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[pepotour-blog]

sengetsujin:

   Upwards raise the bird’s eyes to the heavens–was that yet another joke? Hadn’t he just said to stop that? Guess he didn’t take orders well. Who knew. Not that he’d expected his words to make any sort of impression or difference, but seriously? Who the hell was this guy. Maybe if they’d actually spoken he might have liked the guy. Actually, wait, he was going through things back then. The first impression probably killed all the chances at getting friendly banter going, huh? Hm. All things considered, no wonder he’d never gotten the chance to see this side of the man. Hadn’t ever wanted to. Been too busy denying himself an existence. 

       “ That just makes it worse. “     More than a hint of a whine in his voice–before giving an exaggerated huff and shrug. Knowing the man wasn’t trying, was humbled out of his grace and power and forced to act more transparent, more as he truly was–and he liked the guy. He thought his world had turned upside down when those kids drug him around saving the place, but nope, that’d just been a bit skewed. This was upside-down, topsy-turvy and all sorts of messed up.

   Don’t think all those shifts and changes of expression went unnoticed by the bird. Certainly while his eyes were raised he missed a bit–but heck, he’d been around the man enough to know some of his tells. Obviously not as many as he once thought, but a few. And he had known the man had liked to work himself to the bone (as well as anyone unlucky enough to be in his service–); sitting ‘round with not much to do of any importance, no one to boss around–must have been a difficult enough change, he supposed. No wonder he kept stopping by (’accidentally’, sure). Not all them meeting’s were Raven keeping tabs. 

       “ What, th’ young guild boss not keepin’ ya busy ‘nough with his wholesome company? “     He almost wanted to make a jab, an innuendo implying the man wanted older, more experienced company–but nah. Not quite ready to dive into that sort of joking with him. Regular, PG jokes were disturbing enough without trying to talk about intimates. Eugh. He got a shiver down his spine just thinking about such a possible conversation. Nope, no way. Not going down that route ever, under any circumstance. 

   A more serious facade gripped him, eyes shifting over to former-Commandant. The whole ‘having nothing to do’ business must’ve gotten to him more than let on, to actually let on in the first place. To get him to come to Raven of all people. Then again–who else would he go to? Not like he had many choices after all. Besides, a corner of his lips rising in sadistic grin, might be fun to boss him around a little. ‘Go here’, ‘pick this up’, ‘do this paperwork’–him, bossing Alexei around! 

       “ Y’know, there is some paperwork ‘round Altosk that I’ve just not found th’ time for, if you’re so willin’. Or, since your arse is prob’ly stiff from all that ‘sittin’ ‘round, a few things to deliver outta town. Don’t even gotta put th’ goods in someone’s hands–just ring th’ doorbell an’ run. “

   Of course, he’d have to tag along the first trip or two, just to make sure. But–didn’t see too much harm in letting him go off with some goods alone later down the road. Wasn’t much important stuff he’d start off with anyhow. Also–he so hoped the man would take those last words literally. Please oh please let him be around to see it if he should actually ring a doorbell and run. 

   The smile on his face was feral, unsettling–the look of a man who knew he could get away with taking what he wanted. Exploiting the one in front of him, who in his mind was now laid out like a sacrificial lamb, all for him. Probably the same smoldering look he used on women on occasion (y’know, when he really had to bring the smolder), but he didn’t care a the moment. He wouldn’t go too far–he knew he probably couldn’t get away with too much, couldn’t risk too much, or doing something that’d drive the man back to his old ways, but hey–any small little transgressions and petty revenges? Heck yeah, he was all over that. And if he did it in a helping manner that couldn’t be refused, all the better. He was starting to like this ‘Lexei. 

      “ Y’ever thought about changin’ yer hair, puttin’ on some glasses, an’ pickin’ up a funny accent? Worked pretty well f’r this other asshole I knew. “    They knew, referencing quite clearly the dual persona of a certain someone also raised from the dead long ago. 

Alexei blanked at Raven for only a moment. His expression growing … well … not flat, but rather confused before it seemed to meld back into his more apathetic features. He had not intended to give another joke, not at all! In fact, he was being quite literal. As this ‘raven’ persona had drifted up within the past year, and Alexei had been quite content to merely ignore it and play off the thing. Dislike it without any bells or whistles! Yet, here they were now … with Alexei being made to face the persona, and, along with it, it’s specific sense of humor. Combined with Schwann’s knowledge of Alexei’s habits and ticks, this was not exactly the most sublime of circumstances.

Taking a breath, he released it, choosing then to ignore the complaints.

“Look at it from my perspective, then.” Alexei slowly shifted, allowing his hands to steeple, before pointing towards his companion. In this way to emphasize the situation.

“Currently I am having to discuss on my feelings with a person who is twice as likely to use them as blackmail, give them to one of his other companions for leverage, or use said leverage for himself.”

There was a lift of hands before Alexei slowly reclined backwards, hands falling back into his lap as his back leaned against the back of the chair. However, at the question of Karol, confusion once again glimmered along the older man’s expression. Not understanding the joke, and, to a point, taking offense to such a suggestion of Karol not being able to sustain an intellectual conversation enough to keep the elder distracted for a good several minutes.

