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dndfuckhouse · 2 years ago

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Whistling away the time, floating through the sky...

FEATURING

DAY ONE > Return of the Airship Drinking Party Part 1 - 6/4 > Return of the Airship Drinking Party Part 2 - 10/4 > Return of the Airship Drinking Party Part 3 - 27/4

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Return of the Airship Drinking Party Part 1 - 6/4

Vinny and Cimmorro finally decide to wrap it up after a long day of bashing their heads into tomes and formulas, both of them having completely lost track of the time. It was only until jasper started mewling for her supper when they’d all finally realized how late it has gotten.

Cimmorro and Vinny head over with Jasper to the dining hall, the former only starting to realize how hungry he was as soon as he stepped in and the smell of fresh meals wafted from the entrance, he orders more than his usual that may even be brow raising worthy for someone of his size -and of course, drinks, alcohol as promised, were present on the table as well.

Cimmorro: (cimm probs ordered smth sweet like a long island) as they eat and chatter about, the topic of the lessons were still prevalent in their conversations. "okay, okay," cimm swirls his drink around in his glass with a straw "if you had to pick ONE spell as your favorite and least favorite each from your tome what would it be?" they seemed to have wandered into the subject of vinny's spellbook Vinny: chowing down into his dinner vinny pauses while taking a sip of his drink (smth salty to help his appetite) as cimmorro asks. he folds his arms and starts thinking to himself, bobbing his head from side to side he closes his eyes as he lets out a 'hmmmmm' sound "wristpocket's quite useful when im working on something... then again so is sending and burning hands..." he taps a finger against his bicep still in thought "as for least... well i can't even remember the last time ive used sudden awakening for anything..." Cimmorro: after swallowing a spoonful of food in his mouth, he asks "never heard of wristpocket. what does it do?" he helps jasper with a prawn as he nods in agreement to his other choices. "can't argue with that, my life instantly became better after sending. also, sudden awakening seems like something that needs to be cast on YOU with all the times i find you on the floor 😂” Vinny: he looks back over at cimm "ah.. it essentially lets me flick my wrist and send something im holding to an extraplanar pocket for a little bit, i can take it out and put it back in when i need it. it's nice when my hands are full during work" he snorts after and shakes his head "t-travel is tiring..! i've got plenty of built up exhaustion over here... my bodys taking the time to catch up" Cimmorro: cimm's interest seems to pique at the explanation. "what, that's cool! like a temporary bag of holding... the hell,that would be so good for my back. carrying shit up and down those stairs, man, i tell you... yeesh...!" he shakes his head and takes another sip of his drink while snorting a little. "heh, i won't get on your case about it. you seem to get up around the same time as i do which makes sense you nap around..." looking up at the ceiling in thought, cimm hums. "i mainly asked about your spells since i would have to choose a few to get started with my own tome, don't i? and there's quite an array of choices." he shifts to lean back on his chair and smiles "how's my progress coming along though? ya think i could get into some actual spellcasting tomorrow? :D" Vinny: he nods, smiling a little at cimm's excitement "it cant take anything too heavy but having a space like that saves you having to get up alot" he thinks for a moment, almost theatrically putting a hand to his chin in thought "hmmmm... well my quick study...! we could have a go and see if you've got enough of a stable hand on things yet, though our third day will almost entirely be stabilizing your casting anyway" he smiles again brightly, spreading his hands out by his face "you're doing incredibly well already though! maybe i'll have to shorten the curriculum" Cimmorro: "for real?!" he lets out a delightful cheer with jasper happily meowing along. "yay!!! i told you i'd knock this shit right out of the park!!" he puffs his chest out proudly and flashes a sweet grin. "some of those principles almost had me for a second but i can only be grateful with how attentive you are with teaching me, of course!!" he continues to wiggle around in his seat as he imagines telling his family all about it. "that rainbow dye is also getting closer within my reach, heheh" Vinny: he gives a reserved fist pump as cimmorro cheers with a smile "it can get a little tricky to start, especially copying out the higher level ones..." before he gets lost in thought he recalls the dye and half laughs "true, i'll have to remember to make it before we land. nearly forgot" Cimmorro: "i won't let you forget it, except for tonight when we're meant to be drinking. i'll let it pass for the time being," he playfully hmphs like a boss letting his subordinate have some time off. cimm eyes the now-empty plates on their table and wonders. "hmmm, what'd be a good drinking game now... what about some classic truth or dare?" Vinny: he rolls his eyes a little while smiling "i appreciate the slack" he takes another sip of his drink as cimmorro thinks and coughs a little as he suggests the game "w-what?" he shakes his head clearing his throat "and here i'd thought you'd gotten sick of me talking about myself earlier...!" Cimmorro: "hmmmm," he rests his head on his hand as he leans an elbow on the table, "nope. fun's just about to start! and i'm curious at how well you hold your liquor." he cackles a bit. "i'm gonna be drinking for a while anyway cause if i don't i'm sure i'm gonna be seeing those equations in my dreams! i'm sure you know of the rules right? we take turns, truth or dare, can't do one then glug glug, yadda yadda" Vinny: he withers a little under cimm's stare and sighs with a wobbly smile "i'm not sure i have many idea for crazy requests or questions s-so don't complain if you get disappointed halfway through this..." as he says that he finishes off the last few dregs of his drink afterwards and tilts his head a little "though maybe we ought to get new ones..." Cimmorro: "don't you worry about that. it just means more space for me to heckle you with ^_^" he raises a brow when vinny finishes his drink then he laughs. "are you that excited to get hammered? i need a refill too anyway," he calls for a waiter for refills and upsizing both their drinks at the same time. while waiting, cimm asks "you or me first? :3c" Vinny: he almost laughs at cimmorro getting them bigger drinks this time around as the waiter refills them "just preparing in advance?" at the question he kind babbles for a second and waves his hand through the air "you go first! i dont really have any ideas yet" he rubs his neck like he's already trying to dispel some kind of nerves

Cimmorro: cimms like :evilsmile: "alright. truth of dare~" Vinny: he tilts his head and squints "truth..?" Cimmorro: cimm makes a manic laugh to intimidate him before going "kidding. i'll be easy on you for the first couple of turns. how'd you and ezra meet?" Vinny: he lets out a relieved sigh "er...lets see how long ago was it... i think the year i first opened the store is when we met actually" he pauses to consider the timing of it "i must have been 25? i heard some strange sounds in the alley outside, when i opened the side door to check it out i saw him leaning against one of the walls covered in blood" he waves a hand through the air "not all his own but er... he gave me quite the haggard look as i opened the door, so i let him in for some tea" he leans back smiling as if recalling something that sounds far more pleasant than what hes said Cimmorro: "wow? that's, not at all what i expected..." cimm seems amused by the story. "i'm just imagining you taking him in like a cat" Vinny: "he'd probably hate it if he heard you say that" he puts a hand to his chin in thought, amused "i let him stick around for a few days, it was his first time in shorewater funnily enough and now when he's in the area he comes to say hi. he usually takes care of some things for me as thanks, though i always tell him he's too much of a busybody" he shakes his head like he's internally tutting Cimmorro: cimm snickers. "what doesn't he hate? i feel like i've never seen him do anything but brood, which makes it a little funny to see you two together." he nods as he listens to the rest of vinny's story. "that's interesting though. i thought you two were childhood friends or something, really. it's the only way i could make sense of you two having met at all since you seem so different" he laughs again. "your turn." Vinny: he smirks "he's not that brooding just ah... stonefaced?" he laughs again at the childhood friends assumption "that... is very amusing to picture. maybe he'd have got along with some of my relatives..?" he finally leans back again and thinks "right, ah truth or dare?" Cimmorro: "i suppose so, either way it's fun to poke people like that" he asks the waiter for some finger food to pick at while they play and turns back to vinny at the comment about his relatives "you think so? is it because of all the travelling around?" cimm drapes one of his arm over the back of his chair as he makes a choice. "mmm, truth" Vinny: he tilts his head in thought "he just seems to get along with easy going sorts" he glances at the finger food but shakes his head as if to focus on actually coming up with a question. he puts a hand to his chin, leaning on the table "hmm.. lets see..." after a few moments he speaks up again "what's the reason you're all travelling together right now? i recall you mentioning a destination after your hometown but..." he tilts his head curiously Cimmorro: cimm blinks at him before snorting. right, he had no idea about that. "well, vinny, i would love to tell you if i could. all we're aware of is we're hired to do a common job" cimm sighs and shrugs at it all. "we'll know what it is once we get there. without this condition i find myself having a hard time imagining travelling with half of these guys if i had any other choice." he pops a biscuit into his mouth. "i'm sure you noticed some of us don't really jive" Vinny: he folds his arms and furrows his brows almost too seriously "it has been really perplexing me... but it felt strange to ask around everyone" he leans back a little gesturing with one of his hands "putting it that way you sound like a sort of typical mercenary band though" Cimmorro: "well, if you put it that way, yeah. it'd be my first merry little band too, now that you mentioned it." he stares at the ceiling as he recounts. "i would sometimes travel with one or two other people but it's only to get to point A to B which doesn't last very long. but with these guys i feel like i'll be stuck with them for a little while." Vinny: he offers a smile to cimmorro half consolingly "here's hoping it gets easier? though i imagine any group of strangers coming together has its rough bumps" he raises a finger again "remember the common goal of getting a paycheck and im sure itll help out"

As they chat the two see han stumble into the dining hall looking, not physically tired but emotionally tired... she goes to get a little treat, a fruit cup. She eats it straight at the serving table, and then takes like another and begins to look for somewhere to sit

Han: she spots cimm n gives a lil wave before sitting by herself ... nom nom nom fruit cup… Cimmorro: cimm just gives vinny a smile that's forced and full of discomfort. "i think i need more than hope for things to work out in this group. a miracle maybe." he shuts his eyes and breathes out of his nose. "at least, yknow, we manage to get jobs done. albeit a little all over the place and chaotic..." when he opens his eyes he suddenly sees han who is clearly very, very difficult to miss. he greets her back with a friendly smile and a raised glass Vinny: he lets out an awkward laugh and pats cimm on the shoulder "the only place to go from rock bottom is up?" as he notices cimm glance over he turns as well, noticing han he also gives her a wave Han: 😊 fruit cup bliss..... Cimmorro: gesturing for her to come over Han: gets out of fruit bliss, points to herself like me? o_O Cimmorro: cimm points at her and nods, yeah you O_o Han: O_O turns around and steals more fruit cups and scuttles over "did you know they have pineapple in this thing!! its crazy!!! hi" :3 Vinny: he nods in greeting "its a big variety for a ship honestly..!" Cimmorro: cimm laughs "didn't take you for a pineapple lover. wanna come sit? we're just having some drinkies” Han: "all fruit is so good" +_+ "i would love to sit and drinkies" ^-^ to vinny “have you ever been on another ship before?" O_o Cimmorro: cimm pulls out a chair for her Vinny: he shakes his head "no, it's just what i've heard. though i guess the cost of riding one of these is already that much more than a regular ship"

Han: she puts a fruit cup in front of each of you but there’s like 10 more in front of her Cimmorro: cimm just kinda goes like o_o at the sheer number of that "is... this your dinner?" Han: "this is....." she gives a bit of a thousand yard stare "snack for being good" Vinny: stares half amused at the fruit assortment Han: deep thought over fruit costs ...... Cimmorro: cimm tilts his head "oh? something interesting happened to you today on the ship?" Han: "i said thank you to finn and had normal conversation with him where i did not upset him ... tooo much" very proud of herself as she says this Vinny: vinny looks back over at cimm like 'see?' ^_^ Han: 🐱 ❓ Cimmorro: cimm pulls a head back and laughs, immediately understanding the reason behind the thousand yard stare. "well you two are hitting it off, then. maybe before we all part ways you've have already mastered the art of not detonating him before the rest of us do. you've done good" he raises the fruit cup han gave him and goes "cheers" while slightly rolling his eyes at vinny "vinny and i were just playing a little truth or dare game but with drinks if you wanna participate :3c" Han: han listens to cimm saying all that w a grin that truly says 'ye i fuckinf doubt that', but she goes "cheers!" to it anyway "ye sure, i like game. is it drunky drinks?" han remembers last time she drank w cimm. actually han realizes that and goes "do you make everyone you meet play drunk truth and dare with you?" 🤨 Vinny: vinny ponders the phrase 'drunky drinks' for a few seconds Cimmorro: "it's the easiest way to hang out! we don't have any games on this ship. kevster's the only one with cards! i bet she's up somewhere climbing the sails or whatever they're called again" he mopes. "also yeas, drunky drinks. you drink if you refuse to do neither truth or dare :3" he mumbles about something something psalm soured the last card game anyway something something Han: han looks like she gets where hes coming from... hard to do anything on this ship. han huffs proudly "ill never refuse, so easy. ill play. who is next" >:3 Cimmorro: "atta girl. we both just finished our turn. so you can have yours" Han: han hmms and then with too much gusto goes "vinny! truth or dare!" Cimmorro: cimm clapping when han decides to go for vinny Vinny: he sighs as if summoned for public speaking "truth?" Han: she rolls her eyes playfully "of course, cowards option." looks at cimm n stage whispers "what did you ask before" Vinny: he makes a disgruntled face to himself Cimmorro: "oh, i asked him about how he met ezra" Han: "oooo..." turns back to vinny "how did you meet cole then?" suddenly genuinely curious Vinny: he blinks as if not expecting the question "oh, hm. she came to my store about 2 years ago... oh jeez that's been a while" he leans backwards a bit "she said she'd heard about my work and basically fell to the floor to beg me to take her on" he scratches the back of his head awkwardly "when i said i wasn't taking on apprentices, especially er, so out of the blue she still wouldn't give up. she came back everyday for a week until i decided to finally hire her as an employee at least..." he looks down in defeat "eventually she just started calling herself that and i couldn't be bothered to correct it anymore" Han: han laughs into her hand, snorting n shit "i didnt know you were such.. what it called. hotshot!!" Cimmorro: cimm is also just cackling and bringing up the cat thing again "i can't even blame her. maybe i would've resorted to such tactics if you also turned down my request" Vinny: he shrugs "well, the accord like to brag about their acquisitions, so maybe my name got around... and that i was specialized in the newest school of magic" he says this all with complete neutrality, though at cimmorro he sits up straighter getting embarrassed "d-don't joke about that please...!" Cimmorro: cimm sneers playfully. "you should start preparing yourself for more of those flooding in now that they're parading you, as you said... but i'm sure none of them would have as funny of an entrance as cole" Han: han nods sympathetically Vinny: he blinks like he'd never even considered the possibility before a kind of horror dawns on his face "...oh i don't want to imagine that... let's hope cole isn't fighting back young applicants at the store in my stead" he rubs the bridge of his nose as if to dispel the thought Han: han hehehes gleefully n loudly at vinnys misery Cimmorro: cimm laughs too but it's mixed with amusement and also pity "maybe it was best you are on vacation then, she could easily just say you're not there and they'd run off... least until you come back" Vinny: he continues rubbing his eyes "maybe i should have just wandered off into the forest in figstup after all..." Cimmorro: "not too late to start planning! but let me know if you relocate, i could at least come and send a housewarming gift" he snickers. Vinny: he lets out a groan and just looks forlornly across the table Cimmorro: "so, my turn yeah?" Vinny: he gestures with his other hand like go ahead

Cimmorro: "kay, vinny. truth or dare. btw han called you a coward for picking truth. remember that" Han: han nods seriously Vinny: he raises his eyebrows surprised and sits up straight again from his hunched over pose shaking his head "...truth" Cimmorro: "oh cmooooon. fine," cimm huffs as he thinks over what to ask, determined to get vinny to start drinking. "hmmm, what's one embarrassing secret you have?" Vinny: he gives cimm a deadpan face "...i thought that's where this was going" he rubs his neck as if he's genuinely considering a way to answer it while not getting too embarrassed "...m-most of the books i sell in my store are secondhand romance novels i didn't enjoy...?" Han: the delight on hans face rn Cimmorro: cimm listens to that and looks at han and goes "do you think that's embarrassing enough for a pass?" Han: han considers it seriously 🤔 then narrow her eyes at vinny "what made them not enjoyable?" Cimmorro: cimm looks at vinny expectantly Vinny: he tilts his head still sweating "...usually having terrible prose, or really derivative plots" Han: leans in n whispers evilly "what is deh-ri-va-tif plot" Vinny: "...unoriginal or boring?" Han: leans back disappointed "oh. thats all it meant? booo" Cimmorro: cimm in his head like idk why this is considered embarrassing i read garbage all the time Han: "ill still let it pass i guess" 🙄 Cimmorro: "yeah, well if vinny finds it embarrassing then i suppose it counts. it also gave me an idea what to ask next time. you're free... for now" he mimics the same way vinny gestured earlier to let him have his turn

Vinny: he makes a strained face as he attempts to move them on quickly "er...han? truth or dare" Han: "daaaaare!" victoriously puts her cup up Cimmorro: claps claps Vinny: he glances at the cup then the rest of the of the fruit cups still sitting on the table "hmm... see how many you can down in a...minute?" Han: "easy peasy!! someone count" she readies into position Cimmorro: "i'll time it, vinny can count" Vinny: he quickly starts to rethink this decision but the die has already been cast "s-sure uh" he gets up and stands next to han looking down at the table "when youre ready...!?"

Han begins downing the fruit cups like crazy, though she soon gets queasy at the 40 second mark. As the minute rounds she feels herself starting to regret this as her stomach rebels against the plentiful fruitstuffs. She reaches 20 and finds herself with a stomach ache.

Han: han is visibly not happy anymore as cimm counts 58..59..60! but she raises a hand in the air likes shes a fucking trooper and sits in the chair like that dead joe pic chip uses for a minute "fruit is.............delicious and good..............." Vinny: vinny looks on with worried eyes and pats her on the shoulder scared shes about to blow Han: thumbs up Cimmorro: "wow..... arguably just taking the drink would've been easier on your stomach but, i know you" he smiles a little pensively "very impressive though!"

Han: THUMBS UP as she groans and sits back up "my turnnnn cimmyyy... truth or daaare.." Cimmorro: "you've inspired me, truly. dare." 🖐️ Han: "i dare you .. to..." han looks at all the empty cups "i dare you to wear all empty littol cups as hats for rest of night" Vinny: vinny goes to sit down as he glances between the two of you "...how would they fit..?" Han: han thinks at the mess they could cause "okay, just two. on your horns" Cimmorro: cimm looks down at the cups and tries to figure out how to even start doing that. "han, I wouldn't mind that if we weren't on a ship on route but i feel like these would eventually end up in an accident... my horns are small" he moves his hair to show her properly "psalm could probably pull it off though" Han: han pouts "psalm isnt here to ruin my daaaaaare" 😤 Vinny: vinny looks between the glasses and cimmorro like hes doing math in his head "...guess you're drinking?" Cimmorro: cimm looks at vinny like this (just playfully), its less about him needing to drink and more about him being the first one to when he wanted to get vinny

Cimmorro: "I'll drink then yes, my drink has already started to get lonely anyway!" Han: han looks happy with the outcome anyway Vinny: he almost laughs at how put out cimmorro looks at the idea "make sure to enjoy it!"

As he downs it, Cimmorro finds the drink packs a punch, he blinks a little more tipsy than he thought he’d be.

