[Game thread] Skull Ruins Pokerole

[Lord Windos]

Spoiler

(First thing I want to address is that Nathan almost ignoring everyone else present was not meant to be a rude gesture.  The description was meant to illustrate just how surprised Nathan is and state where the bulk of Nathan's attention is at.  Shiva hasn't really commented on any of the stuff Nathan's said to Ventus (and the opposite is true as well), either, so...I honestly didn't think it would be an issue?)

"...that's, uh...wow...okay..."
Nathan really isn't sure what to say about Ventus's response at first.

Eventually, he awkwardly rubs the back of his head and mumbles, "...I'm not sure Orthros will ever be comfortable with being around you, either, to be honest...but if you're going to bury the hatchet, then it'll probably be okay for the most part..."  Nathan doesn't have to say why Orthros dislikes Ventus out loud, really.

He coughs, then changes topics slightly.  "...so, uh...about the rest of those dogs, though...I have a new theory about why they might have attacked...I don't have sufficient evidence to prove it beyond a shadow of a doubt yet, but...there's a chance that something might have caused them to be more aggressive than usual...if I'm right...that could mean trouble.  Big, big trouble.  I'll get back to you and Dagny on that later, though."

"...also...you should probably talk to Dagny ASAP.  There's a...different issue that I'm sure you'd be interested in hearing about.  I'd tell you right now, but...you know...it's one of our secret ones that we've discussed previously.  I think it's about time we took some action before somebody else did.  If you wanted to tag along, I, uh...don't think anyone would complain."

(I understood that, so you don't have to worry about me being offended!)

"Trouble formulating a response, Nate? *Chuckles* How unlike you. Never would I thought I'd see the day words would fail you against me, but given the topic at hand, a lack of eloquence on your part could be expected."

Ventus seemed equal parts bemused and relieved at his old friend's difficulty with Common, some part of him enjoyed putting them on the backfoot instead of the reverse (and with kindness, no less!) and another happy to see they weren't taking his decision/stance negatively. Big blessing indeed all around!

He shrugged and gave a subdued smile when they finally managed to parse a meaningful reply, looking unapologetic yet content.

"That is fine. We both have our reasons to being adverse to one another's presences, after all. So long as they continue to behave and cause nobody undeserving strife or chaos, I'll not incite such tenebrous conflict among us. Fair, is it not?"

The scholarly trainer's hypothesis managed to get double raised eyebrows from the esteemed sociologist plus an ever so slightly increadulous look, before he shook his and sighed.

"While that is certainly an explanation as to why those fiends assault Corsage, forgive me if I don't believe you. As you said, you don't have solid evidence to support your claim, and from my encounters with Orthros' ilk, they seemed to relish tormenting any dreamers they ensnare or stumble into their domain. That, and I rather not image their is another nebulous and diabolical force lurking in the shadow, waiting and eager to sow more seeds of discord throughout Cheshire. *Sighs* Still.....if you can provide proof.....I'll do more than humor it. That much I can do for you, Nate."

Not much of what Nathan would call a great reaction, but hey, at least Ventus is open to the idea that Delta Houndour aren't totally demonic filth. Hooray?

Their last remark causes the eccentric researcher's to think about it for a moment, before giving them and Shiva a nod and a easy-going smile.

"Hmm.....yes, that's a capital idea, Nate. I was planning on meeting up with her to receive a status update on [i]everything[i] that's transpired so far today and inquire about you two's meeting after I finished catching up with you, as a matter of fact. But I suppose I can bring this reunion to a close now. What we've discussed is sufficient for today, and I imagine you and everyone else is exhausted from your grueling battle against Deoxys, so I'll you two to finish you business for today and get some rest. Tomorrow, we'll meet again and pick up where we left off, hopefully with me more well informed and well equipped to aid you however I may. *Smiles*  Among other things. *Turns head towards Shiva* I'll meet up with you tonight, dear, so worry not about another extended absence from me!"

With that said, Ven shrugs off his delightful darling off with an apologetic smile, and bows to both her, the Lore Master, and his empathetic paladin.

"Until we meet again, I bid you adieu and goodnight, and pray to Reshirim your continued well-being and safety."

He then sticks his hands into his labcoat pocket and smartly turns around, marching straight into Dagney's offices, who's door(s) opened automatically to admit him without delay.

*Flashback End?*