Early afternoon. The sun is still high up, so there's time for this side trip. After preparing what he needs, Caelus heads out on a skateboard and beelines for Paradise Lost. Prior, he had to look up the location and ask for assistance among his roommates, as he can't read the local languages. Now with direction, he soon arrives at the… incredibly red entrance of The Devil's Nest.
Well, a fitting name for the look of this place. At least it's easy to find because of how much it stands out. It looks like a public establishment, so he doesn't knock when he enters. Maybe there'll be a bell at the door to signal his arrival for him. He leaves his skateboard somewhere near the door, then heads further in. Fully curious. ]
[But what answers him isn't a man at all, but a bird. Well, what used to be a bird at any rate. And while it is very much missing its eyes, as soon as Caelus announces himself, the toucan bounces excitedly down the bar; its small hops, punctuated by the soft pit-ta-pat-pat of its talons.]
[It gives its wing a short preen, making its feathers plume out like static before they flatten down again almost unanimously. All in all, it doesn't seem bothered by the sudden visitation. No, instead, it's more calm, unfazed. As if it's either been waiting or expecting for someone, anyone, to come waltzing through the door.]
[The toucan picks mindlessly at its foot, tearing off a flake of skin. It's easy work, all things considered. And as its wiry, split tongue lashes out, it throws its head back in celebration - the clap of its saw-toothed bill, echoing through the bar like spent brass.]
[And ah, if that just isn't a calling card - ]
Oi, oi, oi. What is it, 'Lört? [The ceiling above groans, and the former homunculus languidly begins his descent down the stairs.] Less you've got something for me, I'm expecting a little company - [The Sin's voice rumbles the closer he gets. It snakes through the building like a pulse. As if it's coming from everywhere and no where as drifting and dreamy as the years of cigarette smoke clung to the walls.]
[Greed winds around the bottom of the staircase and as he catches a face (an unfamiliar, unknown face) in the lenses of his shades, he pauses - the length of his tail, coiling soundlessly against one of the flight's crooked, lopsided posts.] Oh, ho. Guess you found 'em before I did. [He hums, and the toucan takes off, disappearing to perch on one of the many exposed pipes hanging from the ceiling.]
[The former homunculus flattens his hand on the railing, pushing himself away from the steps.] You must be Caelus, that right? [He doesn't bother looking at the other man as he moves.] Glad to see you found the place. Though, I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long. [Turning his back, the Sin slinks behind the other side of the bar - the scorch of his heels, leaving behind a light, dying trail of soot.]
Edited (html and i going head to head in a parking lot) 2026-02-11 03:40 (UTC)
[ Having no idea what to expect, the… very unique appearance of this bird faintly surprises Caelus. Though he's seen so many strange things at this point (even back in his universe, there's plenty of strange enough things), he still can't really get used to the mutations of Hosts entirely. And he's someone who doesn't hesitate to eat Host meat… But he only does that as a means to survive. They can't exactly be picky with their food options here.
It's not that he's afraid or anything. It's just his sympathy crawling at the back of his mind. This world has suffered so much, and he can't get used to that idea at all. There wasn't a day when he didn't think about the future of this ruined place. Maybe it's idealistic of him, but he doesn't want to give up hope. He wants to believe that things might still get better for those living here. If there's a chance that he can help make that happen, he will take action at any time.
Those are his thoughts as he watches the bird fly away. Then, his focus shifts when he hears an unfamiliar voice. He recognizes it, but it's unfamiliar in the sense that they're still both strangers to each other, and he doesn't know what to make of this person yet. Still, being himself, he tries to give a friendly smile regardless of whether the man is looking or not. ]
Don't worry, I just arrived. And yes, it's me.
[ The trailblazer looks around a bit more, out of precaution, since he did promise to be careful. But he doesn't want to be rude either, so he shortly walks further in, taking a seat on the bar stool beside the counter. ]
Nice to formally meet you, Greed. So, was there something you couldn't tell me on the Murmur?
