trailblczed

[trailblczed]

[CRYPTID SIGHTING]　/　she doesn't have the slightest idea where he'd gotten something like this in his head. was it just because she was a thief and a stowaway, so he thinks that was enough to make her a detective? well, maybe there was some merit to it——being light on her feet and good at avoiding attention didn't make her half bad for stalking a target. it's just, usually those were greed-laden moneybags with buttons so fit to bursting, she could've been stomping all over the place and she doubts they'd be able to see her past their chins.

not urban legends.

"you're kidding, right? you think i don't have anything better to be spending my time on?" she actually didn't, really, not in this city. but that's not really the point ; it's the principle of being grabbed off the side of the street like any common little conman. "grey mystery, maybe you got a little too comfortable back on amphoreus if you think you can just dial in favors for no cost. do you have any proof this guy even exists at all?" this ' largeankle ' thing? just hearing it made it sound like a tall tale for bored kids. "and i don't mean some words out of an imaginative drunk guy's mouth."

what part of her looked like she'd be into tracking that kind of fairy tale anyway? what was it to her whether titantoe or whoever was real or not? would she be getting some treasure out of it, even a hunter's bounty?

with a sigh, she folds her arms and closes her eyes, making a look of indifference as her tail tip twitches. "give me something more to go on than hearsay and a bunch of he-said-she-saids, and maybe i'd think about it. and something to make it worth my while." with a cheeky smirk and a claw-like gesture of her hand, she winks. "otherwise, you know where to find me ~ " and she's off, gone like the wind.

nobody knows where to find her when she doesn't want to be found, of course. that's the joke!

find your place in paradise 1(3)/5 | accepting

It's not that Caelus thinks she isn't preoccupied, or simply taking time for herself ( as one should for vacations )- it's that there's very few people here that he trusts knows, so the silver haired heir was one of the first he wanted to approach. Caelus is used to odd stories courtesy of his time with the Ghost Hunter Squad(tm), so of course his little racoon ears are gonna perk up at the talk of some mysterious creature skirting around the nearby woods.

Listen, Caelus has dealt with heliobus before, he ain't afraid of no ghosts. But he would like to not have another.. incident, should the rumors have merit- no he's not terrified of being possessed and having his life sucked out of him again no siree! So of course, he'd rather have someone he can reply on to help him investigate.

It is 100% on him for not even considering that such things would typically require payment for their services. Look, he's a Hero ( and barely gets paid for all the heroic work he does [ big sadge and criminal frfr ] ) and has a rather limited amount of funds- that's he uh... nearly depleted. So he absolutely does not have the means to adequately repay Cipher for the excellent work he's certain she would do.

All the Nameless can really do is chuckle, an embarrassed and awkward sound rumbling in his chest as he plays with the split ends of his silver hair just below his ears.

If anything, even if it were fake, Caelus thought it might have been just a fun little.. exploration adventure for the two of them to take- so he can know her a little better one-on-one. He saw the heir so rarely, and even when he had Cipher wasn't around for very long. The longest he can recall being when they were trying to get to Styxia- at.. at least, he thinks.. his memory is very fuzzy-

Before the lad can even attempt to explain himself or justify his naive actions, a spark of golden light and the thief is gone within the blink of an eye. Similarly an understandable reaction, Caelus thinks. Oh well.. another time. Maybe he needs to go back to the drawing board of what to do that would be something fun for the both of them- and wouldn't be transactional. Hm..

❛ ..Wait- where would I find her? ❜

[trailblczed]

Caelus has landed on Empyrea

Very much late, but better than never! He may or may not have gotten lost on his way ( he didn't have his map unlocked ), but he's here now! Caelus will adventure through every explore-able area and play through ( or at least visit ) every activity he can. Gotta make the most of your vacation and have fun, yeah?

But, he will start his trip on Chora Beach, and likely head to Bigshell Eco Park next.

Obviously not participating in the lore event, but will be accepting asks ( obviously ). His atrocious "summer outfit" ( under the cut ) was picked out by himself, having simply looked up what to wear when going on vacation and it was the first thing that popped up. He might need a helping hand to go shopping for something less egregious.

( source )

[trailblczed]

Blade doesn't look particularly well.. but he doesn't appear to be as bad as Caelus had feared- which is good.. he thinks. Though Caelus does not how his question wasn't answered, ignored in favor of a general statement, almost left to interpretation. He hates that- why can't people just be direct? Why do people feel so inclined to lie? Why-

No. Now is not the time. Later, when he can go through the motions ( and crumble apart ) in the privacy of his own room.

