PSL with apestalmenos

[beshackled]

The way into Abyssos barred by warding sigil, there is yet no present way forward for them to continue into the depths of Pandæmonium, to find that which is the source of the facility's troubles, and by extension their own. Yet, as surely as they had encouraged their ally to take a reprieve and attend to the matters of reporting to others, so, too, do similar thoughts come to mind as he turns his thoughts to his present company.

Quiet though he can be, Erichthonios makes the effort to broach the subject himself, hand stretching out in gesture as he seeks to offer his other new acquaintance reassurance that all will be well, that the world will not fall to ruin if Themis takes a moment to pursue his own desires.

"You... wished to pass a message to your friend, did you not? I know you are concerned about the protective wards, but all seems... calm, for the moment. If you would like to try, I do not think a short amount of time away will invite much trouble."

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[apestalmenos]

Although, as expected, it is a fairly rare occurrence, when Themis becomes flustered it tends to happen rather easily. He tries so hard to anticipate situations in order to take a properly measured view and come up with the most even solutions and plans in a timely manner. This includes taking note of when he does not and cannot possibly have all of the information, meaning he's even prepared to be surprised.
So when he's caught off guard, he's really caught off guard, and the strangest little things can manage it.

"I've been told it's good to simply go out and take breaks from time to time." Yet again he gives advice that he too often finds difficult to take himself. Maybe in sharing these recommendations with Erichthonios, it allows him to re-process their importance for himself. "What do you do for recreation?"
And maybe he also just wants to know more about his companion.

[beshackled]

"Recreation...?" Admittedly, he had not had much opportunity for that, either. Even rarer was it that someone took an interest in his personal preferences, leading him to take a moment to properly ponder over the question.

"I... find cooking on the whole enjoyable. Though I initially took it up as a result of my lack of aptitude in magicks," For he still had to feed himself, and as he grew he was ill wont to ask others to create his desired meals for him, "...the flexibility that comes with selecting and preparing ingredients over time and using different methods rather than manifesting a singular concept in whole... 'Tis refreshing."

And, rather than striving to manifest a concept to have it turn out same way every time, he can freely adjust it as he feels the urge to.

[apestalmenos]

"Cooking?" It's not an answer Themis expected, though it isn't exactly surprising considering its source. He tilts his head as he listens, thoroughly intrigued. He's not entirely sure how he would answer such a question were it put to him, so the fact that Erichthonios has a response at all is interesting, and then the very content of that reply is all the more impressive. Cooking! Fascinating.

"It does sound quite enjoyable when you describe it that way. I think I should like to observe the process sometime. If you don't mind." He could very well try it for himself, of course, but that idea isn't quite as appealing. And as he actually has no idea how long this process may take, he even suggests, "In fact, I daresay we have a little time now."

[beshackled]

That Themis would find his hobby of interest comes as a surprise. Few and far between are the times when someone is interested in his personal thoughts or habits... yet, here they are.

It takes a moment for Erichthonios' mind to catch on that it is perhaps best that he answer the subtle suggestion. A touch too long, he thinks, embarrassed to have let the silence stretch so.

Mildly flustered, he nods. "A-Aye. We do." Holding his breath, he feels his heart hammering in his chest, feeling nervous for reasons he cannot yet fully grasp. "Would you... like me to cook something for us? To replenish our aether, ere we continue with our investigation?"

[apestalmenos]

Of course Themis finds Erichthonios' hobbies interesting. There's actually a lot about Erichthonios that he finds interesting, he is slowly discovering. If only he could think of more to say. What do people discuss recreationally? He's suddenly desperate to know.

He has time to consider this, apparently, as he waits patiently for a reply to his suggestion. He does briefly entertain the mortifying thought that perchance he has overstepped with such a proposal, but the look on his companion's face doesn't seem to say quite that. Sometimes people just need a moment to think. Themis is no stranger to this himself.

The delivery of the response that finally comes does cause him a slight mental stumble. It is... endearing, the way Erichthonios appears a bit shaken. The light smile that has taken up residence on his face doesn't budge as he nods excitedly. "I think that would be wonderful! Would you mind if I observed? Perhaps I could even offer some small assistance?"

[beshackled]

"O-Of course!" Though the slight stammer remains, there is a hint of something else behind his words aside from nerves; a growing feeling of eagerness, something that might strike anyone who knows him as odd. Yet the feeling buds inside him all the same.

"Is there anything you'd like in particular? Although, 'tis probably for the better we keep it on the simple side for now..." Anything on the more lengthy or elaborate side will need to wait until after the whole of Pandæmonium has been secured, and the creations returned to their cells. That is, if Themis would care to stick around afterward... or visit again, once his report has been made.

...Would he?

