maximumlegend | etraya ic inbox.

[ Ugh.

The sudden appearance in a spaceship was bad enough, but this? this, appearing outside of some random diner not just wet, but sticky and lost and confused--

It must be a cosmic joke. It might even be the principal. Is it the principal? Gorgug doesn't know, but he's kinda feeling like he did when he showed up in space all over again, before the news of universe destruction was laid out to him by Adaine.

Just kind of over all this, thanks.

Fabian, as the resident Bad Kid who told Gorgug to check his contacts back on the other device, you will get a call coming through, so hope you're paying attention to it--because it's from one gorgug; and indeed, on the other end when you do pick up (you better pick up!!!). ]

Hey?

[ Comes the voice of one (1) Gorgug Thistlespring, sounding both unsure and tired. ]

[ This call-out about Fabian never checking his calls.

It's a fair call-out though. It's an entirely true call-out. The only reason there's an exception right now is that Gorgug was definitely on that weird space station with them, and then he wasn't here back with them, and now there is a Gorgug call coming through his earpiece. ]

Gorgug!

[ Hence this. The ultra rare quick pick up of a call by Fabian Seacaster. ]

Are you here after all? You came back too?! [ A slight pause, just long enough to be semi-awkward, but just short enough that maybe Fabian is cutting the other off right as Gorgug may start to speak with-- ] Are you okay?!

[ Some things never change. ]

[ Finally, someone found a way for Fabian to answer his calls. ]

Yeah, I-- [ And, indeed, Fabian did cut off Gorgug there, but what's new about people cutting him off? But Gorgug only thinks about the question, looking down at himself and his current predicament.

... ]

I'm covered in slime. [ And he sounds so resigned to this fact. Fabian, he is covered in slime. This is his life. ] Am I meant to be covered in slime?

[ Actually, nevermind--he sounds close to whining. Fabian, why didn't you warn him about the slime, dude? :'( ]

[ Maybe Gorgug expects some sort of explanation for the slime. Perhaps even an apology for forgetting to warn him about the slime.

But rather than any of those - extremely helpful - options, he just gets to hear genuine confusion in Fabian's voice as he asks: ]

What slime?

[ Zero help.

At least he does sound concerned..? ]

Gorgug, why are you covered in slime?!

I don't know! [ Nevermind: Gorgug is now whining. So what if he got a towel for his troubles, it doesn't really help to de-slime you very well! Gorgug is allowed to whine!! ] I showed up and I was covered in slime!

You're not covered in slime?

[ As in, I'm the only one who gets covered in slime here????? (out of the two of them, or the bad kids as a whole.)

The injustice in the world! ]

Is it bad slime?!

[ Clearly not, because otherwise Gorgug would not be whining like he was just assigned way too much homework. There would be less whining and more sounds of an axe being swung around in the background.

And yet, despite that being the logical thought any normal person would have under these circumstances, it's not the one Fabian seems to have. ]

Does it hurt? Did someone do it to hurt you? I mean-- Just say the word, and I will be right over so we can deliver some righteous justice together!

No, [ comes sulkily, as if someone should sound huffy about slime not hurting...., ] it's just sticky, and-- do you have a place?

[ Finally, he's sighing as he asks that question, aligning with a more reasonable question. We guess. ] I want a shower. I really want a shower.

[ Please, Fabian....

(Asking for fresh clothes would be good too, but Gorgug isn't thinking about that. ...probably because none of his friends are exactly his size.) ]

[ Without any hesitation: ]

Yeah. Of course.

[ That's not even a duh sort of 'of course.' It's more the sort of 'of course' where Fabian is mostly saying it because he's starting to kind of feel bad for his friend. Only god knows that he'd be feeling like crap if he just showed up in this place, was confused about it and covered in slime. That just seems like a fate that's a little too cruel.

Besides, Fabian seriously doubts Riz is going to mind if he lets Gorgug shower over at their place. It might as well be a shared Bad Kids space anyway, were it not for the fact that Adaine is way too smart to be sharing an apartment with two boys. ]

Do you think you can find your way over here if I give you directions? Else I can come pick you up. But I don't have the Hangman here [ YET!!!!!! ] so it might take a bit longer.

I think so... [ Though he's not actually sure, looking about him, but, if Fabian wants to try and give him directions-- ] I'm outside Corrine's Café. You know where it is?

[ Because hopefully he does, so Gorgug isn't walking more than he needs to be. If only he didn't already feel like walking a lot is on his to-do list, because that would be his luck.

(Really, he's been through worse, but it's just one of those days, or whatever you want to call this whole experience.) ]

Hold on--

[ There's the background sound of some stuff being moved around. Riz, dude, sorry, but he's going to use one of your clue boards to try and determine the exact route from there to the apartment building to prevent him accidentally sending poor slime-covered Gorgug in the wrong direction..

It doesn't take too long though. Only a moment or two before Fabian seems to have figured it out. It helps that the apartment building is pretty prominent, so he gives the route, and then-- ]

It shouldn't be too far from there. You start walking, I'll let the others know too!

[ Sorry, Gorgug, did you not want all your friends to know about your little slime adventure?

It's too late. ]

[ Okay. Okay, cool, he's got a direction to go to, which...helps. Helps better than wandering awkwardly inside a café and then back out of it, accompanied by nothing but his own befuddlement. He was on a spaceship. Now he's on a street. In slime.

Just what is with this Etraya place. ]

Okay. [ Okay. He's already walking, and maybe he should hang up (should he?), except after a pause: ] --Did something happen to the ship?

[ Maybe that has something to do with the slime.....the slime that apparently he's cursed with and not Fabian......... ]

[ There's a slight delay in Fabian's answer - mostly because he was quickly setting up a group chat and firing off that message in it - but then he speaks up again. It's not like he wants to let Gorgug be confused all by himself, after all. ]

I guess this place pulled you back here from the ship. Though-- [ Another slight pause, where Fabian lets out a sound that almost sounds pained, by in that second-hand sort of way, like he just feels for Gorgug's slimy situation.. It's like he can imagine the sheer sensation of it, and he doesn't like it! ] I don't know what the slime has anything to do with that.

[ Seems like you just got bad luck, bro. :( ]

Honestly, a lot about this place is just really confusing. I stopped asking questions about half of it, because I felt like it was just going to drive me utterly insane. Maybe Riz has a few more intelligent answers about it than I do.

[ A slightly less pained and instead more exasperated groan, before-- ]

If not just because he is actively taking over our apartment here with clue boards with information.

[ Oh....so the slime isn't connected....

Except it might still be connected, but Gorgug can put that in the back for now, since Fabian mentioning Riz and him having the intelligent deductions to share does sound about right.

Instead, in his slimy walk, Gorgug can take in the important details. Such as: our apartment with clue boards. ]

Oh--what's the stuff he's said that sounds important?

[ Because we're not going to ask what do the clue boards say--no no no. We know what the clue boards say, and that's Too Much, so having a translator to even the stuff that Riz has shared verbally is an even better of source of information.

(That is: What has Riz said, to one dumb person to another?) ]

Well..

[ Just the way Fabian's voice trails off by itself says so much. If it was an easy thing to summarize, he would have been more direct about it, after all. Instead he just sounds kind of awkward over the earpieces right now. ]

I'm not sure any of it was really important. [ Maybe vaguely interesting, but Fabian doesn't think that Riz managed to crack some sort of grand mystery about this place, judging by the glimpses he got at all of it.. ] I think he was just having a.. moment.

[ Such a meaningful tone there.

Come on, Gorgug. You know what he means, right? A Riz moment. Like when he decides to tattoo himself all over with clues. That sort of Riz moment. ]

One of his clue boards just said 'are we real.' That sort of thing.

[ Gorgug actually does know what Fabian means, there. A Riz moment, definitely. He has a lot of those, probably (and that's okay; he's still their Riz). Gorgug is nodding to himself when he hears it, a small 'oh' that's knowing possible to be heard.

Though, when Fabian continues... ]

I think about that. [ Said in the most casual, oh, mood, me too type of tone. Because that's normal. ] What did he think? Did he think we're real?

[ This is a conversation that's happening, Fabian. ]

[ Fabian lets out a sigh. ]

It was a long story.

[ Most of which he tuned out. Not that he thought it was a super uninteresting topic, mind you, it was just.. an extremely long story. You wouldn't believe how long the story was, Gorgug. Fabian sounds like he's tired even just thinking back on it, like he can still picture it even now.

.. In fact, he's picturing it so hard that some other thought definitely is hitting his brain belatedly. ]

Wait, what do you mean, you think about that? [ So caught up in the memory of Riz's rambles that Gorgug's own statement almost slipped through the cracks.. ]

[ Gorgug's surprised to hear the wanted clarification come through, though, he guess he gets it? But about letting Fabian get it: ]

I showed up on a ship and nobody I knew was around and then I found out we have to make a case for saving our universes, and-- we get up to a lot of crazy things, but doesn't that seem like a different kind of crazy? All of this--

[ And he interrupts himself, when he remembers another thought. One remembered, which he might've already discussed with Fabian already, but- ]

And everyone kept saying that they only know about orcs or gnomes or elves from story books.

[ Which might not make a normal person start thinking 'am I not real', and it isn't exactly the cause to make him feel that way....

But it did certainly make him think about being in such a world. Briefly.

(A lot of his thoughts can be described as brief.) ]

You are real.

[ The reassurance comes relatively quickly. Like Fabian doesn't even have to think about it. Sure, even just thinking about whether you're real or not feels kind of dumb to him - maybe because Fabian goes by the thought that he's just real as long as he feels real - but it's not like he wants Gorgug to feel bad about it either.

.. though it seems like maybe Gorgug isn't even feeling bad about it? It's sometimes hard to tell with that tone he's always using. Maybe to Gorgug the idea of not being real isn't all that concerning.

Which is a concerning fact in and of itself. ]

Of course you are! We all are! The people who come from these all-human worlds are the weird ones. I mean-- Absolutely no offense to our dear friend Kristen and all, but can you imagine an entire world of only her? [ It's just a little bit too much.

A lot too much, in fact, if either of them would know about British Kristen. But they're still spared that for now. ]

[ There's a pause, because of course Gorgug is going to imagine it, since Fabian asked. ]

That would be a lot. I don't think she'd have a good time--all of hers.

[ It's said sympathetically, and not cruelly. Kristen always has a lot going on, and she gets caught up in her own head, and a Kristen running a world would need some help from friends, Gorgug thinks. But then, even as he thinks that, he does think to himself too that he believes in her--she always gets there in the end.

He doesn't voice it, instead, positively: ]

You're real too. I always think it doesn't matter what I am, anyway. Just that I try my best. It helps me.

[ And that's a thought he's had plenty of times, has had it come down to, to settle the doubts that used to be louder in him after dying the way he did.

Whatever this life is, whether it is life or not: it's all he has. ]

And having you all, [ he adds. Because he wants to, and it's a pleasant thought. Existence. Semi-or-dead-or-otherwise. ]

[ There's a very brief moment of quiet.

But when Fabian's voice rings out again, it's with a laugh. Nothing over the top. It doesn't even really have his usual bravado. If anything, it makes the laugh sound even more genuine in this moment. It's the sort of thing you can imagine his eye looking like it's twinkling a little over - just genuine amusement and fondness. ]

You know, I'm glad that you can find yourself in a situation like this, while covered in slime, and still look on the positive side of things.

[ Maybe even excessively positive. Who would expect anyone to show up here and go right into positive affirmations, not just for yourself, but also the people around you?

But that's just what Gorgug is like, right. He's so sweet, especially at the moments when you don't necessarily expect it. It's what managed to draw that bright laugh out of Fabian. It's that powerful. ]

.. though.. you know. [ Another slight pause.

This one is less surprise like the one that came before the laughter, but maybe more a bit of hesitation. Fabian may have shed off a whole lot of his old self, but sometimes it's still a little hard to be so openly emotional when that was drilled right out of him during his youth. ]

Even if it'd probably be better for you if you weren't here, I'm still glad you're here with us anyway, Gorgug.

[ On Gorgug's end, the laugh surprises him: not only its weight (though it isn't weighty at all--it's more like clouds. cloudy, Gorgug would say), but that it's there at all. Some of us don't realise the kind of things we're saying until they're pointed out to us.

But it does make him smile, all the same. All of Fabian's response, pleasant on the ears. And it's nice too, that he thinks he sees the building he's being directed to -- should be, unless the map is broken. ]

I don't know that anyone should be here, [ he admits. ] But, I'd want to be here if you were. [ And he catches himself, would point out that they would all want to be here, surely, Kristen and Fig too, except: ] --by the way, I'm outside the apartments?

[ That is a questioning voice of 'which way do i go, please'. ]

Oh-- hang on.

[ The connection is suddenly broken. Thankfully Gorgug doesn't have to wait all that long though before the door to the apartment building swings open to the familiar sight of Fabian. Sure, he's likely not wearing something Gorgug last saw him in - in fact, he's wearing an outfit Gorgug won't ever have seen on him before. And he definitely has a very noticable golden neck tattoo that won't ring familiar either.

But despite that - it's very much Fabian. Especially with the dumb, yet happy grin on his face as he approaches the other. ]

There you are again, Gorgug! For the record-- I am not not hugging you because I have something against hugging [ - look, some of us haven't forgotten hugging in that nightmare forest and then immediately hearing that you've never hugged them like that before!! - ] but because I'm not about that slime.

[ NO I PROMISE HE'LL EVENTUALLY NOTICE THE TATTOO ON THE SHIP, I HAVE IT IN THE BACK OF MY HEAD HONEY--

But right now, tattoos are not important--but clothes might be. And yet, even before those, it might be Gorgug's smile that's worth noting, though it's always his eyes that light up first with positive appreciation. The pull of his lips is small, soft, and who knows if it has anything to do with his protruding tusks or a more Gorgug-adjacent quirk, that makes it more gentle than bright.

Nevertheless, it's there as Fabian is there, and Gorgug stands listening before acting, curious in what Fabian has to say about hugs--before he then looks down at himself, reminded about his state.

Still, there seems to something even more important than that, just brought to his attention more. ]

I can get washed so you can hug me?

[ Is that what you want, Fabian? Is this the most important thing right now? Just give him the word, man. ]

[ HE NEVER WILL, IN THREE MISSIONS GORGUG WILL ONLY THEN SUDDENLY NOTICE IT AND I KNOW IT!!!

That answer, however, is so unexpected that it actually gets Fabian to laugh. Not pompously or dramatically, but a very genuine laugh - the sort of laugh you have when you get totally caught off guard by something. With a 'pfft' sound coming along with it and all. Fabian moves his hand up to cover his mouth for a moment, shaking his head in amusement.

Look, sometimes the way Gorgug seems on an entirely different wavelength than the rest of them can be a little annoying if they're in the middle of something important, but right now, when it doesn't matter? Fabian thinks it's kind of cute in a way. Or at least amusing. ]

Alright, so are you saying that because you want a hug, or because you think I want a hug?

[ Just clarifying. Gorgug's mind can work in mysterious ways.

Yes, yes, Fabian will get the other inside in a moment to get himself clean - but it's not like a lot of people are passing by to see Gorgug's slimy state anyway, and two minutes of stickiness more won't kill him when he's already had to make the entire trek over here. ]

[ but he's so stiiiickyyyy, fabiannnn - ]

I don't mind a hug, [ however, comes from Gorgug--who answers as Fabian begins to lead him, those few seconds needed to considering the question--like so many questions that Gorgug needs to consider than knowing the answer immediately--take in the start of their walk. He's slightly behind the other guy, and he can see the tattoo Fabian has (that he already knew about!!), as well as just taking his state of dress as it is now. Nothing different, unusual--

but things are a little weird, aren't they?

At least they're weird with a company Gorgug appreciates. He also doesn't think to inquire if Fabian wants a hug too--surely the other will tell him if he does, or maybe he has the courtesy to not ask it while they're walking. Truthfully, Gorgug's looking forward to getting his belongings off his back, to check for the gunk on them, touching at the sticky residue that isn't drying in his hair. Should he be happy about that?

He'll be happy once he gets a shower.

There's probably useful things he could be asking about anyway, questions to do with Etraya, where they came from, or other smart queries; but Gorgug isn't Riz, so he'll allow himself--unless Fabian decides to pipe up himself--to be led quietly to where it is he's being taken.

All the while glancing about where they move through, and how this is certainly not any apartments from Elmville. ]

[ Always the same with Gorgug, huh. Always the most unhelpful not-really-answers at all times. It seems to lean enough towards Gorgug wanting a hug - not minding, whatever! - that Fabian files into his mind that he'll just have to give the other one of those bro hugs later. You know, when Gorgug won't get the slime all over Fabian as well.

For now he instead leads Gorgug back to his and Riz's apartment. He opens the door, letting the other inside so he doesn't have to get goo all over the doorknob, and then closes the door again after Gorgug is inside.

The apartment looks.. pretty standard, honestly. It's not like the two boys have enough stuff from back home to really merit anything more recognize to Gorgug lingering around. There seems to be some sort of improvised home-made version of a battle sheet draped over the couch, and there's a half-filled clue board standing near one of the walls, both things at least betraying the fact that two very specific guys live here.

(There's also a life jacket hanging over one of the chairs..? Who even knows what that's doing there.)

Gorgug will definitely have a moment to look around while Fabian is closing the door and then moving throughout the main room of the apartment, heading towards a door and opening it. ]

The bathroom's here if you want to use the shower. You can drop the clothes on the floor in there for now, we can go get those cleaned after. [ He scratches his head, trying to figure out some of the logistics here.

The fact that the apartment is weirdly quiet - with no sounds of someone, you know, maybe spiraling over a theory somewhere or making any attempts to scale Gorgug's back like he's a skyscraper - betrays the fact that it's definitely just the two of them here right now though. Riz must be out. ]

I'll go look in my closet if I have anything that's long enough to reasonably fit you, then you can wear that until we can get your clothes cleaned and grab some new ones. You don't mind, right?

[ Don't you want to wear Fabian's fabulous clothes, Gorgug.. Is it not also entirely your style!! ]

[ Gorgug is indeed checking out the space as he enters it, though also taking the time--once they're in the main living space--to remove his axe's holster, the same one that Fabian gave him; and then he has his backpack, and then his tool strap to work his way through as the offer of clothes is given-- ]

Yeah, okay-- [ He might be distracted, as each item (particularly, the axe and Gorgug's school backpack) gets lowered and placed by some out of the way wall with a heavy thunk. The tool strap comes off, joins them, and then he can finally take off his dirtied hoodie, only catching afterwards his goggles from his head as they peel off with his clothing.

He sets the goggles with his things, but keeps a hold of the hoodie, looking back finally over to Fabian. ... and actually looking at Fabian, from his legs, to the hoodie in his own hand. ]

...are you sure you'll have anything that'll fit me?

[ Because he, uh,

feels like there might be a problem here. ]

[ Fabian lets out one of his usual overconfident huffs.

The sort of huffs that usually end up in disaster - yet disaster that he apparently never quite seems to learn from. ]

Of course!

[ Like it's natural for him to have something in half-orc sizes. When Fabian is definitely more compact than Gorgug, despite getting closer build-wise than most of the other Bad Kids. ]

Don't you worry about it! You just go ahead and shower, and I'll go look in my closet and get some clothes ready for you while you're in there. [ He's even waving his hands a little, trying to direct his friend in the direction of the bathroom without touching him and getting slime all over his own hands too. ] I got this!

[ Do you want to believe this, Gorgug? Or do you perhaps want to press X to doubt? ]

[ He wanted to press X to doubt.

He was gently pressing it when he asked the question in the first place, with concerns about leg wear visible in his mind's eyes. And it should continue to persist, really...

But there's something about Fabian's confidence that--doesn't entirely dismiss Gorgug's worry, but that makes it hard for Gorgug to argue, to maybe suggest they figure out the clothes situation first and then he goes for a shower. There must be something, even if it turns out to be a little tight, Gorgug can handle it until alternatives come along. ]

...Okay.

[ And so, despite any logic (and that note of doubt that one might be able to glean from his tone), Gorgug concedes without any more protest. A frown and furrow on his face, and he follows the direction of the shower, letting his concerns stay on the pout of his lower lip.

But he should trust in his friend, right? Fabian wouldn't let him down. So he can undress, and get washed up knowing that there'll be some options out there. Maybe some kind of baggy trouser, even if it doesn't reach all the way down his calves!

At least he doesn't have to worry about his underwear situation, and once he does come out from the shower, washed and refreshed and with a towel over his shoulders (just because he feels a little too naked since--he is), it won't be butt naked. ]

[ Don't worry, Gorgug. While you are showering, your loyal and dependable friend Fabian has been diving right into his closet to get something out of there that will make you look fashionable in this new place.

So when the half-orc comes out of the shower, Fabian is already waiting there. He's sitting on the couch, seemingly looking something up on his earpiece, but turning his head and attention to Gorgug the moment he hears the other guy and halting all of that. ]

Great timing! I put an outfit for you right over there on the table.

[ He gestures in its direction.

And it's-- well, it sure is an outfit Fabian would wear, that might be the first impression here. At least it seems that he was thoughtful enough to grab a wide and loose shirt by Fabian standards, since he realized his crop tops would maybe cover up maybe only the very top of Gorgug's chest, though the shirt does not leave a whole lot to the imagination either with that deep cut neckline..

The pants, however, are unfortunately just skinny jeans.

Good luck with that one, Gorgug. ]

[ With the way it's laid out, the shirt is actually surprising for how baggy it does look, from first glance. He's not as wide as some half-orcs, not like Ragh, and so when Gorgug turns to it in Fabian's gesture, his guard is low, his hope of something...decent enough for a day (or a few hours) being kindled as his eyes go down to the pants....

And this was always his concern, wasn't it. Why did he let that guard down to now let the worry set back in.

No, he should better investigate. Gorgug approaches the clothes with a sealed mouth, picking up the shirt and-- there's a tie, so that actually really works? And he thinks it shouldn't be much of a problem; and it's so much of the lesser problem that he would rather keep looking at it than eventually turning over to the actual problem that are the jeans. ]

...

[ He continues to say nothing. Instead, Gorgug puts down the jeans and also takes the towel off from around his shoulders, letting his zajiri tattoos and the the flower that blooms in metallic symbolism on his shoulder become visible, for the time he undoes the shirt and gets it on; tying it back up, fiddling with the cuffs as they don't manage to reach all the way down his arms. Bothersome, but fine--expected, even, and Gorgug doesn't mess with that so much beyond some failed attempts to make them lower more, but it's all a distraction from the larger problem.

Slimmer problem, even. The jeans that Gorgug pick up next, staring down at them with the zip undone and with the legs next to his. He glances over at Fabian, a 'are you sure?' in his throat, but-- he'll try it. That's where this will lead, won't it?

Gorgug gets his leg and foot stuck immediately. ]

Shit. [ Okay, okay, just-- pull out, pull out. Give it a wiggle, and, um, don't lose balance, just shake it-- ] Shit!

[ And in a flash of immediate emotion, Gorgug gets his foot to go through to the other side: by ripping the leg of the pant on either side, a heavy bang as his foot hits against the ground in that flash of rage. ]

[ Fabian is mostly trying to look away. Not like he hasn't seen Gorgug get dressed before - please, they're Bloodrush teammates, he's pretty sure he has seen Gorgug getting dressed more than anyone else in the world at this point - but he can imagine the other might like a little bit more privacy when they're not in the showers after a game. When being dropped into this place is its own entirely confusing and overwhelming thing, and with Fabian there wasn't even slime involved.

But.. it's hard to notice the sounds of what's going on.

Especially the sound of an audible rip.

Fabian gasps like he doesn't have four other sets of the exact same pair of pants, and he immediately turns his head into his friend's direction to see what's going on. ]

Did you rip it?!

[ He sounds more shocked than offended, at least.

Though it's mostly because it's his instinctive reaction. Fabian isn't really thinking. If he was, maybe he'd be a touch more delicate on the topic of Gorgug breaking stuff, but-- he likes those pants, okay!!

Gorgug, did you rip his nice pants?! ]

[ oh no

Fabian is upset.

And it's more the volume of the delivery than specific emotion put behind it, although alarm has its own connotations to inspire in a person. A person ready to be panicked, like a half-orc who has been caught invoking sounds that he shouldn't be, and the response to that is-- ]

No! [ The most anguished, caught red-handed no that one could say, right before they start struggling against their pants again. But instead of doing the smart thing, like taking his leg out of the pant leg, Gorgug is, at first, attempting to pull it up higher up his calf, which only causes it to struggle and to tear further. And there might be room here where Fabian could speak up, think to or try to intervene as Gorgug is doing nothing but practically yanking at these jeans. But, alas, it's already too late: Gorgug is far too gone in paying attention to more than his current predicament.

Because with a whine suited for a teen, he pulls the jeans with enough force and emotion to do more than just tear at the stitching, but to rip the upper portion of the jean apart in his hands.

And now Gorgug is standing there, jeans partially on one leg and jean material in both hands, looking like he's about to cry. ]

They don't fit!! You said you got this!

[ 😭 😭 😭 😭 ]

[ Fabian tries to intervene the moment he realizes where all of this is going. But-- alas, getting up from his seat and trying to rush over to Gorgug is just not happening in time. Not before the half-orc already pulls on the pants even harder, completely ripping them to shreds.

Which is a pretty devastating sight, but there's not much time to linger on that when Gorgug is already speaking up again with a whine that Fabian may have heard from the other before, but which sure isn't a very common thing. Somehow it makes Fabian ~~go into a panic~~ panic even more than everything that happened before now, like there's the immediate instinct to solve the whining. (And dodge the accusations.)

And instinct sometimes makes someone do the most simple thing. Which - in this case - means that Fabian is latching onto Gorgug's hand, either compressing the jean material in it or forcing the other to drop it, and without saying a word he's starting to tug the other along through the apartment. Even while Gorgug is wearing nothing but a shirt and the most partial pants in the whole world. Short shorts would probably cover more of one's lower half than the amount of jeans Gorgug has on right now.

Thankfully it's not like Fabian has to tug the other all that far, given that it's just a small apartment. So there's hardly any time for Gorgug to protect or say more before they're already standing in Fabian's walk in closet.

Which.. truly is a walk in closet. Probably nothing compared to what the half-elf is used to having back home, but for any normal apartment's standards it's impressive. Not to mention there's so many clothes here, despite Fabian not even having been in this place all that long. ]

Well, come on, then! Grab something that does fit you!

[ A quick glance around may reveal that Fabian did at least make a good pick for the top, considering there are so many tops in this closet that would absolutely not fit Gorgug. So many tight shirts and crop tops. It's like a half-orc's nightmare.

But it's also true that.. it doesn't seem like there's a lot of pants that fit Gorgug. Most of it seems similar to the jeans he just ruined, and some just are short shorts...

M-Maybe if you look around hard enough you can find a wider set of pajama pants, Gorgug? Maybe one of those wide jogging pants?? Time to explore, buddy.. Explore the wonderful world of Fabian's walk-in wardrobe with its sparkly clothes in neon colors everywhere.. ]

[ sometimes GORGUG gets to be the pathetic meow meow, and this moment is that time.

There's still some upset going through Gorgug when Fabian takes a hold of him--he feels like the big baby that he is, he wants this horror of his own making to stop--but he follows, even if walking makes him all the more aware of the ripped jeans that are half-hanging off his calves. Into a wondrous world of...everything that Gorgug is not: fashionable, dazzling, bold and tantalising. He has been brought into the centre of choice that may very well lead him further into his current predicament, and--

--and he doesn't want to continue to be a big baby about this, glancing at Fabian with the kind of expression that isn't really sure (but also that doesn't know if this is a trap). There's an embarrassing dark shade across his cheeks, but Gorgug will...do it. He can do this.

With half-ripped jeans (and the pieces in his hands, which--he tucks inside the useless pockets of the useless jeans he wears) he goes to the trousers section of the wardrobe, sheepishly pushing along the different...various styles of jean until he finds a wider pant leg. The kind that Fabian started to wear more as he got into dancing...

At least the fabric seems stretchier, and he takes off a pair from the rack, that at least look better than the jeans, feel safer than that style of fabric. He glances at Fabian and then down at what he's wearing, then, just...uses some orcish strength to grab at what's left of them and to tear them off, destroying what was left of them. ]

Sorry. Thank you.

[ 💦

And now this time, Gorgug turns to put on these trousers with an embarrassment that wasn't there previous, and manages to get them to fit. They don't get all the way down his leg, but they do fit, and that's the main thing for Gorgug right now. They don't even clash too much with the shirt that he's wearing, even if the length of exposed leg Gorgug's showing doesn't help any, but.

But Gorgug has calmed down, and he's now dressed. Standing in a bro's walk-in closet, with nothing left to say but- ]

Okay.

[ Okay. He's dressed. ]

[ It's okay. Sometimes a homie is allowed to be a big baby. Fabian is the big baby so often that Gorgug has earned this one. He's trading in his full stamp card right now.

So Fabian just waits there patiently while Gorgug looks for a set of pants that won't immediately burst at the slightest touch of his strong half-orc legs, not seeming worked up in any way at all. Sure, he's a little bummed about the now mostly ripped pair of pants, but his friend's feelings matter way more to him than one pair of pants.

In fact, he waits all the way until Gorgug has not only selected a pair, but also managed to put it on without any ripping going on. Sure, there's the sad reminder of the ripped pieces of jeans on the floor as to what happened here, but Fabian opts to ignore them for now.

Instead he ignores them. Fabian steps over the pieces of fabric, right over to Gorgug until he's right next to the other. Even though the half-orc has calmed down, it's clear that he's still a little bit upset, or maybe just embarrassed about the whole deal - and that's the last thing Fabian wants the other to feel right now.

He smiles at Gorgug, and when he's close enough he reaches out with both of his hands, putting them on the other's green cheeks. Fabian is probably pulling him down just a little in the process because of the height difference, but he continues to have that same sweet, supportive smile on his face the entire time. ]

Has anyone told you that you look real good in that outfit?

[ .. clearly not, since Fabian is the only one seeing it right now, but that doesn't matter. Let a bro lightly joke around while boosting a bro's confidence. And maybe making his day a little better after the slime disaster and then the pants disaster. ]

Because you're looking beautiful right now.

[ ...what is the opposite of going into a rage?

Because Gorgug might be experiencing it in this moment. Yes, he was feeling pouty (still), but he wasn't expecting Fabian to try and do anything about it. This next part after him getting dressed is meant to involve them leaving the walk-in closet, and maybe Gorgug realising and trying to fix those jeans with a mending spell (can anything truly help the jeans at this point? probably not).

But Fabian has other plans. He has other ideas, none of which Gorgug has any expectation or suspicion for, even as he comes over to him, as opposed to out of the closet so that Gorgug can step out, too. It's only as the hands come to reach for his cheeks that a confusion starts to trickle over him, though Gorgug doesn't resist, despite the small worry that this is somehow going to turn out bad for him (is Fabian mad about the jeans? he's probably mad about the jeans).

The worry he did have, however, isn't the direction that he should have gone in. Instead, the confusion that had trickled in is now a flood--one that freezes on his face like a deer in headlights, the warmth perhaps instant against Fabian's hands. His eyes are on Fabian's singular, and they're what manage to regain movement again when they look down, Gorgug not pulling away still from an otherwise gentle hold. He doesn't think he must look very good, really, and he knows Fabian is just being nice, but--he can still appreciate the sentiment all the same.

Even if, shyly: ]

...Thank you.

[ Being called beautiful is a lot, and from anyone else it would sound like a tease, a cruel one, than something fun and kind. A kindness that can make him putty in his best friend's hands as the warmth from his face has reached his ears. ]

[ His hands rest on the other's face for another moment before Fabian slowly lowers them - but continues to smile in that same way the entire time.

It does look like that managed to elevate Gorgug's mood a little bit, after all. And that's the important part. That's all Fabian wanted to do here. Not that he was lying, since he does genuinely think that wearing something other than a hoodie for once does look really nice on Gorgug, but.. if that compliment managed to help make the other feel better about this entire situation, that's great.

He steps back, giving the other also room to step out of the closet, instead of lingering in there all day. ]

Now, is there anything you need?

[ It's not like he knows how Gorgug came out of that mission, especially when he didn't arrive here back with them at the exact same time. And when he arrived slimed. ]

Are you perhaps hungry? Thirsty? Or I could show you around the place! Like the clothes store, so you don't have to continue only wearing my clothes. [ He winks, clearly joking as he adds: ] Unless you want to.

[ He knows you don't want to, Gorgug. That fit is nice on you, but also just a little bit too small. Fabian may not be short, but he's no half-orc. ]

[ W-was there something else Gorgug was meant to be doing? You mean he isn't just going to stand there and listen to Fabian's every word?

Oh.

He pinches at the shirt he's wearing when Fabian talks about wearing more of his clothes, looking down at it, the state of himself, and other clothes would be better, but-- ]

I'd like something to eat. Riz wanted me to get a sample of the stuff I had on me--I should get some of that off my bag. [ Or axe, or wherever else there is slime. ] Do the shops close soon?

[ He has stepped out of the closet too, now that they're moving again. Maybe loitering for a moment or so in place if Fabian isn't leading him around, but also taking the initiative to head back into the main living room area.

But that last question is asked to check on what's the better option: sit around and eat, or head straight to the shops? ]

Nah, we have time.

[ So eating first it is! Fabian doesn't even comment anything on Riz wanting a sample of the slime, because-- of course Riz would want that. Fabian doesn't even want to think about touching that gross stuff, but hey, if anyone could find some sort of clue in the sample, it sure would the The Ball of all people. He's smart like that. He can do the slime touching.

Fabian, in the meantime, will help in his own way-- by taking care of Gorgug's hunger! He's already moving towards the kitchen of the apartment, looking through the cupboards and in the fridge..

.. and slowly realizing he doesn't exactly have the skills to make anything substantial for his friend. ]

Uh-- Would some cereal be alright?

[ H-He can do that!! Gorgug, you really want some cereal, right?! ]

[ While Fabian heads to the kitchen, Gorgug's going over to his things he left against a wall and is...staring at them. They're still slimy, and he knows he needs to take the gunk off, but he didn't think yet about the best way to do that. By putting it in a container? Should he find a container?

He'll find a container. Fabian talks before he can start doing anything about that though, and Gorgug turns away from his belongings and looks towards the kitchen.

Cereal??? ]

You just have cereal?

...

[ There's a pause.

Such a meaningful pause, especially when you combine it with the knowledge of the tone Fabian uses when he finally speaks up again. It sounds so much like he's sweating. Like he's so uncertain about the answer he's giving here, even though he doesn't want to sound that way. ]

.. yes?

[ A-Are you judging him, Gorgug?! Is that's what is happening here?

Of course Fabian can't help but immediately get a little defensive at the idea. There's hardly even time for him to breathe between that uncertain little 'yes?' and him immediately moving into: ]

Is there anything wrong with cereal?

[ Bro, you can't do this to him right now. Bro!! ]

[ BRO, WHY ARE YOU GETTING DEFENSIVE ABOUT CEREAL!!! Even if Gorgug isn't taking it quite as--the way Fabian is; it's defensive, yes, but is there a reason for it? Is it because: ]

You can't get anything else here? Do you have to earn it?

[ Is that what this is, Fabian? Can you only afford cereal? Why else would you only have cereal available? ]

... no..

[ That's such a hesitant, drawn-out answer. It's the sort of answer Fabian always gives when there is something up that he doesn't want to talk about, or just desperately wants to cover up.

Because he knows he can't lie and say Gorgug's guess is right, since he'd soon discover that's not the case at all. So he has to quickly think of something else here. ]

It is just that.. [ ...

His mind feels so blank right now. ]

C-- Cereal is great! [ Says the rich kid who has in the past often been incredibly picky about food in front of his friends.

Clearly this is the best lie he could have made up. ]

I just love eating cereal! There is nothing wrong with that, is there? Nothing wrong with me wanting share my love of cereal with my good friend Gorgug!

[ Now Gorgug is the quiet one. Fabian definitely hasn't been like this back in Spyre, so either Fabian is lying, or it's a new development. But why would Fabian lie about it to him?

... and you know what Fabian can't do? Tell him anything about the future.

This is the thought that comes into Gorgug's thinking as he's staring at Fabian with a clear look of confusion, those gears attempting to get moving and to figure out what's going here. And what is going on here?

Something happened, and Fabian can't tell him what! ]

...okay. I'll have a bowl of your best cereal.

[ (It?? worked?? Fabian??) ]

[ Oh hell yes.

One could consider themselves lucky to get away with this. One could be surprised that all of this somehow worked, and count their lucky stars.

But those kinds of people aren't Fabian, of course. Instead of just thinking that he got lucky, he's already busy internally praising himself. Great job, Fabian! Of course he would be able to talk himself out of an awkward admittance! Covered up something that could be a potential social embarrassment once more!

It might be why he's suddenly grinning as he says: ]

One bowl of our best cereal, coming right up!

[ At least this is something even Fabian can't screw up. He's confident enough that he's immediately grabbing a bowl and some milk for Gorgug, who clearly has not caught on to even a single thing! ]

Are you managing to get that sample for The Ball?

[ Oh, right, the sample. ]

I need something to put it in. [ Kind of a problem! Riz surely has something, right? And he could wait for him to show up, but it's not like he's got anything better to do if Fabian is being such a host about cereal, so now he's awkwardly...shuffling, trying to figure out where he can even look for: ] Does he have any, uh, small bags around? Is there anything I can put it in?

[ Fabian, you live here. Gorgug's racking his brain about what in a house can be useful for this, but his brain is again going to food bags. Do they have food bags? They don't even have sandwiches....!!! ]

Are you kidding? You forgot that The Ball also lives here.

[ In other words - there are always things around to gather evidence with. Fabian knows that Riz is keeping a whole lot of it in his room after the whole clue board incident they were dealing with the other month, but it's not like that room is infinitely large. There's just no space for all of it.

So when he opens up one of the cupboards, luckily at an angle where Gorgug should easily be able to see it as well, it is full of evidence containers in all shapes and sizes. ]

Really, we could be running a lab here. In fact, I am fairly certain The Ball would, if only he had more space.

[ Damn. Gorgug should have had more faith in Riz--putting his shit in places outside his bedroom, apparently.

Even Fabian knows where it is, and that's kind of noteworthy in the sense of 'huh, this is what it's been like with them living together'. Gorgug doesn't stand there thinking on the thought, going into the cupboard to find, wow, look--little tubs and seal bags and everything.

All this and no bread or sandwiches. Someone would love to study the pair of them. ]

What other places are around? [ This is an apartment, so running a lab may be a bit too much, just for the space issue, but is there a total lack of...much else?

(Why do they have all this but not sandwiches and condiments??) ]

[ Freud would be having a field day.

Not that Fabian realizes just how much the state of the apartment is saying about both him and Riz, of course. If he did, he'd probably be a little more mortified than he's actually feeling right now, pouring the cereal into the bowl for Gorgug as he speaks. ]

Well, it's-- [ Fabian pulls a bit of A Face. ] It's complicated.

[ That's one way to sum it up.. ]

This place isn't exactly a normal city. There's this apartment building, and then everything else in this place just seems like it was randomly plucked from a world and dropped into this place by something. And most of it already belongs to people in some way. It doesn't exactly make it easy to find a place to just do something if you want to.

[ He's pulled out a couple of bags and a container for the slime sample; more bags than he meant to take out, and Gorgug leaves the extras on the sides as he dodges looking through the cupboard for good scooping implements and just... goes to look for a butter knife in a drawer. A butter knife should be good at picking out globs of slimy substance, right??

It's just finding the right drawer while he's listening to Fabian, which--honestly, it's not the listening part that's hard! It's the understanding part. ]

A woman said the school she worked for showed up here. She said we could check it out whenever we wanted. [ He did manage to speak to one person before Fabian!! ] So, nothing's... nothing from Elmville's here? It doesn't happen for everyone? It's just random?

[ Because-- well, even a school showing up on this place is weird (and random) enough. ]

Nothing from Elmville I've seen.

[ It's not like the place is huge, but.. well, with all of the random stuff happening around, it can sometimes be a little bit difficult to navigate. Sometimes you can't even recognize a certain area because of all the new things there..

So there could be something from Elmville around. But if it's there, then Fabian sure hasn't noticed something. ]

No one else from Elmville aside from you, me, Adaine, the Ball and Adaine's sister either. [ No Aelwyn, thanks. Fabian is distancing himself from his embarrassing past as fast as he can!! WATCH HIM GO!! ] Not to mention that the Ball and Adaine arrived here together with me, but you two didn't show up until on that spaceship. I don't even know if she made it off there and to this place the way you did or not. [ Fabian shrugs a little. Finally done with the bowl of cereal he was filling up, he reaches over to pull open the right drawer for Gorgug. At least he figures the other is probably looking for the eating utensils, right.. ] How do you make sense of any of that? I don't think even the Ball could, though he sure is trying.

[ Nothing is more athletic than Fabian trying to dodge his history with Aelwyn.

If Gorgug notices, he doesn't say anything--mainly because Fabian talks enough that he wouldn't get the chance. He does look down to the opened drawer, and reaches in and takes out a--knife. Not spoon. Oh, thanks, that's where those are, Fabian!!!

So now Gorgug is standing there with his knife, about to go over and get a sample of that gooey substance, but, speaking to Fabian first...! ]

You wanna look for Aelwyn? She could've come in a building. With a building? I don't know what kinda building she would come in.

[ Is Gorgug strange, or is Etraya strange? ]

[ ....

............

..................

Gorgug, you sure are making his attempts to dodge Aelwyn so much harder when you're forcing him to roll twice in a row for it. Especially after the first one was already a successful roll! So rude!!

It leaves Fabian awkwardly quiet for a moment, until he slowly says: ]

Don't you think Adaine is likely already looking for her? [ S-So Fabian doesn't have to, right? Bud? Pal???? ]

[ Is she? It's not that Gorgug doesn't think she would, but there's also something very telling that--honestly, if Gorgug had spent any time thinking about it before, he might've been able to figure out about Aelwyn and Fabian. About how that stopped being a thing, and there was no knowing why it stopped being a thing because Fabian--stopped talking about it. Zip. Zilch. And Gorgug's never been the sort to really ask (he forgets to be nosey), on top of having his own break-up with Zelda and them dealing with the Night Yorb and all... ]

Yeah. [ Yes, true. But Gorgug is looking at you, Fabian, with a curious hold of his brow. ] But you don't want to?

[ Some people would be able to pick up on things or infer them, at least.

Sorry, Fabian, but Gorgug is slower than that. He's at least not aiming to be anything but curious about the question!

But is it that awkward, bro? Is it that bad?? ]

[ It's killing him that Gorgug is asking him about it so directly.

And the worst part is that Fabian knows it's not even on purpose. It might be with some of their other friends. He can imagine Fig or Kristen being unable to not tease someone over something like this. He can imagine Riz and Adaine being a little too investigative in their own ways.

But with Gorgug it's just that the other has zero clue that Fabian is radiating the feeling of not wanting to talk about it, and that makes it somehow feel worse. Like Fabian could have avoided this if Gorgug's braincells had rubbed up against each other a little harder.

He opens his mouth, feels unsure about his answer, closes it again before saying a thing. Fabian glances off to the side as his eyebrows slowly knit together into a frown. It makes him give off a bit of an impression of a sulking child. ]

No. I mean-- It's--

[ UGH!!!!!

Fabian throws his arms up into the air. Dramatically. It's a good thing he was done with the cereal, or there would have been a spoon flying through the air and milk everywhere. ]

I don't think I am the one she wants to see right now, okay?! [ He doesn't even seem angry as much as he just seems embarrassed.. ]

[ The cogs click, click, click.... ]

...

[ --ah, they're starting to turn, and... ]

Oh. [ Oh, Fabian. Do you like the sound of that oh? That comes directly after you admit that the girl doesn't want to see you, and all the implications that can give--and the unfavourable ones that are being taken? Because this is where Gorgug's braincells rubbing together have gotten him. ]

Okay... [ Like there is a landmine that could go off if Gorgug probes this line of questioning, and you know, he doesn't really want to. And he sounds exactly like a guy that wants to avoid mines, which is pretty easy when he figures to switch subjects. ]

Is my cereal ready?

[ 'Cause he's still kinda hungry. ]

[ Oh no.

Not the oh. Anything but that oh. If Fabian was feeling awkward enough about this topic already, that little oh makes it feel like Gorgug just decided to drive straight over Fabian's heart with a bulldozer, however unintentional.

Maybe that's why Fabian is suddenly very focused on this bowl of cereal instead, feeling his face heat up with embarrassment as he quickly slides it over to his friend. Even though his brain is desperately trying to find some way to come back from this.

Yes, he did want Gorgug to realize he didn't want to see Aelwyn, but-- like-- not like this, dude!!

It's why Fabian does the world's most natural thing. As he's sliding the bowl over to Gorgug, Fabian is sliding right along with it, ending up relatively close to his friend as he asks the world's most normal question while giving him the cereal: ]

I-- I am hot, right?!

[ BRO!!!

BRO, IT'S NOT THAT HE'S UNATTRACTIVE, HE SWEARS!! BRO!!! ]

[ Gorgug is getting Fabian with his breakfast cereal, apparently. Oh no. What? ]

Yes??? [ There is a potential for a panic brewing here, where Gorgug says that (how convincingly?), but then is spinning in his own head as: ] Wait, is that a trick question? Are you tricking me? Is that bad?

[ Bro, dude, bro, dude?? He's got his hands on his cereal bowl like he needs to be ready to protect it, or just because he wasn't given the chance to do anything but grab it.

FABIAN DOESN'T WANT TO BE COLD, DOES HE? ]

No, I just need you to tell me that I am hot!

[ It's that simple, Gorgug! Very simple instructions! Forget that you already said yes a moment ago, apparently Fabian needs.. another yet?! More elaboration on said yes?! Who even knows.

Maybe it's not that simple after all. ]

You can't think that I'm not hot, Gorgug! [ Because that's clearly what he was doing, right. He thinks Fabian ruined all his chances with Aelwyn because Fabian isn't hot enough or something. Right?! F-Fabian can't let that thought exist in anyone's mind! Absolutely not!

At least he isn't touching Gorgug's cereal bowl, so that's safe.. But Fabian seems weirdly intense aside from that. ]

[ It doesn't matter if Fabian's forgotten the bowl of cereal exists. Gorgug's wrapping an arm around it and holding it close to him. He knows how his friends can get when they're intense! His bowl of cereal might still be on the line! ]

You want me to think you're hot for the rest of my life? [ Is this the request? The mission? They may have been talking about Fabian and Aelwyn, but the Aelwyn part has been thrown out of the conversation, in Gorgug's mind. ]

I have to call you hot. [ ???? That is a question. This is now a 100% about Fabian and him being hot and Gorgug is too scared to ask why. He just needs to know the details of this contract where things don't end badly (for Gorgug specifically). ]

[ One dramatic boy and Gorgug is fearing for his life.. Or at least for his cereal.. ]

You don't have to tell me it! [ .. because it might be kind of weird? Fabian feels like it'd be kind of weird to have a bro calling him hot, even if the acknowledgement might be nice at the same time. ]

You just-- You only have to think it!

[ Is this any clearer now, Gorgug?

(It probably isn't.)

Fabian does not realize as much, but thankfully for the other, he is still rambling. And there might be a bit of an explanation in the rambling. ]

You absolutely cannot think that things did not work out because I am not hot enough! That's not it! That would never be it!

[ The biggest problem with whatever is happening here is that Gorgug can't be eating his cereal during it. ...or, okay, it's not the biggest problem, but his cereal is sitting there and he can't eat it?

What is going on right now. ]

I didn't think that! I thought she got bored of you or you said something stupid to make her leave!

[ What does hotness even have to do with it!! Fabian looks absolutely the same as he always has, and being hot has always been a part of that!!

Bro! ]

[ Wow.

Gorgug may as well have hit Fabian with his axe, really. It has just about the same impact as those words. The half-elf looks utterly shocked, like he'll have to pick up his jaw off the floor at this rate. ]

You--

[ He doesn't even say anything more for a moment or two. His mouth opens and closes helplessly, probably with some sputtered sounds that make no real sense coming out of it in the process.

You've crashed his brain, Gorgug! This is your fault! You're saying the one thing he didn't want to hear here! ]

You think that'd happen?! [ W-Why does Fabian kind of sound like he's on the verge of tears.. ]

[ someone saaaaave hiiiiiim

What is he supposed to say? No? Take it back? Gorgug doesn't think that's going to get him out of this, even though it's the one thing he desperately wants--as much as he just wants to eat his cereal. Fabian is a car crash that he can't look away from, like doing so might just make him explode....

So what can he do? Try to smile really poorly and sloowly....shake his....head.....

N-noooo, buddy...... he totally doesn't.....!!!! ]

Gorgug!

[ The entire apartment building probably heard that wail. It was that loud. Sorry, Gorgug, but apparently your reaction was entirely unconvincing to poor Fabian's easily bruised feelings... ]

Why would you think that about me?! I can't believe you'd think that about me!

[ His eyes are definitely filling with tears this time around.

Sorry, bro. He's sniffing. He's sniffing!! ]

No one would ever get bored of me!

[ Says the guy who is currently about to cry at the thought of one person assuming that anyone would.. Maybe people would not be bored of this, but certainly tired of this, Fabian.

[ HELP RIZ HELP

Because Gorgug isn't helping this situation. All he wants to do is to eat his cereal, but how is he supposed to when Fabian is about to full on cry? He's trapped. He's stuck. How does he get out of this? ]

No! [ That's a no that's in agreement! Of course not, bro! ] No one got bored of anyone! Nothing like that happened! I don't even know what I'm talking about!

[ What's a distraction? What could help him?!

...Gorgug holds out his bowl. ]

Do you want a bite? Have a bite!

[ Eat away the sadness! ]

[ Sorry, Gorgug. It's entirely too late. Fabian doesn't even look at the bowl of cereal you're holding out.

He doesn't even say anything.

In fact - he just straight up bursts out into tears. On the spot. Right in front of Gorgug's ~~salad~~ cereal.

Look what you've done now, bro... ]

[ Gorgug near-jerks his bowl of cereal back to himself when Fabian starts crying, like his tears might accidentally mix in there. But he's not just worried about the food--he's paralysed by what the hell he's supposed to do about Fabian crying?

Other than panic. Like, he's kinda been doing that for the past five minutes... ]

I-I'm sorry, okay?! You're cool, Fabian! And I think you're the hottest-- I think you're the most beautiful person, and I'll think it every day, okay? You don't have to cry! Come on, eat some cereal!

[ And despite the speed he used to take back his bowl, Gorgug is spooning up some of that cereal and trying to direct it to Fabian's crying mouth. Eat the cereal, Fabian! Eat it! You'll feel better! ]

[ Fabian, have you been, for once, checking your phone after the promise of having nice things said to you? Hopefully you are, because...

...you're going to be waiting a while.

Quite a while, actually, until you get a text from your earpiece that is simply: ] check your crystal [ from Gorgug.

Do you even have your crystal on? Why would you, even. But now is a good time to go and check it, and find out that you have some messages from Gorgug on there, sent... closer to the time All That was happening.

And the first message is an image of yourself, with a battle sheet, somewhere in a forest--Kei Lumennura, in fact, once Fabian thinks about it. It's not a close-up photo, taken at some point when Fabian was dancing with a renewing confidence in himself, finding himself, when not knowing who exactly he was any more. A photo that, apparently, Gorgug's just had all this time.

With it is a message. ]

even when you didnt know what having it means, i always knew you had it

[ This, apparently, is how Fabian has it: by always having it. ]

[ Fabian - after thoroughly grumbling about it to himself - was actually relatively quick with sending the message to Riz that Gorgug bullied him into writing up.

But when nothing arrives in return - not from Gorgug, anyway - he kind of gives up on the idea that anything might. It's not really like Gorgug to trick someone, but.. maybe he did? Maybe Fabian is just the idiot falling for this kind of stuff. It does make him a little more disgruntled, but he keeps it to himself, especially since that's where the anger and annoyance turns anyway-- to himself.

Until he gets a message anyway. Probably by the time he's already half-forgotten about the whole deal. It almost makes him think Gorgug is telling him to check the group chat for something important, but he isn't talking about the earpieces, he's talking about his... crystal? Fabian is pretty sure he hasn't looked on that thing much at all since arriving here, other than to look at the rare few pictures he has saved on there of his parents and Cathilda.

So seeing that message instead is a surprise. Even more so when he realizes he's a little bit younger in that photo, and then in turn realizes what that means as to where he is back there. Or when it was - so close to his initial breakdown, and his attempt at reinventing himself after it, scrambling back up to his feet to dance.

He hadn't really thought about how Gorgug and Riz were watching him back then.

He had considered the fact that either of them might have recorded it in any sort of way even less. He didn't really think anyone was paying attention to it at all - he had mostly just been dancing for himself.

It makes all of this.. a lot. Fabian isn't even sure whether or not Gorgug intended it that way. He knows the other guy can be surprisingly thoughtful, but sometimes Gorgug also has less thoughts going on than anyone might suspect. It means this could lean either way, and Fabian bites his lip as he looks at the photo and the message, feeling his eyes growing a little watery.

He's unsure of what to write back, even.

It takes a few moments before a reply arrives. ]

i didn't know you took a picture

you looked happy

[ It was more than about looking happy.

Expression-wise, anyway. But how does one describe that? What it looked like, to see Fabian enjoy himself in the most self-focused, calming way? His friend who had broken down to a level none of them had seen him at, and that they failed to bring him out of, too young (or too dumb; Gorgug still feels too dumb) to know how to help a friend. Maybe an orange did help? But Gorgug knows that it took more than the orange.

It took Fabian finding something for himself, outside of his friends figuring the magical means to make him feel better. But Gorgug wouldn't take it back, he knows: trying to be there, fixing the Hangman. Reading on friendships, giving an orange.

He'd like to try and make it a little easier for a friend, anytime. ]

i wanted you to remember it

[ There's a version without the you in there. Both are true. ]

if you needed to

[ Remember it. It's not like he's forgotten, given what a big change it had been in his life - given how wild of a spring break it had been for all of them, really. But it is true that it feels kind of weird to be looking back on it like this. It feels so long ago, like he's staring at something from another life. He isn't sure if he's still the Fabian in that picture.

Not even necessarily in a bad way. More just in the way these things always happen, right? Everyone constantly changes. He likes to think he's a lot more confident about the dancing by now, especially when he can recognize his own early clumsy posture while dancing in the photo.

But he does look happy.

His fingers itch with all the things he could write, but doesn't. Instead-- ]

you must have felt like that too though right
i mean
with the whole artificer stuff now
it feels different when you start multiclassing
at least that's what it was like for me

[ Did it? How did it feel? Where did it even begin, when it didn't feel like a fluke, or that the draw, the urge in his limbs to work didn't come with that level of doubt that he'd be able to accomplish something, that it would mean something? There was fixing the Hangman, and he would never discredit that, but he would almost put it in its own category, more for Fabian than himself; and he worked to get his crystal connected to his parent's satellite, but it's not as if that wasn't without help and instructions.

But there was, obviously, a point where he stopped believing it a fluke. Where the constant niggling that it wasn't some sort of dumb luck on his part, and that he let himself accept that he wanted this. That it could slot into his life in a major way.

When was it? Damn, he's really bad at this. He needs to answer the question, and not be silent trying to figure out something so basic. ]

i liked it when i got to fix the hangman and fixed my crystal to talk to zelda

[ He pauses. Did it feel special? Did it feel like Fabian out there dancing, finding a new part of himself? ]

yeah
i guess so

[ Another pause. ]

i fumbled around more

[ Come on, he has to say that. He really wasn't as graceful as he remembers Fabian being in his mind..... ]

[ Perception is a funny thing like this, isn't it. Because Fabian thinking back on Gorgug's journey to becoming an artificer-- well, sure, maybe it wasn't incredibly poignant or anything, not something you'd read about in some sort of book, but Fabian thinks that actually makes it seem so natural. Like Gorgug slowly discovered something about himself that made him feel better, even if it also frustrated him along the line. Like Gorgug slowly working away at himself the way he works at machines, improving bit by bit with a tenacity that he wears well, from Fabian's point of view.

His own journey doesn't feel like that. It feels like he crashed and burned, and that he was pathetic for a good while back there, even as he tried to pick himself back up. He remembers walking into his first bard class and-- enjoying it, sure, but also the trepidation he felt of wondering whether or not he just made another dumb choice in his life as he walked in. That maybe he wouldn't belong yet again, wouldn't meet the bar yet again. Reinventing himself, only to end up back where he started.

It makes the idea that Gorgug fumbled around more kind of laughable, when Fabian constantly feels like he did a worse equivalent of slipping over a banana peel in public, except a few times in a row.

They're things he doesn't mention though. It's better to focus it less on himself, and more on-- ]

how did you even fumble?
come on
you have been great
besides you really seem to enjoy having found something that doesn't just involve rage

i do
but i didnt know i would like it so much
i didnt feel the same i that i do now when i watched my parent make things

[ It's not that he never considered it (when he was younger, standing on one side of a wall; him, the not smart or remarkable son, and his parent's artificer workbenches, of countless possibilities, of endless imagination). It's only that, the few times he did ever think about touching things-- ]

i broke a lot more back home than i ever did round you guys

[ It's different, being the person to make and not break, and he can remember the version of himself that couldn't have considered being smart, or understanding how to work with tools and gears to the level he does now.

But also!! ]

anyway, you were always good on your feet

come on
why is this suddenly about me again now?
i mean yes i do know i am VERY interesting to talk about

but that is besides the point
maybe i want to talk about you right now gorgug!!!

[ Nevermind the fact that this was originally just because Fabian demanded compliments. But that's the exact problem with compliments, isn't it? He will whine for them all day, desperately longs for them, but then when he's hit in the face with a compliment that's just a little bit too genuine it leaves him unsure of what to even do with it. It always ends up feeling unearned.

