Being as observant as he is, it was only a matter of time before Elidibus makes his way to Charlie's office. Each and every time he has met their local deity the man has appeared practically dead on his feet. It's a bone-deep sort of exhaustion that Elidibus has seen more than once, has experienced it himself - and has also experienced the false smiles that Charlie gives. An attempt to dissuade others that aught is wrong.
But Elidibus knows. Themis knows.
How could he do anything but offer his aid? Though he knows naught of the extensiveness of Charlie's workings, he will attempt to help regardless. So he finds himself walking inside quietly, looking around at the interior before making his way to where the bell sits.
"I have come to offer my aid, rather than request your own," he smiles as he speaks, but nonetheless can see exactly how tired Charlie appears. Coming right out and stating his intentions will cut to the heart of the matter and spare the other man from a lengthy discussion that may not be needed.
"You are worn thin, that much is clear, and I would do what I can to ease your burdens - in whatever manner that may be." From paperwork to growing trees, Elidibus is ready to do whatever is needed. But first, "And before you attempt to say that you are not tired, know that I already know it to be truth - please do not lie to me. I wish for us to be friends, and I will be as truthful to you as I with you will be with me."
Charlie is full of protest, but as soon as Elidibus speaks that truth, all of it escapes him like air from a balloon. He's right, of course. It's all Charlie can do to screw up his face and cross his arms with a sigh.
"All right." He concedes. "I do admit I have been surprised at the number of people who have come to me willing to help." The words come as he worries at the cuff of his sleeve with his fingers.
"Take a seat then, and at least let me fix us some tea or coffee. Whichever you prefer." He does look mildly uncomfortable, but that comes with the territory of being seen so immediately.
"While I get that going, please feel free to tell me if you have some kind of proposal."
"You are a good soul," he says easily, "so it comes to no surprise that many would take notice and lend their assistance. I admit a familiarity to your position, and I wish to render unto you the aid that I was never given." Not due to the fault of any others. There was no one else. Could be no one else.
He, too, knows the urge to remain busy. To fidget with a task, anything, in order to merely be doing something. "If only to busy your hands, I would enjoy tea - whichever blend you prefer at the moment," it comes with a small smile as Elidibus does as he is bidden and sits down.
"I do not have something so formal as a true proposal in mind, no, as much of what I may do depends on what your needs may be. As one not of this world, I am diminished, but would offer all I am able regardless of that." He considers his offer for a moment, "Know you the skills of my people and I? I am unsure of how much knowledge has been imparted due to your nature." It would do well to clarify.
He's not used to getting compliments so...directly. It makes him squirm, but he nods politely to Elidibus anyways. He knows protesting will only make it more so.
"You are familiar? I had an inkling when I met you. Beings who have had a brush with divinity have a certain..." He makes a completely vague gesture, "-thing about them."
The request for tea is indeed appreciated to keep himself busy with, and he sets about brewing a pot of apple-spice.
"I know what I have observed on the network and in public, but no more. I try not to pry unless it is absolutely imperative. A more verbose explanation would be appreciated, however." It's actually a comfort having other beings that could be considered divines around. People who have experienced it far longer than he.
"I am," he watches Charlie as he begins to brew the tea. "I served as the heart of a God, once, and became a sort of deity in my own right in addition to that connection. No longer, of course, that connection was severed upon my death, but the memories and experience remain."
So it is time for the long, lengthy explanation of what he and his people may do. Well, there is nothing for it. "My people could be considered some manner of deities by merit of our mere existence, though we are born and may die as any mortal race may..." he launches in to the explanation of what, exactly, the Ancients are. Their agelessness - immortality to a point - the sheer vastness of the pools of energy they may command, the wealth of knowledge they possessed. Who and what the Convocation are, and Elidibus's membership therein.
And, of course, the existence of Creation magicks. That those abilities still work as intended in this world, despite their weakened state.
"...and so, that is what I have to offer. My thousands of years of knowledge, experience, and all else that I may bring - as Elidibus and as myself."
Elidibus licks his lips, swallows. His throat will appreciate the tea.
Charlie listens attentively. It's a great deal, and he suspects this is the abridged version to put it lightly.
