[Mayhaps because his thoughts went straight to violent rebellion but.] That could be very useful in the long run. Not to mention it could potentially lesson the distress of new arrivals if done right.
I thought so, given how enthusiastic you were during your discussion on Clarke's post.
[ yeah she sees u buddy. ]
That's my intention, yes. I'm also looking into the compliance drug; pending on when we'll be able to contact Henries, ideally, I'll eventually be able to create an antidote for future new arrivals. Since my technological knowledge is rather limited at the moment, this will take some time, but I hope the new arrivals may give me some insight. For now, having a consistent presence and being able to give them a grasp of their situation before arriving at the safe house would at least mitigate some of the tension.
You gave this much thought. Not that I had any doubt you would. [She seems like the type of person who is miles ahead when you've only just taken a step. A valuable ally to be sure. But he's sleeping with one eye open for now.] I agree to this, then.
We all have our ways of dealing with situations such as getting taken from our homes, drugged to compliance, and then locked in a safe house. Some of us have passionate discussions over the network, some of us throw ourselves into work.
But, thank you. There's a few others I need to reach out to, but you will hear from me again shortly.
[Sadly, he has no idea what an "arcade" is and therefore doesn't actually understand what's going to happen.]
I will arrive shortly.
[While Fenris has no idea what he's looking for Wade is right in that he definitely can't miss it. It's bright — which is saying something considering this entire city. But he gets there, shoeless as always, dressed in blacks despite the heat, carefully watching everyone who goes in and out of the place.]
[It won't take long for Fenris to catch sight of Wade. Dressed in a dark red pullover with black accents, leaning against the side of the building like every bad boy in an 80s movie, Wade grins when he sees Fenris walking up the street towards him.]
Hey! I didn't think you were actually gonna show up. Ready for me to wreck your ass?
[When Fenris spots Wade and makes his way over he still does so with the caution of a stray alley cat. Despite why he's here, there's no reason he shouldn't still be careful. Though, a lot of things are going through his mind now that he hadn't considered, making the logistics of everything much more confusing—]
What? [Pulled out of his thoughts, Fenris' brows furrow and his lips pull back into a rather grouchy frown.] You're assuming an awful lot.
[Fenris scoffs — is he taking offense? Maybe just a little. His arms cross over his chest as if to make himself appear larger, like that will somehow make Wade stop underestimating him!]
[Fourth...or fifth round. He's not sure he'll go that far — not because he can't — but because of an issue he's remembering now that they're getting ready to do this. That awful "empathy bond" as they call it.
He's about ready to interject the bravado and ask how he...gets around that when Wade is gesturing inside the loud, obnoxiously brightly lit building with all the strange colors pulsing and flashing about.
Yeah in there. Kinda the whole point of this little get-together, know what I mean? Unless you're scared you're gonna cry when I spank you in front of all these people.
[The gauntlet thrown down, Wade grins an altogether impishly provoking grin, turns on his heel and disappears into the arcade.]
[Luckily by the time Fenris flushes with indignation Wade is already heading into the arcade. The gall of this fool. He has half a mind to turn on his own heel and leave. And yet he's pissed enough by a sense of damaged pride and offense to follow Wade into the arcade.
When he enters his feet flex, feeling the vibrations of the loud and upbeat music (is that what you even call this noise) and the people all around...mostly...young people. When he catches up with Wade again he's completely baffled.]
In any case, Wade is not listening. Wade is, in fact, maneuvering around the crowds and corners like a bloodhound that’s just caught the scent, looking strangely at home surrounded by the various machines with flashing lights and the various cacophony of chimes and beeps. It's almost as if he expects Fenris to keep pace behind him.
He eventually slows to a stop as a trio of machines come into view, set at angles against the wall with numbered rings set into the inclines. Wade bends down and reaches into a chamber at the base of one of the machines, bringing out a small spherical object. He grins at Fenris's approach.]
Oh, man... so glad they've still got Skee-Ball in this world, you have no idea.
Fenris gears himself up to speak again, being careful to avoid brushing up against anyone and doing a good job of it. While for Wade it's from a sense of familiarity, for Fenris it's from decades of skillfully maneuvering around people to avoid as much physical contact as possible.
Once they make it to the machines Fenris' confusion goes from an angry one to just...regular confusion. He stares at the row of machines and the numbered rings, then the ball in Wade's hands, then back to the machines which appear to have holes in them. Some balls...into some holes....]
Oh.
[Oh.
Fenris' features scrunch up as he glares at Wade, his ears twitching in irritation before flattening in embarrassment.]
You could stand to be more clear next time! I thought—
[—No. No, he's definitely not going to say that.]
...that you were talking about a different game. I haven't a clue what this is.
[For the first time Fenris seems a bit smaller, even if only by a fraction. It doesn't help that his confusion only grows instead of dissipates — did Wade ask him here to play a gods damned game? Why???]
[Fortunately for Fenris, Wade doesn't seem to catch on that he's having a sudden realization of what this little get-together really entails. His grin is as unwavering and cocksure as ever, and he tosses the skee-ball lightly in one hand as he approaches the other man again.]
Don't worry, I'll teach ya the basics. Don't wanna unfairly beat your ass at this, right? It'd be like challenging my grandma to a judo fight. Which I don't recommend by the way-- she utterly wrecked my shit.
[He tosses the ball in the air again, making sure that Fenris's gaze is upon it before he continues.]
Now, you're gonna wanna toss this ball-- [here he points to rings]-- hard enough to make it in one of those little holes in there. The bigger rings are the easiest and give you the least amount of points, the smaller ones are harder to hit but give you the most points. 'Specially that one right there.
[He points to the rings on the top corners with the numbers "100" emblazoned on them.]
[It's fortunate for him that people here don't seem that used to elves, so he likely doesn't need to worry so much that his ears are the only thing betraying his embarrassment as they remain flat against his head. Though that doesn't stop him from forcefully willing them back to their previous position, which works well enough.
He doesn't exactly catch every word Wade says as he's still taken aback by confusion and mortification, but he gets the gist of it. Balls in holes, right, he won't be forgetting that one any time soon. And while numbers are absolutely foreign to him the ring formation and Wade's explanation are enough for him to understand.
Well, he's here. And at the end of the day this is still a time waster and he still needs to see if he can remember anything from being around Wade.]
I believe I understand.
[He holds out his hand for the ball — he wants to go first, thank you very much.]
[Eager to show off, is he? Wade grins in response, tossing the ball gently in the air so that Fenris can easily catch it-- he'd always meant for him to go first anyway, as a general courtesy.]
By all means... go right ahead, pal. Show me your stuff.
[He takes a few steps back, watching Fenris with no shortage of glee. Is he gonna play it safe and lob it underhand or try to go for the straight fastball and try to get it into the hole with the most points? Either way, this is gonna be fun to watch.]
[Fenris catches the ball, immediately tosses it up once or twice to get a feel for the weight of it, giving the skeeball a critical stare. Sure, it's a game, but Fenris has a competitive streak and doesn't like to do things half assed.
He doesn't eye the highest scoring hole. He's new to the game so instead, while aiming high, he sets up a line of sight for the forty mark just as he's getting a feel for the game. His fingers curl around the ball, testing how tightly he can hold it before the markings on his palm become too irritated
Maybe he should have considered the fact that he's playing a game, and that maybe he should be careful throwing with the very arms that weird greatswords daily, that hold his entire body up when he's being tossed cliffside, with hands that have squeezed the life out of many. But no, instead he readies himself and throws with the strength of someone throwing for their life. The ball indeed makes it into the forty hole with a loud thump, but in its force it immediately bounces back out, hits the plastic ceiling above, and rooooolls back down the ramp...]
[Wade figured what Fenris was up to before he even let the ball fly-- the position of his legs and the determination on his face gave him away. Doesn't make it any less funny to see him utterly whip the ball into the hole with all the speed and force of a freight train. Wade's voice is strained in an attempt to hold back his laughter.]
...Might wanna go a little softer next time, Roger Clemens. You're not lookin' to break any world records here-- it's just a game of Skee-Ball. Look, see?
[He points up at the scoreboard, which is still displaying a big fat goose egg.]
I'd say you won points for scarin' the shit outta the machine, but maybe try to get the ball fully in the hole next time, yeah?
[As his brusque correction indicates, he doesn't understand your references, Wade!!
He glares at the scoreboard as if it has the audacity to not give him any points, before he looks up at Wade and gestures to the infernal machine.]
Go.
[Now determined, he wants the other to take his turn so that he can properly study the apparently correct way to throw the stupid ball in the damned hole and apply that to his own game!
