05-30-2024, 02:59 PM
(This post was last modified: 05-30-2024, 03:14 PM by PhantomUnderYourDesk.
Edit Reason: Fixed a single typo
)
(Mega-post incoming!)
All these words of his trusted mythical partner, 'a wandering hero', 'the best Partner 'and 'a heart the size of a Wailord', as Zephy puts it... These words hit a nerve in Bernhard, in a positive sense, and quite strongly ring back in his mind. It's...embarassing, but pleasantly so. It triggers another lowkey and quiet chuckle from the mage, and it ears Zephy a gentle headpat. "Oh, you... after all the years and decades we've been at each other's side and sharing a most unique bond, I may still not be fully used to you being able to see the perhaps most true and utterly undisguised me."
There's no denying it, it's somewhat scary for Bernhard to know that Zephy is quite effortlessly able to see through his stoic, kuudere and stern to standoffish facade. Still he would not want it otherwise if he's COMPLETELY honest to himself - not that he'd ever admit and not that he'd ever express it, but towards his mythical and unique Partner - yes he does feel somewhat okay to unmask, so to say.
As jarring and strange it was, Bernhard still greatly appreciates Zephy's, uh... 'help', to put it like that. Especially so when there's no other possibility, he really would NOT enjoy forcing himself to move around and get stuff done, least they'd risk breaking down or - mind you - worse. Oh boy, if he wouldn' know that he can trust Zephy 100%ly, Bernhard's be a whole lot more anxious to be under such Movement-based Arts - see it as a token of trust that he lets her take control of him and his body, so to say, being utterly vulnerable now without Magic, exhausted to the very bones and not able to move around properly without pain!
Bernhard would wave off any concerns of her: "Please do not worry about...you being 'unable to use most of your other powers besides Levitation' for I do not think any other skills of yours will be needed. Just let us...wrap up some things that need me ready on my legs, before we shall properly and utterly rest up... Finally that is. The day has been quite the ride, once more so..."
Seeing that Mr.Gleam himself is safe and sound resting up, looking all the better even - it is pleasant to know. After all the stress and desperation he had to go through, Bernhard feels he does deserve to recharge. A tiny little smile escapes them upon imagining how he'd react if Bernhard would share the news of a successful brewing process with him, how he has made it against all odds and how he has managed to successfully create a Cure that will perhaps and mayhaps bring his treasured daugther back to the world of the Living... But with both Mr.Gleam AND Bernhard being is very desperate need of proper rest and sleep, he feels like that can wait until tomorrow morning. No need nor desire to 1. disturb him right now and 2. risk being overwhelmed by an overjoyed father when Bernhard is not perpared for it (read: rested up enough to share that no doubt happy moment). Therefor: 'Check up on Mr. Gleam' - checked, next!
Myra and Nirix are receiving an (in Bernhard's terms) unusually warm welcome, Bern's not even irritated by the former's overexcited greeting of her Master. With Zephy's help, both his trusted kitsune and now hornless unicorn (how silly that sounds and looks!) receive a small portion of gentle pets, and a look that radiates utter pride and - yes indeed - gratefullness. "Please, my two trusted magical partners, do not fret too much over me, and do not feel...ashamed, for there is no need for you to do so. You two have done FANTASTICALLY, and I am certain that without your aid things would have been a lot more nasty and unpleasant." *looking over to Nirix, giving her a respectful bow* "Especially you. Without you letting me process your valuable and utterly potent horn, the brewing process would not have happened at all, least of all would have succeeded. It is your direct aid, you allowance and your doing that dear Saph here will likely wander in the world of the Living again, that the vile Curse plaquing her and giving her father suffering will be broken - Be proud of you, Nirix. Be proud of yourself. For I am too."
Bernhard waves his gaunteled hand through her pastel-y mane with Zephy's help, a thoughtful look on his face. "...I do hope, trust and pray that the need to ask you for the harvesting of another regrown horn of you will not come up in our journey ahead - No, I would not want that to happen. Let us not tempt fate, for the chance of another such MIRACLE to occure are slim, near zero even... The processing of your prized horn has been an honour for me, truely so, but the whole brewing process... *shudders* ...It is something that I will remember for quite longly."
Silence reigns for a bit, with Bernhard letting his gaze wander between Myra, Nirix and Saph. "Please, you two, do me a favour and have a close eye on dear Saph here, stay with her and keep watch over her. Do alert me immediately if something about her state changes, for better and for worse. I need to finalize the medicine for her, and I wish for me and her father being by her side if the fateful moment arises to dose her with my cure. (metawise, can I do that intravenously given she's still in coma and for max effectiveness?) ...The time to do so is not yet. I am... *pained chuckle, looking very deflated*...utterly exhausted as you can see, and her father deserves to rest for now, too. Please rest assured, as I will be downstairs and in very short distance... *hand on forehead, letting out a long suffering sigh* Too taxing, quite risky and very unwise it would it be to head to our room at the Mageocarcy Embassy, as much as I'd prefer to comfort of the bed there than the sofa or guest room downstairs..." Both Myra and Nirix receive a look - and a mild smile even! - of reassurance, as if to say 'do not worry too much over me, I will be fine eventually'
Before we'll leave the room however, there is one more thing Bernhard will do: Take the pendant Saph's wearing, the brightly blue Saphire, in our Gauntlet hand. Hold it softly yet firmly, with awe and respect, looking down at it with a meaningful look that says everything and nothing. The words Bernhard will whisper to the pendant are simple, yet they say a whole lot more than it looks like they do: "...Thank you. Truely and from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU."
