[ rengoku watches the wolfskin bite into the sweet potato with rapt attention. of course he's invested in what the other will think once he's tasted his most favourite food in the world, because he has no idea how to react if keaton ends up hating it. then again, he'll deal with it as he always does: he'll roll with the punches.
it won't be that big of a deal in the end, he tells himself. (even if he's still hopeful for a positive outcome!) ]
The chew...? What do you mean by that?
[ doesn't it have chew already? he's so confused. please help him understand. ]
No, it's not... you know! ( does anyone know??? ) I can't rip and tear it into shreds with my teeth! It doesn't go ( small voice )ouch when I chomp down!
( his tail starts to wag even more furiously than ever, puffing out his cheeks in an almost childish way for someone who should be the leader of all his people. )
It's not meaty enough.
( that's the conclusion, rengoku. no meat. where is the meat. are you the meat? he licks his chops as he stares directly at the man, tongue peeking out from between his lips. )
[ there's a split-second here where rengoku seriously considers the existence of food that speaks out when you bite into them, but he ends up laughing. a whole-hearted laugh that isn't at the expense of the wolfskin— it's just simply hard to hold it back now.
it's been a while since he felt so light. ]
Then shall we look for meat? There must be another stall here that sells something you'd like.
[ rengoku has paid for what he ate here anyway, and he still has some cash left to spare. ]
( he's laughing and keaton isn't sure if he likes it. he likes the sound of it, though! and he likes the fact that he's... not making fun of him or mocking him. no, the sound that rengoku makes reminds him of kindness, and even though the wolfskin might not be exactly all smiles... his tail has been accelerating all the while. )
Sure, but I don't want you to have to feel like you need to leave all of your... uh, things.
( all of these sweet potatoes! what if someone takes them all and re-plants them?! )
[ the wolfskin's tail is such a fascinating sight to witness. rengoku has at least the common sense not to point it out, just in case it'll be a source of embarrassment, but he can't help but be charmed by it anyway. ]
I do love meat! And I'm sure the shopkeep will be alright if I take these with me. [ a curious brow is directed towards the stall owner. ] Isn't that right?
[ there's only a noise of agreement before the shopkeep starts packing up the sweet potatoes. quite a number of trays are leftover so this is going to be a while. ]
Do you have any preferences? Pork? Chicken?
[ do those things even exist out here... then again, if sweet potatoes do, then surely—? ]
[ it doesn't take long before a delighted expression takes over the rest of rengoku's features. he's pretty happy this is the outcome he got, but then again, it's not like he had any doubts. how can anyone hate sweet potatoes? they're a classic, simple dish — incredibly difficult to dislike. ]
[ of course, it's always easier for rengoku to trust the other pillar's judgment more so than anyone else's. it doesn't matter to him if whoever brought them here seem more willing to help than others—he wouldn't have believed them first thing if giyu hadn't confirmed it too.
he is way more interested in what the other pillar shows him though. sometimes getting to the point is what works best for someone like rengoku. ]
Is that so? Then at least we know what to use should we encounter any.
[ the only thought roaming through his mind is whether or not those out of control can be likened to demons or not. if not, then it'll be in their best interests to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, so it's good that giyu shared this with him now. he doesn't want to have to draw out his blade on someone who couldn't help what was happening to them, especially if they aren't demons.
he continues to march on regardless, following the straight path of the hallway without much fanfare. they haven't run into anyone just yet and it's hard to say whether or not that's good luck or not. when they come to a fork in the path, he pauses. ]
[Slowing steps are his first warning. He follows suit. He shouldn't be surprised by that sudden exclamation yet here they are, now standing still. There's a clear widening of his eyes. But of course. This man had said he had no idea where they should find safety so perhaps following him without a thought had been negligent of him. Perhaps his earlier suspicion of Rengoku's state had been correct and death had truly done something to his mind.
No time to analyze this, nor would he have given him pity over it. He would never do such a thing, as he wouldn't accept it for himself so he is sure that the flame pillar would feel much the same.]
[In the head that is. But he isn't elaborating on it. His focus isn't even on his companion but rather he is trying to access which way to head towards. Left or right? Was it just him or did the lights seem dimmer towards the left? Spotting a door not to far his choice is made. The right it is. His aim it to get through that door. Perhaps there for a moment they could get a better idea of where they should go. Or how long this would even last.
Without a word he starts walking. No longer rushing. No point in hurrying into danger because if they don't know where they are going they may as well be cautious. Once he is standing before the door he gives the other man a quick glance indicating he would be opening the door which he does a moment later. Nothing seemed amiss...]
