RE: 01 ️‍🔥 The Welcoming

[gruffier]

Type: Video
Sender ID: gruffier (Clive Rosfield)
To: Everyone
Subject: Returned.
Warnings: No warnings!

[ It took a couple of days of exploring a treasure island, sea sailing, and finally reclaiming his proper belongings for Clive to officially have a shellphone in his possession! So while he's already adjusted to his sea legs once again (or almost), he feels as though a proper reintroduction may be in the works. ]

Hello. [ A simple voice begins as the camera shifts to a recognizable, or not-so-recognizable scarred face. He'll smile, albeit a bit sheepishly, before clearing his voice to address the feed proper. ]

I've... spent some time away, but it seems the Rifts had other plans. [ There's a sadness in his tone that is quickly shrugged off before Clive speaks again.] It is good to be back.

Should you be in need of some assistance, you need only but ask. Regardless of any brand. [ He'll turn his palm up the camera, a mixed expression pinching at the ends of his nose. Oh, what a nice welcome back present! ]

I'm feeling a bit rusty. Perhaps the MANTA would do a bit of good.

Comments

[gruffier]

At the very least it's a start. Thank you for all you've done to help thus far. I'm... certain it hasn't been the easiest for you.

[afflatusexarch]

In truth, I am more familiar with running to assist the star rather than living a peaceful life. While I wish everyone prosperity and seek a world in which people can thrive, I fear I might grow complacent the day it truly does.

[gruffier]

Haven't had many days off, I take it?

[afflatusexarch]

You know how it is here. There is plenty of rest to be had. Until there isn't.

[gruffier]

Agreed.

As tumultuous as this star may be, I fear it pales in comparison to my own. Valisthea is undergoing a great change— one that I had a large hand in partaking.

Apart of me feels... guilty not aiding in this new era.

[afflatusexarch]

I suppose that is true, given what I know of your star. My own had endured much and is now in the process of true healing. I assisted, yes, so I can relate to the feeling of needing to be present.

Yet I am ever confident that the star is in good hands, should I remain here.

[gruffier]

You're right. There are those left behind who I know will bring about the change needed to see our star flourish, yet it may take more than my lifetime to see the truth of the labor.

Is that your intention? To remain here?

[afflatusexarch]

It is something that I am considering, yes. There are important people here that I admit that I find myself hesitant to leave behind.

[gruffier]

Of that I can agree.

Your expertise would be highly regarded should you aid in the continued research of the rifts.

[afflatusexarch]

Mayhap. I wish there was more progress to report on that front. It's been near two years since we've initially arrived and yet have so little to truly show for it in the way of understanding how we got here.

[gruffier]

No progress comes overnight... yet I believe those answers are out there. I only pray we discover a breakthrough sooner rather than later.

[afflatusexarch]

I agree, it does not. However, two whole rotations of the star does seem a bit excessive.

[gruffier]

Just means we're closer to a breakthrough, no?

[afflatusexarch]

I hope so, for the sake of those that do not wish to remain.