elevator_attendant: (-thoughtful-)
Theodore ([personal profile] elevator_attendant) wrote in [community profile] nexus_sages2015-10-21 05:43 pm

Paying tribute to the ages

[In a very populated corner of the forum area, an intricate Japanese stall has been set up, containing small treats, along with a great deal of masks. Behind the stand is a small Mikoshi shrine, the entrance concealed by a blue fabric, inlaid with gold trimmings. Standing in front of these Japanese structures is a man, well-dressed in a blue suit and tie. His wardrobe clashes with the scenery, as he looks like someone who stepped out of an american hotel, circa 1930’s.

He speaks up in a very calm voice, but loud enough for all to hear.]

“Jidai Matsuri. For those not versed in Japanese culture, the festival, originating from Kyoto, is a time to celebrate the ages. Many other festivals are held during October, but this seems to be the one my master has fondness for.”

[A pause, while Theodore gestures to the Japanese stall behind him.]

“In honor of Japanese cultures, I’ve decided to bring something not often seen here to the Nexus. To excite or enlighten those who wish to learn more about the world and themselves.”

[He steps behind the mask stand, gesturing to the different character faces that line the stand walls. It’s very hard to count how many masks are there, but each one seems different then the next.]

“Masks are a common part of Japanese summer festivals, but my master finds them to be fascinating all-year round and feels that many other people can appreciate the beauty in such works of art. Thus, I have been tasked with sharing these wonderful gifts to you, the travelers of the Nexus. Donations are appreciated, but not necessary.”

[He plucks a mask off the wall, one that resembles Hello Kitty. No, he will not be putting it on, rather showing it off to any nearby person instead.]

“Feel free to find one that matches your personality. I can assure you that you will not walk away empty handed. If you require assistance, I will be here to answer any questions you may have.”

((The masks are enchanted (but not in a terrible lol way), and if your character chooses one, they will be able to recall a memory from their past (good/bad/sad/angry, you name it) or perhaps a very vague vision of the future. If you would not like your character to experience this, feel free to leave a note, and Theo will present your character with something normal. Enjoy!))
brave_heart_verity: (nope)

Keyboards just hate you I guess.

[personal profile] brave_heart_verity 2015-10-23 02:32 am (UTC)(link)
"It's okay, you couldn't have known. No harm done." But there will be if she keeps having to reassure them. She's not exactly in her right mind right now, and it's hard to care about other people's feelings when she's in mourning for billions of people. "And I get that I'm not who the shrine is for, it's fine."

He's usually warm to the touch. This is enough for her to be a little worried. She'll make sure he isn't coming down with something later. "Things change, and people think there was some golden past that was perfect, but there really wasn't."

She's cheerful today isn't she?

"Maybe I should go, so you two can enjoy your festival." She knows she's a buzzkill.
sumarusfinest: icons created by pariker (Thinking)

[personal profile] sumarusfinest 2015-10-23 03:20 am (UTC)(link)
"...I apologize Verity. I had assumed this was something you would find interest in." Katsuya does understand what Verity is going through right now, but it doesn't stop him from sounding somewhat more tired at her reaction. The teasing had given him hope that she was feeling more herself, but it was clearly too soon for normal socializing, or to introduce her to parts of his world based on illusions or magic.

"It was lovely for you to come out all this way." He doesn't apologize for the inconvenience. He knows it will only sour her mood more. Still, it's put a damper on his own mood too. He gives Theo a somewhat apologetic glance. This clearly was not how he planned this meeting to go.

It would be more accurate to say the officer hadn't thought about this at all before he'd acted.
brave_heart_verity: (disappointed)

[personal profile] brave_heart_verity 2015-10-23 03:39 am (UTC)(link)
Theo's being so kind, and if she had just a little more energy she'd be able to appreciate it better. "It's someone else's religion, and I understand that. I don't want to be disrespectful." Religious tolerance is a good thing in a place like New York. She's seen what happens when people forget that part.

The change in Katsuya's tone hurts. She thought she'd get more than a week... guess not. "No, it's..." Sigh. She doesn't have the energy for this right now. "Sorry. I'm sorry."

She'll be going now.
sumarusfinest: icons created by pariker (Turn)

Luk is Katsuya's lowest stat for a reason.

[personal profile] sumarusfinest 2015-10-23 04:08 am (UTC)(link)
Well.

The officer stands there, dumbfounded as Verity removes her hand from his and leaves. Stand there entirely too long without moving. Stands there until she's gone and then slams his now empty hand against his forehead with a few choice swears in Japanese.

"Stupid. So stupid...of course this place would be no good. Anything magical or illusory just makes her powers hurt her, or reminds her of Loki." And that whole thing is another can of worms Katsuya doesn't understand entirely.

"I'm sorry Theodore. I really..." He sighs, pulls the mask he's holding back into view. His expression is pinched and closed off. He almost throws the mask away entirely.

He can't.

He let his present walk away to hold onto the past. Again.

"....I can't believe I thought she'd care about this place. She likes stories, but not religion or traditions for the sake of them."
sumarusfinest: icons created by pariker (Officer Suou)

But he needs max STR for putting his foot in his mouth

[personal profile] sumarusfinest 2015-10-23 04:31 am (UTC)(link)
"...She's been through so much, and I..." Katsuya sighs deeply, his shoulders slumping. "I was being selfish. I thought coming here would get her out, give her something else to think about. I should have..." Many things. The biggest mistake was letting her walk away without explaining.

"I'm sorry Theo. Truly." He doesn't even seem to process Theo offering to store Tatsuya's mask away.

The old Katsuya would have let things be. Would have accepted this as just another failure added to the top of the pile and let things be. The old Katsuya bound by a self fulfilling prophecy of loss and loneliness.

"May I offer you my number?" Katsuya scribbles the battered cell phone's number onto a card and hands it to Theo. "I would truly like to talk more with you later. Find out what all has been going on in other worlds. Your world. But...later. I have to go find Verity first."

The old Katsuya is no more. The officer adjusts his sunglasses and turns to leave, still carrying the mask. His past and his present would have to learn to get along.