[Evening falls on Sixth Street, the day after a certain conversation; Hugo is the second party to step through the entrance to Random Play. Aether being a little early? Hugo being a little late? Well, either way, even if it's only a handful of minutes past the agreed time...hopefully the wait hasn't been too terribly dull. But even if it has been...
There's probably nothing too dull about the man sweeping into the shop about now, at least! In a flurry of business purple and lavender, subtly expensive gleams of (celestial) pins and rings and satin; a metallic suitcase in one hand, and a hat on his head; the man couldn't be more of a complete contrast against the humble and tastefully retro interior of the store if he tried. --Oh, it's not for long on his head, the hat. That's artfully swept off with a free hand and pressed to his chest in deference, to the young lady and the Bangboo manning the counter first and foremost:] Good evening to you, Manager! I see business is booming for you even at this twilight hour of the day, now isn't it?
["Oh, it's--Hugo?!" Belle, clearly highly startled to find this particular patron showing up at this particular hour, nearly drops the handful of dennies she was helping 18 count at the register. But she scrambles back her composure fairly quickly, as usual. "I mean--right, yeah, good evening! Things have definitely been pretty lively today, haha...but nothing we can't handle, of course. Huh, is there maybe...something you're needing help with today?"]
Ah, actually not on this day, for once! Though the concern is ever appreciated. In fact, I won't be here long; just meeting a new acquaintance. If he's still here, and hasn't taken too much offense to my tardiness...
[The store's indeed got a decent handful of people milling around inside, of various seeming ages and professions, most of them doubtless scouring for tapes to take home for some evening entertainment. And yet, shifting his attention from the counter for just a moment, Hugo hardly needs any time at all...to cast a glance directly at Aether, with off-color eyes. His polite smile taking on a curve of amusement, just enough to reveal a tiny hint of fangs.
Of course, maybe Aether would stand out to just about anyone right now himself, if he's still dressed in that certain way...]
[Aether has arrived a little early. He was greeted by the Manager - Belle, he remembers the name - and again had to decline the membership. He still is new to this world and that makes him lack any funds that he could spent on entertainment. He doesn't have the right equipment to watch those video tapes either, but he keeps quiet about that fact, unsure if that would be seen as strange. Aether stands out a lot either way, with his golden pieces of armour and a long cape. He was asked if he's maybe a cosplayer before and that sounded like a good enough excuse.
Thankfully, the Manager doesn't seem to mind that he is looking around, checking the many video tapes as he waits for Hugo. People come and go and Aether glances every now and then to see if anyone excentric enough has entered the store.
Then, there he is. A tall man with blonde hair, with gold and silver accessories, dresses elegantly and starting a conversation with Belle in a tone that fits perfectly with the messages Aether has received before. Two-coloured eyes then gaze the traveler's way, a fanged, but polite smile follows.
...Definitely not a vampire, huh.
Aether smiles back, then puts the video tape that he was holding on the shelf and walks up to Hugo.]
"The tall one who wears the sun and moon alike". [He says amused, remembering their conversation.] That must be you, right? It's good to meet you in person.
Indeed, that would be right! Not too disappointing, I hope? I'm aware I've a habit for being a bit lofty with my turns of phrase, at times... [Though to be fair, very literally speaking, he sure is wearing a couple suns and moons in some sense...anyway, Hugo tapers that off with a laugh as he speaks, and tucks his hat under an arm. A gloved hand is extended Aether's way for a handshake, immaculately business-polite.] And you must be Aether...which isn't disappointing in the least! It's truly an honor to meet you in the flesh as well, sir. Bright as a novel gold bloom in a glade, now aren't you?
[Not just talking about the clothing, ostensibly! ...Well, but also definitely talking about the clothing as well, those gold ornaments and armor pieces studied with a moment's keen interest. Pleasantly cordial and flattering as Hugo's smile and bearing might be, his eyes are quite sharp.
"Wow, so you two know each other! That's great. Always happy to help new friendships off the ground, even if it's secondhand." Belle's peering between the both of them with some visible interest herself, smiling and curious--but deciding to withhold questions for a later and less busy time, as another customer rings through the door behind Hugo. "Well, I definitely wouldn't want to hold you guys up if you've got plans. It's always nice when you visit, though, so be back soon!"]
