Karakura Town - Onose Park
WHO: Ling Yao, Archer
WHEN: November 12th
WHERE: Onose Park
WHAT: Ling's busy running around playing 'gotta catch em all' with Hollows when he's caught catching a breather by the helpful Archer.
WHATCH FOR: Ling pulling snark.
Onose Park
A relatively small park, located close to the banks of the Onose river. There's a small playground here with swings, a slide, and a merry-go-round. The flat metal kind, not the carousel kind. Further inland, away from the river, a meandering path cuts through a grassy area. There's a fountain in the center of the park, and a large pond filled with carp and, in the warmer seasons, ducks. There are only a few shade trees, but there are plenty of picnic benches and wide open areas for people to enjoy themselves.
Contents:
Yachiru Kusajishi
There's a surprised roar from the beast as it suddenly finds itself unable to move. The worthless human that had dared act so boldly as to /attack/ it during a hunt remains just within arm's reach, but the hollow cannot move! The crystal that is pressed against its side burns, and there is the strangest pulling sensation before the creature's mind goes blank.
Once again, Ling wonders at the fact that there is no satisfying sucking sound as the large hollow is sucked into the strange crystal gripped tightly in one hand. His heart is pounding in his chest even as he drops the slightly glowing crystal into the pouch at his side, and as the breeze starts to blow through the park again, he sighs heavily. That's seven-- hard won, all of them. He'd tried for at least twenty by this point, but the shinigami are vigilant.
Needing something of a break, Ling settles down at the base of a tree, wiping his sweaty brow with the back of his wrapped wrist and closes his eyes.
Suprisingly, for the number of times Archer has visted Karakura town, he isn't as familiar with it as he should be. The general layout was all there, some details he'd bothered to take in-- yet he hadn't personally gone through every nook and cranny to get personally aquainted with not only physical points...but the atmosphere. The people that made every inhabited place unique. That and admittedly he didn't care to 'accidentally' run into any Shinigami that he didn't know. And the one he did know, he'd truely like to avoid at all costs. Yes. That one.
The lushness of a park and the waiting tranquility when not infested with children was something the Servant could appreciate. The fact that this one happened to be close to flowing water was a plus. Much like one of his perches atop a high building, he could enjoy a moment for introspection and observing the passage of time and life. The fall of a leaf, hear the rustling of branches, the burble and tumbling canter of the water where it brushed against the banks-- it was different today however.
Barely noticable, the aura vanished quickly and timed with an awkward sound. Archer had just arrived on the far end, but it didn't take him long to slip on through the forested area, finding of all things-- "I didn't peg you for someone to take a jog through the park." His voice sounded above Ling's head, and behind as he came up to the young Prince. If the latter thought the Servant thought that was what he was truely here for, then he'd be a horrible Detective. "You're responsible?" For that change. Heroic spirits were sensitive to things of that nature due to what they were-- and whatever had been making this park its temporary abode had left its signs before it's vanquishing.
Oh, so much for taking a restful break. Ling tips his head back, squinting up at Archer. "Responsible?" he asks, raising an eyebrow. "For what, may I ask?" He's responsible for a lot of things, you'll have to be more specific! He grins at the Servant, shifting his weight to rest on one hand as he regards the white-haired man with a casual expression. "And for the record, Mister Archer, I do not discount the value of physical exercise. While it's true I generally take my walks by rooftop and fence, there's nothing wrong with a pleasant stroll on the ground, either." Grin grin!
Being specific isn't one of Archer's prime perrogatives, usually he likes it when people figure things out on their own since it's always better when they make the decisions themselves...but Ling didn't appear to be willing to run with the program here. The Servant stepped out infront of the teenager, an unamused expression upon his face. Why was it that this boy insisted on misinterpreting his words though half the time? It almost made being direct a necessity.
"How quaint." Was his dry response. And not for the comments on physical exercise or a stroll. It was his being coy. "I heard something originating in this area, followed by a shift in the general impression of this park. And here I find you, sitting at the base of this tree." He canted his head as he studied Ling. "You're not exactly worse for wear, however I'm not foolish enough to believe you have no idea of what I'm talking about."
The prince grins. Though not unfamiliar with wordplay, he has an appreciation for blunt honesty. It simplifies matters a great deal! "That's a rather roundabout way of asking 'What's going on'," he comments, leaning back against the tree now that Archer has made his way out in front of him. "For your obvious concern, though. I can certainly grant you a clear answer."
