[ a ritual for formalizing their alliance. Neuro loathes the idea of an alliance with another demon as much as -- well, as much as any demon would, really. He doesn't have allies. He has servants. Officially recognizing a contract between himself and Sebastian might be binding in annoying ways. And he hates nothing more than being bound. ]
Hmph. What is the use? You and I both know that there can be little trust between creatures like ourselves.
[ and, as far as Neuro is concerned, their current "deal" benefited Sebastian almost exclusively. Nothing had been done for him yet. This might just be a chain to tie him to Sebastian. ]
And that is why I must insist. We cannot rely on trust, so instead, there is something more formal in its place.
[ But he has a feeling he knows where these reservations are coming from, since if he were in Neuro's position, he would be considering such a potential binding in the same way. ]
I will make it worth your while. I will tell you everything I know of the CDC, since I realize this is one-sided as things are now. What I have managed to dig up will save you time, but it will also provide some details that not many know or may consider. I am a valuable set of eyes and ears if what you feed upon is mysteries, and I intend to prove that.
[ demonic magic, without a doubt, then. He knows quite a bit about that. Ironically, what this comes down to in the end is trust - or, at least, a belief that Sebastian will deliver on what he says. Neuro ponders his words for a few moments.
However, he knows that Sebastian is toeing the same line he is here. Neither one wants to have an altercation here and waste time and energy fighting the other. That - and his own reckless confidence that he'd be able to overcome whatever this other demon throws his way - eventually lets his curiosity give way. ]
I shall believe it when I see it. [ or hear it, more likely. Regardless, it seems like he's tentatively agreeing. ] Where are you now?
[ after they all got split up in the drop, it became hard to keep an eye on him (literally.) ]
[ Sebastian has his own confidence as well, since even if he's something of a trickster and demons' words can't be trusted, he does have a peculiar sense of honor. Once he's pledged to do something, he'll absolutely do whatever he can to follow through, since he quite enjoys his reputation of being reliable.
To the question, Sebastian gives a descriptive answer of somewhere in the Crater Lake base, but hell if I know... Neuro should be able to get to it without any difficult, though. ]
[ Neuro will learn that about Sebastian sooner or later - and be pleased by his reliability, no doubt. As he mentioned once before, most of the demons he's interacted with in his life have just been trying to assassinate him. ]
Fufu... Pray that you meet my expectations. [ not that demons pray - the irony isn't unintentional. ] I will be there shortly.
[ and with that, he hangs up, slipping the device into his pocket. Sebastian is right; it won't be hard for him to get there. Nosy bird that he is, he's already been poking around most of this place - the overpowering pressure of murderous intent can be felt everywhere in the base, and he can hardly restrain himself. Sebastian's suggested location is quickly mapped out in his brain, and he sets off.
He's not in a rush to get there, exactly - he's not about to expend extra demonic energy getting there - but he won't make Sebastian wait for long, either. If the location is indoors, Neuro will open the door without even a knock (he has no manners); otherwise, he arrives nonetheless, arms crossed. Though it might only be obvious to those who have known him for a long time, the mild smile he's wearing speaks of his uncertainty. He's trying to focus - in case this suddenly turns into a trap. ]
[ And of course, when Neuro arrives, Sebastian is composed, or at least as much as he can be. Before he had returned to the task of their partnership, he had been certain to be more settled first, which meant cleaning himself up as much as he could. It's still not the insanely perfect appearance that he strives for, but compares to other recruits, his appearance is much more put together.
The room itself isn't anything more than a nondescript meeting room, and where Sebastian had been looking through his Blackglass while he waited, as soon as Neuro steps inside, he's quick to tuck it away politely. ]
[ Sebastian is polite and well-mannered enough for the both of them. Not having found anything particularly alarming in the room (yet - he's still keeping his ears open), his gaze returns to Sebastian, stepping towards him fearlessly. ]
Naturally. I do not pass up opportunities to gain new knowledge, even if it comes from another demon. [ the tone of his voice makes it clear that doesn't happen often, though. The reason he left Hell in the first place is because nobody had anything good enough for his brain, after all. Sebastian is different, though - he has seniority here. Which means nothing as far as Neuro's respect for him, but does mean something in terms of his information. And he can't deny that he's curious. Just a little bit. ]
But know that if this is a trick, you will be punished accordingly.
[ Sebastian sighs rather heavily, and there's a little hint of irritation on his face all the same. He finds dealing with Neuro rather difficult, since Sebastian is so used to the human world and its manners especially. Neuro comes off as very unrefined to him, and for a demon of perfect principles, it's difficult for Sebastian...
