[The museum feels empty without the locals and tourists that flood these halls in the waking world. But he believes himself fortunate to be here, where modern works hang alongside the old, and his family are alive if not together.
Clea would have loved being here. Surrounded by paintings and sculptures she never would see during her lifetime, outside the stifling constraints of her world.
The memory of her makes him inhale before his daughter and her friend.
Friend. The last time he heard that word in the same sentence was just before the fire.]
Alicia.
[His gaze diverts to her friend. His index finger flexes over the handle of his cane.]
[She knows Junpei's a little bit out of his depth, but that makes things more fun. It's been so long since she could enjoy art with someone who wasn't steeped in it, who's better than her. It's a nice confidence boost.
Speaking of.
Alicia tries not to tense. Her father doesn't scare her, but it's the same worry as when he shows up to see Verso. She's worried he's going to do something. Maybe Junpei feels her tense a little bit, or maybe he doesn't.
When she communicates with her father, it's through gestures, soft noises, and even a thrum of chroma. Something Junpei is unlikely to understand, especially with how fast it passes. (Hi, Papa. This is my friend Junpei. I told you about him.)
Then she turns to Junpei and gestures are Renoir, giving him a reassuring smile. She's taken off the mask while there's nobody around. He can probably guess who this is, at this point.]
[ Junpei is all too aware of Alicia. They can text, but much of their communication comes from gestures or body language. So he does notice her tension and his brows draw together in confusion. Junpei looks between them. This must be her father.
Junpei's suddenly feeling very much out of his depth. Here he is in a museum with little knowledge about art and he's face to face with the father of the girl he had been crushing on since he met her. Who called him 'monsieur???' What?! God. What does he do? What's the play?
He moves into his own space. ]
J-Junpei Iori, sir!
[ He plants his hands at his sides to bow a couple times with the utmost Japanese respect. ]
Alicia was just showing me around. I've never seen anything like all this before! It's incredible.
[ He can feel that looming what are your intentions with me daughter question hanging in the air and Junpei almost wishes the ground would open up and swallow him to a different dimension. ]
[People were intimidated by his family. Before he married, he remembers their associations with wealth and privilege, and the scandal of their daughter dating an unkempt artist from the wrong side of town. He recalls being scrutinised like how he is studying this polite gentleman.
This sapling.
But today reflects the past in other things. Her eager and firm introduction that hides the fact she is stubborn as her mother. Her smile. The gestures and noises are all her own - and he understands what it means when she removes her mask.
He reaches out to cusp the back of her head. His smile is nothing like it was before their world broke apart - he doesn't seem to smile at all - but she will recognise this is something positive. That for a moment, the world including this gentleman seems to cease existing.
It takes a while for him to let her go; a while for him to redirect his attention to a Junpei.
[Junpei stutters and she worries for a second, but he's trying to be polite and respectful. That's good. She doesn't really get what the bowing is about, but the intention behind it is clear. Renoir should see that too, right?
And the way he comforts her, gentle and approving, she relaxes. Oh, good. It's been so long since she's had friends that she thought he might-- well, not in the museum. Junpei isn't out of the woods, but...
(I am teaching him about art.) Surely he'll approve of that, too. But she should give Junpei some relief, too.]
Papa is the Curator here. Our home is nearby. [Bringing him home will be another matter.] Why don't we all go to one of the cafés? I could use a drink.
[Something a little more low-key than being amidst the silence of the art. And surely Renoir will see the weight of her offering to eat in front of Junpei, without her mask.]
[ There's an uncomfortable tension in the silence. Junpei doesn't do well with silence, always feeling a need to fill it unless he's at his most comfortable. And he's gotten there with Alicia. There have been moments during their outings where Junpei's fallen into comfortable silence with her -- just enjoying her presence or taking in the scenery. But her father brings an unknown quality to the equation, not helped by the fact that Junpei doesn't really have a basis for what would be a normal way to act around any father.
He's trying to think up something to ramble about that he thinks might be interesting when Alicia shoots him the text. Curator?? So he tends to all of this? Wow. That's a hell of a job. Also a little lonely too, right? After all, this is a big place with not too many people to visit. But the suggestion of the cafe? Well, Junpei hesitates. Again, though, Alicia's inviting him into her space and even though Junpei's not the most comfortable in this situation, he'll go. For her. ]
[Renoir leans his head towards his shoulder. Alicia was brave before the fire, bold and outgoing and full of the life she deserved. But the life he remembers was never hers. He relives her being the target of the fire. He recalls seven years of hard work, the life they were given, watching her hide away with her injuries. He remembers watching her cautiously step out into the world, only to have that world break apart. He recollects what happened with previous expeditions and how trusting she was.
Those memories understandably make him cautious around strangers.
Still, he does not need to read her text to know what she wants.]
There's the cafe back down the hall?
[Café Mollien with its large windows overlooking the glass pyramind. Should offer a pleasant sight if nothing else.]
