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[Immediately upon receiving the call from Zelos, Nephrite abandoned whatever plans he had for the rest of the day. He'll be forever grateful that he's figured out how to use the wind to carry himself through the air: it makes traveling to Cygnus Academy a simpler affair without any concern for traffic, and the rushing in his ears almost drowns out the guilt.
Luke had collapsed from the onrush of some terrible memory. If his friends and family hadn't called, Nephrite would never have known. In avoiding triggering Luke's memories himself, he'd isolated the boy again. If he gets a chance now to make up for the mistakes of his past life, it's clearly not because he himself has learned how not to repeat them.
He touches down outside the building and makes his way to the infirmary where the others are already waiting, stone-faced and blank, none of his usual good-humored deflection in evidence.]
Has he awoken at all?
Luke had collapsed from the onrush of some terrible memory. If his friends and family hadn't called, Nephrite would never have known. In avoiding triggering Luke's memories himself, he'd isolated the boy again. If he gets a chance now to make up for the mistakes of his past life, it's clearly not because he himself has learned how not to repeat them.
He touches down outside the building and makes his way to the infirmary where the others are already waiting, stone-faced and blank, none of his usual good-humored deflection in evidence.]
Has he awoken at all?
[When someone else Takame did not recognize entered the room, he looked to Luke's emergency contacts for recognition on seeing this man. When that was found, he dropped his guard the slightest bit. Soldier to Soldier, Nephrite could surely notice something so minute.
Takame was faculty here. As such, he moved to respond equally as stoic and steady.]
He has not. He will at any moment, though I cannot say for certain if that will be within minutes or an hour.
Takame was faculty here. As such, he moved to respond equally as stoic and steady.]
He has not. He will at any moment, though I cannot say for certain if that will be within minutes or an hour.
[Harumasa arrives not long after Nephrite does, and he's able to catch the question and answer. Despite not being one to show he's upset, his crow wings are still visible. They're tucked firmly to his back to minimize collisions, but he hasn't had the thought to dismiss them yet. It goes to show how much he cares about this, how much worry he holds for his little brother.
Not that Harumasa looks great after arriving (7). His face is a bit paler than normal, and he coughs somewhat quietly into his elbow. A real one, not any of his fake coughs.
Perhaps he's been pushing it so soon after Jumanji, but... it's his little brother.]
What happened before he collapsed? Any symptoms? Zelos told me it might be related to his memories.
[The young archer glances over at Nephrite.]
I'm his older brother. Adopted by circumstance.
[It's the simplest explanation he can provide to the Guardian at the moment. Once they've gotten more details about Luke's condition, then Harumasa will be more willing to answer Nephrite's questions.]
Not that Harumasa looks great after arriving (7). His face is a bit paler than normal, and he coughs somewhat quietly into his elbow. A real one, not any of his fake coughs.
Perhaps he's been pushing it so soon after Jumanji, but... it's his little brother.]
What happened before he collapsed? Any symptoms? Zelos told me it might be related to his memories.
[The young archer glances over at Nephrite.]
I'm his older brother. Adopted by circumstance.
[It's the simplest explanation he can provide to the Guardian at the moment. Once they've gotten more details about Luke's condition, then Harumasa will be more willing to answer Nephrite's questions.]
[Asch can't fly, but he does have shadow jump and has been using it to great effectiveness. Unfortunately his luck is still not super great, so he's the last to arrive.]
... Our family tree is getting out of hand lately.
[He steps fully into the room and gives Nephrite a nod of acknowledgment. He does not, however, apologize for leaving that out of the letters.]
It's not the first time Luke has collapsed, and last time it was because of his memories. ... Wait. What kind of training was it?
... Our family tree is getting out of hand lately.
[He steps fully into the room and gives Nephrite a nod of acknowledgment. He does not, however, apologize for leaving that out of the letters.]
It's not the first time Luke has collapsed, and last time it was because of his memories. ... Wait. What kind of training was it?
Edited 2025-08-31 19:31 (UTC)
You can thank our dick of a father for that. Or rather his-- nevermind.
[He'll stop himself, thinking better of it. Zelos is leaning against the wall near Luke's bed. He'd noted that the three of them arrived. He expected Haru, but it's good to see the other two made it-- albeit for different reasons.
As the question, it's a simple one]
Sword training. Luke's been interested in learning to defend himself after he got lost in that maze. He signed up to learn with Takame, who teaches at this school.