So this is easier. Turning it back around on Gorgug. Besides - Fabian is genuinely interested, especially when Gorgug is the type of person who seems to keep so much on the inside until someone makes him vocalize it. ]

we've all been busy back home

[ .. or. Well. Fabian was busy, but not so busy that he didn't have periods of time where he just intensely missed his friends. When his house felt too big for one boy. But sure-- Sure, it's we. Clearly Fabian was also too busy to ever stop and miss his friends. Totally. ]

i haven't gotten to hear you talk about this a whole lot

[ We are making this about me??

There's nothing, however, intentional in who Gorgug speaks about, or why. There's a thought briefly about Fabian's own connection to dancing and his family, and if Fabian did ever dance previously in his younger life, had a similar brush with a family passion that would only turn into more in his later life.

But he won't ask. Fabian's very well asking Gorgug about himself, and he doesn't mind, although... ]

what do you want to know?

[ What does Fabian want to know about, exactly?? ]

i don't know
anything???
not that i'm not interested
it's just that i have never done anything even remotely close to artificer work to really know what to ask

sometimes when i see your work i do wonder what it is like to make something

[ Not that Fabian would be interested in that on a personal level. He's pretty alright with where he is at this point, personal insecurities aside - but he would have those no matter what he'd be doing, probably.

But on a less personal level? He can't help but be curious. What would it be like to create something like that with your own hands? ]

or how it makes you feel
for that matter

[ There's a second, and Gorgug only needs that second to answer honestly: ]

good
it makes me feel good

[ Fabian probably already knows that, right? That alone isn't what he's searching for, Gorgug's eyes searching back up at the point before that, what is it like, and that feeling: it's an emotion, an experience. It comes before words needed to describe them, although it's not the sensation he always gets when it comes to his work.

But other people go through that too, Gorgug has to think. Like Fabian having a bad day at the Owlbears. Universal experiences.

What is it like? -- what is it like? Ellipses appear as Gorgug types. Disappear. Re-appear. ]

sometimes it feels like a puzzle in another language that doesn't think i can solve it, and i want to. i know i can do it by now if i keep working at it
but making things...

[ ...
...
... ]

i feel like i can be more if i keep trying
i could make my life or the lives of people around me better and give something valuable
and everything i make helps me get better about it

[ It feels like
I bring something real into the world. ]

i think that's how it feels

okay but
not to put down your artificer stuff because i do think that is pretty amazing

[ Which is the entire point of this talk, so Fabian doesn't want to defeat said point!

But on the other hand, there's something he can't help but notice. Something he has to point out, because it's how Fabian operates when it comes to his friends. ]

but you are well aware that you did that even before you became an artificer at all, right?
you were already making all our lives better and giving us something valuable
just by being yourself

[ Maybe it's just-- that he doesn't want Gorgug to forget that either.

That there is an inherent value to him too, aside from class or anything else. Even just as a guy who'd hand another guy an orange out of sheer thoughtfulness, out of a desire to do something. ]

thank you

[ He doesn't immediately send that, but he think he should: to acknowledge Fabian's words, even if...he does know that. Gorgug believes in it, because that's a part of believing in your friends: you believe they see worth in you, and it's nice to have that. Gorgug's come to treasure it massively, even if there was a time when he was unsure, felt more that he was going along in life and just hoping it wouldn't come to an end--his adventures with his friends. His own life.

It's messy and complicated, the places your mind goes after death, and that's neither here nor there. Nor is this about his self-worth to his friends exactly, and he wonders how to phrase it... ]

you said it feels different when you start multiclassing right?
i think you always had an idea of what you wanted to be but then your confidence got shook
but did you...

[ He pauses, realises that it's kind of awkward to try and make a connection this way, when he and Fabian were rather different from the start. ]

it felt better this way right?
like
i mean, for me
well
i was always good at breaking things
thats why i became a barbarian

thats what i mean about artificing feeling like more

it's better but different for me i guess
i mean i do not mind being a fighter
i was always going to be one

[ No other way when your mother is one of the best swordspeople around, after all. And your father is also used to swashbuckling. It means you practically get a sword shoved into your arms as soon as you're old enough to do as much as hold onto it.

It feels natural, even now. ]

instead for me it's maybe more just that adding being a bard onto it meant having something that was all mine
and only mine

[ Which feels like.. kind of a vulnerable thing to admit to, but it's fine. He's hiding behind text, Gorgug doesn't have to hear his tone, so it's all totally fine!! He can just turn this back to Gorgug instead if need be, it's fine!! ]

artificing is special to me too

[ It's okay, bro, Gorgug isn't reading too deeply into that. But he does find that thought nice, only mine, even while he thinks about how others can still appreciate it when they glimpse it. Gorgug appreciates it when he sees it, the skill and flexibility that Fabian portrays in his moves on and off the battlefield.

He notices, even if it's not meant for him. ]

did it feel like it gave you direction?
it really felt like that for me

[ There's a slight pause before the next message arrives. Something like hesitation. ]

i mean
you were there
it was a whole thing

[ Not that he means Gorgug should have known better before asking - it's just that it feels easier to answer the question this way, rather than go into everything he felt back in that moment.

Sometimes he doesn't really like thinking back on it too hard. Even if the discovery had been nice, the part that came before it just really doesn't feel all that great, even a year later. ]

i needed anything at all that could give me direction back then
i guess

[ "I guess", like it wasn't a huge deal, but.. look, he doesn't want to examine his own emotions!! What if he gets a little too upset!! Nuh-uh!! ]

[ Oh no, we didn't clarify so well for a Bro. We made things awkward for the Bro. ]

sorry
i didnt mean just back then but

[ It's not panic, rushed typing-and-sending, but he does pause then to consider where he's going with this. Maybe he doesn't need to go anywhere with it, he's said already what wanted, but there was this want to make some kind of connection. Because making a connection with how he's feeling, or felt about things...

He's never really had that often, he realises. But he might be starting to go in a circle, so... ]

i think i see more what i want to be these days
dancing and tinkering are pretty different but
i guess i didnt know if your lessons made you feel that way too ?
?

but we know it's been a big deal for both of us so it's not that important
if dancing is just for you and something for battle, its still really cool

oh no
that is what i meant by it being just for me

[ It only strikes him now that Gorgug doesn't know, probably doesn't get it. Or-- maybe he gets it, but can't see it as easily as Fabian can. It's what happens when something is so prominent inside of your own mind, but you just never properly express it to other people.

It means you can mention it as something natural at some point, and the other person might not catch on. Even if that person is your friend.

(Because you suck at talking to your friends about some specific things.) ]

ever since i was young i always tried to be just like papa
and only like papa
everything i did was to be more like him

that is why dance is important to me
it's the first thing i did that was just for me
and not for papa

it's what makes me fabian

[ Instead of just Bill Seacaster 2.0 - which was a standard he was never going to be able to live up to in the first place, even long before the Leviathan disaster. ]

so i guess it's similar to you in that sense
if artificing makes you feel like you know more what you want to be

[ It might've not been a clarification that was needed, really, but it's still nice--this conversation, seeing into Fabian's head, his feelings, even if he's not one to shy away from sharing those regularly. How he sees himself, now and then...

He likes what makes Fabian, Fabian, Gorgug thinks--but he'll keep that in his beautiful mind palace. ]

yeah

[ Just yeah for a bit, before: ]

what do you want to do after school?
have you been looking at colleges?

[ And not, 'has Riz been making you look at colleges'? ]

i haven't really thought about it

[ It's the honest answer. Yes, maybe Riz has shoved some brochures at him, but Fabian definitely threw those away without even really looking at them.. Sorry, Riz, bud.. You're trying so hard, you deserve better than these kids..

But more so than thinking about Riz's brochures, he's thinking about Gorgug asking him this question. ]

why?
have you?

yeah
if i get good enough grades i want to go to an artificer college

but if i can get my artificing and barbarian lessons to work too? i would want to share that with people

but i really dont want the coursework to crush me the same it has been at school

[ That's the thing for Gorgug, and how much artificing has changed his life: he has been thinking about college, even though there's a hurdle of not exactly being in any position to seriously consider them... has he been thinking about it? Looking at places in the moments of time he really doesn't have to waste with wishful thinking? Yes.

There's something like a path for Gorgug to follow, or go down, for once. ]

[ .. oh.

An artificer college, huh.

Fabian didn't really consider the future beyond high school, but.. there is something about thinking about this now that makes it feel a little bit lonely. Maybe he just assumed that all of them would go on to have adventures by default. That they'd just naturally stick together, in that way they had grown to be friends beyond just being forced into an adventuring party together by being the only ones to not join a different party yet.

But an artificer college isn't a place any of them would be at other than Gorgug.

...

Why does it hurt a little bit? ]

oh
that is cool

[ Joke's on you if you thought Fabian was going to express even a single bit of that emotion. Nope. Burying it down. Only being supportive of his pal here!! ]

i am sure it can't be as bad as it has been this year
i mean it's mostly been that bad because of the situation with porter right
they're probably more calm than that at a place full of artificers

[ Yeah, a place full of nerds. ]

especially since you're getting good at artificing anyway
you'd do well there

[ Surely they all want to go into further education for their specific interests, right?? ]

its mainly doing work for 3 grades in 1. but porter didn't help with adding to the stress
but yeah
i hope i can do well
i really want to see what i can make
i want to see if i can get more books while i'm stuck here
maybe i can make us something cool

you can make requests

[ Unfortunately, what would Gorgug's insight do even if he rolled well while texting to a friend over their crystals? (Crystals they don't even need to be using here, and yet....).

Perhaps he could stop to consider that none of them have spoken about their futures, and what they imagine for them. What they want for them, and that he's speaking to another of his adventuring group.

But if Fabian had a problem with it, wouldn't he say? And Fabian has dancing--he must have some desire to keep getting better in his chosen roles. They all must have ideas. ]

[ A problem? Please, there's no problem here. There doesn't have to be a problem as long as Fabian all buries it deep down within him and doesn't think about it until it all catches up with him when he's lying in bed and he just lies there awake staring at the ceiling for hours--

Anyway. It's fine.

It's cool.

Nothing to see here, Gorgug. ]

you mean requests so you can practice??

[ See? Way safer topic. Nailed it. ]

i don't know
what sort of things were you making in artificer class
i don't think i need a homunculus

[ Especially nothing like Cloaca. That's kind of a nightmare. Sorry, Gorgug. ]

[ What's unseen: the hundred yard stare as Gorgug reflects on not only everything made for artificer classes, but everything studied for artificer classes. ]

i can go through my notes and see what i find

[ h-how-- how about that.

Granted, he'll have to do more than go through his notes, but... he can probably remember with some time to actually think about it (and not take mental damage). ]

sure

[ For once Fabian is the one with no thoughts.. Just vibes.. Sure, there's the thoughts about Gorgug's future plans, but those have nothing to do with this. He can just shove those aside until he's ready for it.

In the meantime he has no idea just how much he's making Gorgug think by saying all of this. Sorry, bro. All those overwhelming thoughts about everything you studied, and then a bro sends you a very casual 'sure'... ]

tell me about it

i'll make a list and show you tomorrow
or another day

[ HE'S NOT DOING THAT RIGHT NOW HE HAS TOO MUCH SHIT IN HIS BOOKS!!! ]

but it was fun texting like this
i like it better

[ Compared to their earpieces.... ]

[ For once Fabian won't press and push Gorgug to no, do it now. Look how merciful he's being.

Or maybe it's just that he's distracted by the past that follows. ]

you do???
why

[ Of course Fabian isn't going to get it. He's not even judging Gorgug or anything, he's just genuinely curious. For a guy who hardly texts at all if he can help it, of course he's not really going to be able to tell the difference, or assign any specific feeling to the difference.. ]

habit i guess?
im used to it

[ It's nice!!!! Sure his fingers are big and dumb but they will always be big and dumb, and he likes the feeling of the crystal in his hands........... ]

you like the earpiece?

i don't know
it is more or less all the same to me

[ Granted, this is heavily colored by Fabian being the sort of person who doesn't even use his crystal as much as his friends.. ]

but i can text you more on our crystals if you want
if there is ever something to text about

[ SEE: THE ABOVE.. I'm sorry, Gorgug, you're forever going to have to text your pal first most of the time. ]

its okay
we can use the earpiece
but i hang onto my crystal since it has my music
so if you ever need to call me that way you can

[ You know!! That thing Fabian is likely to ever do!!! ]

hey
do you identify as pirate

[ pause. ]

still
?

[ Dang, imagine this.

There's no reaction from Fabian. Not even after ten minutes.. What do, Gorgug? ]

[ Not think anything about it until he remembers, oh right: Fabian doesn't check his text for ten years!!

So it's time to call him. BRNG BRNG!! ]

[ Well, it's easy enough to not notice a text, but a phone call is a little different. So when he hears that, it - thankfully! - doesn't take too long for Fabian to pick up. ]

Yes-- Hello, Gorgug? Is something up?

[ Another upside of phone calls: there's no random wanton panic the way there often is in any texts between the bad boys.. ]

[ Ah, there, here we go. It's good to hear Fabian sound normal. ]

Hey, yeah, I had a question. [ Important pause. ] Are you a pirate?

[ Anyway! ]

Am I--

[ He sounds kind of baffled. Not even by the answer to the question, but by Gorgug just.. asking this at all? Out of the blue?

This has to be coming from somewhere, right. ]

In what sort of context? [ Are you talking about him, bro?? ]

Uh...

[ Can you hear the cogs in Gorgug's brain trying to work from here, Fabian? Because apparently, Gorgug needs to think what he means. He, himself, that is. ]

...culturally...? I know your dad was the pirate, [ "is"????? ] but you live in a boat, and you had a pretty pirate lifestyle for living on the land.

[ SO HE COULD BE-- A PIRATE? A LAND PIRATE?

Gorug sounds ready to continue, too, if he has to!! (please understand his logic, fabian) ]

[ At least Fabian is used at this point to the things that go on in Gorgug's head being a little incomprehensible. It's like his friend just gets some strange new idea every time Fabian looks away for a minute..

At least it means he's providing the answer before questioning this further. Maybe he feels like questions actually won't tell him all that much more here, not when it comes to Gorgug's wild mind palace. ]

Sure.

[ There's some Complicated angles to it involving Leviathan and the things told to him there that Fabian is trying real hard to not think aboput right now, but.. culturally? Sure, he can claim that. ]

I am pirate-esque enough, I guess. Culturally, aesthetically-- I mean, I'm not doing actual pirate things, because I am fairly sure our battles don't really count as that when we keep fighting on land all the time.

[ ...

Okay, so Gorgug has his answer, but-- ]

Why were you thinking about this?

[ Fabian will hear sounds like uh huh, mm--so, sounds of approval, and that's exactly what Gorgug was thinking the situation was like in his BEAUTIFUL mind palace, thank you very much.

And now he might be better able to understand what Fabian himself was looking for, with that more direct question: ]

Oh, there was a guy-- you know the animal guy I told you about in that city who was helping the cats that I gave the water jugs to? [ Gorgug definitely told him about that. ] He turned out he was made a cop too, and I was saying how you got made into a cop, but how you're really the opposite of a cop, since, you know-- you're not really a cop.

[ LOGICAL. ]

I know you're not the standard definition of a pirate, but... there's a lot about it in your life, and I didn't-- I didn't know how you saw that part about yourself. Or how you want to carry it. You know...what you would call it.

I didn't want to brush it off.

[ And it's as much in his tone as it is in his words, the careful consideration he's trying to bring: this part of Fabian influenced by his living conditions growing up, that might not make sense or mean nothing towards being another's idea of a real pirate. But this is Fabian, and until there's a better way of describing it...

Pirate-esque is the best they're got here for it. ]

[ Gorgug's mind palace just keeps on going, huh. Fabian isn't even sure if he understands half of it, but he's kind of used at this point to it. Just enough to know that it doesn't really matter if he's missing half of it, as long as he's getting the gist.

And the gist here - aside from Gorgug just getting to specific topics in the absolute weirdest ways - is the fact that Gorgug was considerate enough about this part of him to want to check.

It's sweet, and Fabian smiles a little bit as he listens to his earpiece. ]

Thanks.

[ It sounds a little casual, especially in the face of Gorgug's way longer rambling, but-- if you listen well enough, the smile is audible in his voice. ]

Though I think you might give him a kind of strange idea of me if you describe me that way. [ He points out. Lightly, almost teasingly. ] Remember how most of these worlds out here don't even have orcs or elves? I'm not sure if I want to know what their idea of a pirate is, in that case. What if it's something seriously uncool?

[ Don't worry, he's still not being Fabian dramatic. He mostly just sounds kind of amused as he speaks. ]

You aren't going to make me look uncool in front of people I don't even know, right?

[ A simple thanks from a friend is enough to make Gorgug smile quietly on his side. Cool, he didn't do a bad thing.

:)

Except maybe he did, but not because of that. Gorgug does know what Clark thinks a pirate is, and it didn't read like anything off-putting (granted, they didn't stick on the subject long...).

But Fabian brings up about making him look uncool, and Gorgug hadn't thought about this at all.

So, sounding stumped: ] What do you want me to tell people?

[ It's asked, like Fabian does have an answer for this scenario especially! And Gorgug would rather ask him than to say what he thinks already: that he couldn't make Fabian sound uncool, there's plenty he would do to make sure nobody got that idea (well, unless something uncool did come up....). And how Clark--or anyone--would only have to meet Fabian to know what he's like. That uncool isn't the impression anyone would get.

But this isn't about what he thinks, and it's not about him, so: Fabian should get to decide what sounding cool over multiple realities is. ]

[ .. That is a good question, actually.

It seems to stump Fabian for a moment, as if he's trying to figure out over here what might be universally cool, before he settles on-- ]

That I am cool, of course!

[ He's helping.

.. Maybe.

The worst part is probably that Fabian meant that answer very, very sincerely. Go ahead, Gorgug, just tell people he's cool. No need to say anything more about Fabian. ]

I mean, how would you describe me to other people if you had to? What if you had to do so right now? [ P-Pressure?! Fabian, you'll make Gorgug go into a worry when there's nothing even to worry about here..

At least Fabian does seem like he's shooting the shit at this point in the way the Bad Boys do, rather than being entirely too serious about this. ]

[ What if he had to do so right now... let Gorgug think about it. ]

Well, I did describe you as a pirate to Clark. [ So if they wanted an example of how Gorgug has introduced Fabian to people. ] But if I describe you... I guess I mostly tell everyone you and the other Bad Kids are part of my adventuring group?

[ Hm. ] I think I told Krouse you're the most popular kid in school, so-- I'd say that.

[ If he didn't tell Krouse, maybe it was someone else? Was it Spider-Man, he/him? Or it was in a conversation that never happened... ]

I might mention your bike. [ If Gorgug had to go on, as he is now. ] And how your bike hates my van.

[ Really important info, here. ]

[ He laughs a little. ]

I don't think the fact the Hangman hates the van is exactly cool.

[ But apparently everyone else did pass muster - or surely Fabian wouldn't be laughing. He'd be whining, the way he always does. ]

But introducing me as the most popular kid in school is pretty good. That's what I've also been doing myself-- even if some people here utterly refuse to believe I am Maximum Legend. Can you believe it? I think it's pretty obvious if you just take a single look at me! [ You know. Because of the obnoxious golden tattoo.

But Fabian does mean it beyond just the tattoo, okay. ]

You were working really hard on it. [ Hey, it was hard not to notice everything that Fabian was getting into back at school, even if Gorgug couldn't always be there. But the people wanting to talk to him, the constant study sessions and even the attempts to give time to his friends for relaxing (even if it was hard to relax under the stress of schoolwork).... ]

I think you were doing a good job. I couldn't do it--I didn't even have time for my birth dad, before he left.

[ And maybe it's just because Gorgug's never thought about arranging anything for other people that is the key issue here on that, but--Gorgug can appreciate the effort it takes. It's envious, really. He doesn't know how Fabian, Fig, and Kristen do it. ]

I bet a lot of people liked it.

The freshmen seemed to like it.

[ It seems that Fabian is eagerly latching onto this particular compliment. Maybe it's because he really did put a lot of effort into all of it. The moment he realized his friends didn't have time for him anyway after classes and Owlbears practice, it was something to pour time into rather than sitting all alone in a far too empty house.

Not to mention that it filled up the halls, even if it was always just temporary. ]

Which is good, right? I wish someone organized fun lo-fi study nights back when we were freshmen and new to school. [ His tone shifts a little, obviously more light and joking as he adds: ] You know, instead of first day detention.

[ FABIAN.. Whose fault was it that both you and Gorgug were in detention, huh!!

Not Gorgug's!! ]

[ Did we need a reminder of detention and the following death from being in detention?

It's cool, Gorgug's actually really good at emotionally blanking out from that! It's so long ago, right? ]

I would've taken it over a lot of freshman and sophomore. [ HONESTLY... LET'S BE REAL.... Their school years so far have sucked bad!!! ] I mean-- we learned a lot and really grew together as a team, but...

It would've been nice if life wasn't always as crazy.

[ Right? Do those two years feel like a whirlwind of crazy to everyone else, or is that just Gorgug? ]

[ Sometimes Fabian says little things that are so telling, and he doesn't even understand just how telling they are.

Like so: ]

Isn't that what life is like?

[ Sorry, Gorgug. Fabian's life has never not been crazy. If anything, this junior year is almost the most calm period in his life he's had, despite the murders.. and the whole deal with the gods.. ]

I mean, last year and the year before that were a lot like the stuff I was off doing with papa. On a grander scale, yes, but-- it wasn't all that different from everything I did before. [ .. a slight pause, and then: ] It's more fun with you guys though.

[ He'd say to not tell his papa about that last part, but. You know. Even Fabian hardly ever gets to talk to his father, let alone any of the others! ]

[ Imagine being Fabian, already going out on adventures and all that... admittedly, if Fabian ever told them about his previous adventures, Gorgug forgot about it. Huh.

But Fabian saying he liked it with them--that gets a small smile out of Gorgug, and despite what he just said, he already feels the need to tilt his head, admit: ]

I wouldn't take an easy time over being part of a team with you.

[ And everyone else, but does he really need to clarify that? If he had to go through hell and back, then let it be with the Bad Kids. Let it be with Fabian.

He hates the horrors, but he prizes each and every one of them. ]

[ There's a slight pause, like there's a faint hesitation in this. Like even Fabian "overly impulsive" Seacaster is thinking twice about saying this so easily, weighing in his head for a moment whether or not it's appropriate enough to bring up before he says it.

Apparently he's made his decision though, since he does speak up with: ]

I'm glad that you prefer a world where I did punch you on our first day of school over a world where I didn't.

[ L-Look, Gorgug punched him right back? They're even, r-right?! ]

I mean, just imagine where you would've been now if I hadn't. [ Especially since the Bad Kids only ended up as a party together because they were stuck in detention and couldn't form a party with anyone else.. ]

[ You wanna know the reaction you get for saying that, Fabian?

You get a chuckle from Gorgug's throat, a heh where he doesn't open his mouth, but smiles after the fact. Heh. Yeah, that was a weird way to meet someone, huh. But the chuckle can definitely be heard over the call. ]

Terrible. It was worth the detention punching you back. [ ... ] I could've skipped the dying part, but I haven't had to die twice yet, so.

[ So it's a good deal only getting to die once? Unlike Kristen. But Gorgug sounds unperturbed about the whole thing. ]

[ Hey, if Gorgug sounds unperturbed, then of course Fabian isn't going to make a big deal out of it either. Or even think about it too hard. If Gorgug can talk about it so casually, it surely can't be something that's secretly festering deep down in the other, right.

Zero thoughts. Only vibes. ]

Well, at least I am sure there's going to be no dying here. I mean, this place is..

[ His voice trails off for a moment. ]

It is strange. [ That's for sure. It's trying so hard to pretend to be a normal town, but it sure isn't.. ] But it does not exactly seem like there is a secret hidden dragon lurking somewhere either.

There's the robots who show up if you break curfew. [ You know, the companion bots that seem really into killing people who don't comply... ] I don't know if they kill you on sight or if you get a warning... I haven't asked a lot about it.

Riz probably knows.

[ Let's not kid ourselves: they'll just ask Riz about everything going on in the city if they wanna know about it!! ]

Oh, I bet The Ball already knows every single thing there is to know about this place. [ Fabian doesn't even sound sarcastic or annoyed about that. He sounds completely calm and neutral - because it's just a fact, of course. Why wouldn't Riz already know everything? That guy could walk into a room and immediately tell every single important thing about it, Fabian is pretty sure. It's what Riz is good at. ]

.. Curfew kind of sucks though. [ And not just because Fabian, much like some of the other Bad Kids, just doesn't like the concept of rules in general. Though that fact sure doesn't help. ] That means we cannot see each other at all while curfew is going on. Almost as if this place hates fun or something like that.

It's even on the weekends. Who has curfews on weekends? [ ...Plenty of people, but if it's being called a curfew, why does it have to be a bummer! Gorgug is in complete agreement. ]

We should ask around if people do parties, or if we need permission. I don't know that Riz would know about that. I don't think he'd ask.

[ Because the kind of information Riz would ask about....is potentially not the one about winding down and having fun. That's the one thing they can't go to Riz about! ]

[ With absolutely zero hesitation at all: ]

Of course he wouldn't know.

[ Does Fabian believe that Riz is so unbelievably good at smart investigating that he'd already know way more about this place than them? Yes.

Does he also believe that Riz would have zero idea of how they could have fun here? Also yes.

Fabian and Gorgug are of one mind in that regard about the remaining third of their Bad Boys group.. ]

Who would we even need permission from to throw a party though? I mean, I'm.. [ .. well, he doesn't like saying it, but if it might help with a party.. ] I'm a cop. I am the permission, I imagine.

[ whoa.

Whoa. Fabian has unlocked a potential cheat code here, and who knew that being a cop could have any perks? There's research that needs to be put into this, but Gorgug asks after a moment of silence: ]

Can you get us a party permit?

[ Bro. Bro. This place is weird enough to have one of those and can you put out?? ]

[ Whoa.

Whoa 2x combo. ]

You think they have party permits?

[ That's not a skeptical question, for the record. Fabian sounds in awe, like he can't believe Gorgug just thought of this. M-Maybe they could make it happen.

Maybe they can grab.. the party permits!!! ]

[ bro.

Bro.

BRO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! ]

You've gotta find out. You're the Maximum Legend. And I think that's what a Maximum Legend does.

[ He really doesn't know, but he thinks he's on track? Maximum Legends hold parties!! ]

[ Well, Fabian can't deny that. Not that he's.. really in the mood to throw a party, with everything that's going on, but..

H-He's got a title to defend! Especially when Gorgug is currently the only one of their entire friend group who understands how important this title is to him! ]

You're right!

[ Which is why, just maybe, Fabian suddenly sounds a little bit too intense about this. ]

I-- I will go look into it right away! You will hear from me! This won't be the end of a Maximum Legend!

[ Yes, Gorgug is absolutely over here understanding a title that he didn't know about until he arrived here. And surely cares a lot about it back home too! ]

Hey. If you're a police guy too, then you have access to the drugs, right? And you can get any alcohol you want. You don't need to go through a Gilear or Ragh.

[ Imagine!!! Just getting alcohol yourself!! ]

Edited 2024-09-13 19:04 (UTC)

[ ....

Judging by that slight pause on Fabian's end, he's considering all of these possibilities. Their sheer magnitude is slowly dawning on him. ]

Well, I-- I am not just a cop! I am also an adult!

[ You hear that, Gorgug? He's an adult now! He's the adultiest adult you have ever met! ]

That means I could do all adult things either way, regardless of my occupation! If even a man like Gilear could do them, then I can do them even more so!

[ This. This is what the mission is actually about!!! ]

What are you gonna do? You can do all the adult things-- what's that mean? [ What do adults do? What do adults do-- ] Are you gonna move in with someone?

[ He couldn't think of anything else!!! But he's asking excitedly, at least. Fabian, what are you going to do with this new power of yours?! ]

[ Fabian considers this for a moment, but.. this place seems like it wouldn't just let them move in with anyone, right. Why else would it place him and his friends all in separate houses? ]

Who would I even move in with, Gorgug?

[ T-There's no girl he's crushing on here, okay! M.. maybe! Some girls he knows here are pretty cute, but-- y-- you know!!

He's trying to not think about it too much before he gets flustered! ]

Do you want to live with me?

You want me to live with you? What, like your kid? I don't know they'd make me your husband.

[ Considering he's been put in as someone's kid, would that work....? Should he ask?

He sounds like he's thinking about this, his tone not joking. Just--you know they put him in a house as a kid, right bro!! ]

[ He's about to say it was hypothetical, but..

.. yeah, this stuff just happens with Gorgug, doesn't it. He tends to take things just a little bit too seriously, immediately giving every single thing that comes across some Thoughtful Consideration.. It's probably wasted breath to explain that he was just being hypothetical after what Gorgug said, and that Gorgug's answer isn't even really answering his hypothetical question as much as it's turning it around, but--

He's just going along with it now. ]

As my friend!

[ D-Dude, don't make it weird! Don't let this place make it weird! ]

What does this place have against a bunch of friends living together as friends, huh? There is absolutely nothing strange about that! [ Let bros be bros!!! ]

[ Wow, bro, why is he only a hypothetical to you... :( ]

Oh. No, it isn't. [ Fortunately, Gorgug just follows this natural progression of the conversation--where he's corrected loudly and exasperatedly--like a normal thing. Just like friends living together. ] You can ask. You can find other single guys and live in a house with them. As friends. It's not weird. It won't be weird.

[ Not weird at all, Fabian. See? Doesn't that sound totally not weird? ]

So I tried something your way, and it turns out you might have had a point.

[ The answer is belated - because it's Fabian - but not as belated as one might expect by his standards, given that he can smell.. a compliment? Praise? The words you are right?

Just a little treat for Fabian Aramais Seacaster? ]

can you write that again

[ HE WILL INQUIRE WHAT IT IS IN A MOMENT, JUST.. let him have this!! ]

I changed my mind.

THE BALL YOU CAN'T DENY ME THIS NOW!!!!!!!!!
come on
just once???????
you can tell me that again just once right

i need to figure out how to save messages on here

[ Not helping. ]

then we can talk about what happened to you!!!!!
i want to know all the details

It's already saved! It's in your message logs! Are you telling me you never go back and double check any of your messages????

maybe i just want to see it again the ball
come ooonnnnnnnn

do you know how many times you have asked me to say nice things about you??

[ And you ignored all of those, Fabian.

Please do not leave out this aspect of your freshman year self. ]

It doesn't count when you don't actually SAY the nice things!

[ :(

Nothing is coming up Fabian, as usually. ]

fine
then don't repeat it
see if i care!!!!!!!

[ He cares. He cares so much and we are all aware of it. ]

just tell me what happened then

You do care! This is what caring looks like!

I made a friend. No plans involved. Kind of.

I may or may not have also volunteered you to be her friend.

[ He can't just offer himself as a friend. Nobody wants that. But what do they want? A package deal!!!! ]

[ .. Wait, hold on-- ]

uh
why was i offered to be her friend?

[ He's not even offended or anything now, just.. confused? He can't even be happy for his bestie making some more friends when he's instantly distracted and confused at the same time by something else entirely! Apparently Fabian doesn't see the package deal vision Riz has going on.. ]

I was being helpful.

[ And also, he knows he alone isn't a compelling friendship offer. Captain Fabian and The Ball, however? Slam dunk!!!! ]

She was upset because her friends are all uh

Dead?

So I told her she could come hang out with us sometime. I figured you'd be cool with that.

[ It's normal! ]

[ Oh.

You know, that's actually way more normal than anything Fabian imagined Riz could have said, so-- ]

sure
yeah

of course i do not mind
i would not want anyone to have to deal with this wretched place all by themselves

so that means you must have offered gorgug and adaine as well right

[ Fabian, you may discover the weirdness just yet.

Who knows. ]

Yeah, I said she could hang out with all of us if she wanted! We're the coolest kids in town, after all.

[ He only really specifically mentioned Fabian, but... Fabian doesn't need to know that. It's not his fault. He's still underneath the bewildering rationale that Fabian is really, really Cool. ]

I don't know if she'll take me up on the offer, but it's a start, right? I didn't tell her even a single conspiracy.

the ball
i am so proud of you
today you are graduating to a higher level of friendship

[ Look, would it be resally easy to read a sacrcastic tone into that? Yes. But Fabian does mean it genuinely, even if he may be poking some sliiight fun at Riz too.

But by Riz standards, that is a lot. Sometimes he can't even talk to Fabian without mentioning a conspiracy, and they're besties. ]

at this rate the student may just outdo the master

[ Hi, Fabian, welcome home from your job of Not Really Doing Much (because let's be honest, what kinds of crime are you going to catch in a fake ass village?): there's a Gorgug Thistlespring sitting on the step of your front door, fiddling with something in his hands.

What he's fiddling with probably won't be immediately clear, even once you start approaching. And does that matter more than the half-orc being there, without even a text or call? (Was there either such thing?? Would you known, Fabian?) There does seem to be a stick of some kind in one hand, and that's being on used one something in his other hand...

But who cares, really. You just came home, your baby with you, and here is Gorgug waiting for you, a bag by his side. Say hi, FOOL. ]

[ ...

There sure is something happening here.

Something Fabian is kind of unsure about. His brain still feels a little hazy, considering you don't sit at the police station all day while having nothing to do without your brain feeling like it's slowly turning itself into much - but his mind is slowly starting to activate, trying to figure out what's up.

Was there.. a text? Did he send a text? Actually, he hasn't checked his messages at all today, so maybe Gorgug texted him that he was coming over. Usually Gorgug of all people knows to instead call him when he has to urgently let him know something though, right..?

...

Fabian has no idea what's happening, actually. ]

Hey! [ Energetic. ] .. Gorgug. [ More uncertain now.

The fake baby peeks out of its carrier at the half-orc. ]

Did I miss something?

[ Please don't scold him for not checking his messages ever.. :( ]

[ It's Fabian stepping enough into view that gets Gorgug to lift his head, music on, but the change in light from the corner of his eyes gets him to look up, and to deposit the pieces in his hands onto his lap so he can tug down at the earphones. ]

Hey. [ Greetings first, and a smile, dopey smile at the sight of Fabian. He's been sitting around for maybe half an hour (maybe a full hour?), and he's more on the sleepy side than agitated. But he takes the cubes and stencil he dropped, shoves it in his hoodie pocket this time, and finally shakes his head to the question asked. ]

I thought I'd come over. I think I can stay the night. [ ... ] Is that okay?

[ Only now, is he asking if it's okay?--when he has a big stuffed in a blanket, a pillow, and a change of clothes, as well as the other miscellaneous bits and pieces he got in there (and all to do with tinkering). But maybe-- maybe he got overexcited, which wouldn't be easy to tell right now with Gorgug's subdued energy.

But he is looking at Fabian with a hopeful eagerness that only shows in his eyes--but, it does show pretty well, for someone who knows the half-orc.

S-sleepover, dude? ]

[ Indeed - the eagerness isn't lost on Fabian. If anything, it's what keeps the other from reacting right away, since seeing that emotion in Gorgug's eyes is definitely enough for him to freeze up with surprise for a moment. Sure, the Bad Kids wanting a sleepover isn't too strange after they spent plenty of time practically sleeping as one giant cuddle pile in the Hangvan, but Gorgug going out of his way to ask for it now, and then seeming kind of excited about it..

... ]

I-- O-Of course. Of course that's okay.

[ Like Fabian hasn't been desperate for company.

.. and like Gorgug didn't know that already. Fabian's thoughts can't help but flash back to the conversation they had in the hallway of the hospital, and he has to duck his head for a moment, feeling his skin darkening even further with a slight blush at the realization. Gorgug listened to him. Gorgug listened to him so much that he's here, sitting on his porch with a bag, wanting to surprise him with this.

Even though it's a wish come true for Fabian, it almost feels undeserved. Like the gesture is too grand, like Fabian has to do something to earn this first.

He tries to push that feeling out of the way, knowing that Gorgug would just want him to receive this kindness.

As Fabian approaches, he does frown with the realization of a sudden slight worry though. ]

But wouldn't you get in trouble for sleeping over at someone else's house? Is that something you are allowed to do here? [ They seem kind of strict, after all, with the curfew rules and all..

And even though Fabian knows Gorgug can handle trouble - has seen Gorgug bash trouble with his axe plenty of times before - he's not sure if he wants to subject the other to this place's brand of trouble. ]

[ Gorgug is getting up onto his feet with the permission granted to stay. True, he would need to do that regardless, but that's the part--as well as Fabian's approach--that has him hoisting himself up, and even grabbing his bag too, after. A smile grows on his face, seeing himself at this part that he's been waiting for, with the question of how exactly him staying over is going to work: ]

I am, with family. [ He deliberately pauses, that smile widening more, making the edges of his lips start to lift against his tusks. ] I asked if we could be family, and Eos said yes.

[ His smile already looks goofy, but it feels more so when he knows which family member Fabian is exactly, and he's looking at his friend now, and who he's become now in this weird family system... ]

What do you think, uncle?

[ Can Fabian appreciate being made an uncle (on top of a father) if it comes with the benefits of not being alone? Or is this a great insult to the man of the Seacaster family? ]

[ He doesn't reply at first.

No, instead Fabian is very busy making that kind of face he makes when he's trying really hard to figure out something in his head. He's likely just trying to process the information Gorgug is telling him here, or maybe - for a moment - he is imagining himself as an uncle..

.. it feels a little difficult to imagine. If not just because he doesn't have any living siblings to begin with, let alone ones who have kids! Or who would even have kids Gorgug's age, which is almost Fabian's own age.. ]

I am..

[ Sorry, Gorgug. He's still not moving, even though it'd probably be helpful if Fabian unlocked the door. Thankfully the baby seems to be keeping quiet for now, rather than causing more panicked shenanigans with these two.. ]

.. your uncle now..?

[ He doesn't seem to disapprove.

Fabian just seems really baffled by this idea. He's looking kind of comical in this moment as he's staring at his friend like Gorgug grew a second head, really.

The implications of all this haven't even hit Fabian yet, or he'd probably have a repeat or continuation of the warm feeling from a moment ago. No, this is solely Fabian trying to wrap his head around Fabian-the-uncle. A strange concept. ]

[ But Fabian?? This makes all the sense in the world??

At least Gorgug's mood isn't tanking with his announcement seemingly falling flat with Fabian. He clearly just needs to explain more this brilliant logic. ]

Yeah. I asked Eos if you could be my uncle, and now you're my uncle. I didn't know what else you could be, except a granddad.

[ And do you want to be a granddad, Fabian?

You can take all the time you need in digesting this. Gorgug, for now, isn't looking at the door in any signs of needing to rush. Just as his friends do for him, he would like to give him this time to get on the same page as him.

In his wonderful mind palace, serene and simple. ]

[ Sorry, Gorgug. But the uncle thing will still be weird.

.. though Fabian at least seems to slowly understand a little bit more what's going on here. So if he just drops the 'uncle' part of it, doesn't think about it too hard, then he can focus on the parts of this he can wrap his mind around without feeling too weird.

Instead he's just feeling a little more..

A little more what? It's complicated. It feels like there's a thousand different emotions knocking around inside of him right now. ]

You asked?

[ It means even more to Fabian when he doesn't exactly have the most positive impression of the beings that run these worlds. Gorgug went to one of them to ask for a favor like this.

And-- for him. Why else would Gorgug ask for this specifically? Fabian wouldn't need to be his uncle unless Gorgug wanted to stay here.

He's close enough by now to practically be right in front of his friend, but the half-elf's face drops, his cheeks starting to colour a darker hue than the usual with a blush. He isn't even really sure what to say. What words could possibly cover everything he's feeling in this moment? ]

You.. [ ...

If Gorgug looks closely, Fabian's eye may seem kind of glassy, like there's water gathering in it, though the boy is furiously blinking in order to try and keep it out of there. ]

Thanks, Gorgug. I-- Um. [ He swallows. ] I don't know how to thank you for this.

[ For wanting to stay with him. For wanting to make sure he isn't alone. ]

[ You asked? Gorgug nods, apparently willing to give plenty of confirmations (and explanations) to what he's done. If it had gone on any longer, maybe he would have started questioning if he had done the right thing, or if this plan was dumb, or just plain weird.

Fortunately, it doesn't come to that. Instead, it comes to a curious reaction from Fabian; one that almost starts to worry Gorgug when he watches the other's head lower, but when he looks--and Gorgug does--he notices for once something more in the expression worn, in Fabian's inflection, that he usually catches.

He sounds touched. He sounds emotional, and Gorgug's been familiar with that in the past couple of days. And he knows what his friend doesn't seem to mind, and he'll take the opportunity in doing it, since it seems perfect right now.

And that's hugging Fabian, friendly and around the shoulders and back. Just like Fig would like. And a gesture he should try showing more. ]

It's what friends do.

[ Right? ]

[ Fabian likes the hug.

Fabian really likes the hug.

And though he's grown in some ways, admitting to that too much still feels awkward. It doesn't even have to do with notions of masculinity anymore, since he sure got over those, but it does have a whole lot to do with actually being willing to express vulnerability. Thankfully he doesn't have to do so right now. He can just lean into the hug, wrapping his arms around Gorgug in turn too. Not clinging quite as tightly as he had been back in the forest, but-- a more relaxed hug.

But an appreciative hug all the same. Fabian knows that he did ask for Gorgug to spend more time with him if he could, but he hadn't exactly expected the other to get on that task right away, even asking the entire system in this place to switch things around so Gorgug could be with him more easily.

He lingers in the hug for a few moments until he knows he has to give it up, letting go of Gorgug again and stepping out of his friend's hold the moment he lets go too. ]

You sure took that 'never a bad friend' thing to heart, huh.

[ It's a very weak joke, since Fabian's heart is still way too gooey and touched to be fully flippant about this, but he is trying to lighten the mood a little bit before he makes himself cry like an idiot all over again.

Instead he steps over towards the front door, opening it so he can let his friend in. ]

You, uh-- You can actually look around now.

[ Before Gorgug thinks he'll have to keep his eyes closed in Fabian's house forever, after that frantic encounter from before. ]

The Ball helped clean up. [ .. a slight pause, like he isn't sure if he should admit to this, but.. Gorgug is also one of the Bad Kids. He'll get why Fabian is saying this. ] He sneaked in right before curfew and then said I couldn't kick him out because he'd be in trouble.

[ It's a typical Riz move. That's what Gorgug will get. And he'll likely also understand it's Riz's way of showing he cares. ]

And then he insisted on cleaning the house.

[ A spoiler: Gorgug likes the hug too.

But Gorgug does like hugs. He likes hugs that he can actually feel enveloped, though his parents' hugs have a very, very special place in his heart. But also getting to put his arms around another person--it's nice. It feels right. And it's nice when the gesture is returned, too.

It's not a long thing. Enough to be felt and to give Fabian comfort, but they're not in the hospital hallway, they don't need anything more fulfilling. So Gorgug pulls back with a fun, dopey smile on his face, confused for a second when Fabian makes his reference, but--oh. That means he did a good thing.

And he can feel proud about himself with that. Gorgug picks up his bag when it's obvious that Fabian's going for the door, walking over to join him. It hadn't occurred to him to think about where to look--but really, it might've come up once he moved on in. But the story that explains more than a simple "I cleaned up" reasoning is one that's...sweet, and very Riz-like.

Fabian had no choice. He was going to have to put up with Riz cleaning up once he got it in mind. ]

Riz likes cleaning up other people's messes.

[ That's either a compliment or shade, delivered with a face--and nodding--that yields to the former.

And maybe he doesn't need to repeat what's already been said, but why not, he can refer back to himself too, if Fabian said. A reminder, while they're stood here by the doorway. ]

We're a team.

[ And a team supports its team. ]

.. I know. [ He says, at least partially conceding. Mostly because he's grateful for what his friends are doing here, for the ways they're reaching out to him in their own ways.

But it's still hard to fully accept, with everything he's learned in his life. Fabian is making some effort now, but it still isn't easy. Though his father's lessons never truly imparted the lesson on him that Fabian should always be a captain and a leader in life in the sense that he should think of his friends as lesser and not trust them - he could never do either of those things, not for real, anyway - they still did impart the feeling within him that he should be independent. That he should be strong enough to solve things like this by himself.

He knows it's not a shame to do so anyway. A logical part of his brain knows this now, but.. it's still hard.

Hard or not, however, he's still very much leading Gorgug inside. ]

It's just-- [ He tries to explain. It's going a little better because he's not as upset as he was back before, back in the hospital, but there's still something awkward about the way Fabian searches for words for things he's never put as obviously out loud before. ]

I just want you to think I'm cool.

[ Even as a party member and a friend. :( Bro. ]

[ I just want you to think I'm cool.

If there's anything to get a bewildered, confused look out of Gorgug, it's that. It's not truly wild, but the surprise shows on his face at that confession--and actually, it is wild to Gorgug, internally. Fabian Seacaster, Mister Maximum Legend himself? ]

You've always been cool to me. [ It's an easy answer to give, where Gorgug doesn't even take his usual second to think or consider his words. ] You and Fig, you're both the closest idea of cool to me. And Fig helps me all the time.

[ Which does make her doubly cool, and maybe he's not making the connection between being cool and accepting help here, but Gorgug does duck his head for a second as, speaking of that: ]

And, you know, I know my friends think I'm cool too, so-- and I don't think it's bad when they help me either. I appreciate it. It doesn't make me weak.

[ It doesn't make you weak, is what he means. ]

[ Gorgug is so sappy in his own little Gorgug way.

But.. you know, maybe that's exactly what Fabian needs in this moment. To just be handled with kiddy gloves. Or, in this case, sappy Gorgug gloves. Something about Gorgug's words does soothe his heart a little, like the implication in them manages to reach him without Gorgug having to speak the exact words out loud.

He breathes in. Straightens up a little as he walks further into the house. ]

Just don't get too far ahead and start bragging about how confident you are, okay? [ His tone is light, playful. It's obvious Fabian is just making a joke, especially when he turns his head towards his friend to show him he's grinning. Sure, there may be some stuff swept under the rug here, but there's no doubt about it that Fabian really does feel better than the mess he had been at the hospital.

Speaking of the hospital - he's taking the carrier off his back once they reach the living room, carefully removing the fake baby from it and holding it in his hands. As soon as Gorgug may have dropped off his own stuff, Fabian looks over at his friend to ask: ]

Do you want to try holding him again?

[ Bro.

He trusts you. ]

[ He smiles--he does, with a breath of relief released through his nose. Gorgug's glad for what sounds like a positive-noted kind of teasing; that Fabian's taking it the right way, and isn't trying to brush him off (Gorgug's not always good at telling these things; or maybe it's hard to keep up with Fabian when he does it, when he's so good at talking, and Gorgug freezes up at trying to get back to the real point).

Gorgug does deposit his bag somewhere, anywhere by a wall and that's a good place to leave it for the time being. He can pick it up whenever if Fabian wants to decide a room for him, and Gorgug isn't fussed about getting it sorted out. Fabian's been out playing police officer all day, and Gorgug's been stuck at school, so he wants to fuck around for a while with his friend before they need to think about anything serious.

Except--this is something serious. It's facing him and spoken, an offer, the baby in Fabian's hands and the way Gorgug goes still. He knows he shouldn't react like this, especially not about a fake baby, but he's looking between Fabian and the baby with an uncertainty that it's surprising he's not taking a step back. Does he have to hold it? Gorgug's held a baby since then, had a careful eye on him and guidance for this instance, even read up on a very simple baby caring book! And yet-- ]

... Are you sure?

[ Gorgug knows Fabian wouldn't ask if he wasn't sure.

But maybe Fabian isn't the only one here who needs kiddy gloves. ]

[ There's plenty of teasing words he could say here too, but-- Fabian doesn't. Maybe he understands that this is a little hard for Gorgug, and though pushing your friends can be a little fun at times, he doesn't want to do it right now. Not when he knows how much effort Gorgug has been making - and is making right now - for him in the aftermath of the Hospital Incident.

So he just smiles encouragingly, nodding as he takes a few steps closer. ]

Yeah. [ His voice is warm, and it's filled with that confidence that Fabian usually turns towards outrageous statements and self-praise - but that can also turn towards others, like it does right now. It sounds like he has total trust in the other. ] You studied. I know you can do it.

[ Just believe in yourself, bro..!! ]

If you hold out your arms, I'll hand the baby over to you. It will be okay.

[ He doesn't want to get this wrong...!!!!

But the only way he can get it right is by trying. Fabian trusts him. And if he's going to help Fabian, this is the simplest step he needs to take. So Gorgug follows his instruction and holds out his arms in a way that he's already done for another baby (if with similar reservations); nervous internally already that he might be holding out his hands weirdly, but he doesn't listen to it.

Bro, he's....he's got this, he'll do it...

Give him. The baby. ]

[ At least Fabian won't drag this out for poor Gorgug. Once the other looks like he's properly in position, the half-elf is already reaching out to put the baby into Gorgug's arms. There's something gentle about the way Fabian does it, but it has nothing to do with him not trusting Gorgug as much as he just wants to make sure to not drop the baby.. He may be a little bit more confident than his friend, but it's not like Fabian feels like a master of this either.

But-- then it happens. The baby is now in Gorgug's arms. Gorgug, you're holding the baby!! ]

There. [ Fabian adds, and as he looks over at the fake baby in the other's arms.. It-- It actually happily coos?! ] .. I think it likes you.

[ All robots love Gorgug.. ]

[ H-he's holding the baby!!!

And once it's in his arms, Gorgug does bring it closer to himself and to his chest, so there isn't a gap between himself and the baby. That's when it coos, a sound that tickles Gorgug's ears with worry, except-- it was a coo? It was a good sound? ]

Are you sure? ...I wouldn't like me. [ He's dropped his voice a notch, glancing between the baby and Fabian as-- ] I did-- you know...

[ Break its arm. Which he also doesn't want to remind the baby of, in case that's a thing it can pick up and be upset over?!

We do not need an upset baby so quickly again. ]

It is a baby, Gorgug. I don't think it can remember.

[ .. then again, it is a robot baby. Maybe it could remember. But even if it would, it apparently doesn't mind Gorgug at all, since the baby still seems very content right there in his arms..

It seems to be putting Fabian in a pretty good mood too. Maybe this was the life hack all along. Putting the baby in a good mood so Fabian also ends up feeling better.

He approaches a few steps, that smile definitely still on his face. ]

Besides, you are trying your best right now, aren't you?

[ It is a robot baby!!! Potentially sent to judge and scrutinise them, making it somehow worse than normal babies. But Gorgug's going to take his friend's reassurance to heart, telling himself that: it doesn't remember.

Which is better for everyone. So Gorgug nods that he's trying, urging the tension in his shoulders to his arms to relax, looking at the baby with...well, not admiration, but hopefulness. It's still a robot baby, but it is Fabian's robot baby: one that he feels deeply about, or what it symbolises for him.

So Gorgug rocks his arms, very gently, to see if the baby likes it or not. He doesn't have to touch anything, just needs to hold it, which is...nice. It's better when he doesn't have to do anything fiddly. Holding a baby is very not fiddly. ]

You're trying your best too. [ But also, sorry Fabian, but we're definitely redirecting our attention onto you. With a small smile, Gorgug settling his gaze onto him. ] Do you feel better? It isn't crying. You didn't mess everything up.

[ How does that feel, Fabian? ]

[ With Gorgug looking over to him, he will be able to notice that Fabian definitely did not expect this kind of attention shift in the conversation. For how much he acts like an attention hungry drama queen all the time, having attention aimed in his direction that's this genuine and sweet is a little bit too much.

Even more so when it came out of nowhere.

His cheeks darken with a blush, and for a moment his gaze travels absolutely anywhere but Gorgug's face, like he can't meet the other's gaze right away.

Struck between the innate desire to claim this as some victory on the surface - like he always has, like he's been taught to do - and the knowledge that Gorgug would absolutely know it when he'd be faking it, Fabian can't say anything for a moment before he arrives at: ]

It's not crying because you're here.

[ Ah. Fabian's cute.

It's one of those times where Gorgug can see what's going on: mainly by the way that Fabian's avoiding his eye, which Fabian rarely does with people unless it's intentional. He's embarrassed, and Fabian looks pretty cute even when he isn't embarrassed, but this is a special type. Especially when he's trying to dismiss the reassurance in the way he does. ]

It definitely isn't. [ Sorry, Fabian, but Gorgug knows that isn't true because it wasn't crying when Fabian got home!!! But it's not an argumentative point, just plainly stated, as Gorgug looks down to the baby in his arms, a little more...appreciative of its presence. At least so he can say: ]

Fabian's going to be a good papa to you, even if you are a robot, or actually a secret spying machine. But don't make it too hard on him, alright? This really means a lot to him, and he's a good guy. He's one of my best friends.

[ Can you try to make a case for your friend in a setting that's meant to judge you? Gorgug's doing it anyway, apparently, and through a robotic baby in his arms...

It's worth it. :) ]

[ Yeah, that definitely is not getting rid of this blush.

Especially since it does still feel a little ridiculous. Fabian knows that Gorgug doesn't even mean it in that way, that he's being sweet and supportive, but Fabian is well aware that trying to take good care of fake babies isn't exactly something that should be a priority here. It's just that it's difficult for him in particular to ignore, just like his friend is pointing out. This really means a lot to him.

Fabian swallows, trying to get rid of some of his fluster. It leaves the blush on his cheeks, but at least he can force himself to look back at Gorgug and actually speak up, rather than stand here speechless with the fluster. ]

Alright, alright, are you sure that whoever is spying on us through the baby needs to know every detail of our friendship? [ He's blushing so hard!! Don't you dare mention the blush, pal!! Dude!! ]

[ Fabian sounds like he wants Gorgug to stop, but it's really hard when Fabian's making faces like that. Gorgug's got his eyes on him, a very obvious sweet and silly smile on his own face, and he even chuckles a heh behind his lips.

But it's true, that Gorgug doesn't really care about whoever is or isn't spying on them. He looks at the baby with a particular indifference, looks back at Fabian, and he can't help himself; he's just feeling giddy--between Fabian accept him coming over and staying around, and that plan working in the first place. ]

I dunno. You're blushing. You want me to keep going?

[ Sorry, bro. He just really wants to tease you. He's so obvious in his delight that he's grinning, his tusks showing fully in the expression. ]

[ Fabian makes a fatal mistake.

Or-- well, it feels fatal to him. It's actually not that fatal at all when the blush on Fabian's face was obvious enough even when he was trying to look away and hide it, but it feels to him like it's so much more obviously there when he actually turns his gaze to look over at Gorgug when the other speaks.

And the words themselves don't help. Him pointing out the blush, teasing Fabian with it, grinning about it, but not in any way that seems malicious, or even really making fun of him the way it might have been with some of their other friends. There's something so fond about the way Gorgug expresses this, and it only makes Fabian blush even further, the colour reaching the very tips of his ears. ]

I-- I am only blushing because you are being ridiculous! [ He stammers - though it's exactly that stammer that makes it obvious that Fabian is just flustered, rather than angry.

Which is made even more obvious when he simmers down a little to add: ]

And you are also being.. [ Ridiculous, yes, but also-- ] .. very kind. Thank you.

[ H-Hmph!!!

Fabian doesn't want to linger on that for too long though, quickly adding more. ]

And I have just come home from a very long and hard day of work, thank you very much. [ Yes, sitting around at the station for most of the day with his fake robot baby. Very hard. Very long. ]

[ Should Gorgug feel bad about any of this? He doesn't, not from being called ridiculous, because it's hard to feel anything but further charmed when someone is getting flustered from such a simple remark. What a signal to keep going, to keep making a friend feel so giddy and good, even if they're ultimately embarrassed?

That is, Gorgug was thinking about teasing him a little more. But then Fabian had to switcheroo on him, give him that earnest remark that he likely didn't deserve right then, and--

Gorgug doesn't know, but he thinks this is good. This feels good, the pair of them right now, and Fabian's little baby.

...his too, kinda. Since they're family? He'll remember the word for whatever they are later, if he cares to think.

But Fabian is pointedly tired, so Gorgug will ease up on a pal, even if he's still not letting up on his smile. ]

Okay. What do you do when you get home? You want me to keep holding the baby or put it in its room? [ ...Gorgug looks down, asks quietly: ] Will you go in your room...?

[ Is there a signal when it will go to sleep? Do they need to make sure it's asleep first? (Yes, Gorgug.) ]

[ Look at Gorgug talking to the robot baby. It's unfairly cute. Is he just this wholesome with robot babies because Gorgug is an artificer, or does it have something to do with him picking up on his own adoptive parents' wholesomeness?

Fabian doesn't know. All he knows is that it's unfairly cute, and that Gorgug definitely can't keep this up if Fabian wants that blush to ever fully disappear off his face. ]

I was thinking of taking a nap, actually.. [ .. though without the baby.

Or else that baby is 100% going to wake him up. So-- ]

Which means we should put the baby to sleep first. I already fed it back at the station, so.. Hopefully it will feel like sleeping. [ Gosh, Fabian sure hopes it'll feel like sleeping, or this is going to be a Struggle. And he just wants his nap. ]

[ Somebody needs to tell Gorgug these things about babies!! Including the baby itself. But, hm. Fabian getting a nap and getting the baby to sleep don't work together, do they? Even if Gorgug thinks that Fabian sounds old for wanting a nap so early in the day, he won't comment on that, but try and think of a way to make both of these things happen. ]

...I can try and make it sleep. [ Oh, he actually remembers this part! ] I can read to it. Clark told me that works-- or playing with it. But, um, we could try reading.