Cimmorro: blink blink blink wtf did that waiter put in my drink<-- cimm rn cimm blinks a little spaced out but shakes his head a little from it. maybe the previous drinks are all stacking up along too? ah well. he clears his throat. "meeeee? :3c" Han: "youuuu" :3 Cimmorro: "alrighttt," he squints between you two and lands on han. "you, truth or dare!" Han: she agonizes for a moment before feeling all those fruit cups in her belly "..truth" 😔 Cimmorro: "hmmm, what are all those tattoos on your face about?" Han: han perks up, unexpected and then laughs a little "they arent tattoos? theyre birthmarks. go all the way down" shes points out all the ones going down her back, arms, chest, etc. "its on all goliaths. what the word... passed on. easy to tell apart clan, too." Cimmorro: his eyes follow her wherever she points. "oh... right," he slowly blinks again, the tipsiness must be playing with his eyes. "that's interesting? so... your siblings have the exact same ones too?" Han: she thinks "no, not exactly.. they are similar, though." Cimmorro: cimm nods. "i see, good to knoooooow vinny, yer up"

Vinny: he blinks back over from where he's glancing at the marks on han's cheek "hm? oh uhh... cimmoro i suppose. truth or dare?" Cimmorro: "truth!" Vinny: he thinks for a minute stumped "ah...." scratching his chin he goes on "...what's your biggest fear?" Cimmorro: "augh, ehhhh..." he leans on the table with both arms and hands on both sides of his face as he thinks. "i would say losing my connection to the ruby sorceress... but i suppose that's every follower's fear, ain't it?" he thinks again and reluctantly he goes,"i guess right now, I'm really scared of something happening to my ma... or worse! she might not come back at all" he just kinda squeezes his face as he says the last part. Vinny: he nods his head in agreement at the thoughtful answer "family woes are on the forefront of alot of our minds huh..." then makes to pat cimm on the shoulder apologetically "er sorry...i was expecting something silly as an answer, like...bugs..." Han: han gives him a big look of pity, not expecting such a real answer, and not knowing what to say rly, she just goes "sorry, that sucks.." Cimmorro: cimm snorts a bit at that. "you said BIGGEST fear. also i love bugs, excuse you!" he seems to be more or less back to his usual demeanor. "if we're talking about stuff that exist then I'm scared of geese........." Vinny: he stares wide eyed "geese...." Han: "ive only seen geese in farmer market. are they that scary...?" 🤔 Cimmorro: cimm just makes a scrunched smile. "it's okay don't worry about it, really. i got chased by geese when i was young okay!" Vinny: vinny lets out a surprised laugh, putting a hand over his mouth "...i see... a traumatising event..." Cimmorro: "there was a wedding ceremony," he begins "at my temple, the betrothed wanted to have black geese around the altar. but they got out of the cage when i was looking for willow and they just started chasing me!" Han: O_o "how.. little were you" Cimmorro: "like," he measures with his hand which is barely like 90cm-ish "this? i was 5!" Han: han stares in horror, remembering what size geese are Vinny: vinny is distracted trying to picture a ceremony with geese Cimmorro: "have you seen the teeth on those things? horrible. i barely made it out alive" Vinny: "i wonder if it was that severe..." Cimmorro: "are you saying you don't believe me :plumface:" Vinny: "i mean... i believe you're scared of them" he smiles while tilting his head Cimmorro: [off my puter jpg] Vinny: [laughs under his hand] Cimmorro: "whatever 🙄 han next"

Han: han comes out of her stupor about dire geese "hm? oh.. vinny ! truth or dare !" Vinny: he looks over cautiously "truth..?" Cimmorro: "ask him something he's gonna have to drink for :mortcry~1:" Han: han think she could very easily do that , but she would feel bad about it, so she wont "what is ... the favourite romance book you have" Vinny: he makes a lopsided face at the question and look away embarrassed again "....f-favourite huh...." he closes his eyes as he scratches the back of his head "of all time...that's a difficult choice...." he folds his arms and taps his finger on his bicep thinking "there was one i liked recently though called star night calls. it was about a man haunted by evil spirits...though one day a benevolent one steps in to act as his bodyguard, and eventually a relationship blossoms between the two..." Cimmorro: "what the hell." hold on brain static blinking again. "that sounds good? do you have it with you? can i borrow it?" Vinny: he makes a coughing sound again "i...did not bring it with me... i usually only take things i havn't read around when i travel..." Cimmorro: "ahhhhhhhhhhh, fine I'll look for it when we land..." he pouts "let me borrow something else though" Vinny: still not making eye contact he nods "s-sure sure... i'm done with a couple already..."

Cimmorro: 🐱🐱🐱 cimm making a mental note to browse through Vinny's suitcase library "okay my turn.... vinny, truth or dare!" Vinny: he slaps a hand to his red face and sighs "maybe it was better when only two of us were drinking" Cimmorro: "aw cmon you made han eat all of those fruit cups 🙄" Vinny: he looks at the cups despondently "truth..." Cimmorro: cimm taps his chin. "what are the best and worst dates you've ever been on? go!" Vinny: he drops his head with a sigh Cimmorro: ?!? "hello? portcus to vinny?" Vinny: he scratches the back of his head again more anxiously than before and lifts it again, turning to cimm but glancing away "i... have never been on one?" Cimmorro: "what? like, date-date like, lover date right? we're on the same page?" Han: "i would high five you but i scored date with psalm so i am no longer not been on one" 😎 Vinny: he nods his head still glancing away "yes, date-date" he looks at han like he's updating something in his mind Cimmorro: cimm makes a genuine, sharp gasp and just kinda stays still on his seat like that Vinny: vinny flinches a little and grumbles embarassed "it's not that dramatic come on..!" Cimmorro: "no- but, i really thought... i mean you seem very sociable enough for it, and you read a lot of those books apparently--- not even once? do you just not want to?" he's genuinely concerned Vinny: he spits a little at the mention of the books "t-the.. the opportunity j-just hasn't ever really come up! i've been b-busy studying or working! back in my village, never, and m-most people in the city find me a strange man usually, including locals..." he pauses as he finds himself getting redder at the babbling Han: han looks up from staring at vinny, and looks back at him to ask "not everyone thinks youre strange man, right? is there no one You're interested in?" Vinny: he crosses his arms scrunching his face up "i m-mean interest comes and goes- i am under no obligation to answer more questions..." Han: >:3c Cimmorro: cimm sits there and listens to both of them like, "even if you were strange, strange isn't really a bad thing anyway, no? just gotta find someone who likes strange" Vinny: he lets out a weary sigh still red "it's not high on my priority list...." Cimmorro: "what if you're interested in someone then? do you just let it pass because it's not a priority?" cimm seems boggled by this. "that's why you wouldn't get any openings then because you just close them!" Han: han was gonna push the game along to torture vinny faster but seeing cimm taking this so personally is also pretty amusing Vinny: he waves a hand around through the air exaggeratedly "i- i just said so! i'm not eager to get involved with anyone w-who doesn't know me all that well anyway... and e-even then i wouldn't want to..." he waves an arm again as if to gesture to himself in his entirety "no one needs to... augh..." he starts rubbing his hair with both arms looking between han and cimm frustrated "the question has been answered..!" Han: han just lolling inside n trying to hide her laughter w her hand, vinnys struggle is cute lol lol Cimmorro: cimm just watches him faff about like O_o. this is more serious than he thought... but he also needs vinny to function tomorrow so he decides to leave it alone. maybe. for now. "okay, you're right. it's your turn now"

Return of the Airship Drinking Party Part 2 - 10/4

Vinny: he rubs eyes underneath his glasses a little as he wills his embarrassment to die down for near a minute, nearly taking a sip of his drink until he remembers the rules of the game they're playing. he lets out a wobbly sigh, shaking his head and glancing over at han "er...truth or dare?" Han: han sits pondering intensely ... having to admit shes a coward hurts... but tummy hurts more... "truth..." her pride withering rn Vinny: he tilts his head consolingly at the stomach pain as he continues to rub his face idly "hmm... best fruit cup flavour?" Han: hans surprised at such an innocent question that she giggles a lil then thinks seriously about it... then it turns kinda too serious? then after a too long pause she goes "... apple" Cimmorro: cimm snorts a bit at how han went into full thinker mode Vinny: he glances at the empty cups after han's minute of serious thought wondering if he somehow asked another upsetting question "maybe i'll grab an apple for myself then?" Han: arms crossed, very seriously "apple is simply best fruit" jjba i understand your feelings deeply jpg Cimmorro: "I'm more of a mango and strawberies fan but apples are delicious, that much i can agree" he nods Han: han nods seriously back "also good option...” Vinny: vinny half smiles again "i can agree on the mango, but im glad we've reached a real consensus on this question with the apple" Han: “strong.. powerful..." Cimmorro: "w-what?" Han: "in flavour" Cimmorro: "OH." he seems a bit frazzled by the answer. "sorry i just wasn't expecting that description of it... but i get it now!" he shakes his head from the hint of embarrassment "which kind do you like the most?" Han: "big red one" Cimmorro: cimm slowly cheers a "yeaaaaaahhhhh" with a thumbs up of approval Han: YEAAASH THUMBS UP BACK "wait, whose turn is it" Cimmorro: "yours"

Han: gasp, she looks like shes up to no good again "truth or dare" Vinny: he gives han a glance and sighs "i'm sensing a trend here" Cimmorro: cimm innocently :3c's at him Han: "the trend is you saying interesting things" >:3 "you said interests come and go... who was your last interest?" 🤔 Cimmorro: cimm laughs into his hand when han doesn't let vinny have a choice Vinny: he makes a scrunched up red face at her and moves to immediately take a sip of his drink Han: han makes the pog face "i got vinny to drink!!! i think i win??" looks at cimm expectantly Cimmorro: cimm seems surprised at vinny drinking "love life too private then, huh?" but there's definitely a look that suggests he's also scheming as he watches him, then at han "YEAH YOU GOT HIM!!" hi5 Han: HI5!!! HEHEHE Vinny: his face grows a little redder as he mumbles into the cup "my l-lack of one, yes" Cimmorro: "oh but you do have semblance of one, don't you? why else hide it? :)" Vinny: he pointedly tries to ignore cimmorro Han: hans just like yaaaay i win i win (ignores ust) "cimms turn!?" (nose growing gag) "be warned, im already point ahead--" Cimmorro: "yes, my turn!" he eyes between han and vinny, spins a fork on the table to let it decide "technically two? i also had to drink because of you" Han: she forgor.... look of shock and then she laughs like finn "HAHAHA! YES! TWO!" Vinny: 😓

Cimmorro: "vinny, truth or dare" he smiles Vinny: he sighs audibly resisting the urge to hang his head "..dare?" Cimmorro: "oh cmon, don't be so drooooopy I'm not that evil!" cimm pretends to think but clearly he's had this idea from the start. "say the corniest pick up line you can think of, one for each of us." Han: "what does corn have to do with pick up line?" :3 Cimmorro: "oh it's like, corny means something that makes you cringe, or probably cheesy. I'm not sure why they call it corn or cheese, either though" cimm seems a bit taken by the question like yknow i never wondered about that Han: "like...dairy..?" Cimmorro: "yes, cheese is dairy... have you had cheese...?" Han: nods... Cimmorro: cimm snorts at han's cluelessness still. "cheesy either means something with a lot of cheese. or it's a feeling you get when you feel... somewhat embarrassed? i suppose. it's rather difficult to describe if i'm being honest" Han: thinks deeply and stores this information in her brain, awaiting vinny to give her proper examples Vinny: he looks surprised at the suggestion, expecting something more physically strenuous in some outlandish way. he coughs, still pouting and a little red, he leans back folding his arms "c-corny....?" he tries to recall lines from anything he's read recently. after a minute of han and cimm chattering on the meaning of corn and cheese, he turns to cimm, not looking him in the eyes "my h-heart exists in three stages, solid, liquid and c-completely yours...?" he then turns to han, also avoiding a glance at her face "i think the g-gaps in my fingers were meant for yours?" he finds himself embarrassed afterward as he leans back in his chair, arms still folded, screwing his eyes shut Cimmorro: cimm puts a hand over his own eyes and laughs breathily, trying not to burst out into a full bark. after he calms himself a bit, he turns to han with a hand over his mouth, still laughing. "that's cheesy" Han: han studying the gaps in her fingers and takes vinnys hand to measure "is that so?" Vinny: he reddens worse at the laughing from cimm, though he's so flabbergasted han actually grabs his hand that he lets it go limp as he stares at her confused "i...it's not literal" Han: "OH" NOW SHES EMBARRASED, puts his hand back gently Cimmorro: "aw but you two looked so cute just now!" Vinny: >_< Han: gives cimm an unimpressed look Cimmorro: :3 Han: han looks a bit dejected but still pink "i dont think i get pick up lines after all.." Cimmorro: "it's stuff that's supposed to make your heart flutter one way or another. but truly it's a hit or miss" he leans back on his chair. "i think most of the time it really only makes me laugh, especially at bars? if someone wanted to have sex with me I'd rather they just be out with it... definitely different coming from a sweetheart though" he takes a bite of another biscuit Han: han nods in understanding Vinny: he rubs his furrowed brow "l-lets move on..." Cimmorro: "why? I'm not even targetting you anymore 😭 can't a guy talk about himself. han, have you never been given a pick up line? i feel like you're more out there than i am" Vinny: vinny stares at the ceiling Cimmorro: "🤔🤔🤔🤔 do YOU want to be pick up lined?" Han: she thinks this way... she thinks that way... "some inn guests tell me i have great thighs? or like, 'you wanna wrap those legs around me tonight baby?' but thats not like what vinny said.." she then has this moment of clarity and she goes pink "THATS LIKE WHAT STELLA KEPT SAYING TO ME!!!! LIKE 'YOURE SO SWEET, ARE YOU ON THE MENU' " she folds in on herself head on table in embarrassment, stomping a little Vinny: he makes a surprised sound as he looks over "i-i dont even know how i'd react to someone giving me one..." at han's flash of self awareness he looks over like well at least im not the only one embarrassed now at this table Cimmorro: cimm lets out a laugh again. "so, you get it right? it's supposed to make your heart flutter! or turn you on. whichever" then at vinny "YOU'VE NEVER GOTTEN ONE EITHER? does nobody flirt with you at all?" he turns to han "i think we need to bring this guy to a night bar" Han: "no! they sound silly !!! im not on any menu !!" pulls her hair :O "do you know good bars in krenic?" 🤔 Vinny: "i told you i'm not the h-hottest commodity -and I-I DONT NEED TO BE TAKEN ANYWHERE..." he lifts up an arm quickly in a stop motion Cimmorro: "why are you getting embarrassed then!" at the bar question he seems to think for a bit. "a couple, yeah. but i havent visited in the past few years so it might've changed by now. you need to LIVE a little buddy" Han: "it is new experience" nods seriously Vinny: "i'm living just fine...!" he shakes his head "all i've been getting lately are new experiences..." he gets a far off look in his eyes as he sighs, pouting again "don't go trying to s-set me up with strangers please" Cimmorro: "fine. I'll respect that..." he seems to relent until he gets Han's attention again. "you wanna take vinny out on a date or should i?" Han: !? caught off guard but gives it some thought "i only had one... and psalm said i need to work on my skills more... you sound more like expert... makes sense you go?" very genuine answer Cimmorro: "i dunno, seems like a nice experience either way... you could get some practice in! at the same time vinny gets to experience it. we could have a threeway date too 🤔" he thinks for a bit and looks around the table. "honestly, this is more or less a date already" he shrugs Han: "is it...?" han considers this seriously "i suppose it could be..." 🤔 Vinny: at some point vinny has put his red face in his hand to stop himself from making strangled sounds Cimmorro: cimm waves a hand nonchalantly. "either way it's pointless if vinny doesn't want to. but know my offer is up for grabs. han well, you have to ask her if you want her instead... know that I'm a limited time offer though!" he snickers as he jokes Han: han gives a thumb up, kinda lost but shes got the spirit ! Vinny: he drags his hand slightly down his face to reveal his eyes, face still flushed "...n-now can we move on...?" Cimmorro: "fiiiiiine.... i forgot whose turn it was.... yours?" Han: "i also forgot, lets say vinnys" ^o^

Vinny: he huffs as he leans back towards the table looking at cimmorro "truth or dare..." Cimmorro: "oh he's mad at me now...! dare." Vinny: he fights the urge to roll his eyes a little and thinks for a second rubbing his neck, he glances at the fruit cups again before pointing at them "...do your best to juggle three at once" Cimmorro: "you are very fixated on these fruit cups..." cimm picks three of them up and it's obvious by how awkwardly he's holding these things that he has never juggled a thing in his life. but by the gods will he try. "I've never done this before so wish me luck" Han: thumbs up u got this Cimmorro: cimm goes "hup, hup, hup---WHOAH-- nope, i got it! heh" as he eases into the rhythm of it. he looks smug as hell now Han: han claps while oooo-ing Vinny: he blinks a little wide eyed at the successful attempt "i'm surprised you went for it, good job though..?" Cimmorro: "what? you thought I'm gonna drink again?" he smirks and puts the cups down. "I didn't peg you for someone who'd try playing a little dirty, I'm impressed" Vinny: he makes a face at cimm "i've just been starting to feel a little bullied at this table... though if i really wanted you to drink i could have just said take a flying leap over han or something" he snorts to himself as he pictures that Han: han looks like shes overjoyed at this new mean streak Cimmorro: cimm also snorts and nods. "fair. but that's the point of the game isn't it? trying to get the other person to drink. otherwise we would just be playing regular ol' truth or dare." he smiles and turns to han. "your turn"

Han: "ummmm... vinny! truth or dare!" Vinny: he has given up on expecting anything else, he settles his chin in his hand as he looks at han "..truth?" Han: "whats the one place you would like to travel to!" :D “anywhere in world":3 Vinny: he blinks and ponders the question thoughtfully "...i've never thought about that much since coming to the city, felt resigned to staying there most of my life" he pauses as he continues thinking, mulling it over "...tyalorin might be interesting..." Han: "whats there that got ur attention?" :3 Vinny: he gives her a smile as he thinks "well...most of the city is powered by old fey enchantments, floating stairways and self igniting lamps. that sort of thing, they're pretty ancient too so they're almost historical" he puts a finger to his chin "it'd be interesting to see all that in action, not to mention most of the ore i get for components is exported from there, maybe see some of the scholar's circle..." he looks off as he gets lost in thought Han: han is like jawdrop at all that "that sounds so cool... that the fuck... i need to go there" >_< "i hope you get to see it soon" :3 Cimmorro: cimms like ooooo 🤩 then goes, "is that where you plan to head to after your favor for me?" Vinny: he gives her a lopsided smile "i guess we'll see" at cimmorro's question he turns cimm "i plan to go back to shorewater" he laughs like its a silly thing to even suggest Cimmorro: "aah? how come? would be a nice detour before you head back, no?" Han: han nods in agreement Vinny: "i'm on old berryl's radar again, and if they do come calling id rather not get my ear pulled for being out in the middle of nowhere. besides there's no fun travelling on my own" he tents his hands idly "any trip i take in the future will be at their whims most likely..." Han: han looks so sad "whaaaaat! fuck that berry guy!" she pounds the table with a fist playfully "lets travel together there then!!" :D Cimmorro: cimm frowns at that. "jeeeeez, can't even have a vacation in peace..." he seems to mumble to himself a little annoyed by the setup. but nods in agreement at han's suggestion Han: "i will protect you from berry" 😤 Vinny: he raises an eyebrow at her "it's not really on the way" he gives a dry laugh at cimmorro's understanding before giving han a sadder smile "i appreciate it" Cimmorro: "maybe after we're all done with all we oughta do, we could meet up there? I haven't been there myself." Vinny: he thinks a little wistfully "if we could make that work it'd be pretty fun, huh?" he still looks he doesn't quite believe it's possible Han: "travelling is best thing you can do!!! its movement!! its life!! its culture!! so many places to see! so much different!!! we have to all go now!!" she moves rly passionately during this tirade Vinny: he perks up a little at han's passionate spiel and laughs again smiling "well i agree with you there!" Han: "so you agree? you must go with us?" 🤨 Vinny: "just because i agree doesn't mean i think it's actually feasible..." he feels like hes explaining to a kid why they cant go to disneyland Han: "i will take you. no problem" 😤 👍 Vinny: he shakes his head like he given up still laughing a little less sadly "alright alright, i look forward to it" Han: happy she won 😊 ✨ "cimm turn" :D Cimmorro: cimm watches the both of them, amused at the results of it. "we can figure it out. we'll even help you cover it up with a little lie if need be." cimm spins the fork again, when the fork points to vinny again, cimm just leans over the table facing him. "hi ☺️ you know what to do" Vinny: vinny abt to strangle him Cimmorro: FR #(2))2)# Vinny: *EXAGGERATION Han: JSBSJEBWBDJDNDN 😳 ⁉️ ) Cimmorro: HALAKSKDKSLLCLV

Vinny: he stares at the fork with a deadpan expression "....truth... did you enchant that when i wasn't looking?" Cimmorro: "you're accusing me of that now?" he barks a laugh, entertained. "and if i did, who would be to blame? only you i think. you're the one teaching me these things~" Vinny: he snorts and shakes his head "a star pupil casting spells after one day just to harass his friend over a drinking game...?" he pauses and makes a serious thinking face "very plausible for you" Cimmorro: cimm snickers. "i know. adorable, right?" he gives him a wink and puts some thought into his next question. "what's the most sentimental gift you've ever received?" Vinny: he clears his throat at the wink as if trying to ignore it before pondering the question "oh... hmm..." he takes his arms off the table and leans back in his chair again "probably something my parents gave me, back when i left the village..." Han: han is like :3? "where are you from what did they give you??" Vinny: "they move around the green glades... er..." he seems to get a little embarrassed recalling it "it's a little silly, but they braided me a daisy chain to wear on my wrist" he taps it with his finger to punctuate the point "it's said to bring good tidings and weather, obviously it fell apart after a few days of travelling... but i felt pretty bad about it. i tried to keep one of the flowers to press it but i hadn't learned how to properly do something like that yet, and so it ended up rotting away..." his face is strangely somber as he recounts the tale Han: han gets progressively more teary eyed towards the end of this, smth about flowers as a gift .... a charm that dies so fast... augh ... poetry.... she just puts her hand on his wrist like 🥹 but fighting her snot from running down. Cimmorro: he gets a little emotional abt vinny's tale too. "ahhhh, that's the thing with flowers, so short lived... I'm sure they've served their purpose though. so it's not all to waste, yeah?" he gives vinny's shoulder a comforting pat Han: han recomposes herself while the others talk and goes "my tribe is against this, but cimm asked earlier if these were tattoos <points to brithmarks>, n they arent, but they are meant to tell lifestory, or be guidance, hence ramhead, because it look like ram, its meant to guide- anyway, what i mean to say, if you dont mind tattoos (i saw some guys have tattos at inn, they look cool, but its like the hair thing, cimm you know), maybe tattoo of daisy would be nice :)" shes still like teary eyed but in that faraway look type teary eyed, like shes imagining smth really cool...... Cimmorro: 🥺cimm goes ooooh! and nods with enthusiasm. "that's a great idea! also i didn't know that about your birthmarks, but that's a unique way to interpret it" he seems very in awe as he continues to study the marks on her now Vinny: he looks surprised at the attention the two give him over the story, thinking maybe he'd been needlessly dramatic over the whole thing, especially in recent years. her tears surprise him the most, though he in turn feels a few start to well up in his own eyes as he watches her get snotty. he wipes his eyes before they can fall, responding to cimmorro "y-yes well, i don't have much else from them these days so..." as he readjusts his glasses he listens to the tattoo idea and gets a sort of longing on his face "that sounds quite nice actually..." Cimmorro: "that settles it then! i can hook you up with willow's favorite artist when we land 😌👍" Vinny: he coughs a little to clear his throat as he raises his brow "your mentor has tattoo's as well?" Cimmorro: "oh yes, a lot. all over, in fact" he gestures to his entire body. "so don't worry, you'll be in good hands!" Vinny: he nods his head feeling a little self conscious now "well, i'll hold you to that then" he scratches his neck again out of habit Han: "wait really" O_o comes out of her bro stupor Cimmorro: he nods "yeah, they're always just under a lot of layers but it's really all over, it almost looks like a suit really, the way it covers them" Han: hans mind.. goes somewhere... Cimmorro: cimms like, "...? hello...? han?" and turns to vinny while shrugging cluelessly Han: 😳 Vinny: he looks at cimm confused and decides to move on... "er..whos next?" Cimmorro: "uh, you... i think" he's still glancing at han every other second HOWKSKDKKX Han: does not make eye contact

