While your conversation with Shadow may have shed light on a few things... it's obvious he doesn't think you all are up to the task of saving the universe from Eggman. Which also means that now you're dealing with his test, starting immediately. Some of you may be whisked away with no time to even blink, while others may find themselves wandering the Void aimlessly. Regardless, it seems this week won't be a particularly easy one.
THE VOID
Nothing has changed in the Void. Nothing ever changes in the Void. It's impossible to track the passage of time in here, and your only escape are the rings... though you should be careful with them, as there's far fewer this week. You're free to travel between worlds as you see fit - Shadow won't stop you - but you can be snatched up from wherever you are at any given moment and pulled back into the Void. Maybe don't plan on spending to long anywhere else, because it won't end well for you if you do.
The hexagonal shards will still show you visions of other worlds... but this time they all show the same thing. You'll see worlds - maybe even your own - taken over by robots and Eggman's chroma, reduced to smoldering ashes or being rebuilt in Eggman's image. Your friends, allies, and enemies may even be going about their lives just as listlessly and dutifully, heedless of their surroundings. You may even see alternate versions of yourself among them. Regardless, it seems all these shards have to show you this week are all the possibilities of failure - that other versions of shardbearers in other timelines have already lost.
MINDSCAPES
Shadow's usage of the Phantom Ruby and his own fake Chaos Emerald shard have caused quite the problem for you all - namely, you'll find yourselves traversing each other's innermost thoughts and dreams. Exactly how this mindscape manifests depends on the individual, but one thing will always remain true: you won't be able to find the owner of the mindscape easily.
As a reflection of these inner thoughts, mindscapes can be any sort of place. Perhaps they are a reflection of the owner's inner demons and fear, or perhaps they showcase a bright future they want to work towards. Regardless, this is a dream and one the owner must be awoken from... which means finding them and bringing them back to reality. That's easier said than done when traversing through this dream-like state, where the rules are made up by the owner and you're a foreign being that the dream recognizes as a threat (even if you aren't).
You may encounter familiar places or people within these mindscapes. You may not. You may end up fighting for your life in here... or you may not. Each one is individual, and the experience can vary wildly from person to person. No matter what you face, you must find the owner of the mindscape and bring them back. You must ensure you're strong enough to support them... and protect yourself.
Curiously, you can activate your shared shard power with the owner of the mindscape at any time - or bolster your own power if you share shard colors - even without them being present. Will this make it easier or harder to help bring them back? It depends on the person, your bond, and the mindscape itself...
Waking them up is as simple as convincing them that they're dreaming - that this isn't real and that they still have things to return to - but that may be easier said than done depending on the person... or the mindscape itself. There's no telling what you'll encounter, after all.
SHARDS
You'll find you're capable of more now than you were before. You're really adapting to using your shard powers and fighting with others. Those of you who share shard colors will feel the strength of your shards increasing even more when working together.
As you fight with your allies - particularly those you have a close bond with, positive or negative - you may feel the tug of something in the back of your head; it tells you that you can do more. Together, you can become more powerful. You can use your shards together. Doing so will grant you a new power, or strengthen the one you already have. The more you trust one another, the easier this power will be to use.
It might be good to experiment with these new powers; after all, you never know when you may need them.
TAILS' TASKS
Given that your allies are being pulled into mindscapes and are unable to break free of their own, your task this week is to help your friends. Sonic, Tails, and Knuckles are off dealing with their own mindscapes, but whenever they are around, they're adamant about the importance of making sure everyone is freed and prepared for whatever comes next.
ENEMIES
Like last week, you will not encounter any of Eggman's robots. The Void is still free of enemies, though other worlds may possess their own threats. Mindscapes are a bit of a different beast; each one varies, and you may or may not encounter threats of any sort in them. Best be on your guard.
[Jasper's smirk intensifies as he listens to Void go on, and he kind of... moves to circle him. But he kind of expects them to keep pace with him, because that's the Theater of it and Void is a fucking theater kid.]
Ah, I should have known you would say something like that. You never do disappoint.
[He chuckles a bit, flicking his hair out of his eyes.]