And with that, Bernhard leaves Saph's side and room, leaving Myra and Nirix at her side to watch over her.
No doubt, checking on the kitchen and his alchemistic creation was something Bernhard was anxious and worried over. Yet they cannot help but to be excited and anticipitated over it, seeing what has happened during it...
...Truely it is a suprise that the kitchen itself is in perfect order - a pleasant one however, mind you! Saves Bernhard some apologies and excuses. Zephy's handing of the shades receives her a worried and puzzled look, but he'll obey, trust her and not question it further.
And so the moment Bernhard anticipitated so much has come... With much more significance and much slower than needed, they remove the lid...
...and almost falls back onto his knees, not from exhaustion or tiredness, but from sheer suprise. He...can barely believe it, quite likely would not believe if he didn't see it with his own eyes. The color of the liquid, that clear yet dazzling golden, that near indescribable smell giving off a sense of purity and wellbeing, these trademark white sparkles popping in and out intermit idly in it, which are something Bernhard knows seperates the true mixture from any fake ones... It cannot be, yet is is true. Bernhard covers his face in his hands, being utterly amazed yet dazzled as he comes to the conclusion that what he has brewed up - he, Bernhard Samsara, Master Sky Scimitar and partner to the mythical Pokemon Zephy -has managed to brew what many practitioners of alchemy pursue though what most find to be simply a myth, the remedy that is said to cure all diseases and prolong life indefinitely. The Panacea, truely so.
How exactly they made it, Bernhard is still uncertain - but this must be a Miracle, a gift from the heavens. Otherwise they could not explain HOW DAFAQUE they have made it create something THAT BEYOND their expectations and, frankly, expertise and Skill... Was that a single tear that escaped Bern's eyes and that he quckly wiped away with his robe's sleeve before it could run down his cheek...? (Yes it was)
It took a few minutes for them to process the fact that they made it to create THIS, with his own hands, right here and now in the kitchen of Mr. Gleam. An Alchemist's dream having come true, thank the heavens and anything spiritual and magical... No doubt his Mentor would be proud of him to get the news...
But enough of that. This creation, this perfect Panacea of Life(!!!1!) needs final processing. Bernhard's almost afraid to do so, with utter caution and awe he proceeds... With 'proceeding' meaning 'dividing this brew up into three separate doses', receiving 3x Panacea. Yes they are aware that doing so does diminish the creation by 1/3, but Bernhard does trust that even then it will be enough to cure saph and break the vile curse pestering her... If anything, they have nothing against dosing Saph with TWO units of it, shall one not do the trick. All he desires for is one unit as a sort of a failsafe for the journey around Sutalor... Especially so if the others are still set on fighting that Malefic Monstrum. Too treasured to Bernhard are his trusted Pokemon Partners, as these are those and their powers are what he is most used to channel...
(Meta-talk: I've edited, tweaked and reviewed the scene of this reconciliation with Zephy numerous times, sorry it it triggered any ghost-pings. Here's hope that it will have a desired positive impact on Zephy in some way, looking forward to her reaction and your response, Windos dear!~)
And so Bernhard, with the help of Zephy, makes it back to the living room, letting himself quite crudely and unrefinedly slump down on the sofa again. He sighs longly, covers his eyes and forehead with an arm once more, needing to catch up on breath for a bit. Because even with Puppeteering it was quite taxing to move around, and not going to speak about taking the stairs up and down to Saph's room!
*deep breath, gathering courage and trying to find the right words* "You see, I am honestly sorry for what I have tried to do to you, Zephy. ...No, do hear me out first. While I DO disapprove of you having flown around unattended(!) in this city, in hindsight it was partly my fault as well, because it...wasn't fair or sensitive of me to have tried to lock you in you PremierBall. Yes, even under the aspect that it has been a sudden reaction out of fear for you and meant as a safety measure to shield you from dear Morgana lashing out on you or to hinder you from attacking her again. All of that does not warrant my course of actions nor shall it excuse it in any way, no. I am very much aware that you absolutely despise being a prisoner in ANY way, even if it would be just for a short period of time and for a greater good of things, and I should have known better indeed..." They hesitate at first and just musters Zephy, but eventually reaches out to stroke through the white hair and neck ruff of the rodent artist that is their trusted partner with honest(!) affection(!!) and care(!!!), mixing in gentle headpats every now and then. For an indeterminable amount of time there's nothing but comfortable silence as Bernhard lets Zephy perch on their arm/shoulder, absentmindedly pets her fur + feathers and feeds her roasted almonds - which are her secret fave snackie, Bernhard will almost always carry a small amount of it around (but he'd never admit that those are especially for her, nope!) All while the oh-so-stoic Scimitar allows himself to display a soft and docile side to his longest and closest Pokemon-partner... Yes his bond with that whimsical and artsy Mythicmon came with the complete loss of Bern's former team of Pokemon built up during their early travels (most importantly, his partner Sirocc the Minun... May it rest(?) in much-deserved peace, until we may hopefully meet again...), but it also is thanks to Zephy that Bernhard is who and where he is now - a fact that they silently but greatly so treasures and won't forget. Ever.