And to that, he smirks at the taller man. "It's none of your business, that's what." Oh, and when did he get to be so snarky? It's rather unusual for him, likely from what Archer knows of the young man, and though Ling wears a broad smile and cheerful expression, it's rather clear he's of no mind to play along with the idea that the Servant is at all entitled to the information he wants.
However minutely, Archer lofted his brows at the Prince's response. Ordinarily he would shrug and just walk off, it's true it was none of his business. It's true that he wouldn't usually care about what the other dabbled in since it honestly didn't affect his life at all. Ling was technically not his concern, being no Master of his and as for friend? Well that was a dicy statement to make when it came to these two. Lancer ironically was more a friend of the teen's than he was. Afterall, Archer made no attempts to be polite nor accomodating to Ling's pride, or just ingeneral.
"This is true." He readily admits, but instead of leaving with something snarky to return, Archer folded his arms and didn't budge. "Does Orihime know you're doing this?" Archer never did say what kind of 'general impression' had altered, and the Hollow registered as something unpleasant. Yes, Ling wasn't injured, but by the way he was breathing and sweating-- his own admission that it was none of his business told him he'd been right.
Oh, how to answer that question? The corners of Ling's smile turn downward slightly, and the prince looks at Archer with obvious dislike. "Is she my keeper?" he asks in reply. Questions will beget questions, for the moment. "Believe it or not, I am entitled to my own choices and actions. But if you're going to be so nosey, I'll say that if she does not know now, she will know later." And it's as simple as that.
If Ling truely wanted to end the conversation, another snide remark with no information at all but telling him to leave would have worked best. Archer looked down at him with a hooded gaze, picking apart every sentence then bleeding it for what could be garnered from between the lines. The Servant had an uncanny way of peering into anothers psyche, but it wasn't just some supernatural thing, it came from reading things like bodylanguage, nuances in tone and chosen words. He was defensive, cagey...and guilty.
"No, she isn't. But she is your fiance, is she not? It is true a person is entitiled to exactly that, but so long as you are prepared for any consequences." Archer smirked slightly. "Do you intend on letting her find out when you return to her with injuries all over your body? Or was there a more positive outcome in mind." He hmphed to himself. The rashness of youth. "I will ask this once, what you are doing-- does it threaten your life." Hollow? Not merely unpleasant, but very unpleasant.
It was a chance here he gave to Ling. His staying or leaving rested solely on his kind of response to his last question, if it was a question at all. It sounded a lot more like a statement that just needed confirmation. Archer wasn't forcing the Prince, but maybe unexpectedly, there was an offer embedded therin.
His aid.
Ling scowls. It's brief, but it's there before he replaces it with a smile. "You underestimate my abilities," he points out, "Living threatens my life, Mister Archer. There is no safety in our lives, only luck that we are not one of the unlucky few that must face the unfortunate accidents and danger inherent in living a full life. Of all people, Miss Inoue knows this best of all." He gives a wry grin at his own philisophical drabble. He's just being difficult.
"That said, I have promised her something. Perhaps not spoken out loud, but a promise none the less. This is but a part of that promise, and I feel it is my duty to do as I said I would. It may be difficult, and yes, fairly dangerous. However..." Silver eyes drop to rest on the pouch tied to the leather strap he wears across his chest. "Did you yourself not chastise me for not taking responsibility for Miss Inoue's safety? Distasteful as your words are, and as troublesome as your advice has been, I've not been still, and this is but a part of my duty for her protection. Restoring her spirit-- retrieving her only weapon for her. The means may be somewhat dark, and it is for that reason I have not spoken to her of it. But for her sake..." He falls silent, fingering the ties of the leather pouch idly.
Did Archer underestimate Ling? Perhaps he might have, if only because he had not yet seen the Prince in 'action' so to speak. However he knew all too well the limitations a mortal man had in the face of that which surpassed their limitations. He had to essentially sell his soul to overcome them, so Archer was somewhat biased. He may not know the extent of Ling's skills, but he knew what he could not exceed by being human alone.
The Servant left his little speech alone, not contradicting nor adding his input. The teenager was right about life, however his concern about him needlessly trampling over his fiance's emotions should he foolishly do something rash to end his life regardless-- was somewhat soothed by his explanation. Archer did scold him for not doing enough to protect her, and if this was the result...then contrary to being displeased, Archer may have smiled.
Unfolding his arms, Archer rested one on his hip, that smirk back in fullforce and irritatingly arrogant as ever. "I see. In that case I shall remove the uncertainty." He took a step closer, their differences in height becoming more pronounced. "The faster you finish, the sooner her spirit is restored, yes?" So there it was. His good deed for the month, he was starting off slow. The ethical arguments about the manner in which this was being done wasn't something he was clueless about, but chose to ignore for the time being. Ignorance was his defense. So tell him what it was you were doing already.
