bakerstreet | texting generally speaking.

( info in journal! TLDR: flower fairy who disguises herself as a human. assumed CR & misfires welcome! )

( info in journal! TLDR: flower fairy who disguises himself as a human. assumed CR & misfires welcome! )

hey lena, just finished up my mission in new york.

[attached: img!]

see anything you like? i'll get you a pair before we head back to the ark

Oh, you would get them for me? You don't have to!

[But they are nice shoes...]

[ for shippy, m/m ]

Are you coming to visit Veth's camp?

I am in the process of getting my things together right now, Caleb Widogast.

[ there is a beat before the next send ]

Jester assures me that she shall provide something known as shades for me?

[The full name...]

Excellent. Veth is reassuring me that the security measures are 'top notch' but I have a fear. This is a reassurance coming from a halfling woman whose crossbow fires twice when it pleases it.

Shades...? Does she mean sunglasses?

[There was a shades/darkness pun here that he didn't capitalize on.]

[ We would like to blame it on some sort of Drow thing, but really it is that Essek is inordinately fond of saying it ]

I am sure that Veth has it under control, at the very least we know that no one is getting in that she does not want in. It is really the people otherwise inside that we should be worried for, yes?

[ he might have found something at Taste of Tal'Dorei, a tacky shirt with cats playing ukelele's-- that has Caleb's name on it, and it may be getting packed right meow ]

Shades was what she referred to? I am still getting used to the colloquelisms she uses. But if sunglasses is not what she meant, I have packed the parasol too.

Edited 2023-04-25 09:08 (UTC)

[No, no, it's fine. It's just... seeing or hearing his full name come from Essek does a thing to him. Nothing big. Let's ignore it for a moment and continue planning.

Also, if he sees him wearing that shirt, he'll request a painting of Essek wearing it from Jester. She'll never say no.]

It's not the outsiders I'm worried about. More the kids she invited with "blooming powers and -personalities-" that concern me. She wants me to hold a lecture and teach some minor spells, which I don't mind. But...

[There's always 'but'.]

Is it too much of me to ask to keep an eye out for troublemakers? Magical troublemakers, to be more precise. I will be too, but in case I miss something, it will be reassuring to know I have a backup.

Yes, I believe that is what she was referring to. If it is anything else, I am in the dark as well.

[There it is.]

[ What are you talking about, Essek would never wear a shirt with cat-wielding ukelele's, at least not out in public; he is hoping to finagle Caleb into wearing it, for awww's ]

I would use this as an opportunity, and also a stretch of your teaching muscles. Perhaps levying a bit of guidance to Veth would not be amiss. I have never known you to be anything but proactive when it comes to the proper use of magic.

[ And then it drops, the other shoe-- like the mic; another slang term from Jester ]

It just dawned on me that you were waiting for that opportunity, were you not? I suppose I need those shades now, after that one.

Edited 2023-04-25 09:38 (UTC)

[Worst part is it wouldn't be that hard to do it, it's cats. And especially if he accounts that the kids would have a field trip out of seeing a teacher wear such a thing.]

Veth is good with magic, but she's also in the process of learning a lot of new stuff so I think it's a bit overwhelming. Exciting, but a bit too much all at once. And no, I would never allow magic to be misused, but there are a lot of kids and I have only one pair of eyes.

[He's not expecting them to fling fireballs, but 'bonfire' cantrip can cause some serious trouble when not overlooked.]

You know I never miss those. Even if this one was purely coincidental and started by Jester. I'll look for some shades for myself- I'm expecting a lot of 'light' cantrips this time around.

Edited (html) 2023-04-25 09:55 (UTC)

[ Of course it would not be hard at all, and it happens to be in Caleb's size; thankfully Essek has this magic ability to be able to determine someone's size by a hug; and he has been hugged by Caleb more than a few times.. might have even hugged back, yes ]

Well, Caleb. If you wish for a second pair of eyes; I would be more than happy to provide that for you. In fact it would be my pleasure. Between the two of us, we should manage just fine in keeping most trouble at bay; however it may be a good plan of action to convince Jester to prep some healing spells. Just in case.

[ tongue in cheek, he is seeing the aim here in this by-conversation ]

I will accept your 'illuminating' advice, yes.

[That is one exceptional magical ability. And he will get more hugs in foreseeable future, yes. There's nothing wrong with hugs, as taught by Jester. (Listen if he suffers, Essek suffers too).]

Thank you very much, I appreciate it. I will find a way to make it up to you, as I know that this was supposed to be more of a vacation for you, not a job.