[Papa is just being wary, and Junpei is just on edge, but she still seeks to pacify the tension in the air. It reminds her, just a little bit, of when Verso and Renoir are together. She hopes it's just first meeting anxiety.
It would be nice to have a friend that Papa does like.
She nods to them both, tugging on Junpei's arm to help lead him. A little food and pleasant atmosphere should relax the mood.
(Junpei's been here a few months.) She nods at Junpei, quietly wishing she had an easier way to talk with them both. (He's from a place called Japan. Have you ever heard of it, Papa?)
It's not something from within the Canvas, but maybe in his time here, or in the works at the museum...]
[ Junpei nods, following along with her gentle steering. He offers Alicia a small smile and quietly tucks his hands in his pockets, self-conscious and uncertain. ]
This is a lot to take care of. You must be pretty busy, Mister...
[ He's trying to find his footing here and be conversational. Junpei's kicking himself a little because he never normally has a problem talking to anyone -- even the grumpiest of folks. He'll chat with anyone and not give a damn. But it's a whole different ballgame when it's vital to make a good first impression. What if Alicia's father forbid Junpei from seeing her?
Although, he gets the impression Alicia wouldn't stand for that. Alicia can be stubborn in the best of ways, and she would be in his corner. He looks at her again, and the smile that comes to his face is still small but soft and admiring. He pulls his gaze from her and looks up at her father again. ]
I have some familiarity with the style. But if you are curious there is a small collection. Specialised pieces saved for exhibitions and the like. Engravings and decorative works...
[His hesitant tone signifies his knowledge is minimal; gleaned from small things known in the other world. That new and exciting techniques exist, which he has never seen. While sharing all he knows, he follows from behind, beholden to a gentle pace due to arthritis and age. But he can also watch their interaction more clearly from behind than by their side.
The sharp tappping of his cane cuts through every other word.]
It keeps me busy. But I enjoy it.
[It is a connection to art. But it is also the work he was responsible for.]
[Oh, now isn't that exciting. For how long she's spent in the museum already, there's still things she hasn't seen.]
Papa says there's a small collection of artwork from your Japan. We can see it after the café. [And she gives him one of those little smiles she knows he likes, because it'd be nice to see something from his culture. Just a little bit more to bond over.
Renoir follows behind them and Alicia turns back to look at him, lingering for a long moment. She doesn't think he'd do anything, but Papa's never been afraid of stabbing people in the back. But when she's satisfied he's just following them pleasantly, she starts to head to the cafe.
But she keeps her grip on Junpei's sleeve, as if she's half-afraid he'll disappear at any moment.]
[ That smile. Even under the scrutiny of Alicia's father, Junpei can't hide how smitten he is by her -- how that single smile can take away all the worries in the world. He relaxes, at least physically. The tension leaving his shoulders. Junpei's still a little bit on edge mentally, but he'll try to relax there, too. ]
I'd like that. Etraya's pretty lacking when it comes to Japanese influence. It's about to be peak cherry blossom season, and I haven't even found a single cherry blossom tree yet.
[ There's probably something. Somewhere. Etraya is so big and he has yet to explore all of it. But he'd like to find it before the season's at its end. He thinks it's something Alicia would love to see. And he could picture her -- standing amidst the floating petals like a work of art.
Tap. Tap. Tap. Ah! That's right. Her father. ]
It helps when you're busy doing something you like. I'll definitely have to bring some friends to check this place out again in the future. More people oughta see it!
[ Junpei's bright and chipper, pushing past nerves to just be himself here. For better or worse. ]
[People mislead with more than words. Actors understand how to mimic and gesture, how to emphasise gestures and movements. Artists understand how a single painting can overwhelm you with emotion - and can siphon them through that window through which you look into their world.
There is something inside this boy that is hidden from his daughter. She is where his concern lies - not himself.
He leans on the handle of his cane, one hand sliding across the other.]
Galleries and museums are there to be seen.
[People means engagement and funding. Both result in public discussion and dissemination - a part of art that his eldest daughter had held more fondness for than himself.]
But should some works remain private?
[Like those created to represent the family. Those works that hang in his atelier.]
[Cherry blossoms. She's not familiar, but they sound lovely. Their world was full of lovely trees and flowers, but seeing them here is... different, somehow. These grow wild, without intention.
Ah. Papa's being vague again. She glances back at him, and then rolls her eye. She looks at Junpei and shakes her head a little bit, teasingly, hoping he'll get the message that he's always like this.
Luckily, it's not long until they reach the cafe. Now, at least, Renoir can stop lurking behind them. She moves to pull out a chair to help Renoir sit, just to be a good daughter. She wants him to be in a good mood, after all.]
