#NRU: Exchange 22

[foetuneteller]

[ for his second letter, Sam receives an entirely different colored paper. this paper almost appears aged with a wax stamp depicting a snowflake. the writing inside was clearly an attempt to cover the writer’s original handwriting ]

Sam,

Figuring out who I am in person would ruin the fun, would it not? I will admit, I’ve been trying to figure out who my own penpal is as well. It’s only a few more days until I give you your final gift in person though.

The sales seem to keep your shop even more busy than usual. Of course, to ensure the secret part of secret penpal, I’ve had to source my present from other places. I still have enjoyed many of these sales myself, though, so don’t worry about the lost business.

As we get closer to the holidays I find myself getting more and more relieved at the prospect of it being over-with. How do you feel about the holidays? Any gifts you’ve particularly enjoyed in prior years?

- Your Penpal

Oh, poor, sweet Penpal.

I will find out who you are! I have a few tricks up my sleeve. But! Best not to worry about that now.

I love my holiday sales, I really do, but the part I dig the most is trimming the tree and— well, it just doesn't get more festive than that. I'm not particularly sad about the season ending, just enjoying the carols and lights while it lasts! Are you ready to tear down the tinsel, or are you not excited to stop rockin' 'round the tree?

My mama gave me this here hat I always wear as a gift. It's one of my most prized possessions! What's your favorite gift? And why?

And as for you, you tricky little imp, I have a few questions I would like answered:

1. Did you decorate and come up with this clever little identity-hiding trick yourself?

2. Favorite genre of music? Favorite song?

3. Sweet or salty?

4. If you could have any MATERIAL item, what would it be?

Best wishes,

Sam.

P.S. My friends from the other side extend their greetings to you. Ain't that just sweet?

[twistedxspinachpuffs]

Dear Kalen,

I’m certainly happy to hear you’re finding your accommodations adequate. I’m not sure how you’ll make something positive out of this letter sending activity, but if anyone could manage it, it would be you. However, I think you’ll find that I am not so easily caught up in swells of joy the same way you are.

I’m just going to assume you forgot to ask me questions about myself, so here are my answers to the previous questions:

A hot dog is a hot dog.

With no limitations, it might be fun to do something trivial like becoming a musician.

My favorite color is blue. 

Some new questions for you to answer in your next letter:

What is your favorite subject at school?

Any plans after graduation?

What would you most want as your gift from me when my identity is revealed? 

Talk to you again soon,

You-Don’t-Know-Who 

Penpal,

You into music? That's wicked cool! Do you play anything? If so, i'd want my gift to be watching you play a song!

I'd think my favorite subject would be potions. Professor Crewel is strict, but it's fun mixing things together to make something new! It's like cooking, in a way.

Graduation, huh? Honestly, no idea. I'll probably go and help around back home?

AND IF YOU DON'T PLAY, I'd like new oven mitts! My old ones... were lost in a baking accident...

AND I FORGOT TO ASK QUESTIONS SO HERE GOES!!!!!!!!!!!

1. What's your favorite subject in school? If your're a teacher, what subject would you wanna teach other than your own subject?

2. Moths or butterflies?

3. Where did you grow up? Give me your favorite memory from there!

4. What's your favorite band?

I hope your week has been great so far!!!!!!!

From, Kalen! ☆

[pollychatter-moved]

[When Ilam opens the letter, a small flash drive falls out landing on his desk with a clatter looped round the drive a small handmade parrot plush keychain sits. If he puts it on a pc he will see a mix of music. Rock, Grunge, some mix of electro and rock hybrid music, most of it should be quite appealing.]

Ilam

Find some music examples that you may like based on what you said in your letter. While not fully classic, maybe it will fit some of your tastes.

You guess you like playing video games? Please tell me you don't mean farmville or candy crush and call it gaming? Give more examples and I will see what games we might actually have in common.

Horror movies at least you talking with some taste. Got any favourites or looking forward to any coming out. I feel like that M3GAN movie might have some promise...something about creepy dolls always gets me.

Steak is alright though it depends on how it's cooked. I find it so easy to mess up. It is always a gamble to order when out....while I do enjoy a good chance of risk, that is one that i don't tend to like doing. Though I do find gammon is often less of a gamble and you can get some great gammon meals it's kind of hard to mess up...

Foodie question: Pineapple on pizza yes or no?

Also after your meaty dinner what do you pick for dessert?

I can't go into too much detail of myself based on the task at hand. Anonymity and all that, after all if I make it too easy then you will guess who I am and what fun is that?

I guess I could give you some hints.

I have technically been here the longest and I have eyes everywhere.

-

Thanks, Penpal!

A gift is real sweet of you... you might not be such a bad guy after all! What a charmer. ♡

Listening to the playlist as I write... if any of these are on your top 10, you've got taste.

I like horror games, but stuff with an almost campy feel. Something about straight up horror never hits good enough for me. In terms of favorites... think more along the lines of Five Nights at Freddy's. I also like platformers and sandbox games!

My favorite horror movie is Vivarium. Or, I guess, it's not really a horror movie, more of something that you think about late at night that gives you the creeps when you think about it too hard. 10/10.