He is fully leaning into that competitiveness now.]
Just a joke, pal. You really need to loosen up a little, y'know?
[Wade saunters over to the machine and plucks up the ball, tossing it up in the air a few times.]
Seriously, that's probably why your game is off-- too much tension in the shoulders, or whatever. Probably good for cuttin' heads offa mooks, but not so much with games like these. Y'need a little less strength and a little more finesse, know what I'm sayin'?
[Wade doesn't give any warning, pivoting back on one foot and tossing the ball at the backboard. It sails perfectly into the 100 point hole, the scoreboard lighting up as it registers Wade's throw. Wade shrugs nonchalantly in response, but there's no mistaking the smug quirk of his lips.]
See? It's all in the wrist. Gotta keep that shit supple. Like the song about the deaf, dumb and blind kid bein' a pinball wizard. Forget what it's called.
Never mind that, yet again, Fenris understands very little of what Wade is actually saying. The one thing he knows is that he's awfully proud of himself, and confident, and it's now up to him to take Wade down a peg. Yes, that's exactly it.
A good throw to be sure, but Fenris is certain he can follow up just as well. So he reaches for a ball and stares down the machine with the concentration of someone about to shoot an apple off of someone's head with a bow.
Naturally, he has to aim for the 100 point hole because he's not about to be shown up here. But this time he approaches it less...aggressively, once again taking his time to line up the shot but throwing with far less force. For a moment the ball looks as if it's going to bounce right back out, but it ends up settling right back in the hole.]
[It comes out of his mouth almost involuntarily, a strangled sound of surprise, his eyes locked on the 100 point marker where Fenris's shot had disappeared into. A fluke, perhaps? Beginner's luck? Or maybe Fenris is just one hell of a fast learner.
Whatever it is, Wade feels his mouth twist upward in a delighted, savage sort of grin. This night definitely just got more interesting. His eyes flick over to Fenris, and he acknowledges his concession with the slightest of nods, sauntering over to grab another ball from the receptacle.]
Expect? Yes. Hope? Hell no.
[With a trained flick of his wrist, Wade sends the next ball sailing into the 100 marker hole.]
[Fenris allows himself to ride on the high of being smug as fuck, though when he catches a glimpse of that grin on Wade's face his gaze grows a little too intense for a friendly game. As if the other were about to engage him in an actual battle right here in the middle of this "arcade".
He watches the ball go right into the 100 marker and the fire in him only burns brighter. He can't settle for anything less.]
Impressive aim.
[Said in a way that's just impressed enough, but not too much, as he strides over to the receptacle and grabs another ball. His last throw wasn't perfect, and therefore could easily miss, so he changes his strategy a bit. Just a tweak so the ball doesn't bounce out of the hole. Though he makes a fatal error and miscalculates the changed force in his throw, causing the ball to instead end up in the 10 mark ring.]
[Wade watches the ball clatter into the 10 mark hole and if anything, his grin grows wider.]
I'm guessin' that's your way of sayin' "oopsie"? 'cause that definitely was a flub there, champ. How 'bout you step aside and watch an expert at work, yeah? You might actually learn something here.
[Unfortunately, the irony gods apparently aren't pleased by Wade's blatant showboating. When he winds up for another perfect throw, the ball seems to catch itself on his fingers during the initial launch, sailing awkwardly into the air towards the 5 point marker. Wade's humiliation isn't even finished there. He stands there, frozen in place, unable to look away as the ball then bounces off the rubber ring around the hole and roll flaccidly into the dumping trench at the bottom of the board. Zero points.]
[Oh, the sweet taste of poetic justice. Watching the ball's anticlimactic journey that ultimately ends up not even reaching the 5 point hole mark after such a display of bravado forces a good chuckle out of Fenris, genuine amusement underneath the smug way his lips curl into a smirk.]
And, if I had to guess, I would believe that is your way of saying..."oopsie"?
[Wade knows he should be annoyed at this. He should be salty at the fact that he was completely cockblocked at his most triumphant moment, and then verbally ground into the dirt by some upstart Lothlórien reject. But somehow, for whatever reason, he can't find himself to be chagrined. Wade feels his own mouth twist upwards in a grin, his voice strained with the effort of keeping himself from laughing-- an attempt that, while valiant, is ultimately futile.]
H-How... pfffahahaha-- How 'bout you stop talkin' and start tossin', fuckface? You can't get points from runnin' yer mouth.
If that were true, I would be at a terrible disadvantage.
[Because you talk too much.
At any rate, the game becomes quite competitive — or maybe it's mostly Fenris, who knows. The points go high, low, then high again, as they each have their mishaps as well as their incredible shots. Eventually, once the game has been going for a while, Fenris has a thought as he checks the scoreboard. It's his turn and he's poised and ready to toss the ball, but instead he turns back to Wade with a quirk of his brow.]
...How do we know when there is a victor to this game?
[Wade's nothing if not competitive himself-- he'll be damned if he's gonna let this pointy-eared upstart block his shine-- but there's a secret part of him that feels he wouldn't feel all that put out if he did lose. Fenris's face remains as neutral as ever to the untrained eye, but there's something different about his demeanor now, a fire in his eyes that wasn't there before. It makes the game much less a power struggle and more of a friendly-- yet still rivalrous-- affair.
Wade's riding high on yet another 100 point sink, and so he doesn't really register Fenris's question until the man stops and looks at him. Flicking his eyes up to the scoreboard, Wade sees the utterly absurd number flash across the screen-- 1130-- seconds before the timer runs out with a cheerful jingle of sound. As he watches the tickets pour out of the receptacle, Wade buries his head in one hand, shoulders shaking with silent laughter.]
[Fenris' gaze falls to the tickets shooting out of the slots as well, then to Wade as he watches the other nearly fall apart. His brows shoot up, attention flickering back to the screen—]
What!
[But he was winning! Wasn't he? The elf heaves a heavy sigh before cradling his head in his hand.]
Isn't this supposed to be a game you're familiar with?
[The judging stare he levels at Wade would probably be harsher if he didn't maybe possible look somewhat kind of amused.]
[Wade's too immersed in the hilarity of the moment to really register Fenris's annoyed disbelief. The irony of such an anticlimactic outcome is just too perfect, like the lead-up to a punchline in a sitcom. When he finally gets control of himself enough to speak again, it's in a voice still choked with laughter.]
It's not my fault! You got all competitive right at the start-- got me too focused on stylin' all over your ass.
[He huffs out another chuckle and shakes his head, shrugging his shoulders.]
Ah, well. Guess we'll just have to call this a draw.
[Fenris scoffs — how dare Wade put the blame on him! Bastard.]
For now.
[He doesn't even catch the implication he puts forth that there's going to be a next time for him to kick Wade's ass. He just knows that he can't let this "draw" stand for long...
One more huff before he gestures at the tickets dangling from the slot.]
[Wade raises his arms in an exaggerated and comical shrug, sporting a grin that would put Alfred E. Newman to shame. He's kind of surprised to find that he's not really all that put out by the outcome-- as fiercely competitive as they both were, it really was the perfect way to end their first real game of Skee-Ball together. The real win, of course, was getting Fenris to drop that dour demeanor, even if only for a moment.
He walks over to the ticket receptacle, tearing them away with a swift jerk of his hand. There's a large amount there, and he nods with approval before making his way over to Fenris.]
These bad boys right here are the real reason we're here. You rack up enough of these, you can trade 'em in for some pretty snazzy prizes.
[Admittedly, Fenris hasn't felt this loose in...a very long time, but it's not as if he's acknowledging it either. Easy to tell himself that he is stubborn and competitive and absolutely could not allow himself to be bested by this silly man.
He regards the tickets, wondering why little pieces of paper would ever earn them prizes, but remembers that nothing about this world makes sense to him anyway and so he won't dwell on it any longer.]
These prizes wouldn't happen to be sharp and deadly, would they?
[Wade's busy sifting the large amounts of tickets through his fingers, silently counting them under his breath. Definitely quite the impressive haul, which he supposes is good enough reward for being a dumbass and forgetting to make it a co-op. He looks up at Fenris's question, his brow furrowed as if giving it some considerable thought.]
Well I mean it might be deadly for, like... a baby, but...
[What a same. He would like some weapons, thank you very much, New Amsterdam. A dart will only get him so far — though he appreciates the fact that he has it, at least.]
So, too dangerous for you to handle, then. Understood.