[ it's probably a good thing that giyu steps in when he did. rengoku isn't helping anyone by continuing to act like he knew where he was leading them, because the truth is, nothing looks familiar to him nor remotely close to what 'living quarters' might be. he follows after the water pillar when he chose the right path, shaking his head with a sheepish lilt to his voice. ]
Everything is fine! It's fine. I'm certain you've picked the right way.
[ nothing seemed amiss when the door slides open. all it reveals is a pretty non-descript room with a bed in one corner and minimal furniture. it's as plain as it'll get with all the high-tech lights and panels that rengoku doesn't want to touch. in case it does something strange. ]
[Wait what? His inquiry didn't involve his selection of paths to take. Had Rengoku truly been unable to comprehend what his true concern was? This wasn't about where they were headed. In an instance it's further proven that his suspicion could be correct, the flame pillar must truly be affected by death. It only made sense. Now he is more determined to keep an eye on him.
As for the lack of occupants in the room — well — ]
Was it supposed to be?
[A question in need of an answer; Giyu doesn't wait for one. He takes the plunge and steps right inside. He expects to be followed even if he makes no clear indication that he should be. Once they've both made it across the doorway's threshold it is time for the door to be shut. For now, this was safe, if only because there was only one entrance; a single point for them to cover.
Now together. And alone. Perhaps it is time to share and review all information they've managed to obtain. Naturally Giyu will not be the first to speak.]
[ together and alone as they are, rengoku finds it easy enough to release the breathe he didn't realize he'd been holding onto. it's a lot easier to defend their current position rather than when they were out in the open, with barely any idea of where they are, but it's still difficult to be completely at ease. the room they're in still confuses him as much as the rest of this location.
he walks over to where the bed is, resting at the edge of the mattress. golden eyes are focused on giyu because he's the most familiar thing in this room. the easiest to understand. ]
What else have you learned about this place? Did they all tell us the same thing?
[ he can only assume this was the case, but it's hard to trust when you're in such a different and unfamiliar place. ]
[A flickering gaze takes in the details of the room, not moving further from the door his attention returns to Rengoku, watching him take a spot on the bed. Giyu would remain vigilant and allow the other to relax, if briefly. Until they got a better understanding of what they should do and where exactly they needed to go. Wandering about, wearing themselves out, was detrimental.
Admittedly he knew very little of the mechanics at play. When some knowledge was meant to be imparted upon them, the people explaining details were soon taken away as a state of alarm settled into the place. Again, he finds his hand on the cuffs he received. It was time for him to speak.]
Have you heard of the Gembonded?
[A place to start surely. Compare how much they had learned. It was the only way to know if they were told the same things. If not then they could fill in the gaps of information and complete a full picture.]
[ at first, there's confusion blooming across rengoku's face. ]
The Gembonded? [ he quickly remembers what that is— ] Ah, yes, I believe that's what everyone has been calling us, right? I don't know much more beyond that.
[ it's true that there is now a ruby embedded in his chest, right where akaza left a void during their fight, but he doesn't know what it means. what the possibilities are like. what's involved now that he belongs to ruby and not any of the other ones.
too much has happened beyond waking up here and being fussed over his injuries. any explanations that needed to happen simply fell off to the wayside. ]
[With the term met by confusion and a puzzled tone, Giyu nods slowly, as if he could urge Rengoku to recall something that even he isn't sure the other man had heard of. Thankfully he had, and Giyu would not have to go into details. But soon he is reminded that they were the ones known as the Gembonded; somehow it was difficult to keep that in mind.
A sense that they were becoming different developed, further exacerbated by those who began to exhibit odd behaviors.]
Mine...?
[A blank look is presented, not different so different from his typical lifeless expression. The question was understood but he had no answer to provide. There's a slow movement of his right hand, almost hesitating, until finally he reaches to touch the spot the gem was embedded on him. Behind him, the small of his back.]
[ the flame pillar is quiet as giyu goes through the motions of showing him where his gem lies. golden eyes study the positioning carefully, as if trying to make sense of any conceivable pattern. he hasn't seen enough gems to figure out if there is or isn't so he abandons that train of thought for now, opting to allow a small smile take over the rest of his expression. ]
Then I'll show you mine.
[ he wonders if he should, really. this isn't going to be a good reveal regardless of what he does.
he goes for the simplest: slowly, he unbuttons the demon slayer corps uniform, just enough to show the bright red ruby settled on his chest, embedded in such a way that made it look as if it's growing from deep inside. the positioning of it is as blatant as one can be—the void left behind by akaza's fist, the fatal blow. ]
... I don't know what's in store for us here, but you can rely on me to find a way to get you home.