Bernhard can only hope and guess whether Zephy holds him in similar high regards - but after what she has told before, he's positive that she indeed does, and that is a divine gift in and on itself. After all she's been his partner for what feels like ages. He's been her partner and wielder for these ages. It feels like she has been with him always and ever, she was there with him as he discovered his magical talents and kept climbing up the social ladder in Scimitar society. Likewise he was there as she slowly spread her wings again, getting used to freedom again after all this time of being sealed away; and when she presented a new artistic masterpiece after having poured countless amounts of time and energy into it.
After quite a long while during which nothing and everything has been said: "Please also do accept my sincere apologies. A gift to you." Bernhard shoves - and winces at the pain it triggers! - two pale-blue colored discs into Zephy's smol paws, suddenly visibly uncomfortable with his open display of feelings. "*cough* Here. For you. Found these in a TM Store yesterday night and bought them as sort of a...compensation for my unsolicited and indelicate behaviour to you... They will allow you to summon a raging hailstorm and cast a protective and magnificient auroa borealis on our side of the field... Truely a sight to behold, wouldn't you think? We can't test both just now, but I'm certain it will be a useful skill of yours on our journey ahead... *anticipated smile* I also ask for your aid on testing and practicing a new Spell with the help of these moves, if you permit... One that shall make those oppossing us falter and freeze in combat, and one that shall become just as useful during exploring of unknown territory. But that's a thing for another Day, perhaps and mayhaps."
"Well... Zephy, my trusted and treasured one..." He gently scratches her under her chin with one hand while putting the other on forehead, letting out a somewhat suffering sigh. - "Listen, I'd have to...lie to you if I were to say it was not quite the shock for me to realize that you have slipped my care. Double so as I unfortunately failed to retrieve you upon Morgana letting me go for the night. However, now to think back to it, for what has happened - you escaping the situation and avoiding Morgana all together - maybe, just maybe it has in the end been for the better; as we have gotten to spend some time to our personal liking that the other one of us would disapprove or only suffer through. You have gotten the chance to live out your freedom and express your artistic skills to your dear heart's content - ", and leaving him to pick up the shards and clean up any remains of her artistic chaos, but Bernhard abstains from saying that, " - while I have had the pleasure of teatime and a private talk with the very fine Fairy Queen in her precious gard- " *suddenly moves a hand to their lips, remembering Morgana's tender and no-hidden-strings(!)-nor-foul-fae-tricks(!!)-attached kiss~ gifted only to him~ and how he HAD THE GUTS to recriprocate(!!) and enjoy(!!!) it when he really should NOT play with fire like it is nothing, causing Bernhard to internally scream in agony and be very torn between wanting to forget it entirely and fondly remembering it - it also causes a - in Bern's terms - suprisingly VIVID blush to appear on their face, despite their best effort to fight it* "...In hindsight, yes, it much likely was for the best of BOTH of us that we ventured on a seperate path yesterday, uhm, evening... No, I would not want to force you being witness to...*coughs*...that upon you, no..." *looks to the side to avoid Zephy's gaze, still blushing, failing to hide a bashful but highly-flattered smile, and handgesture of waving it all off* "Let's not speak of it anymore, okay? OKAY, thank you. Some things are better left...unspoken, you see..." End of discussion, from Bernhard's side that is. Unless Zephy wants to rile up and embarass her destinied partner even more...? Heaven and Arceus forbid!
...However, now to think of it, what did Morgana say again? ...Giving her a Day and a Night and Bernhard shall receive...'it', right. Oh boi... How much of a smart idea it was to request 'it' in response to his fae fancy's generous offer Bernhard does not know, but he...cannot help to silently but eagerly anticipate receiving 'it', and he'll sure as heck make THE MOST of 'it' and savor 'it' greatly during the journey ahead. Least it'd be very rude towards a lady of Morgana's position at best and (in his books) borderline heretic towards the Scimitar society at worst not to. Bern simply hopes and prays that Zephy will take it at least somewhat well...