The prince glances up at Archer as he steps closer. Yes, he can see you are very tall, and yes, he's sitting right now so it's even more abundantly clear that you are ridiculously tall. What of it? But his vaguely affronted expression becomes a more neutral smile as the man hints, as vaguely as ever, that he should like to assist.
"If you're going to offer your help, out of concern for time," he points out, "It saves us both time if you come right out and say it." Ling offers a playful, lopsided grin. Wordgames or simple honesty? Which one do you want to play with?
Digging into his pouch, Ling produces two crystals. They're each long, fitting quite snugly into the palm of his hand. They look fairly similar, with the subtle differences that all crystals have, but the most evident difference is that one of them emits a soft glow, and a rather distinct spiritual presence. The other, though with a slight presence of magic to those aware of such things, is empty and devoid of any kind of supernatural light.
"'Touch the crystal to any part of the Hollow and it will become trapped within'," he quotes, "And though I'd had my doubts, as any reasonable man should, indeed, it seems to work just as he said." And no, he's not telling you who 'he' is. "The most difficult part is, of course, getting close enough to touch the creature, but from there on it's really rather simple. I have caught seven so far. I need thirteen." Though he hestitates for a moment, Ling relents and offers the two crystals up towards Archer, so that he may see.
How droll. "That was after." After he knew what was going on here precisely, if Ling'd refuse his aid, then if he'd taking an hour to ask, time would not have mattered. Now that he was comitted, he waited patiently to have the rest explained to him, noting the crystals and their differing qualities. Indeed he caught the presences now that it was brought to light before him, and the lack of it in another. It was disturbing to think that these items could trap a Hollow, a 'spirit' merely by touching them and it was enevitable that he would wonder...if that applied to Servants aswell.
Were they that specific? Or just any beings that were spiritual in nature. "Did 'he' say that this would be for Hollows alone?" His voice held some misgivings about it, Archer wouldn't pry as to who the other man was...but landing up in a crystal would only be amusing to one person. Ling. He later shakes his head, deciding not to risk it. "That part you can do on your own, the rest you can leave to me." Ling never did say what state the creature had to be in before being touched, right?
Almost dead should be okay!
"I sense no more in this area however." Archer loathed to think about the alternatives to moving around quickly, but he hmphed to himself. "Are you randomly walking around hoping to find one? Or do you have another way."
"He said nothing of the sort," Ling says with a grin. Oh, that's right, Archer is a spirit! Silver eyes glance to the crystal, and then to the Servant, and for a moment that grin looks positively mischevious. Whatever temptations he may have had, they are set aside. "As to my strategy.."
The prince actually looks vaguely affronted that Archer suggests he doesn't have some sort of plan or method. While it's true there's only so much he can do until the Hollows appear in the real world, he isn't wandering around like a fool trying to catch them. "I'm not blind to the spiritual power here," he explains, "And I have lived here long enough to be able to differentiate between different types of spiritual power. A Shinigami differs quite clearly from a Hollow, and likewise, your kind differs from both of those. As a Hollow rarely thinks to contain its spiritual presence when it is on the hunt, I simply wait to sense that power and give chase."
He pauses, his grin slipping crookedly. "Of course, the Shinigami here /are/ rather fast... More often than not they get there before I do. But I've been at it for a few days now, and seven isn't a terrible number, for only three days." For one who is only a human. "As you may think, time is important. If I can get there in time, it's a simple matter to get up close to it. It simply takes speed and agility." Both of which he is rather good at.
The Servant did not appreciate that look Ling, he knew exactly what he was thinking, and it did not sit well with him. Archer almost scowled. It was good information to have though regarding the other's abillity to detect the Hollows, Shinigami...and even Servants. It was almost a Magus like quality, how different these other worlds were. Sneaking up on him effectively in the future would be tricky if he were paying attention-- not that he had a strong urge too. It just happened.
"Alright." Was he impressed by Ling, being a mere human to get close enough safely to these seven Hollows? Maybe just a tiny bit, but that was under assessment. He'd never fought these Hollows himself, so till he could better guage their abillity, it could change. Still, he had to give Ling credit-- just not aloud. "How would you prefer to do this?" And no he wasn't carrying you around piggyback so you could get to one of those creatures before a Shinigami could! "I can distract one of these long enough for you to get close or..." Archer held out his hand, a long spear materialised within it, at once ancient as it was a beautiful weapon, he flipped it with a twirl of his fingers bring up the other end. He passed a hand over this as another light blossomed, revealing its altered shape--an area where something the size of those crystals could be fitted in. What was Archer doing with a spear anyways? Wasn't that Lancer's deal-- "I can do it."