The lad takes hesitant steps forward, wanting to get a better look to inspect the damage himself ( wouldn't want this to be a trap, remember? better to investigate and make sure the dude isn't just playing "dead" or some other stupid thing to be tricked by- ). Hands stay tense at his sides, amber eyes glancing around the room the man sits comatose in slow, meticulous lines to scan every single piece of furniture and housing utensil present in that rather cramped space.

❛ .. is there a way for him to recover? You never answered my question- what do you need from me? ❜

He dares a peak over his shoulder as he speaks, voice calm yet firm despite the warring unease burning under his skin. The silver can't quite tell what he hears, but he does hear some faint talking in the distance and what sounds like a group of people walking around. Who could that be this late at night..?

☆ what the script doesn't know can't hurt us

【 non-commission board ── a letter from a strange woman 】

[trailblczed]

The sillies

[trailblczed]

🎲

Kiss Meme | Accepting! 19. A kiss underwater

It isn't often Caelus finds someone he can truly let loose with- sometimes the whispers of Nanook can be hard to ignore. Or, you know, just built up energy needing to be expelled. After Caelus eyed Phainon and Mydei's multiple "duels", the pure glee that buzzed under his skin at the idea of being able to "play" with people who can actually handle him ( his ridiculous synthetic & Stellaron given strength ), Caelus jumps at the chance.

Cue Caelus play-fighting Mydei in the public baths- pushing water at each other with vigor and prideful smirks. Taunting words are exchanged and amused chuckling is kept in their chests. Canines peak out of the silver's wide smile as Caelus decides it's the time to strike.

The silver gathers enough force to launch himself at the flame haired man with gusto, arms outstretched to snake around wide shoulders. The gesture sends the two men toppling into the water with a loud splash. Caelus is sure Mydei could have easily side-stepped him, avoided the tackle entirely, but he's glad the man seemingly went along with the Trailblazer's antics.

Once both men are beneath the surface, warm synthetic hands move to cup the Demi-God's face. His smirk diminishes into something softer, something far more fond, as thumbs brush along cheekbones- tracing red marks engraved into skin. The water shifts around them as they stay submerged for a handful of heartbeats, the waters providing a refreshing coat against overworked flesh.

It takes little effort for Caelus to pull himself closer, to allow his lips to crash into Mydei's- ever gentle but firm so the gesture is unmistakable. They then resurface, wet hair flattened on both men's skulls, droplets falling back into the baths as the silver snorts- ever smitten.

❛ Apologies, dear son of Gorgo. I believe that's my win~ ❜

[trailblczed]

A platonic kiss

benefactor :3

Kiss Meme | Accepting! 13. A kiss on the chest

WARNING: Non-Sexual Nudity

Caelus tending to wounds isn't an uncommon sight- though, they usually are his own. This time, it's Caelus treating someone else with nervous fingers. He still isn't sure where the sudden swarm of memory zone meme enemies came from, and he definitely isn't sure how, or why, they showed up so close to the Golden Hour. Yet it doesn't matter- Caelus still blames himself for being so caught off guard, that he was simply luck Fugue was nearby to help him out. And he especially still blames himself for the foxian taking a few hits for him during the rather disorienting fight.

He isn't sure why their enemies seemed so focused on her once she showed up, but he did do what he could to step in before the brunette was hit with anything too dangerous. Even if he hadn't a moment to swap to his more defensive kit, he would still much rather it be him ( an un-living artificial form that can regenerate ) than Fugue that had to be injured.

So that leads them to now- with Caelus helping his companion disrobe by untying the bulky belt-looking-thing at her waist. Once it's out of the way, Caelus slowly pulls the fabric to the sides, allowing the Stellaron Host to see the worst of the damage. It, thankfully, isn't as bad as he had feared- only some rough looking bruises and a few deep gashes that don't look beyond repair. There are plenty of healers Caelus knows of, or even the Express has a pretty decent medical bay that he could take the lass to should he decide it'd be necessary.

Amber eyes are thorough in their search, meticulously scanning every subtle shift of skin tone and other wounds threatening to come forth. He takes a handkerchief out of his coat pocket to wipe down most the bulk of any lingering blood and "memoria juice" from their defeated foes off, gentle in every wipe along the foxian's torso- being extra careful when moving his hand across one half of a breast where the worst of the bruising had been.

