlin huffs and then puts his hands on his hips. ]
Hey! Don't doubt my genius, Fou. Can you believe this little guy? Sheesh.
[ Oh, Fou is a smart little guy! Wei Wuxian gives him a little ruffle of the fur. ]
Mm, that’s why the lack of death is so strange. I don’t hear any spirits whispering to me.
[ And he grew quite used to it. Merlin’s words, however, make him frown. ]
What would this spell be, Merlin? You said you can’t get a proper read of that creature, so what do you think a spell might even do? What if it backfires on you?
[ Merlin puffs his cheeks out, but then realizes Wei Wuxian is being serious and he can't play it off with humor. He takes a moment to take in the fact someone's worrying over him...a little? It doesn't happen very often, so he's a bit surprised as well.
Fou, on the other hand, looks plenty satisfied about whatever concern that was just voiced. As well as more pet ruffling, making a little happy noise. ]
Aha, I'm not even sure if what's behind it is a creature or not, but...
Well, I'm working it out, okay? [ He pitches his voice up cheerily because he doesn't want to sound otherwise. ] I'm the great and powerful Merlin! If anything went wrong, it wouldn't be because a spell back-fired on me, I promise. Someone would have to interfere or kill me first to stop it, of course. Naturally, I won't let either happen! I'm good at running away when it gets too dangerous.
Have faith in me, alright? The best thing is I'm not going to just rush ahead into it either. I have a plan. It's important to gather information first before taking action, right?
[ Which, he assumes will afford him enough time to potentially take action in the first place, but...you know. ]
Okay, that's a lie. So, there's a pause as he hums a little. He's told someone else about just a little bit of his plans, but he's been a bit stubborn about the 'help' factor. Though, here, he figures it can't hurt. Maybe because he feels the two of them have a lot in common... ]
Well, I plan to ask questions of our captors first. Simple enough, you know. So maybe both of us could do that in our own ways...then compare notes.
Next stage is heading out to the beach, and then testing the strength of the barrier surrounding the island. My offensive magic is rather long-range, of course. I never bothered to do it before because I thought we had more time.
Then, the follow-up is seeing if we can find where this distortion usually originates. It was a bit unclear last time, but if we can narrow it down to the exact location, that might help as well.
Pinning down a location will indeed help us eliminate the threat at its source.
[ Wei Wuxian can swim, but he knows he can't do anything about the barrier. That's entirely beyond him and his skills as a human, so he can just leave that to Merlin.
But there is a problem with this plan... ]
Do you really think those bastards are going to tell you a single thing?
As for Wei Wuxian's criticism, he doesn't necessarily think it unfounded. Though he's not deterred either; he has already decided on his course of action, after all. ]
That depends. I'm not hinging the plan on them telling me everything, because that's just silly, and shouldn't be the main way to gather info. And you certainly don't have to talk to them either if you don't want to. Though in my experience, the more arrogance someone has...if you get them talking, sometimes they let slip something they shouldn't have. Something that might lead to their downfall, so to speak~
I can handle it myself, of course. If it ends up a nothing-burger, then that's just fine. We can work on the other two together just as well.
You'll be the first person I'll find...whether I decide to get back-up for poking them for info, or in the event I'm just successful, of course.
[ He gives a wink. ]
After all, I can't remember the last person who worried so much over me. I was starting to wonder if I would make you go grey too early! Not that I imagine it'd diminish your appearance any~
[ Merlin is going to try to interject some levity back in as much as he can. He totally ignores the judging look his companion animal throws him. ]
[ As for the severity of the comment, he just laughs lightly.
He thinks it's...nice. He shouldn't be so surprised, really—he knows it's his own fault that people rarely say things like that to him. ]
...Haha, that's—fair. Honestly, I'd be upset if something happened to you.
[ That's also true—Wei Wuxian is one of the people he likes being around, and he finds that he has come to like some others as well, wishing that they will remain safe too. But, he turns his head away quickly, looking back out to the sea, because getting choked up over this feels a little embarrassing. ]
I wish we'd all met under better circumstances. It'd be nice. [ ... ] Some things you can't change, though. At least at the end of the day, most of us can be sure that we try our best. And I think, with all our efforts...we'll earn our happy ending. Away from this hellhole.
