thenearshore | [Closed] Knife fight!

Two actually. One for combat and one for ritual magic.

[Waver answers as he hefts a box onto a chair. He's getting a workout for his time, though the boxes don't even feel heavy to a Servant, even one in the Esteemed Rank E club for strength and durability.]

The first... I'm not sure what's good. We've found I have no close combat skills and that's something I need to work on... well, given bloody everything that comes up in this place.

Iskandar almost had literal kittens when he heard about some of the things that went on at the parade. So...

[A sigh. He sucks and needs to get better. Tis the breaks.]

The second I need for a large, important working for our Temple that I'm going to be building on. An dagger, preferably of Greek or Egyptian make to run alongside Iskandar's history and domain. Which sounds fussy but well, when you have to work with magical tradition, it's best to have all elements be as close as possible.

[That parade sure was something, wasn't it. Ginia huffs in quiet agreement. It'd be nice if they could have a nice, enjoyable festival, but nope, nope, cult had to ruin things. With war around the corner, there's no harm in having something to defend yourself. Borderlines are good, his magic is strong, but it might not always be available.

Ginia sizes him up and nods. Someone inexperienced fighting with a knife is a danger to themselves more than others, but with Iskandar as his god, he'll be fine. So. The first part, that's easy to solve. Ginia reaches behind her back and pulls her combat knife from its sheath. It's a dark matte black, the straight blade seven inches long. She offers the handle to him; the grip is rough yet fine, resistant to slipping. The knife is also far lighter than it would suggest.]

That one is mine, but I have a duplicate I don't often use. You're welcome to it if you think it'd suit what you need for close combat.

[It sure was. Nothing like nearly being beaten to death to put the scare in one's Temple. Thank everything for Irisviel.]

May I?

[Once in his hand, he tests the grip and balance carefully, moving it slowly through the different positions as he'd been shown. It feels comfortable, made for his long fingered hand. Light. Waver wonders what it's made of.]

It feels good. Not awkward. I think Iskandar and I can work with this. [Well, at least he hopes!] Thank you.

[If Waver decides to analyze the material himself at some point or have someone else do so, the knife is made of materials found on Earth, but a highly advanced alloy. Nothing possible with the technology of the modern world, but in the century forward of Ginia's time? It's commonplace.

Ginia watches him, relaxing a little when she realizes he's not entirely green. Good, no need to worry about him cutting himself.]

Keep sorting here, I'm going to run to my room and grab the copy for you. I have a sheath for it too, it'll fit on any typical belt. Once I'm back, we can talk about your ritual knife.

[No, no, not entirely green. He can use a knife... and end a life. Just not in matters of combat. But magic has its prices as it always does.]

Will do. We're just about done with a few boxes. Should I put them by the door for the archive?

[Or do they need to haul them down themselves? Important questions. He has no idea how they like to do their archiving around here.]

Door is great. I have a whole bunch of boxes I need to run over so I'll handle that later.

[Ginia takes her knife back and sheaths it before stepping out. It's a little strange to go back to wearing it under her suit inside the temple after going without it for over a month. However, with war looming on the horizon and the possibility of her temple coming under fire, it doesn't hurt staying armed again.

It's two quick elevator rides and a run to reach her room. Her second combat knife is locked in the safe with her gun and ammo. She opens it up and looks at the knife. Save for the small notch on the grip on the knife at her back, the two are completely identical.

Thanks, Archer. Your gift can protect someone else now.

Ginia slips the sheathed knife into her pocket and hurries back to the office. She sets the knife in front of Waver and takes her seat again, phone back out.]

For your other knife. There's a small, but growing Greek community in Japan. I could put you in contact with some of the community leaders.

Honestly though, you might have better luck traveling with Iskandar's shrines than looking around here.

I'm not sure if he's actually... you know... accepted any shrines from outside of Japan.

[Well, Waver has an idea, but plausible deniability in case everyone needs to go on the run. Shit has gone down and Waver's not too keen to share the details. He stacks the last box by the door as she returns.

