The words hit Amaya's ears and she's...honestly a little struck, when she hears him say that. The idea that he trusts her back on such a level is...strange. It makes her feel so, so very empty that she almost wishes she could get him to talk about something inane again, but she recognizes this for what it is. He...trusts her. Her, who's already proven she can lie to him. Her, who can't even return that gentleness, that softness as the rest of his words hit her...
It's a strange and empty feeling, and it makes her realize just how hollow she really is. That even the idea of making him so damned happy has made her own empty, wanting heart feel a deep sense of depression.
It doesn't hit her face, though. She just wishes she could smile to him.]
Then we shall do the utmost to leave no stone unturned, while we are here. To see if we cannot find the means with which to jog your memories, if possible.
[And yet, when she speaks again, her tone is intense--it isn't quite soft or kind, but it almost feels like an oath.]
It truly is no trouble, though. You really do deserve that chance.
And...well, I ought to repay you for the burden of taking care of me today somehow, yes?
[Her expression doesn't change, but her words do, taking on the weight of an oath. He recognizes that intensity, that need to express something very important and put the proper weight on it. It's what he does sometimes, after all.
Zvei laughs - the usual sharp, short laugh - and finally finishes with her hair, taking a step back.]
Let's see how you like it, first. I think I did a fairly good job of recreating your usual style!
[But her words truly make it clear that she does want to help. That this isn't just an offer of kindness, but one of desire. She wants to help him. A crazy, unbelievable idea, but one she puts forth with such sincerity that he has no choice but to believe her. Some part of him wishes he still had the excuse of his hands in his hair, just so he could remain close for a little while longer.]
You don't have to repay me, but I'm pleased you want to help. You're full of surprises, aren't you, miss Amaya?
[Amaya will check herself over, running her hands gently through the loose parts of her hair and gently checking over the braids--they seem to be perfectly snug and secure, and not even a single snarl to be found.]
I would say so, truly. Aneirin may have some competition, going forward; you exceeded my expectations.
[Still, Amaya turns to face Zvei, her gaze a little blank but...]
...I do not often try to be; it is usually unintentional. But I...do try my best, to live as sincerely as I can now that I have the opportunity. Even if I gain nothing in return from it. I do not need to. I am simply...happy to be of use, yes.
[...]
You really did memorize my hairstyle quite well. If you...ever wish to do this again, I would not mind if you did.
[And, without missing a beat, almost attempting to joke--]
It's almost as if you like this style on me. Maybe I'll have to see what else you like.
[Zvei grins at the praise; he's fallen right back into his usual demeanor, but then, of course he has. This is how he's lived his life for nearly the past seven years, it's simply easier this way.]
I would be delighted to help again, miss Amaya. Whenever you need your hair redone.
[But that joke gets a fake gasp from him, raising a hand to cover his mouth with a delighted grin.]
Oh dear, whatever gave you that idea? Surely it isn't because you're so exceptionally cute with that look— oops, I shouldn't be flattering you too much or I might risk embarrassing you again~
Oh? But you can call anyone cute! Why, there are quite a few people here who are very cute! Now you'd be forgiven if you started getting ideas were I to call you pretty or beautiful or perhaps even gorgeous, right?
[He says without an ounce of shame or a moment of hesitation...]
[...she is slowly realizing it, but is she going to stop??? not yet!!! please just ignore that she is growing redder and redder with each possible compliment--]
Sure you can, but that usually comes with implications. As do the rest of those...descriptive words. [Amaya is praying she doesn't look nearly as red in the face as she thinks she looks. She doesn't! ...She's redder!] But yes, those words would certainly give one ideas. In fact, I think it's...cute, that you have to resort to such hypothetical statements.
Have I somehow made you get shy?
[Let it be known that Amaya is stupid. (bottom text)]
Oh, miss Amaya... Have I ever given off the impression that I can be shy?
[that involves shame. do you think this man has shame??????]
Allow me to take this beyond the realm of the hypothetical, then! You are pretty, beautiful, and gorgeous - and perhaps the greatest compliment I can give: you're fascinating. There isn't anyone quite like you, and I'm incredibly pleased we've had the chance to meet and get to know one another.
