middaeg | [Feb Catchall][OTA]

There had been a suggestion that Ignis and Elidibus (known publicly as Ardbert) do meet up and discuss patrols. It seemed reasonable though and having a partner for patrolling would aid in his continued progress of learning the layout of the city. And, after a short talk with Ignis himself through a series of texts, a meeting point was arranged.

Given they had only spoken through the watches and this was the first time meeting one another, it's only fitting this takes place somewhere public and with no indication of where the other actually lives. Daytime, around lunch. A reasonably priced eatery near the harbor that was sure to be crowded and free of potential ambushes.

'Ardbert' had also gone back to the suggestion of mounted patrols, but there was no sense in pursuing the matter unless Ignis also had transportation. Thus, if they both did have the ability to add the speed and distance of mounts to the equation, there will be an amaro - a large, gray-feathered bird mount, though decidedly lacking the same conformation as a chocobo, at the nearest hitching post. And maybe it will be there anyway if Ignis had professed enough convincing interest in seeing the steed.

For Elidibus did arrive early to secure the seating they'd require during a lunch rush of all times. Therefore should Ignis be the type to be prompt or even early, he'll discover a table for two people next to a window has a seat held for him by the man who'd described his appearance in enough detail that he'd be recognized. Short brown hair in a careless (lack) of style, clean-shaven, wearing gear of leather, scale, and fur. There's a winter cloak that doesn't quite match the kit over the back of his chair and a massive axe, though this is currently just outlined by a canvas and linen wrap. Having someone with weapons around these days- particularly by the docks- is not even going to bat an eye. Though in eating establishments there are still protocols to follow. He is slowly reading a local print paper. The language is the Aefenglom native, which likely explains a journal opened, bearing notations on the letter system, language grammar, and keywords or phrases, all dutifully jotted down with a 'translated' language that Elidibus is familiar with. How's your Eorzean script, Ignis? For that matter, how's your reading comprehension with the local language?

It's the type of eatery you would expect of the locals and this close to the harbor. Foods that are light or heavy, fried or grilled, plenty of seafood options but also sandwiches, stews, and other local favorites. Water, weak ale, tea, and coffee. It is definitely not a 'boutique' but where the working class would go with no problems having Monsters and Witches jostling side-by-side. The one waiting has obtained a strong tea. There's a bowl of sugar cubes and it's half empty. Prove that it was full when Elidibus first sat down. Go on. Prove it.

He didn't know why, exactly, Caster had decided that this person would be a good match as far as patrols would be concerned but with his circle of acquaintances and friends rapidly narrowing thanks to the machinations of this place he didn't see the harm in taking him up on it. Besides, two heads could be better than one, and it wasn't beyond Ignis to be able to be diplomatic if he found that he didn't want to work with this 'Ardbert' after all.

As far as mounted patrols were concerned, he had no particular objections to it but hadn't made any effort yet to obtain his own mount in the city. He didn't, however, have any objections at all to seeing Ardbert's own mount and though his interest had been polite and civil he has more of a fondness for chocobos than he would outwardly admit. Thus, he does give the amaro a brief stop and light pat on the neck before he continues on his way.

He takes care not to be late, and though he would have been a little early without his brief stop outside he still walks in precisely on time and finds the man he's looking for without too much difficulty.

"Good afternoon," he greets the man politely and takes his seat. Ignis carries no visible weapons and with his smart manner of dress and thin-rimmed spectacles no doubt looks more like a librarian than any kind of fighter. He's relaxed as he sits down, taking in the state of the table (and the half-empty bowl of sugar cubes) with a single sweeping glance.

"How have you found picking up the local language?"

Who knows what Caster was thinking. Helping a newcomer learn the city better? Safety in numbers? The person calling himself Ardbert had no obvious objections and he showed no signs of it being inconvenient to bring the amaro.

