blue_ice | Labyrinthum Inbox

[It's voice for now, but if Kaiba doesn't recognize the username he'll recognize the voice.]
Check in with me. Are you alright and do you remember who you are and where you are?

...Loki?

[ Small breath. He's finally back in his little hill hole, exhausted from the night. It had been....weird. ]

I remember. Why wouldn't I, did something else happen?

Enchantments. I'll explain in person. It's all still being sorted out at large.

[That said, Kaiba can hear background noises of someone moving around. Probably Loki, as he's gathering some stuff before he'll be heading towards Kaiba.]

I feel like I've woken up from a deep sleep. Like I need about five cups of coffee...but it's just that. And a little irritation.

[ The annoying little wings that have stretched his shirts and made it impossible to sleep on his back, namely. He stumbles a bit as he goes to unlock the door. ]

But we were gathered together for a darker purpose, right?

Not necessarily a darker purpose. I'd classify this as mischief, not mayhem. I know the difference, believe me.

[Loki's tone is dry with those words.]

I'm on my way. I'll bring food and drink.

[Cutting the feed for now.]

...thanks.

[ Stupid...ugh, those little wings are irritating. He wills them to flatten once more, and makes it to the door where he steps outside to wait. There are familiar circles under his eyes, but he's mostly fine. How Loki manages to take command and carry on, though...it's impressive.

He smiles a little when he sees the man. ]

You look well. I forgot to ask...did you suffer any ill effects?

[Loki is dressed back in what had become familiar rather than formal, though not the clothing he arrived in. Dagger still sheathed against his waist and back, and a satchel at his side. Carrying a jug and a cloth bag as well.]

Seething anger, although I think I'm doing well to keep that from being obvious so I might be lying about that.

[It's said far too cheerfully and easily. The cloth bag is shoved Kaiba's way as it contains some light food that's easy to eat--sandwiches and chopped veggies and fruit and cheese really. In addition to his notes, he has cups in the satchel.]

Actually I'd rather no one be able to tell that yes, I am angry. So keep that quiet.

I will, don't worry.

[ Kaiba invites him in once more, and the place is definitely cleaned up some. He carefully lays out the food and sits to eat, huffing in annoyance as a wing reacts to the burst of energy by fluttering, straining against the fabric.

Sigh. ]

Do you think everyone will be all right? What can be done?

[Placing the jug down, Loki studies the younger man. Blue-green eyes narrow at the sound of cloth moving.]

Turn around, and honestly? Going with the theory that Vaeros is a Fae of some power, then we all got off quite lightly and will be alright in time.

[He's fishing the cups out as well, but watching Kaiba.]

...Hm? Well. Whatever happened, it had better be temporary.

[ Seto looks slightly put-out, but obeys. ]

[Good, because Loki is studying that suspicious lump and flutter against his back.]

If it's not we'll find a way to deal. Off with the shirt and show me the damage, so I know what I'm dealing with.

[A hint of command in the tone too, this is a Prince demanding compliance here.]

To start with, the feast was enchanted. Which I suspected, but it only seemed to put us in a good mood. Likely to make us more pliable to what came after. The clothing and ball most certainly were, as I wonder just how many of us actually were there, as it never seemed too crowded or to not be 'busy'. The mistletoe was the most obvious enchantment, but it wouldn't surprise me to find others put around to encourage good feeling and fellowship among us all. A sense of openness. At some point, we all started to feel comfortable and sleepy, and that was when we had a dream involving a golden dragon. Warning us that we were being tricked, and to remember why we do not want to be here. Also that it needed our help. A few of us snapped out of things easily upon waking, others not so luckily so. Amnesia and some memory modifications.

[Succinct and giving him the briefing as it were.]

I remember the dragon. Another victim of Vaeros...?

[ Seto huffs in embarrassment as he peels his shirt off, revealing more than he wants to. The most obvious are two pointy silvery-blue wings, flaring out and stretching as they're freed. They're small, about the size of Loki's hands, but causing trouble.

Between and below them, though, are a scattering of scars in thin straight lines stretching mostly-horizontally. ]

These stupid things are just an annoyance. I'm fine.