You were not who I was expecting, but I would be happy to have you entertain me for as long as I would like.
[ Unfortunate that the assessment is correct - they have no intentions whatsoever of allowing such matters to be left to lack of theatre. No, where others would feel themselves called with a heavy heart, to wear a face of grim severity, Void Archives dares to make their approach ever so different. Is it to their benefit in the end? The track record is dubious, but they are not leaving without him. This they mean in every single sense of the word - and they dare not to sacrifice their individuality in doing so.
...But, at the words that fall from Jasper's mouth next, the blond can't help in managing to chuckle, looking all too proud of the compliment, tucking a loose strand hair of theirs back. They also do wonder at the identity of the person Jasper anticipated (a knight in shining or dark armor? They are nowhere near such a thing.) Yet it is with ease that they fall into step, regardless; keeping pace isn't a problem. It never was. Though... ]
You do realize you stoke my curiosity so. But, since I am here, I intend to make good on my claims. Yes, when you speak such words...should I instead be honored?
But, do not expect myself to simply talk at you, to only leave to follow in these steps. I have no intentions of giving anything less than a splendid performance.
So, why not join me? Why not witness a glimpse of what can be beyond an predictable ending act? What kind of stage 'eternity' looks like? Are you not curious...?
[ They extend their hand out to Jasper. The man in front of this world is expecting to be indulged, yes, but can mere words or heartfelt pleas move a man's heart? No, the Void Archives thinks not. The tacit call to dare to enhance the stage these two are standing on, already making light dances upon, is what makes them offer to make the dance more overt than subtle. But, will Jasper accept the little offer? For them to show him what they have to offer? ]
Indulging you seems quite dangerous. And yet, do you believe I could always resist doing so?
[ A light-hearted jest as they sigh lightly. Then, they assess the hand contained within their covered one - their expression briefly thoughtful, unreadable. Next, they take one step closer, the other (bare) hand going to rest where appropriate - Jasper's side. They then begin to move, knowledge filling in the blanks for what they lack in experience for their first dance - the right turn, the right step - and of course, the right numbers, as a waltz takes two. But their moves are conducted smoothly - deliberate. An imposter of a dancer, feeling the trepidation of uncharted territory; and a hope to guide to a path beyond this shadow world. ]
Boundless curiosity may yet be the key. You and I know memories defy impermanence, narrowly slipping through the cruel hands of fate. But, why should I ever be content with you being a mere memory? I wish for you to see much more, to catch more than a glimpse of stars, worlds, and experiences beyond your imagination.
[ Can they get away with added flares? They would dare to slip in a pull close, but not leave it as such; steps made to continue so it can last. The unpredictable twists and turns going in a flash like the stars in the sky blinking amidst the blanket of darkness. Then, a move for a dip. ]
I wonder, has this Key of Revelation ensnared you within this truth? That such a reality does not exist in a mere fantasy. To you, with every display I have at my disposal, I convey to you and entice you with the feelings and knowledge of perpetuity. It shall not be beyond your grasp...all it begins with is another single step.
[...ah. This is fun, actually. He'll let Void lead for now, but he keeps up just fine. The waltz, the dips--all that's really missing is the music, but it's easy to imagine.]
You speak of endless times, worlds, and possibilities... but have you considered the variations of said worlds? There is, I am sure, a series of possibilities in which I succeeded in bringing ruin to my world. I have not seen it in full, but I have seen flickers of it.
[His moves are still refined and elegant, though he does become a bit more aggressive, attempting to take control and put himself in the lead.]
It stands to reason, then, that given I betrayed my entire world, there is very little standing in the way of me betraying you.
[ The accompaniment probably can be their voices filling the air...!
That said, for most people, Jasper's words would be a deterrent; the type that sinks the heart of a soft heart who has endured little hardship and horrors. But, at that very moment, Void Archives' green eyes narrow, and their smile becomes far more sharp. As if pleased.
...That's right, instead, somehow they kindle something within them, burning it into a incandescent, effervescent flame; it's exciting, enthralling. How much pain could Jasper bring them in a situation? How would he act in doing so? In fact, it even seems that the blond easily allows Jasper to take the lead; have they been caught by surprise? Off guard? ]
Yes, I could even imagine you doing very much the same, giving it your all to drive a dagger straight into my back - quiet as a shade, thinking I would so easily be caught unawares.