[ There has to be a reason the man wants to see him personally, right? ]
[While Caelus finds his seat, the former homunculus crouches down, disappearing behind the bar. He fumbles through his cache (bottles of beer that are probably far beyond their expiration date, a couple of glass jars filled to brim with something or another, a few odds and ends) until he spots what he's looking for. Curling his finger, he slips his nail under the tab of a loose can, dragging it out of the depths.]
[Greed straightens his legs to a stand and with a snap of his wrist, the can hisses open; its artificial juice, dripping red-thin over his claws.] Good. Would be a little rude if I left you waiting, hmn? [He tips his hand, taking the tab clean off on the crook of his claw.] Yeah? Well, it sounds to me like I owe you a bit of an apology. Think you and I got off on the wrong foot. Sorry about that.
[He sets the can down in front Caelus, swiping away some of the spillover with his thumb.] That's simple, but we'll get to that. [The former homunculus nudges the can forward on the point of his knuckle.] There was a reason I came in pretty hot there. You could say I have a bit of experience with alchemists and homunculi. But first thing's first - you said something before. About how someone from your world made a Philosopher's stone.
[He pulls back, then; the subtle clap of his heels, clicking sharp on the floor.] It's probably different where you come from, but like I told you, it takes a lot to make a homunculus. And usually, you'd need a Philosopher's stone to do it. [Almost as if he already has the place memorized, the Sin settles the small of his back into the prep station behind him, leaving both his hands clamped on its lip.] So when you said you did it without one, you got my interest. Most alchemists I know didn't even think a homunculus could exist, let alone make one. Call me impressed.
As for your question - [Trailing, the former homunculus bows his head. He lifts his hand to his face slowly and surely; the pace of it as if he's waiting and holding out the minutes for every second of their worth. Greed fans his fingers and as he frames out his sunglasses with his thumb, the tattoo across his knuckles seems to broil against his skin. His own, personal red letter, marking him for what he is.]
[He folds his sunglasses up. Clp.] - it's a little personal, and information's still worth a whole lot, even here. Call it a guarantee. [Slumping his shoulder, he sinks one of the earpieces of his shades behind the collar of his shirt.] Because what you were talking about - you're looking at one.
[Greed tilts his head and as a smile begins to stretch along his jaw, he eases his eyes open. In the bar's low light, the slits of them breathe wild; like a big cat feverishly stalking a potential prey.]
Homunculus. That's what I am. Least, before all this.
[ If the topic of alchemy is something sensitive to Greed, Caelus would understand the sharp reaction upon hearing about it being mentioned. Maybe the man couldn't help himself? But rather than speculate, Caelus would prefer to hear the reason if possible. For now, he listens wordlessly to what Greed has to say first, then nods in appreciation when he's offered a drink. He doesn't want to interrupt the man, so he says a quiet "thank you."
Greed confirms his history with alchemists and homunculi, then the explanation that the practice is much more difficult in his universe. Caelus isn't surprised, considering it's similar for his own. There's something just too strange about Sleep's world, blessing (or cursing?) them with unknown powers that they can only scratch the surface of. Who knows what else an Artificer is really capable of? Only through time will Caelus know.
But what does surprise Caelus is Greed's admittance that he's… an actual homuculus. Or was? He's something else now? ]
… You were one? Sleep changed it? Are you… an Offering?
[The Sin shifts, sliding one of his legs loosely over the other. He still hasn't completely grasped the terms - what an Offering is, what's a Token. But one thing he does know is that Sleep? She's definitely made a few changes from what he used to be.]
Hmn? Sorry, not sure what you're talking about. An Offering? [Greed starts, his finger tapping slow at the underside of the counter.] As far as Sleep's concerned, I think it's pretty obvious. [He turns his wrist, prying two of his claws off the prep station in a silent gesture. The wings, the horns, the long chord of his tail: those hadn't been there before, no matter what his name suggests.] Didn't have these back where I'm from, if that's what you mean.