[Loki said nothing, but his brain was making mental notes. Primarily about the wings, but also those scars. Holding out his hand it was a silent request to give him the shirt. He could handle modifying it for now.]

I see. I wonder if anyone else has any new modifications.

The dragon is likely so, but I don't have confirmation. In truth the things I don't know about all of this are more than I do and it vexes me. Eat, have something to drink, I have notes to share.

[Kaiba can have his shirt back once it's ensured he'll be more comfy in it. Assuming it's passed over, Loki has a serviceable dagger and is able to cut a slit for the wings to fit through.]

[ Seto releases the breath he'd been holding. It's all right. He hands his shirt to Loki and sits a little awkwardly, starting on the meal. It's a welcome relief. ]

Pieces of a puzzle too large for any one person to solve...but maybe together it can be done.

Exactly, and I've already started talking to others and am trying to determine who to trust and who else is useful and legitimately helpful.

[Matter of fact about it really, and Kaiba is passed his shirt back before Loki takes a seat himself. Cups out and pouring a light non-alcoholic something for them both. Not water, probably some kind of tea.]

Aside from the aftermath, did you at least enjoy the ball?

[One half of his mouth is quirked up in a grin.]

I did, even knowing it was all suspicious. It was a very well-laid trap, if annoying.

...Thanks.

[ Now there's the effort of wiggling his wings into place. He's still learning how to control them, so it takes a few moments to find the openings, but he's much more comfortable now. ]

I met some interesting people. It wasn't the worst social event I've ever attended. But I'm left wondering how extensively my emotions were manipulated, what was even real...

Which is entirely understandable and I'd worry if you weren't questioning things.

[Loki's tone was sympathetic, and he was making an effort to be genuine with it too. Because he was sympathetic. There were things in Kaiba that reminded him of himself when younger. It was an unusual feeling, but Loki accepted it. The other was intelligent and useful, and it seemed alright for now to accept the unusual feeling. Much as he accepted that he cared for Alice in an unusual way too.]

I will reiterate what I said, in that you have had enough of your life stolen from you, and your years are short. Try to have fun, even with all of the obstacles that get put in front of us.

[Now there is a grin on his face.]

Think of it as training your adaptability and imagination, if you must.

[ Seto reflects on this, but soon realizes...no, that could be misinterpreted. He shakes his head and looks back at Loki, taking a sip of his tea before speaking.

The familiar words touch his heart. ]

No, I believe...what I felt toward you is real. I'm still glad to have you here. I feel better about a lot of things.

I guess Vaeros stirring up discontent and starting conflicts would've been worse, right?

[The words make Loki chuckle, a bit darkly.]

Most people usually aren't so glad to see me, but I appreciate that. You do know what I'm the god of, right?

[Best to start warning the kid now. Even if Loki was better, he'd never not be god of mischief. Here at least, he was learning to put it to good use. That was part of what rankled him too with regard to Vaeros. It had been the kind of trick LOKI would've have been capable of. He'd pulled similar enough before.]

I don't think this was meant to stir up discontent or start conflicts. I know what mischief of that nature looks like too. Saying the right words to the wrong person, planting an idea here or there that seems entirely reasonable when one is not thinking clearly... That kind of manipulation is a specialty of mine.

I haven't forgotten. But I don't see the harm in trusting or helping you.

[ A little smile. He's feeling a bit better. ]

Then the purpose of these spells...was to pacify us into accepting our situation?

[Loki actually looked at him with raised brows for a moment, as his expression flickered from the practiced mask into genuine surprise. He let it stay there as well, the smile natural now and not teasing or mischievous anymore.]

I'm actually touched by that. Thank you. I don't know what the purpose of the spells was really, though that is the likeliest explanation. It fits the patterns that Fae are established to use, at least so far as those I've consulted with know. The big question is 'why'.

Eat. Once you're more steady I'll show you notes.

[ Seto nods and smiles, slowly eating his meal. It doesn't take long to get his strength back, especially with the lingering warm feeling. It's still weird, but that's okay. He'll leave it be for now. ]

All right. I want to help find what we're up against...and any more clues on if freeing the dragon would better our position or not. I'm fond of dragons, so I'm a little biased.