[Said with a trace of a smirk as he glances about for where they may acquire these "prizes", as if ending the conversation on that little note. As if he could ever control a conversation with Wade, he talks too much.]
[The retort is so unexpected it takes a good few seconds for Wade to process what Fenris has just said, but when it finally registers Wade lets loose with a loud, surprised shout of laughter.]
You motherfucker did you just make a joke at my expense?!
[Don't mistake his offended tone for being genuine, Fenris. He's not-so-secretly delighted.]
[ Something about Wade's horrendously loud bout of laughter tickles at Fenris' funny bone, causing his smirk to strain in an attempt to prevent a dreaded smile from forming. By the time he returns his gaze to Wade he has it mostly under control. And he can't resist the quirk of his brow. ]
[It's like coming upon a fawn in the woods, that smile. A quick hint of something rare and precious and adorable before it slips back into the shadows from whence it came. It causes Wade's already heightened mood to soar ever higher, and he points his finger mock-accusingly at the elf.]
You look like a fuckin' sharpshooter, that's what you look like. I see your game now-- lull people into a false sense of security with your little edgelord act, and then immediately snipe 'em with a laser-accurate joke outta nowhere. You ain't as slick as you think you are, pally.
[Wade flashes him an appreciative grin before turning his direction to the prizes in the display case.]
See anything you like? Got my eye on that ring down there, myself.
[He taps an area of the case, beneath which a small black ring is nestled.]
[ Fenris snorts, making a note to himself to ask Wade what a — what, a lord of edge, is exactly? For now, though, he examines the so-called prizes available to them. A lot of them were downright silly, but he supposes it's expected, seeing as this place seems largely catered towards children. Like Wade.
The ring looks...intriguing? Fenris isn't much for rings, though — the markings on his fingers are especially sensitive.]
Strange.
[ He doesn't say it to anything in particular. There are just so many weird things. The small doll with the crazy hair, the fake mustache — something does inevitably stand out to him, though. A bright blue, glowing tube with a cord weaved through a plastic ring on top. Maybe it's because of the irony, or the fact that it's the only thing here that seems familiar, but he can't help but want it.
[For a second, Wade thinks he's pointing at the troll doll, and is about to eagerly weave up some bullshit about how they're magic totems used to ward off the nightmares of children-- but he deflates a little after noticing what Fenris is actually pointing at.]
The glowstick? Surprised they make those anymore-- they were more of a 90s thing. You used to see 'em being sold in state fairs and carnivals and stuff. I think they still use industrial ones for, like... mining excursions or whatever.
There's some kinda liquid in there that makes it glow-- not really sure how it works. I only know you're not supposed to drink it. N-not from personal experience, of course.
Mining excursions, [ he mumbles thoughtfully, immediately making the connection to the lyrium being carefully mined, lighting up the darkest caves with its luminous glow. There are so many shades of irony to everything Wade just said that it would take way too long to explain — not that he wants to — the pull of familiarity to this novelty item. Not exactly the most positive connotations. Just familiar.
He gives a small nod of his head.]
I want that one. [ He spares Wade a glance. ] No drinking.
I DIDN'T EVEN SAY IT WAS M-- y'know what? Whatever.
[Wade hands the tickets over to the vendor, who ducks briefly behind the counter and reappears with the prizes. Plucking the ring from the vendor's hand, Wade slips the ring on his finger, smiling with delight and satisfaction when the stone set in it immediately turns a deep shade of purple.]
Oh sweet, it does work!
[He briefly looks up from admiring his prize at the glowstick the man is still holding out in his other hand.]
Looks like that comes as a necklace, Fen. That's good-- a lot harder to lose that way.
Fenris peers at the ring turning purple, having to remind himself that it's probably not infused with some kind of magic or curse, before his gaze returns to the glowstick being held out to him, hanging from a leather cord and swinging side to side like a pendulum.
He takes it into his hand and gives it a once-over, turning it over and watching the bubble inside race from one end of the stick to the other. After a moment he wordlessly puts it on. The glow of the blue liquid really does look an awful lot like Lyrium. Except there's something infinitely more comforting about it that he can't quite place. ]
[It does, actually-- that's not just rhetoric. The gentle glow from the necklace lights up Fenris's face in a way that is both ethereal and appealing, causing his hair to glimmer with pretty highlights and adding a rather fetching contrast to his olive skin. Wade suddenly stretches, opening his mouth in a jaw-cracking yawn.]
Man, y'know what? Now that all the fun's over I just realized I'm starving. What say we see if there're any food stalls nearby? My treat.
[ It's hard to tell if the reflective tone in his words was actually sarcasm or not. There's not much chance to reflect on it either way. Fenris also realizes that...he's hungry. That's saying a lot, honestly.
He still pauses before giving his answer. This night ended up way different than he anticipated. ]
[Wade only affords Fenris a quick smile before he's striding off again, mostly to hide the delight he feels at Fenris actually accepting his invitation. He figured that the silver-haired curmudgeon would have filled his social tolerance by now, but apparently the old adage about the way to a man's heart being through his stomach applied to elves as well.
There's a chill in the air as he exits the arcade, though that seems impossible considering the city's under a giant dome. Maybe there was some mechanism designed to simulate weather? Best not to think about it too much-- things are already creepily Matrix-y enough as it is.
He can't hear Fenris's footfalls behind him, but he fights the urge to look back. Don't want to give Fenris the impression that he's needy or anything. A few lefts and a right later, Wade finds himself on a nondescript little street where a lonely food stall has been set up. He grins in relief.]
Good. I was worried this guy might've moved or something. You ever have ramen before, Fen?
[ At the very least, Fenris does indeed stay behind Wade despite the silence of his footfalls. He doesn't feel very comfortable until the crowds of people grow smaller, and he finds himself grateful that the place Wade picks is a lonely food stall.
He doesn't mean to hesitate, but it's an annoying response to a question that took him off guard. Stupid. ]
[Wade finds himself being selfishly disappointed that Fenris has had this experience already, but it's tempered somewhat by morbid curiosity. That's... a rather strong reaction to an innocuous question, after all.]
Bad experience? We can always go somewhere else if you're not into noodles.
[And for a moment, Wade wrestles with the urge to dig further. It seems like there's a story there, one that goes beyond simple dislike for spicy foods. Maybe someone had made him eat fish despite knowing his dislike of them? Douchey thing to do, if that were the case.
Regardless, Wade decides to let it go. No sense in probing for something that might not be important in the long run. He slips onto one of the stools in one fluid motion, indicating with his head that Fenris should follow suit.]
Well, don't worry. I may have wanted you to try gross nutrition cubes once upon a time, but I draw the line at overly spicy things. Getting you to try 'em, I mean. Personally, I'm all for it.
[He turns his head to address the man attending the food stall.]
You hear that, my good man? Get me somethin' that I'll practically have to sign a waiver for.
[ Fenris isn't used to the prodding being let up when he expresses discomfort about a subject. If anything, his discomfort encourages the prodding to persist.
He hesitates a moment, still surprised, before he takes a seat on the next stool. He goes into a deep thought when Wade mentions the "nutrition cubes" again, trying to dredge up...anything.
For some reason, an encampment flashes in his mind. Did Wade say something about that?
He sighs in frustration, completely at odds with what he says when he addresses the man as well. ]
Just give me a plain one.
[ Without thinking, he glances over at Wade, brows furrowed in thought. ]
[Whatever Fenris is considering while looking at Wade, he's definitely getting himself a show on top of it. Even seated at the noodle cart as he is Wade can barely sit still, tapping his fingers on the counter and jiggling his feet against the rungs of the stool. It's almost as if he's moving along to a rhythm only he can hear.
Eventually he cottons onto the fact that Fenris is looking at him. Glancing the elf's way, Wade accidentally meets his gaze and drops his eyes immediately, an embarrassed smile stretching his lips.]
See anything green, pal? You're kinda lookin' at me like I'm on the menu here.
[ This man can never be still, can he? Complete opposite of Fenris, who sometimes appears as a statue. Though, there was a time when he fidgeted nonstop, looking over his shoulder often, so maybe he gets that a little bit.
Realizing he seems to have embarrassed Wade, he looks away and folds his arms over the counter space. ]
No. I seemed to have gotten lost in thought for a moment. Apologies.
[ Sorry, he couldn't let that one slip by. But when Wade speaks again, Fenris glances back over at him, neutral features a touch more intense than they need to be, debating with himself if he wants to answer him or not. ]
You.