“It is nothing like that! Capel is quite good at such distractions. One cannot simply rely ‘pon one other person to provide entertainment at all hours! And as you mentioned prior, not someone who works as hard as he does! The type of work I would wish for is busy work, something menial, keeping the mind active and working.”

And while he would not admit to his paranoia, he would … grudgingly agree to the fact, being able to stop seeing spots and shadows in the corners of his eyes from an overactive imagination would … help soothe his mind. There’s a sigh, those fingers that ran through silver hair letting nails scrape along his scalp.

He did not sit well.

Acknowledging this was easy, finding ways to counteract such was more difficult. At a glance up … he catches that look. The wolfish grin looking at a sheep … unfortunately for that wolf, this fox seemed to still have a good enough disguise to fool him. His expression, nor his body language changed, instead he merely watched the way he seemed to casually settle out the idea. As if it were some great thing to be offering Alexei. Food on a silver platter. A steak to a starving man …

Alexei knew that look quite well, he had worn it ‘pon his own face after all. Instead, Alexei seemed to sigh. Tipping his head to the side, thinking carefully through this situation.

“Oh yes … because I am certain your boss will be pleased to know your paperwork was done by the man who helped orchestrate his grandfather’s death.”

The way he said it … he sounded so casual. As if it carried no weight, and yet all of it at the same time. Watching Raven’s own expression. Alexei had not been the one to pull the trigger on Don’s death. He had given orders, ideas for how. Truthfully, if he could have avoided it, he would have preferred killing off the brat. Doing so would have given Alexei much more room to force his way down and stomp the Don’s morals, beliefs, and ideas down his own throat. Make him bend and realize how wrong he had been. Yet … instead, he had gotten the Don’s head on a platter.

                 A shame . . . . . . such an unfortunate situation.

If only there had been someone to put an end to it ... perhaps someone who knew what was going on.

“Oh, yes, I believe I know him! But ... I have hidden for ... oh, twenty or-so years? I do not believe hiding again is quite the way to avoid repeat situations.”

Yet there was an understanding he could not merely ask for the change to happen ... There was trust that needed to be built. Points to prove, usefulness given ... it was an exchange for life and abilities lost through the ages.

“Otherwise, despite your sadistic and perverse ideas ... honestly the jobs you offer would be perfect.”

[pepotour-blog]

windriding:

@pepotour

It was a gamble to come, Rose knew– but they had so little left to lose. Upon receiving the letter from someone claiming they wanted to help, Rose had snuck the remnants of the Windriders to another hiding place in the lower quarters, then promptly came by herself.

The fact they had been found so quickly scared her. That they hadn’t been immediately seized gave the letter some credence…though she had still made sure the others would be able to find their own way to safety if she was to be captured.

She stood at the designated spot, looking nonchalant as if she belonged in the nondescript courtyard. A wide-brimmed hat was all she had to help cover her face and mask her short, distinct hair colour but it wasn’t out of place in the bright sunshine of the day.

She knew she faced a trap, or a potential ally. The risk was worth it.

The moment he had heard of one of his prior-nobles giving a rag-tag group of mercenaries a kick to the shins, Alexei had immediately stepped in. He was the one in charge of the militia, even if the noble believed their entire band would be wiped out and simply disappear from his life ... the Commandant had other plans.

He had needed a more dedicated group force (outside of the Empire’s Knights) to perform ... certain tasks. Clean-up, so-to-speak. He was not beyond breaking a few rules to ascertain his goals, and so he set about his own resources to find them. The last few rag-tag members whom he could then contact. Careful hands, dictated quietly to a person who not live to see the next morn, no traces of his handwriting, nothing that would indicate that Alexei had indeed asked for or had helped this misfortunate misfits.

Alexei swept through the streets. No-one questioning a look at the Commandant, as he was one to visit and check in on his guards to make sure their duties were fulfilled. It was one of the reasons why he was somewhat liked, even by the lower quarter ... He could not blame them for their gullibility. 

Alexei walked past the spot that he had promised to meet the ‘leader’ of their group. Red eyes glittered, taking in the hat, the clothes, how she held herself. He walked past without seeming to notice her, before stopping and slowly turned. His posture spoke of ease and power, but not in such a way to look down on another.

Just enough to know he had it ... and he knew how to use it.

Turning, he gave a small bow, a perked smile tipped the edge of his lips.

       “M’lady, I take it ... you received my note.”

[pepotour-blog]

heartofephinea:

@herpsydaisy

“Do you not get bored? I would think that would grow tedious after all this time.”

      “ Not at all. ” Alexei spoke plainly, looking up from the papers scattered along the desk.

     “ Work, for me, is a joy to handle. Things that are tedious to others just comes naturally and are quite intriguing to me. ”

[pepotour-blog]

sengetsujin!

   This–didn’t seem quite like the man she remembered. Imposing, powerful–frightening. Head ducked, mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water–was he, scared? Perhaps he regretted what he’d done, changed. But–but what he had done had nearly destroyed her, the world, and did destroy quite a bit.

