Roleplaying Page for Pg. 170!

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Roleplaying Page for Pg. 170!

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Mz.Hyde

Mz.Hyde

@disqus_NnFUI30kih 8 months ago

Ugh, I think I'm coming down with a cold or something. Why is it that I always seem to get sick at Christmas?!

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Tairais • 8 months ago

(( Are you, perchance, allergic to the christmas spirit? ))

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Tairais • 8 months ago

(I dont think so. I'm the one who decorated the house and wrapped the presents! I sure hope I'm not allergic!)

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Tairais  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

(( Hmmmm, this warrants further investigation. ))

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Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

((Red Death Redemption, continued!))

MillieGriffin Jekyll1886 • 7 minutes ago

"uh-huh..." Griffin said coming out of the room while picking the last of the brightly colored magnets of the invisible shield and putting in in his pocket.

"Well lead the way." He said with a sweep of his hand towards the way out.

Jekyll1886

"Indeed I shall," said Lewis with a smile as he led Griffin out. Things were looking up. They'd squelch this Red Death business at its source, get to the bottom of the sales dropoff, fix that problem, and be free and clear.

I might even be able to buy the flat! thought Weir, his mind brimming with possibilities. Or maybe a little place in Soho--just for old times' sake. Or...

His good mood continued all the way to Burdett Road Bridge, where he took the opportunity to point out a dilapidated emporium.

Schooling himself into a more serious mien, he whispered to Griffin, "That's the place. I managed to get a peek through one of the windows earlier--there were several men I could see, and at least one person in shadow I couldn't make out." From the casual manner in which he spoke, it seemed Lewis didn't think it the least bit odd the windows he'd looked through were all on the upper story of the building.

He went on to describe the case in which the Red Death cultures were kept, as well as the last place he'd seen it.

"I was thinking I could pose as a customer--I did see some genuine spices in the emporium--just to get a foot in the door, as it were. You could slip past and get the case; I'd cover your exit, even if it meant making a proper nuisance of myself. How does that sound?"

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((MillieGriffin ))

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MillieGriffin  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Sounds fine." Griffin said taking off his coat and hat aftra he took off his boots and stuffed the in the inner pockets.

He held the coat up in front of Weir to croodly measure the two of a moment then handed weir the coat and hat.

"Here, wear these for me."

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Jekyll1886  MillieGriffin • 8 months ago

"Very well."

Lewis donned the garments, which fit decently enough.

"There we are. Shall I?"

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MillieGriffin  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"By all means." Griffin calmly said just before clicking the button on his watch and blinking out of visibility.

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Jekyll1886  MillieGriffin • 8 months ago • edited

Weir broke into a grin.

This is going to be fun.

By the time he knocked upon the emporium's door, he'd adopted the demeanor of a frazzled but efficient shopkeeper.

He tried the door, which was locked.

"I say," he called, knocking loudly upon it, "are you open?"

There was no response save a hushed stirring inside.

"I do say, 'tis most urgent!" he called out, banging on the door this time.

Muffled conversation issued from within.

"Is this or is this not a spice emporium?" Lewis nearly shouted. He gave the door a resounding kick.

Shortly thereafter, the sound of a bolt drawing back let Weir and Griffin know they were about to get their chance.

A swarthy man in a turban cracked the door open, at which point Lewis said, "About time! Sorry to cause a fuss, but I'm in desperate need of some spices, or Lady Pemberly's exotic soiree will be ruined!"

"We are closed," said the man.

"Poppycock! Closed, at this hour? Come, come! I've money in my pocket and you've spices on your shelves, yes?"

"Yes, but--"

"Then it's settled," said Weir, kicking the door open and breezing past the man. The latter took a moment to recover, leaving the door wide for precious seconds.

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MillieGriffin  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Griffin took the precious chance to slip past the two and into the building like a shadow.

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Jekyll1886  MillieGriffin • 8 months ago • edited

Inside, shelves lined the walls. Spices and incense sat upon many, but those toward the rear of the structure held crates and packing straw. It was in one of these that Griffin would find the Red Death in its case. The only problem being...there were easily two dozen crates. Not only that, there were seven men sitting around a table playing cards. Four were visibly armed with long daggers, while one had a pistol tucked in his belt.

Lewis's entrance arrested their attention. Two of the men moved to confront him, but were met with rapid-fire verbiage.

"Oh, good--do come here," said Weir, gesturing for the doorman and them to assist him as he approached a shelf of spices near the front. "I'll need a pound of peppercorn, two cups cayenne, approximately five medium-sized green chili peppers or their equivalent, three-quarters of a pound of anise, four cups cumin, and as much saffron as you have in stock."

A pause.

"Do you sell rice, by the by? It would save me a trip elsewhere."

Once the men had a moment to register that he was not an apparent threat, they stood in the middle of the emporium, looking at him as if deciding what to do with this strange man.

"Well?" said Lewis with all the entitlement and irritation of a busy professional to a lazy servant. "Don't just stand there--assist me!"

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((MillieGriffin ))

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MillieGriffin  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

Griffin did his best not to make too much noise as he took advantage of Weir's distraction. He checked the crates as subtly as possible while Weir talked by just sliding a corner of the lids askew enough to stick his arm into the straw, and looking down the gap his arm made.

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Jekyll1886  MillieGriffin • 8 months ago • edited

The first crate Griffin opened contained packing straw, incense, and, beneath the latter, opium.

In the second crate he checked lay the case Weir'd described, the straw only just covering it over.

The doorman hesitated and looked to the two of his compatriots that were standing. One drew his dagger, but the other merely tilted his head from side to side to indicate his indifference.

"I'm not interested in the knife," said Lewis, as if the man hadn't understood him, "though I'm certain it's quite lovely. Lady Pemberly has her own silverware, thank you."

The remaining five men had returned to playing cards.

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MillieGriffin  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Ah–hah!

Griffin started to slowly, steadily move the lid to the side as quietly as possible.

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Jekyll1886  MillieGriffin • 8 months ago • edited

"You English, always so smug," spat the man with the knife in a foreign accent as he advanced, brandishing the weapon threateningly. "You will not speak to me this way."

Seeing their compatriot's intent, the other men moved to join him--a welcome distraction for Griffin, but an escalating situation for Weir.

"Now see here," said Lewis. "There's no call for violence. I'll have you know I'm Scot--"

He cut himself off as he noticed the others headed for him.

"Oh, bother."

Hurry, Griffin... thought Weir as he tightened his grip on his walking stick.

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MillieGriffin  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Griffin had gotten the case out of the box silently by now, not bothering to sweep away the straw on the top that loosely hung over the sides. As he had taken out the case he noticed somethings in the remaining straw in the crate, incense and,bottles of opium.

why, those little—

He was cut off mid-thought when he noticed Weir's distraction had started to work a little too well.

well, f*ck it! he thought as he picked up the crate, so much for subtlety...

In not even half a moment the crate sprung up into the air, flew over from behind the Indian closest to the back of the group, lifted itself slightly higher than smashed down on his head letting all the contents fall out of the bottom. Not even a second after that the knife from the assaulted man's belt had unsheathed itself and the now floating knife lunged into the ribs of the man with the gun as his weapon was ripped out of his fingers and was now fixed in mid-air.

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Jekyll1886  MillieGriffin • 8 months ago • edited

As Griffin had set the case of samples down behind an inlaid urn, they were in no danger of breaking.

Weir gave a very convincing cry of fear and pointed with trembling hand at the hovering firearm.

"Gh-gh-gh-ghost!" he got out, eyes wide with seeming fright.

All but two of the men turned to look...and went immediately pale.

Chaos ensued, Hindi and Urdu mixing indistinctly with Punjabi as six of the men fled from the warehouse, never to return.

The stabbed man, meanwhile, could do naught but clutch his side, a stream of foreign invective issuing from him.

The man who'd been hit with the crate, however, was made of sterner stuff. His turban had to a degree mitigated the blow; he was soon on his feet and wielding a portion of the mangled crate as a makeshift shield.

Lewis dropped his act and took the opportunity to throw his cane in a horizontal whirl at the man's knees. The CRACK of the resultant impact reverberated off the emporium's walls as the fellow buckled and fell to the floor.

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MillieGriffin  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

The Gun then turned on it's former master and fired between the eyes and then aimed itself at the other fallen man's head ready to shoot again.

"Move and you're dead." Said the voice in a low menacing tone.

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Jekyll1886  MillieGriffin • 8 months ago

"Kill me, you English dog, and I go to God or reincarnate," spat the Sikh, his dark eyes shining with defiance.

Nevertheless, he didn't move.

"[For the record]," stated Weir in Punjabi as he made his way over to them, "[I'm not English. My clan fought against them during Scotland's last rebellion.]"

The man briefly paused, surprised a Brit knew his language, but recovered quickly enough.

"[Then why do you aid this English dog?]" he asked, clearly not buying whatever Weir was selling.

"Because I happen to reside in London, and I'd very much not like to die, thank you," countered Lewis as he slipped back into English. "I hope you do know that's the Red Death you're dealing. It'll kill an Englishman and a Sikh just the same."

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MillieGriffin  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Of course what's life to you if you reincarnate? I'll enjoy squashing whatever bug you come back as." The voice said then added, "diseases aren't the only thing your cast spreads around, is it?" He referred to the scattered bottles of opium that lay around the man with straw and incense.

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Jekyll1886  MillieGriffin • 8 months ago • edited

"People do not return as animals, you ignorant goat," the man tried to goad, staring past the gun to where he guessed his assailant might be standing. "And opium is a small pestilence compared to what your people have done to my country." Briefly turning his head to Lewis, he continued, "The Red Death is the only way to stop the English. If I die, it is a small price to pay for my countrymen's freedom."

Christ, a fanatic! thought Lewis, even as he saw the fellow's point.

"But when it gets out you did it, the spiked boot heel of the English will come down all the harder. On your people especially," countered Lewis with a shake of his head. "What freedoms you presently enjoy will be stripped away."

He could see the man's skepticism.

"You think I don't know whereof I speak? I'm Scottish!" exclaimed Weir with a feeling of old wounds opened afresh. "They slaughtered our women and children! Our armed forces were banned! We weren't even allowed to wear kilts for three dozen years! They bloody well eviscerated us, and all we'd done was fight honorably! Think they won't do worse to you, with your biological warfare? Victoria lost some of her own children to cholera and--bang!--London got a new sanitation system. Her scientists have already found a cure to your Red Death, and they'll distribute it. What do you think the Queen's army won't do to you and yours, when they get wind of this?"

Though the Sikh still had a look of defiance about him, it turned sullen as, for the first time, the Scotsman's words gave him pause.

The Indian narrowed his eyes.

"You are bluffing."

Lewis turned to Griffin.

"Tell me, Vincent--is anything I've said untrue?"

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Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

((The Other Rp continuation! Jekyll1886))

"Ah, you're crueler than I thought, Mr. Wolf," She said with a grin of devilish delight, seemingly offering him some form of praise in her eyes.

Hela tucked the note back in with the money and then tossed the envelope in Weir's general direction.

"First," She began, taking out a pair of the bottles from the collection, "We are going to make some very unpleasant poisons that, as of right now, lack any known cure...and do our best not to die in the process, of course."

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

He quickly pocketed the envelope, took one last swig of brandy, and set the bottle well away from their work-space.

They labored well into the morning. Lewis occasionally asked questions about the process; Hela was unerringly vague with her answers. Nevertheless, he had seen the chemist assemble the parcel's contents, and was a knowledgeable alchemist himself. Thus was Weir able to put certain of the pieces together--enough to form a hypothesis, at least. The rest, he wagered, he could work out through trial and error, on his own time.

At last, the poisons stood ready.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"God almighty, I am going to kill the doctor for making this so godd*mned complicated, why couldn't she just be boring and use the already available ingredients?" grumbled Hela, head in her hands as she debated whether or not to bother with cleaning up all of the equipment and supplies before finally, finally going to lie down in bed.

Though there were no downstairs windows to allow the morning light to come streaming in, the constant, pulsing headache behind her temples was a familiar enough sign that she'd been awake for far too long.

It wasn't as if she could help it, though--the entire process was a very delicate one, and had they stopped halfway through to rest, the lot of them may have very well died in their sleep!

That option, however, was beginning to sound more and more appealing as she surveyed the table.

"Think you can lend me a hand in the cleanup so we can both get some bloody rest?" came her weary request as she looked to find Lewis.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Weir, who'd been up for over twenty hours by this point, was fixing himself two sandwiches.

"Let's leave it for the morrow," he suggested, then yawned. "I'm dog-tired."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

As tempting as his suggestion was, Hela only let out a groan in response.

"Can't trust the little vampire brats not to mess with things..."

Briefly, she wondered if Lewis had at least washed his hands considering the dangerous nature of the materials they had been working with, but found herself lacking sufficient energy to be bothered to ask.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"If they mess with things," he said in-between bites of sandwich, "they'll likely wind up dead by accident. Just tell them so. They'll leave well enough alone."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

I think you overestimate them, Lewis--Alicia was their mother, after all, and look where she ended up with her common sense.

...still, it wouldn't be too terrible to lose progress if it means I never have to live with the brats again...

"Alright, boss, I'll go warn the buggers away and turn in," Hela relented, "Best of luck to ya in finding a decent place to sleep."

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

Hesitant to share a bed with little old me? he thought with a smirk but knew better than to say.

"I'll manage."

He finished the last of the second sandwich and polished off the bottle of brandy, then headed upstairs. After a brief stop to answer nature's call, he approached the twins' room.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

While Lewis had been finishing his before bedtime snack, Hela roughly shook the pair of children awake and growled a warning not to touch the equipment downstairs or they'd suffer all sorts of agony at the hands of, if not the chemicals, then the Hyde herself. Then, once it was clear they had gotten the message, she left.

By the time he reached the top of the stairs, she was closing herself into her own bedroom, ready to collapse into bed.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

Lewis rapped gently upon the twins' door.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

There was a moment of pause as the twins consulted one another, then Maximus opened the door just a crack to peek out at Lewis.

"Hi," He greeted shyly, looking up at him.

Across the hall, there came the sound of shifting furniture as Hela shoved her wardrobe in front of her bedroom door.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

Though Lewis thought Hela's action passing comical, he chose to ignore the sound from her room.

"Hello, Maxi," he said quietly, a gently smile upon his lips. "I'm sorry to have left so suddenly earlier. May I come in?"

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

The boy nodded and pulled the door all the way open to allow Lewis inside.

His sister sat on the edge of one of the two children's beds, watching Weir with intent wariness as she sought to read his thoughts to ensure he meant them no harm.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Said thoughts ran along the lines of TIRED and At least you two are nice to interact with.

"I'm sorry to impose," he apologized, "but may I sleep in here with you? Hela won't share her bed."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus nodded again, this time more eagerly.

"I like sharing!"

He hopped up on his bed, dangling his legs off the side.

"You can lay with me!"

Desdemona blinked and looked away when Weir's thoughts contained nothing threatening, rubbing her eyes tiredly.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Lewis looked at the two children's beds, each smaller than a normally-sized twin bed. There was no way he and Maxi would both fit on one. The room, too, was rather cramped: Each bed was flush against the wall, with only enough space between them to open the door.

"I'm afraid I won't fit unless we push the beds together," observed Weir. Even then, he'd have to adopt a fetal position to make it work. Realizing moving the beds would effectively block the door from opening, he asked, "Do either of you need to use the loo, by the by?"

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Both of them shook their heads, then seemed to actually consider it after a beat.