Pineapple on pizza is great and if you say anything else you're a coward. Open your heart to that flavor sensation.

And yeaaaah, I sometimes eat dessert after a meal. Not often, though.

Are you a Shroud? I've heard rumors of the Ignihyde dorm leader setting up cameras all around the school... you owe me lunch if I'm right!

Hey, just curious: What is on your holiday wishlist? Like, what type of gifts would you be into?

Hoping to hear from you soon.

Ilam.

[rove-bogge]

Hello again,

It's not that I think I'm really boring, it's just... well, I'd have a lot more to say if we weren't going to have to reveal ourselves at the end of this, you know? Speaking of which: Is there anything in particular that you wouldn't want to receive at the end? I can take a guess at some things you might like from what I know about you so far, but I don't want to get you something you already have, or that's not safe for bugs or something (like how dogs can't eat chocolate, and certain plants are poisonous to cats).

That game you were talking about sounds fun! I don't have a computer, but if I did maybe I'd play it too. Though, wouldn't camping be kind of a waste of time while you're in that type of situation? Making tunnels is smart though, I should use that strategy if I ever play it.

I can't say I eat much sour stuff, though it's not like I have a sweet tooth either. I guess I prefer salty/savoury stuff? But If I had to choose between sweet and sour, I think I'd go sweet.

Ah, I wasn't really planning on having to answer those myself... if that's the case maybe I should choose better questions this time, though I guess you can always ask me completely different ones anyways. It's harder for me to answer these since I'm supposed to stay anonymous, but I'll try my best.

I guess my favourite colour would have to be... maybe red. It just feels so vibrant and powerful and cool looking, you know? But I also feel the same way about blue, oddly enough... people always say blue is calming, but there are some really electrifying shades of it. And there are dangerous blue things too, like the ocean... I guess I'm not really sure. If I pick purple, does that count as both? Though purple itself isn't my favourite.

My favourite food is. Well, it's hard to pick just one, isn't it?

If I could make five wishes... see, this is the hard part. I kind of wish you were really anonymous, knowing that I'm going to have to look you in the face later just makes this too embarrassing (or incriminating). Though I do feel more comfortable writing this letter than the first one. Well, the pen pal version of my five wishes would be: 1) To be a great and powerful mage, 2) For my family and I to be healthy and happy for a long time, 3) For classes to be easier, 4) To end world hunger forever, and 5) A blastcyle

My day was alright I guess. It wasn't better or worse than my days usually are, though it by all means should have been considering these living changes.

Okay, for this next round of questions, why dont you tell me: What's your favourite class? What's your favourite animal other than bugs? Would you ever get a tattoo?

Mandatorily yours, Pen Pal

Hi Mainly things to avoid are pesticides and insecticides…. If you give me these I am making you eat them. Only weird people would appreciate such gifts. I guess also anything like toiletries…I don’t know I guess some people like them but I always feel like those are a secret insult where you're telling the other person they smell or something. I mean if things aren't made awkward you can always come to Ignihyde and try it out if you want. We can even handicap ourselves so you have a chance to win. Though you misunderstand the terms Camping and tunnelling, I guess it's hard for a normie to understand gaming lingo lmao. If you do want to brave face me in this game we will have to give you some normie to gamer translation cards. As for taste you can have things that are sour and sweet at the same time. I mean Lemons are often put in deserts and drinks right? But I guess it's an acquired taste. But sweets are always good. I really want to go see the maple taffy display but it would be weird to go alone…Everytime I peek in there's always groups of people and it's loud and annoying. Ah well maybe I’ll order some online to be delivered. You seem weirdly indecisive like you can’t just pick one thing to deem your favourite. I always find that quality weird and annoying. Would you be the type of person who when you ask what you want for dinner goes ‘I don’t know, what do you want?’ How irritating… As for your wishes, you're not really going for Miss Twisted Wonderland here you know… bar the last one, your wishes are so boring textbook answers. I’m hoping that to put me off trying to figure out who you are. As for the Blastcyle…I have never ridden one. I only tried to drive a car once and I crashed my brother's car into a ditch…. I haven't done any further attempts to drive anything since…. Fine, your questions: Favourite class. Well, I am pretty good at analytical magic. It helps sharpen my cardshark skills! I enjoy working out the mechanics behind magic and even peoples unique magic can be fun to break down to concept and mechanics. It makes it easier to work out counters too. Animals other than bugs. I like snakes. I even have my own, Snake-eyes who is an Arid Albino ball python. He’s rather placid and sometimes likes to hang out around my neck while I'm playing games or coding. As for tattoos…hmm maybe I have never really thought about it. How about you? It seems you have considered tattoo’s if you asked such a question. Another question: what do you hope to receive for the holidays and or gift exchange? Anyway I have rambled on far longer than any of us care for and people want to play games. Lets see if I can rinse them of there Thaumarks TTYL Rove

[fel-mi-er]

He knew the stars are finnicky, but to have them give a present to the person he was arguing at the maple taffy stand? Sure, they somewhat made up with more taffy, but considering how that one scratched line was too painfully accurate to how he was feeling, he assumes this was some working of fate. And well, though he doesn't consider himself a fatalist, this was too much of a coincidence to ignore. He gives a sigh. Checking the small pot, he pours and seals the contents into a tupper bowl, and then returns to his room to get a present. At least this is easy to fix up quickly.