Elidibus doesn't stand up when Ignis arrives, though he does look up and offer a cheerful-looking half-grin. "I see you've arrived safe and sound." No real formality here. He puts down the paper and raises an arm to get the attention of a server. Once he's acknowledged- they'll be on the way shortly- the man settles back again and gives Ignis a brief once over. There doesn't appear to be any judgment regarding the other man's appearance. Not judging someone by appearances aside, one has only to think about Scholars to know you don't mess around with the smart ones. Elidibus drops his gaze to the notes and the newspaper.

"Smoothly, I suppose." For someone who has lived many millennia and seen all sorts of language evolution, this is probably an understatement. But he doesn't appear to be bragging about it. He begins to clear away his work, tucking it into a satchel which was slung over the back of the chair under the cloak. "Aside from a few words here and there, I could probably hold a conversation through letter correspondence, if needed. Are you familiar with the native script as well?"

The server finally makes it over to take an order. Food or drink. "I can afford the meal for both of us," Elidibus offers. "Though I won't object if you wish to pay for yourself."

"I've made the effort to be so," he responds without boasting. One of many things that Ignis had to be as the right hand of the future king was fluent in more than one language - though it could be argued that he simply did it because he wanted to. It would have been easier if he could hear it spoken as well, but something about being here made sure that he only ever heard words in a language that he could understand.

Ignis considers the offer for a moment, then inclines his head politely.

"Kind of you. I'll be certain to repay it."

Ways to earn money aren't hard to come by here, but he isn't going to turn down the generosity. With full intention of returning the favour, he orders some coffee and something simple to eat.

"I've read a great deal since I arrived, and being able to understand the written language is helpful if you don't want to be hopelessly restricted in available material."

"Hm," comes the sound of agreement. The rest of the conversation is not dismissed. Rather it doesn't seem to be something he needs to respond to. Food is ordered, with 'Ardbert' getting himself a sandwich and some soup. Nothing odd there, but he'd taken time to look over the menu in detail before Ignis's arrival.

"There is no need to. But I suppose if our meeting works as Caster intended, we will be seeing each other regularly enough." Which means plenty of opportunities to pick up the tab another time.

"There may be much context missed when one relies on another's interpretation or a spell's translation." It seems this Ardbert fellow, despite his rough looks, is reasonably scholarly. At least, he appears to agree with his dining companion's words.

Real Ardbert, to note, is a nice guy. But he's not really like this at all. What Ignis doesn't know won't hurt him.

It's when the items arrive that something might be remarked as odd. The soup seems safe enough from Elidibus's machinations. Bits of seafood in a creamy base. He's had this before. But the sandwich is new and there is some subtle effort at... okay not really subtle because the spoon meant for the soup is used to pick at the layers and see what is involved. With winter, largely cheese, meat, and preserved vegetables. He retrieves a slice of pickled onion from the assortment and eats it with a thoughtful expression.

This is restraint because of a public venue. But the Emissary has learned that mortals accept a lot of odd behaviors as long as you pace it correctly.

Ignis himself has a coffee and a slightly spicy-smelling soup with what looks to be some kind of pasta in it. It sounded tasty from the menu description, and he's been all about trying new things since he's been here. It's been more than enough to come up with a few new recipes.

And much like Elidibus, Ignis isn't someone who tends to judge too much on initial appearances. That, after all, is how one tends to land in hot water if assumptions prove to be entirely incorrect. He hadn't judged this man to be any less scholarly than himself and he's pleased to know that his estimations hadn't been incorrect.

He isn't really observing his companion when their food arrives, more taken with looking over his own, but he can't help noticing the way the sandwich is examined.

"Is there something wrong?" he asks, glancing up curiously. "I'm sure there's something else on offer if that isn't to your liking."

Excellent. Both seem willing to pause a moment and reflect further on the person they're meeting, rather than make snap judgments. No sudden drawn weapons, no need to get down to business. Just quiet assessments and enough time for their food. A little small talk over language, even. How long has it been, Elidibus wonders, since his duties had taken him to such a venue? Too long, he realizes, as it is yet another lost memory that leaves behind the impression he has been in such settings before, but can't remember when or where, much less the specific details of it.