We acquired some mass healing spells on scrolls and Veth has medical kits too so we are covered on that front. We just don't want to come to that front.

[He just smiles fondly at that last text, accepting his defeat.]

I'm happy to be of assistance.

Did you know, I am not coming to visit for a mere vacation? There is actually this man that I have wanted to see again for the longest time, and I have been told he will be there. Thus, if I am spending time with this man, I think that it will not be wasted, whatsoever.

[ This is how Essek Thelyss says he has a crush on Caleb Widogast without actually saying he has a crush on him; it's finesse. ]

I will make sure to have the mage armor spell prepped as well, I can likely weave something in it to encompass more than one individual as well-- though I may require your assistance to do so.

Edited 2023-04-25 10:50 (UTC)

[Wow, that is very smooth and Caleb might have the same red color on his cheeks that matches his hair. Who would've thought?]

I will make sure that the man has free schedule after their mid-morning classes on theoretical and practical magic. I am sure it would be easy to arrange free time in the afternoon and evening. Possibly night as well.

[He's allowed to subtly flirt back, right? Even if there isn't an ounce of subtlety in this.

Also, Veth arranged that they share a cabin, which Caleb still doesn't know about (for his own sake and blood pressure.)]

That will be tricky, but not impossible. I'm sure we will manage to figure it out.

[ Essek was not expecting that and for all that Caleb's skin was now ablaze, the colour on Essek's own cheeks bloomed like ripe plums.

Jester likely had her own plans as well; nice to know that the Nein were attempting to 'parent trap' them, as the foolish wiznerds deserved. ]

The world is not ready for when we collaborate, but I suppose we shall have to make them ready nonetheless.

[ But back to the subject at hand, which was the far more alluring subject ]

All of that show-boating around me in Aeor may have led me to believe that this man is a very good dancer.

Would I be wrong in thinking that?

Edited (words are hard) 2023-04-25 11:12 (UTC)

[For all his intelligence, he's blind to the plans that Veth and Jester have put into motion. Completely forgot that Fjord would be there for 'survival on the sea'; Veth and her 'survival in the forest' with her husband, and then there's the wiznerds. It was all so perfectly cut, and Caleb is still clueless and completely distracted by the mere knowledge that Essek will be there.]

You know what they say- if you rip the bandaid off fast, it might not hurt.

[Jester is such a gossip sometimes.]

That is a very good conclusion, yes. I am both a good dancer and I enjoy dancing quite a lot.

It has been a while, however. And I never got a chance to dance under the open sky.

[ Really, the people who were rather invested in this working, would be there; barring of course Beau and Yasha-- whom, to Essek's knowledge was on trip of their own. Valid, considering. ]

Well then, put plenty of ink and parchment on your travel-list because I foresee time not only for dancing, but some close-quarters spent working a fair bit of magic between us.

[ he does not realize, of course, that he used the term 'working magic between them'. It was meant in a purely unironic way. ]

However, I am looking forward to that dance very much, Caleb Widogast.

[ That is definitely not a hint that Essek would not mind being swept around in Caleb's arms, perish the thought. ]

Edited 2023-04-25 12:01 (UTC)

[He's not sure how come those two aren't there; the last he heard from Beau was grumbling about "nosy, shirt fully unbuttoned Martha and her fresh cheese" and Caleb was afraid to ask for details. You learn when not to ask.]

I never leave without ink and parchment, and books where I can write down ideas and spells. The Working Magic is a two-way street my friend.

[Essek maybe didn't realize it, but Caleb picked it up and decided to be nice and share the 'findings'.]

And now, I am looking forward to it as well.

[He gets lost in thought on whether floating off the ground is cheating in dancing. A mesmerizing sight ~~still cheating though~~]

[ How did Essek forget about those book holsters? The one thing that had caused him to visibly think about how he might be in danger from the wizard with the cleverly modified Bigby's Hand. If Essek is being honest with himself, that was attractive.

Until he (in his imagination) placed Caleb in the 'Ukelele Cat' shirt not-excluding book holsters, and thus Essek found himself charmed by the adorableness of it. The two of them were disastering all over the place and thus this vacation was going to be real painful for a lot of people, real quick. ]

You are thinking, I can hear it over this sending stone. A pearl for your thoughts?

[ Essek detected a hmm over the line, he is on to you ]

[He actually acquired a new set, thanks to Veth. He still has the old ones, but the new ones are more body suited, the straps don't fall off and the leather is nice and dark against his white shirt.

He will treasure the ukelele cat shirt, maybe even ask around to learn how to play ukelele for maximum effect.]

