crescentview | Opening my eyes again in casted darkness... (January Catch-all)

Opening my eyes again in casted darkness... (January Catch-all)

🌊Who: He Xuan, and anyone else.
🌊What: Things happening; they're self-explanatory.
🌊When: January.
🌊Where: Varies.
🌊Warnings: Kidnapping, mentions of suicide & forced induction into harems; involvement of violence/murder. Anything else that may occur will be added or adequately warned for in the thread. TGCF spoilers, but since this already deals with memories, that's a requirement, really.

i. gravitation

[ No matter where He Xuan finds himself, whereas it's on the beach or somewhere else, there seems to be some kind of nonsense afoot. Some...feline nonsense at that.

They're all congregating rudely around him and he is essentially helpless to their attacks (cuddles and piling around his feet.)

He practically glares at anyone who catches him in the midst of this. ]

What?

ii. displacement

[ Ghost kings do not get sick, not really. But it doesn't mean that coughing or sneezing is an impossibility for him.

It just so happens he had grabbed something spicy from a restaurant and for some reason found himself sneezing due to some kind of pepper and now he's in the middle of a lake. Soon enough, he's grumbling, extricating himself from the water. What a waste of food. ]

iii. uncharted waters

[ In addition to those, anyone is free to encounter someone who seems to, for all intents and purposes appear to look like He Xuan, and is essence definitely still him. Yet, his appearance clearly differs in subtle ways. His skin isn't so pale, and his ears are not so sharp and he appears a little lost. Feel free to run into him like this, though he will be scrutinizing most people, and there appears to be a sword at his hip, which his hand is hovering on the hilt of. ]

iv. wildcard

[ Self-explanatory...! Open to things that are also not necessarily the above. ]

If you would like to plot with me, I can be reached on plurk @ leyfi, discord @ seraphkingdhaos#8538 and my plotting comment will be here.

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[ It sure isn't.

The idea of being a ghost king or thinking of ghost kings...furthest thing from his mind right about now. Though, occasionally He Xuan does look over his shoulder, or back out at the farm, as if searching for something, even if he does mainly keep his attention on Sylvando once he begins speaking.

...He does give a brief, incredulous look at the end of the other man's sentence about the Harvest Goddess, though. ]

I would think it may be. Though, the idea is such a shock that I can't even begin to grasp the idea. Unless, of course, this is some strange version of the afterlife. But, I doubt that too.

[ And to that, he briefly shows a ghost of a humorless, empty smile, before it shifts into a frown, considering the answer to those more pertinent questions. ]

And no. I don't recall having met you before. Provided that this is all real, and isn't some kind of odd fever dream either. If it were, it might be a nice reprieve of sorts. Though, it wouldn't be something I'd be able to entertain for long. There are...things I must do, after all.

[ Like, take revenge, maybe. ]

Oh, I certainly hope it's not the afterlife or a dream! I'd like to go on living after all of this, with my memories of it intact!

[His smile turns sympathetic as soon of those words come out of his mouth, though.]

I know that must sound silly- you've just arrived, after all. But this has been a very nice experience so far. It hasn't been without hardship of course, but I think this has been good for everyone's personal development.

[Who would have guessed that taking time away from the worries of home to tend to a farm could help you grow as a person?]

The Goddess does intend to send us all home after a year has passed on this island, provided we help the island flourish as she hopes.

[Not...ideal, he's sure.]

[ ...You know, despite the fact He Xuan's life has been an absolute living hell at this point, he agrees with that sentiment. Some people might call that strange, but he is absolutely the type of person to want to survive based on pure spite by now.

A ridiculous amount of stubbornness, perhaps. Even if, he is still grasping a hold of this strange situation, given his lack of memory regarding it. ]

Everyone's personal development? If everything is as calm as it appears...I suppose I can understand that.

[ He says, hesitantly, like he expects an axe murderer to pop out behind nearby shrubbery and try to chop off their heads. But the part about having to wait an entire year makes him nearly choke on a biscuit. Give him a moment. ]

But, an entire year? How do we know if she intends to keep her word?

[UNDERSTANDABLE, REALLY. He was hesitant to even say it, but he knew that He Xuan needed to know. Even so, he winces slightly at the more extreme reaction.]

It's okay, honey, I promise.

[He tries to offer some reassurance, but...is it really okay though? At the very least, he seems to think it is.]

It's not wrong to be skeptical. Many of our group were! But I really don't think she would go back on her word like that. If she does, I'll definitely have some strong words of my own for her, you can count on that!

[Even if he isn't in a rush to get home, it wouldn't be fair to the others who actually have things to do.]

If it helps, I think she would be able to put us back right where she pulled us from. Time may pass here, but not back home.

[ Somehow...it calms him that most of the group had been skeptical as well. He is wary of the 'too good to be true', after all. That in of itself is more reassurance than the whole 'it's okay' portion, because of the things he has experienced in his life. At the very least, it ensures that people aren't like weirdly brainwashed or something crazy like that. ]

...We'll just have to see, I suppose.