[ Junpei can tell Alicia's father's being a little cryptic, but he gives the question some serious consideration regardless. It's been around three months (almost four) since he's been home and he doesn't think about Chidori as often anymore. But sometimes, in moments like this, she pops into his mind -- sitting alone, drawing at the station. She drew for no express purpose and had offered to show him, even though she doubted he'd understand it. That's his only real exposure to art, but...it's enough, he thinks to have an answer. ]
I think...art can be anything the artist wishes. Some works are meant for a grand display, but some are a bit more personal. Not everyone will even understand the artist's intention -- even if they do get to see it. But it's not really for us to understand. The artist poured their heart onto the page and if they choose to share it, that's what we should focus on -- that they trust us enough to see their heart.
[ He can't help but look at Alicia then and in a way, he feels those words toward her. That she took off her mask and trusts him enough means the world to him. But he smiles at her playful look as she acts like a typical teenager would regarding their father. Mildly embarrassed, sharing a private look with their friends as though to say 'don't mind him. This is just what he does.'
Junpei wonders for a moment if he, too, should help her dad with the seat. But that might come across as a little obnoxious so in the end, he lets Alicia tend to him as he stands by just in case his assistance is needed. He won't sit until all of them are seated. ]
[There are occasions when he affords people no attention. Then there are times he wishes he could lose himself in a moment of creation; to draw without obligation or reservation. But he has never been an artist who chooses work because of financial reward.
Emotion. Heart. He paints what he wants to paint and nothing more.
That used to shake popular opinion. But here his opinion seems more acceptable. This boy is sharing a similar outlook.]
Their emotion.
[He finishes the sentence with a couple of words.]
Each painting reveals their love, their caring, their dreams and happiness.
[His head angles to the side, as his mind scrutinises the young man on an emotional and spiritual level.]
[Junpei begins to talk about art, and interpretation, and Alicia actually tenses. Renoir will have an opinion on this, and she -- she should have one, but it's so complicated. So instead she just hovers nearby and waits for her father's reaction, glancing over at him.
At least to her, Junpei's words do seem thoughtful. Something more than most laypeople might think, and that already makes her hopeful that Renoir will take it well.
And he does, more or less. Even if he's his usual, cryptic and severe self, Alicia can tell that Junpei's words have somewhat impressed him. So she gives Junpei a satisfied smile and little nod, hopefully when Renoir isn't looking. ]
[ It's good you realize that. Oh! Junpei smiles when his opinion and Renoir's seem to match up. It's a small thing, but good. A connection. And maybe proof that Junpei doesn't have to search for the right things to say around the guy. Maybe just being himself is enough. He has no horse in this race, not being an artist himself -- but he appreciates them, finding it admirable how they have this creative outlet to express their emotion. As Renoir puts it.
Bonus points when he gets that response from Alicia! Aw yeah. He's not being a colossal embarrassment for her. That's good! He settles onto his seat. ]
Yeah! And it's really cool to see how each artist chooses to express themselves differently from the others. From hyper realistic to more imaginative. I guess that's a testament to how different we all are -- even if we share the same reality, we all interpret that in our own ways, yeah?
[ Junpei looks between them, still smiling. ]
I imagine that's true for us in Etraya the same as anywhere else.
[ He pauses for a moment. ]
Would it be a good idea to set up an exhibit for those of us in Etraya? Either displaying art from people here or just some other relics of history in the making? With all we're doing and all the worlds we each come from, I think it'd be pretty neat to have a place where that could all be seen as a collection.
[Renoir catches their exchange but veils his misgivings behind stoicism. His attention settled upon her young friend because of her. His eyes remain upon her as he does everything he must to keep her safe. She cannot look after herself like her brother - and is certainly not as independent as her sister.
But she is alive. So he must balance her safety against her comfort.]
There are artists amongst us. I suppose.
[He strokes his beard, the movement soothing as he debates the motion.]
But this place houses works for those who have almost climbed that elusive summit of perfection.
[In short, the artists in his family hold strong opinions about art. This museum is for the masters. The exhibition must be elsewhere. Anyway, he finally takes his seat.]
Something in the centre of the city would draw a larger crowd...
[Now Junpei has him thinking about art. They'll be here all afternoon. Goob job!]
[Oh, now they're exchanging idea. Something warm swells in her heart when she sees the two of them talk, genuinely, that she hasn't felt... maybe ever. But there's a shred of jealousy, cut off from the easy way they can just talk. She can talk with Renoir, but it's not the same. And her attempts with Junpei are still clunky.
But she hides that with a roll of her eyes. Alicia gets up and leaves them for a moment, heading to the counter of the cafe to get some things from the bots working it. When she returns, she brings a pastry she knows Renoir likes, and an identical one for Junpei to try. She's only gotten herself a cool drink (this "iced coffee" thing is quite pleasant, especially when it's overwhelmed with sweet syrups), and she puts each of the offers in front of them before sitting down herself.]
Maybe in Alcyone's Wake? It's the one place we all enter and for a lot of us, the place we live. Could be something good for new arrivals -- just to gain a better understanding of the people here and the missions we've gone through?