The onion, he decides, can be filed into the 'good' taste category. Elidibus looks up at his lunch companion as a question is asked regarding the sandwich. Ah, right. Oddities. At least a partial truth will see him through this and so an easy grin is offered, though not without an impression of self-consciousness. "There is naught amiss. Since arrival to this city, I have experienced a great many new tastes. I oft find tasting the new ingredients separate gives me greater insight on how they apply to the whole."

Elidibus has practiced this. Even used it on occasion. The truth may have a lot more nuances to it but this small fragment is smoothly offered. There should be no indication that there's more to it than that.

Unless you want to wonder why a pickled onion is that much of an unusual taste experience anyway.

Ignis, whether incorrectly or not, simply allows himself the assumption that this person hadn't had much occasion to explore his palate before he found himself here. A terrible fate for anyone, to be sure.

"I see," he accepts the explanation without much further comment, given that it sounds entirely reasonable. "I do similar things myself, when I come across something new."

Anything new, in fact. Even when in the most inappropriate of moments, Ignis can find a sudden dash of inspiration (and he isn't shy of announcing it when he does, either). He observes Ardbert for another few moments, then settles to having a little more of his soup before he speaks up again.

"Not for my own lack of experience. I find that deconstructing a new experience in such a way can lend itself to the creation of new ones."

It's reasonably true though probably more literally than Ignis may imagine the case. That Elidibus is exploring the nuance of 'good' or 'bad' taste beyond matters of nutritional value is something of an innovation brought on by a desire to acquire some mortal habits for his act.

But that's not really what they're here to talk about. Also, after the onion incident, the sandwich is closed again and lifted for a bite. It appears all other flavors were already categorized through previous encounters.

'Ardbert' looks up with a curious expression. He seems... intrigued? "I would agree," he responds, letting a smile come to his lips. He has, of course, swallowed that bite of his meal by this time. "Without adequate information, how are we to truly comprehend the correct choice to make, in the end?"

Whether to consume this sandwich as it is presented. Or to excise certain parts for the benefit of the whole experience.

Ten thousand and more years of doctrine crammed into one roast beef, cheese, and pickled onion sandwich.

"Ah, but we aren't here to discuss lunch. The possibility of working together on a patrol was the order of the day, wasn't it? What are your thoughts on the matter?"

"Quite so."

And no, they were decidedly not there to discuss lunch... but that didn't mean it wasn't a pleasant way to pass the time. Someone with the same critical mind as Ignis when it came to food was a rare thing to come by, so he'll be keeping that in mind for when their official business is concluded... should Ardbert be interested in continuing.

"It seems that the Mirrorbound aren't the only ones being targeted in this matter," Ignis says then, moving swiftly on to the topic at hand. All business, even with his soup still half-unfinished in front of him. "So simply focusing on where they tend to congregate isn't going to be enough. I don't think we would benefit by creating further ill feeling with the natives by only looking after our own."

One can only ask and find out whether this 'Ardbert' fellow is indeed interested in pursuing analytical cuisine. ~~In other words, probably.~~

"I agree." After taking a drink of his ~~absolutely not oversugared~~ tea, the man across from Ignis focuses a keen gaze upon his lunch companion. "I do not intend judgment on Mirrorbound who think first to guard their own, for I understand there was an incident a year past in which recent events serve as a reminder of. However, it is clear this time the conspirators are not as selective in their victims."

Elidibus includes a few motions to his words. Gestures that are meant to mimic the normal mortal habit of expression. Something he's observed as a necessity, else people start to look at you strangely for remaining still too long. It mostly fits. Though if the conversation goes on too long, it might look a little stiff, as if it were something he was not accustomed to doing.

"My Bonded and I reside in the Western Residential District, rather than Haven. A place which is sure to be a target for those seeking to cause disappearances which will oft go unregarded by the populace at large. Unless those able to look beyond their own troubles are willing to take time to care. Setting aside any gain in relations with the native people, I would rather not overlook the obvious problems this would cause."

