[ sometime after Megumi's murmur exchange, even if Sunday doesn't have his mask/veil on, he'll hear what he's probably been dreading coming from the back of his mind. if there's a small sense of frazzlement radiating from whatever "direction" the voice seems to echo from in his head?
We are. Can't you sense my wonderfully sunny disposition~?
[ and by that he means he's really agitated about this whole situation (...and other situations, but he'll just pretend this is all Sunday's fault for now because it's easiest.) ]
How gracious of you to think of me in a time like this.
It might be a little uncomfortable, but I assume it's nothing you can't handle. You're going to need a tether with someone, though. Do you have another?
I've never severed one of these kinds before, but I did lose one that was stronger than this one in the dream. There were some residual effects. It felt like something was physically ripped from me on top of as if I was suddenly very alone.
[ which is saying something considering Aventurine always feels alone. ]
[ He's already done enough to Aventurine's psyche in the past, and he already knows Aventurine feels isolated enough as the sole survive of his people. ]
And if we maintain it as is? Could you live with that? I know I am the last person you ever wish to trust.
Yes, will you know and feel everything I know and feel or only what is on the surface? If you have more than one tether, will you also not become overwhelmed quickly?
Not everything, no. Or, at least, I haven't experienced anything like that, yet.
I can't say for sure because my tethers and I don't speak about what we feel or experience, but my guess is it's very random and the stronger or more uncontrolled the thought or the feeling is, the more likely it will be felt by the one you're tethered to. and...
You can think of tethers perhaps delivering thoughts and feelings in pulses or waves. I don't usually feel anything from multiple tethers at once unless something chaotic is happening to everyone. And if you ignore them they get weaker. A tether needs to be maintained or strengthen to avoid losing it.
I appreciate the concern, but I have been managing with the provided map. I was merely exploring and trying to find Caelus something more substantive and less lethal to eat.
I could search for a cooler or ice box of some sort to help you. I would like to contribute rather than simply occupying space without recompense. That would be rude of me.
[ there is a mental sigh, a bit deflating as a feeling of resignation comes over him. Of course this person is a Sunday that the Sunday Aventurine knows could never offer to show the outside world. He's been traveling with the Astral Express, as well.
Aventurine isn't forgiving, but to muster the negativity he wants to feel towards Sunday (especially after their encounter in the dream, because if he can firmly establish he still hates him, the dream doesn't have anything complicated that he may need to consider) feels so... exhausting.
And Aventurine is tired. The tiredness for a moment ripples over through their connection like a rising tide..
He's so damn tired. If he's honest with himself, despite saying he doesn't want to talk about the dream and what occurred in it, and is making a good show of it, a thought crumpled and distorted seeps out like trying to smooth out crushed paper.
( If the dream had only been what happened with you, it really wouldn't have been so bad. So... I shouldn't take it out you, either. ) ]
...Just... can't you do that tomorrow, then? You just got here after having such an awful experience in that dreamscape. At least let me feel like I was useful and able to give you and the others a little reprieve from this hell by not making it necessary to scavenge for scraps immediately while also dealing with the shock of this situation.
[ He feels the ripple of exasperation and exhaustion, frowning gently and trying to choose his words more carefully. ]
I would not say all the experiences were awful. Simply revelatory to others and myself without proper warning.
[ He walked away from it all more embarrassed than traumatized if only because he had spent so long learning to conceal all his thoughts, wishes, and desires to appease the Family at the expense of his own mental well-being. ]
It is almost cosmic retribution after trying to remove the agency of others to have the same done to me. I wielded the powers of Harmony improperly, and now I continue to face the consequences.
[ it's hard not to have sympathy for well-meant intentions, especially when Aventurine is no longer bound by his job to succeed. Although he doesn't want to, he can't help but be tempted to admit a man that sacrificed everything for his sister's (and the rest of Penacony's) happiness while throwing away his own is a bit worthy to be envious of. If Aventurine could have his sister alive with him, he doesn't doubt he would burn down the world for her, as well. And he would be also very tempted to keep her safe in a cage from the dangers of the sins of men.
Because Aventurine is so very well aware of how terrible self-serving and selfish he is. ]
You were trying to create a perfect world, while Sleep is attempting to ... well, I can't tell what She is truly seeking, but there's no world here for anyone to theoretically be happy in.
Next time we enter the Dream... you should also be able to use your abilities to better guard yourself, at the very least. I believe they might work further than that, though.
I started to tap him into them towards the end, but it was for the best that I was not able to use them fully. In the state that I was, I am sure I would have done something even more regrettable.
