002 [video, then private text; D382]

[discrepant]

[After leaving the castle grounds and returning to his Welcome Hall, from his crazy adventures in Muspelheim, Soushi found a large quantity of packages sitting neatly in front of his door. All the items were from friends and acquaintances and even a few strangers. He was uncertain over the reason for the items, but then he remembered over the season and figured it out.

That is why the broadcast will begin with a rather apprehensive Soushi taking a hard look at himself from a small hand mirror, thoroughly inspecting every inch of himself; at least, his hair and face. To many it may seem as though he was getting himself ready, but it might not be the case as his attention finally turns to the bracelet that was sitting on top of the coffee table in his living room.]

I do not look any different, do I? [His eyes will be on the mirror again as he pulls on his hair a bit.] It feels both odd, yet comforting. To return like this instead of feeling like someone else, someone ne-- [Realizing what he was about to say, Soushi will shake his head and remain quiet. A small smile will appear on his lips soon.] No. This isn't the point of this broadcast. I apologize for the way I am reacting, it's nothing to be concern about.

[Putting the hand mirror aside, Soushi will trade the item for one of the packages that was in front of his door, then present it to the bracelet instead.]

I found more of these items awaiting for me in front of my door. To all those that thought of me during the last few days and were kind enough to drop it there, thank you very much. And I apologize for I was unable to receive the items in person. [He will offer a bow to the camera.] You are all very thoughtful, honest, and kind to have done this. Especially to someone such as myself. I do not believe I deserve any of these gifts, but regardless...thank you. I am very touched.

[Lifting his head, a light blush will be on his cheeks as he really did feel deeply moved by everyone's kindness towards him. At least, to those that left him a present and to those who did not steal one neither. But that was neither here or there, instead Soushi was feeling embarrassed for another reason entirely.]

If I may ask, to those that hold knowledge with runic magic, I would like to know if it's possible to combine a rune into an item, so it could be used as an amulet of sorts. [Because.] I remember the citizens from Svartalfaheim held a similar ability to do so with their weapons and armor, but I do not wish to leave the city to gain an item like it. I believe our city has many wonderful runic experts, it is only fair to ask for their expertise over the subject first. I will pay for your services, of course. [After all.] I wish to present those who are... [Now it was getting difficult for him to admit:] my "precious friends" an item that could aid them in some way... [That really was embarrassing to admit, but Soushi's smile will continue to remain on his lips, not really showing his embarrassment in the least bit. Instead.] I will be returning my gratitude to each and every one of those who gave me a gift. [Another bow.] Thank you very much for your time.

[The broadcast will end there.]

[But a few minutes later there will be a private text sent to those that went on the trip to Muspelheim -- Samantha Grey, Desmond Miles, Eridan Ampora, Temari, and Elena Gilbert.]

Did everyone return safely? Or are we missing someone?

(OOC: Soushi was not around during the winter event, so he really will be giving his gifts that was decided on the handwaved gift giving meme.)

Comments

Private - Audio

[samantha_grey]

We should speak. Privately. Let's just say someone wanted to see our shopping list afterwards.

[She sounds raspy for some reason, her voice a little off and like it's tired, hoarse.]

Private - Audio

[discrepant]

[Soushi could not help grow concern after hearing her voice. He can't help wonder if she had an argument with the certain individual that wished to know more of their "prize", so to say.]

I see. From the way you are not pointing out any names, I can only guess who.

[Although, he mostly believes it might be one of the gods that Sam is talking about. It might be best not to say more over the subject as a certain trickster god can hear them even now.]

When and where do you wish to meet, Grey-san? [And.] Do you wish for me to bring you anything? I have some tea and honey that I can make for you, if you wish to drink anything for your throat.

Private - Audio

[samantha_grey]

You can choose the time and place, but be careful what you say about our shopping trip until we've spoken.

...and don't bother with the tea. I've died a few times. [She coughed once.] My body didn't come back whole this time.

Private - Audio

[discrepant]

Let's meet at Baldr park, in one hour. Does the timing and place sound good to you?