[The former homunculus lets his arm go slack, causing his hand to hang limply over the counter's puckered edge.] Don't think it matters, though. What does is that you can make a homunculus. [He thumbs his pocket to pull out a thick, stray splinter. Greed bows his head to pinch it between his teeth.] That the only thing you can do? Or has our friend here given you other abilities?
[Because if she has? If there's someone here that knows a little about alchemy? A bit about transmutation?]
Ah, then if you've never had those features before, then you're most likely an Offering.
[ It's okay, Caelus doesn't mind teaching Greed the formal terms. He might as well teach him while the chance is there. He takes a small sip of the juice first before continuing to explain. ]
To my understanding, Offerings have physical changes. And Tokens have magical changes. I'm a Token, so I still look like myself, but my friends who ended up as Offerings gained several new physical features, such as… well, your case.
[ Pure skill aside, being an Artificer is part of the reason why anything that Caelus crafts ends up quite powerful, including his attempts at performing some alchemy. ]
Hmm, you were tuned into my conversation earlier, so I thought you managed to pick the details up. But yes, I have other abilities from Sleep, such as generating electricity and enchanting objects with magical energy.
[ "Don't think it matters, though. What does is that you can make a homunculus."
Greed isn't even hiding the fact that he has ideas. Those expressions speak for themselves. But Caelus will wait until the man brings it up himself. ]
Would explain it, then. Why some of us look a little different, and others you can't notice any changes at all. [Fitting, it seems. He wasn't human before, and he's not here. The irony of his given Offering isn't lost on him, either. Sleep may be on the top of his list, but he can't deny how terribly, terribly on the nose her decision had been.]
[Maybe gods (or those that think they're gods) could still have a sense of humor, sick as it is.]
[The former homunculus pinches the splinter hanging off his lip, running the underside of his claw up the length of it.] Your friend, huh? Someone I might know? [He doesn't know everyone here. However, there's still a possibility.]
[Though, if he's actually looking for an answer, he doesn't take the time to wait for it. Greed's smile preens tight on his face - the sliver of it made sharp by the points of his teeth.] Mnn. What can I say? I prefer hearing it face to face. Makes it easier to tell when someone's bullshitting. [The Sin lifts his eyes to still them on Caelus; their slits, contracting to the barest hint.] See, I didn't ask you to come here for nothing, friend. I've got some ideas in mind. And since I couldn't do alchemy back home, that's where someone like you'd come in.
[The former homunculus pushes himself off the counter, and his heels slap against the floor with a punctuating thwack.] I don't know about you, but I'm not a big fan of our pal running things around here. Never been too good at taking orders from anyone, let alone someone who thinks they're some kind of god.
So - [His moves his hand as he talks, twirling it on the slack part of his wrist one time, two times, three.] - why don't you and I make a little deal? I'll teach your homunculus everything it needs to know about being one. And in return? I'll show you how to do some alchemy I know from where I come from. A little test to see if it'll actually work, and to find out if those new abilities of yours can make some change around here.
[One minute he's at the prep counter and the next, he's practically leering over the bar. Leering with all of his jagged teeth, his slick smile, and a promise humming in his eyes as red and dull as a fuse, waiting for a spark.]
[Greed tongues the toothpick, pushing it up against the roof of his mouth.] It's a fair offer. But I have a feeling I know your type. I don't expect you to have an answer right away. So, think on it. Might end up being worth your time.
[ Because Caelus is a very social person, always striking up conversations whenever he can. It wouldn't be surprising if Greed knows some of his friends. But that also means it's hard for him to name anyone so randomly, because there are too many to name. He decides not to, thinking it's enough that it comes across that he loves befriending others.
Then, Caelus quiets down when Greed starts dropping the real details, looking rather pensive as he hears all of this out. Knowledge of alchemy from another universe. He'd be lying if he said he wasn't interested. Of course, he would be. But what does he have to do to receive it?