It was only another beat more before Maximus dashed to the bathroom with Desdemona on his tail. She ended up having to wait her turn in the hall as he closed the door.

It took a few minutes, but they’d soon returned to the room, having finished their business.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Ah, the power of suggestion... Weir thought with a chuckle. He took the opportunity to doff his shoes and waistcoat and set them aside.

The children returned, and Lewis moved the beds together so they could all pile in.

"I suppose I'm the 'big spoon', as it were," he said, settling himself across the mattresses.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus hopped onto the beds and sat down, bouncing a little in place as he watched Lewis get settled.

“Where do I go?” He asked, a yawn nearly interrupting him as he spoke.

Desdemona was a little more slow to accept the arrangement, keeping her distance even when she climbed up to join her brother.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Just here, if you like," replied Lewis as he patted the space next to the arc of his body. He lay on his left side in semi-fetal position.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus moved closer and curled up in the spot he indicated with his face to Lewis, smiling with shy excitement.

His sister wasn’t keen on sharing with Weir, but laid pressed against her brother’s back, giving the older man one last warning look as she dipped into his mind again.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

What was that for? wondered Lewis at the look, genuinely confused.

He shrugged it off, returned Maxi's smile, and settled down to sleep.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

Desdemona scowled and sat back up, appearing in a crouch right in front of Weir's head a moment later.

"Stay. You."

Her words, filled with all the determination and authority a little girl her age could have, left no room for disagreement.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

"I'm always me," said Lewis.

Belatedly, it occurred to him he might change while he slept.

"Just...don't wake me suddenly, and we should all be fine." It'll give my mind a chance to catch up to my instincts and keep you from harm. "I can be a bit...disoriented upon waking, otherwise."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

She crossed her arms as he answered.

Gradually, her expression softened, and she seemed to accept his response, returning to her spot by Maximus.

It wasn't long before both of the twins were fast asleep.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Lewis fell into the blissful arms of slumber almost as soon as his head hit the mattress.

By evening, he'd begun to snore, the inner world of dreams effecting a change upon his outer person.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

The twins had already been drifting close to consciousness about that time, and, thanks to their acute hearing, were easily woken by the louder sounds of Lewis breathing.

Desdemona was the first to sit up, and when she glanced around the two beds, the sight of Lewis laying there was enough to jolt her to full awareness in an instant.

Silently, urgently, she grabbed her brother's arm and helped him up, pressing a single finger to her lips with a glance to the sleeping man.

Although still a touch groggy, Maximus got the message and didn't make a sound as his sister led him to the narrow space between the beds and the wall.

There, they both hunkered down, arms wrapped around one another for comfort.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

Weir woke himself up with his snoring not long after.

"Muh?" he mumbled, putting a hand to his groggy head. In so doing, he brushed a lock of long, wavy, black hair into his face.

It caught on his tongue; he sat up spluttering.

He blinked, the room coming blearily into focus.

Oh. Wee ones, came the thought as he noticed the twins.

The previous day's events came back in a flash as he realized where he was.

"Oh."

He put a hand to his own throat at the sound, then moved the hand away and stared at it.

"Oh."

Right.

He shook himself off, features shifting to their previous state.

"Sorry about that," he apologized with a sheepish look. "'Happens sometimes. Didn't mean to give you a fright."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Desdemona was holding one arm in front of her brother protectively, eyes narrowed slightly as she glared at Lewis.

"Who are you?" She asked, tuning into his thoughts in order to assess whether his response was truthful.

Maximus looked rather shaken by what he'd seen, and stayed very quiet and still where he sat.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Henry Jekyll Edward Hyde

"Lewis Weir," he stated truthfully.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

The girl blinked, taken aback, then scooted herself and her brother just a little further away from Lewis.

Her expression had morphed to something between uncertainty and fear, though she was evidently trying not to show any of it.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Weir sighed, seeming to deflate at the reaction.

"I won't harm you," he said, settling into a kneel on the bed. "I don't know what to say beyond that, save that we slept the whole night together, both of you safe as houses."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

"You won't," returned Desdemona warily, her emphasis on the first word making her meaning quite clear.

She ducked her gaze and hugged her brother a little closer.

"Sometimes... Hyde lady will be the doctor instead... And she'll be real nice to us... But she can turn mean again so fast..." She explained, causing Maximus to shiver slightly, "She can be mean and the Hyde lady while still being the doctor..."

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Oh," said Lewis, understanding. "I see. I see.

"Hm.

"I don't know how exactly to phrase this, but...so long as my base needs are met--food, sleep, that sort of thing--you're perfectly safe. I admit I can get a bit cranky when I'm hungry or tired. And, sometimes, my dreams invoke a change--hence why I shouldn't be startled out of sleep. But, other than that, you can rely upon me. It's the way I work. I've been like this for years. My condition is stable. It holds."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"So... when you're scared... or hungry... or sleepy... then we run away?" She asked with a glance back to him.

It made sense to her, seeing as she'd already witnessed the last two factors affecting him in person.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Yes," he said after a moment's reflection. "Other than that, you've nothing to fear.

"I am sorry about earlier," he reiterated. "I thought I might make it up to you by sharing my food. There's still some salami and half a loaf of bread downstairs, if you like," he offered. "Or, if you prefer something else, I could go out and fetch it once Hela and I finish our work today."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus perked up at the offer, tugging on his sister's sleeve to get her attention and, when she turned to look at him, whispered into her ear with a hand cupped around his mouth.

Desdemona considered his words for a moment, then turned to Lewis.

"Can we get ice cream?"

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"I don't see why not," agreed Lewis. "I came into some money just yesterday."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Ice cream for breakfast!" Maximus declared with a grin, beaming.

Desdemona finally dropped her protective hold on her brother, simply remaining shoulder to shoulder with him.

"Can we go outside with you?" She asked hopefully.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"When my work is finished, certainly. I could likely do with a stroll myself by that time."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"...No breakfast ice cream?" came Maximus's confused and somewhat disheartened response.

"Ice cream is after work," Desdemona explained, "But we can still have different breakfast now."

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Precisely," concurred Lewis with a nod.

"Though, to get out of this room, I shall have to move the beds again," he said, stepping onto the floor. "Pardon."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

After a glance around to see where best to go, the twins both quickly hopped out of Lewis's way.

Across the hall, Hela still slept like the dead behind her makeshift barricade.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

Weir moved the bed back to its usual place, donned his waistcoat, and carried his shoes.

He put a finger to his lips to request the children's silence, opened the door, and tiptoed into the hall.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus covered his mouth to muffle a giggle then mimicked Lewis's gesture for silence, cheerfully running ahead of him without his feet making a sound.

Desdemona hung back a bit, keeping pace behind Lewis and glancing every so often to the door to Hela's room. At any stir or change in breathing, she'd pause to listen closer, only relaxing when the Hyde didn't show any other sign of waking.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Sensing no indication Hela would cease sleeping anytime soon, he quietly made his way down the stairs, gesturing for Des and Maxi to follow.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Once downstairs, the twins were practically scraping along the wall in order to put distance between themselves and the table still covered in the equipment from the day before in the small room.

Maximus kept giving Lewis the same sort of worried look he'd had when Weir wanted to eat the forbidden cake.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Since Hela's asleep," Weir whispered, "I thought we might go out for the ice cream now. Shall we?"

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

Desdemona caught the light that ignited in her brother's gaze at the offer and quickly covered his mouth with her hand, her eyes conveying the same urgency to be silent as a shhhhhhhhh!

The boy got the message and, instead of saying anything, simply nodded his approval enthusiastically.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Without a sound, Lewis opened the door, led them out, and closed it. He put on his shoes and walked out into the evening light. A sigh of relief issued from him as a smile spread across his face.

"Come along," he bade the children.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus seemed to radiate excitement and reached to hold his sister's hand with a hopeful look. She pulled it out of range briefly, paused, then allowed him to grab onto her with almost a roll of her eyes. The resulting smile rivaled the warmth and luminosity of the Sun as her brother beamed in delight.

Next, he held out his other hand to Lewis, so that they could all walk connected and together.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

"Very well," said Weir with a chortle.

The three went on their way, eventually finding a vendor of ice cream.

"Get what you like," he told Maxi and Des. "Just make certain you don't eat so much you develop a stomachache."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

The twins each ordered themselves some strawberry ice cream and both were enjoying it quite immensely until something... odd began happening to their energies. Although the children had yet to show signs of illness, still happily eating away, their bodies were beginning to react as if malnourished.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Weir was working on his hazelnut toffee ice cream when he noticed the change.

He quirked his head, puzzled.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus flashed Lewis a pink-stained, toothy grin when he noticed his attention on them, revealing that his upper canines, while already unusually pointed for any normal human, had sharpened into a pair of very dangerous looking fangs.

If he noticed this, however, he gave no sign of it.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Oh...right, thought Lewis as his eyes briefly widened. They're half vampire. That'd explain the ebb in energy.

...

What to do, what to do...? he pondered.

In the meantime, he returned Maxi's smile and continued to eat his ice cream.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus had soon devoured every last drop of ice cream he could manage to get, and his sister wasn't far behind on finishing hers.

Their energy remained on a slow, but steady decline as Desdemona resisted her brother's attempts to use puppy eyes in order to get the last of her icy treat.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

As he finished his, Lewis hit upon the idea of paying a butcher shop a visit. He had no idea whether animal blood would be enough to sustain the two, but reasoned it was worth a try--it wouldn't do to leave half their nature unsatisfied.

"When we're done here, why don't we stop by the butcher's and get some meat for dinner?" he suggested. "There may even be blood sausage."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

The twins appeared happy enough about picking up more food, but Desdemona scrunched up her nose at the mention of blood sausage.

"I don't like it," She grumbled, "But the doctor makes us eat that sometimes."

Even Maximus didn't look too pleased about it.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Weir hadn't expected that response.

"What do you prefer?" he asked.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Steak?" Desdemona suggested, practically batting her eyelashes as she looked at him hopefully.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"We'll see how far the money goes," Lewis answered honestly. "Truth be told, I could do with a good steak myself."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Desdemona gave a grin of wicked delight, displaying her fangs.

"Can we go now?

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Certainly." He got the door for the children, then walked with them down the lane. "If Hela and I finish our work in time, I'd love to make us all a steak dinner. How do you like yours?" he asked, looking from Des to Maxi.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Red and pink!" chimed in Maximus, "Then it's all drippy and yummy!"

Desdemona nodded her agreement with that. "Warm, but not cooked, because then it's too chewy..."

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Duly noted," said Lewis as he mentally filed away the information.

It wasn't long till they arrived at the butcher's. As it happened, the money from the chemist was more than enough to pay for all the steak they needed. The butcher wrapped the purchase, and Weir and the twins were soon on their way.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

On the trip to the butcher's, the pair of half-vampires were in great spirits, excited by the prospect of having a real dinner again.

In the shop, they wandered about, peering curiously through glass at all the different varieties of meat and trying to guess which ones would taste the best.

Once they'd left, however, their spirits seemed to die down a little and not just because they were headed home. The twins were beginning to appear queasy, and there was a dull, hungry look in their eyes as they followed Lewis down the street.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"What's the matter?" Lewis asked them, tilting his head with a touch of concern. "You two seem a bit out of sorts."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

“I don’t feel good...” Maximus mumbled, grabbing onto Lewis’s leg and laying his head against him. His skin was cool to the touch.

So close to Lewis, he could easily hear the blood pumping through his veins and feel the warmth it brought. It threatened to ignite what vampiric instincts he did possess.

Desdemona was already looking at Weir wearily with the idea of drinking from him clear enough in her gaze.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Let's get you home, then," he pronounced, stroking Maxi's hair. "Hela be damned--I'll make you steak for lunch," he said with a glance to Des. "That ought to help."

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

Maxmimus shook his head with a whimper.

“No more food, I don’t want anymore...”

Desdemona simply continued to watch Lewis as if waiting for an opening.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

"Is it blood, then?" Lewis whispered to Maximus. "The little from the steak won't be enough?"

He caught Desdemona's look and warned her, "Not from me, love--it might well poison you."

A moment's reflection.

"Do you need it from a person?"

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

“Steak isn’t blood, it’s food...” He mumbled under his breath.

Desdemona nodded slowly, scowling and more than a little irritated he was supposedly off-limits.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

There's still some blood if you cook it rare enough, thought Lewis, though he chose not to say so.

"Right, then." He recalled the shape Hastie'd been in when he'd suffered from vampirism. "I take it you know how to feed, at least?" The question was more for Max than Des.

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Maximus hesitated, then gave a very small nod, though he didn’t look confident in his answer.

Desdemona, now that she knew she couldn’t drink from Weir, was glancing around with that same hungry look in search of someone else.

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

"Well, let's at least take a side street rather than the main road," Weir suggested. "Where's the dodgy part of town?"

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((Helen Jekyll ))

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RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

(Jekyll1886 and Helen Jekyll the previous post timed out, so could either of you comment onto this post with a recap so that we can continue? Please? :3)

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

((RBDECEPTICON17 Here we are! You're up, RB.))

RBDECEPTICON17 Jekyll1886 • 19 hours ago

"Anytime Lewis. Now don't say another word or I will be forced to hug you." Rose cheerfully joked, wiping away her tears.

On the sand, Jamie had drifted off to sleep with a smile on her face.

Jekyll1886 RBDECEPTICON17 • 19 hours ago

He chuckled.

I'd no' mind...

"Want to head back and dry off for a bit? Maybe get a bite to eat?" he asked at a normal volume, looking from Rose to Helen.

Helen Jekyll Jekyll1886 • 17 hours ago

"That sounds good to me," Helen replied, smiling, "I've been looking forward to lunch for awhile now."

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RBDECEPTICON17  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

Rose nodded her head in agreement, before swimming back to the sand with a smile upon her face and her body decorated by a million droplets of water.

Jamie was still sleeping on the sand.

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

Lewis, too, came in from the sea. He was careful to avert his eyes from Rose's glistening form until he had a long towel safely wrapped about his shoulders; the lower edge came down past his knees.

He handed a towel to Helen as well, presuming Rose or Jamie had brought towels of their own.

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

Helen followed the others ashore and offered a grateful smile in return for the towel, starting with her hair as she began drying off.

"What all did you pack for our glorious, sandy feast?" She asked Lewis.

((RBDECEPTICON17))

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RBDECEPTICON17  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Meanwhile, Rose had opened up her bag and pulled out two long towels; sticking one upon the sandy floor and wrapping the other around her wet body.

She then sat down and gently poked at Jamie's shoulder, giggling at the sight of her sleeping knight. The brunette looked so peaceful and happy as she slept.

"Jamie? Wakey wakey." The blonde softly cooed, smiling.

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

"Sandwiches," answered Lewis as he drew a picnic basket from the large bag he'd brought.

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

She gave a little laugh at that and remained standing to see if he required any help setting up.

"How fitting--Then it won't matter much if a little extra seasoning finds its way from the ground onto to our food," Helen said, wrapping her towel around her shoulders before dusting off her hands.

((RBDECEPTICON17))

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RBDECEPTICON17  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Rose quietly poked Jamie again, yet this time, the brunette slowly awoke; blinking and shifting.

"Rose?" She muttered.

The blonde nodded and smiled happily, before she leaned down and pressed a kiss onto Jamie's forehead. A smirk quickly came to her lips.

"Miss me?" She whispered.

"Yes." Rose whispered back.

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

Lewis chuckled at Helen's words.

He set the basket onto the beach blanket, opened the lid, and drew two plates from it. These last he set before Helen and himself, then fished around in the basket for the sandwiches.

