[ pain is gain. living in poor conditions sounds bad initially, but he's playing for the long term. tiredly, the man tilts his head up and down to solidify that he's fine. when he speaks, he can see his breath, and the leather of the car seats only retain so much warmth, but never does he complain. ]
I really don't know how'd you assist me...
[ one hand comes to his face, fingers press against the rim of his glasses to keep them from sliding down the bridge of his nose.
wait, something instantly comes to him. ]
Actually... there is something I need, but... um... I don't know if I have any right to ask...
[ nervous, practiced concern and fear of requesting too much. ]
[ There are plenty of ways to assist someone, especially a person who newly arrived. Caelus can name multiple options, but it seems Grapes has something in mind already!
He decides to hear him out first before anything else. ]
Please, don't hold back. I offered assistance, after all.
[ So, he really is cold!!! Still, it's wonderful that he asked for help regarding that.
Because that is one of the ideas that Caelus was about to suggest. The trailblazer really wants to avoid having this man unnecessarily endure the freezing temperatures when a solution for warmth is easily feasible. Considering the harsh nature of this place, it's best to avoid scenarios where one could possibly fall ill.
This is truly a relief for Caelus, so he can't help but look cheered. ]
Of course. I happen to be an engineer. [ Among so many things… ] I can offer to repair your car entirely, if you wish.
[ He means that literally. That means the car will not only have its heaters working, but it will also be able to be driven around. ]
T-Thank you... but no worries... the blanket or heater will be enough.
[ he doesn't know if the roads are clear enough for him to move as efficiently as it should with a working car. then there's the matter of siphoning fuel when things run out, and he's not... good at that sort of manual labor, though he'll find a way to make it work. ]
If you can get me it now, I'd really appreciate it...
[ the truth?
it's just a distraction, one that agent grapes hopes to use in order to escape. the moment caelus leaves to acquire this simple item, he'll come back to the car evacuated.
he didn't know he'd have to start moving around so early. ]
[ Though Roe Deer is closed off as Caelus recently discovered, he wonders if Grapes is the same way. He's so curious about this person, so he'd like to spend more time with him, if possible. He asks that with a very reassuring tone, like someone would to an actual frightened deer.
He patiently waits after saying so, not making any sudden movements. He normally would've pried open the door or window at this point, but it's clear he shouldn't do such things to someone like this. He needs to get to know him more before being so reckless. ]
Over there. That apartment over there should have something.
[ He gestures to the apartment building right next to where the car is parked. Slowly, he raises one hand, palm up. A kind helping hand. ]
[ his plan foiled? no, no, no... what did he do wrong, no, no, no! he doesn't move to open his door, the locks still in place as he looks at the other unsure. what a dilemma he has himself in because someone has to be so kind. blinking behind his glasses, crimson eyes look to caelus before looking away.
turning his attention to the building referenced, agent grapes wipes his hands onto his pants as he tries to pull himself together. kim soleum knows that this isn't the best way to go about living on the surface of manhattan, but it works, he's doing things without having his previous actions as roe deer define him.
swallowing down the saliva in his throat. ]
I'd need something for the monsters...
[ he'd need to weaponize, right?
well, for an agent, he is rather skittish as he stares at the young man's hand before looking back to caelus' face.
[ Considering the apocalyptic environment filled with zombies, Caelus isn't phased when Grapes asks for a weapon. He actually would've given him a weapon once he stepped out of the car. It's important to be armed, no matter what, in a place like this. He reaches into his messenger bag for a moment, then slides out a military dagger in a sheath. ]
Here. You can keep it.
[ Caelus has several backup weapons on him, so parting with one dagger isn't a big deal to him. He offers it by the window.
… He does notice how intensely nervous Grapes is (hard not to), and he can't help but wonder… Split personality? Roe Deer didn't act like this at all. Or is this filling a role, because right now, he's Grapes and not Roe Deer? If so, which one is the real Soleum-nim? Actually, maybe they're both him? Neither one is less than the other.
Come to think of it, Caelus remembers how reluctant Roe Deer was before. Against too many things. The Nightmares, saying people's names, constantly wearing a mask, maintains a certain distance with even those he considers an ally… Though it's all presented so calmly, it's not too different from Grapes. They are both hesitant in their own ways. They both don't want to come near him…
Regardless, Caelus maintains his promises. He hasn't called him Soleum-nim, a promise to Choi. He hasn't addressed him as Roe Deer, a promise to the man himself. Because he promised to keep meeting him a secret. ]
And I will watch your back. I promise.
[ Another one that he will keep his word on, no matter what. ]
[ with the dagger dropped through the window, agent grapes takes it with ease into the palm of his hands. a tight hold, he taps the tip of it in the palm of his other hand, and upon checking for how sharp it is. it'll do the trick. one hand comes to the handle of the car, pulling at it so that it clicks unlocking itself. he pushes it just a little to give caelus the idea that he should step back, soleum slides out of the car with his worn sneakers touching the ground.
he comes out, messy hair, hunched shoulders, and a practically blushing face from the cold. a sneeze, then one arm coming to rub at his nose as he snuffles one step and then another before shutting his door. ]
Okay. I'm ready...
