video | un: ouyang

[theatrics]

(( The sepia-toned face on the screen is that of a person lovely enough to be a woman. Well, perhaps less lovely for the severe (read: cranky) look carved into those delicate features. His lips are downturned and a deep crease resides between his brows. His long black hair is tied back in a topknot with braids worked throughout. The robes he wears speak of an older time, perhaps they're a distant cousin to the kimono he's seen so much since arriving.

There's a moment of silence before he finally speaks, a natural tenor though he tries to keep the pitch lower. ))

I understand we're encouraged to form bonds in this strange place. How fare those who choose not to?

Comments

[theatrics]

(( His expression softens by degrees and he nods slowly. ))

You are fortunate.

[mourningjade]

(He nods in agreement. His brother is and has always been dear to him.)

I reside with him. We watch over one another.

[theatrics]

I once was somebody's brother...

[mourningjade]

You lost him?

[theatrics]

He was murdered when I was still a child.

[mourningjade]

I'm sorry. (Thoroughly. Wangji feels cold imagining his life without Xichen.)

[theatrics]

I avenged him.

(( And his father, his uncles, his cousins, his nephews... ))

[mourningjade]

I understand better. (This one is alone because he must be.)

[theatrics]

(( Congrats, Wangji. You've unlocked half of his traumatic backstory. ))

I have always been alone.

[mourningjade]

(His heart goes out to him.)

Do not fear asking for aid.

[theatrics]

I have no fear.

(( Except of intimacy. ))

[mourningjade]

This one is Lan Wangji. (He bows, clasping his hands before him.)

[theatrics]

(( Ouyang isn't accustomed to people bowing to him, but he bows in turn out of habit. ))

This one is Ouyang, General of the Prince of Henan's armies.

[mourningjade]

An honor. (Wangji straightens and gives a faint, oh so faint, smile.) The apartments are open to us.

[theatrics]

Yes, I have selected one. I cannot bear the thought of sharing a living space.

[mourningjade]

There are few I trust. (To sleep around. To let down his guard.)

[theatrics]

(( Ouyang cants his head slightly to the side, a thoughtfully curious look playing over his delicate features. ))

[mourningjade]

(Wangji struggles to find further words, his brow knitting.)

Relaxation is difficult in the presence of strangers.

[theatrics]

Quite difficult.

[mourningjade]

I suggest meditation.

[theatrics]

I prefer sparring to clear my head.

[mourningjade]

Violence begets more violence.

[theatrics]

Mine is a violent life.

[mourningjade]

Yet there is kindness.

[theatrics]

Is there?