[ And he doesn't want to make matters worse between the two of them by having Aventurine under his control while he's feeling aggressive and hyper-sexual again. ]
So far, I've only been in two dreams, but it was about two months apart. I have no idea what the next dream will be, either.
[ Aventurine hums. He just can't help but wonder if Sunday would have had any effect on the Abomination in particular. Any concerns about being the victim of being under his power while in their situation doesn't register. It's perhaps particularly because he knows very well with the way they were both acting that there was no way Aventurine was going to hate it as he likely should. ]
Also... I just found that it doesn't belong to Sleep like all of us thought. I haven't spoken to the others about it, yet, but...
I... don't know. The Dreamscapes are One's own, even though Sleep clearly has power here of some kind. I'm not sure if the original intention was for him to bring those of us like him to Sleep or if it's more of an unintentional consequence. He mentioned he can't control some kind of force that's inside of him, and because of that, we dream with him.
He runs the Dreamscape, but I don't think he's in that much control. The Abomination ultimately killed him, that's how the dream broke apart and set us free.
Then that means it would not be as easy to seize control of the Dreamscape with our limited resources. I know from being inside that it was not constructed using memoria like Penacony's Dreamscape. The magic was entirely foreign and impossible for me to manipulate, let alone override.
With our power diminished outside of dreams as well, we are limited in how we can proceed forwards with returning to our own universe.
[ He doesn't like feeling this powerless at all. ]
So far, I've only experienced two dreams, anyway. It's hard to say what influence we could or couldn't have, but my guess is we'll have to become more friendly with One before we have much chance of anything. I'm not sure after what happened in the dream how willing he'll be to connect with us.
When we first arrived here, I thought he was an enemy. He seems now more like an unfortunate victim.
Well... before the Abomination, one of us attempted to be friendly with him and it seems that it attracted the ire of Sleep. Although I don't believe She did anything to him specifically, it may have spooked him.
Then the other part is, of course, as you mentioned... the Abomination. He... suffered greatly in his fear as it destroyed him.
I have not, but I will try to listen once more. Perhaps I may be able to tap into it once more if I could figure out how to access even a fraction of my Harmony powers here.
[ This is a sticky note with this appearance left at Sunday's bag. It's been placed right on the top, where it's impossible to miss! It's handwritten in their home language, Universal Script. ]
Sunny, Don't forget to smile today! Eat before you go out! Look in the mirror on the way out, appreciate yourself! If you don't want to, then I'll appreciate you. Can you sing for me again sometime? I really love the sound of your voice.
[ It takes some time before Caelus checks the Murmur. And when he does, bubbly, happy feelings reach their shared tether once he hears Sunday's naturally ASMR voice! ]
There's only a few of us in this planet who can understand our written language. It's a little sad, so I didn't want to forget seeing our letters. I'll continue to write to you and the others like this!
[ keep forgetting it's a psychic network instead of phones shh. Somehow texted him via brain ]
The brain is capable of keeping obscure memories intact through rote memorization, so your methods are not without basis. I will try and do the same, though I had not experienced the memory loss that you did, which may be what is contributing to your anxieties.
[ It's okay, I got you!! 💖 If you want to correct it, let's change this conversation into a full tether one since they have it anyway. There's soft feelings in the tether now. Bittersweet considering the topic, but the feeling of hope is always there. ]
I don't want to forget anymore. When March told me the reason why she's always taking photos, I couldn't help but resonate with it. Now I'm doing it, too.
I've been trying to repair a camera. It's progressing slowly because of missing parts that I need. I want to continue that habit even here.
I am sure she would appreciate getting to experience this world through your photographs, assuming they survive the trip. I would also like you to show Robin for me, so she could know that the deal she struck with the IPC had been successful...and that I have reached new horizons.
[ Granted, he'd like to sugarcoat the worst of this place from her so she doesn't worry. ]
Thank you. I will try writing some letters to her like I used to. I do not want her to worry much, and I doubt I will be able to see her in person for a while.
[ The two of them are really cursed to spend their lives apart much to his own distress. ]
I… I'll find a way, Sunday. I don't know how long it may take, but I will!
[ To find a way for Robin and Sunday to meet again. It doesn't have to be in person. They could talk over a video or… Maybe Caelus can somehow convince Jade or Aventurine to do something…
He will also be willing to pay something in return for the two siblings to meet again. ]
So… keep at those letters. I'll make sure that they reach her.
You should keep a journal too...I am sure March 7th, Himeko, and Welt Yang also would not mind a detailed account of this world for their records, especially if others are being regularly absorbed into it through the Dreamscape without their knowledge or consent.
You can describe the city and some events with detail, but you do not have to include things like that perverse dungeon from the Dreamscape. Though I suppose it may be pertinent to include some of the effects intimacy has on preventing Sundowning from escalating.