[ where giyu needs to be. if the war hasn't been won... then the water pillar cannot stay here. ]
[There is no pattern. He believes as much from observing other Gembonded; having caught sight of gems in unusual locations, those that were visible that is. In other cases he imagined those strange stones were hidden under layers of clothes. He even considered requesting to be allowed to see them, thankfully he never got the chance. Instead, now it's being offered, Giyu silently agrees to watch.
Unwavering eyes lock onto fingers working buttons apart.
Finding nothing odd about this, nor that anyone else observing could misconstrue the situation, Giyu crosses his arms. The position of the red stone revealed to him doesn't even cause a flicker emotion. While aware that Rengoku had fallen in a fight with an upper ranked demon, he doesn't know the details involving the fatal injuries. The only specification he could learn were those to be used in future battles. In hopes that one day they could defeat that creature.
Gaze quickly darts towards a determined expression. He meets it with a nod.]
I intend to do everything I can. [A question lingers, wordless, but what did the man before him plan to do? There is no intention to request he follow because there is nothing he can offer him back in their own world. There is no future for him there, no guarantees, he has long been deceased.
He closes his eyes a moment, a different decision is made. Hands raised and just as Rengoku had done he begins to unbutton the uniform — and just as the jacket is removed, when he starts to work on the white button shirt — the door opens. A Gemsci researcher stands there. They grow quickly flustered before speaking quickly: Excuse me! I didn't mean to intrude! My apologies! Please continue. Glad it's not my room. And just like that they're gone.]
[ rengoku doesn't really need the reassurace, already very much aware from the get-go that he can rely on his fellow pillar no matter what they need to do. after all, he's not the one who has a future to get back to so he'll be the one who has to work hard in order to guarantee giyu's safe return. the same can be said when he meets sanemi later on too.
the gemsci researcher comes and goes as quickly as the wind, gone before rengoku realizes what's going on. he doesn't get flustered easily as it is but what happened just then does make his eyes go wide as they can go, panic staining those gold and red hues. ]
W... wait—
[ it's too late. the researcher is gone.
rengoku's head is spinning because that sure was a thing. ]
[Is Giyu really the right person to ask? He has about as much of a clue as Rengoku. Maybe that's why he just stands there kind of unsure of which way to proceed. Should he continue or — or — wait! They should have stopped that person? Right? They might have known where they should head to now. So, he forgets showing the flame pillar the gem and heads towards the door.
By the time he looks out there that person is gone. Although, Giyu is sure he hadn't been all that quick? This whole place is confusing. When he turns back to look at Rengoku he shakes his head once to indicate the researcher was gone.]
Should we stay here?
[Once inside, the door is closed behind him once more. Giyu begins to button up. There would be another time for this? But he does run fingers over the stone through his clothes.]
[ as soon as giyu shakes his head, rengoku releases a sigh. it can't be helped then. he doesn't know what made the researcher flee almost immediately but there's no point in wondering about that now. it's not like they'll be getting answers. ]
Isn't it still unsafe out there?
[ he shakes his head, gesturing for giyu to come closer. ]
Let's stay here until the noise stops.
[ neither of them still had any idea of where they should go anyway, if they choose to leave. ]
[It was true, the alarms still rang, yet this room while clearly a place to rest was still strange. This whole place was mysterious as it was odd. It doesn't give him much confidence save for the fact that the sounds were muffled ever slightly by the walls and door. He doesn't get closer. Not right away. After a moment he does take a few steps towards Rengoku but there's still a clear and obvious distance between them.
In getting closer, he agreed to remain within the confines of the room until the noises stopped. Then they would have to make a move. They couldn't possibly stay here forever, he was sure with the way the flame pillar spoke he was aware.]
[ the idea of rest is so far away from what he wants to do right now so he simply shakes his head. of course a part of him is still a bit disoriented; coming back to life is not an easy to wrap your head around, but with his comrade here, he'd rather not be a burden for something he can handle by himself. so he'll remain awake and aware, intent to keep giyu company for as long as they have to be here.
they'll stay in the tiny room until the alarms have stopped. it comes to an end eventually but who knows how much time has passed. whatever the danger was, it has finally passed, and thus it should be alright for both of them to leave. ]
[A sound of acceptance is made. However, he won't insist but...
The truth of the matter is that typically he wouldn't have a reason for concern. This man, as he recalled him, was capable, skilled, and highly regarded, for the most part he voiced the suggestion from a practical sense. They both did not need to keep watch, rest didn't seem like a bad suggestion, despite the high degree of stamina they possessed there was also a need to factor in time. Neither of them knew how long they would be left waiting before they could freely evacuate the room.
As for Rengoku, that was a different matter. Something he isn't sure of how to handle. Perhaps, he might never be able to because he still can't shake the recollection of him being dead.