[ Not that Junpei could put it together in any artistic way, but someone who has taken to being the curator of a place this big? Renoir definitely could! And Junpei could do the heavy lifting with guidance. He'd be happy to donate his time like that! Especially if it would make Alicia happy. And it seems like it is with the way she looks as she gets up. Junpei meets her gaze, watches her go to get them some of the pastries and when she returns, he smiles at her. ]
Thanks, Alicia.
[ Has he ever had this particular kind of treat before? Nah. But she picked it out for him, so he's sure he'll like it! His fingers twitch, wanting to touch her -- a light shoulder squeeze or affectionate touch on her hand in gratitude. He refrains, however. It probably wouldn't be a good idea in front of her father. So Junpei can lean into his Japanese origin for now and keep his respectful distance. ]
[Moments pass while he recollects the world. Painting a map inside his mind, he scrapes away where people live, demolishing homes and building places one can explore. There are not enough residents for these homes. The environment lacks depth.
He considers something while studying nothing. The way his daughter and her friend interact? Alicia is rushing into a relationship where everything seems pleasant - but what happens when some issue raises its head? He strokes his beard.]
It would afford the environment some depth. Some light among all the darkness, non?
[He offers polite gratitude for the delivered treat - thanking her without words - in the way she understands through their silent means of communication. In any case, he asks a simple question.]
[It's been so long since Alicia had a friend at all that she hasn't read much else into their dynamic, even if Renoir maybe has. But even before things fell apart, she'd always been a bit sheltered. Stuck in the shadow of everything else.
Oh! How they met. (He helped show me around after I arrived. We went to the Hanging Gardens. Did you know those are from Lumiére?) It's still strange to think about.
And then she inclines her head to Junpei.]
I told Papa about visiting the gardens, that first day.
[ Junpei watches the way Alicia and Renoir seem to communicate. A part of him wishes he could understand -- that he could have the type of understanding that came from either the familial bond or perhaps just the amount of time they had together. He turns to the pastry, leaning in to take a bite, mindful not to make a mess. Junpei's not nearly so careful when it's him and Alicia alone, but the father being here means he should be on his best behavior.
He reads Alicia's message as she informs him how she answered, and he sits upright -- nodding along to corroborate the story. ]
Yeah! Even though I live out that way, the gardens were a place I'd never seen before. So we were able to explore that together. I knew what it was like to get here, to not really know what's going on and to not have a friend. So I just wanted to help Alicia feel comfortable in this place, and in turn, she's helped me through a lot, too. It's been really nice getting to spend time around her.
[ Nice is an understatement. Junpei looks forward to spending time with Alicia above all other things. But he's worried he's already putting his foot in his mouth a little bit here when it comes to how he feels about her (and how that goes beyond a simple friendship) so he takes another bite of his pastry to give himself an excuse to stop talking. ]
[Renoir takes his cup of expresso and positions the porcelain before him on the table. Then he claims his almond croissant and tears it into segments. Junpei expects him to demand grace and manners - but he takes one piece of his pastry and dips it in his coffee.
Lumiere evokes both beautiful and bittersweet memories.
A brief wistful look of nostalgia crosses his face, blending imperfectly with the pain of being forced to abandon their home.]
Good.
[Is it good this stranger is interested in his daughter? Perhaps. In some ways. But in others it cannot be good at all.]
[It always gets to her when Junpei lays on the praise, or the sentimental softness he has for her. Maybe it's just because it's been so long since someone cared that much. Beyond Renoir, of course, but even Verso... even Verso is distracted. And Renoir is, at times, distracted.
She flushes just a little bit and glances away, and then elbows him slightly. Stop, he's being too sweet. And too formal, maybe, since Renoir seems more relaxed now. In fact, he almost seems like he's in a good mood.
Almost. She feels the pain he's hiding, the reminder of their old home. She doesn't want to tell him that she's run into Maelle there, too. That she doesn't go there nearly as much anymore. She hasn't told Junpei that yet, either. Someday.
So she looks for a topic to switch to. (Junpei is good with all the strange technology here. I think it is closer to his world.) She beams, and then looks over to Junpei.] You help me with the devices and technology here. Maybe you can help Papa, if he has problems.
[ Junpei smiles and nods along with Renoir's statement about life's value. In sentiment, he agrees. In truth, Junpei's struggled to find any sort of value in his own life. It's been a question plaguing him ever since their return from Mesa -- what made his own life hold greater value than the natives of Mesa? Why did they have to die so he could live? But maybe it's not a question he'll be able to answer -- not without the wisdom that comes with age.
He's distracted from his thoughts when Alicia's text comes through. Ah! Right! Technology. ]
Oh yeah! It was 2009 in my world at the time I got here. Some of this stuff's a little advanced even for me -- but I've been able to figure it out. In my world, things like these ear pieces were pretty much the stuff of dreams. It's so cool how it lets us all understand each other.
[ He looks between both of them, then settles his gaze on Alicia. ]
But I'd be happy to try and learn some of your native language sometime? Just in case the ear pieces stop working or something.