[ But he realizes that alone is not a very good answer. ]
[The sheer simplicity of that statement causes Wade to blink in surprise, and it isn't helped by Fenris's elaboration moments later. One hand comes up to awkwardly squeeze the back of his neck as he huffs out an altogether bashful laugh.]
[Wade finds himself cocking his head in genuine puzzlement.]
Well... yeah? I mean, what else was I supposed to do, be a dick about it? Seems like you don't wanna talk about it, so that's the end of that. No sense in bringing the mood down just to satisfy my curiosity, y'know? I keep my cards close to the chest too sometimes.
[He rolls one shoulder in a shrug.]
No big deal. I'll probably have forgotten I asked by the time we're done here.
[ Fenris returns the genuine puzzlement with more genuine puzzlement. ]
Then I've misjudged you.
[ Reminds him of someone, actually. A little bit. Still, different enough that Fenris is still taken aback. He seems content to let the conversation end there, falling into silence, but after a bit he speaks up again. ]
I've always looked at conversation as a potential trap. Watch your step, look over your shoulder, listen for trouble. Say the wrong thing and someone has you backed into a corner.
[That doesn't really surprise Wade. Fenris had always struck him as the type of person to choose his words carefully, to speak as succinctly as possible and not to give anything away. He shrugs again, the most noncommittal response he can think of, but that doesn't seem like enough.]
I'm probably not the guy to talk to about what's normal, but... honestly that sounds like a really sad way to live, from where I'm sitting. I mean, I'm obviously biased-- you know me, no filter. I just say whatever pops into my head, consequences be damned. Have for years. My parents used to say I was vaccinated with a phonograph needle-- uh. A phonograph's a type of, like... machine that plays music, I guess is the best way to put it? And a vaccine is... y'know what? Forget it. Explaining it ruins the joke. Um.
[Mercifully the noodle chef cuts his stumbling diatribe short by serving them their food. Wade utters a tiny breathless "ohthankGOD" before he sweeps up his chopsticks effortlessly and begins stirring his bowl.]
Bon appetit, Fen. This's pretty much the only way to get me to shut my gob at least for a few seconds. Try to enjoy it as much as possible.
[ Despite not knowing what Wade is even saying, Fenris still appears to be paying attention, even as he explains the overly complicated joke. He still doesn't fully get it, but that's fine. The chef sets their bowls in front of them, and Fenris gives a small thanks and a nod. ]
Noted.
[ It's a teasing reply, but there's something that lacks the usual bite. Softer than it is dry. For whatever reason, Wade seems nervous. He's not sure why exactly...something about the turn in this conversation, he supposes.
He picks up his chopsticks, stirring his bowl as he finally lets his gaze shift from Wade to his food. Fenris gives Wade mercy by shifting the subject back to the food, though he has filed away some mental notes in his head. ]
...This is better than whatever it was I ate before.
[ As the chef returns to what he was doing before, he mutters something along the lines of, "that's because it's not a cheap gimmick", seemingly aware of the place Fenris had been talking about despite not giving any information about it. Seems like there's a rivalry going on there. It wasn't too far from here, after all. ]
[Wade huffs out another laugh at Fenris's teasing remark, pretending to find something very interesting in his bowl so that he doesn't have to look at his dinner partner. A snide comment from his childhood suddenly bubbles to the surface-- y'know, Wade, you don't always have to spill your guts out of your mouth-- before he quiets it with a heaping mouthful of spicy ramen. Waiver-signingly hot, just the way he likes it. He can already feel his face flush from the heat and revels in the pain as he chews.
Fenris's comment catches him by surprise, and he jerks his head up to look at him, mouth unfortunately still laden with noodles that dangle out of his mouth and give him the appearance of some sort of red-faced, pasta-based cephalopod.]
[ Fenris doesn't even realize that Wade was sitting over there going through something with his spicy noodles, slurping up his own with a practiced experience - he really only needed to learn once. When he hears Wade, he glances over, immediately caught off guard by the sight before him.
It's so utterly ridiculous that his furrowed brows and impending eye roll are quickly overtaken by a laugh he tries very hard to bite back, and instead it comes out more like a giggle. ]
HA! [Okay, so it comes out more like "HUPH!" but the accompanying point of Wade's finger at Fenris should drive the sentiment home all the same. With help from his chopsticks, Wade stuffs the dangling ramen into his mouth, chews vigorously and swallows, wincing as the spices go burning down his throat. He'll pay for eating those too fast later, but for now he's reveling in his victory.]
That was totally a laugh just now, I heard it! No walkin' back on that one, sir! I knew I'd get one of those outta you sooner or later!
[ Fenris hides that creeping smile by slurping up some more noodles, feeling his face heat up from what he assumes to be the spices. The spices and only the spices. ]
Doesn't matter, still counts! I gotcha to laugh, so I'm takin' it as a win!
[There's nothing in his expression or voice to indicate he's being anything but genuine. Grinning like a satyr, he takes another mouthful of his noodles, his smile turning slightly pained as the spices hit. Maybe he was a bit too adventurous with his order. Hopefully this won't cause a blowout in the near future.
Wade takes a sip of his drink before addressing Fenris again.]
Seriously though, I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. There were a few times tonight where I was worried I was gratin' on you. I tend to have that effect on people.
[ Fenris is caught of guard with just how much pleasure a laugh seemed to get out of Wade - sure, others went out of their way to hear one from him before, but only to see if it were possible (it is...only in actually humorous company). He never understood the fascination with his demeanor. But Wade...Wade seems to legitimately enjoy it.
It's weird. Wade is weird. ]
Y- [ It's instinctual for him to say something snippy in return, even if jokingly, but he stops himself, sighing as he feels the need to be genuine. Troublesome. ] Yes, well...I'm as surprised as you are.
[ That came out wrong, but he makes no move to correct himself lest he just make it worse. Ugh. ]
No reason, just that I can't be certain these will be good. Who knows, it could prove to be poisonous to you. Fortunately, I am a doctor, so should things take a turn for the worse, I will be there to help. I understand, however, if you'd rather not take the risk.
[He'll be there in five minutes, thank you very much. Whether or not she's fully to be trusted, it won't do good to look like a fearful kitten when going to meet with people. There's being cautious and then there's being frightened. An emotion many would attempt to take advantage of once they think you're weak.
Does he think Shinobu has a reason to trick him? Not particularly. It seems, in these conditions, that it would be foolish. But that doesn't mean he lets his guard down.
When he walks into the kitchen he does so fairly casually, considering, though there's an ever present stiffness to his shoulders that doesn't go away regardless of who he's speaking or meeting with.]
[ there's no reason for her to trick him for nefarious purposes, not when they're all in the same boat, so to speak. but as many have told her, and as she has learned over the years, trust is always earned rather than given. no one said she couldn't have a little fun here and there, though.
but anyway, as he walks into the kitchen, he will first be hit with the smell of tea and cookies baking. there's not very much variety in the way of ingredients, so it's less elaborate than the treats she would make at home, but she makes do with what they currently have. he'll find her seated next to the oven sipping from a mug of tea, glancing over her shoulder when he comes in. ]
Ah, you're early. I'm afraid you'll have to wait for a moment, there's still a couple minutes left before they're ready.
[Being "hit" with the scent of tea and cookies can almost be a literal statement with how it feels when it registers — with the way he stops in his steps, tilts his chin up by mere inches, nostrils flaring briefly to take in more of the smell. He gets lost for a moment in an earlier time, small, feet against stone as he watches the baker with half hopeful eyes. She rolls her eyes at him and huffs as if put off, but still outstretches a hand hand filled with a small pastry. Her gaze is hardened and stern, telling him that he better keep quiet without actually verbalizing it.
His reaction is momentarily delayed, but he eventually walks further into the kitchen, less tense than he had been seconds ago as he leans against the counter and crosses his arms.]
[Luckily Fenris isn't sleeping, because most of the time he just...doesn't. Especially not with someone so nearby, whether he trusts him or not. Besides, someone has to keep watch.
And yes, he did indeed see the post, though he chose not to comment on it.
His tone is dry, though what he says is...a genuine attempt at trying to understand.]
[Cue a quick glance from Simon who is... Bad at people but not missing that beat. Daddy issues, much? Maybe. It would explain some of the crankiness.]
Okay, so!
[For someone who supposedly doesn't trust adults, Simon seems markedly comfortable around Fenris. Maybe it was the fact that the other hadn't been too shaken up about Simon's awful behavior during their first meeting, or maybe it was the fact that he was a really cool elf man who could do impressive Fight Stuff.]