Well, I didn't want to be rude by asking, but since you inquired by yourself-

Would you mind dancing with me without floating off the ground? That is the charm of the dance, the strides. I wouldn't mind if you stepped on me

[He sends that and then panics momentarily as he realizes it's a bit of a-]

If you stepped on my feet

[That probably didn't help.]

[ That was very, sweet-- In a way that rather touched Essek; that vulnerability. Floating was something that was comfortable to him; it was a way for him to control the situation. After all, he had a brother-- a brother who climbed ladders to try to overcome the float and that usually left them at an impasse with both their heads touching the ceiling.

It instilled a sense of 'do not mess with' which had gotten him through court politics.

The thought of being that intimate with Caleb, well Caleb asked and that made him smile to himself. ]

I think that if I were floating, it would take the fun out of seeing if you could sweep me off my feet, yes?

[ That was decidedly a yes-

The stepping on comment would be addressed at a far later date however, if that was something Caleb was interested in. ]

[He wasn't going to ask about it, as it didn't really matter to him in the grand scheme of things, especially if it made Essek uncomfortable. But he thought it would be more... personal. Intimate, dare he say. It's been a while since he allowed himself to think of that, of wanting it... maybe it's fine this time.]

I suppose so. I also like a challenge, so I will be looking forward to this. Who knows, perhaps you amaze me, once again, with some of your hidden skills

[Listen- it's a slip of a tongue that he caught too late. ~~Maybe though--~~]

[ Not uncomfortable, at all.

More like anticipatory nervousness.

Essek was not expirienced in the details of things such as dating or courtship; though his expirience came largely from books (most of which had been borrowed recently from Jester, altrustic soul that she was). Perhaps he was dipping his toes in with Caleb, finding a good balance for this.. chemistry that was between them; that he felt even if he was uncertain precisely where it would lead ]

It's impossible to fully know the steps until we pull each other onto the dance floor, however I look forward to finding out what our own unique rhythem is.

[ that was a promise, Caleb Widogast. A promise wrapped in the scent of plum wine, lavender and the snows of Aeor ]

[As wizards would say- it is an experimental spell, perhaps one that will capture them both with its strength.]

That is inevitable.

I should probably go back to packing myself. I won't deny, I could spend the entire day talking with you. However, if I end up forgetting something, Veth won't hesitate to rob me of my teleportation spells.

I shall see you at the camp in 24 hours, ja?

[He does need to go pack, he's not lying. His little house is a mess of books and clothes and research papers. Sorting out what he needs and doesn't will take a moment... and he'll allow himself to daydream while at it.]

I would not miss it for the world, Chathiu

[ a bit of Undercommon that was casually slipped in, something for Caleb to dwell on what the potential meaning was; a delightful little mystery that could also occupy the other wizard's mind while he was preparing for the trip to the Camp in Nicodranas. There were things to be packed; treats he'd collected from Emon for the rest of the Nein-- his swim outfit (thankfully not picked out by Jester) and that shirt.

Which would definitely be given as a gift to his favorite wizard; and he was absolutely certain that Caleb would, what Jester would say, 'rock it'. ]

[ She does not actually want to be doing this but Loki has just enough sense in her to try to reach out. ]

Are you busy?

That depends on what for.

[For her? Probably. But there's no help for the instinctive squirm.]

[ She knows logically what made him phrase it that way, and under different conditions she wouldn't worry about it. However, she finds herself hesitating before she finally answers. ]

I needed to let you know something. Things might be getting rough soon and I may not be much like myself for a while. I needed to let you know, as it may affect my abilities to remember certain things.

[ She can already feel the crawling static that is the thing tucked away inside her. It's not clear if it's simply bored now that nothing is pushing either of them to build the wretched things that she had been working on, or if it has something else in mind.

Either way, she needed to tell him something was going sideways before she lost her chance. ]

[Well. He likes hearing from her, and he likes the openness between them, but he doesn't like that much at all.]

I understand.

[Enough, at least. Certainly enough to start with a strong affrimative.]

Still, I'd like to understand more.

When I left, it was in a rush and I didn't think anything would follow. I thought if I was away from Asgard, Odin, and her projects, I'd shake it all off. Something came with me though and I'm still trying to dislodge it.

And, as it turns out, I'm less mailable when I know who I am.

[Not a perfect understanding, but the beginning of a better shape. He does pause to consider and roll the thoughts carefully toward setting into place.]

I know who you are.

I know and I hope you're aware I'm glad about that. It's been a pleasure to let someone know me the way you do.