[ shuffling next to caelus, and how he loathes that he must act like this, agent grapes walks in front of him and then looks back. ]
Stay behind me then... I do this all the time, believe it or not...
[ as part of the agency, it is best that he goes first anyway. now with a weapon he doesn't know how to use before close distance? the idea of being in the guts of an unknown creature would make anyone shiver, but he's taking one step after the other. ]
Um... you know me, but I don't know your name...
[ he looks forward again to make sure he doesn't run into anything. ]
[ Gently stepping back, Caelus allows the car door to open, maintaining his soft smile as he shifts his arms behind his back. He walks a little ahead, but doesn't take more than five steps. He stops there to wait, then turns around to face Grapes once more.
The sneeze isn't a good sign, nor is the color of the older man's face. But Caelus doesn't comment. They plainly need to hurry on and find a heater. Some additional winter clothing would also be necessary.
When Grapes stands next to the trailblazer and tells him to stay behind him, he complies. After all, he did mention to watch his back for him. He can watch out for him in his own way, like this. And then… the name question. What, indeed?
Even though Caelus would normally offer his name without even thinking about it, this man is quite special, after all. He'll never forget those rather strong reactions from before. Therefore, for this man's sake more than his own, he brightly declares— ]
[ a little worried, he looks to caelus to showcase his mistake. soleum knows the name, but when has caelus ever been respectful of replacing names? this doesn't sit well with him, but all agent grapes can do is remind and help.
whatever he has to do.
he doesn't scold him about the name, it's a small question showing his patience as they walk towards the front door of the building. pushing it with one hand, it doesn't budge, but he's not putting his entire strength into it anyway.
underneath the door and running along the edges, there's growth of different colors exposing sleep's reach, and this location hasn't been cleared out for some time. ]
Okay, okay... one, two, three!
[ he pushes again, the door's hinges whine only a little before being stopped by something behind it. spores little the air, and agent grapes brings a hand to his nose and mouth to cover them. ]
[ Caring about real names now? Rather than respond "I can say the same about you, Mr. Grapes," Caelus goes with his honest feelings instead. ]
No, it isn't. Someone I care about gave me that nickname and told me it would protect me, so… I told that person that I didn't mind because it was cute.
… But, to be honest, I'd rather be called by my real name.
[ What's with that strange look on Grapes, though? Does that mean, unlike Roe Deer, he'd actually call Caelus by his actual name? Why would he bother to comment about that otherwise? If he wants to maintain his distance, then it shouldn't matter if it's Caelus's real name or not.
The trailblazer's eyes grow a little, but he doesn't want to get his hopes up if it will only be crushed moments later. He knows he should temper his expectations. He wants to ask. But he waits first, quietly observing Grape's efforts to open the door forgotten by time.
After living here for five months now, Caelus has become fully accustomed to witnessing Sleep's influence across the city. He stands back calmly to allow the air to pass through and clear out some of the spores. And as they wait here, he takes the chance. ]
… Will you call me by my name, then? I'm Caelus.
[ if it's from someone he cares about, why not keep the name? though, there's an obvious truth. while it doesn't move him, he can only think about how difficult this one is, how much danger he'd put himself in if they're sent to another darkness.
he can only save people that want to be saved. ]
Due to protocol... we'd rather keep things safe between us...
[ agent grapes mumbles as he kneels down to push at the door and tries to get a pretty good look inside. whatever's on the ground blocking them from moving any further is starting to budge. it scrapes against the floor, a few items go thud, and he wonders if its a small shelf with books or any other assortment of items. ]
But... my superior works here, so...
[ kim soleum knows what he's doing when acting like this. he knows how caelus knows of his existence as agent grapes, there's only one person who could be so thrilled to talk about him, and given that scene through the murmur when they first met. it actually makes him uncomfortable that it works in that way, but agent grapes is the epitome of uncomfortable and his feelings are difficult to describe when he seems so meek and nervous.
anyway, he'd get in trouble if he says his name. ]
If you think he wouldn't mind... sure... I'll say your name.
[ That's quite a big assumption from Grapes. It's good that Caelus isn't aware of such thoughts… It would've hurt him. There are important reasons why Caelus prefers to be called by his name. It's not that he wants to put himself in danger or anything of that nature. Besides, he's not someone who is looking to be saved. He's someone who saves others, too.
That's how he's lived until now, and he's still going strong. Aiding and protecting others aside, he's still on a constant journey for himself as well, and he won't allow himself to fall here. He's a Nameless, a Trailblazer, and there is still so much that he has to go through before he can find the answers he's looking for. Continuing to meet new faces, encountering new experiences, and seeing new planets again. This Manhattan is only one stop of many. ]
Superior?
[ Between Saheon and Choi, the one who gives a more "senpai" vibe is… Man, does this even need thinking about? Sorry, Saheon. ]
… Agent Choi? Hyung calls me by my name all the time, and so does everyone else here. I'm sure it's fine.