With his free hand, he knocks on the door to Epel's place. When he opens, Luciano gives a small head nod. "Merry Christmas to you, Felmier," he says. "I'm your pen pal for this letter exchange."

"Here is your present." He then hands him a present box with a small ribbon on the side. Inside of it an all-purpose crochet kit with some crochet needles and yarn, plus a book for several designs ranging from plushies to clothing; from beginner difficulty to expert. "I did not know what your proficiency level in crocheting was, but you had mentioned that you enjoyed using yarn, so I thought that it would be best to bring something to cater to your interest." He then shifted his legs a bit, somehow making the man look somewhat shorter. "As for where I live, I..." A chuckle escapes him, as if he didn't believe it himself. "I'm from the small town on the other side of Harveston." He then extends the tupperware. "And well, after reading your letter, I thought you might also like something a little reminiscient of home."

Inside the tupper, there's some freshly brewed soup. Though the soup structure gives it the appearance of minestrone, the soup's ingredients look more like the stews served in Harveston. "It also gets cold for us around this time, so I thought it would be appropriate." A pause. "And for the last question in the letter, all of the above."

He then takes out a spoon for the soup. "Well, here's a spoon. All I ask is that I get the tupperware by the end of the day." He then gives a small grin. "And once again, Merry Christmas."

Epel was a bit surprised to find the taffy guy (Luciano, right?) at his door, but it quickly made sense when he explained that he was there on account of the pen pal exchange. So it was him…

He didn't have time to respond before the guy was handing over a present. Oh! How nice! He could always use more yarn, and he was excited to learn more about crochet (he was more versed in knitting, but he had tried crochet a few times, and was always eager to learn new things). He was looking down at it in excitement, looking forward to opening it, and raised his head to look at him and say thank you. But it appeared that Luciano had more to say, so he let him continue instead.

"As for where I live, I…" he chuckled, "I'm from the small town on the other side of Harveston."

Epel's lips parted in shock, eyes widening.

No way. There was just no way. Really? Really really? Something bubbled up inside Epel, something hopeful and buzzing. Something like camaraderie, something like relief. This guy--

A tupperware bowl was extended towards him.

"And well, after reading your letter, I thought you might also like something a little reminiscent of home. It also gets cold for us around this time, so I thought it would be appropriate." Epel balanced it on top of his present without really thinking, moving on autopilot without taking his eyes off Luciano. Inside the tupperware was everything warm. Familiar colours, a familiar smell. He was honestly about to cry. He really didn't wanna cry in front of this guy, but he was really touched and really… he had just been so homesick lately. This hit him pretty hard. He felt all watery now, but he didn't cry. He wouldn't until he was alone. He was blinking pretty fast, though.

He was given a spoon for the soup, and asked to return the tupperware by the end of the day, to which he nodded. He cleared his throat before speaking,

"Thank you. I… I don't really know what to say. Thank you so much." He smiled up at Luciano.

He kind of wanted to be alone right now honestly, but he also didn't want to let this chance pass him by. Something was calling out to him, something was begging to talk to him more. He wanted to talk about home, he wanted to ask him so many questions, he wanted to show him his apples.

"Would… would you like to come in?" Epel bit the inside of his cheek, jittery with some kind of energy. Jade was doing whatever Jade did when he left, and Deuce had gone out for a run. They had time to talk, if Luciano wished it. If he said no Epel would have been a bit disappointed, but Epel was putting him on the spot right now-- maybe he already had plans.

He just wanted to talk to someone who would understand. Someone who knew where he was coming from. Someone he didn't have to hide in front of. If there was even a chance Luciano was that someone… Epel had to at least try.

[vipetriol]

The knock on the door came with a bit of a rhythm, revealing a somewhat bundled-up professor on the other side. He carries a present box tucked underneath his arm, wrapped in a careful bow. "A Merry Christmas to you, little sprout!" he says with a slight chirp in his voice. "I hope you haven't been too cold with the lodgings."

"As for your response, this is mostly why I have not been given offense to your skepticism during our letters." He seems to wave it off like it was nothing more than something that we would encounter at work. "The staff and students alike share a bit of the NRU spirit, after all." He extends the box to Jamil. "After hearing your discussion for athletics, I thought these would be appropriate for you."

If Jamil were to open the box, he would find a streetwear hoodie and pants! The two articles of clothing appear to be casual clothes with some subtle streetwear accents at first glance, but looking closer, the fabric for both of them seem to be predominantly mixed natural fibers for breathability and temperature regulation with the aid of synthetic fibers for flexibility and durability. As a result, the outfit could be able to go through a lot of wear and tear for a good number of years if maintained correctly against a lot of elements. There are also some simple side features that help with quality of life such as detachable sleeves for the hoodie and a hidden pocket on the side of the pants, but it still looks like it would be useful for several situations and circumstances regardless. Whether he opens it or not, Godel will say afterwards, "With your hobbies and your daily life, I thought it was best to give you something that could be used for your everyday use that can still cater to your hobbies, and to keep your body temperature consistent in the process."