[ Mainly because the idea of him trying to play with a baby robot seems like it has a higher percent chance of going wrong, or just feeling incredibly awkward. More so than reading to one.

(And, look, Gorgug doesn't have a problem with robots, okay. He has a problem with it being a robot sent here to judge him and his friends. He dislikes a judging baby! It makes him nervous!!)

But he looks at Fabian, clarifying, despite that we: ] You can try taking your nap.

[ You know, while he does that... He's showing that he's more responsible now around robots, right? ]

[ Old? Old?? Please, Gorgug, some of us over here are trying to navigate adult life! You try doing what he does!

Thankfully those thoughts remain in the other's head though, so Fabian doesn't have to know and doesn't have to throw some dumb fit about it. Instead he's much more focused on what Gorgug's actually says here, giving the reading idea a little nod. It's not something he's tried himself yet, but hey, if it might work.. ]

I'm fairly sure there were some books for children in the house when I showed up here.. [ Maybe in the nursery? Honestly, Fabian has been so busy after arriving that he hasn't really thought about them again, nor bothered to look for them..

He contemplates it for a moment until he shakes his head to shake himself out of the thought. They can just go look. Which-- yes, they, because-- ]

I will go look with you. [ And then, quickly added, like he's worried about there maybe being some sort of protest from Gorgug: ] Come on, I can't possibly just go nap while you are stuck taking care of my robot baby. It wouldn't be fair.

[ Especially when Gorgug already went out of his way for him in the first place. Coming here when he didn't have to, offering to help. ]

[ Would it not be fair? After Gorgug tore off said robot's baby arm off and kinda made a mess after it in Fabian's house? ...Gorgug isn't sure about that, but he also doesn't feel like protesting about it, since he doesn't care that much. Fabian can't be feeling that old and needing a nap that bad if he's willing to find a book with him. ]

Oh, okay. [ So while he doesn't sound enthused, it doesn't mean anything deep. He's just about which way to go where for the books, although- ] I'll go take it to its bed, and you... do you have a bookcase? I can look in its room.

[ He's just kinda wondering where everything is and which direction he can go in. But he would also like to go in the direction he's going in, anyway. Maybe the crib room has a bookcase? Gorgug doesn't remember anything that doesn't involve screaming and hospital hallways. ]

Yeah, if it's anywhere around here, it ought to be in its room.

[ You know, Gorgug. The room where you ripped off the baby's arm before? That room. No pressure.

At least Fabian isn't sending him there alone. Sure, he is kind of feeling like a nap, but rather than a lack of fatigue fuelling him, it's entirely the desire to not leave his friend alone as he has to do this.

Maybe because he's exactly thinking of that little broken robot arm lying on the floor of that room, with a Gorgug standing next to it looking like he was about to burst into tears. Panicked tears. ]

.. uh, though I hope the books are-- alright.

[ Remember the Mysterious Liquid Substance all over the place back when the house was a mess, Gorgug?

Maybe the baby puke ruined the baby books. Who knows. It got everywhere.

Though when Gorgug - with Fabian in tow - arrived at the nursery, the room actually looks.. pretty alright! Clean, at least. It seems like Riz sure did some cleaning around here.. And there is in fact a small colourful bookcase that has some books for babies in them, if Gorgug looks around. ]

[ Gorgug is here to be a big boy, and face his big boy fears. It's part of the process, and while there's an initial unpleasant feeling from stepping into the room, Gorgug's been faced with plenty enough bad times to know to push through it. The only sign of discomfort is a brief wince, but Gorgug and wincing expressions is kind of a default, so it doesn't stand out as he looks about the room and spots a corner filled with baby-related entertainment.

Like cubes, and that bookshelf there.

He goes over to it, not actually understanding Fabian's warning at first until he takes out a book, and...it's not wet, but there's definitely a weird, crusty substance over the first book he removes, a small 'huh?' when he feels it, but doesn't know what the fuck it is he's touching. He just rubs his hand off on the side of his jeans, checks the front to see if he can tell what it's about...

...and he turns it to Fabian, a curious expression on his face. The front cover is colourful, showing-- ]

Dinosaurs?

[ Do you want your baby child learning about blue and purple dinosaurs, Fabian? ]

[ Though Fabian does look at it and blink for a moment or two without answering, like he has to think about it for the briefest moment..

.. then he just shrugs. ]

Sure.

[ You know what? They've been through enough. Fabian will take not ripping a baby to pieces as at least slight proof of being a good parent. No need to raise the bar to thinking too hard about what a baby should or shouldn't be hearing about.

Besides-- ]

If it's my baby, I would have to raise it to think that it could one day do great things, right? [ That is something Fabian's parents instilled in him, after all.

Perhaps a little bit too much, but that's a different conversation altogether. ]

The baby should learn about dinosaurs. So the baby can one day fight them all. [ THE SEACASTER WAY OF BABY REARING... That Gorgug is now also being pulled into.. Sorry, Gorgug. ]

[ Whoa, Fabian. You just said something that Gorgug hadn't considered ever before, and he's standing there staring at the guy for a good second before looking away for another... ]

...I wanna fight a dinosaur. [ He is now looking at Fabian again, his decision reached. Dude. Dude. Fighting a dinosaur? ] Like a t-rex? Something incredibly big.

[ No SMALL dinosaurs!!! But he's got the dinosaur book in hand, and he's looking for a spot for where they can sit and do their job. On the floor? Do they sit on the floor? How did his parents take care of him...

He looks at Fabian again. ] ...do we read to it from the crib...?

[ Are they meant to stand around the crib and read... ]

[ Fabian would say something about Gorgug's sudden passion for dinosaur fighting, but then Gorgug just continues talking, and..

.. Fabian just blinks. With his one eye. He's looking kind of confused. Not even that Gorgug doesn't know how to take care of a baby at all - it's not like Fabian is all that much better in that department, let's be real - but more that the other is asking this, when-- ]

Did your parents never read to you?

[ Look. Did Fabian's parents do that? Of course not.

But from the impression he's gotten of Gorgug's parents, he's pretty sure they would. ]

[ He's staring back at Fabian with that question, the same face looking back at him. ]

I don't remember when I was in a crib. I think I was-- too small. I don't remember? [ Does Fabian remember? He would ask, but now he's already thinking about his parents reading to him, and what he does remember... ] They used to read to me in bed, but they had to hop onto the bed to sit.

[ ... ] I don't think we can sit in the crib, or on it.

[ He's looking at the crib now. He doesn't think that's possible.

Behold, as the boys' biggest challenge yet is the dumbest of all: navigating a crib to tell a bedtime story. ]

We could just.. sit next to it.

[ Right?

That's normal, isn't it? It feels normal. Fabian doesn't have a whole lot of metrics as to what's normal when it comes to raising a baby, given his entire youth spent on a pirate ship and all and they sure as hell don't have a ship to emulate that here, but this feels normal.

He's.. He's pretty sure.

In fact, he'll even demonstrate just how normal it is, grabbing two chairs and putting them next to the crib. They're unfortunately kid-sized chairs, given that this is a nursery, but Fabian moves to sit down on one anyway. Even if it makes him look comically large. It makes him look like Gorgug, actually. ]

See, like this! We just sit like this, and we read! It's truly that simple..! [ Then why do you sound like you are desperately attempting to convince Gorgug of this, Fabian. ]

[ But Gorgug was trying to avoid the kid chairs. :(

Because they're kid chairs in every possible way. Gorgug can see himself in Fabian when he sits down, and he knows how it's going to feel when he sits down on that seat. It's the reason he's making a Face when he looks at the chair next to Fabian, like he hopes a better option will pop out from the nether--but then exhales a breath through his nostrils and gingerly lowers himself down onto the chair.

It wiggles as he sets himself down, the chair far from happy either, with his weight. ]

...this sucks...

[ Look at Grumpy THISTLESPRING here. He does mumble it to himself, while sulking in the absolute discomfort of the situation he's found himself in. This is what it means to be a good friend. A good friend to a single dad. So he's opening the book up to the first page, and without any of the energy that his own parents would use going into this... ]

Of course, dinosaurs are big. Everybody knows that... but there was just one dinosaur that was small. Very small.

[ (Gorgug knows a few things about feeling small right now.)

Gorgug is going to do his best. Which isn't going to be the most bombastic at the start (or middle, or ending), but if the Seacaster beside him has issues about his friend's delivery, maybe he should do something about it!! ]

[ Of course Fabian has issues with it.

He's one of the most dramatic men alive, after all. He might, in fact, be the most dramatic man alive now his father is technically not alive anymore. He's.. unalive? Dead-but-alive? Whatever it is, it's clearly not as alive as Fabian, so he's rightfully allowed to claim that title and everything that comes with it. Like the urge to turn even a book reading to a baby into some sort of dramatic bard spectacle.

On the other hand, it's really hard to not notice how grumpy Gorgug is being in this moment. It's just radiating off him. The way he's sitting. The way his face is. The delivery.

It makes Fabian swallow down his usual whining and complaints, not wanting to make this hard on them when the other day in the hospital was already plenty hard in its own way.

So if Gorgug looks at Fabian at all during the reading, even for a moment, there's Fabian - exaggeratedly - mouthing 'are you okay??' while gesturing. Like he doesn't want to interrupt the story for the robot baby out loud.. ]

[ The thing is, Gorgug isn't as grumpy as he's coming off.

The chair sucks. Gorgug hates the chair, it makes him feel Too Big, which is one of those things he's had to deal with his entire life. But the real problem here is...he doesn't know how he's supposed to read this story in a meaningful way. Even the robot baby in the crib is making a few unsatisfied whines now and then; not becoming entirely displeased, but not at all satisfied.

It is a Seacaster baby robot. If Fabian's not sold on Gorgug's performance, then the baby isn't going to be either!!! ]

You always know when there's a dinosaur around... [ continues Gorgug and his flat delivery. He catches Fabian's mouth flaps from the side, eyes him quizzically as, ] ...when the trees start to shake....

What?? [ ... he didn't need to whisper that. And yet, he did. What?? What's wrong? ]

[ Fabian seems to be trying really hard to convey something here to Gorgug without saying anything. Which, of course, is not exactly the most succesful thing in the world. Especially not when Fabian is perhaps a little too expressive, and Gorgug perhaps not expressive enough - meaning the latter is never going to catch up on what the weird hand gestures Fabian is making mean.

Please don't mind these two idiots treating the robot baby like it's something that can hear and react to everything if they speak up out loud..

At least he does seem to catch on to the fact that his friend isn't going to realize what he's trying to say here after a minute or so of gesturing, so Fabian opens his mouth to ask, still not too loud-- ]

Are you alright? You're reading like-- [ It would help if Fabian put a word to this. Gave an explanation. Remembered he knows Gorgug well enough to know the other isn't just going to pick up on vibes.

And yet-- ] You know.

[ You know! ]

[ Can't it hear them, Fabian??? Isn't it judging them every second of their lives?

Which is why Gorgug doesn't mind whispering, since they're trying to lull the baby to sleep, and not with conversation that detracts from its bedtime story (would it notice? would it care?). But that, apparently, is not going to continue as Fabian turns up the volume a little more, to-- ...absolutely nothing of help. He's being paused from the storybook, staring at Fabian like he's got something on his face: puzzled, bewildered. ]

Like-- what? [ What??? ] It's a baby book. It's-- [ now he's making a gesture with one hand, circling around as he tries to find the right word (with a pinch of consideration to the baby, before--): ] --dumb.

[ Babies are dumb, Fabian! Does he need to show you the book? Hold it up so you can see the pages and the big, simple text? He can! He will!! ]

It's a performance, Gorgug!

[ Despite the way Fabian's voice is pretty insistent, he is still keeping the volume down. Relatively speaking. It makes his voice just above a whisper, but with that same hissing quality to it, considering the lack of volume. ]

The baby isn't going to sleep if the story isn't interesting enough! [ It's likely this is not an actual parental lesson Fabian knows.

It's much more likely it's just that the half-elf figures. Especially when he wouldn't like a boring story. Despite not being a baby, which would technically put him in no position to judge the quality of stories for babies.. ]

[ Gorgug, for a moment, is looking at Fabian with the same baffled expression he was wearing previous. As he shares this knowledge, only--it's stunned. Like this is some kind of new information that Fabian is imparting onto him, and Gorgug looks back down at the book, held the wrong way for him to actually see more than the spine. ]

...

[ ...and he holds it out to his dramatic friend, his thumb keeping it open on the page it's on. ]

You read it.

[ It's not even bitter or challenging. It's just. So simple.

There is an issue here, and Fabian knows how to fix it. Therefore...

Have fun, dad. ]

[ Fabian groans when Gorgug holds out that book to him. ]

I told you, I'm tired!

[ But despite his whining - or rather, at the exact same time as his whining - he's already getting up from his chair and taking the book from his friend. Like he's protesting the very thing he's already doing.

And what a thing he's doing. Because the moment Fabian stands upright, the dramatics ensue. He's clearing his throat. He's holding the book like he's about to recite Shakespeare, instead of reading a story meant for little babies.

What ensues is the performance of a lifetime. Fabian leaps across the room. He imitates a dinosaur. There's a musical number midway through that is clearly not in the actual book for babies. All the way until-- ]

The end!

[ He's bowing.

The baby is at least giggling, though who knows how much of all of that it even understood.. It's just a robot baby, after all.. ]

[ The first surprising part is when Fabian doesn't even sit back down.

Not that Gorgug really had expectations. At most, he figured Fabian would use his droning voice for when he's doing something he doesn't really want to, exasperated by his circumstances (like having to explain a very simple concept--simple to him). But instead, he goes all out, apparently: for a very tired dad. Gorgug worries at moments that he should be shuffling himself aside on his chair, but it would be hard to do, considering how plastic and wobbly his small seat is.

But for the most part, he gets to enjoy his friend's performance as much as the baby does. Or more? He's classing his hands anyway upon the bow and the declaration, loudly, right above his head to really show he's going for it!!

Listen! Even the baby liked it!! ]

Part two! Part two!!

[ wait no ]

Part--

[ Look, Fabian loves a good encore.

But it's like finishing up the story did remind his body and mind of how tired it is right about now, because the thought of doing a part two of that story with the same levels of energy just seems to make everything shut down up in his mind. The facial expression that appears on Fabian's face is nothing short of comical. (Maybe he's still stuck in dramatic mode, here at the end of the story.) ]

Part two? No, I was going to nap, I--

[ Fabian tears his gaze away from his friend to look over at the baby, as if he's only remembering this entire thing was about the baby, rather than about Gorgug, in the first place.

Then, with full exasperation: ] It's not even asleep!

[ :(

It's all ruined now. ]

[ Bro, you weren't building up to a part two? Gorgug is far too impressed to consider quickly enough the way that Fabian's expression works, and he follows his gaze over to the baby that, yes-- this was about. ]

You got way into it, you made it exciting-- there's no way it can sleep. [ Horrid words to say to a friend who wants to sleep himself...!!

Unless. That's an unless that Gorgug doesn't voice, popping into his head, but he thinks for a second silently, then carefully lifts himself up from his seat and over to the crib. The baby is gurgling cheerfully, perhaps from the excitement of the story already ended or from seeing Gorgug's face, or both. Regardless, he carefully extracts the baby from the crib, remembering something from when he was younger, that his parents did from him. Not a story, but instead...

He sings softly a lullaby--originally meant for gnomes, but adjusted to a half-orc baby. His voice hushed, and he carefully, ever so carefully rocks the child in his arms. There's words he doesn't exactly remember, and he hums over those part, nose wrinkling when that happens. But Gorgug gets over it when he still needs more words to think, to continue to lull the little robot baby to sleep... ]

Your dad is a pirate man...
Part elf, and part man, a human man...
He fights all dangers, and he dances with pride...
And you can always count on him to be by your side...
Yeah, he's a dancing pirate... a dancing pirate that watches over you...

He's my best friend, and he's your dad... and he wants you to say good night...

[ ♪ ]

[ Fabian definitely goes quiet when Gorgug stands up. Mostly because he isn't too sure of what his friend is planning on doing here, and he's staring kind of blankly while he's watching Gorgug wander over closer to the crib, slowly blinking..

.. and then just continuing to blink when Gorgug does the last thing that Fabian expected. Maybe he should have expected it, given that it's not exactly the first time Gorgug has done it, but it's something so unlike Fabian himself that he's completely caught by surprise by it.

Stunned. Unable to move or speak. He just stands there, listening to Gorgug's entire improvised song.

It's kind of hard to say whether Fabian is touched or cringing. Maybe it's a little bit of both, actually, and he isn't really sure which of the two he should allow to win here. But before Fabian can even make a decision, he's noticing something else when he looks at the little bundle in Gorgug's arms, making Fabian's voice drop to a whisper when he finally does speak up. ]

.. the baby's sleeping.

[ Who would've known? Gorgug did it!! ]

[ Gorgug's continuing to hum, following a made up tune between his lips, and he glances over at Fabian when he speaks before looking back down at the baby. Sure enough, a less energetic approach has won (as well as a less monotone one, too). He still continues to hum small notes as he walks back over to the crib, settling the robotic baby back onto the soft bedding, lifting away his arms and retreating slowly from it.

Hmmm, hmmming a little more before, quietly to Fabian: ]

Let's get outta here.

[ Please, bro, please. Let's escape before the baby changes its mind!!! Lead the way outta the door!! ]

[ Okay, okay-- Getting out of here! Maybe not too quickly though, because Fabian is worried that a little bit too much sound might wake the robot baby right back up again. Especially when it felt like the baby truly never wanted to go to sleep back when Fabian was just desperately trying to care for it himself.

But even though they have to sneak out of the room quietly, and a little slowly because of that, they do manage to sneak out.

And when they close the door behind them, Fabian finally dares to release a breath he was holding. Like he was worried even that would be too loud. ]

I thought it was never going to go to sleep. [ He admits, his volume only a little bit above a whisper. ] I feel exhausted now.

[ Don't start judging him like he's some grandpa again, okay, Gorgug. He's been working all day!! He had to put on a performance for the baby!! That's like working and then doing another part-time job right after, and back home Fabian notoriously never works!! ]

[ Gorgug would like to rush, but he will also take (while understanding) silently rushing, in a not very fast way. It makes sense! They've got to use some slick moves here or the baby might wake up again!

And the relief that runs through Fabian and expels in a sigh is the same one Gorgug experiences, once he can safely put his back to the door (without actually leaning on said door...we don't want to get careless, now). But while Fabian is showing his age, or, okay, his exhaustion, a small smile does creep on Gorgug's lips, showing the tips of his tusks. ]

It's 'cause you put on a whole show for the baby. I thought you forgot you wanted it to sleep.

[ But, even so (in case Fabian didn't get the memo): ] It was good. You could join the drama club.

[ Imagine, Fabian... imagine joining those losers who made a drama club in an adventuring school!! ]

Ugh.

[ That's such a dramatic ugh too, despite the fact that Fabian just said he's tired. As if it's important that he truly shows his dislike of the idea here. ]

Ugh. [ See? He's even repeating it! That's how important it is that it gets across to Gorgug that Fabian Does Not Want this! Does Not Like this idea! ] Absolutely not. I am never going near them. I have too much popular kid credit to waste now!

[ He's too busy being a maximum legend, Gorgug! Look at the tattoo! It's also important! ]

You know what club I am joining right now? [ Fabian says, starting to move through the hall in the direction of the bedroom. ] The bed club. That's where I am going.

[ Fabian is so dramatic about everything, even when he's meant to be sleepy. It amuses Gorgug, but he doesn't comment on it; following Fabian instead, directly behind him as he needs to ask. ]

Am I still joining the club? I forget... were we going to sleep together?

[ ...because he kinda doesn't know what he's meant to be doing, and is following behind Fabian like a lost puppy that doesn't know which other direction to go. Yet. Was he meant to... sit in the living room?

The baby antics kinda made him lose his track of thought. ]

[ Fabian knows that they definitely did not settle on anything like this. Really, from what he remembers, it's more just that he already announced he was tired when he came home, and Gorgug never really said anything about it one way or another...

Not that it means he himself really thought about the whole arrangement. It'd be a little awkward to just have Gorgug sit around by himself at Fabian's place while Fabian naps, right. Even though he's sure Gorgug would find something to busy himself with. Like all that stuff he took over.

So after considering all of that for a few moments, he turns his head to look at the other - though he's still walking at the same time. ]

Do you want to?

[ Might as well leave it up to Gorgug, honestly.

Especially when Fabian.. finds himself not really minding. Especially after that conversation they had in the hospital so recently. It felt even more intimate than the idea of sleeping together now - especially when they have slept in a huge Bad Kids pile often enough back in the Hangvan. ]

[ ...Does he want to?

He came here to hang out and help Fabian with the baby, and now the baby has been dealt with... but the hanging out part is null and void if Fabian's going to bed. But-- while he's not all about toxic masculinity or anything like that, it still doesn't mean a friend wants him to....come and sleep with him. That's weird, right? And does Gorgug even want to nap?

With the question being put on him, he's looking between Fabian and the space they're in, towards the direction that they came from. Yeah, he came to stay over since they're technically now family, but.... ]

I can....go and make dinner. Wait 'til you wake up.

[ It just seems like the thing he should be doing? Stopping in his own tracks, figuring that the 'following your bro like a lost puppy' is not the move he should be making right now. He should be, like. Finding things to do? Probably.

Without a bro. ]

[ See, under normal circumstances Fabian wouldn't have thought anything about this. He would have let Gorgug go off and do that.

But there was their emotional moment in the hospital. And that makes him stop and think. It makes him wonder if he's just imagining that note of confusion in Gorgug's voice - even though Fabian thinks his question was pretty straightforward.

It makes him wonder if, deep inside, he didn't really just want Gorgug to answer a specific way to this question.

Fabian still hesitates for a moment, unused to this, but then speaks anyway. He's brave. He's brave!! ]

You can come with me if you want, you know. [ C-Casual!! Casual!! He's being brave!! ] I don't mind.

[ A slight pause, and then he adds, even more bravely: ]

I'd like that, actually.

[ Gorgug blinks at Fabian. The reassurance, and even the 'I'd like that'. Fabian would? It's an unexpected confession, and it puts Gorgug in a different spot. It's not that Fabian's question hadn't been straightforward, just-- he wasn't sure about if he wanted a nap. He hasn't been working a boring, stupid job all day doing nothing. There's things he can do for Fabian, surely.

But then there's the thing that Fabian apparently wants him to do. Join him.

... ]

... Okay. [ There's no uncertainty this time, or not in his tone. Despite the pause before his answer, his agreement to giving Fabian what he wants is there, but he does admit why he'd been waffling before: ] I don't know how tired I am.

[ But he's willing to give it a go? Nap with a bro? What's the worst that can happen? ]

Gods, Gorgug, it's a nap.

[ There's a little bit more exasperation in there - though it's very, very mild. It's just the usual Fabian levels of dramatics, really, like he isn't able to do anything in life without being dumb and dramatic about it.

And, in this case, tired. Apparently.

But Gorgug has already agreed, so Fabian is already making his way fully over towards the bedroom now, opening the door and going in there - not to mention leaving the door open behind him so Gorgug can follow. ]

How hard could it possibly be?

[ Says the rich boy... ]

[ Gorgug shrugs, not that put off by Fabian's exasperation one way or another. He's following him regardless, closing the door behind him and looking around the room. It's different, if just because Gorgug has to share his own room with his fake brother. ]

I haven't napped properly in a while. [ He's going over to sit on the bed, since why would he have any qualms about making himself comfortable in Fabian's space? He kicks off his shoes by the bed (do you think he does it by the front door??), and lifts his feet onto the bed to lay his back flat. ] Naps are what sleep becomes when you have three years of artificing classes to get through.

[ The horrors of schoolwork continue to stick with Gorgug... ]

[ Sorry, Gorgug, but Fabian does laugh a little bit at the horrors of schoolwork you're expressing here..

At least it's not anything too drawn out, just a slight, amused laugh - like Gorgug just made a joke. Because it's clearly a joke, right? I-It's not really like Gorgug has only napped for the past few months back home, right?

Either way, Fabian is already getting onto the bed too, drawing back the blankets so he can get in there and really make himself comfortable. Usually he'd be worried about sleeping in his outside clothes, but-- it's fine, it's just his dumb work uniform. He doesn't have to treat it gently. ]

So, on a scale from one to ten, how glad are you to be napping with me instead of working on artificer homework?

[ Getting underneath the blankets?? Sorry, but Gorgug is going to keep laying on top of them for now, so hopefully you're not struggling there trying to get as much of them as you want. Gorgug, currently, is perfectly content to close his eyes and have his hands on his lap like someone who thinks this is how people sleep. ]

Mmm...

...

... There's no wrong answer, right?

[ Just making sure before he answers--! ]

Dude!

[ It's offended. Not at the maximum by Fabian standards - which is a lot, incredibly dramatic - but there's still some drama going on here as he says it. There's almost an audible gasp in his voice. ]

Of course there is a wrong answer! [ Does Gorgug not know that you must praise a special little boy every single chance you get? It's how this is supposed to work!

Also, please don't mind the way Fabian is trying to tug on the blankets as hard as he can, like he's trying to wrestle them out from underneath Gorgug.. Which is an impossible task. It's like trying to pull something out from under a rock.. And yet Fabian refuses to give up, continuing to pull. ]

[ Have fun pulling. Gorgug isn't really paying attention. His eyes are closed and he is trying to save himself from this position he's put himself in! (not the bed one) ]

Okay, well, laying in bed with you and taking a nap is easier to do, and a lot less stressful. [ To a certain degree. ] Even if...I would rather be learning about artificing and having classes in artificing, if I had to be going to school in the place where I'm also laying in bed and taking a nap with you...

[ Did he do it. Did he answer truthfully while also keeping a special little boy happy. ]

[ Suddenly the tugging stops.

Mostly because Fabian has to think. It's almost like Gorgug is presenting him with some sort of puzzle. Like the two guards, where one always lies and the other always tells the truth, except this is a bit more of a word game..

(Really, it's not even all that difficult, it's just apparently difficult enough for Fabian to not a moment to think.)

And once he has thought, he immediately shoots up to sit up in bed, even if it means the blanket falls from him entirely since it's still too trapped underneath Gorgug to move up with Fabian. ]

So you're saying you do like artificing more than hanging around with me!

[ B-bro?! What kind of betrayal is this? ]

Even though we're raising a baby together! [ A fake baby.

But still. ]

[ Uh oh, that's a reason to open his eyes: the sight of an offended Fabian looking down at him from above.

Save yourself, Gorgug! ]

--I'm its dad now too?

[ Well, he'll save himself after he finishes getting stuck on this point. He knows he made them family, but does that actually make the baby his too...!!! He knows he's said some things, b-but...! ]

Of course!

[ Fabian says this as if it's such a natural thing, but-- let's be real, it's not something he started finding natural until he got offended over what Gorgug said and needed something to hold against him..

The mind of Fabian Seacaster works in wondrous ways, let's just leave it at that. ]

Are you saying you aren't going to take responsibility for the baby?

[ Are you a deadbeat dad now, Gorgug. Do you, the adopted baby, have something against adopted babies!! ]

[ Oh no. Oh no. He can't even be the cool uncle? He hears those are things for people with uncles. They get to be the fun guy who comes over and gets to leave when they please! ]

Iiiii.... [ That's a really dragged out 'I' there. ] ...have.....??

[ Technically? He just did? But he has to look away from Fabian as he says it because this is an extreme amount of pressure going on here! He's just one Gorgug! One Gorgug in a spiral of bad answers to a test he didn't know he was having! Shit, this is worse than artificing classes!! ]

[ Don't you wish right about now that you just had told Fabian that spending time with him is the best thing and that he's the most special little boy and that everyone should applaud when he walks into a room, Gorgug?

Because it might have been easier. Just saying. ]

That responsibility also involves hanging out with the other parent! [ .. what are you now, Fabian. A trophy wife??

This beautiful mind palace is getting out of control. ]

.. also, you should nap underneath the blankets, not on top of them. [ Only now is he bringing it up.. After that huge dramatic fit that wasn't even really related to the blankets, despite his tugging on them in the middle of it.. ]

[ Gorgug feels like he is in the middle of a tornado. A very small tornado that threatens to swoop him up if he isn't careful! Also, did he become a for real parent? He might need to re-think this whole making Fabian part of the family... ]

But I'll get hot. [ But also, he's willing to drop that discussion (read: run away from it) by focusing on this new topic. Gorgug pinches at his hoodie. ] I'm wearing my hoodie. It's okay.

[ Because clearly Fabian is suggesting this for his benefit, right? There's nothing else behind these instructions. ]

[ Why does Gorgug have to make this so difficult, huh.

Fabian thinks he's being very clear here, after all. (Maybe he isn't being that clear in reality, but in Fabian's very biased perception, he's being very, very clear!) He feels like Gorgug should be able to pick up on what he's putting down. And yet the other seems completely oblivious.

He allows himself to drop backwards so he's lying on his back in the bed again, still with the blankets half off him since Gorgug is obliviously lying right on top of them. ]

Have you never napped together with someone else before?

[ Remember the Hangvan, Gorgug?

.. well, technically that's a little different because it's not exactly a regular bedroom situation in there, but-- still!! ]

[ ????????? why is Fabian talking about napping with people.... ]

Huh? [ Gorgug turns his head to Fabian, trying to figure out what apparently he's missing. Even though- ] I have. I napped with Zelda all the time.

[ So clearly he knows what he's doing here!! But he is putting together the pieces, where napping to Fabian means he needs to get underneath the covers... so he turns on his side, the bed creaking a little, especially when Gorgug...shuffles towards Fabian. Because the blankets are open on his side, so. He's gotta get close to Fabian for absolutely no reason whatsoever. No explanation necessary.

Especially as he pushes up against Fabian as he puts a hand behind him to try and pull up the blankets still trapped under him. ]

You wanna fall asleep listening to music? [ tug, tug, shuffle, shuffle-- ]

...

[ Wait.

Uh, wait? Wait, what's happening. What's happening right now. As Fabian sees his friend moving closer and closer to him, he would definitely like an explanation from the universe as to what's going on here and now, p-please? Thanks?

He stares at Gorgug with a wide eye, not moving an inch - because he doesn't know what Gorgug is doing, so he doesn't realize he should probably move to help out the other. Instead it almost seems like Fabian is frozen for once in his life. ]

What is-- [ He stammers. Sorry, let him try again.

(He's still not answering the question, but.. look, he feels like this question is more important than the one about music! B-Bro, why are you pressing up against him?! Bro?!) ]

What are you doing?

[ Fabian?? Do you want Gorgug to stop to answer you, while he's pressed up against you with your faces close? His white pupils staring down at you... ]

What, you... [ So he starts, but he's looking at Fabian and wondering if... did he get it wrong? Does Fabian not want him to grab the covers to pull over them? Or Gorgug, specifically. That wasn't the thing he was calling him out on?

Give Gorgug a second to think... ]

How do you wanna nap?

[ There. Just. Not answering. Another question for a question! ]

[ The lack of answering is really not helping. Because it leaves Fabian's mind to wander, and it's never a good thing when Fabian's mind wanders. It goes to the wildest places, especially as he's now supposed to know what Gorgug wants by pressing all up against him like this?

It's not like they haven't had close physical contact like this before, especially between all the Hangvan sleeping piles and their regular Bloodrush practice and games, but it still feels a little bit different in this context.

Different enough that Fabian's cheeks just become sliiightly darker than they usually are. H-He's not blushing, you are!! Shut up!! ]

I, uh..

[ M-Maybe he should just assume what Gorgug wants. Answer the question for him.

That sounds safe, right? ]

Do you want to cuddle? [ Is that it, bro?? Is that what's going on here??

Please know this can totally be misunderstood as Fabian asking for it, rather than Fabian assuming what Gorgug might want.. It's unfortunate wording in an unfortunate context, that's for sure. The way Fabian is blushing and absolutely does not seem to dare to move in this moment, totally frozen up, may not be helping.. ]

[ Sure, the two of them are close, but that part bothers Gorgug less than the idea that he's doing something odd (that has nothing to do with close body contact). But Fabian is usually quick to tell him if something's wrong, so he just has to wait, he thinks. Even if something about Fabian's face looks...funny. Like he's been caught unaware, and-- Gorgug doesn't think he's accidentally touching his dick or anything?

(It's a nice face, anyway. There's nothing wrong with Fabian's face.)

But, oh: the question comes out. Cuddling? It's a funny word out of Fabian's mouth, Gorgug's eyes widening slightly to the question (the request?). Gorgug looks aside, wondering, and-- well, he doesn't care about getting up close to Fabian if that's what he wants, so, when he looks back... ]

Okay. [ Okay. Gorgug relaxes his body, not moving back, and he takes his arm from behind him (where it was working to grab those blankets from under him) to somewhere around Fabian's waist. ]

Do you want me to... like this?

[ Do you want him to hold you, bro? King? ]

[ If Fabian was thinking just a little bit more clearly here, it'd be pretty easy to figure out what's currently going on. It would be easy to realize that it's just a misunderstanding, and that rather than this being something Gorgug actively wants, it's just him going along with the thing he misunderstood from Fabian.

But of course Fabian isn't thinking clearly. He's just a little bit too freaked out right now to be able to do that. So he's just assuming that 'okay' isn't Gorgug agreeing with him, but Gorgug confirming that Fabian guessed his intentions right.

S-So-- They're doing this now, right.

T-they're doing it? Except Gorgug is asking him his preferences, and it's very confusing, and oh gods, Fabian was not ready--

Fabian isn't moving.

Mostly because he's frozen up, but it could also just be taken as him accepting the touch easily.. ]

Sure?

[ If that's what you want, Gorgug?? Please don't pay attention to how flushed Fabian's cheeks look in this moment, king. ]

Do you want to? Like that?

[ They're hitting each other and themselves in their confusion.. ]

[ There's nothing to be read about Fabian not moving, right? He's seeing what Gorgug's doing, and then they can relax in a while--once they know what the other is doing. And Fabian seems okay about his arm being around him if he is? ]

Yeah. I like this.

[ Having his arm around a waist. Granted, he's never thought about it with Fabian, or if he likes this in regards to cuddling with the bros in bed, but--it's not bad, is it? And if Fabian wants to be sure that Gorgug's cool with it, Gorgug should tell him it's good, it's fine.

He can even start to slouch down, bring his head closer to the pillows and get comfortable. Fortunately for Fabian, Gorgug isn't paying too close attention to Fabian's face now, and he's more visible on one side than the other. ]

This is nice. [ Right? Isn't it? ] You want me to pull the blanket over?

Uh. [ ... ] Sure.

[ It doesn't help that the way his heart is beating so rapidly with surprise and fluster is kind of distracting. If Fabian had a little bit more time to actually think about this situation, he'd realize that it's.. kind of nice, actually. He isn't sure if it's nice in general, or if that thought is heavily colored by the fact that he spent months sleeping all alone in a far too big bed in a far too big empty house, but there's something about the presence of having someone important to him close by that's kind of nice.

So he doesn't move away from the touch. Even when Gorgug pulls the blankets over them, Fabian just stays there where he is, like he's too worried about accidentally shaking off the hold if he'd move, if he'd give Gorgug the wrong idea. And then not being strong enough to ask for the touch to be returned.

Fabian is just quiet. His heart is still going too fast for him to fall asleep, so he speaks up again, quietly. Gorgug probably hasn't fallen asleep yet, right? He said he wasn't even tired. ]

... you don't think this place will make you wake up in your own bed again, do you?

[ With affirmation given, Gorgug does what he offered, taking away his arm from Fabian's waist so that he can gather and pull the blanket over them, enough so Fabian can adjust it if he wants. But Gorgug's arm then goes back to where it was, like this is where it's supposed to go now--because it is, right? It'd be weird to move it somewhere else. Like he's uncomfortable with this, or something, and he's really not.

But he's relaxing, or getting relaxed. They're meant to sleep, but Gorgug hasn't closed his eyes yet-- not by the time Fabian speaks up, but if his eyes were closed, then he would've started to consider it. But now he's thinking--about that question. ]

They said we're family now. [ So that means he should wake up wherever he slept, right? Though, Fabian asking that is... ] Does that happen?

[ Do people magically switch beds? That's weird. ]

[ Gorgug watches everything that occurs through the multiple feeds.

Multiple feeds connected to his and Adaine's crystals, and set up to save the footage--Gorgug follows them anxiously, as closely as he can. He can't track them all at once, his crystal not large enough for that even with its upgrades, and he has to swap between whichever one appears immediately important. He knows the moments it goes wrong, and how nothing ever stops being wrong--how could it, when someone dies? How could it, when against Riz and Fabian's best attempts, they fail to reach the hospital unscathed? Refusing to turn around, which could very well mean their lives. They know it could mean their lives. They persist. (Of course they would.)

And for what they find, Gorgug isn't sure they find any answers, or even questions to satisfy the mystery searcher in Riz. Was it worth it? Was this a success?

Did it even do anything?

It feels like a heart attack to Gorgug: a big, horrible mistake they weren't prepared for, with all those days of preparation crumbling like play sand. What were they doing? Thinking? They're better than this, and Gorgug played a part in their results: he didn't prepare them better. He didn't protect, and all he can do is watch, secure the footage. Make sure there's room for it to be saved and wait for Fabian to make his return.

(He watches them do so, even if he doesn't see them. Hears ragged breathing, can imagine the state of them from experience.)

When they make it to the front door of Fabian's house, it's already opening before they can touch the handle. Gorgug is there to collect them, each an arm around some part of them, to help them handle the weight of their bodies. Leading them first through into the living room, setting them onto the couch, his voice kept low and the lights dimmed.

'Hey, hey, let me-- let's sit down, it's okay. Where does it hurt most? Let me heal it. Do you want a drink? It can wait 'til morning.'

Reassurances, care. Anything about the mission, Gorgug isn't interested in right now; not when the pair have been through hell, and when Gorgug's first aid that he can administer is weak, and his healing between the two of them drains what little magic he has to spare. Some wounds might close, but hardly enough: the exhaustion sticks, and everything that's happened tonight.

It makes it easier to tell them to sleep. They'll heal better with it, and Gorgug can get some magic back, further giving them the comfort he can't right now. And really, how can either of them argue? With the state they're in, and when it's easy for their half-orc friend to do as he had at the doorway (somehow even easier, even if Riz has never weighed much--he doesn't like how easy it is). He takes them all to the bedroom that's not unfamiliar, settles them down after pushing back the covers, and even joins them, just because--he doesn't want to leave them alone. Sleeping with the two is nothing new, his only jitters being in getting in the way, and trying to take up as little room as possible despite his size.

They can grumble, if they like. They've earned it, and Gorgug stays up for a while despite the good idea this had been from him, and how he needs to sleep as well.

Somehow, he does drift. And yet Gorgug still wakes in the early morning, sight cloudy and a grogginess in his limbs that he doesn't like. He should sleep more, but seeing the figures in front of him (congratulations: Gorgug didn't break the bed in his sleep), any and all complaints leave him, his biggest worry becoming getting up quietly enough to not disturb the pair.

(Read: not disturb Riz.)

He manages to slip away into the wider space of the house, moving, thinking. There's little in the kitchen for breakfast, and the starting cries of a waking baby hurries Gorgug into its bedroom to take care of it, hushing it and holding it to his chest. Breakfast for it comes first, and then the careful preparations to leave the house with it to go into town for food.

Fabian likes fish. Does Riz like fish? He probably likes eggs and toast, so he can get all that. And coffee? Plenty of coffee.

The quality about fish that sticks out to many a people is a striking one: its smell. When it's gone off, but also when it's being cooked, and it's fortunately the latter that might stir the two boys at some point. That, or is it the subtler smell of the coffee? Or maybe--

...it's the horrible consequences of their actions from the night before. Could be that, we guess.

Wake up when or how you like. There will be coffee ready, even juice in the fridge, and Gorgug in the kitchen not doing too badly with the scrambled egg set aside and already cooked (and in a bowl, in case he needs to reheat it). But he is fighting at keeping the fish together, while also picking out bits of bones while it's still in the frying pan.

Yes, he is giving the occassional 'ouch!' at his progress. And squinting his Gorgug squint, hunched over the stove. This might be the first time it's gotten any use. ]

Edited 2024-08-18 21:53 (UTC)

[ Honestly, when Fabian wakes up, he feels himself remembering very little of the night before.

Most of it will come to him in bits and pieces while his mind slowly reactivates himself, but all that registers when he wakes up is just the ache in his limbs, the pain whenever he tries to move them just a little bit too much. It's not like he hasn't felt pain before - he has gotten hurt plenty of times in battle, to not even speak of how often he's been knocked unconscious because of it - but usually Kristen is always there to patch them right back up after a battle. Fabian can't even remember the last time he had to sleep a full night without being healed first, and his body is paying the price for it this morning.

It means it takes him a long while to get out of bed. Forcing his body far up enough to sit up is hard enough, but he's also trying to not disturb a still-sleeping Riz - though nothing seems capable of waking the goblin, because even Fabian trying to detangle their sleeping positions doesn't seem to wake the other in the slightest.

And considering Riz looks just as bad as Fabian feels in this moment, he just allows the other to sleep. He even tucks Riz in a little after Fabian has left the bed, slowly making his way through the hallways of his fake house - hallways that suddenly feel way too long with the tiny steps he has to take to prevent his legs from locking up due to the overwhelming ache.

Eventually he makes his way to the kitchen though, only to spot-- ]

Gorgug.

[ The name spills out from his lips a little weakly, but if the other turns to look at Fabian, Fabian will actually put a very weak smile on his lips. ]

Making breakfast for the heroes? [ Look, do they seem like heroes right now? Probably not, given all the bruises and wounds on Fabian in the moment, or the ones that were still on Riz's sleeping form. But as far as Fabian is concerned, he fulfilled his duty of keeping them both alive, both out there and then while dragging themselves home. Even if he isn't really fond of his current state, he at least does feel like it was a relatively badass thing to do. It's the sort of thing that would've made his father proud, and that's enough to keep that smile on his face despite the fact that he's leaning against the side of the doorway to keep himself standing up. ]

[ Their little angel continues to sleep as bundled as he should be..... ]

Ow. [ And meanwhile, Gorgug is still in the middle of bone hunting. Who knew there were so many little bones? Gorgug should know, but his parents have always been on top of cooking that he honestly feels like he did something wrong here that he's finding so many. Was he meant to take out the spine and the other bones would have come out with it? It was pain enough to cut off the head and to take out the guts...!!

But all of that worried drops when he turns around to the sound of his name, footsteps hushed under the noise of the frying food. He's wide-eyed, maybe more than he needs to be, with the surprise easing into a warm welcome: while Gorgug stands better facing Gorgug, one hand holding a spatula. ]

Yeah-- I got trout. You like trout? [ ... Ah, speaking of the trout, with Gorgug glancing back at it and its horrid, messy state. ] I-I think it's still edible.

[ He swears, Fabian... Even if he has broken it into pieces...

(But also in the side, poking out from a white carrier bag is something close, on the side between the two of them: a bag of fresh oranges.

Because of course he did.) ]

[ .. did he sleep that long? Fabian honestly can't tell, and he sure didn't check the time either when he actually decided to get out of the bed, since even lying down wasn't exactly comfortable while he's in this much aching pain. It sure seems like Gorgug had enough time to do all sorts of things though. Getting food that Fabian knows for a fact was not in this house yesterday, even setting out to get said food ready.

(It's not even like the choice in food is going over his head. Fish. He can spot the oranges. Fabian doesn't doubt that Gorgug made sure to grab something that he'd think Riz would enjoy too.)

There's a quick, quiet moment of him taking it in, but then he looks over at his friend again instead to answer. ]

Honestly, I'd eat almost anything at this point. [ Almost, still, because Fabian will forever be a posh, picky boy, okay. Some people have to have standards! Still-- ] It feels like I'm starving.

[ It's hard when your body suddenly has to try and use its own energy to sustain and heal you, rather than your party's resident cleric doing it? A wild, new concept for sure. Fabian's stomach might actually be making some sounds from where he's leaning against the door frame. ]

.. do you need me to wake up The Ball for breakfast? I think he's still sleeping. [ And probably hurting as much as Fabian is. He knows Riz got hurt just as bad back there, that they both had to try and drag their sorry bodies all the way back home after. It had been a pain. It still, in fact, is a pain, and Fabian is definitely worried about their friend despite being in pretty much the exact same state himself. Or maybe exactly because of it, because he knows what kind of a literal pain it is. ]

[ (The food for Riz is coffee. What else would it be.)

Gorgug's glad to hear about that--starving means that Fabian won't think about the mess this fish is going to look, and Gorgug decides that he can probably take it out of the frying pan and put it on some plates, get the eggs reheated. He takes the pan off the heat and kills said heat, but then pauses with it in hand as he considers waking Riz.

Riz sleeping is a good thing....but Fabian is up now, and him sleeping more could also be called a good thing? Gorgug is having to think right about now. ]

Yeah, we... should we? Riz never gets enough sleep. [ And especially after the planning put into setting this off, how much has the guy been sleeping compared to usual? But he also voices as a point against that: ] But you're awake too.

[ What's the right answer? Gorgug looks over at the coffee pot, and figures: ]

The coffee'll be hot if we wake him now.

[ They could also reheat the coffee, but...

Truly, the choice is up to Fabian. ]

[ Well, they can't just let him miss out on hot coffee. Not Riz. Besides, if he's still tired, then Fabian can just crawl into bed with him later for a nap - especially when he still feels plenty fatigued too.

So-- ]

I will go get him.

[ .. Though maybe it would have been better if Gorgug did it, since Fabian is just.. stumbling back down the hallway.. On the other hand, Gorgug needs to watch the food, so maybe this is the way things are meant to be. Just don't mind the way Fabian is slowly moving all the way back to his bedroom, watching Riz still tucked in and fast asleep, and then reaching out with one hand to nudge Riz's sleeping form. ]

Hey, The Ball.

[ He'll nudge him again if it's necessary, but who knows, maybe one nudge is enough for Riz.. ]

Come on. There's breakfast. [ No time to talk about how they almost died last night. There's breakfast now, The Ball!!! ] There's hot coffee?

[ Surely a Riz can't resist. ]

[ When Riz is around his friends -- it's not that he tries to act cool, because that's just a thing that's never gonna happen, especially not after they've seen him what he considers to be his worst, and after they've actually seen him at his worst (which is, unbeknownst to him, a separate thing). But he at least tries to keep his composure.

That composure is utterly lost as he's shaken out of a dead sleep and lets out the most petulant, most immature whine that Fabian has ever heard from him, dripping with the teenaged malaise of being woken up on a weekend before the clock hits noon. He shoves his face further into the pillow. ] Maaaalemmesleep.

[ It looks like he's going to fall right back asleep again until Fabian nudges him again, and he finally lifts his head with a half-hearted hiss that makes it abundantly clear that if Fabian's hand was just a little closer, he might have taken a nibble out of it. ]

Ugh. [ As he wakes up, the pain of last night's adventure hits him at full blast. With more feeling: ] Ugh.

[ If anyone knows exactly what he's feeling right now, it's Fabian. He stares balefully at his friend, contemplating the likelihood of being able to sleep until he's healed up, then flails one hand out to just sort of... paw at Fabian's face to make sure everything there is intact. It is. Except the eye, but he knew about that one already. Okay. Fabian's not dead. That's good. ]

Please tell me nothing terrible's happened.

[ Fabian is pulling his hand back to himself with the kind of speed only a dance-based bard would have the moment he sees Riz hiss like that. He knows what it can lead to, after all, and the last thing he needs is to have his banged up hand get gnawed on top of it all.

At least there's relief in the fact that Riz is alive. If you can call this alive, anyway. Not that Fabian doesn't get it, since he's pretty sure his friend must feel the way Fabian does right now - like death warmed over. But Fabian has the problem of being absolutely unable to stand still, so of course he wouldn't want to just stay in bed the way Riz is begging for. ]

I mean, we almost died at the hand of some stupid robots. Does that count?

[ .. yup, Fabian is not dead, alright. That's a very Fabian thing to say, especially when he sounds so petulant about it. Maybe the thought should make him concerned, but instead it's just making him sound annoyed and making him whine..

He winces though when Riz happens to touch a bruise on his face. ]

Ow! Careful, The Ball, I'm just as sore as you, alright?!

Sorry, [ Riz mumbles, squinting up at Fabian, pupils expanding in the dim light as he blinks, blearily coming to terms with the fact that he's awake now, and he should probably be able to see. He doesn't really want to, admittedly, but Fabian is weirdly awake right now, for a guy who's usually way better at sleeping than Riz himself is.

He rolls over (ow) to flop on his back, arms splayed out on either side of him. He's not what anyone would ever call a layabout, but after a long day or a long night, he's prone to just staying in bed until noon, something that Sklonda is permissive of on account of the fact that she's desperate for him to sleep at all, the way that some parents will feed their children nothing but cookies and cake knowing that if they don't, their kid simply won't eat. ]

Scale of one to ten, how likely is it for me to be able to convince you just to go back to sleep?

[ He wants to go back to sleep. He's pretty sure he could. But if Fabian's up and at 'em, his sense of responsibility won't let him be the only one for much longer.

(He knows the answer. It's a one. Stupid Fabian and his stupid work-outs and his stupid propensity for running around when Riz is already an unfortunate Goblin-shaped lump on the ground.) ]

.. let's make it a three, considering that it means I might get the chance to thoroughly tell you that I was right about coming along, or they would have blasted you to little goblin pieces on the sidewalks.

[ It's a joke, okay! A fond joke, even, since the smile on Fabian's face may be a little bit cocky, but with something softer and warmer laced in it as he looks at Riz there from where Fabian is still leaning on the side of the bed.

He's just glad that they both got out of there alive, he means. He's glad that he could help protect Riz, and that Riz equally had his back.

M-Maybe having a best friend is nice, okay. Sue him.

He glances over his shoulder, at the door, and then back over at Riz. ]

Look, if you really want to stay in bed, you can. It's just-- Gorgug bought all sort of stuff to make sure he could make a breakfast us two specifically could enjoy, and I don't want him to have wasted all that effort, you know? So I want to make sure to at least be there with him-- but if you really want to stay in bed, I could bring you breakfast here. [ He may be bruised and sore all over, but Fabian can escape whining mode for five minutes to take care of two of his favorite pals, okay. ]

Ughhhhh.

[ He almost protests that he would've just gotten caught without Fabian -- but then he catches that expression, and doesn't have the heart to push back. They're both in one piece, more or less, they both succeeded in what they had set out to do, and aside from the aches and pains, it's clear that neither of them are feeling so wretched that they have to be seriously worried. At least for the two of them, it's a win.

It doesn't stop him from pushing his face into his pillow and groaning about it anyway. ] Not the sidewalk. The hospital, [ he corrects him, voice muffled. ] Which would be much easier to clean.

[ He does finally get up though, slapping his cheeks with both hands (ow, ow, why did he do that, ow) and shaking his head awake, ears slowly flapping open to their typical position instead of pinned to the side of his head as they were. He disentangles himself from the covers, grimacing down at the state of his clothes. ]

I'm getting up, I'm getting up. [ He rubs at one eye. ] That was sweet of Gorgug. He didn't have to do all that. He must be exhausted too. It's not like he got any more sleep than we did. Less, actually.

[ That's Gorgug, though. He's a sweetie. ]

[ He lets out an amused little sound. ]

Well, that's Gorgug for you.

[ Indeed, they seem in agreement on that one. If anyone would be doing this while the two of them are in this state, of course it's Gorgug. Even though Fabian's memories of last night are kind of a haze of pain, he does faintly remember Gorgug fussing over them like no tomorrow.

Maybe it's part on why he's so insistent about being out of bed right now. Not that Gorgug probably would not want him to stay in here, but-- he doesn't want a friend to have to fuss entirely by himself. ]

Let's repay him when we aren't busy actively being wrecks. [ CALLING THEM LIKE HE SEES THEM.. And like he feels them, because Fabian is pretty sure that sleep absolutely was not a beauty sleep for him. If it wasn't for the fact that he's among bros, he would be a whole lot more concerned about the current state of his hair and his style. But then again, if there are any people who have seen him in pretty much any state, it's these two guys. ] In the meantime-- You need some help getting to the kitchen, the Ball?

[ Yes, he's indicating he'll carry Riz. He even makes it more obvious by holding out his hands so the other can climb onto him. It'll probably sting like crazy with Fabian's body still feeling like a wreck, but that's not going to stop Fabian from wanting to help a bro. ]

Nah, you're all fucked up too. I'm a big boy. I can walk. Thanks, though.

[ Fabian's a real one. And it's not as though he doesn't appreciate the easy offer - there have been people who say that it's not normal to catch a ride on their homie's shoulder, but he'd like to counter those people with the very real, very effective argument that it's both convenient and fun - but he doesn't want Fabian making himself any worse. ]

I'm gonna steal one of your shirts. My suit's all kinds of fucked up.

[ He does manage to crawl out of bed, blinking away the last haze of a full night's sleep, and bracing himself against the wall as he sheds the rest of his suit, grimacing at the pile of crusty, bloodied, wrinkled clothes landing in a heap on the ground before shimmying his way into one of Fabian's shirts. It's not quite as good as one of Gorgug's (Gorgug's can go practically down to his shins if he's wearing a baggy enough shirt), but he's at least more comfortable this way.

(He makes a brief mental note to ask his Dad how he deals with entering combat situations in a suit next time they talk, because there's gotta be a better way than a prodigious amount of bleach and perfectly good clothes tossed in the garbage. His Dad probably knows. He's got spy tips.)

He exhales, then turns to Fabian with a small smile. ] See? All good. C'mon, let's go. [ As he hobbles out of the bedroom and peers down the staircase to where Gorgug's waiting, he calls out: ] Hey, Gorgug! Thanks for getting this stuff all set up!

[ He doesn't feel so hot -- but he sounds perfectly fine. He can at least cover that much up. ]

[ Gorgug's hovering around the kitchen counter by the time Riz makes his call, standing awkwardly where he's got food on plates ready to be reheated as necessary, a glance at the coffee pot with internal questions of, is it okay to reheat coffee? is any of this gonna taste good?

But, now is the time! Or it's the time to go to the doorway, out into the small hall so that he can see Riz up there, and Fabian, whenever he shows his face. He would've called from the kitchen, but he doesn't want to wake the baby up from its nap!! ]

Riz. [ He gives him a grimace of a smile, a Gorgug special. ] You okay? You wanna eat in bed? I, uh, tried making coffee. [ A beat. ] You need anything?

[ Is this the kind of fussing where a guy doesn't know how to actually fuss? You bet it is. Help, is he asking the right questions? ]

[ It's definitely unique enough circumstances that Fabian - for this once, just this once, because so many shirts have gone missing from his closet before and he knows whose fault that is - doesn't really mind Riz taking one of his shirts. It's true that the other can't really walk around in a battle-torn suit. And-- really, even Fabian isn't enough of a drama queen to throw a fit at his friend when said friend can only manage to slowly hobble down the hallway.

.. with Fabian hobbling right after him, mind you. He walks a little bit better since he's not quite as short, but the exhaustion and ache is still obviously stuck deep inside of the boy's limbs. Thankfully he can just take it easy while moving after Riz, considering he's not really moving fast either while he's like this.

Fabian presses his lips together when he hears the exchange between the other two, wondering if he should make a joke to lighten the atmosphere a little - yes, Riz told him he doesn't have to do that, but habits die hard!! - or if it's a little inappropriate right now.

In the end he does stay quiet as he moves though. At least for a moment, giving Riz and Gorgug the opportunity to share words while Fabian rests his voice. (His throat still hurts from last night, honestly.) ]

No, no, we got this! [ He thrusts a thumbs-up towards Gorgug. Even if he can't exactly pretend like he's not hurting right now, he's doing a damn good job at pretending like he wasn't just whining at Fabian that he wanted to stay asleep thirty seconds ago, ferociously positive for Gorgug's sake.

He hadn't really thought about Gorgug and Adaine until Fabian had mentioned them, but he can imagine how much it sucked to be left behind to putter around worrying and waiting, and... meal-prepping, apparently. ]

The coffee smells good. [ Not a lie. But then again, Riz has been sighted cheerfully eating instant coffee granules out of the container on the odd occasion, so he's not one to talk. ] You can tell me all about your guys' side of things, uh... maybe after some breakfast.

[ He does want to talk shop. Desperately. But on the odd occasion, Riz can read the room, and realizes jumping in immediately probably isn't good for general morale. Or, frankly, his own health. He could do with a cup of coffee first. ]

Okay. [ Gorgug isn't going to protest if there's no real reason to, but he does think, considering how their missions usually go and what they might prefer: ] You can eat on the sofa and chairs. I'll make sure everything's hot if you both wanna sit there instead of the kitchen.

[ Like he owns this home (then again, Fabian barely owns it, either...). But who doesn't like plush seating instead of a hard surface? He'll listen to any protests that might come, but if there's enough agreement, or even if there isn't, Gorgug's destination will be the kitchen again, most likely.

He needs to let these two come down and get settled in whatever direction they're going! He has food to shove in microwaves!! ]

[ There's no protest here, Gorgug. Fabian can hardly complain about keeping the place clean when he was the one who couldn't do that in the first place.. When Riz was the one who had to come over (okay, force himself into the house, more like) to clean in the first place. When Gorgug came over to help him with the baby. No, eating on the couch is fine with him. If they make a mess, they can surely take care of it together afterwards.

And Fabian would protest Riz wanting to talk shop when Fabian can immediately see what it might do to the mood, but--

Then an opportunity presents itself to lighten the mood a little bit. He can see it. It's clear as day.

Fabian suddenly starts walking faster. Maybe not a full sprint, but a jog is already way quicker than the way he was walking only a moment ago. Yes, Fabian is wincing in pain as he's doing it, but it's all for the Bit, it's all to Cheer Up The Homies as he calls out, loudly enough so Gorgug can hear it in the kitchen too: ]

Last one on the couch is a loser!