Of course, I'd never dream of being away long! I do so enjoy visiting this shop. The atmosphere here is as cozy and soothing as ever...I can practically feel today's nerves melting away. [With an airy sigh, as if he hasn't been exhibiting so much as a hint of nerves the entire time he's been in here so far. But, instead of promptly turning for the door himself...] While it's true that we'll be off soon--still, I'd feel a little bad leaving here entirely empty-handed, you know? Especially catching you at such a busy hour. I ought to make up for both your times! How about...oh, perhaps two birds with one stone-- [His attention swings from Belle and back to Aether, with a tilt of his head.] --are there any tapes here that have caught your fancy this evening, by any chance? Let me buy it for you! My treat, how about it?
Now, why would it be disappointing? You seem like quite an interesting gentlemen. [There's a bit of playful note in his tone, but it quickly disappears as Aether's cheeks warm up at the comment. He's not unfamiliar with these kind of compliments, but they still manage to catch him off-guard.
With how Hugo studies his armour more than anything, Aether convinces himself that it's hardly about him and more about the pieces of gold in his clothing. And so, he tries to compose himself as he shakes the man's hand and responds:]
Y-yes. That's me.
[So much for his grand first real-life impression. In a way he's thankful the manager chimes in. It helps move the conversation along. The traveler is pretty much ready to exit the store, but then Hugo offers to buy one of the tapes.]
Ah.
[It would've been so much easier to hide surprise behind the text, but in person that's far more difficult. Aether gives a small, yet troubled smile.]
I'm really thankful for the offer, but... I don't have any way to watch the tape. For now, at least.
[He did catch that little bit of playfulness there! Brief as it might have been, before the kind of reaction a lot of people tend to have when on the receiving end of Hugo's flatteries--a little fluster, a little off-balancing. Hugo won't fault Aether the little falter, especially seeing how he tries to rally promptly afterwards. It only proves that the seeming young man is at least human and well-adjusted in one aspect, for all that the question of origins is already shaping up to be rather interesting...
Here he'd thought this might perhaps be some nomad of the Outer Ring, based off their texted conversations. Now, though...with gear like that? One wonders.]
On account of still getting a residence around here lined out, correct? [Promptly and warmly, as if this were something Aether had told him about before, even if he might not have ever actually stated as much outright in the past. One collects context clues, though, and this cornering with the tape is now plenty revealing. In response, Hugo simply shakes his head, and gently waves away the hesitation with his hand.] Oh, I understand your reservations, rest assured. It's really very prudent of you. But just because you haven't any means now doesn't mean you won't have the means later, right? Do you think you'd like to watch one once you do have a way to see it, one way or another? [Another smile!] If you think the answer is "yes"...then consider this just a little investment I'm making, into something you'll enjoy in the future. Or perhaps a highly advanced housewarming gift!
Though of course, I'd hardly want to push you into anything either. If preferred, you could hold onto the favor for some later thought too, and we can take our leave from here until then...?
[Aether thinks this over for a longer moment, glancing from Hugo to the video tapes and back. If he had the means to watch the movies, he wouldn't hesitate to take the other up on the offer. Eventually, he will likely have a way to watch the tapes, even though for now he isn't quite sure what exactly he needs.
But since Hugo insists...]
You're too kind... Alright. I'll accept your generous gift, since it will also benefit the manager.
[And with that said, Aether returns to the shelves with the tapes to pick one up. He takes a good look at them, then finally his eyes stop on one of the titles. Carefully, he takes in into his hand and returns to Hugo, showing him the chosen item.
The tape is called "Enter the Ether".]
This one.
[One could suspect if the main reason why Aether decided to go with this one is because of the world "ether" that is so similar to his own name.]
There we go, a winner chosen! Let's see... [Hugo's visibly pleased to have persuaded Aether into taking up the favor after all; the offered tape is gently plucked up in hand for examination, as he turns to the counter.] Why, I don't believe I've viewed this one for myself either, how interesting. Though I've heard it's a rather enlightening look at Hollows, and a Proxy's work, isn't that right?
["Aha--well, it's not an official documentary or anything, but it's got some pretty interesting action! I, sure wouldn't know, if Proxies actually get up to anything that crazy..." Belle is giving Hugo a look while 18 rings up the tape, for some reason; the charming smile he levels back at her seems well-aware of whatever in-joke he's invoking with no shame whatsoever. She sighs, shaking her head with a visible mixture of amusement and exasperation, as she tucks the tape into a bag and hands it back over. Aether gets a proper warm beam and a wave, though. "Well, there you go! Once you get to watch it, come back by sometime and let us know if you enjoyed it, alright? There's plenty more where that came from, if it really speaks to you!"]
Many thanks to you for humoring us. I'm sure you'll have yet another returning customer under your belt before long. --Well then, shall we head out, dear friend?