[As for the rest, Soushi will feel some guilt over hearing Sam's confession over the matter.]

I'm sorry. [A small pause.] If I may, how many times is a "few"? More than twice or less than five? [He doesn't want an exact number. It is clear he is mostly asking for Sam to choose which of the two options he has given her.]

video | private

[true_renaissance_man]

Bentornato, Soushi! It is wonderful to see you again!

[The initial warm welcome back is then tempered by a more solemn statement soon after.]

You look the same as you did when you left Asgard but... I have come to understand when you say not to worry that is when I should. Did things not go as expected?

video | private

[discrepant]

Grazie mille. [He will offer a bow as he tries his hardest to show his gratitude in Italian just for Leonardo.] The feeling is mutual. It brings me great joy to see you again, Leonardo-san. How are you? I do hope you've been able to manage the shop without any trouble...

[Then at Leonardo's observation, Soushi's smile will slightly weakened, but it will continue to hold its usual formality. He was at a loss of words on what exactly to say.]

There was some difficulty in the journey I spoke to you about, but I promise it worked out. [At least, in his mind it should have, he still needs to hear the details over the matter before he could confess the full truth to his friend.] I am simply surprised by my acquaintance's healing capabilities. I was injured, but they used their power to heal me. I do believe even my hair in this side [He will touch the left side of his head.] is back to normal as well. It's odd, but a great relief to know a certain ability can fix even our appearance. [Vanity? Yes, he was being a little vain at the moment.]

video | private

[true_renaissance_man]

Your hair? Mio dio Soushi!

Never mind about me, nothing much changed here while you were away, what happened to you? A fire of some kind?

[What else would cause hair to require healing? ]

video | private

[discrepant]

You could say that.

[Leonardo, thank you for giving him a good idea for an excuse that will not go entirely off the mark.]

There was a light mishap on our journey returning to Asgard. It did involved fire, but mostly due to an accident by someone with the ability. [Then he gives a pensive thought for a moment.] Leonardo-san, you are aware of our abilities weakening once we leave the city? And how they begin to slowly disappear the further we are?

[Video | Private]

[comeonthensexy]

You're welcome.

[ A pause, because Soushi saying he didn't feel like someone else... ]

Did you die?

[Video | Private]

[discrepant]

[An annoyed expression will be on Soushi's face as he says.]

Your gift fell on my foot when I first returned.

[But it will not be long until he does offer a smile.]

Thank you very much for all the items, Doctor-san. The tea, blanket, and cookies were very thoughtful. [He still has no idea what the watch is for, but he shows it to the Doctor.] And for this as well. I feel like one of Ayame-san's old business partners now. [He can't help lightly chuckle over that thought. Yup.]

[Video | Private]

[comeonthensexy]

[ He chuckles. ]

Sorry about that.

[ Pointing. ]

Pocket watches are cool.

[ Or something.

Soushi definitely died. Damn it. ]

[Video | Private]

[discrepant]

Why apologize? It was clear it wished to be the first to be opened.

[Unless the Doctor gave the present the ability to fall on his foot, then he doesn't understand the need for an apology. Not really. It was expected for that gift to do something odd especially coming from him.]

Are they? [He can't help feel so much amusement over it now.] I thought hats and bowties were just as cool? Which of the three is the coolest in your opinion?

[Hush. That is suppose to be the grand reveal in the end. Don't spoil it.]

[Video]

[darkmum]

[There is something almost stern about Merope's facial expression when she finally responds to video a few hours later. Yes, still hiding her friendships from her son, but at least she isn't hiding in the bathroom this time.]

You don't sound well at all. You can say that I shouldn't worry, but I'm going to worry anyway so don't tell me I shouldn't.

[Video]

[discrepant]

[There will be an amused smile on Soushi's part as he notices the expression and concern she was showing him. He couldn't help it. It was amusing that so many seem to figure him out so easily now. Maybe he should form better habits on hiding his genuine reactions for now on.]

It isn't my place to do so neither. [Small shake of his head.] I won't.