"Here we are," he pronounced. They were wrapped in wax paper; he unfolded the latter to set the food upon the waiting plates. Each sandwich was cut in half diagonally.

"There are more in the basket, if you'd like any," he offered with a glance to Rose and Jamie.

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Thank you," She said, picking up half of her sandwich and taking a bite. After chewing and swallowing, she took another with a hum of approval, settling down on the blanket.

((RBDECEPTICON17))

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RBDECEPTICON17  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

Jamie slowly sat up beside Rose, who looked at Lewis and happily nodded. It had been a few hours since they had eaten.

"What kind of sandwiches do you have?" Rose curiously asked, while Jamie rested her head upon the blonde's shoulder.

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RBDECEPTICON17  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

(Jekyll1886 Your turn! X3)

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

"Ham, cheese, and pickle," replied Lewis. It was the only kind he'd brought.

"There's ale as well," he added, "though I'm afraid I've only two cups." He removed the latter from the basket, along with four sizable bottles of ale.

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"They're quite good," Helen said of the sandwiches, having already finished half of her own.

As to the issue of only two cups being available for the ale... She kept her thoughts to herself and her gaze on her plate.

((RBDECEPTICON17))

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RBDECEPTICON17  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"I don't mind having one of the pickle sandwiches." Jamie said.

"Can I have one of the cheese sandwiches?" Rose asked.

(Jekyll1886 Your move! X3)

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

"They're all ham, cheese, and pickle," Lewis clarified a touch apologetically. "I made them beforehand; I didn't realize I'd be packing for more than just Helen and myself, or I'd have brought a variety."

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Yes, we've only the four ham, cheese, and pickle ones," Helen said, then chuckled as she looked down at her plate and added, "Well, now only three and a half."

((RBDECEPTICON17))

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RBDECEPTICON17  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Both Rose and Jamie let out audible 'oh's, their faces burning red with embaressed blushes, before Rose quickly pulls both their bags towards herself and opens them up, seeing if they had put any food in either bag.

Unfortunately, there was only water in their bags. Rose frowned and sighed.

"Do you mind sparing a slice or two to us, Lewis?" The blonde shyly asked.

(Jekyll1886 It's your turn. X3)

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago • edited

"You have only to ask," he said, handing over one of the sandwiches. It had been cut diagonally--which made for two ready pieces--and wrapped in wax paper.

"Did you want one to split between you, or have one apiece?" he queried.

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

"Excuse me a moment," said Helen with an apologetic smile, placing a sheet of wax paper over her remaining half of a sandwich and standing up, "I just need to make a brief trip to the ladies' room."

She slipped on her shoes and headed to the restroom that wasn't too terribly far from where they'd set up, but not too close so as to be uncomfortably so.

((RBDECEPTICON17))

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RBDECEPTICON17  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Jamie's eyes followed Helen until she was out of sight. Odd.

"We can share a piece, Lewis." Rose answered, while her hand rested itself upon Jamie's own, unknowingly bringing her attention back to them.

The brunette merely nodded as if she had been listening.

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

As Lewis had already handed them one sandwich, he simply gave a nod.

He turned to his own, unwrapped it, and took a hearty bite.

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Helen Jekyll  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Helen returned only a minute or so later, slipping off her shoes and sitting back down on the beach blanket with a smile.

It wasn’t long before the remaining half of her sandwich was eaten, and she sat back, content for the moment.

((RBDECEPTICON17))

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RBDECEPTICON17  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Rose quietly ripped one of the slices in half, handing one half to Jamie who kissed her on the cheek.

The blonde blushed a pretty pink, before the two of them began to eat. Neither of them had tried such a sandwich before, but it was nice.

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Jekyll1886  RBDECEPTICON17 • 8 months ago

Lewis ate his sandwich in the blink of an eye.

He opened one of the four large bottles of ale and poured a cup for Helen, then one for himself.

"I'm afraid I've only the two cups, but you're welcome to a bottle, if you'd like," he offered Rose and Jamie.

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((Helen Jekyll ))

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A Passerby • 8 months ago • edited

[Forgive me,, I was under the assumption that, since you had agreed to have your character visit the shop of mine, you would actually enjoy this sort of rp—Was I wrong in that assumption?

If so, your character is more than welcome to simply leave with or without purchases and we can have them run into one another at some other place and time. This is, after all, supposed to be fun.

As for the items contained within the shop, I had thought you’d led your character there for them to interact with mine, with the books being more of an extra perk. There’s no real need to be specific on the purchases of the character nor every single item within the store, for the story can progress without knowing such things. Vague descriptions such as ‘they picked out a few novels on botany and necromancy and made their way to the register’ will be perfectly fine by me. Or, even now as your character pulls the novel down, a description of ‘She scanned over the title and author before returning it to the shelf’ or something along those lines will do.

But, if you wish, I could compile a list of items for you to select from, should you prefer the more complicated route.]

“I would highly recommend doing so,” The shopkeeper said, smiling warmly at her, “I’ve always held a soft spot for the subject myself... There’s simply something so unbelievably magnificent found in the stars. It never ceases to take my breath away.”

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Ah, I see, good points all. It always helps once you know what the other player's aiming at.

Frankly, I am never sure how to start a conversation in these circumstances in real life, hence my inability to do it in fiction! And when stuck for what to do next in stories I tend to prod the scenery and see if anything happens, as if I was playing a computer game and searching around for something I can click on, hence the books. This time it's not made anything happen because nothing was meant to, but it has found us a topic of conversation.

It's a pity there are usually no dancing lessons for this kind of "dance". Though you have given me some help as it is, for which thank you.

I actually took George and Isabella's advice and did a little astrology yesterday and wondered why I hadn't ages ago, funny how you get out of the habit of doing things although you really like them. "Raphael" is an old pal in real life - I use the American 50-Year Ephemeris tables now because they take up less room than lots of single-year ones, but we've still got three or four "Raphaels" of various ages lying around. Yes, yes, you can draw the chart by computer now, but my mum has the ephemerides because she doesn't get on with computers and besides, where's the fun in that?!

"Yes, it's hard to work with material like that and not be inspired. To think that the same stars and planets have been looking down on us for thousands of years. Even Neptune, even though nobody knew it was there until a few decades ago - funny thought.

"I have to say, the stars don't look as good from the middle of London, like many other things. I'm always glad to get away for a bit!"

see more

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

[I find that the lack of uncompromising structure and the overall unpredictability of this dance is quite enjoyable, as opposed to the linear structure of a video game. It's a dance you must feel in your heart, rather than read from an instruction manual..]

The shopkeeper tipped his head in a curious manner.

"I take it that's where you're from, then? London?"

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago • edited

"Live in London. I deny 'from' London!" she protested in mock outrage, laughing. "I'm from Lancashire to start with, but I've lived in London long enough that you'd think I'd be used to it by now... but there'll always be part of me that can't get used to looking down the streets and seeing nothing in the distance but more houses and more houses again." She glanced out of the window at the drizzling rain. The view from Dover had little in common with her native Pennines, but somehow she felt as if she'd kicked off a tight pair of shoes. Perhaps it was just the sight of the broad horizon.

"Still, London has its points."

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

"Forgive me, I meant no offense," The shopkeeper returned with a chuckle of his own.

"I am sure that the big city has some perks to it, as do most places," He agreed, nodding once, "However, I do not believe I'd be able to live there myself. There... isn't the right feeling to the air."

Pause.

"Again, I mean no offense, it's simply a personal feeling of mine."

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago

((I'm running out of small talk, and we've still not managed to say anything that would lead to any further possibilities (e.g. they still haven't found out they have the Society in common). And I'm not much for small talk anyway. Are you interested in having something happen, or shall we think about finishing off now? If you are game for having something happen, any preferences about what?))

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

[...I'm terribly sorry, but I beg your pardon?]

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago

((If you mean sorry about the small talk, don't be, role playing is a game of trial and error. If you mean I haven't made myself clear, I'd better try again.

I simply meant, I'm very tired of role-plays in which I do nothing but make conversation with another character (nearly all the ones I've been in for a long time have been like that), and I'm running out of things to say here in any case. Are you open to the idea of having something happen, some kind of incident large or small, or shall we think about finishing off now?

Thought I'd ask; for all I know, you might be wishing something could happen but not sure whether I would like it!))

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

[You are not enjoying my dance, so you desire to alter it or, failing that, to find yourself a new partner?]

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago

((I didn't mean you're doing the wrong thing, I only wondered whether you'd object to me introducing something other than just our two characters making conversation.

But I've changed my plans, anyhow. Whatever idea I had has now deserted me, and, naturally, as soon as I decided I wasn't going to go on just talking, I immediately had plenty of ideas for things to talk about. It's always the way with me. So I'll carry on as I was unless and until something else occurs to me, or you.))

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

[I’m afraid I do not understand why they would do anything other than speak, nor why an idea of yours would alter the dance.]

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago • edited

"One I can well understand. None taken, Mr er..."

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

“Handson,” He introduced with a bit of a bow, “But you may call me George, if you wish.”

“What might your name be, ma’am?”

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago • edited

((Edit: mistyped, hadn't finished and still haven't, will try again later.

Edit: have now, see above.))

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago • edited

"Walker. Isabella Walker." She bobbed a curtsey in response. "Pleased to make your acquaintance... how silly, we've already been making our acquaintance."

She waved the venerable-looking book, reminding her that it was still in her hand. "What have I got here?" She looked at the very dull title. "Maybe not."

Going to replace it on the shelf, she turned a few random pages, then stopped. "Phosphorescent... Hmm. You know, this might be just what I'm looking for." With far more attention she started to read the next two pages.

Then, recalling that you are supposed to buy books in a shop, rather than read them on the spot, she set the two books aside on a set of steps, and began to look through the shelves again.

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

“The pleasure is all mine, Miss Walker,” George replied with a genuine smile.

“If you wish to read anything, you’re more than welcome to take a seat.”

He gestured towards the ring of seats surrounding the fire.

“There’s no telling when the rain will stop, after all, and I’d hate for you to have to walk in it.”

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago

She smiled. "Thank you." Takes books to table. Reads for a minute or two, then returns to shelves and is busy for a while, glad, if the truth be known, to be spared the need for further conversation. She often struggled to think what to say.

((So how's your pal?))

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

[I do not understand the question.]

“Anything for a lovely lady such as yourself.”

Seeing Isabella seemed to simply be browsing now, he returned his attentions to the ledgerbook, writing within it on occasion.

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Wizardblizzard  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Having picked out a few more books, she eventually made her way back to the counter with her haul, including Raphael, the battered book, and, slightly embarrassedly, The Sign of Four.

((Why, the one who recently appeared for only long enough to say they were back and then ceased to be back.))

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A Passerby  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

[Considering that the one you refer to has threatened my life and well-being on multiple occasions, you must have a rather interesting definition of ‘pal’.]

“Will that be all?” He asked, smiling gently as he took the books and set them in a pile besides his ledgerbook.

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A Passerby  Guest • 8 months ago

[Perhaps I was mistaken, your message here seems most affectionate and warm.]

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Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

((Mz.Hyde The first date continues! Your turn.))

Mz.Hyde Mod Jekyll1886 • 3 days ago

Oh boy! More than one! As you probably remember from that birthday party on that planet we went to, I will eat ANYTHING minty! Peppermint Patties, Candy Canes, ice cream...ok, maybe not EVERYthing....I haven't been so desperate to eat toothpaste yet! I have an insatiable sweet tooth and always seem to have more room for desserts. I swear I must have two stomachs sometimes! As for actual nutritious food...well, I'm always up for a good steak or prime rib! Next question, please!

Jekyll1886 Mz.Hyde • 2 days ago

He laughed.

"I'm fond of spearmint, myself. Not to mention meat.

"Not together, mind," he added with a self-effacing chortle.

"Let's see... What sort of activities do you really enjoy--aside from eating sweets, that is?"

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Let's see...

* She blows her lips in thought.*

Well, you know that I love to make outfits for myself and my friends. I've even made it a little side business! I enjoy going out and getting into mischief, but on a cold and rainy night...I'm probably going to want to stay in. And to the surprise of your patient, Dr. Helen Jekyll, I enjoy reading a good book every once in a while. Annndddd that's all I can think of right now!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Ah, yes! You are a talented clothier," agreed Lewis. "In point of fact, I've been meaning to ask if you'd like to expand your business--for example, into Glasgow."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Of course I would love to expand my business! But I dont have any money to do so! By the way that counts as a question.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago • edited

Lewis chuckled.

"I said I'd been meaning to ask. That's not technically the same as asking," he pointed out. "By that logic, volunteering information counts as an answer. Therefore I'll tell you I've two law degrees, and we're even."

He took another bite.

"Be that as it may, I will ask you now: How would you like to expand into Glasgow? There's a vacant spot on the ground floor of the Tontine Hotel, and I thought we might raise the money by putting on a fashion show to drum up customers. As I own the Hotel, I'm in a position to offer you the first month free of rent--just give me a cut of the eventual profit instead. If the show is successful--and I don't doubt that with your talent," and my knack for planning, "it will be--you'll soon have your business up and running in Glasgow. We might even get some of the lodgers to model your work, to showcase your skill at flattering a range of different body types."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Ooohhhhh.....yeahhhhh! That's an EXCELLENT idea! Also, TWO law degrees?! Next question!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Aye," he replied. "One for England and one for Scotland--we've different legal traditions and practices. Granted, they're both from my dimension, so unfortunately they carried no weight when I arrived here.

"Still, the laws here aren't all that different from my own dimension's, so I do at least know how to stay out of legal trouble."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

I cant argue with that!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"So," he asked for the next question, "who's your best friend?"

He was nearly halfway done with his meal now.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

I have a lot of best friends! There's you, and Helen, and Catt, and Velma! Not to mention Millie and Rosie! And ALL my kitties! Although, they're more like my babies than my friends.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Velma?" he echoed.

"Oops," he chortled, "I suppose that was my next question."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Yeah, Velma! She's a friend of mine who runs a pharmacy in the Underworld. She's an Arachne! I lived and worked with her for a while before I came up here!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"I don't think I've ever encountered the like," remarked Lewis, intrigued. "I'd ask about the Underworld, but that'd be another question, and you've two in a row to ask me as it is."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Oh, right! Um, what were you and your sister like when you were younger?

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"I'd two sisters, actually. I take it, though, that you mean Sophia."

He paused, thinking how best to describe their childhood together.

"I adored her," he said with a wistful smile. "She was rather precocious, in the best possible way. We'd make up stories together--she loved to play pretend. Sometimes she'd keep me company when I was ill, despite father's wishes. She was forever getting away with things I couldn't, and I envied her that, but she was kind enough I couldn't be angry. A good hand at reading people, too, Sophia. She always seemed to know just what to say. I admit I was rather a shy lad, by contrast--always trying to do the family proud, but never quite reaching the mark in father's eyes. I daresay if she'd had half the opportunities I did..."

He shook his head.

"Times were what they were," he concluded. "And our childhood idylls were not to last."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Who's your other sister?

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Thomasina, though we called her 'Ina' for short. She was Sophia's twin."

Weir paused, breaking eye contact.

"She...passed when mother did."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Oh...I'm sorry....

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Thank you," said Lewis, looking up from his dish. "It...was a long time ago."

His gaze returned to his food. He picked at the latter with his spoon.