[ Or so he believes. He's still testing out that theory. ]
[ That was not what he meant, but he's not going to make any corrections. ]
.........Yes, hugs are truly powerful. That is a safe detail to include, and I am certain we can find out other effective ways to quell the onset of Sundowning-related symptoms.
[ Don't feel too safe yet… Considering this line of topic— ]
Other effective ways? You mean like the time you kissed Aventurine? You're right! I wonder if it's more effective than a normal hug? Do you think the others know?
[ Others, meaning the people who have been here longer than them. ]
[ His other two pairs of headwings puff out before closing around his face at once. ]
.....................................I only did that because I thought he was going to hurt you badly, and I was acting quickly to stop him. Can we please never speak of that again?
[ Aw! 💕 Shy Sunday… Hearing those words makes Caelus smile, feeling touched that Sunday acted right away for his sake. Without hesitation. Who wouldn't be touched, in his position?
So out of gratitude, he easily agrees. ]
All right, all right. I promise to keep it a secret!
Yes, that is one of the details you should leave out of your journal. That is also the last time I will try such a tactic ever again.
[ In public. ]
Your method of dispensing hugs might be the more appropriate approach, though Aventurine mentioned there should be an existing tether in place for heightened effectiveness.
Is that the case? So are hugs just as effective as kisses, you think? Did Aventurine say anything specific?
[ Having an existing tether makes sense to increase the effectiveness, though. The tethers themselves already feel good on their own, spending close proximity with someone they trust. ]
All I know is that Tokens like me are supposedly more compatible with an Offering like you.
Tethers do help as do more...involved forms of intimacy. I would say depending on where and who you kiss, it may be more effective than a hug.
Now, that he failed to mention. [ But it does explain a bit. ] I was not aware harmony between the two Tokens was also crucial to escaping the effects of Sundowning.
If there is ever a time you feel frustrated, angry, or like being alone, please do not forget to nurture those feelings as well. If you constantly repress those emotions, you may be liable to lash out in peculiar and unhealthy ways.
[ Frustration, anger, loneliness, sadness… All of those emotions, Caelus also wants to experience properly, because he understands that they will help him become more and more human. It will help him grow kinder and stronger, and he wants to be the best person he can be, as he continues his own trailblaze. ]
If I'm honest right now, I want… to see the Astral Express again.
[ He hasn't been home in so long, no thanks to what happened in Amphoreus. And now, he's even stuck here this time. ]
As do I, though I know it is a greater loss for you. You have known them longer and experienced far more adventures with them. Do you see them as your family?
I… I do. They're the only ones I have. And I know I should count myself lucky, because I have you and Dan Heng here.
[ Though that's the case, he still misses the rest of the crew. ]
I think I was the only one who managed to talk to Mr. Yang in Sleep's dream back then. Even though it was only a little while, I'm… really happy I saw him again.
I am sorry they are not also here with you, but I will do all in my power to reunite you and Dan Heng with them. I know there are also others trapped here, who were taken from their family...They deserve to go home, too.
[ He doesn't know how yet, but he wants to save them all. ]
[ Those feelings are so sincere and kind, Caelus can't help but feel warmed by them. Sunday is always like this, so lovely and precious, like his sister. It's really no wonder why Caelus is so quickly fond of these two Halovian siblings. That's why he wants to do everything he can as well, to try and find a possible way to have these two connect again somehow in the future. ]
[ He's not sure yet if he can consider the Astral Express his home, especially so soon after losing his former one, but it is a heartwarming thought. ]
Of course, we will. How about we visit the giant park when your camera is repaired? We can capture some of this world's hidden beauty in the areas that have not decayed completely yet.
[ Sunday and the others will likely end up surprised at how far Caelus has come from his adventures in Amphoreus, as his writing skills have significantly improved due to his involvement with the Remembrance. Aventurine certainly was impressed. ]
I need to chase down everybody to take their photo, too.
[ But that's part of the fun!! … Caelus would love to say that, but he knows Sunday will probably kill him, so he doesn't. He just decides to nod; it's not visible, but the tether makes Sunday feel it. He'll be a good raccoon. ]
I think you have nothing to worry about, though! Every angle you have is a good side!
I appreciate the vote of confidence. The tabloids do try their best to find unflattering photos of me, though I do not think there is any further need to smear my reputation.
[ Everyone already knows what he did at the Charmony Festival and about his fall from grace. ]
...Well, I thank you again for reaching out and thinking of me. I should return to cleaning up the hotel.
They're just milking the hot topic! They'll eventually get tired of it. And I'm sure Robin will do something about it, too.