   And here he was. Living quietly, making no waves, being–friends with Karol. Sharing books with Karol. She couldn’t quite wrap her head around it. The once most powerful man of the Empire, once a figure that seemed to soar to the heavens with imposing aura, with air of command now–seemed so close to the ground, holding himself differently–no longer was grandeur in his shoulders, but–shame? And if he were truly repenting, could she really continue to despise him? Those had been her feelings, hadn’t they? Hate, despair–she didn’t like the thought, the feeling of such dark things in her heart. Thinking he was dead, gone–that’d made it easier to push such things aside, not think about them.

   How could she accept such dark things about herself? It was difficult enough accepting that others could be awful, evil, people whose ears and hearts even justice or love couldn’t reach. But–but if Alexei was here for Karol, wouldn’t that mean–he’d changed?

   Her mind was racing in circles. She couldn’t quite accept what was happening. She was dreaming, frozen. But her own feelings aside, knowing this man’s history–she had to make sure Karol was alright, didn’t she? The young boy knew all about this man, what he’d done, had been there–so if Karol thought he was worth a chance then… why not her? To see how he really was now, to make sure the youth would be alright. And–and settle herself maybe. Settle her thoughts and tie up loose ends she hadn’t thought were there before that moment.

   She still flinched when he moved, hand going to his cloak, her own twitching towards the pleats of her skirt beneath which her mace was hidden. But–it wasn’t a weapon. A book. Something familiar, pleasant. Her shoulders dropped a portion, the tension of preparing for attack dissipating. Concerned eyes watched as he moved, headed towards Karol’s office, feet indecisive and swaying. She could just let him leave, pretend this had never happened. But did she want to…?

   No. She decided she didn’t like being passive, being a puppet. She didn’t like being sheltered and pampered and treated as an ornament. She was her own person–she’d make her own decisions, and living with the regret or uncertainty that leaving such a meeting without a solid conclusion was not a decision she’d make. Her feet moved quickly once she’d made up her mind, quick steps at a near run bringing her close to he former Commandant. Her heart raced, brow was furrowed and sweaty–this was perhaps the most nerve-wracking thing she’d ever done. When her hand jutted out to grab the man’s arm, she faltered, fingers twitching in the air before gathering courage enough to physically touch him. The last step to fully convincing herself he was real. 

       “ Wait–! I– “     Swallow. It was hard to speak.        “ How do you know Karol? You–How are you– “     Take another breath. Don’t cry.         “ What have you done since–since Zaude? “    Her jaw clenched, determination coming through even as the volume of her voice dropped. Her eyes rose, defiantly looking up to the exile, a near challenge–and a declaration that her will would not lose again.         “ You–you owe me that much. “

He expected to leave.

Leave quickly. With a duck of his head and to go into Karol’s office, leave the book and escape turn to leave. With no real attempt on communication again. She would likely not wish to be in his presence. Which he understood. He hardly wished to be in hers. For that gaze, that stare ... 

No.

No it was not as if he was running away.

He was not hiding from his past.

He just needed time to think. Time to assess. So that he would not be a problem. So that he would not be causing any harm.

The sound of feet behind him caused Alexei to flinch. Highly expecting the next sound to be the door. The opening and closing. To get away. From him. His presence. His being. But instead, no such sound came. A hand latched onto his arm, causing Alexei’s body to lurch, one foot outspread to twist around and grab the princess’ wrist in a tight, near vice grip.

Pupils shrunk in fear, breathing grew taught, pulse raced, and his mouth grew dry. Alexei was quick to let go of Her Highness. That look. Defiant. Challenging. His gaze quick to turn away, stare at anything else. Do not look at him like that. Do not ... 

His body felt so stiff, confined. Her eyes had the edge of tears that would not fall. The collection of water. He wanted to go away. He wanted to be far away. Leave this life behind. Hatred. Hatred. Hate him. Just hate him and leave him alone. This was not like with Capel. The scream of surprise and fear that turned into curiosity. There had been no prior connection. His being around the young leader had almost been therapeutic. The innocent naivety set against his jaded realism made him feel almost normal. 

She.

Knew him.

Though what she remembered of him ...

Between the years he lived in those castle walls with her. Saw her grow. Saw how she changed. Saw the books she migrated towards. Every second she was near him, he knew something was off about her. Gave her ‘respect’. Just as he gave everyone respect.

Until the day he finally understood what she was-- 

Fingers curled, and Alexei ended up dropping the book, shifting back and away from her.

“ You-you owe me that much! ”

Stop. Breath. His heart felt like it was about to leap from his chest. She was asking him. Telling him. To talk. To explain himself. Were there not obvious answers? Surely she could guess. Could ... could not ...

Why couldn’t he answer?

    “ I ... ” Where to begin? How to respond? How to do anything? His voice did not want to leave past his throat. Her insistence. Her being there near tore his mind apart. Trying to gauge reactions, responses, thoughts, feelings ... What he was supposed to do, how he was supposed to react.

Instead ... everything was going wrong, how he’d responded thus-far had already revealed too much. He showed too much weakness. Too much of his pain and his guilt-- No. No he did not feel guilty. He could not feel guilty. He chose this path. He had to face it, he had to ...