[Oh. Oh, just ignore the sound in the background, it almost sounds like Amaya took a super effective hit in this Pokemon battle--
She's gonna fucking die, dear gods those words feel like the worst kind of knives because she knows he's saying shit. She just doesn't get why he's directing it at her of all people! Stop that!!!]
P-Please do not get me wrong, I am--in as much as I can feel anything, meeting you has been a blessing I would not trade for the world. But I am...even you must admit, I am quite plain in comparison to people like Miss Cantarella? Even Miss Lynne, she's quite cute too, I'm...
[Her words die in her throat, her gaze going elsewhere as she feels her soul dying.]
You're right that they are both very cute, but I see no reason to compare one sort of beauty to another. It's like that saying goes... apples and oranges, correct? Even if you are "plain" - something I would argue, by the way! - there is a certain beauty in that too. Why, if anything, your striking features and sometimes cold demeanor may make you even more attractive to certain people~
[But he laughs; the usual short and sharp outburst that quickly dies out.]
I'll stop teasing you if you'd like, miss Amaya. I don't mean to be too hard on you. I would just like you to appreciate your beauty for its own merits!
[This man. This godsforsaken man. Amaya's face has officially gone that bright, tomatoy red again as her eyes screw shut, but...]
...It really isn't you, Zvei. It's...I've never heard this before in my life, all be told. For reasons that are likely obvious.
[She was the venerated messiah and sacrifice of a cult. She was the girl who attempted to end all of Madide in her anger and pain. She's her father's daughter, she's the girl everyone avoids whenever she actually travels outside of Fefello Caelum. She's never had an opportunity to escape that shadow in the slightest.
Amaya's eyes open, though her gaze averts.]
That is...not to say that I doubt your sincerity in the slightest. And as much as it does embarrass me, it is...kind of you. To say such a thing about me. It's so very different to what I am used to, and it is...hard to accept.
[...]
And I suppose I feel a touch...guilty, for being unable to return such a feeling in any meaningful way. Though I do...like spending time with you, I think.
[It's half-response, half-hum to fill space as he tries to figure out how he wants to respond. He could tell her it's nothing personal, that he just likes flirting with attractive people, but it is personal in this case. It's personal because she hasn't had this before. Because she's accepted that she's "plain" (she certainly isn't).]
There's nothing to feel guilty about. If you don't feel the same way, then that's fine! Do note that it isn't going to stop me from trying to get a rise out of you here and there, though~
[Another short, sharp laugh, but he reins it in momentarily.]
I doubt I need to tell you, but it's hardly anything serious on my end. I can't feel anything all that serious to begin with! So rest assured, I take no offense. And you certainly aren't free of me - we're a bit too deep in now for that, I think.
[Mutually assured destruction, indeed. Amaya listens as Zvei speaks, pausing a bit as she does. Her blush thankfully lightens a bit, not quite as blazing on her face as she gets her composure back.]
I know. I wouldn't want it any other way, you know...this much, I know with certainty. To have someone who sees me as I really am, who I...don't have to present a front for--it is freeing. In as much as I can feel it, anyway.
[Amaya looks to Zvei, her gaze blank as ever, but there is something she tries to inflect; a sort of understanding in her eyes. Understanding without pity; acceptance without sympathy.]
I won't stop you, of course. You would not be you, if you did not do such a thing. And I do not want you to be anyone but yourself, in the end...no matter what form that takes.
[She lets out a small noise.]
...And maybe I wouldn't mind seeing if you could make me feel something genuine, someday.
[Zvei is always going to be aggressively himself. It's the one thing that cannot and will not change, no matter how much he may try to obscure from the others. Good thing Amaya's accepted him as he is, because he certainly isn't changing now.
But that? That sounds like a challenge. Zvei grins widely, even showing off his tiny pointed fangs.]
Hah, you really do make it sound like something worth working towards.
[And then, pressing a hand to his chest and stooping into a bow, with the utmost serious tone:] I vow to spend the rest of my days endeavoring to earn that genuine emotion from you, miss Amaya.