And no he wasn't touching those things. The spear itself had a name, and a useful quality to it, the spear of Assal.
Just wait until you hear that Ling fought a Hollow by himself and won! If you ever ask, anyway. It was a long time ago, and at the time, he couldn't even see the things.
"Getting close, as I said, isn't the trouble," he starts, but falls silent as the Servant materializes a spear. That... is interesting. His eyes rest on the now altered spear, head tilting slightly to the side. He sees what you did there.
A part of him is struck, suddenly, by the rather childish feeling of competition. This is /his/ duty, isn't it? He very nearly bristles at the idea of his so-called glory being taken away by this knowitall spirit. It's a matter of pride-- his pride, which has recently been quite severely trodden upon. "... I can see where that might be useful," he says, nodding towards the spear, "But it would be far quicker, perhaps, if we simply split the rest of the crystals evenly. The trouble is getting to a Hollow before a Shinigami does. In fact, it's quite important that if they arrive, you leave. I'm afraid this is something that must be done without their knowledge." He's not sure why, and he's fairly sure he doesn't /want/ to know why.
"But as two, we can cover a larger area. The Hollows appear at random, and so there's no telling where the next will be. If you are across town, you will obviously have an easier time catching it before I do."
He had been given some advice by a Shinigami to keep a low profile here, and not only that-- this need to keep everything on the downlo...Shinigami were Death Gods that from his memory of folklore, sent spirits on to the afterlife. Capturing these spirits for whatever reason, wasn't that effectively, emprisonment and abuse? It was clear however these these creatures could threaten human life, and for that alone...Archer wouldn't nitpick. Besides, this would help out Orihime, would it not.
"I understand." He said simply, Archer didn't say he 'agreed'. There was a suble difference, but antagonising Ling right now was counterproductive. There was merit in each argument, which is why he was also willing to let it drop. Keep your pride untrodden this time Ling.
Archer considered for a moment the need to carry more than one of these crystals, then shrugged. He added another two 'slots' to the spear's end, the weapon was essentially mallable without losing it's traits. A fact that was useful for him. This he then passed to Ling to adjust. Any more instructions to your now 'serving' Servant?
Oh, well that was easy. Ling shakes his head slightly at the Servant's more acceptable attitude about things. Look, you've gone at least five minutes without really aggravating him! What an achievement.
Taking the spear from Archer, the prince lays it across his lap as he digs through the leather pouch, withdrawing two more empty crystals to join the first, and depositing the glowing one among the others. As they're all fairly uniform in shape and size, he has little trouble fitting them into the end of the spear-- though he'll have to assume that the Servant will further adjust the weapon to secure them tightly. That done, he then takes the spear and lifts it back towards Archer-- not, by the way, tip first.
It would have been a great moment to try and run Archer through, but Ling didn't give in to his inner desires. The Servant took the spear, adjusted it once more to make sure it wouldn't be jolted loose...filaments of the spear's material itself had woven about the crystals to secure it, not just some crude claw-like projections. It was almost as if Archer wanted to retain some of the elegance of the legendary Gae Assal...arguably, one of the brother weapons to Lancer's own Gae Bolg. "I will find you when I'm finished." Barring interruptions by a Shinigami, it should be quick based on the spawning rate of the Hollows.
Now would be a good time to put in any further words, otherwise Archer, all business would be on his way, Noble Phantasm in hand.
"Very good then," Ling says, giving an almost cheery way to the Servant-on-duty. He really would be perfectly fine leaving it at that, but the notion strikes him that, despite not really caring for the white-haired man, he /is/ helping him out (although surely Archer would rather justify it as helping /Orihime/ out, but it's really about the same) and that, unfortunately, warrants /some/ thanks.
"... your assistance is appreciated, Mister Archer," the prince finally says, regarding him with a fairly neutral smile. That's the most you're going to get, so there it is.
Ironically Archer would have been fine with that aswell, a simple goodbye. Being offered thanks, even if it was more out of some kind of polite protocal rather than any true feelings of wellwishing to the Servant, is still none the less something that makes him a little uncomfortable. It's true if asked he'd say he were doing this more for Orihime's benefit than Ling, but then it was all the samething wasn't it. This roundabout manner was just another facet of the Heroic Spirit. So in true Archer fashion, he responded appropriately.
Archer hmphed as he turned to go, a look side-long earned before he walked off, later vanishing as he chose to cover more distance by taking to the air in one of those inhuman leaps. That was a 'your welcome' for you, Ling.