[ Okay, he does have some other weird nicknames given to him as well, but those are out of affection rather than formality. It's because they're friends that those people do it. Anyway, Caelus observes that the spores inside have thinned out, but it seems tricky to entirely open the door if anything in there has collapsed. ]
If the door's jammed, let's just go through the window.
[ He points to the one right beside them, then approaches it first to assess the state of the frame and to peek inside at the same time. ]
[ one hand comes to his frames to push them up, and agent grapes nods his head only to stand up properly. he's sure they could have went through that way, but it's best to move only because of the request, and the agent will refer to this entrance later. to make it easier, once inside, he'll push it out of the way. tilting his head, black locks fall in front of his face as he moves to the suggested window. ]
You... know him? Yes, that's my superior... I'll check in with him about it...
[ which doesn't mean he'll actually say the young man's name at all, agent grapes is far too worried when it comes to that. he knows how annoying agent choi can be, how persistent he needs to be in order to get what he wants, and it's more so discussing if it's even worth it to say the names of these people here.
as he seems to be learning, no one respects the idea, and that's why it's difficult to engage with them on a level that kim soleum is used to. however, if agent choi has also suffered with this, then what else can he do other than give up too? the difficult part of this, this world is still lonely, there's no one who understands or can perceive why soleum does what he do. if only braun were here then he would reassure soleum, tell him that it's difficult now, but the future will be better.
something. ]
I'll help you up...
[ kneeling down, agent grapes laces his hands together to signal caelus to step up onto him. ]
[ A person who is willing to listen is really close by. A person who's been constantly extending his hand since Day One, even to this moment. While Caelus knows the basic reason why Roe Deer gave him a nickname, Roe Deer doesn't know why Caelus and the others insist on their own names. He seems to think that no one takes him seriously or something, yet he also doesn't seem to want to extend the effort to make his feelings known at all. Even when Caelus tries to get closer to him, he only backs away each time.
Should Roe Deer, Grapes, or Soleum give Caelus the chance to talk on a deeper level, then the trailblazer wouldn't even hesitate to hear any of his versions out and understand him better as a whole. But it goes both ways, doesn't it? After all, the others (Caelus included) also have their own reasons for acting the way they do. It's not that they don't think it's worth doing; it's not that they want to endanger themselves or anything like that. For Caelus alone, there are plenty of more important reasons.
Hopefully, a future chance will come for Caelus that he can finally talk to this man on a closer level. He's still waiting patiently!
Anyway, back to their current task… Since Caelus is the smaller one, it makes sense for him to be the one lifted, so he nods in understanding and gently starts climbing onto Grapes. Thankfully, he's very light and agile as well. So within seconds, he has already leaped to grab onto the window frame. He hangs a little as he adjusts his grip, then hoists himself up to sit on the windowsill. ]
Mr. Grapes! The window isn't locked. Lucky us!
[ Easily sliding it open, Caelus enters the apartment, then peeks down at the older man. He extends his hand to him afterward. Come and jump, Grapes. ]
[ pushing caelus up, agent grapes looks up to make sure that he's up there safely through his glasses. blinking slow, the man stands up properly, and dusts off some snow on his pants leg as he brings the weapon to his pocket. walking closer to the wall, he reaches out with one hand to grab the extended one, and he assists by placing the flat of his shoes against the walls surface to help.
once he's pulled up, agent grapes comes through the window right after him, and the wet underside of his shoes hit against the floor. a small squeak of them, he finally releases caelus' hand to bring the same one to his own mouth, only to block out spores.
how many times has a situation like this made itself onto the wiki? a small group of people normally going into a tainted house or apartment for resources, and most if not everything is already damaged by whatever caused destruction of the world. he looks at the variety of colors on the wall, how it's eaten away at the curtains on the floor, and the stains on the floor that shows what has dry rotted.
agent grapes takes one step forward as he squats down, a hand press against the floor and he can feel the lack of stability. ]
The lighter areas... we should be careful, we don't want to fall through.
[ standing up properly (with the hunch of his shoulders), agent grapes looks around the room seeing that they've wandered into what appears to be a nursery room. a cradle barely holding on, the wind-up toy of planets has growth over them that's dangled into vines with a flower at the end. pictures covered in dust along with a small couch.
it's at this, agent grapes can only frown slightly.
on a table nearby, there seems to be a picture book with a name written on the cover: "Our Princess' Second Birthday!"
[ It's morning, so thankfully, the sun is casting enough light within the abandoned space without needing a flashlight. The familiar sight of Sleep's rot is rather potent, so it's likely this entire apartment building is heavily hit as a whole. The earlier jammed door was already a hint of its unfavorable state inside.
There are luckier areas elsewhere that are less damaged, but in unfortunate places like this one… Well, it's naturally more difficult to navigate through them, which makes it harder to find anything useful. But that doesn't mean it's impossible. A hidden gem or two still lies within such areas! Caelus is hoping for the best. Though considering the state of this apocalypse, any resources at all (even partially damaged ones) are always welcome. Some Vessels even tolerate expired food…
When Grapes warns Caelus to be careful, the trailblazer nods obediently. For now, he maintains the same behavior as earlier, following behind the older man. He's mindful of his steps and tries not to make any sudden movements either. ]
What does that say? … Out… Print… Bird… Clay?