[ Look, considering how slow Riz is going?

Fabian thinks Gorgug has a pretty decent chance to be over at the couch with food before their little angel has made it there. He's got a fighting chance! ]

Edited 2024-10-11 17:55 (UTC)

[ For a moment, it looks like Riz is about to protest before he ultimately gives up with a careless shrug, hobbling after Fabian with a grumbled, ] I'm pretty sure that ship's sailed already anyway.

[ Which is to say he'll be a loser and he's happy to be a loser if it means he doesn't have to move beyond a slow amble, thank you very much! He does, however, watch Fabian's antics with amusement as he heads to the couch and buries himself in the couch much like he'd just been buried in bed, looking awfully cozy from where he's managed to wedge himself between the cushions and being that he's wearing Fabian's shirt as a smock instead of his usual formal outfits, he almost looks like a normal teen at a sleepover provided you ignore all of the bandages and bruises.

Once Gorgug arrives - before or after him; it may well be before - he reaches out and makes grabby motions with his hands and swiftly snatches a cup of coffee and sticks his entire face into it to smell it like the caffeine junky he is. ] Yes, yes, yes! [ Voice still muffled by the ceramic cup: ] Thank you, I love you.

[ Is he talking to the coffee or Gorgug?

(Probably the coffee.) ]

[ Wait, what??? He has to rush? Is he going to be a loser too?? But he has to get the food and drinks?!?!?!

There's an instance where all Gorgug can do is make a step towards the living room and then to take it back towards the kitchen counter, stuck in choice paralysis. He works himself out of it, mainly because he wants to get everything to them (and to hurry, too!!). The coffee is at least hot, and oranges and juice don't need to be hot, so that's good. Which leaves him putting the scrambled eggs and kippers back on to reheat, while he brings the drinks and fruit in, awkwardly. He only just manages to come in before Riz, but it doesn't count, in Gorgug's mind, when he's balancing a bag of oranges from his wrist, holding an orange carton and pressing glasses between his arm and chest, and also bringing in that cup of coffee for a pair of grubby goblin hands to take.

Relief breathes through him (or out of him, with the exhale he allows himself) when he initially lets go of everything....but then thoughts of being slow or dropping anything leave Gorgug when he hears Riz. He looks at him blankly for a moment, before his expression turns....utterly soft. ]

I love you too. [ Said, with full affection. Full heart.

And he looks at Fabian after, because of course: ] I love you too.

[ Guys............ Gorgug is so touched in this moment..... ]

[ Fabian is fully ready to just ignore.. whatever is going on here with Riz and Gorgug. Not everything about them, mind you, especially since Fabian forces his aching body to get up from the couch at least enough to help grab some of the glasses from Gorgug and put them on the table before the other drops them all..

.. but the embarrassing stuff. The way they're saying they love each other out of the blue? For no reason? Fabian isn't entirely convinced Riz wasn't just saying that to his coffee, honestly, and the way Riz seems to be attempting to shove his entire body into the mug bit by bit really isn't helping.

But he freezes up mid-putting down the glasses when he realizes that Gorgug is.. repeating the 'I love you too'.. and he is indeed looking at him...

Oh, bother. ]

Alright, don't-- [ Fabian starts, but then he looks over at Gorgug's face enough to see just how touched it is.

Oh god.

In the most reluctant way possible: ]

Okay, okay, love you too-- now come sit down!

[ BEFORE THIS GETS EVEN MORE EMBARRASSING. Someone save him from the social skills of these two. Where is Fig when you need her. Fig, please, sis, he needs you!!

Fabian will definitely move to fully sit back down on the couch next to where Riz has buried himself into the pillows though. And if Gorgug doesn't look like he's about to sit down, Fabian will just grab the other's arm and pull him down to come sit on Fabian's other side. ]

Is everyone feeling alright now?

[ That actually gets Riz to look up from where he's swigging coffee long enough to glance at Gorgug in surprise, eyes filled with liquid emotion. He had, in fact, been talking to the coffee. ]

Aww. [ He looks genuinely touched. And also like he might cry a little, for a second? But only in a nice way, really. And it makes him want to say it again, only he realizes that Gorgug thought he was talking to him in the first place, and if he says it again, Gorgug will realize he wasn't and then his feelings would be really hurt, and Riz thinks that would be the end of the world, maybe?

So he doesn't say it again and settles only for patting Gorgug's shoulder fondly once he sits down. Unfortunately for Fabian, Riz appears to be absolutely on board with it. He even turns to smile brightly at Fabian, as though saying see, isn't it so nice that we all love each other? ]

All good here, [ Riz says, offering a thumbs-up. ] We're all still alive, and all of our limbs are still attached. That's a success if you ask me. Good job, team, uh, team... Bad Lads!

[ Was that good? Hey guys! Was that good? Did he do good? Are they the Bad Lads now? Pretty please? ]

[ Gorgug was definitely not about to sit back down, because there's still the food that isn't the oranges to get. But he waffles long enough because of Fabian's command that he's dragged and pulled down into the soft cushioning.

But he's kinda sitting on a sofa with two people who love him, so is this the time to think about the food at all? Probably not, when Riz is reassuring him. At least, that's how he's interpreting the shoulder pats, and so he starts to smile. Just sits in this nice little feeling and, heck, even gets an orange to peel.

Know who also probably has more to say about everything that Riz just did than Gorgug? Fabian. He's going to talk immediately first.

Gorgug is just going to be happy here. :) ]

[ How did Fabian end up like this? What life decisions put him right here on a couch with the two most cringe people in the entire world? (Okay, maybe not most cringe. Gilear still exists somewhere out there, after all.)

Riz and Gorgug may look like they're having the time of their life here, but as Fabian grabs the juice just to have something else to do that isn't focusing too hard on the other two being embarrassing, he looks like he's ready for death. Maybe he should go back to face those robots again. It can't be worse than this.

.. only for him to choke on said juice the moment the words Bad Lads leave Riz's mouth. Thankfully he doesn't spit it out, but the choking does cause him to get the hiccups when he speaks up again. ]

Abso-- [ hic ] --lutely not! We are not going to be the Bad Lads! I thought I banned you from coming up with a team name for us, The Ball!

[ Stop this. Stop Riz. Gorgug, stop Riz!!! ]

You keep saying that, but you don't come up with any of your own! What're we supposed to do, not have a team name?

[ Blearily, Riz reaches for one of the oranges and bites directly into it, like some kind of maniac. He looks mildly perplexed for a moment, as though he had groggily expected it to be an apple instead, but then appears to make peace with this decision.

He is vaguely aware that Fabian is getting worked up over him and Gorgug being too obviously affectionate, but that's fine. That's normal! Fabian reacted this way to Riz calling them best friends all the time, and look how that turned out! Fabian will be telling them how much he loves them too in no time flat! Sometimes you just gotta bully people into loving you. That's how it works. ]

Gorgug doesn't hate it.

[ He's not saying Gorgug likes it. Just that he doesn't hate it. C'mon, he's not totally delusional. ]

We have a bunch of side team names.

[ Because this is the truth, and it doesn't actually matter what Gorgug thinks of the name or not. He's not bothering to declare if he likes it or not because--well, he's not wrong, and he's thinking now on the multiple different side groups of the Bad Kids as he pulls apart his orange, taking off a chunk ready to eat. ]

What about the Bardy Boys? Wasn't that-- was that the one with you guys and Fig?

[ Then why would it be the Bardy Boys.... but it's early o'clock, Gorgug doesn't have to remember these things.

All he has to do is sit here and finish peeling his orange proper. He's going to make a nice little pile on his lap so he can offer Riz his rind once he's got it all!! ]

See, Gorgug's just not saying anything on the matter anyway since he's too [ hic ] nice!

[ Fabian wildly gestures with one arm in the direction of Gorgug.. who is sitting right next to him, so it's way more likely that he's accidentally slapping the half-orc against the chest while Fabian is blindly gesturing and looking at Riz with his one eye.

Also yes, he's totally taking the fact that Gorgug is not saying he hates it or likes it as him just suffering in silence. Clearly. Because we all think like Fabian Aramais Seacaster out here, and his opinions are always objectively correct. ]

And Bardy Boys is better because it does not involve the word lads! [ It's one thing when Cathilda or his father says it affectionaly, okay. It's different when it's Riz saying it, because-- ] Do you know who [ hic ] was also called a Lad, huh?! Gilear!

[ IT TAINTS THE WORD!!!

And yes, these energy levels are probably a little too high for how sore Fabian's body is, but he doesn't care. Hiccups and aches and fatigue be damned, he has to fight this. It's that important to him. ]

He's not saying anything because it's a good name, [ Riz shoots back, prodding Fabian in the side just in case he isn't already annoying enough. It's a nice benefit to being more secure in their friendship these days; if he hasn't annoyed Fabian away yet, then he probably never will.

(Probably.) ]

What's wrong with the word 'lad'? It's not that different from boy. It means the exact same thing. [ He considers that the word has been tainted by its proximity to Gilear. He taps his chin. ] It's not like Gilear took the name for himself. Fig coined it.

[ And Fig is cool, right? Ergo... ]

Besides, I haven't uh, gotten to the Bardy Boys thing yet, timeline-wise, but I dunno if Fig would appreciate being left out of it. You come up with one, then.

[ Gorgug could clear up this argument about names if he spoke up to confirm or deny his opinion about the Bad Lads, huh.

So, anyway. Gorgug is too busy thwapping Fabian's hand when it knocks against him a few times, like when a cat's tail knocks in one's face without a care for the face itself. And Fabian probably finds Gorgug trying to knock his hand back more annoying than his own rude tapping, but that's Fabian for you.

And what's Gorgug for you? Being disappointed in himself he made a timeline mistake (Riz doesn't know he's a Bardy Boy? The tragedy) and deciding that Riz's demand for Fabian to decide a boys name to be more important than anything he could interject with right here.

So he's going to stuff half of his orange into his mouth. om nom. ]

[ Gorgug's silence - and his silent batting of Fabian's hand - is only met with Fabian's hand slapping against him more. This time likely on purpose, considering he can feel the way Gorgug is trying to bat his hand right back. And considering the fact that he's starting to do the same thing to Riz the moment the other starts prodding him.

Is Fabian still sore and kind of injured? Yes. Does he apparently have the energy for this anyway? Yes. It's what happens when his best male buds team up against him. Because this is clearly a team up against him, Fabian refuses to consider it anything else! It's a conspiracy aimed solely at him!! ]

Can you two stop?! [ He says, like he isn't batting his hands at them like some sort of worked up cat in the first place.. ] I went through a huge, awful battle, and here you two are okay with-- with trifling nicknames for us! We are heroes! Neither of you are helping!

[ Both of you need to be nicer to him!!!!!!

Despite, you know, one of them having saved his life back in the hospital by not leaving when Fabian told him to, and the other one having taken care of him when he came back all bruised and injured..

They still need to be nicer. Look at him. He's upset!! This is stressing out the baby!! Not even the actual robot baby, but Fabian the baby! ]

I mean, technically it's not you two. Gorgug hasn't actually said anything.

[ Because, as Fabian helpfully pointed out, he's too nice. Luckily for Riz, he's decided to take that as tacit approval of his nicknames, because he's never let something like someone thinking he's cringy privately stop him from doing anything. If anything, he only seems more amused by Fabian's theatrics.

It's not as though he made the name bad on purpose. He thinks his names are pretty good, actually. But he always finds Fabian's temper tantrums to be on the amusing side - provided that they're exclusively about things that don't matter, like nicknames - and so this is nothing more than a happy byproduct. Besides, him doing all that flapping about just means that he can't be that badly hurt. ]

I don't see you coming up with any ideas, [ he says, sticking a pointy elbow into Fabian's side. ] C'mon, Fabian. Lay it on us with your, uh... cool kid swag.

[ This is the first time he's said the word 'swag' out loud. He hopes it came out right.

(It did not.) ]

Owww, [ Gorgug says, as if Fabian's thwapping at him can do anything to actually hurt, but is it still an annoyance? An annoyance that Gorgug is continue to bat back at because it is being rude and mean at him? Of course he is!! ]

I'm waiting to hear your ide.. You two are already arguing.

[ So why is Gorgug going to jump in? Fabian makes enough noise that only Riz can properly get a foot in there!! And Riz is right in that Fabian hasn't actually suggested anything except what they shouldn't be. Gorgug just pointed out Bad Kids trivia!! He never said he would contribute a name!

But he'll try and help now, even if he might still be trying to grab Fabian's hand and pushing it down-- ] I'll judge. I'll judge the better name.

[ Come on then, Fabian!!! Put up a name for Judge Gorgug!! ]

[ To Gorgug, pointedly: ]

You can't judge! You'll take his side!

[ ...

Who even knows why Fabian is assuming Gorgug will take Riz's side by default.. Maybe it's just Fabian being worked up and dramatic enough at this point that he's just assuming the whole world is out to get him. Who knows. At least he's still energetic, despite his condition.. ]

But-- fine! [ He huffs, moving to properly sit back into the pillows of the couch again.. Looking a little bit like he's sulking.. ]

How about just going for something simple yet effective, like the Brilliant Boys? Except-- actually, boys doesn't sound great either. That makes us sound like we are eight years old. The Tenacious Trio, then!

What makes you think he'll take my side automatically? [ Riz complains loudly. He's currently complaining straight into Fabian's ear too, because despite Sklonda's greatest efforts, he's never been successfully taught volume moderation or the beauty of personal space. ] If anything, he'll take your side! Bloodrush buddy solidarity, or something!

[ He doesn't actually believe that. He just can't let Fabian get away with trying to peddle an underdog narrative for this, getting equally as worked up as Fabian, though underneath the faux irritation, he shows every sign of enjoying this.

He gives Gorgug an apologetic look. ]

I mean -- we trust your neutrality, Gorgug. [ He sniffs condescendingly at Fabian's suggestions.

(Secretly, he thinks they're pretty good too.) ]

[ Finally, the time of reckoning is here. The Bad Lads versus the Tenacious Trio (and also the Brilliant Boys?), and Gorgug's already equipped with his puzzled, squinting expression after being accused of being unfair in his own court. By both of his friends!

But then comes their silence, and this leaves Gorgug in the spotlight. He pushes his mouth into a cheek and adorns a very hard-thinking expression--one that lasts for a few seconds, his eyes looking upward in thought before they come back down to look in the guys' general direction... ]

... I'll take bribes.

[ Just. Putting that out there, if anyone wants to bribe him right now. ]

[ Fabian lets out such an offended noise the moment Gorgug speaks up and makes that suggestion.

It likely says something about how used he is to Riz's.. Riz-isms at this point that he didn't make the same noise at everything the goblin is doing. You know, yelling? Directly into his ear? Yes, Fabian is kind of used to that, especially with how often his bestie is clinging to him.

But this, coming from Gorgug? That's much worse. It's a personal betrayal. ]

Why bribes?

[ Thankfully they don't know the irony of Fabian complaining about bribes when his own father attempted to bribe him into the Bloodrush team.. ]

Aren't my names great enough all by itself?! Do you think they need a bribe to shine? [ He keeps on putting emphasis on the word too..

There's just maximum dramatics here. You'd almost forget Riz and Fabian got really injured yesterday, and that Gorgug had to spend so much effort and tired himself out in trying to make sure they were okay.

None of them are currently acting like it. (Though probably for the better, let's be real. Better to be dramatically offended than to be sad.) ]

[ As soon as Gorgug offers bribes, Riz is ready, one finger held up and mouth open to think of his best possible bribe (in fairness, he hadn't quite conceived of what he was going to bribe Gorgug with), Fabian speaks up with such indignance that Riz cannot possibly get away with saying anything to the contrary. His nose wrinkles, his brow furrows as he glances over at Fabian.

Now he wants to act like he's all high and mighty? Fabian does? He always pays his way into shit! He grew up as a pirate! This isn't fair! ]

Y-yeah, Gorgug! How could you possibly besmirch an act as sacred as a holy naming with the idea of bribes?

[ Then to Gorgug, he mouths: ] I'm lying.

[ :) ]

...Fabian, are you sure you're not just against it 'cause you don't have any money to bribe him with around here?

[ Know what it sounds like is coming from Fabian? The words of someone who doesn't know what to offer up for a bribe!!

But don't worry, Riz. Gorgug is here to quick the most slickest, subtle nod of acknowledgement. He knows what the deal is here! ]

I just think I could think better with a bribe.

[ He's so smooth about this, too. ]

[ You know what shows the fact that Riz clearly is the sneakiest rogue ever? The fact that Fabian doesn't seem to realize whatsoever that the other is mouthing things behind his back. Or even Gorgug's nod. They are both being so smooth here. That's clearly it, and not Fabian being way too far gone into dramatics to stop and think for a second. ]

What?! No!

[ That's his first offended reply to Riz, but the look he's giving Gorgug right after is just as offended. He's glancing from friend to friend like both of the other boys have gone crazy right in front of his eyes. ]

There is plenty I could bribe Gorgug with, and we all know it! It's just a matter of-- of principle!

[ You know. Principles.

Things weird half-pirate half-elf families notoriously have. ]

If we set this standard here, then Gorgug is going to squeeze us for all we are worth every single time we are having an argument about something! It has to stop now before it goes too far!

[ jysk gorgug is here nodding in agreement about him squeezing the both of you for everything you have, until the part where it has to stop.

he is then shaking his head. ]

Plenty, huh? I dunno about that one, man... I'm the one who's good at chores, here.

[ He grins toothily at him. It's not him trying to brag - and even if he was, being able to sufficiently cook and clean isn't so much bragworthy as it is an indication that he's managed the bare minimum - but rather a promise to Gorgug: I'll do the dishes.

He actually does genuinely believe that Fabian has the better name and doesn't care much about winning or losing. Now, it's just a matter of steadily winding Fabian up for the fun of it. ]

But you're right, of course! It would be dishonourable!

[ You know! Like a Rogue! ]

[ Gorgug hears Riz loud and clear, since who here is trying to offer anything? Not Fabian, that's for sure. They're even on the same page as to what the true goal here is: winding Fabian up, and possibly getting him to break.

Even if Gorgug's honour is being put into question here, which--when does a guy like Gorgug thinks about his honour? It's pretty hard to, after the adventures he's had with the Bad Kids. So he just shrugs after Riz has spoken, acting nonchalant before: ]

Doesn't sound like Fabian's got anything but hot air to offer, from where I'm sitting.

[ Fighting words!! From Gorgug!!! You better open your ears!! ]

Some people here just seem to appreciate my worth better than others.

[ Okay, so maybe winding Fabian up is the true goal than even getting him to succumb. Will he with that? Gorgug doesn't know, but he knows he's having fun with Riz here.

(This may or may not break out into a fight. Even with Fabian's injuries.) ]

Some people-- [ Fabian echoes, starting to sputter.

Despite the fact that his body still feels terrible, he somehow manages to leap to his feet all the same. Jumping off the couch, and then standing in front of it - turning around so he can look at both Gorgug and Riz at the same time. Please don't look too hard at the bruising that's still left in his face after last night, okay, Fabian sure isn't paying attention to it himself as he starts to ramble, shooting both of his friends offended looks here. ]

When have I ever not appreciated you, huh? Either of you! [ Oh, so Riz.. is involved too now..

Who knows why. Fabian hasn't even caught on to their little conspiracy, it's probably that he's getting so worked up that he's determined to prove himself in everything here, not even necessarily trying to win a bribe competition. ]

Think about all of the things I have done for you two before in the past! And then you won't even let me pick a decent team name? You guys would rather go with something uncool? [ He sounds so passionate.. Like he's making a speech on the debate stage to become president or something, rather than something that's this low stakes. ]

See, Gorgug? First it's I'm so appreciative of you guys, why don't you guys appreciate me back and then boom! He couldn't even be nice for a full five sentences! Now he's calling my name stupid! I never called your name stupid.

[ Riz is now leaned back, fingers laced over his stomach, an expression of poorly concealed amusement crossing his face. There will be a point at which they have to stop somewhere in between Fabian going red-faced and him storming off, but the whole ordeal is kind of funny.

And it's nice to see, after how shit everything was, and how serious things were. Sometimes, you just gotta talk shit about team names. ]

I'm a good cook, [ he says cheerfully, as his contribution. He pauses. ] I mean, I cook.

[ 'Good' is questionable. ]

That's gotta count for at least five points.

[ When did points enter the equation???? ]

[ Honestly, this feels like something that would be happening to them in their travels. Some stupid argument, except Gorgug's getting into one (and he has been enjoying those more recently), and goading Fabian like this is--exciting, really. Even if Fabian's bruised up, and Riz, and Gorgug isn't at all bruised, it's good to see his friends light up argumentatively.

And who always does so easily? ...well, a bunch of them if they're including the other Bad Kids. But always Fabian. He's always got an opinion.

Too bad Riz is on his side, which just empowers Gorgug more. ]

He never called your name uncool, [ Gorgug repeats after Riz, an echo, making this clearly 2 against 1. Because that 1 doesn't want to play by their rules in their game, which is also partially about getting Fabian to.

And just to show how easy it is to get far when you do play their game, when Riz says five points, Gorgug points at him. ]

Five points. [ And, pointing to Fabian next. ] Zero points. You've gotta catch up. You're gonna lose. You're gonna be a zero.

[ Come on, Fabian!! Do you want to be a zero!? ]

I am calling the name uncool because it is uncool!

[ Fabian's pitch is definitely shooting up here.. Way up. It's still audible - look, we're not talking Pinocchio levels here, okay - but he's definitely so worked up over absolutely nothing. Riz and Gorgug are playing him like a fiddle.

Especially because this is so ridiculous, honestly. Maybe Fabian would be slightly less worked up if this wasn't so ridiculous, but the fact that he has to listen to these arguments like they have anything to do with naming things is only getting him more frustrated.

It's like when you know you're right, and someone keeps purposefully telling you that you're wrong. He will explode. He looks like he's about to explode at the word zero.

So standing isn't enough. He must do more.

He is absolutely stepping on top of the coffee table that's right in front of the couch. ]

I-- [ He pounds hard on his chest with one hand. And absolutely winches when that is 100% hitting his bruises, but. You know. You got to endure the pain to be able to have the dramatics. ] --am Fabian Aramais Seacaster! I am a Maximum Legend! If it weren't for me, neither of you would have been invited to the coolest house party that Elmville had seen in a thousand years!

[ Yes, he is saying that as dramatically as you imagine it. He's on the barricades leading the French Revolution over here. ]

And yet you two would dare call me a zero?! Yet you say I am not nice, The Ball?! When all I have been doing is sharing my natural popularity with my good friends, who are now backstabbing me!

Edited 2025-02-25 16:10 (UTC)

[ Riz wheezes.

He just can't keep it up anymore. Seeing Fabian get riled up enough to step onto the table itself has officially destroyed him, still delirious from last night's colourful events, injuries nagging at him even as he clutches at the armrest of the sofa for dear life, claws on one hand sinking into the fabric while the other is raised to try to cover his face, though his shoulders still shake with laughter. ]

Shit, [ he mutters. ] Ow, fuck.

[ It's probably what he deserves for riling Fabian up when he's just as fucked up, but in his defense -- in his defense, it's really, really funny. Gorgug's lethal like that. Riz can talk until the cows come home, but Gorgug can rile someone up with just a few sentences. He can kind of play off his laughter as a cough, but he's never been the subtlest guy in the world. ]

Would it really have been the coolest house party in Elmville if Gorgug and I weren't there? [ He shoots back instead, eyes bright with mirth. ] If anything, we helped!

[ He considers this. ]

Well, Gorgug helped. And he's the judge, soooooo...

[ Gorgug is in awe of the demonstration, himself. It's like watching the theatre kids at school, or that specific one with the aura of an actor, the one with the beret. Fabian would be good on a stage of any kind, and is inspiring in the way that Gorgug wants to get riled up too. Kinda tap into that half-orc energy of his that he's been letting loose of more.

But it's Riz beside him--coughing, wheezing, in pain, and totally trying not to laugh--that makes Gorgug remember what they're actually doing here, and not get too lost inside Fabian's growing energy. But also, that was totally a cough that Riz took. The courts can't prove otherwise.

And Gorgug is the judge here. So while listening to Riz, looking at him and nodding his head as he remembers his duty, he looks back at Fabain. Totally smiling. Totally happy. He's an Important Person right now.

He leans forward, an elbow on his knee as he informs Fabian: ]

Give me your best offer.

[ Make your gamble, Fabian. ]

[ They've been sparring since getting back. Fabian's orders, and they're sensible orders, really: they need to keep their skills sharp for when they get thrown into battle again, and Gorgug should be focusing on his barbarian training as much as he has been everything else. But sparring with Fabian is different compared to sparring with someone in barbarian classes: their focuses are different. Fighter classes are about form and flexibility, moving quickly and with precision.

Barbarian classes are about brute strength, while still covering all that. See, it's not that Fabian's weak, but just that Gorgug? He doesn't have anything but his smaller throwing axes to use in this. His axe is way too much for fighting another person--not because Fabian isn't good, but because it's not a safe weapon to begin with.

So his throwing axes are just--better, for what Fabian seems to have in mind. It's not a way of fighting Gorgug is used to, using them double-handed and opposed to...throwing--but it's not bad training for him. What if he does lose his main weapon? What if he needs to get close with what he has, and be smart about it? And this kind of close combat (without a metallurgy axe looming over him) works in Fabian's expertise. Gorgug listens to him, to what he has to say about what Gorgug's doing wrong, or right.

And Gorgug can give him his rage, his difficult to down body, his aggression in return.

...but this isn't all of his aggression, is it?

It's been on Gorgug's mind for a while. And it's there that early morning, with them still in their apartment and with some time before they've planned to go for their training, and with Fabian surely his energetic self. This might interrupt those plans some, so--he should talk about them now, putting his bowl from breakfast into the sink (and there's a few things in there that need to get cleaned.....later....). ]

Hey, Fabian. I had an idea about, uh, training today. It's something to do with what I was learning in barbarian classes?

[ Considering that Fabian has been trained how to use a weapon ever since he was very young, this definitely is where he shines. Sure, Gorgug can easily outdo him in terms of raw damage output, but even though his friend is a barbarian and all, surely it can't hurt for him to get in a little bit more elegant weapon practice, right? Fabian likes being a versatile fighter, likes being able to adapt in all sorts of different fights, and he's pretty sure it'd help Gorgug too. Not to mention that it helps Fabian to fight against someone who is physically stronger than him, especially when Gorgug's rage definitely makes him pretty hard to fight against, even when Fabian doesn't hold back.

This is the sort of thing they need to be practicing. Especially when they have no clue what the hell this place is going to throw at them next. Especially when they're the two physical fighters on the frontlines, when they have to hold the line to make sure their more fragile party members stay safe.

Fabian doesn't have any special ideas today though. He's ready for a round of what has become their usual sparring in this place, using the calm of the morning to already start stretching in their apartment, thinking about maybe getting some dancing practice in too--

Which means he's definitely sitting on the ground stretching his feet and toes when Gorgug speaks up. It makes him look up, his one eye turning in the other's direction. ]

Hm?

[ Fabian has no clue where this is going. Not like he's ever been remotely close to barbarian class, after all. It's just not his thing.

Still, he trusts Gorgug to say without seeming to really worry about what this could mean: ]

Sure. What is it?

[ Darn, look at how flexible Fabian is... which, really, is true. Gorgug doesn't know anything about being that flexible, and he is looking at him as he does it: the topic on hand in his mind, but his eyes maybe taking in the way that Fabian just moves so easily, how his muscles shift under fabric and the reach he has to his own toes.

A guy could get jealous. (That's what it is.) ]

I was practising going all out more-- being in a rage, but being more wild about it. I guess, what people think a rage is? [ Uncontrolled, chaotic; and even for the way he uses his rages, Gorgug knows that--this is what a rage is. The mindless violence, the destruction. It's a valid opinion. ]

I don't have a good control over it. [ Which is probably what's best to share, and to explain. ] Porter's usually there to pull us off when we're really tapping into that, and I didn't know-- if you were okay with it, [ which is what's important!, ] we could maybe bring someone else along?

If you'd be okay with me doing that. [ It's really, really important. ]

[ It's true that Fabian knows rage more as just.. the thing Gorgug does in combat. He hasn't exactly seen a whole lot of other barbarians at work, and Gorgug's variation of it-- sure, it can be very destructive, but especially recently it has seemed relatively controlled. It's not like Fabian has ever been worried for a moment that Gorgug was raging so hard that he'd go ahead and attack him.

Being wild about it sounds like a good description for what an entirely different kind of rage would be like. ]

.. Yeah. That's alright with me.

[ Maybe he should have been a little more hesitant, given the information Gorgug just thrust his way about it all, but Fabian seems to agree so easily. He hasn't even stopped stretching yet, like this is just a very normal, casual thing to discuss. ]

I don't even think we need someone else, really. Worst comes to worst, either you can pull away from it [ - because Fabian does have that trust in his friend. Gorgug has always been so good about that sort of thing, how would he go too far with it now, even though he's saying he doesn't have good control? Clearly he's just being hard on himself - ] or I can slip out.

[ He's not small like Riz, no, but he's very flexible. He's gotten out of plenty of sticky situations. (Though they were usually caused by himself.) ]

Either way, I'm completely fine with it if you wanted to practice with that.

[ No one with them?

It's that idea that makes Gorgug pause. It's not safe, and Fabian is no pushover--he also knows how hard Gorgug can go in a controlled rage, so surely he's not underestimating how bad this can get when he doesn't have control.

But. But Fabian hasn't seen how he gets in classes, and the idea of not having someone on hand just in case is making Gorgug second-guess if this is alright to do. Well, he has some healing, right? ...not a lot, and, he really needs to figure out something to help with their healing situation. Later. Right now is for sparring.

So Gorgug stands there quietly, conflicted, considering their options. What would be the safe way of doing this--? He's not going to use his main axe, that's for sure. So, maybe...

... ]

Okay... [ ... ... ... ] Do you wanna pick a safe word in case I don't stop?

[ Fabian.

Pick a safe word? ]

[ Look, if Gorgug is agreeing so easily, then there's clearly nothing to worry about. Fabian's general nonchalance towards the idea sure remains in the face of it, anyway.

In fact, there's enough nonchalance that he lets go of his foot for a moment so he can properly look up at his friend, his eyebrows knitting together in a faint frown. There's no annoyance or frustration in it though - no, if anything, Fabian just seems confused. Like he's trying to wrap his head around something, yet he's not quite getting there. ]

We need a safe word?

[ Do we, Gorgug.. ]

It can be 'stop'.... [ That still counts as a safe word, right?? ] But, I, I think--

[ This is awkward!! He's never had to speak about this before with his friends, and he even avoid Fabian's eye for a second as he feels uncomfortable where he stands. ]

It might be good, yeah. I might need the help snapping out.

[ It could just be stupid, but he's already here, so he might as well? ]

.. okay.

[ While it doesn't necessarily feel stupid to Fabian, it doesn't really feel super urgent or necessary either. But he at least has enough tact to be able to tell that Gorgug is getting kind of uncomfortable here, so Fabian opts to just go along with it. Even if it may be unnecessary, it's at least good if it can make Gorgug feel a little bit better and more comfortable about this entire thing, right?

He stops stretching his feet, instead slowly standing back up now he's pretty much done stretching. Fabian grabs his shoes, putting them back on so they can head out and get busy. ]

In that case, uh.. [ 'Stop' is a little too basic. It's the sort of thing he might use in a joke. How about they use something he usually wouldn't really say under any circumstances.. ]

Let's go with 'chronomancy'? It's not as if we were going to use that word for anything else.

[ Unless Arthur Aguefort just appears randomly in front of them out of the blue.

But if that happens, they probably have a bigger problem than a suddenly unusable safe word. ]

I am also ready to go.

[ Gorgug does think for a second after Fabian says it, Can they make Aguefort appear if they say chronomancy enough times?, but it's as brief and as fanciful that it exists only in that moment.

But it's a workable pick, Fabian's logic sound, and Gorgug nods, glad that Fabian seems to be willing to go along with it than make it out as something dumb. ]

Okay, I'll get my stuff.

[ Which mostly involves going towards the door leading out, grabbing his shoes and putting them on, his two throwing axes to attach to the belt he already has one with their holsters, and a bottle of drink for after the fact. Their destination is somewhere in the vast open space of Etraya; plenty of choices, and there's a nice spot with a tree for a landmark and not much else around. No apartments, no buildings; those are all in the opposite direction, and only the dip between this island and the island where a river runs through can be seen if one decides to look out.

It's all very open and plain, is the thing.

But scenery isn't what either of them have come out for (other than what's useful in fighting, which isn't much). There's a giddiness to what's to occur: Gorgug keeping in mind what he's asked to do, and there comes with that a need to actually call forth the kind of rage he's looking for. Thinking up certain triggers he needs to get himself there, hold onto that thought that stirs a discomfort in his belly, and then make it wait on the right moment to bring it out. Snapping into a rage is easy for him, on the level he uses it in a battle--but making it more violent while keeping his head on straight is something entirely different.

And he won't be keeping his head on. Not unless he manages to see over the red of his emotions.

He scuffs his feet when he comes to a stop, looking out to the tree that's become a spectator to their spars, and then unhooking one of the axes into his hands. Right now, things are easy: they don't need to be anything else. Fabian is more oriented to all this, while Gorgug looks and holds himself the same as always: dressed in his usual attire, his expression somewhere in looking uncomfortable in a familiar Gorgug way. There is no smug or cockiness coming out here in the pre-game. ]

We can start like normal. [ And he sounds very much like he usually does, just a quick FYI there, no big deal. Except... ] You can-- say stuff to me? If you want.

[ ...He needs to explain better. ]

Make me mad!

[ P-please. ]

[ See, Fabian is ready for this. Of course he is. He's always ready for a good spar, so he's standing there, drawing his sword, already getting in stance, and..

.. well, that's when he's suddenly taken out of it entirely by what Gorgug is suddenly saying. He blinks over at his friend. ]

Make you mad?

[ Wait, what? He thought that the whole going into a rage thing was just a feature for barbarians? Is it not something you can just do? Gorgug seems to do it all the time with no help!

Then again, never say Fabian is not a helpful friend. If Gorgug needs it here, then he can try, it's just-- ]

In what way?!

[ BRO, WHAT IF HE HURTS YOUR FEELINGS!! WHICH HAPPENS SOMETIMES!! BUT WOULD BE REAL AWKWARD TO HAPPEN IN THE MIDDLE OF A SPAR!! ]

[ What way? Don't put him on the spot, dude!! He's the one putting you on the spot here! But if there's a way for getting someone to get you mad...! ]

You can't think what makes me mad?! Make me mad! [ It's to sound affronted and bully the other person first! Yeah, Fabian!! Take this!! ] You suck!

[ Is it Fabian trying to make Gorgug mad here, or is it Gorgug trying to make Fabian mad now....

But let's hope Fabian is quick on his feet (which we know it is), since these quasi-mind games aren't going to stop Gorgug from getting this started, approaching Fabian with a hurried yet careful approach, the tell-tale signs of his rage beginning to show on his face: a darkening of his white pupils that fades into the black of his scleras, the tightening of his muscles, though only his hands and face are really visible; and the hold of his teeth, letting show more the tusks that jab upward like fangs the wrong side up. ]

Since when do you hold back!

[ Come on, bro. Rib him! ROAST HIM. ]

[ This situation feels utterly ridiculous.

Especially since Fabian can't help but call out, instinctively: ] Why did you ask me to make you mad and then started harassing me instead?!

[ BRO!!! Bro, who are we trying to make mad here!!! Bro, you know Fabian has a sensitive soul and can't be told he sucks, you'll activate one complex or another at this rate! Though Gorgug is in luck in the sense that Fabian is way too focused on the weirdness of this situation to think really deeply about the other just saying he sucks out of literally nowhere.

The only problem is not even Gorgug charging at him. Fabian looks ready for that. He's light enough on his feet that he's pondering moving out of the way at the last moment - surely something that's enough to annoy bulls is enough to annoy his friend, right. No, the problem is thinking of what to say here. For all of Fabian's yelling insults at people, the problem here is that he doesn't want to make Gorgug feel bad. And Fabian has never learned which insults are the good, anger-inducing kind, and which are the bad, sadness-inducing kind. He could yell his grievances at Gorgug over the other prioritizing so many other things over him, but wouldn't that make the other just feel bad?!

Why is this so hard. It shouldn't be so hard. In fact, Fabian is thinking for so long that Gorgug has already reached him, Fabian quickly moving out of the way, as light on his feet as ever. He's already a few steps away from Gorgug again before the other may have had the chance to fully notice it. ]

[ Argh, just-- fuck it!!

Just fuck it!! ]

Me, holding back? I'd say you're the one holding back, but you just are this slow.

[ He puts a hand on his sword, drawing it. ]

How are you supposed to protect any of us if you can't even keep up with me? Maybe you should be spending less time holding hands with robots, and more time training!

[ He doesn't have the flexibility to twist and redirect himself like Fabian might have in this scenario, losing direct sight of the one in front of him; but Gorgug has enough awareness and experience to know the other wouldn't simply stand there and let him get a direct shot in without moving. Still, his turn to face Fabian gets credence to his jab, a drop of water in terms of real insults. Gorgug could let it brew, turn it into more than that, except--

There's no need to, with what Fabian follows it with. A real annoyance, hilarity in how it hits him: of course Fabian's going to bring up the fucking robot thing. His eyes blink dark completely, but he has his hand axe ready, and he's pushing on his feet to try and close into Fabian with it in a swing, along with the retort: ]

Fuck you, Fabian!

[ He expects a clash, or for the other to move back--and whether he gets either, Gorgug's still going to try and push forward after, using his other hand to grab at the other by either his arm or by some kind of fabric. Probably useless, but Fabian's a tricky son of a bitch. His force and the ability to overpower is what helps him when dealing with him. Grappling him usually gets him places. ]

[ There is a clash - Gorgug's axe hitting the metal of Fabian's sword as he holds it up to block the blow, though his sword does dip a bit as he does so. Fabian is, after all, well aware that he's never going to win from Gorgug in any strength competition.

It's also why he knows he has to avoid getting close enough to Gorgug that the other can grab him. There's no way he's escaping from that. And even though Fabian still doesn't feel the sense of danger he probably should be feeling when Gorgug's eyes darken like that, even though he knows it wouldn't be a problem in the long run if Gorgug did get his hands on him, he's still in this spar to try and win it.

So when he realizes Gorgug's arm is suddenly much too close to his sleeve, Fabian casts a quick enhancement spell on himself, his shoes glowing with magic as he moves out of the way with an inhuman speed at the very last second. He moves a few quick steps, getting quite a bit backwards to try and stay out of grabbing range. ]

Come on, Gorgug! Don't be so slow! [ Look, Gorgug hasn't told him to stop poking.

And if that's his duty here, then-- he shall. He's not sure if Gorgug is aiming to get even angrier than this, after all. ] Maybe if you are just a little bit faster, you could even hold mine!

[ It's way too early to tell Fabian to stop. But the thing is, is that Gorgug didn't have a plan to tell Fabian to stop: only one of them gets to decide that.

(That's the one with the safe word.)

But it's Fabian escape from his grasp that does wonders for Gorgug's rage more than what he says; he's allowing the annoyance to turn into ire, something stronger gnawing at itself in his body. Anger upon anger; that's the purpose here more than a rational mind from the get go, because Gorgug knows how to do that.

Still, it's not like Gorgug isn't listening. Maybe he's listening too well, because Fabian's saying he's being slow, and Gorgug knows exactly how to get faster. It's as small as tap of his heel, and suddenly--he's flying. Jumping, technically, but what difference is there when he's bolting straight at Fabian, the hand axe held thrown to the side because, apparently, hands are a better weapon for this. Whatever this is.

What it is is a lunge to knock them both to the ground, an overkill for the proximity they were both still in. There's a roll, a tumble, and it's dangerous with the blade still between them that Fabian has, but Gorgug doesn't care about safety; he wants to ride the anger coursing through him that bleeds his vision red, and let his crazed mind take over.

And it wants to grab Fabian around the shoulders, try to keep him grappled as he figures out his leg situation afterward. Don't fight it, Fabian.

He wants to fucking throw you. ]

[ See, if this was a fight, it would be easy. It hurts when Fabian's back hits the ground, when they start tumbling around, moving across the rough surface, but that's all fine. He's been in far worse pain in the past, and he's always been able to still continue to focus on the battle through it. If Gorgug was a regular opponent, Fabian would move his blade to pierce it straight through the other to win.

.. the problem is that this isn't that. Fabian doesn't want to kill Gorgug here, obviously, and that makes the sword more of a liability in this moment than an asset. He still holds onto it as they roll, not wanting to give up his fighting chance here so quickly, but that means he doesn't have as much attention left to focus on Gorgug when he at the same time has to focus on making sure the blade doesn't stab clean through either of them as they tumble around.

(And even that is hard to do with their close proximity. Fabian feels the blade cutting something, and in the chaos he can't even tell if it's him or Gorgug. He can tell from the sound that it isn't deep, just a scratch, enough to draw a thin line of blood at best, but he doesn't know if he's the one feeling it or if that's just from rolling around, if it's just the adrenaline, or if he scratched Gorgug.)

No time to figure out how to use his sword in this position without injuring either of them far more than a spar should allow though.

But it's fine. Fabian is struggling against the grip his friend has on him, but he knows he won't slip out of this one, the grip of the other's hands on his shoulders just a little bit too strong.

So Fabian has to use other methods.

.. you know, like suddenly launching his knee up hard - see, Gorgug, this is why you always figure out the leg situation first!! Rookie mistake!! - to try and knee Gorgug hard right in the balls.

Fabian may not consider sword stabbing fair play in a spar, but this is, okay. Don't question him. ]

[ See, Gorgug was already getting pretty fucking mad.

And there's a good side to this, and a bad side to this. The bad side might be that he's losing his hold on logic or strategy here: capable of rookie mistakes, some might say. He's thinking more about what he wants to do than what he should do, such as that blade that was somewhere in between the two of them, and tossing aside his own blade. There's nothing clever about any of this, with him trying to move up onto his feet to do that throwing plan.

Except, maybe there's a little bit of positivity to that choice, along with the main positive to being mad: he can't feel much else about his being except his rage. The louder that his rage gets, the more his pain sensors become dulled.

This doesn't mean the knee to Gorgug's balls goes unnoticed, or unfelt, however. His legs are somewhere in the beginning of finding a means to rise, first on one side, which doesn't really stop the hit from connecting: it just means Fabian has to raise his knee the entire way. And Fabian will see that it connects when, well--he'll certainly feel it first, actually; but he'll be front stage to witness the snap of Gorgug's eyes widening, the choked sound of somewhere sensitive being attacked. Even if it's not as sensitive as it could be right then, one doesn't experience a very different sensation down there.

And this will turn out to be a very bad thing for Fabian, actually.

Because the way that Gorgug's face twists isn't anything like horror or pain: it's the kind of ire where it's difficult to discern--especially with black scleras and white pupils--if he even sees Fabian, and isn't consumed by a new level of utter, pure rage. He slips onto his feet, sweeping Fabian up in the same motion like the half-elf weighs nothing heavier than a bag of feathers, and wastes no time in raising him high above his head with a guttural yell before slamming him straight back into the ground again.

There's nothing easy about the drop. The ground behind Fabian cracks from his impact, and Gorgug uses that moment in Fabian's drop to grab Fandragor by its blade, sacrificing it cutting into skin and flesh if he has to--if Fabian can even manage to resist--to have a stronger enough hold to throw it aside. Not that he would do anything but grip onto it anyway, when he's already ignoring a gash along his upper right arm from their earlier roll as he lowers back down over Fabian again.

His legs bend to pin at Fabian's under them, knees pointed into the ground, and Gorgug crushes a hand against Fabian's face as if trying to dig it deeper into the floor on the other side. For a few seconds, anyway, before fingers and nails scrape carelessly across the top and tears off the eyepatch that Fabian wears.

And Fabian will see it there in Gorgug's hand, hovering above his head, somewhere near the face of violence bearing gritted teeth trapped in a snarl. ]

[ See, the problem here is that Fabian was still fully in the mindset of fighting Gorgug. Even with the other in this state, it's hard to not think about the way that it's still packaged as his friend. Gorgug may be partially losing his mind here, but Fabian has still got all of his own, and he'd never want to injure his friend in any way that would seriously hurt for longer than maybe all of two minutes.

But Gorgug clearly has no such thing holding him back any more in this moment. It's different from how they usually spar - because even when Gorgug goes into a rage then, it's different, always more calculated. Still a bitch to fight when you know that you're going to lose every single strength competition, but it's something Fabian can handle.

He isn't sure what to do here. He isn't sure what he can do here, because before he can even think of his next move when he sees Gorgug react to the knee, he's already being dragged up and slammed down like it's nothing, the back of his head hitting the ground hard. Hard enough that his vision blacks out for a split second, hard enough that his mind suddenly feels woozy, dizzy. As Gorgug wretches the sword out of Fabian's hand - not too easily, since Fabian is still holding onto it, but the dizziness does help in letting Gorgug peel it away from there - Fabian hardly even registers it. For a moment he's sixteen again, his head slamming into the concrete floor of a jail cell, his father yelling at him. Some instinct screams at him the same way as it did back then, telling him to fight, to not take it, that he can't just take it.

But this isn't his father hovering over him. It's his friend, and Fabian remembers that he has a word to stop this - would it work though, with Gorgug in this state, when Fabian has never in his life seen him like this - and he even remembers what the word is, but he can't use it. Maybe he should, since he knows deep down that Gorgug would surely not want this to go this far either, but he-- he can't. He won't. He's still a Seacaster, and they don't just give up. They don't take the way of a coward.

Even as all of Fabian's options are rapidly taken away from him. There's nowhere to go with Gorgug pinning his legs, with the other's body caging him in. All he can do is use the limbs he does still have.

So when his eyepatch is taken away from him, leaving one silver eye and a hollow socket crossed by the large scar on Fabian's face staring up at Gorgug, he doesn't just take it. Gorgug may have his legs this time, but Fabian's arms are still his own, and he uses them to make a grab at the eyepatch to try and get it back, even lifting his upper body up a little to help the effort. ]

Dude! [ He says, almost instinctively. ] Give that back! You know that is my papa's!

[ And while he knows Gorgug usually would never do anything to something that important to him, Fabian may be a little bit worried about that being different when Gorgug isn't in his full mind. And he'll be damned if he loses one of the few things he has left to remind him of the man over this. ]

[ The hand with the eyepatch swipes away, held out where there's no tease and possibility of grabbing in. Gorgug doesn't look in direction of Fabian's efforts or anywhere else but his face, boring down at him with his white pupils, specks of red in his otherwise black sclera.

His other hand comes down on the space of Fabian's neck and shoulder to force his body back down, and Fabian will feel a wet sensation--if he even has the attention to comprehend that against everything else right now. ]

Beg, [ Gorgug hisses, a lower tone than his usual voice is; breathing heavily above Fabian simply from the exertion of being in this rage, though each one is drawn out, each intake and exhale heard. Felt, as Gorgug cranes his head to peer down even better within Fabian's line of sight. ] Tell me you want it. Aren't you going to fight for it?

[ But that's already been answered, apparently, so Gorgug repeats, ] Then beg me.

[ And Fabian Seacaster would never beg. ]

[ Okay.

A little bit more intense than anticipated. So intense that it is - indeed - very difficult for Fabian to focus on any one sensation in particular in this moment. It feels like there's so many going on, somewhere between Gorgug pushing him down so hard, the other's breath so loud right above him, those words, the strange wetness.. Not to mention that the loss of the eyepatch does disorient him a little. Nothing to do with his vision, obviously since there's nothing there, but it's still a familiar sensation suddenly being gone.

And yet he doesn't feel scared. Maybe he should. He's got all reason to, given that his friend who is physically stronger than him is clearly going much further than he ever has before and is showing no signs of stopping.

But Fabian doesn't feel scared.

Which would be easy to chalk up to his bravery, and maybe that's part of it, but there's also-- more. Something that makes adrenaline rush up in his veins. He's being held down, and he's being told to beg, and there's-- there's something there. Fabian doesn't want to think about it too hard, since something inside of him feels like it's trying to push him away from doing so, but it's like he's getting breathless as well as he stares up at Gorgug's dark eyes, as he feels the strength of that hand against his torso. A part of him doesn't want this moment to end, even if that means Gorgug may just pulverize him.

His attitude from a moment ago fades away. The corners of Fabian's lips curl up into a grin before he's even realized it.

Gorgug is right about one thing - as Fabian's free arms move, hands grabbing onto the arm that's pushing him down, tugging on it to try and move it - and that is that Fabian Seacaster indeed does not beg.

So with that grin on his face, he just says-- ]

Fuck you.

[ -- and he spits right in the other's face. ]

Make me.

[ Is he enjoying this?

(Why is he enjoying this?) ]

[ Being in a rage gives him heart palpitations, or something close to it. A rapid drum that beats between his ears and chest, that Gorgug knows how to orchestrate upon a whim. His hearing is foggy to its rhythm under this state, a cacophony that makes his senses drowsy in attempting to follow--to listen to anything else other than desire.

His current desire is to make Fabian squirm, to bend. Begging would be nice, asking for it is an insult to his friend: Gorgug knows this. And he delights in it, a certain strength it offers him--domination, one might call it.

But who can dominate, when that grin springs across Fabian's face? Wild, enthusiastic against Gorgug's wishes. An expression he's more than familiar with from the other, when he's in the height of passion, of frenzy. There was already something else twisting up in his insides; not quite rage, and somehow managing to find its own tune inside the musical madness going on inside. Fuck you--it almost makes Gorgug's lips twitch into a smile.

Getting spat on kinda ruins that, though.

At least the smile. A rush comes over him at that, and it's a different kind of violence that Gorgug wants to inflict on his friend, for better or worse. He chucks aside the eyepatch (just to be sure Fabian can't reach it) and pulls aside on the strap of Fabian's tank top, just enough to let him lower his mouth and sink his teeth in the space between shoulder and neck. A wide bite, where his tusks dig in first before the rest, and then threaten to pierce through skin as he manages to lodge in his teeth against skin.

Threaten to, threaten--and then do.

For once (and despite how it might feel), he's showing restraint in the action. Slow, deliberate, pained--because Fabian asked him to make him, and he's doing just that.

(And while he feels that twist in his stomach again, his mouth coming to rest over that space, almost sucking on skin.

He grips tighter where his hand holds Fabian down.) ]

[ It's not like Fabian assumed that Gorgug would react to this in a way that'd necessarily end up great for Fabian. Especially not while he's in this state.

But he also did not imagine this in the slightest. He thought the other might try to punch him or something, and Fabian was half-ready to try and find some way to get the other's grip off him enough to attempt to dodge it, but it's not a hand that comes down to him at all.

It's.. a face. It's teeth. The half-elf can feel them scraping against his skin before they actually sink in, and though it likely only lasts a second or so, it feels like much longer in his head. Like something about his time freezes, like it's an eternity where he can feel Gorgug's tusks scrape against his skin, and then he bites down.

Fabian lets out a whimper. Sure, he is tough, but Fabian is not tough in the way where he can halve damage. He's tough in a way where he keeps taking shit full on and remains standing - which means he can feel every single part of the bite. Fabian has never imagined what it's like to be bit there - having been bitten in his limbs plenty of times over the many battles they have been part of, but obviously never just straight up into his chest, into his shoulder. It feels like a more sensitive part, somehow, judging by the way the pain feels like it's pouring through his veins in a way that's much more heightened than ever before.

But it's not just pain. It's also weirdly warm. He can feel Gorgug's breath against his skin, a kind of wetness there that isn't just Fabian's own blood. Something about it makes Fabian's heart speed up even more. It doesn't matter that it hurts. The way Fabian's breath grows more shallow may have something to do with that, but it's not just that. There's something about Gorgug hovering over him, one of the few people Fabian knows that's actually bigger than him, pushing him down, sinking his teeth into Fabian's flesh, doing what he wants with him--

He should fight back, maybe.

He should use the safe word they established, maybe.

But Fabian does neither of those things. He doesn't even move. It hurts, and it makes occasional little sounds escape Fabian's mouth, but it's like part of him doesn't want to do something that might make this moment end. ]

Edited 2024-09-26 15:36 (UTC)

[ What control persists in Gorgug remains in his teeth, if barely. It's hard to call this control, when his tusks have broken skin and when every sound Fabian makes hits his ear and makes him want to dig in deeper, give more. That's what this begging thing is about, right? Making Fabian ask for more, or something. Plead to him. Show him that he wants the same thing as Gorgug's rage becomes muddied by a different kind of want.

Somewhere, as Gorgug sucks on the spread of skin against his mouth, a sweet metallic taste slipping in as the pressure locks his jaw tighter. The hands on his forearm pinning Fabian's chest doesn't get it to move, but that need, that want, does. Except he doesn't know what he's doing, twisting up Fabian's shirt into his fingers with his fingers dully scraping, barely managing to do much there, before he decides to find an answer by lowering it further down his body. He brushes against Fabian's side, his waist, and in case Fabian attempts to push up his chest again without the force telling him to stay down, Gorgug does bite in harder--does grunt in place of a growl he can't fully give.

Gorgug lands somewhere at Fabian's waist, and decided to take a hold there; fingernails blunted, but still gripping down into the skin, to find purchase--to find a reaction, to hear Fabain make more sounds.

To hear him speak. ]

[ Fabian does try to move the moment the hand leaves.

But it's not quite as much as he usually would. Usually he'd try to leap up, try to use this chance to get away from what's trying to harm him. The thing is that he would be moving faster - and that's exactly what he's not doing here. Sure, he does try to get up a little, but it's only a faint movement before Gorgug bites down harder, and Fabian's back immediately lands back against the ground with a loud pant from the way those teeth are still digging into his skin, the pressure of Gorgug's mouth on him.

.. and the wandering hand.

It keeps going down.

There was a lesson, back in the Nightmare Forest, about how sometimes you can't just storm in to save your friends. Sometimes you just have to lie down and undergo something difficult for them instead. But this is-- different. It's not for anyone. Maybe Fabian could twist it in his mind and say it's for Gorgug, because the other wanted to be able to practice with his rage like this, but he knows it isn't that. The reason he's lying here and taking it is because..

(Because he wants to know where that hand is going.) ]

Gorgug..

[ It's not begging. The tone isn't begging, anyway, but Fabian doesn't want to think about what the tone is instead. The way his voice gets so breathy as he calls out the other's name.

It's nothing. It's nothing. He doesn't want to think about it. ]

[ It's not begging. It's not anything at first, except a sound that shuts down Gorgug's brain and forces it into reboot, all in a fraction of a second. Breathy-- a moan, or just so soft enough that it can be misconstrued into any kind of submissive tone. Whatever it is, it shoots through Gorgug's body and removes any semblance of goal from his being, or how exactly to reach it. He was meant to be making Fabian beg, and that was meant to be about an eyepatch, but, except, now--

Now, Gorgug doesn't really care about the eyepatch. He had stopped caring about the eyepatch right around when Fabian spat in his face, and while he still cares about the begging part, the problem is the kind that he wants--the sort it's turning into. The kind of reaction, close to that sound, and the fact that it came after where he put his hand.

Where it could go.

Gorgug thinks about where it could go. He also worries that he might actually be hurting Fabian, in a bad way, and that sound that he's taking so...well, isn't the kind he should be. Was Fabian hurt? Or was that sound something else?

The kind of something else already inside him, replacing the rage that's rapidly dropping from his focus. It's been in there, lurking since he sunk his teeth in, or since Fabian asked him to make him in the first place. He wants to continue to keep going (what if he's telling me to keep going? tell me to keep going--), but the haze of the moment, of where his body is taking this, or maybe where Fabian could be wanting this to go-- he can't be sure. He has to be a good friend first.

Gorgug tries to take his tusks out carefully, shakily, gasping as his lips pull away from the ring of skin they've been planted against all this time. Removes his hand from Fabian's thigh, letting go of the skin grasped there, and leans his weight on the one that had been on Fabian's shoulder, sliding it off to sit on the ground above it.

And Gorgug's eyes widen, just as he manages to lift his head to look down at Fabian, inhaling sharply as he feels a sting from his palm: and always sees a streak of red on Fabian. A few steaks, actually. ]

I-I think we're bleeding.

[ There's a face to be examined, taken note of, Gorgug's own a darkened through activity and the tips of his tusks coloured red, his breathing heavy, shaky.

But that's what he whispers first, as the lustre goes from Gorgug's eyes, and the pain from taking Fandrangor between his hands starts to itch against his skin.

And it's getting itchier by the second. ]

[ Oh no.

It was a little easier to not think about any of this during the act itself. Easier to just lie there and let it happen, especially since it's not like Fabian needed to do anything for that. Even if he'd lie there completely still, Gorgug would just keep going and maybe-- maybe Fabian wanted him to, or something, or-- well, that's the not thinking part. He can't exactly recall what went through his head, or maybe he doesn't want to.

But with Gorgug suddenly pulling away - Fabian letting out a pained hiss when the tusks move out of his skin, a painful sting no matter how careful his friend is being - reality is dawning a lot harder on Fabian.

Especially when he sees the blood on the other. And the darkness in Gorgug's face. And the way Gorgug sounds so like-- well, like Gorgug again, without any of the rage. It takes away the momentum that was at least keeping some of Fabian's embarrassment about the entire situation at bay, but the way it is so suddenly over means that he's only getting smacked in the face harder by it now.

He doesn't want to think about it. He doesn't! He's not going to! He's simply not going to think about it!

So he doesn't. As Fabian half-sits up, he doesn't think about the sore pain in the exact area where Gorgug bit him. He doesn't think about how there must be a mark. He doesn't think about the other on him only a moment ago, or the blush on his skin. None of it. Not thinking. Just asking, subtly, smoothly-- ]

Doyouneedmetohealyou?!