His eyes narrow at the spot, an uncomfortable ick forming in his gut as the discoloration reminds him of something he's far too familiar with- of a large star shaped spot near the center of Caelus' chest from where he had been impaled with ice. The guilt continues to eat away at him, though comforting hands do their best to ease his worries by warmly patting at his head. It doesn't help- or does so little in comparison to how deep it digs into his soul.

The hand not holding the cloth stays perched on the maiden's side, a steadying presence against Fugue's ribs. He moves the cloth away, clenched tightly in a trembling hand as Caelus fights the distressed sound threatening to escape his throat. He wishes he could wipe the pain away- could simply make all the aches and lingering injuries simply vanish with a way of his hand. Alas- he doesn't have that kind of power ( yet ).

Caelus can't even begin to understand why the brunette had done what she did- why she thought that Caelus deserved protecting. He hadn't done anything of the sort. Hell, she barely even knew him from what he vaguely understands regarding the whole.. Phantylia situation. Perhaps she really was just that kind of a person- that even he was deserving of her aid and support.

He wasn't- he likely never will be. He couldn't protect "her" before- was too slow to understand what was happening, was too late to try and save her before Phantylia had gotten rid of it's host now that the secret was out. He doesn't deserv-

A breathy exhale and Caelus is leaning forward, ever-so-softly pressing his lips to her sternum- in gratitude, in apology, in reverence- His hand stays firm against Fugue's rib with the other moves to curl around her lower back, pulling her closer as if afraid if she got too far away he'd lose her all over again.

❛ Never do something that reckless ever again.. I don't think Ruan Mei would appreciate her hard work going to waste. ❜

The man tries to keep the comment light-hearted, though the quiver in his voice and the shaking of his limbs gives him away. He presses his forehead against her chest, battling himself to not crumble under caring fingers carding through silver hair.

[trailblczed]

🎲

Kiss Meme | Accepting! 39. A tentative kiss / (Re-rolled) 5. A firm kiss

Caelus isn't entirely sure why he enjoys just relaxing with Moze around the Xianzhou- often sitting on public benches and people watching with occasional commentary about the individuals they see- but he simply does. Perhaps it's the man's more relaxed nature that is a welcomed contrast to the non-stop chaos that accompanies the journey of the Trailblaze. Perhaps it was the way that, despite barely knowing each other, Moze had helped Caelus and Dan Heng out in the Shackling Prison. Perhaps it was when Moze had put his hand on the Trailblazer's head before tucking the silver haired man under his wing to protect Caelus from General Feixiao's bow strike against the swarm of Borisin. Truly an unnecessary thing- Caelus had the blessing of The Preservation, easily able to shield and protect. If anything, Caelus should have been the one guarding the lavender.

Yet it's that moment, that one tiny detail- of someone trying to guard and protect Caelus for once- that had Caelus smitten. It's been a somewhat awkward transition since then- the trash enthusiast basically trying to play hide-and-seek with a stealthy assassin in the hopes of getting closer. At least it worked! Because here they are, pressed up against each other while seated together, Caelus' head leaning against Moze's shoulder while amber eyes are closed- simply basking in the peaceful moment.

The threat of sleep is very real ( not uncommon in the slightest ) the longer they rest there, but Caelus really doesn't want to disturb this atmosphere they've created for themselves. Alas, he must, as his breathing is slowing down and he just knows if he doesn't do something he will pass out. Not that he doesn't trust Moze, Caelus just really doesn't want to embarrass himself by having to then rely on the man to carry the Trailblazer back to somewhere more secluded, or a place to rest properly. It's happened more than once, and Caelus is still a tad flustered about it.

So ( reluctantly ) Caelus tugs himself away from the cozy presence next to him, and once he turns to look at Moze.. Caelus finds himself caught like an animal in a spotlight. Moze has his arms crossed, eyes similarly closed like Caelus had been- though the silver knows the man isn't asleep, he would never in such a public space- looking ever so peaceful.. Amber eyes drift from the relaxed expression to the man's mouth, and even Caelus doesn't know what comes over him.

The sheer affection bubbling in his chest is overwhelming, but every part of his brain screams at him to stop- to not go through with what he's craving. Would it be weird to kiss someone he's emotionally attached to..? Would it be unwanted at the suddenness of the action- or how exposed they are out in the open? Would it be unappreciated to be kissed while at rest..?