[ Even if he doesn't know everything, they share enough similarities that meeting him has helped her put together fragments that she'd thought had been lost decades ago. ]

I am aware.

[It's part of the odd uniqueness of them. It's also part of the difficult squirming that needs working through to get to the next thought.]

Would you tell me if I could help?

I would try.

[ She's hesitant to send off the next bit but there's a part of her that isn't sure if it's her own emotion, or her hungry companion trying to keep her isolated.

Out of sheer spite, she sends the rest of the message. ]

If you have some time, come check in. Don't worry about getting in touch prior, just drop by. If I seem to be in the middle of a project, stop me. If I say I'm going somewhere or seem to be packing, it's not my doing. I don't want to leave this place.

[ She doesn't say 'without you coming along with me' but it's close. She doesn't need him to stay with her long term, but she wants to help him find a place where he is both appreciated and able to flourish into the person he wants to be. ]

[That takes a bit of chewing on. There's something inherently prickly about being themselves, after all, and a careful path to tread between the barbs.]

If you're sure, then I promise.

Thank you.

[ There's a minute before she sends the next message but she didn't want to leave it unsaid. ]

You really are a gift of a person and I'll be glad to find my way back to see you.

[It's an unknown number, but the author seems to know who he is sending it to. Probably.]

I'm curious. How many versions of Earth can you travel to?

How many do you think there are?

More than I could possibly count.

In the infinity of possibility when the planet is there it does not always create life that believes in generally the same thing, which seems to limit the way in which entities like gods can move. This is all more than a bit theoretical and more information from people who aren't exactly human is where this line of questions has taken me.

How much do you know about how gods can move?

They can freely travel where there are believers, but those methods are limited by the beliefs in place. That's just my observations, I don't actually know.

But you want to know?

I do. Otherwise understanding is incomplete.

All understanding is incomplete.

True enough. Perhaps "less incomplete" is more accurate?

It's certainly more honest.

I do my best for honesty. Which does seem to upset other people, but that is their problem.

But also something you note?

That it upsets people? Yes.
Not everyone is troubled by it at least.

What to do with those that are?

For those who don't care for honesty? I can't help them and I don't want to manage a library of lies and half-truths for them. I will say that hostility and meanness dressed up in honesty is not the same. Then I'm just being an asshole and that is on me.
For those who are open to honesty even when it is hard or awful? With them there is a chance for something friendly.

Why register it at all?

Don't think I haven't noticed questions instead of answers. But I answer to engender friendliness, like so;
I can't help but register the thinking minds around me.

Can a question not be a perfectly serviceable answer?

It can be. Is this something you often do?

Exactly often enough.

That is quite the precise way to use something. Have you at least been moderately interested by this exchange?

What's the point of anything that isn't at least quite interesting?

What of the menial yet necessary tasks that make the world work? Or are there even those who find that interesting?

Do I look like someone who's ever done menial work?

Not even a little, but were we not speaking to general worth?

[info, etc in journal]

there was a bloody handprint on your shoulder! what do you mean nothing happened?!

Spilled some ketchup while eating, not a big deal.

on your own hand???
and then you touched your own shoulder????

I'm messy.

i know you're lying.

If everything's okay now what does it matter?

i want to know when you get hurt, that's why.

Wasn't my blood.

... not sure if that makes me feel better, or worse, honestly.

If you want to know what happened you have to promise me you won't freak out.

okay, i promise!

A bounty hunter was sniffing around and asking too many of the wrong kinds of questions. It's been handled.

why didn't you just tell me.. we could have run! you didn't have to hurt anyone!

It was in the moment and I had to think fast. I wasn't gonna risk ~~your~~ our safety.

i'd rather get hurt a little than kill someone else.

Some things aren't up to you.

yeah, i know. you've mentioned that before.

My choices were do something or do nothing. I'm not going to allow a situation that leaves you vulnerable.

i'd rather you did and just let me deal with getting hurt. but i know you won't.

Like hell am I going to let you get hurt. I can't believe you're holding that against me.

i'm not!
look, i'm not holding it against you.. i understand why you did it. and i do appreciate you looking out for me.

You're welcome.

Look. There's always going to be a next time, and I can't promise anything but

if something like this happens again I'll try to tell you.

i

...thanks, wolfwood. i appreciate it. thanks for always looking out for me.

Well. I'm not gonna stop so you don't have to make a big deal about it every time.

[but Vash saying as much means a lot]

why not? only seems right that i thank you for it, if you're putting yourself at risk for me.

