herrstory | IC CONTACT

Are they? Are they here for me? [A pointed question, and one he asked with raised eyebrow. Much of this seemed to be as equally for Starr as it was for Chilton, and he wasn't sure where that line divided -- if it did, at all. That was where Jesse Custer and Frederick Chilton departed; the former too easily bought into his glorious impact, and the latter knew a manipulator when he was stroked by one. But Chilton couldn't blame Starr for seeking influence and power through a vessel, there was unrealized benefit in being the man behind the curtain, so to speak.

Chilton's question, ultimately rhetorical, did not hold his attention for long. Chilton scanned the crowd, profiling each and every participant.]

You have experience in playing this game, Starr.

[And Chilton, in contrast, felt woefully unprepared.]

I will need to be taught. How to be an emblem of hope.

You have it in you. I would not be standing beside you if you did not.

[ It was honest, at least. Starr would not be wasting his time if he did not see potential in Chilton. But it was also going to be a longer process since he did not immediately accept his 'flock.' Standing slowly, Starr placed a hand on Chilton's shoulder. ]

We will return here when you are ready. They will wait for you.

[In the fragile moment, as Starr rested a hand on his shoulder and Chilton turned his head towards him, his body tense and uncertain, did then Chilton bring a hand up to meet Starr's own. Resting on top of Starr's own. Willing, but hesitant. Ambitious, but fearful. Frederick Chilton was a project to be worked upon, someone who would want this power -- but he didn't know how to command it.]

We're going back?

[He gave Starr's hand a hopeful squeeze.]

We are. Perhaps it would be best to take smaller steps. And when you are ready...

[ Starr gave an easy gesture toward the former cult members -- there to be whatever Chilton wished. ]

I am here to support your endeavors. You may draw strength from my presence knowing that I stand behind you completely.

[ His other hand came up to rest on Chilton's hand, giving it a gentle squeeze. Starr was an efficient killing machine. But he was not so socially unaware that he didn't know when he needed to be gentle. When it came to delicate matters like the Messiah, even his world's ingrate Messiah, Starr could toss away his tougher exterior to better manipulate them into what he wanted. ]

Now then. Let us get you back for your afternoon appointments.

Right -- of course. [He spoke in that dazed, distant kind of way that a man swallowed by an emotional sea would speak in. Starr had a certain forceful effect, and when he coupled his steel demeanor with more gentle weaponry, he was a force that could not be denied.

Chilton, guided from behind, put forth no complaints as Starr steered him out.]

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