He's unable to resist, the pull too strong to fight against, as Caelus leans ever closer. The Trailblazer shifts where he sits, moving to place a knee on the bench to better stabilize himself before placing a hesitant hand on the lavender's shoulder. Caelus is surprised he doesn't straight up fumble over on himself in his attempt, yet he somehow manages to place uncertain lips against a closed mouth- the gesture a little more forceful than he intended.

Caelus only keeps their mouths together for a few seconds, seemingly testing the waters, before backing away sheepishly so he can seat himself back down properly against stone. It takes another few seconds before Caelus can even muster the courage to even look at his partner after his stunt, only to find Moze staring at him- eyes slightly widened and mouth partly agape ( in what Caelus assumes to be mild shock or disgust ).

❛ S-Sorry-- Was it that bad? I've never kissed anyone before.. At least, I don't remember if I have.. ❜

[trailblczed]

kiss roulette

inspired by the infamous "i want the k" meme by deactivated tumblr user tastcful. send 🎲 to generate a kiss! potential suggestive/nsf.w themes may appear

A kiss on the cheek

A kiss on the nose

A kiss on the forehead

A kiss to the top of the head

A firm kiss

A gentle peck

A romantic kiss

A platonic kiss

A kiss to the eyelid

A kiss along the jawline

A kiss to the neck

A kiss along the collar bone

A kiss on the chest

A kiss to the stomach

A kiss along the hips

A kiss in the rain

An upside-down "Spider-Man" kiss

A kiss while laughing

A kiss underwater

A rough kiss

WILDCARD! Dealer's choice :)

A french kiss/kiss with tongue

A kiss influenced by alcohol/other substances

A sleepy kiss

A kiss that's an accident

A kiss while one or both parties are crying

A kiss in greeting

A kiss in parting

A kiss to the back of the hand

A kiss to the palm of the hand

A kiss to the inner thigh

A kiss while someone watches

A kiss to a scar, birthmark, injury, or other marking

A kiss after a bite

A kiss against a wall

A kiss to the shoulder

A kiss to the back of the neck

A kiss while one party is carried

A tentative kiss

An impulsive kiss

A kiss out of spite

A clumsy kiss

A bloody kiss

[trailblczed]

Amber eyes slowly blink open, blearily staring off towards the stars while trying to come-to. It takes several moments for Caelus to even realize where he is ( you'd think he would be used to the decor of their private suite after months of living there ), hand raising to block the light from agitating his eyes.

A slow inhale of air is the only sound he makes at first, struggling to understand what had just occurred. Caelus remembers going to the Vortex of Genesis to start Ornyx's trail.. he remembers that.. but what happened after? A tiny noise of discomfort rumbles in his throat as he shifts on the red lounge chair, trying to turn himself away from the ever present sun(?) of Amphoreus.

But wait.. if he was doing the trial.. how did he end up here? Well, obviously someone likely dragged carried him back after failin- No.. he hadn't failed. The trial was cut short.. after being told he had been dead ever since he and Dan Heng had crash landed in Okhema after being struck down out of the sky.

So that means he's been dead.. for four months-?! How is that even-

Jade green and white register in his vision, thoroughly distracting the man from the spiral that threatens to drown him. A familiar and friendly face- a much welcomed and wonderful thing to see upon first awakening.

❛ Da..n.. Heng..? ❜

The silver mumbles out his companions name in a question, as if confused by the man's presence. Which- really, why would Caelus be confused? This is their shared little room, and Caelus doesn't leave his friend's side for very long as it is. Obviously Dan Heng would be here. Aeons his head hurts, but like how can it even hurt if he's just memor- with a low groan, Caelus moves his legs to hang off the side of the lounge chair as he sits himself upright, a hand coming up to momentarily hold his aching skull.

❛ Good morning- or afternoon? How long have I been out this time..? ❜

a story featuring @renascinem

☆ a scar is born - no use in tripping over not existing

【 non-commission board ── companion confidants 】

[trailblczed]

Caelus wonders if he's sick to actually come back to Penacony on his own- but when someone asks him for a favor, he has a real hard time saying "no". Besides, when it's a request to just explore a theme park, it isn't like he's going to be having to do anything besides have fun he hopes. Who knows, perhaps this can be a healing experience for him- to let him not be so off-put by the planet of festivities.