[He says matter-of-factly. He had nothing to do with signing luke up, but he was in support of it. Learning swordsmenship is downright typical among the nobility of Tethe'alla, so he has no issue with it]
[He'll stop himself, thinking better of it. Zelos is leaning against the wall near Luke's bed. He'd noted that the three of them arrived. He expected Haru, but it's good to see the other two made it-- albeit for different reasons.
As the question, it's a simple one]
Sword training. Luke's been interested in learning to defend himself after he got lost in that maze. He signed up to learn with Takame, who teaches at this school.
[He says matter-of-factly. He had nothing to do with signing luke up, but he was in support of it. Learning swordsmenship is downright typical among the nobility of Tethe'alla, so he has no issue with it]
[He nods back at Asch, and gives both him and Harumasa a very assessing look. Now is really not the time to ask under just what circumstances Luke might have been adopted by someone else, but he will have some questions later for certain.
Sword training, though...suddenly, he has a sinking feeling he just might know what this is about. Who this is about. If it isn't the memory of killing someone for the first time...]
Did he say anything at all about who or what he was remembering when it happened? ...Even if it's a small detail, there's a chance I might be able to shed light on it.
[He traveled with Luke in that other life more than Asch did. There are things he would know that even Luke's twin might not.]
Sword training, though...suddenly, he has a sinking feeling he just might know what this is about. Who this is about. If it isn't the memory of killing someone for the first time...]
Did he say anything at all about who or what he was remembering when it happened? ...Even if it's a small detail, there's a chance I might be able to shed light on it.
[He traveled with Luke in that other life more than Asch did. There are things he would know that even Luke's twin might not.]
[Takame likewise did not comment on Harumasa's state. He knew the man had some manner of illness, but now was not the time. As for their family tree, well. The second unfamiliar man to walk in looked identical to him. Harumasa was another older sibling. There's a path to map out here for later. For now: report.]
I noticed Luke-kun was not acting like himself when he seemed thrilled about something he'd once called boring. It seems that something happened during the incident with those strange board games that greatly affected him. Enough to lose grip of his practice sword.
I wished to hear him speak of it at his pace, and on his terms and comfort. So I asked that he come inside to do so and he shared what transpired with me. He'd shared that he'd taken the life of someone within the game. He wondered what he could have done differently to prevent it.
I gave him what words of advice I could, told him this act did not make him evil nor any less of a good person. He did not display any symptoms, only told me "Thanks, Sensei". Then he'd suddenly begun holding his head in pain. When he'd fainted, I reached out to one of his Emergency Contacts and brought him here.
[The way he recalled every detail truly was more akin to giving a report than remembering an event. But it helped to know everything.]
I noticed Luke-kun was not acting like himself when he seemed thrilled about something he'd once called boring. It seems that something happened during the incident with those strange board games that greatly affected him. Enough to lose grip of his practice sword.
I wished to hear him speak of it at his pace, and on his terms and comfort. So I asked that he come inside to do so and he shared what transpired with me. He'd shared that he'd taken the life of someone within the game. He wondered what he could have done differently to prevent it.
I gave him what words of advice I could, told him this act did not make him evil nor any less of a good person. He did not display any symptoms, only told me "Thanks, Sensei". Then he'd suddenly begun holding his head in pain. When he'd fainted, I reached out to one of his Emergency Contacts and brought him here.
[The way he recalled every detail truly was more akin to giving a report than remembering an event. But it helped to know everything.]
[Harumasa's glad to not have any attention on him, frankly. He's not sure he can handle that yet. But he can handle this much. It's a familiar pressure. Almost an old friend.
The young archer listens to the report intently. It is what it is. He's given and received them in his past life before so he understands what this is.
Sensei, though... it's as Harumasa expected. Still, he looks thoughtful.]
Just so we're all on the same page, usually recalling memories doesn't result in migraines on the scale Luke experiences them. Neither do they render a person unconscious.
[Harumasa's a little hesitant to say more since he knows why they're happening like this, but just a glance at Luke's unconscious form fortifies his spirit.]
My family and I suspected that this might have been Krusnik's fault, but we didn't have any concrete evidence. All we had to go on was a vague feeling of something not being right with his magical signature, and the fact that he had a migraine immediately upon seeing me. Before Luke was adopted out to his current family, the "researchers" would have Sealed his memories and his power. But he was seven when they used that magic on him. So, we suspect that the Seal might be extremely unstable since it was used on a child.