People kidnapped, people showing back up heavily infected by the Cwyld. And if any one place is left unchecked, that's just inviting the notion of scores of Cwyld-infected kidnap victims running loose in the city, right?

Ignis files it away for future reference as he, too, would be very interested in pursuing a conversation about analysing cuisine. It isn't too often he meets someone of a similar mind to himself in that regard.

He listens to the other man's part silently and without judgement either here nor there about his thoughts on the Mirrorbound and how they might act. The events of the previous year aren't unknown to him, though he wasn't present for them, and he would entirely expect the Mirrorbound to look after their own before others... but that doesn't mean any patrol need do the same.

"Mm. Ideally there would be enough of us to go around." Ideally the natives would help, but since his arrival Ignis hasn't been ignorant to the various levels of animosity he comes up against.

"We should find a map. I assume there's one available?"

Did he bring a map? Of course Elidibus brought a map. As he's reaching into the same satchel he had secured his language notes in, the man offers his own insight.

"Given the circumstances and strange obsession many of those who join the Circle exhibit, it is reasonable to be at the height of wariness. And to expect less help than what is hoped to be gained."

'Ardbert' pulls out two rolls from a casing. One is a better than average map of the city of Aefenglom, including the wall and the outskirts. It's on thick paper with bold, vibrant ink and seems to hold only an outline of the city with a few key, although to scale, placement of landmarks, important buildings, and districts. This is because of the second roll, which turns out to be an overlay of much thinner paper, translucent enough to see through and more importantly the details. While the latter is not completely filled in, the main and somewhat less important secondary are. And primarily in the Western District, minute detail on alleys, small roads, and features that might be of some importance to practical navigation are meticulously listed. Comparatively the two levels of the map are done by different hands. But the overlay is a clear match to the earlier handwriting samples displayed in the notes Ignis would have glimpsed on arrival. While it is no means near completion, there are signs he has spent considerable effort in getting this far in a short period of time, if his claims of being a recent arrival earlier are any indication. Only a small fraction of anything outside of the Bright Wall has been indicated.

To be honest, Elidibus isn't fond of having to rely so much on physical ink and paper. But some needs must be endured.

"This is what I have personally explored since my arrival. I also have a less... accurate depiction of the city's streets which may prove useful, given my focus of late has been the Western Residential." Another rustle around the satchel and a more commonly available version of the city's maps is procured and set on the table. This is in the form of a broad book of sectional maps, updated at annual (if one is lucky) intervals.

The man is well-prepared indeed, and Ignis doesn't suspect for a moment that he isn't the kind of person to want to rely on things like this. Ignis himself often doesn't, though that's more out of necessity than any real dislike. Carrying around maps and paper isn't really all that easy when you're running through the countryside on foot.

He shifts in his seat and leans forwards, his light meal all but forgotten as the map is laid out in front of him. Ignis examines the detail with a keen eye, pushing his glasses up with the tip of his middle finger.

"Yes, perfect." Give him a moment. It does occur to him as he looks that if the man is so recent an arrival as he claims to be, he couldn't have possibly...

"Where did you get these?"

It's just annoying because Elidibus generally has access to the ability to simply create such trifles with naught but a thought. Pity the poor ancient being.

This much preparation would be difficult to carry into the wilderness indeed. Even patrolling on the streets, Elidibus wouldn't necessarily trust this precious map in his possession. Memory and a smaller copy would be enough.

'Ardbert' tilts his head to the side with a faint half-smile. "I had the outline commissioned from a professional cartographer recommended to me. He reaches out a finger and taps the edge of the bottom layer of the unrolled map. The thinner vellum with the details of streets, alleys, and relevant notations is briefly pinched. "This is the progress I have made in filling it over the last moon." He affects an expression of chagrin as he glances down. "It may be of little use outside the Western Residential district for the time being. But in time, I will come to know this city well."