Vinny: he glances at her as well but decides to leave her...to whatever is happening "right uh, cimm truth or dare?" Cimmorro: "truuuuuth, i don't want you making me do something dangerous with those cups again!" Vinny: he laughs a little "caught onto my trick! hmm..." he gets back into a cheerier mood "what's the drunkest you've ever been?" Cimmorro: cimm grumbles a bit as he recalls a memory. "okay, so, I don't normally get drunk so often. it takes a while to hit me, but there's one time when my ma sent me some of her favorite liquor to celebrate my birthday. i believe i was 21...?" he brings a hand to his face as he talks, "anyway, I don't know what the fuck was in that thing but i took one sip and i was a goner! zoop! out! i was seeing shit I shouldn't be seeing! next thing i knew i was sleeping in the graveyards!" Vinny: he slaps a hand to his mouth as he laughs picturing cimm sprawled out on the ground outside "i-in the graveyards?" he's trying to not laugh harder "how kind of your mother" Cimmorro: he laughs too, finding the stupidity of it all amusing now. "no man, i was sure i saw my future self. that tripped me up. he was talking to me, but it was all like gibberish? i looked good though," he smirks. "when i was sober enough, the first thing i did was send a letter to her asking her what the fuck that shit was. i waited two months for a reply and you know what she said? 'ha ha ha ha. drink responsibly' is what she said. 2 months. in a pretty little envelope, wax sealed. that's all there was." he rubs his temples Han: han laughs along Vinny: he continues smirking as he subdues his laughter "prophetic visions huh? sounds like if you ever go drinking together she'll have you under the table in a second" Cimmorro: cimm looks at vinny as if he's just come to consider that one day he would eventually be invited to drink with his mom. "yknow... i miss her, truly. but i am never going to drink with her. she's a beast. the last thing i need is an embarrassing photo of myself in her purse she can freely show the other temples." he rolls his eyes. "han turn?" Han: han mental note: get crunk with cimms mum Cimmorro: cimm shuddering at the memory of circe out-drinking willow

Han: "oh!" she keeps forgeting they're playing tbh "umm.. cimm! truth or dare!" Cimmorro: "me? i see the tables have turned now... ehh hmmmm, truth again" Han: "u was talking about dating... what was your best date?" ;3 Cimmorro: cimm snorts at the devilish look han is giving him. "best date... ah. well, there was a girl dated before. she was really into building things! one time she set up this boat picnic. built the boat herself. it was small but yknow." he smiles recalling the memory. "just because she liked building things doesn't mean it was in its best condition though. eventually it started leaking and after trying so hard to keep it afloat, it ended up finding its resting grounds on the ocean floor... but we had a good laugh swimming back to shore!" Vinny: he tips his head curiously thinking to himself "almost sounds nostalgic, like an old summer day... also that behavior reminds me of someone" he holds back a little laugh Cimmorro: "no way... did we date the same girl" he barks another laugh Vinny: he makes an incredulous face and waves his hand through the air "n-not what i meant! i was thinking it sounded like something cole would pull" Cimmorro: "ahhhhhhhhhh" he snorts. "be more clear next time. also y'know what, yeah i could see the similarities, I'd say cole would be on the more easygoing side though" Han: han looks kinda dumbfounded but then starts hollering "you!! you said date should be about gifts or something!! and thats your best one?! thats so funny..." hitting the table with her fist.... ure killin gher ...!! wipes a tear "whats her name? is she in krenic? i wanna meet her now..." 😂 <- basically han rn Cimmorro: "w... what's gotten into you?" he finds himself laughing more out of surprise. "spending precious time together like that is a gift! one of the most priceless ones in fact! cmon han" 🙄 "actually, i don't know if she's still in krenic. we didn't keep in touch after we broke up." he looks up in thought, but he doesn't seem too sad about it really Han: shes still laughing and wheezing between words "ye, okay, it is, it just not what i expected, at all...." calms down a little "aah, pity. she sounds fun to hang out with" Cimmorro: "the fun thing about dates is that there's a lot of things that can happen, good or bad! but a great date would be something that leaves you feeling fulfilled, despite it all... or because of it." he rests his head on his hand as he leans on the table and sighs a little whimsically. Han: "sinking boat made u fulfilled then?" snickers Cimmorro: he rolls his eyes in a lighthearted way. "one day, you'll find yourself in a situation similar to that and i will have the last laugh, you'll see... also yes, i was itching for a swim that day, i won't lie" he laughs again Han: han keeps snickering

Cimmorro: cimm spins the fork and as it points to han, he makes a gesture towards her that's like a slight limp wrist. "let's see what you got for me, hanny. truth or dare" Han: makes a really scrunched up thinking face "truth" P: Cimmorro: "hmmm... give your very honest opinion about me. and vinny while we're at it. no holds barred. I'll be a good sport about it" Vinny: vinny looks up from his daydreaming curious at that Han: "wooooah... want to know so bad??" she covers her face like shes shocked but u notice she goes kinda pink? Cimmorro: seeing han like that actually makes cimm feel slightly nervous. but he stands his ground "yes... i said what i said" Han: hans like drinking is losing........ this is also losing... but drinking is LOSING MORE.......... AUUGUGHGH >_< han pointedly keeps looking somewhere away from cimm. complete 180 degrees from him in fact. she struggles getting words out, stuttering a little, some literally thru gritted teeth. her tone is steady tho, she doesnt half ass this. she seems almost angry about saying this (BUT SHE CANT LOSE) and she does go pink lol "youre really nice to me...i appreciate it. you are funny and smart and seem to know lots that i. Dont... its... nice.. to hang out with you.. and ... LEARN.. from you... sometimes. though you are puny" then she relaxes a bit "and youre good looking" she briefly makes eye contact with vinny before turning basically away from the table 180 degrees, to face away from both of you and goes (in pretty much the same manner) "i thought you were kinda weird at first but youre pretty nice too !! you seem kind of airheaded but its cute sometimes!! and not always bad i guess!! you know lots too, its nice to listen to you talk!! also why are you built, i thought all wizards are like limp noodle !! youre good looking too !!" turns to cimm borderline steaming "DO I WIN" HUFFS Psalm: Psalm, who had wandered in for dinner notices Cimmorro, Han and Vinny having some kind of heated conversation(?) and briefly wonders if he should make an escape. Han: ;LKADG;AWILKEFS;D) Cimmorro: psalm just sees this table all red and blushing

Vinny: he blinks wide eyed at the intensity of han's proclamations going a little red himself as he glances at her whirling around in her seat throughout that "t...thank you?" he thinks how the subject of him being built also came up in cimms study today "i... lift alot of heavy things i suppose..?" he almost feels bad for not returning the intensity and pats her on the shoulder consolingly as if soothing a wild horse Psalm: Intending to just grab some food and head back to his room he can't help but overhear the tail end of Han's grand declaration to Vinny, which only adds to his confusion. Kind of a random time and place to be confessing...and with Cimmorro there...what is going on.. Han: han keeps turning and blissfully unaware to how loud she is so she spots psalm and is like WAAAAAAAVE PSALMY HIIII :3 Psalm: he waves cautiously, not sure why Han would even single him when she's clearly in the middle of..something? Cimmorro: cimm has just been sinking into his chair kind of speechless and red. "yeah, okay you win that one. geez..." he takes a fucking drink 💀 Han: HAN HUFFS PROUDLY AND SITS UP STRAIGHT. YES I SERVE CUNT HERE ! THANKS ! (she doesnt know what that means) she waves at psalm again and is like "come sit with us! o, if you want i guess..." nods at her being civil

Psalm raises an eyebrow, but ultimately decides to come and join his companions after grabbing himself something to eat.

Psalm: He nods at Vinny and Cimmorroorro in greeting before saying, "So, uh, what's going on here exactly?" Cimmorro: cimm gives psalm a small nod, acknowledging his join in the fray. he's not the best companion he'd like to be drinking with but also not the worst, he thinks. "drinking. playing truth or dare." Vinny: he coughs into his fist awkwardly clearing the air "celebrating? and failing to get drunk" Han: "i am winning!" 😤 Cimmorro: i want to make clear that cimm is not being cold but is also not being super peppy abt psalm being here JKWKWDKKSMSM IN CASE THAT CAME OUT TOO MEAN) Psalm: Not exactly sure how one wins truth or dare but deciding not to question it, he asks "Celebrating? What's the occasion?" Vinny: "cimmorro's first day of wizard study, he insisted" he gestures with a hand at the man in question "it's been giving me deja vu..." Han: han leans to mock-whisper to cimm "wait, really? did i not hear? congrats???" Cimmorro: cimm gives a 😗✌ expression "yes, i passed my test today with flying colors too because I'm so fucking epic" 🤭 Psalm: "I see." He does not see. "Congrats." Cimmorro: "cheers." he pauses and rethinks the thought of inviting psalm in the game or not 5 times in his head. eventually he goes "... so, are you joining in for our game? you'll need a drink." Han: han eyes sparkling at psalm Psalm: he is genuinely surprised at the invitation, coming from Cimmorro no less. He'd assumed he could just eat and head back to his room unscathed. After a bit of consideration he decides its better to not risk rejecting the invitation to join them. "Sure, why not? Although if you're expecting a grand declaration on how handsome I find you like Han over here don't get your hopes up too much." Han: han kicks psalms chair from under him on auto Cimmorro: "don't worry, han's opinion is the only thing i care about." he calls over a waiter for psalm Psalm: He just snorts at han Han: she puts it back before he can reach for it cause she feels bad "whose turn was it again" 🤔 Cimmorro: "vinny's. psalmboy can go after your turn han" Han: yaaaaay ^_^ Psalm: Psalm eating his food quietly

Vinny: he looks over at their new guest and gestures with an incline of his head "truth or dare psalm" Psalm: Psalm just narrows his eyes slightly at Vinny as if to say "Really?" before he just shrugs and says "Dare." Vinny: he thinks for a moment not expecting the dare "er...." he scratches his chin in thought "do your... best impression of han?"

[brief performance roll]

Psalm: i got a 12 so in the best accent resembling han's that he can muster he clears his throat, sits up straight and goes, "YES I SERVE CUNT HERE! THANKS!" Vinny: vinny lets out a laugh in sheer surprise over the volume Ghester: you hear ghester say "i didnt know that about you psalm?" Han: han loses her shit Psalm: "Well...you learned something new today I guess." ☠️ Ghester: "everyday together is a treasure!" Cimmorro: cimm just stunned to watching psalm do that, mouth slightly ajar Han: "if we ever need to fake my voice, you are great" Psalm: "I...don't know about that." Han: pats his back (too hard as ush) "that was joke" 😇 Psalm: * coughing * "Thank god."

Han: beams at you "now! truth or dare" >:3 Psalm: He looks at her like, did I do something to you..? Before sighing and going, "Truth. I only have one impression in me." Han: han gasps "how did you know....................." 😨 Psalm: "You're not serious." He can't tell if she's joking.. Han: she pouts a little "ummm.. then, what place would you like to travel to! anywhere in world" Psalm: "Kind of a boring answer considering we were just there, but I like the beach, airships and theatres, so Shorewater." Han: she seems disappointed "whaaaat, you would just go back?? ... i mean it is great place but booooo" Psalm: He knew this reaction was coming... "I'm not from there, and I spent a decent amount of my time there on the run from the law, so..." he trails off before adding "And cities aren't really what I'm used to." Han: han mulls it over "that..makes sense... ok, when we go back, ill show you aaaalll the cool places" she seems surprised at the last bit "oh? really?" Psalm: "Sure, whenever that is." He folds his arms. "Yes. I've never visited any like Shorewater before until recently." Han: a W in hans books! "where have you visited then?" :O Psalm: "Just...here and there...in Ackran. The cities are a bit more old fashioned. And the beaches aren't as nice. Kind of cold actually." Han: han hmmms "i didnt realize its cold there too.. but makes sense (?). i suppose ill have to see for myself. your turn!" Psalm: "Well if you ever need a tour guide, although I don't think I'll find myself back in that area for now." Cimmorro: "happy for you guys planning for your second date 🎉" Vinny: vinny hides a laugh with his hand Psalm: "I suppose more congratulations are in order aren't they." /j

Psalm: "Also let me know if I say something that's been asked already...? I'm late after all." Han: 👍 Psalm: to vinny "Truth or dare." Vinny: he gives psalm a deadpan smile "ah... revenge... truth?" Psalm: "I've been kind of curious, you're obviously a wizard with some level of repute in Shorewater regardless of your own feelings about it, so how'd you get to know your bounty hunter friend in the first place?" basically one stop short of asking "why are you guys friends" ☠️ Han: han looks with curiosity at vinny :O Vinny: he makes an amused face "i answered a question like that earlier actually..." he glances down at his cup and takes a drink "i'll say it's nothing too exciting though" Cimmorro: cimm eyeing vinny like 👀 Han: han gasps and looks distraught "nooo! i wasnt here either!! only cimm hears it?!" Cimmorro: cimms just smiling innocently on his seat Han: hits table playfully "this is so unfair!!!' Vinny: he tilts his head with a smile "it's not too fun otherwise is it?" though out of courtesy he says "ask me tomorrow and maybe i'll tell you" Psalm: "That's the game unfortunately." Psalm completely understands wanting to be secretive though so he's more or less unbothered. Han: pout pout pout... "ill keep you to that" Vinny: he laughs a little at both of you before turning to cimm "you're up?"

Cimmorro: "sorry guys... i think he's picking favorites now 🤷‍♂️" and a laugh. he swirls his drink and hums. "you know, I've been thinking our drinks have been mostly untouched and we've been here for a while, save for psalm of course. so i have a proposal to make... what if instead of asking one person at a time, we could ask the entire table a general question, or a dare really, and the first one who answers to it gets saved from drinking." he eyes the table for the others' reactions. "you might think i'm being an ass for doing this on my turn but i'm willing to skip mine if it gives you any comfort" Han: han doesnt even have a drink in front of her Vinny: THATS HOW MUCH SHE DOESNT NEED TO DRINK Han: EZ GAME

Han: hans eyes glint with COMPETITION! Vinny: he scratches his chin idly curious "i guess you did sound like you wanted a hangover by the end of this" Psalm: "Fine with me." Han: han nods vigorously ! "then, back to vinnys turn? does he decide if truth or dare?" Cimmorro: "i guess the rest of us can vote for one. it'd be 2-1 anyway. also yes vinny can take the spotlight. i vote for truth" Han: "dare!" Cimmorro: cimm eyes psalm Psalm: not the tiebreaker "I'll vote truth." Cimmorro: ++ Vinny: he thinks for a second as he considers the new mode the rules have taken, he whips out a hand like its a speed round as he speaks "...favourite food!"

Han: 24 dex check Cimmorro: 16 dex check Psalm: 2 dex check

Han: "meeaaaat" luffy voice NIKUUUUU Vinny: psalm like wait whats happening Psalm: psalm like i like fish if anyone even cares Vinny: vinny nods at han's exclamation as he eyes the other two boys with a smile Han: his evil era Vinny: he's flourishing Han: han sits triumphantly

Psalm: 17 con save > the drink barely affects him Cimmorro: 14 con save > still easy sailing

Cimmorro: cimm huffs and drinks and mumbles something about fish too Vinny: vinny pleased, looks towards han "you next?" Han: "truth or daaaare!!" Cimmorro: "truuuuuuth" Vinny: "truth" Han: "majority already!" Psalm: psalm nods then since it doesn't matter lol Han: she thinks... :evilsmile: "say one secret no one but you knows" Psalm: just deadpans and drinks.......don't mind him.. Cimmorro: [kpop guy putting down mic n drinking sbux] Vinny: vinny also drinks as he watches the other two

Psalm: 18 con save > hes breezing Cimmorro: 12 con save luck feated into a 16 > still easy sailing Vinny: 23 con save > feels nothing

Han: SHIT eating grin on han, shes so annoying rn "psaaaalm tuuuuurn" grinning right next to his face Psalm: "Alright truth or dare?" Unbothered. Vinny: "truth" Han: "dare!" Cimmorro: "dare!" Vinny: vinny sigh of defeat Psalm: "Alright, let's see an impression of me then." Han: han does a completely wrong accent and is like "WAIT- ITS LIKE (WRON ACCENT)- NO OKAY WSIT I GOT IT (WRONT ACCENT AGAIN)" Vinny: vinny pre-emptively takes a drink and almost spits it laughing at han Psalm: psalm also busts out laughing Han: han is like ue ue ue... she keeps trying n failing "i still did it first so i win" sniffle NOT A PROUD WIN BUT A WIN Vinny: vinny wipes his mouth and gives her a little cheer Psalm: "I suppose that counts for something yeah"

Cimmorro: 17 con save > a little buzzed now Vinny: 20 con save > untouched

Vinny: he glances over at cimmorro as han sits somberly "you're up" Cimmorro: "right, truth or daaaaaare my sweet lovelies!" Psalm: "Dare" Vinny: "truth" Han: "truth!" Psalm: yall hate me) Cimmorro: "describe your ideal partner, go!" Han: han was so ready to answer but actually thinkign abt it causes her to blue screen Vinny: vinny pondering how to word his awnsers too long every time Psalm: "I almost don't want to answer since I know how you'll respond." He sniffs in mock offense. Cimmorro: "then drink." he says deadpan Vinny: vinny flags down a waiter while these two act bitchy for a drink for han Han: han mopes on the table about this Psalm: "I'll answer just to piss you off cimmorro. I'll answer for my past self since I don't really think about that much these days, but when I was younger I used to be really into the swashbuckling hero type." like whatever the dnd equivalent of robin hood would be or something Vinny: vinny nods his head like this makes sense as he hands the mopey han her drink, patting her on the shoulder smiling Han: her like i cant beleive hes actually evil....! i thought u were niiicee!!!! 😭😭😭 Vinny: he has been weathered by this eveening Cimmorro: cimm sticks his tongue out at him in the most childish way possible 💀 just kill me

Cimmorro: 8 con save > hit hard by that drink Vinny: 18 con save > perfectly fine

Han: 🤧 han gulps it down n almost spits it back out from the taste and gives vinny the most withered look as she gulps it down... lesson learned, do not underestimate nerds Cimmorro: cimm doesnt really care about psalms answer he just wants to torment him at this point Vinny: vinny's pleased that despite all the sips he's taking he's the least tipsy here and han's attitude over having to gulp once makes him laugh

Cimmorro: "vinny, your turn" Vinny: he looks over with a glance "oh uh truth or dare" Han: "dare" 🤧 Cimmorro: "dare" Psalm: Shrug emoji Vinny: he strokes his chin again thinking hard "do a handstand?" Cimmorro: cimm glares at vinny for this, cimm gets up, reluctantly. looks at his drink for a second. sighs. maybe its a bit of the tipsiness getting to him or he's just annoyed at psalm being a wet rag still, but he attempts the handstand anyhow. Han: han trips on the chair trying to get out to do a handstand, its so sad, she lies on the floor defeated Vinny: vinny is surprised more than one person even goes for it and claps for cimmorro as he doesnt faceplant Psalm: he like this is truly absurd in the middle of the dining hall right now. Cimmorro: cimm probably only like keeps himself up for like 3 seconds before he almost tumbles over, he doesnt faceplant !! thats the win here!