[ They're a relatively dysfunctional group, but Wei Wuxian thinks that enough of them want to live that they'll manage through this. ]
While it would have been nice to meet in better circumstances, I think we can be grateful we met at all, can't we? There are positives, even in situations such as these.
[ Merlin turns to face Wei Wuxian when he says that, a more subdued smile on his face, that reaches his eyes. No additional commentary about how difficult it'll be, when they know it both will be.
...He thinks he's glad, that even though they certainly have different opinions on certain matters, both of them can see the situation the same way. ]
Yes, you're right. I think I've even gotten along a bit better than most of the people I've met back "home". It probably sounds strange, but that, our meetings, and other things...it's probably why I won't want to forget this ever happened.
[ Ah...so that's another similarity they have, huh? He has noticed some similarities between them, but this was beyond his expectations. ]
In that case, I'd have to extend those sentiments back to you, hm? About appreciating that you have had a better experience, even with our situation being what it is.
I guess this also says something about the two of us.
[ That they're particularly good at alienating people, or others can't reach them well. Perhaps...Wei Wuxian feels as distant as he does from people as well, among other things. ]
[ He smiles, thinking along the same lines as Merlin. Personalities like theirs always cause a stir, gaining them friends or enemies depending on the tide of opinion at the time. ]
That it does, doesn't it? Perhaps we instinctually picked up on that, and it's why we get along so well.
But, here I thought it was simply because we had similar tastes. [ But, this is different than currying surface, temporary popularity or infamy. ] In all honesty, I never expected I could really relate to anyone. Those kind of things are strictly usually reserved for other people. Those who live in a world where days still turn to night...those who live mortal lives.
[ Maybe in his heart, Merlin wished for that sort of thing. The part of him that is still human, which he hardly ever properly acknowledges. ]
I wonder, what other similarities we so happen to share. How much would you be willing to let me find out?
[ A brief, amused look is passed on over to Wei Wuxian, as if he has an inkling, since they are similar. One that speaks louder than words, given the way he also has just hummed.
Though, he answers the question seriously, despite the gentle, non-verbal tease a moment ago. ]
As you wish. Usually, I do prefer to be the only one who knows. But, I think I can make an exception for someone like yourself. For some reason, the idea doesn't seem as fun when it's with you...an equal exchange of sorts sounds more exciting!
[ Then, unable to jest a little, he adds on with a wink: ]
And now that I have said that, maybe we should do something to symbolize our agreement? I wonder, what would you consider to be acceptable...?
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mysticpowerbroker) wrote2023-05-15 09:11 pm
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Then, he flexes an arm despite that he's wearing long sleeves that cover both of his arms. He's just being a little silly. ]
Strong enough indeed! Anyone will be sorry to think we're to be underestimated.
Not to mention, you must be rather used to some strange phenomenon too, hm?
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I am, yes. What gave you that idea?
[ He laughs. No need to talk about the whole demonic cultivation thing, so moving on— ]
What are your thoughts on this recent development? We can roll with the punches, sure, but I do wonder what else might happen.
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All mages are familiar with such things, of course.
[ He says with a slight smile, though for once it fades a little at the question. But he keeps it for appearance's sake. ]
I'm not sure either. Not that I'm too concerned, of course! We have a strong group of people among us. If something odd happens, I like to think we'd be able to make it through. Including even if someone plays dirty.
Human nature is interesting sometimes. Both bad, both good. But you can say that about other creatures too, you know? [ ... ] Do you have any concerns? From one magic user to another?
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My magic has mostly to do with resentful energy, but... I do. [ Can it be rightfully called magic, in that case? He doesn't know. ] Our purpose for being here might be for the reasons our captors stated after all. This island really might need death.
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Haha, well, magical energy is still energy, no matter whichever form it so happens to take.
[ Merlin says lightly. It's still as valid to him. White magic, black magic...whatever the source, or method, he does not discriminate. It is how one uses the medium that matters.
Fou, in the meanwhile, is enjoying the pet scratches, relaxing to the point where the animal doesn't want to move. ]
...Yes, it looks like this island is so clearly afflicted whenever lacking 'death' or [ He does a poor impression of 'Ho-Oh's voice': ] 'superhuman energy'.