"So," he said presently, putting on a small smile as he regained a semblance of his earlier demeanor, "I'd love to hear about the Underworld."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Oh God Lewis, the Underworld is something to EXPERIENCE! It would be like trying to explain the entire city of London, or the country of Scotland! I'll be sure to take you there very soon!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Sounds positively fascinating," he said with increasing enthusiasm, smile broadening. "I take it we can come back--should I refrain from eating anything while I'm there, to avoid Persephone's folly?"

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Oh no, Hades was in charge during the Greek era. It's kind of like being the Prime Minister or the Monarchy; each era of time has a unique Guardian of Death. In the Hellenistic era, it was Hades, then Pluto..you get the idea. Now, they are very tight with human immigrants nowadays. There have been a lot of humans sneaking in lately.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Why would humans sneak into the Underworld?" asked Lewis. "Beyond scientific fascination," he added.

A brief pause.

"And I've asked another question," he said with a laugh.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

You're fine! *She chuckles.*

A lot of outcasts in this world seek a better life there. The Underworld has it's own laws, although they are...finicky,yeah, let's say that. It's a very dangerous place to live, but for some people who are otherwise persecuted by their fellow humans, its paradise.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

Lewis nodded, taking it in.

"I see."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Yeah, it's kind of sad when you think about it...but I got to meet a lot of interesting people there!

Oh! I guess it's my turn to ask a question! Um... what's your favorite flower and why? Sorry, that might be a little girly...

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"'Tis perfectly fine," he assured her.

"Rose," he said with a definitive nod. "For two reasons: A poem I once read, and a lass I once loved."

A shrug, accompanied by half a sigh.

"'Tis a bit bittersweet, I suppose, but that's life for you."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

You've been in a serious relationship before?

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Naturally. It's been quite some time, though."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Oh, did it not end well?

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"She married someone else," he said, and left it at that. The left corner of his mouth curled into a sneer when he spoke, his tone rueful.

He immediately took a large bite of the cassoulet. Followed by another. And another. And a hefty swig of wine to wash it down.

"So..." he said, shifting to a more pleasant demeanor as he rested his chin on his hand to look at Mz. Hyde, "what's your favorite flower, and why?"

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Yeah...that's not a good end.

I guess roses would be my favorite too. Most of them smell wonderful, they come in all sorts of colors, and then each color has different meanings!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Very true. A most versatile flower indeed," opined Weir.

"By the by, have you had any significant others in your life?" He reasoned that, as Mz. Hyde had asked about his past love, she might not mind him doing the same.

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((Mz.Hyde ))

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

No. Not really.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Ah."

He took another bite and waited for her to ask her next question.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Lets see...next question...next question...

* She drums her fingers as she thinks. She sees him take a bite of his food.*

What's your favorite food?

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago • edited

"I don't think I could settle on just one, to be honest. I'm fond of beef bourguignon, but also of neeps and tatties. I like fish and chips when I'm in the mood for it. Haggis is delicious. So's ratatouille. Sticky toffee pudding is delightful. And every so often, I get a craving for curry."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

I fully agree that sticky toffee pudding is fantastic. Unfortunately, I dont have a natural knack for cooking anything, sorry. Unless of course you like everything burned.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

He chuckled.

"Not to worry. I'm no fancy chef, but I'm a decent hand in the kitchen. And, of course, we have the likes of Miss Rachel's and Mr. Doddle's creations to fall back on."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

That is true! Thank God!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

Lewis nodded.

"Those cinnamon scones laid out for tea the other day were superb," he added.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

I know right?! Oh! While I'm thinking about it, and reverting back to the Underworld topic a little, did the opium that Hastie and I got for you help Helen out?

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Hastie and you--?" he echoed, unaware of Mz. Hyde's role in the procurement of Helen's opium.

"Er, yes, it did," he stated as he came back to her question. "I'd no idea you worked with Hastie in that regard. What's this to do with the Underworld?"

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

Because we got those jars from Velma's pharmacy in the Underworld. Had to evade the police on a wild goose chase and everything! Hastie was a big pussy, of course, but he surprised me when he punched the head of Death's Guard!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

Weir blinked several times, rapidly.

"Death's--Hastie--what?" he tripped over his words.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

* She nervously chuckles.*

It's a long story!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"I'd love to hear it," he replied.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Oh boy! Where to start?! I guess I better start by explaining Death's Guard to you. Death's Guard is a lot like the Metropolitan police. They enforce the laws of the Underworld as best they can and try to establish a little bit of order in a naturally chaotic realm.

The current Head of the Guard is a Succubus, which is very unusual since most Succubi and Incubi work in the Department of Lust or the Court of the Prince of Lust. But nevertheless, she persisted. Unfortunately for me, I've always had a personal beef with this she-demon. Which would explain at least some of the 20 warrants out for my arrest.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"That...rather precludes us paying the place a visit, I should imagine," he conjectured, assimilating in the information. "This is, I take it, the same Underworld as the one from which the speed demon hailed last New Year's Day."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Yep! I'm amazed you remember that! But nah, we can still go, just have to evade the Guard as much as we can.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"How could I ever forget?" Weir asked rhetorically. All his life, no sign of God nor Devil...until that fateful day. The sight was seared indelibly into his memory.

"Perhaps you'd best familiarize me with the laws of the place," he suggested. "Not to mention the hierarchy or bureaucracy, whichever it is." He'd be lying if he denied the idea of a Court of Lust intrigued him.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Oh boy. I thought this was a first date, not a lesson in the government and political history of the Underworld and the Nine circles of Hell Lewis?!

* She takes a deep breath, trying to collect her thoughts. Where to begin? Where to begin?*

Ok. So...just underneath the Earth's crust is a huge, HUGE cavern that was formed when Lucifer fell to the Earth from Heaven. In this cavern are ten levels, the first level beginning where the monsters live. Each major city in the human world has an opening to the monster world. You've heard me refer to this area as the Underworld.

Here in the Underworld rules Death. Each era of Mankind has a unique figure of Death that is created by an image of Death shared by all of Humanity. Currently, Lady Death reigns over all the monsters in the Underworld.

Would you like me to continue? I don't want to bore you!

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"I'd love you to, but don't feel obligated if you find the topic tiresome or, worse, distasteful at this time."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Not at all! It's just a lot of information to take in y'know? And this is just some basics!

Anyways, 7 of the levels of Hell are where the palaces of the Princes of Sin reside. Each of the 7 deadly sins has a Prince that rules over the Demons that have powers of that sin. For example, Sitis is the Prince of Lust and oversees the Succubi and Incubi.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Go on," urged Lewis. This was all very fascinating stuff; as he listened, he attempted to integrate it into his worldview. He wondered whether Huxley fit into this Underworld and, if so, where.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

In contrast, Heaven has the 7 Princesses of Morality. Legend also has it that the Dead are escorted to their fate by a group of mysterious women and girls who each represent an important virtue that all humans share. But who they are, or were, remains a mystery. Some do not even believe that they are real.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago • edited

"Wait..." said Weir, his wheels turning. "If you've never been to Heaven, how do you know this?

"If you don't mind my asking," he added.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Rumours get around very quickly in the Underworld. And there is, of course, the yearly extermination.

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Extermination?" echoed Lewis with concern as he finished the last of his food.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Yes. Every year the Angels conduct an extermination on the citizens of the Underworld. This is to keep the monster population down as a means to protect humanity from physical and spiritual harm.

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Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

((The Fox Mz.Hyde The continuation of the New Year's RP...from last year. It's Mz. Hyde's turn.

https://disqus.com/home/dis...

Mz.Hyde Mod The Fox • 4 months ago

* She puts a hand on her hip and raises her eyebrow at Lewis.*

Is Scotland a real country?

Jekyll1886 Mz.Hyde • 4 months ago

For the sake of our friendship, "I'm going to pretend I didn't just hear you say that," Lewis informed Mz. Hyde.

"Moving on, what do you think would work in the way of fashion here?" he asked, glancing from her to Callum and back.

"Do you have any preferences?" he asked the Host.

The Fox Jekyll1886 • 4 months ago

" I don't ask for much except that it's good for working. Y'know, stuff that'll last a good day's fight, something that can be washed with just a bit of water n' soap. "

He scratched his chin in thought.

" It don't have to be special. The only thing I'd really ask is that it be white shirt, brown pants, no vest. "

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Mz.Hyde Mod  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Oh RELAX Lewis, it was a JOKE! I swear if you Scots are so sensitive about having your own country, then WHY do you vote to remain in the UK every election cycle?

* Callum says his preferences.*

Of COURSE it has to be special! I simply can't do ordinary clothes! If you wanted ordinary clothes you should have gone over to a general store or something! TRUST me, I will set you up with something you'll REALLY like! Now, I have a question:

* She pulls a book of fabric swatches out of a drawer in her desk and flips through a couple of pages. She lands on a blue fabric and holds it out for the boys to look and feel. *

How do you feel about denim?

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago • edited

What the bloody Hell is she talking about? thought Lewis with an expression of befuddlement, as to the election cycle and voting.

He shook his head and shifted his focus to the fabric swatch Mz. Hyde had pulled.

He recognized the color as being from ("de") Nimes, France.

"Don't American miners use that for their trousers?"

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

" Denim? "

The host cast a curious glance to the sample. Callum leaned in, reaching out to feel the texture of the unfamiliar fabric.

He listened with interest to Weir's question.

" American? What you do, ship it over? "

His questions were aimed mostly at Mz.Hyde.

( Mz.Hyde )

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Mz.Hyde Mod  The Fox • 8 months ago • edited

Yep! A few years back, Miners in California got tired wearing normal clothes in the mines. The cloth would easily tear and suspenders became cumbersome. Then one day, a Mr. Jacob W Davis and Mr. Levi Strauss found that denim is durable and easy to clean! Plus, they can be held up with just a belt, no suspenders required! The pants made from these are called "Blue Jeans" for their color and from a nickname in Genoa in Italy, where cotton corduroy, called either jean or jeane, was manufactured.

We dont have to ship anything Mr. Callum. I get my supplies from a special fabric retailer in the Underworld that will have my order here at an ungodly speed! I can even have fabrics enchanted to disappear and reappear while you transform!

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The Fox  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

( Jekyll1886!)

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago • edited

"That's quite remarkable," opined Lewis.

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Callum's face became one of both surprise and interest, as much a little disbelief and doubt.

His brow wrinkled as he ran his thumb over the little swatch over and over, deliberating on the blue wonder. Eventually, the werewolf nodded to some unspoken thought and looked to the tailor.

" I won't take them if they're enchanted. All I want to see is a larger cut of this stuff. I want to see how it tears. "

( Mz.Hyde )

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Mz.Hyde Mod  The Fox • 8 months ago

So you just want normal denim right? I can do that! Let me just call it in!

* She turns to a small phone on her desk and punches in some numbers. On completion, she is immediately talking to somebody.*

Hello? Yes, I'd like to place an order for 2 yards of fabric #33456.....Unenchanted please! 33 pounds? That's not too much I guess...alright, thank you so much! Fuck you too!~

* She hangs up and immediately there is a knock at her door.*

That must be the order!

* She grabs her purse, opens a drawer and grabs a crucifix. She opens the door and there is a red devil delivery guy with two giant rolls in his arms. He speaks incredibly fast.*

"DeliveryforMz.Hyde?"

That's me!

"That's33pounds!"

* She gives him the money and takes the rolls. The door is about to shut when the guy puts his foot in the door.*

"Youforgotyourtip!"

* She sighs, drops the rolls and puts two pounds in the devil's hand.*

"TWOPOUNDS?!"

* The devil suddenly explodes into a fireball of hatred and rage.*

"YOULITTLEWHORE!HOWDAREYOUGIVEMESUCHASHITTYTIP?!IAMGOINGTOCURSEYOUANDYOURFAMILYFORGENERATIONSANDCAUSETHEMTOLIVEINMISERYANDSUFFER!"

Ugh, here we go again...

* She grabs the crucifix.*

In virtute passionis Christi urget TE!

* She chucks it at the devil and he hisses as he is banished back to Hell.*

Jesus Christ, they have the worst delivery guys!

see more

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The Fox  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

( Jekyll1886 )

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

For several long moments, Lewis simply stood and stared, stone silent.

Then he blinked rapidly and repeatedly, as if trying to process what he'd witnessed.

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Callum shared a similar position to Lewis, though his was more tense. The speed of what happened hadn't bothered him that much given that Through worked much the same at times, but appearance of an actual devil had especially thrown him for something of a loop and he could hardly suppress a sudden growl before Mz.Hyde sent him back.

In the end though, he shook it off and laughed, cackling to himself with loud joy.

" Oh! Oho sh*t! I can see what you mean now by 'Underground'.

Talk about service alright. "

He broke into a wide grin as reached for one of the rolls. Without warning, he took the edge of the denim with both hands and pulled at it with preternatural strength.

To his surprise, though it tore, it was very robust and didn't give without a fight. Even the sound it made was something like a miniature growl in itself.

Laughing again, he let it drop and let himself fall into a nearby seat.

" Well, I'll be! That's some some rough hide right there!

I think I can say I'm satisfied to let you work now miss. "

( Mz.Hyde )

" "

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Mz.Hyde Mod  The Fox • 8 months ago

See? I told you I'd get you something you'd REALLY like! I'll get to work then, it'll be at least an hour or two before I'm done.

* She takes one of the rolls and unravels it on the floor to begin marking it.*

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago • edited

"What the bloody Hell was that?!?!" Weir finally got out, starting back to life with a jolt.

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

" That was business as usual, or are at least so I take it. "

Callum leaned back and tucked his hands behind his head. He chuckled.

" Ain't my business, but it's business as usual. "

( Mz.Hyde )

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Mz.Hyde Mod  The Fox • 8 months ago

It was what it looked like: I ordered my fabric and a delivery man who also happened to be a speed demon delivered my order in a timely fashion. They're good at their job, just a little crazy about tips. Which is understandable! Being a delivery guy anywhere sucks.

Especially in the Underworld.

* She continues marking the denim with chalk and checking her measurements.*

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"A speed...demon..." said Lewis slowly, struggling to wrap his mind around what he'd witnessed.

A pause.

"Do they have any powers of judgment?" he asked, raised eyebrow ill concealing an instinctive wariness.

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

" I mean, he might've, but I don't think he'd have really bothered with it. "

Callum rocked in his chair lightly, not paying much attention to the conversation anymore.

" If I heard right, different demons have different motives or whatever nonsense it was. "

( Mz.Hyde )

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Mz.Hyde Mod  The Fox • 8 months ago

Close! Different demons have different powers. Speed demons, unsurprisingly, are renowned for their ability to move at incredible speeds, and though they'll be happy to tell you what they really think about you, they have no powers of judgment of the soul or the spirit. Your place in Heaven or Hell is decided by a special counsel of the greatest minds of humanity, lead by St. Peter, just outside of Heaven. At least, that's what I've heard. I haven't died and gotten to that part before.

* She completes her marking with the chalk and starts pinning the fabric.*

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Huh." Weir mulled over their words and the resulting implications.

"I...suppose I ought to leave you to it, then," he said, gaze and tone a wee bit distant, as if the world around him were a little less real for the immediacy of his mental musings.

I need a drink.

"I'll be off."

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

" Are you at least going to come back? "

Callum leaned on the arm of his chair playfully. His eyebrows took a suggestive arch.

" We might get into mischief while you're gone. "

( Mz.Hyde )

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Mz.Hyde Mod  The Fox • 8 months ago

You lay a claw on me and you'll lose a hand, Mr. Callum.

* Finally she brings out her scissors and begins cutting.*

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Jekyll1886  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"I daresay I'll find mischief enough on my own," he returned in a detached manner that came across a bit more harshly than he meant it to.