Han: 12 con save > its starting to hit boys... Psalm: 8 con save > the tipsiness is kicking in

Han: han sits up on the floor n drinks sadly ... she doesnt deserve the chair now... Vinny: vinny is starting to regret the choice of dare, though he also marvels how she can still see over the tabletop sitting on the ground "g..ood job everyone?" he looks back at han "your turn...?" he gives her another horse taming pat on the head this time since shes low Han: yay headpats ^_^ Psalm: Psalm just claps Cimmorro: cimm huffs back into his chair a little embarrassed but also feeling oddly proud. didnt think he'd even be able to do it

Han: hans already tipsy, she keeps sitting on the floor "truth or daaaare" Vinny: "..dare?" Psalm: "dare" Cimmorro: cheersilldrink2that Han: "RUN TO THE MAST AND BACK FASTEST WINS" Psalm: psalm just rolls his eyes and drinks Cimmorro: cimm almost begins to run out of the shot of adrenaline, but pauses and goes like. "what the fuck am i doing" in his head and sits down and drinks

Cimmorro: 13 con save > tipsy time Psalm: 16 con save > doing okay

Vinny: he looks at psalm drink them cimm get up then sit back down and just gets up "i'll just take a walk i guess? brisk night air might be nice" he tilts his head and leaves the room at a leisurely pace (he returns after four minutes with messier hair from the wind) Psalm: "Congrats Vinny, you win." Vinny: he sits down and laughs "i had a feeling...!" Han: han laughs and while vinny is gone pokes psalm and cimm in their cheeks (to varying success) and goes " are youu guys scaared because youre out of shaaape hehehe" Psalm: "I'm scared because I just ate and have had a few drinks." Han: poke poke poke Cimmorro: cimm swerves his face away from han's touch and closes his eyes "I'm not gonna start running through the halls at night and get myself yelled at by people who are trying to sleep in their cabins" Han: han just sits swaying on the floor going hehehhehehe at u both

Vinny: as he glances around he sits a little closer to the table "i was right about the chill though...brr" he glances at psalm "your turn?" Han: has gives vinny a thumbs up!!!! proud!!! Psalm: him like glad I didn't go outside then... "Truth or dare?" Vinny: "truth?" Cimmorro: cimm is mindlessly trying to fix vinny's hair where he could reach bc it's bothering him. "dare" Han: "truuuth" Vinny: vinny wonders how drunk he already is as he watches him do this Cimmorro: <-- not even drunk Psalm: he closes his eyes and ponders fake dramatically before asking "What's the most awkward situation you've ever been in?" Han: han plays with her own cheeks in thought but she goes "getting kicked out of brothel is high on my list...."

Vinny: 21 con save > STILL barely buzzed Cimmorro: <- MAD ABOUT IT

Vinny: vinny gives her a stupefied glance as he decides to down the rest of his drink finishing it, though he still barely feels buzzed Han: "is that awkward or just embarrassing" Psalm: psalm also just looks at her like my god before going "both" Cimmorro: cimm already heard this so he just drinks in peace Psalm: "I don't know if I want an explanation so..whose next?" Vinny: vinny points at cimm as he orders another drink Han: hans in lalaland

Cimmorro: "okay truth or daaaaaareeeee!" Vinny: "truth" Psalm: "Truth" Han: "daaAAA-OOooh..." Cimmorro: cimm thinks as he stares at this drink "tell me the worst lie you've ever said to someone" Psalm: Psalm thinks for awhile about whether or not he actually wants to answer this, before saying, "Probably not the worst lie but I used Ghester as an excuse to escape a situation where someone was interested in me." Han: han was about to start talking but as what psalm says rolls over her shes just like jawdrop Psalm: no please talk please Han: 😇 Cimmorro: cimm raises a brow at him. "involving ghester like that means they must be aware of him, then..." Han: jawdrop x2 (the implications did not actually hit han) Vinny: vinny downs his drink wondering if they gave him the wrong one as he looks confusedly between cimm and psalm Han: han drinks cause she does not want to think about the implications further actually<3

Vinny: 23 con save > zero effect Han: 19 con save <- this information is sobering her

Psalm: Psalm just shrugs like "That could be any number of people." Cimmorro: cimm shrugs to one side. he could make a good guess that he doesn't need psalms confirmation for "im sure you take delight in telling every person youve come across about him" Vinny: he raises a brow still confused "...about who?" Cimmorro: cimm looks at psalm for this Han: "his sword talks! i think..." :plumface: Vinny: vinny looks more confused Psalm: "What makes you think I was telling the truth about Ghester in this scenario :plumface: " Han: han nods seriously... Psalm: "I can't explain it more accurately than this." He just waves his hand in a dismissive way Cimmorro: "you couldve used a different subject. i dont see why it had to be ghester specifically if you still had to lie about it. thats all" Vinny: he blinks "...your talking sword stopped you from...?" he shakes his head like he wants to take another drink so it makes more sense Psalm: "I was... panicking. And he's always there so it's an easy excuse." Cimmorro: [sure jan jpg] Psalm: Psalm just shrugs like "well i answered so" Cimmorro: "indeed you have. cheers to that and lets move on to vinny"

Vinny: he shakes his head out of the confusing exchange and coughs "right... truth or dare?" Cimmorro: "truth" Psalm: "truth" Han: "truuuu" Vinny: he puts a hand to his chin thinking for a second "what was your last dream of...?" Psalm: "Nothing special," Psalm says. "I adopted a dog." Vinny: he suddenly has a cheerier expression "oh? that sounds quite nice" Psalm: "Yeah I guess you could put it that way." Vinny: he folds his arms on the table with a smile "did you recognise it from somewhere?" Psalm: "No, my first time seeing it for sure." Han: han mumbling under her breathe " i fought blaaack draaagon aaalll by myseeelf" makes wrestling gestures

Cimmorro: 13 con save > stably tipsy Han: 20 con save <- she is reawakening

Vinny: he nods "i hear seeing animals like that are usually pretty good omens, maybe you'll have a lucky week" he glances over at han next to him like ...???? Psalm: Psalm like I wouldn't describe anything that has happened to me in the past month or so as lucky but he just smiles like this :psalmface: and agrees nonetheless Cimmorro: cimm doesnt even recall what he dreamt about all he remembers from his past day are piles of arcane formulas so he just drinks

Return of the Airship Drinking Party Part 3 - 27/4

About a half an hour or so later, Psalm passes out due to excessive drinking, Han moves to take him back to his room. Though she feels bad waking Keva, so she instead opts to bring him to her room and let him sleep there for the night, readying herself for sleep as well.

Back in the dining hall Cimmorro and Vinny continue drinking however.

Vinny: as the nights gone on vinny's drinking tolerance was finally surmounted and he feels himself slipping past the threshold of being lightly buzzed for once. he waves a hand through the air as he talks, drink in his other hand rambling about this or that. the light flush on his face reaches to his ears at this point as his eyes grow a little unfocused, staring at the middle distance like he does when he normally gets lost in his own thoughts sober "...and i mean the import fees can get pretty high, which isn't tooooo bad really. but if you don't remember to do inventory the right time of the week the prices can double almost! shorewater's great for finding certain things but, oof at what cost..?" he tilts his head to the side ruefully, at this point he's being going on for 5 minutes on his own at least Cimmorro: "that does sound dreadful. oh dear." cimm has simply let the night settle after the adrenaline from playing games and fucking each other over drinks, so this includes him just letting vinny ramble as much as he wishes to. he's not sure what he was expecting to see, maybe assumed he'd be the sleepy kind of drunk... but now he just seems more energized than ever, prattling on and on. it's amusing. cimm has finished the last ounce of his drink by now, not at all sozzled but not planning to have another since he figures he's gonna have to watch vinny and make sure he doesn't end up being mopped by the crewmates in the morning. nothing a little spell can fix, but where's the fun in that? this is what he was anticipating to witness after all. "sounds like you had a particular experience about this you're hung over." Vinny: he gestures strongly with his hand "it Is!" he nods his head "and less a particular experience and ah... just the entire period when i was starting out. you really need to try and get a handle on it if you want to stay afloat. make the right friends at the markets too. most people found me a little strange, but if you help enough old ladies move crates of turnips..." he smiles to himself as if discussing some kind of well held secret, he leans in to stage whisper behind one of his hands "there's a woman named marissa at the docks who'll trade just about anything if u bring her some fresh baked apple pie" Cimmorro: his eyes go a little wide at the revelation, completely amused. he stifles a laugh as he says, "so, you're admitting to me that you like to woo old women, is that it?" Vinny: he snorts and smacks a hand on cimmorro's shoulder "i simply show my elders the respect they deserve! got me into the habit of baking actually... reminds that cole nearly blew up my kitchen a few months ago" he stares off into space again thinking Cimmorro: grunting at the sudden smacking, he gives vinny a look before saying "well, the turnip thing maybe solves the mystery of the... heavy arms." it really does leave such a weight every time vinny decides to park his hand on his shoulder, even when he's not even putting his entire weight into it. not sure if it's something he'll ever get used to. "does that mean cole can't cook? what is it that you bake anyways, aside from pie?" Vinny: at mention of his arms he glances at his body again "i suppose..? i only ever started doing that stuff once i got to the city funnily enough" at mention of cole he shakes his head a little and moves to rest his head in his palm "not a lick, she can do things like steep tea but.." he starts laughing a little "ahh... fire and her do not mix when it comes to food. i used to bake quite a bit of bread, though not as much lately"

Cimmorro: "somehow it doesn't surprise me that cole's a bit of a kitchen disaster," he smiles then mimics vinny's current position. "but you struck me curious now, about your big boy pre-city life... what was that like?" Vinny: he lolls his head a little "hmm? you mean back in my village?" he blows out a buff of air and hums "less hectic that's for sure... though then again someone was always up to something or another" he closes his eyes and smiles "i'd mostly read in my parents caravan when i had the time, family friends and neighbors would come by often and teach me a few things here and there too. compared to everyone else i must have seemed like a shut in" he pauses as he continues to think "my parents were mostly bards by trade, so i picked up a few things. i used to know how to strum a lute but ask me noooow and.... id hardly remember where to start" he laughs opening his eyes again Cimmorro: cimm finds himself smiling at vinny's storytelling, something about it just feels nice. maybe because lately they've mostly been talking about his life to death situations and being imprisoned in his career. "ahh, that's too bad, i was going to request a song... maybe it's something like riding a bicycle? you never really forget how to." Vinny: she shakes his head amused "nooo no no, big waste of everyone's time there. i'll end up snapping a string and take someone's eye out..." he gestures with his hand again "so my point is...ah...." he furrows his brows for a few moments, tapping his fingers on the tabletop before he recalls his point "...i was as my mother said 'a skinny twig of a thing' when i left home" Cimmorro: at this point cimm is somewhat impressed vinny can even hold a conversation still. "aha, now that's something i have a hard time picturing... were you less scruffy too?" he gestures at the early stages of his beard. Vinny: he smiles and raises an eyebrow "scruffy?" he rubs his own chin idly in thought "i suppose i shaved regularly back then, there was less to get rid of. carlyn used to say i had a birds nest for hair though" Cimmorro: he chuckles and makes himself more comfortable in his seat, silently wishing he brought his pipe. "is that no longer the case right now? minus the minor burns, your hair still seems to go wildly about, and your bed hair is just as unruly as mine too," he hums. "while it's a little hard to imagine you without your key features," he says in a joking tone and coos "i bet you looked just as cute when you were younger." Vinny: he rubs a hand idly through his hair as he closes his eyes again "i don't style it much differently...maybe less greenery..?" he blinks at the latter comments, not quite understanding "what are my key features...the beard...?" he tilts his head towards cimmorro again "huh, cute? well we're all awkward looking when were young aren't we?" he smiles again as he gets a thought and swings his arm around cimmorro's shoulder "why am i the only one telling stories now anyhow!"

Cimmorro: "you put greens in your hair...? flowers and the like? what the hell, why'd you stop? you should keep doing it..." cimm was about to comment about how his beard completes his look somehow but gets distracted by the sudden weight around his shoulders. yep, there it is. "aiiegh... you seemed pretty happy yapping on your own and i was fine just listening!" he tries to adjust his seat to accommodate vinny's weight then goes. "what do ya wanna know anyway? honestly, i think you live a more... eventful life than i do" Vinny: he chuckles enough that his glasses get a little lopsided "harder to find flowers in shorewater on a daily walk, and i mostly did it as a kid!" he waves his other hand around in the air as he makes a lopsided face "i wasn't exactly trying to have one believe me, and that's pretty rich coming from a guy who ended up...e.....embroiled in an attack against the capital city. we're going to your home so why dont you give me a primer on antics you got up to back there?" he says the last part with a smile as he grabs his drink with his free hand to take another sip Cimmorro: "okay, to be fair," cimm gets a little defensive and faces vinny "my travels up til that point has been normal, not swimmingly great but i never got caught up in something as big as that! I don't know what happened there, but i like to think the goddess just had it be my calling of sorts. otherwise I'd go insane thinking about it..." he shakes his head, goes back to his original position and huffs. he laughs a bit after seeing vinny drink more and shakes his head once more. "my antics? hnnn... you already know more or less what i do for a living," he tries to think, looking up at the ceiling in thought. "i suppose there's also the fact that i also have a musical history of my own? i was part of the choir when i was a kid. my ma figured it'd be a good use for my mouth since i never shut up." he snorts Vinny: he snickers a little over his drink at cimm trying to explain himself "it's hard to fight a ball of luck once its rolling, maybe it really was divine interference?" his eyes go a little wider at the mention of the choir and he gets a dopey smile on his face as if excited "what seriously? with the little uniforms and everything? oh, groups of kids like that are so cute!" he stares at cimms face as if trying to picture it "sometimes they have ones for the holiday in the market square, in winter their cheeks get red and they look like radishes..." he's just ☺️ like this now Cimmorro: "yeah, i had flowers as big as my head on special occasions." he lets out a small but warm laugh at vinny's stare and daydreaming. "i know what you mean. kids are a delight in many ways and always full of surprises too!" he also ☺️s then hmms. "i didn't take you for someone who likes children, I'll be honest. only cause like, well, most people who have such... hmm... demanding jobs tend to not prefer to be around them much yknow?"

Vinny: he grins a little more clearly "well... its true im not sure if i'd be very good at rearing any of my own at the moment, much less want to get any involved with my..." he waves his hand through the air sort of noncommittally at himself as he lolls his head "but they're cute all the same ☺️ i like to give a treat to any that come to the store. back in my village there was always a few running about all over the place" he stops and seems to get a little distracted by what he says after he says it and pensively stares into space Cimmorro: cimm nods in understanding and just sighs again at his predicament... even in an outsider's perspective, it's frustrating to hear and see him be so caged in. how do you look forward to anything like that...? his thoughts come to a halt when he notices vinny drifting off... and kind of solemnly for that matter. he leans his head to get a better look at him. "are you alright?" Vinny: he blinks as cimmorro calls his attention, looking over "ah..." he looks away again after a moment of staring "yes. i just realised, i haven't been back in so long. those kids are all probably pretty grown by now... i wonder what they look like these days?" he has the same sort of wistful look on his face Cimmorro: "been away that long, huh?" he gives him a consoling pat on the back. "would it hurt to visit?" Vinny: he drops his head sidelong on cimms tiredly "...what if berryl doesn't even know where they really are these days... and he's waiting for me to smoke them out...." his face contorts into a dreadfully sad expression "i don't know how id face any of them..." Cimmorro: vinny's confession of his worries takes cimm completely by surprise, so much that he doesn't even have the leisure to process him leaning his head on his like so. he stays speechless for a moment as he puts the bits and pieces together in his mind. the picture, while still not crystal clear, he can still make enough sense of it. he wants to ask a few things, but at this point he feels rather awful that the drinking has gone this far... it was merely only for some laughs and seeing vinny so hurt isn't what he wanted to get out of this. what a thing to carry this whole time... cimm finds himself being able to relate to him in a way, not being able to see family for so long. and yet he still doesn't know what to say... so, he opts to give him an embrace instead. after a moment he asks, "shall we call it a night?" Vinny: as cimmorro turns to properly hug him he shifts a little to accommodate, and takes the opportunity to tiredly drop his head on his shoulder, closing his eyes. it's been a very long while since he's told anyone about any of this and it's seems its all come tumbling out today, he should have expected it'd be on his mind since discussing it earlier really. it's hard for him to get the image of the children out his head for some reason, cimmorro's warmth is comforting however, and the fact that he let him ramble on was kind of him. he finds himself drifting for a moment sleepily before he speaks again, noticing his eyes are a little wet "...hm? ah..." he lifts his head a little, wiping at them with his hand "y-yes... maybe that'd be good..." he wobbles a little upright on the chair again Cimmorro: "aiyayayayah," he clicks his tongue and helps him dry the rest of his tears with a handkerchief. "alright, back to the room now, up we go while you can still walk. i can't carry you like a princess even if you pleaded me," he pulls on one of his arms to urge him up. Vinny: he sits as cimmorro dabs him with the handkerchief sniffing a little, he adjusts his glasses afterwards as well as he can. as he stands he puts an arm on the table as cimmorro pulls the other and wobbles a little upright "ooh... haven't been this bleary in a while..." Cimmorro: cimm thinks to just clear out the intoxication from him with a spell right now, but wonders if that would a good idea after he just spilled something he likely wasn't even meaning to. he wouldn't want to embarrass him that way... so decides not to for now. "i'll make sure you won't have a hang over, so don't worry about it," he says with a few soothing pats on the back. he puts vinny's arm over his shoulders again and supports him as best he could on their way to their room. Vinny: he lets cimmorro help move him around as opposed to trying to use the rest of what remains of his logic to figure that out. he leans on him as they walk back, growing tireder with every step, leaning on him a little more as they go. it was easier to ignore the heaviness when they were sitting but standing up really knocked the wind out of him. he finds himself letting his eyes drift closed, trusting cimmorro to direct them correctly. by the time they reach their room he recalls the man said something and mumbles under his breath "..thanks" he continues walking as they reach his bed, he wobbles and drops onto it still keeping his grip, afraid to drop something unintentionally. it's colder in the room than he expected but this way it ought to stay warm, his head is swimming where he lies but not standing anymore is doing wonders for his dizziness. he slowly begins drifting away within a few breaths. Cimmorro: in contrast to vinny's in and out drift to dreamland all the way back, cimm had been heaving and struggling to keep them both from falling over. it's a comical sight. when they got to their door, a crewmate that was passing by gave him a worried look and had asked him if he needed help, to which he replied between panting "no, ha, it's okay... this... this is our room... thanks..." after another minute or two, he finally gets to start lowering vinny down to his bed. "o-okay, good night vi-- WHOOAGH!" was all he could say as he gets towed down with him in a firm grip. is he actually fucking asleep?! he's tried tapping his arm and telling him to let go but to no avail. he tries to tug himself out but he doesn't even budge... shit. and now his back is starting to hurt, awkwardly half-standing at the side of the bed, of course. and sitting all night at the dining only making it worse. he looks at jasper at the foot end side of the mattress, just tilting her head at him, clueless on what she could do to help. that's when cimm sighs and resigns to the fact he has to wait for vinny to loosen his hold on him. he gets on the bed, right beside him and trying to at least be in a position comfortable enough for his back to not scream in pain in the morning, resulting to them lying down side by side. this is karma, he thinks, for hassling him to drink. well, lesson learned. after a little moment of mumbling and brooding to himself, he turns to look at vinny sleeping soundly beside him... and somehow, the tiny irritation fades away. he takes his glasses to put away on the table next to them and before he forgets to, he quietly whispers a prayer to prevent vinny's hangover from surfacing in the morning like he promised.

Cimmorro continues watching and waiting afterwards, but soon enough dreamland starts calling for him as well as the two slip into a tired slumber.

#recaps #christ

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bigwraith · 4 years ago

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Hmmmm do I take Pact of the Chain for a familiar that can be a pseudodragon or do i take Pack of the Tome so I never need to sleep again

#dnd #man i just wanna talk to my patron #i can because he either possesses my friend or through a special staff i have #one of our players (who is also the one that gets possessed) uses a voice changer #its so funny #but like i also want a frumpkin ):#ah shit i can do that anyway with tome #but then i wouldnt get the pseudodragon option plus the extras that come with chain for familairs #asdjkfghsldfgk #rambles #thanks for coming to my ted talk

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mp100fanworkstranslation · 2 years ago

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He too, is an evil spirit PART 2

PART I Here

Tome: Thanks for coming with me to pick up my stuff Ekubo-chan. Ekubo: Heh Youre a student. How could you forget your homework? Tome: Hehe -They round the corner and there’s sounds of arguing- Tome: Huh? Ekubo: Huh? Voice: You made me feel so good after. Reigen: Well thats really…. Voice: I wanted to ask for your help again, and I never thought I’d run into you here. It’s too much of a coincidence. It must be….

Ekubo: What are they doing? Who is that? Man: You saved me! It was all your doing. Reigen: Im glad to hear that. Man: I’d love to have you over so I can properly thank you. Please come to my place. It’s very close to here. Reigen: Oh you dont have to thank me. It’s my job. I couldnt possibly accept.

man: It’s really very close! Reigen: I’m so sorry, today is a bit inconvienent. Ekubo: Why is it this guy (Reigen) who’s run across an unsavor character? Tome: What a needy client... Man: Surely, you’ll accept, right Master Reigen? I’d love a personal massage from you. Reigen: I’m sorry, Curse removal house calls are not part of the service package that we offer.