[ Journalist bastards. Whenever a new hot topic comes around, they'll all forget this for sure and start milking the next one. Sunday just needs to hang in there a little longer. Hopefully, one day, his reputation as a trailblazer will rise, and his story will have a great turnaround. ]
Hehe. Of course. Talk to me anytime you want, Sunny! I'll see you later.
[ about halfway through the week after all the water treatment activities have been completed, Sunday will feel a gentle tug on his tether with Aventurine to get his attention. They've been pretty awkward since the whole Aventurine kissing him and then Aventurine tossing him as they are both masters of not communicating feelings, but Aventurine finally feels like he has an excuse to bother the halovian without it seeming like they're obligated to discuss what happened. ]
[ He does jump a little, half-expecting Aventurine to be lurking somewhere before realizing he's completely alone, and it's their tether at work. ]
I am sitting on a sofa I cleaned as best as I could and attempting to enjoy canned and glazed carrots if you would like some? Are you still feeling the effects of Sleep's pull?
I did, but I would not necessarily call them cooked...They are mildly warm.
I will be there in a few minutes. I did notice the sound quality was poor when I tried playing it last and meant to try and tune it for the other residents of the hotel.
[ He just got sidetracked by all the sundowning. ]
[ laughs a bit.] Not patient enough to get them hot, huh?
I think we're lucky it still plays at all, to be honest. It's the only one I've found so far that still makes sound with all the keys. Poor girl still needs a lot of external work though to look like she originally did...
More like I was wary of dropping the can into the fire and did not want to stand too close to it. I have never cooked anything above an open flame before.
[ And he doesn't want his feathers to catch fire. Imagine the fried chicken scent that would emanate from them... ]
You may leave it to me. I have experience tending to, tuning, and repairing pianos as I rarely allowed anyone to fiddle with my own to avoid the sound quality being compromised.
I should learn to heat my own food properly, but if you really wish to repay me for the piano service, you already have...by helping me with the recent sundowning.
I apologize I could not return the favor before when you were equally compromised.
... That's not true. You did help, I just... reacted strongly. I hadn't let Caelus get near me, and hadn't planned on letting anyone else get near me, either. If not for your actions it could have taken a lot longer to deal with me.
[ an awkward pause before it's like he's speaking quieter than before despite them communicating in their minds. ]
It is all right. I did invade your personal space while you were feeling terrified and vulnerable. I should have had a more cautious approach, but I...panicked.
I did not want you to hurt Caelus and end up despising yourself after.
[ so this is the continued other side of Sunday. panicking over Caelus being hurt not just because he cares about Caelus's safety... but because he doesn't want Aventurine to hate himself for harming the Trailblazer.
such a truly dangerous man wrapped up in the prettiest of packages. ]
Stop wooing me with pretty words when you're not even in front of me.
[ there's fluster there that he can't hide through their tether even if he might have been able to in person. ]
[ wow he can sense that smile. Deflection time, he can't just let Sunday get wombo combos in. ]
Well... you do like to fuss, and the nameless aren't nearly enough to fuss over for you, I'm sure. Or are you trying to tell me my stellar~ personality~ has wooed you?
You give yourself far too much credit. Exactly how much longer should we expect to be avoiding the effects of Sundowning? Should we remain in close quarters for longer?
[ His wings poof out then slide around his cheeks as he holds his face in his hands. He's glad Aventurine can't see him at the moment even if he can feel his embarrassment through the tether. ]
So we are encouraged to find...regular partners if we want to avoid the effects long-term and maintain our sanity?
Well, I mean... It's the one that gives you the most freedom. You can use other forms of tethering, it just requires more of your attention and time throughout the night.
[ there's nothing from Aventurine's side, but that may partially be because Sunday is doing the whole being embarrassed part himself so Aventurine doesn't have to kind of deal. ]
If it does start to get bad again, we could...rely on one another to address it, especially if this will be a regular occurrence. It would be more efficient, and we never have to speak of it outside those sessions.
This is all provided you do not have a romantic or intimate partner at the time.
[ Sunday doesn't anticipate finding anyone himself to overlook all his own flaws and the fact that he tried to become an aeon not too long ago. Yeah, that's a hard one to explain. ]
[ that is a bit of a hard one to explain away, it's true ...
What Sunday offers, though... it really is the best way to deal with it. Although he's slept around with others, they're far from what he'd consider a partner in any sense of the word nevermind intimate.
...still, he might as well let Sunday know what he's getting himself into. ]
... We're going to have a sex a lot. I'm not going to suffer through it if I can just have sex with you to alleviate it. And you shouldn't either. Are you okay with that?
Yes, I am aware and am willing to learn and improve if that will make it more pleasant.