It's not something he can just dismiss in a single day, the span of a few hours, actually it hadn't been long since they met, but if they both had similar experiences before their arrival here then he has to question how it affected him. That would explain why through the wait, Giyu doesn't divert his gaze and only observes the flame pillar, and only when the alarms cease does he turn away.]
Lets go. [It was the moment they waited for. Once again the door would be opened, he would peer out before stepping into the hall.] It's clear.
[ the flame pillar can tell that something is different—or rather, something has changed when it comes to how giyu regards him. there are only so few explanations as to why this might be the case, but he doesn't want to be the one to bring them up. he doesn't breathe a single word until giyu tells him that the coast is clear.
nodding, he leaves the bed behind and heads over to the door. whatever chaos that had descended upon this place has now been quelled so it's time for them to find answers. ]
Then let's head out.
[ with a new goal in mind, it's time to find someone worth asking the right questions to. it's not long before they stumble upon a crowd that quickly creates a barrier between them. they're separated before rengoku realizes, so by the time he turns around— ]
[Quick steps leads them away from their small sanctuary, in search for answers they find instead a mass of people all in a panic. The crowd seems to be rushing, surging, towards one direction, perhaps they too were seeking guidance? It's just a sea of people, anyone could get easily swept in the chaos. It's why Giyu halts in order to avoid being swept in. With a quick glance to his left, it's then he notices that Rengoku is no longer at his side.
He hears his name called, on the other side of the crowd he sees the flame pillar, bright in all senses he is easy to pick out. He stands there a moment, while he could push his way past all these people he won't. It's not discomfort that impedes him, he wants to avoid causing anyone unnecessary harm.
Other options are explored but quickly dismissed. Things like jumping over, but a low ceiling prevents this nor would it be feasible for them to try to find an opening, they were wasting time. Someone had to come to a decision that would allow them to move forward, perhaps even help anyone in need. With that in mind he had to speak up.
Taking a breath, effort is put into raising his voice so he is heard.]
Lets help where we can. Find an exit. We'll meet outside.
[ the silence lingers as rengoku allows the other pillar to inspect him. it's not like he has anything to hide, never has for most of his life, so it doesn't bother him when those lilac eyes scrutinize every inch of him. the ruby is a stark reminder of what happened to him before waking up here, so of course it earns a solemn smile. ]
A different colour, you say? You'll have to show me sometime.
[ he buttons up the top part of his uniform once he's sure sanemi has studied it enough, wanting all of his focus on the other man this time. his eyes are as intense as ever, a burning flame that refuses to waver. ]
I don't know why it is I was brought here, but... I can promise you I'll work just as hard as before.
[ he won't let his fellow pillar down, no matter what happens here. ]
[ Finally, the wind pillar is satisfied. There's no denying that gaze, just as bright and intense as he remembers it. Despite death, here the real Rengoku Kyoujuro sits, with smears of sweet potato on the scattered trays around him as proof. ]
Damn straight. We might be on some fucked up new planet, but our job hasn't changed. [ undead or not, technically he didn't retire ... so Sanemi's counting on him. ] Weird thing is, I haven't run into any demons yet. The natives here are something else.
[ Something not hungry to eat people, despite how strange the generation of manna might strike him—weird, but not actually harmful to anyone. ]
Not that it means we should let our guard down. [ lmao as if they'd ever do that. ] If we're here, the demons can follow.
[ .... even ones they've killed, he's realizing, considering death isn't an obstacle for whatever power that drew them here. ]
there's something that immediately makes rengoku pay close attention. his eyes narrow at the possibility of it. he didn't even consider this until sanemi brought it up, and now it's all he can focus on. he almost feels bad for indulging himself with several trays of sweet potatoes when he should have been out looking for demons. ]
... You're right. That should have been the first thing I did.
[ almost too suddenly, he stands up, eyes ablazed with intense determination. ]
Shinazugawa! Shall we go see if there are demons to be found on this planet?
[ Well, he isn't going to judge a dead man too harshly for wanting to eat some sweet potatoes, even if harsh judgement is kind of Sanemi's thing. The life that sparks in Rengoku's eyes now draws a smile to the wind pillar's face—not a kind smile, no way, but a shit-eating grin that says he's pleased with the suggestion. ]
Fuck yeah.
[ What better way to spend the day than hunting down and cutting up demons? None, that's what. Maybe if they're lucky they'll find the demon that killed RG and get some old fashioned revenge; anything's possible.
Ah, but not without glancing over the trays once more, ]
How'd you even pay for all that?