There wasn't enough in the budget for sneakers, but it was better to have the most optimized in some things rather than the full set being hosh-posh and thrown around. Also, if his instincts are right, Jamil probably already has own set of sneakers for such an occasion.

Nodding at Jamil's reaction, he looks down to his watch. "Well, I will not take more of your time, but if you wish to discuss about anything, you can meet me during my office hours or drop off a letter at my door if I'm around campus. Or if you have a burning question, I could stay for a bit longer." He gives a small bow in the head. "And once again, happy holidays to you and may your loved ones be well today, as well."

Mortified. Jamil was mortified. Yes, ‘mortified’ was the most apt way to put it. When this exercise had been introduced— no, imposed upon them, he had wasted no time in preparing for the worst case scenario. Barring anyone with outright malicious intent, he was expecting being assigned to someone who would shield themselves behind the temporary anonymity to pull a ridiculous stunt. 

Each letter received had been examined in detail before opening. He’d held them against the light for one, two, three minutes, bracing himself for any unwanted surprises that might’ve awaited him…only to find seemingly non-conspicuous messages awaiting him. They’d been perfectly friendly, in fact. He should have, for all intents and purposes, responded to that kindness in turn.  

But life lived as someone else’s first line of defence against assassination attempts was bound to breed a pathologically cynical mentality. Figures. 

Unlike the letters he had penned for Ember, he simply couldn't endure not being the one holding the reins of the conversation. He’d written his responses, wary of every word, and resolute not to allow important details to slip. That is to say, nothing that could be used against him —or Kalim, or Scarabia as a whole— in the future.

Even if only for the sake of outward appearances, most freshmen wouldn’t question the chain of authority. Other sophomores could take his skepticism without taking offence. And in the scenario where it had been one of his seniors, he would simply bow his head and apologise for the discourtesy. Unless he had been paired up with someone especially difficult, his hostile behaviour would be overlooked. 

But how was Jamil supposed to know he would be assigned to a staff member? Moreover, the staff member in question had been exceedingly kind. (Perhaps too kind, he thinks, but that's a matter best left aside for the time being.) Now, Jamil almost found himself wishing it had been a troublemaker: for all of his preparations, he felt as though he had been made a fool out of regardless. 

Even if Godel bore no resentment or ill-will towards him now, he’d perfectly squandered the opportunity to improve his standing with a professor. It looked bad, no matter how you spun it. The gift he had been given was far more thoughtful than many his own parents had given to him in the past (Oh, a poison detection kit? Thank you, mom. You shouldn’t have. Really. You shouldn’t have) and Jamil finds himself at a loss for words. So he now enters damage-control mode, and quickly surveying his options, arrives at what seemed the most sensible solution. 

“I—” he starts, “Sir, is it really okay for me to have this? You’re…far too generous, this is…thank you, really. Excuse me for a moment.”

He walks back into the room, searches through his belongings, fishes out a ticket tucked away inside one of his textbooks, and presents it to Godel.   

“It’s not ballet, but a dancing troupe from the Scalding Sands will perform in Sage Island next month. Please take this as a symbol of my gratitude.”   

[threadedwheels]

“Ah, Ember. Excuse me, may I bother you for a moment?” 

Upon crossing paths in one of Ramshackle’s hallways, Jamil calls out to Ember in the docile tone he uses whenever approaching an upperclassman.   

“To be honest, I wasn’t trying especially hard to hide my identity, so I don’t suppose this comes as a surprise, but thank you for indulging my questions these past couple of weeks regardless. I was worried when we were told exchanging letters was mandatory, but it wound up being a lot more enjoyable than I expected,” he admits, bowing his head down slightly. “Thank you for taking the time to tell me about Moirai. Going forward, I’d like to learn about as many places as I’m able. This has been a great start, so you really do have my gratitude.”

Having said that, he holds out a basket, inside of which is a white porcelain cup —one smaller than the average tea cup— and a saucer. The golden arabesques that adorn the rim are simple but elegant— rather subdued compared to the extravagance one might typically associate with Scarabia’s ornate interiors. Just like he had promised in his previous letter, the set is accompanied by a bag of tea leaves. 

“You’ve likely heard of it before, but tasseography is very popular back at Scalding Sands. It’s a divination method— we brew unfiltered coffee and interpret the grounds remaining at the bottom of the cup to read someone’s fortune. My sister rather enjoys it, so I’ve picked up the gist of it as well,” he explains. “Among his many feats, the Sorcerer of the Sands is admired for his great foresight, which helped him turn the tides of fate despite adversity. Though many of the devices he used have been lost to the passage of time, fortune-telling remains a widespread practice in our country thanks to him. In spite of the harsh and hostile environment that surrounds us, it’s been a tool that has helped us prepare and adapt for whatever comes our way. It is thanks to his legacy that we have been able to flourish.”

He clears his throat and offers a polite smile. “I know you probably have no need for something like this, but, though our geography and history are vastly different, it’s nice to find common links between them, I think. So uh, yeah— thank you again, I hope it’s not too presumptuous of me.” 

Ember was rolling down the hallway when he heard his name being called. He turned his chair to face Jamil.