[ Junpei might hate studying, but when he has incentive to do so -- he's more than willing to put in the effort. ]
[The stuff of dreams. The hope of a simple life; a family life. Both have long become the same. Gifts from a woman who imagined himself her husband. Now he strives for those times when life was good and simple.
Strived. Because his son destroyed his family and ensured those days would never return.]
I am not the best choice when it comes to linguistic education, monsieur.
[He looks between his daughter and her friend. He thinks of the other young gentleman he befriended, and how such relationships prove beneficial.]
But if Alicia wishes it I could offer a passable attempt. I suppose.
[2009... hard to contemplate, when their world is running down from 100. What is time like, outside the Canvas? She wonders if Verso knows.
Oh. Their native language. It's a nice thought, though she's not sure it'd help her much. Then again, if she can't understand anyone, communication will be even harder. So she gives a shrug, but her expression seems thoughtful. Sure, why not? Though...
(Papa. Do you know what they call our language?) In their cramped world, there'd never been a need to name it. She wouldn't even know where to start.]
[ Junpei lets out a little laugh, waving his hand. ]
I'm sure you'd do great, sir! It doesn't have to be any kind of formal lesson anyway. I'm not the best when it comes to something rigid like school. But learning something useful and for the fun of it? I think I can totally do that!
[ At the very least, he'd put in a larger effort than he did in the school setting. Both to hopefully get Renoir's respect and also to impress Alicia when they could take off the ear piece and he could still talk to her. Of course, it won't be perfect.
But it doesn't have to be. He just has to be understandable. ]
[Renoir thinks about both questions. One is directed towards his opinion; the other towards nothing and nobody. What their language is called does cross his mind but his daughter will hear his answer.
[I never thought about that. The language of love? I suppose.]
Truly? Learning a language at any age requires dedication. I can see you possess enthusiasm but do you understand hard work?
[Alicia makes a small wheezing sound, a slight huff of laughter and annoyance at her father's insight. (That's not how they would label it in the library!)
And she rolls her eye when Renoir questions his dedication. They've seen their share of dedication to death, isn't it nice to see someone doing something for fun?]I'll find some books in our language to show you. And perhaps you can help teach me your language, as well.
[ Now that's a question. Junpei's not sure how to answer it. There's studying, which is grueling and hard and drives him crazy with how boring it is. But then there's a different sort of hard work. The Tartarus kind of hard work that demanded so much of you physically. ]
I guess it depends on what you mean.
[ He settles on, rubbing the back of his neck absently. ]
I had to do a lot of fighting back home while still studying for school and trying to keep my grades up.
[ Trying. Junpei wasn't very successful at it. But he did make a middling attempt to study as exams drew near. So to that end, he understood working hard! It's just....sometimes that hard work didn't pay off. At Alicia's suggestion, Junpei smiles. ]
I'd love to teach you some Japanese! We could do it pretty easily with some manga. It's, um...it's both art and story. They got them for all different types of genres, so I'm sure we could find one you'd like. I think that'd be a fun way to learn.
I am curious whether you are willing to make unpopular decisions. I suppose.
[Renoir scrutinises Junpei with the kind of gaze that cuts through a man; the kind of gaze an artist affords a certain subject. What does he mean? Choices that are difficult, where either outcome means somebody will hate you. He chose being despised because it meant doing the right thing. You never abandon your family and allow them to die.]
There are occasions in our lives where we must prioritise one obligation over another. [One person over another.] But I see Alicia tires of this subject. You speak of graphical writing, then?
[What kind of life follows a child to the point fighting becomes a necessity? Not to mention the question of who or what this boy is fighting for.]
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Clea would have loved being here. Surrounded by paintings and sculptures she never would see during her lifetime, outside the stifling constraints of her world.
The memory of her makes him inhale before his daughter and her friend.
Friend. The last time he heard that word in the same sentence was just before the fire.]
Alicia.
[His gaze diverts to her friend. His index finger flexes over the handle of his cane.]
Monsieur.
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Speaking of.
Alicia tries not to tense. Her father doesn't scare her, but it's the same worry as when he shows up to see Verso. She's worried he's going to do something. Maybe Junpei feels her tense a little bit, or maybe he doesn't.
When she communicates with her father, it's through gestures, soft noises, and even a thrum of chroma. Something Junpei is unlikely to understand, especially with how fast it passes. (Hi, Papa. This is my friend Junpei. I told you about him.)
Then she turns to Junpei and gestures are Renoir, giving him a reassuring smile. She's taken off the mask while there's nobody around. He can probably guess who this is, at this point.]
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Junpei's suddenly feeling very much out of his depth. Here he is in a museum with little knowledge about art and he's face to face with the father of the girl he had been crushing on since he met her. Who called him 'monsieur???' What?! God. What does he do? What's the play?
He moves into his own space. ]
J-Junpei Iori, sir!
[ He plants his hands at his sides to bow a couple times with the utmost Japanese respect. ]
Alicia was just showing me around. I've never seen anything like all this before! It's incredible.
