Location: School building
Characters: Reks
moogletastic and Rasler
prince_perfectStatus: Complete
Warnings: Their sheer intellect might be wounding.
Reks was at something of a loss. Never before had he encountered someone that asked so many questions so quickly, much less about his best friend. And though he knew a great many of the things being asked of him it did not seem his place to be answering some of those things. Especially as time passed and he got the impression that several of these questions were entirely invasive in nature and that Rasler might not want everyone knowing some of those specifics. Hell, there were ones he didn't even think people aside the individual in question should know, and he certainly didn't.
And it was with this growing sense that there was something disconcerting about his company that led Reks to taking actions he certainly would not normally take. Which at present left him... on the ceiling. Not entirely fun and rather taxing as it left the vast majority of him tensed in implementing his weight toward supporting his placement, as precarious in nature as it was. Rather that than clumsily dealing with a situation he didn't understand.
If that fellow didn't know Rasler's room number, Reks did not think he was the one who should give out such information.
Rasler, temporarily elsewhere, would otherwise be oblivious to these invasive procedures he would neither recognize nor acknowledge, given his apparent habit to better the idea of a person. Having heard at least a tall-tale of such things, however, he hadn't taken it into consideration his musings through the library, far more focused at the task on hand.
He had supplied his best friend with a recent attempt of baking, mainly that of a simple recipe for cookies, but as expected, had failed miserably. He couldn't detect what was wrong with his methods, he surely followed each measurement to the last grain of salt, the smallest pinch of parsley, the additional chunk of tomato... It seemed absolutely legit, and if it wasn't his lack of accuracy, he didn't know what else the source may have been.
Proceeding down the halls with a cleverly disguised copy of 'baking for total bone-heads' (not his choice title in literature, but it would do for now), the hard-bound copy of Hamlet gave the air he was submerged immensely in his reading. Entirely distracted, he kept the book at a level for only he to see, having no wish for others to become aware of his apparent failing in a task... The very idea made him nearly sick, something else he didn't want to commit to the corridors of Onten.
Suspending himself in such a way was a feat that might impress some but certainly was not complex. By the time he and his brother had limbs long enough and some sense of placement they'd certainly gotten the concept down with relative ease. Distribute weight just so and position oneself to allow for that weight to be used accordingly. It helped being of a fairly slight frame, and Reks had reflected on that a few times as he remained, hoping not to hear the fellow's voice any time too soon. He'd nothing against him but not knowing how to handle such an... unusual manner, much less when it seemed to concern a party not present, he wasn't comfortable in it.
Surely if there were questions to be asked about Rasler he should be the one that was asked, not anyone else. His business was his own and while his friend was a forgiving soul--if not too much so, at times--he did not care to give reasons for possible offense. One didn't speak of others in such a way when they were not present and that was simple manners where he was concerned.
Such were his thoughts before he heard a sound resound sharply through apparently empty halls, almost wanting to groan. He'd placed a pencil behind his ear and apparently it had fallen. Facing the surface he was so close to he was aware of the absence of the object, and that he should likely retrieve it. Leaving it laying there wasn't a good idea at all... Though he wasn't fancying maneuvering to get down. That was always the tricky part of things for him. Getting up there and staying up there was nothing in comparison.
Rasler paid little mind to where he traveled, supplied his height would protect his present activity, though he did keep a slight focus for those around him. He didn't want to topple into anyone, and trouble them with his lack of consideration... That certainly was not desired, and it would only raise tempting questions in the end. Given Rasler was not one to lie, either, it'd simply become a problematic situation, one where he may find himself stumbling over his words.
And he couldn't have that.
"Height of elevation may determine the heat of the oven..." Frowning as he browsed this explanation, fingering the page briefly, he paused at the unmistakable sound of a pale clatter. Blinking as he glanced over his book at the fallen object - a pencil? - he supplied a slight expression of mild curiosity as he scanned the proximity.. There wasn't an available source from where it may have come from, given he seemed to be quite alone in the hall - much to his slight relief, until he reached his book-bag - thus he was at a loss. Musing if he may have dropped it himself, he bent to retrieve it, fully aware of the hazard it could give to a passing student.
Reks was fairly sure he could get himself down in one piece, shifting a bit and wondering if climbers ever had issues with descent from whatever heights they chose to reach. He'd imagine it was much more difficult to climb mountains than it was to get on the ceiling and remain there. Even the rock wall in the gym was likely more of a challenge. One had to get higher up than was demanded of his present situation, and he doubted he faced any real sort of danger being at his current elevation. Highly doubtful that he could do anything more than bruise himself if he were clumsy about it, which was why he'd taken care in terms of how he might land.
Pain wasn't so much a concern as not making his friend worry. That was something he would never wish to cause, considering how much thought was already invested on him. Reks was only hoping Rasler didn't do anything insane come Christmas. His best friend probably gave him more gifts than everyone else he knew combined, and that hadn't been something easy to adjust to. He knew it was in the other's nature to give things to people but there were definitely times he felt he'd been spoiled.
As the older of two siblings that was not something he was at all used to.