WHEN: November 12th
WHERE: Onose Park
WHAT: Ling's busy running around playing 'gotta catch em all' with Hollows when he's caught catching a breather by the helpful Archer.
WHATCH FOR: Ling pulling snark.
Onose Park
A relatively small park, located close to the banks of the Onose river. There's a small playground here with swings, a slide, and a merry-go-round. The flat metal kind, not the carousel kind. Further inland, away from the river, a meandering path cuts through a grassy area. There's a fountain in the center of the park, and a large pond filled with carp and, in the warmer seasons, ducks. There are only a few shade trees, but there are plenty of picnic benches and wide open areas for people to enjoy themselves.
Contents:
Yachiru Kusajishi
There's a surprised roar from the beast as it suddenly finds itself unable to move. The worthless human that had dared act so boldly as to /attack/ it during a hunt remains just within arm's reach, but the hollow cannot move! The crystal that is pressed against its side burns, and there is the strangest pulling sensation before the creature's mind goes blank.
Once again, Ling wonders at the fact that there is no satisfying sucking sound as the large hollow is sucked into the strange crystal gripped tightly in one hand. His heart is pounding in his chest even as he drops the slightly glowing crystal into the pouch at his side, and as the breeze starts to blow through the park again, he sighs heavily. That's seven-- hard won, all of them. He'd tried for at least twenty by this point, but the shinigami are vigilant.
Needing something of a break, Ling settles down at the base of a tree, wiping his sweaty brow with the back of his wrapped wrist and closes his eyes.
Suprisingly, for the number of times Archer has visted Karakura town, he isn't as familiar with it as he should be. The general layout was all there, some details he'd bothered to take in-- yet he hadn't personally gone through every nook and cranny to get personally aquainted with not only physical points...but the atmosphere. The people that made every inhabited place unique. That and admittedly he didn't care to 'accidentally' run into any Shinigami that he didn't know. And the one he did know, he'd truely like to avoid at all costs. Yes. That one.
The lushness of a park and the waiting tranquility when not infested with children was something the Servant could appreciate. The fact that this one happened to be close to flowing water was a plus. Much like one of his perches atop a high building, he could enjoy a moment for introspection and observing the passage of time and life. The fall of a leaf, hear the rustling of branches, the burble and tumbling canter of the water where it brushed against the banks-- it was different today however.
Barely noticable, the aura vanished quickly and timed with an awkward sound. Archer had just arrived on the far end, but it didn't take him long to slip on through the forested area, finding of all things-- "I didn't peg you for someone to take a jog through the park." His voice sounded above Ling's head, and behind as he came up to the young Prince. If the latter thought the Servant thought that was what he was truely here for, then he'd be a horrible Detective. "You're responsible?" For that change. Heroic spirits were sensitive to things of that nature due to what they were-- and whatever had been making this park its temporary abode had left its signs before it's vanquishing.
Oh, so much for taking a restful break. Ling tips his head back, squinting up at Archer. "Responsible?" he asks, raising an eyebrow. "For what, may I ask?" He's responsible for a lot of things, you'll have to be more specific! He grins at the Servant, shifting his weight to rest on one hand as he regards the white-haired man with a casual expression. "And for the record, Mister Archer, I do not discount the value of physical exercise. While it's true I generally take my walks by rooftop and fence, there's nothing wrong with a pleasant stroll on the ground, either." Grin grin!
Being specific isn't one of Archer's prime perrogatives, usually he likes it when people figure things out on their own since it's always better when they make the decisions themselves...but Ling didn't appear to be willing to run with the program here. The Servant stepped out infront of the teenager, an unamused expression upon his face. Why was it that this boy insisted on misinterpreting his words though half the time? It almost made being direct a necessity.
"How quaint." Was his dry response. And not for the comments on physical exercise or a stroll. It was his being coy. "I heard something originating in this area, followed by a shift in the general impression of this park. And here I find you, sitting at the base of this tree." He canted his head as he studied Ling. "You're not exactly worse for wear, however I'm not foolish enough to believe you have no idea of what I'm talking about."
The prince grins. Though not unfamiliar with wordplay, he has an appreciation for blunt honesty. It simplifies matters a great deal! "That's a rather roundabout way of asking 'What's going on'," he comments, leaning back against the tree now that Archer has made his way out in front of him. "For your obvious concern, though. I can certainly grant you a clear answer."
And to that, he smirks at the taller man. "It's none of your business, that's what." Oh, and when did he get to be so snarky? It's rather unusual for him, likely from what Archer knows of the young man, and though Ling wears a broad smile and cheerful expression, it's rather clear he's of no mind to play along with the idea that the Servant is at all entitled to the information he wants.