With that, he was gone.

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Callum blinked for a moment, then shifted back into a proper sitting position, crossing his arms and chuckling, burying a sting of personal hurt away.

( Mz.Hyde *buckles up for a time skip to when he leaves* Alright captain, hit the button! )

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Mz.Hyde Mod  The Fox • 8 months ago

(WEEEE!!!)

~One Hour Later~

Alright, everything's done!

* Mz. Hyde holds up the denim jacket she just finished. Completing the set that including jeans, and a white cotton shirt.*

Come and try them on!

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The Fox  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago • edited

Callum stepped up to her and took the jacket with a curious look.

" Thank you? "

He couldn't quite understand the logic of the garment, whether is was meant to be comfortable or keep warm or last long. He shrugged it off though. If anything, the host was more than happy to take anything that he could and make use of it somehow.

Putting it to the side, he went to the other clothes and went about dressing, not bothering to do so anywhere else.

When he was finished, he looked himself over. Fresh, clean linen wasn't something he'd felt in a long time. It almost felt raw against his skin, like it was getting chaffed, like it was too clean, too good to be against his sullied body, sullied soul. It was like a lot of things and some of those things even pricked at his memory and imagination...

He would've gotten this from his wife if he hadn't wanted to be a host. He'd gotten it on soft fine evening, right before he had to head to work, and his child would come gripping his leg asking for a kiss. This would've something he had, if he had gone that way.

A buzz pinched at his brain and he shook it away, changing his focus to his jeans.

They felt...different. They certainly any trousers he's had that's for sure. Their texture rubbed up on his rough skin with a twinge on discomfort but that little more than an annoyance to their weight. Somehow, they were both lighter and heavier at the same time and Callum couldn't figure if it was simply his experience, or rather lack of, with them that was the source or if it was genuinely something to mind.

With all this though, they weren't bad, far from it. They were genuinely well fitted and he could just feel their inherit resilience just by shifting side to side.

He observed himself for a long, quiet moment, eventually smiling contentedly with his state of dress. Standing straight, he admired his figure then turned to thank Mz. Hyde.

He reached out and took her hand into a friendly, burly shake.

" Thanks, thanks for everything. You sure know how to work a needle'n'thread. "

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 8 months ago

((Mz.Hyde ))

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Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((Helen Jekyll The Fox Continuation of the summer beach RP. It's Fox's go.))

The Fox Jekyll1886 • 2 days ago

Malemi watched from his shaded perch with growing interest. He had said that he wanted to see what fish were about in the water, and the water itself actually kind of relaxing to be around. The way it washed in and out, the gentle rolling of foam before his stocky flat-mate ran through it; it all crafted a much more nice picture than the rest of the beach itself.

Contemplating this, the cat found himself unintentionally rocking side to side, tail twitching with a desire to move and explore. To explore would mean leaving the safety of Lewis's shoulders and stepping back onto beach, which meant it would be hot, but on the other hand, it looked nice and well...fish.

Something of a soft noise between a mewl and a growl managed to escape him.

Helen Jekyll The Fox • 2 days ago

Helen had been enjoying their pleasant stroll over the sand before she started at the sound the Beast made.

"Oh, err, are you alright, Malemi?" She asked, turning to look at them as they walked.

Jekyll1886 Helen Jekyll • a day ago

Weir followed Malemi's gaze to the water's edge, where Anniceris still zagged back and forth chasing foam.

"Do you fancy a swim?" asked Lewis.

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

" A-a swim? "

He peered down at Lewis, a worried tone taking his voice.

" What do you mean? "

( Helen Jekyll )

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Helen Jekyll  The Fox • 8 months ago

"Oh, you know, taking a dip into the ocean?" Helen tried to explain, looking a little perplexed, "Going into the water and floating around and such... It's only for fun, if you want to."

Perhaps he's the sort of feline that isn't fond of water, and, as such, hasn't gone swimming before... She mused to herself.

((Jekyll1886))

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"I just saw you looking at the sea, is all," said Lewis. "'Thought you might like to wade in. Don't feel that you have to, mind. I'm perfectly fine to keep walking if you'd prefer."

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

" I... "

His ears folded back, his thoughts playing in a range of faces. He slide between a fearful shudder, to a determined but anxious huff, and right back. If he were human, he would be sweating.

Biting the bullet, he shook his pelt and sat up. He fluffed up as he stared into the blue expanse.

" Yes. I would like that. "

( Helen Jekyll )

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Helen Jekyll  The Fox • 8 months ago

Helen didn't appear entirely convinced that Malemi actually wanted to swim and looked to Lewis for guidance on the situation--after all, he knew his friend and flatmate a lot better than she did, and could likely read him more accurately.

((Jekyll1886))

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago • edited

"Right, then." Lewis set his shoes on the sand and diverted his course toward the waves. He was soon in up to the knees.

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Malemi clung onto Weir with bated breath, his shimmer portrait occasionally looking back up to him with wavering eyes.

When Lewis stopped, he took a minute to center himself, and infinite caution, he leaned down and laid his palm on the surface.

Almost immediately, he pulled back with a short growl, but he wasn't put off from reaching out again and making contact once more. This happened again and again, each time with less stiffness and more familiarity.

( Helen Jekyll )

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Helen Jekyll  The Fox • 8 months ago

Helen stood a little distance away and out of Malemi's line of sight, not wishing to be a distraction.

Curiously, she watched as the Beast seemed to be slowly getting more and more, if not comfortable with, then tolerant of the ocean water.

((Jekyll1886))

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Jekyll1886  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

It was with a fond smile that Lewis witnessed Malemi's gradual acclimation to the sea.

((The Fox ))

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The Fox  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Malemi was now working with both hands. He purred in between soft, happy chuckles as he stretched out his fingers and curled them against the water, it's coolness welcoming while not bone-chilling.

He went and let the water lap at the top of his hands and a smile broke out on his face.

Now very excited, he called Helen over, tail whipping around energetically.

" Helen! Quick! Come over here! "

( Helen Jekyll )

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Helen Jekyll  The Fox • 8 months ago

"Oh, um," Helen managed with a note of surprise, making her way over to his side as fast as the water would allow.

She glanced briefly to meet Lewis' gaze, then to the Beast."I'm here."

((Jekyll1886))

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The Fox  • 8 months ago

" Here! Take my arm! "

Malemi reached out for her shoulder. To the both of them he rattled off his idea.

" Take my arms and when I saw, you're going to lower down into the water! "

With little time to process what he said, he shifted his weight between the two and positioned himself for his dunk.

( Helen Jekyll )

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Jekyll1886  The Fox • 8 months ago

((Helen Jekyll ))

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Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

((chatterghosts The facets of Elias/Oliver RP, cont'd.))

chatterghosts Jekyll1886 • a day ago

“A lot indeed,” agreed Theodosios. “Luckily, I’d bet near anything Deilos and Cirol are wandering about the building together. They’re awful hard to separate.”

“The same is true of Thymos and Diatias, as poor a duo they might make. Thymos tries to push him away, but Diatias is relentless about pulling him into his little plans.

“You’ve already collected Elinaos, though, haven’t you?” he guessed innocently. “I felt something, a — a pull, almost. To Elinaos. I can feel it for the rest of them, too. But Elinaos’ simply vanished.”

Jekyll1886 chatterghosts • a day ago

A mere polity of multifarious, incongruous and independent denizens, thought Lewis with a smile more satisfied than chagrined. All caged within the same flesh.

What a piece of work is man, he reflected.

"Yes," he replied to Theodosios. "As I understand it, Elinaos has re-entered Elias's physical body. Which is in his--er, your--room, by the by."

He shook his head. Pronouns--possessive or otherwise, singular or plural--were inevitably an issue whenever there was more than one facet to deal with.

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((chatterghosts ))

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

“My Room, our room, his room,” Theodosios joked, “you needn’t worry. I’m merely surprised you appear unscratched — bless his heart, Thymos has a talent for incidentally spreading his... influence. And Diatias is quite the needler.”

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

"Influence?" echoed Lewis.

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

“Well, Thymos is an angry fellow. If that anger can disrupt Elias’ thinking inside his head, it stands to reason it can impact others’ outside, doesn’t it?”

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

"I...suppose?" said Lewis, not entirely certain. "Do you mean to say his mere presence can rouse others' ire?"

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Theodosios nodded. “It happens with the other facets, so it’s quite possible it can happen outside the mind as well.”

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 8 months ago • edited

"Oh, my. I shall have to bear that well in mind," said Lewis. "Thank you for informing me."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

He nodded wordlessly, eyes roaming the hallway.

“Are we looking for the others, then?”

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

"Indeed. Some are in your room, but we've yet to encounter the others."

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chatterghosts  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Theodosios clapped his hands together with a merry grin. “Then let us look for them!”

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Jekyll1886  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

"Do let's," agreed Lewis.

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Jekyll1886  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

((chatterghosts ))

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A Passerby • 8 months ago

[Here we are, !]

"I am exceedingly fortunate that, in my particular case, the two tend to overlap. Therefore, it is not so much a case of accomplishment as it is... well, fortune."

He rubbed the back of his neck chuckled at his poorly-chosen words.

"But yes, I suppose I am both. Much as you are a fine gentleman, as well as the proprietor of what sounds like an enchanting bookstore!"

George laughed heartily.

“I do believe you sing too high of praise for me, but it warms my heart nonetheless.” He gave an appreciative nod. “You have been a truly remarkable companion all this time.”

He looked thoughtful for a moment, then,

“I must confess, I am quite curious to hear about this profession of yours—anything that combines art and science is certain to be a wonder.”

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Tairais  A Passerby • 8 months ago

"Au contraire, I sing exactly the type of praise deserved of you- you have been an equally diverting conversational partner for the duration of our excursion, here."

"As for the matter of my profession..." Richard gave a serious sort of frown, perching his chin on his hands, and those on his knees as he leaned forward and looked at him askance.

"Tell me, how strong is your stomach? The nature of my work is such that it sometimes... upsets those of a weaker heart or mind."

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A Passerby  Tairais • 8 months ago

His complexion threatened to lose most of its color, nervous thoughts flickering to life at his companion's sudden gravity.

"I am... uncertain as to how to answer that question."

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Tairais  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Richard chuckled, once again rubbing the back of his neck as he waved his other hand reassuringly.

"Perhaps I should clarify; it is a question of how open to the... strange you may be."

He caught sight of his hand moving and stilled the motion, turning it over to gesture.

"When I am not studying and collecting the materials I use, my work is primarily the creation of functional prostheses for the general populace. It tends to unnerve those who believe me to be playing God, regardless of the fact that I would never care to."

He waited with curious eyes after speaking, as if gauging George's reaction.

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A Passerby  Tairais • 8 months ago

George breathed a little easier after Richard's clarification.

Then, by the time Prince finished explaining entirely, all the tension had fled.

"Ah.

He smiled, the expression tinged with relief as his color returned.

"Well, that's nothing to shy away from, I don't think. You're doing a very good thing to help people who've fallen on rough times."

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Tairais  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Some small amount of tension loosened itself from Richard's shoulders upon hearing George's reassuring words.

"I will admit that I am relieved. I should like to think that my work is something good to the world as well."

He was quiet for a few moments, then added almost as an afterthought, "There is precious little worse than feeling incomplete and unable to fulfill whatever purpose you feel you may have."

He seemed to break from his reverie a moment later with a smile, patting George on the shoulder gently.

"I thank you for your open mind- those like you are a precious sort. Though the world changes, it does so slowly unless there are those like you."

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A Passerby  Tairais • 8 months ago

"Dr. Prince, your flattery is ceaseless, and quite frankly, it's working," George said with a good-natured laugh. "I've never met a man so kind as to supply myself with so many well-meant compliments. I—"

Whatever thought he had meant to share next was cut off by the arrival of a train to the station, a near deafening horn sounding.

"I... must be going, apparently," He finished, raising a hand to the back of his neck as he ducked his head.

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Tairais  A Passerby • 8 months ago

"Hardly ceaseless! I rarely find a sort I can give flattery in sincerity to."

He stood up and offered a hand to help George up with a broad, snaggle-toothed smile.

"Do feel free to come and visit if you have ever the time, or if business finds you here. I would never say no to such delightful company."

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A Passerby  Tairais • 8 months ago

George accepted the assistance gratefully and, using his cane in junction to Richard's strength, rose to his feet.

"It would give me the greatest pleasure to see you once again, my dear sir," He said, giving his hand a firm shake, "And I pray you won't shy away from a chance to come visit me either. My shop's door are always open for a friend like yourself."

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Tairais  A Passerby • 8 months ago

"Oh, I fancy I will find some time, one of these days. As it is, we are headed into a rather busy season for me. Perhaps when there is time to breathe, no?"

Richard gave George a bow and one final smile with a flourish.

"A visit among friends! I shall look forward to it greatly. In the meantime, I shall not keep you from your train."

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A Passerby  Tairais • 8 months ago

“You are a kind man, sir. I shall not forget what you’ve done for me today. I look forward to our paths crossing once more.”

He dipped his head in goodbye, then, after paying for a ticket at the ticket booth, disappeared onto the train.

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Tairais  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Richard watched him go with a faint smile on his lips.

He then turned to a nearby raven and addressed it by staring in its beady black eyes.

"Make certain he arrives at his destination safely, hmm?"

The raven dipped its beak, then took wing, roosting carefully on the top of one of the train cars.

With that, Richard too departed with a final wave on the off chance he was still visible.

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A Passerby  Tairais • 8 months ago • edited

[It seems, my friend, that our song has ended. It has been a pleasure dancing with you, and I take great delight in knowing that this tale may come to life again in the future.

For now, however, I'd like to thank you and bid you a warm farewell.]

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Tairais  A Passerby • 8 months ago

(( The pleasure is mine, strange one. Adieu, until we meet again. ))

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Pyrogue • 8 months ago

(( Merry Christmas (or Happy Holidays) everyone! <3 ))

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Wizardblizzard  Pyrogue • 8 months ago • edited



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Setae • 8 months ago

Happy Holidays! Sorry about your cold, Mz Hyde.

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The Fox • 8 months ago

( Tairais ChristMAS BIRDS GET EM 50% OFF! CHRISTMAS. BIRDS. )

Charricthran vanished between one wingbeat and the next, reemerging from the shadows caught in the corners of the building until he stood nearby Errack.

"As much 's it ever is, eyup."

He took in his new surroundings with a curious gaze more habit than force, waiting for a more specific question than that. It never did to give away more information than was strictly necessary.

-

" So let's go back over what you've already said.

You managed in get into Callum's dreams and chat with him for awhile, seemed like he'd been there before, and it was cut short by Orin. "

The crow tucked his wings away and straightened up.

" You also mentioned that something felt off about it.

Can you remember specifically what? What about the dream stood out? "

Errack had managed to tame his giddiness to a small smirk but hunger practically glittered in his eyes, the taste of blackmail too much to hide.

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Mz.Hyde Mod  The Fox • 8 months ago

(I'll take three!)

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Tairais  The Fox • 8 months ago

(( You can have mine for free, he's a disaster XD ))

"Understandin' I wasn't exactly myself at the time-" And oh, he hadn't wanted to remember the oil-slick feeling of being far from himself. "-There was the fact he didnae think the wife an' child he were killin' were his. Felt all fuzzy-like, not that I have the ability ta know what his past were like, nor whether he's got amnesia or the like."