[Surreptitiously (14), Harumasa goes to take a seat nearby Luke. He makes it casual, but truthfully it's because he's afraid that if he stands too much longer he might pass out.]
The young archer listens to the report intently. It is what it is. He's given and received them in his past life before so he understands what this is.
Sensei, though... it's as Harumasa expected. Still, he looks thoughtful.]
Just so we're all on the same page, usually recalling memories doesn't result in migraines on the scale Luke experiences them. Neither do they render a person unconscious.
[Harumasa's a little hesitant to say more since he knows why they're happening like this, but just a glance at Luke's unconscious form fortifies his spirit.]
My family and I suspected that this might have been Krusnik's fault, but we didn't have any concrete evidence. All we had to go on was a vague feeling of something not being right with his magical signature, and the fact that he had a migraine immediately upon seeing me. Before Luke was adopted out to his current family, the "researchers" would have Sealed his memories and his power. But he was seven when they used that magic on him. So, we suspect that the Seal might be extremely unstable since it was used on a child.
[Surreptitiously (14), Harumasa goes to take a seat nearby Luke. He makes it casual, but truthfully it's because he's afraid that if he stands too much longer he might pass out.]
Edited 2025-08-31 20:20 (UTC)
So he took up sword training after all. [Asch knows Luke has talent for it, or at least he did in his past life. All those things eventually came back to Asch, so most likely they would for Luke, too. He listens to the report quietly and digests it, trying to narrow down what it could be...
So that's what happened during the board game. That's what Luke had been tight-lipped about. This is all so... annoying.
He looks at Haru.]
... That's what I was afraid of. [And he'd wondered if that was the case, seeing as TBO members are pretty familiar with that spell.] That Seal has already started to come apart. When he saw me again, the first brick fell out of the wall.
As for what memories caused it this time... it could be anything. Maybe even memories of his past life's teacher. [He glances at Nephrite.] But he might have a better idea.
So that's what happened during the board game. That's what Luke had been tight-lipped about. This is all so... annoying.
He looks at Haru.]
... That's what I was afraid of. [And he'd wondered if that was the case, seeing as TBO members are pretty familiar with that spell.] That Seal has already started to come apart. When he saw me again, the first brick fell out of the wall.
As for what memories caused it this time... it could be anything. Maybe even memories of his past life's teacher. [He glances at Nephrite.] But he might have a better idea.
[Neph is quiet as he digests this information, his expression tight and increasingly irritated - although not at anyone in this room.]
The sealing does explain a great deal. I would have expected his past-life memories to trigger on multiple occasions before this point, particularly the incident he described to you today. [He nods to Takame.]
...Those fools. [He shakes his head.] I would say in this context, attempting to trigger the memories of the teacher from his past life who he most relied upon for emotional support is likely the immediate cause. But knowing that doesn't solve the underlying problem.
[He takes a deep breath, lets it out slowly, and looks to Harumasa.] You seem to know more than I do about what happened in that facility. [Oh, he sounds very angry about that place. It's just something he's putting off for another time.] As you say, the seal would have been on both his memories and his powers. Finding a way to undo the former will also unlock the latter. I don't know how much of his other life's powers had come to him by then, but...if it's anything like what I remember, that's a situation that will need to be managed carefully.
The sealing does explain a great deal. I would have expected his past-life memories to trigger on multiple occasions before this point, particularly the incident he described to you today. [He nods to Takame.]
...Those fools. [He shakes his head.] I would say in this context, attempting to trigger the memories of the teacher from his past life who he most relied upon for emotional support is likely the immediate cause. But knowing that doesn't solve the underlying problem.
[He takes a deep breath, lets it out slowly, and looks to Harumasa.] You seem to know more than I do about what happened in that facility. [Oh, he sounds very angry about that place. It's just something he's putting off for another time.] As you say, the seal would have been on both his memories and his powers. Finding a way to undo the former will also unlock the latter. I don't know how much of his other life's powers had come to him by then, but...if it's anything like what I remember, that's a situation that will need to be managed carefully.
[While up until this point Takame had an immensely calm disposition, the mention of Krusnik caused him to visibly tense and let out a sharp breath. His memories with them... were recent. Painful. But he could handle it, he was already broken before two years ago.
