[ video ] ► five

[maelstroms]

[ It looks as though Ukitake has finally decided to join us, today! The Forge sits atop a desk a fair distance away, capturing much of the darkened room within its lens, and a great deal less of the man himself. Intentional? Of course. No one wants to glimpse at those hideous, hideous panda eyes of his, now do they? ]I was wondering if, perhaps,

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[infidus]

Excessively indulgent, were you?

[maelstroms]

Regrettably so.

And what of yourself?

shhh this is not late. >.>

[infidus]

I found myself quite restrained, actually.

[And if he weren't, he wouldn't tell you.]

[maelstroms]

Temperance is, indeed, a virtue. I should not be surprised that you possess it.

[infidus]

Indeed. Of course, I have generally found you to possess that same quality. The influence of this land must be strong, indeed, to have overcome such self-discipline.

[...well, it's hard to tell whether he's mocking or serious. Maybe a bit of each? In any case, he is less surprised than interested in the fact that Ukitake fell victim to the mist's effects.]

[maelstroms]

Aa, it must.

Have I disappointed you, I wonder? Dispelled the illusion of a steadfast captain?

[ His poor mood is finally registering in his words, it seems, though his tone remains tactfully pleasant. Aizen is not someone he would readily wish to converse with in this state - ]

I should hope that is not the case.

[infidus]

[Oh dear, snippy snippy.]

Mm. Your hopes can remain intact. I find myself thoroughly lacking in disappointment.

All men have breaking points, after all. Though it is sometimes difficult to discern where it lies.

You could say I feel enlightened.

[maelstroms]

Breaking points are variable things which are likely to be rebuilt and fortified upon being reached in some, and, in turn, are capable of wholly destroying others and collapsing in upon themselves.

'That which fails to kill you makes you stronger', is that not how the saying goes? It is too soon to proclaim that you are enlightened, perhaps.

You have my thanks, however, for sparing my hopes.

[infidus]

I think you'll find that most forms of enlightenment are, at best, temporary things.