audience: shess

[cyclists]

Comments

[cyclists]

Before, that wasn't my decision to make. I was only meant to protect what I was told to protect. People, places, choices, strategies.

Even now, I am learning what it means to exercise my own will and truly find the right path to protecting as many as possible -

Taking the feelings of others into consideration, how many lives are at stake, how much harm could be done to the future generations with a specific choice....

I try to consider it all, to the best of my abilities.

[nonbelligerent]

It's a difficult balance, and why many choose to simply protect what's their own.

Then, what would you consider to be the best outcome in this situation?

[cyclists]

Stability of the core without anyone being harmed, and the chance for you all to return just as you came.

[a pause]

In order for that to happen, the universe will need to be a bit more forthcoming with what we have to work with... however the young one and I do share what we learn as we learn it.

[nonbelligerent]

I agree that that would be the ideal result. Of course, the ideal result is usually the most difficult to achieve.

[...]

Yes, although it may not be your fault, the current lack of guidance is frustrating. People are getting restless.

[and multiple people have asked him to teach them how to fight??]

[cyclists]

[a thoughtful hum]

Perhaps they need a place to direct their energy to. I was thinking that with this many people now joining us, some festivities to pass the time might be in order.

[festivities]

[nonbelligerent]

[uh]

Perhaps my and Akane's hypothetical festival wasn't so hypothetical after all.

[it was a jOKE]

[cyclists]

[there is a laugh at that]

Does it not sound enjoyable?

At least until we know what we are meant to do in order to combat the instability of the core, should we not have a chance to make merry and get to know one another better?

[nonbelligerent]

If we can't get answers before then, there are worse ways to pass the time.

Though I suspect some among us will not enjoy the idea of "making merry".

[cyclists]

Of course not - but there are also some who, if allowed to continue to their own devices without guidance, will merely grow bored and the lack of a distraction will make them anxious, and worried.

[they are probably smiling - their voice sounds as if they are]

There are a number of moodmakers among those of you gathered here.

I will have faith in their ability to ease worried hearts.

I hope you might be able to assist as well.

[nonbelligerent]

[he smiles wryly.]

I'm willing to go along with this if it'll help, although I wouldn't consider myself a moodmaker of any sort.

[cyclists]

[there's another laugh]

Your presence is calming, and allows people to be at ease.

That in itself is a strength.

[nonbelligerent]

It comes with age.

[cyclists]

Mmm, so it does.

It does feel like watching a number of incredibly well-meaning children run about, does it not?

[nonbelligerent]

It does.

[...]

Sol still seems young, but you're much older than them, correct?

[cyclists]

That is correct.

[and then

like a doting grandparent:]

The young one is very endearing, is he not? You will have to forgive him his occasional slip. His heart is always in the right place, but he is still learning the words for what he wishes to express.

[nonbelligerent]

He does seem like he's trying.

[cyclists]

He is. Very much and all the time.

While I might be more familiar with patiently waiting for answers until the time is right, he is very proactive. He possesses just as much anxiety as others here, at times.

[nonbelligerent]

I suppose the universe saw it fit to have enough of those types here.

[or rather, have the majority of the people here be that type, because look at all these babies.]

[cyclists]

[there's another amused little laugh]

It certainly will not be boring. I rather enjoy all the energy that they bring.

[nonbelligerent]

Even when it's channeled into violence against you and Sol?

[cyclists]

I am perfectly capable of defending myself - sometimes violence is the only thing that people will resort to when they are frustrated, because they believe they will receive the answers they need that way. It is better directed against those more powerful than them who will be able to take the brunt of their anger until they are able to clear their head. I do not mind.

[a pause]

I admit, the young one may do well to invite it less. But that is something that he is still learning. I still intend to watch him, so he does not provoke out of emotion.

[nonbelligerent]

Learning not to resort to needless aggression can be a difficult lesson.

[cyclists]

It's alright, he's very smart and very willing to learn. He'll do what he can, and time will take care of the rest.

[nonbelligerent]

Is he human?

[out of curiosity.]

[cyclists]

Hmmm.

I do not believe that is my place to say.

Why don't you ask him? If you come from a place from curiosity, he will likely match you.