Hearing someone below, Reks tried to catch himself, a vain attempt at regaining his grip that did little to no good before he landed on... something that wasn't the floor. That wasn't good. Not at all.
Had Rasler been a bit more responsive to his surroundings, he may have noticed the flight of an airborne subject, but rather had focused his attention upon the stray pencil; it was certainly a matter of fascination, given he remained confuse to its previous location, furthermore why it had ended up in the middle of the floor. Nevertheless, wishing to remove a hindrance before it supplied a problem, the blonde had made the gesture to retrieve it, and be on his way.
That is to say, before he found a weight landing atop him.
Hitting the floor as he was thrown forward with additional momentum, his books flew from his grasp and skipped along the tiles. Upon his stomach and with no means to stop them, he made a futile attempt to cease their movement - reminded easily of the fact he had been studying a downfall he wished for no one to discover - only to slap his palm heavily upon the floor in vain. There went that effort.
Suddenly aware that he was not alone, otherwise explaining his evident position upon the floor, he shifted himself to his elbows with a quiet sigh and peered.. At what would be Reks. Blinking with given confusion, he glanced about their surroundings as though for some explanation of this collision, but like the pencil, came up empty handed. "..Reks? .. May I ask what it is you are doing?" Once able, he'd retrieve his books, and rearrange them properly. Above all else, he did not want his friend to recognize his already apparent failure.
Reks of course, was coming to terms that he had not landed on the floor, but instead on another person. As though that were not bad enough it had to be his best friend that he'd just knocked over in his descent. Something he was not at all pleased with, and certainly he wished he'd been more aware or had better timing. At least that he might've caught himself before such collision occurred. But with no such luck he could only scramble to get off of Rasler rather than being an effective burden on the other. "I...sorry. I didn't realize anyone was around."
Well, he had, but several moments too late for him to do much of anything about it. Much as he would have loved to avoid falling on his friend as he had. It was the first time he'd landed on anything but the floor, but there wasn't much that could be done aside his apology.
He'd apparently caused things Rasler was carrying to scatter, so he turned his attention to that once he was no longer tangled with his friend. Mostly he appeared to have books, though Reks paid no attention to what they were and rather to getting them off the floor. If only his timing had been a bit different, that wouldn't have happened. Having accomplished that quickly, he set the pile in front of the other, looking entirely too concerned for someone whose build wasn't as slight as his own. "…Are you okay?"
Rasler had expected the apology of all things, but per usual, would not accept it. He couldn't directly state the reasoning for their unexpected collision, nor how it came to be, given their immense difference in height. And though he did not doubt Reks likely had powerful bounding muscles contained within his legs - expected of a volleyball player, he presumed - he hadn't thought the other would take it upon himself to adopt the habit of toppling into their peers. To that light, he was holding himself to similar esteem to his fellow students in Reks' eyes. He certainly was no one special.
With Reks absent from his person and what slight weight was removed, the blonde sat up with a slight glance of mounting confusion, and simply watched with dismay as his books were retrieved. And yet when they were set before him, he avoided his haste to gather them into his arms, taking them fairly tentatively, and yet supplying a suspicious air in the action nonetheless. It wasn't like him to be clever and sneaky as it were.
Standing thus as he dusted off his jacket, he directed his entire focus to his friend. "I am fine. I am only pleased to have been your landing, Reks. I would not want to see you injured." With another glance around the corridor, and the confirmed fact he had not been thrown - that was troubling in itself, to think his friend would be the victim of bullying - he would only turn back to the elder Ratsbane. "But I must ask once more. What was it you were doing? I... Do not understand how this incident came to be."
Having a sibling with similar discipline, if one could use that word when referring to anything involving Vaan, Reks had to wonder if an accepted normality between them was very odd to the general populace. Considering the fact that most did not learn each and every aspect of ninjutsu that there was--including older training that should not serve much purpose in the modern world--it was highly unlikely that many employed such a particular level of stealth in their day to day lives, were they even able to do so. Yet having found himself in such an outstanding circumstance he was caught between stating that he felt the fellow questioning him was being entirely invasive, or attempting to answer questions he did not feel it his place to give responses to. And truly neither was ideal.
Though, perhaps taking to hiding had not been the best of plans either. He'd left Rasler looking very perplexed... and in these observations he also noticed that the other blonde was behaving very strangely about his books, though that was a mystery he'd not explore further. His friend had a book that was in the wrong cover but he wasn't going to point out that knowledge. It seemed for one reason or another, the other male was uncomfortable about something amongst his books. Why, he wasn't sure. Those things seemed harmless.
Taking his attention from minor speculation he stood up, straightening out his volleyball uniform and reminded anew that he would have to change out eventually. Having been caught right after practice, he'd not had the opportunity to change with the barrage of question supplied him. And he didn't fancy trying to put on his school uniform with a new audience, much less one that was talking to him. And thus he'd been wandering the halls with an active follower... "I...fell from the ceiling." And as though further specification was needed, Reks pointed. Likely, that was going to seem very strange.