[ So smooth.

So subtle.

HE'S NOT THINKING ABOUT IT!! ]

[ The itchiness is becoming worse.

Gorgug can't concentrate on how Fabian looks, seems. He hears his fluster about healing, but the pain in his hands is growing by the second, and his mind starts focusing a lot more on that--on cutting himself against a magical sword like Fandragnor, and a cut somewhere near his abdomen, and how being hutched over Fabian isn't probably a good idea right now, either. Even though he looks down at Fabian again, he doesn't say anything immediately.

But Fabian will get a sight as his face twists into a pout, before Gorgug starts to try and shuffle himself off and away from the other without using his hands, falling back somewhere on his own ass and off Fabian's legs. Lamely, as he does this: ] It hurts.

[ All that cool, violent rage is being erased from the environment as Gorgug's softer side begins to show itself....the one that can still be a baby over the smallest, simplest things. Like gashes across his hands from an elven blade.

Very small, indeed.

But it's also a good distraction, away from the heat that's still sticking to his face and reaching around his ears. A warmth in his body that has nothing to do with anger, and how he's glad for his hoodie. How he's hovering his arms and hands and wanting them to take precedent: to the rest of his body, to everything that came before this moment. Fabian's name in his ears, his tusks buried into Fabian's skin, and how good it felt to be there.

Gorgug closes his eyes. Fabian asked something about healing, but he doesn't want to do anything but cup his hands together, mumbling and circling them and trying to get a Cure Wounds spell going, than to think about Fabian (and what they were doing? maybe?) right now. The pain is easier to focus on, and process. The pain should both go and stay.

Because he just thought about something really, really embarrassing, and he's probably the worst friend in any world ever. Oh no. ]

[ When Gorgug gets off him, Fabian's brain - perhaps desperate to not think about the previous few moments - immediately latches on to the idea of helping heal Gorgug. The main problem of that idea is that he needs to dance to be able to heal him, and Fabian's body feels very, very sore.

It's only something he fully realizes when he moves to sit up further. Propping himself up on his elbows was one thing, but fully sitting up is another, and Fabian feels his own body protesting against the idea. He's not even sure if he's bleeding the way Gorgug is, or if his body is just sore from trying to deal with getting knocked around and bitten.

But despite his inability to heal Gorgug in this state, Fabian is still worried.

Worried enough to be impulsive. To not really think.

Which, in this case, means that he's moving over to where Gorgug is sitting. He leans forwards and towards the other by supporting his body with his hands while Fabian is also still sitting on the ground. This by itself wouldn't be such a problem, but-- ]

Gorgug! Gorgug!! Are you alright?!

[ --his tanktop still isn't properly back into position, which means that as Fabian is shoving himself directly into his friend's business, the effect of Gorgug's actions is very, very visible. Especially when Fabian's bite isn't bleeding nearly as badly as Gorgug's cuts, making the bite mark that seems to have sunken very deep into Fabian's dark skin extremely visible. It's right there, the moment Gorgug would open his eyes. ]

[ There's so much going on right now, that it would be a sensory overload for Gorgug, if he wasn't already dealing with his hurting hands.

He doesn't want to deal with Fabian's shouting, especially when it moves so closely to his ears; he just wants to pretend he's doing a good job healing up his hands, except that's up for debate. The wound at least isn't drawing too much new blood, the work on it slow with Gorgug's lack of concentration. And that's before he does open his eyes, slowly answering, ] I'm fine...

[ Said, like the most pitiful way to announce you're fine. And that's before he sees the bite mark that's a soft bloom of colour against the tan of Fabian's skin. Gorgug eyes it briefly, a mix of emotions battling it out in already his overstimulated brain (how it felt to have his teeth dug in there, sucking against the skin, the sounds that Fabian made so close to his ear) before he has to tear his gaze away. ]

I'm sorry, [ he says, even more pitiful than the last time he spoke up. This is his state. This is his burden. ] I bit you, I didn't mean-- you spat at me!

[ It sounds like blame, when in truth, he's just reaching for things to say, to explain himself that isn't the lie, I didn't mean it. But he's continuing his whine, even though it means he isn't doing well on focusing on his healing: ] I was weird...

[ whiiiiiiiiiiiiineeee. ]

[ You know what a very easy way is to not have to think about how weird you were feeling about a bro biting you a moment ago?

By said bro not being attractive at all in this moment. It means Fabian can think about all of this later, when he's by himself, but he doesn't really have to contend with the complicated thoughts on all of it in this moment. Not while he's very much busy having to deal with a whining bro. ]

Dude, that was just your rage!

[ Yeah. That was it, right?

So there's no need to think about this. About any of it. The way his shoulder feels so incredibly sore whenever he moves a little bit isn't something he has to think all that deeply about, because it was just a case of rage getting a little bit out of hand. Clearly there's nothing else going on here. There's never been. ]

I'm not mad at you! [ In case that wasn't obvious yet. Fabian thought it was pretty obvious, but-- who knows? ] It's fine, it was just a bite!

[ W-What's a little bite between bros, right, h-haha--

It probably doesn't help that Fabian still hasn't moved out of Gorgug's personal space while the poor guy is just trying to focus on healing his hands.. ]

[ No part of this is helping Gorgug's hands get healed.

Sometimes, his rages can influence his emotions after the fact; it's like getting punched emotionally after holding onto a steel hard violence for the entirety of the fight, and he's definitely shed a few tears after a battle that's gone on for too long. This isn't that, but next to his skull feeling like it's collecting cotton buds up there and pain that's stinging non-stop now with his hands, he wouldn't mind a small cry. That's got nothing to do with gaping hand wounds specifically, right??

Gorgug does sniffle, nodding his head furiously to focus, or just...trying to find control of himself, of the situation. ]

Okay, okay... it was just the rage... it's okay...

[ He's breathing, just trying to breathe, when he knows right now he won't be able to muster up the concentration he needs to keep the spell working on his hands. But he does sense Fabian too close, and opens his eyes again just so he can say: ]

Can you-- gimme some room? I can't think...

[ Bro, he just needs to...calm... from his not rage. His overstimulation come down. Bro. ]

[ At least Fabian does seem to listen to the other. When Gorgug asks for some space, Fabian starts backing up - though he looks weirdly reluctant about it for some reason. A reason he doesn't seem to be offering up with words. Instead he's just moving back until he's sitting on the ground, rather than leaning all over the other.

He groans, like he's only now fully realizing just how sore he's feeling, fingers moving to feel along the spot where Gorgug bit him, still feeling the indentations of the other's tusks in his skin.

(God, it's like he can almost imagine Gorgug over him again-- he quickly pulls his fingers away from it, not minding the bit of blood that sticks to his fingertips.)

To try and not focus too hard on that, he instead just looks over in Gorgug's direction to see if the other has managed to heal himself already. I-It's fine, he can just focus on making sure his friend is alright - maybe he should call a healer if Gorgug can't manage it by himself? - and not think about anything else.

Because there's nothing to think about.

Obviously. ]

[ The space helps. It doesn't immediately settle his mind or ease his nerves, but it gives some leeway into Gorgug working on the spell. The pain of his hands is still a large reason for that, a distraction that he has to force himself to work over--and it's not like Gorgug doesn't deal with bigger distractions in battles. Real battles, that aren't to do with spars or experiments with a friend he trusts.

But it's probably because this isn't as serious that it makes Gorgug's work slower. Still, the wounds on either palm are beginning to stitch together, muscle closing in, blood no longer having reason to spill. It's tender, and the ache continues to remind Gorgug of where the cuts are without looking, but it's a softer sort than what it started off as; it's an ache that's half-phantom when he finally looks at his hands again and carefully flexes his fingers.

It's not a perfect job, and he winces in the action, but it's bearable for the time being. A reminder that Fandragnor is no joke, and he'll have to think twice before he picks back up his axe from wherever he threw it earlier.

But Gorgug's not thinking about his axe. If it's a thought, it's one that flutters away as he looks over at Fabian, and-- does just that. His eyes fall to where the bite mark sits, or where he can guess fairly well its place underneath Fabian's tank top, and his stomach does a flip that he doesn't know the emotion for. Or, that he thinks he doesn't want to know; because he returns his focus back onto Fabian's face, his lips parted slightly, and he's struggling. He's torn.

He wants to know if he can see anything that would give away that Fabian felt what he did too--that Gorgug wasn't the only one, and that it was okay, it was--mutual. But he doesn't know that he wants to be found out, like the question of what he felt is plastered on his expression, clear as day, and he can be read despite being the only one who sunk into a different kind of state of mind when Fabian moaned with his lips on his skin.

That Fabian will see something he doesn't like, and Gorgug... he doesn't want to put that on his friend. They're friends. He should be acting like a friend.

So he diverts back to his hands again, a familiar excuse. ]

...This is the best I can do, [ he says. ] I-- I think I can still spar, but I might need a while to let my hands heal more. Can we continue later?

[ A beat. ] We don't have to do that again.

[ Well.

That easily settles it. The thing Fabian was talking about, anyway. Gorgug is not saying a thing about what happened between the two of them just now, and Fabian is pretty sure it's got nothing to do with the other not remembering what just happened because of his rage.

It's more just that it wasn't a big deal to begin with, right? Gorgug just did that because he was in a rage, and if the other seems a touch embarrassed at all, it's probably just about the rage taking him over to this extent. Whatever weird feeling Fabian had for a moment-- it's nothing. It doesn't matter.

So he breathes in, breathes out, and puts it out of his mind for a moment. If it doesn't matter, he shouldn't allow it to linger, and Fabian jumps right back up onto his feet despite his aching and protesting body. ]

Are you kidding me? Come on, Gorgug, the spar is the last thing you should think about when you're hurt! [ Or, you know, half-healed. What kind of guy would it make Fabian if he forced his friend to duel him while he looks like he wouldn't even be able to hold his axe right now with his hands in this state?

A jerk, that's what. A jerk who had some real weird feelings that he doesn't ever have to think about again. ]

We can always practice some more some other time. For now-- Can you get up?

[ Fabian would offer his hand, but..

You know. Kind of hard to do that when he's pretty sure holding Gorgug's hand to help his friend get up might just make it harder on Gorgug to get up in the first place, rather than easier. ]

Do you need my help? You need to let your hands rest.

[ He's looking between Fabian and his hands at the offer, but he doesn't want to actually see what being helped up looks like when he's pretty sure he can do it by himself. He starts shuffling his legs under him, letting his arms hover as balance, as: ]

It's okay, I can-- I got it.

[ Thankfully, it's just his hands that are the real problem, and Gorgug manages to pick himself onto his feet with nothing more than a wobble. It's not graceful (grace isn't a part of Gorgug's anything), but it does the job.

But now that he's on his feet, looking at Fabian once more, his eyes drifting downward towards his collar--he turns his gaze away as he asks: ]

Is your-- are you okay? [ He glances back at him, but only glances. Look at his hands, they're so...hands.... ] Your...the bitemark.

[ The bitemark, the bite indentation. The puncture wound.

Nothing else. It was just a bite and nothing else. ]

[ Fabian is pretty sure that Gorgug is just rejecting his offer of help because it's difficult for the other to use his hands right now.

.. yet there's a tiny part of him that worries that maybe it isn't the reason. Is it because of what happened? Did Gorgug realize that Fabian's body had a very specific reaction to what Gorgug was doing to him-- Does he think Fabian is dirty now? It doesn't seem likely with the way his friend is giving him that worried gaze, and yet the thought still exists somewhere in Fabian's mind, a tiny voice nagging him in the back of his brain.

He swallows. ]

It's fine.

[ It's not really fine. Not in the moment, anyway. It hurts like hell, and Fabian isn't sure if you need to get yourself checked out for something after getting bit by another person, but he doesn't want to think of that. He doesn't want to draw attention to the wound when that voice in the back of his mind exists, making him feel all insecure about what might be going through Gorgug's mind right now.

So he says, again-- ]

Really. You think I haven't been bitten by bigger things than you during all the fights we've been in? [ Fabian makes sure to attach a joking tone to it - because that's all this is! Lighthearted talk! A joke! Fabian is not worried about anything, and nothing happened. ]

Edited 2024-11-04 16:35 (UTC)

[ Gorgug looks down when Fabian talks about being bitten, that than you, and the way that it makes heat rush to his face--as if looking away might work gravity on the blush that's darkening his cheeks. There's things he wants to say, or more of a feeling he wants to evoke; and maybe there's some tiny part of him that's envious that he's not the bigger bite, without any of the ugly emotions behind it.

He brings his hands into view, or messes around with the fingers just to give the illusion that he's paying any attention to them, and not the things his body are trying to tell him he wants to pay attention to. Did I do a bad job biting you? Should I try again? ]

Okay, [ is what he says; lamely, attempting to sound some semblance towards normal. ] We should clean it out when we get back... I don't know how clean my tusks are... I usually have to get tape for them if they're gonna get in the way.

[ Which probably sounds confusing or nonsensical to Fabian.

And to Gorgug, he isn't entirely thinking about what he's sharing, either: the certain kind of situations where his tusks might be a problem, that he doesn't usually share with others. ]

[ It is something Fabian has never had to think about.

Sure, his own mixed parentage is something that has consequences in his direct family, especially in the way his mother treats him, but it's never really been anything he's had to think about in any other sort of way. Especially when the only thing that really sets him apart from your average human is the shape of his ears.

So when Gorgug says that about his tusks, he has to blink for a moment to process it. Tape.. for them? D-Did he do that with Zelda? W-Wait, did he bite Zelda in the past?! Did they get in the way with kissing? God, wait, no, he should not be thinking about kissing--

Fabian abruptly shuts down his mind. The downside of this is that his thought just flows out of his mouth unfiltered, rather than his brain deciding maybe it's not the best idea to actually say it.

Which means he winks. Playfully. And then adds: ]

Well, we will be better prepared next time you bite me!

[ H-Haha. King? Bite him? King???

He is opting to absolutely not think about this. Zero thoughts about this right now. Zero thoughts about anything. ]

[ Fabian doesn't mean anything by it.

Gorgug knows right away that Fabian means nothing by it.

But he still stares at him as he says it, wants to ask the question that's desperately pushing up his throat. You want me to do it again? It's a joke, because who would? If nothing between them happened, and it was nothing but a stupid result from his rage, which-- isn't untrue. It started that way, it came because of pride, but also became clearer it was about more than anger or ego and about the challenge Fabian was presenting to him, telling him to make him. Biting was never requested, demanded, or taunted--that was Gorgug.

And yet. You want me to do it again?

Gorgug only stares at Fabian for a couple of seconds before he ducks his head again, chuckling just to have some external reaction to that he knows he needs. But he needs to say something, actual words, when there's only one thing really bouncing around in his mind, that would match the energy Fabian's already giving him. So maybe if he starts to walk, the end of that chuckle on his lips, as he says it, then-- ]

You want me to bite you again?

[ --it can sound like nothing, while he's walking in the direction of where his axe got discarded because clearly, he's not thinking deeply about what he's saying either. He's not aware of any specific parts of his body that aren't his hands, obviously, and he's not thinking about tusks and lips and mouths.

All he has to focus on is his axe, and the best possible way to carefully pick it up to put back in its holster. ]

[ Zero thoughts. Zero thoughts. Zero thoughts!!

If anything, Fabian's brain is currently doubling down on that idea. There's something about those words that threatens to set off an alarm in his mind, but as if to anticipate that and prevent it from happening - because Fabian's brainspace would turn into a total jumbled mess if that alarm did go off - his brain absolutely makes zero no thoughts emerge. Nothing at all.

It's why he just replies, his back turned towards Gorgug with the direction he's walking in and one hand dismissively waved in the air-- ]

If you want to!

[ A reply that likely does not help. But again. Zero thoughts. Zero thoughts!!!

So much zero thoughts going on that Fabian looks entirely casual despite the words he just said when he turns around to look at Gorgug picking up that axe. ]

Are you ready now? We should hurry back!

[ I hope you aren't busy imagining what's going on in Fabian's head right now, Gorgug. Especially with those words from a second ago. It's zero thoughts, that's what it is. His brain will likely punish him for this by overthinking it later, but Fabian is - thankfully for current Fabian, a little less thankfully for future Fabian - at the moment saving himself from any of that. ]

[ He can't think.

Not with that answer. Not with that ringing in his ears, drilling inside his brain. If you want to. Gorgug wants to scream, and the desire (that desire, but also--) slams through his limbs, that he no longer cares as deeply about his recently healed hands as he should be. His axe is right there, and while he was worried about grabbing onto it with the freshly knitted skin, he thinks it wouldn't be a bad idea to slam it into the ground a few times?

He needs a shower. Gorgug's got the axe in his hands, and it's a credit to the metal that it's forged with that it doesn't break under his shaking grip. He has to look back at Fabian, walk with him--how is he supposed to do this?

(Later--far, far, later, Gorgug may realise this for what it is, for what he was burying away and refusing to admit it being: flirting. They were flirting.

And a lot would have been solved if he'd taken the opening and fucked Fabian in the middle of the open field that day.)

Gorgug swallows in the air that isn't fulfilling enough, looks over his shoulder as he slowly turns, or just enough to face the direction they need to go to get back. Nodding, but also shouting a ] O-okay! [ just to let Fabian know that he's coming.

And he's walking, axe still being carried by his hands than in its holster, even though: ]

Should I go to my lab? I think I've got something I can use...

[ H-haha, what if he ran off to his lab to hide? So he doesn't have to think about how turned on he is right now? God, is he glad he didn't start not ever wearing hoodies... ]

[ It might be getting late out, but it's not noticeable inside Gorgug's lab. The lights keep the same artificial tones they had a few hours previous, and Gorgug doesn't track the time even when he isn't hunched over palimpsests hooked up to wirings and to his computer, his artificer books sprawled open as a lifeline for a task that has nothing to do with the same craft. Artificing might be a form of encoding, but it's not this kind of encoding, and trying to bring to life a spell from the ground up when you only understand the basics of the language is--trying. It's a headache and a half. A fool's errand, really.

But it's for Adaine. It's for so many other people, that it's been paralysing at times. He's been catching himself blanking out, the way he used to for months after-- that. Back after he died, finding himself forgetting what he had been doing, paused in the middle of some action, and his eyes boring into absolutely nothing. The floor, a wall, a screen of words right in front of him--and never noticing until he came to.

When he's lucky, that's all he does: becoming aware again with nothing other than lost time for it. The worst is when he was holding onto something, and the fact there's a cloth now on the floor dyed by the colour of some liquid it soaked up, the container he was drinking from crushed and left discarded on the floor under his computer desk is-- fine, it's fine. Accidents happen. It doesn't matter. Better than had it been something important.

What should matter is that he does more than stare at the coding on the screen, doesn't let his vision blur or let his mind go anywhere it shouldn't. That he keeps the volume up on his headphones, keep his focus.

(Don't let the nagging in his voice speak to him, You can't do this, you were never gonna do this. You keep fooling yourself, you're not even good at being a barbarian.)

Gorgug tries to do that. He does. But if he had promises made, a schedule he was meant to keep or thoughts outside of working on getting this technology working, well, he's half-keeping to the latter objective: his mind isn't as on the ball as it should be.

Because some kind of mental block is catching up with him on this--night? day? evening?, that it's easy to find him sat along the desk and counter with the crystal screen and keyboard, a palimpsest sitting on a softly glowing board, and just--nothing else happening. No movement, no sign of recognition if or when someone enters, Gorgug's hands paused over the keys like they might start typing.

He'll start doing something in a moment. Any second now. He'll reboot, or something. It's fine. This is fine. ]

[ At least Fabian can't blame Gorgug for spending more time away from them when the circumstances are like this. If he had any ability whatsoever that seemed like it could get their friend out of those mirror shards, then Fabian would be doing the same thing Gorgug is doing right now - but he doesn't. He's looked into it, he's thought about it, he's talked about it with Riz since the other is usually better at figuring out how to tackle things that are more complex than 'just jump right into the situation and figure it out from there' - which has always been Fabian's prefered solution to things like these.

But he knows at this point there's unfortunately nothing he can do. Maybe it's nothing new in this place. Has there been anything he has been particularly good at? It doesn't feel like it. All he can do is hope that Gorgug can work out some sort of solution. If it's within his abilities, then.. surely he will. Fabian knows how much Gorgug seems to have taken to the artificing side of things, no matter how little Fabian himself knows about what that actually entails in a case like this. A lot of working in his lab, apparently.

It's getting late, though. And Gorgug still hasn't come back to the apartment. Surely sleeping in the lab can't be all that comfortable either, so though Fabian waffles on the decision for a little while, in the end he decides to take the Hangman out for a ride towards the lab. Maybe he can take Gorgug back to their apartment that way, which will cut down on the time it takes to walk back from the lab instead.

Though Fabian steps off the Hangman outside of the lab, the bike follows him into it all the same. It's not like Fabian is the only person worried about Gorgug here, after all. The Hangman is similarly fond of the half-orc, and though a bike can't exactly look worried, that look surely is evident in Fabian's gaze as he enters, even though he's formed his mouth into a smile. ]

.. hey, Gorgug.

[ He doesn't start speaking as loudly as Fabian usually does, not wanting to startle this friend when it definitely seems like Gorgug is still working, with the way he's sitting at his desk.

Sitting at his desk, and.. uh.. not doing much, apparently. Or maybe he is? What the hell does Fabian know about artificer work, really. ]

Is everything alright over here? It's getting kind of late, so I thought I'd come check in on you. [ He pauses, momentarily glances over his shoulder, and then turns back to look at Gorgug again. ] Oh, and the Hangman too.

[ The latter doesn't speak up yet, like it doesn't want to rudely interrupt an important Talk between his master and his master's friend, but it does let out a very motor-esque sound that's likely meant to be agreement. ]

[ He doesn't realise Fabian is speaking to him, initially. That is, he picks something up, his name, he thinks, but it's like a dream: a noise he thinks he's hearing than anything actual real. A trick of the mind than anything grounded in reality.

Except there's a voice still speaking, words, and it's not actually until Fabian's mentioning checking in on him that Gorgug turns his head to look at him. His gaze confused, which is normal for him, but--he's not focused on him clearly. Fabian is there--or is he? Was he always there? Gorgug looks back at his hands, at the screen a little way up, and...was he talking with Fabian?

He moves slowly, out of it; turning his hands so the palms face up, before he lowers them down onto the table with a ] Yeah [ spoken, in the hopes that he said something that actually matches whatever Fabian just said. He didn't hear him right. The world is shifting out of place.

Sorry, give him, like... five minutes. Maybe ten. To get the emptiness ringing out from between his ears despite the life actually present.

(But is this real? Maybe this isn't real.) ]

Gorgug..?

[ Fabian can't help but call the other's name again, because.. there's clearly something wrong here, even if he can't put his finger on it right away. Gorgug looks fine, after all. Outwardly there doesn't seem to be anything wrong with him, it's just that his reaction is definitely strange.

And not just to him, apparently. It only takes a moment of silence before the Hangman is already revving up, a start of Sire--, but Fabian holds out a hand towards the bike, indicating that he's got this.

Which the Hangman seems to believe, since it turns around to instead do what it does best - guard the entrance to Gorgug's lab. Like a loyal guard ~~dog~~ bike.

It gives Fabian the room to instead step over towards where Gorgug seems weirdly spaced out. He puts a hand on his friend's shoulder, hoping that it might catch the other's attention a little bit more and root him. ]

You seem out of it. [ To put it mildly.

Bro. :( He's worried. ]

[ The revving, though perhaps the Hangman should've been enough noise before for him, does seem to worm itself into Gorgug's ears some. There's a complaint he should be whining about bringing the bike into his lab (as much as he likes the Hangman, it's his lab!), but the thought doesn't occur to Gorgug in a way that it connects. Doesn't seem worth making, or saying.

But then Fabian's in his view and Gorgug looks at him, their height level with Gorgug's place in his chair. He seems out of it--Gorgug looks down in an action that could be taken as sheepish, but he finally does bring his hanging hands towards himself, near his stomach. ]

Sorry. I'm not... [ What can he say? He trails, starting before he even knows what to say, before tugging his mouth aside in a half-hearted smile. ] I think I'm tired. And I'm worried about....everyone.

[ It makes sense, doesn't it? That he wouldn't a full 100% percent, and it's not that he doesn't feel bad. He feels bad for everyone stuck in that mirror, and he's here trying to recreate a procedure that he never paid attention to the details for back in freshman year. He still thought palimpsests had to be cleaned phones. ]

[ There's nothing I think about Gorgug being tired from Fabian's point of view. It's clear the other is tired, especially when Fabian may have seen Gorgug space out at times ever since getting to know the other, but nothing to this extent. Even the reason for the fatigue is clear, given what Gorgug had been working on. Of course he would have given it his all if it was to save other people - to save Adaine.

Something that's reflected in the very next thing he says, making Fabian's expression grow a little less worried and instead just.. more generally soft. He smiles, hoping that it's reassuring, despite his own worries about their friend. ]

I think it's time for you to sleep. [ Not here, of course. Fabian doubts Gorgug is going to get some good sleep if he's constantly surrounded by a physical reminder of the work he has to do. ] I know you're worried. I am too.

[ He admits. ]

But I don't think you sitting here and tiring yourself out is going to bring Adaine back. [ Fabian slowly pulls his hand off the other's shoulder now that he's sure he's gotten Gorgug's attention. ] If you get some rest, then you will be able to think about the problem more clearly afterwards.

[ Fabian's probably right. There's a part of him that does want to protest, while the other part still feels foggy-minded, cloudy on doing anything. And it's a larger, fuzzier part of his head than the other.

He turns in his chair so he can face Fabian better, looking up at him and humming nonchalantly for as a response. Before he lowers his head, leaning forward slightly to let it rest against Fabian's torso, without really being close enough to support any weight on him. ]

...I'm sorry we're not doing anything again. I-- [ 'haven't abandoned you'? No, that sounds weird. ] ...Are you lonely?

[ Ah, no, that's weird too. He scoots back his head. ] I know Riz is around, but after the stuff we talked about, you know, I wanted to know you weren't feeling bad. That you're okay.

[ Just for a moment, Gorgug's head leans against him.

Just for a moment, Fabian is very tempted to play with the other's hair a little bit - but then Gorgug's head is already gone, pulled back once more, and instead he's saying all of these things. Thinking of Fabian, even though he looks like he could just drop asleep here on his desk from how worried he must be about Adaine. No matter how dramatic Fabian has been about the whole attention matter, it's not like he's going to be an attention hog right now. Not at a moment like this - even though it sure makes his heart feel like it's swelling to know that Gorgug is thinking about him at all. ]

I'm okay.

[ It's why he doesn't hesitate to say that, smiling at his friend. Sure, he is also worried like hell about Adaine. He's worried about Riz and Gorgug too, who are both tiring themselves out - Riz with his investigation into it all, Gorgug with his attempts to create some sort of solution to the situation. He's still mad as hell at this place over it all.

But-- lonely? Well, he misses his friends, but right now it is so not Fabian time. Right now he can be okay, because that's the only thing he can go to support his friends. Be there for them, instead. ]

Just worried about you, man. [ He gently nudges the other with an elbow. ] I don't think I have seen you leave this place in days.

It's school all over.

[ It's a joke, but not entirely untrue, lacking in the bloodrush games that means that Gorgug has to come out and smell the sun and the occasional bloodied nose (not always his own). Except he's been more aware of his shortcomings, the time not spent with friends, the way he's struggling against a fix to a problem he has no business solving.

And will it ever be enough?, some voice in him whispers, his company at times in this lab. Nothing you do will ever be good enough for anyone.

Why is he bothering? He tells himself it's for Adaine, for Rosie; he reminds himself it has to be for everyone. But it's not a lie, is it? He cares about his friends deeply. They care about him.

He knows the feeling isn't fake, a small smile fitted on his lips. He's not pretending at all. ]

I was actually... I was planning to make you something before the next mission. For your birthday. [ He had been looking at Fabian, but glances down shyly at admitting this. ] I've, um, been trying to work on it for a while, but-- it's usually a hat in some examples? So was Adaine's, but I'm not actually any good at hats, and I didn't think you or Adaine--you wouldn't want to wear hats if they don't look good. And they weren't looking very good.

But I was thinking, [ he continues on, from what must be a very abrupt and sudden topic, looking at Fabian with that smile now a worried pinched, ] is a bangle okay? You seem like a bangle guy.

[ There's explanation that might've been good here, a better build up to this subject or some reasoning that Gorgug jumped to this, but--first, is a bangle okay? A bangle, dude? ]

[ It's definitely an abrupt and sudden topic. And-- well, it's not like Fabian is going to kid himself to think that's what Gorgug was really doing in here. Maybe back when he first got the lab, when Fabian was busy throwing fits about robot hand holding and all, but he knows that recently nothing can have consumed Gorgug's days other than the very obvious problem they are dealing with in this place.

And maybe there is a logical explanation as to why the other's thoughts ended up at this topic. Or maybe it's just that Gorgug is so tired right now that all of his thoughts are blending together. Either way-- ]

Of course a bangle is fine.

[ --of course he has to reassure his friend first. Gorgug looks so worried and tired and kind of sad right now that doing anything else would feel like kicking a small puppy. Absolutely unforgivable. It doesn't matter that Gorgug is one of the few people that can tower over him, or that Fabian would lose every single arm wrestling match that didn't involve some sort of cheating from Gorgug. He seems weirdly vulnerable in this moment, and it's Fabian's natural instinct to take care of that, to lift up his friends when they are low.

Still, given what the situation is like, part of said reassurance has to be: ]

But I also think I'm about one of the last people you should be thinking about right now. [ No matter how much Fabian whines for attention at.. well, any other given time, let's be real. He's not going to be the sort of asshole that demands for it when Adaine is trapped, when Gorgug is letting himself fall apart right in front of Fabian's eyes. ] I think we can both agree to put Adaine on the first place of the list of people you should be thinking about right now, but I feel like Gorgug should be second place on there, don't you think?

[ He counts on his fingers in a way that's clearly that Fabian brand of dramatic and play-acted, before adding with a tone that's just as light as the act itself. ]

I think I can settle for.. you know, maybe seventh or something. Just this once.

[ Sure, it's touching that Gorgug wanted to make anything for him at all - just because he hadn't been around for the birthday party, something he's sure no one blames Gorgug for at all - but there's no time to linger on that before Gorgug thinks he really has to take Fabian into consideration when the half-orc looks like he could pass out right here in his lab. ]

[ Seventh place. Fabian doesn't deserve seventh place, or at least, he wouldn't truly want that, right? When Fabian's felt so vulnerable about his place in their relationship already. They talked about it, they sorted it out, but it's there in the not-so-far back of Gorgug's mind now that Fabian's bringing up his place in Gorgug's considerations. He's reassuring him that's it all okay, but Gorgug looks at him like he's trying to figure out if that's the truth, while also trying to hide what he's doing, too.

Which means he doesn't really figure anything out before he looks away. The verdict in his head is doubtful, deciding that Fabian probably cares more about getting him back to the apartments and rested--so he can get back to helping Adaine, and nothing else. That's why he wants to be seventh, right?

(He doesn't care about a bangle, does he? Thinks the voice in his head further. He thinks you're lying. He just wants you to save Adaine and be done with it, and a bangle's a stupid present. You didn't even say what it does, and he wants you to put him at seventh because you don't matter to him.) ]

...Okay. [ He pauses, wants to say more--'I just wanted you to know I was thinking about you', 'I want to put you closer to first', or even 'I'll put you at seventh, if that's what you want'--but his jaw refuses to unlock, and so he stands up onto his feet instead than try. Pulls a smile tight on his mouth, even if he doesn't look Fabian in the face when he does, quickly busying himself with his computer so he can put it in a powered down state.

It gives him an excuse not to look at Fabain, and that helps. ]

Can I get a ride with you? I can walk, [ he hurries to add. Did Fabian already offer? Gorgug can't remember, his head feels heavy, and he shouldn't presume. Maybe he should walk anyway. You know, even if Fabian is right there. Even if it's kinda far. ] Or I could just sleep here.

[ Because Fabian just came to tell him to stop, or something. His train of thought is very good and smart right now. ]

[ Of course Fabian has absolutely no idea of everything going through Gorgug's mind right now. He's not Adaine. He has no fancy Detect Thoughts spell.

But what he does have are his instincts. That, and his knowledge of Gorgug as a friend. Even if he doesn't fully know what's going on, it feels like there's something wrong. Something more than just Gorgug being exhausted, because Fabian is pretty sure anyone could tell that about the other guy right now even without having to know him on a personal level. It's the way he's-- making excuses, almost, the way he asks for something and then immediately reduces it to something unnecessary, like helping Gorgug is an unnecessary thing right now.

As if Fabian would mind giving Gorgug a ride on the Hangman when there's clearly room for two on his bike.

He can't guess what the hell specifically is wrong though. So rather than even trying to figure it out, Fabian opts for the more direct route. The one where he reaches out, a hand landing on Gorgug's arm as the other is fiddling with the computer. ]

Hey. [ Fabian starts, and then pauses - like he's hoping his friend will look at him.

Even if Gorgug doesn't do that though, Fabian will still continue to talk after a second. ]

What are you thinking about? You can tell me if something is wrong. [ The last thing they need is another dumb misunderstanding. ] And don't say nothing is wrong. I can tell you are thinking about something.

[ Gorgug doesn't look. He makes a show like he might, when there's a second of silence where Fabian doesn't keep speaking; turning his head, but not making eye contact--just a sound, a 'mm?' to show he's paying attention.

But regardless, the fact that Fabian says what he does--he feels stupid. He isn't sure if anything going through his head makes sense, or--does he believe any of that? Is he being weirdly emotional for no reason? Gorgug can't get his thoughts straight, even with Fabian there beside him asking him what's wrong.

The crystal computer shuts down, and he exhales; tries to find in his own mind what's reasonable to even bring up or say without dismissing Fabian's concern entirely. But none of it, reflecting back, feels right. ]

I'm a little-- I'm a lot tired. My head feels weird. Sorry, I, I kinda don't know what I should be doing right now.

[ He turns to Fabian as he says it, his gaze hard to keep on the other at first. But he rubs at his face like it might help his situation, pressing the heels of his hands into his eyes to give them a good rub, too.

Then he looks at Fabian, standing there, the same old Fabian, and tries to not think about any places, sixth or seventh or eighth. It doesn't matter. He's being stupid right now. ]

I'm okay. Let's get Adaine, then-- I'm gonna sleep. I'll sleep for a week.

[ A lot tired sounds about right. Though it's a little concerning if these are the places Gorgug's mind goes to when he's tired. Is that an usual thing? Is it this place getting to him, or Adaine being in trouble getting to him, or maybe everything getting to him at once-- Fabian can't tell, but he knows he worries. ]

Look, not to sound like Jawbone here or anything.

[ Because god knows that the male half of their party loves to do nothing more than run away from him whenever he starts like this. Or-- well, Riz and Fabian, anyway, since the way they're unwell is a little more visible. ]

But it's okay to not be okay. Or whatever he'd say. And by that I mean-- You need to rest now. I'm making an executive decision here, alright? If you don't watch out, I'm going to proclaim myself party leader and force your ass to bed regularly. [ Wouldn't that be so scary, Gorgug!! Just imagine it!!

He moves to put his hands on the other's cheek - mostly to keep Gorgug's head in place. To avoid letting the other look away from him again when Fabian says: ]

You're going to get with me on the Hangman, and then I'll bring you back to the apartment for some sleep. Then we'll go back here and work out the Adaine situation first thing in the morning, alright? Just as long as I am convinced you are well rested enough for it. [ He shakes his head. ] You know she would not want you to completely tear yourself apart like this for her sake.

[ There's the start of a small; small, sheepish, around the point of Fabian calling himself team party leader and all his horrid threats. They're not bad--Fabian's got a point, and he would've agreed around then, if not what happens next. A gesture that shouldn't lead to anything, but--

Fabian touches his cheek. Tilts it to put Gorgug's attention on him, and Gorgug does look at him, his eyes on Fabian's one as he tells him the plan, what they're going to do. And he's listening--he is. He's also noting how Fabian's hands are nice to the touch, his skin calloused, but it's not the first time Gorgug's noticed that.

The change is small, subtle. But his eyes do look away, if briefly: down to Fabian's lips, the view of his collarbone peeking out, and Gorgug doesn't need to think hard. His mind remembers their disaster of a spar, and why his mind goes places to see Fabian's skin.

...Fabian's being nice to him, and he has thoughts like that. He wouldn't be standing this close to him if he knew--he wouldn't be offering to give him a ride if he knew.

Gorgug doesn't immediately respond. He closes his eyes, nodding his head in agreement when he can't get the words out first. But, with that done: ] --Sleep, sleep first. That's what I meant. Promise.

[ His eyes open as he speaks, but looking at Fabian the way he's holding him to is a struggle he can't keep up, and Gorgug raises his hands to take Fabian's, gently lowering them while spreading his mouth into as reassuring of a smile as he can muster. ]

Let's go, captain, [ he says, to encourage Fabian to get moving--to not have them linger. He's ready, please, he's ready. He can't keep having Fabian look at him like this. ]

[ See, the problem here is that Fabian could clearly realize something was wrong with Gorgug a moment ago, but there's no way he's going to realize that any of this is going on inside of the other guy's mind now. To Fabian it just looks like Gorgug finally managed to realize somewhere inside of his sleep-deprived mind that Fabian was right about this whole thing, and it just makes him smile at the other, easily allowing Gorgug to grab Fabian's hands and lower them.

He's still staring for a moment though. Sorry, Gorgug. It's not terribly long in reality, but it might feel longer in Gorgug's mind when he's already so occupied with these thoughts.. ]

Great, let's go.

[ Then he finally - mercifully, perhaps - turns away to start heading out of the lab. If Gorgug was still holding onto Fabian's hand, then he's not bothering to pry it out of Gorgug's grip. Might as well tug him along to make sure he really is following him, rather than grabbing any excuse he can get to stay in the lab.

The Hangman is already waiting outside, and Fabian will at least definitely let go of his friend's hand so he can settle in on top of his bike, leaving an empty spot in the back for Gorgug. ]

Come on, get on. We will be back in no time thanks to the Hangman.

[ Gorgug doesn't keep a hold of that hand--what right does he for the contact, that he deserves to? But he follows Fabian's lead all the same, happy to keep behind him unless Fabian tells him to hurry it. Then again, it's only for as long as it takes for them to get outside to the Hangman, where all the while... Gorgug wants to say something, desperately.

I don't feel good. I don't feel good.

It's trapped there in his throat, kept in place by the shame. He might not be looking Fabian in the face (soft features, his smile cool-looking on that face), but he can't get rid of the feeling that he's doing something so bad. And-- and he understands the reason, but why? Why is he feeling this bad about it, right now? When he couldn't keep his head on straight before Fabian showed up here.

He doesn't speak to the Hangman once they arrive to him. He keeps quiet, hums in the affirmative when Fabian speaks, and gets onto the back of the motorcycle with him, placing his feet either side of the back wheel. It's not the hardest part: that's reserved for his mind telling him to put his arms around Fabian's waist, lean in. It makes his skin burn between the layers of his clothes, and he ignores it, knows he'll ignore it by putting his hands on Fabian's shoulders instead.

The sooner they get back, the sooner he can get to bed. He needs to stop thinking about everything now--he needs his thoughts to stop racing like he's going to suffer a heart attack. ]

[ Fabian takes off practically the moment they're seated - like he doesn't want to give Gorgug time to change his mind about this, to decide that he wants to hang back all the same, like the easiest solution to the other's condition isn't obviously just to spend a night in a comfortable bed. Away from the work that's been driving him crazy.

It's why the hands on his shoulders also stand out to him. That's just how it usually works whenever the guys are hitching a ride on the Hangman, after all, and Fabian knows that Gorgug is strong enough to easily be able to hold on just by his hands resting on Fabian's shoulders like that.

Fabian does attempt to make some small talk along the ride, but most of it is replied to more by the Hangman - another thing Fabian doesn't really find too strange. Gorgug is tired. Fabian's more just trying to entertain himself during the ride, and he talks to the Hangman often enough while they're driving. It feels relatively normal.

So when they reach the apartment building and get off the bike, Fabian just smiles at Gorgug like nothing is up. ]

Told you, right? No time at all! The Hangman truly is a marvel, I don't know how we ever did anything here without him.

[ Depending on how much Gorgug might or might not feel like answering though, it seems the bike has got him covered in not leaving an awkward silence hanging here, considering it roars with a: Sire, your praise makes me feel as if I were back in the Nine Hells..! ]

Anyway, Gorgug, you think you can still walk up some stairs right now?

[ The air does something. Help, maybe, but it might be fairer to contribute that to the Hangman's speed than solely to the wind whipping at their faces for it. Gorgug doesn't have to think, he doesn't, and he uses the noise of the ride to cancel out his brain from focusing on anything--on thinking about Fabian in front of him, the idea of slipping his hands lower down his waist.

(He doesn't think about it. He doesn't feel it, the need, to do it.)

It goes on long enough--that and the sound of Fabian's words that he half-heartedly listens to, gives short responses to--and he's feeling something in control of himself by the time that the vehicle comes to a stop. The apartments are a sight of relief, and he gets off with a hand brushing over his face and hair; but he does manage to acknowledge the Hangman, joining in Fabian's praises with a ] Thanks, Hangman.

[ You know, nice and simple. He's looking back at the apartments again, the one that houses their flat, but looks at Fabian when he asks his question. ]

I'm okay. [ He must seem that pathetic right now, huh. But Gorgug works a smile to reassure Fabian on his face, and he starts towards the building to show that he's not that out of it. ] I'll go straight to bed when we get in. [ A beat. ] ...how about you?

[ At the thanks from Gorgug as well, the Hangman roars its engine in appreciation - though it doesn't say anything more, perhaps wanting to give its master a chance to answer Gorgug's inquiry instead without interfering. ]

Ah, I'm not that tired. [ He says, followed up by a shake of his head. Sure, this place has been tiring him out for months in a sense - but Fabian knows there's only so much he can do about Adaine and the others' predicament in comparison to Gorgug. He's been asking around about it, trying to put people's talents to work, but.. that's all he can do. He can't even push himself to pull all-nighters working on it even if he'd want to.

So it's not like he's lying. Compared to Gorgug, he definitely looks more well-rested. ]

I was thinking of getting some practice in instead. [ He moves his hips from side to side a little to implicate he means dance practice, not sword practice, and then starts to head into the apartment building, looking back at Gorgug as he walks. ] But first I have to make sure you're really going to sleep, and not just sit there and worry. Or try to sneak back out to your lab.

[ He wouldn't put it past you at this point, Gorgug! ]

[ Fabian's fussing should be seen as playful, affectionate--thinking about a friend who's so tired that he's not speaking straight, and Gorgug should see that. But maybe he isn't thinking so straight, and he just sees the effort being put forward. It does make Gorgug slow his steps, since: ]

I won't. I'll go to sleep--I'll go straight there. [ He's looking at Fabian, but if he's looking back at Gorgug, he'll gesture his head back at the Hangman. ] Are you going somewhere, or out here? You don't have to follow me....

[ He could be planning to do it in the living room, though....their place is kind of messy in that too full way that Gorgug doubts would be satisfying for Fabian (Riz jumps and climbs on anything he pleases, but he's Riz, there's a height difference). So there's probably somewhere else he wants to be, and if Fabian can be a bro, shouldn't Gorgug be a bro back? ]

I'm okay, [ he tries to reassure. Maybe he needs to do that? He feels like he needs to do that, even if he can't quite grasp the need for Fabian to worry, or-- do anything about him.

(Seventh place.) ]

[ There's something about Gorgug's behaviour today that Fabian really can't fully place. He keeps trying to blame it on the other's sleeplessness, but it doesn't feel right. Even if Gorgug is really tired, surely his brain wouldn't keep going around in these circles, right?

And yet it's like every single thing Fabian says somehow manages to point Gorgug back to this point. To trying to push Fabian away, get him to do something else. Anything else that isn't focusing on Gorgug or helping him.

What's up with that? Gorgug is never like that. Fabian can't remember a single instance. ]

What if I want to go with you?

[ So he just decides to lean into it. Pointing out what Gorgug is doing didn't go over well earlier, so he doesn't want to do that. This feels like the easiest way to instead do it. The most Fabian-like way. It'll probably just seem natural if he says it like this with a light and playful tone, especially when he turns to look at Gorgug with that typical Fabian smile. ]

Edited 2024-11-04 12:33 (UTC)

[ Fabian may be finding something odd about Gorgug, but Gorgug finds it strange that Fabian wants to come with him. Why? Is this a test? If it's easier to just stay downstairs than to go all the way to their apartment or bed again, why isn't Fabian going for the more logical answer in this situation? It makes him feel tense in a way he can't explain, like Fabian truly doesn't believe him--or can't trust him, and...

Doesn't he have a good reason for that? Because he's Gorgug.

He bows his head, looking at his hands for a second. ]

Why? I'm not gonna get lost.

[ He opts for a joking tone, trying for the same effect as Fabian's voice seems to be going for. If reassuring Fabian that he's okay doesn't work, then won't making it sound like he doesn't need to be babied be the better route? Fabian can relax, he doesn't need to watch out for him. ]

[ With them wandering into the building, Fabian takes a quick few steps ahead of them - almost like leaps, though it's not fully jumping. It's almost more like he's dancing, especially when he jumps up onto the first staircase and twirls himself around by the guardrails to face Gorgug again, an easy smile on his face. ]

Maybe I want to.

[ If it wasn't for the fact that they have established the mood of just being two friends joking around with each other right now, that could definitely sound like flirting, especially combined with the expression on Fabian's face.

In fact, if anyone else happened to be entering the apartments at the same time as them and witnessed this, they might assume the same thing, especially with Gorgug looking faintly embarrassed. ]

Have you considered that yet?

[ It is friendly. It's overly fun, and Gorgug thinks--that it has to be on purpose. This is deliberate, and his mind knows where to take it; because while others might see this from the outside and take a flirty tone to it...

He's mocking me. The voice plants itself, and it fits too well into place. Doesn't it make sense? Fabian coming all the way out to the lab in the first place, the kid gloves he's been treating him with. He's someone to take care of, he's got a job to do: he's the one who's got to figure out how to bring Adaine back.

The thought is enough to spike the emotions that are always presence in his gut, as he's staring back at Fabian, the exasperation already reaching up in the hold of his shoulders. ]

Why can't you just fucking let me go to bed on my own?

[ --And up, and out of his mouth. He snaps, and it's not something he hasn't done before, especially throughout his time in junior year and the building coursework he was under stress with. He's stopped walking, his expression incredulous over his usually perplexed crease of his brows.

Fabian knows what he's doing. He's treating him like a kid. ]

[ ...

Fabian stops.

If the situation wasn't so serious, it might even have been comical. Because Fabian still was showing off there on the stairs, and Gorgug's remark hits him so out of the blue that it startles him mid-twirl, making Fabian almost fall down the few steps he's been standing on. It's only thanks to his good reflexes that he manages to catch himself in time before he just falls flat on his face on the ground - a hand shooting out to grab the rails of the stairs, pulling himself back up onto his feet before he can fully fall.

But standing up also means his facial expression is much more visible. And that means it's very obvious that Fabian is absolutely dumbfounded by what he's hearing here, staring at his friend with a wide eye for a moment.

It's true that it's not like Gorgug hasn't reacted like this before. But it's not like Fabian hasn't ran into it that often either, and he didn't expect it to suddenly emerge here and now. ]

What?

[ The word instinctively slides out of his throat before Fabian has even thought about it. Something about the way it sounds is odd. It's a little more high-pitched, it makes him sound younger, somehow. Like the surprise is so genuinely that it's dragging some of the maturity right out of him, leaving this in its wake.

Fabian opens and closes his mouth for a few moments. It looks like he isn't sure what to say, but something about him looks genuinely hurt during said moments. It might even look like he's about to cry, though Fabian blinks a few times in rapid succession to keep that from happening. Nope. Nuh-uh. He's denying himself the tears. Not now!! ]

I just-- [ He looks like he's trying to regain his usual self, some sort of better exterior that doesn't make him feel as pathetic. It partially works, but it doesn't fit entirely into place.

It's messy. Fabian can't fully make it work. ]

I just wanted us to spend some time together.

[ Etraya has creeped out, buildings deteriorating and forests spreading out between what was once empty space. And, you know, there's nothing naturally scary about forests! But it's everything else that's come along with this change: such as the air itself shifting, becoming as haunted as the vibes the scenery is provoking. They can't just stay in their apartment and wait it out, unfortunately: they haven't stocked on food in case of a bizarre world transformation, and Riz is surely thinking about questioning that in the future!

But for now, Gorgug and Fabian are going to do something about that. At least...once they reach Kwik Trip. For now, the trees are doing their best to appear haunted, branches dangling like gangly, twisted limbs, and the sky is dark, incredibly so, when it hadn't been before they entered. They don't need lights, but they do need to focus on their feet, where they're going.

And there's something about Gorgug that he doesn't really talk about, because why would he? But he's....not a big fan of scary things. This sucks! He hates it! He hates the vibes!! ]

So... is this what it was like with the labyrinth?

[ Bro, please ignore the slightly worried tone in Gorgug's voice. Please don't look at his uncomfortable face. Just reassure him somehow that this is normal for Etraya and how he doesn't need to think about spooky things popping out around him!! ]

[ Honestly, Fabian deals a little bit better with the vibes going on here. He still doesn't trust it to be anything good, no, but at least it isn't actively scaring him yet in this moment. The only downside to the horror vibes is the fact that it just had to be in a forest, when the two of them surely don't really have great experiences with creepy forests.

But this isn't the forest of the Nightmare King, Fabian tells himself. It's just some dumb trick of this place, perhaps designed to freak them out for-- well, whatever reason this place has for doing the shit it does. No good reason.

He's still half-thinking about that, so he's not really noticing his friend's attitude as Fabian is already answering automatically: ]

No, the maze was-- Well, it was just a lot of stone, really. The things in it were dangerous, but they did not really bother to make it look..

[ ...

His voice trails off when he looks over towards his side and spots Gorgug.

Or rather - when he spots the way Gorgug looks so uncomfortable right now. It makes Fabian think for another moment, and then he just holds out his hand. ]

.. you need a hand?

[ Bro?

You want to hold his hand? ]

[ BRO!!!! ]

No, [ Gorgug hurries out, with the ego and pride of someone who sounds like they have neither. Bro, how could you ask, u-unless!! ] Do you need a hand??

[ Toxic masculinity may be good and dead, but that doesn't mean that Gorgug likes his distaste for horror vibes to be so openly seen and read. He's definitely taken a few looks at Fabian's hand though (as well as his face!), but he isn't sure how to act in this scenario that Fabian has put upon him. Would a hand make him feel better, or silly? Should he just accept the hand since Fabian offered it?

Fabian help. He is stuck by indecision. ]

[ It's kind of rare to see Gorgug being the one acting like this, huh. It's not like he hasn't seen Gorgug freak out before, but usually when it comes to topics like this, Fabian is the one freaking out. It seems like the tables have turned here.

Fabian knows how to deal with those turned tables though. Especially in a situation like this. There's obviously something bad going on, and if Moorecroft taught Fabian any lesson, it's that he shouldn't try to tackle the bad things here by himself. It just makes it harder.

So if a bro needs a hand, even though he can't ask for it..

.. well, then he simply has to do what he does right now. He steps closer to Gorgug, grabs his friend's hand, and just holds it in his own when he starts walking again. It's truly that simple. He doesn't even say anything ahead of grabbing it. He just does it. ]

Yes, maybe I want to hold your hand. [ He even dares - despite the circumstances! - to give the other a rather cheeky grin as he says it. ] Is there a problem with that?

[ This is not what should be happening in the nightmare forest.

No, this isn't the Nightmare Forest, but it's angling for the same thing. And instead of Gorgug being challenged by his deepest fears and securities, what he's instead being challenged by is his embarrassment of fear itself: that he is being comforted by it at all.

Because when he's dragged into walking again (a half drag, a small drag), there is the start of a dark colouration around his cheeks that makes itself right at home as Fabian throws him that grin and that bold confidence. He's ducking his head and refusing to meet his friend's gaze or even the road's gaze, a rather unwise choice under the circumstances. But at least he trusts Fabian's sense of direction?

He mutters out a 'no', anyway, that's tiny and small under his breath, eventually letting his fingers curl around Fabian's hand after it. There's still the forest around him that he should be scared of, and he will be! He'll get back to that! But right now, fluster has won: the horrors have been bested by a half-orc's shyness

His voice has continued to lose his volume too, as he puts out there, like a mumble: ] If you start seeing a lot of bugs, that's-- [ my fear? he can't admit that!! ] Uh, well, just watch out.

[ There's something about the reaction that Fabian finds himself liking. He doesn't care to examine why - especially since he figures that it's likely just that he's feeling glad for being able to bring some comfort to one of his friends in the middle of these circumstances, defying what this place is surely trying to make them feel.

Still, he stares at Gorgug's slightly darker cheeks for a moment longer than absolutely necessary before Fabian looks ahead of them again, wanting to make sure he's guiding Gorgug along in a way that doesn't involve either of them just walking right into a tree. ]

.. bugs?

[ He may not be looking back just yet, but Fabian does sound pretty puzzled about that one. It just feels like such a specific mention, and he's pretty sure Gorgug never talked about a forest with bugs in this place before.. ]

Is that what they are saying about this forest? That there are bugs here? [ For a moment he considers asking if they're big bugs.

Then again, with Fabian's confidence in fighting anything, it doesn't matter. Small bugs, big bugs, he can handle it all. Especially if Gorgug is there. Fabian is pretty sure there's nothing that huge axe can't squish. ]

Well, not like a lot of bugs could hurt us in any way that matters! I imagine there are much more worrisome things we could run into here.

Yeah. Yeah-- yeah, yeah, yeah.

[ It's a collection of Yeahs that comes as a singular agreement, a pause, and then more thinking taking place in the span of a couple of seconds to lead to the further agreements taking place. Like Gorgug responded without thinking, and then actually thought about it.

As if Gorgug would ever do that.

But he does have bugs on the mind now, which is kinda bad. He's deliberating on if bigger bugs are better than a collection of smaller bugs, since the part that Gorgug dislikes is their small size and quantity, and how they get anywhere and everywhere. It's not a beautiful mind palace up in that head of his right now, when those straightforward thoughts take a turn into cramped spaces, heavy breathing, and memories of how it felt like when he couldn't move when going forward inside the Nightmare Forest.

They're vivid, more vivid than they have been in a while. This is what this place makes him want to go through again: it wants him to break and beat him down like he's already had done to him before, just to prove to some force that he belongs here, fighting for his family. It wants to chew him up and spit him break out, and no part of this train of thought reminds Gorgug of ever coming out on the other side--how he met Fabian in the forest, a light at the end of a very dark tunnel.

Right now, Gorgug doesn't remember Fabian next to him as they walk, whose hand he's holding. The trees distort in his vision, look a little strange; not like the Nightmare Forest, but somewhere else. Somewhere--

The sky above seems a little darker, the canopy of the trees blocking out sunlight from view. Rustling of wind through the trees is dying down, despite a chill that's present in the air, that tickles at Gorgug's face. The area is quiet, initially; but then there's a whispering, a whimpering--a shriek from somewhere far off into the distance in the direction they're walking, and it's calling back to him a place he doesn't want to think about. He refuses to make the connection.

To Fabian, he sees nothing different: the forest is already an eerie, haunting place they've found themselves in without it needing further changes. But Gorgug is quiet, save for the sound of his breathing. Nothing unusual for the half-orc...

...but his grip on Fabian's hand is beginning to tighten the longer they walk, and he isn't looking at Fabian.

And he eventually stops, saying nothing, not even if the other speaks, looking off somewhere else. ]

[ See, the quiet wouldn't really bother Fabian by itself. Despite being a little oblivious - okay, very oblivious - he is very much aware that Gorgug talks the least out of the male half of the party. Even though it's kind of hard to beat Riz when that guy gets going, and Fabian also likes talking-- so it's only natural for Gorgug to be the more quiet one.

It's something Fabian doesn't mind. He can easily fill the empty air with his own chatter, which he occasionally does as they move through the forest - talking about how maybe they should've just taken the Hangman there, but it's not all that bad to be walking here with the two of them, talking about school back home, about how weird it is to not have heard some sort of new wild Fig and Kristen plan in a while without them around - and occasionally he just lets it linger in the air for a few moments.

So while the quiet tells him absolutely nothing about the fact that Gorgug is having a very different experience here than the half-elf himself, the grip on his hand is very noticable.

Especially when Fabian may be strong, but certainly not Gorgug levels of it. After a little while of his hand getting squeezed, it's kind of starting to feel like the half-orc may accidentally break some of Fabian's tiny finger bones, and it makes him turn his head to look at his friend--

--right when Gorgug stops. ]

Gorgug?

[ Fabian doesn't try to pull his hand out of the other's. But if there's no reason even after saying the other's name, Fabian turns to move around the other a little, just so he can get into Gorgug's field of view and wave his hand in front of the other's eyes as he repeats: ]

What is going on? You've been acting strange. [ Maybe not super strange.

But all of this happening in the middle of the eerie forest does just not seem like a good sign in general. ]

[ There's a big indication to Gorgug's acting strange status, by the fact that when Fabian waves his hand in front Gorgug's face and gets up in there?

He doesn't react. There's no recognition, no twitch that should come from the motion so close, Gorgug's stare fixated on the thing that he does see: a figure, facing him with eyes hollowed out and with signs of decay, a hoodie burnt and torn with globs of yellow stuck to the material. The trees barely part to give them visibility, but even in the darkened environment, Gorgug can see them, perhaps better than he should; good enough to notice the ants crawling over their body, well enough to know that it's

him.

