[Charm - Voice]

[cursegod]

[The audio starts off with static that dissipates into the sound of something slithering through grass. Dara lets out hiss-like exhale before speaking:]

There is no spiritual realm here, so my hand is forced. My shrine is missing. [...] Or, more accurately, the part of me that was sealed in that shrine did not come with me. This can be both very fortunate for all of you or a catastrophe waiting to happen.

[A tree branch snaps after a lengthy pause.]

If you come across a box bound in a white cloth with spells written on it, leave it be. Opening it will do me the favor of finding it, but that will involve collecting your corpse. [There's a wry smile in her voice:] Since this is not my territory, I'm technically not duty bound to prevent the curse from spreading.

[...Not that she wants to admit that she'd go out of her way to stop it. It's her cursed hand, after all.]

In any case, do what you will. You're all humans, aren't you?

Comments

[cursegod]

[If it were hers or her dead twin's, sure. He'd be getting one that a villager used to stab her.]

Whether I suggest it or not, it all depends on your earnest desire. The spells won't work if you don't put your soul into the craft.

[motifs]

[Okay well thanks for cleaning it off then, that's very generous.]

I put my soul into every aspect of my art! Calligraphy for spells would be no different— and the art of spellcraft is bursting with intrigue. But I cannot proceed without a teacher. Will you guide me? I will keep a vigilant watch for your cursed box in return!

[cursegod]

To ask a human for lessons is one thing, but requesting knowledge from a god is another. I expect an offering in return...

[Just glossing over the fact that she offered a sword for free. It's fine for a Katana Friend!]

[motifs]

[A—hmm. At least this god isn't an evil cup turned colossal monster, he supposes.]

I would strike a deal with you, for a mutually beneficial arrangement! If you desire something of me that sullies my reputation as an artist or as a human, then I would refuse without hesitation. Nor will I strike a deal that requires something as demeaning as permanent subservience.

So, what sort of deal are you willing to make?

[cursegod]

A deal? No, no...I'm not referring to something so intense. [Sounds like a pain. Don't wanna.] I may not have a shrine here, but I still take food offerings.

[Girl just wants to eat and chill.]

[motifs]

[That's--!! Still kind of a deal...! But: oh. And here he was doing a whole thing.]

You made it sound quite serious, you know...

I am not a cook, but I could procure snacks for such lessons.

[cursegod]

Oh, but it is. A sense of exchange is different for a human compared to a god. A mutually beneficial relationship is skewed to begin with-- because what can a singular human offer to a higher entity? [She gives a dismissive wave even if he can't see it.]

In any case, snacks should be fine to start with.

[........Yeah, basically just feed her.]

[motifs]

I don't know precisely, but it does seem like you could use assistance in keeping track of your things, for a start.

[This is. Not intended to be a burn. This is an observation. Probably, it's just an observation.]

What kind of snacks do you prefer? My budget is limited.

[cursegod]

[Wow. Humans these days suck at supernatural etiquette--] I would not say that kind of thing to any other gods, if I were you.

[He's lucky that she's not sending a curse his way cuz they're Katana Friends!]

Anything you are fine with should work. Just don't treat me like a guinea pig for weird flavors.

[motifs]

Hmm. Noted.

[And ignored, but she doesn't have to know that— He's a staunch proponent of not mincing words to be polite, regardless of who he's talking to, soooo... sorry to all local gods.]

I will treat you as an acquaintance; a gift box of sweets is traditional.

[Not that he has the cash for it but He'll Figure It Out.]

[cursegod]

[She has developed the sense of "people not listening to her" thanks to the Misogiya kids. Dara makes a face at her charm. Right, noted.]

Sure, fine. Practice some calligraphy on your own first, then get back to me.