[ Surely Rengoku's been here for two damn minutes. ]
[ that shit-eating grin is familiar as ever. maybe it's weird to say that seeing it made rengoku's chest feel tight with a strange kind of nostalgia, but he never thought he'd ever get the chance to be with his fellow pillars again. the second chance he'd been given is something he will do his best not to waste, so he intends to make the best of it in whatever way he can.
(a quiet promise, made solely to himself and his own selfishness. sanemi doesn't need to hear any of them.)
he looks over at the tray of potatoes, head tilting. ]
The government gave me money so I used it all up here.
[ he may be great in battle, but no one said rengoku was a smart man... at least when it comes to stuff like this. ]
[ Sorry if he chokes for a moment. He used all of the starter money on food?! And he just got here?! Maybe he didn't actually mean all of it .... maybe all of these trays aren't actually his, despite the evidence clearly supporting the fact that Rengoku blew all his money on food.
Sanemi takes a breath, evening his temper out. Rengoku is stupid, but he can't be that stupid. Just. Confirm that he isn't. ]
You used it all up here? You're kiddin', right? You've got some saved still.
[ if sanemi knows how to check his account, then all he'll see are 000's across the board. whatever money the government had given him has been spent making sure the sweet potato shopkeep knew how good his wares are. rengoku is, if nothing else, a generous patron — stupid, but insanely generous. ]
But don't worry about it, Shinazugawa. The sweet potatoes were worth it!
[ because that's clearly what this is all about. ]
[ The headache that cuts across his forehead is sharp; taking a second, Sanemi rubs his temples to ease the pain. He really does like Rengoku .... and he's actually happy to see him alive (not that he'll admit it, the secret of how many soft feelings he has one he doesn't realize will be pried out with the effects of Synchrony unknown to him still), but god is he stupid. ]
Listen. The corps aren't paying our tab here and you need money to get by. They pay you based on how much of that Manna you make. Don't be stupid with your money if you don't plan on doing that Synchrony shit.
[ He'll also need Manna to keep his energy up too, so he won't be totally broke .... but still. All of it?! ]
[ rengoku might be the most beloved pillar but he certainly takes the dumbest crown. he doesn't appear to see a problem with having no money at all, because they were spent on things that were worth it (to him). money can always be made back one way or another—it's not a concern to him. ]
Synchrony? —Ah!
[ it comes to him after thinking about it for a while. and without hesitating, he reaches for sanemi's hand, a small prickle of something pleasant happening almost immediately. ]
You mean this, right? Isn't it interesting? To get paid over such a simple gesture!
[ guess who thinks all he has to do is hold hands. that's right, this fool. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
▶ CATCHALL .MARCH 2021
▸ ᴋᴇᴀᴛᴏɴ.
[ rengoku watches the wolfskin bite into the sweet potato with rapt attention. of course he's invested in what the other will think once he's tasted his most favourite food in the world, because he has no idea how to react if keaton ends up hating it. then again, he'll deal with it as he always does: he'll roll with the punches.
it won't be that big of a deal in the end, he tells himself. (even if he's still hopeful for a positive outcome!) ]
The chew...? What do you mean by that?
[ doesn't it have chew already? he's so confused. please help him understand. ]
no subject
( his tail starts to wag even more furiously than ever, puffing out his cheeks in an almost childish way for someone who should be the leader of all his people. )
It's not meaty enough.
( that's the conclusion, rengoku. no meat. where is the meat. are you the meat? he licks his chops as he stares directly at the man, tongue peeking out from between his lips. )
no subject
it's been a while since he felt so light. ]
Then shall we look for meat? There must be another stall here that sells something you'd like.
[ rengoku has paid for what he ate here anyway, and he still has some cash left to spare. ]
no subject
Sure, but I don't want you to have to feel like you need to leave all of your... uh, things.
( all of these sweet potatoes! what if someone takes them all and re-plants them?! )
Besides. Do you like meat?
no subject
I do love meat! And I'm sure the shopkeep will be alright if I take these with me. [ a curious brow is directed towards the stall owner. ] Isn't that right?
[ there's only a noise of agreement before the shopkeep starts packing up the sweet potatoes. quite a number of trays are leftover so this is going to be a while. ]
Do you have any preferences? Pork? Chicken?
[ do those things even exist out here... then again, if sweet potatoes do, then surely—? ]
▸ ᴍɪᴜ.
[ it doesn't take long before a delighted expression takes over the rest of rengoku's features. he's pretty happy this is the outcome he got, but then again, it's not like he had any doubts. how can anyone hate sweet potatoes? they're a classic, simple dish — incredibly difficult to dislike. ]
There you go! What did I tell you?
[ he simply urges her to keep eating. ]
Go on. You can have the rest of them.
▸ ɢɪʏᴜ.