Tome: Ugh gross Tome thinks: Oh

Ekubo: Hey Reigen Got Trouble? Reigen: Ekubo

Reigen: Oh no, He was just on his way home, right? Man: Um well... uh.... yeah,... sure. I’ll see you around then.

Reigen: Ow! The hell are you doing?!

Ekubo: He transferred his obsession... things like this arent worth eating. He grabs it and it pops.

Reigen:? Ah, Tome, did you pick up your things? Tome: Ive got everything, Thank you Mr. Reigen. Reigen: As you just witnessed, there’s dangerous stuff out here. It’s best you head straight home. Tome: Okay

Ekubo: That situation didnt look good... and why are you come along? Reigen: I wrapped up earlier than expected. Why don’t you go return your body and I’ll take Tome home. Ekubo: So then... who’s taking you home. Reigen: What? Ekubo: um Ekubo thinks: Shit.... Reigen: Hey... You....uh... Ekubo: Apologies, I did not mean to imply you were an idiot or anything Reigen: Sounds like you did. And how long were you going to hold on to that body anyway. Look, I appreciate the concern, but enough is enough. You can’t keep doing this. Ekubo: I’m aware

Reigen: If youre aware, why don’t you get going? Ekubo: This guy works the night shift today, so it’s not problem if he sleeps later. Reigen: I know but...

Tome: So then... this too is a form of favortism is it not?

Tome: Ekubo-chan is an evil spirit, so he shows a kind of favortism for certain people. Ekubo:................ Reigen: Um...Wha.... Tome: He said so earlier. Tome: Isnt that an odd thing to say? He said it was because he’s an evil spirit. | Reigen:..... Ekubo: Having favoritism for specific people is something that humans have too, you know.

(Note: I’m not sure if theres a better word for this, but the term that’s being used is Favoritism + Preferential Treatment. Ie. treating someone better than other people, because you like them. Like a positive bias thing.)

Reigen: Tomechan, we’ve.... lets leave it at that. Tome: Huh?

-Narration- I don’t quite understand how these two relate to each other . If I had to describe it, theyre like bastard friends that still for some reason trust one another.

-Narration- Bastard friend (This is kind of hard to describe, but it’s a bad friend that brings out the worst in you.) Friend Employee It doesn’t really matter what you call it. What ever it you call it, it ought to be preceded by the phrase “An Important” Whether it’s giving importance to the other... or for you yourseld to be regarded held up as important.....they seem happier around each other because for it. It’s like the calming glow of single bulb at the dark core of them both.

Tome: So then.... one would give preferential treatment to someone they’d assigned a special importance to. I guess an evil spirit would think in that manner. Reigen: Please kill me Tome: Evil spirits are so difficult to analyze... Ekubo: I’m being analyzed?

-Narration- The evil spirit will be back at the consultation office tomorrow. Because he has a kind of affinity towards the boss

-Narration- No one is asking him to come, and he has not obligation to be there. He does so out of a kind of favoritism, bringing a kind of caring of his own accord. Tome: Ah....So....do you know what he smells like? -Narration- I guess this is fine Reigen:You mean Ekubo? How would I know? Ekubo is sniffing his sleeve: Cigarettes. This guy smells like cigarettes, Im pretty sure.

-Narration- As for reason? It’s because he’s an evil spirit. (Note: Im not sure who is speaking below:) Reigen: Can I take a whiff?

Ekubo: Wha..This idea that people have their own unique smells to people isn’t a thing. This is ridiculous,

Tome: Guys?

Reigen: I feel like he’d should smell like cucumbers

Tome: Hey Guys? GUYS!

#mp100 #ekurei #ekubo #Reigen #tome

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more-cardigan-than-woman · 2 years ago

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you KNOW i have to ask about Soulmates Library: Hawke and Varric

First I must ask if you've seen the Magicians. In the show they have a big ass library that tells the tale of everyone's life. But I changed it to meet my own ends. So. This is just the start because I haven't figured an ending out yet. But please enjoy.

The ocean crashed along the shoreline as Hawke and Varric trekked along, not sure what exactly they were searching for. They'd come to the islands to hide, with their friends in the wind and the continent falling apart. They thought they could escape just for a day or two. But as they walked and walked and walked, sand creeping into every crevice they had the irrigation was high and patience growing thin.

"Where the shit are we going?" Varric asked, dusting some sand from his hair.

"It's not far,"

"Not far from where? Civilatstion? A bath?"

"Who knew dwarves could be so grumpy anyone would think the sky was about to eat you,"

"Ha ha ha, very funny Hawke. Can I get a clue?"

"Merrill told me about it,"

"Great. So another demon then," he rolled his eyes

"No she said it was just-" Hawke pulled back a fern, gasping when she took in the sight of the oasis. The water was crystal clear, the trees created a perfect shade over the pool. Small fish swam amongst the lily pads and tiny butterflies fluttered amongst the many wild flowers in the sand.

"Andraates knickers, remind me to buy Daisy a present."

"I shall, maybe a new mirror," she pondered, not too long. Throwint her weapons to the ground, shrugging off her armor and leaving her in her underclothes. She cannonballed into the water, the water splashing up and soaking her dwarven companion.

"Hawke," he stared down on her , wiping the water from his eyes.

"Varric," she said in the sultry tone that sent shivers down his spine, only her eyes visible as she sunk into the water swimming towards him like a predator.

"Hawke," he warned, throwing his duster on the ground and placing Bianca next to her weapons. His steps slow as he tested the water, "I ever tell you the story of the dwarf who swam to far and sunk to the bottom of the sea?" She shook her head, "good, I forgot to write it down anyway."

The his second foot hit the water it started to glow, the blue aura pulsing and shining around them. "Varric," Hawke yelled scrambling forward and wrapping her arms around him

"What the fu-" he is cut off, searing lights filling both their vision as they hold each other close.

"UgH," they both shouted as they landed with a hard thud. The water rushed over them and soaking the marble floor they were sitting on.

"Hello," Hawke smiled, her hand sliding under Varric's chisled jaw and planting a kiss on his cheek.

"Hawke," his tone warned, moving to stand, which was hard with such a large woman sitting atop him, "you're crushing me."

"Liar," she winked, moving to help them both up.

"Hey ah, Hawke. Where are we?"

"Not sure, seems kind of dusty. Maybe an old ladies house? Maybe Merrills grandmother?"

"Hawke?"

"Yes, Varric,"

"Is this A library?"

"Seems so," she says, blowing a thick layer of dust off one of the books on a nearby desk, "the tale of the champion," she reads aloud.

"Least they got some taste," Varric said, scanning the shelves, pulling put a rather large tome, "what is this? Elvish?"

"Who are they?" Hawke peers over his shoulder, pointing at the tall dark haired woman next to the shorter stocky man, his blonde hair tangled through her fingers as she angles his face upto hers.

"Seems to be-" he pauses, watching her move faster than he had seen before, "Umm Hawke, what are you doing?" She's tearing books from the shelves, opening them and flinging them onto the ground.

"Varric," her panicked voice echoing in the large room, "varric these books," she threw another onto the pile, "they're all about us."

"Hmm," he ponders, rubbing his finger into his stuble, "makes sense."

"What? Why would these be here? Why would they even exist?"

'Marion," he takes her hand. "Apparently I love you in every universe, in every way possible."

"That's cheesy, also not true."

"Not true? What more proof do you need?"

#varric tethras #Hawke #fanfic #da2 fanfic wip

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blazregaliadream · 3 years ago

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Hel Gunnthrá Unit Concept

Gunnthrá

-Hailstorm Banshee- General of the realm of the dead. Under Hel's command, she is tasked to pursue [Summoner] and eliminate them. Blue Tome - Infantry Mythic Hero - Darkness/Res Weapon - Ice Coffin [Mt. 14, Rng 2] Accelerates Special Cooldown (-1). Adds bonus to Atk = Total debuffs on enemy. If unit's HP ≥ 25% or if unit is within 4 spaces of an ally, grants +5 to Atk/Spd/Def/Res during combat, and if unit attacked, after combat, inflicts【Gravity】on the nearest ally until their next action. Animation: As a blizzard blows across the screen, the enemy is confined in a coffin of ice and then impaled with several ice spears. Special - Iceberg A - Atk/Res Ideal 4 B - Permafrost Body Inflicts Atk/Spd/Def/Res -7 to the enemy with the lowest Def and inflicts Atk/Res -7 to foes within 2 spaces of target. Also, if unit's Res > foe's Res, reduces damage from attacks during combat and from area-of-effect Specials by percentage = difference between stats × 4 (max 40%). C - Fatal Smoke 3 Unit Dialogue ==Summoned== "To think you'd have the nerve to bring me back after everything... So, how would you like to join me?" ==Character Page== "Hmph." "I am Gunnthrá, a permanent engravement of your failiure." "If you're so sorry, desist your sniveling and come with me to your grave." "Shhhhhh, you won't have to suffer anymore. Just one kiss and I'll make -everything- go away." "... so cold... even my heart... augh..." "Promise me... promise me we'll never be apart again. Your warmth is all I've ever wanted." ==Castle Dialogue== "So Nifl decided to spare Fjörm. I can't help but be envious..." "Even though he had joined Hel's ranks, I made sure Surtr felt my wrath every time I saw him." "The only fate that burning kingdom deserves is for it to all fall, including their bloodthirsty dragon." "If you have time to worry about me, you have time to write out your will." "At one point, I thought I had ran into mother down in Hel. Illusion or not, the sadness I saw in her eyes almost made me want to cry..." ==Friend Unit== "Another summoner who couldn't save me? Much like [Friend], I see." ==Skill Learned/Blessing Conferred== "I suppose the stronger I become, the swifter I can deliver death." ==Tap Quotes== "Who's come to die?" "Do not fail me again." "A dark fall..." ==Special Quotes== "I'll make it quick!" "Desist in your struggling!" "Ice entomb you!" "SILENCE!" ==Level Up== 0-1 stats - "Do not complain. This is the price you've paid." 2-4 stats - "One by one, they all succumb to the chilling winds of death." 5-6 stats - "Are you watching, [Summoner]? This is how you put the worthless out of their misery." ==Death== "Summoner... it's so... cold..." ==Lv. 40 Conversation== "This warmth... [S-Summoner]? I... I can't even begin to apologize. I struggled so hard against Hel's influence, but in the end... I've been so cruel to you, and-- My goodness, [Summoner]!? Your hands... I... Oh my dear [Summoner], I've missed you! Shhhhh, it's all right now. My heart will never forget our oath again. From here on, not another soul will tear us apart ever again!

=============================================================

‘Tis unfortunate I can’t find any art of this concept and I ain’t confident enough to try myself. (Not really the type to draw bonez) Anyway, I originally had this idea around while Book IV was happening. I originally was gonna make the skills and stats based on her as a Year 3 unit, but when I revisited to finish it, we were already well into Book VI’s madness and the crazy shit they were doin’ for units. Didn’t want to make her too crazy, and if I were to go ham, I would’ve had Ice Coffin have Blizzard’s refine, bumped up her Res some more, and then muse the idea of a Fatal Smoke 4 (as if that skill wasn’t already a pain in the ass to deal with LMAO) Thinkin’ about it tho, a Menace skill would be more appropriate since I gave her an Ideal skill, but ah well, surely you have a unit to provide her with a bonus or two, right? RIGHT? Coming up with her personality and writing the lines was the toughest part since the idea of Gunnthrá going from the wholesome mom friend who loves you with all her heart to a ruthlessly cold meanie who’s love for you turned into a nasty grudge makes me sad ;-; But when you’re coming up with an idea for AUs like these with your favorite characters, ya gotta make that jump. That said of course, as you can see, traces of her old self can be heard. I have a story in mind, but I doubt anyone cares since this is Gunnthrá, and I dun really know anyone who actually likes her outside of being a great unit post-refine. But anyway, there’s my idea that nobody asked for! Maybe I could try putting together an idea of the Nifl siblings’ ancestor, Hvergel, as a unit.

#blaz splurges about his waifus #gunnthra #feh #fire emblem heroes #fire emblem

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tedturneriscrazy · 3 years ago

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Another Saturday, another episode! Let's take a look at Keeping Up A-fear-ances!

(Good lord I'm starting to make myself sound like some sort of content creator)

Oh, okay, we're just starting at that level of intensity, huh?

Chest gem origins

Gwendolyn not being satisfied with managing the curse and determined to cure it? I'm sure this won't be a real world allegory in the slightest.

Oh, so Eda literally just stumbles upon the portal? I could call that contrived, but honestly it's not dissimilar to how Dipper found Journal 3. For that matter, the entirety of Lord of the Rings is predicated on an accidental discovery like this and nobody gave Tolkien shit about it.

Was the eye on the portal cracked in previous episodes? I don't remember.

Seems like Gwen is the "well-meaning but ultimately misguided" flavor of mom.

As an aside, I am now quite curious about how Eda's first trip to the human realm went. Maybe a future episode will cover it? At any rate, I smell a new favorite fic prompt.

The screaming alarms in the Demon Realm will never not be funny to me.

Also, that is a worrying number of hearts. Eda is straight up murdering these poor creatures.

For some reason the gold fang being removable never occurred to me as a possibility, and now I feel like a kid who's discovered that Santa isn't real.

Oh hey, the new outfit! I'm also impressed how close to symmetrical that tearing was.

I need to get a screencap of Luz sleeping on that stack of books because she is adorable.

Also, staying up all night researching? This season seems determined to completely eradicate the notion of Luz being dumb, and I am here for it.

I have a feeling the Hexside mug will be making its way to The Mystery Shack in the near future.

Lilith's first experience with transformation and she seems understandably horrified.

The curse acting stronger when stressed? That seems...important.

Ah, so the dismemberment is from the curse! A surprisingly useful side effect from what we've seen so far.

Can I just say that I appreciate how Eda's reaction to Lilith's first taste of transformation is immediate remedy, explanation, and reassurance? And doesn't make any snarky comments along the lines of "now you know what it's like?" Whatever happened in that week and a half must have been cathartic as hell.

"Always. Always curious." Luz is the TOH fandom.

(Also, Eda, you know she is, considering how much she went on about your "mysterious past" at the Covention)

"Magic bird tornado?!" Luz has a way with words that's just *chef's kiss*.

"Gwendolyn." Eda is already just fucking done.

"MOM?!?!" Jeez, Lilith, you're just now hearing all this?

I was charmed by how motherly Gwen was acting toward Eda, but then she kinda just...dismissed Lilith, and now I'm somehwat less charmed.

(Sweet flea as a term of endearment is kinda cute, though might have some unfortunate implications depending on how you want to interpret it)

"Who knows what they put in those nasty concoctions?" OH WE GOING FOR THE ANTI-VAXXERS NOW YESSSS

Luz and Lilith's reaction to that whole exchange is priceless.

Everyone's perspective here makes perfect sense for who they are and what they've been through.

Poor Lilith. Her cursing Eda is beginning to make more sense.

Ah, thus begins the collaboration.

"We'll be consulting someone very special." Why does that seem so...ominous?

Is there anyone who watched this episode for the first time whose bullshit detector didn't go off immediately when Gwen mentioned finding someone who promised a cure?

Heh, Palm Stings.

Nonbelievers will be blinded by the power of the tome? I'm sure they will be, Wartlop.

I must say, as something of a scientist myself (okay that's not true, I'm a QA tech for a food manufacturer, but I do have a chemistry degree), I am 100% here for the swings being taken at faith healing/"miracle" cures/anti-vaxxers in this episode

Oh, we Wile E. Coyote now, huh?

Also, interesting how much apple blood is being played up in this episode.

Lilith please you're projecting your mommy issues on a literal child

OH WE REALLY JUST WILE E. COYOTE HUH?

You're right, Luz, Gwen's bicep game is goals.

(Somewhat disappointed the scars are from questing and not beastkeeping, but eh)

Why do I get the feeling there's gonna be a future episode where everybody stages an intervention for Eda's apple blood problem?

"Those feathers mean we're driving the beast out" Gwen no

Hooty is holding the brain cell? Oh no...

If that ice cream came from the Night Market it would explain why Lilith sounds drunk.

(Side note: I can't be the only one getting flashbacks to Mermista's ice cream binge, right? Different context, but still)

"Abomi-berry" "Franken fruit" "Key slime pie" These are A+ flavor names.

Oh, there's the transformation...

I must say that whole segment kinda rubbed me the wrong way. The way King's opinion on his dad was changed seemed...I don't know how to describe it. I get that they needed a trigger for Lilith's transformation, but honestly if any part of the episode is contrived it's this.

"¡It really is that good!" So that's what an accent slip in written form looks like. (The upside down exclamation point is used in Spanish, in case anyone didn't know)

I keep half expecting Eda to say "Beep! Beep!" at this point.

Luz is finally asking questions. Took long enough.

Ah, the classic "moving the goal posts to extract more money from a desparate family member" technique.

Luz channeling Scorpion, we love to see it.

There is an exquisite irony in Eda's mom being scammed, I must say.

Ah, so that's where the elixirs went. Dammit, Gwen.

Luz is definitely thinking "Are you fucking kidding me right now?!"

Beast!Lilith is massive.

"Sweet flea?" Gwen just realized she done goofed.

"I can see you still need a little time." God Luz is so fucking smart.

The con revealed.

OH DAMN SCARY MAMA

(Also I am terrified of bees/wasps, so extra scary mama in my book)

The scam is revealed, goblins, getting back into the Wartlop disguise is kinda pointless.

She joined the Beast Keeping coven entirely to cure the curse? That's dedication. A shame you couldn't have spared some of that for Lilith.

Still, I do like badass scary mama Gwen. I'd be down to see more of that.

Owl Beast fight!

I am slayed by the fact that the portraits are now officially a recurring gag 😂

Aw, here's The Moment™️

"My turn to drive" Does this imply cars are a thing on the Boiling Isles after all?

Lilith crying almost immediately💔 She was holding onto a lot of pain.

Yes, King, she was trying to do her best. I mean, road to hell or whatever, but at least Gwen got there in the end.

WHAT?! YOU'RE BREAKING UP LULU AND HOOTCIFER?!?!?!?

Terrace, that's just cruel. (Worthless brownie points for whoever understands that reference)

No, seriously, you can't just give me my favorite inter-character relationship in the series after Lumity and just...take it away like that, come on! 😭😭😭😭😭😭

I know I should remark on how Lilith told Gwen about the circumstances of the curse, how Gwen rightfully accepted responsibility for the whole situation, and how Luz finds the big hair aspirational, but...NOOOO DON'T END THE ADVENTURES OF LULU AND HOOTCIFER WHYYYYYYYYY💔😭💔😭💔😭

"BUT I CAN'T HOLD A PEN!"

I will never emotionally recover from this.

Okay, I think I got that out of my system. Anyway...

Not the only human, huh? Cue the "Belos is a human" theorists going into maximum overdrive.

That said, a tantalizing lore dump.

We certainly do have a lot of garbage. Some of it even holds office. HEY-O!

Setting up the next episode, too. Continuity!

Camp's over, huh? That means it's been three months.

Way to misdirect with Camila, guys. That said, we have now seen Camila cry and I HATE it. (In the right way, I think)

WHAT THE FUCK

HOLY SHIT

CREEPY LUZ IS REAL WHAT

OWJEIWHQGIWWOPQ

(It's hard to keysmash on a phone, even with autocorrect off)

That wraps it up! The flaws in this episode seem more pronounced than any others in the season so far, but the good stuff was really good! Overall a solid episode! I know everybody's looking forward to library Lumity in the next one (so am I), but I'm personally eager to see what they do with Gus. His part is the A plot, after all.

Anyway, I'll be back at this next week! Still hard to believe this is a thing, but that's life, I guess.

#the owl house #eda clawthorne #gwendolyn clawthorne #luz noceda #lilith clawthorne #king of demons #toh king #toh s2 spoilers #the owl house s2 spoilers #the owl house season 2 spoilers #toh spoilers #the owl house spoilers

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bedbellyandbeyond · 3 years ago

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Only Vampires

(Story Post)

Nari wasn't sure why he trusted these two vampires, but he wanted to know what they knew and so he followed them to their home. They didn't live more than a block north of where the library stood. They must've lived there a long time to afford such a big house, but then again, he had no idea what the housing market was like here. Either way, any active and diligent vamp over 100 years old could secure themself considerable wealth if they tried. Nari himself hadn't focused on capital during the majority of his life though, but he still did well for himself. The front doors of the house were very big, with stained glass windows, but Wesley and Everett took him around to the back door which was average sized and let no light in. This wasn't an issue right now as it was an hour to midnight, but he guessed that any daytime travel came through here, so they'd grown accustomed to it.