Rasler did not doubt, in even the slightest manner, that Reks would supply him with a justified remark, likely explaining the entire ordeal, and allow them to leave it to rest. The fact he had been used as a landing space no longer bothered him - as it had only been a brief flash of emotional trauma - and he was far more concerned with the fact his best friend may have fallen. How or where, of course, were presently being questioned...
Yet the response he received did nothing short of confuse him further.
Not wanting to supply the idea of confusion, however, he kept his features particularly fixed, following the indication with a glance toward the ceiling as though this would also solidify the fact Reks had come from its height. But as he found no method of suspension above him, nor other mechanics that could aid a student in this specific flight... He remained at a general loss, and thus struggled with himself internally with his reaction.
In the end, he'd reign slight forfeit to his confusion, and simply regard Reks as he tucked the books beneath his arm. "I.. See..." Though that in itself wasn't entirely true. He hadn't seen anything.. Simply felt.
Although it wasn't indicated, Reks could tell when Rasler was puzzled. It was difficult for most to see and for him it had been for a long time as well, but he knew it now, after they'd spent so much time in each other's company. Details like that had to be learned and even then it took a while for him to determine that yes, he'd left his friend at something of a loss, and glancing up at the cieling himself he supposed he could see why such would be the case. There seemed no logical means by which he should be up there, much less a reason that he should have himself in such a location, at least not from an outside point of view.
"...I climbed up there to avoid someone. My brother and I are able to do things like that...odd as it might be." Though he felt strange about explaining it to Rasler, he was his best friend. It was better to speak with him honestly than giving half-answers as he had before. Better not to treat someone important to him in such a way. Although, he doubted the answer was going to be terribly helpful, as really, he couldn't explain how he'd accomplished that without demonstrating it. And likely anyone observing that would wonder what all Reks was capable of.
Since he'd landed on the other he supposed it was only fair to explain himself, if not because of how valued Ras was. There wasn't another person he held in quite the same regard, but he assumed that was the same for anyone's thoughts of their closest friend. Which was average enough.
In what temporary period there may have been without speech, Rasler had simply situated his focus to determining what manner Reks had managed to suspend himself, particularly directly above him. Pacing back a step to regard that specific location, there did not appear to be an immediate change in the ceiling, and he was hence left to reconsider what methods he had considered.
However, hearing the other, he immediately redirected his focus with charge, blinking with an equal amount of confusion as his brows lifted. He had climbed up there? Attention now upon the wall, he patted it thoughtfully, unable to find a way for anyone to scale it's height to reach the ceiling... It did not surprise him, though, to find Vaan was capable of similar antics. In fact... He would almost expect it.
"... Reks, you are to say you climbed the wall to avoid someone on the ceiling?" he echoed entirely, scratching his head in thought as his eyes drifted toward his friend. For an instant longer, he said nothing, simply regarding his peer with deliberation, only to reign aside his curiosity with a nod. "I see... A unique.. Ability... But I believe you may desire to choose different methods to escape undesired company. I may not be available to land upon at different times, and I do not wish for you to harm yourself when you, ah.. Find yourself wishing to be grounded." Nodding at that, he moved back to Reks, only to place a hand upon his shoulder.
"But.. Do tell me.. How do you manage it?"
The notion was more accepted that Reks might've expected, considering the fact that he knew no others that had such particular abilities. There were other students, surely, but he doubted they demonstrated their unique talents in their schools. Likely he should have thought up an alternative course of action but since he had not there was nothing to do about it now. Explaining just how was surely going to be more difficult, considering the fact that it was not a simple practice. Distributing his weight just so was not something he'd learned easily, as hard a worker as he was at anything and everything. Applying oneself did not mean that experience could be disregarded, and Reks had to wonder if he could explain it properly.
However, he would never consider letting Rasler down in any regard to be an option, weighing what he knew and trying to sort it out into something that made sense. Scaling any surface was a challenge but the walls of the school were certainly without the holds a standard climber would require. There were features one could make use of, small details that were possibly overlooked, but while that fellow had been distracted Reks had taken his chances and given it a try. And succeeded, up to a certain point. Falling on anyone was not favorable.
"Mostly I think it's a matter of weight distribution, and finding features that can be used." People could run up walls and flip off of them, after all. Of course he hadn't used momentum to further his travel, and imagining that only brought on the image of some sort of monkey. "There are.... a few things one can use." He indicated the window frame, trim along nearby doors. Though very slightly raised from the surface of the wall they were of use. And the space between different elevations of ceiling were what he had exploited in order to remain where he had been, and the space occupied he also pointed to. "By maintaining pressure on either side, I could keepy myself up there.... But it's fairly tiring."
Rasler accepted the explanation in stride, analyzing each piece of anew information as he regarded the indications, certainly weighing the other present complications; weight distribution was not something he had common practice in, save the general combative techniques he had acquired as a child. That in itself had been entirely instinctual, and while he imagined to some degree of how Reks reacted in the manner to scale walls, he did not see himself capable of similar means... At least, not under those methods.
Being the individual that he was, and the refusal to accept failure of any degree - including that of not knowing how - the blonde was fully prepared to accept the challenge of learning. Between baking and the sudden desire to stealthily place himself upon the ceiling, it was going to be quite the task to adapt... But nothing impossible, or so he saw it.