[ of course, it's always easier for rengoku to trust the other pillar's judgment more so than anyone else's. it doesn't matter to him if whoever brought them here seem more willing to help than others—he wouldn't have believed them first thing if giyu hadn't confirmed it too.
he is way more interested in what the other pillar shows him though. sometimes getting to the point is what works best for someone like rengoku. ]
Is that so? Then at least we know what to use should we encounter any.
[ the only thought roaming through his mind is whether or not those out of control can be likened to demons or not. if not, then it'll be in their best interests to avoid unnecessary bloodshed, so it's good that giyu shared this with him now. he doesn't want to have to draw out his blade on someone who couldn't help what was happening to them, especially if they aren't demons.
he continues to march on regardless, following the straight path of the hallway without much fanfare. they haven't run into anyone just yet and it's hard to say whether or not that's good luck or not. when they come to a fork in the path, he pauses. ]
I have no idea where we're going!
[ oops. ]
no subject
No time to analyze this, nor would he have given him pity over it. He would never do such a thing, as he wouldn't accept it for himself so he is sure that the flame pillar would feel much the same.]
no subject
[In the head that is. But he isn't elaborating on it. His focus isn't even on his companion but rather he is trying to access which way to head towards. Left or right? Was it just him or did the lights seem dimmer towards the left? Spotting a door not to far his choice is made. The right it is. His aim it to get through that door. Perhaps there for a moment they could get a better idea of where they should go. Or how long this would even last.
Without a word he starts walking. No longer rushing. No point in hurrying into danger because if they don't know where they are going they may as well be cautious. Once he is standing before the door he gives the other man a quick glance indicating he would be opening the door which he does a moment later. Nothing seemed amiss...]
no subject
Everything is fine! It's fine. I'm certain you've picked the right way.
[ nothing seemed amiss when the door slides open. all it reveals is a pretty non-descript room with a bed in one corner and minimal furniture. it's as plain as it'll get with all the high-tech lights and panels that rengoku doesn't want to touch. in case it does something strange. ]
... It doesn't look occupied.
[ thank you, captain obvious. ]
no subject
As for the lack of occupants in the room — well — ]
Was it supposed to be?
[A question in need of an answer; Giyu doesn't wait for one. He takes the plunge and steps right inside. He expects to be followed even if he makes no clear indication that he should be. Once they've both made it across the doorway's threshold it is time for the door to be shut. For now, this was safe, if only because there was only one entrance; a single point for them to cover.
Now together. And alone. Perhaps it is time to share and review all information they've managed to obtain. Naturally Giyu will not be the first to speak.]
no subject
[ together and alone as they are, rengoku finds it easy enough to release the breathe he didn't realize he'd been holding onto. it's a lot easier to defend their current position rather than when they were out in the open, with barely any idea of where they are, but it's still difficult to be completely at ease. the room they're in still confuses him as much as the rest of this location.
he walks over to where the bed is, resting at the edge of the mattress. golden eyes are focused on giyu because he's the most familiar thing in this room. the easiest to understand. ]
What else have you learned about this place? Did they all tell us the same thing?
[ he can only assume this was the case, but it's hard to trust when you're in such a different and unfamiliar place. ]
no subject
Admittedly he knew very little of the mechanics at play. When some knowledge was meant to be imparted upon them, the people explaining details were soon taken away as a state of alarm settled into the place. Again, he finds his hand on the cuffs he received. It was time for him to speak.]
Have you heard of the Gembonded?
[A place to start surely. Compare how much they had learned. It was the only way to know if they were told the same things. If not then they could fill in the gaps of information and complete a full picture.]
no subject
The Gembonded? [ he quickly remembers what that is— ] Ah, yes, I believe that's what everyone has been calling us, right? I don't know much more beyond that.
[ it's true that there is now a ruby embedded in his chest, right where akaza left a void during their fight, but he doesn't know what it means. what the possibilities are like. what's involved now that he belongs to ruby and not any of the other ones.
too much has happened beyond waking up here and being fussed over his injuries. any explanations that needed to happen simply fell off to the wayside. ]
Which one is yours?
no subject
A sense that they were becoming different developed, further exacerbated by those who began to exhibit odd behaviors.]
Mine...?
[A blank look is presented, not different so different from his typical lifeless expression. The question was understood but he had no answer to provide. There's a slow movement of his right hand, almost hesitating, until finally he reaches to touch the spot the gem was embedded on him. Behind him, the small of his back.]
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Then I'll show you mine.
[ he wonders if he should, really. this isn't going to be a good reveal regardless of what he does.
he goes for the simplest: slowly, he unbuttons the demon slayer corps uniform, just enough to show the bright red ruby settled on his chest, embedded in such a way that made it look as if it's growing from deep inside. the positioning of it is as blatant as one can be—the void left behind by akaza's fist, the fatal blow. ]
... I don't know what's in store for us here, but you can rely on me to find a way to get you home.