Also, 'ploys for many Magi'? *cue for an impercible but very suffering sigh* She left him guessing on what she means by that, naturally so. ...But, and Bernhard gotta give his most dear maiden of fairies and flowers ('You fool, stop calling her by any pet names, now will you!? You are not supposed to be fond of her!', he mentally scolded himself) that much, she was insightful enough to make sure he does not get caught in the crossfire or drama, and that is gratefully appreciated for he is busy enough already. Is that another subtle proof that Morgana does care for him like any...*winces*...beloved to one another, in her very own warped and far-from-the-ordinary - but at the same time genuine and real - way? Most likely it is, Bernhard's not quite certain what to make of that fact. It's weak moments like this where he loathes himself the most for unintentionally having gotten his hooks into her (yes Bernhard remembers that as clear as day).... But he does know that it irks him to be forcefully apart from the place he'd call 'home', least alone away from his comfy private quarters and treasured alchemistic lab.
What irks Bernhard even more is how he keeps putting up with her antics, continues to see her and everything. Being quite protective towards her. Ask him about it and he'll deny it all with all might though.
Dear heaven and hell, just thinking back of all the mixed signals and hints combined with her beguiling words, aromas and fae brews Morgana gave him this shared teatime causes Bernhard's head to spin, as used to it he may be by now. Waaay too many allusions that he didn't pick up right away and which now come back to bite(!) and embarrass(!!) him in their fullest. Like or mostly: "Let us enjoy the rest of our Tea Time, savor most the moment now we share, and - perhaps, maybe more - savor and enjoy a different kind of union most sweet, oh ho~" - her words, mind you! - that's enough to intensify his bashfulness greatly, as h...honored as he also feels.
...Enough of that, enough of letting her occupy his mind much more than he wants it to, sudden and forced change of topic, Q-U-I-C-K! Bernhard is way too tired and exhausted to deal with any of her tricks and shenangians now, he does not need the mental load of THAT now!
*musters Zephy again, trying hard to play it cool* "It was certainly nice and pleasant to see you having returned to my side in the end when it became morning of a new day. I have greatly appreciated it indeed... I did not manage to catch enough sleep over...worry for you, being all by yourself in the region's capital. But you have eventually returned to my side, I was eventually back at your side, as it should be. Nor fate nor the world could seperate us for long, my precious..." There's another long pause, as Bernhard just lets these words sink in and savor the reunion of kuudere Master Sky-Scimitar and whismsical artistic Mythicmon. "Your state wasn't...the most optimal and you have ruined one of my prefered sleepshirts with still wet paint and a fragrance of alcohol - Neither of that was of a too big matter however, as I managed to clean up both you as well as after you to a decent degree. I could clearly see you have...enjoyed yourself, which is pleasant to know."
He gives Zephy another fond headpat and ruffle - and a soft smile to boot, one that's only for her. One that is looking weirdly out of place on the otherwise deadpan expression of Bernhard, but one that is honest and genuine regardless. Blink once, blink twice, and it's gone without a trace.
Then, suddenly, Bernhard leans in clooose and gives Zephy a stern, half-lidded and quite piercing stare. "I...only and solely hope that you were behaving yourself in your artistic craze? That you haven't gone overboard in terms of intaking alcoholic drinks? I mean, behaving yourself as in it won't cause any, well, long-lasting issues for the both of us...? You do draw enough attention to yourself already simply by being you." *pauses, then much more quitely adds* " ...But I do appreciate that quirk of yours, as much hassle it at times may be to shield you from prying eyes. Always onward to the next stage, you and me are..."
------------
Action: Spend the res of our Encounters reconciling with Zephy with honest words, super-rare displays of affection from Bernhard's side as well as the two TMs bought yesterday, all while resting right here and right now. ONLY towards Zephy and ONLY when they're alone he is somewhat okay to express so much emotions on the outside - and even then rarely as openly as now - and Zephy knows that. She knows very well. (Interactions with Morgana are not counting here, as she knows very precisely how to make use of ploys and beguiling words to tickle vivid emotional reactions and expressions from kuudere Bernhard to the surface.)
Bernhard's message is held relatively brief, given it is quite the pain (least of all a hassle!) to properly type when being so utterly and completely drained like they currently are. ...That likely explains some random keysmashes here and there, one or two words being slightly misspelled - but regardless of that, they still manage to keep up a polite and stern tone.
They also sufferly loooongly and quite sufferingly upon reading that it involves whatever happened at the Centers, and that MAGIC was involved - heck, Bernhard is busy and occupied enough already, and YET life keeps throwing him head-first into things he did never ask for. But, Bernhard would not be Bernhard it they, begrudgingly so, haven't gotten somewhat used to that in all the years and decades they're already walking around on this planet.
Bernhard also needs a moment to understand who Seddi meant by 'Muse', but eventually it clicks. A short puzzled - and mildly scolding! - glance over to Zephy is given, as if to non-verbally say 'How come you have talked with him beforehand, and without my permission? What if anyone has SEEN you, huh?'
Regardless of things, the message sent in response is the following:
All these words of his trusted mythical partner, 'a wandering hero', 'the best Partner 'and 'a heart the size of a Wailord', as Zephy puts it... These words hit a nerve in Bernhard, in a positive sense, and quite strongly ring back in his mind. It's...embarassing, but pleasantly so. It triggers another lowkey and quiet chuckle from the mage, and it ears Zephy a gentle headpat. "Oh, you... after all the years and decades we've been at each other's side and sharing a most unique bond, I may still not be fully used to you being able to see the perhaps most true and utterly undisguised me."