[He's still grinning when he rights himself, and tosses in a wink for good measure.]
Make sure to reward me well when I do accomplish it!
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
necromants) wrote2025-11-01 09:01 pm
no subject
The words hit Amaya's ears and she's...honestly a little struck, when she hears him say that. The idea that he trusts her back on such a level is...strange. It makes her feel so, so very empty that she almost wishes she could get him to talk about something inane again, but she recognizes this for what it is. He...trusts her. Her, who's already proven she can lie to him. Her, who can't even return that gentleness, that softness as the rest of his words hit her...
It's a strange and empty feeling, and it makes her realize just how hollow she really is. That even the idea of making him so damned happy has made her own empty, wanting heart feel a deep sense of depression.
It doesn't hit her face, though. She just wishes she could smile to him.]
Then we shall do the utmost to leave no stone unturned, while we are here. To see if we cannot find the means with which to jog your memories, if possible.
[And yet, when she speaks again, her tone is intense--it isn't quite soft or kind, but it almost feels like an oath.]
It truly is no trouble, though. You really do deserve that chance.
And...well, I ought to repay you for the burden of taking care of me today somehow, yes?
no subject
Zvei laughs - the usual sharp, short laugh - and finally finishes with her hair, taking a step back.]
Let's see how you like it, first. I think I did a fairly good job of recreating your usual style!
[But her words truly make it clear that she does want to help. That this isn't just an offer of kindness, but one of desire. She wants to help him. A crazy, unbelievable idea, but one she puts forth with such sincerity that he has no choice but to believe her. Some part of him wishes he still had the excuse of his hands in his hair, just so he could remain close for a little while longer.]
You don't have to repay me, but I'm pleased you want to help. You're full of surprises, aren't you, miss Amaya?
no subject
I would say so, truly. Aneirin may have some competition, going forward; you exceeded my expectations.
[Still, Amaya turns to face Zvei, her gaze a little blank but...]
...I do not often try to be; it is usually unintentional. But I...do try my best, to live as sincerely as I can now that I have the opportunity. Even if I gain nothing in return from it. I do not need to. I am simply...happy to be of use, yes.
[...]
You really did memorize my hairstyle quite well. If you...ever wish to do this again, I would not mind if you did.
[And, without missing a beat, almost attempting to joke--]
It's almost as if you like this style on me. Maybe I'll have to see what else you like.
no subject
I would be delighted to help again, miss Amaya. Whenever you need your hair redone.
[But that joke gets a fake gasp from him, raising a hand to cover his mouth with a delighted grin.]
Oh dear, whatever gave you that idea? Surely it isn't because you're so exceptionally cute with that look— oops, I shouldn't be flattering you too much or I might risk embarrassing you again~
no subject
[But oh, oh no you don't mister--Amaya can't grin or joke around like others can, but her head tips a bit as she simply stares at him.
(It takes all of her will not to rile, though he can likely see some pink on her cheeks.)]
Exceptionally cute? Truly, that's what you think of me? Why, Zvei...you could give a girl ideas, speaking like that.
[She's not going to back down, she totally has this!!! Surely he's just as capable of flushing--]
no subject
Oh? But you can call anyone cute! Why, there are quite a few people here who are very cute! Now you'd be forgiven if you started getting ideas were I to call you pretty or beautiful or perhaps even gorgeous, right?
[He says without an ounce of shame or a moment of hesitation...]
no subject
Sure you can, but that usually comes with implications. As do the rest of those...descriptive words. [Amaya is praying she doesn't look nearly as red in the face as she thinks she looks. She doesn't! ...She's redder!] But yes, those words would certainly give one ideas. In fact, I think it's...cute, that you have to resort to such hypothetical statements.
Have I somehow made you get shy?
[Let it be known that Amaya is stupid. (bottom text)]
no subject
Oh, miss Amaya... Have I ever given off the impression that I can be shy?
[that involves shame. do you think this man has shame??????]