    “ I ... ”

Help the shaking in his voice.

   “ An accident ... ”

Stop the suffocation in his chest.

    “ ... done nothing. ”

Feet finally moved and Alexei stepped around Estellise quickly, leaving the book on the floor as he made a quick move to the door. He needed out. He couldn’t ... handle this. He needed away.

Before he lost his composure entirely.

[pepotour-blog]

broadswordandpistol!

“Alexei,” Alvin repeated, confirming with a nod. Didn’t ring a bell. Of course, Karol had all kinds of friends and acquaintances that he was sure he hadn’t met yet. Kind of a cold fish, wasn’t he?

Granted, the same could’ve been said for any number of people Alvin knew; it just took some of them a while to warm up, and some never did.

“Sure, I’ll let him know. He shouldn’t be more than fifteen minutes, though. Just ran off to the apothecary for a fresh batch of gels. If you’re not busy, you’re welcome to stick around until he gets back.” He stretched out the fingers on his left hand with a lopsided grin. “I wouldn’t mind a few minutes’ break, myself. I’ve been writing for the past hour.”

This man wasn’t from around here.

And by ‘here,’ Alexei meant it. If this man was from the Empire previously, he would have recognized Alexei by his looks within a second. If he were from the Guilds, Alexei’s name ought to bring up even the small, nervous laughter or joke of him being like the commandant who had near ruined their lives, if not automatically picked up on it was him. After all, not even the most skilled liar could entirely mask their ticks, and one of Alexei’s skills was picking up facial and body cues.

This man ... had none. Which either meant Alexei had missed even the tiniest of ticks, or, he was from somewhere Alexei was not aware of.

     “ Ah ... I see. ” Alexei did not let himself respond in surprise or confusion. Even while his hand subconsciously twitched at his side. If he had simply missed the cue, then this could be a trap. One he could not get out of easily.

If it were not ... Then curiosity would prick and Alexei would be more than interested in where exactly this person was from.

Shifting, Alexei decided to give off a slight half-smile to the man before him. Something that spoke of an ease and an understanding of the situation at hand. Charming he had been called once before, and if Alexei truly wished to play his cards right ... he could see.       “ I suppose I could stay for a few minutes. ”

[pepotour-blog]

sengetsujin!

   Did he just–he didn’t, did he–? Blastia, rocky–

   Fuck. Just fuck him. Screw that man for making a pun and making him laugh at it. God dammit. No way this man used to be Commandant Alexei. Had to be some sorta body snatcher magic scenario after all. Stole his memories and his body and put a whole new person in there. At that point, he was beginning to accept such a thing as possible. Guy could only surprise him with being amiable and fun to be around for so long before he actually grew on him. His most awful, insidious ploy yet. 

       “ Ya gotta stop doin’ that. Seriously. Y’know how weird that is? How hard it is t’ not like someone with a sense a humor? “     There goes a huff from his lips with (truth) exhaled. ‘Genuine’ was hard to find with the bird, so such words coming out meant something. Either the guy’d grown on him enough to let such things slip, or exasperated him enough with being so–so–friendly. Likeable. What a dastardly bastard. 

       “ Right, right, lay it on me. That problem’s that’s got yer undies in a bunch. Be better talkin’ business than hatin’ myself fer laughin’ at yer damn jokes. “     A resigned sigh–the man had whittled him down by sheer weirdness. Why’d he still stick around this guy? Right, to make sure he didn’t became that guy from before. Damn. Maybe he should give Alexei a new name. Might help differentiate between the two states of the man. It’d worked for him. Huh. Sounded like a good idea. Better start thinking of one. Should he just make it a run of the mill name, something insulting, or something insulting but subtle about its offense? Hm… 

Oh, but this is Alexei.

Perhaps that is the weird thing between the two of them. The spark of laughter from ‘Raven’ catching Alexei’s slight attention, though not in full. To be told to stop. That ‘Raven’ might, by quite the accident, become fond of him due to his sense of (granted strange but,) sense of humor along was somewhat unexpected. The look of rather disbelief that crossed an otherwise blank expression spoke to such.       “ It is not all that hard. I have been doing it --apparently-- for several years. ”

Then again, Alexei had been focused on his goal. After the realization of the fruitless endeavors-- No. No. Move past it. A grimace crossed his face as Alexei took a low breath, and he relaxed his back. Attempting, to his benefit, to give off a less tensed vibe. He made no move to make anyone like him. To be liked was not on his priorities. Why should it be? Other’s thought him nothing but a criminal (when they discovered him in a general term,) so why ought he go out of his way to prove them different?

    “ I suppose I ought to take that as a compliment. ” Hating oneself just for laughing at something? Well, that was certainly a new one for Alexei. Though he would dismiss it. A hand moved forward, his cheek pressed into the palm as he glanced off to the side, breathing out a rather irritated sigh. “ If it is of any consolation,  I am not attempting to make anyone like me. ”  He simply ... being himself. Or trying. Some days were more difficult than others. He was ‘moving past’, and to an extent, he was successful. He didn’t get in other’s way, he did not cause damage to those around him, and he lived ... semi-comfortably in a tent away from most other’s and only came to town when he needed more food or to replace weaponry.