“Oh- it’s not a bother, I was just heading to the kitchen. What might I be able to do for you?” He asked, sitting up straighter in his chair. He didn’t know all too much about Jamil and wanted to look a bit more respectable.

Then, as he hands him a gift basket, Ember relaxes.

“I did have a sneaking suspicion it was you, but I didn’t want to assume,” He smiled, “And I’m happy you enjoyed my story.” He looked through the basket while Jamil spoke, carefully picking up the cup and tracing the design with his fingers. It was gorgeous.

“It’s not presumptuous at all. Thank you so much for this gift it’s…”

It was rare Ember found himself at a loss for words. Receiving a gift, even if a mandatory one, was not something he was completely used to. It’d been his first gift of the season and he was so appreciative of it.

“Thank you. If you ever want to drink some coffee or tea together and talk I’d like it. I’ve been… to a lot of places, thanks to my future role, and I’d love to tell you about them. Especially if I get to hear more about your home.”

[arthuriangodel]

A simple knock on the doorframe of Godel’s room, a warning before Trey makes his way through the open door. He lacks a delicate hand for wrapping anything, and little in the way of gift-giving instincts outside of his wheelhouse of talents, so he’s chosen to play to his strengths: a green box rests in his hands, a white package bow stuck on top.

“Surprise, although I think I gave myself away from the jump.” Trey’s only a little bit sheepish—he hadn’t taken the surprise part too seriously from the start. Didn’t see the need, and he’d rather just focus on the parts that mattered most. The quality of the letters, for one—negligible for interest, but Godel had entertained his ramblings all the way through—and the gift.

“I agree with you about moderation (maybe not so much about the leftovers) so I hope that in mind, these cookies will last you and your daughter a few days! It’s a mix of white chocolate peppermint cookies, sugar cookies, and a few pumpkin cookies with a sugar glaze, to mix the flavor variety up a little bit. They’re not the fanciest, and it’s a little hard to corner the cafeteria kitchen when everyone’s this busy, but I did my best.

“Hope the last few days of the year don’t give you too much trouble, and thanks for entertaining the letters, Professor.”

The knock came as a slight stirring for the bundled-up professor as he looks up from his book, which seems to be centered on something concerning health. There's also a small box by the window, which has the faint aroma of potatoes. Placing down the book, he gives a smile to the incoming student and stood up. "You have me surprised for a second, I'll owe you that much," he says humorously. He takes a peek at the present, mostly examining the handiwork and giving a small, good-natured sigh. It's clumsy, but it's certainly fitting for the student.

With the mention of cookies, the professor's eyes lit up. "Why, you shouldn't have," he says as he accepts the present. "Rose would definitely enjoy the sugar ones." He then goes to the side and places it next to the box. "Well, I managed to finish up grading the final exams, it's now a matter of making sure the next year's plans are written up." He nods with a grin. "And thank you for the cookies. Merry Christmas to you and if you're looking to send another letter or to talk to me in person, you can always go to my office."

[troisfleur]

Trey.

Can't tell you my year. That'd ruin the suprise! You know what— if I can go this whole letter writing thing WITHOUT tipping off who I am, you gotta make me something. It's only fair!

(To make it easier, i'll drop clues!)

My roomie is a cool dude. Pretty chill, and good to joke around with. I'm sure you know him, being in his same dorm. And if you don't know him... seeing his track record, i'd be suprised!

Let me just sit with ya for a sec. Yeah. Pull up a chair. Make some hot cocoa.

How are YOU holding up? You sound stressed. Go ahead and vent to me all ya want. I don't mind.

To end it off, what would you want as a gift? You know. As a "hey, i feel you" after all your hard work?

-- From, Ooooh it's a secret oooh spooky you dont know who i am ooooh MYSTERY

[There’s an attempt to make the letter a little nicer this time. He found some stickers from somewhere that look like snowflakes to stick around the top and bottom of the letter, like a little border.]

HEY, NOW, we still have a week to uphold the mystique.

I could be Trey, I could be another third year entirely. There’s at least a handful of us, maybe more! I’m glad one of my potential dorm mates aren’t causing trouble, although I can’t say my authority means much when we’re all trying not to kill each other. I mean, that’s what I would say, if I was Trey Clover. [The artistic merit of the emoji notwithstanding, the end of this sentence is punctuated with a 🤭. He tried! He tried. That might make it worse.]

So, are we making wagers in the middle of these letters, now? All I did was shoot the breeze, and for my efforts I’m being put in an unwinnable situation… you know me, I only have a handful of context clues to go on for you…

I guess it would be too much of a loophole to say that I’d like an extortion-free month as my gift, huh? Probably not very really in the spirit of my dorm. Besides, the kitchen here is honestly just sad. If I was Trey Clover (and I may not be! I could be a different guy!) I think I’d just shake my head in resignation. I’ve tried my best to tidy up where I can, but everything’s outdated or one bad day away from blowing up in my face.

Hard to be enthusiastic to cook in these conditions. (I didn’t sign up to be the personal chef for anyone, to be clear. But it’s either try to work with the Ramshackle kitchen or trudge back to Heartslabyul and fight the snow.

Or another dorm’s kitchen. Maybe I’m just breaking into Heartslabyul!)