"I understand." Plain in response, the Nabradia heir would simply nod, having measured the given distances, weighed the particular dangers, and already selected a place of practice within his mind. He would have to do it away from another's sight, specifically that of friends and family, where he would be left to his own devices. He was sure within time, he'd have the ability at his disposal, though did not see himself using it within the school's walls.
But.. One never knew. "It is quite impressive."
"I...never thought of it that way." Reks could imagine that given Rasler's disposition the information supplied was likely to be used in some manner or other, though he could only speculate. It was not his place to inquire as to his intentions, and so unless it somehow affected the other's health he wasn't going to call notice to it. Even then he would speak to his friend directly rather than involve others. He knew Rasler was not so incapable that outside influence would be required in some fashion. Likely given the difference in build it wasn't possible for him to get anywhere particularly dangerous, if he found himself able to do the odd trick at all. But given who it was involved, the possibility could not be ruled out.
Only time would tell when it came to that, he decided. Thoughts of how determined Rasler was about everything he did prompted recollection of something he'd overlooked mention of, and Reks felt badly that he hadn't said anything sooner. His friend had wanted his opinion and with all the preparations for the new school year he had neglected to say anything when he should have. "The cookies you brought over recently... You've definitely improved." He wanted to know what recipe would prompt both peanut butter and oatmeal but he knew that combination had to be the result of following some sort of direction.
Rasler did not make careless mistakes. Reks didn't think that was something the other blonde even had the capacity for. And regardless of that he was showing care for details and following directions and that was much of what was important about cooking much of anything that there was. Having bad directions was the only reason there could be any lack in whatever was made. "I'm sorry I didn't say anything earlier. I guess I've been a bit distracted lately." Though, he felt that was no excuse.
The fact Rasler had not attempted to situate himself on the ceiling almost seemed bothersome, particularly that Reks seemed to be practiced in that aspect, as well as familiar with different strategies. The fact it had not been shared did not phase him, given he acknowledged and respected the other's boundaries, as well as his secrets, each having their own tendencies he was sure they did not want to share. The fact the other male had gone into expressive detail concerning the task was honorable in itself, and he felt a bit flattered to know his friend would go to such lengths.
The sudden direction of his apparent baking shifted his focus, however. Facing Reks entirely to search his expression for the slightest inkling of false flattery, he was not surprised to find none, aware of the other's honesty. But he himself had tasted the cookies upon his return home, or at least what had remained and.. He had not enjoyed the results. Clearly, something was wrong, but whether it was the source or his lack of ability... He couldn't say.
"I... I will try harder," he stated at length, expression lost of his previous confusion as he gave a slight sigh. Casting a glance at the books he held, he frowned in slight at himself, feeling that it would take more than a few text volumes to set his awry skills straight. "You do not need to apologize, Reks. I understand. I am sorry that you feel you are obligated to compliment my ability to bake, or therefore lack of, when you are busy."
If Reks felt obligated a day in his life he would not say that it was toward Rasler. Anything he said or did he felt was entirely his own choice and to that end he did not think that somehow he was inclined due to some pressure or constraint. There was no reason to spare feelings when that was only deceptive and ultimately more hurtful, and surely there was also no reason for him to compliment anything that he did not think worth the praise. However his friend had shown improvement and in light of his attention to details he did not think the problem lie with abilities possessed but with some outside force or influence. There couldn't be fault in Rasler's efforts, he was certain.
And though he acknowledged a bias he also knew that it was truth. If the other male made a mistake he found the source of error and made to correct it. That was in his nature, and Reks was well aware of that. Had he been anyone else he would have been insulted even in slight by those words, but he knew that it wasn't intended in such a way. "I am never too busy for you. And whatever comes up that isn't going to change." He was too stubborn to allow that. "I don't feel at all obligated to tell my opinion. I only wanted to offer my perspective, as I think you have improved. To me that's as important as success or failure."
It might've been going on too much on his part, but Reks felt it was necessary to state it anyhow. Why Rasler would ever think one would need to be obligated to speak well of improvements, he'd likely never fully understand. But they took failings differently and that was something he'd gotten used to by now. After a few moments of silence he shrugged and ruffled his friend's hair. Not that he thought anything could misplace it. One of the few gestures he didn't think too out of bounds, though he'd been wrong about hugs already. "So don't think like that."
Rasler knew instantaneously he should have spoken otherwise, but already accustom to the habit of being fairly honest with his company - if not any - it was a thought quickly withdrawn. To some extent, he realized he regarded Reks in similarity to his family, and to that degree, he had often suffered from his mother's praise no matter what little he did; she seemed to find it necessary to speak highly of anything and everything he may have done, quickly training their servants to do likewise. To be a Nabradia in itself, it seemed, was an accomplishment.
Likely why he went to such lengths to prove he at least worthy of such encouragement.
Supplying Reks with a rare smile, he paused at the gesture nonetheless, a bit surprised to this extreme contact. However, after an instant, he delivered the same attention upon his friend, finding if his hair was to be astray... Reks may as well suffer from the same fate - though he knew once the Ratsbane was out of sight, he'd attend to righting it. "I.. Shall try not to. I am pleased you think I have improved but... I still have a long way to go before I may ever consider myself as talented as you are in the kitchen."