I think I've got it narrowed down to a few hypotheses. The first being-
Maybe it's some kinda slang for the head of a pharmaceutical company? Sugar is a compound that can be easily constructed in most laboratory settings, and... It is like, one of the most basic of basic compounds, so... I guess that makes sense?
[Simon utters a confused murmur. Whimper-murmur. A somewhat unintelligible noise.]
[Quite frankly, Simon has already lost Fenris. A compound in a laboratory? The only labs he has ever seen and been in weren't housing sugar.
He huffs, because that's what he does when he doesn't understand things. It's frustrating.]
I'm sure it's something utterly foolish. [So if anything he guesses after this is wrong, he can almost be certain that's correct.] If they're not looking for a kind father figure or some kind of...sugar artisan...perhaps it is slang for something illegal.
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timeasmymeasure
@shinobu.kocho
Date: 2021-01-24 08:52 am (UTC)How do you feel about joining a welcoming committee to retrieve new arrivals?
no subject
Date: 2021-01-25 01:59 am (UTC)[Mayhaps because his thoughts went straight to violent rebellion but.]
That could be very useful in the long run. Not to mention it could potentially lesson the distress of new arrivals if done right.
no subject
Date: 2021-01-25 02:55 am (UTC)[ yeah she sees u buddy. ]
That's my intention, yes.
I'm also looking into the compliance drug; pending on when we'll be able to contact Henries, ideally, I'll eventually be able to create an antidote for future new arrivals.
Since my technological knowledge is rather limited at the moment, this will take some time, but I hope the new arrivals may give me some insight.
For now, having a consistent presence and being able to give them a grasp of their situation before arriving at the safe house would at least mitigate some of the tension.
no subject
Date: 2021-01-27 12:39 am (UTC)[He's passionate okay!]
You gave this much thought. Not that I had any doubt you would. [She seems like the type of person who is miles ahead when you've only just taken a step. A valuable ally to be sure.
But he's sleeping with one eye open for now.] I agree to this, then.no subject
Date: 2021-01-28 01:50 am (UTC)We all have our ways of dealing with situations such as getting taken from our homes, drugged to compliance, and then locked in a safe house.
Some of us have passionate discussions over the network, some of us throw ourselves into work.
But, thank you.
There's a few others I need to reach out to, but you will hear from me again shortly.
no subject
Date: 2021-01-28 06:08 pm (UTC)[And he probably will, though he has no interest in the network. It's ridiculous.]
I have also spoken to someone who has been here longer and wishes to see change. We can discuss that when next we speak.
Until then.
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 01:43 pm (UTC)[Way to make this NOT sound like a booty call, Wade.]
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 05:50 pm (UTC)[Can you feel the suspicion radiating off this message?]
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 05:55 pm (UTC)put a few balls in a few holes
im feeling antsy rn and i cant go back 2 my apartment 4 a few hours
[AGAIN, NOT REALLY MAKING THIS SOUND LIKE ANYTHING OTHER THAN A BOOTY CALL, WADE.]
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 06:04 pm (UTC)And I thought I was forward.
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 06:08 pm (UTC)i figured maybe itd be a good way 2 pass the time and maybe bond a little
plus im bored and ur the only one i can ask rn without making things weird
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 06:18 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 06:47 pm (UTC)so are u in or what
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 06:57 pm (UTC)no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 06:59 pm (UTC)ill even let u come out on top a few times
maybe ;D
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 07:11 pm (UTC)Well...it beats sitting around the safehouse all day. It's something to do. Risky, yes, but most things he does to pass the time are risky.]
Fine.
Where?
no subject
Date: 2021-02-11 07:16 pm (UTC)at the arcade
just make a left out of the safehouse, go all the way down the street and make another left at the corner
u cant miss it
> [action]
Date: 2021-02-11 07:37 pm (UTC)I will arrive shortly.
[While Fenris has no idea what he's looking for Wade is right in that he definitely can't miss it. It's bright — which is saying something considering this entire city. But he gets there, shoeless as always, dressed in blacks despite the heat, carefully watching everyone who goes in and out of the place.]
no subject
Date: 2021-02-18 01:32 am (UTC)Hey! I didn't think you were actually gonna show up. Ready for me to wreck your ass?
no subject
Date: 2021-02-18 01:49 am (UTC)What? [Pulled out of his thoughts, Fenris' brows furrow and his lips pull back into a rather grouchy frown.] You're assuming an awful lot.
no subject
Date: 2021-02-22 05:46 pm (UTC)Hey, feel free to prove me wrong in the next hour or so, pal. I'll have a good time either way.
You are up for multiple sessions, right? I tend to go hard and intense-- I know some people are a little put off by that.
no subject
Date: 2021-02-22 06:13 pm (UTC)I assure you, I'll be fine.
[But he has to clarify—]
But yes...provided you're any good at it.
no subject
Date: 2021-02-22 06:22 pm (UTC)Ohoho, he's gettin' feisty now. That's good, that's good. You're gonna wanna keep that energy up when we go our fourth or fifth round, believe you me.
[He indicates the entrance of the arcade with his head.]
What say we cut the foreplay and get to it, huh? We're burnin' daylight out here.
no subject
Date: 2021-02-22 06:32 pm (UTC)He's about ready to interject the bravado and ask how he...gets around that when Wade is gesturing inside the loud, obnoxiously brightly lit building with all the strange colors pulsing and flashing about.
His brows furrow.]
In there?
no subject
Date: 2021-02-22 06:40 pm (UTC)Yeah in there. Kinda the whole point of this little get-together, know what I mean? Unless you're scared you're gonna cry when I spank you in front of all these people.
[The gauntlet thrown down, Wade grins an altogether impishly provoking grin, turns on his heel and disappears into the arcade.]
no subject
Date: 2021-02-22 07:05 pm (UTC)When he enters his feet flex, feeling the vibrations of the loud and upbeat music (is that what you even call this noise) and the people all around...mostly...young people. When he catches up with Wade again he's completely baffled.]
Now you listen—
[HE HAS TO DRAW THE LINE SOMEWHERE!]
no subject
Date: 2021-02-24 04:12 pm (UTC)In any case, Wade is not listening. Wade is, in fact, maneuvering around the crowds and corners like a bloodhound that’s just caught the scent, looking strangely at home surrounded by the various machines with flashing lights and the various cacophony of chimes and beeps. It's almost as if he expects Fenris to keep pace behind him.
He eventually slows to a stop as a trio of machines come into view, set at angles against the wall with numbered rings set into the inclines. Wade bends down and reaches into a chamber at the base of one of the machines, bringing out a small spherical object. He grins at Fenris's approach.]
Oh, man... so glad they've still got Skee-Ball in this world, you have no idea.
no subject
Date: 2021-02-24 05:17 pm (UTC)Fenris gears himself up to speak again, being careful to avoid brushing up against anyone and doing a good job of it. While for Wade it's from a sense of familiarity, for Fenris it's from decades of skillfully maneuvering around people to avoid as much physical contact as possible.
Once they make it to the machines Fenris' confusion goes from an angry one to just...regular confusion. He stares at the row of machines and the numbered rings, then the ball in Wade's hands, then back to the machines which appear to have holes in them. Some balls...into some holes....]
Oh.
[Oh.
Fenris' features scrunch up as he glares at Wade, his ears twitching in irritation before flattening in embarrassment.]
You could stand to be more clear next time! I thought—
[—No. No, he's definitely not going to say that.]
...that you were talking about a different game. I haven't a clue what this is.
[For the first time Fenris seems a bit smaller, even if only by a fraction. It doesn't help that his confusion only grows instead of dissipates — did Wade ask him here to play a gods damned game? Why???]
no subject
Date: 2021-03-04 01:24 am (UTC)Don't worry, I'll teach ya the basics. Don't wanna unfairly beat your ass at this, right? It'd be like challenging my grandma to a judo fight. Which I don't recommend by the way-- she utterly wrecked my shit.
[He tosses the ball in the air again, making sure that Fenris's gaze is upon it before he continues.]
Now, you're gonna wanna toss this ball-- [here he points to rings]-- hard enough to make it in one of those little holes in there. The bigger rings are the easiest and give you the least amount of points, the smaller ones are harder to hit but give you the most points. 'Specially that one right there.
[He points to the rings on the top corners with the numbers "100" emblazoned on them.]
You good? That enough of a tutorial for ya?
no subject
Date: 2021-03-04 01:42 am (UTC)He doesn't exactly catch every word Wade says as he's still taken aback by confusion and mortification, but he gets the gist of it. Balls in holes, right, he won't be forgetting that one any time soon. And while numbers are absolutely foreign to him the ring formation and Wade's explanation are enough for him to understand.