[Another attempt at an emoji doodle. 🤷‍♂️ this time. This dude failed art class, and it shows.]

How about this… if you can bring me some caulk and maybe a spatula that isn’t missing half of its blade, we can call it even.

In theory, if I did make something—granted the stove doesn’t explode—what’s your opinion on holiday flavors? Sick of them yet, or can’t get enough? (Honestly after a certain point I think I just become numb to peppermint.)

SIGNED,

Trey? Clover? We Just Don’t Know!

[magicjoint]

Yo. Penpal (and Grim). I've GOTTA tell ya about this dream I had. No one else will listen it was so insane.

So my dream started out that me and Cave Johnson from the Portal series were in a garden. There was a fence around the garden. I knew that people were trying to assassinate him, but I wasn't sure when. Suddenly, bullets penetrated through the fence. None of them hit Cave, but it was close. We discovered that there were three men disguised as Mormons riding bikes around our street.

They were stopping at everybody's house and talking to them, but when they got to my house, they started blind shooting. Eventually, Cave and I ran inside, but the assassins saw us. So one of them walked through the door, but he was super old and in an electric wheelchair.

So we didn't bother with him. The next man that came in started attacking, but I took off his mask. Turns out he was Sal from Impractical Jokers.

And I woke up.

So uh.

TELL ME ABOUT YOUR CRAAAZY DREAMS!!!!!

-- ☆

hey there ☆,

that’s … definitely a dream. grim has no idea what you’re on about, but he thinks the dream sounds really cool. apparently only great people get assassins sent after them. i’m not gonna try and correct him while i’m writing. neither of us really dream a lot, but there have been a couple here and there.

for me? it’s mostly been glimpses of home. i used to be to dream about voices, faces, surroundings … but now they’ve just kinda lost all that. more like shadows than anything. last dream i had like that, i couldn’t really make out anything. wish i wrote them down at the time. grim’s dreams are like mine, but. well.

he doesn’t dream of people at all. neither of us are sure he even dreams nice ones with what he’s willing to tell me. he can tell that he’s dreaming, but it’s just constant darkness. noises that sound horrifying. i thought it was because of the general creepiness here at first, but even after brightening up our room, nothing about that changed. he shivers quite a bit in his sleep. it’s really sad to see. [ looks like they started to write something when someone obviously didn’t want them too. scribbled out, but still readable. ] grim didn’t like me writing about that. oops. such a shame i write in pen, right?

anyway, those count as crazy, right? because people don’t normally dream of that kind of stuff. or maybe they do, but they don’t really remember them like me? grim remembers all of his. says it’s hard not to. but lately he’s been dreaming about the holidays. and his own weird interpretations … i think i’ll spare you from those this time. he already talks crazy in the place as it is.

thanks for writing to us again. it’s good to write something that isn’t for classes. maybe one day, i can actually teach grim how to write a readable sentence.

from your pen pals

[ no p.s. this time, but it seems like grim has taken artistic liberty again and tried to draw some of the “shadows” yuu was talking about. uh. yeah. they don’t look great. and … were those festive stuff around the paper too? those looked a little better. maybe. ]

[99lostsouls]

To my pen pal:

Hello again! I guess both of us need to start writing more then. But yes, I guess it is pretty exciting. Seeing everyone getting their letters definitely helps contribute to that.

And yeah, people were getting a bit too comfortable in their own dormitories. Which isn’t a bad thing! I’d be pretty annoyed being downgraded as well (and I was, but not anymore!), but for someone to have to deal with all this on their own? For what little time they’ve had, they’ve made progress. And I’m sure having someone like you helping them out is bound to make them feel better too. Although I am curious… why do you not attend classes? If that’s a question that can be answered. It might be a silly one, but I’ve always been quite curious about stuff.

As long as you have something to want for, it is never too hard to gift someone. Getting something is better than getting nothing at all, right? But drawing is a nice thing to pursue! I’ll keep this in mind. But for myself… I’m not really a good artist. My doodles in my workbooks will prove that much. I like music, but not actually playing the instruments myself. I probably have the skills for it, but I don’t know what instrument to play…

This place looks like it would suit a piano. Maybe I could sneak one in and play some tunes for practice. This place could use some. Or maybe we could convince everyone to just sit and listen to some music? If they don’t yell and claw at each other first. Tensions feel high with certain people here…~

Another question for you before I stop writing. Probably should’ve asked it earlier but I kinda forgot. What kind of stuff do, or would, you like to draw? There’s a lot of stuff here you could take inspiration from if you don’t quite know yet… if you’re interested in the older style, that is.

I think that’s everything now! And hey, we’re writing to each other. I pretty much consider you my friend now. :) Can’t wait for your reply! Write to you soon!

From your pen pal (friend?)