Yet, in other ways he failed. Between getting caught by Capel that one point, he had also been found by Lowell, and by ‘Raven’ himself. In his earlier days, he tore his body down too much, and now he had a rather nasty scar from Lowell that, though was now mostly healed, would never fade and crippled Alexei. Even if it was not by a great deal ... He had difficulty stomaching food, and, though he hid it well in how he would react to other’s, he had bags that formed beneath his eyes from late nights of dreading falling asleep, only to do so to be awoken again by a nightmare.

Not to mention his almost need for something to do. A busy body never had a more accurate representation than Alexei. He had nothing to focus his efforts on, and while he wrote down any notes he could find on Mana and pocket the information, he had no way of making it useful to anyone else. Instead he was made to sit on his hands.

Alexei slid his fingers through silver hair, brushing it back and behind an ear.

    “ I ... need something to do. ” There’s another slight wince from Alexei. Lifting a hand before ‘Raven’ could make any mention or smart-allec response.

    “ I also need to remain hidden while doing so to keep from a bounty appearing. I do not sit well. However, I also cannot be put even close to being in charge to anything. ”

Alexei settled his hands back on the table, crossing them in front of himself.

   “ Unfortunately, this is difficult. As my appearance is rather ... distinguishable. Even for those who have not seen me. ” So a simply change of name would not work. Or, at the very least, not for long. It was a predicament, and something he could do near nothing about. And he refused to put other’s in trouble for his mistakes. Even ‘Raven’. As much as he would like to drag the bird a bit through the mud (for a few slings the archer had made,) he would not. His pride was still mostly in tact, after all.

[pepotour-blog]

Send “You aren’t even HUMAN, anymore!” for my muse’s reaction

[pepotour-blog]

To be recognized by voice alone would be a feat for many people. Especially those in the guilds. Alexei had never made a physical appearance here, and thus his voice ought not be something they would recognize. However, once this man (’Alvin’) turned around, Alexei felt his skin prick with agitation.

Alexei was used to being recognized, how other’s responded, how they stood abruptly or pulled weapons on his person, and yet ...

He took the man’s hand in a shake. Practiced from his time as Commandant greeting councilmen.

      “Alexei.”

He proffered his own name back. His gaze lowering for only a second, before lifting to meet this Alvin’s once more. Waiting to see if there was a sign of recognition or anything of the sort. 

      “That will not be necessary. I see you are busy with your work. Simply let Capel know that one of my books is missing.”

Why there was so much extra paperwork being a guildsman as compared to being a mercenary, Alvin still didn’t quite understand. If the client was happy and the job board notice had been taken down and logged, shouldn’t that have been sufficient?

Apparently not. Apparently carbon copies had yet to be invented in Terca Lumeries, too. So when the unfamiliar voice matched to an unfamiliar face made its way into Brave Vesperia’s guild hall, the stranger would find Alvin filling out yet another form.

“No, afraid I’m not.” The stranger’s appearance was a welcome reprieve. He set down his pen and offered a handshake. “The name’s Alvin. The little boss isn’t here right now. Can I do something for you?”

[pepotour-blog]

Alexei watched the other’s quick mood whiplash, and that seemed to speak for him. Such a flippant movement later and Alexei let red eyes roll partially before responding. The passable retort met with a little wordplay of Alexei’s own.

       “I am glad to have provided you some sense of humor. Who would have known I would provide such a blastia to your day after my own rocky start.” 

Ah, darker humor here, but Alexei did not seem to care for ‘Raven’s’ own feelings of comfort on this level, his gaze moving elsewhere. Distant in thought. He did not do so often, (look for help,) so the fact he had gone to ‘Raven’ was a sign of growing trust, even if it was of the grudging kind.

Or perhaps ... it was simply that Alexei knew if he made any plans near or around Dhangrest, ‘Raven’ would be quick to jump ‘pon Alexei’s coat tails (so to speak) and make certain of his motives before allowing the white-haired elder continue. Working on a continued trust was difficult, Alexei accepted that. Though the true difficulty was to not allow his emotions to raise in anger or frustration over minute details.

      “I know.”

Gaze moving back to Raven, he caught the final shift of his expression. The rather frustrated and dislike of the idea. Alexei ... found that somewhat amusing. Though he did not know fully why. Perhaps it was the idea that Alexei would be a bad influence over Karol, perhaps it was the idea that Alexei would be the one making Karol do things ...

Truly, ‘Raven’ overestimated some of Alexei’s abilities around the young guild leader.

Subconsciously a slight grin had perked the edge of Alexei’s mouth, even as the once-commandant moved to go back to his thoughts in attempt to figure out how best to solve his problems. Keeping hidden from the empire while simultaneously hoping the Guilds did not learn of his presence beyond the spare few ...

   Enlightening? Was that what he’d meant? So sue him for misspeaking. Actually, thinking about it, enlightening seemed to imply he was useful for helping others achieve a better state of mind, helping them ascertain higher thought, uncover important revelations–nah, didn’t sound like him. ‘Lightening’ up someone’s day, mood, sure. Shedding light on hard truths and finding out what new annoying things the old man did that were annoying, definitely more his speed. 