[ He Xuan just takes another biscuit. ]

I don't think I can wrap my head around the idea the differences in time passing. I've heard rumors that it isn't like that even in the heavens above...not that I'd know much about such things, either.

But, like I said, I have things to do. Still, I doubt the people I need to deal with will be elsewhere even if a year passes, though I'm not inclined to become all that complacent either.

I'm sorry, I know it's so much to try to take in at once, and I'm sure me being familiar with you already doesn't help. I still don't know what to make of that either...

[He figures that the Goddess has something to do with this, but what exactly did she do to He Xuan? Send him home and take him from another time?]

But I think the best thing to do for now is to try to rest up. I'll be sure to make sure you're fed, and I can help spruce up your clothes if you'd like. Then I can take you to the home you were assigned to.

[It's probably still the same one.]

Edited 2023-01-12 18:12 (UTC)

...It's not your fault.

[ He says quickly, because he isn't about to blame Sylvando for any of this. Not when he's doing his best to essentially help him out here. ]

But, wait, if you're going to do all of that, do you want me to do something in return? Unfortunately, I'm hardly all that skilled at field work. Though I could pitch in some effort before I return to my 'home'.

[ It's definitely the same one! Also, he clearly had trouble hearing the 'rest' portion of all that in there. From his point of view, this man is indebted to Sylvando, and causing him a bit of trouble. Even if he is thankful for his assistance. ]

[He sure did have trouble hearing that. Fortunately, Sylvando is happy to say it again as he waves a hand.]

Focus on regaining your energy for now and let me take care of you, okay? You have plenty of time to repay me if you really want to, but really, this doesn't have to be a transaction. I just want to help!

Very well. I appreciate your assistance.

[ He brings his hands together again in a small gesture, unable to evade from inclining his head like he did earlier, before bringing them down. A small, wry expression appears on his face afterwards. ]

...I believe I'm more used to taking care of others. Not that I'm ungrateful. I suppose I am simply unused to the idea, is all.

I will not forget what you have done for me.

Ahhh, so that's it. I understand exactly where you're coming from- I'm the same way. But you know, it's so nice to be taken care of from time to time!

[And he knows all too well that a lot of people don't get that luxury very often.

The last bit gets a bit of a startled laugh out of him.]

Oh, honey, that's so sweet of you. I might just have to give you an extra helping of stew now, once it's ready.

[A wink quickly follows. He was planning on letting the poor man have as much stew as he wanted, and leftovers to send home besides.]

I... suppose it is.

[ As for the other portion of it, it takes him a second to realize what he has just said, and that he's winking at him. Keep it up and he's going to easily be potentially embarrassed again, Sylvando...

As for now, he perks up a little more. It's hard to tell because even in his human life he is still on the stoic side, but. There are signs, okay.

He almost forgets himself, asking: ]

Will you?

[ He's already finished the biscuits. Though it might be best he doesn't eat too much. ]

[He does this without even trying, I'm so sorry. That said, he giggles lightly before nodding.]

Of course I will. I wouldn't just tease you with that possibility.

[He will have to teach He Xuan about moderation once it becomes apparent how hungry the poor man is.]

I have an idea! Why don't we go inside and check on it together? It must be close to done by now. You can even help me with the stirring!

[It's a way for He Xuan to help without having to put a ton of effort in...]

[ Clearly, it's just part of Sylvando's talent. ]

Well, good. Not that you strike me as the type, after everything.

[ He sure will have to! He Xuan hasn't had very many decent meals lately, to put it lightly, so he should not be eating so much at once.

But at the offer of help, he's properly standing again. He can do this much. ]

...Is it? Either way, I'd be happy to assist you.

[ He doesn't rush in, but he will wait for the other to enter, and then follow. ]

It looked close enough when I went in there to make tea. Come on, let's go take a peek!

[After gathering up their dishes, he leads He Xuan inside. The smell of tasty stew permeates the senses upon entering Sylvando's cozy little house. The interior is simple and a little worn down, but it's clear that Sylvando has left his colorful mark on the place to make it his own.

After showing He Xuan the basic layout of the place, he brings him over to the kitchen. On top of the stove is a modestly sized pot of stew that's gently bubbling away.]

Here we are!

[He sets the dishes down near the sink and turns toward the bubbling stew. After picking up a ladle that he'd set aside, he gives it a gentle stir as he assesses the look of it. He seems satisfied enough, and sets the ladle down to pull out...two spoons?]

I think we ought to give it a taste. Don't you?

[ The smell of tasty stew also makes He Xuan rather cognizant of the fact that he is still very much hungry, and he is pretty much distracted by it. The surroundings do not bother them in their simplicity or current state; the small details are indicative of the type of person who lives here. Somehow, he feels that it suits Sylvando's self rather well. ]

...It smells good.

[ And here they are. He's watching Sylvando move around and then take out two spoons, but he nods. ]

It can't hurt to give it a try. I don't think I'll be surprised when it tastes good.

[ He Xuan doesn't know if Sylvando means to get them more plates, so he just sticks a spoon in, and has a taste right then and there. ]

Hee hee! I'm glad you have so much faith in my cooking.

