{ The area itself is big... anyone can feasibly wander around the large canyon and perhaps to an extent not know of what's going on if they choose to--or if they were trapped in the memory of their own ideal world given the structures around here that could distract them.

But they've had enough distractions. }

So you have come, civilian.

I'll make this brief and get to the point--were you aware of what's happened this last week? When Clover nearly sacrificed her life for Judar and everyone else.

{ Clover had a chance to escape, but she threw it all the way and nearly wound up dead. She's been destitute. Even if they weren't in the position to do much... }

I was wondering if there's something that you know-- whether it be your own words or an action of some sort that could cheer her up...?

{ Somehow, Arumat's gotten Adrien to agree to a meeting with him, but the reason why should not be surprising. }

... Hmph. Ridiculous, isn't it?

{ ... }

How is this stupidity making you fare?

{ The "stupidity" meaning the situation in general, the fact of their status on the vulnerable list, everything-- }

{ After that trial and when Arumat had sufficiently sorted his emotions through it all, he had decided to visit a certain individual in particular... because he knew he wasn't the only one inconvenienced by Kazuma that trial (putting it lightly).

He climbed up the latter and gave Adam's door to his room a knock. }

Lad, if you are present, give a response. I wish to speak with you.

{ That whole entire week before was a ... project, needless to say. The pale-haired man drove his partner around wherever he could go, and honestly, that was probably why it took so long for the "approval" rating to rise up. Nevertheless, it was over.

Then, when this week started, it was clear the whole nightmare was about to start again.

It was enough to make an annoyed sound escape from him, recounting everything that will likely occur this coming weekend.

Naturally this was the time to visit a fri-- someone he had amicable relations with ( listen he still feels embarrassed even mentally referring to someone as a friend... ). Which was why it was good they agreed up a private meeting. }

Hmph. So here we are again.

It's been awhile since we've spoke in confidence.

{ Ever the talented at starting off conversations, yep... }

{ Did you think he was kidding, Machias?

Probably not. But, he knows the lad is used to military drills. He'll test to see if Machias is awake by rapping his hand harshly on his door. }

Get up.

{ The quiescence that filled the room that had showcased such an abhorrent execution after a few remarked meant it was time make a departure. The Eldarian warrior had only been arrested by the quick and good-hearted greeting by a certain young woman. He had been brusque in his own actions, and all the same, seemed in harmony with what she suggested.

The pale-haired man obstensibly acted as if it was a mild inconvenience and was as "friendly" as ever -- but he had his own reasons for following.

Once they were within her room, he crossed his arms, taking his usual rimrod straight stance in posture. }

Hmph. Afrer what had happened, I didn't think anyone would want to bother to confer with another alone so soon. What did you want to talk about?

{ Arumat had conversed with Machias about them meeting "alone". Although, he's not sure what good that will do, considering they're on a ship, and the circumstances themselves being that someone will likely always been listening in.

No one can call him paranoid for thinking that, anyway.

Once he's finished coming into the room, he gestures with his head to Machias curtly. }

Looks like you're here, still in one piece.

{ He is great with conversational openers. }

How am I driving?