   Oh, hey–! Looks like the old coot was on the same track. Great minds think alike– He’d cracked a smile, even snapped and pointed in agreement before completely losing all enthusiasm. He wasn’t sure he really wanted to think like this guy, be on the same page on anything at all. Spent too much time together as it was. Damn him for changing into an almost decent, agreeable sort to be around. He turned his change of attitude and composure to a shrug and a flap of a hand.

       “ Nope. Solely here t’ lighten th’ mood sort a lightenin’. Sure is lightenin’ my mood t’ watch ya stumble ‘round this dim space. “    Not his best retort. It was passable, at least, he supposed. Though he had to wrinkle his nose at the mention of the young guild leader–he wasn’t so sure he liked the idea of those two getting along so well. Kids were impressionable and easily influenced–though, with how the man’s acted so far, and Karol was a good enough judge of character, sort of, now that he’d gotten some experience under his belt–Yeah, nah he still didn’t like it. But it wasn’t exactly his place to butt in, was it? So he’d just keep an eye out when he could. Wasn’t like he wasn’t already keeping an eye on the former Commandant.

       “ Now, now, no need t’ bother young Karol. He’s got enough on his plate with ‘is job an’ all, don’tcha think? Wouldn’t do t’ keep putting th’ heavy stuff on ‘is plate. Fer all the maturity ‘e’s got, he’s still just a kid. “

[pepotour-blog]

@flynnsfaithfulsodia

--

To find a knight without a group was quite the rare thing. Between most of their fighting skills based around team work and positions to overwhelm an enemy (not meaning they could not be a force to reckon with on their own,) it was an oddity, and one Alexei was watching with semi-intrigue.

In the foliage of Quoi Woods, one would not oft find another person, and, gauging on the direction which this knight had come, she was angling from Halure’s side of Diedon hold, rather than Zaphias.

This perked curiosity more than Alexei would admit, so ... he would follow her quietly. Abusing the wildlife to hide his footsteps, even, purposefully, grabbing a Nia Fruit, settling it far away and making sure he did not get any of the stench on his person to attract a bear a bit farther off.

He understood the patterns of Eggbears as well as a number of other monsters around. What he did not anticipate was for some of those monsters (who usually skittered around and avoided fighting the powerful man,) to go after the young knight on her lonesome.

Rather than wait, he took a breathy sigh and pushed himself from hiding, his hand to his weapon already, a glowing red, (fireball-- one of the few artes that worked with modification to mana rather than aer) surrounding him as he muttered the incantation before releasing it a show of force beyond the knight, catching and wounding the monster greatly.

[pepotour-blog]

Alexei’s Sense of Humor

Several people may now look at me and say he does not have one, of-which I will respond that he sure as banana’s does! Though it most definitely revolves a much more tongue-in-cheek approach, as well as dry or sarcastic retorts, it is still a sense of humor.

Often times in his days as commandant, many people believed his responses and attempts at humor were either serious or were shell-shocked about him showing that side of his personality, making it quite a rare few who would see this side to Alexei.

Similarly, Alexei can appreciate certain forms of humor. Though he rarely laughs at the jokes, he can give a small smile, a pat to the shoulder (or head depending on age,) and if it fits, a small, almost inaudible chuckle.

To make Alexei laugh is very hard, and is often only a sight for those who can get close to Alexei. Find little weak points under his skin and prod them to warrant a laugh. Those who do, find a soft, but warm, laugh. Much unlike his laughter atop of Zaude, it is more restrained, soft, pleasant to the ear similar to his actual voice.

It is a sight for sore eyes and something for everyone to treasure.

[pepotour-blog]

     “I do believe you mean en-lightening.” Alexei retorted simply. He never quite understood the accent ‘Raven’ had gotten so familiar with and enjoyed using over and over again. Giving off a light sigh, Alexei glanced away. His problem was still a problem. He had to try and figure it out, and, unfortunately, some of his best ideas usually only happened when he bounced them back and forth with other’s.

Raven did not care.

Thus, he did not cooperate.

Simple, and Alexei should have figured that out before hand.”Lightening would be akin to illuminating a space. Of which, i would classify this to be dim at best.” Of course commenting on their surroundings, not necessarily the conversation (as they were in some rather dim lighting,) but still with a tad snark towards Raven’s answer. “I knew I should have gone to Capel for this.”

   Pfft. Shit. This was so unlike the Alexei he’d once known that the bird couldn’t help the puff of air escaping from, the choked laugh. The man was such an enigma nowadays that he couldn’t help but watch with a half-grin, waiting for the charade to fall. Had he always been like this? Maybe he woulda tolerated the man a bit more if he had been. Felt loyalty rather than dislike. Heck, hate. This? This was hilarious, if not a concern for when the amiable turned to deadly crackpot once again. And if he didn’t–hey, this was kinda fun. If he kept this up long enough, the old bird might even be disappointed if he went back to his stiff backed martial ways. 

