asgardeventide | #002 - video, action for Thor district

[ It is late evening when Aether's bracelet comes to life. Judging by the poor lightning, he must be outdoors; a careful eye will notice the outlines of a massive building behind the tall man's shoulder, although only frequent visitors to the Thor district will recognize it as the Arena. There is a dull sound of whetstone scraping against steel, although the camera's angle makes it hard to see the source.

Instead, it focuses on Aether's face. His expression is a smile, peaceful and a little distant, and his eyes are as blank as ever. When he speaks, his voice carries a thoughtful hum to it. His mood seems to be good, but that doesn't keep him from acting a little guarded. ]

I must say, I am impressed. It usually takes people months to adjust to heavy changes in their bodies, but it looks like most of you took to new forms without a single issue. 'Tis comforting. It means that whatever our hosts do, we can still be prepared.

[ A sigh, and he looks up at the camera. ]

Being prepared is what I would like to speak about. I have an offer for those of you who don't feel as safe as you would like to.

I am... [ He pauses for a moment, as if changing his mind about what to say halfway through the sentence. ] ...in service of the House of Sigyn, but I happen to be no good with their chosen craft. I am, however, good enough with a blade to know the art of wielding one with mercy.

I'm here to make an offer. For a token price, I shall teach anyone who asks how to defend themselves with a tool of their choice. It doesn't have to be something normally used as a weapon. In fact, it would be best if you brought me something you carry often enough to keep you safe at all times.

If you're interested, reach me here or seek me in the arena. I can be found there at all times of the day.

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

And if no weapon of choice is provided, would you be willing to offer advice and instruction on what you feel is best for each particular person? [Not that he was certain to take up this person's offer, but it never hurt to ask questions first with such services.]

[ Aether considers that for a moment. It is a valid concern, but not one easily solved. If he had to answer... ]

I could try. A weapon chosen for you is rarely the one that is right, but there are times when you need to follow bad advice in order to figure out where to find the good one.

Then your methods are more through trial and error than by simple instruction, is that what you are implying?

When it comes to choosing the right weapon? Yes.

And whatever pupils you gather will simply be called upon to act to the situation surrounding them?

It depends on the student. On who they are, what they are and what I have to teach them.

I am not interested in putting everyone through the same motions. What I seek is to give those who are powerless the strength to endure anything this place might throw at them.

Then it may be wiser to attempt a different approach. After all, it is those who are often powerless who find themselves shying away from the adversities of fighting to begin with, is it not?

That is true. However, I never expected those who don't seek power to approach me in the first place.

No, most wouldn't invite trouble so openly if they were aware that they could face an able adversary.

Would you have also considered teaching others in the Arena as well? You may have more success with a more direct approach.

I do already teach people in the Arena when they approach me.

...or do you mean something more akin to regularly scheduled classes? Because that is a bad idea.

And just why would that be a bad idea? [He can think of several reasons, but he wants to hear his personal take on it.]

I do not know the standard forms needed to teach large groups of people.

Do you mean that you don't know how to teach so many people at once?

You are not wrong...

What I teach isn't how to fight. It's a path to power that is yours alone.

[... The philosophy sounded eerily similar to one he had heard prior to arriving in Asgard. For that reason it couldn't be ignored.]

What are your starting fees?

The first session is one silver rune. I would make it free, but I respect time too much to make it so.

Every session after it is three silver runes.

And the first session would be used to determine the proficiency of the pupil?

Correct.

Date and times?

You can name both. I've a lot of free time on my hands these days.

Very well... Could I call upon you in two weeks time? [He should also introduce himself, shouldn't he...]

All right...

Just use the name and address attached to this connection. I may not have chosen them, but they fit well enough.

I'll make note of it. Is this name what I should address you by as well, or would you prefer to choose it yourself this time?

It is neither my place nor my desire to choose a name for myself. Call me what you will.

... If you insist. [Not that he wasn't curious about why the man seemed this way regarding the subject, but it honestly wasn't his business to ask.]

Not insist. Sincerely implore.

[ He does not explain any further. This is a sensitive topic, one best kept away from casual discussion. The best way to handle it now is to simply discard it. ]

In two weeks' time, then?

Two weeks time, should circumstances allow it.

You've a deal. Call me than and you shall have the best training I can give.

#002 - video, action for Thor district

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