Waver quietly thanks her as he clips the knife to his belt. Probably not the best place for a quick and smooth draw, but it's at least safe, and that's another thing that Iskandar (or Ginia herself) can point out. Will Archer recognize the knife if he sees? Perhaps. So far, Waver has no idea about the connection to Caster's temple.]

I'd... like that. Given everything that has been happening, doing this has become a lot more urgent.

[Waver makes a face.]

Not something I'm bloody pleased with. Ritual is something to always take care with, but I have no more time to feel things out.

Edited 2019-02-03 06:30 (UTC)

[Ginia raises an eyebrow in light disbelief. No shrines outside of Japan, really? Well, not her business to press. Everyone has their secrets and every temple is responsible for their own affairs. It's not like she's forthcoming about everything that goes on in Ebisu's temple.]

Never enough time around here.

[Though the first time there's a month where nothing happens? No doubt everyone will brace for a disaster the following month. No one has chill.]

I'll take your word on magic. It's not something I know much about myself.

[Shinki spells are one thing, magic beyond that is another. It's dangerous to dwell too much, but given the prevalence of nanotechnology and the lack of any base understanding of magic, she assumes there isn't any magic in her world. Or if there is, it's not commonly known.

Ginia reaches across the table and pulls her work laptop over. Don't mind the wallpaper, just a normal picture of a businessman at Capypa Land, nothing to see. She pulls up a few documents - reports or press release mostly - as well as a text-to-speech program on her computer.]

Does the knife need to be a permanent thing or can you borrow something? Because if a loan works, I can see what museums and art galleries have.

It... should be a permanent thing. I would like something old - the weight of history on it would give it power - but the form is more important. History can be gained and dedicating the knife to its purpose will give it strength of its own.

Depending on the workings I may need to do in the future and the scale... hmn. Better to have it on hand, so I can cut down as much time as possible. I've spent as much time scrambling for supplies as actually working out what needs to be done for this.

[But it's interesting wallpaper! Ginia likes businessmen! Or maybe a businessman, though what their relationship is (if there's even a relationship at all) Waver can only guess at.

While Ginia fiddles with her computer, Waver hunts for a chair so he can peer at the screen himself. Within him wars two impulses. One, not to talk at all about magic in how it works, that it must be kept secret, and the other to explain it. He frowns a little as he settles down, and the deciding factor is that here, they all are spellcasters and tips him over into an offer.]

... granted, I may not be able to say bloody much depending, but if there's ever something about magic you're wondering about...

I'll try, anyway.

[There's a very specific businessman Ginia likes, but he's not the one in the picture. However, the next time Waver sees Ebisu, consider the very bright green eyes and part of his hair and imagine what he might look like in twenty years or so.

)There were happier times, there are happier times, and there will be happier times. The current wallpaper is a reminder of that.)

So no loans, got it. That doesn't leave out purchases though. Ginia pulls a few names, email addresses, and phone numbers and emails them to Waver. There, now you have the contacts for several people in the Greek embassy in Tokyo as well as the leaders of the Greeks in Japan community group.]

I appreciate the offer. I'll keep it mind if I think of anything.

Sent you some contacts. Even if they don't help with this matter, could be useful in the long term. But for what you're looking for, we might be better off looking at collectors. We might be short on time and staff, but there's no shortage of money here.

What are some specifics I should look for?

Leaf blade design. Not very much of a guard if at all... argh... you know what? A picture is worth a thousand words.

[Waver saves the contact info in his files - yes, he'll have to focus in on them for more followers for Iskandar eventually, that should please him - and pulls up a couple pictures.]

Google won't tell me what it's called, but something designed like that.

[Ginia studies the photos, nodding to herself. Yes, that's definitely something she can work with.]

Keep sorting folders for me while I dive into this.

[To auction sites and art collectors she goes. Ginia works in focused silence, browsing listings and creating a document with all the possibilities. Ancient daggers, rare paintings or calligraphy, limited run anime figures, it's all the same thing when it gets down to it.