[ He can feel that looming what are your intentions with me daughter question hanging in the air and Junpei almost wishes the ground would open up and swallow him to a different dimension. ]
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This sapling.
But today reflects the past in other things. Her eager and firm introduction that hides the fact she is stubborn as her mother. Her smile. The gestures and noises are all her own - and he understands what it means when she removes her mask.
He reaches out to cusp the back of her head. His smile is nothing like it was before their world broke apart - he doesn't seem to smile at all - but she will recognise this is something positive. That for a moment, the world including this gentleman seems to cease existing.
It takes a while for him to let her go; a while for him to redirect his attention to a Junpei.
Recognition? That's something positive.]
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And the way he comforts her, gentle and approving, she relaxes. Oh, good. It's been so long since she's had friends that she thought he might-- well, not in the museum. Junpei isn't out of the woods, but...
(I am teaching him about art.) Surely he'll approve of that, too. But she should give Junpei some relief, too.]
Papa is the Curator here. Our home is nearby. [Bringing him home will be another matter.] Why don't we all go to one of the cafés? I could use a drink.
[Something a little more low-key than being amidst the silence of the art. And surely Renoir will see the weight of her offering to eat in front of Junpei, without her mask.]
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He's trying to think up something to ramble about that he thinks might be interesting when Alicia shoots him the text. Curator?? So he tends to all of this? Wow. That's a hell of a job. Also a little lonely too, right? After all, this is a big place with not too many people to visit. But the suggestion of the cafe? Well, Junpei hesitates. Again, though, Alicia's inviting him into her space and even though Junpei's not the most comfortable in this situation, he'll go. For her. ]
Sure. A cafe sounds good if everyone's down?
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Those memories understandably make him cautious around strangers.
Still, he does not need to read her text to know what she wants.]
There's the cafe back down the hall?
[Café Mollien with its large windows overlooking the glass pyramind. Should offer a pleasant sight if nothing else.]
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It would be nice to have a friend that Papa does like.
She nods to them both, tugging on Junpei's arm to help lead him. A little food and pleasant atmosphere should relax the mood.
(Junpei's been here a few months.) She nods at Junpei, quietly wishing she had an easier way to talk with them both. (He's from a place called Japan. Have you ever heard of it, Papa?)
It's not something from within the Canvas, but maybe in his time here, or in the works at the museum...]
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This is a lot to take care of. You must be pretty busy, Mister...
[ He's trying to find his footing here and be conversational. Junpei's kicking himself a little because he never normally has a problem talking to anyone -- even the grumpiest of folks. He'll chat with anyone and not give a damn. But it's a whole different ballgame when it's vital to make a good first impression. What if Alicia's father forbid Junpei from seeing her?
Although, he gets the impression Alicia wouldn't stand for that. Alicia can be stubborn in the best of ways, and she would be in his corner. He looks at her again, and the smile that comes to his face is still small but soft and admiring. He pulls his gaze from her and looks up at her father again. ]
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[His hesitant tone signifies his knowledge is minimal; gleaned from small things known in the other world. That new and exciting techniques exist, which he has never seen. While sharing all he knows, he follows from behind, beholden to a gentle pace due to arthritis and age. But he can also watch their interaction more clearly from behind than by their side.
The sharp tappping of his cane cuts through every other word.]
It keeps me busy. But I enjoy it.
[It is a connection to art. But it is also the work he was responsible for.]
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Papa says there's a small collection of artwork from your Japan. We can see it after the café. [And she gives him one of those little smiles she knows he likes, because it'd be nice to see something from his culture. Just a little bit more to bond over.
Renoir follows behind them and Alicia turns back to look at him, lingering for a long moment. She doesn't think he'd do anything, but Papa's never been afraid of stabbing people in the back. But when she's satisfied he's just following them pleasantly, she starts to head to the cafe.
But she keeps her grip on Junpei's sleeve, as if she's half-afraid he'll disappear at any moment.]
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I'd like that. Etraya's pretty lacking when it comes to Japanese influence. It's about to be peak cherry blossom season, and I haven't even found a single cherry blossom tree yet.
[ There's probably something. Somewhere. Etraya is so big and he has yet to explore all of it. But he'd like to find it before the season's at its end. He thinks it's something Alicia would love to see. And he could picture her -- standing amidst the floating petals like a work of art.
Tap. Tap. Tap. Ah! That's right. Her father. ]
It helps when you're busy doing something you like. I'll definitely have to bring some friends to check this place out again in the future. More people oughta see it!
[ Junpei's bright and chipper, pushing past nerves to just be himself here. For better or worse. ]
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There is something inside this boy that is hidden from his daughter. She is where his concern lies - not himself.
He leans on the handle of his cane, one hand sliding across the other.]
Galleries and museums are there to be seen.
[People means engagement and funding. Both result in public discussion and dissemination - a part of art that his eldest daughter had held more fondness for than himself.]
But should some works remain private?
[Like those created to represent the family. Those works that hang in his atelier.]
