[ The stars bear witness, yes. And also the gods. The flicker of malice touching the borders of this warmth and love is Eris, Goddess of Discord. She has chosen to come and press her presence on this sacrifice-- if only because she prefers to appear where she is least invited. She keeps her distance for now, watching. Waiting. ]
[ She smiles. Cold and unfriendly. She speaks the tongue of man-- purposefully. Perhaps to spite this gentle boy, for no reason other than she hates to make things easy for anyone. ]
I wouldn't miss such a generous sacrifice.
[ A pause, then pointedly: ] Unless, of course, Discordia is not welcome here.
[He keeps the frown off of his face, though he feels it. She disconcerts him deeply, but she is much much greater than he is and he knows she is simply a part of the world and he owes her his obeisance as much as any other.]
[ She almost wishes he would try to turn her away. It would give her a reason to stir trouble in this place. But, alas, what a proper little thing he is-- giving all the right answers. ]
Such a good boy. [ A test then. ] Should I bestow upon you Strife's blessing?
[He ducks his head passively before her. No, he doesn't want that at all, but there is no polite way to refuse, no safe way either. It is difficult to sort the words out in the human tongue.]
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I am honored you would come.
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I wouldn't miss such a generous sacrifice.
[ A pause, then pointedly: ] Unless, of course, Discordia is not welcome here.
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I... would never turn you away.
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Such a good boy. [ A test then. ] Should I bestow upon you Strife's blessing?
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I would... I would not wish to. Seem selfish.
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Come now. Don't be afraid. Are you afraid?
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It is not a night for fear.
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[ Her voice is at once coaxing and a subtle threat. ]
I am, after all, a bearer of great blessings. I am Eris, who brought Helen to Paris. Servant to the matron goddess. I could give you many things, boy.
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Your generosity... is its own gift. I... I may not ask. For more.
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You do say such pretty things. You are certain then, you have no need for my blessing?
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I am blessed. To be alive. I can... think of nothing more, goddess.
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