You'll get used to it and then it won't be a big deal anymore.

[Wolfwood entirely expects to step in where Vash is concerned on a consistent basis.]

anyone putting their life on the line for me is a big deal, no matter how often it happens.

so.. guess you better get used to being thanked.

[ It'll always be a big deal, to Vash. ]

That's just you being way too nice.

you always say i'm being too nice! no matter what!

Am I wrong?

well, i don't think i'm wrong to be nice to people, unless they really give me a good reason not to be.

I feel like I've given you enough reason to not be nice to me at least once.

huh? why do you say that? you haven't given me any reason to be unkind to you, wolfwood.

My attitude isn't always as sunny as yours, I'm very much motivated by self-preservation, I'm way more okay with violence than you. I'd get it if you didn't feel like being kind sometimes.

Those are just things that make you, you. At the end of the day.. I think you're a kind, selfless guy who wants to protect others. I wouldn't change that.

I don't really think of myself as a kind person, but when you say shit like that I believe you. I know you'd never say anything that wasn't true.

Heh, do you think you would have imagined saying that when we first met?

Hell no. Guess you have an effect on people.

[People meaning Wolfwood.]

You usually seem like that's annoying. But I think I like seeing it have an effect on you, y'know.

Hey. You're annoying but I still like you. But as long as you're going around being an influence you'd better not change me too much.

Wouldn't want you to change much, Nick. I like you the way that you are.

You'd have made me blush right there if I was the blushing type.

You sure you're not? That sounds like a challenge.

You're welcome to try.

You sure about that?

Yeah, why not? I don't think you can do it.

Heh. You might live to regret that.

So, what's school like?

About what you expect after a devil attack.

Oh. So you've got the day off, then?

There's a silver lining to every cloud.

It's a shame. I wanted to know more about school.

Well, if you're free, let's do something. I've got nothing going on.

There is a rich catalogue of school dramas for your edification. Delinquent Girl is pretty good.

Though, the show is geared towards a female audience, and you're a guy. I reckon.

[ As a technically asexual life form whose body matches his moods- ]

Only because I like being macho.

[ He is not macho. He’s a scaredy cat pretty boy. ]

Are they accurate?

can you quit leaving nails in my bed you fucking gremlin?

[ just gung-ho guns things ]

Edited 2023-04-23 14:35 (UTC)

Uhm.
I'd love to indulge your foul-mouthed complaint, but there's a teeny little problem.
I don't have to.

the hell are you even putting them in my bed for anyway?
i'm not one of your little dolls.

uh, well... the last thing i remember is you screaming "let's hunt humans."

Firstly, I don't scream like a certain bumbling fugitive.

[ To be accurate she screeches like a nail on the chalkboard. ]

Secondly, "humans" is my most charitable label for the Bad Lads Gang.

ha ha.. so noted.

they are kinda rough around the edges but they're pretty nice if you get to know them!

They are the *Bad* Lads Gang, not the Rough-Around-the-Edges-Gang, Vash. How naive could you possibly be?

The Plants belong to Master Knives. Small fries should stick to highway robbery!

i've met them before, they're not THAT bad!

technically they belong to nai and me, if you want to go by his own logic.

According to you, no one is bad. I'm going with my intuition on the marauding bandits, blondie.

[ Isn't she blonde?—Shush. ]

Hey, I'm a Plant as well. There'll be no excluding me because Knives is the heir to the throne, so to speak. You're too immature to inherit the coming world, but talk to your brother, and you'll come around to the word of God. I'm sure of it.

oh! blondie huh? did you hear wolfwood call me that, haha? that's one of his favorite nicknames for me.

does he call you that too?

haha, you're right i'm sorry! i guess you own them too! i don't think nai will see to eye to eye on that, unfortunately.

Is that so? It came to me naturally, since you are so alarmingly blonde.

What that boar Wolfwood calls me is *unrepeatable*. His nicknames are the worst. The. Worst.

I have a stronger claim to the Plants than your beloved humanity, but I have no intention of contradicting my Lord's will. He knows what is best for us. Funny enough, you are alike in that respect.

[ The brothers both believe they know best. ]

well, all three of us are blonde! am i that much blonder than you and nai?

ha ha! they can feel a little mean, but he's usually just teasing.

if nai really believed you and i had any real claim to the plants, he wouldn't take them when i ask him not to. at the end of the day... i think he believes he's the only one who should possess them.

I'll have to check. You're quite adept at making yourself scarce after some catastrophe follows in your wake.

Nico probably hates me. Not that I care what that chimney thinks.