It's around forty-five minutes later before Waver's phone buzzes as Ginia sends some options to look over. Don't mind all the zeroes on the prices, money is not a problem.]

You know? This is actually relaxing.

[Said sometime during all of this, as Waver lets routine and good old fashioned organization smooth away some of the variety of stresses and anxieties that tend to plague him on a constant basis.

But eventually Waver's phone buzzes, and he looks down and chokes. Right. Right. Money is not a problem, and Waver is (jumped up from the poverty line) nobility from London and used to high prices, but wow.

He had agents in that other life to get artifacts for him if needed. Waver focuses on the important parts of the knife. The make and history.]

Some of the history on these are very interesting. This one is suspected to be ceremonial for instance...

[There's a comfort in monotony. Filing paperwork and folders, entering data into databases, there's nothing glamorous about any of the work, especially not compared to leading tours or fending off ayakashi from an event. It's necessary work and the backbone to the temple and there's a comfort in the mundane. It's also consistent; math is math, alphabetized sorting systems are what they are, it all falls into place.

Ginia wouldn't have thought she'd find happiness as an office worker in the afterlife, but here she is.]

I tried to find an assortment of things that met your parameters. I also looked for ones that were already up for offer or with auctions within a day or two. I can create a second list of things that are close, but not exact matches, but I thought I'd go with the best options first.

[Comfort in not being around explosions. Now if his life and things around here would stop exploding too, he'd be set.]

It's appreciated. Some of these sound very promising, but this one and this one [He's going to point them out on his phone.] I have some doubts about the authenticity. Something about the language used to describe them is giving me warning flashes. Maybe at the bottom of the first round of attempts?

[Can't really ask himself why so he'll see what is uncovered roundabout as they work through this.]

I like this one the best. ... while I can't say it's been used for any previous ritual or even was kept for any reason other than status, it was in the hands of priests that did do something along the lines of what they were performing in Iskandar's time period.

[Ginia leans over and looks at the two entries, shuffling them to the bottom of her list and leaving quick notes next to them. The one he likes the most she pulls up the full spread of information for.]

Convenient, the dealer has an office in Ginza. The auction is in two days, but with enough of an offer, he might be willing to part with it early. Want me to see if the accounting department can give me an advance or do you want to handle this with Iskandar later?

I think he trusts me in this to handle myself, though I've been told if anything requires a debt to run it by him and Satya first.

[Basic common sense household policy in other words. They aren't a particularly wealthy temple and Satya handles the finances. Iskandar has the final word on what they owe other gods and who they want to owe to, even if Waver will do the nitty gritty of the necessary work of building the bridges when Iskandar doesn't care to.

Man has no love of politics, even if he has the head and charisma for it. So it's Waver's job to step up there.]

[Money and deals, debts and balances, they're the lifeblood of a temple under the domains of commerce. Money flows plentiful, but there are always costs. When money is so plentiful, deals and alliances are far more valuable.

Ginia regards Waver. What's her gain from all this? Iskandar's continued goodwill? Waver's future knowledge and expertise in all things magical? Money cannot buy worthwhile allegiances, but it can set a foundation for continued support.]

Consider any debt to me and not Ebisu as I'm doing this on my own accord. You could also consider this an exchange for future help with things magical and ayakashi-rending services. Or pay off the amount with your part-time salary.

That's fine with me.

[Iskandar? Well he'll be shooting a message in a second or two to give him veto power and at least communicate the matter with him - again, basic household policy. They don't do secrets in their Temple as much as possible and do acknowledge that everyone involved is running around with a few of their own and that is to be respected.

Sometimes called out if anyone thinks it's starting to become destructive, but respected.]

I'm happy to assist with magical and ayakashi rending services. Would anyway, as long as Iskandar and the rest of the Temple aren't unknowingly brought into any firing lines or any of his commands are being violated.