[ Sorry. Caelus is an alien. He can't read any of Earth's languages. He has been studying English for a while, though! This is actually a huge improvement compared to when he first started! … But it's still a long work in progress.
He doesn't make a scene, though, especially when he notices the frown on Grape's face. He quiets down a little, wondering if a memory came to the older man after seeing the picture book. ]
[ agent grapes looks at caelus as he comes over to read the text, and what he hears the young man say is completely wrote. he remains quiet, then looks down at the print, before clearing his throat. ]
"Our Princess' Second Birthday", this was the room of a two year old.
[ soleum can read english pretty well unlike some people, it comes from the amount of media he digests from his western cartoons and then clients when he oversees their information. this is one of those times where maybe reading is less than ideal, but from the initial sweep of looking at this place... he would have thought of a newborn.
the concept is upsetting, who wouldn't feel bad for a scenario like this where children too are affected by the outcome. ]
I understand basic survival ethic, but in this place... what should I prioritize?
[ while they're here, he might as well understand what's important when breaking into these buildings. ]
[ The response is soft and lonely. Of course, Caelus feels something as well whenever he enters such tragic places like these, but he's a person of hope. Maybe others would call it naive, but he wants to believe in it regardless. He wants to believe that there are survivors out there somewhere— somewhere they currently can't reach.
After all, they're confined within the limits of Manhattan and haven't seen the state of the other cities. Something promising could be out there. He has said these things to some friends, and they've decided to believe the same.
Will their hopes be crushed one day? Caelus will cross that bridge when he gets there. For now, he will continue to hold onto that hope. Focusing back on Grapes's question, Caelus considers what counts as basic survival… Topics related to food, water, shelter, hygiene kits, first aid, or medicine? Then, he'll talk about something other than those. ]
Do you mean what to watch out for? In my experience, the environment itself is more dangerous than the Hosts. [ There are better visual or audio cues on Hosts. It's hard to miss them. But the environment is a silent assassin. ] Aside from the spores or mold, there's also a risk of asbestos or lead poisoning.
Not just the floor, but the walls or ceiling could also collapse. When you open and close doors, we can't use force on them; we could risk something disintegrating from vibrations. And if you catch a strange scent behind a door, it's better to stay away from it. It might contain trapped gas.
For things to pick up… Honestly, if you feel it might be useful sometime, you should keep it. I'm always collecting the smallest trinkets because I use them in my crafts. I can never get enough of materials to use.
I understand... nothing special, and it's what's expected. Thank you.
[ with a nod of his head, he appreciate the other's words because it hits what's common in an apocalypse setting. he has acknowledged the information that caelus gave him before in the dream, and that still stands true. his explanation in the waking world is extensive, but welcomed nonetheless.
this isn't his first time doing this, but he had wondered for a moment if the odd fungi they come across could be used for something, anything. it seems not, the danger that comes from being near it is pretty clear, and agent grapes is already walking towards the entrance of the room. he pushes the door forward, it barely creaking as the plant growth has made home on the bolts. ]
Um... what trinkets do you use?
[ he emphasis by showing the weapon that caelus gave him, he wonders if he should give it back. if this is something important to him to use for his crafts... the last thing grapes would want to do is cause any trouble for the young man. ]
I can keep an eye out... if you want... for helping me here.
[ actually, this isn't even helping, it's kim soleum having failed his escape attempt and is in this position now. ]
[ Even if Grapes personally feels he doesn't need the assistance, Caelus did accompany him for more than one reason. Aside from helping, he wants to be with him to get to know him better. So, there's always a kind smile whenever the older man turns to talk to him. Eagerness coming from the younger one to hear him out each time. ]
Will you? Hehe… Thank you, too. I'm always accepting donations.
[ Their footsteps creak as they progress forward into the desolate hallway, slowly. This floor of the apartment seems quiet… At least so far. But even if there aren't any visible or audible threats so far, they still can't let their guard down. One could be nearby unexpectedly. ]
I can use most materials. But the ones I commonly need are metals, gems, and plastics. Metals such as copper, steel, or lead are best for crafting bullets.
I crafted that combat knife, by the way. If it breaks or is accidentally lost, I can make you another… Though I can construct other weapons, if you prefer something else.
[ Just considering the scenario if Grapes happens to be a long-ranged fighter. ]
[ looking at his weapon that he definitely won't go out of his way to lose, he takes note of what the other can do. useful, in a way? agent grapes holds the knife tightly in his grasp as they make their way out the room and into the hallway, the creaking floors muted by the age and moss split between the cracks. ]
Um... I don't really use weapons...
[ he usually runs, turns tail and tries to survive or uses his brain to get through whatever issue is before them. even though he's an agent, he's nothing like choi, and while that may make him a liability, that doesn't mean he won't use what's offered to him. ]
But if I think of something, I won't hesitate to ask.
[ there's the sound of something dragging along the floor in another room down the hall, but there's also a flight of stairs they can go down too. rather than see what's making that noise, kim soleum tilts his head towards the stairs and speaks with a relatively low voice. ]
[ It's better to have at least one weapon for self-defense, even if not necessarily for offensive uses. Caelus would've said this, but since Grapes has that knife now, he won't need to worry as much. He trusts the older man can handle himself and will be fine, but he'll still check on him from time to time, to make sure that remains the case.