[The tape bag (possibly the first of many) is passed back to Aether, and at length they're both stepping out of the store and into the dulling glow of evening outside. Hugo sighs airily, slipping his hat back onto his head.]
It really is so very refreshing, visiting this place! I don't actually get to stop by this particular street too often...so, I really must thank you for giving me such an excellent excuse now. What do you think of the locale so far, I wonder?
[Perhaps it isn't difficult to notice that Aether knows nothing about Hollows and Proxies. He blinks with a smile on his face, curiously looking at Belle as she seems to be much more knowledgeable on the topic than she should be, but wants to hide it for some unknown reason. Maybe once Aether watches the tape, he will understand. As that thought passes his mind he, again, regrets that he doesn't have any equipment (and likely can't even afford it) to see the recorded movie.
Still, he thanks Belle for the tape with a bright smile and exits the store together with Hugo.]
You really are busy, aren't you? It's a bit of the shame. You seem to be good friends with the manager, so I'm sure she would be happy to see you more often. [He smiles again, a bit teasing.] I think it's nice here. The people I've met so far have been very kind and welcoming, yourself included.
[He looks around the street, then back at the tape in his hands. He ponders for a moment, unsure how to ask his question without sounding too weird about it.]
...As you show me around, can we also step into a store that sells equipment to view the video tapes? I'm not quite sure how much that costs and I'm pretty curious about this movie.
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✨ tour date ✨
There's probably nothing too dull about the man sweeping into the shop about now, at least! In a flurry of business purple and lavender, subtly expensive gleams of (celestial) pins and rings and satin; a metallic suitcase in one hand, and a hat on his head; the man couldn't be more of a complete contrast against the humble and tastefully retro interior of the store if he tried. --Oh, it's not for long on his head, the hat. That's artfully swept off with a free hand and pressed to his chest in deference, to the young lady and the Bangboo manning the counter first and foremost:] Good evening to you, Manager! I see business is booming for you even at this twilight hour of the day, now isn't it?
["Oh, it's--Hugo?!" Belle, clearly highly startled to find this particular patron showing up at this particular hour, nearly drops the handful of dennies she was helping 18 count at the register. But she scrambles back her composure fairly quickly, as usual. "I mean--right, yeah, good evening! Things have definitely been pretty lively today, haha...but nothing we can't handle, of course. Huh, is there maybe...something you're needing help with today?"]
Ah, actually not on this day, for once! Though the concern is ever appreciated. In fact, I won't be here long; just meeting a new acquaintance. If he's still here, and hasn't taken too much offense to my tardiness...
[The store's indeed got a decent handful of people milling around inside, of various seeming ages and professions, most of them doubtless scouring for tapes to take home for some evening entertainment. And yet, shifting his attention from the counter for just a moment, Hugo hardly needs any time at all...to cast a glance directly at Aether, with off-color eyes. His polite smile taking on a curve of amusement, just enough to reveal a tiny hint of fangs.
Of course, maybe Aether would stand out to just about anyone right now himself, if he's still dressed in that certain way...]
no subject
Thankfully, the Manager doesn't seem to mind that he is looking around, checking the many video tapes as he waits for Hugo. People come and go and Aether glances every now and then to see if anyone excentric enough has entered the store.
Then, there he is. A tall man with blonde hair, with gold and silver accessories, dresses elegantly and starting a conversation with Belle in a tone that fits perfectly with the messages Aether has received before. Two-coloured eyes then gaze the traveler's way, a fanged, but polite smile follows.
...Definitely not a vampire, huh.
Aether smiles back, then puts the video tape that he was holding on the shelf and walks up to Hugo.]
"The tall one who wears the sun and moon alike". [He says amused, remembering their conversation.] That must be you, right? It's good to meet you in person.
no subject
[Not just talking about the clothing, ostensibly! ...Well, but also definitely talking about the clothing as well, those gold ornaments and armor pieces studied with a moment's keen interest. Pleasantly cordial and flattering as Hugo's smile and bearing might be, his eyes are quite sharp.
"Wow, so you two know each other! That's great. Always happy to help new friendships off the ground, even if it's secondhand." Belle's peering between the both of them with some visible interest herself, smiling and curious--but deciding to withhold questions for a later and less busy time, as another customer rings through the door behind Hugo. "Well, I definitely wouldn't want to hold you guys up if you've got plans. It's always nice when you visit, though, so be back soon!"]