...But, do you realize what exactly you would be up against, O' Clever and Charming Deceiver? The Void Archives is peerless in knowledge in ways one cannot fathom as the First Divine Key. Thus, I have already known about different dimensions - the alternate universes that can only be glimpsed by certain eyes or objects, and I even know of how to construct one myself.
And, of course, I have been well aware of your nature, dear Jasper. That too is a knowledge etched well into my being - into all of I am.
[ Though, at this time, they will make a sudden change in their step without warning, to bring themselves suddenly and aggressively so much closer. Motions harsh and abrupt to do their best to take Jasper off-guard, and then easily switch up who is leading, once more. A concordant back and forth. ]
Which is how I know, and understand, that the one that I have come to know...could very well try it when upon the return to reality. And yet, I would not even flinch. Instead, you would find your undoubtedly admirable attempt easily overturned. After all, do you believe I would so easily allow myself to be put at your mercy? To be caught off-guard by such a move? If you enacted a betrayal, who better than I to overcome your efforts, and render such acts obsolete~?
[Jasper laughs under his breath, ceding control to Void to humor them. Because he's enjoying himself, and he can take control back at any time. That's part of the dance, isn't it?]
My dear Void Archives, it sounds as though you want that from me. Does the idea of me making the mere attempt intrigue you so? Perhaps I should consider it, then; I will be honest, the thing that leaves me so cold about the idea of joining our shared adversary is his poor sense of aesthetics.
But I see that would not surprise you, and I feel like I would enjoy attempting to shock you more at this point, I think. That is what intrigues me at this moment.
[ That it is. There is something to the push and pull - the inherent spark and rush of its unpredictable, yet consistent nature. Though, there is no guarantee of any allowance, there is also something novel about them knowing that the chance to take control is within their hands.
In a way that is unique to the both of themselves; one that defies the normal convention of the aspect of "control", while hovering within it. And, really, isn't there something refreshing about it? As enticing and inviting about where these steps are taking them?
Then, there goes Jasper, addressing them so, and they feel a delightful heat threaten to reach their face in earnest. ]
Hah...yes, he certainly has so little to appreciate in his designs - in both a literal sense and appearances. I have witnessed far more foes with grander styles and magnificent approaches. With similar, repetitive mindsets...
[ Though, they do give something like a dark chuckle. They don't see a reason to deny it - and so they don't bother. Jasper is correct that it wouldn't surprise them. Their assessments had been honest; they meant every word they said. Everything they have done - pulling them close together once more, their lips curl up into another sharp smile. Their gaze intense as there is something pleasantly familiar about the rest of those words. Except, as playful as they are, the stakes are higher, aren't they? ]
...ah, is that so? You did say something before about finding more ways to be devious, implying it would be to surprise me so, didn't you? How do you think you will manage that, I wonder? Will you grant me the privilege of showing me now? Or perhaps it is something you still plan to keep under wraps, hmm? Sharp as you are, I do wonder if you can hide it so long, and make good on such intentions...?
Hmm... perhaps I would be happy to go ahead and indulge myself regardless of how much it would surprise you at this point. I am getting the impression you may also want this--
[...because Void Archives is tall--why does he keep going for much taller people--he goes ahead and grabs at their collar and pulls his face down in close...]
...Yes, they certainly do wish for what Jasper is implying here - there is no doubt that they are an individual who hardly would look away from the mere notion of acknowledging such admittances. Even now that they have made more realizations these days, rather than at the beginning of this...the state of allowing themselves become "attached".
Such to the point that Void Archives can't help it when Jasper pulls on them, the distance between their faces eliminated completely, looking once again far too satisfied with themself. ]
...I do.
Allow me to show how much, hm? You can't exactly expect me to do nothing, when you have permitted myself so very close to your space, asking such things of me. Or, is it that you do? Do feel free to act accordingly, either way.