That's how he finds himself strolling through Clockie Studios Theme Park, by himself, pondering his life choices. Well- he would be, yet a familiar voice calls his name that snags his attention as vibrant pink fur comes charging at him with an excited smile.

❛ Well hello again, lovely lady. ❜

Caelus greets with a warm grin, fighting the initial reaction to pull the woman into a hug- he isn't sure where boundaries are laid between them. He knows he can be rather.. physically affectionate with people he knows- friends especially ( you are far less likely to see him not attached to his companions in some shape or form- holding hands, arms linked, hugging- you name it ). But not everyone has the same casualness that the silver haired man has ( something he had to learn- and a hard lesson that he had to work through with March [ blessed be her kind soul ] ), so he doesn't want to push when he isn't certain.

Amber eyes follow the foxian's gaze to the sign, nearly laughing at the sheer "cheesiness" of the design of it. Some sort of ride for dreaming and of love- interesting. That's certainly something he's not familiar with- love, nor the ride- so he doesn't see the harm in investigating it. Plus, he has wonderful company, so what reason does he really have to not?

❛ I won't say no- but are you sure? Some of these rides can be a bit.. much. Especially if you don't know how you respond to Memoria. ❜

Caelus offers his warning as gently as he can. Hell, even he isn't sure if it'd be a good idea for him to go simply based on how poorly he reacted to that stuff when they first warped near Penacony. Now to willingly put yourself into a ride basically fueled by it? Probably not the smartest idea- but when has Caelus ever been the clever type? Plus he isn't going to let Fugue go by herself- what kind of gentlemen would he be?

❛ But if you want to go, I'd be more than happy to be your escort. ❜

First Time in the Horror Tunnel?

Commission | Tunnel of Love

[trailblczed]

Hands card through his hair and he can't stop the additional shaky sigh it pulls while his body goes and loosens further under the gentle care. Caelus' hand reaches out to weakly grab at the man's coat, a faint gesture born of paranoia- surely this wasn't just another vision? Surely the Aeons wouldn't be so cruel as to mess with him again- after everything that had already occurred? No.. the cloth under his fingers feels to real to be a dream. Don't jinx it.

Caelus doesn't need to be told twice to sit and calm himself, easily following the guidance given with gentle hands until he can plant himself down- nearly falling off harden rock with the lack of recharged energy the man had.

❛ Leave..? To where? ❜

The man asks, lost yet curious, with his voice set to low as his hand flexes awkwardly against his thigh. Everything still feels like he's existing in water, all the sounds muffled and his vision partially blurred when he tries to glance around at his father's little campsite.

❛ Weren't.. you trying to look for something? ❜

While he is stoked to finally have Welt by his side again, and has the chance to discuss the many malfunctions and failures that occurred- the Trailblazer isn't quite ready for that. So instead, he inquires about what he had missed- or more, what the man had been up to after their overture adventure.

☆ I'm broken alright- even so I still want to breathe

【 post credit scene ── father && son bonding time 】

[trailblczed]

He is not surprised in the slightest he's been caught- he's not sneaky to begin with, and he's sure someone who had the title of a "master swordsman" ( and was a wanted criminal ) would easily notice Caelus watching them. He doesn't laugh nervously, as he typically would when caught doing something he shouldn't- a small frown present instead of an apologetic smile.

❛ "Witness"..? Not necessarily. More.. here to make sure you're doing alright. ❜

The lad admits gently as he steps forward, facing the other directly. Concern is still etched on his face as his hand twitches, his soft heart wanting to reach out and offer some sort of physical comfort. But Caelus barely knows him- isn't sure if he trusts him ( because, ya know, hURT HIS BEST FRIEND )- but the sight of the taller man comatose in a chair edges him onward.

❛ Last I seen you, you were kind of passed out.. or, purposefully put into some sort of zoned out state. Kafka won't answer my texts, so I figured it'd be better if I just came to find you myself. ❜

Caelus doesn't mention that some tiny voice in the back of his head says he needs to check on Blade- that he needs to look after his ā̴̼͂̂́̽l̸̘̳̹̯̬͂l̶̗͙̣̺̋̂ỹ̸̢̠̞̘̯̋̚. The Trailblazer also ignores the prompt headache that shows up- who knows what that's about.

☆ how do you know who I am when I don't even know myself?