[While he ate, Loki had pulled out a leatherbound notebook. Adding to it, as there were some loose pages already. Old style pen, and he wrote easily in neat and compact script. Runescript, so not easily read either unless one understood runes. It was his way of letting Kaiba have some privacy.]

I thought you might be. I've already also conferred with Eilonwy, as she is of a like mind. She's not alone, but she is who I would suggest you talk with. A skilled princess raised to manage the kingdom of Prydain in Llyr, though it is unfamiliar with me, she has a solid knowledge in the ways that being a ruler requires from all I can tell. She's familiar with magic, has been here for a bit, and has intelligence, cleverness, and discretion from all I can tell. There are others as well, but it's a very loose confederation so far. This will be a very long game to be played.

I'll have to seek her out.

So we're some kind of informal resistance?

[ He's not sure what sort of help he can be here, but he's never one to give up. He looks at the structure of the runes with interest. ]

[The runes are only visible briefly before Loki's turning to share the public notes he'd been keeping. The notebook is handed to Kaiba to read.]

Assuming there isn't one already, and there likely is. I'm just coming in late to all of this after all. I doubt this is the first time Vaeros has done something to make people made at him. There are also plenty of reasons and ways and times people might make a 'wish' and never expect it to be granted this one time.

Right. It's such a well-laid trap, who hasn't wished for their conditions to be better?

[ He takes his time reading, taking quiet mental notes. ]

But that goes back to our main mission. Forming connections...so I suppose the party might have had some positive effect.

Actually, the request was that we 'live' here for an undetermined amount of time. Living would involve creating ties here, connections or not. But there are lots of whys in play here.

I would actually like your thoughts, before I go into anything else. Impressions, so on. You had a lot of trouble believing in all of this when we first met. You don't question it now.

[That latter is a statement, and Loki wants to know why and what changed for Kaiba. How things changed.]

For example, I can offer you no proof that I am who I claim and yet you seem to accept my word alone.

[ It's a bit of a tough question. He laughs a little. ]

It's hard to be so skeptical about what's going on when these are poking me when I try to sleep.

[ He gestures at a wing over his shoulder. ]

And I haven't had a reason to disbelieve you yet. Your actions are consistent with who you say you are.

If you just called me 'predictable' then I am going to murder you.

[But Loki says it with a laugh, which may or may not be reassuring to the other.]

Maybe you're consistently inconsistent. Is that wrong?

[ Seto laughs, just a bit...he still trusts him, of course. ]

My point is I've had a few days to adjust. I'm ready to engage in reality now, as weird as it is.

[Fortunately, Loki can see the humor in it too. Mostly.]

You may come to regret trusting me. I'm rather well known for betrayal.

[Loki wondered why it mattered, too. That he be trusted.]

But whether I like it or not, I am stuck here as are we all, and there is a common mystery. As you say, to accept reality. Which is often more strange than we choose to believe or recognize.

[Gesturing to the notebook.]

So I would like to know your thoughts still. In general, specifics, whatever is coming to your mind.

I've been backstabbed a few times. Still hurts, but maybe it'd hurt less.

[ Said as a joke...but that really would hurt. Still, Seto takes the time to read everything, closing his eyes to think once he's done. ]

The part about the townsfolk serving Vaeros bothers me the most, I think...implying that there are eyes on us at all times. I wonder if there are other layers of surveillance. If I was interested in quashing any potential rebellion, that's what I would do.

That assumes he has no way of scrying on us some other way as well. And how he might. The network is likely bugged, of course.

[Loki appreciated the thoughts and input.]

There's still too much we don't know. Especially if there is already some kind of resistance in place. But I thought you'd want in on whatever might be going on, and you're intelligent enough that I'd like to have your thoughts and help.

...Thanks for thinking of me. I really appreciate it.

[ Someone actually wanting to include him is still new, given his reputation back on Earth. ]

I'll let you know if I find anything else...if the amnesia effects were breakable, I hope these will fade too.