![[+]](images/collapse_collapsed.png "[+]")
Original post 1, in response to Zephys wordsThere's no denying it, it's somewhat scary for Bernhard to know that Zephy is quite effortlessly able to see through his stoic, kuudere and stern to standoffish facade. Still he would not want it otherwise if he's COMPLETELY honest to himself - not that he'd ever admit and not that he'd ever express it, but towards his mythical and unique Partner - yes he does feel somewhat okay to unmask, so to say.
As jarring and strange it was, Bernhard still greatly appreciates Zephy's, uh... 'help', to put it like that. Especially so when there's no other possibility, he really would NOT enjoy forcing himself to move around and get stuff done, least they'd risk breaking down or - mind you - worse. Oh boy, if he wouldn' know that he can trust Zephy 100%ly, Bernhard's be a whole lot more anxious to be under such Movement-based Arts - see it as a token of trust that he lets her take control of him and his body, so to say, being utterly vulnerable now without Magic, exhausted to the very bones and not able to move around properly without pain!
Bernhard would wave off any concerns of her: "Please do not worry about...you being 'unable to use most of your other powers besides Levitation' for I do not think any other skills of yours will be needed. Just let us...wrap up some things that need me ready on my legs, before we shall properly and utterly rest up... Finally that is. The day has been quite the ride, once more so..."
Seeing that Mr.Gleam himself is safe and sound resting up, looking all the better even - it is pleasant to know. After all the stress and desperation he had to go through, Bernhard feels he does deserve to recharge. A tiny little smile escapes them upon imagining how he'd react if Bernhard would share the news of a successful brewing process with him, how he has made it against all odds and how he has managed to successfully create a Cure that will perhaps and mayhaps bring his treasured daugther back to the world of the Living... But with both Mr.Gleam AND Bernhard being is very desperate need of proper rest and sleep, he feels like that can wait until tomorrow morning. No need nor desire to 1. disturb him right now and 2. risk being overwhelmed by an overjoyed father when Bernhard is not perpared for it (read: rested up enough to share that no doubt happy moment). Therefor: 'Check up on Mr. Gleam' - checked, next!
Myra and Nirix are receiving an (in Bernhard's terms) unusually warm welcome, Bern's not even irritated by the former's overexcited greeting of her Master. With Zephy's help, both his trusted kitsune and now hornless unicorn (how silly that sounds and looks!) receive a small portion of gentle pets, and a look that radiates utter pride and - yes indeed - gratefullness. "Please, my two trusted magical partners, do not fret too much over me, and do not feel...ashamed, for there is no need for you to do so. You two have done FANTASTICALLY, and I am certain that without your aid things would have been a lot more nasty and unpleasant." *looking over to Nirix, giving her a respectful bow* "Especially you. Without you letting me process your valuable and utterly potent horn, the brewing process would not have happened at all, least of all would have succeeded. It is your direct aid, you allowance and your doing that dear Saph here will likely wander in the world of the Living again, that the vile Curse plaquing her and giving her father suffering will be broken - Be proud of you, Nirix. Be proud of yourself. For I am too."
Bernhard waves his gaunteled hand through her pastel-y mane with Zephy's help, a thoughtful look on his face. "...I do hope, trust and pray that the need to ask you for the harvesting of another regrown horn of you will not come up in our journey ahead - No, I would not want that to happen. Let us not tempt fate, for the chance of another such MIRACLE to occure are slim, near zero even... The processing of your prized horn has been an honour for me, truely so, but the whole brewing process... *shudders* ...It is something that I will remember for quite longly."
Silence reigns for a bit, with Bernhard letting his gaze wander between Myra, Nirix and Saph. "Please, you two, do me a favour and have a close eye on dear Saph here, stay with her and keep watch over her. Do alert me immediately if something about her state changes, for better and for worse. I need to finalize the medicine for her, and I wish for me and her father being by her side if the fateful moment arises to dose her with my cure. (metawise, can I do that intravenously given she's still in coma and for max effectiveness?) ...The time to do so is not yet. I am... *pained chuckle, looking very deflated*...utterly exhausted as you can see, and her father deserves to rest for now, too. Please rest assured, as I will be downstairs and in very short distance... *hand on forehead, letting out a long suffering sigh* Too taxing, quite risky and very unwise it would it be to head to our room at the Mageocarcy Embassy, as much as I'd prefer to comfort of the bed there than the sofa or guest room downstairs..." Both Myra and Nirix receive a look - and a mild smile even! - of reassurance, as if to say 'do not worry too much over me, I will be fine eventually'
Before we'll leave the room however, there is one more thing Bernhard will do: Take the pendant Saph's wearing, the brightly blue Saphire, in our Gauntlet hand. Hold it softly yet firmly, with awe and respect, looking down at it with a meaningful look that says everything and nothing. The words Bernhard will whisper to the pendant are simple, yet they say a whole lot more than it looks like they do: "...Thank you. Truely and from the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU."