       “ ‘S’always a pleasure t’ be of service. Lightenin’ others’ minds–I’m a man a noble pursuit–! ‘S a mystery to us both how ya managed t’ get so well along without my sage advice–! “     It was too much fun to play it up against this guy. So many years of servitude, loathing, and now–this felt like some sort of stress relief therapy or something. All, hey, here’s this guy that played this huge awful part in your life, and now he suddenly has a sense of humor! Oh, also, he can’t really say anything when you insult him. Y’know ‘cause he’s a wanted fugitive and thought to be dead man. Damn. Felt good to be the one holding the strings. 

[pepotour-blog]

He almost wanted to cuss as he heard her voice. Whispered, scared. Heard the stumbling of feet against a chair. He didn’t want to look ... did not want to see her and the fear that would clearly be crossing her face. He should just leave. He should go now, before she asked him any questions and attempted to connect. He did not need that.

He did not need her forgiveness or thoughts or pity. He was fine. He did not --

“ H-how? And-you’re here for Karol? You-have his book...? ”

Too late.

His body wasn’t working for him, this time around. Shell-shocked, it felt as-though his limbs were frozen in place. Red eyes remained ducked as Alexei moved to clear his throat. Needing it to even be able to attempt speaking. Swallowing thickly past the lump once more, he opened his mouth, going to speak, before it closed again.

Opened.

Closed.

He could not ...

Teeth ground out. He was stronger than this. Certainly he could look her Highness in her face at least. Not keep his head ducked like a shamed toddler. He knew what he had done, foolish grandiose thoughts that were an attempt for a dream that had long-been corrupted by paranoia and power. He knew it. He could stand up. He forgave himself.

                          But being in . . . her presence.

       “ ...maybe... it ... is a type Capel ... enjoys that I did not ... recognize.”

Slow words finally spilled from Alexei’s lips. His eyes closing as he took one deep breath from his nose and lifted his head, relaxing his shoulders. He could do it, he knew he could. Just take it one step at a time. That was all he could do. All he could manage as one who’s mistakes once defined him. He now had to push past them.

He was healing, finally starting to be able to eat normally again, not tearing his scars open, trying to let them close and heal over ... He was not the same person as he was back then. Even if forty years of age was a great deal late in life to become a new person, he could do it. He was doing it.

Hesitantly, Alexei lifted the book from his cloak. The map-making book’s cover was glossed lightly. With a slow movement, Alexei stepped forward. Hesitantly, veering towards Karol’s office instead. Taking her presence in the main room to mean Karol was not in, he would simply set this on his desk and be on his way.

No need to stay. It was not as if he was running away from her.

   She supposed a surprise visit had the potential to turn out in such a way–that the ‘surprise’ would be her own in finding an empty building. Brave Vesperia was busy, she supposed, and that was a thing to be happy, proud of, even if her joy was tinted by the chagrin of arriving to no one. She supposed she could wait, still, to be there when they returned. That would still be a nice, heartwarming surprise, yes? Though–she wasn’t too certain how far out they might be, when they might return. Perhaps just leaving a few gifts–?

   She’d brought Karol some more books. Just a few–three, four–alright, five. She couldn’t help it–there were just so many good ones to choose from! It was hard enough settling only on those few to bring. She’d settled down on a seat after placing the books on a table–it wouldn’t hurt to wait just a bit. An hour or so? Afterwards she’d put more serious thought to whether or not to leave. She’d hate to leave so soon and miss out on a chance to visit. 

   The sound of a doorknob turning broke her attention from written word, from making sure the quality of her gifts were as up to par as remembered, and that she’d carefully tabbed the pages not for the youth’s eyes, that the envelopes hadn’t fallen out during travel. A bright smile tugged up the corner of her lips s the door opened, hand putting down book while keeping a gloved finger in as bookmark.

       “ Oh, Ka– “

   …What? That wasn’t the young guild leader’s frame, nor even Yuri’s or Judith’s or anyone she’d expected to see around the guild. A deep voice she recognized, that was so familiar and alien sounding at the same time. Silver hair that spilled out a hood pulling down, red eyes that sent a shiver down her spine. A chill took hold of her as her hand fell, knocking askew her literary gifts, a step back sending her stumbling into the chair she’d sat at. This couldn’t possibly be–right? He was supposed to be dead and–

   Her breath quickened at the memory, throat constricting as thought turned to haze of her time spent as puppet. Pain, excruciating, blacking out, being unable to control her body, the horror of watching through her own eyes as she drew sword against her companions and turned into weapon. The inability to trust a certain companion of hers again, to always know there was a gap between them as they both held back from broaching personal space. 