[ Granted, it might not matter if they're too both busy losing their minds again. At that point, any physical contact feels better than none at all, and the line between pleasure and pain dissolves completely. ]
You are also not...unideal to me in terms of appearance even if your wardrobe could use extra pressing. That is to say, I did not find our previous entanglement to be at all unpleasant.
...Mm, I'll teach you, then. I'm sure it'll be more enjoyable for you, also, with your confidence in tact. [ there's something terribly playful in his tone now, but only because he's a bit charmed by Sunday's attempts to approach this all so head on.
There's a soft thoughtful hum on his end, then, before adding a bit quieter: ]
... Besides, you did mention tying you up before. How could I deprive you of the experience~?
[ A surge of heat moves through their tether before Sunday can clamp down on it. He's extra glad Aventurine can't see him at the moment. ]
I appreciate it, though there is no need to rush to...restraints so quickly. I am certain there are some acts you enjoy as well, and I would not mind accommodating your preferences rather than solely mine.
In that case, it would be remiss not to try it at least once just to see, though preferably in a corner of the hotel far from the other rooms. These walls are not as well insulated as I would like.
[ He's got more wings covering his face than he thought possible. ]
I am glad we sorted that out and reached a mutually beneficial agreement for now. If there are any other issues you come across, you are still welcome to reach out. I am unsure if there are any physical threats also lurking about. I have yet to come across any myself.
[ he's worked all month trying to get you nice keys that aren't cracked or outright broken, and he's gonna make sure Sunday knows he did this nice thing trying to nice to him. ]
Yes, I will tune it properly and fix whatever else needs to be fixed. Then, I could at least provide the other guests some entertainment. It may even help keep them distracted from Sleep's influence.
[ yes, good! There's a prick of proud happiness at his doings being acknowledged because, yup, wants to be noticed even when it's by the person already having a conversation with him. ]
[ Aventurine is leaning on the piano to the point he might as well just start lying on it. He straightens up quickly though and goes over to Sunday, taking his arm gingerly and tugging him back towards the piano with a bit of excitement. ]
Look, I got you all new keys. No more cracked and broken
[ twitches a little at the sound himself, but eh he's not gonna worry about it. Sunday will feel a gentle wave of brief happiness at the thank you. Aventurine is very proud of himself for doing something nice for someone, yep. ]
I'll take you to look for more supplies if we need replacements since you know the pieces better.
Alright, please let me know when you plan to travel to the nearest music school, or we might find a store if we are fortunate enough. Regardless, I can start on some repairs if you have a screwdriver handy.
[ Sadly he is not the type to make a "Is that a screwdriver in your pocket, or are you happy to see me" joke, so he'll just politely accept the screwdriver. ]
Thank you. I will tinker around with it for a while, though I doubt you wish to sit and watch the whole time, so I can send you a message when I am finished.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
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...just Sunday's imagination clearly ignore it! ]
Where are you? We need to talk. Alone.
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I am outside the hotel. Is this regarding anything in particular?
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[ said so so soooo sarcastically, actually, even though this could be something he would say to simply be annoying, as well. ]
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[ Could they not have simply pretended it didn't happen? ]
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Do I have to?
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I would prefer you did not. Do you know if we are tethered to one another because of it?
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[ and by that he means he's really agitated about this whole situation (...and other situations, but he'll just pretend this is all Sunday's fault for now because it's easiest.) ]
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Is there a way to sever the connection safely? I do not want to do it if it will compromise your mental state.
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It might be a little uncomfortable, but I assume it's nothing you can't handle. You're going to need a tether with someone, though. Do you have another?
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[ He has a feeling Aventurine is keeping something from him... ]
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[ which is saying something considering Aventurine always feels alone. ]
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And if we maintain it as is? Could you live with that? I know I am the last person you ever wish to trust.
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[ he'll avoid the other questions for now. ]
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I can't say for sure because my tethers and I don't speak about what we feel or experience, but my guess is it's very random and the stronger or more uncontrolled the thought or the feeling is, the more likely it will be felt by the one you're tethered to. and...
You can think of tethers perhaps delivering thoughts and feelings in pulses or waves. I don't usually feel anything from multiple tethers at once unless something chaotic is happening to everyone. And if you ignore them they get weaker. A tether needs to be maintained or strengthen to avoid losing it.
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[ Especially if it may gradually fade with time. ]
Why did you reach out to me if not that?
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It was about that. And to make sure you weren't lost. Caelus would be upset.
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Would you like something to eat as well?
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[ a pause in his words is accompanied by a feeling of slight exasperation. ]
... The meat won't stay without the snow and freezing temperatures, though. I guess that will be an issue.