[apestalmenos]

It is a charming stammer, though. At least, Themis thinks so, even if he's not entirely sure where it's suddenly come from. He does note that it wasn't there earlier, and starts trying to piece together its origin even as he also attempts to ponder over the situation at hand.

"As I'm a stranger to your cooking process, I think it would be best to let you assess and determine what would be most efficient to make." He has no idea if he might accidentally choose a deceptively complicated dish, after all. And he's coming to the realization that he doesn't actually care quite so much what is produced as he does the time spent producing it. That is, the time spent with Erichthonios. Of course, due to the urgency of their current position, he can't expect that time to be lengthy, so he's certain there will have to be opportunities later.

"Once we have set Pandaemonium right again once and for all, I believe I could find a chance to do proper research and bring my own ideas to the table. If you wouldn't mind spending the time with me then?" That seems fair enough, even if he feels the slightest hitch in his breath as he puts forth the suggestion. He does so hope it is a favorable one.

I need to upload more happy icons for him

[beshackled]

Like the lifting of a debilitating spell, Ericthonios feels the weight in his chest lighten, nervousness giving way to an exhilarating feeling that affects him, moves him in both body and in spirit. He feels strangely light-headed, but so thrilled is he by the proposition that he thinks little of it.

"I... would like that. Very much."

To be able to spend more time with him... Erichthonios could not well hope for anything more.

"The facilities for cooking are small in comparison to the rest of the place, but being as the warders and keywards spend so much time here, we could not well do without them." Even food created needed a place in which to store it.

That much having been spoken, Erichthonios begins walking, leading the way.

[apestalmenos]

Could Themis' smile grow any wider? Why, yes, apparently it can, because it does just that as he registers Erichthonios' response. In an extremely uncharacteristic manner, he even almost misses the words that follow as he's already allowed his mind to indulge in a tiny bit of joyously daydreamed planning. Thankfully he is still watching Erichthonios as his thoughts wander, and seeing the man's lips move is enough to snap him back to attention.

"I can't imagine such facilities are used very often, so that does make sense. I can't wait to see how we'll utilize them." He is definitely in a brighter mood, not that his mood has really dampened much since his return. There's still somehow a small change and he even walks with a lighter step as he follows Erichthonios, keeping in line with him.

"I find myself with a feeling that I should share my hobbies with you, but I don't really have any. I spend a lot of my free time reading, which isn't... usually a group activity." Usually the 'group activity' occurs when others band together to try to pull him away from the reading.
"I really can't help it, though. The libraries are such a wealth of information, how could I possibly pass up on all they have to offer?"
He feels as though he's talking too much now. Why is he talking so much? His nose wrinkles as he quiets abruptly, only to realize that may have been too sudden a stop and feel awkward about it.

[beshackled]

The sudden pause does not go unnoticed, and Erichthonios finds himself eager to fill it. "'Tis true that libraries and archives hold much information. And I... enjoy learning, as much as I struggle in it."

He'd even taken the lengths to memorize the movements of internment magicks, even though he'd not been previously permitted to use them, even if he somehow managed to pull off the feat successfully. That did not stop him from trying to learn, difficult as most magicks are to him. He has never stopped trying.

"Have you visited the archives in Peripeteia Krystalline yet? Although they are not inclined to allow their records passage from the building itself, you will find no greater reservoir of knowledge in all of Elpis."

[apestalmenos]

Themis immediately brightens right back up again when Erichthonios just picks up his train of thought and goes with it. Still, he wonders what could have caused him to falter so. He keeps running into these small troubles. With a smile he nods, though the smile loses a little of its luster, dulling to a more natural expression not long into Erichthonios' comments. "The enjoyment of learning is the most important step. Even if you struggle, so long as you relish the activity, it should always bear great fruit. However, if you would ever like my assistance or company, I would endeavor to make time to join you."

Not only does he greatly appreciate that the other man seems to actually be interested in the topic, he also appreciates how genuine his words are. If only from the scene Themis witnessed upon his return to Pandaemonium just earlier, he could tell that Erichthonios is no stranger to putting in hard work to achieve his goals, whatever that may entail. It is certainly a trait he admires, and even if the thought of spending even more time with Erichthonios didn't cause that slightest of flutters in his chest he still would have made such an offer.

"Ah, I have been to the archives there. I was actually considering taking a trip there once I'm done here. There's something I'd like to look into. You said you don't go out often, but when you do, do you happen to visit?"

[beshackled]

Once again, Erichthonios finds himself taking heart in Themis' words of encouragement.

"I have not had much occasion to." Much less had company to enjoy the experience with. "But... mayhap I shall have more reason to do so in the future."

If he manages to master internment, perhaps other magicks he thought beyond his skill might not be beyond his reach after all. And... he could learn more about the creations being tested in Elpis, should he venture to the area more. The grounds around the waters of Lethe were actually quite beautiful.

And mayhap.... mayhap he shall even have someone to read with.