And with that, Bernhard leaves Saph's side and room, leaving Myra and Nirix at her side to watch over her.
No doubt, checking on the kitchen and his alchemistic creation was something Bernhard was anxious and worried over. Yet they cannot help but to be excited and anticipitated over it, seeing what has happened during it...
...Truely it is a suprise that the kitchen itself is in perfect order - a pleasant one however, mind you! Saves Bernhard some apologies and excuses. Zephy's handing of the shades receives her a worried and puzzled look, but he'll obey, trust her and not question it further.
And so the moment Bernhard anticipitated so much has come... With much more significance and much slower than needed, they remove the lid...
...and almost falls back onto his knees, not from exhaustion or tiredness, but from sheer suprise. He...can barely believe it, quite likely would not believe if he didn't see it with his own eyes. The color of the liquid, that clear yet dazzling golden, that near indescribable smell giving off a sense of purity and wellbeing, these trademark white sparkles popping in and out intermit idly in it, which are something Bernhard knows seperates the true mixture from any fake ones... It cannot be, yet is is true. Bernhard covers his face in his hands, being utterly amazed yet dazzled as he comes to the conclusion that what he has brewed up - he, Bernhard Samsara, Master Sky Scimitar and partner to the mythical Pokemon Zephy -has managed to brew what many practitioners of alchemy pursue though what most find to be simply a myth, the remedy that is said to cure all diseases and prolong life indefinitely. The Panacea, truely so.
How exactly they made it, Bernhard is still uncertain - but this must be a Miracle, a gift from the heavens. Otherwise they could not explain HOW DAFAQUE they have made it create something THAT BEYOND their expectations and, frankly, expertise and Skill... Was that a single tear that escaped Bern's eyes and that he quckly wiped away with his robe's sleeve before it could run down his cheek...? (Yes it was)
It took a few minutes for them to process the fact that they made it to create THIS, with his own hands, right here and now in the kitchen of Mr. Gleam. An Alchemist's dream having come true, thank the heavens and anything spiritual and magical... No doubt his Mentor would be proud of him to get the news...
But enough of that. This creation, this perfect Panacea of Life(!!!1!) needs final processing. Bernhard's almost afraid to do so, with utter caution and awe he proceeds... With 'proceeding' meaning 'dividing this brew up into three separate doses', receiving 3x Panacea. Yes they are aware that doing so does diminish the creation by 1/3, but Bernhard does trust that even then it will be enough to cure saph and break the vile curse pestering her... If anything, they have nothing against dosing Saph with TWO units of it, shall one not do the trick. All he desires for is one unit as a sort of a failsafe for the journey around Sutalor... Especially so if the others are still set on fighting that Malefic Monstrum. Too treasured to Bernhard are his trusted Pokemon Partners, as these are those and their powers are what he is most used to channel...
(Meta-talk: I've edited, tweaked and reviewed the scene of this reconciliation with Zephy numerous times, sorry it it triggered any ghost-pings. Here's hope that it will have a desired positive impact on Zephy in some way, looking forward to her reaction and your response, Windos dear!~)
And so Bernhard, with the help of Zephy, makes it back to the living room, letting himself quite crudely and unrefinedly slump down on the sofa again. He sighs longly, covers his eyes and forehead with an arm once more, needing to catch up on breath for a bit. Because even with Puppeteering it was quite taxing to move around, and not going to speak about taking the stairs up and down to Saph's room!
*deep breath, gathering courage and trying to find the right words* "You see, I am honestly sorry for what I have tried to do to you, Zephy. ...No, do hear me out first. While I DO disapprove of you having flown around unattended(!) in this city, in hindsight it was partly my fault as well, because it...wasn't fair or sensitive of me to have tried to lock you in you PremierBall. Yes, even under the aspect that it has been a sudden reaction out of fear for you and meant as a safety measure to shield you from dear Morgana lashing out on you or to hinder you from attacking her again. All of that does not warrant my course of actions nor shall it excuse it in any way, no. I am very much aware that you absolutely despise being a prisoner in ANY way, even if it would be just for a short period of time and for a greater good of things, and I should have known better indeed..." They hesitate at first and just musters Zephy, but eventually reaches out to stroke through the white hair and neck ruff of the rodent artist that is their trusted partner with honest(!) affection(!!) and care(!!!), mixing in gentle headpats every now and then. For an indeterminable amount of time there's nothing but comfortable silence as Bernhard lets Zephy perch on their arm/shoulder, absentmindedly pets her fur + feathers and feeds her roasted almonds - which are her secret fave snackie, Bernhard will almost always carry a small amount of it around (but he'd never admit that those are especially for her, nope!) All while the oh-so-stoic Scimitar allows himself to display a soft and docile side to his longest and closest Pokemon-partner... Yes his bond with that whimsical and artsy Mythicmon came with the complete loss of Bern's former team of Pokemon built up during their early travels (most importantly, his partner Sirocc the Minun... May it rest(?) in much-deserved peace, until we may hopefully meet again...), but it also is thanks to Zephy that Bernhard is who and where he is now - a fact that they silently but greatly so treasures and won't forget. Ever.