The Gorgug who died. ]

N-no, [ he mutters to himself, and his turn his is sharp, bumping into Fabian as if he truly doesn't recognise the other's presence, as he starts to hurry down the singular path forward available (without going into the trees). His grip hasn't loosened, forcing Fabian to be dragged along with him, his breathing becoming frantic as he tries to hurry to get away from that figure, as he also realises as he starts bolting: ]

F-Fabian? Fabian?

[ He's calling, looking around as he still walks, continuing to not recognise the very guy with him as there. ]

[ Okay.

Yeah.

Definitely acting strange.

There's no other explanation for what's going on now. Gorgug running, Fabian being dragged right along because he refuses to let go of Gorgug's hand now - god knows where he would run off by himself if Fabian released him. At least this way he can keep an eye on his friend, even if it means having to suddenly dash to keep up with the other, nearly tripping over rocks and roots on the path. ]

Gorgug!

[ Louder this time. A little more high-pitched. It's the sort of exclamation that definitely calls for the other's attention, even if he doesn't get it. ]

Gorgug, I'm-- Why are you not listening?!

[ Desperate times call for only one thing.

Desperate measures.

Which, in this case, means that Fabian extends his leg as he runs, hooking it behind one of Gorgug's legs to try and trip the other. It might mean getting sent to the ground to eat dirt, but it's better than whatever is going on right now. At least it might put a stop to that. ]

[ He doesn't see what causes it, maybe a log or tree root that underfoot that missed his notice, but Gorgug unceremoniously tumbles. His hands flail open in their failure to break his fall when he crashes sideways hard to the ground, one of his shoulders soaking up the impact in a way that stings, disorients. Dizziness spins behind the back of his eyes, eyelids already shut tight.

Gorgug groans, forgetting the world and the younger version of hi, for just a moment. But the moment passes, and Gorgug scrambles to remember where he is, what he was running from, and twists onto his front to climb onto his hands and knees. Pain shoots up his bruised arm but he grits his teeth to ignore it. He needs to get onto his feet; he needs to stay alert.

But what he becomes alert to is a figure near him, whether standing or on the ground beside him. Gorgug pushes away from them, changes trajectory about getting up and instead kneels on one side so that he can pull back his leg--

and try to give a shoving kick to knock them, to keep them back.

Unfortunately for Fabian, he's the target; and he perhaps sees Gorgug wide-eyed with horror when he looks at him, the small gasps and the scramble into action, the sound of fear in his throat.

That is all, for some reason, directed at him. ]

[ Fabian is definitely there on the ground with Gorgug. Sure, he's flexible. Sure, he is pretty good at staying up on his feet when it's not him deciding to jump up the weirdest things out of the blue. But even Fabian can't really resist the force of getting yanked down to the floor by your connection with a half-orc that's got more strength than you, which means he lands just as uncomfortably on the forest floor.

It's far from ideal, but Fabian quickly looks up, hoping that at least all of this means his friend got snapped out of whatever came over him--

--only to to get kicked. Right away. That can't even by the sort of reaction Gorgug would usually have to getting tripped up by a friend, so Fabian instantly realizes this is not over yet at all. The kick is hard enough to draw a groan out of him, but not enough to immediately render him incapable of movement, so he's shoving himself backwards on the ground, trying to put some space between him and Gorgug now they're no longer holding hands. ]

Seriously? [ He says, almost sounding offended.

.. scratch that, actually. There's no almost about it. Fabian is fully offended. ]

Gorgug, I have no idea what's going on, but you have to stop, okay? Make it stop! [ Yeah, Gorgug! It's that simple! Just stop whatever's come over you!

Fabian is likely realizing that's not really easy for Gorgug to do when the other doesn't even seem to realize what's wrong with him, so that means Fabian has to try, right. Which is hard when he's not exactly a cleric, but.. maybe giving Gorgug bardic inspiration will help to get him to snap himself out of it?

He unwraps the battle sheet he was wearing over his pants around his waist, getting ready to start dancing - but the momentary focus on that means he's also, just for a moment, not paying any attention to what Gorgug is doing. ]

[ The figure tumbles back, and Gorgug scrambles to draw in his legs, manages, and the next step is to get onto his feet...

Make it stop!

--Except he hears him. Gorgug spins his head to look back, and he sees there-- he doesn't know what he sees. His younger self, Fabian, and the vision is--dizzying: he can't seem to focus on the scene taking place. But he sees himself on top of Fabian, some kind of struggle ensuing, with his younger version's hands pushing down on his friend, who is thrashing his head and limbs.

He needs to help him, he needs to make it stop. Make it stop. Make it stop. ]

Fabian! [ And so Gorgug lunges towards the scene without a second thought, even if he has to crawl over on his hands and knees before he can make contact. But he grabs onto the nightmare him from behind and wrestles to tear it away, pulling it off and away from Fabian. Eyes flickering red, as he goes into a rage when it takes too long; he growls into a yell, fingers digging in, and he tears into the body, pulling it apart into two--

There's no gore, though all he sees is red. The rage inside him burning, his hands crushing against the substance into fists. His pulse is racing inside him, and the violence grows louder over it all; over the fear, over the panic. He hovers over Fabian on his knees, his battle sheet torn in his hands, and his eyes boring down at Fabian--but still not focusing on him, some kind of twisted sneer while he breathes like in a panic.

He can't see anything but the red of his anger. He doesn't want to look at his hands, doesn't want to see what he's possibly done. But he knows he saw Fabian, and so he tries, desperate, voice like a plea under the deeper husk it's taken, ]

Fabian...

[ Please answer. Please tell him he's somewhere, here--please tell him he's in a bad dream right now, and let him get out. ]

[ Okay.

This is-- It's a lot. It's a lot for sure, especially when Fabian may be a lot more used to having to deal with an enraged Gorgug in a month or so, but this is only really the second time Gorgug has turned this full rage this closely towards him. And at least last time Fabian could be sure that it was just the rage he had lost his friend to - despite the way that ended, and he's trying real hard to not think about that right now since it's the last thing he needs in this siutation - this time there seems to be more to it. Something that's gotten into Gorgug's head that isn't there in Fabian's.

His battle sheet getting ripped like that is going to be a pretty big problem, but it's also something he can't afford to think of right now. He first needs to calm down Gorgug, especially with the other hovering over him in this state.

If something made Gorgug tear the battle sheet, then Fabian might just be the next thing to get torn, after all. It's like Gorgug doesn't even really see him there, despite how close the two of them are in this moment. ]

Hey, hey, hey-- [ His way of speaking gets quicker with each 'hey.' ] It's me. It's me, Fabian, I'm here!

[ It didn't seem to help a moment ago. But what else is he supposed to do to let Gorgug know he's here? It's not like he can slap the other while he's in some sort of half-rage half-panic in the moment, because then it'll surely turn into full rage.

The idea does linger in his head though. If he can't slap Gorgug, then maybe he can, at least--

Fabian reaches out until his hand lands on the other's cheek. Not for a slap, but something softer, just his hand resting there. His other hand lands on the other cheek a moment later, and he tries to pull Gorgug's face down a little, just to show that Fabian exists right here, enough to exert influencde on the other's movements like this. ]

I'm here, so-- snap out of it! [ His grip tightens a little bit. ] Come on, I know you can!

[ Gorgug closes his eyes, when he--he thinks he hears Fabian. He does, but there's something there, something inside his head or between his ears that's making everything turn like vertigo when he tries to focus, tries to calm down the roaring that's surging through him that wants to let loose.

But he can't, he doesn't-- he doesn't want to. So Gorgug squeezes his eyes shut tightly, though his body flinches and stiffens when a sensation touches at his cheek. But there's words... there's a comfort that follows it, and Gorgug allows his body to dip down by its lead. Fabian was there. Fabian is there. He really doesn't want to end up getting spooked because of this, but he has to hope that some part of this is real right now... doesn't he?

Gorgug rasps, his breathing closer to someone who just got done running a marathon. He's working to control it, to draw it out, calm his body and to follow what he hears the words that manage to squeeze through the fog of his mind instruct him to do. Snap out of it. Snap out of it! ]

When you're...mad...

[ He mutters it under his breath, and slowly, awkwardly, he lowers his hands to reach for the ground; bumping and groping at Fabian's chest, his lips pinching and holding back on the sorry he thinks to give. The pieces of the battle sheet flutter down, and Gorgug manages to find Fabian's face with one hand--fingers touching at his chin, his lips, an unfortunate trace of dirt brushing off in the action--as the other finds the ground to rest against. He pulls away from the face, but--he's managing to bring down his pulse. Focusing on the touch that's firm on his own face, and he has to ask himself: would Fabian ever touch him like this? Is this something Fabian would do?

But Gorgug remembers, there was a time: back when he first arrived in Etraya, in the middle of a different disaster. Fabian trying to reassure him then, or making him feel better.

He opens his eyes, the red of his pupils starting to drift back into their white, natural state. And he sees there under him, the face he wanted to see; and that memory of another time still in the back of his mind. ]

You're beautiful....

[ ....or maybe not as far back as it should be, said like an acknowledgement, a puzzle piece slipping into place that maybe only Gorgug is aware of being put together.

(There's no maybe about it.)

He does sound a little upset while saying it, for what little it's worth. ]

[ There is something a little awkward about it all. The way Gorgug seems to almost be blindly touching Fabian as if he's looking for something, the faint reminder of Gorgug's-- Gorgug's song-thing, the way Fabian is still resting his hands on the other's cheeks. He's contemplating drawing them back to himself, but maybe the touch is actually helping his friend ground himself in this moment, and in that case Fabian can't really retreat the touch without worrying about Gorgug going all ballistic again. And Fabian would prefer to not be the next casualty after his battle sheet already had to suffer that, thanks.

So he does keep his hands there, a bit of the awkwardness driven away by the relief that fills him when he realizes that at least Gorgug seems to be getting back to his normal self, until--

Well, until Gorgug says that.

Fabian rapidly blinks with one eye, entirely unsure where that proclamation came from. Maybe Gorgug is still out of it? Even while he's confused and kind of weirded out, he feels himself involuntarily blushing, the darker hue spreading across his cheeks and his ears until he finally makes the connection between what's going on here and the words. Fabian hadn't ever thought of it again, so it took a few moments to get back to him--

-- and he quickly drops his hands in surprise, his face still tinted with the blush. ]

W-Wait, you remember that?!

[ They can address everything else in a second. Like what just happened. And Fabian's battle sheet, now in pieces on the ground. But this is urgent, okay. Why is Gorgug remembering that, of all things!! It was months ago! It was just a random moment of Fabian reassuring Gorgug!! ]

[ Ah, look at Fabian.

He's making a funny face.

He's also being loud, which is a very Fabian quality, and Gorgug--he's feeling relieved, because nothing spooky or bad is happening the longer that he looks at him. There's the worry in the back of his mind that it might come, but it's being smothered the longer he can see Fabian, acknowledge him. ]

I saw me attacking you and I didn't know if you were real. You disappeared, and then there was this guy that looked like me, and then he was strangling you? And I didn't know if you were gonna be real.

[ And the worry, the fact that didn't come to pass--it's evident in his voice, his throat. The concern is genuine in the way he looks at Fabian, lingering for a moment before finally, he starts to move back; to give Fabian room to get up, while he sits on his legs. ]

What happened? Did I disappear too?

[ Fabian???? :( ]

[ Fabian would really like to remark something here about the way Gorgug is just absolutely not addressing Fabian's very important question, but there's not much room for it in the face of the things Gorgug is saying and asking here.

Maybe they'll have to circle back on that later. Because even Fabian isn't going to put his own dramatics ahead of a friend's feelings.

.. well, not this time, anyway.

The frantic, flustered energy seems to seep right out of Fabian's body in one go, leaving something more exhausted and slightly exasperated behind, especially when Gorgug doesn't even seem to fully grasp what just happened. ]

Neither of us disappeared, Gorgug. [ He slowly moves to sit up, then starts to get up on his feet again, trying to dust the dirt off his clothes. He can't believe whatever happened here also ruined his outfit..!! ] You were-- hallucinating, I guess. Something along those lines. You were running around, seeing things that were not actually there.

[ It's a very important question that they can circle back around to. Later. When Gorgug isn't staring at Fabian with a growing concern on his face despite the amount that was already in him. Fabian's here, fine, when mere moments ago he thought he was in danger to some-- what, younger version of himself? And he stopped seeing Fabian entirely? Completely?

Gorgug tries to examine the surrounding scenery for any clues, for signs of recognition; but given that it's unnatural to begin with, nothing clicks--it's all forest. A twisted labyrinth made from the trees of Etraya to make it harder to get between the different buildings already separated by the rivers and streams.

...and he sees now the battle sheet in pieces around them, still clinging to his hands--not the blood or pieces of a person in the shape of him he thought he would, and Gorgug's heart starts to lift up into his throat. He did this? This was what he grabbed? But it didn't feel as thin as the scraps now do in his hands, and he doesn't know what to do about them, looking between them and Fabian. ]

I... I didn't know. [ What is he supposed to say? To think? ] Should we, should we turn back? Are we gonna be okay?

[ He should mention the battle sheet. He should say sorry. But what's more important? Are they safe? Will Fabian be safe? ]

We're too far into the forest now. Going back would be just as dangerous as going forward, so we might as well go to the store. [ Not that going to the store should still really be a concern in the face of what they're dealing with here.

But maybe Fabian is trying to downplay it all a little. Because if he thinks too hard about it, then he's going to start worrying about whether he could get influenced too, or Gorgug could lose his mind again, or he'll start feeling bummed about the sheet Riz personally made for him now being totally unusable.

And there's no time for any of that. If Fabian doesn't keep a cool head right now, then they might be fucked. Especially when he has no idea what they're dealing with here, and when it sounds like Gorgug is on the verge of panicking all over again.

Fabian has to stay calm. He has to be in charge of this situation, or they'll let this place get to them all over again, and he's not going to let it. He refuses. ]

We will just have to be careful. [ He bends down, starting to pick up the ripped pieces of his battle sheet. Fabian isn't even sure it can be saved at this point, but it feels respectful towards his other friend to just leave them lying around in the middle of this - apparently crazy - forest. ] If you see anything weird again at all, you have to do your best to stay calm and let me know immediately, okay?

[ .. It's kind of weird though. Fabian sounds so.. un-Fabian about it all. Fabian freaking out sounds like Fabian, or even Fabian keeping a cool head in battle in order to impress other people sounds like Fabian, but everything he's saying right now sounds so lifeless. There's no spirit. It's like a reluctant resignation, more than anything else. ]

[ Gorgug's watching Fabian, since what else could he be doing? Standing up, helping his friend, and the latter does cross his mind. But it's the way his friend is speaking, the way he sounds so despondent that stops him from touching anything.

You did this to him before, his thoughts tell him, keeping his hands from making the movement to help. You got upset and ruined his shit. He's going to hate you. He can't trust you.

Gorgug's watching Fabian, until he isn't. The thoughts are true: he keeps doing this to his friend. He loses it, and then Fabian has to (literally) pick up the pieces? The reality of the fact douses over him, sinks deeper than any cold could get under his skin. He has to stay calm so he doesn't become a destructive mess like he's been his whole life. He has to be better than he is. Show he can be a friend.

Before Fabian thinks he isn't one. He can't keep screwing up. ]

... Okay. [ He answers slowly--but calmly. Sucks in a breath through his nostrils and tells himself what he's going to be. Not someone who panics. He's going to be normal, picking up the pieces of the battle sheet near to him, trying carefully not to damage it any further.

And if Fabian reaches for it, wants it, he'll be ready to hand it over without hesitation. ]

I'm sorry. I, I'll let you know next time. Okay. Thank you for snapping me out of it.

[ He'll stand up once he's picked up the parts that he has, doesn't walk or move. Fabian's the boss here. He'll follow his lead. ]

[ Fabian does reach out for the parts of the ripped battle sheet that Gorgug is holding. Not even necessarily because he doesn't trust the other with them - though honestly, who knows if they'll manage to make it through these woods without either of them getting affected again, Fabian isn't so sure they will - but mostly because he wants to make sure to keep all the pieces together. He opens the bag they were planning to use for the groceries, putting all the pieces in there together.

He even looks around them for a moment, just to make sure they aren't accidentally leaving a piece behind. The battle sheet is just that important to him! Riz made it for him, and Fabian is never one to ignore a gesture from a friend like that.

So it's only when he seems absolutely sure that there's nothing left on the ground that he turns back to Gorgug. ]

It's fine. [ He says - and though it doesn't sound like a lie, it's not quite as warmly reassuring as Fabian can be, most of the time. That bit of spirit is still missing for now.

Even as he turns to start walking again. ]

It's not you. It's this dumb place.

[ There's a weight he can't get off his chest, a guilt that feels too heavy for what he's otherwise telling himself it should be. It wasn't him, it's this dumb place; Gorgug knows it should be true, but there's a tickling in the back of his head, an Is it? that makes him doubtful as he stands there, hands empty. ]

Should we go now? If I look at the ground... [ and he does so, as an example, ] --I can't see anything weird. Nothing can spook me.

[ He's being sincere, as silly as it might seem. But they have to keep going, right? And what if it's going to happen again? Gorgug can't shake off that feeling, either. Won't it just come back? Trick them again? ]

[ It is kind of silly, isn't it.

But on the other hand, Fabian doesn't know what else to tell Gorgug. He isn't sure how the other got influenced at all, or what influenced him in the first place. It's got to be something in this forest, but how is Fabian supposed to tell? If only Adaine was with them, maybe Detect Magic could have helped out right now. It really feels like the only thing he can let the other do.

.. though.. ]

Gorgug, you know that it could do plenty of spooky things to the ground as well, right? [ Gorgug, have you never seen horror movies!! ] If you are that worried, you should just close your eyes entirely.

[ An incoming call comes through to Fabian's earpiece.

From gorgug, that tries to connect for as long as Fabian allows it (but, maybe not for too long). It's been maybe a week since their last encounter, ending without Gorgug seeing any reason.

And now he's calling. He doesn't speak when the call--or if the call--is connected; there's a silence that penetrates through the line, a tension that makes the space around Fabian seem emptier, something lifeless. Like whatever has Gorgug can affect even the electronics he uses.

But maybe that's just Fabian's imagination. Maybe he doesn't even notice.

Maybe he'll wait for Gorgug to go first, instead of taking space being left open for him. ]

[ It doesn't need to try to connect for long.

Sure, their last encounter was awkward enough, but it doesn't matter. After all, ever since that encounter Fabian has tried to track Gorgug down, thinking that if he could just do things a little different, maybe he really could help the other go back to normal. If he just tried one more time, maybe it'd be different. Maybe he could help his friend, maybe he could stop the insanity going on in this place.

So when there is an incoming call from Gorgug, the first attempt at contact in a week, of course Fabian is immediately going to pick up.

He doesn't speak right away, mostly because he figures Gorgug is going to tell him something if he's the one calling, but..

.. there's nothing.

And it's more than an awkward silence. It's a hollow silence, like something is being sucked right out of Fabian the more he listens, and-- he's going to speak up. Of course he is. If there's one thing anyone can count on when it comes to Fabian, it's that he's going to yap. ]

Gorgug? [ A little more tentatively at first. Worried, too. The worry stays, but it's coupled with something more intense as he adds: ] Gorgug, where the hell are you?!

When your eye got torn out, did you think you were going to die? Did you think that back in Leviathan?

Do you think you actually did?

[ There's no taunt behind the words; if anything, there's nothing behind the words, asked slowly and listlessly. Ignoring the question asked, as if he never heard it in the first place.

As if he's speaking out loud, and decided on Fabian to be his audience. But the question is directed, personal, and it's not the first time since becoming this way that he's made things personal. It can be dangerous.

If only Gorgug didn't sound antithetical to the way that he had been acting before.

Still--it could be a ruse.

(Still, are questions of mortality really what are important here, Fabian?) ]

Gorgug.

[ Rather than an answer to the other's questions, there's this - his name being repeated again, a little bit more insistently this time around. It doesn't necessarily sound angry, because this is the most Gorgug-like the other has sounded in a while, despite the odd questions. But it a little stern, in that sort of way that's really trying to grab the half-orc's attention right now.

He doesn't even really think about the questions. Doesn't think about Leviathan, about the burning Seacaster Manor. It doesn't matter. He only thinks of his friend right now, and how last time around he failed to help Gorgug. This time, then-- ]

Tell me where you are. I'll come.

[ There's silence over the line, perhaps excluding the sound of a breath coming through once. A long pause, before: ]

If you bring anyone but the Hangman, I'll get really mad. And I don't really want to get mad right now.

[ It's a warning, though he doesn't phrase it like a threat. If anything, there's something tired about it, but it sounds...like Gorgug. ]

You promise you won't?

[ It's hard to figure out how to interpret that tone. Because everything else sounds a little bit more like the way Gorgug has sounded lately, ever since something seems to have crept into him that Fabian has been trying to hunt him down to help get out, but the tone doesn't match. Gorgug has sounded so much angrier than this. Sharper. Like his tongue was only yet another axe to use against others.

This doesn't sound like that. Is what came over him weaker right now? Fuck, Fabian realizes he knows so little about it that he's got no clue.

But that only gives him a greater incentive to see Gorgug and find out, right? Maybe this is the perfect moment to help the other. Maybe Gorgug himself realized as much too, and that's why he tried to contact Fabian in the first place. ]

Yeah, I promise.

[ Who would he have brought, anyway? It's not like he's going to take along Riz when the other seems to have been impacted so much by what's been going on in this place - especially everything surrounding Gorgug. He's not going to put his friend through that again.

This is just something between him and Gorgug now. ]

Only the Hangman. Just let me-- [ help you, he wants to say, but that didn't go over all that well last time around, and Fabian doesn't want Gorgug to shut it down already. Before Fabian even has a clue where he is. ] --see you.

Okay.

[ He says it easily. Closes his eyes and lets the word out, and tries to keep his mind blank. It's better if he doesn't let himself get excited, though the emotion hits against the state of his thoughts dully, like a fist thudding against a barrier it can't break. The same barrier that he'd like Fabian to break, to be able to push through, even though Gorgug knows it could go wrong: being emotional makes him angry, and then all he'll get is Fabian's blood smeared across the floor, and the rest of him in pieces that aren't attached the way they should be.

It's a possibility. He doesn't think about it. Because there's the chance that he can get Fabian on his side, and that would change everything: it would be like it is when he's around Vanessa, and he misses the contact.

He wants an anchor to keep him grounded. ]

I'll send you a pin. I'll know if you don't come alone.

[ He drops the call with that, not bothering to listen to anything further that Fabian might want to say, but he does keep his word: he drops a pin that may or may not show on Etraya's map where it leads to: The Daily Planet. Out of the way from anywhere useful to most people, and yet when Fabian gets there, it's easy to tell visible the outside world is to the one inside with its windows repeated on multiple floors. Multiple places where Gorgug could be, watching from above.

And the pin only leads to the building itself when Fabian first arrives. The reception is large and as massive as the exterior of the building would suggest, and the only other company will be the sounds of Fabian's feet, and whatever he might say to echo against the walls.

Gorgug isn't there. Or doesn't appear to be. ]

[ Fabian doesn't hesitate. He doesn't even contact anyone. He just makes sure he's got his gear with him and then heads out on the Hangman, following the pin on his earpiece until he reaches the building. Fabian has never been there before, which makes him stand outside and look up at the building for a moment to take it in, to perhaps think about his approach to all of this - just in case things do go south. Even if this sounded more like Gorgug, it still wasn't fully himself, after all.

Then he bends over the Hangman, seeming to tell the bike something - If I'm not back within half an hour and you can't reach me, then go get help - before standing back up and turning back towards the building, walking inside.

.. to, what seems like, an empty lobby. He doesn't rush in, instead standing there near the entrance, looking around as if Gorgug may be hiding behind anything.

When that doesn't seem to be the case, Fabian raises a hand, casting Faerie Fire - figuring that if there's a sign of anything lit up, it ought to be Gorgug. Fabian can't imagine any other beings being within this building, with how quiet and empty it is.

Is there anything getting lit up? If not, he'll start to head up the stairs, going to see if there's anything lit up on the next floor, considering his spell range ought to extend to at least a few floors up. ]

[ Fortunately, going up seems to help lead Fabian in the right direction, only aided by his Faerie Fire. The light halos a humanoid shape on the second floor in one of the farther back rooms, once entering and going through a large office space for multiple desks and computers--if lacking in more than two or three desks total, and a few separation walls to act as nothing but as guides as to where the paths around the work place would usually be if properly filled.

The room at the far end with the outlined figure inside has its blinds down, concealing whatever's inside. But there's no resistance once Fabian tries the door; it opens with a soft click, and nothing comes rushing for him. It leads into a private office, the blinds facing out into Etraya half-opened to offer some light inside. The remnants of a desk sit turned over and shoved against a wall, and in another part, bedding and pillows offer a makeshift bed on the ground. There's water bottles, a carrier bag with bits and bobs sticking out, and Gorgug sits amidst it all on top of the sheets: his legs pulled up and his arms around his knees, one held out as he seems to examine the soft glow that's been enchanted around him.

He doesn't speak up immediately upon Fabian's entrance; he doesn't even hurry to look, either at Fabian, or his axe that rests against the wall by him. But Gorgug turns his head to Fabian before his weapon, his expression detached, tired; his skin even looking paler, or just run-down like the rest of him, his clothes dirtied and torn.

He turns his head to him, but doesn't bother to meet his gaze. ]

Did you come to save me?

[ The question isn't mocking, or doesn't have the tone for it. But it's a reflection, an imitation of the last time they saw each other: when Fabian came to get back Gorgug, his Gorgug. Until that plan turned into rubble, the same disastrous mess that Gorgug's been leaving all around Etraya.

Gorgug called him. But Fabian surely came for another reason than just to answer him. ]

[ He didn't fully expect this.

Finding Gorgug - sure, he expected that, especially with his ability making Gorgug practically glow like this. But Fabian didn't expect any of the other things he's finding here alongside his friend, the way this place almost seems like some sort of hideaway. Like the thing that crawled inside of Gorgug did not only drive him away from his friends and their comfortable apartment, but into hiding away in a corner of an isolated building like he's homeless. It can't be comfortable. It must be lonely.

Is that why Gorgug called him here in the first place? Did the normal part of him finally win out, too upset and fed up with all of it? He does seem a lot more calm than the last time he ran into him. ]

Of course.

[ Fabian doesn't seem bothered by the obvious echo in those words. Especially when it's true. There's very little he's done this entire time than chasing after Gorgug and looking after his other friends here.

What else would he be here to do?

He steps further into the room, closer over to where Gorgug is. ]

It doesn't have to go on like this. I don't want you to keep hurting by yourself.

...You can stay with me.

[ He doesn't want him to keep hurting by himself, and that's the solution. Isn't it? Gorgug doubts that Fabian will agree with it, and so there's nothing moving in his tone: he says it like he did his question, his gaze still keeping on his hand. He flexes it, then lets it hang in rest off his knee.

(He knows Fabian won't do it, for the same reason he can't go back with Fabian; how he recalls every single test he infiltrated and mocked and taunted, even if he can't remember if he was in control. Or was that excuse? He liked it; he remembered liking it.

Now what does he like?) ]

You complained about this place all the time. We could do something about it; we could go into the hospital and find out how Aurora works. She's got a body now--we can destroy it. We can destroy all of the companion bots, if you want. I'll smash their hands.

[ It's a half-hearted proposition, but still: isn't this something that Fabian should want? What he should care about, except anything that he thinks is going on with Gorgug. Anything but what he's been doing, has done.

They don't need to talk about Krouse. They don't need to talk about Riz. ]

[ There's an irony here. After all, if the situation was any different, Fabian wouldn't have minded hearing this from Gorgug. If anything, it'd be.. kind of nice. Not that he wants the other to have to get violent or anything, but just hearing this feels like a validation of the things Fabian has been feeling this entire time, the things he's been screaming about for months, with no one ever fully understanding him.

And the one time the understanding comes, it just has to be like this.

It leaves him quiet for a moment, looking for words, but then he slowly speaks again. ]

You hurt the others. [ Riz, Krouse. Those are the confirmed cases Fabian has got, but he doubts that it was contained to just them. They're just the only ones who'd contact Fabian about it. ] I bet they didn't even attack you first.

[ Krouse is nicer than he likes to claim to be. And Riz is-- Well, Riz is usually a whole lot more likely to shoot first, but Fabian knows that wouldn't be the case when this is Gorgug they're dealing with.

That's the thing, isn't it? Sure, he and Gorgug did fight before, but that's because Fabian approached the situation a whole lot more physically and aggressively than he thinks either of them did. ]

Why aren't you hurting me?

[ Did Gorgug try this with them too? Is that it?

Or does he just think Fabian is more likely to crumble over this than any physical fight? ]

[ He isn't unaffected by the reference to people that he's hurt. Even with no names attached, because Gorgug doesn't need names; he knows exactly what Fabian means, though Fabian might not know the extent. The anger and the shame rises in his chest against the wall there keeping him mild, the one thing that Gorgug hadn't wanted to be mentioned, done so.

It washes through him, exhaled out through his lungs, and the opportunity to not be faced with what he's done is granted by the question of what he hasn't. Why doesn't he hurt Fabian? Isn't it obvious? When he's already said what he wants, and hurting Fabian doesn't really help with the making him stay part of his desire.

He's lonely. He wants someone, anyone.

But why Fabian, is still the question, isn't it? Gorgug is quiet for a pause, his vision glazed, without focus. ]

I got excited. I don't know why-- it was the test. [ The answers contradict one another, but they don't spill against each other; but each sound reasonable out of Gorgug's mouth, honest. He finally angles his head to look at Fabian, the distance between them. ] I already hurt you -- I told you to leave. I was just mad.

[ And doesn't that explain everything? Why he went around destroying parts of Etraya, haunting individuals and playing into the twisted game of whatever entity they think is behind this. Behind whatever--details that Gorgug doesn't care about right now the same way Fabian might.

But this doesn't answer why he's asked Fabian here, does it? That's the question that's sticking to Gorgug's mind more than explanations. Why Fabian--when Gorgug knows why, but formulating words to explain is difficult, hard to know where to begin. ]

Do you like me, Fabian? [ He asks it, though Fabian might have plenty he wants to say; about what's been said, but Gorgug doesn't care. He's watching Fabian, wanting to answer him; wanting to spill everything out about that 'why'. ] Will you come here?

[ He draws his hanging arm to rest the hand against his knee, expectant, waiting. His eyes tired, his face tired--everything about him unguarded, with nothing but his height--reduced by his sitting form--and half-orc features to give him anything near to an imposing figure.

And even that's not enough. ]

[ There's plenty to say. Plenty to think about too. Gorgug doesn't give him a direct answer at all, because none of it makes sense as to why things were different with Fabian. The only implication there is Gorgug's own question - do you like me? - but even that one doesn't make sense. Of course Fabian likes Gorgug. Of course Gorgug likes Fabian. They're friends. They've been fighting side by side for years now. Fabian would trust Gorgug with his very life.

But the same goes for Riz when it comes to both of them. And yet Gorgug had absolutely decimated Riz. Fabian doesn't think he's ever seen the other like that before in all the years of knowing him.

...

He doesn't know. Fabian can't think of what it could be. Sure, there had been the spar, but-- that feels so long ago at this point, and it hadn't meant anything, had it? It had just been Gorgug going too far because of the state he was in and immediately regretting it once he realized what he was doing.

It didn't mean anything. Even if there may be some complicated feelings left behind Fabian, those can't have anything to do with this.

Maybe it's just dumb luck, he decides. Gorgug doesn't seem fully in charge of his own mind right now, some words reading more like him, some of it reading more like whatever is controlling him. Maybe Fabian got lucky.

And shouldn't be using that? The fact that he got lucky so far. The fact Gorgug let him come here. If he'd waste this chance to help the other, he'd be an outright idiot.

So he steps closer. ]

We can stay together, Gorgug. [ That's the easy part. That's the natural part. As long as they're a party, they stick together. ] But not like this.

[ Despite what Fabian is saying, he keeps moving closer, seemingly unafraid. All the way until she's standing next to where Gorgug is sitting. ]

We can destroy this place together, if you want to. But you know I can't let you hurt the people in it. Especially not our friends.

[ Gorgug watches Fabian as he gets closer. Watches with an unflinching gaze, the expression on his face staying impassive, and all that changes is the way he needs to look up as Fabian gets closer, though he doesn't entirely keep his eyes on his face. There's a moment where he looks down at the rest of him, as soon as he's close.

And there's a moment where he nearly closes those eyes, fluttering, but not yet lowering. He removes one of his hands from around his knees and takes Fabian's within it; pausing if there's any sign of hesitation from Fabian's part, but still going for it with a steady and firm--but not tight--hold. Promising to smash the hands of the companion bots in one breath, and giving Fabian what he's wanted repeatedly now, while he tells him what he will and won't do.

Gorgug says nothing, despite a protest that nearly rises in his throat but dies before it can become a word. That part of him that wants to say he doesn't want to hurt anyone, but that can't commit to it. Doesn't he? Wouldn't he? He needs to. It just happens. It has to happen. He...

I don't want to be alone, his mind thinks louder, and he runs his thumb along the expanse on skin of the hand he holds, leaning his body to press himself into the side of Fabian's thigh. He hoops his other arm around Fabian's waist, bringing the two of them into a kind of awkward embrace, Gorgug's head near Fabian's hip, and he takes in a breath deep through his body and releases it through his nostrils.

The world isn't staying quite so grey, as every part of his perversion has found reason to invite itself in. Why Fabian?, as if he hasn't been haunted by the reason why before any of this started. Why not hurt him? Because he hasn't had the chance to.

And the words struggle in his throat, trying to die in the same way his protest had. But unlike it, the filth latches on; it builds like nausea, a wave of sickness that he tries to keep at bay until he forgets that it's what he wants. But isn't this what he wants?, the twisted part of him suggests, as he presses his forehead closer to Fabian's thigh: to be honest. To hate himself. ]

What if I told you I think about you at night? [ He finally lets out. ] Ever since that time I bit you, I play it back over and over... I'd hurt you if you told me to. I'd fuck you if you said yes.

[ He grimaces, as the shame shoots inside him. His hand resting against the small of Fabian's back palms at him a little, fingers pressing against the fabric of his shirt a little. ]

Do you still want to stay with me?

[ It's not an offer. Not exactly. ]

[ The physical contact is a little awkward. And usually Fabian would have moved to make it less awkward. If the circumstances were different, if it was just them the way they always are, he would have lowered himself. He would have moved to sit by Gorgug's side, allowing the other to melt into his side if he'd want to, like a sitting half-cuddle.

But Gorgug isn't himself. And this isn't a normal situation. It makes Fabian even less sure what to do think about the way Gorgug leans against his legs, but before he can even open up his mouth to comment on it, Gorgug speaks.

Oh, how he speaks. ]

What?

[ It's just one word. One little noise, rather, because Fabian doesn't sound angry or offended. He just sounds.. surprised, startled, almost. It's why the volume of his voice is softer than the usual, yet the pitch is higher, like he's totally caught off guard by the words.

It's the last thing he expected Gorgug to say right now. Was that what the other had been thinking, back during the spar? Or is it that whatever has taken over Gorgug has the ability to read Fabian's thoughts, and knew that for a moment back there, he-- he--

(He thinks back on that moment, and he remembers a weird feeling in the pit of his stomach. For a moment the image flashes across Fabian's mind. Him lying there on the ground on his back, Gorgug's hands on him, Gorgug's lips on him, imagining letting Gorgug take him in that moment. I'd fuck you if you said yes.)

His mind violently jerks him back to the current moment. He feels panicked, his heart racing, unsure what to make of any of this. Fabian feels himself growing just a little bit hard, which makes him curse the way Gorgug is so dangerously close to his dick right now. This is the last thing Fabian needs right now. It's just-- Just a distraction, right?

After all, this isn't Gorgug. It's not fully Gorgug. Gorgug isn't saying this at all because it's what he was feeling back then, it's just whatever is in him speaking of this to throw Fabian off. There's no other possible explanation.

His heart still races in his chest. ]

You don't mean that. Stop.

[ Stop it. Stop confusing him. ]

Edited 2024-10-27 20:11 (UTC)

[ Gorgug tastes Fabian's fear on the back of his throat.

It's a different kind of fear from any that's come before it. There's no disgust where there should be, though Gorgug isn't of the correct mind to be surprised by that in a rational way. He notes better what he can sense, or the part of him that seeks out those unwanted emotions in others, the things they want to hide. It's not the right environment for him to sense every nuance better, but he knows what Fabian wants: it's exactly what he said.

For Gorgug to stop.

And Gorgug can't stop.

Because that taste makes him looks up after letting the emotion wash into him, and he wants it again--a craving that's been piqued. Reminded. Alerted. He's looking at Fabian directly, wanting him to feel the weight of his gaze on him enough to make him uncomfortable, to make his own brain his enemy; before he asks him, the fingers of the hand against his back slipping to the rim of his pants. ]

...Do you want to?

[ And maybe, if Fabian dares to look down--if he's somehow continued to look at Gorgug, he'll find Gorgug doing the exact thing he wouldn't have wanted him to do, and to look towards his crotch. Just as he rolls in his lips to lick his tongue over them, a quick motion. ]

Just tell me, [ he offers, voice softer. Giving Fabian a push, an excuse to do it. Doesn't he?

But if Fabian thinks to do something like pull away, he'll find that he won't be able to--not with the arm around his waist that will grab on tighter, and the hand on his that won't let go.

There will be a consequence for trying to escape--for chickening out. Fabian isn't that heavy for a guy like Gorgug, after all. ]

[ Do you want to is a question Fabian himself already can't process. Not even to himself. Let alone out loud to a Gorgug who clearly isn't in control of himself.

And that means it's not a question. It just can't be a question right now. Not when Fabian came here to help Gorgug, and instead it turned into him not even knowing how to help himself. ]

No.

[ There's no other answer right now. Fabian can feel his voice shaking a little bit as he says that no, still too overwhelmed by his racing heart and his blood moving to all the wrong places right now, but he strengthens himself, tries to steady his voice more as he adds: ]

I don't. And you don't.

[ He tries to move away from Gorgug, but he finds that exact problem. The other clinging to him too tightly, and while Fabian is a strong guy, he's not strong on Gorgug's level. He can't just pull himself out of that hold when Gorgug seems determined to hold on, and he doesn't want to use Fandrangor or cast a spell and turn this into yet another brawl, leaving Fabian once more with nothing but bruises and cuts, wounds to lick on his own after getting away from Gorgug with yet another failure under his belt.

Fabian's hands move to Gorgug's shoulders, trying to physically press the other away from him, trying to get him to let go so he can at least gain some distance, so he can at least think. ]

[ Fabian may move one hand, but the one held, it can lift, but it won't reach Gorgug's shoulder--he won't let it, holding it on tighter with the movement that Fabian tries to take in withdrawing from him, and Gorgug won't. He doesn't want him to leave; he shouldn't leave, because he wants to. There's a darkness in his chest that wants this to turn ugly, to break Fabian--isn't that what he wants? Isn't that what he wanted with Riz, before it went all wrong?

There's no longer that muted barrier containing it so well, from letting his emotions dip to wherever they'll be led.

He acts without thinking, because he rarely has to, these days: he grips into the material of Fabian's pants as he yanks the other boy by his arm, dragging him to topple down on the ground in front of him without complete consideration of if he'll accidentally make him face plant. Gorgug's aiming for him landing on his side, but it's not every day he does this.

But it doesn't matter, really. Even if Fabian does land sideways, Gorgug needs to be quick to pin him, and doing so by a hand slamming down on the back of his shoulder. Just long enough to give him time to rearrange his own limbs, pushing a knee in to get between Fabian's legs before he tugs Fabian onto his back. He doesn't want to get kneed in the junk, see--he's learned other lessons from the spar than just what he likes.

It's like this that he stares down at Fabian, at his face. He's pushed a forearm against his chest, and his eyes still have the quality where they don't seem entirely focused, or too intense--too unlike Gorgug. His lips are parted, and he's breathing a little heavier.

There's something about him that's hesitating--something that he's not doing, when he could be doing something. Could be saying something.

Fabian has a chance to speak first. ]

[ Fabian's body works on instinct here.

First the instinct to cushion himself when he's suddenly dropped - which is the exact reason he doesn't faceplant, mind you. He would have just by the force Gorgug was using, so uncoordinated and raw, but Fabian's body twists in the air by instinct, through experience of having fallen far too many times in his life. He knows how to land on his side in the best way to keep him from injuring himself.

But Gorgug just keeps going, turning Fabian, pushing him down, and Fabian's body threatens to go for instinct again. The instinct to fight back, to push back, the instinct that his father and mother have drilled into his body. A Seacaster resists, a Seacaster fights. You defend yourself, with tooth and claw if needed.

It's one thing to give into that instinct though with an opponent you don't know, or with a monster. It's another thing to do it with Gorgug, which makes the free arm he was raising to throw a punch - as evidenced by the fact that his hand is balled up into a tight fist - stop mid-air. The fist is still there, but it's hanging in the air, no longer heading towards its intended target of Gorgug's head.

It's Gorgug, after all. It's Gorgug, and yet it's not. It's his voice telling him that he'd fuck Fabian if Fabian wanted him to, but the intent can't be him. It's Gorgug's face staring down at him, but it's not his eyes. ]

I don't want to hurt you.

[ Fabian wants it to sound tough.

But it doesn't. Somewhere between the fluster and confusion that ignited within him at Gorgug's confession and the breathlessness of being manhandled over here, it doesn't. It falters, emotion leaking through in it.

(After all, he doesn't want to hurt Gorgug, no. But what about all that other stuff? What about Gorgug's suggestions? Why isn't he replying to those, when his denial from a moment ago doesn't feel like enough by itself?) ]

I'm so tired of this. [ Of this place, and of everything it has done to him over the months. Of all his encounters with Gorgug, always doomed to end this way, despite the good intentions Fabian enters them with. Of not being able to do a single thing to help his friend.

Of feeling so confused. ]

[ He looks at the fist; where it sits mid-swing, stopped where it is. Gorgug's eyes scan sideways, body not moving, not reacting to its presence. But his eyes close, he takes in a quiet breath through his nostrils, and there's an acceptance over him that he can experience. There's no fear over what he's doing (what he could be doing); and it's not to say that there isn't fear there, but it's turned towards sadness. Exhaustion. Crippling, crumbling towards defeat. Where you want to lay down and let someone take over, because you feel there's no better answer in yourself.

Isn't that exactly what Gorgug's doing?

And can't Fabian be his someone else?

He doesn't have to fight, something whispers in him. There, pushing against his brain, a freedom anyone should offer a friend they care about. Tantalising, and yet Gorgug gets it, Gorgug understands that deep sadness resonating from Fabian and into him. The confusion, the weariness; the desire to stop fighting, even when they can't. He squeezes his eyes to stay shut, and it isn't the first time they've been like this--close, with Gorgug above him, trying to chase away the demons. ]

I can't fight it, [ he whispers, voice hushed and quick. ] It makes me mad if I do. I can't do anything.

[ A beat. ] I don't have anything else.

[ He can't fight it. The loneliness in him, and the parts of Fabian that he can make feel better--can't he? It washes in, pressing against his being, and Gorgug lowers his head and brings his mouth to Fabian's neck. He moves the hand that was holding up his weight to around the side of Fabian's head, to help his angle as he sinks his lips there against his skin; trailing his mouth up, and letting his tongue skim along the artery that leads up to his ear.

It's wanting, it's desperate; it's a trembling journey. His mouth parts, and he doesn't know how much control he has over himself anymore, if he ever did, as he brings himself over to Fabian's lips with his, and he kisses him--he forces a kiss, pushing his tongue against teeth, biting on Fabian's lip hard if he has to. All to get entry into his mouth, so the darkness waiting in there can move forward.

So Gorgug can have his punishment for wanting Fabian with him in the first place--for letting the real pieces of him sneak out, to try and find someone to help him to begin with.

No one will want him now. ]

[ He should get away. Fabian realizes it as he's lying there under Gorgug, as he hears the other speak in such a rushed way, like Gorgug is almost fighting something just to be able to get the words out to him.

But it's so hard to muster up the energy for it. He feels.. drained. Empty. Maybe it's just the effect of already having tried to bear the circumstances in this place for so long now, or maybe it's just this close proximity to Gorgug right now, the thing within him radiating out to Fabian, mixing in with his own emotions as well. Fabian knows he has to fight, and there's a part of him - whether nature or nurture - that tells him he has to, no matter what happens. But it's drowned out by the helplessness of it all, by the fact that this keeps happening, and yet he can't even help his friend. What if he did get away from Gorgug's hold somehow? What then? He'd run away, find Gorgug again some other time, do this all over again?

Gorgug says I don't have anything else.

Fabian thinks what's the point?

And then Gorgug is suddenly on him. Lips against his skin, reminiscent of something that happened not even that long ago - also an awkward experience, also Gorgug not being in control of himself, yet different from this. And more importantly-- Fabian's body remembers. There's something that feels good about the way the other sucks along his skin, even as Gorgug's lips move against his own. The feeling Fabian is being taken over by from Gorgug being this close to him with his own overwhelming emotions makes him not even think about the awkwardness of being kissed by one of his friends. He can only remember how nice he felt last time, and wouldn't it be nice to feel that way again for a few moments? Hasn't he struggled for so long, doesn't he deserve just a moment of this, of Gorgug kissing him, of warmth and affection and having someone he cares for close to him, and of--

Of--

There's something.

There is something entering him, and it manages to set off the alarm bell in Fabian's head that had been dulled by the heavy feeling coming over him. It feels so unnatural and terrible that Fabian, lulled into inaction, finally remembers to fight back. He doesn't care that he can feel Gorgug biting his lip, doesn't care that he can feel blood in his mouth from it-- Even if he's not sure he can stop any of this when Gorgug is the one with the overwhelming strength in this situation, Fabian refuses to be the one Seacaster that doesn't go down fighting. A lot of his limbs are trapped within Gorgug's hold, but he tries to move anything else he can - trying to move his legs enough so his knees can jam against something, trying to swing his fists, trying to shove his head against Gorgug's own if he has to.

It's likely already futile, but he does it anyway. ]

[ There's a haze over Gorgug, and even with every terrible thing that he's already done, what he's doing now twists at the pit of his stomach something awful. The parts of him that enjoys it, the part of him that knows that it's wrong: he indulged in the contradiction during each test that he found himself drawn to. Telling Krouse that he deserved to rot in a jail of his own guilt, shouting and screaming at Rosie that she was nothing but a fraud who earned what happened to her. And now he's here, pressing his body against Fabian's, his tongue reaching in for his, the taste of intimacy making him want to search deeper and deeper for more.

And he's infecting him. He's making him as bad as him.

What's the point? Fighting it, being anything else than some figure of himself he never knew, but was always detested for belonging in the shadow of: his heritage as part orc, chastised for years by peers for not standing up for himself, chasing away relatives for daring to be born. He hates it: these ghosts he never asked for now haunting him here, being told to seek his anger and now, he can't control it. Every little thing going wrong, and it would be better just to give in. To be nothing.

To wait for someone to take him out.

And then Fabian thrashes.

His body writhes under his, he hits against him, twists, pushes forward their faces, and there's an instance where Gorgug pushes back. He grabs into Fabian's hair to control him and pushes his own face down, refuses to give him room to move; his lips seeking to bruise at Fabian's, a growl sounding from his throat. A leg up against Fabian's crotch, intention there that may still be too rough, that may be difficult to know if he means to threaten, or to take this somewhere else: the same place he's been offering for this encounter to go for a while. He breaks apart their kiss to lick his tongue flat across the soft texture of Fabian's lips, his breath starting to heave, a growing excitement building in his already trembling limbs.

Fingers dig harder into Fabian's scalp, and there's another sound from deep inside Gorgug's throat as his eyes again are screwed up tight. He grits his teeth, and then slides the hand holding the top of Fabian's head onto the floor, slipping it inch by inch from him, trying to crawl away.

As he tries to do the same with the arm across Fabian's chest to pinning him, his weight loosening above him. Saliva wets around his mouth, but there's a glint around his eyes, too, small grunts that begin to sound like small sobs trapped in his throat.

He can't. He can't give up if it means hurting Fabian; he can't give up if he's going to do something like this. He can't, he finds himself managing for this moment, in this instance. But it's hard to fight, when everything that tells him this is wrong makes it feel right, too.

And didn't he want to not be alone? Hasn't he felt alone all this time? When there's only one voice he hears anymore coming from inside him, telling him that this is the way it's going to be.

He's so despicable anyway. Who is he trying to fall by backing out now?

Why not take it as far as he possibly can--? ]

Gorgug-- [ Fabian says, and it's like he has to drag the word from his mouth. Everything feels overwhelming right now. His body aches from the way it was being shoved around and pushed down. His lips feel like they're bruised, and he has no way of knowing if that's just imagined or actually the case. His scalp hurts from his hair getting yanked around, and there's something inside of him.

The last part is doubtlessly the worst of it all. He can feel it. It's like it's moving around inside of him, and it's one of the most awful sensations he's ever felt in his life - and that's saying something, given everything he has dealt with in all the years he's been alive.

It makes the word sound raw, like Fabian is growing hoarse, like he can't fully use his own voice right now. The sensation of something being in him is coming with something else, weird emotions starting to emerge, something inside of him no longer feeling like him and what the fuck--

He breathes. Fabian desperately sucks in a breath, trying to fight the weird feeling inside of him. Especially when he notices Gorgug trying to drag himself away from him, the odd sounds coming from the other. ]

Gorgug, you have to fight it. You have to fight it!

[ His voice still sounds weird. It takes effort to drag the words out of himself. It takes effort to do just about anything right now, but Fabian is giving that effort. His one eye widens, something about his look turning a little crazed in the middle of all his determination.

Maybe in this way, Fabian is like his father.

Fabian reaches out as Gorgug is trying to move away, his hands latching onto the fabric of Gorgug's shirt, dragging the other back closer towards him - like he's trying to force Gorgug to look at his face right now. ]

I'm fighting it, so you have to fight it too! [ He's practically spitting out the words now. ] You think I'm going to let it take you away from me?!

[ All he needs to do is to get away from Fabian--that's what Gorgug thinks. If he moves away, he can contain himself, and then Fabian can escape and get as far away from him as he can, as he should. Even if there's some small part of him that desperately clings to their friendship; even as his brain tells him that it's being broken apart right now, will be, if he just gives in and does what he wants. And it is what he wants, isn't it?

--He's being pulled back. Not by the source he expects it to be, the tug from his shirt confusing. Is it stuck? But he can't figure how, and Gorgug opens his eyes to look, finding Fabian glaring right back at him with his one good eye, the fist balled with his clothing.

Tears blur his eyesight, but he can still see the way Fabian looks at him, hears it in the fire in his voice. Gorgug's limbs tremble, everything in his body feels too fragile, too ready to tip over into the deep end, and yet-

Yet something about the way Fabian is speaking lets him break in another way. ]

I'm sorry I called you, I'm sorry-- [ His voice croaks, the words slipping out from his mouth. He doesn't know how long he can control himself, how long he has. ] It wants me to rape you, [ he admits with a quieter voice. ] Please don't let me hurt you. Please. I can't stop it, it makes me mad.... I can't stop it....!

[ His eyes start closing together, not even intentionally, but from the rush of emotion now pushing up his throat with the tears, the sobs. He wants to keep telling him sorry, tries to, over the hiccups making his limbs all the more loose and hard to balance; as he fumbles with his hands on the flooring to keep steady above Fabian.

He could push away from Fabian, but he doesn't want to touch him. He wants Fabian to know to get away. It's okay, it's okay-- it's okay to run from him. ]

[ It's Gorgug, Fabian thinks.

It immediately makes any other words die in his throat before he can spit them out like the ones before. Most of the time he's been pretty convinced it was mostly the thing inside of Gorgug talking to him, twisting Gorgug's feelings into pretzels. Sometimes it was a little more ambiguous. But this-- This is the first time he thinks it's been just Gorgug. It doesn't even sound like it's something trying to manipulate him. It's just his friend, for the first time in what feels like maybe a whole month.

His heart beats quicker with adrenaline at the realisation that Gorgug is still in there, still capable of coming out, even if it's just for a moment or this desperately. And then his heart beats even quicker when he hears what Gorgug even says. It wants to--

I'd hurt you if you told me to. I'd fuck you if you said yes.

The words echo back into his mind. He thinks about Gorgug's lips crashing onto his own only a moment ago, and something inside of Fabian moves, twists, somehow makes giving in seem so tempting, and--

No, he knows this isn't the time to think about it. He knows the thing inside of him isn't him, and-- god, he has to get it out. He has to hurry and let someone get it out before he loses his mind too. He has to get away from here and over to where people are, he has to get away from Gorgug before the other does something they might both feel terrible about later.

It's hard though. It's hard because Fabian doesn't know for how much longer Gorgug can fight it to let him go. Fabian doesn't know for how long he can fight the weird feeling spreading inside of him, making all sorts of thoughts appear in his mind, and he can't even tell which are actually his anymore.

(Shit-- Is this what Gorgug has been feeling like for weeks now?) ]

I'm leaving.

[ He says it with a weird tone. Like he's trying to convince someone here. Maybe himself, maybe Gorgug, but-- Someone for sure, and he's already trying to move, seeming like he's trying to get out from under Gorgug, trying to get up.

He's not thinking, he tells himself. He can't think. There's all sorts of jumbled up stuff in his mind, and there's instinct, and there's something awful, and there's something inside of him that's driving him, and just before Fabian pulls himself back up onto his feet, he uses the fist he's still got curled up into the other's shirt to pull Gorgug even closer, pressing a quick peck onto the other's lips and a near-hissed, much too hurried: ] Spring break, spring break-- I fucking believe in you!

[ There's nothing after that. Fabian gets onto his feet so quickly that it feels like he might trip over his own feet, and a second later he's leaving.

Not down the stairs, mind you. No, he's pulling open a window and jumping out onto the Hangman, waiting stories below, driving off right away.

No, Fabian also doesn't realize what just happened. If he remembers this at all after getting his own infection cut out, he might need about two to three business days to process what happened here and start screaming into his own pillow. ]

[ When Fabian says he's leaving, Gorgug's reaction is quick, hurried nodding that refuses to let any other thought settle or find refuge in his brain. As if it's that simple, easy to avoid; but for this time that Gorgug has his wits about him, he wants to encourage Fabian. He wants to show that Fabian's choice is alright. ]

Go, [ he says, hushed words shared between them, and he's ready at any second to move or to be pushed away while he still has a say in how his own body reacts. Even as the idea of being left alone manages to slither its way into his mind, coiling over his willpower, squeezing.

He's going to leave you. Grab his arm. Ask him to stay, you're so alone.

There is a chaotic nature to Fabian Seacaster. Loud and opinionated, carrying his own insecurities, busy working to establish himself to show the world who he is (and to know who that is himself). Every one of the Bad Kids have this nature, that makes them unpredictable even to Gorgug after all these years with them, and it's one of those things about them he's come to accept. He admires it about them. Except, regularly, it often throws him off, or sends him into a frenzy that knocks him off the same rails as them.

Which is to say: the kiss, or encouragement, is that kind of chaotic choice that keeps Gorgug's mind from focusing straight. A kiss to attract him, and then a reminder that reaches out from inside Gorgug himself, and- Spring break. Spring break. They're a year younger and they're on their way to break Adaine and Aelwyn out from their prisons, bodies on fire, never feeling as connected to one another as they did then.

Gorgug doesn't reach for Fabian's arm. He doesn't turn his body over to follow Fabian's direction, to watch him go.

Instead, from behind Fabian (and even as he jumps), a rhythmless chant follows his exit. ]

Spring break! Spring break! Spring break, spring break!

[ Gorgug keeps a hold of the hope of friendship, like a flame passed on from Fabian that blazes different inside Gorgug than his own twisted rage, for as long as he's capable of doing. It dies down eventually, becomes smothered by the fear and grief that manages takes it place, but even so--

The ember persists somewhere inside him, that Fabian and Riz will do the right thing. They'll stop this. He knows they will.

Spring break. I believe in you. ]

[ Fabian's comms device alerts him to a call in the middle of the night. If Fabian doesn't answer right away, the call keeps coming, repeated until he picks up. When he does, he's greeted with the sound of someone struggling to catch their breath. ]

Hey.

[ A ragged swallow, gulping down air. ]

I need to talk to you.

[ The first call definitely goes unanswered. Of course Fabian doesn't really pay the amount of attention he should to his crystal - or his earpiece, now - and even less so when it's the middle of the night.

But after a few calls even Fabian must realize that some situation must be dire, because he finally does pick up then. ]

Krouse..?

[ His voice sounds a little slow and thick, like he was sleeping - or trying to, more like, with the state of things.

After a moment he seems to realize something about the way Krouse sounds though, and Fabian's tone shifts closer to awareness, something sharper in there. Worried, almost. ]

What's going on? Where are you?

[ Krouse makes a rough, breathless sound like a bad imitation of a laugh. Count on Fabian to worry, after all the shit Krouse has pulled. ]

Outside the woods.

[ On the grass, panting in the glow of the Kwik Trip's exterior lights. ]

Doesn't matter. [ He pushes up on his elbows, wincing silently, and reaches down to his pockets to fumble out his cigarettes and lighter. ] You - seen Gorgug, lately?

Okay, hold on.

[ Yes, Gorgug talk is important.

But it's not like Fabian has been blind to what's been going on here. The circumstances around town, coupled with the fact that Krouse sounds like he just ran five miles straight, is enough to know that he should be not just talking here, but acting too. Judging by the sounds in the background on Fabian's end, he's already moving. ]

It matters, so give me an exact location. Me and the Hangman are coming. [ Don't question who that is, Krouse. Especially when Fabian adds, more importantly-- ] Did you run into Gorgug?