[ ...But, for a moment they ponder in the midst of this if they're understanding this correctly, and start to overthink. With Jasper pulling them so close, they think they do. There's hardly much room between either one of them! And they have imagined doing something about it from time to time, so is it not clear Jasper wants them to as well?
Though, they close their eyes tightly, and will try to go in slowly for a light, brief kiss. Even if all the while their face lights up and reddens as they do - partly because they are in fact truly embarrassed for trying to do something like this for the very first time. ]
[...even if Void did seem a little less experienced in this particular regard... he wasn't expecting them to be so...]
... hah, that was more demure than I expected. How cute.
[Jasper cranes himself up a bit so he can give a return kiss. He's gentle enough rather than ravenous just because Void does seem inexperienced, and it IS cute. he doesn't want to rush this too much.
well, he does. but he does have some principles on this front, so he'll be a good(????) boy.]
[ They let out a soft little huff, hearing that, but they do open their eyes, because they see somehow it was not a disaster; the flush hasn't dimmed any, either. Though... ]
...Cute, hm?
[ They repeat it softly, but without any irritability, and watching Jasper lean in and commit the memory of the feel of him pressing his lips gently against theirs. They indeed can't help but savor the moment. The sensation is lightweighted, and they realize just how much they enjoy it, so they turn their head slightly into the kiss, savoring every single little feeling.
Don't mind if they slip their arms properly around Jasper, reopening their eyes once more. Once the kiss is broken, even if slightly, they smile, that lingering excited feeling palpable as if it's somehow been nursed even more. ]
I shall allow only you to get away with speaking such things of me. Please, do feel free to feel a bit privileged when I say such things.
As it is, this is all novel and an experience that I expect that we will continue to enjoy, hm~?
Hah...ah, very well, then. It isn't easy to keep me in line at all, but if anyone can manage it, it would in fact be you~
[ They chuckle at this, eyes creasing with no small amount of affection; they can feel the return of that embrace. ]
Oh? Do keep in mind that even when they are, I am certain that I will continue to enjoy them well - after all, have you really ever been lacking when it comes such aspects? I believe we both know the answer, yes?
Well, of course we do. If anyone would disagree, I would seriously question their taste.
[hehehe.
...but, well. even with this distinctly nice thing that's happened... he does feel a little put out about something or other... ah well.]
In any case, outside of atmosphere, I doubt this particular location will provide us anything else of value. Unless you feel like spending any more time here, I am fine with leaving.
No, it shall not. I had been hoping that I would also convince you to leave such a place behind. I will happily take to heart that I managed that and more.
[ They pull back, but then move a hand to wrap around one of Jasper's. But, Void Archives is unfortunately, quite extra. Their eyes flicker gold, and they use their light manipulation powers to moderate the 'flash' ability so that there's a spark of little falling lights, illuminating the area. However briefly they manage that. ]
Though, I believe there is another important aspect of our departure. If you are fine with leaving, then you must acknowledge that this no longer truly a reality...but, I have assumed you knew that as well.
[ The last step to emerge from the darkness of the past, of the mind, towards the mutable future - hand in hand, they're ready to do so, looking back at the opening they came through. But, the fact is, the only way this mindscape will come to a conclusion is if Jasper himself believes such things in earnest, and they know it. That it is only a dream, among other things surrounding their return. ]
Well, I am observant enough. I did figure it out whenever you arrived instead of... someone else. But that is for the best, I think. I would rather see that individual in the flesh rather than some construction made from my warped perspective on things.
[...]
I suppose it is a bit unseemly to bring that up in this sort of situation.
[because. yeah. he's got the dokis for void. but there's still, well...]
But I am fine with discussing that later. Let us be off.
[ Void Archives gives Jasper something like an amused look - they don't think there is anything inherently wrong with that. He already mentioned that he was expecting someone else - though, with the way Jasper is speaking, they inevitably do read between the lines. Such to the point that he is getting an eyebrow raise to all of this.
Their lips curl up into something like a little cat-like smile. Is it really hard to read whatever they're thinking? Probably. ]
...My, dear Jasper, your timing is quite un-impeccable indeed. Whatever were you thinking~?