Upon hearing those strange sounds, though, Caelus entirely halts his feet. Looking at Grape's expression, it seems the man prefers to avoid a fight if they can. The trailblazer agrees. There's no need to exert any risk if it's not needed. ]
Up…
[ He lowers his own voice, speaking minimally to avoid being detected by whatever is nearby. If they go down, they might not have a place to escape to, since the front door is jammed, after all. Upstairs, they could escape through another window or perhaps through the rooftop. ]
[ it works for him, soleum likes the idea of staying out of danger, if he can choose to run then he will. what remains here now is none of their concern, they shouldn't initiate fights when they don't have to. their search here is to grow their personal belongings, and while grapes doesn't know what exactly is a catch for caelus, he's sure the other will wander off when he does see it. ]
Alright.
[ his voice still shy of a whisper confirms the decision, and he begins walking towards the flight leading up. one foot lifts then steps on the first step, it creaks every so quietly, but nothing to be concerned of. the noise from before still goes like it did, no changes, and grapes walks cautiously as his eyes stare at the ground. it's best to watch where they're going to make sure they don't fall through the steps, and he's also wary of the walls covered in fungal matter.
he moves only so far, only continuing on until he can hear caelus' follow behind.
the stairs show no sign of caving in on themselves, but the railing seems faulty enough to fall over if touched. sunlight sinks into the apartment from the upper windows, pollen is visible in the air along with accumulated dust. ]
I don't hear anything upstairs so far...
[ with the weapon in hand, he's already staring at the surface to see if it reflects anything like a mirror or if the material its made out of doesn't work for that. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
[ pain is gain. living in poor conditions sounds bad initially, but he's playing for the long term. tiredly, the man tilts his head up and down to solidify that he's fine. when he speaks, he can see his breath, and the leather of the car seats only retain so much warmth, but never does he complain. ]
I really don't know how'd you assist me...
[ one hand comes to his face, fingers press against the rim of his glasses to keep them from sliding down the bridge of his nose.
wait, something instantly comes to him. ]
Actually... there is something I need, but... um... I don't know if I have any right to ask...
[ nervous, practiced concern and fear of requesting too much. ]
no subject
He decides to hear him out first before anything else. ]
Please, don't hold back. I offered assistance, after all.
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[ that low, frail voice of his that's too scared to even speak where it comes out like a mumble. ]
A heater, or a heating blanket.
[ his hands come down to his lap, fingers diffing into the fabric of his hands. ]
Is that okay...?
no subject
Because that is one of the ideas that Caelus was about to suggest. The trailblazer really wants to avoid having this man unnecessarily endure the freezing temperatures when a solution for warmth is easily feasible. Considering the harsh nature of this place, it's best to avoid scenarios where one could possibly fall ill.
This is truly a relief for Caelus, so he can't help but look cheered. ]
Of course. I happen to be an engineer. [ Among so many things… ] I can offer to repair your car entirely, if you wish.
[ He means that literally. That means the car will not only have its heaters working, but it will also be able to be driven around. ]
But I'll prioritize the heaters on it.
no subject
[ he doesn't know if the roads are clear enough for him to move as efficiently as it should with a working car. then there's the matter of siphoning fuel when things run out, and he's not... good at that sort of manual labor, though he'll find a way to make it work. ]
If you can get me it now, I'd really appreciate it...
[ the truth?
it's just a distraction, one that agent grapes hopes to use in order to escape. the moment caelus leaves to acquire this simple item, he'll come back to the car evacuated.
he didn't know he'd have to start moving around so early. ]
If that's okay..
no subject
[ Though Roe Deer is closed off as Caelus recently discovered, he wonders if Grapes is the same way. He's so curious about this person, so he'd like to spend more time with him, if possible. He asks that with a very reassuring tone, like someone would to an actual frightened deer.
He patiently waits after saying so, not making any sudden movements. He normally would've pried open the door or window at this point, but it's clear he shouldn't do such things to someone like this. He needs to get to know him more before being so reckless. ]
Over there. That apartment over there should have something.
[ He gestures to the apartment building right next to where the car is parked. Slowly, he raises one hand, palm up. A kind helping hand. ]
no subject
[ his plan foiled? no, no, no... what did he do wrong, no, no, no! he doesn't move to open his door, the locks still in place as he looks at the other unsure. what a dilemma he has himself in because someone has to be so kind. blinking behind his glasses, crimson eyes look to caelus before looking away.
turning his attention to the building referenced, agent grapes wipes his hands onto his pants as he tries to pull himself together. kim soleum knows that this isn't the best way to go about living on the surface of manhattan, but it works, he's doing things without having his previous actions as roe deer define him.
swallowing down the saliva in his throat. ]
I'd need something for the monsters...
[ he'd need to weaponize, right?
well, for an agent, he is rather skittish as he stares at the young man's hand before looking back to caelus' face.
unconvinced. ]
no subject
Here. You can keep it.
