element_wizard: (Default)
Alec Troven ([personal profile] element_wizard) wrote2021-08-12 07:46 am

(no subject)

While Alec's exit from Abe's office is quick and clean on the outside, on the inside Alec has decided to go through a scream of panic. He flicks off into the in between spaces of reality to give himself some time to think. Or not time to think. Time is over-rated.

In that not space he paces. Obviously he needs someone to talk to about this. It's been a while since he's gone off and adopted someone... or well... it was something more his older self tended to do. Or...well... time was a chowder soup. In any case, the adopting part wasn't so hard. He knew had to take care of kids and teenagers. Which is what Zack is sort of. The demon... really screwed up in the head part on the other hand is a bit beyond him. Alec is aware enough of some of his weaknesses. Dealing with emotional things is a one.

He needed to talk to someone.

Two people popped into mind.

One he immediately dismissed. Rhys wouldn't be useful here. He wasn't apart of these realities and he wanted to keep his friend out of it as much as possible. The realities. Cross contamination could be bad sometimes.

Which did leave the other. Vahl was from Zack's set of realities and would be familiar with what he was. Also, he was good at dealing with head problems. Besides it would be nice to see him again. It'd be ages.

Flicking through realities like one flipping through the pages of the book, Alec searched around for "his" Vahl. So many different variations. But he could find him. He could find anyone and anything. Perfect sense of direction made it possible.

And there it was, the little flickering bit of him and the bigger flickering of Phoenix.

Good.

Good.

Good.

Being on the edges of Dreamtime amused Alec as he'd been poking at an alternate of himself who existed near the edges of dream and awakening as a Changeling. That one is far away from here in a different part of the Dreaming. They were all connected eventually somewhere. It was one of those ways some people traveled between realities.

Lots of things could travel through them.

In a rather messy ripple of reality, Alec appeared in front of Vahl, ignoring the scenery. "I accidentally adopted a not-demon and he's really screwed up in the head which I'm really bad at dealing with so I was hoping you could help?" Then. "Hi. Long time no see. How are you?"

Maybe a bit backwards there...
twofold_psyche: (lita let me see)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-12 04:09 pm (UTC)(link)
With the growth of his powers, and the evolutionary path he's on, Vahl feels comfortable pretty much anywhere, but Al'Karingha always feels the homiest. This home is particularly pretty and reflects the side of the Tzarkaehl that is the Lord of Dreams. The Nightmare... might crop up a little, especially when he's indulging in some kind of game with Phoenix … but that side of Vahlmir is just a memory at present.

The villa itself, as yet unnamed because Phoenix can't take it seriously and the pack keep squabbling about it. The fact that it's unnamed has become a personal pack 'thing', and it probably will never be named because of it. In fact, they don't even say 'The Villa' with capitals, because that constitutes a name. So it's just 'the villa'. For reasons Vahl doesn't quite understand, Lex has threatened them all with his wrath if they don't keep it that way.

The adorable little pet.

It's as private as private can ever get. So the place is single-storied and sprawls rather. It can also change and shift, as dreams are wont to do. There are numerous doors, leading to numerous garden areas, the most beautiful one of which is the central courtyard. It's filled with shady trees, greenery, flowerbeds, and a large clear pool, which has a natural grassy shore, from which one can easily wade in for a dip.

There is a grass lawn, on which Phoenix is reclining in the dappled shade of the trees. He has a glass of bourbon and his T-pad, on which he's browsing the Galactic Hub, and texting various clan and pack members.

Vahl likes to have a study wherever he's staying. 'the villa' is no exception. This one is smaller but comfortable, with shelving that houses interesting bits and pieces. Large shiny polished stones, geodes, and ceramics from exotic worlds. The window is large, and glass double doors open onto a smaller garden area that has a bubbling fountain.

There's not much that shocks or surprises Vahl, even Alec Troven - well, actually, let's cancel that statement. Today, Alec can congratulate himself on Giving Vahl quite a start. The god has undergone the process of shock, reaching for his power ready to fend off an invader, realising it's not an invader but Alec, and that it's Alec as a younger being, and then wondering what the fuck... before he's processed what his guest is actually saying.

Guest. Yes, Vahl will call him that.

Because Alec is always welcome.

Even when he's ranting/panicking/making a mess of reality. Vahl silently ticks off that checklist before rising from his seat, amused, perplexed, and really very pleased to see Alec again.

“Screwed in the head being one of the least dreadful diagnoses, I'm sure there's something to be done.” Vahl will take things in whichever order Alec puts them. It's been centuries since the days of their own pack. Vahl has long since mended after the end that he knew would one day come, came. Today he's just happy to see his former Omega again as a beloved friend.

“Now come here, you little baggage, and say hello properly.” He opens his arms. “And if it's not too awkward, a hug.” After all, it may not have been that long for Alec. Who can tell?
twofold_psyche: (box playful 2 smile)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-12 05:26 pm (UTC)(link)
Phoenix is well aware, but figures that Alec has burst in on Vahl, rather than himself, for a reason. He'll wait until Alec comes to find him... Because he'd better. And not just disappear.