[Which again is common sense and should say everything about things that might come up like Naming. Other things they communicate. Doesn't make things easier but does cause less explosions.]

Rest can be money or other things. Let's keep things flexible... since none of us knows what each new day will bring and alter the situation.

Don't worry, I can keep things neutral if not beneficial to your temple.

[Ginia pauses to glance at the cubicle partitions surrounding them. The constant clatter of keyboards and ringing phones chimes around them endlessly, an undercurrent of muttering. There is always work and there's too much right now, and the work they do is good and important.

And though they once captured ayakashi, a risk Ginia can't even imagine on so many levels, Ebisu (especially now) is not a war god.]

There are always ayakashi to deal with. I can handle some problems with Chris, but we can't be everywhere at once. If Iskandar is willing to take some prayers off our hands, I can forward the ones that promise a good story if not a good fight.

[Ginia smiles and shrugs lightly. It's as he says; who knows what the next day will bring. It could all end in a myriad of ways.]

If you want to speak to the dealer, let's get you over to the wardrobe department and suited up.

Edited 2019-02-09 00:22 (UTC)

Prayers he's desperate for, honestly. If I've figured out anything about him, he needs to be constantly engaged or find the request of sufficient worth to personally attend to. Fights he can win, problems he can solve...

[A sigh and an admittance even as he nods and reaches for his phone to send a quick text or two.]

Those would be good things right now.

[He pauses and nods once more, changing the wording on the text. Yeah... this is testing to see how well Ginia knows Iskandar in part. Just plain venting in the other.]

... might as well see it in person to be absolutely sure it's the real deal. Anyway, an artifact like that will attract attention from the right circles, so I doubt we're the only ones looking. Not going probably will lose it to us.

[With everything exploding around them, everyone could use a distraction if only to refocus on something else for a little. She saw Iskandar at Amaterasu's meeting, knows he's aware of what's happened. Given the circles he moves in, he probably has a fair idea of things.

But even if an ill-conceived war wasn't looming over all them, he's Iskandar. There's a grandness around him and he needs a good story to match.]

Once we get your knife sorted out, I'll pull some prayers for Iskandar.

[If everyone is happy, it benefits all of them. For now, to get a knife. Ginia sends all the information she needs to her phone, locks her laptop, sends out a few notifications she's handling work outside of the office, and warns the wardrobe department they're on the way. It's a short elevator ride to another floor.

By the way, welcome to the wardrobe department. What, you think the sharp suit Ginia's wearing is off-the-rack? Ginia bows as the in-house tailors greet them, a few racks of suits pulled out already.]

Is there a specific look you want to go for? I figure I'll be your attractive and quiet personal assistant.

Uh. Good question. I haven't outright worn a full suit yet, though I have a taste for single breasted jackets.

[What is the protocol for bowing to shinki from another Temple? It's a no no to do so for Gods (Waver rolls his eyes, but okay) but this is unclear.

He settles for a very respectful head incline, unless the tailors bow to him and then he'll bow back.]

I do like red, gold, and black color combinations if that helps.

[As shinki are considered peers to each other, there's no protocol. If there are any rules governing etiquette between shinki, it's that of Japanese culture carried through life into death. There too is a mindfield of manners and details, as well as a curious thing.

Superiority, the mindset that governs a shinki's spells. Some might argue bowing first is acknowledging the other shinki as superior.

The tailors return the incline of their head. An older man in his 50s, takes out a small notepad and pen and begins to take notes as he looks over Waver.]

"Yes, it does. Do you mind if I take some measurements? I believe we have options that will fit you, but I wish to be certain. Natsumi, will you assist Jitsumi in her attire?"

[He addresses his companion, a woman in her mid-30s. She smiles and gives Waver a polite smile before turning to take Ginia's arm to pull her aside with a knowing smile. Ginia gives Waver a quick wave as she's tugged off, looking as thick as thieves as Natsumi clings to her arm.]