It could be construed as the work of someone dedicated (though not necessarily obsessed) to a goal. But it really is that of someone who does not see the passage of time in quite the same way as mortals. And to be truthful, a good deal of the impressive gain on the map occurred before Elidibus was forced to concede he would have to follow a better routine of mortal rest, nutrition intake, and care.

Another inconvenience he could no longer magic away.

The man gives a chuckle. "What? You don't believe I stole it, do you?" he seems to jest.

Ignis is clearly quite taken with the map, shifting in his seat and sitting on the very edge of it to get a better look at the map from a different angle. He's spent a good deal of time walking the streets and has them committed to memory fairly well, but he can see many things he's missed on these detailed overlays.

Finally, he resumes his seat in a more socially acceptable way (that is, not looking like he might fall off it at any moment) and lifts one eyebrow towards the other man at the question.

"Not at all, though it wouldn't be my business if you had." Not that he'd approve, but... at the moment, needs must, and they certainly needed something like this. No matter how Ardbert had come by it, it would be useful. "How complete would you say it is?"

Elidibus has no reason to block Ignis from moving forward and taking a more detailed look. If he had been concerned he would not have pulled out the map in the first place and stuck only with the more conventional street maps.

There is a brief chuckle offered. "I suppose it wouldn't," 'Ardbert' replies. For a brief moment, there might even be a faint hint of approval there. Elidibus can appreciate a pragmatic mortal. His gaze drops to the map, scanning over it. "For the city, it will be some time. Though now I have obtained proper tack for Filia, I may be capable of filling in a less detailed rendition by flying over the city."

He reaches out and taps the edge of the Western Residential District with a still-gloved hand. Yup, he'd been eating with gloves on. At this point in his efforts to mimic habits, he still has a few forgetful moments about such niceties.

"Here is the focus of my efforts. Since I reside in this area I felt it was best to concentrate upon it. I've covered the bulk of general concerns and about forty percent of actual details. If we were to consolidate our own contribution when certain factions amongst the district's populace, there should be adequate support."

A faint, wry smile is given as he looks up again. "As you are likely aware when it comes to such places, there are certain locales where outsiders will rarely be welcome no matter how well-meaning. But I am certain I can reach out to them and make sure any support we provide in other areas is seen as the aid it is truly meant to be."

Ignis is an honest sort, but if one has to blur those lines in order to get something done... who is he to say anything about it? If he did, it would certainly not be the first time he'd lied.

His gaze flicks up to the other man for a moment and he lets out a thoughtful hum, soft and barely audible.

"I haven't been here as long as some, but long enough to see where I'm carefully observed as I pass and where I'm not." Especially since his changes began to show. Those of a Naga are less subtle than some, and his status is written all over his face... so to speak. He rubs the scales scattered over his cheekbone and jaw line as the thought occurs to him subconsciously.

"What makes you think they'll listen to you?"

To his credit, Elidibus hadn't flinched or even stared much when it came to the signs of Monster transformation. Though it's fair to say there are precious few people here that he would look at oddly when it came to their unique features. It is difficult for a person from his perspective to tell whether it's an actual transition to some Aefenglom representative or a racial trait of the Mirrorbound in question. Sentient mortal life is varied in its physical appearance.

It is, in its way, helpful in treating with the natives as equally as he would any mortal.

"I am an emissary," the man sitting across from Ignis answers readily and without a trace of irony. "And while this... star is not encompassed by my responsibilities, it has at least not seen fit to completely rob me of the expertise with which I have discharged my duties."

The quiet confidence with which 'Ardbert' speaks of his skill is the type that implies humility would have been improper. But perhaps as an advisor to a future king, Ignis would understand there are certain roles in which too much modesty would have suggested incompetency.

"In addition, I live in the District and have for several weeks of my short time here. Before then I had visited regularly. While I may still be an outsider in many respects and likely always will be," a matter which is clearly not bothering him in the slightest, "I have earned enough regard to present my case and what mutual benefit may be had between the parties involved."