[ The teasing tone sets in at full force, even with the cute atmosphere. Yeah, that is what he gets for bringing it up now. ]
But, yes, do tell me later - even as soon as we return. I have come to know you well, yet the fact is that I have much I still have yet to learn about you. And you still have much to learn about myself.
[ There must be a weight on Jasper's heart surrounding this person. Why let him bear it alone? But despite this, their words indicate a serious tone to it. Don't let it fall by the wayside; though, they are truly not eager to linger here in the event something arrives to bring further complications.
Anyway, they will guide the other blond out of the throne room...and hopefully make another true or final step back towards the world obscured by the veil of a false world intent on making itself more meaningful than reality. ]
no subject
Ah, I should have known you would say something like that. You never do disappoint.
[He chuckles a bit, flicking his hair out of his eyes.]
You were not who I was expecting, but I would be happy to have you entertain me for as long as I would like.
no subject
...But, at the words that fall from Jasper's mouth next, the blond can't help in managing to chuckle, looking all too proud of the compliment, tucking a loose strand hair of theirs back. They also do wonder at the identity of the person Jasper anticipated (a knight in shining or dark armor? They are nowhere near such a thing.) Yet it is with ease that they fall into step, regardless; keeping pace isn't a problem. It never was. Though... ]
You do realize you stoke my curiosity so. But, since I am here, I intend to make good on my claims. Yes, when you speak such words...should I instead be honored?
But, do not expect myself to simply talk at you, to only leave to follow in these steps. I have no intentions of giving anything less than a splendid performance.
So, why not join me? Why not witness a glimpse of what can be beyond an predictable ending act? What kind of stage 'eternity' looks like? Are you not curious...?
[ They extend their hand out to Jasper. The man in front of this world is expecting to be indulged, yes, but can mere words or heartfelt pleas move a man's heart? No, the Void Archives thinks not. The tacit call to dare to enhance the stage these two are standing on, already making light dances upon, is what makes them offer to make the dance more overt than subtle. But, will Jasper accept the little offer? For them to show him what they have to offer? ]
no subject
Hm. This seems like it could be a trap of some sort.
[...
but you know, he'll go ahead and take their hand.]
Ah, but you must indulge me after laying that snare. My curiosity is absolutely getting the best of me.
no subject
[ A light-hearted jest as they sigh lightly. Then, they assess the hand contained within their covered one - their expression briefly thoughtful, unreadable. Next, they take one step closer, the other (bare) hand going to rest where appropriate - Jasper's side. They then begin to move, knowledge filling in the blanks for what they lack in experience for their first dance - the right turn, the right step - and of course, the right numbers, as a waltz takes two. But their moves are conducted smoothly - deliberate. An imposter of a dancer, feeling the trepidation of uncharted territory; and a hope to guide to a path beyond this shadow world. ]
Boundless curiosity may yet be the key. You and I know memories defy impermanence, narrowly slipping through the cruel hands of fate. But, why should I ever be content with you being a mere memory? I wish for you to see much more, to catch more than a glimpse of stars, worlds, and experiences beyond your imagination.
[ Can they get away with added flares? They would dare to slip in a pull close, but not leave it as such; steps made to continue so it can last. The unpredictable twists and turns going in a flash like the stars in the sky blinking amidst the blanket of darkness. Then, a move for a dip. ]
I wonder, has this Key of Revelation ensnared you within this truth? That such a reality does not exist in a mere fantasy. To you, with every display I have at my disposal, I convey to you and entice you with the feelings and knowledge of perpetuity. It shall not be beyond your grasp...all it begins with is another single step.
no subject
[...ah. This is fun, actually. He'll let Void lead for now, but he keeps up just fine. The waltz, the dips--all that's really missing is the music, but it's easy to imagine.]
You speak of endless times, worlds, and possibilities... but have you considered the variations of said worlds? There is, I am sure, a series of possibilities in which I succeeded in bringing ruin to my world. I have not seen it in full, but I have seen flickers of it.
[His moves are still refined and elegant, though he does become a bit more aggressive, attempting to take control and put himself in the lead.]
