+ hidden away in your own corner of it."
He pauses, studying them without judgment.
"Is there a particular reason for that, stranger? Or is solitude simply where you've found yourself most comfortable?"
"To put it bluntly, I'm interested in your role within this reality."
Axiom regards the stranger with quiet curiosity, his expression remaining characteristically stoic.
"You're quite an interesting presence within the tapestry of this world, yet you seem content to remain +
+ others in the area. I don't want any conflict to arise."
Gently settling their hood down finding no trace of any negative signs or malice with this person.
"Curious....? About what exactly —?" Tilting their head slightly of his own confusion in those words.
+ offering a slight nod.
"Apologies if my presence unsettled you, however."
Axiom extends a hand toward her, leaving the decision entirely to her.
"A peaceful introduction seems preferable to an uncomfortable one."
"It's merely what I know best. By all accounts, most of my existence is spent observing."
Axiom remains calm, his attention fixed upon the cautious girl.
"This is no exception. You're simply another unfamiliar piece of a reality I'm passing through."
He pauses before +
* His words slightly confuse her, but she doesn't let down her guard. But his body language is enough to slightly calm her down
So, if you do not wish to be foes, but allies, tell me why do you stalk me?
+ actions to support it, and you've given me little reason to doubt yours."
He pauses, glancing around the reality.
"From what I've observed, this place seems to be in good hands for the time being."
"These 'dolls' of yours... they must recognize how earnest you are about the values you uphold."
Axiom regards him thoughtfully, his expression remaining characteristically stoic.
"Surely that's part of what makes you fit for your role. Conviction means little without the +
"Wise words to live by. I'm not free of regrets, but I know I can continue to be confident in my actions as long as I never forget the beliefs that make me take them."
Too many sacrifices and people have lived and gone to be anything but that. After all, it would sully their efforts.
"I'll decline to comment on that particular outcome, for both of our sakes."
Axiom nods to himself, folding his arms across his chest.
"The best you can do as a mortal is have confidence in the actions you take, then reflect upon them honestly with the benefit of time."
He +
"Not exactly the point I would had made either. I'm sure my reality has its own expiration date as well. I just hope it's not by our own hands..."
His voice trails off. A real worry given the state of Collapse Technology and Nirvana.
"*sigh* Maybe better not to think about that. It just depresses me."
+ Saving a reality at the expense of another life, another world, or some irreversible consequence hardly constitutes salvation."
A faint mechanical hum resonates beneath his words.
"Otherwise, believe me, I would have done it many times by now."
"As tempting as it can be to override the expiration date of certain realities, it never comes without a cost."
Axiom's gaze grows distant, contemplating the countless worlds he's encountered.
"Usually, that cost is far too steep to justify placing it on anyone's shoulders. +
"I agree. Some would even argue that the ephemeral nature of things may add a certain element to it. I might not agree with the sentiment but I suppose it's a thought for what it's worth."
Axiom downs the last of his drink before setting the now-empty glass back onto the bar with a quiet nod.
"I wouldn't oppose a refill, Daniel."
He regards the bartender with his usual stoic composure.
"Pleasure to make your acquaintance. That was quite the existential +
~> any case, would you like another drink? I'm Daniel, bartender of the Blood Rose Bar. *Sigh* Conversation so deep we forgot introductions, huh?"
He chuckled, seeing that the other eas aslmost done with the mix be made for him earlier.
"You would think that."
Axiom's gaze drifts for a moment, his expression remaining stoic.
"But it also makes attachments considerably harder when you realize just how fleeting they are for someone infinite like myself."
He pauses, his voice quieter.
"Eventually, every +
"It's a start."
Robin adds.
"I think a permanent purpose will come with time. It might even change after you thought you found it. Such is the benefit of having all the time in the world."
+ connection becomes temporary. Every person I meet will continue aging while I remain."
A faint mechanical hum resonates beneath his words.
"It can make even genuine attachments feel hollow at times."
His gaze returns to him.
"But I try not to let that deter me. Fleeting +