[ Krouse isn't really in a questioning mood when it comes to Fabian's other acquaintances, or his adopted alien dog, or his favourite jacket, or whatever the hell 'the Hangman' is. ]

Really fucking doesn't.

[ He drags out a cigarette and lights up, pinching the filter between index finger and thumb in his off-hand. ]

And I did, yeah. In the woods.

[ He drags up the floating keyboard and punches in some rough directions to around where he last saw Gorgug, then sends them to Fabian. They are notably very much inside the woods, where Krouse is explicitly not. ]

No idea if he's still there, but - [ Krouse pulls his cigarette from his mouth and exhales, which turns into a ragged cough ] - does he usually have a fucking shadow demon in his mouth, or is that new?

[ The footsteps on Fabian's end quicken. ]

No, that's-- Something in this place is having some terrible influence on him. [ Don't ask him for the details, Krouse. It's all still half-vague to Fabian too.

All he knows is that his friend is in trouble, and this is one of the first chances he's gotten in a while to be able to track Gorgug down more specifically than just randomly wandering around the place, hoping to find him. ]

What did he do to you?

[ If Krouse looks at the directions he sent, there's a line underneath them now, apparently sent back by Fabian. He may not have addressed it out loud, but it's there in writing, clear as day.

Not just his location. Yours too. ]

He didn't do anything.

[ There's a hot bead of defensiveness in Krouse's tone right off the bat, and he silently curses himself out for it. It sounds like a denial that it's not supposed to be. He can't even tell the truth without sounding like he's lying. ]

I'm serious. I ran. Teleporter, remember?

[ He's not proud of it, even if it was probably the right call. Krouse sucks in another lungful of smoke and exhales with a rough edge.

If it gets you to give it a rest

Krouse sends his own location, then, before he talks himself out of it. Next to the Kwik Trip. Funnily enough. ]

I don't need you to fucking come get me. [ He says, tersely. ] Gorgug needs someone to talk him down after he's done - [ Krouse hesitates ] - getting it out of his system. Go. Be a fucking knight in shining letter jacket.

Dude, why are you always like this?

[ This so isn't the moment to argue about this.

But Fabian can't help it. There's no way he can just go along with the stubbornness and say oh, sure, he'll just go try to help Gorgug and let Krouse rot in the middle of nowhere and not have a singular weird feeling about that fact. ]

I can help you both. I'm worried about you both! He's not just getting it out of his system, there's something wrong with him, and if anything, I could use your help with that!

[ There's a bunch of complicated sounds - Fabian is doing something, though it's hard to tell what.

It only becomes clear when there's the sudden sound of a motorcycle being revved before it takes off. With Fabian on it, apparently, since the sound remains in the background of the call. ]

So are you with me or not?

[ Why is he always like this? It's a good fucking question.

Instead of answering it, Krouse rolls onto his back, staring up at the night sky. He takes another deep drag off his cigarette and exhales a cloud of grey against the stars. ]

I don't think he really wants to fucking deal with me right now.

[ He's not bitter about Gorgug's anger at him. He's bitter that he's the kind of person who brings that out of people. That he deserves it. That he couldn't be better, for once, when he fucking needed to be.

Of course Fabian has a goddamn motorcycle. ]

But fine. Yeah. I'm with you.

[ Because how can he say no? How could he possibly fucking say no? ]

[ He releases a sigh so deep that it's audible even over the motorcycle sounds. ]

Good.

[ It feels better to do it this way. Not that Fabian couldn't - or wouldn't - tackle this alone if he had to, but he doesn't want to just choose Gorgug and leave Krouse to rot out there, and he also doesn't want to focus on Krouse and leave Gorgug alone with whatever has overtaken him. Fabian is enough of an idealist that he wants to help out all his friends here. ]

Tell me. What was he angry about?

Oh, the usual.

[ The depth of Fabian's sigh brings up things Krouse is not dealing with right now, if ever. The idea that Fabian is relieved that Krouse gave in - even though of course he is, after Krouse was so goddamn difficult about - is a lot.

Recounting how he fucked up is, in this case, easier. ]

I'm a lying piece of shit who should have stayed in prison, away from his friends, and I made him feel like an idiot.

Wait.

[ That sounds like a genuinely confused wait. There are parts of this that make sense to Fabian - especially the latter, when he knows how Gorgug feels about feeling like he's dumb. He's probably more likely to take offense to it when there's something getting him all worked up in the first place.

But the rest of it.. That's more confusing. Enough so that it's still audible in Fabian's tone when he speaks up again, adding: ]

He wanted you to stay away from us?

Yes?

[ Krouse has more or less caught his breath as he stares at the sky, now with his forehead wrinkled faintly as he puzzles at whatever Fabian is puzzling at. ]

He knows I'm a supervillain, Fabian. [ A short, measured beat. ] He actually got to meet my old boss' ghost. You missed that part. Lucky you.

[ So it all makes perfect sense to Krouse's mind from that point onward. Gorgug knows, Gorgug heard the bad parts, Gorgug made the reasonable judgment call. It's Riz and Fabian who remain out to lunch. ]

[ If it was any other situation, Fabian may have commented on the fact that the term supervillain feels incredibly cringe.

But considering the mood and considering that he is rather serious about helping both Krouse and Gorgug in this moment, Fabian doesn't, saving them a discussion that in itself would likely end up very cringe. ]

Yeah, but.. all of the things you told me you've done, we have also done where we come from. [ Arson? Check. Theft? Check. What else did Krouse sum up? Fabian isn't even sure anymore, but it's probably also on the list. If he hasn't done them, then either Gorgug or Riz surely has at this point. It's part of why Fabian hadn't been bothered by what Krouse told him back in that cell.

It's why he can't imagine Gorgug being bothered because of it. Not even in the middle of what's up with him. ]

You couldn't be a bad influence on us even if you tried.

[ It's too bad Fabian hasn't gotten within eyeballing range yet, because Krouse's arm flung over his forehead is one for the books in terms of exhausted gesturing. ]

Okay. Maybe he's worried I'll just fuck up your lives or get you shot. Or shoot you. Does it matter? I don't care, man, this isn't - Jesus.

[ At least Fabian knows who that is now, sort of. Krouse takes a hard drag on his cigarette and exhales through his nose, hoodie sleeve pressed to his clammy face. ]

Maybe he thinks I have a shitty haircut and I'll ruin your Class of Whatever The Fuck Year This Is group photo in the yearbook. Why not.

[ Only a moment after Krouse has spoken that last word, there is the sound of a motorcycle nearby, instead of just over their connection - and when the feed cuts, it even visibly approaches Krouse's position, until the bike stops right in front of where the guy is sprawled out.

Fabian is sitting on top of the motorcycle. (And yes, the bike does have a weird skull and crossbones motif on the front, but-- don't mind it, bro. Don't think about it too hard.) There's a grin on Fabian's face, but there's a tenseness in his shoulders that betrays he isn't totally casual here, despite him saying: ]

Well, it's true that you aren't as handsome as I am. [ He's teasing, okay.

Though it's also true. In his opinion. ]

You okay, man?

The stupidest thing about the kind of jock jostling and idiot masculine posturing Fabian gets up to, in Krouse's opinion, is that it worked.

He can't figure that out. Of all the people Krouse would have called being able to tolerate being around after that clusterfuck of a month, Fabian wouldn't have made the top ten. But here they are, in Krouse's painfully organized apartment, having beers.

It was an impulse decision on Krouse's part. An idea that hit him in the Kwik Trip, standing in front of the beer display, staring at the Spotted Cow label and trying not to think about anything (anyone) it reminded him of. Drinking alone is pathetic. Drinking with someone is a social activity. Krouse doesn't want to do social activities, but he doesn't want to drink alone, working himself up to the kind of dulled out haze he's almost never actually indulged in.

So he grabbed two six packs of beer and a bottle of vodka, because he doesn't actually know how much he needs to drink to get drunk, and sent Fabian a text. And now Krouse is standing in his bedroom, holding the neck of his third bottle, staring at a picture. It's next to another one, of Krouse and his mom, but Krouse is only handling so much at a time.

Gingerly, he takes the dried grass bracelet off the corner and sets it on the nightstand. He picks up the frame, careful not to put his thumb on the glass, and carries it back out to the living room.

"This is Noelle," he says, holding the picture where Fabian can see it, and tips his beer back to down what's left of it, warmth liquid and nauseous in his stomach. But he's good. He's together.

"She's," Krouse says, bouncing his knee, "She was - "

Noelle, all of fifteen, smiles awkwardly up out of the picture. She's sallow and hollow-cheeked, her shoulder-length brown hair frayed at the ends, her brown eyes sunk in shallow purple hollows. Her shoulders are slightly hunched under her large hoodie, her legs poised on the school picture day stool swallowed in baggy jeans. She looks fragile, strained.

But Krouse can see past that. He can see the glint in her eye, watchful and alert. A line of steel along her spine even as it curves unseen by the photographer's lens.

"She was my team captain," Krouse says, quietly. "She had...something kind of like Gorgug had. The anger issues, you know? Not her fault. She got sick."

She was sick in this picture, too. Krouse knows the signs now the way he didn't back then. But that's not up for discussion. His secrets might be everywhere, but he's keeping as many of hers as this place will let him.

"We were..." Krouse clears his throat. He swaps the empty beer bottle in his hand for a new one from the coffee table with a flex of his power, then feels like an idiot, because he doesn't have a hand free to open it. He doesn't want to put the picture down.

"We were together. Probationary. I was the one on probation." Krouse forces a thin, papery laugh, not looking at Fabian, who probably is looking - sympathetic, or worried, or something. "I still don't know why she ever gave me a chance. I was such a fucking prick."

Is a fucking prick.

"I always pissed her off, too," he says, and now he's just rambling, tongue loosened with alcohol and exhaustion, "You'd think all the practice would have counted for something with him, but - no. I guess I'm just good at pissing people off. Trash at making them feel better."

Does Fabian remember how they even got onto this topic? He sure doesn't. Really, it's not even like he's all that drunk yet, despite the bottle of beer that he is also holding in his hand and the fact that it's definitely not his first, but everything is kind of blurry anyway. He remembers Krouse inviting him over, he remembers accepting the invitation easily, since he both wanted to check up on the other and had to get away from all the stuff he's been worrying about ever since everything went back to 'normal' for a few moments.

After that is where the blurriness starts. It's probably because of Gorgug, judging by the hints of the other guy that Krouse is dropping. Did Fabian start about Gorgug? Did Krouse? The half-elf really isn't sure, and he just stares at Krouse and the picture the other is holding, turning over the words in his head.

Maybe if the faint blurriness wasn't present in his mind, Fabian would have the social graces to not say what he's about to say.

But a few beers don't make only Krouse's tongue loose, apparently.

"You're saying were together," he points out.

(There's a lot of past tense going on there, actually.)

Edited 2024-11-03 12:16 (UTC)

Krouse sets the picture down on his knee and reaches for the bottle opener on the coffee table. He cracks the beer and captures the head of foam in his mouth quickly, knocking back a short swallow, then picks the picture back up.

"She died," he says, like lancing a persistently infected wound. It hurts every time, no matter how often he does it. A fresh gush of grief and regret, welling up inside the aching confines of his ribs.

"Fuck. I'm sorry, man, it's - " he sets his beer down and rubs his hand over his face, shaking his head. "That's not why I brought her up. I'm - dealing with it. I've been dealing with it. You know."

Fabian does know. A father isn't like a girlfriend, but the punched out place in the world where a person used to be is something they both understand.

"I just..." he sighs, face still in his hand. "I guess what I'm saying is if you want to talk about what happened with Gorgug with someone who gets it, I get it. And I'll keep it between us. It's just hard seeing someone you care about like that."

...

Well, that's.. a lot to think about when it comes to what he wants to say here. Though it's exactly because of the fact that his own father died that Fabian doesn't want to comment too much on Krouse's dead ex-girlfriend. Especially with the way the other is talking about it. It's easier to deal with these things in more vague terms, in Fabian's experience. He doesn't mind talking about the fact his father is dead, but if anyone would push him a little bit too hard on how it happened, then it's likely he might fall into the same stuff Krouse is awkwardly trying to express here. (I've been dealing with it. You know.)

So probably no direct talk here. No 'sorry, man', though Fabian does feel it, because he knows how hard it is to miss someone you care so much about, someone you shaped entire parts of your life for.

Still-- That, coupled with the fact that talking about certain parts of what happened between him and Gorgug is really, really fucking awkward, makes him quiet for a moment or two. He fiddles with his half-empty bottle of beer, just to give his energy some sort of outlet in the meantime. Even if it's just through fidgeting.

"Did she--" He starts, slowly. Trying to cover up the awkward, but not really managing to, while his eyebrows knit together into a frown in the meantime. "Did she ever get that angry at you?"

Krouse brought this up to talk about it. That helps. Also the beer. And her picture, with her brown eyes looking always out, although not close enough to really see all the secret shades of brown they really were when he got close enough to try to count them.

"Yeah," Krouse says, thumbing the edge of the picture frame, "Yeah. She did."

If Riz hadn't heard 'her' through the wall, Krouse is aware he might still not be able to really talk about this. There's a part of him that flinches from sharing too much. But mad at him, even as mad as she got, that's almost safe. That's understandable. Getting mad at him is just a thing everyone can nod at.

And Krouse knows Fabian won't talk, is the thing. Fabian doesn't even have to promise. He's a good guy like that.

"It sucked," he says, which is maybe more honest than he's ever been about how he felt about it, "I knew it wasn't her fault - and in my case, I fucking deserved it most of the time, so it was really my fault - and I knew she hated it too. She hating losing control, you know? If she was going to be mad, she wanted to be mad on purpose, not..."

He reaches for his beer and takes another drink, the taste literally bittersweet, which he guesses is what people must like about beer. It's growing on him.

"My point is," he says, like he's got one, "It sucks. Because it's not them, but it's like, parts of them. It gets to you."

Fabian is chewing his lip so hard that he's kind of worried he'll start drawing blood like an idiot - but he can't help it.

Because Krouse keeps talking, and the more Krouse talks, the more it sounds weirdly familiar in a way Fabian never expected it to. Mostly because it's-- well, Krouse is talking about his girlfriend, for one, and Fabian is just talking about his friend. He's chased around a cruel girl before but that was.. it was different, not like this. And yet this applies very directly to a very recent situation with said friend all the same.

In more ways than Krouse might be imagining, actually. And Fabian isn't sure whether to bring it up. Is it even relevant? Is it going to sound weird? It's definitely going to sound weird, isn't it.

If anything here is proof of the fact that Fabian is way too caught up in his own tangled mess of thoughts right now, it's the fact he doesn't even bother to correct Krouse when the other puts himself down, even though Fabian has almost instinctively done so in the past, like he's allergic to his friend talking shit about themselves around him.

"When that, uh.. happened."

God, he's definitely going to sound weird.

Fabian is just banking on the fact that Krouse isn't going to judge him. Hopefully. Yeah, Krouse has been weird as hell about the whole friendship thing, but he's never been truly judgy of Fabian. If anything, it feels like every single thing he's tried to insult Fabian with has been entirely ineffective, as if Krouse - even while lashing out - tried to avoid the things that might have hurt Fabian for real. And considering his experience, maybe he'll understand. Even though this isn't about Fabian's girlfriend.

"I mean, when she lost control, did she ever--" His mouth is having trouble forming the words, like he's still having second thoughts. Or like he's just a little bit worried about judgement all the same, staring down at his bottle of beer like it's the most interesting thing in the world just to avoid having to look at Krouse. "Did she ever come onto you?"

Did she ever come onto you?

The look Krouse gives Fabian is a very obvious, goggle-eyed no, which dissolves into a wincing grimace of brand new, never before experienced confusion as his brain then starts tacking on - not caveats, exactly. Because the answer is no. Noelle didn't even come onto him when she was less frustrated with his entire existence, let alone when she was angry with him.

That's not really the question that tangles Krouse up for a second in his own shit before he wraps his brain around the real thing that's going to slap him upside the head any minute now. The weird thing that gets Krouse for a second is imagining if Noelle had, hypothetically, ever come onto him while she was mad -

It would have been awful. Unbelievably fucking awful. He'd have felt sick about it. But for one half-drunk, supremely teenaged moment, Krouse just - thinks about it a little.

"No," he says, mouth moving right as the implication that really matters side swipes him like a semi and mercifully removes all thoughts involving his own personal life clean out of his skull, "No, she never - hang on - "

Krouse stares at Fabian, his mouth falling open as he blinks, really taking it all in. The hunkered down confusion, the tinge of befuddled confusion, the general air of fuck, dude, and oh, holy shit.

"Gorgug came onto you," Krouse says, not a question, "While he was...huh."

Krouse decides now is a great time for another drink. Out of a respect for someone's privacy, or the concept of privacy in general, he tilts Noelle's picture away from Fabian so she's not looking at him.

"Are you," Krouse says, as certain select images play behind his eyes, "Let me rephrase that. What, ah - exactly did he do? Precisely?"

Even if Noelle may not be looking at him anymore now, just Krouse looking is bad enough by itself. Especially when Fabian can just sense the entire journey the other guy's facial expression is going through. It makes him hunch over even more, like he's trying to disappear into his bottle of beer. Being eternally trapped in a bottle of beer kind of sounds like it might be easier than having to talk about all this, honestly.

Especially since he was wrong. Apparently Krouse doesn't know what this very specific thing is like. It would have been so much easier if he knew - at this point it's just going to make Fabian look like a huge freak, won't it?

It's tempting to stall. To ask him if he really wants to know. Or maybe to avoid the topic entirely, say he doesn't want to talk about it.

But that's just delaying the inevitable, right? Fabian has been thinking about this so much that the only way to get rid of these thoughts at this point is just to talk about it, even if it makes him feel awful before he's even uttered a single word.

"He--" Fabian swallows hard even after just one word. He's so very, very decidedly still not looking at Krouse. "He told me that he thinks about me at night. And then that-- that, uh, he'd hurt me or fuck me if I wanted him to."

That's propositioning someone, alright. Even though it doesn't seem like Fabian is done even with just that.

"And he held me down, and he started to kiss me, and I.."

.. god, should he say it? Krouse won't get it. Sure, he liked Noelle, but it doesn't sound like it ever had anything to do with a mess like this.

Ugh, wait, okay, hold on, he can still make this--

"I mean, I-- It turned me on, you know?" See, that's the hard part to say, but that's why Fabian immediately launches into the next words. "But it's just.. That was the adrenaline, right? I mean, I'm not gay, so-- you know, I just--"

He's now looking up at Krouse, but mostly because he's lost in the half-panic of his explanation. Like he has to convince the other of something here, and Fabian isn't even sure what specific thing it is that he's trying to convince his friend of.

"I don't know, shit happens!"

Krouse lifts Noelle's picture off his lap and gingerly sets it face down on the coffee table, meticulously not looking at Fabian as Krouse takes in all of that. He feels like someone just handed him one of those AI babies from Moorecroft, except this one is also a bomb, and he is now apparently partially entrusted with defusing this complicated bomb-baby-thing that's both hideously fragile and even more hideously volatile.

But this time, he's not hoping he can pitch the bomb-baby-convoluted metaphor out the window and replace it with a substitute egg from the grocery store. He's going to be responsible with it. Real fucking responsible.

"I mean," Krouse says, swivelling towards Fabian with an internal experience of somehow doing it in slow motion, at a distance, "It'd be fine. If you were. Or just, you know. Open-minded."

That is, in a revelation that would have startled Krouse at sixteen and doesn't make him do more than blink once at nineteen, the least of what's going on here.

"Or, uh - okay. Fuck. Let me just," Krouse scrubs his face with one hand, making a low humming noise in the back of his throat like a modem trying to dial up a connection to his own brain. "Are you, like, okay, man?"

Krouse pivots properly on the couch, pulling his leg up to tuck his socked foot against his knee as he takes Fabian's posture in. Hesitantly, he reaches out to give Fabian an awkward part on the shoulder, feeling like the multiverse's biggest tool as he does it.

"I mean, though, hey - who among us has not had a weird hard-on at a really fucked up time?" He posits, and yeah, he's going to blow up this imaginary metaphor baby for sure. Fuck.

Edited 2024-11-21 08:11 (UTC)

"Yeah. Yeah, I'm fine."

Said by a guy who clearly looks like he's not doing fine at all right now. It's not even just looking, but sounding too, considering it's reflected just as much in his voice when he says that.

He doesn't scoot away though when Krouse joins him on the couch. He even allows the awkward pat, though he doesn't really seem to reciprocate it in any way. Maybe it's since he's too busy thinking if he's ever really had a hard-on during an awkward moment before. Maybe. Probably.

Though never at a moment as awkward as when your possessed friend is trying to proposition you, clearly.

"I just-- I need to figure this out, man." Understatement of the century, but Fabian just raises his bottle to chug some more beer after he says it, like that might help him think about this any better.

At least it's helping him be open about this to Krouse at all. Fabian might have hesitated otherwise, even in front of someone who is - clearly - a bro.

"I thought you could relate."

But maybe he was wrong about that. The idea of being wrong about it does make him look a little miserable, even if he's staring right ahead of him, rather than sideways and over at the other guy.

[ It's in the later part of the day when a call comes through Fabian's earpiece--from Gorgug, which isn't a common occurrence these days.

And when Fabian connects the call: ]

Hey. [ It's just Gorgug on the screen--looking like he normally does, even looking momentarily away from the screen before he returns to it. ] Are you doing anything later?

[ Huh.

Before everything went down Fabian wouldn't have found this very weird. Of course Gorgug would just randomly contact him - they're friends. It's what friends do. And even though Fabian sucks at checking his messages, he does at least pay attention when he's got a call.

But this hasn't happened much recently. He can't really remember the last time they had a call like this where it wasn't Fabian initiating the call in the first place. And it doesn't even seem like there's an emergency or anything, judging by the way Gorgug looks, so..

Is something up? Fabian frantically tries to think of what he could be forgetting here, but he can't think of anything. ]

Me? [ Hence the slightly awkward initial answer, like Fabian has been truly caught off guard. ] I-- uh, no? Did you want to do something?

[ The reaction Fabian's giving does make Gorgug think he might've caught Fabian in the middle of something, but-- he's here now, so he won't question it.

It's not like it needs to be a long call if Gorgug doesn't make it one. ]

I wanted to show you something. [ a beat. ] It's nothing bad.

[ Because he kinda feels like he needs to say that, considering what he might've done while possessed... ]

It's just at my lab, [ he explains further, so Fabian knows where it is. Although- ] But... we could go somewhere else. If you wanted to hang out, or... the stars are nice.

[ ...is he inviting Fabian to go out somewhere to look at stars? Truthfully, he's not questioning too hard about how weird that sounds and just wants to make things interesting.... ]

[ That does seem like a weirdly specific invitation. Not even the part about coming to see something at Gorgug's lab - that does seem like something Gorgug might ask, even if maybe not now of all times. But going to.. watch the stars with him? Is that something bros do? Is it a bro activity? Does Gorgug have some reason to ask him?

It means he's quiet for a slight moment - letting all those thoughts pass through his head before he speaks up, since he's bound to blurt out some stupid random thought if he's still actively having it while opening his mouth - until he speaks up again. ]

No, I can come over to your lab. [ He still sounds a touch baffled. Fabian seems to realize as much at this point though, he's quick to put a little bit more Fabian Pep™ in his tone when he continues. He wants this to be a positive thing for Gorgug. To show the other that things can totally be normal again. That Gorgug can invite him over and have it all be totally normal. ] If you have something you want to show me, then I want to see it! Should I come over right now?

Edited 2024-11-16 18:27 (UTC)

[ He doesn't think deeply--or at all--on Fabian not taking the star off in turn. He doesn't want to, and that's okay--and Gorgug doesn't actually know what the stars look like, or if they're interesting to begin with (maybe he should check them out tonight?). ]

You can come over whenever you want. I'm not going anywhere, so-- you take your time. I've got other stuff I can do.

[ No pressure, or that's what he's aiming for, his tone reassuring at the end. Fabian's the kind of guy who would usually be busy with a hundred things, or make himself so. And while that hasn't be completely true since they've left Spyre, Gorgug doesn't want Fabian dropping anything for him.

Bros before hos named Gorgug. Said ho looks at ease over the video call, not flustered or panicked.

Not even hos who suggest star gazing out of nowhere. ]

[ Fabian huffs, trying his best to make it just as dramatic as his usual sounds. He knows he doesn't seem quite like himself when he isn't being busy being loud, after all. ]

I suppose I can clear my busy, busy schedule to come over.

[ The tone is just light enough that he's hoping Gorgug will easily catch onto the fact that Fabian is just being dramatic, because the last thing he wants right now is for the other to suddenly feel like he has to retract the invitation because of it.

Gorgug may seem relatively calm now - especially by the standards of the last few weeks - but you never know. Fabian is still pretty worried there's something much more easily bruised underneath it.

Maybe it's why he's not thinking too hard about the stars thing anymore. There's been enough to worry about that the worries about the more gay thoughts are often reserved for when Gorgug isn't around, or when Fabian isn't talking to him. ]

So I will come over right now. I will drive the Hangman there, so-- I will be there shortly. Wait for me, alright?

[ And Fabian seems to be a man of his word. It really doesn't take too long before the infernal revving of the Hangman can be heard from outside of the lab, with Fabian wandering in a moment later. ]

[ Fortunately, Gorgug takes it the right way (the way Fabian means it), even showing a flicker of a small smile across the screen of the video feed.

And it does stick to the corners of his mouth when he speaks up to say- ]

Okay, alright. Thanks.

[ He would add a joke himself, but if he's lacking on the regular on being smarmy in a friendly way, he's moreso when it comes to the mood he's still in (and recovering from). But he's appreciative all the same as he turns off their video call, and makes the preparations for Fabian's arrival.

Nothing's different from the usual about the interior, except Gorgug has more mess around on the tables since the race that took place--more projects, that he actually seems to be working on, as opposed to the fish shapes before that were all organised in their progress. Gorgug's sitting on a swivel chair by a table that's close to the entrance of the lab, a flexible light shining above, and a few tools. As well as... ]

'Sup. [ Gorgug swivels the chair a few inches to regard Fabian, and then picks up something to hold out to him. Unlike in the picture, there's an eyepatched skull with what acts like a ribbon (or fancy cloth) winding around the bracelet. ] Can you try this on? It's got a buckle... it should fit.

[ Hopefully. It's a bracelet, bro. ]

[ .. wait, what? Sorry?

Fabian knows that Gorgug asked him a question, but it's completely gone from his mind by the time the other finishes what he's saying. That 'sup' is gone now, lost into the nether, because Fabian is just staring at the bracelet the other is holding out for him. It would have been easy to dismiss as just some project Gorgug is working on that he'd need a tester for, but..

Well. The decoration on the bracelet is rather distinct. Not a whole lot of people in this place who have the same theme going on as the bracelet itself. And though Fabian does hold out his arm towards the other - sorry, Gorgug, seems like Fabian's surprised mind can't quite process the 'try this on' part as in him having to try it on himself, maybe you should just put it on him - he's looking absolutely baffled. So confused. ]

What's this?

[ Gorgug is looking at the wrist, and the fact that Fabian just put out his whole arm for him as if he's Cathilda. And he's thinking about it between and after the question, and decides to undo the buckle himself, and

okay, he's going to put it on him. Don't mind him doing that, bro, while you just stand there bewildered. ]

It's your late birthday gift. For the birthday I missed. [ You know, because Gorgug owed him for a birthday he wasn't present for. ] It can change your clothes or shape to look like whatever you want, or you can blend into the area around you--but that's if it works right. I need you to wear it a while. You have to get attuned to it.

[ It's magic shit that takes time, buddy. He's done up the clasp, asks a ] Is that alright? [ to make sure it isn't too tight, before he adjusts it to make the skull face the right way. ]

I thought you could trick people in a fight. And you like clothes a lot, so if you don't have a shirt in the colour you want, you could change it that way. You can make it blue, whenever you want. If it works properly.

[ ...and when it works. But, look. He's tried his best here, but maybe he's nervous about a magic property he's not used to! This is a first for him that he decided to put into a very important gift!

That he remade, like, three different times. ]

[ Oh.

So not only did Gorgug make a bracelet for him in the first place, but it's not even just a bracelet that's been themed after Fabian. No, apparently it's got magical properties. It's something the other members of their party may have caught on to a little earlier, but-- well, it's not like Fabian has ever been the most magically inclined to them. If Gorgug hadn't told him, then he never might have known.

With the buckle closed and the thing actually on his arm now without being able to fall off, Fabian lifts his arm a little. He turns it over, looking at the accessoire as if it might suddenly divulge its magic to him that way.

(Well, that, and he's still a little caught by surprise over Gorgug making all of this for him. Especially when Fabian was still imagining the other was slowly recovering from everything that happened the other month.) ]

.. It can do all that? [ He finally manages to say, still sounding kind of dumbfounded.

Fabian tears his gaze away from the thing to look over at his friend, his tone mirrored in the astonished look in his eyes. ]

And you made that?

[ Look, stumbling across magical artifacts during their journeys is one thing. Gorgug actually being an accomplished enough artificer to be able to churn out something this useful is another entirely.

B-Bro, that's a big birthday gift!! Do you know that's a big birthday gift, bro!! ]

If it doesn't, I'll fix it. [ That's-- that's definitely a possibility, but Gorgug's been working and reworking on it, if doing more of the work from before the time the spaceship fell (and he was having a lot more certain gay thoughts about a guy). But he's looking back at Fabian, trying not to let his uncertainty take up too much of his expression with his friend looking at him like that. Working to squeeze a reassuring motion along his mouth, a small smile that turns away as Gorgug opens up the drawer underneath the table. ]

I had a lot of time to focus on it since I don't have any other work to do. I already worked on some invisibility and projection work before I got here, so I tweaked some of that--

[ He's pulled out another bracelet from the drawer, what can be correctly assumed to be a prototype as Gorgug straps it onto his own wrist. There's no fancy layerings, no skull and bones--but there is a circular button. ]

It's like other magic. You gotta think about what you want, and if you wear something, it helps out. If you press the pirate skull...

[ Gorgug presses on the button, and he disappears--except parts of the world begin to bulge out, in a way that resembles the limbs of arms moving out at the sides, until they stop, and then--

Gorgug reappears, this time... wearing the shirt that Fabian had given him, with a hoodie tied around his waist and a pair of cargo shorts in a darker shade to conflict with the white of the shirt. ]

...it's not actually the clothes. [ And as if to prove this (as if Fabian doesn't know anything about a disguise self spell, he puts a hand around a part of his exposed forearm, only to have it not even reach the wrist itself before stopping. ] You shouldn't go around naked.

[ Just. FYI. ]

[ Sorry, Gorgug, but there's no time to think about the naked remark or how something like that makes him feel around Gorgug specifically in the context of recent events.

Mostly because Fabian is still so distracted by the object itself. Not distracted in the sense that he can't wait to try it out - look, it is super neat, and Fabian can see the uses of it right away in a multitude of ways - but he's still kind of overwhelmed at the thought that Gorgug made this. Just a friend casually crafting magical artifacts.

He stares at it for a moment, rather than at Gorgug. Mostly because Fabian doesn't know what to say. A whole lot of words come to mind, but most of them die before they can leave his throat. ]

I-- [ He starts. ] Uh.

[ Very eloquent there, Fabian. You're starting to sound like Gorgug.

He swallows, hoping that his cheeks aren't showing as much of a blush despite the heat he can feel gathering in them with every passing moment. ]

That must have taken you a while to make. [ Even though Gorgug wasn't even going to be the one to use it! Just look at that earlier version Gorgug made, it's clearly just a prototype, rather than Gorgug thinking of making one for himself too.. ]

[ Noooo, only one person gets to be Gorgug here...!!!

And it might help to reflect on that, when Fabian's only awkward inability to find words makes Gorgug hesitate--or, more so, the words that he chooses. Fabian is a man of many words, so when he isn't, it's telling, and while he does look at the face that Fabian's making, Gorgug is also...paying attention to how hard it seems to be for Fabian to say anything.

... ]

The time doesn't matter to me. [ Sure, getting things wrong and hitting his head against walls trying to get it right is annoying, but he chose to do that. Gorgug fiddles with the prototype on his own wrist a little, then glances at Fabian from under his lashes. ] But, if you don't think you'll have a lot of use for it-- it's okay, like, I learned a lot from making it. So if there's something else I can make you instead, I'm okay doing that.

[ Is that it, bro.

It's okay, bro. You can tell him!! Tell him right now!! ]

.. what? [ At least that seems to draw Fabian out of his shell.

Gorgug is right, after all. Fabian is a man of many words. A man of many, many, many words. But the fact he was so quiet just now had absolutely nothing to do with any lacking quality of this present. Quite the opposite. It's why his head snaps up in surprise when he hears Gorgug say those words, staring at the other with a wide eye, before quickly continuing with a: ]

No!

[ It's said so quickly and intensely that it almost sounds desperate.. ]

Gorgug, this is-- [ Now he's forced to find words for all of this once more, but apparently it helps when he's spurred into it with the threat of Gorgug being made to feel bad hanging over his head. It's hard to just say it off the cuff, but this must be doing it for him, since he does manage to continue after a moment of sputtering. ] It's so useful! And I mean, it is incredibly clear that you really had me in mind when you were making it, and what would be useful to me, and I..

[ Fabian shakes his head.

H-His cheeks aren't lighting up, okay, you're just imagining that. He is NOT looking flustered right now, no way!! ]

I just don't know what to say! You've been having such a hard time, yet you were thinking of me.. [ Look, Fabian may be an attention whore.

But he's not an attention whore who is actually used to getting said attention. Especially now they're no longer at the school he worked incredibly hard to make himself popular at! He's not used to unprompted attention!! ]

[ He would've really been okay with being told that it wasn't what Fabian needed. It would have been more sad to have Fabian try to hide it up, to sputter and say that it's perfect, but for everything about it to be obvious that it wasn't.

Gorgug gets the sputter, and he gets the validation, but it isn't under any falsehood. Though at first there's a lingering doubt, a worry if his thoughtfulness and consideration for Fabian really did come through (is it the same, when it's not real clothes being put on Fabian's body? Or that the invisible illusory effect might not be the best); the sort of things any person might fret over when getting a gift for a friend.

But it's pushed aside, or rather: it disappears. When it turns to him, about him, his hard time. A comment made over and over, felt for days. A state of being that still follows Gorgug, and that he, too, still recognises. He's still trying to be better. Still trying to recover.

His hands are empty, and he looks at them, palms facing up at him. Looking at Fabian, but letting his gaze drift down, as slowly: ]

...I've been trying to think of you since I woke back up from that nightmare I was in. I know... I haven't been able to show it, but I've been wanting to thank you... I've wanted to be a good friend the same way you've been doing for me, even after everything that happened. [ ... ] Even after I... kissed you...

[ There's a way that his voice trails, his tone unfinished, the and that hangs there never coming into being. He's definitely not looking at Fabian then, but he does, after; white pupils looking at him in that mild expression of his, but nothing puzzled or perplexed.

His brow is furrowed, his eyes sad. Lips pinched together before he continues to speak. ]

You've never let me feel like a freak. And I know-- taking care of me hasn't been easy. I know you and Riz are trying your best, and you had a hard time, too. We all did.

But we're friends. And this-- this isn't why I made this. [ He looks back down, but this time to the bracelet on Fabian's wrist. Briefly, before- ] I'm trying to catch up. To everything good you've been doing for me. Because you're one of my best friends.

Because I love you.

[ Because of the hundred other reasons why, when all that matters is: because he wants to. ]

[ There's so much to tell Gorgug here. The fact that it's not like he was expecting the other to repay him for what Fabian did - because it only felt natural to him the entire time. Of course he was going to take care of Gorgug after everything that happened. They've been through so much over the past few years, and he's pretty sure this incident was worse than anything else Gorgug had gone through - very temporarily dying included. What sort of friend would Fabian be if he had just left him alone after that? He knows any of their group would have done that for Gorgug.

Or he could tell him that it's not like Fabian had that hard of a time, that it's fine, that he can handle it. Or he could tell him that Gorgug shouldn't be so hard on himself for what happened while he was out of control, since it's not like he could have stopped it even if he would've wanted to. Or he could tell him that Fabian actually doesn't mind the kiss or the rest of it, every single time he thinks back on it.

(That the I love you gives him a weird feeling in his stomach he can't explain.)

But he doesn't. He's pretty sure Gorgug knows Fabian didn't expect repayment, and he's also pretty sure Gorgug knows that Fabian doesn't blame him, since he's expressed that plenty of times already. And the kiss-- Well, Gorgug clearly sees that as a solely bad thing outside of his own control, so it's not like Fabian is going to be the one to make it awkward by saying he doesn't mind, especially when Fabian himself doesn't really know either what that means.

So Fabian doesn't say a word. He stares up from the bracelet, over towards Gorgug while the other speaks. His gaze rests there for a few moments, for a moment even after the other is done talking.

Then - instead of speaking - he reaches out. He wraps his arms around Gorgug, pulling the other into a hug. It's a little reminiscent of that time back in the forest of the Nightmare King, back when hugging Gorgug felt more natural than anything. More natural than speaking. Like a hug could convey everything that Fabian's mouth and heart could not.

For a moment there are no words. There's just the hug, and then Fabian speaking up after what feels like an eternity - but still not letting go. ]

You're a good friend.

[ I've wanted to be a good friend. Even after everything that happened.

Like Gorgug has ever stopped being one. ]

You've never been a bad friend to me. Everything I've done, it's just because I-- [ For a moment he almost echoes the same words back at Gorgug, but it does something weird to his tongue, to his chest, and Fabian feels like he's tripping over the words in his own mouth before switching tracks. ] Because I wanted to. Because we're friends.

[ They've been hugging more, lately. If they count the half-hugs, the arms slung across shoulders and close contact that's similar, then it would come even more: there's a lot of intimacy in Bloodrush, apparently. But still, these sorts of hugs--warm and full and gripping, seeking and needing--are rare, even now. It doesn't shock Gorgug into freezing, into doing nothing; he only doesn't want to interrupt his friend, to figure out if it might be a quick thing, before Gorgug reaches to put his arms around Fabian in turn.

He's a good friend, he says. And Gorgug's glad. And as Fabian speaks more, settles on the words that he does, Gorgug lowers his head to meet against the side of Fabian's. He allows himself a certain comfort he has to be brief or careful about: he squeezes his arms around Fabian, the same way the other is doing to him, now.

But there's a difference between when Gorgug wraps his arms around someone tight, and when they do that to him. There's no intention to hurt Fabian; there's only the intention to express himself back, to give in his embrace what Fabian's giving in his. And Fabian is one of their few friends who can handle it, with his physique and endurance, enough to allow Gorgug to sink against him in a way he doesn't always get to (or not for long); to say to him, his mouth close to his ear: ]

Thank you.

[ And it's a thank you that means so much, even his tone as he speaks the two words encompassing it, speaking it. Thank you, for saying so; thank you, for letting me be your friend.

Thank you, for sticking by me.

He'll let Fabian move back when he's ready, of course. ...maybe with some delay, because--just let Gorgug know when enough is enough, bro. You're actually very comfy, see. ]

[ There's definitely some delay in ending the hug. It helps that there's in private. Fabian may have ended toxic masculinity and all that, but he hasn't fully ended a slight sense of embarrassment over hugging too long in front of other people..

But considering they don't exactly have an audience here, Fabian allows himself to linger in the hug for a moment. For his own sake, since there's something comfortable about having Gorgug's physical proximity to near - partially because he's a friend, and partially because he's one of the few people Fabian can hug who's actually bigger than him, and there's something safe and comforting about that - but also for Gorgug's own sake.

Even if the other is doing a little better now, surely he can still use hugs. Especially from Fabian. If he proves he's still more than willing to touch Gorgug, then who could actually be disgusted by Gorgug at this point, right?

But after that delay he does finally pulls back, moving out of Gorgug's grip once the other senses the first signals and relents. Fabian is smiling though once his face is visible to the other. ]

This bracelet is really cool. [ He says, holding it up. Not like he has to show it off to Gorgug, since the other has seen it for longer than Fabian himself has, but-- you know!! Still!!

If it wasn't for the fact he needs to get attuned to it first, he'd start showing off with it already, just to show Gorgug that his work was worth it. But since that's still impossible, he allows his own hand to drop back to his side. ]

I wasn't aware you could already make things like these. [ Mostly because Cloaca had been..

.. hmm.. Ahh...

...

You know what, Fabian is going to be nice and not even finish that thought to himself. Despite the fact that Gorgug can't hear it in Fabian's own mind. ]

You've become such a real artificer, man.

[ No, bro, you might want to reconsider that thought.

Because this moment might be nice, yes. Gorgug's feeling nice and appreciative after the hug, and he feels the same about their friendship right now. He sits comfortably in his spot, only fiddling with the prototype to switch it off and to return to his normal clothing, since--the demonstration is unnecessary now. He starts to undoing the strap, somewhat distracted by Fabian's remark, though it's only after he's gotten it off that he considers what Fabian is saying.

.... ]

Is my shit cool in the future too?

[ What is their difference in time, again...? He's never bothered to figure it out, but right now, it seems relevant: to himself. Is Fabian unaware of what he can (or is willing to) do, or-- well, actually, Gorgug isn't surprised by that first, since why would Fabian know...

But surely he's seen some of his gear in action, maybe? Right? Right?? Bro? ]

[ ...

Bro.

He was trying to make this moment wholesome, bro. Especially since Fabian is really happy with what Gorgug made him, despite any and all other feelings about this place and his current situation. He wanted to focus on that - on the gift, on their friendship, on what Gorgug means to him, since surely the other could always use a little boost in his recovery, no matter how far along in it he is at this point.

But then Gorgug just has to ask a question with a pretty awkward answer. He tries to think about what Gorgug told him happened last back home, and then tries to think of what happened between that and the last thing Fabian remembered..

.. and it's awkward. It's just awkward, bro! ]

Well, uh..

[ Do you get that it's awkward, Gorgug. Usually you're the standing guy emoji, not Fabian, yet everything about Fabian is so much like the standing guy emoji right now. He's fiddling a little with his new bracelet just to have something to direct all his awkward energy at. ]

There was only one real fight between what you last remember and what I last remember, you know. And in that one, we-- uh. We didn't quite see each other.

[ This is him desperately trying to avoid having to get into the whole 'getting possessed by Riz's weird boyfriend' thing, okay! Not to mention that he doesn't want Gorgug to think he isn't cool back home?! He's trying to build up a bro here, not break him down! ]

[ bro what do you mean you don't know about everything he makes in the future

Isn't this such a simple question? Fabian's talking about his creations, and how he seems to think this is the best thing he's ever made, and this surely can't tip Gorgug off about the state of Fabian's upkeep on his inventions. Surely not.

A good thing it doesn't, even though Fabian's answer is enough to disappoint him. He gives a small ] Oh [ and looks back down at the bracelet, but does manage to bring reason into this. ] We don't have a lot of reasons to fight if we're not doing schoolwork.

[ For the team ups. And he doesn't even think to ask what that fight was about, mainly because the point is meant to be about Gorgug's inventions, and that's all he cares about right now. It's a bummer, but-- ]

I'll make something you can see. [ There. That's the solution. After all: ] I can make something for Riz. I bet he'd like more bullets. I'll make cool bullets.

[ Which Fabian will absolutely be able to see! ...look, nobody ever said that Gorgug's good at thinking up stuff on the spot, alright. Take the easy escape. ]

[ At least that does bring Fabian back to the topic itself again - smiling a little at Gorgug. It may not be the usual wide smile Fabian carries on his face, but his current expression still seems pretty genuine, especially when he looks back down at the invention that's currently resting on his wrist. ]

If anyone could make cool bullets, it's you.

[ He has faith in you, bro!! You are a cool artificer, okay, don't let anyone say anything else. ]

But.. make stuff for yourself too, alright? [ Don't think he isn't noticing how you're just talking about stuff for him and Riz here!! Fabian sees it!! ] It's the three of us here, yeah? We can't have one third of our team be the only one who isn't getting supported by some cool invention.

[ Gorgug.. Make yourself cool! You can do it!! ]

[ Huh, an invention for himself... he thinks about it, but what would he like to make? ...something that would be useful in this place, so just making a cool weapon isn't going to be too helpful, potentially. ]

...I'll take a look in my books, [ he decides, nodding at Fabian as he says it. ] But I still want to make Riz something too. I don't know if it counts as a birthday if you don't go through a full year, but his birthday was recently. And I don't think he got to celebrate it.

[ Since, you know, maybe there's a chance Riz did that without Gorgug? A thing he is going to think right now. But Gorgug knows Riz's birthday since--theirs is in the same month. Gorgug would know, once he checks a calendar. ]

I can get him a cake, too.

[ A late birthday cake. ]

[ ...

Wait. Hold on.

Fabian's brain is slowly - very slowly - working towards something here. Something that makes his eye widen when he realizes the connection he's making. After all, if Riz's birthday was during that whole mess, and Gorgug and Riz's birthdays are so close to each other, then-- T-Then--!! ]

Dude!

[ Look at Fabian. He's straightening up. He's jumping to attention. He is suddenly alert, awake, alive, enthusiastic!! Forget what Gorgug gave him, or all other talks. Forget Riz's birthday - but only for a second, because Fabian certainly has to get back to that one too! ]

It was your birthday!

[ It looks like Fabian is only realizing this now, and.. yes, he is.

But to be fair to him, he has had a lot on his mind over the past while, okay. He was so busy thinking about Gorgug's well being that he had no time to think about Gorgug's birthday as well! ]

[ Whoa, is Fabian realising that it was recently Riz's birthday?

This is where Gorgug's mind goes, if it goes anywhere during the way that Fabian suddenly shoots up. It also might be something else, so Gorgug isn't entirely jumping to conclusions--because it turns out he was wrong anyway, since the one calculation being made in Fabian's mind is the one Gorgug didn't consider.

His own birthday.

Which, Gorgug's features start to narrow as he squints into that familiar, unsure look... ]

Yeah, but... I had my birthday before I showed up here not that long ago. Riz showed up here around spring break, right? [ Since, you know. Spring Break and all. ] So he's...had his actual birthday by now. His birthday would've come around by now.

[ And that means that Riz actually missed it! This is a bigger deal than Gorgug getting a birthday, okay. He had one already! They all had ice cream!! ]

Yeah, but--!!

[ Fabian's desire to speak on this is apparently so intense that he's already speaking before his mind has had the chance to form a full sentence. His eyes are wide, his hand gesturing starting up - all the typical signs of a dramatic Fabian moment coming on. ]

Even if his birthday makes more logical sense, it's still your birthday too! It still exists! It still happened! I mean, when I first showed up here, I also celebrate my birthday at the same time as Adaine-- which made no sense, since rather than a few days until my birthday, it was more like a few months back home! [ Yes, he's gesturing the entire time he's talking.

It's a good thing Gorgug didn't make a bracelet that was motion-activated. This proves why it would've been a total disaster. ]

But since she and I had a joint birthday party, you guys deserve one too! Like-- We need cake! And decorations! And I have to hurry and get you guys gifts..!

[ He's getting wild now, Gorgug. This is the sort of manic behavior that's almost more like Riz than like Fabian. Maybe their birthday parties are just that important to him, and he's only now realized that they're missing out.. ]

[ Truly, this is the kind of mathematical problem going on that Gorgug has never seen before... he might be able to pretend to see Fabian's reasoning, but it's like somebody making a long equation to explain why 2+2=5, actually.

Because Gorgug already had his birthday back in Spyre. It's not his fault that Etraya was behind on the dates.

But with Fabian being this energised by the whole thing (for good or bad), Gorgug isn't going to try and throw logic a second time at a wall that doesn't want it to stick. He's just going to let Fabian work this out himself. Maybe ask: ]

What are you gonna get us?

[ ...look, he's curious?? Even if those things are meant to be a surprise! ]

[ It's amazing just how capable of Fabian is of spiraling all by himself. He hardly even needs anything to fuel him, honestly. Gorgug's question is so simple, and yet it seems to throw Fabian for a loop in the middle of his already existing spiral - stopping with moving for a moment, his mouth hanging open a little, as if he's only just realizing this problem here. ]

I, uh..

[ C-Crap! Gorgug got him such a sweet gift, which means Fabian really ought to give them something similarly thoughtful in return, and he also has to figure out how to get said thoughtful things in this place where his resources are more limited than back home, and, and--

He kind of looks like he's about to explode, actually. Like there's some valve that has to be opened to let out steam. ]

I-I'll have to think about it! [ He wants it to be something good, Gorgug. You don't understand. :( ] I mean-- Isn't there something you've been really wanting to have here with you in this place?

[ Gorgug would reassure Fabian.....if he were a different person. Gorgug, that is, but also, the fact is: Fabian is just like this. So the fact that he's having a self-inflicted gift crisis is Fabian's own fault, honestly, that Gorgug isn't really sure that there's anything that can be done about it.

Except helping in small ways. And sure, Fabian asks him what he wants, but he's looking upwards and giving it some thought... ]

...me and Riz talked about ways we can be better equipped in this place, and I think he's feeling it how he can't use magic, or doesn't have more stuff to play around with. I can help you get him gear-- I have books. I think Riz would like something he can use.

[ Right? That seems like a Riz sort of gift. Useful, practical. ]

Okay. [ The initial 'okay', where Fabian is taking it in. ] .. okay. [ The second one, where it truly settles in. ] O-- Okay.

[ The hesitant third okay, when Fabian is realizing all the implications of this. He does think Gorgug is right, which is exactly why Fabian made those business cards and the suitcase for him in freshmen year - he thought that Riz would like something he could actively use, and he did really seem into the whole detective thing. Even if Fabian still found it kind of strange back then.

But of course Riz would want something practical here too. Especially when he apologized to Fabian before. Like he wasn't good enough. Which is the most bullshit idea ever, because Fabian absolutely knows it's not any fault of Riz's capabilities that shit is going wrong here.

It's just that this place sucks. ]

You're right. [ The gears in his brain are turning. Fabian is trying his best here.

Don't think you're escaping the presents though, Gorgug. He'll get to you in a second, mister! He just-- He first has to think about this!! ]

So-- Nothing for the things The Ball is already naturally good at, then. He doesn't need help with that. [ How could Riz possibly sneak even better? It's impossible. ] Perhaps something offensive? So he has a magical option next to his gun and sword when things get dangerous.

[ Something offensive is good.... do they want to go the magic route? Gorgug brought up that point, but he's thinking about the issues they had in Moorecroft, but also what causes him--and them all--trouble here. ]

Do you remember the tech stuff he had with him when the electronics attacked at the Frosty Faire? [ The fucking electronics, Fabian. ] We can get him something like that-- spy gear.

We can throw in some weapons, too. I've been reading about-- [ he makes a throwing motion ] EMPs.

[ You know that acronym, right, Fabian. ]

[ ...

Fabian is quiet.

Suspiciously quiet.

Because of course there's a reason behind his silence. There always is. If Fabian isn't yapping, it means that there's something going on in his mind, and often not anything too good. As is the case right now - he's trying to figure out if he knows what EMPs are, realizing he doesn't, trying to figure out how bad it is if he would admit to not knowing what they are-- A whole lot of social mental calculation going on here. Fabian has so much face to save, okay! ]

Ah. Yeah.

[ ... ]

EMPs.

[ .......... ]

O-Of-- Of course! [ Does Fabian think that just saying that intensely will magically convince Gorgug that Fabian totally knows what the other is talking about here? ] You are right, I should definitely get him an EMP!

[ He's just digging his own grave now. ]

Edited 2025-01-02 14:33 (UTC)

[ It's a good thing that Gorgug doesn't mind sitting in silence, isn't it? Nor that he questions the silence, despite this being Fabian. But it's for a good reason: this is about Riz's birthday box, and that deserves careful consideration. That's why Gorgug is nodding as soon as Fabian comes to his conclusion, showing how much he knows about EMPs. ]

Get him lots of EMPs.

[ That's right, Fabian. You've got it. ]

I will!

[ He HAS got it! Another win for Fabian! Another great idea from HIM!! He's pumping a fist in the air, that's how excited and ready he is for this.

.. until Fabian realizes that there's no way he's going to be able to fake this - especially when maybe EMPs may be something real nerdy if Gorgug read up on them. And then who the hell is Fabian going to ask what it's supposed to be in this place? He doesn't know any nerds here other than the two nerds he has to get birthday presents for!

This is a mess.

His energetic posture disappears a little - though he's still trying very hard to make it seem like it's there, mind you! He sucks in a breath, trying really hard to look super cool and dignified as he asks: ]

What are EMPs?

[ Like this is a normal question to ask for a guy who pretended to totally know what that is only a moment ago. Nothing weird here, Gorgug! Don't overthink it! In fact, don't think at all! ]

Oh. Well, they're just burst of electricity, or electromagnetic energy, and I read you can put them into grenades to shut down electronics, specifically, and maybe you can put them into other kind of weaponry with the right materials, too...

[ Look at this, Gorgug explaining, even though Fabian was acting like he knew what it was a moment ago. But even with Gorgug's explanation, he's speaking in that way where it's a new subject for him, or at least under the terms that he's using.

....and even so, he was willing to let Fabian act like he totally knew what he was talking about. He could've had it all. He could have gotten away with it! ]

We're dealing with robots, and electronics, so we should have shit that fucks them up. And maybe shit we can hack with. Riz should.

[ Because he said 'we' but that was basically their conversation a while back, okay! And Riz can take precedent because he's a special birthday boy. ]

[ Oh. For a moment the thought so it's nerd shit goes through Fabian's head, considering how little he knows about electronic things like that. After all, isn't the fun part of the grenade supposed to be the explosion? Why would you want it to do nerd shit on the side?

.. on the other hand, Gorgug does seem rather convinced of this idea, and he does know way more about it than Fabian. Maybe he should just follow Gorgug's lead on this one. Because Riz is a nerd, so he would appreciate nerd shit gifts..

Prob.. a.. bly..?

Still, that leaves another problem entirely that makes Fabian frown. ]

But where do I even get that?

[ Gorgug. Do you think this looks like a guy who knows where to get hacker equipment? This guy? Fabian Aramais Seacaster? ]

I can't make those things the way you can. [ Triple classing may be a bit much. Especially to a class that actually involves reading. That's your personal hell, Gorgug, not his. ]

[ How do you get it...? Gorgug looks at Fabian, blankly. ]

How did you get the Hangman?

[ Isn't the answer obvious, Fabian. Unless Fabian has been so anti-companion bots, so anti-Aurora he found a way to bring the Hangman to Etraya through some other means that didn't involve points?

Which Gorgug would like to know about, thanks. ]

[ ...

Guess whose frown is growing even bigger? That's right. It's Fabian's. At this rate it's going to swallow his entire forehead. Even his shoulders are slumping at the very thought. ]

Come on, Gorgug. Who is going to be enough of an idiot to give out the very weapons necessary to defeat themselves?

Edited 2025-01-05 14:56 (UTC)

I mean, whatever they give us, we'll have to make upgrades...

[ That much Gorgug was thinking already, considering what they're up against. But at least Gorgug has gone back to his natural state of looking worried as he thinks. What to do... ]

We can get pieces to put together Riz's birthday present-- I can do that for you. But a wristband like the one Riz has got back home, I... [ hrrrm. ] It'll take me a while to make something like it. The grenades will be easy. [ Easier. ]

We'll have to get Riz's arm size, too. [ Gorgug pats his forearm. ] So I know how snug to make it.

Well, I can do that much..

[ That shouldn't be too hard, especially not with how much time the two of them spend around each other. Fabian is pretty sure he could even get it done without Riz truly realizing what has happened - because they can't ruin the surprise!

But if Fabian still sounds a little bit awkward at all.. Well, it's not since he's doubting the fact he just spoke about, he's still pretty confident about that one. It's just that he feels a little bit bad at the thought of Gorgug putting together all of Riz's birthday presents.. He'll have to think of something he can somehow get his hands on or make too, despite having very little ability in that department.

Fabian raises a hand, rubbing the back of his head, like it might suddenly make an idea rise to mind.

(It doesn't.)

Which is why he instead asks-- ]

What about you then? [ Don't think he has forgotten it was your birthday too, PAL!!! Even if you say Riz's birthday is more important! ] Isn't there anything you have been wanting?

[ Look at this fool, feeling bad about letting Gorgug do things he likes. As if Gorgug's got anything better to do than to help his two friends.

It's better than being asked what he wants, anyway. He thinks about it, and... what does he want? ]

Uh... [ He...looks down at his hands, then around his lab. Sure, there's equipment he could ask for, but it would feel weird to ask for the kind of stuff he wants for a gift when... it'll probably cost a lot. ]

...let me think about it.

[ --He found it. The cheat code...!! ]

[ To be fair to Fabian, he's being good and staying quiet while Gorgug thinks. Maybe he's finally realizing that some people - .. okay, mostly Gorgug, especially Gorgug - need a little bit more time to think about these things than Fabian himself does.

But when Gorgug slowly looks around, and then says that, as if he hasn't just thought about it.. Fabian's facial expression shifts to a point where there's almost visible question marks hanging in the air above him as he makes that face. ]

Do you really not know?

[ Gorgug?? Surely you have some desires in you, right? Friend? Pal?? ]

There's nothing you have been missing in this place?

[ yeah he's got a desire in him alright-- ]

Yeeahhh... [ But have a dragged out yeah, that already sounds the but upcoming. ] But we're running on a point system where I don't know what anything costs. What if I ask for something expensive? A lot of my tools would be expensive back on Spyre.