[A funny thing indeed. Submission does not always equate inferiority to Waver; instead he uses it to establish dominance and superiority of his own. Politeness is a sword, courtesy is an armor - they are weapons of war. And since he's representative of his Temple...

Perhaps an alien mindset for a shinki, but then again Waver knows the truth. A shinki in form only; what happens when the shinki more and more begins to believe that their true worth and standing is the same as anyone else, of gods themselves? It may be the impulses brought by anger and rejection, but more and more Waver's staring that in the face.

The only person standing in the way of him believing it fully is himself. In his mortal life, it was a lack of power that had him believing he wasn't good enough, that and the later weight of lost lives weighing down his conscience. But he has power now and he believes it's his... and so in the struggle he's gaining ground...]

Not at all. Is there anywhere you'd like me to stand for them?

[The tailor will find Waver a very easy fitting. He's been through the process many times in his mortal life - clothes from Savile Row tend to be bespoke and for Mages, they're one of the primary indications of status in a status obsessed society like theirs.

Dress the part to be the part, after all.]

Edited 2019-02-15 08:02 (UTC)

[The tailor - Terumi, he introduces himself - leads Waver over to a screened off fitting area. He's a professional as is expected, pleasantly mannered too as he takes all the necessary measurements.]

"Jitsumi mentioned the two of you are seeking a large purchase from an art dealer. What exciting work. I do enjoy making sure people dress the part. Lift your arm, thank you. My inclination is a three piece suit. Accents in red, light gold jewelry. A watch or a simple ring, nothing too ornate or gaudy, a pointed accent. The right level of rich and eager to spend without being a fool. Any consideration for how you wish to style your hair? Goodness, are shinki from the new generation all so tall?"

Surprisingly so! Indeed a fine mystery of the ages. But... I daresay the gods might have us beat. Have you ever met Iskandar? Our poor Exemplar goes through pains to find a worthy tailor for him whenever the occasion calls. Let's just say nothing off the rack will do for someone of his stature.

[Cheerful as Waver does as told, turning when necessary and raising his arm just right. This is an excellent opportunity for a little social networking.

And addressing a pre-existing problem because damn Iskandar you big.]

Though, isn't it! Art dealers, collectors, museum curators... them and the people who patronize them all travel in interesting circles. It could be quite the adventure securing the piece.

[And Waver's smile turns a little more conspiratorial.]

... and I confess I might be looking forward to the haggling.

[Waver turns his attention to the mirror.]

Class is certainly important when negotiating, I agree. Who'd take seriously some jet set looking fop who's probably only making an offer because a pretty thing caught his eye? I agree on the three piece suit, but the accent piece...

The ring catches the eye more, no? The watch is a lovely practical touch, and conveys a certain business-like air... but might be too restrained. Rich and eager is the theme.

I generally wear my hair loose or braided if I'm on a hunt... but for more formal occasions I tie it back in a variety of ponytails. Do you have a particular something in mind?

[Terumi chuckles, already sussing out the quiet implication. There is not enough time in the day to do everything, but time is also something a shinki will never run out of (provided nothing cuts their life short). A tailor appreciates a challenge and a chance to hone his craft.]

"I admit I have not had the honor of meeting your god. If you wish to arrange an appointment on his behalf, I will see what I can do. If I am not the worthy tailor you seek, I know of others on repute on the Near Shore."

[He steps back as Waver admires himself in the mirror, checking over his list of measurements. Ah, yes, shoes. He looks at Waver's current shoes and jots down an estimated range to pull from.]

"The ring is eye-catching, but must make the right statement. A watch is expected in some circles and can be subtle while making its own declaration to those in the know. I will pull a selection of both for you to look over. I will also bring a selection of lapel pins, that too may prove the proper accessory."

[He considers Waver's hair, walking a slow half-circle as he considers the options. It's an impressive length, well-maintained.]

"I am inclined toward tying it back, but it too should serve as a statement of yourself too. Gold as well, though nothing too extravagant. Rich and eager without gaudiness. I will defer to Natsumi on the subject of hair. Ah, speaking of, excuse me. Natsumi!"