It stands to reason, then, that given I betrayed my entire world, there is very little standing in the way of me betraying you.
no subject
That said, for most people, Jasper's words would be a deterrent; the type that sinks the heart of a soft heart who has endured little hardship and horrors. But, at that very moment, Void Archives' green eyes narrow, and their smile becomes far more sharp. As if pleased.
...That's right, instead, somehow they kindle something within them, burning it into a incandescent, effervescent flame; it's exciting, enthralling. How much pain could Jasper bring them in a situation? How would he act in doing so? In fact, it even seems that the blond easily allows Jasper to take the lead; have they been caught by surprise? Off guard? ]
Yes, I could even imagine you doing very much the same, giving it your all to drive a dagger straight into my back - quiet as a shade, thinking I would so easily be caught unawares.
...But, do you realize what exactly you would be up against, O' Clever and Charming Deceiver? The Void Archives is peerless in knowledge in ways one cannot fathom as the First Divine Key. Thus, I have already known about different dimensions - the alternate universes that can only be glimpsed by certain eyes or objects, and I even know of how to construct one myself.
And, of course, I have been well aware of your nature, dear Jasper. That too is a knowledge etched well into my being - into all of I am.
[ Though, at this time, they will make a sudden change in their step without warning, to bring themselves suddenly and aggressively so much closer. Motions harsh and abrupt to do their best to take Jasper off-guard, and then easily switch up who is leading, once more. A concordant back and forth. ]
Which is how I know, and understand, that the one that I have come to know...could very well try it when upon the return to reality. And yet, I would not even flinch. Instead, you would find your undoubtedly admirable attempt easily overturned. After all, do you believe I would so easily allow myself to be put at your mercy? To be caught off-guard by such a move? If you enacted a betrayal, who better than I to overcome your efforts, and render such acts obsolete~?
no subject
My dear Void Archives, it sounds as though you want that from me. Does the idea of me making the mere attempt intrigue you so? Perhaps I should consider it, then; I will be honest, the thing that leaves me so cold about the idea of joining our shared adversary is his poor sense of aesthetics.
But I see that would not surprise you, and I feel like I would enjoy attempting to shock you more at this point, I think. That is what intrigues me at this moment.
no subject
In a way that is unique to the both of themselves; one that defies the normal convention of the aspect of "control", while hovering within it. And, really, isn't there something refreshing about it? As enticing and inviting about where these steps are taking them?
Then, there goes Jasper, addressing them so, and they feel a delightful heat threaten to reach their face in earnest. ]
Hah...yes, he certainly has so little to appreciate in his designs - in both a literal sense and appearances. I have witnessed far more foes with grander styles and magnificent approaches. With similar, repetitive mindsets...
[ Though, they do give something like a dark chuckle. They don't see a reason to deny it - and so they don't bother. Jasper is correct that it wouldn't surprise them. Their assessments had been honest; they meant every word they said. Everything they have done - pulling them close together once more, their lips curl up into another sharp smile. Their gaze intense as there is something pleasantly familiar about the rest of those words. Except, as playful as they are, the stakes are higher, aren't they? ]
...ah, is that so? You did say something before about finding more ways to be devious, implying it would be to surprise me so, didn't you? How do you think you will manage that, I wonder? Will you grant me the privilege of showing me now? Or perhaps it is something you still plan to keep under wraps, hmm? Sharp as you are, I do wonder if you can hide it so long, and make good on such intentions...?
no subject
[...because Void Archives is tall--why does he keep going for much taller people--he goes ahead and grabs at their collar and pulls his face down in close...]
--as much as I do, do you not?
1/2
...Yes, they certainly do wish for what Jasper is implying here - there is no doubt that they are an individual who hardly would look away from the mere notion of acknowledging such admittances. Even now that they have made more realizations these days, rather than at the beginning of this...the state of allowing themselves become "attached".
Such to the point that Void Archives can't help it when Jasper pulls on them, the distance between their faces eliminated completely, looking once again far too satisfied with themself. ]
...I do.
Allow me to show how much, hm? You can't exactly expect me to do nothing, when you have permitted myself so very close to your space, asking such things of me. Or, is it that you do? Do feel free to act accordingly, either way.