"Ah, and also Orin escorted me out. We had a nice chat about it. He tried ta intimidate me, which was cute. The lady-wife thing kept sayin' she loved him, he kept crushin' her, weren't interested in doin' anythin' different."

A feathery shrug later had his eyes towards the sky, though he had a smirk of his own on his face.

"If you're fishin' for somethin' specific, best ta ask. Tend ta meander somethin' fierce, if ya didn't already get tha'."

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The Fox  Tairais • 8 months ago

Errack shared a rattle-like snicker.

" Oh no you've given me just what I needed. No need for further questioning. "

A pause.

" Well, maybe one more.

How exactly did you get into his dreams? Is this something I can learn myself? "

The crow eyed his fellow bird eagerly. Ahead of them, his chosen target were slowly working their way towards them, almost within range again, this time for a something waggish Errack had in store.

" And if I can learn it, this moment would be great. "

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Tairais  The Fox • 8 months ago

"'Taint nothin' I can teach withoutcha dyin' several times over."

He followed the movements below with his eyes and gave a faint grin.

"Hope you're not countin' on my involvement with anythin' you're plannin'. Information comes per terms o' arrangement, action comes with a fair sight more, see?"

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The Fox  Tairais • 8 months ago

" Would a lark be included in 'action'? "

Errack turned his attention to his incoming target and snickered.

" A motivated lark specifically? "

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Tairais  The Fox • 8 months ago

"Depending on if ya mean the bird or the whim, 's well as the lark itself, mayhap."

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The Fox  Tairais • 8 months ago

" I'm looking for the whim. "

His target paused for a moment, they were looking for something. The crow sighed, tsking under his breath.

" Well, either way, if you want to help or not, you're free to watch. "

Errack shuffled his wings in preparation to fly.

" I sure would anyways. It's not often i get to punk Orin like this. "

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Tairais  The Fox • 8 months ago

Charricthran took a moment to weigh risk against reward.

He technically wasn't the same creature that had run into Callum's dreams- for all that The Other was a place to store his memories and attached to him, it had existed long, long before he had even been a thought. The rare few times that old Song chose to sing resulted in those wanderings.

So, Orin wouldn't be able to recognize him. Nor would he be able to trace his connections anywhere, so long as he was careful not to leave a Name that could be traced.

Besides. Any power this entity might have had paled in comparison to his. He really didn't much like using the entirety of his power, solely because he felt more akin to a disastrous semi-'human' being than any sort of universe-devouring creature, but...

One of those things was the truth. The other was a white lie that let him exist without going mad.

Something like the flicker of hellfire burned in his eyes then. Had he still his sigil, it would've burned like a brand against the sky.

"All right, I'll bite on the lark. What're we doin'?"

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The Fox  Tairais • 8 months ago

" My plan was to do a fly-by over him, show him that I'm back and mean business.

I want to take him off guard and come in while he isn't looking y'know? I thought to maybe play it simple and just blow in and blow out; be all mysterious. Alas, Orin is such a killjoy that he can't even pretend to play along.

So at the moment, I'm kind of inclined to ask you poke him a bit. Maybe just tease his fur a little, to get him nervous. "

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Tairais  The Fox • 8 months ago

"Could sneak inta his shadow and cast the form I had in his host's dreams. Simple parlor trick o' mine, not that anyone else knows the fact. I've been told 's akin ta having a wet blanket suddenly draped 'cross ya."

He tilted his head and regarded Errack with a sidelong glance.

"Tha' sound promisin' enough, or do I need ta go further?"

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The Fox  Tairais • 8 months ago

" OOooh! That sounds good! Very good! "

The beast hopped on his feet, looking between Char and Orin's presence, and spread his wings.

" It's perfect! He'll never live it down!

Hehehhehehe! "

The crow clacked his beak, marking his launch back into the air.

" You'd have to throw a leash on him to top this! "

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Tairais  The Fox • 8 months ago

Charricthran gave his feathered friend a cheery wink and a smile full of more teeth than should rightfully be in any beak or mouth.

"I could prob'ly manage tha' too, with enough time an' planning. As is, hang tight, an' don' miss anythin'!"

With that, he ducked into the same shadow he'd emerged on the rooftop through, feeling around for Orin's presence. Having felt it once in a dream, a place arguably more intimate than any distance, it wasn't particularly difficult.

With a flash of motion as quick as the light that cast a shadow, Charricthran had fitted himself within Orin's shadow and unleashed a fraction of the weight of his magic upon Orin's, allowing the weight to grow as he imposed his form over the other's shadow.

Fraction though it may have been, he held the weight of four universe's magicks within him, and the energies of countless other powerful beings that he'd done battle with, emerged victorious over, and subsequently taken within his power.

Wer'Vemud stirred its wings within their form. While it did little to change the outward appearance of something approximately the shape of his humanoid form, it brought to mind ancient feathers and a deep, aching hunger that would stop at nothing to see it quenched.

From where he stood in The Other, he couldn't see Orin clearly. For Errack's sake, he hoped the expression on his face was something priceless to behold.

His part done, he settled down into The Other comfortably. Orin couldn't touch him here- at least, not without attracting the attention of its many, many denizens, each of whom were hungrier and more desperate than Wer'Vemud had ever been.

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The Fox • 8 months ago • edited

( MillieGriffin )

Millie didn't flinch at the witch's very not subtle threat (dispite the potential foolhardiness of it), for she had the confidence in her physical abilitys to dodge an attack from this woman

and counter with her lunch retaliation at the last second. Her snide grin turned to one of giddy amusement when Jezebel almost lunged at her.

Aheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheheh! Ooooo, she didn't like that now, did she!? What's the matter "Endora" can't take what you dish out? AHAHAHAHAHAHAH! she boasted in her head.

She hadn't felt so bold, so powerful, since last year. Maybe this is what she needed, someone else to really hate again!

But of course Griffin had been able to defuse the situation (fortunately) almost back to it's original uncomfortableness. as a couple more red flags popped up for him, from when Jezebel moved at Millie to when she settled back hugging on him. Still, his muscular arm still stiffened and tense slowly wrapped around her waist as she spoke on and by the time she had finished addressing Millie in what seemed to be honesty, he had suddenly pulled her in tighter against him.

Meanwhile Millie had listened to her spiel and watched Jezebel's little "power move" with

projected boredom on her face. A quick glance at Griffin's direction then back towards her. A cool smug smile formed on her face with eyes burning as they were when she made her snide remark.

"Hm"

so you think I'm the one being played, aye? One thing you can't do, you can't see the look on his face right now... she thought, confidently in her head.

--

The witch returned the smug grin, a conceited chuckle slipping past her lips quick as a snake's flick. Just as quickly, the capricious sorceress let go of Griffin and walked past him with little more than a flick of her wrist. She wouldn't get to see the rest of the building like this, and as cute as her would be suitor was, she could plainly see, or rather feel, that his love was lost on her.

No problem there though. If he had no interest in her, then she had no interest in him. Her attention was precious and if they couldn't see that past their shifter niece, then so be it. Their lose

Jezebel stepped quick, swift and graceful as she took in each artifact and open doorway with a prowling malfeasance. Behind her, she offered an easy wave back to the pair.

" Well~ You're free to go about your business unfettered now. I only have some many hours to waste you know~? "

She looked back with the briefest of smiles.

" Thank you for the help anyways "

( Excuse me? EXcUSe ME??? Bich? I wait for you to come back and reply and this is what you do?? child WHAT?? ExcSUE??????

" Aw, don't be mad. You're glad I at least gave you my time, no? }:3 "

WhAT thF8CK, Baby don't you f*cking SASS me

" Just did you doormat. "

* Angry fox chatter* >:'VVVVV )

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Tairais • 8 months ago

(( Helen Jekyll: Santa's a raven again! ))

Charricthran and Richard hadn't been quite as busy this year as they had the year past when it came to the giving end of tradition. Between already being somewhat sociable hermits and the fact that their circle of friends had... diminished for a number of reasons, he only had a handful of gifts to deliver.

Helen and Hela, though, were two people they had in common. As such, they'd done their best to make gifts they thought they'd like.

For Hela, who tended to hang on his every word when he talked of his people, he'd had Richard help him craft a pair of bracers similar to the ones he'd owned thousands on thousands of years ago.

Helen got a unique set of bookends, inspired in equal parts by Richard's sense of aesthetic and his reminiscing. They'd both figured they'd be as useful as they were pretty, given the sheer volume of books they'd seen her read.

Both gifts were wrapped inconspicuously in brown paper and tied with string, a label respective to each owner attached to the bows that Richard's nimble fingers had tied.

(He'd tried to tie them once, and the both of them had laughed for nearly half an hour at the abysmal result, little better than half-cooked pasta.)

With little more than the faint stir of a winter breeze and the sound of a single beat of wings, the two packages were left precisely where the jewelry box had been left previously.

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago • edited

Helen began her morning as always, dressing in her usual suit and heading out to grab some breakfast from the kitchen downstairs before tending to her usual duties as manager.

This morning, however, she stopped at the sight of the two oddly shaped parcels resting just outside her door, addressed to her and her counterpart.

"Oh, how thoughtful of them," She said to herself as she saw the tags on the two gifts, indicating that Charricthran and Richard were responsible for the kind act.

Stepping back into her room with both packages, she set Hela's down on the desk for later that evening, opening her own gift.

It's beautiful, She thought as she held one of the bookends, running her fingers over the designs, And amazingly well crafted...

Soon, she'd cleared a spot on her shelf for both ends, stepping back to admire them before going to get breakfast.

Later that day, Hela didn't waste a single moment, going straight for her our gift as soon as she'd taken control and adjusted her clothing properly.

The wrappings only lasted a moment before revealing their green and gold contents.

It's armor! came a giddy thought.

She slipped both bracers on and broke into a grin--they fit wonderfully.

"Thank you, Charricthran!"

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

The man himself poked his head out of a shadow on the wall with a cheerful, "Much welcome, kiddo!"

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

"How do you think I look?" asked Hela, striking a heroic pose with her hands on her hips and her chest puffed, the grin shifting itself to more of a smirk, "Do they suit me?"

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Charricthran gave her a quick once over, beaming the whole while.

"Without a doubt, an' definitely more'n they'd suit me! You're a sight more fierce than I am, for sure."

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

"You're just saying that," She said with a snort, pretending to shrug it off, but her eyes already sang with happiness from the praise.

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Nah, 's the truth!" He said as he pulled himself all the way out of the wall, leaning on it instead, "I'm more'a cloak 'n dagger fella- you're a right warrior sort."

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

Hela was practically glowing at that and couldn't help but grin.

"Thanks, Char. You know just what to say."

"Merry Christmas, by the way," She added, realizing she hadn't formerly told him such, "I guess I ought to get you and Richard a gift in return, huh?"

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Oog, really? I'll have to dissuade ya o' the notion- Richard's always quick ta point out I'm abysmal with wordin'."

He leaned forward on the balls of his feet and gave a cheerful nod. "Merry Christmas to ya too! Don' worry about gifts--me an' Richard are both o' the mind tha' your company's the greatest gift we could ask o' you, or any friends."

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

"Well, considering you're both equally incomprehensible at times, I would take his comments with a grain of salt," She said with a chuckle, running her hands over the surface of the bracers.

"Huh. That's a funny gift to want." A tilt to her head. "Does that mean I should just hang out with you guys today instead?"

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Noted," he said with a chuckle of his own.

"An' nah, don' gotta do anythin' if ya don' fancy it- we've been getting the gift year-round, as it were, see?"

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

Hela snorted at that, but it was an amused, happy sound.

"You're a big softie, you know that? You and Richard, even if he doesn't show it so much."

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Charricthran placed a hand on his heart in mock dismay.

"You wound me! Whatever am I gonna do, now's my greatest secret's out? My reputation--ruined!"

He punctuated the whole display with a half-convincing swoon for good measure, then promptly broke into delighted snickering.

"You think I'm a big ol' softie? Ya don' wanna see Richard around a horse, ever. It's like people with dogs, or cats--he's mad about em, see?"

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

Laughing, Hela observed his act with her arms crossed over her chest and a playful roll of her eyes.

"Never fear, my feathery friend, your secret is safe with me."

Charricthran's warning about Richard's fondness for horses was met with a chuckle.

"Surely it can't be that bad..."

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Charricthran arched a brow.

"Last time he saw one o' the things, he went full babbling mode. He stood there for twenty minutes jus' pattin' the damn thing an' it followed him around like a baby ducklin' for ages. The both o' em were bloody distraught when I told him we had ta get goin'."

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

Hela simply grinned at the mental image, giggling under her breath.

"I didn't know the Prince was capable of being adorable. I'd love to see it."

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"I'ma ruin his reputation since I've already ruined mine--he's a giant bloody kid on the inside."

He winked and snickered. "I'll be sure ta letcha know if he ever starts bein' adorable where you can run ta right quick- he tends towards it when chatting with the plants as he sketches in the garden, too."

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

“I’ll keep my running shoes handy, then,” She returned, wondering if Richard enjoyed the greenhouse as much as she did—it’s where she first met him, after all, though he didn’t know that. “Or maybe he’d let me join him in the garden?”

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"Almost definitely! He doesn't say as such, but he gets lonely oftentimes. I'm sure he'd love havin' ya 'round- 'specially if ya don' raise an eyebrow at him chatterin'!"

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

A smirk quirked at the edge of her lips.

“I wouldn’t dream of it.”

After all, I have had a plant talk back before, on a Halloween night...

“So, uh, about these things—“ Hela looked down at her bracers. “How strong are they? Can they take a knife?”

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Charricthran pondered the question for a moment, then snickered.

"They're made o' somethin' like dragon hide, so yup! Prob'ly could stop a bullet, too, though I'd recommend jus'... not gettin' inta a firefight."

His lip curled at the thought.

"Guns. So primitive, an' yet..." He shook his head, smiling once more. "Still! Definitely'll stop a knife, yup. Hooks on the end are act'ly specifically for disarming knife-slash-sword weildin' opponents, if I recall. Didn't do much one-on-one fighting, mind, so take that with a handful o' salt."

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

Hela cringed at the thought of a firefight.

“I think I’ve dealt with enough guns to last me a lifetime, so you don’t need to worry about that.”

She ran her fingers over the hooks of one of the bracers curiously.

“Do you think you could help me figure out how?”

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

He nodded, then paused.

"Remembrin' the last time we had a knife 'tween the two of us, might be best ta ask Weirmrith, first."

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

Another cringe.

“You’re... probably right about that.”

She thought for a moment, head tilted to the side.

“Should we go find him now?

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

He rolled a shoulder back in a shrug, offering a mischievous smile.

"Sure, why not? I'm always up for an adventure!"

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Helen Jekyll  Tairais • 8 months ago

She chuckled at that and gestured towards the door.

“Then we shall be off to capture ourselves a mighty Weir!”

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Tairais  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

"The hunt begins!" Charricthran said with a triumphant caw.

He slipped through the door at her behest, nonchalantly bouncing every third step or so.

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Tairais • 8 months ago

(( Jekyll1886 It crimmas. Mer crimmas! ))

Cold wind brushed over his feathers, pressure felt and temperature remembered.

One, two. Coast.

He flew towards the shadow cast by a chimney billowing smoke and the smell of a Christmas-dinner-in-progress. The house attached to it Whispered of secrets folded into shiny paper and held behind joyful smiles.

Charricthran couldn't help but smile too--there was always a gentleness to the dark of these winter nights.

Three, four. Dive.