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Aventurine isn't forgiving, but to muster the negativity he wants to feel towards Sunday (especially after their encounter in the dream, because if he can firmly establish he still hates him, the dream doesn't have anything complicated that he may need to consider) feels so... exhausting.
And Aventurine is tired. The tiredness for a moment ripples over through their connection like a rising tide..
He's so damn tired. If he's honest with himself, despite saying he doesn't want to talk about the dream and what occurred in it, and is making a good show of it, a thought crumpled and distorted seeps out like trying to smooth out crushed paper.
( If the dream had only been what happened with you, it really wouldn't have been so bad. So... I shouldn't take it out you, either. ) ]
...Just... can't you do that tomorrow, then? You just got here after having such an awful experience in that dreamscape. At least let me feel like I was useful and able to give you and the others a little reprieve from this hell by not making it necessary to scavenge for scraps immediately while also dealing with the shock of this situation.
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I would not say all the experiences were awful. Simply revelatory to others and myself without proper warning.
[ He walked away from it all more embarrassed than traumatized if only because he had spent so long learning to conceal all his thoughts, wishes, and desires to appease the Family at the expense of his own mental well-being. ]
It is almost cosmic retribution after trying to remove the agency of others to have the same done to me. I wielded the powers of Harmony improperly, and now I continue to face the consequences.
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Because Aventurine is so very well aware of how terrible self-serving and selfish he is. ]
You were trying to create a perfect world, while Sleep is attempting to ... well, I can't tell what She is truly seeking, but there's no world here for anyone to theoretically be happy in.
Next time we enter the Dream... you should also be able to use your abilities to better guard yourself, at the very least. I believe they might work further than that, though.
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[ And he doesn't want to make matters worse between the two of them by having Aventurine under his control while he's feeling aggressive and hyper-sexual again. ]
How often do we enter Sleep's Dreamscape?
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[ Aventurine hums. He just can't help but wonder if Sunday would have had any effect on the Abomination in particular. Any concerns about being the victim of being under his power while in their situation doesn't register. It's perhaps particularly because he knows very well with the way they were both acting that there was no way Aventurine was going to hate it as he likely should. ]
Also... I just found that it doesn't belong to Sleep like all of us thought. I haven't spoken to the others about it, yet, but...
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Is Sleep only the mechanism then? Who does run the Dreamscape, if not them?
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He runs the Dreamscape, but I don't think he's in that much control. The Abomination ultimately killed him, that's how the dream broke apart and set us free.
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With our power diminished outside of dreams as well, we are limited in how we can proceed forwards with returning to our own universe.
[ He doesn't like feeling this powerless at all. ]
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When we first arrived here, I thought he was an enemy. He seems now more like an unfortunate victim.
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Then the other part is, of course, as you mentioned... the Abomination. He... suffered greatly in his fear as it destroyed him.
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Can it still be heard in the Dreamscape?
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Sunny,
Don't forget to smile today!
Eat before you go out! Look in the mirror on the way out, appreciate yourself! If you don't want to, then I'll appreciate you.
Can you sing for me again sometime? I really love the sound of your voice.
Galactic Baseballer
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Thank you for your kindness as always, Caelus.
May I ask what prompted this, or were all the hotel members surprise recipients?
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There's only a few of us in this planet who can understand our written language. It's a little sad, so I didn't want to forget seeing our letters. I'll continue to write to you and the others like this!
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keep forgetting it's a psychic network instead of phones shh. Somehow texted him via brain]The brain is capable of keeping obscure memories intact through rote memorization, so your methods are not without basis. I will try and do the same, though I had not experienced the memory loss that you did, which may be what is contributing to your anxieties.
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It's okay, I got you!! 💖 If you want to correct it, let's change this conversation into a full tether one since they have it anyway.There's soft feelings in the tether now. Bittersweet considering the topic, but the feeling of hope is always there. ]I don't want to forget anymore. When March told me the reason why she's always taking photos, I couldn't help but resonate with it. Now I'm doing it, too.
I've been trying to repair a camera. It's progressing slowly because of missing parts that I need. I want to continue that habit even here.
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[ Granted, he'd like to sugarcoat the worst of this place from her so she doesn't worry. ]
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I'll do what I can, so I can show them! I want them to see everything! Our journey here, our new friends…
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[ The two of them are really cursed to spend their lives apart much to his own distress. ]
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[ To find a way for Robin and Sunday to meet again. It doesn't have to be in person. They could talk over a video or… Maybe Caelus can somehow convince Jade or Aventurine to do something…
He will also be willing to pay something in return for the two siblings to meet again. ]
So… keep at those letters. I'll make sure that they reach her.
