nexus_sages | 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!))

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[Theo waits to ensure that the mask shows no additional visions, and once he sees that Amelia isn't reacting to anything, he merely bows his head a little. The other mask has disappeared from his hand as well.]

"Hmm...What do you feel it's worth? I am not particularly picky on a price, rather, I think it would be fair to let you decide the value of it."

There's a long pause and a thoughtful frown as she debates the value of something like this would be in her world. Eventually, she reaches into one of her pouches and produces a single gold coin.

"In my world, the currency we use is coins of pure gold, silver, and copper. Something of this level of craftsmanship and beauty deserves to fetch a high price." She offers the coin to him. "A gold coin is not often traded for something like this, but I feel it the only price good enough for such an item."

The beginnings of a smile tug at her lips as she speaks. Outwardly, it appears like the right corner of her lip is twitching, but getting the chance to name a price for such a precious thing makes her feel a lot better about the whole situation.

"Fascinating. I haven't seen gold, silver, or copper used as currency around here very often." [He takes the offered coin and examines it carefully, running one gloves hand against the engravements, as if completely hypnotized by the coin's details. Finding the payment satisfactory, he puts the coin in his pocket for safekeeping.]

"I will treasure this coin dearly." [He doesn't care about the monetary value of the currency, rather, just the fact that Amelia offered him something is enough to make him smile. He seems content with this trade.] "Thank you, dear lady. I am glad to have helped you find something precious this fine day."

"My world is very... old fashioned, I believe is the term I've heard used. But it has its charms." There's that smile that was hiding. It's rather adorable to see Theo so hypnotized by the faint etchings on the coin. It's such a common thing for her that she takes it for granted.

And then she's laughing, just a little bit, at him for treasuring the coin. It seems odd, but that's because she still believes it payment for the mask in her hand. A touch of color settles in her cheek at his last words, though. Compliments are a rare thing for her these days.

"I..." How does one normally react in situations like these? Amelia is uncertain. "Thank you, for being so understanding when I... you know..." The compliment has thrown her off her game and suddenly her cheeks are several shades of pink darker. When did words become so difficult?

"My name is Amelia," she settles on finally. "Amelia Ronsam. It's been a pleasure to meet you."

"Old fashioned is not a bad thing. Tradition and history are things people tend to not appreciate nowadays." [Theo finds himself smiling when he hears Amelia's laugh, as if the gesture inspires him to feel much happier than he already did. He bows politely to her compliment, still acting like a gentleman even while her cheeks glow brighter.]

"It has been my pleasure, Amelia." [He offers her one gloved hand, outstretched and palm open.] "In all the excitement, I forgot to introduce myself. I am Theodore, but you may call me Theo as well.'

That color in her cheeks isn't fading away as she'd like it to, so she's going to pretend it isn't happening and focus her attention on Theo and his words instead.

"It's been a pleasure, Theo." She smiles and gently places her free hand in his. "And don't worry about the missed introduction. I am as guilty of the transgression as you - a terrible thing for a lady to have done." Another small laugh. It lights up her face, washes away some of the worry lines there. "I do hope we'll meet again someday."

"Yes. I am honored to have gotten to opportunity to meet you here, Amelia. thank you." [He gently shakes her hand, before letting it go. Amelia might notice Theo's cheeks are flushed as well. His gaze turns away for a brief moment to regain his composure.]

"Ah...I should be the one apologizing, as a gentleman should always should respect to the lady first. You are not at fault in the slightest." [He finds himself smiling to her once more, before reaching into his pocket and pulling out a small wooden charm that has a key engraved on it. He offers it to her.]

"Please take this token of my gratitude for today. It will allow us to meet much easier the next time around. Whenever that may be."

Oh goodness, she didn't mean to make him blush. That, plus the offer of the key, causes her cheeks to darken another couple of shades to a rather rosy red.

"Thank you," she says as she takes the offered token. "How does it work, exactly?" She's so inexperienced in the ways of magic that they meaning of the charm is completely lost on her.

"It works like so...If you ever desire to talk, just hold it in your palm and think about me. I will be able to hear your call and come as soon as possible." [He nods, still smiling to her.]

"The Nexus is vast, but I'm sure out paths will cross again soon."

Paying tribute to the ages

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