TO MY PEN PAL ( Friend! )

my apologies for the late reply! had to take care of an accident up at campus...

oh but I'm glad to hear you've gotten properly accustomed to the change! some people have a harder time with shifts from their normal. I know of that reaction all too well. do you have any favorite thing about ramshackle so far?

as for why I don't attend classes, the answer is simple silly. I don't have any classes to attend! you may wrack your brain as to why all you wish.

oh I'm sure you're a lovely artist my friend! art is somewhat of a difficult pursuit because of one fact alone. we're always our own biggest critic. It's a human flaw I've seen displayed in so many people over and over again. I find it fascinating. though, I'm not even sure if I'll fall pray to that myself. self-criticism is kinda built into me.

y'know I've always admired instruments myself! especially brass instruments like a trombone, french horn, tuba. they're so shiny you can see you reflection in them and their sound is big and LOUD! never fails to make me smile! I hope you're able to find your instrument of choice. life is easily told through music, once you find your instrument you'll be able to tell your own story.

Playing music here...you might want to ease everyone into that~ our student body is unfortunately well known for it's viciousness. I'd hate for someone to complain and get upset just by some piano. It's always better to test the waters first!

With drawing...is it odd to say i want to try a bit of everything? realism, cartoon, still-life, I want to dabble in it all. Your mention of an old style does remind me, a cartoon rubberhose style is one I'd like to try as well.

I know you said you aren't confident in your doodles just yet but maybe we can draw together, or just hang out. I'm just thrilled to have another new friend to talk to. I do love my dorm, but things are a little samey~ new possibilities are right up my alley.

I'll sign off for now, it's late while I'm writing this anyway. see you in the next letter my friend!

Sincerely,

YOUR PEN PAL

[twistedxspinachpuffs]

Dear Kalen,

Warmest regards this holiday season. I hope this letter finds you in high spirits, despite the current rooming situation at Ramshackle which has undoubtedly uprooted you alongside everyone else. Do you have a good relationship with your assigned roommate? That would certainly make this experience bearable. As for me, I find my living situation tolerable. 

To be quite honest with you, I’m not entirely sure what to talk to you about. Every convoluted bonding exercise Crowley concocts is more an exercise in futility in my honest opinion. I suppose you’d tell me he’s just trying his best.

I digress. Here are some “fun” “getting to know you” questions I looked up just now:

Is a hot dog a sandwich?

What would you want to do with your life if you could defy all limitations?

What’s your favorite color?

That should do for now. I await your response in the coming days. 

Stay cozy,

You-Don’t-Know-Who

Yo, yo, yo, what's up, Penpal ?!

I'm doin just great! It's... kind of a bummer that we had to all be relocated like this, but it's cool that we're all here together! I hope you've been having a good time too. :)

And my roomie's great! Lilia is a weird guy, but he makes for good conversation. He kind of reminds me of my grandpa from back home!

(And, just for the record, I'm determined to make you change your WHOLE opinion in this letter writing thing! As much as Crowley shoots and misses, nothing could really go too wrong with letters, right? Let's make it fun, together!)

Is a hot dog a sandwich? I think it's more of a taco situation! I mean, you've got folded up bread part, and the meat in between. It's GOTTA be a taco.

What would I want to do if I could "defy all limitations"... maybe... visit my ma again. It's been a good while since I last saw her!

And as for my favorite color, I really like yellows and oranges! What's your favorite color?

(There's a person with two large circular eyes on the page, looking up at the reader quizzically.)

Suuuper excited to hear from yoy again, Penpal!!!!!!!!!!!

[pollychatter-moved]

So we have to write these letters huh…

And not give ourselves away too…annoying. I doubt you have anything interesting to talk about either. You seem pretty basic and annoying.

But anyway I guess let's start with some questions I guess:

Favourite colour?

Music?

Movies?

Hobbies? Bar being annoying…

Food?

I guess tell me more about yourself if you want to. I’m trying here but as you can imagine talking isn’t really my thing let alone writing letters how old fashioned I bet my handwriting is really shitty. You better not laugh about it! I bet yours is chicken scratch too.

Eh I guess I’ll wait for your response if you will even write back.

Forced Pen Pal

( The handwriting in this letter is annoying neat. It's almost apparent right from the start that Ilam wrote this with the DUMBEST smirk on his face... )

Penpal,

I seem basic and annoying? Oh, and I'm sure you're just full of personality! You can make a simple letter writing exercise something that fits your pessimistic teen-angsty world narrative! Good for you!

But, whatever. Since we HAVE to do this, I'll go ahead and grace you with my time.

I like rock. Eh, call me an old soul, but I prefer a lot of the older classics.

Horror movies are my jam. And I'm not talking about those crappy gory ones, I mean the GOOD, well thought out thrillers. I'm also a fan of comedy.

What if I said being annoying WAS my hobby? Oh, hum! I guess my kind of fun isn't allowed around here... (I like playing video games, I guess.)

And I LOVE me a good steak. Or just, anything with some sort of meat in it.

Look, why don't you just tell me some things you like? If we got something in common, it might make the whole thing NOT be a pain in the ass to do.

-- Ilam Ismail

[foetuneteller]

Happy holidays, Sam.

I imagine these next few weeks will be very busy in your store as students come to buy various wares for their loved ones. While, as your penpal, I have already purchased everything for your gift, I will give you part of it now since I’m just so generous.

Attached you will find a key. It is as genuine as all the other goods in your store and will unlock your final present.

From,

Your Secret Penpal

Hey, Penpal!

You're too kind, really. A gift for little ol' me? You shouldn't have! I'll be sure to hold onto this key in a safe place.