Making a change, Greed said. But can Caelus truly make a change all by himself? Impossible. He doesn't think he's strong enough for that, especially as his abilities as an Artificer are from Sleep herself. Would someone power-hungry like Sleep truly allow him to do anything against her? Certainly not. ]
… I don't exactly agree with Sleep myself, but I doubt I'm strong enough for this. I'm still constantly learning about my new powers here. What exactly would you have me do?
[The Sin is oddly quiet while he watches Caelus think it over. How his eyes seem to breathe (purple, red, then back again). How that smile of his stays curled on his face as if it's been chiseled out of hard, cold carbon. No, he doesn't expect it to be that easy. Sleep had her claws in every inch of the place. In every crack, every corner, every heartbeat like an infestation, glued and stuck. He'd be lying if he said he didn't have the same doubts.]
[But what is it? What's his phrase again?]
["Nothing's impossible."]
[Greed's tail loops behind him, twitching as jaggedly as an impatient cat.] Maybe you are, maybe you aren't. Doesn't hurt to try, hmn? [He taps the counter with his claw as if to add to his point.] We won't know unless we give it a shot. Worst case, it ends up being nothing. But if it does work, well - it would be worth it, don't you think?
["What exactly would you have me do?" he asks, and the former homunculus sluggishly slithers away from the counter; the pull of his torso, a snail's waiting pace.] That part's simple. It'll be easier to use the Murmur to do it, and I'll show you something easy first. As for the rest? [Greed turns his wrist to splay his fingers out in a wide, spiraling fan.] You can leave that to me.
[Because he knows the laws, he knows the rules. And payment for something like this?]
[ While Caelus thinks it may be impossible by himself, the story might change if he isn't by himself. He's always believed in collective efforts making a huge difference. If he can't do it alone, then he can simply reach out to others and change the scenario together. That's always been the way he operates, even before arriving in this world.
That's why he's always cooperative when good chances present themselves. But… this one, is it a good chance? How large is the risk? What if Sleep catches wind of all this and punishes them all for it? However, if they're constantly in fear, then that's exactly what Sleep wants. It may be worth trying at least once. He lowers his head a bit, staring at the partially drunk juice in his hands. ]
… Okay.
[ Worst case ending up as nothing seems way too unlikely, but Caelus will pray that it is the case. He doesn't want anyone getting hurt because of their attempts. Once he agrees to do it, he lifts his head, looking quite determined. ]
[Greed waits as Caelus mulls everything over. Patiently, silently, but no less locked on like a predator, stiff in the brush. No, in all honesty, the whole idea is a dangerous one. People like Sleep, things like Sleep - they never give up their power willingly. And rebellion? Well, they tended to take it a little personally, if his history is anything to go by.]
[Then again, it's in his nature. If she brought him here, then she shouldn't be all that surprised that this was how things were eventually going to fall into place.]
[The Sin's eyes go heavy and as a soft, stretched whistle slides over his teeth, the corner of his mouth screws up tight into his cheek.] That's it? You're just gunna accept? Ha - ! [He keeps his laugh short, waving at the air with his hand.] I gotta say kid, you're even more impressive than I first thought. So be it, then. It's a deal.
[He folds his arms across his chest, leaving his claws to drape over his elbow.] Give me a couple of days. I'll reach out to you. [He stretches his fingers up to tap the mask dangling halfway down the center of his chest.] Like I said, we'll start with something simple first. One of the basics an alchemist might learn. Once you think you've got the transmutation circle right, we'll put it to the test, see if it actually works.
[Greed pries his nail off his mask, making the chains quiver like a front-door bell.] And just to make sure we aren't missing anything, make me a list of some of the materials you usually use. [He touches the inside of his cheek with his tongue, tasting nothing but the same dryness he's come to expect.] As for what I'll bring, I'll save that for when you're ready.