[ Caelus has several backup weapons on him, so parting with one dagger isn't a big deal to him. He offers it by the window.
… He does notice how intensely nervous Grapes is (hard not to), and he can't help but wonder… Split personality? Roe Deer didn't act like this at all. Or is this filling a role, because right now, he's Grapes and not Roe Deer? If so, which one is the real Soleum-nim? Actually, maybe they're both him? Neither one is less than the other.
Come to think of it, Caelus remembers how reluctant Roe Deer was before. Against too many things. The Nightmares, saying people's names, constantly wearing a mask, maintains a certain distance with even those he considers an ally… Though it's all presented so calmly, it's not too different from Grapes. They are both hesitant in their own ways. They both don't want to come near him…
Regardless, Caelus maintains his promises. He hasn't called him Soleum-nim, a promise to Choi. He hasn't addressed him as Roe Deer, a promise to the man himself. Because he promised to keep meeting him a secret. ]
And I will watch your back. I promise.
[ Another one that he will keep his word on, no matter what. ]
no subject
he comes out, messy hair, hunched shoulders, and a practically blushing face from the cold. a sneeze, then one arm coming to rub at his nose as he snuffles one step and then another before shutting his door. ]
Okay. I'm ready...
[ shuffling next to caelus, and how he loathes that he must act like this, agent grapes walks in front of him and then looks back. ]
Stay behind me then... I do this all the time, believe it or not...
[ as part of the agency, it is best that he goes first anyway. now with a weapon he doesn't know how to use before close distance? the idea of being in the guts of an unknown creature would make anyone shiver, but he's taking one step after the other. ]
Um... you know me, but I don't know your name...
[ he looks forward again to make sure he doesn't run into anything. ]
What should I call you?
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The sneeze isn't a good sign, nor is the color of the older man's face. But Caelus doesn't comment. They plainly need to hurry on and find a heater. Some additional winter clothing would also be necessary.
When Grapes stands next to the trailblazer and tells him to stay behind him, he complies. After all, he did mention to watch his back for him. He can watch out for him in his own way, like this. And then… the name question. What, indeed?
Even though Caelus would normally offer his name without even thinking about it, this man is quite special, after all. He'll never forget those rather strong reactions from before. Therefore, for this man's sake more than his own, he brightly declares— ]
… I'm Star. Nice to meet you.
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[ a little worried, he looks to caelus to showcase his mistake. soleum knows the name, but when has caelus ever been respectful of replacing names? this doesn't sit well with him, but all agent grapes can do is remind and help.
whatever he has to do.
he doesn't scold him about the name, it's a small question showing his patience as they walk towards the front door of the building. pushing it with one hand, it doesn't budge, but he's not putting his entire strength into it anyway.
underneath the door and running along the edges, there's growth of different colors exposing sleep's reach, and this location hasn't been cleared out for some time. ]
Okay, okay... one, two, three!
[ he pushes again, the door's hinges whine only a little before being stopped by something behind it. spores little the air, and agent grapes brings a hand to his nose and mouth to cover them. ]
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No, it isn't. Someone I care about gave me that nickname and told me it would protect me, so… I told that person that I didn't mind because it was cute.
… But, to be honest, I'd rather be called by my real name.
[ What's with that strange look on Grapes, though? Does that mean, unlike Roe Deer, he'd actually call Caelus by his actual name? Why would he bother to comment about that otherwise? If he wants to maintain his distance, then it shouldn't matter if it's Caelus's real name or not.
The trailblazer's eyes grow a little, but he doesn't want to get his hopes up if it will only be crushed moments later. He knows he should temper his expectations. He wants to ask. But he waits first, quietly observing Grape's efforts to open the door forgotten by time.
After living here for five months now, Caelus has become fully accustomed to witnessing Sleep's influence across the city. He stands back calmly to allow the air to pass through and clear out some of the spores. And as they wait here, he takes the chance. ]
… Will you call me by my name, then? I'm Caelus.
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he can only save people that want to be saved. ]
Due to protocol... we'd rather keep things safe between us...
[ agent grapes mumbles as he kneels down to push at the door and tries to get a pretty good look inside. whatever's on the ground blocking them from moving any further is starting to budge. it scrapes against the floor, a few items go thud, and he wonders if its a small shelf with books or any other assortment of items. ]
But... my superior works here, so...
[ kim soleum knows what he's doing when acting like this. he knows how caelus knows of his existence as agent grapes, there's only one person who could be so thrilled to talk about him, and given that scene through the murmur when they first met. it actually makes him uncomfortable that it works in that way, but agent grapes is the epitome of uncomfortable and his feelings are difficult to describe when he seems so meek and nervous.
anyway, he'd get in trouble if he says his name. ]
If you think he wouldn't mind... sure... I'll say your name.
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That's how he's lived until now, and he's still going strong. Aiding and protecting others aside, he's still on a constant journey for himself as well, and he won't allow himself to fall here. He's a Nameless, a Trailblazer, and there is still so much that he has to go through before he can find the answers he's looking for. Continuing to meet new faces, encountering new experiences, and seeing new planets again. This Manhattan is only one stop of many. ]
Superior?