And he would get there, one day. He'd demand it of himself. Rasler Nabradia did not fail. At anything.
Requiem Angelic: Reks knew of course that Rasler was going to keep trying to improve, though the desire to be perfect at everything was not shared. He had not been placed in the same family situation, however, so he understood that their upbringing was different. Since he was not the only child expectations were different and though much was anticipated from him he did not live under the burden of perfection. Something for which he was grateful but also something worth levels of regret. He couldn't fully understand obligations that were not his, but he was doing his best to try. If he wanted to be a good friend then he should strive to be understanding even if he wasn't personally familiar with what that sort of mindset really felt like. In any regard he tried to be supportive, if not look at things from Rasler's perspective.
Not something simple to do but Reks put forth his best efforts.
Getting a return hair ruffle, he didn't really mind. When he changed out he would do something about it but it wasn't an immediate concern. He could be sure that Rasler was going to fix himself up the first moment he got the chance to be alone, as was customary. His friend was very tidy about himself and as much had long ago been established, not that he could claim to be of contrary nature. "I understand. Hopefully you can ease up on yourself a bit though. You're headed in the right direction." Of course, the other blonde clearly was going to push himself until he deemed himself successful, but one could always hope.
Perfection was a sight Rasler had long since recognized was something he could not reach within a lifetime. However, given the resources and granted the ability, he'd strive to near himself as close as it may be allowed; only wishing to meet the high expectations of the Nabradia family. It was his destiny to oversee the company - with Reks as well, if the Ratsbane desired to maintain the branched establishment - and unless he was a collected businessman.. There'd be a lack of success in his future.
The fact he was also encouraged to become a rounded individual with more abilities than were necessary was only an additional asset. A fine diamond for any woman to desire (so his parents hoped).
"I do not feel I am hard enough," he admitted after an instant, sighing to his confession. In fact, he had felt almost comfortable to a degree of aloof nature, or at least so in his eyes. He would quickly have to adjust this; realizing he had failed to complete his initial gesture, the blonde bent and retrieved the pencil from the ground, then gingerly offered it to his friend.
"I believe you dropped this." It had taken only a few moments after the appearance of Reks for him to recognize its previous location. Behind his friend's ear.
"Ah, right...Thanks." Sight of the pencil reminded Reks just why he'd ended up using his friend as a landing pad, something he certainly didn't want to repeat if he could help it, and he'd be sure to pay more attention in the future. Landing on anyone was not a good thing but somehow it was far worse when it was Rasler. Perhaps because his friend was nothing but kind to him and didn't even get upset over the impact when it was in his right to be displeased at being dropped upon and knocked to the floor. Not something that he'd fancy anyone was going to enjoy on any level but his friend had behaved as though nothing had been done to wrong him and seemed less concerned with himself than he should be.
Typical of Rasler, certainly. He always seemed so entirely selfless which was an admirable quality but also a cause for concern in Reks' mind. The idea that anyone might ever take advantage of that was certainly worrisome but he would like to hope nobody would think to do that. To him it seemed someone would feel badly about even the notion, given how kind Rasler was to others.
Taking the pencil back he replaced it, still without his backpack until he hit the locker room. Not that a pencil was any terrible inconvenience. It was certainly not what he should have onhand when he was up on ceilings but he didn't make a habit of doing things like that so it probably wasn't a concern. A habit of his, especially when he drew. There were times when he completely forgot he had it and ended up with multiple pencils handy. Something his brother never failed to comment on, but he didn't think it was a terrible vice. His brother was likely the only one that saw him while drawing. There was no escaping Vaan.
"Were you headed somewhere before I...disrupted you?" Fell on just seemed weird. Though, clearly he had fallen on Rasler. Reks would feel badly about for a good while even if his friend wasn't upset about it.
The fact Reks had been carrying a pencil on his person, despite his volleyball wear, did not concern the taller blonde particularly. Vaguely aware of the other's ability to draw - given Reks allowed him a view of his sketchbook - he didn't find the idea of possessing a pencil at random intervals to be strange. Rather, it seemed handy, especially when another was in need, if not themself. Maybe it was a habit he should adopt, he mused, given if he could aid any further to the student body.. He certainly would.
Addressed, Ralser cast a glance down the empty corridor, only to shake his head at length. His previous destination hadn't been direct, but he had been in some wandering.. With so many extracurriculars to see to, he had been in preparation for which to visit for that particular week, seemingly the "Anatomy Club" desiring his immediate audience.
And given he quite liked Science, that didn't seem to be a problem.
"I was.. Merely addressing a personal need," he stated with a slight indication toward the books, quickly tucking them against his side once more. Turning back to Reks nonetheless, he waited an instant longer before asking, "And.. Why were you upon the ceiling..?" Given he hadn't been aware of his friend's ability to scale walls and the like, he couldn't directly contemplate a reason for him to find himself suspended.. Unless it was a simple practice.