[Their business done, the former homunculus tilts his head, shooting Caelus a wink. It's dastardly, playful. A devil's smile with all the sincerity of sin, sin, sin.]
Until then, Caelus.
Edited (USED THE SAME WORD TWICE ... ) 2026-03-06 02:23 (UTC)
[ When it comes to decisions involving Sleep, it's more than likely to be always dangerous. That's why Caelus expressed concerns. However, he also understands that being too cautious all the time will prevent them from actually progressing. If no one wants to do anything and only continues to play safe, how are they going to stand against someone trying to be god?
This is why Caelus decides to take his chances, especially since it's something not easy for others to pull off. If he can do it for others' sake, then he will. ]
I understand. I'll be waiting, then.
[ Before standing up from the bar counter, Caelus finishes the juice, then starts writing the requested list on a raccoon post-it note that he always carries around. It's written in childish-sounding English because he's still learning Earth's languages slowly. But he's come a long way from studying them since his arrival here, so it should be legible enough. It's basically the same materials he mentioned to Lortel from that earlier broadcast.
When finished, Caelus moves off from the bar stool, and leaves the note on the counter. There are also a few pieces of candy beside the note. A little something for the juice. Equivalent exchange! ]
Take care until then, Greed!
[ With that, Caelus turns to head out. He waves to the toucan on the way out, grabs his skateboard by the door, and quietly leaves. ]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
Early afternoon. The sun is still high up, so there's time for this side trip. After preparing what he needs, Caelus heads out on a skateboard and beelines for Paradise Lost. Prior, he had to look up the location and ask for assistance among his roommates, as he can't read the local languages. Now with direction, he soon arrives at the… incredibly red entrance of The Devil's Nest.
Well, a fitting name for the look of this place. At least it's easy to find because of how much it stands out. It looks like a public establishment, so he doesn't knock when he enters. Maybe there'll be a bell at the door to signal his arrival for him. He leaves his skateboard somewhere near the door, then heads further in. Fully curious. ]
… Hello?
CW: Mild Mutated Animal Description
[It gives its wing a short preen, making its feathers plume out like static before they flatten down again almost unanimously. All in all, it doesn't seem bothered by the sudden visitation. No, instead, it's more calm, unfazed. As if it's either been waiting or expecting for someone, anyone, to come waltzing through the door.]
[The toucan picks mindlessly at its foot, tearing off a flake of skin. It's easy work, all things considered. And as its wiry, split tongue lashes out, it throws its head back in celebration - the clap of its saw-toothed bill, echoing through the bar like spent brass.]
[And ah, if that just isn't a calling card - ]
Oi, oi, oi. What is it, 'Lört? [The ceiling above groans, and the former homunculus languidly begins his descent down the stairs.] Less you've got something for me, I'm expecting a little company - [The Sin's voice rumbles the closer he gets. It snakes through the building like a pulse. As if it's coming from everywhere and no where as drifting and dreamy as the years of cigarette smoke clung to the walls.]
[Greed winds around the bottom of the staircase and as he catches a face (an unfamiliar, unknown face) in the lenses of his shades, he pauses - the length of his tail, coiling soundlessly against one of the flight's crooked, lopsided posts.] Oh, ho. Guess you found 'em before I did. [He hums, and the toucan takes off, disappearing to perch on one of the many exposed pipes hanging from the ceiling.]
[The former homunculus flattens his hand on the railing, pushing himself away from the steps.] You must be Caelus, that right? [He doesn't bother looking at the other man as he moves.] Glad to see you found the place. Though, I hope I didn't keep you waiting too long. [Turning his back, the Sin slinks behind the other side of the bar - the scorch of his heels, leaving behind a light, dying trail of soot.]
no subject
It's not that he's afraid or anything. It's just his sympathy crawling at the back of his mind. This world has suffered so much, and he can't get used to that idea at all. There wasn't a day when he didn't think about the future of this ruined place. Maybe it's idealistic of him, but he doesn't want to give up hope. He wants to believe that things might still get better for those living here. If there's a chance that he can help make that happen, he will take action at any time.