Bernhard can only hope and guess whether Zephy holds him in similar high regards - but after what she has told before, he's positive that she indeed does, and that is a divine gift in and on itself. After all she's been his partner for what feels like ages. He's been her partner and wielder for these ages. It feels like she has been with him always and ever, she was there with him as he discovered his magical talents and kept climbing up the social ladder in Scimitar society. Likewise he was there as she slowly spread her wings again, getting used to freedom again after all this time of being sealed away; and when she presented a new artistic masterpiece after having poured countless amounts of time and energy into it.
After quite a long while during which nothing and everything has been said: "Please also do accept my sincere apologies. A gift to you." Bernhard shoves - and winces at the pain it triggers! - two pale-blue colored discs into Zephy's smol paws, suddenly visibly uncomfortable with his open display of feelings. "*cough* Here. For you. Found these in a TM Store yesterday night and bought them as sort of a...compensation for my unsolicited and indelicate behaviour to you... They will allow you to summon a raging hailstorm and cast a protective and magnificient auroa borealis on our side of the field... Truely a sight to behold, wouldn't you think? We can't test both just now, but I'm certain it will be a useful skill of yours on our journey ahead... *anticipated smile* I also ask for your aid on testing and practicing a new Spell with the help of these moves, if you permit... One that shall make those oppossing us falter and freeze in combat, and one that shall become just as useful during exploring of unknown territory. But that's a thing for another Day, perhaps and mayhaps."
"Well... Zephy, my trusted and treasured one..." He gently scratches her under her chin with one hand while putting the other on forehead, letting out a somewhat suffering sigh. - "Listen, I'd have to...lie to you if I were to say it was not quite the shock for me to realize that you have slipped my care. Double so as I unfortunately failed to retrieve you upon Morgana letting me go for the night. However, now to think back to it, for what has happened - you escaping the situation and avoiding Morgana all together - maybe, just maybe it has in the end been for the better; as we have gotten to spend some time to our personal liking that the other one of us would disapprove or only suffer through. You have gotten the chance to live out your freedom and express your artistic skills to your dear heart's content - ", and leaving him to pick up the shards and clean up any remains of her artistic chaos, but Bernhard abstains from saying that, " - while I have had the pleasure of teatime and a private talk with the very fine Fairy Queen in her precious gard- " *suddenly moves a hand to their lips, remembering Morgana's tender and no-hidden-strings(!)-nor-foul-fae-tricks(!!)-attached kiss~ gifted only to him~ and how he HAD THE GUTS to recriprocate(!!) and enjoy(!!!) it when he really should NOT play with fire like it is nothing, causing Bernhard to internally scream in agony and be very torn between wanting to forget it entirely and fondly remembering it - it also causes a - in Bern's terms - suprisingly VIVID blush to appear on their face, despite their best effort to fight it* "...In hindsight, yes, it much likely was for the best of BOTH of us that we ventured on a seperate path yesterday, uhm, evening... No, I would not want to force you being witness to...*coughs*...that upon you, no..." *looks to the side to avoid Zephy's gaze, still blushing, failing to hide a bashful but highly-flattered smile, and handgesture of waving it all off* "Let's not speak of it anymore, okay? OKAY, thank you. Some things are better left...unspoken, you see..." End of discussion, from Bernhard's side that is. Unless Zephy wants to rile up and embarass her destinied partner even more...? Heaven and Arceus forbid!
...However, now to think of it, what did Morgana say again? ...Giving her a Day and a Night and Bernhard shall receive...'it', right. Oh boi... How much of a smart idea it was to request 'it' in response to his fae fancy's generous offer Bernhard does not know, but he...cannot help to silently but eagerly anticipate receiving 'it', and he'll sure as heck make THE MOST of 'it' and savor 'it' greatly during the journey ahead. Least it'd be very rude towards a lady of Morgana's position at best and (in his books) borderline heretic towards the Scimitar society at worst not to. Bern simply hopes and prays that Zephy will take it at least somewhat well...
Also, 'ploys for many Magi'? *cue for an impercible but very suffering sigh* She left him guessing on what she means by that, naturally so. ...But, and Bernhard gotta give his most dear maiden of fairies and flowers ('You fool, stop calling her by any pet names, now will you!? You are not supposed to be fond of her!', he mentally scolded himself) that much, she was insightful enough to make sure he does not get caught in the crossfire or drama, and that is gratefully appreciated for he is busy enough already. Is that another subtle proof that Morgana does care for him like any...*winces*...beloved to one another, in her very own warped and far-from-the-ordinary - but at the same time genuine and real - way? Most likely it is, Bernhard's not quite certain what to make of that fact. It's weak moments like this where he loathes himself the most for unintentionally having gotten his hooks into her (yes Bernhard remembers that as clear as day).... But he does know that it irks him to be forcefully apart from the place he'd call 'home', least alone away from his comfy private quarters and treasured alchemistic lab.