[ Between Saheon and Choi, the one who gives a more "senpai" vibe is… Man, does this even need thinking about? Sorry, Saheon. ]
… Agent Choi? Hyung calls me by my name all the time, and so does everyone else here. I'm sure it's fine.
[ Okay, he does have some other weird nicknames given to him as well, but those are out of affection rather than formality. It's because they're friends that those people do it. Anyway, Caelus observes that the spores inside have thinned out, but it seems tricky to entirely open the door if anything in there has collapsed. ]
If the door's jammed, let's just go through the window.
[ He points to the one right beside them, then approaches it first to assess the state of the frame and to peek inside at the same time. ]
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You... know him? Yes, that's my superior... I'll check in with him about it...
[ which doesn't mean he'll actually say the young man's name at all, agent grapes is far too worried when it comes to that. he knows how annoying agent choi can be, how persistent he needs to be in order to get what he wants, and it's more so discussing if it's even worth it to say the names of these people here.
as he seems to be learning, no one respects the idea, and that's why it's difficult to engage with them on a level that kim soleum is used to. however, if agent choi has also suffered with this, then what else can he do other than give up too? the difficult part of this, this world is still lonely, there's no one who understands or can perceive why soleum does what he do. if only braun were here then he would reassure soleum, tell him that it's difficult now, but the future will be better.
something. ]
I'll help you up...
[ kneeling down, agent grapes laces his hands together to signal caelus to step up onto him. ]
Ready?
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Should Roe Deer, Grapes, or Soleum give Caelus the chance to talk on a deeper level, then the trailblazer wouldn't even hesitate to hear any of his versions out and understand him better as a whole. But it goes both ways, doesn't it? After all, the others (Caelus included) also have their own reasons for acting the way they do. It's not that they don't think it's worth doing; it's not that they want to endanger themselves or anything like that. For Caelus alone, there are plenty of more important reasons.
Hopefully, a future chance will come for Caelus that he can finally talk to this man on a closer level. He's still waiting patiently!
Anyway, back to their current task… Since Caelus is the smaller one, it makes sense for him to be the one lifted, so he nods in understanding and gently starts climbing onto Grapes. Thankfully, he's very light and agile as well. So within seconds, he has already leaped to grab onto the window frame. He hangs a little as he adjusts his grip, then hoists himself up to sit on the windowsill. ]
Mr. Grapes! The window isn't locked. Lucky us!
[ Easily sliding it open, Caelus enters the apartment, then peeks down at the older man. He extends his hand to him afterward. Come and jump, Grapes. ]
I'm pretty strong, so I'll pull you in!
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once he's pulled up, agent grapes comes through the window right after him, and the wet underside of his shoes hit against the floor. a small squeak of them, he finally releases caelus' hand to bring the same one to his own mouth, only to block out spores.
how many times has a situation like this made itself onto the wiki? a small group of people normally going into a tainted house or apartment for resources, and most if not everything is already damaged by whatever caused destruction of the world. he looks at the variety of colors on the wall, how it's eaten away at the curtains on the floor, and the stains on the floor that shows what has dry rotted.
agent grapes takes one step forward as he squats down, a hand press against the floor and he can feel the lack of stability. ]
The lighter areas... we should be careful, we don't want to fall through.
[ standing up properly (with the hunch of his shoulders), agent grapes looks around the room seeing that they've wandered into what appears to be a nursery room. a cradle barely holding on, the wind-up toy of planets has growth over them that's dangled into vines with a flower at the end. pictures covered in dust along with a small couch.
it's at this, agent grapes can only frown slightly.
on a table nearby, there seems to be a picture book with a name written on the cover: "Our Princess' Second Birthday!"
... ]
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There are luckier areas elsewhere that are less damaged, but in unfortunate places like this one… Well, it's naturally more difficult to navigate through them, which makes it harder to find anything useful. But that doesn't mean it's impossible. A hidden gem or two still lies within such areas! Caelus is hoping for the best. Though considering the state of this apocalypse, any resources at all (even partially damaged ones) are always welcome. Some Vessels even tolerate expired food…
When Grapes warns Caelus to be careful, the trailblazer nods obediently. For now, he maintains the same behavior as earlier, following behind the older man. He's mindful of his steps and tries not to make any sudden movements either. ]
What does that say? … Out… Print… Bird… Clay?
[ Sorry. Caelus is an alien. He can't read any of Earth's languages. He has been studying English for a while, though! This is actually a huge improvement compared to when he first started! … But it's still a long work in progress.
He doesn't make a scene, though, especially when he notices the frown on Grape's face. He quiets down a little, wondering if a memory came to the older man after seeing the picture book. ]
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[ agent grapes looks at caelus as he comes over to read the text, and what he hears the young man say is completely wrote. he remains quiet, then looks down at the print, before clearing his throat. ]
"Our Princess' Second Birthday", this was the room of a two year old.