Inside was a small mudroom with another door at the other end. Nari waited for Everett to take off his shoes before he removed his own because wasn't sure what the traditions were in this country, but he was only further confused when Wesley took his shoes off but Everett kept them on. “Um, shoes on or off?” Nari had to ask. Wesley wacked Everett's leg with his loafer. “Shoes off, please.” Nari was relieved and did as told. “Alright.” “I'm not sure why we adopted that,” Everett said, reluctantly removing his footwear and then promptly putting on a pair of slippers. “My family always wore their shoes inside, his family wore shoes inside… Not to mention, it doesn't matter at all what Wesley wears.” “It's for our housemates,” Wesley said. “We have several housemates from across the world, you'll find Nari. The general consensus has been shoes off. We do our best to be accommodating.” He then proceeded to pull out a set of wheel slippers and socks and maneuvered them onto his chair. Nari thought for a second and then raised a hand. “I hope you don't think I need somewhere to stay. I'm well established.” “No, no,” Wesley said. “We just like to help anyone when it comes to library matters. As you may have noticed, it is not very accessible to all vamps of all shapes, abilities, and colours. We like to help anyone find the knowledge they need.” Nari nodded. “I see. So you steal the books for them.” “I told you, we borrow them,” Everett said as he led them through to the main hall. “Evie does think of himself as a modern-day Robin Hood of Knowledge, though,” Wesley said. The main hall was a lot more modern than Nari expected for a house apparently full of vampires. It was open concept with a lovely kitchen with granite counter tops. Further on was the living room and stairs, both up to the next floor and down to the basement. An elevator had also been installed beside the stairs for easier access to all floors. Nari’s hosts took him down to the basement, which was set up as a games room and study. There was pool, and darts, and even a pinball machine on one side. Some lounge chairs, a sofa, and a set of bookshelves on the other. There, they found another pair of vampires, one with her nose in a book, the other passed out on the couch, an open book on his chest. “Ah, glad some of you are here,” Wesley said going over to the reading nook. “Inaya, please meet Nari. We met him at the library.” The conscious vampire got up and smiled. She wore a hijab and had big round eyes framed with detailed eyeliner. She offered a hand to Nari. “Nice to meet you. Are you looking at a room?” “No, no, I’m just getting a little extra help with my research,” Nari said shaking her hand. “It’s nice to meet you. I’ve never met, well, a vampire like you.” “A hijabi vampire?” Inaya chuckled. “Me neither. That’s why I’m here.” “To find more?” Nari asked. “No, to learn about being a vampire,” Inaya said. “I didn’t know anything about them really until I was turned, and I didn’t have any other vampires around to teach me. Figuring out how to be a vampire and muslim at the same time is difficult. Blood is haram, you see.” “Ah.” Nari nodded. “Have the books been helpful?” “Some, yes. Wesley seems to know how to find me good reads,” Inaya said. “I’ve tried entering the library on my own, but it’s always been a hassle. They always find some excuse not to let us in.” “I understand,” Nari said rollimg his eyes. “It's a different excuse each time.” Everett went over and kicked the end of the couch to wake its occupant. “Rise, Jeremiah! Meet our guest!” Wesley frowned. “Evie, let the boy sleep. He's probably been studying tirelessly, the poor kid.” It was too later however and the sleepy vampire stirred and sat up, rubbing his eyes. The book he had been reading fell off his chest and onto the floor. The bang made him curse and scramble to pick it up. “Shit, it better not be busted… These old ass books…” “Language, Jeremiah. You know the rules,” Everett scolded. “Shit, sorry, Ev,” the vampire huffed. “Not my fault you woke me up.” “I have half the mind to discipline you,” Everett said, crossing his arms. “Yeah, that’ll look good, you pasty old Brit beating my black ass…” the young vampire mocked. He noticed Nari. “Who’s this little mosquito?” Wesley put a hand on Nari's shoulder. “This is Nari. We're helping him in his research.” The other got up and offered a hand to the newcomer. “It's Jez, but these old farts insist on calling me by my whole name like they're my damn mother or something.” Everett huffed. “Seriously, if you don't straighten out your language, I'll—” “The entire concept of vulgar language is inherently racist,” Jez interrupted, his entire diction changing just to prove a point to old Everett. “My use of swearing is not abusive, but instead cathartic, emphatic and idiomatic, forms of swearing that are not meant to offend anyone. For you to tell me what words I can and cannot say is a blatant form of oppression and reduces my abilities to cope with pain or misfortune.” Everett frowned, his lips pursed. “Fine. But could you tone it down just a bit?” “No.” Wesley came up behind Everett and patted his back. “Relax. We're all adults. Anyway, where's Paolo?” “He's in his room,” Inaya said. “Probably working.” “Ah, okay. Nari can meet him later,” Wesley said approaching the coffee table. From out of nowhere, he pulled out a book and offered it to Inaya. “I found an Arabic tome with stories from Turkey in it. I’m hoping it might help you.” “Oh! Maybe!” Inaya took the book gratefully. “I appreciate it, Wes!” “Where did you pull that book from?” Nari asked, a bit dumbfounded. “The library?” Wesley said, a little confused by the question. “No, I mean… I didn't notice it on your person before,” Nari said. “Oh! It's pocket magic,” Wesley said. “Easier than carrying them around.” “Pocket magic is some real basic level shit,” Jez said, eyeing Nari. “If you don't know that, what abilities do you have?” Nari shook his head. “…I never learned vampire magic. Well, except a blood purifying spell I found the other day.” Everett placed his hands on Nari's shoulders. “Oh dear, so you've just been going about your life with all the cons and none of the pros to the whole vampire thing? Sounds miserable!” Nari frowned. “I didn't know I could learn any of it…” “You absolutely can!” Everett said. “We will show you the basics.” “Honestly, it's fine…” Nari said. “I don't plan on sticking around long, and my partner has enough magic for the both of us…” “Your partner knows magic but you didn't know you could learn it?” Inaya asked. “They didn't try to teach you?” “He’s not a vampire,” Nari said. “He doesn't know what I'm capable of doing as one.” “What is he, then?” Jez asked. “A dragon?” “No, he's a wizard,” Nari said. “A wizard?” Wesley inquired, his voice a little concerned. “Like, a human wizard?” “Uh, yes,” Nari said. “The magic isn't the same, though he's convinced he can learn vampire stuff…” Everett started shaking his head. “Do you always engage in romantic relationships with humans?” “Yes.” Nari frowned, reading the negative energy coming from his acquaintances. “You say that like it's bad. Are you going to tell me we're not supposed to do that? It's taboo or something?” “No, it's fine! I mean…” Everett put his hands on Wesley's shoulders. “He was unturned when I fell for him…” “But we weren't trying to reproduce, that’s for sure,” Wesley said. He placed a hand on Nari’s arm. “It’s no wonder you’ve been having trouble… You can't have children with humans. It never works.” Nari clenched his jaw. “That's not…My information came to a 1-in-8 chance that a vampire can complete live birth.” “It's more complicated than that,” Everett said, pulling out one of the books be grabbed. “It's likely the one successful time out of eight, their partner was another vampire. The odds are much better with two vampires. Like, 1-in-3.” He opened to a page that displayed a large family tree on it. “Any time in history that a vampire successfully completed a pregnancy, both parents were vampires. Any pairings with children from one unturned and a vampire were from before the vampiric parent had turned. Or, there has also been the occasional time a vampire sired a child with an unturned person, but it is rarer.” Nari frowned and sat down on the couch. “But…I… Isn’t there any magic that can help?” Wesley shook his head. “Not that we've found. Your best bet is to try with a vampire.” “But I don't want a child from someone else…” Nari said. “I want one with Diederich.” “I'm surprised you even date unturned,” Jez commented. “It's sad stuff watching humans grow old and die all the time…” “Diederich isn't just any human, he's immortal too,” Nari said. “He knows really powerful skills and spells.” Jez rolled his eyes. “So, easy fix. Just turn him.” Nari shook his head. “No, I can't do that.” “I could teach you,” Everett said. “Or I could do it.” Nari glared. “No, I don't want to turn him. I wouldn't do that to someone.” Everett sighed. “Nari, I don't know what to tell you. Your goal is to have a baby with your partner. Both of you need to be vampires for that to happen. That's all there is. We don't have any other advice.” Nari looked down at his hands, his eyes brimming with tears. “So, all those times I tried… Complete waste of time...” Wesley rubbed Nari’s shoulder. “You didn't know…” He looked to Everett. “Would you give us a moment? All of you.” “Of course, love,” Everett said, kissing Wesley on the forehead. “Come along now, children.” “We are not your kids,” Jez groaned as he got up reluctantly and followed Inaya and Everett upstairs. Once they were alone, Wesley sighed and rubbed Nari's arm. “Before you turned, did you have any children?” Nari slowly and sniffled. “Yes… My son, Tae-seok. He was just a baby when I turned…” “Is he alive?” Wesley asked. “No… He passed away around the turn of the millennia…” Wesley sighed. “When did you start trying for another baby?” “We tried for several years when Tae-seok was young… But his father, Eun-young, died in a factory accident when Tae-seok was still a child. I didn't try again until well after my son passed away too.” “With your current partner?” Wesley asked. Nari shook his head. “No, my previous relationship. It was an accident… But I wanted it to work out. I had a little hope.” “I'm really sorry, Nari,” Wesley said. “It must be difficult to hear about the circumstances of your pursuit… And I'm sorry about Evie. He thinks turning people will always fix everything. It doesn't.” “But he's right though… If Diederich were a vampire, we'd have a much better chance,” Nari said spreading his hands. “If he were turned, we could try…” Wesley shook his head. “I can tell, you don't want to do that. It sounds like your experience with being a vampire has been more negative than positive and you don't want to subject someone else to that.” “I don't. Diederich is… He’s so lovely, and he's happy…” Nari said. “I don't want to take that from him.” “I understand. It isn’t easy. I don't always love being a vampire either… And I certainly wouldn't make that decision for someone else,” Wesley said. “You do realise that if you did manage to give birth to a baby, you'd be choosing a life as a vampire for them too?” Nari blinked. “Yes, but… I…” He paused. “…With Diederich, since he's unturned, I thought that they might not be…” “Well, even if you could reproduce with a normal human being, you’re a vampire. Your kids would be vampires.” Nari grit his teeth. “…I guess I just…you know, if I could have a baby again, I didn't care what they were… But now just saying it, that’s sounds so incredibly selfish… To subject my own child to the exact same curse I've suffered for their entire life…” Wesley rubbed Nari's knee. “I think you need to think about your situation and talk to your partner. Really work out what path makes the most sense for both of you, and any possible children in the mix. What's best for everyone is what is important.” Nari nodded slowly. “Yes… I just want to be with Diederich… I should go…” Wesley checked his watch. “Where are you staying? Evie can drive you over.” “It's okay, I can walk…” “No way, this time of night, any drunk vampires tumbling out of a bar will want to pick a fight, and while I'm not saying you can't hold your own, you don't know much magic and vampires around the library know their stuff.” Nari sighed and told Wesley his hotel. “I do appreciate you guys trying to help me… You’re honestly the nicest vampires I've ever met.” “Aw, it's nothing,” Wesley said going to the elevator. “Each of us understands the difficulty of being accepted in the vampire world. But we've been very lucky and those who have should give.” “So, is this sort of a boarding house for vampires using the library?” Nari asked. “Sort of… We keep the rent super cheap though because the house was paid off many, many years ago. Our housemates just split utilities. Evie and I cover the taxes and insurance.” Wesley smiled. “If you ever need somewhere to stay, we'll be here. First month is free for long term. Of course, we won't charge you if you just want to come over and visit.” Nari nodded. “That's more than generous, thank you.” They rode the elevator together and met with Everett at the back of the house. “Good talk?” Everett asked, spinning his car keys. “Yes, I think so,” Wesley said. “Inaya and Jeremiah are back in their rooms, then?” “Yeah.” Everett unlocked the door. “Alright, Nari. We won't keep you any longer than you'd like. Wes said you needed a ride, yes? Come along.” Nari blinked. “When did he tell you?” “Come on, now.” Everett placed his hands on his hips. “You really do need a rundown on basic magic. You could teach toddlers mind connection.” “I really don't know anything, then…” Nari frowned following him out. Wesley waved as they left. “Hope to see you soon!” Nari waved again before going to the garage with Everett. “You should consider coming back tomorrow night,” Everett said, unlocking the car. “Jeremiah will teach you everything you need to know.” “I might take him up on that. At least I'll have gotten something out of this trip.” “Well, there you go. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.” “Hm… Yes, I suppose.” “Oh, and you still have to meet Paolo! He’s Asian like you too! Wouldn’t guess from his name though, would you?” “You really don’t think before you speak, do you?” “Hey, respect your elders.” “Sorry, grandpa.”

#lore #Nari #Everett #Wesley #Jez #Inaya #vampire

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aflyingcontradiction · 3 years ago

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The Magnus Archives Relisten: Episode 145 - Infectious Doubts

Gertrude: Look, Arthur, I need you to understand that this isn’t simple posturing. I don’t see a way we can meaningfully progress this conversation while you’re under the impression that your threats mean anything to me.

Gertrude's intimidation tactics have a very pragmatic tone to them, don't they?

Gertrude: Ah. ... I assume you haven’t checked on, uh, Eugene, then?

Creepy threatening Gertrude is creepy and threatening.

Gertrude: You know, thinking about it, the amount of pain and loss and legitimate devastation I’ve caused among your little cult over the last, what, forty years? I think the Desolation is probably very fond of me.

Oh, that is rather fitting given what a BURN that comment is.

Gertrude: Murder, kidnap, torture, oh, something to impress the church group.

... pffft. "The church group" - the image I'm getting right now is delightful, a bunch of Desolation worshippers discussing horrifying deeds over cake and tea out of pastel porcelain cups.

Arthur Nolan: Agnes was always quiet, but even if you spend all day, every day throwing out commandments and laying down parables… at the end of it, you’re always just the point of someone else’s story, everyone clamoring to say what you were, what you meant, and your thoughts on it all don’t mean nothing.

That sums it up, doesn't it? Poor Agnes, never her own story.

Arthur Nolan: The one thing it never does is just… tell us what to do. It seeds us with this… aching, impossible desire to change the world, to bring it to us. Then it leaves us to guess and bicker and fight over how the hell you can actually do it. If it’s possible.

You know, given my own spiritual crises (none of which involve a cruel god of devastation, fortunately) ... I get it. On some level this quote is downright fucking relatable!

Arthur Nolan: Figure if you’re gonna pull this stuff out of me, might as well get some of it off my chest anyway.

Makes sense, might as well find something good in it!

Arthur Nolan: Not like I can vent to the others about what a prat Diego is. Got a lot of funny ideas. Still calls the Lightless Flame Asag, like he was when he was first researching it. I just really wanna tell him to get over it; I mean Asag was traditionally a force of destruction, sure, but as a church we very much settled on burning in terms of the – face we worship, and some fish-boiling Sumerian demon doesn’t really match up, does it? Plus there’s a lot of disease imagery with Asag that I’ll reckon is way too close to Filth for my taste, but no, he read it in some ancient tome, so that’s that –

I may have mentioned it before but I absolutely adore the way the Church of the Lightless Flame squabbles over what is considered its orthodoxy, it's so realistic. And so hilarious.

Gertrude: Well, I can’t say I –

Ah, the moment when Gertrude starts regretting her attempt to compel Arthur Nolan. "I can make him talk, alright, but how the HELL do I get him to shut up?"

Arthur: Always respected you for that. Takes a strong stomach to not give a shit. Gertrude: You’ll forgive me if I’m not overjoyed at the compliment.

... you fully deserve it, though. The shoe fits, so the least you can do is put the damn thing on!

Arthur: Had an elderly tenant last year, oh, she was in a terrible state. I had her trapped, too poor and immobile to do anything but – sit there. Then I broke her boiler, so the cold started to get her.

The way this perfectly maps onto real life tragedies that weren't so much the result of sadistic action as careless negligence is ... well, I don't know what it is but it's notable.

Arthur: All your burning questions answered?

Pfffft.

Jon: I wish I didn’t know how painful it must be to be alive while your entire being is infused with… agonizing grit. But, as I was investigating, it… came to me.

Jon needs a hug and industrial-strength brain bleach.

Jon: I’m… I’m alright. I’m trying to, uh, rest up a bit. Take it easy. Georgie: Really? ‘Cause – I’m pretty sure I heard talking about a screaming headless corpse just now.

Well, Georgie is nothing if not forthright. I guess not having fear includes not having the sort of social anxiety that underlies many social niceties?

My impression of this episode

Gertrude is utterly terrifying, especially given the way we know her to usually act (the little old lady mask, so to speak) compared with ... THIS. And terrifying is what I'm here for so I enjoyed this conversation immensely. The fact that Arthur Nolan is somehow grimly hilarious doesn't hurt either. And I do so enjoy the Agnes plotline (even if trying to think about the timelines of anything related to Hilltop Road, including this, gives me a headache).

#tma relisten #the magnus archives

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tatttletale · 3 years ago

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(my mind’s) fully fading | Mystery Skulls Animated

It's been five months since the gang lost Lewis. But how, exactly? Arthur can't quite remember, and from what he knows, neither can Vivi; but it couldn't have just been an accident like the investigators had ruled. There had to be something else at play. So Arthur goes on a search to recover his lost memories and bring their friend justice, but something's wrong with Vivi... and Mystery seems more on-edge than usual...

CONTENT WARNING for swearing throughout and exploring trauma-based mental illness (PTSD). TRIGGER WARNING for description of injury, trauma responses etc. TWs/CWs will be detailed at the start of relevant chapters.

CONTENT WARNING: Mention of needles, vague reference to amputation.

"So I was thinking, maybe we could set up a website," Arthur mused, fingers tapping away at his laptop. The rain outside showered against the roof in a light drone. "Flagging for key terms or something. That way it'd be much easier for Vivi to find new tip-offs."

"Oh, she'd love that," Lewis said appreciatively, whisking whatever it was he held in the white bowl. "I'd come and help you if I didn't have my hands full."

"Mhm," Arthur said skeptically, thinking of his too-big fingers struggling with his laptop keys. "You say that like baking for you is a treat. As if you don't do it all the time."

"Ah well," Lewis winked, "You need a little extra, flaquito."

They were interrupted by a knock at the door. Lewis set the bowl down, wiped his hands on his apron and started forward.

Arthur jumped up before him. "Hands full, my ass!"

Lewis only laughed in surprise. "I thought you were busy with the technical stuff? Are you expecting someone?"

"More like I can't have you tarnish our good name turning up at the door with a pink Kiss the Cook apron," he teased back, turning for the door. "Even if it is in Spanish."

"Mami gave it to me," Lewis said, defensively. "She altered it herself! You know how hard it is to find clothes in my size!"

"Sure, sure," Arthur snickered, hastening down the hall in front of him. He opened the door to a bedraggled Vivi, standing impatiently in the rain.

"What took you so long!" she cried, and bustled in, planting a quick kiss on his cheek. He flushed pleasantly.

As she kicked off her shoes, dripping onto the carpet, he noticed that she was very obviously hiding something big and angular under her sweater.

"What's that you've got?"

She immediately perked up and pulled the thing out—a thick battered tome.

"I was protecting it from the rain," she explained at his inquiring look. "I just found it today at the Tomb! Look at this thing!" She opened it, flipping through hundreds of yellowed pages, eyes glittering with excitement. "It's got, like, everything in here! Ciphers, spells, guides, maps. . ."

. . . She looked beautiful like that.

"Vee!"

She turned around at Lewis' voice and flashed him a huge grin. "Lew-Lew! Look at this book I found today!"

She dumped it in his capable hands and he flipped through it slowly, eyes scanning the pages. "Wow, Vivi. . . this is amazing! Where'd you get it?"

"Tome Tomb," she replied smugly. "It came in a shipment of weird books. Duet looked through them and sent them back—said they got the wrong address—but not before I fished this out!"

He raised an eyebrow. "Isn't that. . . stealing?"

"Well, I mean, yeah . . . but half the stuff we do is already illegal."

"Um, I object," Arthur cut in.

She turned around and stuck her tongue out at him. "Well, half the time you hide behind Mystery and don't do anything, anyway."

Arthur couldn't help feeling hurt. He scuffed his feet, eyes flicking back to the table, and then lit up when they settled on his laptop. "Oh, Vivi! I was thinking, I could rig up something for you—a website or something. It'd make it much easier for you to track down busts—"

He turned to her but she wasn't listening. She was smiling up at Lewis with the book in her hands. "You like it, don't you?"

"I do. Great find, Vivi," Lewis smiled, and leaned down to kiss her. She happily threw her arms around his neck and stood on tiptoes to reach.

Arthur tore his eyes away and plodded into the kitchen to wait for them.

Half an hour later Lewis served dinner for two, with Vivi plopping down on the couch with her takeaway noodles. Arthur was aghast.

"You're turning down Lewis's cooking for that?"

Lewis only laughed. "It's okay, Arthur. There's always leftovers."

"Mhm," Vivi agreed from the couch, anchored in front of some supernatural program. Arthur understood that she had Lewis' food a lot—they both did—but he couldn't imagine for the life of him ever turning it down or, god forbid, getting sick of it.

Shaking his head, he focussed on the plate in front of him. Picking up his fork, he prodded it curiously. "So . . . what's this?"

"Jambalaya," Lewis answered, not touching his. Instead, he elected to prop an elbow on the table and lean his head against his hand, eyes on Arthur.

"What's that, Cajun?" he asked, scooping some into his mouth.

"Creole," Lewis corrected. "Thought I'd try something different, this time."

Arthur's eyes popped as the flavour hit him. "Holy shit, Lewis, this is amazing!" He chewed for a bit, placing a familiar taste. "Are there oysters in this??"