【 non-commission board ── an unexpected partnership 】

[trailblczed]

Caelus stands a tad more upright as a figure approaches, almost conjuring out of thin air with the man's lack of attention to his surroundings. The Legacy is tapped, the hat swaying a little in his hands as he laughs- an embarrassed and nervous sound.

❛ Oh I don't doubt that. I'm sure that if this hat wasn't found in the Dreamscape, that it'd be near deteriorated by this point. ❜

The Nameless responds in kind, his tone open and friendly as fingers trace the rim once more as if painting the paths into his skin would make it feel more real- more deserving. Caelus hadn't realized how weighed he felt until the man speaks up again, offering a sort of condolence and encouragement wrapped in one humorous lilt. The silver haired man laughs again, far more lighthearted and amused than his previous chuckle.

❛ You sound like you know him pretty well. Are you sure him giving this to me wasn't one of those stupid choices? ❜

The lad slips out the unintentional self-deprecating joke on reflex, his mind still rattled and unable to fully grasp the Why of being chosen. Even so.. it's nice to hear from a voice he ( for some reason ) knows he can trust.

❛ To be honest, I still don't see why it was me- I mean, there are plenty of Nameless out there. Hell, there is the entire Astral Express full of them. Why, out of all of us, is it me? The only one who- ❜

The man stops himself with a sharp intake of air, hands flexing against leather. Even if he said it aloud, it'd only be partially true. He can die just like the rest of his companions ( he's already done so 3 times now ), it's more that he can't naturally do so.. as far as he knows. Or there could be some other secrets of his family that he isn't aware of that even they could also be unable to pass the torch-

❛ ... How is one even suppose to carry this kind of weight- like it's nothing? ❜

Caelus isn't sure why he's just blabbing his mouth to this person, he just knows that he can- that it's alright for him to be vulnerable ( at least about the Nameless' Legacy ) with him.

☆ is it truly alright for me to wear this crown?

【 post penacony ── the trailblazers' && watchmaker's legacy 】

[trailblczed]

Caelus wonders if the man just takes pity on his fumbled words by beckoning him closer with a wave, but he will take whatever he can. Remember, make this trip optimal? Perhaps the foxian could also provide some wise words- and it'd be a good excuse to get to know the man better after what Caelus had done.

❛ Steamboat's Moon.. ❜

The lad repeats the name, letting each syllable rest as it comes out of mouth while trying to zoom out on his inner map and see if something shows up. It seems vaguely familiar, at the very least.

❛ Not that I can recall, but I don't exactly pay the best attention to my surroundings. ❜

He answers earnestly with an embarrassed chuckle. The amount of times Caelus had gotten into trouble, or straight up lost, is too many to count at this point. You'd think he'd be better at it as a Nameless who travels frequently- but he's gotta be honest, a lot of places start to look the same. Or there is just too many to keep track of every little location, even if he had 100%'d the area's exploration.

❛ I can walk around with you until you find it. I didn't have an appointment, more just wanted to talk to Bailu about something if she was free. ❜

Caelus makes a small gesture with his arm off in the direction Jaioqiu had been initially going. Might as well start somewhere, and who knows- maybe the pink haired man had the right trail to start.

❛ Actually, lunch sounds great right about now. Let's go! ❜

☆ aren't you tired of being nice? don't you ever want to go ape shit?

【 crystalize commission ── shackling prison trainer(s) 】

[trailblczed]

Placed on the center of his desk, atop a folded square of heavy card stock, is a small, dark case. Nestled within is a compass, the old-fashioned kind, cool and heavy to the touch.

No signature accompanies either item.

Engraved on the back of the compass: No path but yours. On the card: You have always had the strength to choose your path. I couldn't be more proud. Happy birthday.

Caelus knows he's a bit of a hoarder and not very neat or organized, but he knows when something was his, and when it wasn't. A random dark box, specifically left on his desk, was definitely not his. Ever the curious raccoon man, Caelus picks up the box and turns it over in his hand, inspecting every corner and detail he can see- hoping something would at least give him a reminder of what it was, were it to in fact be something he collected and simply forgot about.

Instead of the box itself, the card stock left under it was the answer to his question. It was not something he found for himself, but it was his- a gift. It takes Caelus several minutes staring at the firm paper to read what it says ( seems like those lessons with Ratio are paying off! ), the fancy handwriting a tad much for this lil guy.