Reks wondered what business Rasler would have that he would rather avoid specifying but he didn't wish to be invasive and opted not to ask. It was not his place to be getting in the middle of the other's business like that, no matter what nature their friendship was. So he set questions aside and tried to focus instead on the given question. He was fairly certain that he'd already been asked about what he was doing and why before. He'd said as much as the fact that he was indeed avoiding someone but he hadn't gone into details. At the time they didn't appear to be necessary and so he'd avoided going too much into it. There was no reason to say anything that might fault a person that might not have realized the concerns they were causing.
What could he say without making it seem biased against that other person... It wasn't neccessarily known whether they knew they were being a bit invasive in their questions. Perhaps it had merely been an oversight, or the other had not realized the nature of his actions. As much he could only speculate on and that was not likely to be terribly useful. Speculating didn't tend to lend to accurate conclusions and in the end Reks was only thinking in circles rather than answering the question posed him.
"Someone was asking me questions." Truth, though vague. He didn't want to go too much into it and sound as though he had anything against the other individual and so he tried to choose words as carefully as he might. "Questions about you, although I'm not certain why. However... At a certain point I felt even the things I did know were not my business to be telling another person. Rather than cause an argument I chose to avoid the situation, as it seemed better than a risk of conflict."
The very idea that someone had bothered Reks to the extent of an immediate leave was troubling in itself, and though he had certainly replied in a nature before... The extended explanation did nothing for the blonde's concern. Saying nothing at the immediate time, however, he simply allowed his attention to drift as he once again regarded the empty corridor, clearly searching his mind for the appropriate response.
Aware now that someone was intruding upon his friend's audience with questions concerning him - a strange realization, that - he couldn't help but feel somewhat protective. He did not want Reks to feel bothered with their friendship, and if he was to be consistently approached with hopes of an outside party gaining a perspective about Rasler, it was something that would need immediate attending to. How, however, was not presently known.
"It was.. A wise decision," he stated a length, only to shake his head. "I apologize you have been troubled with matters concerning my person. Had I known someone would make inquiry I.. Would have accompanied you to handle the matter myself." Having decided the confrontation to be of professional relation, the taller blonde would simply turn back to his friend before placing a hand tenderly upon his shoulder. "... Though I don't suggest your particularly method of departure in the future. Clever as it may be, I.. Do not doubt the student was confused..."
Reks didn't think he'd been inconvenienced terribly. Initially he'd supposed that perhaps he'd been viewed as a good primary source of information. If someone was simply curious that seemed harmless enough. There were times when people wanted to know more about someone but weren't comfortable with approaching them, though he could only speculate as to how Rasler would be at all intimidating to another person.
"There's no reason for you to apologize. I could have said something." Though, therein was his real problem. Reks didn't know what to say in that situation, if anything. He didn't feel that some of the things he was asked were anyone's business unless Rasler chose to give that information himself but he wasn't sure there was a way of saying that without somehow causing offense. Either way he'd rather his friend not feel responsible for a situation that wasn't under his control.
He did see the reasoning in not pulling some ninja act the next time he'd trouble handling a situation. In most cases people couldn't run from problems so easily, and he probably had left the fellow perplexed. It was not exactly average to find that someone had vanished entirely, and in hindsight Reks wished he'd had some better alternative course of action. But he'd never anticipated the event that someone would be questioning him in that manner. "I'll try to think of something less… outlandish in the event that I end up in that situation again."
The idea of Reks speaking aside himself to another individual was curious indeed; aware of his friend's mannerisms, the fellow blonde certainly wasn't openly rude to another person, no matter what composure they may display. If anything, Rasler would assume Reks to be kind, if not more so than himself - which he certainly consindered - and to avoid conflict whenever it may not be necessary... Though why one would wish to fight with the Ratsbane would be beyond him, given Reks' kind demeanor, and his general behavior to be nothing short of inviting.
With the included awareness of Reks' new ability to suspend himself from strange locations, the idea of his random disappearance could almost be entertaining, had Rasler not also considered the aspect of the confused student. Nonetheless at least impressed with his friend's recent feat, he pat him upon the shoulder with an almost affectionate nature. "I would not suggest shuriken," he'd state, his otherwise small supply of humor without the slightest change in tone.
"May I walk you back to your class, Reks?" To say in the least, if Reks was approached again by a third party he did not at all desire.. At least Rasler would be present to distract their previous intentions, specifically if his friend was to be questioned over matters concerning him. What anyone could possibly wish to know about him, however... He couldn't say.
Having already dealt with the situation Reks wasn't entirely concerned with a future occurrence beyond selecting more appropriate behavior in the future. He didn't want to cause any unneeded trouble for anyone. Although the situation was foreign to him he knew there were likely better ways to deal with it than to avoid it but he hadn't much experience with like problems and dealing with them. Something he would work to improve on. The possibility of making Rasler worry was enough motivation for that, additionally the fact that he might've left someone very puzzled over his sudden absence. It may have been better than getting into a disagreement of any sort, but it was still a bit rude to vanish to abruptly without a word.