Luke was just a normal young man. A normal young man experiencing all of this.]
I shudder to imagine what sort of man his past life's teacher was should that manner of reaction occur.
[...]
My name is Takame Kesi. I realize that I am a stranger to you all. But someone has placed his trust in me to care for Luke should this situation arise. If I may, I would like to lend my assistance on whatever matter of his power and memories you speak of.
Luke was just a normal young man. A normal young man experiencing all of this.]
I shudder to imagine what sort of man his past life's teacher was should that manner of reaction occur.
[...]
My name is Takame Kesi. I realize that I am a stranger to you all. But someone has placed his trust in me to care for Luke should this situation arise. If I may, I would like to lend my assistance on whatever matter of his power and memories you speak of.
[He looks up at Nephrite when he mentions how Harumasa knows about this facility more than him. His smile doesn't reach his eyes, and there's a distinct lack of his normal cheer and humor in it.]
I should hope so! I was there since I was five.
[However, it changes to a more genuine one as he looks over at Takame.]
Yeah, I know the person who did. I can vouch for them, and I appreciate you looking after Luke.
[Back on topic, though....]
I can tell you that they wanted his power. They had designs to find a way to control a god for their use, though I had never been able to discern why they wanted that in the first place. Doing it purely for power and playing God would've fit for some of the people in charge, but that didn't fit for all of them. That's getting way off-topic, though.
Fact of the matter is, they couldn't control his power because it simply was far too destructive to be useful. Adoption isn't the normal protocol for kids like that, but I guess the right people were at the right place and time to decide that adoption was more profitable.
[Wow, wonder how that could've been. Must be a coincidence or a twist of fate.]
I should hope so! I was there since I was five.
[However, it changes to a more genuine one as he looks over at Takame.]
Yeah, I know the person who did. I can vouch for them, and I appreciate you looking after Luke.
[Back on topic, though....]
I can tell you that they wanted his power. They had designs to find a way to control a god for their use, though I had never been able to discern why they wanted that in the first place. Doing it purely for power and playing God would've fit for some of the people in charge, but that didn't fit for all of them. That's getting way off-topic, though.
Fact of the matter is, they couldn't control his power because it simply was far too destructive to be useful. Adoption isn't the normal protocol for kids like that, but I guess the right people were at the right place and time to decide that adoption was more profitable.
[Wow, wonder how that could've been. Must be a coincidence or a twist of fate.]
[Belle, coming back from her vending machine coffee outing, lingers outside for a time as she hears snatches of the conversation going on inside. Enough makes it out to her (19) that a leaden weight drops into the pit of her stomach. Seven years old. Jesus. Seven.
She breathes in, then out. Then she pushes her way inside.]
Hey, I brought vending machine coffee.
[Putting the cups down on the nearest table.]
What about Luke's power got their attention in the first place?
She breathes in, then out. Then she pushes her way inside.]
Hey, I brought vending machine coffee.
[Putting the cups down on the nearest table.]
What about Luke's power got their attention in the first place?
[Zelos has been listening quietly, taking in the information. Some of it he already knew, some of it he didn't. Still.... none of it sounded good. You'd think he'd be more upset but well...
He can at least give one answer to Harumasa's wondering about why they'd want to control gods.]
... It's simple. If you control a god, you call the shots. Shape the world to your liking, no matter how twisted that liking is.
[He's seen it done before. It's been years since he's seen Mithos, and the memories have yet to fade.]
As for Luke's power... based on how all of you are talking, I'm gonna guess it's on the destructive side of things. If you can't get a god on your side, a massive weapon tends to be a pretty good Plan B.
He can at least give one answer to Harumasa's wondering about why they'd want to control gods.]
... It's simple. If you control a god, you call the shots. Shape the world to your liking, no matter how twisted that liking is.
[He's seen it done before. It's been years since he's seen Mithos, and the memories have yet to fade.]
As for Luke's power... based on how all of you are talking, I'm gonna guess it's on the destructive side of things. If you can't get a god on your side, a massive weapon tends to be a pretty good Plan B.
[Asch is quiet for a minute, but when Luke's former teacher comes up, he finally interjects:]
Van. He was a bastard who tried to end the world.
[Moving on...]
It's called hyperresonance. It manifests as pure destruction in this world. If Luke doesn't learn how to control it, he could atomize everything around him without realizing it. I've had it for a long time, so I can teach him how to wield it properly... as long as he listens to me.