But. He's committed to this, even if only for being certain that Ciel won't be too bothered by another demon. Bullying is fine, but anything further than that isn't something Sebastian will tolerate. ]
I am assuming you have never gone through the ritual before?
[ Apparently pleased by Sebastian's admission of understanding, Neuro nods approvingly. He likes it when people agree with him without complaint... unsurprisingly.
As for the ritual, though, he's right - Neuro has no idea. ]
No. As you know, making allies is not a popular pastime in Hell. What does it entail?
[ He sighs, then shakes his head slightly. To have to explain it all seems odd, but considering the circumstances, he'll bear with it. ]
It is an oath written in blood. It is not a true return to our realm, but where the abyss is strongest, we exchange our blood. It is not a true seal, but it is a ritual to give our oath more weight so that we may not betray it. If either of betrays the terms, then we shall know, and by the laws of our realms, then it is fair enough to take the other's head.
[ He sighs, like this is tedious to explain, then nods. ]
[ that sounds reasonable enough, by demonic standards. They rarely needed any excuse at all to kill one another. Neuro hums in consideration. If they really would go somewhere with a strong miasma to perform this ritual, too, then it might actually be a benefit to him.
A direct link to the other demon might be, too, even if it goes both ways. ]
How interesting. I take it that you have found this place where the abyss is strongest. [ perhaps surprisingly, it's not something he can sense - but maybe Sebastian can. All of their kind have different strengths. ]
Well, yes. That is why I asked that you meet me here.
[ His posture relaxes, since other than Neuro's terrible personality, this is at least more familiar and comfortable. He motions to a door off to the side that looks like it would be no more than a closet, then starts to walk towards it. Sebastian's shadow seems to be odd as he walks as well, sharper at the edges, and not at all fitting his form. It's unsurprising that a part of the shadow seems to slip under the door as Sebastian places his hand on the knob, and he bows his head. ]
After you.
[ Though as Sebastian opens the door, it's a void. It's a pitch black nothingness that light doesn't seem to penetrate at all, which is a bit suspicious, but it's just weird demon shit at work. I don't know how else this room is going to suddenly appear ok ]
[ though it's probably little consolation, he seems resolved to play along with all of this, at least. Neuro nods, then turns towards him, following after Sebastian with expectant eyes on the back of his head. The motion of his shadow doesn't go unnoticed by our supernatural detective, of course, but he pays it little heed beyond casual observation. As stated before, in his world, all demons have varying powers; it's no wonder that Sebastian can do things he can't.
When the door opens into seeming nothingness, though, his interest is more piqued. A wide grin splits his face. ]
Oho. [ that's some nice weird demon shit right there. Zera had been able to open portals, but not like this. As Sebastian said, it's more like a pocket of Hell than a real entrance. Intrigued - and enticed by the familiar darkness that he can truly fill his lungs with - he does as Sebastian says, entering before him fearlessly. ]
[ Luckily, no, this is not a trap, and as soon as Neuro steps in, Sebastian steps after and closes the door. It feels familiar to both of them, a place closer to their realm, and yet not actually separated from where they are with the CDC. To return to his realm so brazenly would be a breach of the contract, so instead, it takes a bit of effort to emulate it. It seems to be no more than an elegant, baroque dining room, but the details of the decor make it clear that this could be nothing else than a demon's taste. It's all odd statues, sickly green wallpaper, and upon the table are silver plates embedded with what looks like jewels, though upon closer inspection, they're eyes.
Truly, there's no place like home. Sebastian heads to one of the seats, taking a pristine white rose from the centerpiece, though the stem is a deep and rich purple rather than an more earthly green. He motions for Neuro to do the same. ]
How nostalgic. It has been quite a while since I have seen more familiar roses.
[ the difference is immediately noticeable to Neuro from the moment he steps into the room, and it's not just the decorating choices. It's not exact, but the air in the room is, indeed, very similar to Hell's. To him, whose body deteriorates just from being in Earth's atmosphere, it's wonderfully invigorating. His eyes glitter, pleased, and he takes a long breath through his nose.