Ahh, well, so goes my doubts on the matter. But I'm powerful, not omnipotent. Though, I do know some people who think of themselves as exactly that! History is filled with those personalities, but so is Chaldea.
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When someone becomes powerful enough, they begin to think of themselves at omnipotent, though no one really is.
[ Or at least, Wei Wuxian seems to think so.
He sighs. ]
I've lost quite a few of my powers here, though. I can't hear spirits and I can't summon anything when I play the flute. There's an eerie lack of death on this island, though I suppose that goes to show with the phenomenon from earlier, doesn't it?
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Mm, I think that's certainly true. That kind of attitude seems always so frequently present, even when the Age of Gods is so far behind us, haha.
[ Merlin has existed for ages. He has seen such hubris time and time again...
Not to say he isn't arrogant, of course, but he likes to think it's his own loveable kind! ]
It's entirely possible, though I'm not sure...
It's clear death happened on this island before, given what those two boneheads said. But someone in-tune with that sort of thing and not being able to sense it is surely strange! Though, speaking on my end, normally I'd been able to 'see' what our enemy looks like by now...and I can't teleport off the island, and forget having anything to do with dimensions right now!
But, if there were a way to deal with that sort of power interference, it'd make it easier...though, I have been thinking about it for awhile now, kind of like a magic spell against it or something...
[ Fou lifts its head up to say 'Fou!' At this, Merlin huffs and then puts his hands on his hips. ]
Hey! Don't doubt my genius, Fou. Can you believe this little guy? Sheesh.
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Mm, that’s why the lack of death is so strange. I don’t hear any spirits whispering to me.
[ And he grew quite used to it. Merlin’s words, however, make him frown. ]
What would this spell be, Merlin? You said you can’t get a proper read of that creature, so what do you think a spell might even do? What if it backfires on you?
[ Fou has a point! ]
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Fou, on the other hand, looks plenty satisfied about whatever concern that was just voiced. As well as more pet ruffling, making a little happy noise. ]
Aha, I'm not even sure if what's behind it is a creature or not, but...
Well, I'm working it out, okay? [ He pitches his voice up cheerily because he doesn't want to sound otherwise. ] I'm the great and powerful Merlin! If anything went wrong, it wouldn't be because a spell back-fired on me, I promise. Someone would have to interfere or kill me first to stop it, of course. Naturally, I won't let either happen! I'm good at running away when it gets too dangerous.
Have faith in me, alright? The best thing is I'm not going to just rush ahead into it either. I have a plan. It's important to gather information first before taking action, right?
[ Which, he assumes will afford him enough time to potentially take action in the first place, but...you know. ]
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[ He frowns, looking out to the sea before his gaze shifts back to Merlin. ]
Let me gather information with you. I may be useless against that thing, but I can at least help you prepare.
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[ ...
Okay, that's a lie. So, there's a pause as he hums a little. He's told someone else about just a little bit of his plans, but he's been a bit stubborn about the 'help' factor. Though, here, he figures it can't hurt. Maybe because he feels the two of them have a lot in common... ]
Well, I plan to ask questions of our captors first. Simple enough, you know. So maybe both of us could do that in our own ways...then compare notes.
Next stage is heading out to the beach, and then testing the strength of the barrier surrounding the island. My offensive magic is rather long-range, of course. I never bothered to do it before because I thought we had more time.
Then, the follow-up is seeing if we can find where this distortion usually originates. It was a bit unclear last time, but if we can narrow it down to the exact location, that might help as well.
That's about all I have at this time.
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[ Wei Wuxian can swim, but he knows he can't do anything about the barrier. That's entirely beyond him and his skills as a human, so he can just leave that to Merlin.
But there is a problem with this plan... ]
Do you really think those bastards are going to tell you a single thing?
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[ At least he sounds confident of that.
As for Wei Wuxian's criticism, he doesn't necessarily think it unfounded. Though he's not deterred either; he has already decided on his course of action, after all. ]
That depends. I'm not hinging the plan on them telling me everything, because that's just silly, and shouldn't be the main way to gather info. And you certainly don't have to talk to them either if you don't want to. Though in my experience, the more arrogance someone has...if you get them talking, sometimes they let slip something they shouldn't have. Something that might lead to their downfall, so to speak~
I can handle it myself, of course. If it ends up a nothing-burger, then that's just fine. We can work on the other two together just as well.
