Gojiberry snorted at the rat's suggestion. Create a new name for themselves? Like Jayberry would ever accept something like that. No matter what name they used, they'd always be Gojiberry to her. She treated the names like they were some kind of sacred title. It was annoying, but after a second of consideration, the idea appealed to them more and more - reclaim themselves back. Not just another 'berry' for Jayberry to reconstruct her childhood fantasy, but their own person free from her control. "Hm, not a bad idea." They paused and looked down, considering the rat for a moment before their lips curled up and their teeth bared in a very strange but obvious grin. "You know, you ain't too bad, rat!" They did have to admit to themselves that it was refreshing talking to someone different from the family, even if it was literally just a rat.

One of their front paws came up, the top rubbing against the bottom of their chin. "Hm, what kind of name, though? What would you call me?" They paused and looked down, eyes thoughtful and considering. "What other ways? How can someone be strong without fighting?"

@Archimedes

Archimedes listened, and considered.

"Hm. I don't know you well enough. Perhaps David," he offered, indifferently, "or Spiral. I think it is something you'll need to choose yourself."

"As for strength--power. Strength of will, knowledge, bettering yourself--and those around you. Wisdom, knowing the right path, and having the inner strength to see it through, no matter what." He paused, eyeing the jet black stranger again, and again briefly washed his whiskers.

"I can show you, if you like." "Perhaps I could stop whoever is bothering you..?"

Agony remained silent, so Archimedes shrugged to himself. "If you decide so, you will find me by the Spire," he said, and then scurried off into the darkness.

@Agony

editing into an exit, as Agony's player is putting him on hold for now