[ soleum can read english pretty well unlike some people, it comes from the amount of media he digests from his western cartoons and then clients when he oversees their information. this is one of those times where maybe reading is less than ideal, but from the initial sweep of looking at this place... he would have thought of a newborn.
the concept is upsetting, who wouldn't feel bad for a scenario like this where children too are affected by the outcome. ]
I understand basic survival ethic, but in this place... what should I prioritize?
[ while they're here, he might as well understand what's important when breaking into these buildings. ]
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[ The response is soft and lonely. Of course, Caelus feels something as well whenever he enters such tragic places like these, but he's a person of hope. Maybe others would call it naive, but he wants to believe in it regardless. He wants to believe that there are survivors out there somewhere— somewhere they currently can't reach.
After all, they're confined within the limits of Manhattan and haven't seen the state of the other cities. Something promising could be out there. He has said these things to some friends, and they've decided to believe the same.
Will their hopes be crushed one day? Caelus will cross that bridge when he gets there. For now, he will continue to hold onto that hope. Focusing back on Grapes's question, Caelus considers what counts as basic survival… Topics related to food, water, shelter, hygiene kits, first aid, or medicine? Then, he'll talk about something other than those. ]
Do you mean what to watch out for? In my experience, the environment itself is more dangerous than the Hosts. [ There are better visual or audio cues on Hosts. It's hard to miss them. But the environment is a silent assassin. ] Aside from the spores or mold, there's also a risk of asbestos or lead poisoning.
Not just the floor, but the walls or ceiling could also collapse. When you open and close doors, we can't use force on them; we could risk something disintegrating from vibrations. And if you catch a strange scent behind a door, it's better to stay away from it. It might contain trapped gas.
For things to pick up… Honestly, if you feel it might be useful sometime, you should keep it. I'm always collecting the smallest trinkets because I use them in my crafts. I can never get enough of materials to use.
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[ with a nod of his head, he appreciate the other's words because it hits what's common in an apocalypse setting. he has acknowledged the information that caelus gave him before in the dream, and that still stands true. his explanation in the waking world is extensive, but welcomed nonetheless.
this isn't his first time doing this, but he had wondered for a moment if the odd fungi they come across could be used for something, anything. it seems not, the danger that comes from being near it is pretty clear, and agent grapes is already walking towards the entrance of the room. he pushes the door forward, it barely creaking as the plant growth has made home on the bolts. ]
Um... what trinkets do you use?
[ he emphasis by showing the weapon that caelus gave him, he wonders if he should give it back. if this is something important to him to use for his crafts... the last thing grapes would want to do is cause any trouble for the young man. ]
I can keep an eye out... if you want... for helping me here.
[ actually, this isn't even helping, it's kim soleum having failed his escape attempt and is in this position now. ]
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Will you? Hehe… Thank you, too. I'm always accepting donations.
[ Their footsteps creak as they progress forward into the desolate hallway, slowly. This floor of the apartment seems quiet… At least so far. But even if there aren't any visible or audible threats so far, they still can't let their guard down. One could be nearby unexpectedly. ]
I can use most materials. But the ones I commonly need are metals, gems, and plastics. Metals such as copper, steel, or lead are best for crafting bullets.
I crafted that combat knife, by the way. If it breaks or is accidentally lost, I can make you another… Though I can construct other weapons, if you prefer something else.
[ Just considering the scenario if Grapes happens to be a long-ranged fighter. ]
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Um... I don't really use weapons...
[ he usually runs, turns tail and tries to survive or uses his brain to get through whatever issue is before them. even though he's an agent, he's nothing like choi, and while that may make him a liability, that doesn't mean he won't use what's offered to him. ]
But if I think of something, I won't hesitate to ask.
[ there's the sound of something dragging along the floor in another room down the hall, but there's also a flight of stairs they can go down too. rather than see what's making that noise, kim soleum tilts his head towards the stairs and speaks with a relatively low voice. ]
Up or down...?
[ the interior of this place is pretty weird. ]
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Upon hearing those strange sounds, though, Caelus entirely halts his feet. Looking at Grape's expression, it seems the man prefers to avoid a fight if they can. The trailblazer agrees. There's no need to exert any risk if it's not needed. ]
Up…
[ He lowers his own voice, speaking minimally to avoid being detected by whatever is nearby. If they go down, they might not have a place to escape to, since the front door is jammed, after all. Upstairs, they could escape through another window or perhaps through the rooftop. ]
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Alright.
[ his voice still shy of a whisper confirms the decision, and he begins walking towards the flight leading up. one foot lifts then steps on the first step, it creaks every so quietly, but nothing to be concerned of. the noise from before still goes like it did, no changes, and grapes walks cautiously as his eyes stare at the ground. it's best to watch where they're going to make sure they don't fall through the steps, and he's also wary of the walls covered in fungal matter.
he moves only so far, only continuing on until he can hear caelus' follow behind.
the stairs show no sign of caving in on themselves, but the railing seems faulty enough to fall over if touched. sunlight sinks into the apartment from the upper windows, pollen is visible in the air along with accumulated dust. ]
I don't hear anything upstairs so far...
[ with the weapon in hand, he's already staring at the surface to see if it reflects anything like a mirror or if the material its made out of doesn't work for that. ]
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rolled for medicine luck: 3
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