[But what should he exactly say now to calm her nerves? Well, he could just show her the scarf she had knitted for him. At least, it seemed different to the store bough scarves.]

Thank you very much for the present, Merope-san. It's a very lovely scarf. The stitching is well done. [Then he looks at the scarf and decides to ask her.] Did you make this?

[Video]

[darkmum]

[She may not be the most educated or even the brightest person, but Merope has learned enough about reading between the lines to notice that while Soushi has reassured her about not lying to her, he hasn't volunteered any information about what has happened to make him less than well. Thus the frown remains and she chews on her bottom lip as she watches him, hoping to find out what is wrong with him simply from staring at him hard enough.

The frown doesn't lighten until he speaks of the Christmas present, mentioning that elicits a girlish giggle.] I made the scarf myself. Mister Crouch was so kind as to get me knitting needles and wool. He's a dear, I wouldn't know what to do without him. [She falls silent, once more biting her lip.] Do you truly like it? I worked very hard on it, but I fear I didn't have much time.

[Video]

[discrepant]

Crouch-san brought you the items, did he? [He will continue to inspect the scarf in his hands a little longer before wrapping it around his own neck.] Offer him my thanks for bringing them to you. Although, if I would have known about your talent in knitting beforehand, then I would have gathered the necessary items for you.

[His attention will return to her with a small nod.]

Yes. I like it very much. It's a very lovely gift especially when it was made by your own two hands. How long did it take for you to make it? I do not hold any knowledge over this wonderful skill.

private text

[liquidsky]

You received the Lady Merope's gifts?

I'd not have delivered had I known you'd be indisposed.

private text

[discrepant]

Yes, I have.

I humbly apologize for being unable to receive the gift from Merope-sama. I was not able to inform her of my departure from the city beforehand. Please forgive me for troubling you over this matter, Crouch-san.

[But.]

From a servant to a gentlemen, thank you very much for your diligent work and asking over the matter. I will return the courtesy in the future.

private text

[liquidsky]

I wasn't doing in-person deliveries anyway, so don't mention it. I'm familiar with 'san' from when I learned Japanese, but I don't think I've heard 'sama' before. It's more respectful?

video.

[conquering]

Soushi.

[ she looks at him with a small frown. He seems alright but at the same time, she knows him well by now to know there is much there behind the good manners. ]

I refused to leave your gift about. I have it with me.

video.

[discrepant]

[The small frown will not go unnoticed as his own smile will weaken at the sight of it. He will lower his head in greeting.]

Morgana-san, good day. I do hope you are faring well on this wonderful winter day.

[Then at her news, his smile will turn to a more gentle one as he can't help feel a little honored at the moment.]

I see. Thank you very much for your generosity. I am very touched by it. [Another bow to his head in both gratitude and some regret.] I apologize for being unable to receive it beforehand. I had an unexpected trip to join. The request was last minute... [He will lift his head and offer a slightly guilty smile as he really did not expect to be given so many gifts before.]

video.

[conquering]

Better now when my clothes are not changing themselves due to Loki's parlor tricks.

[ someone wasn't very happy with the Christmas sweaters. but she does smile again the following moment ]

You mustn't apologize, it was waiting for you here until your safe return.

video;

[afrozendance]

Soushi... I had not seen you around lately. It's good to know that you're back.

video;

[discrepant]

Yes. I recently embarked on a trip to Utgard with a group of acquaintances. They asked for my assistance last minute.

[Give him a moment to think about it.]

It's been two weeks at most, I believe.

[Then he will offer a kind smile before lowering his head a bit.]

Thank you very much for the warm welcome [Lifting it.] and wonderful gift as well, Ninian-san. I hope you've been enjoying the season. How are you?

video;

[afrozendance]

[A tiny, very shy smile spreads across her lips. She can't deny how, despite being new to this world and its traditions, she liked the idea of giving something to show her gratitude to those who were kind to her here.]

I... I have been well. Mostly helping those who need it, whether at the tea room or the rest of the city, and keeping with my dances! And I'm glad you liked my gift, too, even when this is still all new to me.