Having a claim to something isn't an unconditional right. So long as Master Knives is around the Plants are first and foremost his. I advise you against suggesting that I feel entitled to his property.

You and Devo make whips look way too easy

Do I need to pick you up from the ER?

The ER is for quitters!

I won't say no to a bag of ice though. And your secret. Is there an invitation-only dominatrix class for this kinda thing or were you a cattle rustler in a past life?

Good lord, Harley, please try not to injure yourself anymore than you undoubtedly have. That thing is not a toy and it will have no qualms about taking an eye.

A friend taught me, actually. But it definitely came in useful with the whole dominatrix thing. Showed me how to refine my fighting skills although I'm pretty sure I fight too dirty for any official rules. Guy's real professional.

Usually when somebody tells me I'll lose an eye if I keep playin around I ignore it but in this case I would like that ice first.

Wait.

OMG. I knew it. You slept with Harrison Ford, didn't you???

Harrison Ford? He's an actor, the only thing he's a professional at is lying. I'd be amazed if he actually knew how to handle himself with a whip in a real fight.

No, Ted Grant. Old boxer. Used to have a gym on the East End.

He taught me the basics, but let's be honest, I made the whole thing my own.

I wouldn't deny that even if I COULD get this meshuga thing to go thwap instead of thwunk.

Your boxer guy know any fancy moves with a mallet? I'm entirely self-taught, but I'm always open to learnin new tricks when it comes to my own shtick.

If it makes you feel any better, it took even ME a while to get the hang of thing and at this point I've got a good ten years under my belt.

Probably. But I dunno, Harls. I don't think anyone could ever be as inventive as you are with a mallet.

I AM pretty spectacular!

You're right. Maybe I'M the one that needs a protege! Holly didn't quite work out, too much like you with that whole independent feline fatale thing goin on.... Where does Batbreath get all his kids? Is there like an agency I gotta go through or like an orphanage with a very loose definition of after school activities or what?

You're a real one of a kind, Harley.

And I'll take responsibility for Holly, can't expect a feral cat to know what she's doing with a kitten that isn't hers. I did the best I could, but I think some of my less desirable traits rubbed off on her.

[ she was just a kid out there on the streets, even younger than her. selina did everything that she could to keep her safe but she was just a kid herself; she couldn't keep her from the worst of it. they all cope with their shit in their own way. ]

But I couldn't tell you where the Bat finds his little bat family. Seems like every time I turn away for longer than thirty seconds around there's another bat or bird or similarly aligned little brat trying to narc on me.

[ continued from here. ]

can't promise i can keep the party going all night, but if things shake out, let me know?

[ and now she's sitting here, with his genuinely cool girlfriend, a suggestion she was admittedly not thrilled about just because she had no idea what to expect but she's feeling very mature right now. ]

don't worry, i'll make sure she can throw a strong punch just in case she gets into any trouble with her newfound lockpicking skills.

She doesn't need any help on that one.

you have a little bit of a type, huh?

Apparently.

In my defense, though, my first girlfriend didn't fit that mold.

you were still figuring things out, it can take time for preferences to develop. i'm sure she was very nice regardless.

me? i've always been drawn to making bad decisions, especially if i'm the problem.

[ continued from here. ]

[ ugh, she hates when her stupid bullshit gets turned around on her -- being unpleasant gives her a surprising advantage and, much like the felines she takes her moniker from, selina prefers that higher ground. leia's offering is tempting, really, but so's making some money and she's not ready to commit to one or the other just yet. she's got to feel things out a little more. ]

And let's say this trip were to be meant for a bit of leisure; what else do you have on the agenda, exactly?

Just so I know what my offers are. Of course.

[ Leia does have a way of forcing the rogues in her life to commit to something, that's for sure... ]

I'll be in a celebratory mood if we pull off what I hope to. I think we could take a bit of a detour on the way back. Your pick; I have a ship.

[ come on let Leia show you ~~a whole new world~~ the galaxy ]

[ a detail she's quickly learning. ]

When, Princess. No if. You'll be in a celebratory mood after we pull off your little heist because I rarely fail.

What exactly is it you're hoping to steal, anyway?

Edited (whoops, icon.) 2023-04-28 07:21 (UTC)

[ Meanwhile Leia's wondering if she has a thing for people that call her Princess... she certainly has a type, she reflects ruefully. ]

That is why I asked -- I'm not exactly an accomplished thief.

Tarkin stashed a backup of the plans for the original Death Star with his old 2IC. I can't sleep at night knowing they're out there somewhere.