There's no name, and there doesn't need to be. There is only one person who has hidden their name whenever they contacted him. There was only one person who talked about making a choice he wouldn't regret. Only one person who wanted him to make his own choices for his story.

Their relationship isn't perfect- likely because they are both leading their own lives and don't have much time, or the ability, to chat much about what is written in their fates. Yet, that doesn't stop the warmth from filling his chest, or the gentle smile tugging at his lips as he opens the box to pull out the trinket inside.

That same handwriting has engraved a message on the metallic plating, and it makes his smile grow a tad bigger. Caelus has the initial thought to replace the pocket watch he keeps attached to his coat- but some unknown feeling makes him reject the idea fairly quickly. He might not know much about what he had on him when he first woke up those few years ago on Herta's, but apparently his heart knew that what he did have was important.

Instead, Caelus takes slow steps over towards his bed while further admiring the trinket. The lad then leans down so he can set the compass on the nightstand, resting it up against the lamp placed there. Perhaps a metaphor for being able to find his way towards the light.. maybe not- Caelus isn't that poetic.

[trailblczed]

On the Astral Express, Seele had been awkwardly fidgeting with a gift box. As she notices Caelus approach, she steps in front of him, holding out the gift box with a fairly casual "wait, hold on."

Opening up the box, Seele presents him with a best attempt at a stitched together trashcan plush. "Sorry if this seems a bit awkward. I heard your birthday had been yesterday, but I couldn't get this to you on time." Seele clears her throat, and smiles awkwardly.

"I've wanted to thank you for all you've done for the sake of Belobog. This isn't much, nowhere near for how much you've done for us, but this is the best I can do to express my gratitude..."

She places the little trashcan plush into Caelus' hands. Upon closer inspection, it's evident that it's an amateur's attempt at stitching something together. However, it's obvious Seele had put in a lot of time and effort in stitching the little guy together.

"I had noticed you stared a lot at the trash cans in Belobog with a lot of...fascination? I thought maybe you really like them so I stitched together a trashcan in Belobog as a little plush. I hope you like it? And...uh, of course...happy belated birthday, Caelus. And thank you for all you and the other Nameless have done for us."

It isn't often Caelus sees his lilac companion so.. uncomfortable- awkward. The last time he had was when he and Seele talked about their crushes and Caelus helped wingman his two girlies together ( which he's happy for them!!!!!!!!! love them both a bunchies ). So seeing her so unkempt is peculiar, and raises both concern and interest.

He doesn't get to wonder as to what's in the box for long, as his friend pulls it open and removes its contents. Amber eyes immediately widen upon the sight of a gray bin, sewn together as a stuffie ( ANOTHER FOR HIS COLLECTION!! ). But what's the most shocking, and AMAZING, thing about it is the shape it takes.

It's no news to anyone that knows Caelus well, that he is a big fan of the Lordly Trashcans- or trashcans in general. So to see someone go out of there way to specifically make something so personalized and tailored to his interests is a wonderful and giddy feeling.

As the lass places it in his palms, Caelus hesitantly squishes it in his hands- stuck in disbelief for several seconds. Stars sparkle in the lad's eyes he looks back and forth between the gift and his friend. The Trailblazer promptly crashes into Seele, an arm curled around a shoulder as he laughs, light and joyous.

❛ This is amazing!!! Oh it will be given a spot of the highest honor amongst my other stuffies. ❜

[trailblczed]

it is not this birthday when time and space and circumstance separate them—much that march 7th would have wished it so for the present she’d safely stored away in her closet in anticipation of it—but it is a birthday. the first she got to properly celebrate with the astral express’s newest member. and it all starts like this: a pink blur shooting across the train car with a wail of his name, “CAEEEEELUS!” her hand catches his wrist, tugging him along to the window. “come on, come on! there’s only a few minutes left!”

there’s nothing specific to see out the glass, just the same sea of stars that march has come to find comforting. but the nameless still presses up against it with a pleased giggle before turning back to her friend. her phone appears in her hand, screen flicking on to reveal the time: one minute to the turn of the next day. and you’d think it was her birthday they were counting down to with how giddy she is. “ready? ready?” and at midnight on the dot, she flings her arms around him and crows, “now it’s your birthday. happy birthday!”

after all, could there be any other occasion more sacred to march 7th when she herself is named after the day of her rebirth? she scrambles away momentarily to duck behind one of the sofas, returning with a plate with two slices of cake in one hand, a present tied up with pink and blue ribbons in the other. the former tilts a bit concerningly as she sets it down nearby, her now free hand held out to him with her pinky finger sticking out.