Of course, I'd never dream of being away long! I do so enjoy visiting this shop. The atmosphere here is as cozy and soothing as ever...I can practically feel today's nerves melting away. [With an airy sigh, as if he hasn't been exhibiting so much as a hint of nerves the entire time he's been in here so far. But, instead of promptly turning for the door himself...] While it's true that we'll be off soon--still, I'd feel a little bad leaving here entirely empty-handed, you know? Especially catching you at such a busy hour. I ought to make up for both your times! How about...oh, perhaps two birds with one stone-- [His attention swings from Belle and back to Aether, with a tilt of his head.] --are there any tapes here that have caught your fancy this evening, by any chance? Let me buy it for you! My treat, how about it?
no subject
With how Hugo studies his armour more than anything, Aether convinces himself that it's hardly about him and more about the pieces of gold in his clothing. And so, he tries to compose himself as he shakes the man's hand and responds:]
Y-yes. That's me.
[So much for his grand first real-life impression. In a way he's thankful the manager chimes in. It helps move the conversation along. The traveler is pretty much ready to exit the store, but then Hugo offers to buy one of the tapes.]
Ah.
[It would've been so much easier to hide surprise behind the text, but in person that's far more difficult. Aether gives a small, yet troubled smile.]
I'm really thankful for the offer, but... I don't have any way to watch the tape. For now, at least.
[His housing situation is just complicated.]
no subject
Here he'd thought this might perhaps be some nomad of the Outer Ring, based off their texted conversations. Now, though...with gear like that? One wonders.]
On account of still getting a residence around here lined out, correct? [Promptly and warmly, as if this were something Aether had told him about before, even if he might not have ever actually stated as much outright in the past. One collects context clues, though, and this cornering with the tape is now plenty revealing. In response, Hugo simply shakes his head, and gently waves away the hesitation with his hand.] Oh, I understand your reservations, rest assured. It's really very prudent of you. But just because you haven't any means now doesn't mean you won't have the means later, right? Do you think you'd like to watch one once you do have a way to see it, one way or another? [Another smile!] If you think the answer is "yes"...then consider this just a little investment I'm making, into something you'll enjoy in the future. Or perhaps a highly advanced housewarming gift!
Though of course, I'd hardly want to push you into anything either. If preferred, you could hold onto the favor for some later thought too, and we can take our leave from here until then...?
no subject
But since Hugo insists...]
You're too kind... Alright. I'll accept your generous gift, since it will also benefit the manager.
[And with that said, Aether returns to the shelves with the tapes to pick one up. He takes a good look at them, then finally his eyes stop on one of the titles. Carefully, he takes in into his hand and returns to Hugo, showing him the chosen item.
The tape is called "Enter the Ether".]
This one.
[One could suspect if the main reason why Aether decided to go with this one is because of the world "ether" that is so similar to his own name.]
no subject
["Aha--well, it's not an official documentary or anything, but it's got some pretty interesting action! I, sure wouldn't know, if Proxies actually get up to anything that crazy..." Belle is giving Hugo a look while 18 rings up the tape, for some reason; the charming smile he levels back at her seems well-aware of whatever in-joke he's invoking with no shame whatsoever. She sighs, shaking her head with a visible mixture of amusement and exasperation, as she tucks the tape into a bag and hands it back over. Aether gets a proper warm beam and a wave, though. "Well, there you go! Once you get to watch it, come back by sometime and let us know if you enjoyed it, alright? There's plenty more where that came from, if it really speaks to you!"]
Many thanks to you for humoring us. I'm sure you'll have yet another returning customer under your belt before long. --Well then, shall we head out, dear friend?
[The tape bag (possibly the first of many) is passed back to Aether, and at length they're both stepping out of the store and into the dulling glow of evening outside. Hugo sighs airily, slipping his hat back onto his head.]
It really is so very refreshing, visiting this place! I don't actually get to stop by this particular street too often...so, I really must thank you for giving me such an excellent excuse now. What do you think of the locale so far, I wonder?
no subject
Still, he thanks Belle for the tape with a bright smile and exits the store together with Hugo.]
You really are busy, aren't you? It's a bit of the shame. You seem to be good friends with the manager, so I'm sure she would be happy to see you more often. [He smiles again, a bit teasing.] I think it's nice here. The people I've met so far have been very kind and welcoming, yourself included.
[He looks around the street, then back at the tape in his hands. He ponders for a moment, unsure how to ask his question without sounding too weird about it.]
...As you show me around, can we also step into a store that sells equipment to view the video tapes? I'm not quite sure how much that costs and I'm pretty curious about this movie.
[Hopefully his wording was just fine.]