Lewis smiled, eyes crinkling. "Yeah . . . they're not really popular in Creole cuisine but since you like them so much, I thought I'd experiment."

"Well, it really paid off," Arthur replied, shovelling more into his mouth and hollering at Vivi. "You haff no idea what you're mishing," he garbled through a mouth full of food.

"I'll try it tomorrow!" she called back, waving him off as she refocussed on the program.

Again, Arthur shook his head, giving Lewis a pointed look. "Well, I think it's delicious."

"I'm glad," his friend said, soft eyes still fixed on him, food untouched.

○ ○ ○

"Hi Lew-Lew!"

Vivi swung through the door to the Pepper Paradiso, barely affording Arthur a glance. Instead, she ran right past him and into his best friend's arms. Arthur tried to tune out the giggles.

"And what's got you so excited?"

"I found a bust! Apparently the Texas-Mexican border is a supernatural hotspot. You would not believe the stuff I've read! Ghosts, yokai, chupacabras—"

Arthur spun around. "Vivi, no way. Not those dog things."

She brushed him off. "Chaneques too! They pull the souls right outta peoples' bodies!"

Lewis sighed fondly. "They scare them, Vivi. Scare the souls."

"That's right! And there's this cave, Ojos. . . Ojos Sabi-ose?"

"Ojos Sabios?" Lewis mulled. "That means 'wise eyes'."

"Yeah!" she motormouthed. "It only appears for people if they're looking for it, or if it wants something from them—"

"Can we please talk about this?" Arthur cut in. "I don't want to go disturbing ancient Mayan spirits. That sounds dangerous."

"These will be Aztec," Vivi replied. "Not nearly as dangerous."

"Still!" he fought. "I don't feel comfortable with—"

"C'mon, Artie, we'll protect you." Lewis flashed him a dazzling smile. The words died in his throat.

"We can't miss out on an opportunity like this," Vivi pushed. "It would really put us on the map! We could open commissions, earn money. . . upgrade equipment. . ." She looked back at him with puppy dog eyes. "Pleeeeeaaasee?"

Arthur gauged her uncertainly, raising his eyes to Lewis for support.

Instead, he was met with that heart-melting smile.

He faltered. "O. . .Okay. But. . . please, let's just be careful."

○ ○ ○

Five hours of driving filled with chatter in the front.

Arthur had been lumped in the back.

"Because we know how drained you get on long road trips," Vivi had supplied, but Arthur knew it was because they had wanted to sit in the front together. And that hurt. They'd probably dump him off somewhere if they could get away with it—

No, he couldn't think like that. They cared about him. They were his friends. And they'd listen to him if he had any problems.

. . . Wouldn't they?

"Well, I mean, yeah . . . but half the stuff we do is already illegal."

"Half the time you hide behind Mystery and don't do anything, anyway."

"Great find, Vivi."

"These will be Aztec. Not nearly as dangerous."

"C'mon, Artie, we'll protect you."

"We can't miss out on an opportunity like this!"

"Because we know you get drained on long road trips."

His stomach sank.

The van began to slow.

"Alright Skulls, we're almost there," came Lewis' voice from the front. "About a mile to go."

"And then we'll be going deep inside Ojos Sabios!" Vivi said excitedly.

Helplessly, Arthur gazed out the window. No, they wouldn't listen to him.

A toxic anger simmered away in his stomach. They never did.

○ ○ ○

. . . . .

Arthur was being shaken and he didn't know why. Was it time to get up? Did he sleep in? He thought he heard his phone buzzing too—he reached out his arm lazily, feeling around for his phone, but nothing happened. He couldn't feel most of his arm, or his fingers. But he could feel sticky stuff all over him, and then he was hit with a blinding pain.

Gasping, he reached for the burning shoulder and cried out when the touch sent daggers through his nerves. Why did they do this? He knew something bad would happen! He took a deep breath, and rolled his head to the side to survey the damage—

His eyes popped.

His arm. It was gone.

His thoughts spun wildly. How had this happened? What had he done? They had been on a job, right? Looking around for a cave. They had all been together. Then why was he alone? Where was Lewis? Where was Vivi?

"Arthur?"

Vivi?

"Arthur!"

Vivi! Vivi was there, and she was going to help him!

"Arthur! Please, we need to go! We need to get you to the hospital!"

Hospital. Yes—painkillers, bandages, safety. Arthur cracked open his eyes, and slowly sat up, groaning. He tried to blink through the blinding headache and blurring tears. He reached up his hand to wipe them away—

Nope. No hand. He crushed the reeling thoughts down and tried not to panic. He had to get up. He needed to get to the hospital—maybe they could reattach his arm. Where was that arm?

"Arthur! Come on!"

A hazy figure was waving something at him—what was that? Arthur squinted. A blue balloon? A ribbon? Oh. An arm.

Arthur grabbed Vivi's arm and hoisted himself upwards, weaving on his feet as his vision almost whited out. His head spun—maybe he should sit back down.

Something looped itself around his torso and under his arms—arm, keeping him steady. "Come on, Artie. We can do this. It's only a few steps to the van."

The van? Oh, yes, they had a van! Only a few steps. . . Wait. Lewis.

"LEWIS!" he yelled, trying to turn back. Vivi's grip was firm even as he struggled.

"Arthur, no. We need to go."

"Lewis—"

"Arthur, we don't have TIME!" she cried desperately. "Us first, Lewis later! We can't go looking for him like this!"

There was something in her voice and when he looked at her, he could see her eyes were wide and wet. "Please," she insisted, a tear dribbling down her cheek. After throwing one last glance over his shoulder he clenched his jaw and nodded.

With Vivi holding him up and Mystery dragging them along, it was a relatively quick stagger to the car before he was flopped onto the front seat and the vehicle started humming. The agony came back and hit hard.

Arthur cried out in pain. How much blood had he lost? Was he going to die? His breathing became loud and quick in his ears.

"Mystery! Please, calm him down! It's only a few minutes to the hospital but we can't let him get hysterical! Jesus, he's losing so much blood . . . Oh, god, fuck, fuck, fuck. . ." The car stopped and Vivi took off her scarf and wrapped it around his bleeding stump—and only then was Arthur aware of the weight on his chest. He blinked up at the hazy figure, making out a white face, spiky hair, and yellow spectacles—

"Mystery?" Arthur moaned. The dog whined, huddling onto his chest and licking his face. He blinked at the dog in disbelief. "Were you with. . . Did you find me. . .?" He couldn't finish his sentence before his head began spinning again.

The next few hours were a blur. They arrived at the hospital and he was immediately shoved into a bed and rolled through white corridors and pushed through swinging doors. A doctor slid a needle into his wrist and his head grew hazy; he strained to make sense of the snippets of conversation that broke through the blur. Critical condition . . . hysteria. Blood loss . . . emergency surgery. Fluids . . . gas. Eight hours.

When Arthur finally woke up he was questioned. Neither he nor Vivi could remember anything significant of that night. They could remember before and after, but that was it. The nurses had said it had been shock. When the first responders had come to brief them in the hospital, they had told them Lewis was dead. Arthur hadn't wanted to believe it—that meant they had left him.

Foul play had been ruled out as there had been no evidence of anyone else entering or exiting the site. The investigators had decided the most likely cause an accident: Lewis had tripped, he had been running and hadn't seen the ledge. But that wasn't like Lewis. He was always so methodical, so careful. Things hadn't seemed right.

Despite Arthur's pleas to go back and search, the authorities wouldn't let anyone else near the site. They told him that after removing the body they'd cordoned off the area from the public. Arthur had insisted on seeing him—he had to be alive, he had to be—but they'd held him back. The first and last time he got to see his friend after that night was at the funeral a week later, and when he did, though he looked as clean and whole as ever, he fell to his knees and threw up in shock.

When Arthur finally completed the drug therapy and was cleared to go home, he locked himself in his room for days and didn't come out to eat. He barely got any sleep, and the sleep he did get was plagued with twisted images—images that he didn't remember, but terrified him still.

He missed Lewis; everything about him. And he missed Vivi's lovestruck bubbliness. It hadn't been that bad, really. He had just been selfish—they had been happy together. That didn't mean they hadn't still cared about him.

By the time he pulled himself together and came out, smiling at Vivi and putting some bread in the toaster for them, he didn't really know much, but he knew that he—and the remaining Mystery Skulls—were never going to be the same again.

Not without Lewis. Together, they were a puzzle. And without that piece, they could never be whole. He certainly couldn't be.

(Chapter 1/6)

Check out the rest of this story on: - Wattpad - Archive Of Our Own

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ahsbitch · 5 years ago

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Yes, Mr. Langdon---Fire & Reign!Michael Langdon x Reader

Word Count: 3228

Summary: Reader is F&R!Michael’s assistant, who is always quick to do whatever he asks. Michael wants to see how far she’ll go to do just that.

Warnings: NSFW, lots of swearing, masturbation, Reader gets a facial, bootlicking, degradation, humiliation ish?, some Mean!Michael, but also kinda Soft!Michael at the end bc I’m soft and lonely at heart, that’s all I can think of idk

A/N: Hi I’ve literally never written any AHS stuff before so I apologize if this sucks but I really hope it doesn’t

Being the personal assistant to the Antichrist was definitely not the easiest job in the world.

But when held in comparison to your time in restaurant service, it definitely wasn’t the hardest either.

At least here, you rarely had to deal with obstinate customers. Most people were too frightened of your boss, Mr. Langdon, to yell or be rude in his presence, which you were constantly in, and on the occasion that they were rude or stubborn anyway, he had a tendency to give a little wave of his hand, incinerating them before your very eyes.

No, the rudest and most needy person you typically had to deal with was Mr. Langdon himself.

The rude came and went in waves. He could be cruel, demeaning, downright evil at times. He acted, in short, much like one might expect the Antichrist to. But sometimes, he could be charming, gentle, occasionally even sweet.

The neediness came and went in waves too, although it was more often very subtly present than anything else. Usually he was commanding, powerful, clearly in charge. But sometimes, although still commanding, he could be almost childlike in his confusion and frustration.

He was kind of an asshole, but he wasn’t the worst boss in the world. There was something about him that was compelling, that made you feel a great desire to please him. He was always specific about what he wanted, and you always complied, no matter how out of the box, how insulting, how simple or extreme, how kind or how demeaning. You said yes to everything he asked you.

And he had begun to take great notice of it.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

“Fucking, fuck, dammit to hell, this fucking, son of a bitch!”

You sat at your desk just outside of Michael Langdon’s office, transcribing a giant tome of text as instructed by the Cooperative, and listening to your boss curse loudly at inanimate objects.

You should probably get up, check on him, but you decided that until he reached the point of breaking things-

“Fuck!” He shouted, and then there was a bang and a very, very loud crash.

Yeah, until he started doing stuff like that.

You rose with a shake of your head, knocking sharply on his door three times.

“Come in,” Michael sighed, and as you walked in you took note of the shattered computer against the opposite wall of his desk, turning back to look at your boss with his head laying against said desk, hands gripping at his golden curls.

Dammit, he was frustrated.

Frustrated Michael could be particularly difficult to deal with.

You stood before him, hands folded neatly in front of you, smiling pleasantly even though he wasn’t looking at you yet, “You sounded like you might be in need of assistance, Mr. Langdon. Would you mind fixing your computer?”

He grunted quietly, giving a little swirl of his hand, although he didn’t lift his head, and you stepped out of the way as the technology flew back into place, drifting into its original position.

“Very good. Now, if you don’t mind, could you tell me what’s wrong?”

“I’m not a child, Y/N,” Michael growled, and you bit your tongue gently to resist the urge to laugh.

Moving to the side of the desk, you smiled to yourself at his little temper tantrum, “Of course not, Mr. Langdon. I am merely at your service.”

“Of course you are,” Sitting up finally, he turned to you, and you were amused to see the pout that sat on his lips, the intimidating man looking suddenly very young, more his own age, “The mouse won’t work.”

“May I?” You didn’t wait for him to agree, already wiggling the mouse once and then moving to the wires of the computer, fiddling with them quickly before sliding the mouse back to Michael, “That should do it.”

“What was wrong with it?” He glanced up at you, voice gruff, although you could hear a hint of curiosity.

You shifted where you stood, trying to mask your discomfort, “Just, uh, just technology stuff.”

“Y/N,” Turning in his chair, Michael pinned you in place with his gaze, and you were unsure whether this was metaphorical pinning or not, with how frozen you felt, “Tell me what was wrong with it.”

“Yes, Mr. Langdon,” Trying to keep your smile in place rather than let a grimace take you over, you grit your teeth in preparation for him to do something violent, “The mouse wasn’t plugged in all the way. It’s a fairly common issue. Happens all the time.”

You tensed, but to your surprise Michael didn’t yell or break something or curse, like he usually did when he felt a sense of ineptitude. Instead, he laughed, and normally that would’ve scared you even more, but it was such a warm and gentle laugh that you felt yourself relaxing ever so slightly as he spoke, “Of course it was. Tell me, Y/N, is there anything wrong with you?”

Shrugging, you let yourself perch on the edge of his desk with a giggle, “Plenty of things, believe me.”

“Tell me some?”

“Yes, Mr. Langdon,” Pausing, you mused over your words, testing each on the tip of your tongue before you said it, “Let’s see. My left foot is bigger than my right. I think jealousy is a very ugly emotion, and I hate it, but I have a lot of insecurities, and often find myself jealous of people around me in spite of my best efforts. Um, I read cheesy romance novels in my free time even though the writing usually makes me cringe. When people ask me what type of lipstick I use I always lie because I don’t want anyone else to have lips that look as good as mine. Oh, and even though I exclusively call you Mr. Langdon out loud, I will confess that in my head I usually refer to you as Michael. It’s faster, y’know.”

Chuckling softly once more, Michael nodded, “Those don’t sound too bad, as far as problems go. You’re lucky.”

“I prefer to think of myself as adaptable.”

“Fair enough,” He grinned, but something dangerous glittered behind his eyes, “You can go now, Y/N.”

“Yes, Mr. Langdon,” You flashed him a small smile before hurrying out of the room.

Michael watched you leave, musing over your words.

How far, he wondered, how far could he go with his wishes, before you gave in, before you said no.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Why the hell wouldn’t you say no to anything?

It was beginning to drive Michael crazy, watching the way that you gave in to whatever he asked, even when he was being absurd.

You spent a full day doing all your work in nothing but your underclothes, simply because he asked.

You gave sat on his lap through a whole meeting with other members of the Cooperative, your superiors, simply because he asked.

You let him order you to do tiny things. Hand him pens that were two inches away from his fingertips. Kiss the floor where his chair had been sitting. Adjust the brightness of his computer screen for him only to come back and adjust it to its original brightness approximately two minutes later. Simply because he asked.

What wouldn’t you say yes to?

He was musing over this as he waited for you to return from a coffee run.

There you were, carrying two paper cups, a pleasant smile on your face.

Always that same damn smile.

“I have your hot chocolate, Mr. Langdon,” You set the cup in front of him on the desk, “Thank you again for allowing me to get myself a drink.”

Michael glanced up at you, frowning, “Y/N, I always let you get yourself a drink.”

Shrugging, you raised the cup to your lips and took a sip, “I know you do, Mr. Langdon. But it feels right to thank you. You’re a good boss.”

Maybe not so much, He thought to himself as he twitched his hand, watching you drop the cup almost in slow motion, watching as the lid came off and your drink spilled just a bit onto his lap, just a bit onto his legs, cursing as the rest came splashing down onto his shoes.

“Oh shit, I’m so sorry!” You gasped, staring at your now empty hands in shock.

Sneering at you, Michael snapped twice, “Don’t just stand there, Y/N. Clean up your mess.”

“Right, I’m sorry, Mr. Langdon, let me go get-”

“No,” He grabbed your wrist, not allowing you to move away, and you turned back to him in confusion as he continued to tug you closer, “Get onto your knees, open your mouth, and clean up your mess.”

Holy fuck.

Ignoring the way your face burned, you averted your eyes, whispering, “Yes, Mr. Langdon,” As you dropped to your knees.

Where exactly were you meant to go with this?

Michael raised his foot, nudging your chin with it until you looked up and met his gaze, his eyes holding something dark and urgently, compellingly dangerous, “Well? Get to work, Y/N.”

“Yes, Mr. Langdon.”

Before you could even think any further, he had touched the toe of his boot to your mouth, pushing gently against your bottom lip until you opened for him.

He was a remarkably clean person, and beyond the taste of your coffee even the shoes themselves didn’t taste particularly bad.

Probably because they cost more than your apartment.

You moved slowly at first, but as Michael brought his hands down to wind tightly through your hair, you sped up. You lapped at the droplets of coffee, over the grooves of his laces and up to the sharp, pointed toe of the boot, and when you were done with one you switched to the other. He gripped your hair tightly, guiding your head, forcing you to bob up and down as you cleaned his shoe, and you wondered vacantly to yourself if he did the same thing while he was getting a blowjob.

Probably.

“Good girl,” He praised as you worked, his voice softer than you expected, and even Michael seemed surprised as he cleared his throat, his tone becoming darker, “You’re not bad at this. Do you do this often?”

Pausing your ministrations briefly, you shook you head, “No, Mr. Langdon.”

You were back at it immediately, feeling him tug at your head.

Michael was trying hard to sound intimidating, and of course he did, he always did, but there was something shockingly gentle behind his voice even as he growled, “Good. I should be your first priority. Tell me, do you enjoy this?”

You had finished against his shoes, pulling away, and he released your head as he examined them, smirking at your heavy breathing, at the way you panted your answer, “Would you, uh, do you want me to enjoy this, Mr. Langdon?”

Narrowing his eyes, a frown etched across his face, “What? I mean, no. No, I don’t want you to.”

“Then I don’t,” You shrugged, rocking backwards.

Fuck, you were going to kill him.

“What if I wanted you to?”

“Then I would.”

Clearing his throat again, Michael stared at you for a moment before patting his thigh, “There’s coffee on my pants, as well. You’ll need to take care of that, too.”

“Yes, Mr. Langdon.”

He didn’t touch you this time, instead bringing his hands up, reclining further back in his chair and resting his head against his palms as he watched you.

Starting at the cuff, you stroked your tongue up his pant leg, pressing absentminded kisses occasionally as you went. By the time you’d reached the tops of his thighs, Michael was straining forward ever so slightly, dragging the chair closer to you with one ankle hooked around his desk, and then meeting up with his other ankle to lock behind your back.

You took the hint, mouthing along the outline of his cock.

Holy shit, he was huge, and you hadn’t even seen it unconstrained.

He hissed, quietly, his hips bucking forward as you licked your way up to his zipper, clamping your teeth onto it and tugging down without much thought.

“Stop,” He said firmly, almost laughing as you scrambled back, “Don’t be greedy.”

“Sorry, Mr. Langdon,” You dropped your gaze and licked your lips, tasting the remains of your coffee.

“Is this...” Trailing off in thought, Michael guided your face upwards once more, forcing you to make eye contact with him, “Is this embarrassing for you, Y/N?”

“Do you want it to be embarrassing for me?”

“Stop that,” He snapped, his grip on your chin tightening, “Stop bullshitting me. Give me a real answer. Truthfully, is this embarrassing for you?”

Tapping your fingers along your thighs, musing over your answer a moment, “Truthfully? Of course it is. A lot of the things you have me do, especially lately, I find humiliating.”

There it was. Now would you finally give in, finally reject a request?

He didn’t say anything, just reached into his boxers and pulled out his cock.

Neither of you spoke, staring at each other instead, and hesitantly you reached for it, flinching as Michael slapped your hand away just as you brushed your fingers against him.

“I told you not to be greedy.”

“Sorry, Mr. Langdon.”

After a moment more, Michael nodded, wrapping his own fist around his cock and beginning to pump it. You watched in fascination as moved, at the way his long fingers wrapped around his thick, long, perfect cock.

“Y/N,” Snapping you out of your daze, Michael paused to spit into his hand, moving rubbing along the head of his dick before returning to his former position, “I want to jerk off onto your face. I want you to sit there, and watch me, and I want to finish on your face, and when I’m done, I want you to thank me, and I want you to leave it there. Leave it for the rest of the day, so everyone can see how desperate you are to please me.”

Surely, surely you would say no to this.

“Yes, Mr. Langdon.”

A growl made its way out of his throat before he could stop it, and he sped up his pace as he watched you fold your hands in your lap, adjusting your knees a little, staring up at him through your fluttering lashes.

Snarling, Michael grunted, “You’re pathetic, do you know that?”

Did he want you to answer?

“Keep your pretty little whore mouth shut, got it?” He spoke like he could read your mind, and you decided he probably could as you clamped your teeth shut, nodding quickly as he continued, “Fuck. You’d do anything I asked you to, huh? If I told you to kill someone, you’d do it without question, wouldn’t you? Hell, you’d kill yourself without question, if I asked you to. I think you like feeling humiliated. I think that your pussy gets wetter and wetter every time I tell you what to do. I- shit- I’m your fucking boss, and you’re on your knees for me before I can even finish telling you that’s where you need to be. It’s absurd. You probably want me to fuck you right now. You’re probably wishing I would let you open your mouth so you can swallow me down, you’re so desperate to get a taste of me.”

