Text; Anonymous

[vocarrah]

My dear Citizens of Hadriel,

I'm glad to see that our circumstances haven't prohibited you from forming bonds with each other. On the other hand, aren't those same bonds difficult to navigate at times? I'm not only speaking of romantic bonds, either. Sexual, familial, bonds of camaraderie...

And I've no doubt our predicament is a unique stressor that can strain those bonds as well. And so many of you are suffering in silence. And it isn't just the present bonds, either, is it? Many of you are shadowed by your pasts, as well.

I want to offer myself as a supportive shoulder. If you've been seeking a second opinion, or advice, or anything of the sort, please, consider this an open invitation.

I care not to find out about your secrets; if you'd prefer to speak privately or anonymously, I will not begrudge you, nor doubt the sincerity of your claim.

I only seek to provide succor to those who have been needing it. Love can be...rather difficult to talk about it, can't it?

Comments

[vocarrah]

It's true. And secret or not, I'd say emotions are a heavy, heavy things. Those aware of that fact may be holding all that weight within themselves, don't you think?
If I help one person, I'd be happy.

On that note, is anything troubling you?

[such_a_teez]

How kind. I'm not sure I'm as charitable to strangers. [Or willing to give out a single secret of his own.]

I'm afraid to say that I'm hardly an interesting subject. I miss my family, of course, but I'm better off here than most. It's a bachelor's privilege, I might not have a love life to worry about, but that's often beneficial.

[vocarrah]

Certainly, every relationship can be a double-edged sword, can't it? A bachelor's privilege, indeed.

[He doesn't write it, but not being as charitable to strangers is likely also a benefit. But Ianchus is this way, and he simply can't help himself. He's a needy sort, in a way.]

[such_a_teez]

Exactly. My brother is determined to marry me off but I'll have none of it.

[And that's already more than he was willing to say to begin with. Tyki's really starving for company today, it seems. Or Ianchus is just that good, regardless of anonymity.]

[vocarrah]

[He laughs at that behind the screen; ah! Isn't he all-too familiar with that struggle, even if not personally familiar]

I see. I don't know the man, but I'll hold out hope that you continue to dodge his machinations. Freedom is an important status to protect.

[such_a_teez]

I'm here, and he's not. So for now, I've traded the freedom to be without a relationship for the lack of freedom that Hadriel has to offer.

I'm damned either way, but I'll enjoy myself despite the circumstances.

[vocarrah]

That's all we can do in this situation, isn't it? Give ourselves entirely to Fate while taking full advantage of Her machinations.

[such_a_teez]

You make it sounds like we're in an illicit relationship with a wealthy older fate. I'm not sure how I feel about intangible sugar daddies.

[vocarrah]

[Well! He certainly does appreciate a man whose mind goes to a place like that.]

It sounds like a delightful romp to me, frankly. I do so enjoy new experiences.

[such_a_teez]

[Great minds? Or easily tempted minds? Either way, this conversation has gotten a lot more interesting.]

I suppose I've had worse offers than spectral lovers with power. By far worse. And like you I love new things to enjoy. If it's interesting and exciting, you can usually count me in.

[vocarrah]

Really, people don't take enough risks. I'm glad to see someone who appreciates the spice that a little chance can add.

[such_a_teez]

If you weren't just an anonymous set of letters on a screen, we might be able to be friends. It's rare to find someone so interesting and open minded.

[vocarrah]

Lucky for both of us, I'm in the city. I'm sure you'll find me; I quite look forward to meeting.

[such_a_teez]

I assumed as much, hard to chit chat through these devices without being stuck in town. Until we meet, good luck with your little advice column.