[ She makes the admission only because it seems like Selina is agreeing to go for personal reasons rather than as a job. It's a good idea to go tie up this loose end, sure, but it isn't high priority enough to the Alliance to justify Leia pulling resources to make this an assigned mission. Hence -- she's just going to do it herself. ]

No one's perfect. You have your charms, though.

[ selina wouldn't call the issue so easily settled, point of pride and all that, but it's safe to say she's leaning towards that direction, yes. experiences -- not necessarily like that, gosh, but yes definitely that also -- are just as valuable as any amount of credits she could make off such a job, are they not? and selina did suggest complicating their... acquaintanceship, didn't she? ugh. ]

And really, I've got to hand it to you. You certainly brought me an INTERESTING one.

[ high-risk, high stakes -- what's even the point if there isn't any challenge? she lets the indecision linger for a moment longer, then-- ]

I'm in. But I'm keeping my options open for the time being. Not like I'd expect full payment upfront. I waive my down payment and we'll work out your bill once the job is done.

Gee thanks

[ She sure does have a type. Leia rolls her eyes down at her datapad as she reads this response. Interested as she might be, Leia has her priorities in order and she has an agenda here, and she's not going to complain or wheedle or otherwise embarrass herself by pressing for a commitment. The important part is that they get the job done. ]

You're a real pal, you know that? [ yes this is sarcasm, no Leia never helps out in text conversations by somehow denoting said sarcasm ] I'm still gathering intel but I can swing by with it in a few days and we can come up with a plan.

Aren't I, though?

[ selina's pretty adept at reading sarcasm, unsurprisingly. takes sarcastic to know sarcastic or whatever -- she just throws it right back. surely leia can imagine the smug little smirk on her face in response, the playful, teasing lilt in her voice... ]

Gives me time to settle my affairs and make the necessary preparations on my end in the meantime. Though, I've got to ask: you've got a whole network of people all across the galaxy, don't you? None of them as good as me, but surely some you trust a hell of a lot more than me.

How much of the decision to enlist me is based on skill?

[ read: gosh, leia, how much do you wanna smooch her?? ]

( assumed cr: ✓, misfire: ✓, past or current game mates AU: ✓, sexting: ✓, m/f: ✓, f/f: ✓, silco for shipping: ✘, sevika for shipping: ✘

i work today so my tags will be spotty! )

Two things.
One: I did not appreciate the bomb you left in my room.
Two: I did however, appreciate the fact it was a smoke bomb instead of an actual bomb.

at least it woke u up!

You can wake me up normally you know that right?

why wake up the boring way? it got u energized right?

Waking up energized and waking up in an adrenaline rush are two different things. But sure.

My entire room is pink. How did you even manage that?

a girl doesn't expose their secrets.

My favourite part about teaching is seeing the gradual decline in a student's handwriting from the beginning of the test to the end.
How, at first, they are still trying to come off flawless, while near the finish line, they're just trying to survive.
I take pride in teaching survival to young people. Even if just in the guise of a Japanese test.

You know?

I think so.

I'd like to teach. Even if I know I still have so much to learn.

The real lesson begins once you start.
Books will only teach you so much. Very ironically, huh.

It's what I might have expected.

Living life is very different than reading a book.

Do you think we would be happier creatures if our lives were like novels?
I guess it would depend on the novel...

I think it would too. I wouldn't want to live in any sort of tragedy.

Describe the most unhappy ending you could imagine. After that, it's just a question of staying clear of it.

I'll think of it.

I have already had what many would consider a happy ending. The stories never consider what comes after.

I almost don't want to say it, but if you've already been given what you wanted, it seems like it can only get worse from there.
Maybe that's why people romanticize longing so much. Because it's safer to want and not have, than to have and lose.

Oh, I was such a little girl when I dreamed those dreams.

I'm sure I'll find new things to long for.

❰ info ❱

All done.

[ img.jpg ]

Edited (typo) 2023-04-23 15:41 (UTC)

Treffy.

[That's it. That's the text.]

[ groan. ]

Yes, Sypha?

You do respond to it! I was just curious. That is so cute.

I'm never talking to you again.

It's not nice to lie. You love talking to me. In fact, that is the best part of your day.

Who said I was lying? I'm getting ready to throw this thing away right now.

I said. And if you throw it away, I will just come and call you Treffy in person.

... I think that's what you want, actually! I've figured it out.

Oh, no! You've discovered my hideous secret. I want to spend time with you.

It's okay. You're very bad at hiding that secret, so it's actually never been a secret at all.

... How many of my secrets do you know?

It's a secret.