“i got you a gift, obviously. but first!” she shakes her hand again. “you have to promise! next birthday, and every other birthday after that…” her voice softens here and her expression shifts from blinding sunlight to the warmth of sunset. “…we’ll celebrate those together too, okay? because we’re gonna keep moving starward together, until we both reach our journeys’ ends.” the corners of her eyes crinkle, her head tilts, and march beams at him. “you can’t break a pinky promise, all right?”

(as for the actual present, it is, at first glance, is an unassuming picture frame. but a switch on the side flicks the screen on to reveal a continuous carousel of pictures of all their adventures, not quite unlike the screens march has in her room.)

If Caelus were a true racoon, ears would be perking up at the holler of his name by a familiar and friendly voice. March had sounded so excited as she bolted up to him before pulling him along towards one of the multiple windows of the train car. The lad had simply stared at her in amusement and partial confusion- what was she so pumped for? He obviously puts up no resistance, simply allowing his companion to tug him to where she wanted.

Caelus has a.. complicated relationship with the view out these windows- disgust at how they were a subconscious reminder that he was not human ( or technically living ) with the Stellaron in his chest, and comradery from being one with the stars ( a painful contradiction ) and that no matter what you will never be alone in these vast galaxies. But, he's willing to ignore this in favor of humoring the pink haired lass.

He's about to inquire about what the countdown was for when the lass jumps at him with a warm hug and a celebratory declaration. Ah.. so it was his "birthday" huh? Had it really been [̴̩̤̔R̶̻̓͝Ĕ̷̥͚̚D̸̦͇͒Ä̸̳̂ͅC̶̭̝̽T̵̟̍͐͜É̴̼̕D̸͚̬͋]̸͓̓ since he had first stepped aboard the Astral Express..? Apparently so, otherwise March would not be doing all the dramatics ( affectionate ) displayed before him.

Caelus is about to spin the lass around in a returned gesture of affection, simply for the fun of it ( and because he loves physical contact- not with just March, but all of their family ), but she scatters from his grasp before he can. A shame, perhaps another time. She returns with.. cake? Caelus snorts at the sight, curiosity running wild of the how and when of March planning this surprise.

His grin softens, easily mimicking the warmth displayed across his companion's as she extends her pinky to him. The silver quickly meets the gesture after she shakes it at him a second time, the sincerity in her voice placing a fire in his soul- one that protects you on cold days, one that illuminates the darkness, a soft warmth that provides comfort in the worst of days. Caelus' finger curls around the pinkette's, even swinging their connected hands playfully side to side.

❛ Me? Break a promise? You must not know me very well if you think I would ever do something so criminal. ❜

The Nameless feigns offense at the suggestion, free hand coming to rest at his chest in his theatrics. He drops the antics just as quickly as he had adopted them, shoulders relaxing as he retracts his pinky. Caelus takes the steps forward until he's close enough to March for him to lean down, face pressed into her shoulder, as he wraps his arms around her torso. His arms tighten slightly, effectively squeezing his dear friend.

❛ Really- Thank you, March.. May the Trailblaze see us to the next birthday, and every single one after that. ❜

He hasn't even seen what her gift is yet, content to open it after he's gotten his hug quota for the day. Yet should he have opened it, and seen the picture frame, one can safely bet he'd be grinning brighter than any star could ever, and possibly shed a tear or two- especially when the pictures would rotate between the various adventures they've gone on already. He will be excited to add more from their next missions.

A pinky promise Something sacred- something treasured.

Little did the two Nameless know, that they would be breaking this promise- each in their own way, completely unaware of the other's end being unable to keep their promise intact. One trapped in ice, the other trapped in memoria- both on a crash course to enter a Sea of Flowers.

Loading….. Loading……….. Connecting.. Connecting…. Connected. Sending message…… Sending message.................... Message to The Astral Express Family sent. Message failed to send to Welt. Message failed to send to Himeko. Message failed to send to March 7th. Message failed to send to Pom-Pom. Message sent to Dan Heng successfully. Unit Caelus, Code Name "The Trailblazer", has gone offline. Systems have been damaged. Extent of damages is at critical levels. Unit is unresponsive. S.O.S.