Those are his thoughts as he watches the bird fly away. Then, his focus shifts when he hears an unfamiliar voice. He recognizes it, but it's unfamiliar in the sense that they're still both strangers to each other, and he doesn't know what to make of this person yet. Still, being himself, he tries to give a friendly smile regardless of whether the man is looking or not. ]
Don't worry, I just arrived. And yes, it's me.
[ The trailblazer looks around a bit more, out of precaution, since he did promise to be careful. But he doesn't want to be rude either, so he shortly walks further in, taking a seat on the bar stool beside the counter. ]
Nice to formally meet you, Greed. So, was there something you couldn't tell me on the Murmur?
[ There has to be a reason the man wants to see him personally, right? ]
no subject
[Greed straightens his legs to a stand and with a snap of his wrist, the can hisses open; its artificial juice, dripping red-thin over his claws.] Good. Would be a little rude if I left you waiting, hmn? [He tips his hand, taking the tab clean off on the crook of his claw.] Yeah? Well, it sounds to me like I owe you a bit of an apology. Think you and I got off on the wrong foot. Sorry about that.
[He sets the can down in front Caelus, swiping away some of the spillover with his thumb.] That's simple, but we'll get to that. [The former homunculus nudges the can forward on the point of his knuckle.] There was a reason I came in pretty hot there. You could say I have a bit of experience with alchemists and homunculi. But first thing's first - you said something before. About how someone from your world made a Philosopher's stone.
[He pulls back, then; the subtle clap of his heels, clicking sharp on the floor.] It's probably different where you come from, but like I told you, it takes a lot to make a homunculus. And usually, you'd need a Philosopher's stone to do it. [Almost as if he already has the place memorized, the Sin settles the small of his back into the prep station behind him, leaving both his hands clamped on its lip.] So when you said you did it without one, you got my interest. Most alchemists I know didn't even think a homunculus could exist, let alone make one. Call me impressed.
As for your question - [Trailing, the former homunculus bows his head. He lifts his hand to his face slowly and surely; the pace of it as if he's waiting and holding out the minutes for every second of their worth. Greed fans his fingers and as he frames out his sunglasses with his thumb, the tattoo across his knuckles seems to broil against his skin. His own, personal red letter, marking him for what he is.]
[He folds his sunglasses up. Clp.] - it's a little personal, and information's still worth a whole lot, even here. Call it a guarantee. [Slumping his shoulder, he sinks one of the earpieces of his shades behind the collar of his shirt.] Because what you were talking about - you're looking at one.
[Greed tilts his head and as a smile begins to stretch along his jaw, he eases his eyes open. In the bar's low light, the slits of them breathe wild; like a big cat feverishly stalking a potential prey.]
Homunculus. That's what I am. Least, before all this.
no subject
[ If the topic of alchemy is something sensitive to Greed, Caelus would understand the sharp reaction upon hearing about it being mentioned. Maybe the man couldn't help himself? But rather than speculate, Caelus would prefer to hear the reason if possible. For now, he listens wordlessly to what Greed has to say first, then nods in appreciation when he's offered a drink. He doesn't want to interrupt the man, so he says a quiet "thank you."
Greed confirms his history with alchemists and homunculi, then the explanation that the practice is much more difficult in his universe. Caelus isn't surprised, considering it's similar for his own. There's something just too strange about Sleep's world, blessing (or cursing?) them with unknown powers that they can only scratch the surface of. Who knows what else an Artificer is really capable of? Only through time will Caelus know.
But what does surprise Caelus is Greed's admittance that he's… an actual homuculus. Or was? He's something else now? ]
… You were one? Sleep changed it? Are you… an Offering?
no subject
Hmn? Sorry, not sure what you're talking about. An Offering? [Greed starts, his finger tapping slow at the underside of the counter.] As far as Sleep's concerned, I think it's pretty obvious. [He turns his wrist, prying two of his claws off the prep station in a silent gesture. The wings, the horns, the long chord of his tail: those hadn't been there before, no matter what his name suggests.] Didn't have these back where I'm from, if that's what you mean.