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[ As proper as this raccoon can manage, anyway. The occasional stupid page will still exist. ]
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[ Please leave out all his embarrassing moments. He knows what an ass Dr. Ratio could be. ]
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[ But that's part of the fun!!! Oh, well. Since Sunday said that, he'll try to be subtle about certain things then. ]
All right. But no guarantees when they personally approach and grill me for more details!
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[ Herta and Ratio are especially persistent about that. Those two would always scold him about being thorough about every little thing. ]
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[ Or so he believes. He's still testing out that theory. ]
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[ Caelus has only been doing platonic gestures so far, so he has no idea about the effects of anything beyond innocent affection. ]
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.........Yes, hugs are truly powerful. That is a safe detail to include, and I am certain we can find out other effective ways to quell the onset of Sundowning-related symptoms.
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Other effective ways? You mean like the time you kissed Aventurine? You're right! I wonder if it's more effective than a normal hug? Do you think the others know?
[ Others, meaning the people who have been here longer than them. ]
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.....................................I only did that because I thought he was going to hurt you badly, and I was acting quickly to stop him. Can we please never speak of that again?
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So out of gratitude, he easily agrees. ]
All right, all right. I promise to keep it a secret!
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[ In public. ]
Your method of dispensing hugs might be the more appropriate approach, though Aventurine mentioned there should be an existing tether in place for heightened effectiveness.
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[ Having an existing tether makes sense to increase the effectiveness, though. The tethers themselves already feel good on their own, spending close proximity with someone they trust. ]
All I know is that Tokens like me are supposedly more compatible with an Offering like you.
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Now, that he failed to mention. [ But it does explain a bit. ] I was not aware harmony between the two Tokens was also crucial to escaping the effects of Sundowning.
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[ And also shameless about it, so Caelus thankfully won't have issues with Sundowning as much. ]
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[ He means himself obviously. ]
How do you do it?
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[ So, step one: be amnesiac. It's likely the same reason why March 7th is overly cheerful like he is. ]
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[ As Sunday has demonstrated in the past... ]
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[ Frustration, anger, loneliness, sadness… All of those emotions, Caelus also wants to experience properly, because he understands that they will help him become more and more human. It will help him grow kinder and stronger, and he wants to be the best person he can be, as he continues his own trailblaze. ]
If I'm honest right now, I want… to see the Astral Express again.
[ He hasn't been home in so long, no thanks to what happened in Amphoreus. And now, he's even stuck here this time. ]
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[ They seem to have the same closeness of one. ]
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[ Though that's the case, he still misses the rest of the crew. ]
I think I was the only one who managed to talk to Mr. Yang in Sleep's dream back then. Even though it was only a little while, I'm… really happy I saw him again.
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[ He doesn't know how yet, but he wants to save them all. ]
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[ Those feelings are so sincere and kind, Caelus can't help but feel warmed by them. Sunday is always like this, so lovely and precious, like his sister. It's really no wonder why Caelus is so quickly fond of these two Halovian siblings. That's why he wants to do everything he can as well, to try and find a possible way to have these two connect again somehow in the future. ]
We'll go home together, Sunday…!
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Of course, we will. How about we visit the giant park when your camera is repaired? We can capture some of this world's hidden beauty in the areas that have not decayed completely yet.
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[ Sunday and the others will likely end up surprised at how far Caelus has come from his adventures in Amphoreus, as his writing skills have significantly improved due to his involvement with the Remembrance. Aventurine certainly was impressed. ]
I need to chase down everybody to take their photo, too.
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[ Especially of himself. He has a reputation to maintain...even if he already ruined it himself. ]
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I think you have nothing to worry about, though! Every angle you have is a good side!
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[ Everyone already knows what he did at the Charmony Festival and about his fall from grace. ]
...Well, I thank you again for reaching out and thinking of me. I should return to cleaning up the hotel.
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[ Journalist bastards. Whenever a new hot topic comes around, they'll all forget this for sure and start milking the next one. Sunday just needs to hang in there a little longer. Hopefully, one day, his reputation as a trailblazer will rise, and his story will have a great turnaround. ]
Hehe. Of course. Talk to me anytime you want, Sunny! I'll see you later.
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[ Not that he can do anything about it at the moment. They're all trapped here, and Robin has never felt further away. ]
I apologize, I will not burden you any further with those thoughts. I will see you later as well. Please stay safe until then.
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Hey~ Where are you?
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I am sitting on a sofa I cleaned as best as I could and attempting to enjoy canned and glazed carrots if you would like some? Are you still feeling the effects of Sleep's pull?
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Maybe later, and I'm all right, for the most part. Come to where the piano is when you're done?
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I will be there in a few minutes. I did notice the sound quality was poor when I tried playing it last and meant to try and tune it for the other residents of the hotel.