[ He gestures over his shoulder at a little wing. He didn't even get ones big enough to fly with! Not that that was anatomically possible with human bone structure normally, but with magic in the equation...anyway, how rude. ]

If they aren't, we'll find a way.

[Loki had chosen his wording there deliberately. This whole place and experience was...changing him. So far he didn't think in bad ways. But it would definitely take him some adjusting.]

So tell me what you did enjoy at the ball? I got to dance with, and kiss, some pretty ladies and handsome fellows. I enjoyed myself with a good time and a bit of theater too.

[ Right, he should be specific. Seto rakes a hand through his hair, thinking back on the memories. ]

I met an excitable young duck. She was fun to talk to. I met another young woman, and an interesting fellow...I might've danced once or twice.

I hadn't forgotten my training in that after all.

You met Webbigail Vanderquack then. She was the one who wished for the slumber party. Clever and intelligent young lady, has apparently been doing research. I'm definitely going to keep an eye on her.

[Loki approved, although Kaiba gave him no other info to identify the other two.]

I danced, I drank, I kissed and managed to avoid any major secrets spilling. I learned quite a lot about others. It's quite easy to see why the Fae use that as a trick, it's very potent. If I hadn't been part of it, I'd be amused at it all.

[ Yes, Loki absolutely had a wild night. Impressive. ]

So there was some good...

But was prompting us to reveal our weaknesses a major aim, then? For Vaeros's eyes?

[Loki has had wilder. Tamer as well. It hadn't been 'boring' which is what mattered to him.]

I find it interesting, and telling, of your background that you phrase it that way. It did occur to me that it might also be what was going on, but I don't honestly think it was viewed that way by our host. I doubt he was watching the specifics. I have a few different ideas as to why, but I don't know enough about him yet.

I come from a place of dealing with constant sabotage attempts.

Not that I'm individually important enough to be worth his effort, but with enough power to manipulate an entire group...

But the main manipulation was to keep us content. Which is strange, but doesn't provide a clue about the bigger goal.

[Loki stood up, pacing a bit while he thought.]

It lends evidence to the idea that he's a Fae. It's a classic ploy of theirs from the stories I understand. Our contracts also wish us to 'live' here, and this would be a way for us to do so. To make us want to do so.

[But there was still far too much Loki didn't know. That they all didn't know. Turning, he tilted his head while he studied Kaiba again.]

We can speculate all we want and go around in circles for hours I'm sure. Do not lose your caution or your guard. But I think we'll be better served by focusing on other things for now.

Do you feel better, somewhat?

[ A thoughtful nod. Kaiba stood, nodding with a little smile. ]

I do, thank you. I know you have other work to be doing.

But I'll keep looking around and fill you in if I find anything else, all right?

[Loki just nodded with the thanks, and moved to come retrieve his notebook and satchel. Finishing what was in one of the cups, before replacing that in his bag too.]

Get yourself that weapon if you haven't already. We'll find a time to start practice and teaching you how to use it effectively. Keep in touch.

[On the 24th Kaiba will find a small bag of chocolates and a holiday card with his name on it that reads,]

Merry Christmas!
- Arrakis Faylare

[The chocolates are dragon shaped. They are made of dark chocolate and are mildly spicy.]

[Delivered to Kaiba's door by a giant owl is a box. Should he open it there it is filled with goodies to help survive the winter. There are two candles, one made of beeswax, bright and yellow, another is scented with cinnamon, orange, and pine. Next to the honey wand is a whole jar of honey that came from Aurora's bees, much like the beeswax honey. But it's not just honey and nuts, there is a sweet treat as well. Raspberry tarts are wrapped up safely to ensure they do not crumble.

In the box is a letter with elegant handwriting:]

Warmest and Joyous Yule Greetings to you, Seto.
May this help get you through winter to spring's awakening.
I wish you well.
Kindest of regards,
Princess Aurora

[ In the morning if Kaiba steps outside his home, he will find a dried flower wreath hanging on the door, delivered by the mail mice. Attached to the wreath is a tag. ]

To Kaiba,

Happy Holidays!

- Willow

Hey Seto! I left something for you on the mantle of the fireplace... Go check it out!