The comment about shuriken prompted a quiet laugh even if his friend's tone had remained unchanged. He really could see Vaan doing something like that but he certainly wouldn't go about tossing shuriken at people from some hidden place on the ceiling. An amusing image at the least, but he brought a hand over his mouth even though he wasn't particularly loud. A few short moments passed and he turned his attention to Rasler's question, returning to his previous composure.
"If it won't inconvenience you." Reks didn't think there was an instance where he'd somehow mind his friend's company. Considering how much personal space he was allowed with a sibling like Vaan there was likely not an occasion where Rasler would want to accompany that wouldn't work out. He just had to hope that he wasn't subtracting from something important that the other had to do. That was something he would sooner avoid rather than be the cause of problems.
It would seem to the very least, Rasler's jest had been accepted with grace, and if anything, Reks had humored him with a laugh. Nonetheless internally pleased to find he was able to entertain the other male, if even for a short instant, and to no stressed degree, he felt particularly accomplished in their conversation. It was still quite a struggle to try and adjust his general mannerisms and allow himself to make a simple joke, though more often than not it wasn't understood. However, in these rare instances that he did seem to make Reks laugh, he felt that his efforts were at least worth the cause.
A comedian, however, he was not. And it was not something he found himself hoping to become. One of very few tasks, thus, he did not desire to perfect... Though he did try to incorporate a little humor here or there.
"My present agenda is free to see you to your class," Rasler assured and indicated toward the corridor before he made a start down its length; given Reks present wear, it was likely he needed to return to gym class. However, he could not make the distinct assumption that it had not been volleyball practice he had been handling... As of yet, he wasn't entirely aware of the extracurricular schedule for the year, but would make note to see to it shortly.
So much to do in so little time. Certainly not something a Nabradia couldn't handle.
Apparently Reks didn't have to supply where he'd come from in terms of classes, but a brief survey of his person reminded him that he was wearing clothes that could only be suitable for a gym related course. In his case he'd been practicing volleyball but it was a detail that didn't require explaining. Instead of focusing on that for too long he turned to catch up with Rasler and match strides. Even if he was the shorter of the two he wasn't incapable of keeping up with his friend and he wasn't setting a terribly difficult pace. Walking likely didn't present a challenge for anyone.
For a while he simply allowed silence rather than thinking of something to say. Though with most people silence seemed to carry some form of tension it never seemed the case with the other present. It may have been that he simply gave off a serene air, or the fact that he never seemed to demand much of anything from the people around him. If Rasler could be seen as demanding anything somehow. More likely he gave more than he expected from others, and he'd no doubts his friend was very busy already. Hopefully he could be of enough help.
So far he'd seen to whatever preliminary paperwork there was for the year, though of course he'd been reminded that he didn't have to do all of it by himself. Considering how much time Rasler was going to be spending meeting with each of the various clubs it seemed a fair trade. Everything had to be tended to and Reks wasn't going to let all of that fall under the realm of his friend's obligations. There were plenty of those already, and likely more in the future. He wanted to be as much help as he could.
"Aside from being a landing pad, how has your day been?" For most it was smalltalk but Reks wished to know.
In the event Reks may have lingered too long in the empty hall, Rasler would have slowed his strides, and awaited his additional company. Not one to barrel ahead at a great distance, though instincts generally did require for him to take charge, walking someone to class, however, generally required their presence. At which he could not leave them behind. Nevertheless pleased to find Reks at his side, a comfortable position that, Rasler kept his focus ahead, but his thoughts elsewhere.
The silence was certainly welcome, but easily exchanged in the face of conversation. Having spent his day facilitating a number of events, as well as attending to his studies and completing a few minimal tasks that required his immediate attention, the therefore lack of speech was not necessarily desired. Though he was not often talkative, unless asked to speak, there was definitely a great amount Rasler could discuss... Though more often than not, exposed very few to this tendency. Specifically raised with the idea silence was golden, and to establish a comfort between two individuals where either party could reside without an awkwardness had been a length he built a foundation upon in their friendship. It helped, of course, that Reks was terribly accepting.
However, overseeing a few additional clubs, if not his own and attempting to rebuild what small amount of drama funds they had, it was quite straining on his time. But far from buckled with the stress, the blonde simply carried forward, having taken the few instances prior to his and Reks' collision to visit the library... Evidently, there had also been a group of oddly distracted female students present.
"If it is to prevent your injury, I would volunteer to be your... Ah, landing pad at any time, Reks," Rasler assured before addressing the question. "It has been peaceful. The.. Pillow Fighting Club seems to be flourishing quite well, though I cannot say the same for the Drama Club. Though we have a considerably larger audience than last year, we do not have the present funds to prepare a production. However, I have a strategy that may change that in the very near future." Without entirely realizing it, Rasler managed to slip into a conversation concerning his club matters, only to catch himself as he gradually transitioned into the matter of speaking to the presidents of each branch. "I apologize. I.. Did not intend to... Please, pardon me. That was quite rude. Reks.. How has your day been?"