[There was also a connection to Lorelei, but he's not sure it's relevant...]
Van. He was a bastard who tried to end the world.
[Moving on...]
It's called hyperresonance. It manifests as pure destruction in this world. If Luke doesn't learn how to control it, he could atomize everything around him without realizing it. I've had it for a long time, so I can teach him how to wield it properly... as long as he listens to me.
[There was also a connection to Lorelei, but he's not sure it's relevant...]
I can supervise and help him keep control, but this is a very unique ability. In this world, the two of them are more than likely the only ones that have it at all, so...I don't see any alternative besides Asch helping him to learn.
[He's taking it for granted that everyone here understands that this is not a great option, given the brothers' emotional volatility, but it may well be the only one.]
One way or another, we need to take control of this situation. The memories that are weakening the seal are emotional ones; if he breaks through entirely while in the grip of them...
[For just a moment, a pained and regretful look crosses his face, before he masters it again.]
...He's going to end up doing something he'll regret for a very long time.
[He's taking it for granted that everyone here understands that this is not a great option, given the brothers' emotional volatility, but it may well be the only one.]
One way or another, we need to take control of this situation. The memories that are weakening the seal are emotional ones; if he breaks through entirely while in the grip of them...
[For just a moment, a pained and regretful look crosses his face, before he masters it again.]
...He's going to end up doing something he'll regret for a very long time.
[Harumasa looks over at Belle and gives her a smile as he nods in thanks. His attention goes back to the conversation, but he wants to at least acknowledge her thoughtfulness and presence. He's just not allowed caffeine.
The archer listens as they all speak. Although he's not sure that explanation from Zelos feels quite right, he also won't argue. It's not the time and place, and he also doesn't have anything to prove it one way or another. All he has is a gut feeling. And... well, all things considered, there's no explanation that would make him any happier about what was done to him and countless other forgotten children. Even the researchers in his past life had a better goddamn reason.
But that's not the point of this discussion.
Harumasa has heard of what Asch and Luke do to each other, given their... personalities. It's like pure potassium and water. Or throwing water on a grease fire.
He... doesn't expect the sudden subtle mention of that moment. Harumasa's expression flickers for just a moment. It's like a shadow passing over his expression. One that seems to not only age him, but haunt him. But it's gone fast enough that it might have been a trick of the light (15).
The young man tries to shake off that shadow as he gives his thoughts.]
I agree with Asch helping him. He needs to learn control for something like that. However, let's not discount the value of supervision and mediation. Not to discredit you, Asch, I think you can be a great teacher, but it's harder to teach family when they have strong or clashing personalities. So, someone being there that both of you trust to step in as a mediator is probably a good thing to have on hand.
[He looks around the room.]
Buuut that leaves a very important question: what about between training sessions? Until Luke can learn to control it, it's going to be extremely dangerous to leave it as it is. Is there something we can use to temporarily lock his hyperresonance away until he's ready to use it?
The archer listens as they all speak. Although he's not sure that explanation from Zelos feels quite right, he also won't argue. It's not the time and place, and he also doesn't have anything to prove it one way or another. All he has is a gut feeling. And... well, all things considered, there's no explanation that would make him any happier about what was done to him and countless other forgotten children. Even the researchers in his past life had a better goddamn reason.
But that's not the point of this discussion.
Harumasa has heard of what Asch and Luke do to each other, given their... personalities. It's like pure potassium and water. Or throwing water on a grease fire.
He... doesn't expect the sudden subtle mention of that moment. Harumasa's expression flickers for just a moment. It's like a shadow passing over his expression. One that seems to not only age him, but haunt him. But it's gone fast enough that it might have been a trick of the light (15).
The young man tries to shake off that shadow as he gives his thoughts.]
I agree with Asch helping him. He needs to learn control for something like that. However, let's not discount the value of supervision and mediation. Not to discredit you, Asch, I think you can be a great teacher, but it's harder to teach family when they have strong or clashing personalities. So, someone being there that both of you trust to step in as a mediator is probably a good thing to have on hand.
[He looks around the room.]
Buuut that leaves a very important question: what about between training sessions? Until Luke can learn to control it, it's going to be extremely dangerous to leave it as it is. Is there something we can use to temporarily lock his hyperresonance away until he's ready to use it?