[ where giyu needs to be. if the war hasn't been won... then the water pillar cannot stay here. ]
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Unwavering eyes lock onto fingers working buttons apart.
Finding nothing odd about this, nor that anyone else observing could misconstrue the situation, Giyu crosses his arms. The position of the red stone revealed to him doesn't even cause a flicker emotion. While aware that Rengoku had fallen in a fight with an upper ranked demon, he doesn't know the details involving the fatal injuries. The only specification he could learn were those to be used in future battles. In hopes that one day they could defeat that creature.
Gaze quickly darts towards a determined expression. He meets it with a nod.]
I intend to do everything I can. [A question lingers, wordless, but what did the man before him plan to do? There is no intention to request he follow because there is nothing he can offer him back in their own world. There is no future for him there, no guarantees, he has long been deceased.
He closes his eyes a moment, a different decision is made. Hands raised and just as Rengoku had done he begins to unbutton the uniform — and just as the jacket is removed, when he starts to work on the white button shirt — the door opens. A Gemsci researcher stands there. They grow quickly flustered before speaking quickly: Excuse me! I didn't mean to intrude! My apologies! Please continue. Glad it's not my room. And just like that they're gone.]
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the gemsci researcher comes and goes as quickly as the wind, gone before rengoku realizes what's going on. he doesn't get flustered easily as it is but what happened just then does make his eyes go wide as they can go, panic staining those gold and red hues. ]
W... wait—
[ it's too late. the researcher is gone.
rengoku's head is spinning because that sure was a thing. ]
What just happened?
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By the time he looks out there that person is gone. Although, Giyu is sure he hadn't been all that quick? This whole place is confusing. When he turns back to look at Rengoku he shakes his head once to indicate the researcher was gone.]
Should we stay here?
[Once inside, the door is closed behind him once more. Giyu begins to button up. There would be another time for this? But he does run fingers over the stone through his clothes.]
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Isn't it still unsafe out there?
[ he shakes his head, gesturing for giyu to come closer. ]
Let's stay here until the noise stops.
[ neither of them still had any idea of where they should go anyway, if they choose to leave. ]
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In getting closer, he agreed to remain within the confines of the room until the noises stopped. Then they would have to make a move. They couldn't possibly stay here forever, he was sure with the way the flame pillar spoke he was aware.]
If you wish to rest, go ahead, I'll keep watch.
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[ the idea of rest is so far away from what he wants to do right now so he simply shakes his head. of course a part of him is still a bit disoriented; coming back to life is not an easy to wrap your head around, but with his comrade here, he'd rather not be a burden for something he can handle by himself. so he'll remain awake and aware, intent to keep giyu company for as long as they have to be here.
they'll stay in the tiny room until the alarms have stopped. it comes to an end eventually but who knows how much time has passed. whatever the danger was, it has finally passed, and thus it should be alright for both of them to leave. ]
... It might be alright to leave now.
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The truth of the matter is that typically he wouldn't have a reason for concern. This man, as he recalled him, was capable, skilled, and highly regarded, for the most part he voiced the suggestion from a practical sense. They both did not need to keep watch, rest didn't seem like a bad suggestion, despite the high degree of stamina they possessed there was also a need to factor in time. Neither of them knew how long they would be left waiting before they could freely evacuate the room.
As for Rengoku, that was a different matter. Something he isn't sure of how to handle. Perhaps, he might never be able to because he still can't shake the recollection of him being dead.
It's not something he can just dismiss in a single day, the span of a few hours, actually it hadn't been long since they met, but if they both had similar experiences before their arrival here then he has to question how it affected him. That would explain why through the wait, Giyu doesn't divert his gaze and only observes the flame pillar, and only when the alarms cease does he turn away.]
Lets go. [It was the moment they waited for. Once again the door would be opened, he would peer out before stepping into the hall.] It's clear.
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nodding, he leaves the bed behind and heads over to the door. whatever chaos that had descended upon this place has now been quelled so it's time for them to find answers. ]
Then let's head out.
[ with a new goal in mind, it's time to find someone worth asking the right questions to. it's not long before they stumble upon a crowd that quickly creates a barrier between them. they're separated before rengoku realizes, so by the time he turns around— ]
Tomioka?! Hey, wait...!
[ it'll be no good to lose each other now. ]
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He hears his name called, on the other side of the crowd he sees the flame pillar, bright in all senses he is easy to pick out. He stands there a moment, while he could push his way past all these people he won't. It's not discomfort that impedes him, he wants to avoid causing anyone unnecessary harm.