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[ He sighs, long and thin. Wei Wuxian really doesn't think Merlin will find out much at all and that it might be a huge waste of time for him. ]
Come find me if you need assistance getting information out of them. I'll likely be in one of the hammocks.
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[ He gives a wink. ]
After all, I can't remember the last person who worried so much over me. I was starting to wonder if I would make you go grey too early! Not that I imagine it'd diminish your appearance any~
[ Merlin is going to try to interject some levity back in as much as he can. He totally ignores the judging look his companion animal throws him. ]
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[ He laughs, taking the comment in stride. While his smile doesn’t fade, the look on his face is still serious. ]
I consider most of us a team. Why wouldn’t I worry about a teammate I like being around?
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[ As for the severity of the comment, he just laughs lightly.
He thinks it's...nice. He shouldn't be so surprised, really—he knows it's his own fault that people rarely say things like that to him. ]
...Haha, that's—fair. Honestly, I'd be upset if something happened to you.
[ That's also true—Wei Wuxian is one of the people he likes being around, and he finds that he has come to like some others as well, wishing that they will remain safe too. But, he turns his head away quickly, looking back out to the sea, because getting choked up over this feels a little embarrassing. ]
I wish we'd all met under better circumstances. It'd be nice. [ ... ] Some things you can't change, though. At least at the end of the day, most of us can be sure that we try our best. And I think, with all our efforts...we'll earn our happy ending. Away from this hellhole.
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[ They're a relatively dysfunctional group, but Wei Wuxian thinks that enough of them want to live that they'll manage through this. ]
While it would have been nice to meet in better circumstances, I think we can be grateful we met at all, can't we? There are positives, even in situations such as these.
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...He thinks he's glad, that even though they certainly have different opinions on certain matters, both of them can see the situation the same way. ]
Yes, you're right. I think I've even gotten along a bit better than most of the people I've met back "home". It probably sounds strange, but that, our meetings, and other things...it's probably why I won't want to forget this ever happened.
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[ He pauses, a subdued smile of his own on his face. ]
I feel similarly.
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In that case, I'd have to extend those sentiments back to you, hm? About appreciating that you have had a better experience, even with our situation being what it is.
I guess this also says something about the two of us.
[ That they're particularly good at alienating people, or others can't reach them well. Perhaps...Wei Wuxian feels as distant as he does from people as well, among other things. ]
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That it does, doesn't it? Perhaps we instinctually picked up on that, and it's why we get along so well.
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But, here I thought it was simply because we had similar tastes. [ But, this is different than currying surface, temporary popularity or infamy. ] In all honesty, I never expected I could really relate to anyone. Those kind of things are strictly usually reserved for other people. Those who live in a world where days still turn to night...those who live mortal lives.
[ Maybe in his heart, Merlin wished for that sort of thing. The part of him that is still human, which he hardly ever properly acknowledges. ]
I wonder, what other similarities we so happen to share. How much would you be willing to let me find out?
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[ And yet he pushes people away through vagueness and turning the attention right back around on them.
Still... he thinks Merlin is probably similar. After all, here he is, asking Wei Wuxian if he can find out more about him. ]
Only if you'd let me in on such similarities. Where's the fun in you being the only one who knows?
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[ A brief, amused look is passed on over to Wei Wuxian, as if he has an inkling, since they are similar. One that speaks louder than words, given the way he also has just hummed.
Though, he answers the question seriously, despite the gentle, non-verbal tease a moment ago. ]
As you wish. Usually, I do prefer to be the only one who knows. But, I think I can make an exception for someone like yourself. For some reason, the idea doesn't seem as fun when it's with you...an equal exchange of sorts sounds more exciting!
[ Then, unable to jest a little, he adds on with a wink: ]
And now that I have said that, maybe we should do something to symbolize our agreement? I wonder, what would you consider to be acceptable...?
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internalized homophobia/biphobia cw sorry to hit you with this lum
No problem at all :> mild apology for Merlin being...himself
crying
😎
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