Now this is a useful skill. Perhaps Sebastian could be more than a nuisance to him, after all. ]
What a refreshing room. This stagnant air suits me much more than that weak breeze outside. [ congratulations, Sebastian, you actually got praised by him a little bit?! albeit indirectly. He touches a finger to the wall curiously, but turns towards the other demon when he mentions the roses. They are familiar, indeed - and they immediately get Neuro thinking about what might be about to take place. Following Sebastian's indication, he takes a rose, as well, peering at it curiously. ]
[ Neuro gets a sidelong glance as he breathes in deeply, since that's another trait they don't share. Sebastian isn't actually particularly sensitive to things from his (their?) realm, so to breathe in the particular "air" was no more necessary than it was for him to breathe in his service under the contract. Yet still, the partial praise at least seems to soften his temperament to some degree, since when you're hungry for praise like Sebastian, beggars really can't be choosers...
He takes his seat elegantly, with as much care as if this were a real, formal occassion, though the rose stays in his hand. The plates are all for show, more symbolic than anything, since demons do enjoy that sort of melodrama. The only thing actually of use is the knife, which Sebastian makes clear as he explains. ]
It is simple enough. We wet the roses with our blood, exchange the oaths to which we agree to follow, then swap and mix our blood.
[ Why is he explaining this to another demon? He feels a deep sense of regret already. ]
It is a simple enough blood oath.
if there's not enough info to answer this just lmk and i'll change it
[ listen sebastian it's not his fault he's never been married before ]
A blood oath. How unexpectedly barbaric for a butler. [ Neuro jeers dryly, seeming amused. He wonders if his blood won't just burn a hole in the roses in his current state - maybe he should restrain his power a little bit.
But the fact that it is just a "simple blood oath" gives him some pause. This is a ritual, not just a pact. Though Neuro, again, follows Sebastian's example and takes a seat (and mercifully refrains from putting his feet up on the table like he usually does), his wandering gaze suggests that he's not really sold. ]
But it is more than that, is it not? What are the effects of this oath?
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Hmph. What is the use? You and I both know that there can be little trust between creatures like ourselves.
[ and, as far as Neuro is concerned, their current "deal" benefited Sebastian almost exclusively. Nothing had been done for him yet. This might just be a chain to tie him to Sebastian. ]
no subject
[ But he has a feeling he knows where these reservations are coming from, since if he were in Neuro's position, he would be considering such a potential binding in the same way. ]
I will make it worth your while. I will tell you everything I know of the CDC, since I realize this is one-sided as things are now. What I have managed to dig up will save you time, but it will also provide some details that not many know or may consider. I am a valuable set of eyes and ears if what you feed upon is mysteries, and I intend to prove that.
ooh mr sebastian
However, he knows that Sebastian is toeing the same line he is here. Neither one wants to have an altercation here and waste time and energy fighting the other. That - and his own reckless confidence that he'd be able to overcome whatever this other demon throws his way - eventually lets his curiosity give way. ]
I shall believe it when I see it. [ or hear it, more likely. Regardless, it seems like he's tentatively agreeing. ] Where are you now?
[ after they all got split up in the drop, it became hard to keep an eye on him (literally.) ]
sparkles
[ Sebastian has his own confidence as well, since even if he's something of a trickster and demons' words can't be trusted, he does have a peculiar sense of honor. Once he's pledged to do something, he'll absolutely do whatever he can to follow through, since he quite enjoys his reputation of being reliable.
To the question, Sebastian gives a descriptive answer of somewhere in the Crater Lake base, but hell if I know... Neuro should be able to get to it without any difficult, though. ]
no subject
Fufu... Pray that you meet my expectations. [ not that demons pray - the irony isn't unintentional. ] I will be there shortly.
[ and with that, he hangs up, slipping the device into his pocket. Sebastian is right; it won't be hard for him to get there. Nosy bird that he is, he's already been poking around most of this place - the overpowering pressure of murderous intent can be felt everywhere in the base, and he can hardly restrain himself. Sebastian's suggested location is quickly mapped out in his brain, and he sets off.
He's not in a rush to get there, exactly - he's not about to expend extra demonic energy getting there - but he won't make Sebastian wait for long, either. If the location is indoors, Neuro will open the door without even a knock (he has no manners); otherwise, he arrives nonetheless, arms crossed. Though it might only be obvious to those who have known him for a long time, the mild smile he's wearing speaks of his uncertainty. He's trying to focus - in case this suddenly turns into a trap. ]
no subject
The room itself isn't anything more than a nondescript meeting room, and where Sebastian had been looking through his Blackglass while he waited, as soon as Neuro steps inside, he's quick to tuck it away politely. ]
Welcome, Mr. Nougami. Thank you for coming.
no subject
Naturally. I do not pass up opportunities to gain new knowledge, even if it comes from another demon. [ the tone of his voice makes it clear that doesn't happen often, though. The reason he left Hell in the first place is because nobody had anything good enough for his brain, after all. Sebastian is different, though - he has seniority here. Which means nothing as far as Neuro's respect for him, but does mean something in terms of his information. And he can't deny that he's curious. Just a little bit. ]
But know that if this is a trick, you will be punished accordingly.
no subject
[ Sebastian sighs rather heavily, and there's a little hint of irritation on his face all the same. He finds dealing with Neuro rather difficult, since Sebastian is so used to the human world and its manners especially. Neuro comes off as very unrefined to him, and for a demon of perfect principles, it's difficult for Sebastian...