He was getting closer to finishing, you could tell, his rhythm getting faster and faster, his words becoming more sharply articulated.

Michael kept going, almost like he was talking himself into cumming, “You can’t wait for me to finish, can you? You can’t wait to feel completely possessed by me, like I’ve somehow claimed you. You can’t wait for everyone who you see to stare at you, full of disgust and confusion. You want it, don’t you? Don’t you?”

“Yes, Mr. Langdon,” You nodded, shutting your eyes as he let out a low, shaky groan, his warm cum coating your face.

Fucking hell.

You opened your eyes slowly, carefully, unsure of whether or not you should move. You watched as Michael stuffed himself back into his pants, zipping them quickly, and then he pulled a handkerchief from his pocket, holding it out to you.

You didn’t take it but blinked up at him, staring, “I, um, I thought you said to leave it.”

Clicking his tongued, Michael started wiping your face himself, his touch incredibly light, “I thought you’d say no. Tell me to stop. Maybe report me to HR.”

You flicked your eyebrow up, an amused smile settling on your lips, “Do we have an HR for the apocalypse?”

Chuckling mirthlessly, he raised the handkerchief to his mouth and spat lightly, cleaning your face more intently, “You could say no, do you realize that? Why don’t you ever say no to me?”

You closed your eyes as he rubbed across the bridge of your nose, dabbing delicately at your eyelids.

“Have you ever seen The Princess Bride?” You asked, finally, as he moved to your hairline.

His brow furrowed in confusion, “I, uh, no? No, I’ve never seen it.”

“Yeah, I didn’t think so,” His hand moved to your cheek and you leaned into it before you could stop yourself, humming as his thumb moved to run across your skin, “You should watch it sometime. Before you do the whole ending the world thing and kill me and pretty much everyone else in the world and inevitably ruin Netflix. Forget about that. Let’s just say it’s because I’m afraid of you, yeah? You scare me, so I do whatever you say.”

Hesitating for just a moment, Michael pulled his hand away, eyes closed, frowning, “Is that what The Princess Bride is about? Being afraid of your boss?”

You laughed before you could stop yourself, and you found yourself wishing that he would touch your face again, although you didn’t dare say so, “Not quite. Just, uh, forget about The Princess Bride. It doesn’t matter.”

He nodded, folding his handkerchief and slipping it into his pocket without opening his eyes, which you found oddly impressive.

You kept waiting for Michael to say something, to look at you, to move, to do anything, but he wasn’t and he didn’t and so you stood, and started to move away.

“Wait,” He spoke finally, and you felt as though you’d been in silence for hours although you knew it must’ve only been a few moments.

“Yes, Mr. Langdon?”

“I’m not going to kill you,” Michael opened his eyes, looking at you carefully, “I mean, the apocalypse. It’s not going to kill you.”

“It’s not? I thought only members of the Cooperative, and the people rich enough to buy a ticket, I thought they were the only ones who were going to make it.”

He wrapped his hand around your wrist, just as he had before, but this time it wasn’t aggressive, wasn’t rough. He was very gentle, his fingers skimming along the veins, pausing to feel your pulse thump against him, “And you. There will be a place for you in the new world, Y/N, I promise you that.”

And then Michael had released your wrist and turned away, and you made your way out the door and back to your own desk with a soft, “Thank you, Mr. Langdon.”

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mihidecet · 4 years ago

Text

I see You

I’m back on my bs yall. This is meant to be a companion piece to this so if you’re in the mood for some pure and extremely shameless comfort maybe check it out?

I somehow ended up writing 3.8K of Manburg family dynamics, set in an alternate universe where none of the extremely messed us stuff of the canon happened. ((we could have had it all))

Once again do not take this as ship content!! Let’s normalize platonic cuddling and being close with your friends without it being sexual!! Pretty pretty please!!

Contrary to popular belief, Schlatt is not that dense when it comes to feelings.

His ignorance of other people's emotions is a willing act of defiance. Defiance towards whom, you may find yourself asking?

… Anyway.

Schlatt does notice things. Stuff happening around him. And he does remember them.

He knows Tubbo takes his morning tea with two spoonfuls of honey, and a slice of bread with any marmalade on it except raspberry, which as it turns out he doesn't like. Schlatt stops providing raspberry marmalade, but it never really gets questioned.

He knows Fundy will get scraped up while exploring during the day, and will always forget to bandage himself up properly, so he makes sure to mention it in passing to whoever is near him at the end of the day - just to know that people will check up on the kid. He doesn't need to go himself, Fundy would never allow him to take care of him directly, and he's not going to subject either of them to that situation.

Most of all, he notices Quackity - with him being the Vice President, they're around each other a lot.

Quackity is a bright light in the cabinet.

While Tubbo is a warm late afternoon glow and Fundy is burning fire, Quackity is sunshine by the seaside on a midday spring day.

Quackity likes coffee, but only if it's been drowned with sugar. He likes singing, humming tunes to himself as he works or while he cooks - he does it for everyone, whenever he has the time to, and he is one of the best cooks there are. He likes to debate, bringing up topics to talk about during slow times, engaging Tubbo into verbal spars. He makes sure that Fundy has eaten at least three times per day, and that he's gone to sleep at a decent time.

He smiles to himself whenever he finishes a document. Ruffles Tubbo's hair. Touches Fundy's shoulder to stop him to ask him how he's doing. Taps Schlatt's shoulder to catch his attention.

Quackity is a very tactile person.

Schlatt remembers him hugging people, throwing arms around shoulders, laughing out loud with tears at the corners of his eyes.

So it's no wonder that a couple of months into their presidency, with work and paperwork occupying most of their days, Quackity is both overly stressed and constantly fidgeting.

It comes to a point when Schlatt catches him visibly reaching out to people and then backing away, awkward and embarrassed, mumbling excuses before making a joke of being lost in his mind due to work.

That cannot continue. It simply cannot.

Schlatt finishes his paperwork an hour early that night, then he takes a swig from one of his already opened bottles for good luck and gets to work.

The trip from his study to Quackity's is almost too long - it gives him almost enough time to change his mind, almost enough time to chicken out and just plan something else, maybe unleash Tubbo on him. But before he can formulate the idea in his mind, he's standing in front of the oak door and his hand is already raised to knock.

Too late to back down. A part of him reasons, despite the fact that it isn't.

"Come in." Quackity's voice answers after he raps his knuckles against the wood.

The room inside is dimly lit: the only source of light is a small table lamp that shines a beacon on Quackity’s documents as his pen flies on the paper sheet, the man’s slightly hunched back straightening when he notices him entering, a small tired smile appearing on his face.

"What are you doing here?" He asks, his head tilting lightly to the side - then bending further, one hand coming up to rub at his neck with a slightly pained expression. Schlatt advances, crossing his arms over his chest and shrugging while Quackity seemingly discovers more and more sore spots along his back.

"I finished my paperwork, I figured I'd stop by."

"Oh, cool. -” he replies with one final satisfied grunt “- I'm almost done with this."

Schlatt nods absentmindedly, gesturing vaguely with a hand towards a nearby armchair: "You mind?" There’s a moment of confused silence as Quackity looks at him as if he’s grown a second set of horns, a mixture of surprise, amusement and incredulity overcoming his features, then he shakes his head and chuckles to himself. To be fair, any other night he’d have flung himself on his bed the instant his paperwork had been done. Still, Quackity recovers quickly, nodding towards him and swiftly resuming his work.

It’s hard not to fall asleep with the sound of his friend’s pen running over paper calming his nerves, the dimness surrounding them and the comfiness of the armchair under him. He remembers when Quackity had brought it in, slightly old looking and covered in a transparent sheet of plastic: he’d called it a lifetime occasion, found in a yard sale, and Schlatt had doubted its usefulness - after all, they had a couch in the livingroom and multiple chairs for each of their desks.

And yet, there hasn’t yet been a day when the armchair wasn’t occupied by someone. When the days are cold, Tubbo can often be found curled up in it with a mug of hot chocolate and a blanket safely tucked around his shoulders - by whom should be quite obvious. And sometimes, when the nights are too long and sleep avoids Fundy, he retreats there, silently, and turns the armchair so that he can keep a watchful eye over Quackity as he works - that is, until sleep finds him, comforted by the knowledge that they’re all safe and alive.

There’s a small bookshelf next to the armchair, filled with tomes both bought, found and written - some in English, most in Spanish. Quackity is nothing but fond and proud of his collection, and while Schlatt’s not going to tell anyone, he has read plenty of poems from the books that looked the most used. He’s aware that his Spanish isn’t the best, but it helps with keeping his knowledge fresh.

His eyes catch on a thin book that he doesn’t remember seeing before - its title along the spine is a mesh of letters, with way too many consonants, and definitely in a language he doesn’t know. Picking it up, he figures it will help with his task of not falling asleep as he waits, but alas, as on the spine, the whole book is filled with too many long words - is that a whole line of just one? Who made this up?

He starts flipping back to the incipit, in hope of at least finding the author’s name. When he reaches it, though, what catches his attention first isn’t the name itself - Goethe, ah, that’s it, German - but a hand-penned inscription just below.

“Hey Da Dumbass, I heard you like poetry in foreign languages. Try and read this. Fundy.”

Thankfully, the sound of a satisfied grunt reaches his ears and unknots the tightness in his throat and distracts him from the warmth spreading in his chest.

Behind him, Quackity - he calls him dad - stretches his arms behind his back and sighs.

"Alright, this one's done! -” he starts, smiling proudly to himself before shooting a somewhat guilty look towards the rest of the documents piled up on his desk “- You know, you don't have to wait for me, I figured since it's not so late I could get a bit of stuff done ahead of time-" Schlatt levels him with an unimpressed stare, then claps the book closed and places it back in its original place before standing up and making his way towards his still sitting friend.

"Alright, that's it." Quackity looks visibly confused, even a bit worried, as he leans back into his chair, but Schlatt is a man on a mission: he won’t be swayed by it, this is supposed to be an intervention. He stops once he’s close, standing up right next to Quackity, and his friend looks nervously up at him, a high pitched self conscious chuckle escaping him.

"Wh-what- what's up?" Schlatt gives him a quick look just to confirm his theory, but he knows him. And most importantly, he knows himself, he knows he can manage it.

"You, in a moment-" He quips, bending down and quickly scooping the shorter man up, one arm under his legs while the other supports his back and then-

"Wait, hold on- hold on I-” Quackity starts to protest, but by then Schlatt already has a secure hold on him, so up they go, followed by a yelp by Quackity himself as he is quite suddenly hoisted up into Schlatt’s arms, one hand reaching out and wrapping around the taller man’s shirt with a vice-like grip as he splutters, eyes wide as saucers.

“HOLY SHIT-! HOW IN THE FUCK DID YOU DO THAT?!"

And to be completely fair, Schlatt is not one to back down from the chance to boast at this type of thing, so he simply shrugs and squeezes him closer with a self satisfied smirk: "I told you I lift, you dumbass."

"I- I- put me down." Quackity gapes, seemingly still wrapping his head around the sudden switch in situation; the way he leans into the hold is probably unconscious, but it does confirm his theory that his vice president, his closest friend, is in desperate need of being on the receiving end of some care and comfort. And he knows, deep inside himself, that he’s not the best candidate for the job, but if nobody’s going to do it then he is for sure going to.

"I will in a moment. You need sleep." He replies, tone firm but not loud, reaching out with a hand to turn off the desk lamp - inwardly thanking the low light coming from the torches in the corridor for allowing him not to make a fool of himself by immediately tripping on his feet.

"I- alright, but I can get to my room on my own!" Quackity protests, sounding flustered, and Schlatt has a moment of hesitation as the sudden fear of having overstepped a boundary hits him. Maybe he shouldn't have done this. Shit, fuck, he's screwed this, hasn't he?

But as he pauses for a moment to look down at Quackity, to asses the situation, he realises that the man is actually clutching at him, and his head is resting under his chin - the soft fabric of the beanie pushing against his cheek the moment he bends his head to look down. Schlatt lets out a steadying breath: he can do this.

"I know you can. I don't mind doing this, though." He states, firmly but not unlindly, voice softening, and he holds him close again - one armed as he reaches out to close the corridor's door. A huff of breath warms a spot over his chest.

"I- you're such a fucking showoff, dude." He murmurs, accepting the situation with what sounds like a small smile on his face.

It takes him a minute, but soon he's opening the door of Quackity's bedroom. The shorter man, who had been slowly relaxing overtime, leaning more and more into his chest, startles as if waking up from sleeping and tenses up.

"Alright, now you can drop me off." He comments, but Schlatt is a bit more preoccupied with losing himself inside his own mind as he thinks about what to do next, so Quackity stays up - it's not like he's gonna wriggle around and risk falling on his ass on the ground. After a moment, he looks down at where Q's hand is clutching at his shirt, and at where his head is still pressed against his chest. A part of him is enjoying this too, and isn't really ready to let go, but still, this isn't about him. It's about what Quackity wants.

So he forces his anxieties down, swallows around the knot in his throat and tries.

"What- what if I didn't yet, though." Quackity is silent for a moment after that, but his hand doesn't unclench, so he counts it as a good thing.

"You're not making any sense, man."

Schlatt is stood in the middle of the room, holding Quackity up, keeping him close, and he feels like he's balancing multiple instincts wanting to drag him in any direction - anywhere else other than here, right now, when stuff is so confusing and worrisome and he's constantly scared of scaring Quackity off with something weird.

But yet again, he keeps it down, keeps it quiet. For his friend.

"I've been seeing how stressed you are. Is this helping? Please be honest." If he had a free hand, he would be running it through his hair, a nervous habit he's been picking back up. Yet, his arms are starting to feel the strain of holding a body up, so he's not going to risk letting him fall to the ground. After what seems like an eternity, another sigh in the form of a warm puff of breath hits his chest as Quackity concedes.

"... A bit …"

Good, he can't help but think. Communication is key in these situations. In all situations really, but he appreciates the fact that Q is opening up and letting him know he is alright with being held like this. Spurred on by this, he ponders his next words perhaps a bit too little.

"Is it the caring or the touching?"

Quackity visibly flinches at the wordings, leaning back a little - pushing more strain on Schlatt's right arm - to stare at him with a sarcastic frown.

"Shit, man, you are such a wordsmith-"

Too quick, too many variables lost to the moment, and Schlatt is swept up in the frenzy of the situation - he has never, ever been good at smoothing out situations.

"Will you just answer-"

"It's both! Geeze, are you happy now?!" Quackity's embarrassed outburst manages to at the same time shut him up and quieten the anxious voices in his head - so he was right, Quackity did like this, and he didn't mind it. Now if that wasn't a win in his book … he sighs, squeezing him close.

"Yeah, kinda. See, it wasn't hard. You little bitch." He comments, tone way too fond for him to be taken seriously ever again, but he figures he's allowed to be a bit soft - it's late, they're tired, and they're the only ones in the room.

Schlatt decides he's not going to subject himself to the mortifying ordeal of starting to lose strength in his arms - he has a reputation to uphold - so he quickly makes his way to the large bed, turns and sits down, inwardly relieved that he's managed to get this far. His nerves still haven't betrayed him. Yet. At least Quackity isn't launching himself on the other side of the room the moment he has a chance not to fall on the ground if he moves the wrong way.

"What are you doing?" Quackity asks, sounding genuinely confused as he looks up at him with furrowed brows, so now it's Schlatt's turn to splutter indignantly, the arm under Q's legs sneaking up to wave confusedly in the air.

"I'm about to murder you is what I'm doing- what does it look like?! I'm trying to comfort you!"

A moment of silence follows, during which Schlatt stares awkwardly at Quackity's shocked face. Then Q's eyes soften and he starts chuckling, shaking his head for a moment before he lets it fall back down against his collarbone, sneaking an arm around his waist.

"Feeling real fucking comforted, for sure." He comments, humour loud in his voice as he squirms around for a moment trying to find a comfortable position, quieting a moment later and letting out a small sigh.

"I am going to throw you into the river." Schlatt answers, bringing the hand that was holding his back up to the nape of his neck, fingers dipping under his beanie to lightly scratch at his scalp, pressing his friend's forehead against his neck.

When Quackity answers a moment later, his voice is but a murmur.

"I thought you were here to comfort me?"

"Shut up and be comforted, then, you dumbass." He huffs out, but there's a smile on his face despite the way he tries to seem angry. He is still way too soft to be taken seriously, and he'll be mad about it later, when Quackity will keep making coffee for the both of them, but then he'll lean into him while Schlatt's making eggs for Fundy, and he'll call him soft when he remembers to add the herbs the young fox hybrid picked himself; not to mention how he'll suddenly realise who had been bringing Tubbo back to his room after the kid had fallen asleep on the couch.

But still, it's worth it, as he slowly grabs the hand that is still gripping his shirt, gently pressing against his fingers until he lets go; he places it back on Quackity's lap, rubbing what he hopes are comforting circles into his wrist - he knows how bad it can get when you spend all day writing, and knows his intuition payed off when his friend's shoulders relax even further.

To be quite honest, Quackity hadn't even realised his writing hand had been hurting.

A joke threatens to rise in Q's throat, a way to diffuse the situation, a mechanism born from ages of repressing wholesomeness because that's the type of things that get you in trouble, because feelings get treated as a weakness, but he squashes it down, closing his eyes with a sigh as he lets himself enjoy the moment.

The warmth of a hug that is truly meant, the comforting weight of Schlatt's head against the top of his, the blissful peace that he associates with having his hair played with - It's been a while since he had the chance to do this, to feel this.

He could fall asleep like this, he thinks, eyes closing on their own and body melting into the sensation, and he finds himself floating, suspended - but also grounded, tethered by the points of contact between their bodies.

He feels- he feels like he did when Fundy tried to teach him German, him stumbling over the words while the other laughed with him; or like all the times Tubbo brought him outside in the garden, guiding him through the steps needed to take care of his beloved pets.

He feels at home.

And after a moment, he feels Schlatt relax too, his movements less precise, less rithmic, his shoulders sagging a bit as they lean more into each other instead of just Quackity against him - and doesn't that feel poignant, he thinks, but not pointing it out loud feels like a better choice.

He feels before he hears the low timbre of Schlatt's voice, unusually quiet due to a mix of tiredness and the silent atmosphere surrounding them.

"I'm gonna lie back. That alright with you?"

It takes a moment for Quackity to realise that he is asking for permission. He wants to nod, but that would jostle their heads. So he hums in what hopes is a notably affirmative way, and just to be sure his message is correctly interpreted, he turns his palm upward, fingers wrapping around the taller man's wrist, and squeezes.

He feels a chuckle vibrate through the chest under his cheek; again, quiet, toned down, but this time it also feels like he's trying not to move too much - and that right there makes him want to never stop smiling, especially whenever Schlatt pretends he doesn't care. Because if there is one thing Quackity knows is that he cares so much, despite the fact that he still pretends he doesn't know how a doctor found their way to Fundy's room after he scraped his knee, the poor medic armed as if somebody had just lost an arm.

Schlatt thinks he's so good at hiding his feelings, and then he stops buying a specific type of marmalade because Tubbo joked about it tasting funny. He is nothing but a dork, and this has just done nothing more than confirm his suspicions.

The hand in his hair gently cups his head as Schlatt leans back until he's laying on the bed, and Quackity has to swallow back a knot in his throat at the pure, unaltered sweetness with which he is being treated - like he's fragile, but not in a bad, diminishing way: like you would treat a fancy ancient vase, or a masterpiece.

Quackity squeezes his eyes, feeling himself get watery, and focuses on the fact that like this, he's not that comfortable anymore. There's no need for his legs to be both over his friend's body, so he shuffles back until he's more curled up against his side, half laying on his chest, head still tucked under his chin - by god how perfectly safe he feels with that soft pressure against his temple.

Schlatt lets him wriggle around, the hand in his hair never moving, and once he stills his other one moves back to his own chest, where Quackity's hand rests against his heart, and his fingers gently wrap around his.

"This alright?" Comes a murmur from above him and Quackity's fingers squeeze automatically in response, finding himself unable to verbalise an answer at first.

"Thank you." He breathes out a moment later, after he's able to reign in his emotions just enough for him to find his voice again.

"Don't- don't thank me." Comes Schlatt's instant response, the fingers in his hair halting for a moment as he pauses, seemingly deep in thought. When he speaks again, his tone is once again slow and hushed, and his fingers are once more rubbing slow circles against his scalp.

"You can come to me for this. Anytime you want. I want you to know that you can count on me."

And oh, alright, Quackity thinks, eyes widening for a moment - he has to hurry and squeeze them shut before he starts tearing up, fighting against the way emotions squeeze at his chest; pure unadulterated joy at the knowledge that this is true, this is good and this is his. His small, dumb, weird family, made of mostly jagged pieces that somehow fit so well together. Quackity clutches at the fingers wrapped around his, squeezing maybe just a bit too tight, throat thick and feelings running, and then he simply nods into his friend's collarbone.

Schlatt just squeezes back - and that's just how they are, two dumbass friends holding onto each other, doing their best.

Minutes later, he falls asleep, lulled by the rhythmic rise and fall of his friend's chest and the gentle feeling of being held.

#my writing #quackity #jschlatt #dream smp au #we're back with some good ol comfort #I do hope you'll enjoy

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