[ He just got sidetracked by all the sundowning. ]
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I think we're lucky it still plays at all, to be honest. It's the only one I've found so far that still makes sound with all the keys. Poor girl still needs a lot of external work though to look like she originally did...
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[ And he doesn't want his feathers to catch fire. Imagine the fried chicken scent that would emanate from them... ]
You may leave it to me. I have experience tending to, tuning, and repairing pianos as I rarely allowed anyone to fiddle with my own to avoid the sound quality being compromised.
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Ohh... well, then. I'll do it for you next time. Just ask me since you're going to take care of the piano. Seems like a fair trade.
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I apologize I could not return the favor before when you were equally compromised.
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[ an awkward pause before it's like he's speaking quieter than before despite them communicating in their minds. ]
... Still, sorry for... flinging you...
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I did not want you to hurt Caelus and end up despising yourself after.
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[ so this is the continued other side of Sunday. panicking over Caelus being hurt not just because he cares about Caelus's safety... but because he doesn't want Aventurine to hate himself for harming the Trailblazer.
such a truly dangerous man wrapped up in the prettiest of packages. ]
Stop wooing me with pretty words when you're not even in front of me.
[ there's fluster there that he can't hide through their tether even if he might have been able to in person. ]
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It may surprise you to hear I was being sincere. For better or worse, your well-being has become something of a priority to me.
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Well... you do like to fuss, and the nameless aren't nearly enough to fuss over for you, I'm sure. Or are you trying to tell me my stellar~ personality~ has wooed you?
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Sex seems to be the fastest and most lasting form of protection against it, as you can remain unaffected by it even after if alone.
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So we are encouraged to find...regular partners if we want to avoid the effects long-term and maintain our sanity?
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[ there's nothing from Aventurine's side, but that may partially be because Sunday is doing the whole being embarrassed part himself so Aventurine doesn't have to kind of deal. ]
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This is all provided you do not have a romantic or intimate partner at the time.
[ Sunday doesn't anticipate finding anyone himself to overlook all his own flaws and the fact that he tried to become an aeon not too long ago. Yeah, that's a hard one to explain. ]
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[ that is a bit of a hard one to explain away, it's true ...
What Sunday offers, though... it really is the best way to deal with it. Although he's slept around with others, they're far from what he'd consider a partner in any sense of the word nevermind intimate.
...still, he might as well let Sunday know what he's getting himself into. ]
... We're going to have a sex a lot. I'm not going to suffer through it if I can just have sex with you to alleviate it. And you shouldn't either. Are you okay with that?
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[ Granted, it might not matter if they're too both busy losing their minds again. At that point, any physical contact feels better than none at all, and the line between pleasure and pain dissolves completely. ]
You are also not...unideal to me in terms of appearance even if your wardrobe could use extra pressing. That is to say, I did not find our previous entanglement to be at all unpleasant.
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There's a soft thoughtful hum on his end, then, before adding a bit quieter: ]
... Besides, you did mention tying you up before. How could I deprive you of the experience~?
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I appreciate it, though there is no need to rush to...restraints so quickly. I am certain there are some acts you enjoy as well, and I would not mind accommodating your preferences rather than solely mine.
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Oh? They're my chains, afterall. Who says such things aren't among my preferences?
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I am glad we sorted that out and reached a mutually beneficial agreement for now. If there are any other issues you come across, you are still welcome to reach out. I am unsure if there are any physical threats also lurking about. I have yet to come across any myself.
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[ he's worked all month trying to get you nice keys that aren't cracked or outright broken, and he's gonna make sure Sunday knows he did this nice thing trying to nice to him. ]
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[ Sending a new surge of flustered energy. ]
But I will make my way there now if you wish. I will see you soon.
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Perfect.
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I am here like you asked.
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[ Aventurine is leaning on the piano to the point he might as well just start lying on it. He straightens up quickly though and goes over to Sunday, taking his arm gingerly and tugging him back towards the piano with a bit of excitement. ]
Look, I got you all new keys. No more cracked and broken
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It feels almost like real ivory.
[ He pushes down one key before flinching. ]
Yes, the sound needs a bit of work, and I am sure the interior also needs care. However, this is a good start. Thank you.
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I'll take you to look for more supplies if we need replacements since you know the pieces better.
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[ Mostly to clean the insides of the piano... ]
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Let me know if this one works.
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Thank you. I will tinker around with it for a while, though I doubt you wish to sit and watch the whole time, so I can send you a message when I am finished.
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also, he's 1000% gonna stay and watch. ]
You underestimate the power of boredom.
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...oh. ew. ]
...Well, think I'll just go and heat up some more carrots.
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Until then.