When Elidibus finishes, the newly crowned dragon god places a fresh cup of steaming tea in from of him with a slice of lemon and some biscuits on the side.
"That is a breadth of knowledge and experience to draw upon. I would be a fool to refuse you. As such, I will gladly accept any help." He slides into his seat, setting down the teapot closer to the other man should he wish for it.
"Just bear in mind the world is different here and we are all quite limited. What I am trying to say is do not overextend yourself." He seems the type. "If you do, I will be the one seeing that you take your rest just as the others do." This is a warning and a promise.
"My cup runneth over," stated simply, after Elidibus has quenched himself with a long sip of the tea. It is a good blend, not overpowering, and made well. "As the saying goes."
If there are any that have more than enough for their needs, Elidibus would be among them. Beyond his seeming endless well of energy, too, is that need to stay busy. For several reasons. Well, he may as well explain himself at least partially to Charlie.
"The more I am able to keep myself occupied, the better I will find myself in this existence." He hums in thought to himself, thinking the best way to continue. "It has been said that a body in motion will stay in motion. That holds true with myself more than most, I have found. Though where others will cease, I do not - my drive is quite singular."
Selecting one of the biscuits, he takes a small bite. It is good. Not too dry, and complements the tea nicely. Time to assuage the worry that Charlie is no doubt feeling from his explanation. "But I know my limits, and I am quite fond of what hobbies I have found that allow me to rest."
"Barring that," he smiles, "there are several individuals here that will see to it that I am well. Much as I plan to do so with you."
Charlie can't help but give a soft laugh. This man has such intensity. It's not a bad thing, just... fascinating.
"Well, you seem to have things sorted already, don't you? I'm glad you have friends here to look after you. Rest assured, I do as well, but I will never say no to another helping hand." Truth be told, he can't get enough help these days. His duties span further than just this town after all. Knowing there are trustworthy people here should he ever be absent is heartening.
"I suppose the biggest ask is that you keep vigilant for anything unusual in or around the area. This world is full of surprises, present company included. I am aware of a great many things, but I am far from omniscient. I can see to it that you are well armed if needed. I apologize for not having anything really planned or sorted in this regard but... well you understand. Everything has been more or less by the seat of my trousers."
He would love to get more into a proactive state than reactive, but that just isn't the way of it right now.
Then, Elidibus decides to make a choice. Words are all well and good, and he has done much with using his command over language, but actions are sometimes needed to cement intent. So he drains his tea, smiles at Charlie, and reaches forward to place his hand atop the local deity's.
He gives his fingers a soft squeeze.
"There is nothing to apologize for. You have done far more than most would for us, especially seeing as you were thrust into this position. But you are doing so very well, dear Charlie." Another soft squeeze. "Do not think otherwise."
He's surprised at the touch, but he does not move away. No, he turns his hand over and returns the encouraging squeeze.
"Thank you, Elidibus. It means a great deal to hear that. It can be a thankless job at times, but I am learning yet." With that final squeeze of his hand, Themis may find himself feeling much lighter on his feet, with the smell of fresh linens emanating from his person for the next few days.
"Do not forget that I too am here for you, and it is my duty to make sure everyone under my wing is comfortable as they can be."
"Though others may take your presence for granted, I at least will always be here to thank you."
For a brief moment Elidibus wonders what it would be like to court a god. Gentle and sweet, perhaps, if that god were to be Charlie. He will be satisfied with friendship, of course, but the idea does not leave his thoughts. He would be good to Charlie. He knows that to be a fact. Would it be all that the other man deserves? There is no way that one may know. But even so, whether it ends in a bond of friendship or of something else, the path settles in his ribcage.
"With one such as you looking over me I shall be blessed indeed. Though, I hope we may come to be closer than shepherd and flock. Friends, I should like." A bit of contained humor curls the corners of his lips upwards. "But considering the wings, perhaps you are part of the flock as well?"
Charlie of course has no idea the wanderings of Elidibus' mind, or the idea of romance. Still, he knows the man does make him feel at ease, and that is more than enough. Aside from being easy on the eyes as well, of course.
"I am more than happy to be friends." That alone makes his smile grow. He laughs softly at the flock comment. "Maybe so, maybe so. I haven't put much thought to such nomenclature. But a friend I should like very much."