[apestalmenos]

"Then we shall certainly have to take the trip together!"

There's that excitement again, combined with a joyous grin. Somehow, despite Themis being far from the only person who spends so much of his time reading and learning new things, he rarely finds that anyone is so willing to join him. Sure, he may chance to run into a colleague or friend in the archives, and they may even take the time to compare and discuss, but this is a conversation that hardly ever happens.

"Ah... people tend to try to dissuade me from using the libraries as a recreational activity, so I must admit I am quite elated that you'd consider accompanying me." He couldn't help feeling the need to explain, after all.

[beshackled]

Such enthusiasm is something that Erichthonios is... not used to, to put it mildly. Truly, he can't help but be a little stunned, eyes blinking wide at the bold declaration; the volume of the exclamation and brilliance of the accompanying smile catching him off-guard.

The explanation offered thereafter helps, putting Themis' enthusiasm into perspective for the normally shy warder. Though as simple and understandable as the reason may be from a logical perspective, it yet causes Erichthonios' pulse to flutter in his veins. A most unusual feeling indeed.

"Is... not the point of recreational activity to do what one finds enjoyable?"

[apestalmenos]

The question is quickly answered with a firm nod. Themis' good mood only continues to heighten as he talks with Erichthonios, even if he still feels as though he's quite terrible at picking topics. It is nice to be validated, though. And it is especially nice that it is Erichthonios who validates him. He does feel some small need to make a good impression in a way he hasn't actually felt with anyone else.

"Isn't it!?" He chuckles, in good spirits indeed. "I don't think anyone truly disrespects my preference, but they feel I could benefit from taking more breaks than I normally do, I suppose. Perhaps they also don't realize how much I sincerely enjoy it, and think I am forcing myself into study when I'd rather be elsewhere."
Naturally he would try to see others' points of view, recognizing that their actions come from places of good intentions.

"There is just so much to learn, and it's all so fascinating." There is no reason at the moment to add that what he more desperately wants is to keep enhancing his skills in order to keep up with the rest of the Convocation and ensure he is useful in his station. Now... is not the time to go into any of that. What he's already said is factual enough without adding unnecessary information.

[beshackled]

The information presented is a point of view that Erichthonios cannot quite comprehend. Perhaps it is because Themis is so talented to begin with, unlike himself, whose skill in magicks is so lackluster that he has ever been told and elsewise encouraged to practice and practice.

"...Well, I'm afraid I do little else but study in my spare time... aside from the cooking, that is. But you are welcome to join me."

Speaking of joining him, they seem to have already arrived at their destination. Coming to the door, he blinks, a spark of surprise rising at having gotten there so soon. There had been no distortion in the halls; of this he is sure. Yet he cannot shake the feeling. Could it have been that their conversation had influenced his perception of the passing of time...?

"...Ah. It would seem we have reached our destination. Shall we go in and see what we have to work with?"

[apestalmenos]

Themis has nothing but faith that Erichthonios can only improve his magic skills with practice, and he couldn't ever imagine berating his current level. Everyone must start from somewhere, even himself. And, as he's offered, he would do his best to be there to help, with magic or simply moral support, which comes with the added benefit of being able to spend more time with Erichthonios. Everyone wins!

"'Twould seem we have a great interest in common. I would join you any time you would have me. Schedule permitting, of course." Yes. He'd almost forgotten about that. It wouldn't do to make promises he couldn't keep, but for just a moment all thoughts of anything but being able to be around Erichthonios had flitted out of his mind. How unlike him. He blinks then, as if confused by his own actions, but the sudden announcement of their approach brings a more pleasant look back to his face.
It does seem to have come quickly even to he who had never been there before. The walk had simply seemed too short to have gone anywhere at all.

"Already here? I thought it would be further. Hm, they do say 'time flies when one is enjoying oneself', don't they?" Something like that, anyway. "Let us head inside, then," he agrees with a nod.

[beshackled]

Ah. There is his heart again, hammering away in his chest. At a loss for words, Erichthonios shuffles his weight lightly from one foot to the other in that brief pause between sentences, the heat beginning to rise in his face.

How grateful he is when Themis breaks the silence, for it seems to break the spell inadvertently cast over his senses, reminding him of their purpose for being there in the first place. Returning his nod with one of his own, Erichthonios turns to open the door with outstretched arm.

Though his heart still races, it now does so with purpose.

Giddy with anticipation, Erichthonios' thoughts turn to what he might make with as few ingredients and time as possible. In short time, he arrives at an acceptable solution: pancakes. Pancakes made with giant popotoes. Most of the ingredients for the recipe were grown in or otherwise from Elpis, and so they typically had them in abundance, while the rest were staples of cooking in general.

"...How do you feel about giant popoto pancakes?" he asks, looking through their supplies. They appear to have plenty of giant popotoes, at least.