And yes, the holiday season, while plentiful in it's rewards, can be SO draining. Every day I have little imps flooding through my door, hoping to secure the limited time holiday novelty items I have on the shelves (ON SALE NOW!). I can only hope to mentally prepare myself enough for the inevitable mad dash for gifts once the end of the season comes. It's straight up wack seeing the little imps leave such an important task to the last minute!

I hope you've been well! It's getting colder, so make sure you bundle up. If you're low on winter gear, I have many high quality items IN STOCK NOW!

(Did my ploy to find out who you were in person work? Ha ha!)

Best wishes, Sam.

[rove-bogge]

Hello!

I am your penpal for the writing thing that Crowley's making us do. I'm not really sure what to write though, I'm sorry. I guess I'm kind of boring? But I hope you'll accept me as your penpal anyways. I think this is supposed to be a surprise until the end, so I'm also trying not to say anything too revealing. I'm allowed to know who you are (obviously), though, so... Why don't you just tell me some things about you, instead? What's your favourite colour? Favourite food? If you could make five wishes, what would you wish for? How was your day?

That's all I really have to say for now.

Mandatorily yours, Pen Pal

Sup Pen Pal...

Yeah this is a stupid writing task like least let us send text messages or something. Not much faith if you are already calling yourself boring already. But if you already know me you likely know about my likes and such but I will humour your questions I guess cause I'm sure Froll or Crowley will make my life hell for the next week if I do not.

1. Favourite colour: Green. It looks alright on me and many insects use shades of green in their colouring or pigments. Yeah I know it should be blue for my house but blue is alright.

2. Favourite food: Sour gummy worms. Sour candy in general is great.

3. Five wishes??? Idk lot of money, better gambling luck, More bugs, not to be stuck on this island after school and well it be funny if I was taller than everyone else in this school haha

4. My day? It was alright. My new roommate is pretty chill though I miss my normal room. I dislike sharing my space even if its someone tolerable. Played some games. We found a cool new game where one person plays killer and four others play survivor and the goal is for survivors to get out alive while the killer tries to hunt them down. Pretty fun when us Ignihyde students set up private games amongst ourselves. I am such a good killer! Though we got into a debate because people accused me of face camping and tunnelling LOL! It's pretty fun especially when people get salty AF! Cry more losers! GIT GUD!

Anyway I guess then Mr Boring I throw your questions back at you! Also do you play anything like games or music I guess?

G2G

Rove

[fel-mi-er]

Hello again.

Your letter has made me remember of my days back home. Considering my family, they would probably make me do the household chores before they say, "Welcome home", so I certainly don't mind the cleaning. I do not think it is weird unless you are dusting for every fingerprint, but overall, cleaning is a very relaxing progress. As for making things dirty again (and this is a shot in the dark, so feel free to correct me), but would you be the person to make mud pies and throw them like a snowball fight? Or perhaps that is simply me, haha.

As for when you suddenly lose motivation, it is certainly a habit that I had to grow out of once I entered this university. The expectations here are much higher after all, and compared to the schooling I used to have. What was your school like, if I may ask? Or were you homeschooled?

Ah, apologies if that was too intrusive. You don't need to answer that one if you don't wish. [This sentence seems to be erased and written over]

My favorite holiday is probably New Years. Though that is mostly because there is chocolate cake prepared by my [word erased and fixed with] grandmama. I still have yet to learn her recipe. Also, there is something satisfying about being able to say that you have survived a year's worth of conflicts. (Not to mention throwing out old, papers into a bonfire, that's my personal favorite.)

I may as well ask for your favorite holiday as well? And are you feeling homesick? It might do some good to visit if you have the chance. Also, as the day is getting closer? Do you have any requests for a present? I might be going to the shops soon, and I might find something there.

Sincerely,

Your Pen Pal

[ once again, there are a significant amount of eraser marks throughout the letter, as if things have been erased and written over and over again , multiple times ]

Hello!

Hah, that sounds about right. I love it when it rains, and one of the reasons has got to be the mud. I kind of miss doing that. You're definitely right about the expectations being higher here. If I had known it would have been like this, well, I might have thought twice about coming here. But I know that becoming who I want to be won't be easy. I just have to deal with this, and when I graduate I'll be free again. Unless I manage to get strong enough before then.

My schooling situation was a bit unique I suppose. You know, I never really would have thought about New Year's being one of my favourite holidays, but when you put it like that it does sound really nice. As for me, I still think my favourite holiday is Halloween. It's just so much fun! There's costumes and games and candy, and you get to stay up late and carve pumpkins and apples and tell stories around bonfires. I really love Halloween.

[ the line " I guess I am feeling kind of homesick " has been written and erased and written again so many times that it is still legible under the sentence that replaced it ]

I don't really know what I want, sorry. There's not a lot that I need? I'm on the spelldrive team, if you didn't know already. And I like knives, and blastcycles, and yarn. I'm sure I'll be happy with whatever you get me, so don't worry too much about it. I don't need anything special.

How are you dealing with this weather? Is it cold back where you lived? Or was it really warm? I hope it's not too hard on you.

What kind of old papers do you throw into your bonfires? Like, taxes? Or more personal stuff. Do you keep a journal?

Epel Felmier 🍎