It seemed that once more Rasler was convinced that he needed to be critical of himself when he hadn't done anything wrong, and Reks resisted some desire to sigh in resignation. He had asked about what the other was up to and therefore talking about just that was no form of offense. His friend was always like that and he understood though there were times he wished that Rasler would recognize there was no reason for someone else to be prioritized over him entirely, especially when they'd asked him to talk about his day anyhow. Yet they'd again fallen into a shift, playing ping pong with who was the object of focus in the conversation.
His day hadn't been anything he could see as being particularly fascinating. Early start, battling Vaan to get the lazy bum out of bed, getting cleaned up and making lunches and what else... Right, he'd gotten up very early so he could do paperwork since he felt he should be pulling his weight somehow. Though he tried to be present and help out he still thought Rasler had far more work. And so he was determined to lend as much assist and support as he could. Losing some sleep wasn't a problem for him and he knew that was something his present company likely did often. It had been interesting at least to wander the dorms half asleep to make sure his sibling got out of bed. Likely an interesting sight for anyone that managed to be up at such an hour.
But oddly stark white pajamas and whiny siblings aside his day had seemed fairly routine to him. Reks was trying to get in the habit of working on papers so there would be less for Rasler to have to worry about and he felt that was his job as vice president and as a friend, something he could complete and do well at. To him, the things his friend spoke of seemed more interesting.
"When there's something that needs to be pardoned then I'll gladly pardon you." Reks said after a few moments of silence, offering a smile before looking down the hall again to be sure he didn't bump into anyone else. "I like hearing you talk about what you're up to, and I did ask about it." To him it did not seem at all rude. Rasler was far too hard on himself at times. "As for myself I didn't do much out of the ordinary save that ceiling stunt. Just an average day for me."
It was not an argument Rasler had not heard before.
In likely a simple nature, Rasler's esteem for Reks far out-ranked his own, therefore the subject of the conversation was inevitably meant to be the shorter blonde. Thoroughly intrigued by his general actions in the day, including the morning routine of waking one irate Vaan, Rasler made a specific point within his agenda to speak to his friend of the matter, curious to this differing life-style. May it had been the lack of a sibling, or the - now - recognizable ninjutsu techniques, Reks definitely managed to survive in a completely different manner.
Not to mention, Rasler had also seen the sight of Reks in his pajamas countless times, patrolling the hallway to wake his brother. Quite a scene, that.
With early mornings of his own, with included paperwork, and general affairs as president - they had been receiving some peculiar requests as of late.. - he was no stranger to the lack of sleep. However, he often overlooked it.. Much like other necessary activities to his particular person, such as breakfast. Lunch. Dinner. Food may have been nonexistent to his daily routine.
"Mayhaps you find it average, Reks, but I am nonetheless desiring to hear of it. I have robbed you of your time with my own agenda, and I cannot apologize enough. I much rather here of what you have done with your day than to hear my own.." He paused as they reached the boy's locker room, quickly side stepping as a body rushed past, and he offered them a nod in greeting. "Ah.. It seems I have neglected it once again. I apologize."
"Maybe it's because we're not exactly the same." Reks suggested with a faint shrug. Likely Rasler wasn't as interested in his own day because it was routine for him. It was the norm for his day to day business. His friend was an only child and thought differently, went about life differently. In his own perspective Rasler was far too hard on himself and he'd never understood the exact reasons why except that he was trying to be the best person he possibly could be. Not that it seemed much effort was truly required for a kind person like him to be something exemplary. He'd always thought his friend was something different from most people.
He supposed in the same way he thought Rasler to be interesting there was the possibility that somehow he'd managed to merit such attention, though he'd never know for certain why. Thus his theory was the differences between how they lived and how they went though life. With all the time they'd been together those differences were quite known by the present. Having a sibling and being the older one when the younger was a fellow like Vaan probably seemed unusual to half the campus, if that many were aware of the Ratsbanes.
Apologies again. Reks started to say something about it but stopped himself. He'd said it a great number of times by now. Thus far he couldn't think of an instance where he truly would have required an apology of any sort from Rasler, but their perceptions were different. He'd not grown up nearly as formal as his friend was, though he'd always minded manners. A difference being the only child, perhaps? Something he wasn't too sure about. "Please try not to worry about it. I can always talk to you about things like that later."
They were far too young to be worried about time already. Reks gave Rasler's hair another ruffling for good measure before heading for the locker room and supplying a wave. "Don't push yourself too hard, Rassledazzle."
Time was always ticking, and something Rasler unfortunately minded. Time was money, as his father would say, and if money were time.. There wasn't enough of it - as much would be the Nabradia motto. Though he didn't share the entirety of this explanation, the blonde was able to speculate the importance it may have contained to the elder Nabradia. To that extent, he could not disagree, nor go against his wishes.
Including that of his apologizing habit.
With his hair ruffled, its state only worse for wear since the previous action, Rasler kept a firm grip upon his books to repress the immediate need to fix it. However, at the familiar call of the unique nickname, he'd only lift a hand in mutual retreat, though quickly dropped it to his side as he proceeded elsewhere. He had much reading to complete in the evening, specifically if he hoped to make Reks a meal that was edible... A task he had specifically set time aside to do, even with the demanding amount of extracurriculars.
But if Rasler Nabradia couldn't do it, he'd like to find the man who could.