[ You can probably hear the smile in his words. He's found a frame for the picture and set it up there so it's easily within sight whenever anyone enters the room.]

[ Seto always smiles when he hears Mokuba's voice. ]

I'll take a look.

[ He steps out, eyes immediately zeroing in on the familiar drawing. He swallows hard as he touches the frame reverently. After a moment, he calls again. ]

...When will you be back? I want to see you.

I was trying to get the real Blue Eyes back for you... but I guess I wasn't specific enough and I found that instead.

I'm just outside! I've been working on my shifting.

Be right there.

[ And as soon as Seto steps outside, he hurries to Mokuba and sweeps him into a tight hug. He's visibly emotional. ]

...Thank you. You don't know how much I needed to see that old drawing today.

[ Mokuba gets a little flustered by the hug, cheeks turning pink. He's not used to Seto being so affectionate... but he still enjoys it very much so it only takes a moment for him to quickly hug his brother back.

Seeing him that emotional and hearing those words... Mokuba can't help but ask... ] Is everything okay...?

[ Seto looks a little embarrassed at being caught. He hates to worry Mokuba, but his brother deserves honesty. ]

...I had a nightmare last night. About Gozaburo. He was...lashing out at me like he did back then.

Oh. [ Mokuba goes a little quiet, unsure of what to say to help. He didn't know Seto still had dreams about that... But he tries to help cheer him up anyway. ] Sometimes dreams can be really scary, huh... Good thing that's all they are, just dreams!

[ For a moment, he has the flashing thought of wondering if Gozaburo could ever turn up here... or anyone else they've ever faced that was scary... It's always a possibility, he can't deny that, but... even if someone does, they'll get through it, just like they have everything else before. ]

You're right, Mokuba.

[ Seto smiles softly at him...but he's getting older now, so maybe he can be a little more honest. ]

He was telling me that he hated the person I've become. No surprise, right? But he told me that I was being a fool, and that I'll end up worse off when this is over. But he's wrong.

I must've been thinking about how much life's changed. It's not a bad thing, right?

[ Mokuba scowls as he pictures their stepfather saying those words. ] No surprise there. He should have looked in a mirror and figured out who the fool really was. [ He grins at Seto proudly. ] You're the one who got the company in the end!

I think everything's been changing for the better. What do you think?

Yeah, definitely. It's still a lot to get used to, but...this is where I want to be.

[ He grins. ]

So next on my list is getting you a CapMon board. I'll let you lead the way on that.

[ Mokuba brightens at the mention of CapMon and he does a fist pump into the air. ] Yeah! I've been using chess pieces to make monsters of the ones I remember so I can add a base set to your game library! But having a real set would be awesome!

I'll get it as soon as I can. The crystal's fickle a lot of the time.

But I'd love to see you play.

Only if you're the first person to play with me!

Do you think you'll ever get any things for Duel Monsters back here?

It's on the list. But I'll have to push myself to make it happen.

Nothing will stop me from dueling again, though.

You've changed a lot since coming here but I can't imagine you never dueling again. Glad to hear it!

[This would come by Text first.]

Let me know when you're free alright? I need to drop something off and say somethings too. Nothing bad, I assure you.

I should be free now. Puck helped me clean up the house, so it's habitable again. Everyone's safe, finally.

But don't push yourself harder than you need to. You've been through the wringer.

I both have and have not been through worse. I'm on my way.

I'll see you soon.

[ Seto's faced a whirlwind of emotions since...all the mess. The confrontation had scared him in ways he couldn't quite describe. He knew Loki was no stranger to this kind of nonsense. How cruel.

But most importantly, he'd missed him. So he opened the door with the slightest smile. ]

How are you holding up?

[It didn't take long, and Loki was empty handed. But gave a smile that was only slightly tired.]

Better than I expected. But, as I said, I've been through worse in some ways. Though MY being under mind control was new.

[Stepping inside, and once the door was shut, Loki continued softly.]

It's not the first time I've had another in my head though. I swore never again if I have any say in it...

[Loki had had some say in it this time, but it hadn't been enough. Still, he'd fought it off until Sky had wounded him decently.]