[apestalmenos]

Giant popoto pancakes. Themis knows how to make those, but he only knows how to make them. Putting them together from individual parts? His eyes positively sparkle at the very idea. Yes, it had been the plan from the start, but now that they're actually there, and Erichthonios seems to be as excited as he is about the project, his enthusiasm rises ever higher.

"I think that sounds wonderful! How do we proceed?"

He starts looking around, though he's not entirely sure what he's looking for, and he keeps getting distracted by completely unrelated things anyway. It also doesn't help that he can't refrain from taking small glances toward Erichthonios for reasons that have absolutely nothing to do with cooking. It is so nice to see him so cheered.

"I am so very excited to watch you," he says quite happily as he continues looking. Since this is Erichthonios' area of expertise, however, he doesn't bother to try pulling anything out. He figures he'll be more helpful following instructions than attempting to discern what's supposed to be going on on his own and charging ahead.

[beshackled]

Plucking up a handful of the giant popotoes, Erichthonios turns to collect the implements with which to prepare them; a small knife for peeling, and a tool with which to mash them.

"We shall need a bit of salt, some wheat flour, and eggs. First we must peel the popotoes... while the skins are rich in nutrients, their texture is a detriment to this particular meal." Pancakes are meant to be light and fluffy, whilst popoto skins are... decidedly not. "Once peeled, they must be mashed, then mixed with the flour and egg, which serves to bind the two together."

Setting up next to a counter, Erichthonios begins peeling a popoto over a bowl he uses to catch the skins. "A little bit of salt is added into the mix... and then the cooking process can begin."

[apestalmenos]

Themis is absolutely ready to get to work, attention turned to Erichthonios as he begins giving instruction. With a nod, he immediately swivels to locate the requested ingredients, which thankfully isn't too difficult. He doesn't want to miss a thing!

"How much should I bring?" He asks, but is already filling his arms, figuring if he brings too much it can always just be stored away again once they're done. By the time he's close enough to deposit the items nearby, Erichthonios has already begun peeling, and Themis doesn't want any more of the process to pass him by.

Watching, then, he's clearly enthralled by it all, mostly by how easily Erichthonios handles it. He may also be spending more time with his eyes on the preparer than the preparations, though this doesn't stop him from asking questions.

"So, what happens to the skins? Surely they aren't simply discarded?" That just seems wasteful.

[beshackled]

Themis is correct. To simply discard them would be a waste. His serious expression -- for he often looks so when focusing on a task -- softens, a smile returning to his lips. Themis is so thoughtful...

"The skins, I save with other vegetable scraps to make a vegetable broth with. 'Tis a good base for many soups."

But a thing that takes far more time to prepare well; a thing best saved for later. Round and round he twists the popoto, angling the blade so that the peel remains thin, and the 'meat' of the vegetable as intact as possible.

When the first is done, he picks up another, and does the same.

[apestalmenos]

Oh, he's supposed to be helping, isn't he? But Themis somehow ends up leaning against the counter instead, elbow on the surface with his cheek resting on his hand, just watching. He's quickly found that he rather enjoys that serious expression Erichthonios has for the brief time, though his smile is just as nice, even better...

"That is fascinating, Erichthonios. I really am learning a lot from you today. Thank you for allowing me to accompany you here."

Speaking of which! "Oh! Right!" He abruptly straightens up away from the counter, feeling a little silly at the realization that he'd been there in the first place. "Is there anything else I can do at the moment?"

[beshackled]

Oblivious to Themis' line of sight -- his own being fixated on the vegetable in the process of being peeled -- Erichthonios remains confidently in his element, though the compliments once again stir a strange and pleasing feeling in his chest. He pauses, however, as Themis' exclamation reaches his ears, head lifting and eyes wide with unspoken confusion.

"...Oh." Erichthonios, having been caught up in what he was doing, had neglected to give further instructions. How embarrassing... "If you'd like, you could grab a large bowl and see to the mashing? I can drop the popotoes in once they are ready..."

[apestalmenos]

Perhaps it is that confidence that really makes Erichthonios shine at the moment. It keeps a smile on Themis' face every time he glances over to see the man so firmly and comfortably in charge of his environment.

Though he does feel a little bad at having clearly startled Erichthonios, he's taken aback by how... cute the resultant expression is. That is really the only word he can think of to describe it, and noting that brings a hint of color to his face as he quickly looks away to begin following the new instructions. A bowl... Didn't he just move something like that?

"I do believe I can handle that. I think I saw a bowl earlier..."

Locating what he assumes to be an appropriately sized bowl, he sets the dish on the counter, a subsequent search for something to do the mashing with artificially extended to give his face time to return to a proper shade.

"Ah, that you can remember all of this without writing it down!" The whole process just promises to amaze him from beginning to end. He can't help it.