To be sure, Vahl communicates the visit to Phoenix on their pack bond, and he confirms he's going to wait and that he can't wait. All at the same time.

Oh, come now, Alec, it was purely affectionate. Vahl will just fondly grin back at you and give you a bearhug. "This is where I sit you down and ask you what seems to be the problem," Vahl says, indicating the comfy sofa and chairs to one side of the study, near the window.

"Or ask you a multitude of questions about not-demons, the degree of screwed-in-the-head-ness, and accidental adoption. Though for a second, I'm more interested in how you've been keeping."
twofold_psyche: (stock rare informality)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-12 06:07 pm (UTC)(link)
Despite the centuries that have passed for Vahl, it's a little tempting to tilt Alec's face toward his and push his hair back. But those times are gone, and this is good enough. As Alec picks his seat, Vahl takes one of the armchairs, draping himself across it sideways, legs over one arm. It's easily a large enough chair, and it shows how much Vahl has relaxed in himself over time. He still values his self-control, but he's less rigid, less brittle than he was in days gone by.

Assuming the not-demon is safe, Vahl listens to what Alec has been up to with interest, and not a little boggling of the mind. "I never did meet Rhys, but I recall you telling us about him." He grins again, then, "though it's hard to imagine you as the responsible one in any reality. No great disasters then? Apart from the purpose of your visit?"

If that can be classed as a disaster. Vahl hopes not, and he'll do what he can to make sure it's not.
twofold_psyche: (box amused smile)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-13 04:31 pm (UTC)(link)
Gods forbid the Hawaiian shirts.

Vahl is noting the slouching with fond amusement. He's half-expecting Alec to adopt that very position at any given moment.

"I've witnessed you being responsible on many occasions," Vahl points out. "If you ever require a reference, don't hesitate to ask."

He thinks about it for a bit. "Mentioned, yes, but I think not by name."
twofold_psyche: (box I can read your mind)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-14 05:53 pm (UTC)(link)
Vahl will steadfastly refuse to wear it. Even if Alec woobies.

Listening and following Alec's tale, Vahl had almost already worked out that this might be bad news Not just for Alec, but there's a hint of a warning already. The god isn't particularly looking into Alec's mind, or even noticing the surface thoughts. That can be dull when you're asking a guest for news.

"Is he likely to trouble you?" he asks, then adds "or anyone else we need to be concerned about?" This could refer to Keldra, and indeed does encompass it, but Vahl is equally concerned for Alec and those he holds dear.
twofold_psyche: (box aside strap)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-14 07:20 pm (UTC)(link)
"Could he do you harm?" This isn't encouraging news. Vahl hears Alec out though, bristling for a moment that Phoenix might be a target.

"I understand these creatures can't be killed, and we'd only try if he came to our world and tried to harm our loved ones... can he be blocked, or banished?"

A little knowledge and understanding of Death's Shadow will certainly prepare them for trouble. Vahl will obtain as many details as he can from Alec later. The main point seems to be that this character is interested in Alec's not-demon, for the time being though.

Vahl too shifts position. He's a little more alert now. "Has he tried to harm your..." Vahl wavess a hand vaguely, imagining a youngster of some species or another, "... boy? Creature?"
twofold_psyche: (4th profile of a Dom)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-15 02:40 pm (UTC)(link)
"How inconvenient." The dry comment belies Vahl's more visceral reaction to anyone who could or would harm Alec. Well, old habits, and all that. He'll always be an Alpha, if not Alec's Alpha. None of this shows on his face, however. "Betrayal being quite the theme where most of the Kayori are concerned, we'll be on our guard."

If they can get a DNA sample from the host, blocking would be easy. However, there are powerful wards created by the five chieftains to deter would-be tricksters and overt aggressors. Combined, the chieftains are greater than the sum of their parts, so there's that.

Vahl can't help a half-grin. He's familiar with missing sandwiches, Alec. You little fibber you.

The plight of this youngster resonates with Vahl. He may be on sabbatical as Tzarkaehl, but it's as much in Vahl's nature to heal, as it is to hunt and... other things. Not that he'd turn Alec down even if this weren't the case. "I'll help, of course, if I can. Do you have a little more background information? Actual species, home life?"
twofold_psyche: (dam mulling)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-15 04:28 pm (UTC)(link)
"If there's anything out of kilter about him, I may be able to spot him fairly easily." One assumes this Death's Shadow has a mind to read, and Vahl is used to the .. flavour of different species.

Salmon and cucumber. One Sunday teatime. Autumn. You vagabond.

There's a slight wince as Alec mentions a destroyed world. Keldra had its own issues recently. Well, in one specific universe, but it had repercussions on them all. Vahl has no knowledge of the core universe though, only his own. That Drake Kaelen is suddenly a dragon, is enough to be going on with. This is about Alec's problem, not Keldra's.