[A power that could potentially atomize everything by accident... now that's a harrowing idea. A power like that could be dangerous in anyone's hands, much less a kid like Luke. And the idea of Asch being the only one able to teach him how to control it...
Well. He's seen how those two are. They can't even pick a movie to watch without getting into fights. The idea of one training the other...
That feels like it'd go as well as Lloyd attempting to teach calculus.
Fortunately, Harumasa pointed it out with FAR more tact than he could ever manage, so he won't comment on it. Though he does clock the flickering expression on Harumasa's face when Neph mentions Luke doing something he'd regret (11+3=14). That's... unusual, and makes him wonder what the context behind that was. But he'll leave it be, they got bigger issues to worry about.
A way to to temporarily lock his power... well. He has one idea. ]
... What if we tried something made of Everstone?
[He crosses his arms, shifting a bit uncomfortably because this is not a conversation topic he's keen on sharing. But if it helps his little brother and potentially everyone else in the city...]
It's a type of ore in Kanto. If you have it on you, it'll inhibit magical growth and abilities.
I got a rare magic-based condition, something unique to my past world. The stuff used to treat it doesn't exist in this world, so some folks awhile back got me an accessory made of everstone to keep it from progressing.
It's not ideal, but it did keep the condition in check for a few years before someone found a better solution. Still, maybe it'd keep this Hyperresonance power from manifesting before he's ready?
Well. He's seen how those two are. They can't even pick a movie to watch without getting into fights. The idea of one training the other...
That feels like it'd go as well as Lloyd attempting to teach calculus.
Fortunately, Harumasa pointed it out with FAR more tact than he could ever manage, so he won't comment on it. Though he does clock the flickering expression on Harumasa's face when Neph mentions Luke doing something he'd regret (11+3=14). That's... unusual, and makes him wonder what the context behind that was. But he'll leave it be, they got bigger issues to worry about.
A way to to temporarily lock his power... well. He has one idea. ]
... What if we tried something made of Everstone?
[He crosses his arms, shifting a bit uncomfortably because this is not a conversation topic he's keen on sharing. But if it helps his little brother and potentially everyone else in the city...]
It's a type of ore in Kanto. If you have it on you, it'll inhibit magical growth and abilities.
I got a rare magic-based condition, something unique to my past world. The stuff used to treat it doesn't exist in this world, so some folks awhile back got me an accessory made of everstone to keep it from progressing.
It's not ideal, but it did keep the condition in check for a few years before someone found a better solution. Still, maybe it'd keep this Hyperresonance power from manifesting before he's ready?
[Asch is observant, but he completely misses the flicker across Haru's face. He's more blindsided by the fact that someone said he could be a great teacher. Nowhere at any point did Asch even suggest he could be a good teacher; he knows that he and Luke clash at every opportunity, and it's something fundamental that they just can't wave away with a wand... but that's his brother, no matter what. He has to try.]
A mediator is fine. I know I'm not the gentlest person around.
[He's not too proud to admit his shortcomings in that area, at least. Though as the conversation goes on and a solution for his powers is brought up...]
... I never would have considered using something like that. [He looks at Zelos, and there is respect in his eyes and also a question he's definitely not going to ask right now. He nods.] If we made that ore into an accessory like yours, then he would be able to take it off when he's ready.
Are there any side effects?
A mediator is fine. I know I'm not the gentlest person around.
[He's not too proud to admit his shortcomings in that area, at least. Though as the conversation goes on and a solution for his powers is brought up...]
... I never would have considered using something like that. [He looks at Zelos, and there is respect in his eyes and also a question he's definitely not going to ask right now. He nods.] If we made that ore into an accessory like yours, then he would be able to take it off when he's ready.
Are there any side effects?
[Zelos is not going to volunteer to be a mediator. Nope. He knows immediately that's a terrible idea. Instead, he'll just focus on the solution]
Ha, wish I could take a credit, but a friend came up with it. Extremely gifted seer. Too bad he moved back to Colombia, he was a great guy. [He misses Bruno, one of the small number of people Zelos truly considers a trusted friend]
As for side effects... I'll admit, there are some. Most of mine came from my condition, so we can probably ignore those. The biggest issue is that his powers will truly be capped. He won't be manifesting new special powers or growing any stronger in the powers he has now.
Basically, as long as he wears it, I wouldn't recommend letting him near any combat situations since beyond physical training- he won't be getting any stronger.