[He's not like, a master chef or anything, but Sylvando has a few recipes up his sleeve that he's pleased with. This one feeds him for a while, so that's why he had it going. Of course, he's more than happy to share with his unexpected but welcome company.

He takes a spoonful as well and gently lifts it up to blow on it before putting it in his mouth. There's a thoughtful pause as he considers the flavors...and a nod is quick to follow.]

Yep, that tastes about right! What do you think, honey?

[He asks as if He Xuan knows how this usually tastes. But it's more to give him a little preview than anything.]

[ In retrospect, he should've at least tried to blow on it, but even with how hot it is, it doesn't stop him much. So much so, in fact...

...When Sylvando asks him this, he has managed to have a second scooping because he can't exactly help himself. He looks a little embarrassed, not just because he's being called honey again. So, you know, just give him a moment. ]

It tastes good, like I had anticipated. It's been awhile since I have had something...decent.

[ Can't get very many good meals when you're just trying to survive on hardly much of nothing. Better than being forced to go without in a jail, but only just barely. ]

[He Xuan takes that second spoonful before Sylvando can say anything, and though he looks a bit taken aback for a second, he's quick to brush it off with a laugh.]

It's naughty to double-dip, you know. [It's very light chiding, though. He's not actually upset.] Here, let me get you a bowl. I don't think it needs any extra stirring.

[As he's pulling bowls out of a cabinet, He Xuan mentions how he hasn't been eating well. It certainly explains a lot. He did look so desperate to get food in his mouth...]

I'm glad you said something, darling. I'll be sure to send home extra leftovers now. And of course, you're always welcome to come by for more meals. I don't mind cooking for two!

[There. Two nice bowls of steaming stew, ready to go. Sylvando tops them with a slice of bread each.]

Want to bring these to the dining area while I get us some water? Just be careful- they're hot!

[ He Xuan looks appropriately like he had his hand caught in the food jar at the light chiding, evidently still feeling remnants of embarrassment. But the fact that the other is clearly not truly mad at him does enough to ensure that he doesn't feel guilty, though an apology may have been on the tip of his tongue for a moment regardless. ]

Extra leftovers? And...you would cook for me?

I am afraid I am at a loss for words, but once again, I sincerely appreciate it. I...right, I've got it.

[ His cheeks remain warm from the all of this, and there's even a little bit of a tingle that goes all the way to his eyes. He hasn't experienced anything so kind in years. And for a human like himself, that is a long time.

But luckily he is composed enough to reach out to grab the bowls, carefully. Temperature still does affect him as he is now and he's certainly not wearing gloves; and he hurries on over to the dining area swiftly, ensuring to set the bowls down just as carefully as he had picked them up. ]

I would! I'm always ready to spread happiness, whether it's through dance or through cooking.

[Maybe he'll have to show He Xuan a nice dance sometime, actually. But for now, the poor man definitely needs food over some entertainment.

He's not very far behind with a glass of water in each hand, as well as the spoons they had used for tasting. He hands one of each to He Xuan and then takes a seat, offering He Xuan the other.]

Thanks for your help, honey! Feel free to dig in- I won't keep you waiting.

[ He Xuan has danced with, perhaps, two people here. Later on if Sylvando can convince him that will probably be a fun time. Right now is truly not the time, though speaking of good timing, he is looking up as the other returns with a glass of water and a spoon.

He carefully takes each glass and then the spoon within his hands. ]

...Of course, I'm happy to help.

[ That, he means by every sense of the word. Next, he goes about digging in right then and there.

He eats like he hasn't had a single good meal before in his life. Though that is an impossibility; before times went bad, even his parents were able to scrounge up at least something decent. A moment of pause before he clears his throat, needing to remember to slow down... ]

[It's hard for Sylvando to not watch this display; not with judgement, but with concern. He almost tells He Xuan to slow down himself before he does so on his own.

After taking a bite of stew, he speaks up about that concern. Part of this is to make sure He Xuan paces himself, but he also wants to know...]

You haven't been eating well for a while, have you?

...No, I haven't.

[ He Xuan lifts his face from the stew, and it's probably good that Sylvando asked him because he really is having a bit of a hard time keeping a normal pace in regards to eating. ]

It's been awhile since I've eaten something so filling. Even though I'd recently escaped from my imprisonment, where food was already lacking [ actually they tried to starve him to death, but, well. details. ] being a merchant hasn't been as profitable as I'd liked for it to have been.

Imprisonment...?

[He feels rude to be asking for more information since that couldn't have been an easy thing to deal with, but man. What could He Xuan have possibly done if this is before all of the ghost king business?]

[ ...He'll place the spoon down.

Telling this man what happened will undeniably be not the most easiest thing he has done, but after all the help he has given to him, it doesn't feel too difficult to say anything of it. ]

There was a period where I was imprisoned for attempting to challenge a prominent family after they had kidnapped two people close to me—my...childhood friend, and my younger sister. They died while they were kept in their household, and couldn't have cared less about it.

But, I hadn't the status to do much of anything to them, hence the position I wound up in.

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