However minutely, Archer lofted his brows at the Prince's response. Ordinarily he would shrug and just walk off, it's true it was none of his business. It's true that he wouldn't usually care about what the other dabbled in since it honestly didn't affect his life at all. Ling was technically not his concern, being no Master of his and as for friend? Well that was a dicy statement to make when it came to these two. Lancer ironically was more a friend of the teen's than he was. Afterall, Archer made no attempts to be polite nor accomodating to Ling's pride, or just ingeneral.
"This is true." He readily admits, but instead of leaving with something snarky to return, Archer folded his arms and didn't budge. "Does Orihime know you're doing this?" Archer never did say what kind of 'general impression' had altered, and the Hollow registered as something unpleasant. Yes, Ling wasn't injured, but by the way he was breathing and sweating-- his own admission that it was none of his business told him he'd been right.
Oh, how to answer that question? The corners of Ling's smile turn downward slightly, and the prince looks at Archer with obvious dislike. "Is she my keeper?" he asks in reply. Questions will beget questions, for the moment. "Believe it or not, I am entitled to my own choices and actions. But if you're going to be so nosey, I'll say that if she does not know now, she will know later." And it's as simple as that.
If Ling truely wanted to end the conversation, another snide remark with no information at all but telling him to leave would have worked best. Archer looked down at him with a hooded gaze, picking apart every sentence then bleeding it for what could be garnered from between the lines. The Servant had an uncanny way of peering into anothers psyche, but it wasn't just some supernatural thing, it came from reading things like bodylanguage, nuances in tone and chosen words. He was defensive, cagey...and guilty.
"No, she isn't. But she is your fiance, is she not? It is true a person is entitiled to exactly that, but so long as you are prepared for any consequences." Archer smirked slightly. "Do you intend on letting her find out when you return to her with injuries all over your body? Or was there a more positive outcome in mind." He hmphed to himself. The rashness of youth. "I will ask this once, what you are doing-- does it threaten your life." Hollow? Not merely unpleasant, but very unpleasant.
It was a chance here he gave to Ling. His staying or leaving rested solely on his kind of response to his last question, if it was a question at all. It sounded a lot more like a statement that just needed confirmation. Archer wasn't forcing the Prince, but maybe unexpectedly, there was an offer embedded therin.
His aid.
Ling scowls. It's brief, but it's there before he replaces it with a smile. "You underestimate my abilities," he points out, "Living threatens my life, Mister Archer. There is no safety in our lives, only luck that we are not one of the unlucky few that must face the unfortunate accidents and danger inherent in living a full life. Of all people, Miss Inoue knows this best of all." He gives a wry grin at his own philisophical drabble. He's just being difficult.
"That said, I have promised her something. Perhaps not spoken out loud, but a promise none the less. This is but a part of that promise, and I feel it is my duty to do as I said I would. It may be difficult, and yes, fairly dangerous. However..." Silver eyes drop to rest on the pouch tied to the leather strap he wears across his chest. "Did you yourself not chastise me for not taking responsibility for Miss Inoue's safety? Distasteful as your words are, and as troublesome as your advice has been, I've not been still, and this is but a part of my duty for her protection. Restoring her spirit-- retrieving her only weapon for her. The means may be somewhat dark, and it is for that reason I have not spoken to her of it. But for her sake..." He falls silent, fingering the ties of the leather pouch idly.
Did Archer underestimate Ling? Perhaps he might have, if only because he had not yet seen the Prince in 'action' so to speak. However he knew all too well the limitations a mortal man had in the face of that which surpassed their limitations. He had to essentially sell his soul to overcome them, so Archer was somewhat biased. He may not know the extent of Ling's skills, but he knew what he could not exceed by being human alone.
The Servant left his little speech alone, not contradicting nor adding his input. The teenager was right about life, however his concern about him needlessly trampling over his fiance's emotions should he foolishly do something rash to end his life regardless-- was somewhat soothed by his explanation. Archer did scold him for not doing enough to protect her, and if this was the result...then contrary to being displeased, Archer may have smiled.
Unfolding his arms, Archer rested one on his hip, that smirk back in fullforce and irritatingly arrogant as ever. "I see. In that case I shall remove the uncertainty." He took a step closer, their differences in height becoming more pronounced. "The faster you finish, the sooner her spirit is restored, yes?" So there it was. His good deed for the month, he was starting off slow. The ethical arguments about the manner in which this was being done wasn't something he was clueless about, but chose to ignore for the time being. Ignorance was his defense. So tell him what it was you were doing already.