"It is, perhaps, improper nomenclature - dragons are not birds after all, despite all of my newly growing feathers." The joke is cracked with a lopsided grin.
Then, with a warm feeling spreading from within and peace settling in his, chest Elidibus extends forth a hand. "Friends, then." And whatever else that may bring. Charlie is a good soul, he knows that down to his marrow, and every iota of justice that sleeps within his bones would see his passage through life eased, if only by a fraction.
Charlie is not exactly what you'd call a tough crowd, so he laughs behind a polite hand.
Nodding firmly at the appointment of their friendship. Honestly, it's still somewhat new to him. To have many people eager to be his friend, unafraid or unburdened by the concept. And he too, finally less fearful of the concept.
The remainder of his visit is spent in that good company as they make easy work of the tea between the two of them. Elidibus stays perhaps a touch too long than would be perfectly polite, but, well, they are newly made friends now and such transgressions will surely be forgiven.
He makes it a point to repeat these visits, with no motive other than to ensure Charlie takes a break.
Walk-In
But Elidibus knows. Themis knows.
How could he do anything but offer his aid? Though he knows naught of the extensiveness of Charlie's workings, he will attempt to help regardless. So he finds himself walking inside quietly, looking around at the interior before making his way to where the bell sits.
And presses it a single time.
Re: Walk-In
"Oh! Hello!" The papers and tea are placed on the counter as be straightens out his robes.
"What can I do for you, Elidibus?"
no subject
"You are worn thin, that much is clear, and I would do what I can to ease your burdens - in whatever manner that may be." From paperwork to growing trees, Elidibus is ready to do whatever is needed. But first, "And before you attempt to say that you are not tired, know that I already know it to be truth - please do not lie to me. I wish for us to be friends, and I will be as truthful to you as I with you will be with me."
no subject
"All right." He concedes. "I do admit I have been surprised at the number of people who have come to me willing to help." The words come as he worries at the cuff of his sleeve with his fingers.
"Take a seat then, and at least let me fix us some tea or coffee. Whichever you prefer." He does look mildly uncomfortable, but that comes with the territory of being seen so immediately.
"While I get that going, please feel free to tell me if you have some kind of proposal."
no subject
He, too, knows the urge to remain busy. To fidget with a task, anything, in order to merely be doing something. "If only to busy your hands, I would enjoy tea - whichever blend you prefer at the moment," it comes with a small smile as Elidibus does as he is bidden and sits down.
"I do not have something so formal as a true proposal in mind, no, as much of what I may do depends on what your needs may be. As one not of this world, I am diminished, but would offer all I am able regardless of that." He considers his offer for a moment, "Know you the skills of my people and I? I am unsure of how much knowledge has been imparted due to your nature." It would do well to clarify.
no subject
"You are familiar? I had an inkling when I met you. Beings who have had a brush with divinity have a certain..." He makes a completely vague gesture, "-thing about them."
The request for tea is indeed appreciated to keep himself busy with, and he sets about brewing a pot of apple-spice.
"I know what I have observed on the network and in public, but no more. I try not to pry unless it is absolutely imperative. A more verbose explanation would be appreciated, however." It's actually a comfort having other beings that could be considered divines around. People who have experienced it far longer than he.
no subject
So it is time for the long, lengthy explanation of what he and his people may do. Well, there is nothing for it. "My people could be considered some manner of deities by merit of our mere existence, though we are born and may die as any mortal race may..." he launches in to the explanation of what, exactly, the Ancients are. Their agelessness - immortality to a point - the sheer vastness of the pools of energy they may command, the wealth of knowledge they possessed. Who and what the Convocation are, and Elidibus's membership therein.
And, of course, the existence of Creation magicks. That those abilities still work as intended in this world, despite their weakened state.
"...and so, that is what I have to offer. My thousands of years of knowledge, experience, and all else that I may bring - as Elidibus and as myself."
Elidibus licks his lips, swallows. His throat will appreciate the tea.
no subject
When Elidibus finishes, the newly crowned dragon god places a fresh cup of steaming tea in from of him with a slice of lemon and some biscuits on the side.