Best you don't know, for your peace of mind.

Sylpha. Darling.

You know this is going to be more annoying for me.

If I am indeed your "darling," what does it matter? It's not like I share secrets.

[Not even with a certain vampire pal. She has boundaries, okay.]

I'm curious! I want to know what you think you've figured out.

Or what are you worried I've figured out?

I'm not *worried*.

Then relax.

Alright, fine. I'll relax. Happy?

Happy. You get worked up over the strangest things.

I'm just not used to people being able to read me like this.

Well... You have been alone for a long time.

Yeah. But not anymore.

And not ever again.

Oh, threatening me now?

I try to be peaceful but sometimes that's the only way you listen.

I listen sometimes!

Thats why I said sometimes! When you're in a mood.

I don't get into moods.

You juuust slipped into one.

What? No I didn't.

I know these things.

You're making shit up now, Sypha.

No, that "shit" is just your truth, Treffy.

You saying it's the "truth" doesn't make it true.

Sometimes I think you're difficult just for my attention. It's cute.

If I wanted attention I would just ask for it.

Perhaps. You have my attention, anyway. No need to ask.

Right. So what do you want me to do with it?

Whatever you like. I trust your judgement.

Big mistake. Huge.

Believe me, I know! But sometimes I enjoy a little chaos.

That makes me the lucky one, right?

Absolutely. Unless I should find someone else?

Woah now. Why would you do that?

I couldn't tell if you were being sarcastic about being the lucky one or not.

No, I meant it. I'm lucky.

I'm glad you feel that way. I'm lucky, too.

It's pretty weird how all that horrible shit brought us together, isn't it?

Right? And to think, I didn't even like you at first.

Well, I didn't like you either.

I am pretty sure I didn't like you more.

It's fine. I hated Alucard the most.

How things change, huh?

Almost funny, isn't it?

Funny. Sweet. Heartwarming?

Don't be so sappy.

You like sappy. Don't try to hide it!

A little bit of sappy is okay, but you go too far!

No such thing.

You're saying that because you want to be more sappy.

Maaaaybe.

So?

Just admit it. I'm that irresistible. You want to be all cute with me.

I mean, if you don't want me to be cute with you...

Who else do you want to be cute with?

Oh, I don't know...

Care to guess?

I don't know if I want to guess.

You're probably not wrong.

Go ahead, Sypha.

Go ahead and...?

Say it. It's okay.

What? No. I don't trust you when you say it's okay.

What? I'm being serious!

I want to be cute with you! Okay? Okay. Don't call my bluff.

You sure there's no one else?

Mostly.

What does "mostly" mean?

I am an affectionate being. I have a lot of love to give. I don't think you can handle it all.

[As long as she's not pissed off.]

But I can handle some of it. Or share it, right?

Of course. Always.

Good. Alright, that's good.

Were you worried?

Not really. I trust you.

I trust you, too. Even if I tease you. It's just for fun.

I know. I wouldn't let you get away with it otherwise.

Oh, you let me? I see.

Well, you know. A little bit.

I thought so, Treffy.

Ugh.

I always worry it will not be as cute, but it is!

Not cute, but okay, sure.

Very cute. I am glad you agree.

This once I'll admit it.

Your generosity knows no bounds.

I'm a paragon.

I wouldn't go that far.

Okay, but I'm cute.

Daresay the cutest.

Cuter than you?

Do you think you're cuter than me?

Nope.

[ He's not that stupid. ]

Very good. See, you're clever sometimes!

I was taught well.

You're welcome.

texting generally speaking.

lacy ✿ original

Wrench | WATCH_DOGS series | ota

Dr. Robotnik | Sonic Movies | OTA

kamui | x/1999

brambles ✿ original

Lenalee Lee | D.Gray-Man | OTA

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Ichimonji Norimune | Touken Ranbu | OTA

Essek Thelyss | Critical Role | OTA

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Oops, hands slipped-- accidentally made an icon.

Oh my, would you look at that. A sheepleb :D

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now I want Nicodranas date Caleb and Essek, thank you very much--

I mean- RP land is free real estate

Excellent-- that means I'm coming for you, ja.

Perfect 💖

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loki odinson | where mischief lies

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xiao / genshin impact

Jeremy Redd | Supervillain OC | OTA

Caleb Widogast | Critical Role | OTA

jessica jones — ( 𝒅𝒂𝒓𝒌 𝒗𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒂𝒏𝒕 ) — ota

kaz brekker | six of crows / grishaverse

Nicholas D. Wolfwood | Trigun Stampede

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