Thank you again. And I'm very sorry. I hope I didn't hurt you. It was...like I was asleep. I wasn't really aware until I was free, so I don't actually know what I did to you all.

[Loki raised his hands in front of him while speaking, right fiddling with the left, and couldn't look at Kaiba right away.]

Loki...

[ Seto listens patiently. He knows this must be difficult...it had been worrying, but they'd made it through. ]

The worst he did was get in my head and order me out of the way. That bothered me...but I was more worried about you.

[He steps closer and lays a hand on his arm, looking seriously up at him. ]

But we were never going to let him keep you. How foolish, to try to take you from us.

[That gets a small and slightly sad smile, but blue-green eyes meet Seto's own.]

I hadn't actually fully realized my relief when you all did free me, as part of me still thought perhaps no one would. That I'd deserve all of that, and to be used. It was a small part of me, but centuries of wounds and all that, you know.

[Making himself take a deep breath, and stop fidgeting by placing his hand over Kaiba's.]

I mostly am here to apologize, and check on you. Your household is well?

We're all right. The knight took Atem too...but he's safe now.

[ Seto smiles a little at Loki, and upon hearing about those old wounds...he steps forward and awkwardly pulls Loki into a half-hug with his free hand. ]

You don't deserve that. Never. Losing you for a little while made me realize how much I hated that state of affairs.

[Loki blinked in surprise at Seto initiating a hug, but smiled and hugged him back warmly. Holding it just enough that the other could tell he meant it, he understood, and he was grateful.]

I'm glad that I can be a good influence, and father-figure, for you. You deserve that.

[He was ready though, when Seto would break the hug, to let the other do so. The boy really had made amazing progress, and Loki was proud of him. And proud to have been an influence, hopefully in good ways, too.]

I'd never let you go so easily.

[ He's still a bit awkward about this, but Seto knows it's important to express his affection right now. He takes a moment to hold on tight before he pulls back. Still smiling. ]

Right, then. Guess I should ask what brings you here?

Well, for one--I have no idea when your birthday is. For another, even if I did--I wanted to get you something. To try and apologize for any harm I caused you.

[Once free, Loki gestured and a familiar looking briefcase appeared in one hand. Shifting, he opened it, and held it steady for Kaiba to see what it was fully. Loki had been a bit surprised himself, but this seemed to be better than a deck alone.]

It's at the end of October. Mokuba's and Atem's are coming up next month, so I've been saving for them.

[ Seto looks surprised to see the familiar object. Company logo embossed in the metal, matching his favorite coat. It's solid as ever, and inside, enough cards to create a number of decks. He trails his fingers along the edges, still not quite sure it's real. He's still smiling. ]

Someday when I open my game room, I'll be able to teach new duelists. And this case is actually bulletproof---I've had to use it as both weapon and shield before.

Well, I'm glad I got this for you then. Hopefully it'll stand up to a dagger or sword too.

[Loki proceeded to close the briefcase and hand it to Seto. Then he conjured a second one, in a shimmer of green, as well.]

This one also contains cards--hopefully suitable enough to stand up to what's in your own.

[Offering that to Seto Kaiba too.]

[ Two cases...he's impressed. His mood's definitely brighter now. ]

It means a lot. Seriously, thank you. But you didn't owe me anything, by the way. Wasn't your fault.

Maybe not, but I know what I'm capable of. And despite what some might think, I do have a set of ethics I follow. I don't think the Knight did--and I'm thankful that his control didn't also seem to know how to...well...use me properly.

Yeah...it could've been worse.

[ Seto's expression darkens a little. ]

Actually, I was wondering about that. It seemed the rest of the group could resist mind control, and I couldn't. How do I get better at that?

Normally I'm more resistant to it myself. But you can learn, and I can teach you if you trust me to. Some of what you've been learning with how to manipulate your magic will help with the basics too.

Of course I trust you.

I'd really like that. I'd like to think we can be better prepared for each new trial.

Did you want to start now?

[Loki brought his hands up once more, right fidgeting with the left.]