Well, he's here. And at the end of the day this is still a time waster and he still needs to see if he can remember anything from being around Wade.]
I believe I understand.
[He holds out his hand for the ball — he wants to go first, thank you very much.]
no subject
Date: 2021-03-12 01:02 am (UTC)By all means... go right ahead, pal. Show me your stuff.
[He takes a few steps back, watching Fenris with no shortage of glee. Is he gonna play it safe and lob it underhand or try to go for the straight fastball and try to get it into the hole with the most points? Either way, this is gonna be fun to watch.]
no subject
Date: 2021-03-12 01:25 am (UTC)He doesn't eye the highest scoring hole. He's new to the game so instead, while aiming high, he sets up a line of sight for the forty mark just as he's getting a feel for the game. His fingers curl around the ball, testing how tightly he can hold it before the markings on his palm become too irritated
Maybe he should have considered the fact that he's playing a game, and that maybe he should be careful throwing with the very arms that weird greatswords daily, that hold his entire body up when he's being tossed cliffside, with hands that have squeezed the life out of many. But no, instead he readies himself and throws with the strength of someone throwing for their life. The ball indeed makes it into the forty hole with a loud thump, but in its force it immediately bounces back out, hits the plastic ceiling above, and rooooolls back down the ramp...]
...Is that supposed to happen?
[That better count!]
no subject
Date: 2021-03-21 02:36 am (UTC)...Might wanna go a little softer next time, Roger Clemens. You're not lookin' to break any world records here-- it's just a game of Skee-Ball. Look, see?
[He points up at the scoreboard, which is still displaying a big fat goose egg.]
I'd say you won points for scarin' the shit outta the machine, but maybe try to get the ball fully in the hole next time, yeah?
no subject
Date: 2021-03-22 08:51 am (UTC)[As his brusque correction indicates, he doesn't understand your references, Wade!!
He glares at the scoreboard as if it has the audacity to not give him any points, before he looks up at Wade and gestures to the infernal machine.]
Go.
[Now determined, he wants the other to take his turn so that he can properly study the apparently correct way to throw the stupid ball in the damned hole and apply that to his own game!
He is fully leaning into that competitiveness now.]
no subject
Date: 2021-03-28 12:03 am (UTC)[Wade saunters over to the machine and plucks up the ball, tossing it up in the air a few times.]
Seriously, that's probably why your game is off-- too much tension in the shoulders, or whatever. Probably good for cuttin' heads offa mooks, but not so much with games like these. Y'need a little less strength and a little more finesse, know what I'm sayin'?
[Wade doesn't give any warning, pivoting back on one foot and tossing the ball at the backboard. It sails perfectly into the 100 point hole, the scoreboard lighting up as it registers Wade's throw. Wade shrugs nonchalantly in response, but there's no mistaking the smug quirk of his lips.]
See? It's all in the wrist. Gotta keep that shit supple. Like the song about the deaf, dumb and blind kid bein' a pinball wizard. Forget what it's called.
no subject
Date: 2021-03-29 07:06 pm (UTC)Never mind that, yet again, Fenris understands very little of what Wade is actually saying. The one thing he knows is that he's awfully proud of himself, and confident, and it's now up to him to take Wade down a peg. Yes, that's exactly it.
A good throw to be sure, but Fenris is certain he can follow up just as well. So he reaches for a ball and stares down the machine with the concentration of someone about to shoot an apple off of someone's head with a bow.
Naturally, he has to aim for the 100 point hole because he's not about to be shown up here. But this time he approaches it less...aggressively, once again taking his time to line up the shot but throwing with far less force. For a moment the ball looks as if it's going to bounce right back out, but it ends up settling right back in the hole.]
I hope you didn't expect this to be easy.
[Yes he's allowed to be cocky too now.]
no subject
Date: 2021-04-08 12:26 am (UTC)[It comes out of his mouth almost involuntarily, a strangled sound of surprise, his eyes locked on the 100 point marker where Fenris's shot had disappeared into. A fluke, perhaps? Beginner's luck? Or maybe Fenris is just one hell of a fast learner.
Whatever it is, Wade feels his mouth twist upward in a delighted, savage sort of grin. This night definitely just got more interesting. His eyes flick over to Fenris, and he acknowledges his concession with the slightest of nods, sauntering over to grab another ball from the receptacle.]
Expect? Yes. Hope? Hell no.
[With a trained flick of his wrist, Wade sends the next ball sailing into the 100 marker hole.]
Let the games begin, my friend.
no subject
Date: 2021-04-08 01:29 am (UTC)He watches the ball go right into the 100 marker and the fire in him only burns brighter. He can't settle for anything less.]
Impressive aim.
[Said in a way that's just impressed enough, but not too much, as he strides over to the receptacle and grabs another ball. His last throw wasn't perfect, and therefore could easily miss, so he changes his strategy a bit. Just a tweak so the ball doesn't bounce out of the hole. Though he makes a fatal error and miscalculates the changed force in his throw, causing the ball to instead end up in the 10 mark ring.]
Kaffas.
[He can't believe he missed!]
no subject
Date: 2021-04-14 01:15 am (UTC)I'm guessin' that's your way of sayin' "oopsie"? 'cause that definitely was a flub there, champ. How 'bout you step aside and watch an expert at work, yeah? You might actually learn something here.
[Unfortunately, the irony gods apparently aren't pleased by Wade's blatant showboating. When he winds up for another perfect throw, the ball seems to catch itself on his fingers during the initial launch, sailing awkwardly into the air towards the 5 point marker. Wade's humiliation isn't even finished there. He stands there, frozen in place, unable to look away as the ball then bounces off the rubber ring around the hole and roll flaccidly into the dumping trench at the bottom of the board. Zero points.]
...fuck a duck.
no subject
Date: 2021-04-14 01:34 am (UTC)And, if I had to guess, I would believe that is your way of saying..."oopsie"?
[See what he did there, fucker?]
no subject
Date: 2021-04-21 12:36 am (UTC)H-How... pfffahahaha-- How 'bout you stop talkin' and start tossin', fuckface? You can't get points from runnin' yer mouth.
[Let the games begin.]
no subject
Date: 2021-04-21 12:56 am (UTC)[Because you talk too much.
At any rate, the game becomes quite competitive — or maybe it's mostly Fenris, who knows. The points go high, low, then high again, as they each have their mishaps as well as their incredible shots. Eventually, once the game has been going for a while, Fenris has a thought as he checks the scoreboard. It's his turn and he's poised and ready to toss the ball, but instead he turns back to Wade with a quirk of his brow.]
...How do we know when there is a victor to this game?
no subject
Date: 2021-05-01 11:54 pm (UTC)Wade's riding high on yet another 100 point sink, and so he doesn't really register Fenris's question until the man stops and looks at him. Flicking his eyes up to the scoreboard, Wade sees the utterly absurd number flash across the screen-- 1130-- seconds before the timer runs out with a cheerful jingle of sound. As he watches the tickets pour out of the receptacle, Wade buries his head in one hand, shoulders shaking with silent laughter.]
We fucking forgot to make it two-player...
no subject
Date: 2021-05-02 01:32 am (UTC)What!
[But he was winning! Wasn't he? The elf heaves a heavy sigh before cradling his head in his hand.]
Isn't this supposed to be a game you're familiar with?
[The judging stare he levels at Wade would probably be harsher if he didn't maybe possible look somewhat kind of amused.]
no subject
Date: 2021-05-09 03:50 am (UTC)It's not my fault! You got all competitive right at the start-- got me too focused on stylin' all over your ass.
[He huffs out another chuckle and shakes his head, shrugging his shoulders.]
Ah, well. Guess we'll just have to call this a draw.
no subject
Date: 2021-05-09 04:23 am (UTC)For now.
[He doesn't even catch the implication he puts forth that there's going to be a next time for him to kick Wade's ass. He just knows that he can't let this "draw" stand for long...
One more huff before he gestures at the tickets dangling from the slot.]
What are these things supposed to be anyway?
no subject
Date: 2021-05-15 02:29 am (UTC)He walks over to the ticket receptacle, tearing them away with a swift jerk of his hand. There's a large amount there, and he nods with approval before making his way over to Fenris.]
These bad boys right here are the real reason we're here. You rack up enough of these, you can trade 'em in for some pretty snazzy prizes.
no subject
Date: 2021-05-18 12:37 am (UTC)He regards the tickets, wondering why little pieces of paper would ever earn them prizes, but remembers that nothing about this world makes sense to him anyway and so he won't dwell on it any longer.]