2/2
Though, they close their eyes tightly, and will try to go in slowly for a light, brief kiss. Even if all the while their face lights up and reddens as they do - partly because they are in fact truly embarrassed for trying to do something like this for the very first time. ]
no subject
... hah, that was more demure than I expected. How cute.
[Jasper cranes himself up a bit so he can give a return kiss. He's gentle enough rather than ravenous just because Void does seem inexperienced, and it IS cute. he doesn't want to rush this too much.
well, he does. but he does have some principles on this front, so he'll be a good(????) boy.]
no subject
...Cute, hm?
[ They repeat it softly, but without any irritability, and watching Jasper lean in and commit the memory of the feel of him pressing his lips gently against theirs. They indeed can't help but savor the moment. The sensation is lightweighted, and they realize just how much they enjoy it, so they turn their head slightly into the kiss, savoring every single little feeling.
Don't mind if they slip their arms properly around Jasper, reopening their eyes once more. Once the kiss is broken, even if slightly, they smile, that lingering excited feeling palpable as if it's somehow been nursed even more. ]
I shall allow only you to get away with speaking such things of me. Please, do feel free to feel a bit privileged when I say such things.
As it is, this is all novel and an experience that I expect that we will continue to enjoy, hm~?
no subject
[hehehehehe. okay. he'll allow himself to be hugged and maybe hug back just a little bit.]
...And indeed we will. Though, perhaps unfortunately for you, the aesthetics will be somewhat different.
no subject
[ They chuckle at this, eyes creasing with no small amount of affection; they can feel the return of that embrace. ]
Oh? Do keep in mind that even when they are, I am certain that I will continue to enjoy them well - after all, have you really ever been lacking when it comes such aspects? I believe we both know the answer, yes?
[ Wink. ]
no subject
[hehehe.
...but, well. even with this distinctly nice thing that's happened... he does feel a little put out about something or other... ah well.]
In any case, outside of atmosphere, I doubt this particular location will provide us anything else of value. Unless you feel like spending any more time here, I am fine with leaving.
no subject
[ They pull back, but then move a hand to wrap around one of Jasper's. But, Void Archives is unfortunately, quite extra. Their eyes flicker gold, and they use their light manipulation powers to moderate the 'flash' ability so that there's a spark of little falling lights, illuminating the area. However briefly they manage that. ]
Though, I believe there is another important aspect of our departure. If you are fine with leaving, then you must acknowledge that this no longer truly a reality...but, I have assumed you knew that as well.
[ The last step to emerge from the darkness of the past, of the mind, towards the mutable future - hand in hand, they're ready to do so, looking back at the opening they came through. But, the fact is, the only way this mindscape will come to a conclusion is if Jasper himself believes such things in earnest, and they know it. That it is only a dream, among other things surrounding their return. ]
...So, shall we?
no subject
Well, I am observant enough. I did figure it out whenever you arrived instead of... someone else. But that is for the best, I think. I would rather see that individual in the flesh rather than some construction made from my warped perspective on things.
[...]
I suppose it is a bit unseemly to bring that up in this sort of situation.
[because. yeah. he's got the dokis for void. but there's still, well...]
But I am fine with discussing that later. Let us be off.
no subject
Their lips curl up into something like a little cat-like smile. Is it really hard to read whatever they're thinking? Probably. ]
...My, dear Jasper, your timing is quite un-impeccable indeed. Whatever were you thinking~?
[ The teasing tone sets in at full force, even with the cute atmosphere. Yeah, that is what he gets for bringing it up now. ]
But, yes, do tell me later - even as soon as we return. I have come to know you well, yet the fact is that I have much I still have yet to learn about you. And you still have much to learn about myself.
[ There must be a weight on Jasper's heart surrounding this person. Why let him bear it alone? But despite this, their words indicate a serious tone to it. Don't let it fall by the wayside; though, they are truly not eager to linger here in the event something arrives to bring further complications.
Anyway, they will guide the other blond out of the throne room...and hopefully make another true or final step back towards the world obscured by the veil of a false world intent on making itself more meaningful than reality. ]