Other options are explored but quickly dismissed. Things like jumping over, but a low ceiling prevents this nor would it be feasible for them to try to find an opening, they were wasting time. Someone had to come to a decision that would allow them to move forward, perhaps even help anyone in need. With that in mind he had to speak up.
Taking a breath, effort is put into raising his voice so he is heard.]
Lets help where we can. Find an exit. We'll meet outside.
▸ sᴀɴᴇᴍɪ.
[ the silence lingers as rengoku allows the other pillar to inspect him. it's not like he has anything to hide, never has for most of his life, so it doesn't bother him when those lilac eyes scrutinize every inch of him. the ruby is a stark reminder of what happened to him before waking up here, so of course it earns a solemn smile. ]
A different colour, you say? You'll have to show me sometime.
[ he buttons up the top part of his uniform once he's sure sanemi has studied it enough, wanting all of his focus on the other man this time. his eyes are as intense as ever, a burning flame that refuses to waver. ]
I don't know why it is I was brought here, but... I can promise you I'll work just as hard as before.
[ he won't let his fellow pillar down, no matter what happens here. ]
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Damn straight. We might be on some fucked up new planet, but our job hasn't changed. [ undead or not, technically he didn't retire ... so Sanemi's counting on him. ] Weird thing is, I haven't run into any demons yet. The natives here are something else.
[ Something not hungry to eat people, despite how strange the generation of manna might strike him—weird, but not actually harmful to anyone. ]
Not that it means we should let our guard down. [ lmao as if they'd ever do that. ] If we're here, the demons can follow.
[ .... even ones they've killed, he's realizing, considering death isn't an obstacle for whatever power that drew them here. ]
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there's something that immediately makes rengoku pay close attention. his eyes narrow at the possibility of it. he didn't even consider this until sanemi brought it up, and now it's all he can focus on. he almost feels bad for indulging himself with several trays of sweet potatoes when he should have been out looking for demons. ]
... You're right. That should have been the first thing I did.
[ almost too suddenly, he stands up, eyes ablazed with intense determination. ]
Shinazugawa! Shall we go see if there are demons to be found on this planet?
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Fuck yeah.
[ What better way to spend the day than hunting down and cutting up demons? None, that's what. Maybe if they're lucky they'll find the demon that killed RG and get some old fashioned revenge; anything's possible.
Ah, but not without glancing over the trays once more, ]
How'd you even pay for all that?
[ Surely Rengoku's been here for two damn minutes. ]
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(a quiet promise, made solely to himself and his own selfishness. sanemi doesn't need to hear any of them.)
he looks over at the tray of potatoes, head tilting. ]
The government gave me money so I used it all up here.
[ he may be great in battle, but no one said rengoku was a smart man... at least when it comes to stuff like this. ]
Why do you ask?
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[ Sorry if he chokes for a moment. He used all of the starter money on food?! And he just got here?! Maybe he didn't actually mean all of it .... maybe all of these trays aren't actually his, despite the evidence clearly supporting the fact that Rengoku blew all his money on food.
Sanemi takes a breath, evening his temper out. Rengoku is stupid, but he can't be that stupid. Just. Confirm that he isn't. ]
You used it all up here? You're kiddin', right? You've got some saved still.
[ HE'S KIDDING, RIGHT? ]
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It's all gone!
[ if sanemi knows how to check his account, then all he'll see are 000's across the board. whatever money the government had given him has been spent making sure the sweet potato shopkeep knew how good his wares are. rengoku is, if nothing else, a generous patron — stupid, but insanely generous. ]
But don't worry about it, Shinazugawa. The sweet potatoes were worth it!
[ because that's clearly what this is all about. ]
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For fuck's sake...
[ The headache that cuts across his forehead is sharp; taking a second, Sanemi rubs his temples to ease the pain. He really does like Rengoku .... and he's actually happy to see him alive (not that he'll admit it, the secret of how many soft feelings he has one he doesn't realize will be pried out with the effects of Synchrony unknown to him still), but god is he stupid. ]
Listen. The corps aren't paying our tab here and you need money to get by. They pay you based on how much of that Manna you make. Don't be stupid with your money if you don't plan on doing that Synchrony shit.
[ He'll also need Manna to keep his energy up too, so he won't be totally broke .... but still. All of it?! ]
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Synchrony? —Ah!
[ it comes to him after thinking about it for a while. and without hesitating, he reaches for sanemi's hand, a small prickle of something pleasant happening almost immediately. ]
You mean this, right? Isn't it interesting? To get paid over such a simple gesture!
[ guess who thinks all he has to do is hold hands. that's right, this fool. ]