one more new years post 8V

[aut_augur]

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[discordare]

[ 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. ]

[aut_augur]

[There is a little pain in his expression, but he goes to pay her his respects, of course he does. He bows to her.]

I am honored you would come.

[discordare]

[ 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.

[aut_augur]

[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.]

I... would never turn you away.

[discordare]

[ 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?

[aut_augur]

[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.]

I would... I would not wish to. Seem selfish.

[discordare]

[ She feeds on his discomfort. Her smile turns cruel at his uncertainty, his unsure voice. ]

Come now. Don't be afraid. Are you afraid?

[aut_augur]

[He does not implore her, only responds with the fact of the matter.]

It is not a night for fear.

[discordare]

How right you are.

[ 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.

[aut_augur]

[He shakes his head. He owes loyalties to goddesses of his own, she is not one of them.]

Your generosity... is its own gift. I... I may not ask. For more.

[discordare]

[ Not so easily tempted then. But, Eris can change her tune. ]

You do say such pretty things. You are certain then, you have no need for my blessing?

[aut_augur]

[He looks up quietly, his expression could be compared to a pout. It is just mournful, he does not want to offend.]

I am blessed. To be alive. I can... think of nothing more, goddess.