Having relaxed a touch mentally, Vahl catches a hint of Alec's feelings of guilt. Freedom can often be a painful process, but to be aware there's a choice... that's not something Vahl would have withheld from this being either. Waifs and strays, Keldra has them in abundance. It seems to collect them.

He ponders for a moment, having listened intently to the information Alec offers up.

"Abdiron. Antillioch. Those names ring a very dusty bell." Vahl bites on a thumbnail for a few more seconds. "I'll look into those. So naturally, Zack has trust issues, possibly arrested development... it's impossible to tell without meeting him, but yes, bring him to me, and I'll do what I can."

What Vahl 'can' is not inconsiderable, and that's at worst. He's yet to meet an individual for whom he can't do something.
twofold_psyche: (ring heh sly smile)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-15 05:00 pm (UTC)(link)
Much as they love Alec, the Kayori are also wary of his nature. If not for Phoenix, they wonder if they might have been poked about rather unpleasantly.

Oh yes. That invisible cat. How silly of him to forget it.

The sentience of this Zack's world intrigues Vahl, not as much as Alec's tidbit though. "I imagine many pantheons have." Vahl tilts his head, sensing more to come, and then amused, asks, "did he greet your presence with abject joy?"
twofold_psyche: (box absorbed)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-15 06:51 pm (UTC)(link)
The penguin ... is funny, actually. Vahl has a complete chessboard of them in one of his studies. Even here at the villa, there are one or two dotted around the shelves in the kitchen. Every half-century or so, a new one finds its way into one of his shoes, or soup, or stuck to the soap in the bathroom.

"He didn't?" there's mirth in Vahl's eyes as he imagines well how this alien god creature might have reacted. "What I'd have given to be a fly on that wall. I wonder if I could pop into one of his dreams at some point?" That's always riskier with higher begins than it is with mortals. But it is tempting.

"So he's obviously aware of us. I'm assuming hell realm?" Alec hasn't said so much, but it's been strongly implied. "I'll chase Drake up. See if he has any contacts."

Completely not smug. *cough*sandwich.

Vahl can relate to that sudden urge to claim. He's done it occasionally with some of the more abused patients, who stood no chance in their situations or families. Most of the Kayori have done so at some point. "I wouldn't feel quite so embarrassed at doing that, if I were you. It's more easily done than not, on occasion." Vahl picks up his T-pad and starts tapping at it, jotting down 'must do' notes. "This Abdiron, repugnant individual one assumes?"
twofold_psyche: (lita curious)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-16 01:12 pm (UTC)(link)
"I may do just that." The dreams of others - especially gods - can be a risky proposition, but if Vahl feels it's required to be able to gauge Zack's past, then he might attempt it.

It's always about the souls with so many overlords of the hell realms - or dimensions. Drake has never really fixed on souls as currency. Whenever Keldra's hellgod trades in them, it's usually to rescue or to help in some way. His rule is based on his sharp mind and his tight rein over the demon populations. Souls are almost incidental. "Hopefully, Zack can enlighten me a little more on the internal workings of this Antillioch."

That this brother seems to at least care for Zack is interesting and may be a potential starting point to build a better relationship. Hellgods are hellgods. They are what they are, but at the same time, damaging one's brother is repugnant to many of them. Even the worst of the worst often value and protect their kin. "For what it's worth, Alec, I think you did the right thing. We'll give you all the help you need."

Both Vahl and Phoenix are aware of at least some of Alec's track record. However, with a support group that comprises an entire pantheon of gods, it needn't end in disaster.
Edited 2021-08-16 13:12 (UTC)
twofold_psyche: (nlg gen 2)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-16 04:02 pm (UTC)(link)
Knowing more than you think is a basic tenet for a psychological healer. The insight on Zack is appreciated though. It's a slow building up of a picture of a person. Obviously, a meeting will yield more information, but Vahl likes to have something to mull over.

"Bring him as soon as is convenient," Vahl tells Alec. "I'll make time."

"Between myself, Phoenix and Laya, both of you will have the support of a surrogate pack. And with the rest of the Kayori pitching in if required, well," Alec shouldn't have to face any crisis alone.

Unbidden, Phoenix nudges at Vahl's mind. 'My turn yet?' It makes the god smile. "I think someone's angling to see you. No prizes for guessing who."

twofold_psyche: (stock funny smile)

[personal profile] twofold_psyche 2021-08-16 05:29 pm (UTC)(link)
"You're always welcome." There's a warmth in Vahl's voice that's reserved for those who truly are welcome. "And good luck with that," he adds, genuinely, with no trace of sarcasm. Alec doesn't need that right now, and possibly won't for some time.

Vahl chuckles. If Phoenix can't make Alec's face light up, and ease some of the concern, then the god is fairly sure nobody can. "Fill your boots, as they say. It was good to see you, Alec."