These prizes wouldn't happen to be sharp and deadly, would they?
[Daggers are legitimate prizes shut up.]
no subject
Date: 2021-05-24 12:32 am (UTC)Well I mean it might be deadly for, like... a baby, but...
[He shrugs.]
no subject
Date: 2021-05-24 01:41 am (UTC)So, too dangerous for you to handle, then. Understood.
[Said with a trace of a smirk as he glances about for where they may acquire these "prizes", as if ending the conversation on that little note.
As if he could ever control a conversation with Wade, he talks too much.]no subject
Date: 2021-05-28 12:42 am (UTC)You motherfucker did you just make a joke at my expense?!
[Don't mistake his offended tone for being genuine, Fenris. He's not-so-secretly delighted.]
no subject
Date: 2021-11-15 10:56 am (UTC)Do I look like I make jokes?
no subject
Date: 2021-11-15 07:45 pm (UTC)You look like a fuckin' sharpshooter, that's what you look like. I see your game now-- lull people into a false sense of security with your little edgelord act, and then immediately snipe 'em with a laser-accurate joke outta nowhere. You ain't as slick as you think you are, pally.
[Wade flashes him an appreciative grin before turning his direction to the prizes in the display case.]
See anything you like? Got my eye on that ring down there, myself.
[He taps an area of the case, beneath which a small black ring is nestled.]
no subject
Date: 2021-11-28 02:47 pm (UTC)Like Wade.The ring looks...intriguing? Fenris isn't much for rings, though — the markings on his fingers are especially sensitive.]
Strange.
[ He doesn't say it to anything in particular. There are just so many weird things. The small doll with the crazy hair, the fake mustache — something does inevitably stand out to him, though. A bright blue, glowing tube with a cord weaved through a plastic ring on top. Maybe it's because of the irony, or the fact that it's the only thing here that seems familiar, but he can't help but want it.
He points. ]
What do you call that?
no subject
Date: 2021-12-10 01:43 am (UTC)The glowstick? Surprised they make those anymore-- they were more of a 90s thing. You used to see 'em being sold in state fairs and carnivals and stuff. I think they still use industrial ones for, like... mining excursions or whatever.
There's some kinda liquid in there that makes it glow-- not really sure how it works. I only know you're not supposed to drink it. N-not from personal experience, of course.
no subject
Date: 2021-12-10 01:23 pm (UTC)He gives a small nod of his head.]
I want that one. [ He spares Wade a glance. ] No drinking.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 05:59 pm (UTC)[Wade hands the tickets over to the vendor, who ducks briefly behind the counter and reappears with the prizes. Plucking the ring from the vendor's hand, Wade slips the ring on his finger, smiling with delight and satisfaction when the stone set in it immediately turns a deep shade of purple.]
Oh sweet, it does work!
[He briefly looks up from admiring his prize at the glowstick the man is still holding out in his other hand.]
Looks like that comes as a necklace, Fen. That's good-- a lot harder to lose that way.
no subject
Date: 2022-01-10 11:22 pm (UTC)Fenris peers at the ring turning purple, having to remind himself that it's probably not infused with some kind of magic or curse, before his gaze returns to the glowstick being held out to him, hanging from a leather cord and swinging side to side like a pendulum.
He takes it into his hand and gives it a once-over, turning it over and watching the bubble inside race from one end of the stick to the other. After a moment he wordlessly puts it on. The glow of the blue liquid really does look an awful lot like Lyrium. Except there's something infinitely more comforting about it that he can't quite place. ]
no subject
Date: 2022-02-14 08:44 pm (UTC)[It does, actually-- that's not just rhetoric. The gentle glow from the necklace lights up Fenris's face in a way that is both ethereal and appealing, causing his hair to glimmer with pretty highlights and adding a rather fetching contrast to his olive skin. Wade suddenly stretches, opening his mouth in a jaw-cracking yawn.]
Man, y'know what? Now that all the fun's over I just realized I'm starving. What say we see if there're any food stalls nearby? My treat.
no subject
Date: 2022-04-19 11:39 pm (UTC)[ It's hard to tell if the reflective tone in his words was actually sarcasm or not. There's not much chance to reflect on it either way. Fenris also realizes that...he's hungry. That's saying a lot, honestly.
He still pauses before giving his answer. This night ended up way different than he anticipated. ]
Sure. Thanks.
[ Or SOMETHING he doesn't know. ]
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Date: 2022-05-02 05:24 pm (UTC)There's a chill in the air as he exits the arcade, though that seems impossible considering the city's under a giant dome. Maybe there was some mechanism designed to simulate weather? Best not to think about it too much-- things are already creepily Matrix-y enough as it is.
He can't hear Fenris's footfalls behind him, but he fights the urge to look back. Don't want to give Fenris the impression that he's needy or anything. A few lefts and a right later, Wade finds himself on a nondescript little street where a lonely food stall has been set up. He grins in relief.]
Good. I was worried this guy might've moved or something. You ever have ramen before, Fen?
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Date: 2022-05-02 11:33 pm (UTC)He doesn't mean to hesitate, but it's an annoying response to a question that took him off guard. Stupid. ]
Once.
[ Ugh. ]
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Date: 2022-05-03 05:44 pm (UTC)Bad experience? We can always go somewhere else if you're not into noodles.
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Date: 2022-05-03 05:57 pm (UTC)[ He got the impression that that was part of its charm, though. A gimmick to draw in customers, most likely. ]
It's not important.
[ Not anymore. ]
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Date: 2022-05-03 06:15 pm (UTC)Regardless, Wade decides to let it go. No sense in probing for something that might not be important in the long run. He slips onto one of the stools in one fluid motion, indicating with his head that Fenris should follow suit.]
Well, don't worry. I may have wanted you to try gross nutrition cubes once upon a time, but I draw the line at overly spicy things. Getting you to try 'em, I mean. Personally, I'm all for it.
[He turns his head to address the man attending the food stall.]
You hear that, my good man? Get me somethin' that I'll practically have to sign a waiver for.
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Date: 2022-05-03 06:36 pm (UTC)He hesitates a moment, still surprised, before he takes a seat on the next stool. He goes into a deep thought when Wade mentions the "nutrition cubes" again, trying to dredge up...anything.
For some reason, an encampment flashes in his mind. Did Wade say something about that?
He sighs in frustration, completely at odds with what he says when he addresses the man as well. ]
Just give me a plain one.
[ Without thinking, he glances over at Wade, brows furrowed in thought. ]
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Date: 2022-08-05 02:34 pm (UTC)Eventually he cottons onto the fact that Fenris is looking at him. Glancing the elf's way, Wade accidentally meets his gaze and drops his eyes immediately, an embarrassed smile stretching his lips.]
See anything green, pal? You're kinda lookin' at me like I'm on the menu here.
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Date: 2022-08-23 09:07 am (UTC)Realizing he seems to have embarrassed Wade, he looks away and folds his arms over the counter space. ]
No. I seemed to have gotten lost in thought for a moment. Apologies.
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Date: 2022-11-29 07:01 pm (UTC)[Another, shorter silence occurs as Wade watches their food being prepared. Eventually he can't handle the suspense any longer.]
Okay if I ask what you were thinkin' about just now? Now you got me all curious.
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Date: 2022-12-24 07:08 pm (UTC)[ Sorry, he couldn't let that one slip by. But when Wade speaks again, Fenris glances back over at him, neutral features a touch more intense than they need to be, debating with himself if he wants to answer him or not. ]
You.
[ But he realizes that alone is not a very good answer. ]
You're...different...than what I'm used to.
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Date: 2022-12-31 02:17 am (UTC)Uh... different in a good way, I hope?
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Date: 2022-12-31 02:47 am (UTC)Perhaps.
[ Sorry, Wade. He's bad at this, in case it hasn't been blatantly made clear by now. ]
When I give you an answer to a question you just...accept it.
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Date: 2023-01-06 02:06 am (UTC)Well... yeah? I mean, what else was I supposed to do, be a dick about it? Seems like you don't wanna talk about it, so that's the end of that. No sense in bringing the mood down just to satisfy my curiosity, y'know? I keep my cards close to the chest too sometimes.
[He rolls one shoulder in a shrug.]
No big deal. I'll probably have forgotten I asked by the time we're done here.
[A soft, self-deprecating chuckle.]
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Date: 2023-01-14 05:02 am (UTC)Then I've misjudged you.
