It was they had their next round of questioning and trying to formulate answers that it became apparent how limited Moritz’s ability for communication was. It felt almost treacherous, that he would be cursed this way, so used to being able to talk at length. Indeed, despite the Kelvic’s eccentricities, Alric found himself missing that as they sat opposite each other. This wasn’t right, the fact that they could not talk and disagree about philosophy, magic or whatever else took their fancy. It was a stain upon both of them, in a way – upon Moritz for bearing the curse, and upon Alric for now having lost a friend – another one – in a manner which made it impossible to have the bond that they had had before.
He sat, silently, watching and listening but finding no joy in the act, not this time. At least Moritz took some of the food he had offered, that was something of a gift at least, though he noted that the Kelvic’s appetite was perhaps lesser than it had been before, simply nibbling and nothing more. Picking at food and long, morose glances…yes, he was suffering and likely would suffer further. That angered Alric more than he thought that it would. It wasn’t just the fact that it was a violation of Moritz’s freedom either, it was the fact that he knew the lad, that he considered him a friend, even if a strange one. The fact that he had been forced into this position was an irksome thing, one which he would shatter and destroy if he could.
“It’s okay Moritz, this is very…restrictive I know. But at least we discovered something and, perhaps, a way to communicate it. Just need to get a bit of chalk or something, but for now,” he leaned forwards and let his Res flow, it was slow and rough but it came, and formed a rough rectangle with a slightly smoother face, black and with the intention of writing upon it, “a sign, for writing your curse on with chalk, so that others will know. Not much, but perhaps it might help” he said, after a few long chimes, wiping a few dots of sweat from his brow.
“You might as well go back to lying again, the stories were interesting and at least you were talking. I always did like you talking, it was more you anyway”
After that he spent some time eating the food, doing more than picking at it in an attempt at trying to get Moritz into the spirit of eating, this was supposed to be a celebratory meeting after all. As he ate and they entertained slightly more entertaining words than usual, he wondered whether Moritz would be able to get through the season this way. How could he connect with people, form bond and…should the desire arise…meet a partner and have some fun? Though, upon reflection, he supposed the ability to convincingly tell tall tales might actually help with the loosening of clothing in that regard. After a time there was little food and drink left, leaving him to pack away his pipe and set out upon fulfilling the promise that he had made – the procuring of some form of present to mark the day of Moritz’s birth, slightly late though it might be.
“Come on then Moritz, let’s walk and get you that gift. You can choose anything, and tell whatever tales you like along the way about volcanic islands…and whatever items interest you”