He fell into darkness and lingered, making sure the occupant of this office was elsewhere for the time being. He remembered the span of ten heartbeats before he parted shadows like curtains and set a box and a bottle gently on the desk in the room. He pulled a note from his not-quite-a-pocket, scribbled with more confidence than the last.

"Handkerchiefs are for helping with being a peacock, and the drink's the same that your coffee had in the kitchen.

Cheers,

~N.W"

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

It wasn't until Weir returned later that he discovered the gifts from Charricthran.

How thoughtful, he reflected with a smile as he picked up the bottle to examine it.

Next, he had a good look at the box of pocket squares, noting the craftsmanship of the container with its carved roses as well as the various patterns of the cloth within. Unbidden, his mind ran through possible outfit combinations with each of these latter. There was even one of the Weir clan tartan that he knew would add the perfect touch to the royal blue waistcoat he presently wore.

He removed his black pocket square and switched it out for the tartan one.

Exquisite.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Another note on the same sort of paper, written in the same sort of hasty penmanship, fluttered from somewhere uncertain in the room to fall gently on the desk beside the box.

'You're welcome to come join me for festivities similar to last year's as well, if you'd like and have nothing more you'd rather do.

~N.W.'

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"Count me in," Weir said aloud.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"You know the way well 's me, Weirmrith!"

A familiar shadow spread on the wall, gaps in the shape of teeth where there might otherwise have been a shark-toothed smile.

It flickered and broke, falling feathers shifting like a school of fish that retreated to safety in shadows.

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

He stowed the box of pocket squares safely in his desk, grabbed the bottle of liquor, and slipped through a shadow to join Charricthran.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

This time, they were in a rainforest of the deepest green, bordering a desert that seemed cut from the darkness of the night sky itself.

Charricthran stood on a cliff that straddled the border of the two climes, covered with fingers of green that tried and failed to claim a foothold on the obsidian that jutted out of the cliff's granite body.

He was wearing different clothes than usual: a long, sari-like garment that was the same color of the sand below, with gold and red embroidery chasing each other in the pattern of flames falling down his back and chest like wings.

He didn't look toward Lewis as he approached, transfixed on the sky ahead of him with a faint, almost disbelieving smile.

Rightfully so, too: there were more stars tangled up in the web of their galaxies visible here than a great many places on Earth, though there were many familiar constellations to be seen. The sand and the sky were so alike in color that one appeared to fall into the other, heedless of the directions of up or down as light reflected across whatever this 'sand' truly was.

"'S been a long time since I could think here without it hurtin'. Felt like tonight was good as any ta visit, but cor, if I'd not forgotten how pretty it all is-was."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"What is this place?" asked Lewis with awe in his voice. The closest comparison he had was a black sand beach in Hawaii on a clear night, but it didn't hold a candle to the vista before them.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"'S the desert where my people are from! The whole thing was once a giant volcano, though I cannae recall a single book that ever said what happened to it. Point being, all o' tha's obsidian, see? Behind us is part o' where the Achuaphic live."

"Jensvant’vhirka. 'The great sky beneath us.'"

He turned to face Lewis then, stretching out his arms as he would wings, grinning sharp teeth broadly.

"A delightful place ta get lost in! 'Course, 's hard ta get lost at all, here, but neither here, there or elsewhere, eh?"

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"Truly."

The desert environment did much to explain Char's coloring to Lewis.

"Did your people trade in obsidian, then?" he wondered aloud.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Among other things, yup! Had the ah, exotic spices trade covered as well. Harshness tendin' ta interestin' variety, an' all tha'."

He hopped into the air, crossing his legs to land seated on the ground with a small plume of finely ground dust and another smile.

"Ain't a terribly kind place ta live, but fiercely beautiful. Fancy a sit?"

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"I do," replied Lewis. He promptly joined Charricthran; the sand was pleasantly soft.

Weir placed the bottle between them and opened it.

"Fancy a drink?"

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"After you, sure, I could swing it."

He leaned back on his hands and stared at a sky that blurred at the edges when he moved too quickly, his smile never quite leaving his face.

"Glad ya could join me, Weirmrith."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"Likewise, Naldsu'Welun," returned Lewis. He opened the bottle and took a sip...then another, followed by a long swig.

"That," he said, passing it to Charricthran, "is a right proper drink."

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Glad ya approve!"

He took a small drink of his own, then shook his head as he fought instinct to assert memory overtop of it, as he always had to when eating or drinking nowadays.

It wasn't as difficult as it'd once been, thankfully.

He offered the bottle back to Lewis with a look of pleasant surprise only half kept in check.

"How've ya been holdin' up of late?"

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago • edited

"A damn sight better than last year," Weir asserted. "This autumn was mercifully uneventful, in marked contrast to last year's business with Moriarty. I'll take it," he said with a laugh. "I stayed in for Halloween, too--none o' that insanity that was the Society last, thanks." A smile. "I may just make a tradition of it."

He turned to Charricthran.

"How've you fared of late, by the by? I know it was a bit of a rough go after that whole Blizgulis affair, to say the least. Did the autumn at least treat you kindly?"

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Much the same's you, I'l wager. Spent Halloween-slash-birthsmas on my own- Richard stayed at the Society for some unknown and peculiar reason, said he met a funny sort named George or sommat. Got a funny read off o' him, but tha's about it for strangeness."

He chuckled and shook his head.

"I could do with more autumns like tha', really. 'Specially after Blizgulis."

He narrowed his eyes, baring his teeth with a fierce snarl, eyes flickering between red, white-blue, and black all in the span of a few moments.

"And Irsluna."

Quick as the snarl had appeared, everything settled once more, and his smile was back as if nothing had happened.

"Calm autumn's a tradition I could definitely get used ta, yup!"

He laughed at that, having lost the cawing cries that usually accompanied the sound for the time being. He shook his head too, both because he know d*mn well that such a reoccurance was unlikely, and because he wanted to chase the trails the stars left behind with the motion.

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"I did manage to cobble together a fae-slaying gun, if you're interested," Weir offered. "Just in case next autumn is...not so calm."

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Charricthran looked very taken aback, very quickly. This was only emphasized when his ears, (which, aside from being slightly pointed, appeared to be quite 'normal') quickly flattened downwards as his smile wobbled and his eyes grew watery.

"Ah, yeah. Color me interested, decidedly."

He wiped his eyes with the back of his hand quickly and ducked his head away, chuckling softly. His ears twitched as if he were trying to move them, but he seemed to be having little luck on that regard.

His hand found the back of his neck after that, and he ran his fingers through his hair.

"Kind o' ya- caught me off guard."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"We can drop by my place after this, then, if you like." A smile slipped onto his face. "I'm afraid I've ruined the surprise, but it is wrapped all the same."

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"'S jus' as well- surprises an' I don' often mix. 'Surprise, here's a gun!' would go poorly in most circumstances anyhow, see?"

He chuckled, sincerely this time, and that was enough to clear his features properly.

"Mind if I've another drink?"

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

Weir gave a little laugh at the hypothetical situation Charricthran imagined.

"A point well taken."

When Char requested the drink, Lewis answered, "Not in the least. Help yourself."

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Charricthran grinned, then promptly downed a decent-sized swing. He set the bottle down between them when he was done and sighed, steam trailing from his nose even though it was far from cold.

"Here's ta hopin' for a peaceful, happier new year, eh? Still a bit o' this one ta go, but I'm resolvin' for it now."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

Weir briefly quirked an eyebrow at the steam, but his attention was soon diverted by Charricthran's words.

"I'll drink to that," seconded Lewis. He held the bottle up in the fashion of a toast, took a swig, and handed it to Char.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Charricthran likewise took a drink after toasting with the bottle, then set it down between them.

Once again, as he exhaled, steam trailed from his nose. This time, however, he commented on the fact as it coiled through the air like a thin snake.

"Used to be whenever I drank, I had ta be careful when I breathed out, 'cos somethin' somethin' alcohol mixin' with the enzymes produced by- well, ain't an English equivalent. Point bein', poison gas'd happen if I breathed outta my mouth, but 's jus' harmless steam out the nose, see?"

He nodded towards the picture of home before them.

"Not usually the first thing on my mind, but I've gotten ta thinkin' I carry home with me now, so it'd be terribly hard ta miss it nowabouts. So, I'm rememberin' a lot more o' what I was like... before 'n after everythin' before my Fall."

He paused, then scowled at the bottle.

"Looks like I'm a chatty sort this time zozzled. Grand o' me."

He shook his head and lost himself for a moment, following star-trails by accident now. When they settled, he did so likewise with a smile.

"Don' lemme drown ya out if ya fancy haverin', hm? I tend ta talk a lotta 'bout everythin' an' nothin'."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"Not to worry; I don't mind in the slightest," replied Lewis with a good-natured grin. "Haver away.

"By the by, is that a facet of your species, or just yours--the alcohol and enzymes aspect you mentioned?" he wondered.

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"My species, for a fact. Each o' the Darastriejir have biology unique to their environment and aspect. We Valignacal'sjach get the shadows an' poisons o' Wer Jensvant’vhirka, meanin' we're all 'ambush your food an' poison it ta the Nine Hells so's nothin' else can eat it first."

He paused, then laughed again.

"I had four stomachs, several specialized glands, an' a liver bigger'n my lungs for a reason, see? Forget Persephone bein' trapped- eat ye from the desert an' perish. 'S why despite our small numbers, most o' us never saw battle till we moved ta human or Vaecaesintor- our version of... elves, I think- cities: any invadin' army'd quickly perish 'tween environment an' inhabitants."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

Weir nodded as he took in the information.

"I notice you used the past tense, there--regarding your physiology. What is it you have now, if you don't mind my asking?"

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

Charricthran paused, the gears almost visibly turning in his mind as he sought the words to answer Lewis' question.

Much like the rest of him, they tended to flee like smoke if he thought about it too hard. As such, he was quiet for several long moments before he spoke, more thoughtfully than he usually tended towards.

"Think I told ya in part how this form works, yeah? Memory an' necessity shape it as it likes, meanin' if I ain't thinkin' terribly much, I've got nothin' but what I know I look like, want ta look like, or looked like once or twice ago. Right now I've a sight more 'n I usually do in order ta at least pretend at drinkin', tastin', et cetera- 's the closest I usually get ta havin' a body."

He shrugged. "Technically I think I still have everythin', 's jus' bubblin' under the soup of my caustic essence. Dunno why the poison-tar stuff stuck around when everything else... disintegrated."

Red eyes glittered in the starlight with more amusement than anything, the sort that came from the distance of hindsight.

"Could be everything jus' merged ta soup when I Fell. Memory an' willpower are a jello mould for it, thinkin' too hard's heat, panic is a lovely refrigerator. Makes as much sense as any metaphor I can think of."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"Ah. That would explain the seemingly physical changes that come with Wer'Vemud," extrapolated Lewis.

"All of this, I take it, is an aftereffect of magic, yes? The ability to have something to put in the mold, I mean."

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago • edited

"Yup. 'S why the whole business o' the Fae was tricky- well, not wholly everythin', but part. They recognized... not what I am, but are one o' the few sorts with enough magic ta realize sometimes the best course o' action is ta bind whatever you're tryin' ta... kill ta an 'anti magic field', 's best I can call it- that barrier an' circle ya broke."

"Inherent paradox 'tween my being an' the will o' the circle meant fightin' ta pretend I was.. 'human' enough ta be solid an' whole, 'cept I wasn't, so. Throw in all the bright light, an' 'twere a rough go. Wer'Vemud is closer ta what I'd look like if I were still in a physical body, what with the whole absorption thing I do."

He took the bottle and, after a moment of consideration, downed another swallow before setting it back with a mischievous gleam in his eye.

"Tha's not typical o' my lot, a'fore ya ask."

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"So...your being in that circle was the magical equivalent of putting a typical human in a room without oxygen?" analogized Lewis.

"Also...by 'absorption', do you refer to what took place with Torke?"

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Yes ta an extent, an' yes. His tree's somewhere at far edge o' the Achk'niarhaanin behind us." He said with a wave in the proper direction.

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

"I see. Have you ever had a problem with...how shall I put this...'regurgitation' of those so absorbed, if you'll forgive my indelicacy?"

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

"Caused my home universe ta implode when it started dying 'cos all its gods jumped ship ta me an' T-"

The name caught in his throat. He pressed three fingers against his lips for half s minute before continuing.

"Ta me an' the little danthe. She's the one who gave me tha' power by mistake. Her father gave it ta her on purpose, making her a self-improving weapon."

He closed his eyes and snarled, the sound like teeth grinding in his throat.

"Would that her daskic had let me have a hand in killin' the b*stard too."

He shook his head and kept his eyes on Lewis rather than the stars this time, lopsided grin doing its best to reassure.

"All fair, it was more the fact we were tryin' ta keep them outta us as we left. Didnae exactly work- some o' em are runnin' bout as Amuulzhaanir now. The rest I took upon myself to erase em completely. Point bein', nowadays I could do worse, so I try not ta make a habit of taking in anythin' I know I cannae handle. Torke was an exception based on a promise."

He leaned back on his hands further, talon-like nails digging into the sand.

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Jekyll1886  Tairais • 8 months ago

Lewis was silent for a moment; Charricthran's revelations were no small thing to take in.

"Are you saying you're several gods, then--via absorption?" he asked quietly. "Or is it more simply that you've taken their power?"

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Tairais  Jekyll1886 • 8 months ago

His expression softened into tenderness, wry grin returning like candleflame.

"'S like you always say, Weirmrith: I'm always me."

He then dipped his head and elaborated.

"For the most part, I've taken their power an'... 'spose ya could say I erased 'em from time as punishment. Few o' em were good an' kind sorts, so they're in The Other as themselves, on the edges o' The Shifting Paths, closer ta the Well o' Stars 'n wha's left o' their homes.

"Few o' them were too dangerous ta my sense o' self for one reason or another, so they're in The Other as the Amuulzhaanir. 'S as safe as I can make 'em. They hunt, Wer'Vemud keeps 'em in line when I'm out."

"Insofar 's possible, I'm myself. The other alternative ain't wrong, though- The Other's... complicated. My realm 'cos it was originally the reservoir for my magic, so it's part o' me, but the collapse o' home an' my an' the little danthe each taking half by mistake means it's more space than I can ever really fill, an' it grows with every universe I visit, see? Plenty o' room within me for others, so long's they ain't too loud."

He shrugged. "I dunno how better ta explain it than tha', short o' sharin' the experience with your mind, which I'd advise 'gainst 'less ya really fancy a trip."

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Tairais • 8 months ago

(( chatterghosts Ding dong merrily on high, Elias gets an arm now ))

The pattern on the otherwise plain paper wrapping the box was a product born of contemplation--he hadn't intended for all those loops and swirls to create galaxies, they'd simply... happened by impulse.

The ring on the arm was a similar product; Richard had made it quite some time ago, shortly after he'd received a sort of absolution from Elias. He hadn't intended to give it this Christmas--truthfully, he'd not intended to give it any time soon.

And yet, he'd already wrapped the box holding both. He was holding it, even, standing outside Elias' room as he did his best impression of a statue. Setting it down was the next step, followed by walking away, or-

-Or he could knock on the door and, for once, take a more direct path of action.

The thought was oddly tempting, half-understood objectively. Besides, it would be best if he were there to assist with the initial fitting, no? He remembered the difficulty he'd had when putting his arms on for the first time, after all. Additionally, it could be that Elias wouldn't notice it, either.

Perhaps.

...

He knocked on the door and prayed that he wasn't about to make an absolute fool of himself.