I will have to...well, poke at you, a bit. To measure your progress. But especially in the beginning, you'll have warning that I'm going to do so.

All right. No better time than the present.

[ He takes a breath and smiles. ]

And it's fine. I know you won't seriously hurt me.

I don't want to hurt you at all, Seto!

[That was such an honest statement and had slipped out of Loki before he'd really thought about it.]

[ Guilt flickers across Seto's face. ]

I didn't mean to imply that. I just wasn't sure if mental battles are ever painful, like a headache or somethihng.

[Loki reached out, placing a hand on the other's shoulder.]

It can be--a mind is like any other muscle. It can be overworked. But I meant more that I never want to hurt you, if I can help it, Seto. You've had too much of that in your short life already. You're part of my chosen family.

Got it. It'll be fine, headaches are just a ripple on the pond for me.

[ A little wry smile. Life in the office...]

So how do we begin?

Edited 2024-06-22 03:17 (UTC)

Very simply. It's going to be similar to you 'feeling' how your magic moves, except this won't be lightening. It's more you want to start focusing on 'you'. That is, how does your own energy feel. What makes up 'Seto', in your mind. Once you have a firm grasp of who 'you' are, in that sense--then you'll start imagining shields around it.

Who am I...

[ Seto closes his eyes as he thinks. There's his burning feelings....desire to strive for the best, fierce love of Mokuba, kinship with the pharaoh, a chosen family...But outside of his relationships, who is he.

He stands tall. He comes at his adversaries with ferocity. He never gives up, using the tools on hand...his mind chief among them. And he starts to fixate on all of that, trying to imagine a shield going up. ]

It's fuzzy...but I think I might have a first step.

It'll take time, so don't expect to master it instantly.

[But Loki also wanted to reassure Seto. Because he seemed more certain, in a hundred little postural cues, from what Loki could tell. It was a good first step.]

And practice. But that's what you want to focus on, for now.

[ Seto opens his eyes to look at Loki, and he smiles a little. ]

Mm. So I should do that for a while, and then you'll test me? Or you could push me now...just so I know.

Are you giving me permission to? Because I can, if you'll feel better about it.

[Loki had a quiet little smirk on his face.]

Yeah. I need to know how far I have to go.

[ He seems grimly determined. He has no illusions about his ability right now, but...first step. ]

Very well.

[Permission had been given, so Loki reached out with his mental magic and his telepathy. There were no outward signs he was doing so. Nothing to clue Seto in.

It was easy to brush against the other's mind undetected. Child's play, honestly. But Loki would fix that in time. He looked at the glowing blue-wall. Serviceable, but not very solid or fixed yet.

He almost felt sorry for what he was going to do to Seto. The other'd end up with some quick and mild headpain behind his eyes from this.]

You did give me permission.

[The mental voice was different than when Loki had been possessed, but had echoes of it too. Loki's voice, all whispery and every changing. Reminder given, he then poked the shield. Hard. It should fizzle out like a light, with how weak it seemed. ]

Agh---

[ He can hardly process what's happening. Seto blinks, feels a zap, and hears his voice like before.

He lifts a hand to his temple and winces. ]

Okay, I get the point. So how do I stop you?

You practice, for one. I've seen worse from those who should know better. Get used to how 'you' feel. Learn to know yourself so that you don't have to consciously think about who you are. Then start thinking about putting up that wall and keeping it up. Eventually you want it to be unconscious.

[Loki smirked a bit.]

And then we get into layers and how to make it stronger. I've been teaching Eilonwy as well, so she might have advice for you that I do not.

Got it. It's on the list of daily training exercises.

[ He nods, still a little shaken. But he needs to work hard, like training any other muscle. ]

What all can you see of me? Do you have full access to my memories?

If I wanted to, yes. I could even make you relive them in a way. I've had that talent since before gaining telepathy. Likewise I've been able to somewhat mentally manipulate others, in the manner of nudging their words and thoughts the way I want it to go, without either an aid or telepathy, for years. I'm also familiar with mental magics---I think I've mentioned before that I essentially usurped Asgard's throne by making Odin forget who he was and stashing him in an old folk's home in New York before.