What irks Bernhard even more is how he keeps putting up with her antics, continues to see her and everything. Being quite protective towards her. Ask him about it and he'll deny it all with all might though.
Dear heaven and hell, just thinking back of all the mixed signals and hints combined with her beguiling words, aromas and fae brews Morgana gave him this shared teatime causes Bernhard's head to spin, as used to it he may be by now. Waaay too many allusions that he didn't pick up right away and which now come back to bite(!) and embarrass(!!) him in their fullest. Like or mostly: "Let us enjoy the rest of our Tea Time, savor most the moment now we share, and - perhaps, maybe more - savor and enjoy a different kind of union most sweet, oh ho~" - her words, mind you! - that's enough to intensify his bashfulness greatly, as h...honored as he also feels.
...Enough of that, enough of letting her occupy his mind much more than he wants it to, sudden and forced change of topic, Q-U-I-C-K! Bernhard is way too tired and exhausted to deal with any of her tricks and shenangians now, he does not need the mental load of THAT now!
*musters Zephy again, trying hard to play it cool* "It was certainly nice and pleasant to see you having returned to my side in the end when it became morning of a new day. I have greatly appreciated it indeed... I did not manage to catch enough sleep over...worry for you, being all by yourself in the region's capital. But you have eventually returned to my side, I was eventually back at your side, as it should be. Nor fate nor the world could seperate us for long, my precious..." There's another long pause, as Bernhard just lets these words sink in and savor the reunion of kuudere Master Sky-Scimitar and whismsical artistic Mythicmon. "Your state wasn't...the most optimal and you have ruined one of my prefered sleepshirts with still wet paint and a fragrance of alcohol - Neither of that was of a too big matter however, as I managed to clean up both you as well as after you to a decent degree. I could clearly see you have...enjoyed yourself, which is pleasant to know."
He gives Zephy another fond headpat and ruffle - and a soft smile to boot, one that's only for her. One that is looking weirdly out of place on the otherwise deadpan expression of Bernhard, but one that is honest and genuine regardless. Blink once, blink twice, and it's gone without a trace.
Then, suddenly, Bernhard leans in clooose and gives Zephy a stern, half-lidded and quite piercing stare. "I...only and solely hope that you were behaving yourself in your artistic craze? That you haven't gone overboard in terms of intaking alcoholic drinks? I mean, behaving yourself as in it won't cause any, well, long-lasting issues for the both of us...? You do draw enough attention to yourself already simply by being you." *pauses, then much more quitely adds* " ...But I do appreciate that quirk of yours, as much hassle it at times may be to shield you from prying eyes. Always onward to the next stage, you and me are..."
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Action: Spend the res of our Encounters reconciling with Zephy with honest words, super-rare displays of affection from Bernhard's side as well as the two TMs bought yesterday, all while resting right here and right now. ONLY towards Zephy and ONLY when they're alone he is somewhat okay to express so much emotions on the outside - and even then rarely as openly as now - and Zephy knows that. She knows very well. (Interactions with Morgana are not counting here, as she knows very precisely how to make use of ploys and beguiling words to tickle vivid emotional reactions and expressions from kuudere Bernhard to the surface.)
Bernhard's message is held relatively brief, given it is quite the pain (least of all a hassle!) to properly type when being so utterly and completely drained like they currently are. ...That likely explains some random keysmashes here and there, one or two words being slightly misspelled - but regardless of that, they still manage to keep up a polite and stern tone.
They also sufferly loooongly and quite sufferingly upon reading that it involves whatever happened at the Centers, and that MAGIC was involved - heck, Bernhard is busy and occupied enough already, and YET life keeps throwing him head-first into things he did never ask for. But, Bernhard would not be Bernhard it they, begrudgingly so, haven't gotten somewhat used to that in all the years and decades they're already walking around on this planet.
Bernhard also needs a moment to understand who Seddi meant by 'Muse', but eventually it clicks. A short puzzled - and mildly scolding! - glance over to Zephy is given, as if to non-verbally say 'How come you have talked with him beforehand, and without my permission? What if anyone has SEEN you, huh?'
Regardless of things, the message sent in response is the following:
Quote:Thank you for your cncern. kjl3sdd% ...Tired, exhhaustd...,,, I W1ll be fine, am sure, just need t rest and sleep. I would...jdml appreciat Oz's offr, but I prefer to not seek hr out as tht would invlve me jdl/9 needing to gt up and move aroundd, which iss painful to evn think abouttt. But stil, thank you.
I'll look ovr all the messages you sent tomorowee89l##. Or bettr, we can talk aboutt it in persn when we are, for whtever reasn, meeting with your Professor, f thats okay for you.
Do takee care..,
"Anything can be art. Anything can be self-expression. Now take your weapon and run with it" [Gerard Way]
--Windos is my OTP ❤---
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｡･:*:･ﾟ’★❤`
--Windos is my OTP ❤---
`❤★`°･:*:･｡
｡･:*:･ﾟ’★❤`