Allow me to take this beyond the realm of the hypothetical, then! You are pretty, beautiful, and gorgeous - and perhaps the greatest compliment I can give: you're fascinating. There isn't anyone quite like you, and I'm incredibly pleased we've had the chance to meet and get to know one another.
no subject
[Oh. Oh, just ignore the sound in the background, it almost sounds like Amaya took a super effective hit in this Pokemon battle--
She's gonna fucking die, dear gods those words feel like the worst kind of knives because she knows he's saying shit. She just doesn't get why he's directing it at her of all people! Stop that!!!]
P-Please do not get me wrong, I am--in as much as I can feel anything, meeting you has been a blessing I would not trade for the world. But I am...even you must admit, I am quite plain in comparison to people like Miss Cantarella? Even Miss Lynne, she's quite cute too, I'm...
[Her words die in her throat, her gaze going elsewhere as she feels her soul dying.]
You--utterly incorrigible man--
no subject
You're right that they are both very cute, but I see no reason to compare one sort of beauty to another. It's like that saying goes... apples and oranges, correct? Even if you are "plain" - something I would argue, by the way! - there is a certain beauty in that too. Why, if anything, your striking features and sometimes cold demeanor may make you even more attractive to certain people~
[But he laughs; the usual short and sharp outburst that quickly dies out.]
I'll stop teasing you if you'd like, miss Amaya. I don't mean to be too hard on you. I would just like you to appreciate your beauty for its own merits!
no subject
...It really isn't you, Zvei. It's...I've never heard this before in my life, all be told. For reasons that are likely obvious.
[She was the venerated messiah and sacrifice of a cult. She was the girl who attempted to end all of Madide in her anger and pain. She's her father's daughter, she's the girl everyone avoids whenever she actually travels outside of Fefello Caelum. She's never had an opportunity to escape that shadow in the slightest.
Amaya's eyes open, though her gaze averts.]
That is...not to say that I doubt your sincerity in the slightest. And as much as it does embarrass me, it is...kind of you. To say such a thing about me. It's so very different to what I am used to, and it is...hard to accept.
[...]
And I suppose I feel a touch...guilty, for being unable to return such a feeling in any meaningful way. Though I do...like spending time with you, I think.
no subject
[It's half-response, half-hum to fill space as he tries to figure out how he wants to respond. He could tell her it's nothing personal, that he just likes flirting with attractive people, but it is personal in this case. It's personal because she hasn't had this before. Because she's accepted that she's "plain" (she certainly isn't).]
There's nothing to feel guilty about. If you don't feel the same way, then that's fine! Do note that it isn't going to stop me from trying to get a rise out of you here and there, though~
[Another short, sharp laugh, but he reins it in momentarily.]
I doubt I need to tell you, but it's hardly anything serious on my end. I can't feel anything all that serious to begin with! So rest assured, I take no offense. And you certainly aren't free of me - we're a bit too deep in now for that, I think.
[Mutually assured destruction and all that.]
no subject
I know. I wouldn't want it any other way, you know...this much, I know with certainty. To have someone who sees me as I really am, who I...don't have to present a front for--it is freeing. In as much as I can feel it, anyway.
[Amaya looks to Zvei, her gaze blank as ever, but there is something she tries to inflect; a sort of understanding in her eyes. Understanding without pity; acceptance without sympathy.]
I won't stop you, of course. You would not be you, if you did not do such a thing. And I do not want you to be anyone but yourself, in the end...no matter what form that takes.
[She lets out a small noise.]
...And maybe I wouldn't mind seeing if you could make me feel something genuine, someday.
no subject
[Zvei is always going to be aggressively himself. It's the one thing that cannot and will not change, no matter how much he may try to obscure from the others. Good thing Amaya's accepted him as he is, because he certainly isn't changing now.
But that? That sounds like a challenge. Zvei grins widely, even showing off his tiny pointed fangs.]
Hah, you really do make it sound like something worth working towards.
[And then, pressing a hand to his chest and stooping into a bow, with the utmost serious tone:] I vow to spend the rest of my days endeavoring to earn that genuine emotion from you, miss Amaya.
[He's still grinning when he rights himself, and tosses in a wink for good measure.]
Make sure to reward me well when I do accomplish it!