   Capel–? He–he knew Karol. Not just in a ‘fought against that one kid’ way but–close enough to visit the guild? Did Yuri know? Judith? How could this be? Was she–even awake? Perhaps she’d fallen asleep. That had to be it. But–Karol had–left a book, with, with–

       “ Alexei? “     It’s just a whisper, pained into the silence. She did nothing to try to hide her confusion, surprise, as she stared at him as if he were a ghost. And wasn’t he? She watched what happened at Zaude, had–had almost mourned him, even, for he’d been a good Commandant, before–

       “ H-how? And–you’re here for Karol? You–have his book…? “     More than the shock, than his appearance, than learning he was alive–how did he know Karol well enough to borrow books? To have had the youth over to a place of his, for the youth to leave a book with him? It’s taken quite a bit of coaxing on her part to get the boy to join in on her book club. And, him–? This couldn’t be. There had to be some mistake–perhaps this was some other man. Someone less–willing to turn people to puppets. And if this was the same man–she had to make sure Karol was alright. Would be alright. The young boy was a good judge of character and–if this was him, was Alexei, and Karol had thought giving him a second chance was alright–

[pepotour-blog]

@sengetsujin​

Alexei tugged his cloak up as he wandered through the streets of Dhangrest. He had found a book in his shelves on map-making that was not his, and had figured Karol might have left it by accident. Or, at the very least, would be interested in reading it as the young guild leader had quite the thing for maps that Alexei could tell.

The crowd was always a problem. Dhangrest was full of people. Perhaps it was not to the brim, but Alexei much preferred more isolated places that were quiet and peaceful. So many people made his throat tighten and his senses heighten in worry for an attack or any second of recognition.

Or, perhaps, Schwann Raven to jump out and wrap an arm around his neck, which was not pleasant, let him tell you. Alexei was not the type of person to enjoy physical contact ... at least not that close to such a vital area as his neck when he could not retaliate without drawing attention to himself.

Still, he passed, seemingly unnoticed and Alexei’s shoulders relaxed once he got to Karol’s home, an almost smile touching his lips before it faded and Alexei turned the knob of the door, pulling it outward. “Capel, I believe you may have left a book--” 

He had already began to tug his hood off as Alexei entered the small place, his eyes lifting and pink hit his red eyes and his voice cut off quick.

Frozen in the doorway.

Small details, his breath caught, a small form of sweat against the back of his neck, his heartbeat jumping, pupils shrinking, the feeling of his stomach wanting to turn over ... Things he would normally hide, if he had more time, but this had shocked him.

Surprised him.

Caught him off guard. Even though he knew Karol’s home was also open to any in Brave Vesperia, it still had not crossed his mind Lady Estellise would ever be here. Stupid. Of course he should have seen this coming! Fighting quickly to regain his breath, Alexei’s head ducked, hiding his eyes and make himself appear ... fine.

[pepotour-blog]

         Thunder.

Rain, Alexei could handle perfectly fine. Lightning, even, though he would not dismiss the fact that the twisting light that danced among the clouds made his stomach clench, troubled. The man could then turn, breath, and ignore it. Walk through the rain and the lightning.

However, what always sealed the deal was the grumbling that shook the clouds and slowly settled around.

Out.

He just needed .... out of this weather. If he could get away, hide, he could quietly handle this situation without any random happenstance of some person walking among the woods and catching the ex-commandant at one of his weakest and (in his opinion) most embarrassing positions. Curled up like a child, frightened of a natural--

Another bout of thunder pushed Alexei’s feet to move, ignoring his thoughts for then. His stomach churned, his body felt heavy. Between the weather beating it down, to the sound that brought back the imaginary smell. It was something one could not forget, and his senses so enjoyed overwhelming him with the corpses and burnt flesh aroma that was no longer there.

Shoving himself beyond, Alexei found a cave opening, his back slamming (somewhat forcefully) against it’s edge, weight barely supported on now shaking legs as the ex-commandant tried to breath and gasp in something fresh. Reminding himself where he was at, that it was not. That his men were not. That everything was.

The noise outside felt deafening, and Alexei slid to a sitting position. Curling against his knees, hands pressed to his ears. Quiet. Quiet. The only thing that drew Alexei from the internal screaming, the slight shaking of fingers, the racked breath, was the noise of someone else.

Footsteps. From the entrance Alexei was near.

A short half-curse almost slipped Alexei’s lips before it was bit back. Whoever this was, maybe they’d just keep going? Not notice him?

@steadfastxvigilante

[pepotour-blog]

[pepotour-blog]

It wouldn’t. But, it was indeed seemingly going well.

Which made Alexei exceedingly gladdened. He didn’t enjoy feeling so nervous, but he also understood there was a purpose he was here, and he had to be careful. If the elder got too relaxed, felt too comfortable, then he would lose himself in a way that might make Her Highness uncomfortable, or ... perhaps lose her distrust.

Which he did not want in some ways, and wanted in others.

She needed to be distrustful of him. Alexei was not a good person, though he was working towards it. He needed to make himself better before he could ever accept any type of forgiveness for his actions. At least ... from her.

Her curiosity was met with a slight pressing of his hands against the pages, smoothing them out.

        “It’s an old book ... a romance from when I was a recruit. I used to read this book when I couldn’t fall asleep.”

Even though she knew all of the awkwardness wouldn’t go away over night, for the moment she was relieved this was going alright. After seeing him pour her cup, she took the cup and lightly blew on it before taking a sip. While he wasn’t looking, she took a cookie too. Nibbling on it, she grew curious on what book he was reading as sh placed her tea on the table.

“Which book did you pick out?” Her curiosity got the better of her as she quickly hid herself behind her book. It as silly but she peeked from above it, wondering if he would answer.