Ha, wish I could take a credit, but a friend came up with it. Extremely gifted seer. Too bad he moved back to Colombia, he was a great guy. [He misses Bruno, one of the small number of people Zelos truly considers a trusted friend]
As for side effects... I'll admit, there are some. Most of mine came from my condition, so we can probably ignore those. The biggest issue is that his powers will truly be capped. He won't be manifesting new special powers or growing any stronger in the powers he has now.
Basically, as long as he wears it, I wouldn't recommend letting him near any combat situations since beyond physical training- he won't be getting any stronger.
Oh yes, to be clear, I fully intend to be on hand during any such lessons, to help Luke manage his emotions and step in before anything becomes too volatile.
[Also to help Asch manage his emotions, but even Nephrite is sensitive enough not to say that directly in front of his son, even though they both know it's true.]
I can't actually speak for Luke himself, but...given his reluctance to harm others deliberately, much less by accident, I imagine he'll find that an acceptable trade-off.
Everstone...what an interesting substance. And you say it took a seer to come up with the concept before. Are its properties not well-known?
[Also to help Asch manage his emotions, but even Nephrite is sensitive enough not to say that directly in front of his son, even though they both know it's true.]
I can't actually speak for Luke himself, but...given his reluctance to harm others deliberately, much less by accident, I imagine he'll find that an acceptable trade-off.
Everstone...what an interesting substance. And you say it took a seer to come up with the concept before. Are its properties not well-known?
[Harumasa is, at first, relieved that Nephrite will be handling the mediation since his health concerns severely limit him at this time. As much as he wants to be there for Luke, and Asch as well since that's also his little brother in his books, he knows that he can't. If anything, Harumasa being there might make it worse during training if things get out of hand. His body won't be able to withstand the energy that hyperresonance puts out.
Plus, Asch and Luke are exhausting when they get into it, so he's happy to let Nephrite take the brunt of it. He gets enough of it just from witnessing those fights during movie nights with Belle.
Then it gets more into the Everstone acquisition and he feels that dread forming a stone in his stomach. They need a seer to find it. A powerful one from the sounds of it. Harumasa unconsciously grips his other arm tighter, nails digging into his skin.
It's different this time. It's not even people he's looking to find for them! So it's... it's fine. It should be okay. Belle trusts them, and he can trust her judgment, and Jun trusts Takame so Takame wouldn't let that happen, either. He's kept Harumasa's secret this long, after all.
He looks over to the unconscious Luke.
Now, foolish replica Luke, unleash your power.
A slight shiver runs down his spine.
What's another little brother to put his freedom on the line for once more? He's done it once. He can do it again.
Harumasa looks back at the others.]
Everstone isn't very common and Kanto is an enormous Realm. [See, Harumasa pays attention to Jun and Varian!] Fortunately, I was born a powerful seer and I've honed it enough to where I could easily scry for it.
[His voice is steady and calm. Not at all showing that he's absolutely fucking terrified to be sharing this information with people he doesn't know very well.
And then his tone goes lighthearted, like he's exaggerating even though it's absolutely true.]
Just one thing I should mention. I really shouldn't handle Everstone myself. I'm a lot more delicate lately, and that stuff doesn't play nice with my condition! So, I can lead people there, but it's best if I have someone else with me to extract it~. Especially since I'm not an Earth magic kinda guy!
Plus, Asch and Luke are exhausting when they get into it, so he's happy to let Nephrite take the brunt of it. He gets enough of it just from witnessing those fights during movie nights with Belle.
Then it gets more into the Everstone acquisition and he feels that dread forming a stone in his stomach. They need a seer to find it. A powerful one from the sounds of it. Harumasa unconsciously grips his other arm tighter, nails digging into his skin.
It's different this time. It's not even people he's looking to find for them! So it's... it's fine. It should be okay. Belle trusts them, and he can trust her judgment, and Jun trusts Takame so Takame wouldn't let that happen, either. He's kept Harumasa's secret this long, after all.
He looks over to the unconscious Luke.
Now, foolish replica Luke, unleash your power.
A slight shiver runs down his spine.
What's another little brother to put his freedom on the line for once more? He's done it once. He can do it again.
Harumasa looks back at the others.]
Everstone isn't very common and Kanto is an enormous Realm. [See, Harumasa pays attention to Jun and Varian!] Fortunately, I was born a powerful seer and I've honed it enough to where I could easily scry for it.