"That is a breadth of knowledge and experience to draw upon. I would be a fool to refuse you. As such, I will gladly accept any help." He slides into his seat, setting down the teapot closer to the other man should he wish for it.
"Just bear in mind the world is different here and we are all quite limited. What I am trying to say is do not overextend yourself." He seems the type. "If you do, I will be the one seeing that you take your rest just as the others do." This is a warning and a promise.
"One cannot pour from an empty cup, after all."
no subject
If there are any that have more than enough for their needs, Elidibus would be among them. Beyond his seeming endless well of energy, too, is that need to stay busy. For several reasons. Well, he may as well explain himself at least partially to Charlie.
"The more I am able to keep myself occupied, the better I will find myself in this existence." He hums in thought to himself, thinking the best way to continue. "It has been said that a body in motion will stay in motion. That holds true with myself more than most, I have found. Though where others will cease, I do not - my drive is quite singular."
Selecting one of the biscuits, he takes a small bite. It is good. Not too dry, and complements the tea nicely. Time to assuage the worry that Charlie is no doubt feeling from his explanation. "But I know my limits, and I am quite fond of what hobbies I have found that allow me to rest."
"Barring that," he smiles, "there are several individuals here that will see to it that I am well. Much as I plan to do so with you."
no subject
"Well, you seem to have things sorted already, don't you? I'm glad you have friends here to look after you. Rest assured, I do as well, but I will never say no to another helping hand." Truth be told, he can't get enough help these days. His duties span further than just this town after all. Knowing there are trustworthy people here should he ever be absent is heartening.
"I suppose the biggest ask is that you keep vigilant for anything unusual in or around the area. This world is full of surprises, present company included. I am aware of a great many things, but I am far from omniscient. I can see to it that you are well armed if needed. I apologize for not having anything really planned or sorted in this regard but... well you understand. Everything has been more or less by the seat of my trousers."
He would love to get more into a proactive state than reactive, but that just isn't the way of it right now.
no subject
Then, Elidibus decides to make a choice. Words are all well and good, and he has done much with using his command over language, but actions are sometimes needed to cement intent. So he drains his tea, smiles at Charlie, and reaches forward to place his hand atop the local deity's.
He gives his fingers a soft squeeze.
"There is nothing to apologize for. You have done far more than most would for us, especially seeing as you were thrust into this position. But you are doing so very well, dear Charlie." Another soft squeeze. "Do not think otherwise."
no subject
"Thank you, Elidibus. It means a great deal to hear that. It can be a thankless job at times, but I am learning yet." With that final squeeze of his hand, Themis may find himself feeling much lighter on his feet, with the smell of fresh linens emanating from his person for the next few days.
"Do not forget that I too am here for you, and it is my duty to make sure everyone under my wing is comfortable as they can be."
no subject
For a brief moment Elidibus wonders what it would be like to court a god. Gentle and sweet, perhaps, if that god were to be Charlie. He will be satisfied with friendship, of course, but the idea does not leave his thoughts. He would be good to Charlie. He knows that to be a fact. Would it be all that the other man deserves? There is no way that one may know. But even so, whether it ends in a bond of friendship or of something else, the path settles in his ribcage.
"With one such as you looking over me I shall be blessed indeed. Though, I hope we may come to be closer than shepherd and flock. Friends, I should like." A bit of contained humor curls the corners of his lips upwards. "But considering the wings, perhaps you are part of the flock as well?"
no subject
"I am more than happy to be friends." That alone makes his smile grow. He laughs softly at the flock comment. "Maybe so, maybe so. I haven't put much thought to such nomenclature. But a friend I should like very much."
no subject
Then, with a warm feeling spreading from within and peace settling in his, chest Elidibus extends forth a hand. "Friends, then." And whatever else that may bring. Charlie is a good soul, he knows that down to his marrow, and every iota of justice that sleeps within his bones would see his passage through life eased, if only by a fraction.
For as long as he is present, at the very least.
Wrap?
Nodding firmly at the appointment of their friendship. Honestly, it's still somewhat new to him. To have many people eager to be his friend, unafraid or unburdened by the concept. And he too, finally less fearful of the concept.
Wrap!
He makes it a point to repeat these visits, with no motive other than to ensure Charlie takes a break.