audience: emma perkins

[cyclists]

Comments

[cyclists]

I cannot deny that it might appear out of place at this time.

[and then another question, if mildly curious]

Then if not amazing, might I ask what emotions are plaguing your heart?

[foodbin]

I'm mostly really angry.

[Or that's what she wants to admit to them, at least.]

But I came to ask you something.

[cyclists]

[a nod, in understanding as well as granting permission]

Of course.

As I've said, you may ask me anything.

[foodbin]

Is there going to be another way to get rid of the... corruption, or whatever it is, if this happens again?

[cyclists]

In my experience... there have been, at times, other ways. A skilled practitioner of the spiritual arts may be able to cleanse via an exorcism, or otherwise seeking help from holier sources in order to remove what ails a person's soul.

Now that the young one and I know the nature in which the darkness may manifest, we know better how to combat it.

I apologize that we were not prepared this time.

[foodbin]

[She pauses, taking all of that in before continuing.]

So you think that next time, whoever it chooses might make it through...?

[cyclists]

[there is a pause at that, and lune lets their tea rest in their lap at the question]

... the young one and I cannot intervene, as much as we would like. We may only give each of you options, perform trades in equal measure, and provide tools for your use.

Based on the choices that each of you make, I do not believe that anything is impossible.

For better and for worse.

[foodbin]

...What would a trade in equal measure look like, for something like this?

[She can probably guess, but.]

[cyclists]

I believe it would take a greater effort than just one person, and it is not something that the young one and I will be able to create on our own. While I'm fairly familiar with spirits, I am less skilled in the art of manipulating them.

However at your request, I will determine if it is something that the universe might be able to grant, at a cost.

[foodbin]

[She nods.]

When you figure it out... Is there a way for you to come to me without me sending a lantern, or should I just check back later?

[cyclists]

Ah, you would like me to pay you a personal visit?

[not what she said]

[foodbin]

...It’s really hard to tell what you mean by that when I can’t see your face.

[cyclists]

Mm?

[a confused little noise, and one of lune's hands reaches up to press to their chin in thought, disappearing in the darkness of the hood]

Was it said incorrectly?

[foodbin]

...No, it’s fine.

[closes eyes!!]

Anyways, yes. If you could come find me once you know, that would be great.

[cyclists]

Very well.

Is there anything else that might ease your mind? A drink? Some... ah, what has it been referred to...

Comfort food?

[foodbin]

[She shakes her head, forcing a grateful smile.]

No. But, I did have another question for you.

[cyclists]

Ah? I am listening.

[foodbin]

When you were getting ready to... you know.

[kill a child,,]

You said you would see her soon in another time. What did you mean?

[cyclists]

[hmmmm.

lune will thoughtfully sip their tea at that, then offering up an explanation]

I have traveled through many lives, and many times, sometimes seeing the same people on a countless number of occasions, even if they do not remember it to be so.

I have reason to believe that I will see her again. After all, I owe her a dance.

[foodbin]

[...]

You realize I have no idea what you're talking about, right?

[cyclists]

[there is another soft laugh at that]

No... I would not expect you to.

Nonetheless, that is what I meant.

[foodbin]

...Right.

[She pauses for a few moments.]

I guess I just hoped... You know.

[cyclists]

... I apologize, if my words were misleading.

[they'll glance back to her]

But I am sure that in other lives, and other times, she is quite happy.

[foodbin]

That's a nice thought.

[And that's about all it is to her, but she doesn't voice that.]

I think that's my last question. You still want a return fire this time, or are you busy?

[cyclists]

I am never too busy to speak to you all - it is my primary role here, as far as I am concerned.

[they're always having a curious time

that said.]

Of all the things that humans have invented in their time, what is your favorite creation?