But. He's committed to this, even if only for being certain that Ciel won't be too bothered by another demon. Bullying is fine, but anything further than that isn't something Sebastian will tolerate. ]
I am assuming you have never gone through the ritual before?
no subject
As for the ritual, though, he's right - Neuro has no idea. ]
No. As you know, making allies is not a popular pastime in Hell. What does it entail?
no subject
It is an oath written in blood. It is not a true return to our realm, but where the abyss is strongest, we exchange our blood. It is not a true seal, but it is a ritual to give our oath more weight so that we may not betray it. If either of betrays the terms, then we shall know, and by the laws of our realms, then it is fair enough to take the other's head.
[ He sighs, like this is tedious to explain, then nods. ]
It is simple, really.
no subject
A direct link to the other demon might be, too, even if it goes both ways. ]
How interesting. I take it that you have found this place where the abyss is strongest. [ perhaps surprisingly, it's not something he can sense - but maybe Sebastian can. All of their kind have different strengths. ]
no subject
[ His posture relaxes, since other than Neuro's terrible personality, this is at least more familiar and comfortable. He motions to a door off to the side that looks like it would be no more than a closet, then starts to walk towards it. Sebastian's shadow seems to be odd as he walks as well, sharper at the edges, and not at all fitting his form. It's unsurprising that a part of the shadow seems to slip under the door as Sebastian places his hand on the knob, and he bows his head. ]
After you.
[ Though as Sebastian opens the door, it's a void. It's a pitch black nothingness that light doesn't seem to penetrate at all, which is a bit suspicious, but it's just weird demon shit at work. I don't know how else this room is going to suddenly appear ok ]
no subject
When the door opens into seeming nothingness, though, his interest is more piqued. A wide grin splits his face. ]
Oho. [ that's some nice weird demon shit right there. Zera had been able to open portals, but not like this. As Sebastian said, it's more like a pocket of Hell than a real entrance. Intrigued - and enticed by the familiar darkness that he can truly fill his lungs with - he does as Sebastian says, entering before him fearlessly. ]
no subject
Truly, there's no place like home. Sebastian heads to one of the seats, taking a pristine white rose from the centerpiece, though the stem is a deep and rich purple rather than an more earthly green. He motions for Neuro to do the same. ]
How nostalgic. It has been quite a while since I have seen more familiar roses.
no subject
Now this is a useful skill. Perhaps Sebastian could be more than a nuisance to him, after all. ]
What a refreshing room. This stagnant air suits me much more than that weak breeze outside. [ congratulations, Sebastian, you actually got praised by him a little bit?! albeit indirectly. He touches a finger to the wall curiously, but turns towards the other demon when he mentions the roses. They are familiar, indeed - and they immediately get Neuro thinking about what might be about to take place. Following Sebastian's indication, he takes a rose, as well, peering at it curiously. ]
no subject
He takes his seat elegantly, with as much care as if this were a real, formal occassion, though the rose stays in his hand. The plates are all for show, more symbolic than anything, since demons do enjoy that sort of melodrama. The only thing actually of use is the knife, which Sebastian makes clear as he explains. ]
It is simple enough. We wet the roses with our blood, exchange the oaths to which we agree to follow, then swap and mix our blood.
[ Why is he explaining this to another demon? He feels a deep sense of regret already. ]
It is a simple enough blood oath.
if there's not enough info to answer this just lmk and i'll change it
A blood oath. How unexpectedly barbaric for a butler. [ Neuro jeers dryly, seeming amused. He wonders if his blood won't just burn a hole in the roses in his current state - maybe he should restrain his power a little bit.
But the fact that it is just a "simple blood oath" gives him some pause. This is a ritual, not just a pact. Though Neuro, again, follows Sebastian's example and takes a seat (and mercifully refrains from putting his feet up on the table like he usually does), his wandering gaze suggests that he's not really sold. ]
But it is more than that, is it not? What are the effects of this oath?