[Entirely up front about all of that.]

Mmm. I trust that you'd never hurt me, it's only training.

[ Deep breath. ]

And do you have to be in range, or can you do this from a distance?

I would not harm you intentionally, and any training pains would be minor. You are my family.

[Re-affirming that for the other, with a small smile.]

I have to be within range, usually. Since gaining telepathy--I do not know if it would work at a distance. I haven't tried.

[ And a little smile in return. He loves his godfather so...it's just hard to express sometimes. ]

I was asking because...I wondered if you could reach me in an emergency, if something happened to the tablets.

[That makes Loki blink, as that hadn't occurred to him. It made sense, and he felt foolish for not having thought about that possibility before. Not that it showed, beyond a little chuckle and a hint of rue in his smile.]

That's a good idea. We might have to test it sometime, if you're willing. I do suggest you talk to Eilonwy though. As I mentioned, I've been teaching her for about 5 months or so now.

I will. Maybe she can give me an idea of what progress might look like. This whole area isn't my strong suit, but that just means I need to train harder to catch up.

[That brought more chuckling, and Loki reached out to squeeze Seto's shoulder.]

I do not doubt your commitment nor determination. Pushing too hard won't help you though, so pace yourself. If you get a headache--stop. Take care of that and rest. Alright?

I won't push too hard, but I need to push some. It feels...urgent, to prepare for something stronger. The threats have been getting worse.

[ There's still a little smile, though. He's grateful that Loki cares so much. ]

But I'll follow your guidance on the training schedule.

Edited 2024-06-24 01:55 (UTC)

Good. For now focus on what we've started and keep me aware of things. And I'm proud of progress you have made so far, while being here.

[With a genuine smile and another shoulder squeeze.]

How are you?

I'm fine. Puck's taking care of Loki right now, and that's what matters to me.

Were you hurt?

I'm fine. Don't worry about me. I'm concern about you.

I'm fine. He only had me controlled for a moment---then I pretended to still be under his control, so I could try to trick him.

We're training together to prevent a repeat in the future.

That's mind control for you hard to not succumb to the mind control. Good luck with the training

Edited 2024-07-05 00:02 (UTC)

[One morning in early October, Kaiba will find a delivery at his doorstep. A box of tea meant to calm, various snacks a mix of sweet and savory, and a piece of paper designed to like a ticket with Admit One on it. There's also a letter: Hello Kaiba! With the devices acting up, I thought you'd like some entertainment. I've been overdue for a practice run in my magic, and what better than an audience? You're welcomed to attend at [ooc- Directions to Puck's cottage here]. Your friend, Puck. ]

[During 12/25, Kaiba will find a very warm blanket with a small silver dragon motif in one of the corners. There's also a card with well wishes and: To Seto- It's not the same as a dragon itself, but I hope it helps to keep you warm. I've also delivered one to Mokuba so you'll both match. Happy Holidays- Puck]

[Seto might wake to a small firebird waiting patiently outside his window. If let inside, it chirps happily, then dissolves into a harmless flicker of flames. In its place there is a note, a hand-bound notebook, as well as some tea and potpourri.]

Seto,

For those late nights at the Library. Please take care and let me know if I can help.

Merry Christmas.

~Chise

[ A box is left outside Kaiba's Home, with the following items!

Obtained
x1 Box of Chocolates
x1 Box of Cookies
x1 A squeaky duck that looks weirdly similar to Kaiba
x1 Durable stuffed dragon that looks like Blue Eyes White Dragon
x1 A Small sakura flower that fell from a tree that will never age or die. It is clearly imbued with magic to make it this way. It seems like it can easily be crushed or destroyed by other means, though. Handle with care!
x1 Photonic Crystal

Card/Letter: Let me know what you do with it!ദ്ദി(˵ •̀ ᴗ - ˵ ) ✧ - BB

She means the photonic crystal. ]

Labyrinthum Inbox

Aftermath of the Event. Voice--UN: SilverTongue

voice, un: s.kaiba

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Moving to Action?

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cw: body transformation, allusions to past abuse

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Christmas Gift

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Post The Green! Dream Event

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->action

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