[His voice is steady and calm. Not at all showing that he's absolutely fucking terrified to be sharing this information with people he doesn't know very well.
And then his tone goes lighthearted, like he's exaggerating even though it's absolutely true.]
Just one thing I should mention. I really shouldn't handle Everstone myself. I'm a lot more delicate lately, and that stuff doesn't play nice with my condition! So, I can lead people there, but it's best if I have someone else with me to extract it~. Especially since I'm not an Earth magic kinda guy!
[Belle straightens, but her eyes flick to the rest of them with the look of someone who isn't shocked at all, but rather—protective. She shifts her seat a little closer to Harumasa.]
If you're willing and able, I don't think anyone would mind the help you can give. But only if you're willing to give it. [Which is to say that even for Luke, she's unwilling to let her closest friend even worry that he might be exploited ever again, as much as she trusts everyone in this room with everything she has.
After a moment, she adds:]
I have Earth abilities, so I can help there as well, if Everstone's really what we're going for as a solution. But... [A breath. When she next speaks, it's with the gravity of a professional.] What I'm best at is guiding people in and out of places like Kanto—Phaethon's my other job, when I'm not managing the video store. [Some people in the room might recognize the name: one of the more reliable hackers out there.] Give me the existing maps and a destination, and I can work out a route easily. I can even keep a connection open between whoever's in Kanto and the outside world—I'll just need a laptop and Eous.
[She taps a finger against her chin.]
I did briefly have an idea that we could get him something that allows him to access a fraction of the power, based on something an old friend of ours from a past life had—but while Miyabi had a comparable power level, she was also trained and actively using it in battle regularly, up against significant threats. That's not really the case for Luke.
If you're willing and able, I don't think anyone would mind the help you can give. But only if you're willing to give it. [Which is to say that even for Luke, she's unwilling to let her closest friend even worry that he might be exploited ever again, as much as she trusts everyone in this room with everything she has.
After a moment, she adds:]
I have Earth abilities, so I can help there as well, if Everstone's really what we're going for as a solution. But... [A breath. When she next speaks, it's with the gravity of a professional.] What I'm best at is guiding people in and out of places like Kanto—Phaethon's my other job, when I'm not managing the video store. [Some people in the room might recognize the name: one of the more reliable hackers out there.] Give me the existing maps and a destination, and I can work out a route easily. I can even keep a connection open between whoever's in Kanto and the outside world—I'll just need a laptop and Eous.
[She taps a finger against her chin.]
I did briefly have an idea that we could get him something that allows him to access a fraction of the power, based on something an old friend of ours from a past life had—but while Miyabi had a comparable power level, she was also trained and actively using it in battle regularly, up against significant threats. That's not really the case for Luke.
He shouldn't be in the Spirit Realm without an escort anyway. He's a civilian, and he doesn't remember enough about his past life to fight on his own. [It's not Luke's fault, though, and Asch knows this.] But we can't guarantee he won't be dragged into situations either, considering what happened a month ago. That's where his sword training comes in, I suppose. Nephrite being there during lessons will make things easier, too.
I remember he picked up some kind of magic rock, some red thing, from the other shady shopkeeper. [Not the one that TBO executed.] It had some kind of elaborate frame on it. Did he ever do anything with that?
[He does look uncomfortable about the mention of a seer, but Asch always looks uncomfortable. He glances between Haru and Belle, senses there's a bit more unsaid. He's still not sure what is going on with Haru (5+3=8), so he speaks up.]
... POKEGO has a lot of resources and they're surely familiar with their own realm. You shouldn't force yourself if you're not up for it. The same goes for you, Belle. I won't tell you two that you can't help, [not yet anyway, seeing as they're all doing okay,] but we should put those brainiacs to work.
I remember he picked up some kind of magic rock, some red thing, from the other shady shopkeeper. [Not the one that TBO executed.] It had some kind of elaborate frame on it. Did he ever do anything with that?
[He does look uncomfortable about the mention of a seer, but Asch always looks uncomfortable. He glances between Haru and Belle, senses there's a bit more unsaid. He's still not sure what is going on with Haru (5+3=8), so he speaks up.]
... POKEGO has a lot of resources and they're surely familiar with their own realm. You shouldn't force yourself if you're not up for it. The same goes for you, Belle. I won't tell you two that you can't help, [not yet anyway, seeing as they're all doing okay,] but we should put those brainiacs to work.
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