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Ah. Papa's being vague again. She glances back at him, and then rolls her eye. She looks at Junpei and shakes her head a little bit, teasingly, hoping he'll get the message that he's always like this.
Luckily, it's not long until they reach the cafe. Now, at least, Renoir can stop lurking behind them. She moves to pull out a chair to help Renoir sit, just to be a good daughter. She wants him to be in a good mood, after all.]
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I think...art can be anything the artist wishes. Some works are meant for a grand display, but some are a bit more personal. Not everyone will even understand the artist's intention -- even if they do get to see it. But it's not really for us to understand. The artist poured their heart onto the page and if they choose to share it, that's what we should focus on -- that they trust us enough to see their heart.
[ He can't help but look at Alicia then and in a way, he feels those words toward her. That she took off her mask and trusts him enough means the world to him. But he smiles at her playful look as she acts like a typical teenager would regarding their father. Mildly embarrassed, sharing a private look with their friends as though to say 'don't mind him. This is just what he does.'
Junpei wonders for a moment if he, too, should help her dad with the seat. But that might come across as a little obnoxious so in the end, he lets Alicia tend to him as he stands by just in case his assistance is needed. He won't sit until all of them are seated. ]
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Emotion. Heart. He paints what he wants to paint and nothing more.
That used to shake popular opinion. But here his opinion seems more acceptable. This boy is sharing a similar outlook.]
Their emotion.
[He finishes the sentence with a couple of words.]
Each painting reveals their love, their caring, their dreams and happiness.
[His head angles to the side, as his mind scrutinises the young man on an emotional and spiritual level.]
It is good you realise that.
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At least to her, Junpei's words do seem thoughtful. Something more than most laypeople might think, and that already makes her hopeful that Renoir will take it well.
And he does, more or less. Even if he's his usual, cryptic and severe self, Alicia can tell that Junpei's words have somewhat impressed him. So she gives Junpei a satisfied smile and little nod, hopefully when Renoir isn't looking. ]
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Bonus points when he gets that response from Alicia! Aw yeah. He's not being a colossal embarrassment for her. That's good! He settles onto his seat. ]
Yeah! And it's really cool to see how each artist chooses to express themselves differently from the others. From hyper realistic to more imaginative. I guess that's a testament to how different we all are -- even if we share the same reality, we all interpret that in our own ways, yeah?
[ Junpei looks between them, still smiling. ]
I imagine that's true for us in Etraya the same as anywhere else.
[ He pauses for a moment. ]
Would it be a good idea to set up an exhibit for those of us in Etraya? Either displaying art from people here or just some other relics of history in the making? With all we're doing and all the worlds we each come from, I think it'd be pretty neat to have a place where that could all be seen as a collection.
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But she is alive. So he must balance her safety against her comfort.]
There are artists amongst us. I suppose.
[He strokes his beard, the movement soothing as he debates the motion.]
But this place houses works for those who have almost climbed that elusive summit of perfection.
[In short, the artists in his family hold strong opinions about art. This museum is for the masters. The exhibition must be elsewhere. Anyway, he finally takes his seat.]
Something in the centre of the city would draw a larger crowd...
[Now Junpei has him thinking about art. They'll be here all afternoon. Goob job!]
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But she hides that with a roll of her eyes. Alicia gets up and leaves them for a moment, heading to the counter of the cafe to get some things from the bots working it. When she returns, she brings a pastry she knows Renoir likes, and an identical one for Junpei to try. She's only gotten herself a cool drink (this "iced coffee" thing is quite pleasant, especially when it's overwhelmed with sweet syrups), and she puts each of the offers in front of them before sitting down herself.]
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[ Not that Junpei could put it together in any artistic way, but someone who has taken to being the curator of a place this big? Renoir definitely could! And Junpei could do the heavy lifting with guidance. He'd be happy to donate his time like that! Especially if it would make Alicia happy. And it seems like it is with the way she looks as she gets up. Junpei meets her gaze, watches her go to get them some of the pastries and when she returns, he smiles at her. ]
Thanks, Alicia.
[ Has he ever had this particular kind of treat before? Nah. But she picked it out for him, so he's sure he'll like it! His fingers twitch, wanting to touch her -- a light shoulder squeeze or affectionate touch on her hand in gratitude. He refrains, however. It probably wouldn't be a good idea in front of her father. So Junpei can lean into his Japanese origin for now and keep his respectful distance. ]
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He considers something while studying nothing. The way his daughter and her friend interact? Alicia is rushing into a relationship where everything seems pleasant - but what happens when some issue raises its head? He strokes his beard.]
It would afford the environment some depth. Some light among all the darkness, non?
[He offers polite gratitude for the delivered treat - thanking her without words - in the way she understands through their silent means of communication. In any case, he asks a simple question.]
So how did you two meet?
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Oh! How they met. (He helped show me around after I arrived. We went to the Hanging Gardens. Did you know those are from Lumiére?) It's still strange to think about.
And then she inclines her head to Junpei.]