The prince glances up at Archer as he steps closer. Yes, he can see you are very tall, and yes, he's sitting right now so it's even more abundantly clear that you are ridiculously tall. What of it? But his vaguely affronted expression becomes a more neutral smile as the man hints, as vaguely as ever, that he should like to assist.
"If you're going to offer your help, out of concern for time," he points out, "It saves us both time if you come right out and say it." Ling offers a playful, lopsided grin. Wordgames or simple honesty? Which one do you want to play with?
Digging into his pouch, Ling produces two crystals. They're each long, fitting quite snugly into the palm of his hand. They look fairly similar, with the subtle differences that all crystals have, but the most evident difference is that one of them emits a soft glow, and a rather distinct spiritual presence. The other, though with a slight presence of magic to those aware of such things, is empty and devoid of any kind of supernatural light.
"'Touch the crystal to any part of the Hollow and it will become trapped within'," he quotes, "And though I'd had my doubts, as any reasonable man should, indeed, it seems to work just as he said." And no, he's not telling you who 'he' is. "The most difficult part is, of course, getting close enough to touch the creature, but from there on it's really rather simple. I have caught seven so far. I need thirteen." Though he hestitates for a moment, Ling relents and offers the two crystals up towards Archer, so that he may see.
How droll. "That was after." After he knew what was going on here precisely, if Ling'd refuse his aid, then if he'd taking an hour to ask, time would not have mattered. Now that he was comitted, he waited patiently to have the rest explained to him, noting the crystals and their differing qualities. Indeed he caught the presences now that it was brought to light before him, and the lack of it in another. It was disturbing to think that these items could trap a Hollow, a 'spirit' merely by touching them and it was enevitable that he would wonder...if that applied to Servants aswell.
Were they that specific? Or just any beings that were spiritual in nature. "Did 'he' say that this would be for Hollows alone?" His voice held some misgivings about it, Archer wouldn't pry as to who the other man was...but landing up in a crystal would only be amusing to one person. Ling. He later shakes his head, deciding not to risk it. "That part you can do on your own, the rest you can leave to me." Ling never did say what state the creature had to be in before being touched, right?
Almost dead should be okay!
"I sense no more in this area however." Archer loathed to think about the alternatives to moving around quickly, but he hmphed to himself. "Are you randomly walking around hoping to find one? Or do you have another way."
"He said nothing of the sort," Ling says with a grin. Oh, that's right, Archer is a spirit! Silver eyes glance to the crystal, and then to the Servant, and for a moment that grin looks positively mischevious. Whatever temptations he may have had, they are set aside. "As to my strategy.."
The prince actually looks vaguely affronted that Archer suggests he doesn't have some sort of plan or method. While it's true there's only so much he can do until the Hollows appear in the real world, he isn't wandering around like a fool trying to catch them. "I'm not blind to the spiritual power here," he explains, "And I have lived here long enough to be able to differentiate between different types of spiritual power. A Shinigami differs quite clearly from a Hollow, and likewise, your kind differs from both of those. As a Hollow rarely thinks to contain its spiritual presence when it is on the hunt, I simply wait to sense that power and give chase."
He pauses, his grin slipping crookedly. "Of course, the Shinigami here /are/ rather fast... More often than not they get there before I do. But I've been at it for a few days now, and seven isn't a terrible number, for only three days." For one who is only a human. "As you may think, time is important. If I can get there in time, it's a simple matter to get up close to it. It simply takes speed and agility." Both of which he is rather good at.
The Servant did not appreciate that look Ling, he knew exactly what he was thinking, and it did not sit well with him. Archer almost scowled. It was good information to have though regarding the other's abillity to detect the Hollows, Shinigami...and even Servants. It was almost a Magus like quality, how different these other worlds were. Sneaking up on him effectively in the future would be tricky if he were paying attention-- not that he had a strong urge too. It just happened.
"Alright." Was he impressed by Ling, being a mere human to get close enough safely to these seven Hollows? Maybe just a tiny bit, but that was under assessment. He'd never fought these Hollows himself, so till he could better guage their abillity, it could change. Still, he had to give Ling credit-- just not aloud. "How would you prefer to do this?" And no he wasn't carrying you around piggyback so you could get to one of those creatures before a Shinigami could! "I can distract one of these long enough for you to get close or..." Archer held out his hand, a long spear materialised within it, at once ancient as it was a beautiful weapon, he flipped it with a twirl of his fingers bring up the other end. He passed a hand over this as another light blossomed, revealing its altered shape--an area where something the size of those crystals could be fitted in. What was Archer doing with a spear anyways? Wasn't that Lancer's deal-- "I can do it."