[ Reminds him of someone, actually. A little bit. Still, different enough that Fenris is still taken aback. He seems content to let the conversation end there, falling into silence, but after a bit he speaks up again. ]
I've always looked at conversation as a potential trap. Watch your step, look over your shoulder, listen for trouble. Say the wrong thing and someone has you backed into a corner.
Perhaps that isn't normal after all.
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Date: 2024-05-21 05:52 pm (UTC)I'm probably not the guy to talk to about what's normal, but... honestly that sounds like a really sad way to live, from where I'm sitting. I mean, I'm obviously biased-- you know me, no filter. I just say whatever pops into my head, consequences be damned. Have for years. My parents used to say I was vaccinated with a phonograph needle-- uh. A phonograph's a type of, like... machine that plays music, I guess is the best way to put it? And a vaccine is... y'know what? Forget it. Explaining it ruins the joke. Um.
[Mercifully the noodle chef cuts his stumbling diatribe short by serving them their food. Wade utters a tiny breathless "ohthankGOD" before he sweeps up his chopsticks effortlessly and begins stirring his bowl.]
Bon appetit, Fen. This's pretty much the only way to get me to shut my gob at least for a few seconds. Try to enjoy it as much as possible.
[An awkward, self-deprecating laugh.]
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Date: 2024-05-21 06:08 pm (UTC)Noted.
[ It's a teasing reply, but there's something that lacks the usual bite. Softer than it is dry. For whatever reason, Wade seems nervous. He's not sure why exactly...something about the turn in this conversation, he supposes.
He picks up his chopsticks, stirring his bowl as he finally lets his gaze shift from Wade to his food. Fenris gives Wade mercy by shifting the subject back to the food, though he has filed away some mental notes in his head. ]
...This is better than whatever it was I ate before.
[ As the chef returns to what he was doing before, he mutters something along the lines of, "that's because it's not a cheap gimmick", seemingly aware of the place Fenris had been talking about despite not giving any information about it. Seems like there's a rivalry going on there. It wasn't too far from here, after all. ]
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Date: 2024-05-21 06:18 pm (UTC)Fenris's comment catches him by surprise, and he jerks his head up to look at him, mouth unfortunately still laden with noodles that dangle out of his mouth and give him the appearance of some sort of red-faced, pasta-based cephalopod.]
Mph?
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Date: 2024-05-21 08:41 pm (UTC)It's so utterly ridiculous that his furrowed brows and impending eye roll are quickly overtaken by a laugh he tries very hard to bite back, and instead it comes out more like a giggle. ]
You're an idiot.
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Date: 2024-05-21 08:48 pm (UTC)That was totally a laugh just now, I heard it! No walkin' back on that one, sir! I knew I'd get one of those outta you sooner or later!
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Date: 2024-08-02 11:29 pm (UTC)[ Fenris hides that creeping smile by slurping up some more noodles, feeling his face heat up from what he assumes to be the spices. The spices and only the spices. ]
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Date: 2024-08-08 10:46 pm (UTC)[There's nothing in his expression or voice to indicate he's being anything but genuine. Grinning like a satyr, he takes another mouthful of his noodles, his smile turning slightly pained as the spices hit. Maybe he was a bit too adventurous with his order. Hopefully this won't cause a blowout in the near future.
Wade takes a sip of his drink before addressing Fenris again.]
Seriously though, I'm glad you're enjoying yourself. There were a few times tonight where I was worried I was gratin' on you. I tend to have that effect on people.
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Date: 2024-09-09 04:20 pm (UTC)It's weird. Wade is weird. ]
Y- [ It's instinctual for him to say something snippy in return, even if jokingly, but he stops himself, sighing as he feels the need to be genuine. Troublesome. ] Yes, well...I'm as surprised as you are.
[ That came out wrong, but he makes no move to correct himself lest he just make it worse. Ugh. ]
@shinobu.kocho
Date: 2021-02-21 01:04 am (UTC)Nuts or fruits, for example?
[ there is a reason for this... just go along with it. ]
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Date: 2021-02-21 02:21 am (UTC)Not that I am aware of.
[He certainly could be but he won't remember it.]
Why?
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Date: 2021-02-21 02:34 am (UTC)I'm trying out a new recipe and I'd like your opinion on it.
That is, if you're brave enough to try.
[ perhaps if she frames it like a challenge, he will bite?? hm. ]
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Date: 2021-02-21 08:17 am (UTC)[That seems...reasonable.]
Why do you say it like that?
[Yeah...maybe that got him a little. What are you trying to say, Shinobu?]
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Date: 2021-02-21 10:02 am (UTC)Who knows, it could prove to be poisonous to you.
Fortunately, I am a doctor, so should things take a turn for the worse, I will be there to help.
I understand, however, if you'd rather not take the risk.
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Date: 2021-02-21 01:27 pm (UTC)[Why do you have to make it sound so dangerous??? At any rate, the fact that she frames it as if he's some wilting flower annoys him!]
But fine. So long as it isn't fish.
[Blegh.]
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Date: 2021-02-22 03:24 am (UTC)[ but tomorrow?? who knows. ]
Stop by the safe house kitchen in ten minutes.
> [action]
Date: 2021-02-23 05:54 am (UTC)[He'll be there in five minutes, thank you very much. Whether or not she's fully to be trusted, it won't do good to look like a fearful kitten when going to meet with people. There's being cautious and then there's being frightened. An emotion many would attempt to take advantage of once they think you're weak.
Does he think Shinobu has a reason to trick him? Not particularly. It seems, in these conditions, that it would be foolish. But that doesn't mean he lets his guard down.
When he walks into the kitchen he does so fairly casually, considering, though there's an ever present stiffness to his shoulders that doesn't go away regardless of who he's speaking or meeting with.]
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Date: 2021-02-23 08:31 am (UTC)but anyway, as he walks into the kitchen, he will first be hit with the smell of tea and cookies baking. there's not very much variety in the way of ingredients, so it's less elaborate than the treats she would make at home, but she makes do with what they currently have. he'll find her seated next to the oven sipping from a mug of tea, glancing over her shoulder when he comes in. ]
Ah, you're early. I'm afraid you'll have to wait for a moment, there's still a couple minutes left before they're ready.
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Date: 2021-03-04 03:35 am (UTC)His reaction is momentarily delayed, but he eventually walks further into the kitchen, less tense than he had been seconds ago as he leans against the counter and crosses his arms.]
I've nowhere to be.
text -> action
Date: 2021-03-02 05:39 am (UTC)[Simon realizes that this is better said in person... To the person... He is currently sharing a janky ass hobo residence with.
He knocks on the cloth barrier between them, urgently.]
Are you seein' this too? I mean, what is with this guy...
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Date: 2021-03-02 09:12 pm (UTC)And yes, he did indeed see the post, though he chose not to comment on it.
His tone is dry, though what he says is...a genuine attempt at trying to understand.]
Perhaps they just want a kind father figure.
edits just to send basically the same tag rip
Date: 2021-03-02 10:32 pm (UTC)[Cue a quick glance from Simon who is... Bad at people but not missing that beat. Daddy issues, much? Maybe. It would explain some of the crankiness.]
Okay, so!
[For someone who supposedly doesn't trust adults, Simon seems markedly comfortable around Fenris. Maybe it was the fact that the other hadn't been too shaken up about Simon's awful behavior during their first meeting, or maybe it was the fact that he was a really cool elf man who could do impressive Fight Stuff.]
I think I've got it narrowed down to a few hypotheses. The first being-
[Goddamn you, Kavinksy and your utter shamelessness?]
Maybe it's some kinda slang for the head of a pharmaceutical company? Sugar is a compound that can be easily constructed in most laboratory settings, and... It is like, one of the most basic of basic compounds, so... I guess that makes sense?
[Simon utters a confused murmur. Whimper-murmur. A somewhat unintelligible noise.]
But then why the parental metaphor...?
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Date: 2021-03-04 01:48 am (UTC)He huffs, because that's what he does when he doesn't understand things. It's frustrating.]
I'm sure it's something utterly foolish. [So if anything he guesses after this is wrong, he can almost be certain that's correct.] If they're not looking for a kind father figure or some kind of...sugar artisan...perhaps it is slang for something illegal.
[Illegal things always have stupid names.]
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Date: 2021-03-04 02:04 am (UTC)[Simon's nose scrunches up into a little ball.]
He did try to sell me drugs once... Oh, oh, I got it!
[He is... A little Too Proud of the conclusion he's come to.]
A supplier! He's looking for a supplier, of course! That would explain all the coded chemistry nonsense...
It all makes sense now! That's gotta be it.