I told Papa about visiting the gardens, that first day.
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He reads Alicia's message as she informs him how she answered, and he sits upright -- nodding along to corroborate the story. ]
Yeah! Even though I live out that way, the gardens were a place I'd never seen before. So we were able to explore that together. I knew what it was like to get here, to not really know what's going on and to not have a friend. So I just wanted to help Alicia feel comfortable in this place, and in turn, she's helped me through a lot, too. It's been really nice getting to spend time around her.
[ Nice is an understatement. Junpei looks forward to spending time with Alicia above all other things. But he's worried he's already putting his foot in his mouth a little bit here when it comes to how he feels about her (and how that goes beyond a simple friendship) so he takes another bite of his pastry to give himself an excuse to stop talking. ]
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Lumiere evokes both beautiful and bittersweet memories.
A brief wistful look of nostalgia crosses his face, blending imperfectly with the pain of being forced to abandon their home.]
Good.
[Is it good this stranger is interested in his daughter? Perhaps. In some ways. But in others it cannot be good at all.]
Life is too valuable to waste on being miserable.
[Looking at you, Verso.]
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She flushes just a little bit and glances away, and then elbows him slightly. Stop, he's being too sweet. And too formal, maybe, since Renoir seems more relaxed now. In fact, he almost seems like he's in a good mood.
Almost. She feels the pain he's hiding, the reminder of their old home. She doesn't want to tell him that she's run into Maelle there, too. That she doesn't go there nearly as much anymore. She hasn't told Junpei that yet, either. Someday.
So she looks for a topic to switch to. (Junpei is good with all the strange technology here. I think it is closer to his world.) She beams, and then looks over to Junpei.] You help me with the devices and technology here. Maybe you can help Papa, if he has problems.
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He's distracted from his thoughts when Alicia's text comes through. Ah! Right! Technology. ]
Oh yeah! It was 2009 in my world at the time I got here. Some of this stuff's a little advanced even for me -- but I've been able to figure it out. In my world, things like these ear pieces were pretty much the stuff of dreams. It's so cool how it lets us all understand each other.
[ He looks between both of them, then settles his gaze on Alicia. ]
But I'd be happy to try and learn some of your native language sometime? Just in case the ear pieces stop working or something.
[ Junpei might hate studying, but when he has incentive to do so -- he's more than willing to put in the effort. ]
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Strived. Because his son destroyed his family and ensured those days would never return.]
I am not the best choice when it comes to linguistic education, monsieur.
[He looks between his daughter and her friend. He thinks of the other young gentleman he befriended, and how such relationships prove beneficial.]
But if Alicia wishes it I could offer a passable attempt. I suppose.
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Oh. Their native language. It's a nice thought, though she's not sure it'd help her much. Then again, if she can't understand anyone, communication will be even harder. So she gives a shrug, but her expression seems thoughtful. Sure, why not? Though...
(Papa. Do you know what they call our language?) In their cramped world, there'd never been a need to name it. She wouldn't even know where to start.]
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I'm sure you'd do great, sir! It doesn't have to be any kind of formal lesson anyway. I'm not the best when it comes to something rigid like school. But learning something useful and for the fun of it? I think I can totally do that!
[ At the very least, he'd put in a larger effort than he did in the school setting. Both to hopefully get Renoir's respect and also to impress Alicia when they could take off the ear piece and he could still talk to her. Of course, it won't be perfect.
But it doesn't have to be. He just has to be understandable. ]
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[I never thought about that. The language of love? I suppose.]
Truly? Learning a language at any age requires dedication. I can see you possess enthusiasm but do you understand hard work?
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And she rolls her eye when Renoir questions his dedication. They've seen their share of dedication to death, isn't it nice to see someone doing something for fun?]I'll find some books in our language to show you. And perhaps you can help teach me your language, as well.
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I guess it depends on what you mean.
[ He settles on, rubbing the back of his neck absently. ]
I had to do a lot of fighting back home while still studying for school and trying to keep my grades up.
[ Trying. Junpei wasn't very successful at it. But he did make a middling attempt to study as exams drew near. So to that end, he understood working hard! It's just....sometimes that hard work didn't pay off. At Alicia's suggestion, Junpei smiles. ]
I'd love to teach you some Japanese! We could do it pretty easily with some manga. It's, um...it's both art and story. They got them for all different types of genres, so I'm sure we could find one you'd like. I think that'd be a fun way to learn.
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[Renoir scrutinises Junpei with the kind of gaze that cuts through a man; the kind of gaze an artist affords a certain subject. What does he mean? Choices that are difficult, where either outcome means somebody will hate you. He chose being despised because it meant doing the right thing. You never abandon your family and allow them to die.]
There are occasions in our lives where we must prioritise one obligation over another. [One person over another.] But I see Alicia tires of this subject. You speak of graphical writing, then?
[What kind of life follows a child to the point fighting becomes a necessity? Not to mention the question of who or what this boy is fighting for.]