Ardbert takes a moment to the last drink of tea as there had been little remaining of the slowly cooling beverage. When the mug is lowered, a dry smile might briefly be seen. "Though I will admit the state of affairs in this matter may have been sped in some small part by the nature of my contemporary and Bond partner."

People tend to be a lot more open to being civilly receptive to the new guy in town when there's a dragon involved.

Edited 2021-04-26 01:23 (UTC)

He takes the word as literally as it seems to be intended, with the amount of importance weighted to it. An emissary, indeed? He studies the man for a moment and makes no secret of doing so (difficult anyway, given their proximity), but he isn't at all surprised to hear that he comes from that line of work given how resourceful he has shown himself to be so far.

Ignis does indeed understand that there are some circumstances in which modesty is not the proper path to take.

"I see." His eyebrows lift slightly, but he doesn't press further on just how well Ardbert has managed to integrate himself into the community. "And might I ask who your partner is?"

In light of Ignis's regard, the corners of Ardbert's mouth lift slightly.

"I understand my appearance belies my claim. There are times when I have found it necessary to set aside my robes of office and don something more appropriate in the performance of my duties. The powers that summoned me to this world happened to draw me away during one of my more active roles."

Absolutely straight-faced. No need to suggest how skin-deep his phrase goes.

The man's expression takes on a thoughtful look at the other's next request. Elidibus isn't actively against divulging the name of his Bond partner but he does weigh the merits of giving so many details right now. A faint smile touches Ardbert's expression. It is apologetic and indicative of the answer even before he focuses on Ignis and speaks.

"Perhaps it is wise not to give too many details about our personal connections during this first meeting." Fully reasonable given the circumstances they're meeting under. Setting aside how much trust they should give to each other, should they become compromised, the less they know about personal details, the better. "Mayhap as the current crisis comes to an end we could sit down again for a more relaxed conversation about our lives, allies, and habits." Tea. Brunch. Cooking lessons. "Though I promise should there be an immediate need for such information, I will be forthright."

Reaching for his sandwich, Ardbert concludes before taking another bite, "I am not against listening to opposing views in reasoned debate however, should you feel there is a currently a need for such knowledge?"

Reasoned, agreeable debate was ever the way of the ancient society Elidibus is part of. While he may have only a precious few fragments of memory from that time, there are some standards which were ingrained.

"I hadn't given any thought of that kind to your appearance." Ignis replies quiet honestly. His own appearance would very much belie any claim that he was as competent in battle as he was with a pen and with his words, and he knows very well what it's like to present oneself a certain way in order to throw off your opponent - be that in debate or in a fight.

And he doesn't look offended at all at the refusal to answer the question. In fact, he smiles (almost wryly) and shakes his head a little. It makes it seem so very clandestine, but he supposes that Ardbert has his reasons for not wanting to divulge that piece of information.

"No more than a simple curiosity," he says. "I'm sure you won't hesitate to tell me should I need to know."

As for the rest...

"But I wouldn't object to a more relaxed conversation, when this is put to rest."

Relaxed, yes. A nod indicates that Elidibus would be open to speaking under less dire circumstances. Or in acceptance of Ignis's interest in speaking in more casual conversation at a later date while not committing himself.

It is very diplomatic.

"With that matter settled, I would suggest we conclude our meal and turn our attention to settling the matter of how best to recruit more interest from our ranks." The Mirrorbound that is. "With firm numbers, I would be better equipped to present our interests to the factions within the District."

Well, even if it turns out to be just himself and Ignis he can probably work something to their benefit. But that's neither here nor there. And there would probably be a few more people willing to take some time to patrol the Western Residential area.

In the future there will be more interactions and conversation beyond what is needed for a strictly professional relationship. But those are tales for another time.

For now there are food and plans.

[Feb Catchall][OTA]

(Elidibus as Ardbert)

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Sorry about the delay!

<3

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