[The former homunculus lets his arm go slack, causing his hand to hang limply over the counter's puckered edge.] Don't think it matters, though. What does is that you can make a homunculus. [He thumbs his pocket to pull out a thick, stray splinter. Greed bows his head to pinch it between his teeth.] That the only thing you can do? Or has our friend here given you other abilities?
[Because if she has? If there's someone here that knows a little about alchemy? A bit about transmutation?]
[Oh, oh. Does he have a few ideas in mind.]
no subject
[ It's okay, Caelus doesn't mind teaching Greed the formal terms. He might as well teach him while the chance is there. He takes a small sip of the juice first before continuing to explain. ]
To my understanding, Offerings have physical changes. And Tokens have magical changes. I'm a Token, so I still look like myself, but my friends who ended up as Offerings gained several new physical features, such as… well, your case.
[ Pure skill aside, being an Artificer is part of the reason why anything that Caelus crafts ends up quite powerful, including his attempts at performing some alchemy. ]
Hmm, you were tuned into my conversation earlier, so I thought you managed to pick the details up. But yes, I have other abilities from Sleep, such as generating electricity and enchanting objects with magical energy.
[ "Don't think it matters, though. What does is that you can make a homunculus."
Greed isn't even hiding the fact that he has ideas. Those expressions speak for themselves. But Caelus will wait until the man brings it up himself. ]
no subject
[Maybe gods (or those that think they're gods) could still have a sense of humor, sick as it is.]
[The former homunculus pinches the splinter hanging off his lip, running the underside of his claw up the length of it.] Your friend, huh? Someone I might know? [He doesn't know everyone here. However, there's still a possibility.]
[Though, if he's actually looking for an answer, he doesn't take the time to wait for it. Greed's smile preens tight on his face - the sliver of it made sharp by the points of his teeth.] Mnn. What can I say? I prefer hearing it face to face. Makes it easier to tell when someone's bullshitting. [The Sin lifts his eyes to still them on Caelus; their slits, contracting to the barest hint.] See, I didn't ask you to come here for nothing, friend. I've got some ideas in mind. And since I couldn't do alchemy back home, that's where someone like you'd come in.
[The former homunculus pushes himself off the counter, and his heels slap against the floor with a punctuating thwack.] I don't know about you, but I'm not a big fan of our pal running things around here. Never been too good at taking orders from anyone, let alone someone who thinks they're some kind of god.
So - [His moves his hand as he talks, twirling it on the slack part of his wrist one time, two times, three.] - why don't you and I make a little deal? I'll teach your homunculus everything it needs to know about being one. And in return? I'll show you how to do some alchemy I know from where I come from. A little test to see if it'll actually work, and to find out if those new abilities of yours can make some change around here.
[One minute he's at the prep counter and the next, he's practically leering over the bar. Leering with all of his jagged teeth, his slick smile, and a promise humming in his eyes as red and dull as a fuse, waiting for a spark.]
[Greed tongues the toothpick, pushing it up against the roof of his mouth.] It's a fair offer. But I have a feeling I know your type. I don't expect you to have an answer right away. So, think on it. Might end up being worth your time.
no subject
[ Because Caelus is a very social person, always striking up conversations whenever he can. It wouldn't be surprising if Greed knows some of his friends. But that also means it's hard for him to name anyone so randomly, because there are too many to name. He decides not to, thinking it's enough that it comes across that he loves befriending others.
Then, Caelus quiets down when Greed starts dropping the real details, looking rather pensive as he hears all of this out. Knowledge of alchemy from another universe. He'd be lying if he said he wasn't interested. Of course, he would be. But what does he have to do to receive it?