And no he wasn't touching those things. The spear itself had a name, and a useful quality to it, the spear of Assal.
Just wait until you hear that Ling fought a Hollow by himself and won! If you ever ask, anyway. It was a long time ago, and at the time, he couldn't even see the things.
"Getting close, as I said, isn't the trouble," he starts, but falls silent as the Servant materializes a spear. That... is interesting. His eyes rest on the now altered spear, head tilting slightly to the side. He sees what you did there.
A part of him is struck, suddenly, by the rather childish feeling of competition. This is /his/ duty, isn't it? He very nearly bristles at the idea of his so-called glory being taken away by this knowitall spirit. It's a matter of pride-- his pride, which has recently been quite severely trodden upon. "... I can see where that might be useful," he says, nodding towards the spear, "But it would be far quicker, perhaps, if we simply split the rest of the crystals evenly. The trouble is getting to a Hollow before a Shinigami does. In fact, it's quite important that if they arrive, you leave. I'm afraid this is something that must be done without their knowledge." He's not sure why, and he's fairly sure he doesn't /want/ to know why.
"But as two, we can cover a larger area. The Hollows appear at random, and so there's no telling where the next will be. If you are across town, you will obviously have an easier time catching it before I do."
He had been given some advice by a Shinigami to keep a low profile here, and not only that-- this need to keep everything on the downlo...Shinigami were Death Gods that from his memory of folklore, sent spirits on to the afterlife. Capturing these spirits for whatever reason, wasn't that effectively, emprisonment and abuse? It was clear however these these creatures could threaten human life, and for that alone...Archer wouldn't nitpick. Besides, this would help out Orihime, would it not.
"I understand." He said simply, Archer didn't say he 'agreed'. There was a suble difference, but antagonising Ling right now was counterproductive. There was merit in each argument, which is why he was also willing to let it drop. Keep your pride untrodden this time Ling.
Archer considered for a moment the need to carry more than one of these crystals, then shrugged. He added another two 'slots' to the spear's end, the weapon was essentially mallable without losing it's traits. A fact that was useful for him. This he then passed to Ling to adjust. Any more instructions to your now 'serving' Servant?
Oh, well that was easy. Ling shakes his head slightly at the Servant's more acceptable attitude about things. Look, you've gone at least five minutes without really aggravating him! What an achievement.
Taking the spear from Archer, the prince lays it across his lap as he digs through the leather pouch, withdrawing two more empty crystals to join the first, and depositing the glowing one among the others. As they're all fairly uniform in shape and size, he has little trouble fitting them into the end of the spear-- though he'll have to assume that the Servant will further adjust the weapon to secure them tightly. That done, he then takes the spear and lifts it back towards Archer-- not, by the way, tip first.
It would have been a great moment to try and run Archer through, but Ling didn't give in to his inner desires. The Servant took the spear, adjusted it once more to make sure it wouldn't be jolted loose...filaments of the spear's material itself had woven about the crystals to secure it, not just some crude claw-like projections. It was almost as if Archer wanted to retain some of the elegance of the legendary Gae Assal...arguably, one of the brother weapons to Lancer's own Gae Bolg. "I will find you when I'm finished." Barring interruptions by a Shinigami, it should be quick based on the spawning rate of the Hollows.
Now would be a good time to put in any further words, otherwise Archer, all business would be on his way, Noble Phantasm in hand.
"Very good then," Ling says, giving an almost cheery way to the Servant-on-duty. He really would be perfectly fine leaving it at that, but the notion strikes him that, despite not really caring for the white-haired man, he /is/ helping him out (although surely Archer would rather justify it as helping /Orihime/ out, but it's really about the same) and that, unfortunately, warrants /some/ thanks.
"... your assistance is appreciated, Mister Archer," the prince finally says, regarding him with a fairly neutral smile. That's the most you're going to get, so there it is.
Ironically Archer would have been fine with that aswell, a simple goodbye. Being offered thanks, even if it was more out of some kind of polite protocal rather than any true feelings of wellwishing to the Servant, is still none the less something that makes him a little uncomfortable. It's true if asked he'd say he were doing this more for Orihime's benefit than Ling, but then it was all the samething wasn't it. This roundabout manner was just another facet of the Heroic Spirit. So in true Archer fashion, he responded appropriately.
Archer hmphed as he turned to go, a look side-long earned before he walked off, later vanishing as he chose to cover more distance by taking to the air in one of those inhuman leaps. That was a 'your welcome' for you, Ling.