[Terumi raises his voice slightly and turns toward the other side of the room.]

"I trust you are dressing Jitsumi with due diligence and for the occasion, not to your own tastes!" [He looks back at Waver, an amused twinkle in his eyes as he lowers his voice.] "The women of the temple are quite enamored with the newest hire. I do not often partake in gossip--" [Terumi you're gossiping right now] "--but Natsumi swears Jitsumi received more chocolate on Valentine's Day than she did on White Day. Perhaps the men had given up hope once they realized Kimi was preparing chocolate for her."

Edited 2019-02-15 20:43 (UTC)

It would be an honor to be attended by one of Lord Ebisu's own, as it is now. Iskandar thinks very highly of your master - I know he would find your service flattering.

I very much doubt we'd need to turn to the Near Shore given what I'm seeing now.

[Waver doesn't do empty flattery... much. People pick up on that lack of genuineness. Kayneth in that other life was a big exception. He is being absolutely sincere and honest in his compliments to Terumi.]

Good points all. We need the right balance. [A thought occurs to him.] Ah... cufflinks? What are your thoughts on the cuffs of the dress shirt... Will buttoned suffice or do we need to go a little more formal there?

[This is how friendships and good working relationships are made of. Commonality. Clearly they're both into clothes and what messages they can send a great deal. Fashion friends?

Waver nods as Terumi examines his hair, the pin straight length rippling as he moves. There is a faint scent of myrrh, sandalwood, and frankincense wafting off it.]

That follows my own tastes in the matter. I usually use gold cord... though I've been considering experimenting with a well placed hair pin or two in the future if there's a proper occasion for it. I understand there'll be times when that's called for... though I'm still getting up to date on when those times are.

I will leave myself in Natsumi's capable hands.

Ah! Hello, we were just speaking about you.

[Waver listens and grins when the subject turns to Ginia, and he leans in to Terumi conspiratorial and replies sotto voice. Gossip? Gossip is fun and useful.]

Oh? That doesn't surprise me. I hear she's a heartstealer in only the best of ways. And it's hard to beat homemade chocolate when it comes to a lady's affections. Is Kimi a chef here?

"It will take time to make something, but tell me if your lord has any upcoming festivals in his honor. There is a meeting in October all are expected to attend, but there are always gatherings in the summer and autumn as well."

[Worry not, Iskandar will have a wardrobe to suit the seasons and gatherings. When one doesn't need sleep or food to survive, it increases the available work hours of the day (for better or worse).]

"Cufflinks... a consideration I will give once the attire is decided on. The same with any hair accessories."

[As Natsumi is shouted at, there's a small shout of affirmation in return. There's a small burst of laughter followed by hurried but measured footsteps. The younger shinki peeks around and smiles and waves at the two. Terumi addresses her, holding out his notes for her to take.]

"Will you bring these racks out? Your expertise in hair will also be needed, I will leave accessories to your discretion."

[Natsumi hurries away, leaving Terumi free to gossip awhile longer.]

"Yes, he works in the kitchen, though it is only one of the roles he fulfills. He also works in the tourism department and occasionally accompanies the young master when he leaves the temple for business. Perhaps you have seen him already. As I also hear, his efforts were not for naught either."

[The sound of racks rolling about in the main room the sign they should continue on with their work. Terumi sighs and smiles warmly.]

"Enough chatter for now. Let us get you suited up and see what Natsumi has done with Jitsumi."

[Back in the main room, Ginia and Natsumi set up boxes of accessories and racks of clothing for the men to peruse. Dressed in a crisp black pencil skirt, ruffled white top with a tasteful hint of cleavage showing, a well-fitted black blazer, oval-frame glasses, and her hair done up in a bun with a few curls framing her face, what Natsumi has done with Ginia is turn her into an image straight out of every salacious office fantasy. For her part, Natsumi looks incredibly pleased.]

[Closed] Knife fight!

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