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 8 months ago

(( OWO....... ))

The knock was met in a matter of seconds, Elias’ face peering out of the doorway. When he looked upon Richard, he flashed a wide smile bred of affection and kindness. “Good morning, Richard. Merry Christmas.” His left hand moved to smooth over Richard’s shoulder, briefly gliding the curve of his cheeks before resting at his collar.

His gaze fell to the galaxy-patterned box, eyes widening and crinkling at the corners with warmth. “Oh, you d- wh—I... suppose I should have anticipated that,” he chuckled. His hand left Richard’s shoulder to open the door fully. “I’ve got something for you too, however. Please, come in.”

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

A unique glow that he suspected he'd never grow used to curled through his heart and bloomed warmth into a smile of his own.

"A merry Christmas to you as well, Elias," he said as he entered the room, ducking his head slightly.

The air felt lighter than it had in a long time. It was a decidedly lovely thing.

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 8 months ago

The air was light indeed, and almost literally — aside from standard lighting, the room bore the glow of assorted candlelights. There was evan a small mistletoe shrub strung in one of the corners of the room.

Even with his attempt at seasonal decoration, Elias appeared embarrassed. “The, ah, Christmas spirit in me is perhaps not the... greatest... but I tried making my room a bit more appropriate for the season.” As he said this, he tossed a hand towel over something on his desk, moving all the while to sit on his bed. He patted the space aside him with a smile. “Would you sit?”

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

Richard did so gracefully, half-perched as if he were afraid of intruding on Elias' personal space, but doing a rather good job of pretending otherwise.

Which he was, but he was hardly about to say as such.

He shifted the package to one hand and hesitantly patted Elias on the shoulder with the other, offering a faint smile.

"You did more than I, and I am of the mind that it looks lovely. I am feeling decidedly more festive than I was a moment before," he said as his smile grew more crooked and his tone of voice likewise to match.

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 8 months ago

Elias couldn’t help the laugh that emerged from him, though it waned on its own accord at Richard’s touch. “You’re very kind.”

He cleared his throat after a moment. “I suppose since yours is already wrapped, we should see it first.” Though he spoke with a plain and nonchalant sort of air, there was an undeniable sense of gratitude and even joy — try as he might to hide it, he was genuinely interested in whatever Richard was going to offer him.

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

"Oh, very well, if you insist," he said with a mock-solemn nod.

He gently handed the box over to Elias with an amused huff, an excited gleam of his own in his good eye. He quickly cast his mind over the small list of tools he'd managed to sneak into his pockets, on the chance he'd forgotten something potentially necessary.

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chatterghosts  Tairais • 8 months ago • edited

Elias opened the star-patterned paper with expert delicacy, smoothing his fingers along the edges to seek a catch and peeling back with care.

The glimmer of copper became more apparent as he did so, folding the remaining paper back with a shuddering gasp. “Oh, Richard...”

His hands smoothed over the curvature of the arm, eyes wide with admiration. “It’s beautiful, I—“

His words and his heart came to a sputtering stop as he saw the ring resting on the prosthetic’s finger.

As if to ask what it meant, Elias lifted his gaze to Richard, the unspoken question waiting there in his eyes, eyes that shined with tears he’d yet to express.

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Tairais  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

Richard watched with the avid attention of someone trying and failing not to look involved.

When Elias looked to him with tears in his eyes, he gave a smile that was very wobbly, very crooked, and very rare in terms of sheer honesty.

This yawning pit of uncertainty swallowed his stomach. It was a singularly unnerving event.

Then again, Elias was a singularity unto his own right. He thought this somewhere distant, as he shrank down and ducked his head, shoulders to his ears as he glanced away.

"A gesture born of impulse, but one I hope is recieved well? I, ah.. it would be nothing official, however-"

Here, he forced himself to meet Elias' eyes, even if only halfway. His own glittered with something like half-shuttered hope, candlelight gently shielded by hands guarded by instinct.

"-I would prefer to stay at no place more than by your side for the rest of my days, even if unofficial to all but we two and those who care to recognize it."

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Pyrogue • 8 months ago

((Anyone up for a Christmas RP with Oscar?))

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Tairais  Pyrogue • 8 months ago

(( I feel like Oscar might not appreciate Charricthran 'told you off' Kothar dropping in, but you're welcome to have Oscar bump into either Richard or him if you like o/ ))

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Pyrogue  Tairais • 8 months ago

(( I don’t mind :)

Whichever you think. ))

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Tairais  Pyrogue • 8 months ago

(( When in doubt, throw both of em at people! ))

Charricthran wasn't the sort to do a spot of Christmas shopping. Crowds, dealing with money, and worse, dealing with opinions and having to put the effort into appearing... 'presentable'?

Nup. No thanks. Non, grazie. He had plenty of other things to do with his time.

But naturally, Richard wanted to prepare a Christmas dinner for the both of them. And, naturally, given that he'd not ever told the kid he didn't eat much (didn't eat, period), he'd allowed himself to get swept up in the sheer holiday cheer that he was exuding.

It was funny how Richard wasn't the sort to decorate, but would go all-out with food preparation at the drop of the hat, meaning he'd lost the kid within two minutes of wandering down a shop-crammed street.

His green eyes itched as they scanned the crowd, looking for Richard's familiar, exceedingly tall form against cobblestones and storefronts.

(Seriously, though- he was already a bit taller than the average himself. Richard towered over most folks by almost half a meter at least.)

He eventually saw Richard, though not before also seeing a faintly familiar figure, which he called out to first.

"Oscar? 'S tha' you?"

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Pyrogue  Tairais • 8 months ago

Oscar looked up to see the familiar face of Charricthran across the street. “Hello!”

He began to make his way through the crowd toward the voice.

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Tairais  Pyrogue • 8 months ago

Richard also turned at hearing Charricthran call out. He looked over to where Oscar was making his way through the crowd, then did likewise with a faint look of recognition gleaming in his eye.

Charricthran gave a cheerful, if surprised smile and a small wave as the two of them approached.

"Small world, eh? Didnae 'spect seein' you out and about- doin' a spot o' shoppin' for the holidays?"

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Pyrogue  Tairais • 8 months ago

Oscar smiled. “I’m just looking for ingredients for Christmas food at the Society. Not exactly lunch, since nobody ever shares the same sleeping schedule, but... some sort of meal. Good to see you here!”

He held in his hands some jars of various spices and seasonings.

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Tairais  Pyrogue • 8 months ago

Richard chose that moment to melt out of the crowd with a charming smile, holding up a basket of his own.

"Coincidentally, so are we!"

"Ya beat me to it, Ricky-boy!"

Smiles turned to playful scowls.

"Must you continue calling me that in public?"

"'Course!"

Charricthran's snickers only just muffled Richard's heavy sigh.

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Pyrogue  Tairais • 8 months ago

“Oh! What are you planning on making?”

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Tairais  Pyrogue • 8 months ago

This time, Charricthran rolled his eyes, though he did so fondly instead of with exasperation.

Richard spoke, unaware of the gesture, but clearly cheerful to be speaking about cuisine.

"Pappardelle alla Lepre, a Tuscan dish. Rabbit, braised in red wine and certain types of aromatics. I suppose you might call it a comfort food of sorts to myself, hence why I thought to make it for Christmas."

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A Passerby • 8 months ago • edited

[My apologies, this dance of ours was almost lost to the sea, and for that, I am sorry. Will you still partner with me?]

chatterghosts:

With sweeping movement, Elias opened the door for George and saw him out, then moving to walk alongside him down the street.

There was a moment of comfortable silence before he asked, “Your bookshop... have you had it long?”

George gave at thoughtful hum at the query, grateful for a conversation to distract from the ominous surroundings.

“I suppose that depends very much on your definition of ‘long’—Is seven years a significant enough time?”

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chatterghosts  A Passerby • 8 months ago

(( You’ve no need to apologize! I would love to. ))

“I’ve no frame of reference for business years, given I’ve never had one,” Elias mused with a laugh. “That is significant, though. I hope you’ll forgive the curiosity, I’m merely trying to make conversation... family business, or-?”

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A Passerby  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

"Personal, is the category I believe it'd fall under," He replied, going onto explain. "You see, the day I came into possession of it was the day it began."

A fond smile crept its way onto his lips.

"Built her up from the ground, I did."

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chatterghosts  A Passerby • 8 months ago

“That’s endearing indeed. An entire business... that’s quite an achievement, on one’s own.

“Any particular book genre?”

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A Passerby  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

“Ah, it was no great feat, but I am quite proud of her nonetheless,” He said, waving away his compliments with a self-conscious smile.

“I provide any sort of book I can get my hands on. The shop isn’t the biggest, so I try to make up for the smaller stock with plenty of variety.”

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chatterghosts  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Elias nodded, expression thoughtful and distant. “That seems wise. Tending to a business like that, is it hard work?”

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A Passerby  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

He cocked his head to the side.

“I suppose it can be, from time to time. You have to be ever vigilant of what books are available and what are not, and how the prices are shifting with them, but....”

“It is satisfying to me. I wouldn’t take any other job, even if offered the salary of a king.”

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chatterghosts  A Passerby • 8 months ago

“That’s awfully noble of you.”

Elias turned a corner, chuckling.

“Not giving up the work for anything like that, I mean. I don’t think I could do that.”

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A Passerby  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

“Oh, I don’t know about noble,” He said, raising a hand to wave the compliment away, “I simply enjoy what I do. It would take— and I do pray it’ll never come to this—bankruptcy to stop me from dealing in the book business.”

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A Passerby • 8 months ago

[I don't suppose you'd care to continue, ?]

Mz.Hyde:

Oh I see! Do you know who this gentleman was or what they looked like?

George:

“Dr. Richard Prince was their name,” He answered, beginning to appear a touch overwhelmed by all the questions, “He’s a rather tall fellow with red hair.”

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Oh Richard! He's always getting into some sort of mischief with supernatural implications!

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A Passerby  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"I-Is that so?" George managed to respond, swallowing audibly, "H-He seemed perfectly ordinary to me, when I'd met him before—a-and I mean that in the most complimentary way possible!"

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

It's nothing wierd here. We ALL get into some crazy shit here every now and again!

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A Passerby  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"A-Ah, I-I see..."

He had to stop and place his hand against a wall, leaning his weight rather heavily on that arm.

"W-What... W-What might Richard have done that is s-so... insane?"

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Define insane.

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A Passerby  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"W-Well, y-you claimed t-those here get into some, ah—" A swallow. "—crazy t-things, and that D-Dr. Prince has committed s-some form of mischief with the dark arts..." His tone shuddered with disbelief as his free hand found its way to his temple. "...I-I simply wish to know what it is that Richard has done to 'always be up to mischief with... supernatural implications', as you said..."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Oh,I'm not quite sure about SPECIFICS, dear! I mean he's got robot arms and legs, so he had to lose them SOMEhow! Maybe they got eaten by a sea monster! Or a bunch of cannibals sawed them off! Or maybe it was deer!

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A Passerby  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

“Oh God.” The words came out in a sudden exhale, and he sounded as if he’d be sick.

He struggled for a moment to regain his composure, reaching a hand into his pocket and pulling out a brown handkerchief, which he used to wipe his face.

“Y-You... Don’t actually k-know if he’s d-done anything supernatural, t-then?” asked George when he felt a little steadier, “You d-don’t have any proof of it?”

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Nope!

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A Passerby  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

He exhaled sharply, the sound trapped somewhere between relief and anxiety.

“T-Then everything you’ve s-said about him isn’t t-true...?”

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

I never said it WAS or was NOT true! You'll have to find that out on your own!

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A Passerby  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

"Y-You..." A breath. "...cannot confess that you have no proof, and yet still claim your words contain the truth, Mz. Hyde." He frowned. "Either you are telling the truth and can prove it as such, or you're telling lies about a gentleman I found to be quite charming, which is exceptionally rude of you."

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

No Mr. George. I'm just saying I don't know.

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A Passerby  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

“You are making assumptions about how a man lost his limbs ands are presenting these wild theories as if there’s even some shred of proof for them, which you do not possess.”

He shook his head, seeming to shake off the last of his nerves.

“You should not joke about such things, Mz. Hyde, especially not as the employee meant to care for these people. It is not fair to Dr. Prince to have such gossip spread.”

A pause.

“And, it’s Mr. Handson.”

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Well, why don't you just go ask Dr. Prince how he lost his limbs, Mr. George Handson?

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A Passerby  Mz.Hyde • 8 months ago

“Because doing so would be exceedingly rude”

“One should not pry into the lives of others, especially with matters so tragic as the loss of a limb. If he ever feels comfortable enough to share with me the story of it, he will, but until then, I refuse to cause the man torment by bringing up the matter.”

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Mz.Hyde Mod  A Passerby • 8 months ago

Alright then.

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chatterghosts • 8 months ago

(( Helen Jekyll: ”Well, is there anyone in particular you'd like to get to know?"

Hela set Deilos' cup and saucer in front of him, pouring him some tea as continued speaking to Cirol.

"They're usually all pretty good with people, but if they're not in the mood for socializing, I don't like to force them."

Though subtle, there was a warning edge to her tone that made it clear that should he try and pressure her companions into doing anything, he would regret it. ))

If Cirol took any notice of the cautionary tone in her voice, he didn't let onto it -- instead, he gazed around the room, a curious shine in his eyes. When he came to look upon the mechanical fox, his eyes widened just so. "What about... Aurora, isn't it?"

(( Helen Jekyll ))

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Helen Jekyll  chatterghosts • 8 months ago

"Hmm... I think she's a bit more picky, sorta like Lepus is," Hela answered, tilting her head at the fox, "You have to earn the right to hold her and such, and her standards are rather high, I think."

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chatterghosts  Helen Jekyll • 8 months ago

Cirol gave a thoughtful hum, leaning forward toward Aurora just so with a (notably calmer) smile. “Hello there, little one!”

Deilos was still playing with Lepus in silence, though his gaze drifted toward Cirol and Hela ever so often.

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Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago • edited

* A figure sits alone drawing and crossing all the drawings out again. Suddenly, a girl dressed in the clothes of another century walks in.*

"Wizzy, you're getting far too hung up on this."

((You came?))

"Of course I did. What else are alter egos for? Listen, why are you trying to guess everything? If you haven't enough data, you haven't enough data. Finish drawing the portrait and, if the star-person says it can't use it, draw another."

((I don't want to spoil the effect.))

"...Effect? You're always talking about effects and stories. This isn't a story. And if it is" - *she shivers, ignores the shiver* - "you're not writing it, you're talking to the star-person. The worst that can happen is it doesn't answer."

((It's all right for you - you don't have to worry about your replies sounding right, you're a character, not a writer.))

"...No, I don't. ...Don't worry, Snowman. Just draw. Leave the rest to me."

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Wizardblizzard  Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

@5374617264757374

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Wizardblizzard • 8 months ago

((hello everyone, anyone want to mess about? do not be fooled by eloquence of this posting, you don't have to live up to it, because I'm not going to.

welcome to be separate threads or all of you at once.))

The days after Christmas were always their own special kind of nice, at least in Isabella's mind. A time to laze about in front of the fire, among the chaos of tinsel and Christmas cards, play with, read or eat your presents, call on friends and try not to eat too many of their presents.

There was one set of friends that Isabella couldn't believe how long it had been since she had called on. Accordingly, one day an enormous box of mixed biscuits appeared on a table in the Society's library, the label reading To everyone, from Isabella. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.

Nearby, the lady herself sat curled up with a book, waiting to see who came by, wondering who was around these days, and, incidentally, if it would be allowable to swipe a biscuit without waiting for anyone to arrive.

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