Making a change, Greed said. But can Caelus truly make a change all by himself? Impossible. He doesn't think he's strong enough for that, especially as his abilities as an Artificer are from Sleep herself. Would someone power-hungry like Sleep truly allow him to do anything against her? Certainly not. ]
… I don't exactly agree with Sleep myself, but I doubt I'm strong enough for this. I'm still constantly learning about my new powers here. What exactly would you have me do?
no subject
[But what is it? What's his phrase again?]
["Nothing's impossible."]
[Greed's tail loops behind him, twitching as jaggedly as an impatient cat.] Maybe you are, maybe you aren't. Doesn't hurt to try, hmn? [He taps the counter with his claw as if to add to his point.] We won't know unless we give it a shot. Worst case, it ends up being nothing. But if it does work, well - it would be worth it, don't you think?
["What exactly would you have me do?" he asks, and the former homunculus sluggishly slithers away from the counter; the pull of his torso, a snail's waiting pace.] That part's simple. It'll be easier to use the Murmur to do it, and I'll show you something easy first. As for the rest? [Greed turns his wrist to splay his fingers out in a wide, spiraling fan.] You can leave that to me.
[Because he knows the laws, he knows the rules. And payment for something like this?]
[Oh, will it be personal.]
no subject
That's why he's always cooperative when good chances present themselves. But… this one, is it a good chance? How large is the risk? What if Sleep catches wind of all this and punishes them all for it? However, if they're constantly in fear, then that's exactly what Sleep wants. It may be worth trying at least once. He lowers his head a bit, staring at the partially drunk juice in his hands. ]
… Okay.
[ Worst case ending up as nothing seems way too unlikely, but Caelus will pray that it is the case. He doesn't want anyone getting hurt because of their attempts. Once he agrees to do it, he lifts his head, looking quite determined. ]
I'll do it. What's the plan, then?
no subject
[Then again, it's in his nature. If she brought him here, then she shouldn't be all that surprised that this was how things were eventually going to fall into place.]
[The Sin's eyes go heavy and as a soft, stretched whistle slides over his teeth, the corner of his mouth screws up tight into his cheek.] That's it? You're just gunna accept? Ha - ! [He keeps his laugh short, waving at the air with his hand.] I gotta say kid, you're even more impressive than I first thought. So be it, then. It's a deal.
[He folds his arms across his chest, leaving his claws to drape over his elbow.] Give me a couple of days. I'll reach out to you. [He stretches his fingers up to tap the mask dangling halfway down the center of his chest.] Like I said, we'll start with something simple first. One of the basics an alchemist might learn. Once you think you've got the transmutation circle right, we'll put it to the test, see if it actually works.
[Greed pries his nail off his mask, making the chains quiver like a front-door bell.] And just to make sure we aren't missing anything, make me a list of some of the materials you usually use. [He touches the inside of his cheek with his tongue, tasting nothing but the same dryness he's come to expect.] As for what I'll bring, I'll save that for when you're ready.
[Their business done, the former homunculus tilts his head, shooting Caelus a wink. It's dastardly, playful. A devil's smile with all the sincerity of sin, sin, sin.]
Until then, Caelus.
no subject
This is why Caelus decides to take his chances, especially since it's something not easy for others to pull off. If he can do it for others' sake, then he will. ]
I understand. I'll be waiting, then.
[ Before standing up from the bar counter, Caelus finishes the juice, then starts writing the requested list on a raccoon post-it note that he always carries around. It's written in childish-sounding English because he's still learning Earth's languages slowly. But he's come a long way from studying them since his arrival here, so it should be legible enough. It's basically the same materials he mentioned to Lortel from that earlier broadcast.
When finished, Caelus moves off from the bar stool, and leaves the note on the counter. There are also a few pieces of candy beside the note. A little something for the juice. Equivalent exchange! ]
Take care until then, Greed!
[ With that, Caelus turns to head out. He waves to the toucan on the way out, grabs his skateboard by the door, and quietly leaves. ]