[ And they even have to pay postage on them! He's not getting everything he needs from Elmville. And sure, the cost to his points haven't been that unreasonable for some of the equipment he's gotten already, but he doesn't know what it's going to come to when Fabian puts in a purchase. What if it's like--50 points? For a magical screwdriver? ]

So what if it's expensive?

[ If Gorgug knows Fabian at all, this reply should not be surprising. In fact, it sounds like Fabian himself didn't have to think for even a moment before he was already saying this - like it just comes naturally to him.

Like Fabian has ever had to consider the costs of things, even here. It's simply impossible. ]

Do you think that I wouldn't buy you something expensive? [ There's almost a little bit of a sense of determination in his tone. Like this is a challenge Gorgug is posing him. A matter of proving their friendship.

And Fabian would never fail a challenge like that!! ]

[ Oh, right. Fabian is rich.

Granted, Gorgug never got that Fabian is rich, since it comes off him like a cologne. But does he know how rich the guy is or isn't in Etraya? What does Fabian get with his points? Gorgug never asks either him or Riz...

But... ]

Well... okay. [ It takes a moment for him to come to that 'okay', but there it is. He should let Fabian buy him something, right? ] I guess....a van would be cool. Or my van? Can I get my own van?

[ Fabian got his motorbike, right...? ]

It's kinda busted still, but I can fix it up. Now that I don't have homework.

Of course you can get the van!

[ .. granted, Fabian was so ready to go along with absolutely any request coming from Gorgug that he isn't thinking too hard about this one - just repeating what Gorgug is asking for since he was ready to do just that.

It looks like he's only really thinking about what Gorgug just asked after Fabian hears the words in his own voice - stopping to blink for a moment. ]

The Hangman is likely going to be weird about it though. [ Apparently that's the thing Fabian realized after a second... Not that it's a protest. If that's what Gorgug wants, then Gorgug is going to get it!

Fabian is just going to have to soothe his pet-bike-familiar. ]

[ ...You know, this does bring up a rather curious point that he's never thought to ask, or did and then forgot to: ]

Does he get weird about other people's vans?

[ Is this just a Hangman thing, or specifically to do with the Hangvan? Is it because of Zaphriel? A Heaven versus Hell situation?? ]

[ There's a slight moment of thought, but then: ]

I don't know. As far as I know, he has not exactly been around that many vans. [ Especially when they have never really needed another van for transportation when the Hangvan was a thing.. And when Fabian is by himself, he can just drive to places on the Hangman..

Though Fabian does suggest: ]

Maybe he is just jealous.

[ Of it getting Fabian's attention? Gorgug's attention? Anyone's attention?? Who knows. ]

[ The Hangman being jealous of the Hangvan...... ]

...we can make him into a van.

[ This is what Fabian means by jealous, right. This is totally a thing that can be fixed. ]

I don't--

[ He was about to say that he doesn't think that of all things is the problem, but apparently Fabian is just so dumbstruck by what Gorgug is telling him here that he has to pause for a moment.

And blink. Blankly blinking. ]

Gorgug, you think the Hangman's problem is the fact that he isn't a van? [ ???

Bro, how does your mind work. Fabian doesn't get it. It's too wild for him. ]

You don't think so? Maybe he wants to know what it's like. Maybe he wants to be big.

[ Fabian, maybe it's his dream!!! You don't know! Do you?? ]

You don't think he'd like being a van for a while?

[ Does Fabian know?

Fabian feels like he knows, but on the other hand, it's not like he's ever asked the Hangman if he'd like to be big. That's not just something you ask someone else, okay. Not even your pet motorcycle!

So rather than going into that question specifically, he decides to point out the next most logical thing. ]

What's so much better about being a van, compared to being a motorcycle? [ Fabian thinks the latter is definitely more cool, for one.. ]

You're bigger. You can listen to music. You can put the heater on and you're surrounded by walls and can put stuff inside it.

[ ... ]

And my van can go on water.

[ You want logic, Fabian? Are you ready for this? Were you ready for this?! ]

The Hangman can do all of that too!

[ ...

Well, maybe not really-- ]

If someone cast Enlarge on him, he would be just as big as the Hangvan! [ These were not the conditions they were working with, and Fabian likely knows it. But stuff like this brings out the competitive spirit, even if Fabian truly doesn't care when it comes down to it.

It's just him getting swept along in the moment. Like usually. ]

[ Gorgug is listening, Fabian. He is listening and looking at you, the way you're acting in defence of your Hangman, and he's coming to one conclusion.

He says it with a nod: ]

You're jealous of my van, too. It's okay.

[ It's okay, bro. He knows he's got a nice van, too. ]

[ See, Gorgug is clearly not on point with that conclusion.

And yet it looks like he is. Because it would be so easy to just calm down and react to this in a normal way to prove that Gorgug is wrong, but of course that's not what Fabian does. Instead he starts looking more and more baffled with each passing moment, until his jaw is practically on the floor. ]

What?!

[ A true 'the lady doth protest too much' attitude going on here.. Even though Fabian absolutely means every single word of what he's saying here.. That's why he's so baffled! It's the conclusion Gorgug arrived at out of nowhere! ]

Why would I be jealous of a van?!

It's okay, you shouldn't! Just because it turns into a boat and you love boats, I know it's gotta be a lot for you!

[ Clearly, as part of being part-pirate. This ruffles the feathers of Fabian's non-existent parrot, which is also Fabian. And Gorgug tries to speak empathically, even bringing his hands out to make soothing, it's okay gestures. ]

I won't tell anyone, [ he reassures; because he can see how embarrassing this must be for Fabian! ] It's between us. It's okay. There's no competition. Zaphriel never looks down on you and the Hangman.

...

Except for the fact he's part van.

[ And because the Hangman is smaller. Never forget. ]

Gorgug-- you're being ridiculous!

[ Sorry to make it personal, bro. But Fabian isn't sure how to get it across to the other otherwise, since it seems that Gorgug has fully convinced himself at this point that Fabian is upset about something he isn't even upset by. Or rather-- that he's jealous of a van. Which is ridiculous. ]

It is a vehicle. I am a person! [ Don't let the Hangman hear that one. No offense towards Fabian's good boy intended here!!! He just doesn't know how else to tell Gorgug this, and he's still so worked up, and still so loud-- sorry for your poor eardrums, Gorgug. ]

Besides, I, Fabian Aramais Seacaster, am not jealous of anyone or anything in any world out there!

[ ... says the guy who was literally jealous over one of the bots holding Gorgug's hand.

Don't think about it too hard. ]

[ Oh no, oh no. Fabian's pride has been brushed against. Look at how defensive he's being!

Gorgug knows he can't save this. This isn't something he can reassure and comfort Fabian about--he won't accept that their relationship won't change, even if Fabian is jealous of his van. It's a topic for another day, and for this day- ]

Okay. Yeah. You've never been jealous of anything?

[ ...

He didn't need to sound so unsure about repeating that, but maybe he also didn't need to stop right after that, like he's trying to think about if that could be true... ]

...never?

[ Never??? ]

[ He's puffing out his chest. ]

I am Fabian Aramais Seacaster!

[ Yes, Fabian. You said this literally ten seconds ago. Gorgug is not deaf and can in fact hear you.

But apparently it's important to him to repeat it. Dramatic effect and all that. It goes along with the chest puffing. ]

What could I possibly be jealous of? What out there is as great as I am?

[ On one hand, Gorgug should've known Fabian would be led down this route by the nature of the guy he is. But also, he's still being torn by the question presented, even if it's meant as a hypothetical because there is no other answer except for 'nothing' or 'none'.

There's got to be something, right? Gorgug kinda wants to think about it, but at the same time... ]

I guess-- nothing? And that's a good thing that you, that you don't let yourself get dragged down by comparing yourself to other people or other things that could possibly be better than you if you, if you sat down and thought about it for too long.

[ This is meant to be in agreement and encouraging.

This is what this sounds like fumbling out of Gorgug's mouth and not like he's trying to imply the opposite of what Fabian's stating, right. Right?? ]

you are invited to (1) cool party at the maximum on 12/13
from 7pm-???
pet rock contest, best decorated rock wins a prize
party games, drinks, sleepover, and a SNES!

rsvp with heather mason

ps: if you cannot come, donations for the cause are happily accepted

[ During this thread: ]

if i die it's chrollolucifer's fault

[ It's such a good thing that Fabian has finally taken to checking his messages a little bit more quickly, considering how low his trust in this place is, and.. maybe that's a good thing, considering the nature of this text?

Maybe it's a bad thing, since Fabian is definitely taking it very seriously, immediately shooting a text back. ]

what do you mean

[ ??? BRO?? Explain? ]

you're in that post too
doesn't he sound weird
look at our exchange
he suddenly went "meet me"

i think i'm signing up for something

[ And guess where he's going. ]

[ ?????????????

Gorgug is pretty good at making question marks appear in Fabian's mind, sure, but this might be extensive even compared to the usual. ]

then don't go alone???
seriously
isn't that an easy solution
when have we as bad kids ever gone into any suspicious situation alone

[ Don't answer that question. ]

i can't tell you where i'm going
it's secret
they could be watching this

reading it

[ Watching. Reading. Same difference!!! ]

who's "they"????????

[ Granted, Fabian can think of some obvious answers, but.. you know. This is Gorgug. Gorgug's mind palace is often a place that's difficult to discern for Fabian. It could mean anything, half of the time. ]

so you think this is a dangerous situation
and you are just going to walk into it by yourself

well it's not that dangerous
probably

[ Probably.

Gorgug could keep trying to explain this via text message, but the more he tries typing, the more of a pain it is. So- ]

can you call me

[ Unfortunately for Gorgug, before he's able to type and send the last part, there's already the blinking notification that Fabian is typing, probably something filled with caps lock--

But the notification disappears when Gorgug does send that last line. Caught him just in time before he sent the entire message to you, bro.

So Fabian calls, and the second Gorgug picks up, there's already an-- ]

Explain yourself. [ Gorgug, do you realize how much you're worrying him right now. If Fabian's hair wasn't already grey, it would be turning grey right about now!! ]

I'm fairly sure he won't kill me.

[ Hi there, Fabian. You're sounding serious there, so Gorgug is going to go in with what's probably the most important point. Or so Gorgug assumes. ]

We've met a couple of times. He's just...some guy? I think he likes reading. [ Or that could be someone else he's mistaking him with. Anyway. ] His writing's just weird, so he gives off weird vibes. You know...you see it, don't you?

[ Right? Right? That's what Gorgug's talking about! In a relatively calm voice. He's getting to talk as he walks.

There's the sound of shuffling, as Gorgug rolls his shoulders. It's cooold-- ]

How's dance practice going?

[ Anyway, so let's talk about you, Fabian. Can we do that. ]

[ It's a good thing Fabian doesn't have to use his hands for anything else right now. Because as he hears Gorgug speak up in that typical Gorgug way, where he keeps mentioning random things and sounds so calm, Fabian is raising his hands up to his own face to just rub at it.

In exasperation, yes. At least Gorgug can't see it since it's a call, so Fabian can take his face rubbing nice and slow over here. As long as the emotion lasts. ]

Do you really think I can talk about dancing right now?

[ W-Woah. A Fabian who can't talk about dancing, when he loves to hear himself talk? That really must mean it's serious, though Fabian's deadly serious tone from a moment ago is sliding into something a little more whiny at this point. ]

Don't you get that I'm worried about you?

S-sorry. I do. [ ... ] Thank you.

[ There's a little stutter, trying to hurry to answer Fabian, and in his defence, his tone does come out apologetic. ]

I texted you about it because... I thought you'd like to know. [ A beat. ] If he's got anything good to say, I'll tell you. After I'm done. And I'll tell you where I went. I just don't want to-- over this.

[ And maybe it's stupid, overly cautious when he regularly isn't, but a lot's been bugging Gorgug more and more lately, and it's been coming out like this. Cautious, suspicious. A frustration that he doesn't know what to do with, so he just ends up bottling it. ]

[ It's the tone that stops Fabian. He doesn't want to be overly aggressive here - especially not when Gorgug is sounding like that. It seems like both of them are just worried about this in their own way. ]

.. okay. [ His tone is milder now. It sounds more like a compromise, or maybe acceptance. Giving in to the fact that Gorgug wants to do this in this specific way, even if it's not exactly the way Fabian would prefer. ]

You are right though. That I'd like to know. If something happened to you out of nowhere.. [ His voice trails off, but perhaps - even to Gorgug? Maybe? Perhaps? K-King, pick up on some implications, you can do it, king? - it's obvious that he means to say that he would freak out.

It's not even something changed by recent events between them. Even as just friends, Fabian would have freaked. ]

It feels like lately has been the most alright we three have been for a while. As much as we can be in this place, anyway. [ Which is to say-- It's not ideal. There's still stuff weighing on them.

But at least no one is recovering from very active recent trauma. ]

I want to make sure that doesn't change.

[ Not in the sense of 'Gorgug shouldn't meet shady people', more in the sense of 'Gorgug better not get hurt or Fabian will have to STAB SOMEONE!!!' ]

[ Gorgug can pick up some implications here, for once!! But even without their recent developments, that would go without saying then as it would now. It's actually difficult, figuring out if there's a deeper meaning to the context of Fabian's worrying. Is it because they got together, or is it because they're good friends?

...even Gorgug feels himself toeing the line, or testing said line. Isn't this why he messaged Fabian specifically? Instead of messaging both Fabian and Riz...? ]

It won't. I think-- this might help. Knowing there's people out there taking this seriously. It doesn't feel like... there's a lot of people we can talk about this with, outside each other.

[ Etraya. Their situation. Gorgug's willing to walk out to the derelict church for this reason, and because he doesn't actually think Chrollo's going to do anything to him ((maybe)). But while he could end it right there, he hadn't missed the compromise in Fabian's tone--or forgotten the worry that had been there, the worry that persists.

Gorgug pauses, before: ]

You know, if we plan to meet up... I, um... I'll do whatever you want, so...if I have to do something for you, then I have to make it back so we can keep our plans. Since I said I would.

[ H-he's trying to be smooth, Fabian...! Or flirty.... flirty and suggestive. Is it working, Fabian? Are you getting what Gorgug is putting down? King? ]

[ ...

At first there's nothing from Fabian's end of the call.

But then he breathes, and-- the air turns into a slight laugh. It's nothing too long or too boisterous, more like a slight laugh just escaped him naturally, the longer he thought about what Gorgug was telling him here. ]

I was being serious! [ At least it doesn't really sound offended with the remnants of that laugh still slightly on his tongue. ] Are you trying to bribe me with a kiss? Is that what this is?

[ Please land... please let his flirt land!!!!

Is the panic Gorgug goes through when he at first gets nothing but silence. But then a laugh comes, and that's a-- good thing? Yes, a good thing, even if Fabian is trying to go for a faux offence. But Gorgug knows Fabian's voice well enough to figure out he's more amused than anything bad. ]

It doesn't have to be one kiss. Unless what you want is one kiss? [ A singular kiss for a boyfriend? ] It's a bribe for me, too. It means I have to come back. I owe you a kiss.

[ If he keeps repeating this plan, Fabian will understand its genius. ]

[ That's totally not how it works. And it's not like Fabian is suddenly not worried at all anymore about what the other is doing, but..

.. well, the cute flirting is very effective despite that, okay. How can he say no to this? To the idea of someone being so eager to get back to him just because of a kiss?

This time there's way less of a pause before he's answering: ]

So you're saying I can pick anything I want?

Yeah. [ ... ] But I get to agree with it.

[ Look. Did he hurry to give that 'Yeah' because his mind is on kissing and getting Fabian to agree with him? Yes. Did he also know there's a chance he could be selling his soul to some unknown contract by not putting up that reminder to their agreement?

You never know. There's a chance Fabian might be leading him to a trap! If this was Fig or Kristen, letting them pick anything they want would lead to something bizarre. And it wouldn't even have talks of kisses involved.

(Which is fine, but the point still stands!) ]

Get to agree with--

[ Now hold on a moment here!

Fabian isn't going into full huffy dramatic mode, because he is fully aware they are in the middle of flirting, so there is something a little more flustered to his tone than anything else. But he still can't let this pass.

Not even if Gorgug may be about to get himself murdered by some weird stranger. ]

Are you saying you think I would suggest something you might not like? [ Does that sound like him, Gorgug!!! ]

[ Oh no is it bad if he thinks too much for too long about this or if he says yes, what if he says he doesn't know-- ]

I just think consent is...sexy.

[ DO YOU BELIEVE HIM, BRO! DO YOU BELIEVE HIM, KING? ]

What? [ It's kind of hard to place what the exact tone he's using here is trying to convey.

It sounds genuinely caught off guard, but also still a little bit wary in case it's not true, and kind of exasperated if this is true, and-- there's just a lot going on here. Gorgug is making Fabian's brain reset with this one line, apparently.

Especially since there's a noticeable pause between that slight 'what' and Fabian speaking on. ]

Gorgug, you could die and the last thing you want to tell me before that is that you think consent is sexy?!

[ Is he safe? Maybe he's safe---

NO HE'S NOT SAFE, NO IT DIDN'T WORK! Fabian saw right through him and now he needs to work quick!! ]

You can fuck me! [ Sweating! SWEATING! Listen to him talk so quick--! ] I'll suck your dick, you can do whatever you want to me! I'll like it! I'll like anything you want!

[ F-Fabian don't get mad at him!! ]

[ ...

There's a moment of just.. nothing. Nothing but utter silence on Fabian's end of the line, despite the fact that the connection clearly was not broken. It seems like Gorgug just managed to outright stun Fabian into silence somehow. Despite how mouthy the other is at other times.

It's only after a few moments of that silence that Fabian's voice finally comes through again. ]

Is-- Is that the last thing you want to tell me before you die?

[ That's definitely not his real question here, but judging by Fabian's surprised tone, it's more likely that his mind is still trying to wrap itself around just how easily Gorgug is offering himself up to him here. ]

[ On this side is still a very flustered Gorgug. But Fabian actually being stunned to momentary silence and not providing the same energy does give Gorgug a...second. Actually, it comes after Fabian speaks, a question that-- Gorgug finds hard to think about? No, that wouldn't want to be the last thing, but: ]

--It's not going to be the last thing I tell you.

[ It's not smooth. It's not boasting, but what it is, is-- sure. Determined. He's not going to talk about last words because he's not gonna die!!

But there is still some of that fluster with him, where he has to swallow, and say: ]

So think about what you want when I get back.

[ Y-yeah. ]

Oh-- Okay.

[ Look, Fabian would also prefer Gorgug not dying, but he still isn't fully sure of the power of this promise really getting Gorgug through whatever might be happening. And he's still flustered at the same time too. Life is hard.

It's far too late to change anything though. So Fabian tries his best to swallow the worry for the moment, reminding himself that Gorgug is quite literally the strongest person he knows. Physically, anyway. S-Surely it'll be fine, right?

.. or, you know, just in case-- ]

If I haven't heard from you in half an hour, I'm going to storm over. [ Just saying!! ] And I'll take The Ball along too!

[ BETTER HURRY, GORGUG! Unless you want to get embarrassed by your friends rushing in like a riot squad!! ]

[ He never told Fabian where he's going right? Wait, time to use this to his advantage! ]

Yeah, okay. I'll hurry, I'll be quick. I'll message you as soon as I'm done. [ So--! ] I'll go now. See you. I'll see you soon.

[ Is this Gorgug hurrying to end the call before he can shove his foot any deeper down his throat? You betcha!!! We hope Chrollo didn't hear him shout any of that stuff from within the church Gorgug's getting closer to approaching..... ]

[ Does Gorgug get away with it? ]

Alright, fine, see you soon.

[ Yes. Yes, he does.

In fact, Fabian doesn't even realize right after the other ends the call that Gorgug didn't tell him a location. He only realizes it about five minutes later or so, when he's busy making concrete plans to go hunt down Gorgug and tell Riz about it too, letting out a: ]

Damn it!

[ And he just.. prepares himself to go on a wild goose chase with the Hangman if Gorgug doesn't send him anything within the next 30 minutes.

Does Gorgug get back to Fabian before then? ]

[ Gorgug might be hitting that full 30 minutes, but Fabian will get a message on his earpiece: ]

Hey

[

And that's it. That's the entire message. ]

[ Hey?

Just hey?!

There's no text message. Instead there's just Fabian calling, and Gorgug better pick up, because the moment he does there's a very loud-- ]

Is that all you have to say?!

[ There's a weird sound in the background.. If Gorgug thinks about the sound, he may realize it's the sound of a running motorcycle, right along with the whipping wind.

Which means Fabian definitely already left to wildly drive around the city to try and find Gorgug, even still driving as he's calling now. ]

[ Oh? Oh look, Fabian's calling, he's free-- ouch. That's Fabian's voice in his ear, and Gorgug does hear background noise, but-- ]

I didn't know you'd pick up! I'm alive!

[ Because he should say that now, right? Like it isn't already obvious--but that's what the hey was for!! ]

Are you out? Where are you?

[ All questions Fabian and Fabian alone should be answering. ]

Yes, I am out! What do you think I'm doing? I'm looking for you!

[ He sounds so offended.

But, like, Fabian levels of offended. Which means the way he's sounding pretty much half of the time already. ]

Did you forget that I said I'd come find you if you took too long?! [ That sort of threat is never empty when it comes to Fabian, Gorgug. Never. Especially not when his friends' safety is involved. This is a man who would awkwardly facetime his friend in front of his crush just to warn her of her possible imminent death. ] I thought that weird guy did something to you!

I'm here, I'm out! You don't have to look for me, he didn't do anything!

[ Was Gorgug too long? He isn't going to try and think if he wasn't or not, because that's that not really important now, and what's important is that he doesn't even know if Fabian has a clue of where to look for him. So he should probably focus on stopping that from continuing before anything else.

So, that's the next part of this: Making Fabian happy. Or no longer shouting and worrying, even if the Hangman himself might be enjoying the riding and the adventure of potentially saving him. Even so- ]

Let's meet. At the workshop? We can meet at my workshop.

[ Time to throw Fabian a bone to go towards... ]

[ Gorgug may already have said that Chrollo didn't do anything to him, but it doesn't seem to soothe Fabian in the slightest. The drama apparently doesn't end this easily.. Maybe because he's still mad that Gorgug made him worry by not checking back in with him in time, or not telling him where he went in the first place.

.. or maybe Fabian just needs a kiss to be soothed. Who knows. Maybe that's how it works.

At least, despite all the audible grumbling on Fabian's end of the line, he does reply to Gorgug's suggestion with a: ]

Fine.

[ He doesn't sound happy about it though, BRO!!!!

:( ]

I will see you there. But make sure to hurry! Last one there is a square!

I'm not a square!!

[ This would be Gorgug sounding determined, but it sounds more whiny, like it's already predetermined that he's going to be the square here...

Which, considering that Gorgug is walking on foot (and is a decent distance away from his workshop) is a very likely possibility. The fact that Fabian has his bike and Gorgug is having to walk (he's not going to run!!! you can't make him run!!!!) does lead to Gorgug sending Fabian a text after five or ten minutes to hopefully keep his boyfriend at bay: ]

still alive i dont have a motorbike

[ So please be patient, Fabian... and don't call him a square!!!! Even when he does eventually make it to his workshop....!! ]

[ He's definitely going to be the square. The Hangman is Fabian's obvious advantage here. And even though - if Fabian was being smart - he would have to realize that it's going to be a while before Gorgug reaches the workshop, of course Fabian is speeding off as fast as the Hangman can over towards the workshop. He's way too worked up to do absolutely anything else here.

Even if it means that once he arrives there, he's just.. sitting there. Not even going in. Not even remaining seated on the Hangman, despite that being the obvious thing to do here. No, Fabian is just sitting down outside. Almost demonstratively - like an angry spouse waiting for their partner to come home way too late at night.

(Never mind the fact that it's not even late at night.)

Fabian's got the entire thing down pat though - especially since he's definitely looking grumpy as he's sitting there. Maybe a little more on the level of an angry little kid than an angry spouse, but-- still.

At least the fact he has absolutely nothing else to do does mean that he's checking his text messages for once. ]

i could send over the hangman to you
but i'm not sure you deserve it

[ Oh, he is pouty pouty, Gorgug. At this rate you will have to prepare yourself for the maximum levels of pout you will find once you arrive, bro. ]

[ Oh, Gorgug can read the pouting in that response. It's right there at the bottom!!!

But Gorgug hadn't even thought about Fabian sending the Hangman to him... and now he's feeling pouty! Or desperate. ]

please send him
i dont want to walk all the way back

[ Truly, he should have thought a lot of things out before he made plans like 'meet me at the place that's on the other side of the island from where i hang out', but--!!! Sometimes, you live by vibes!! ]

[ Gorgug is receiving a very, very simple text in return to that from his sulking boyfriend. ]

what do you have to offer

[ What does he have? Uhhhh ]

trail mix?

only that?????????

offer NOT accepted
i am a maximum legend
i deserve more than this

[ Especially while he's in the middle of SULKING!! ]

try again

what do you want??
i didnt bring anything
except a drink and trail mix
and my bag
do you want my bag?
why do you want my bag

[ Fabian!!! ]

figuring out what i want is part of your punishment!!!!!!!!!!!

you have something that i want
and it is not your bag
figure it out

[ Oh nooooo....

Do you know what you're going to get, Fabian? Silence. No notification of another message being sent because Gorgug has been made to figure out what this thing is that Fabian wants. So he's walking again, suffering as he has to try and understand Fabian's brain!

What would Fabian want the most from somebody?

A text comes again in around ten minutes: ]

do i get a hint

[ Punishments allow hints, right.......... ]

[ At least there's no Pause of Punishment before Fabian replies-- ]

is it really THAT hard to figure out

[ --even if it's not with an actual hint. Yet.

Maybe he'll take pity on you just yet, Gorgug. ]

yeah??
you don't want my trail mix
my bag

i have my gloves?
my goggles
my crystal?

i said we can do whatever you wanted when i got back

[ Wh-what else!!!

Wait. ]

do you want my van?

[ HAS THE JEALOUSY RETURNED! ]

[ ... ]

gorgug
i want you

[ A beat, and then: ]

you do realize this could have been much sexier if you had guessed this yourself instead of me having to say it right

[ Gorgug stares at these texts.

He stares, his mouth agape, seeing what he has gone through. For what reason. The reason he has been out here racking his brain for answers.

...

He calls up Fabian, and as soon as a connection goes through: ]

I was trying to get to you! I would've brought me to you with the Hangman!

[ THIS WHOLE TIME!!! THIS WHOLE TIME FABIAN HAS BEEN PLAYING HIM, EVEN AFTER HE OFFERED HIM SEX OF ANY TYPE!!! ]

[ Thankfully for Gorgug it definitely doesn't take long at all before Fabian is already picking up the call.

Less thankfully for Fabian-- he did not expect an outburst on the other end. He's physically wincing over here! Gorgug, what was that even for--!!

It never takes too long for the guy to recover though, which means he's soon enough replying with: ]

Well, you weren't offering yourself to me!

[ He sounds so convinced of the fact that this matters... ]

What, I need to offer myself up to you again! I said you could fuck me! I said I'd do whatever you told me to do!

[ He remembers this! He remembers! And while he usually has grace about what he's shouting out about into the wild or sharing over the earpiece...

...that care and consideration is not here right now. This is a dumb boyfriend exchange that needs to happen. Because someone here has forgotten some basic rules.

(That yes, Fabia wants to hear it again because he's the guy who wants to hear about how hot he is, Gorgug. Never forget.) ]

...

[ Sorry that there's no immediate snappy reply, Gorgug. Because Fabian hears those words, and he's.. just silent for a moment. Stunned into silence. Yes, Gorgug already said all of that before he had to disappear for half an hour, but it doesn't mean that the words' impact is lessened in the slightest. Fabian just has to stand there.. blushing.. letting it all sink in..

But considering this is just a call and Gorgug can't see Fabian's face, it's not like he'll magically know that is what's happening here. He'll just be greeted with momentary silence before Fabian finally speaks again. ]

That still stands?

[ Thoughts of getting all huffy at Gorgug? Gone. The Horny Thoughts have been activated, and they have taken over. ]

[ GORGUG IS READY FOR A FIGHT, HE'S READY TO BE LOUD AND WHINY AND TO MAKE CLEAR HOW UNCOOL FABIAN IS BEING RIGHT NOW--

Or so his mood continues to stew in that silence. And there does come a Well?, that's indignant and impatient and maybe a tiny bit sad, since how could Fabian be doing this to him? But that 'That still stands?' comes through, hopeful in its delivery...

And maybe Gorgug takes a second, too. Does it? His indignant mood hasn't disappeared, but it's not like Gorgug doesn't know what he said--and what he offered--to not need that pause to figure out if it does still stand. Does Fabian deserve it? Or is the question Do I want it? more important?

... ]

I don't know, [ comes a reply, still holding onto some grumbling, but, ] I don't see the Hangman looking for me. [ Not only that...! ] People tell me I need to respect myself more.

[ Instead of begging out in an open field for a guy to pick him up so he can fuck him. What would any of the Bad Kids be saying if they knew about this? ]

Would you let me if I did this to you?

[ Huh?

Huh??? ]

[ Look at Fabian's hopes being shot down. Look at Fabian not just instantly getting what he wants, which is the way things are supposed to be!! Instead Gorgug dares to hold out on him? Grumbling to him? ]

No, because I wouldn't go and talk to random dangerous people all by myself and worry you in the first place! [ Don't forget what started all of this, Gorgug! There's a reason Fabian was being all huffy!

Never mind that Fabian totally would do that, if sophomore year has taught them anything. On the other hand, that moment likely did teach Fabian to not do that exact thing. ]

When have I ever done that to you?!

[ Well if you're going to ask, Fabian, you know Gorgug's going to think, and-- ]

That time, in Leviathan? [ Luckily (for both of them?), he doesn't linger on the point, since!! ] But you knew I was going out. And it was one guy! I can take on one guy. He isn't even buff. I bet he doesn't even run.

[ Sorry, Chrollo, but he's gotta do this! For his relationship! Nevermind that Chrollo was talking about some magic-type stuff he can do. That's far from the point here.

No... Gorgug's got to pull out the big guns. He's got to get huffy too. ]

You're not being a good boyfriend. You don't even want to do me. You're just letting me walk on my own.

[ Fabian's bullying him! He's being a bad boyfriend!! ]

I'm gonna go in a random direction.

[ It has begun: the battle of the 2 dumb guys. ]

[ Literally the single upside of Gorgug getting huffy too is that Fabian's mind has no time to travel back to a time he really, really does not want to think about.

Instead his jaw drops in offense, and he quickly speaks up with: ]

Are you moving away from me now?!

[ Is that it, Gorgug? Is that what you're threatening a guy with?! ]

Am I? Who knows? You don't know. You're not even going to find out!

[ Listen to this challenging, huffy voice! Or maybe it's just huff. No, it's definitely calling Fabian out, while he's walking. Not that he's really thinking about his direction or if he even turned--it doesn't matter as much as making as much of a stink about this as Fabian likes to make about everything.

What are you going to do, Fabian?? Are you going to take this?? ]

[ This is so out of pocket. Fabian is just dumbstruck in the face of getting his own attitude - except even dumber, in his own very non-biased opinion, thank you!! - thrown back at him like this. Especially when all of this started just because he was worried about Gorgug? It's like his boyfriend isn't even grateful to have a boyfriend who worries over him!

The easy solution would be to just hop on the Hangman and go find Gorgug. But Fabian's pride won't let him do that.

.. not right away, anyway. He first needs to try and few other things first, like-- ]

Oh yeah?! Well, I'm going to wander into the store and kiss the staff member in there on the lips! [ A true threat! ]

All the staff members are companion bots, and they don't have any lips!

[ Checkmate, bro!! Nevermind that he knows Fabian doesn't like the companion bots, but is he going to bring up that? No. He has to bring up the most important foil in Fabian's plan.

While still walking in a random direction!! ]

[ There's a frustrated noise on Fabian's end that definitely indicates Gorgug got him good there. You go, Gorgug. Get this boy's ass. ]

Then I'll kiss some random person in the store on the lips!

[ Please ignore the fact that is a form of harassment.. ]

Do you still really not care?! Not at all?!

No! I guess I don't! [ He cares so much, his voice is sulking through its huffiness. ] If you wanna go around and kiss everyone, I'll just stay lost! I'll just lay down and die!

[ Because he stopped for a second, looked at the ground and decided that. And with it, he turns off the call from his earpiece and sits down to sulk about the fact that Fabian won't pick him up. Won't come and find him.

He may or may not actually lay down on the ground, which sides pointing to: he's going to lay down. Sulkily.

he's so lonely ]

[ It's a good thing - or a bad thing, maybe? - that Gorgug turned off the call, because Fabian is definitely still ranting for a good minute or so before he realizes that he is, in fact, the only person left in the call.

This leads to yet another rant, but at least this one is an intentional monologue. The only being that has to suffer that rant is the Hangman when Fabian steps on it, starting to drive around to look for Gorgug.

It doesn't help that he doesn't even know where the other is, so it probably takes at least half an hour or more before Gorgug may suddenly hear the sound of a motorcycle getting closer, coupled with a very loud: ] Gorgug!

[ Gorgug into laying and dying on the ground anymore by the time that Fabian comes around on the Hangman.

He hasn't actually moved from the spot, either. Except to sit up, get a little comfortable, and just... sulk, in a sense. His heightened emotions from the stupid back and forth have come down from where they were, and now he's just feeling-- bad. Unsatisfied. Kinda really very dumb, if he's honest, even though it's both at himself and at the world in general. In what took place? Maybe it's at his life.

This is dumb. This is stupid.

Gorgug does hear the Hangman, even before Fabian calls, but while he looks over to acknowledge that it sure is the Hangman and Fabian, he doesn't answer the call.

Instead, he looks back at the ground between his legs, going back to being a sulking, 7 foot tall half-orc..... ]

[ Wait, he's-- He's not even talking to him now?! At first Fabian kind of wonders if maybe Gorgug just didn't hear him, but there's no way that's the case. He was being so loud! And Gorgug totally looked at him after he called out, right? So why isn't he calling back to him?!

Fabian's mind is racing just as quickly with thoughts as the boy himself is racing on the motorcycle, and by the time the hellhound possessed vehicle and Fabian stop right in front of Gorgug, he's managed to work himself up into an even further tizzy.

It's kind of comical in its own way, even if the two of them might not realize. On the one hand there's Gorgug, sulking, sitting there, energyless like he's given up on life, and then there's Fabian standing in front of him while he's practically buzzing with energy.

Energy that comes out right away as he says: ]

Are you still ignoring me now?!

[ He's totally convinced himself that's what's going on here as his thoughts were racing, yes. And he doesn't look upset about this at all. Nope. He's tough, and cool, and not going to take shit, and he's totally not standing there looking at Gorgug while Fabian's eyes look kind of hazy and watery, like there's tears gathering there.

That's totally not it!! Totally not happening!!! Nuh-uh!! ]

You don't want to kiss me?!

[ :(

B-Bro. ]

[ Fabian sure is jumping into action, isn't he. Or jumping off his ride, coming up to Gorgug with his voice loud with his complaints, or accusations? Why not both, in this case, as if Gorgug's made his intentions already loud and clear.

He isn't ignoring Fabian. But does he want to kiss him? Not currently, even though he had been plenty okay with the idea of doing more, earlier. Now, he's not even being riled up by Fabian's buzzing energy, with Gorgug looking up at the other, but his mood has been depleted to the point where having a potential ride back isn't as enticing as it should be.

How does he answer Fabian? It's difficult, despite the fact he knows what's bothering him right now; but it feels like something that if he voiced, he might get ridiculed for taking seriously. They were being stupid. Fabian said something stupid.

It takes Gorgug a moment, rephrasing the question, the statement, on the tip of his tongue, before he finally says: ]

I don't want to think about kissing right now.

[ He doesn't want to fight. He doesn't want to pick up where they left off, and he's trying to sound firm without being confrontational or imposing in it, not making it a demand.

He's trying to say please in the statement, though his gaze is avoidant, but overall, his expression is closer to sad than grumpy. ]

What?

[ Even if Gorgug is being so good and careful with his wording over here, there's no chance of it landing well with Fabian. Not with the way he's currently feeling, anyway. Gorgug says he doesn't want to think about kissing right now, and all Fabian can think is that Gorgug doesn't want to kiss him. Even though Fabian was worried about him. Even though he came all the way over here for him. Even though he was the one who gave in, and Gorgug didn't, Gorgug still doesn't want to kiss him.

Fabian can feel the water in his eye starting to burn hot, and he turns his head away before he can actually start to cry. With his back to Gorgug, he furiously wipes at his eye to get rid of it, trying to swallow down the feeling. He's tough. He doesn't cry. Especially not over something like this. He's already looking weak by giving into Gorgug's demands and coming over here with the Hangman, what sort of disappointment would he be if he cried on top of it? He just has to be fine with not being wanted. It's fine. It's fine.

Terrified of seeming too weak, he slams his hand down on the Hangman. Fabian accidentally happens to hit the horn, making it awkwardly and loudly sound out of the blue, probably startling some companion bots in the distance into skittering off, away from the loud blare of the horn.

Fabian quickly pulls his hand off the button he accidentally slammed, swallowing. Yet still not turning around to look at the other. ]

.. fine.

[ The good news? Fabian doesn't sound angry anymore either. Not like he had before, anyway, with the yelling and all.

The bad news is that he definitely sounds like he's about to cry and is trying to pretend really hard that he isn't. ]

Do you still want that ride back?

[ Gorgug hears that What?, and it alone makes him want to bury his head. He's waiting on an avalanche, the complaints that Fabian has to give (of course he will, he's Fabian), and though that should be the follow-up: there is none. The ground has been a better point for him to stare at, but when he doesn't hear anything, Gorgug turns to look at Fabian, to see him turned away, even before the sound of the horn that makes him startle where he sits.

It puzzles him, not knowing if it was on purpose or not; the lack of follow-up, or even what does come being an eventual Fine. And there's something wet in that voice, a trembling component, and Gorgug swallows on this bad feeling growing inside his throat. What's going on? What would he think is going on, maybe, after everything said and done (even though Gorgug can barely comprehend half of any of that): ]

...I'm not breaking up with you. [ His voice feels small, lame coming out of his mouth. Was that the right thing? Should he have said anything? But now he's sitting there with this horrid weight in the pit of his stomach, and he thinks he hears Fabian's voice heavier than it should be, and he blurts out, ] --why did you threaten to kiss other people?

[ He doesn't want to think about it. He knows it was a joke. But-- how did they get here? In this stupid position where everything feels so skewed? ]

[ If Fabian expected Gorgug to say anything else other than a plain yes or no answer to the situation, then it wasn't that question. The first part by itself may not have been incredibly surprising, but then he's suddenly asking that, and--

And Fabian doesn't get it.

A part of him wants to turn around and look at Gorgug's face in the hopes that might explain to him where the question is coming from, but Fabian is kind of afraid of that. He doesn't know how he's looking right now, and so he isn't sure if he wants to show himself to Gorgug while he's looking like this.

So he stays the way he is right now - facing the Hangman, rather than Gorgug. Still not turning around, even as he swallows, breathes, and does his best to keep his voice relatively still as he speaks. (It still shakes a little bit.) ]

What do you mean?

[ It's about as much as he's able to trust himself to say without sounding emotional. ]

[ There's a weight that's over him, the self-conscious part of him that he's been working to push down in his being over the years creeping up and out. Gorgug's head hangs, and he keeps it hanging; knowing he shouldn't back down from this now, or that he can't. ]

You said... I don't know that we talked about being open? But I thought we were exclusive, and, you started talking about going out and kissing people, and I don't know why-- I was trying my best, and then we started fighting, and now I don't even want a ride anywhere.

[ His shoulders slump deeper, as the true power of being bummed washes over him.......

His entire being just wants to be sad. ]

[ Oh, gods.

Is this better? Is it worse? Fabian is not sure if it's better, actually, even if this does explain that it's not like there's some sort of personal grudge or apprehension on Gorgug's part towards kissing Fabian. It should be a good thing, and yet Fabian still finds himself feeling like shit. Gorgug is saying he was trying his best, but-- wasn't Fabian? He waited for him for ages! He was the one who kept himself to their promise when Gorgug didn't! He was just worried for the other, and now it's his fault?

It doesn't feel great. None of it does. But even though Fabian can complain very loudly about a lot of things, his own personal feelings - well, beyond being annoyed at this place, but that feels more like objective reality than anything personal - are something different. It feels like-- Like back home. Like how terrible he felt that mama was leaving for a year, but saying something about it felt wrong. She loved him. He's a big guy now. It's fine.

.. Gorgug loves him. He's.. a big guy now. It's fine. He's strong enough to not show this stuff. It's fine.

Fabian sucks in a deep breath. As the air fills his lungs, he does the same thing he always tries to do. He takes all the feelings and just-- just shoves them away. Like they're something to think about later. Not now. He blinks until his eyes feel more dry. He forces his face into something a little more neutral.

Only when he feels like he'll be able to look and sound relatively normal does he finally turn around. ]

We are exclusive. I was just annoyed-- I didn't mean it.

[ It helps when not a single word of that is a lie. It makes it easier to just say them, to not think about the rest of it. ]

You can't just stay out here though.

[ Weren't they both annoyed? Exasperated, confused--Gorgug remembers feeling confused, trying to stand up for himself, when he kept offering himself to Fabian, but never doing it the right way, and nothing seemed to be going right. He didn't remember the way he came from, and really didn't help when he did start walking in a random direction.

He can't stay out here, Fabian says, but something about going right now doesn't feel right. Maybe he's making that feeling fester in himself, this bummed out state of his by sitting around and not doing anything, but he doesn't know-- if they were both annoyed, then doesn't that say something? Gorgug looks up at Fabian, trying to read his expression, if not that deeply. Not so perceptive to be able to see beyond what Fabian presents, but-- ]

Are you still annoyed? [ ... ] Are you upset that I'm upset?

[ He isn't reading deeply. But Fabian came into this wanting a kiss, and Gorgug is aware of the mood shift--that he's no longer bringing that energy, so: how does he feel now? Is he displeased about this, or actually exasperated, but in a harmless way?

Because Gorgug isn't sure that if they got on the Hangman, what would happen next. If Fabian would be happy with him or not. ]

[ Fabian really doesn't understand it. Why does Gorgug need to ask questions? Why does he just want to sit here and draw this entire awkward situation out? As far as Fabian can see, the easiest solution by far here is to just.. go. To just go back on the Hangman, and pretend none of this ever happened so he doesn't have to think about it again and feel bad about it. Isn't that the way you're supposed to handle these things?

After all, people never ask him this question. Fabian can't remember the last time he was asked about how he's doing beyond situations where he was enduring some sort of mortal peril. Sure, maybe Riz or Gorgug casually have once or twice, but never like this.

Something shifts about Fabian, and though he does mostly manage to keep up the same face as before, something a little more awkward is sneaking into it now.

There's even a small pause before he answers, like he truly doesn't know what to say here. Can't he just go back?? He'd love to go back right now, actually. ]

What do you think?

[ Bro????

You can't ask him these things???

(Sorry, Gorgug, but your boyfriend is very stupid in this regard. He'll get there. It's just that his initial reaction is nothing but awkwardness he doesn't know how to deal with...) ]

[ What does he think? That's the kind of question where his input shouldn't matter: it doesn't matter what he thinks, what matters if what Fabian thinks, but he can't really tell the place where the question comes from. Annoyance? Genuine confusion?

What matters, then, is that Fabian asked. So Gorgug will try to be honest, as well as charitable as he can. Be careful with his words in that way his parents would tell him to be. ]

Well, most times you'll say what you think or feel about something with-- energy, [ read: dramatically ] and the times that you don't, there's a-- it's because you don't want to get hurt, or you don't want to hurt the person you're talking to, and I don't know if this is one or the other. But I know you came here wanting to kiss me, and you-- now you just want to leave, so, I guess I think, you're hurt but you don't want to talk about it?

[ ... ] But I don't want to go back and pretend like we both don't feel bad and not work it out, if you are. [ He looks down at his hands, wanting to fiddle with them, but not being in a great position to do anything with them.

Quieter: ] I care about you.

[ Of course Fabian doesn't want to talk about it. There's a reason he's noped out pretty much every single time Jawbone started on his Jawbone talks - he doesn't want to talk about it. There's no reason to talk about it. Fabian has functioned just fine for eighteen years while not talking about anything.

A part of him is trying to figure out how to nope out of this situation even as Gorgug speaks. He doesn't just want to leave - also cares enough about Gorgug to not want to be that cruel to him - but Fabian also just does not want to talk. The very idea is giving him metaphorical hives.

But then Gorgug say that last part. So quietly, yet so sweetly. And for however much Fabian wants to run, he can't do that when Gorgug is saying that.

So after staring for a moment, Fabian seems to - at least partially - give up. He sits down, out of reach of just jumping onto the Hangman and taking off, practically flopping onto the ground like a collapsing pudding. Bent over, even as he's sitting. His expression slowly slipping into something more-- awkward. Reluctant. Embarrassed, even. ]

You can't just say that.

[ It's not fair, Gorgug!!! Pulling the 'I care about you' card on him?? Uncool! So uncool!

A pause, and then, looking every single bit like he has to forcefully drag the words out of himself: ] I was worried about you.

[ Gorgug here, taking You can't say that to mean that he's so right and he's so good at reading people, actually!! But that's okay, he knows it's difficult to be read like an open Seacaster book. Gorgug can accept how vulnerable it makes his pirate-adjacent boyfriend feel, that he won't comment on it. His eyes on Fabian initially, but then turning to the ground in front of him, nodding in silent acknowledgement.

Until Fabian speaks again. That, too, he understands; Fabian had been upset, and Gorgug does try to reassure him as best as he can, saying: ] I contacted you as soon as I could. Maybe I-- overreacted with my initial text. [ Just maybe. ] But some people are weird? So I didn't know. We meet plenty of people who decide to kill us just because.

[ And he realises now that he can share: ] And he wanted to meet me in an empty church. It had real murder vibes.

[ In Gorgug logic land, where anything can happen. ]

[ At least it does look like Fabian is trying to be good. Trying to listen to the other. Yes, he looks a little bit awkward about the way they're sitting here and talking about feelings - especially when it's happening a little less organically than the previous times, or maybe the stakes just feel a little lower when neither of them are feeling particularly existential at the moment - but he does peek over at Gorgug. It sounds like he's trying to listen to the other and process what he's saying, despite Fabian's own awkwardness. ]

I don't think you overreacted. [ He admits, still peeking over at Gorgug.

Sure, nothing happened, but it sounded shady to Fabian too! Besides-- ]

It's not like we ever know for sure that we can just trust everyone here. And that guy seems.. [ ... ] weird. Yeah.

[ Fabian looks away again. ]

You didn't overreact.

[ So that's not the problem, seems to be the implication.

.. but there's a distinct lack of pointing out what the problem is, huh. Small baby steps when it comes to communication, but he's still not on your level, Gorgug.. ]

[ He didn't overreact, Fabian says. He wonders if that's true, but not in a way where he wants to take all or any particular blame for where they are right now. They know this isn't that serious, and is there the possible they've both overreacted in certain parts of all this? Maybe not about Chrollo, but...

But there feels like there's a but here. A continuation that hasn't been spoken--either an actual 'but', or the real problem hasn't been hit to draw out Fabian's emotions. Gorgug sits there, trying his best to play back their exchanges to the best of his ability, though he's mainly been pouting to himself about Fabian going out and smooching people, but more so just pouting in general. At the sky. On the ground. ]

I didn't guess very well what you wanted from me, but I already agreed that we could do stuff once I got back. [ His tone isn't accusatory, just a reflection on the events, adding: ] That's how I saw it.

[ That was the next part, in Gorgug's mind: his inability to guess what Fabian wanted. Which wasn't his snacks or his bag, but his body. ]

That's not it.

[ It's not fully snappy, but there is definitely a bit more energy in it than the previous thing Fabian said - and involuntarily so, if the surprise on Fabian's face after he's already said the words is anything to go by.

The surprise quickly turns into guilt instead, realizing it's his own fault for not being more clear about this. For not specifying what the problem was to Gorgug a moment ago. Fabian stares at the ground, his body a little more bent over as he finally tries to speak. ]

It's just-- [ ... ] It felt like you didn't even care that I was worried about you. All the stuff after-- It was just because of that.

[ All of the dumbness.. ]

[ He wonders when he gave that impression, but it's also hard to remember half of their exchange with how-- dumb they both got, honestly. It doesn't bother Gorgug in a hurtful manner, but he takes the confession as it is: this is Fabian's feelings. And regardless of what Gorgug remembers or not: ]

I did-- I message you because I knew you would want to know. And I tried to get back to you, but it was far, and I was worried you would think I was taking too long, or get mad I was taking too long.

[ Honestly, more of the latter. Fabian gets huffy with him, and if he was honest about that exchange... ]

Sometimes, it feels like... I don't know if I know the right thing to say. What people want to hear. [ He's taking glances at Fabian, his head tilted towards Fabian, looking between him ad the ground between them. ] I don't know if that's an us thing, or... I guess I've always had that problem.

[ Is it a point that has a place in this discussion? It does, when he knows what it is that he means to say, keeping his gaze on Fabian now. ]

I do try to take you seriously.

[ He tries with everyone. ]

[ There's a slight pause where Fabian is very much not looking at Gorgug, but then he says, sounding kind of defeated as he does: ]

I know.

[ He knows. Of course he does. Gorgug likes him, or he wouldn't be dating him. Mama loves him, even though she's staying away from him for a whole year. Maybe that is why he's feeling so bad, he thinks - because it feels like he shouldn't be feeling this way. That he shouldn't be bummed, because everyone cares about him and loves him, and if something they do makes him feel bad, that's on him, actually.

Isn't that why it would have been so much easier to pretend nothing happened? Why is Gorgug forcing him to talk about this, when it's just making him feel worse? ]

If you think I was wrong, you can just say so, you know. [ Fabian doesn't sound angry, at least.

Whatever is going on with him-- It sounds a whole lot more complicated than that. (But when isn't stuff a whole lot more complicated when it comes to Fabian, right.) ]

You don't have to tell me whatever I want to hear.

[ Does he think that?

There were parts, sure--there was the stuff about the kissing, but Gorgug's already brought that up, and he doesn't want to do it again. There's no reason to, he thinks: because he doesn't want to say Fabian was wrong. He doesn't know that he thinks that, or it's not how he's feeling.

He looks over at Fabian, sees the way that he's not making eye contact with him now, the drop in his voice. And maybe it has more to do with the phrasing, what Fabian says more than any of that, or maybe it has to do with Gorgug's own softening mood, but...

Gorgug starts shuffling. He'll lift his butt up and move over with a crouch if there's enough distance, but he comes to sit next to Fabian, side by side. Settles, looking at his face and then down at his leg, and if Fabian's hand is close, he'll take it to hold to rest over their legs next to each other. ]

You weren't wrong to care. I don't think that. [ He tries, as he said he often does, to consider the better words to say here--what would be considerate of what Fabian's said, how he thought Gorgug didn't care that he was worried.

And he tips his head, leaning it close to the side of Fabian's, as if trying to lightly nuzzles against it. ]

Thank you for caring, [ he says, his voiced dipped to speak the gratitude only to Fabian. ]

[ When Gorgug moves closer, and then even leans into him like that, Fabian doesn't move away. At first he still seems really determined to not look at Gorgug as it's happening, but after a few moments of the affection, he does turn his head just a little bit. Thankfully Gorgug happens to be sitting on the right side where Fabian can actually see him like that, especially since it'd be difficult to do so otherwise with the two of them so close in this moment.

It does still feel a little bit like Gorgug is just saying what he wants to hear, but.. Fabian doesn't want to view this that cynically. Not when Gorgug is being so sweet about it. He's just trying to make things right.

So.. Fabian should do the same. Or he'd be a really, really shitty person. ]

Sorry for saying I'd kiss other people.

[ It's a little bit mumbled, but with how close they are, Gorgug should totally be able to pick up on it. ]

I wasn't thinking about what I was saying. I shouldn't have hurt you.

[ He doesn't speak immediately; but some form of acknowledgement comes in the way that Gorgug strokes the skin of Fabian's hand with his thumb, a short hum following. ]

I knew you didn't mean anything. I think it got worse when I was laying on the ground thinking about it. [ Sulking on the ground is not always a great plan, apparently... ] I'm sorry I was cagey about where I was going. Maybe I can make us radios or a secret messaging system so I don't care about Aurora seeing it? I was looking into it, but some other projects got in the way.

[ One of his many hundreds of projects. How is he meant to focus on secret communication devices if he has robots to make!! ]

Ugh.

[ Apparently that draws out a groan from Fabian. But it also makes him actually look at Gorgug, rather than awkwardly looking away, kind of like he's pretending they're not both sitting here having a conversation with each other.

Now he's actually acknowledging the other. And his expression has shifted slightly - some of the awkwardness from before making way for slight exasperation. Not with Gorgug himself, necessarily, but with this part of the other. The part of Gorgug's brain that's burdening the rest of Gorgug. ]

Don't say that. You're already doing ten thousand things. [ As far as Fabian can see, anyway. He doesn't know a lot of the more technical details of the stuff Gorgug is working on - he just knows that the other always seems to have something to work on. Sometimes the projects seem to pile up in the other's lab. ] You can't overwork yourself just for our sakes.

[ Not allowed, bro!!! ]

Edited 2025-05-15 13:35 (UTC)

[ Look at this face Fabian is making at him! It's some real 'I'm not mad, I'm just disappointed' vibes because Gorgug has yet to make a machine to give him more time. Which is the real problem here.

Gorgug understands where Fabian is coming from, even if he doesn't look convinced. He doesn't look away immediately, but does eventually turn his head, then sighing and letting it droop to tip against Fabian's. ]

Then I should take you next time I go to meet with a weird guy in an abandoned church?

[ Is that the answer? ]

[ Without hesitation or even the faintest pause: ]

Yes.

[ It's said so quickly and insistently that it seems like Fabian thinks that is the true solution. Not Gorgug having to do more work, considering how prone that guy is to overworking himself. Fabian still can hardly believe he ended up doing that many classes at once, just because Porter was being an asshole about the whole multiclass thing. Who would actually have done that?

Only Gorgug, clearly. ]

And then I shall take you too if I happen to need to go into a dangerous situation. And if the other person involved turns out to be bad, we kill them together.

[ Look at the way he says it. Like he's presenting the most obvious and definite solution ever. A totally normal one, too.

While practically sit-cuddling with his boyfriend, considering how Gorgug is draped over him at this point, and Fabian is just letting him. Enjoying it, actually. ]

[ ... Huh.

When Fabian puts it like that, it makes sense, doesn't it? If it was Fabian going, Gorgug wouldn't mind going too. He wouldn't push it, but then again--should he, now that they're dating? It's not as if Gorgug cared about Fabian less before, but he's independent. He can choose to meet weirdos in abandoned churches if he wants to. It'd be kinda weird (Fabian doesn't seem like the type to meet people who would pick that for a meeting place), but Gorgug wouldn't stop him. Then again, Fabian didn't stop him, he just got more worried than Gorgug thought he would.

But the solution does sound pretty simple. ]

Okay. [ You know? That is a normal solution. ] We meet someone dumb, we kill them.

[ Wow. Was that all it took? Huh. Gorgug's feeling pretty neutral about this, or feeling less in the dumps than he was. Like coming to an understanding with Fabian has helped him feel better. Maybe they've even learned something today?

...

He's quiet for a moment, still looking off as he decides to ask, ] ...You still wanna kiss?

[ Kissing does actually seem like it'd be nice, now. ]

[ Wow. Imagine actually talking about stuff and actually getting to a solution, rather than letting the problem simmer forever.

.. Who knows if Fabian will remember this lesson in the future. Maybe he'll at least bother to apply the lesson a little bit when it comes to Gorgug. But in general? He has way too much to unlearn first before he can get there.

Though any and all thoughts about that fly right out of his mind when Gorgug asks him that question. ]

I wanted to kiss you this entire time, you big idiot. [ Don't worry, Gorgug. For how pouty Fabian seems in this moment, it's not because he's still upset about the entire thing - maybe it's just being asked that question when he wanted kisses!! So badly!! For so long!!! He's been thirsting for those kisses, bro!!!!!!

So absolutely don't mind him if he's going for it right away. This is what he wanted! ]

[ Gorgug wouldn't have thought Fabian's been sitting here wanting to get his kisses in this entire time, but is Gorgug going to complain? He wouldn't be able to, anyway, when Fabian's coming in and pressing their lips together, something fond on Gorgug's own as, maybe, in this moment, he doesn't mind being a big idiot.

Except he should mind, probably. Fix that about himself in the future so he doesn't make Fabian upset, or so they don't both get upset. But this is a better mood to be kissing in than the one Gorgug was in before. He does want to kiss Fabian, and he reciprocates it, resting a hand on Fabian's cheek and feeling warm with this new understanding after the messy back and forth they were having before. A very, very dumb messy back and forth.

He doesn't pull away far when he does, just so he can look at Fabian and say: ]

Thanks for talking this out with me.

[ You know. He doesn't think Fabian wanted to, but he appreciates that he did. ]

[ It's after breakfast, the one meal they always have cereal for, because Fabian is very proud of his cereal securing skills.

And-- Gorgug's been thinking. That brain of his has been at work, since Gorgug knows what day this is. It's a day of romance, he's done this with Zelda, but now--he's in a relationship with Fabian. They like to do the couple stuff, they've been trying it out. But also, they've been trying it out--and what does Fabian think about a day of romance?

He could surprise Fabian with chocolates (and flowers? Do you get guys flowers?), but also--does Fabian want to do anything? Is it his thing? Not his thing?

It's one of those things he wants to have a discussion about (and it would be nice to talk to the other Bad Kids about, especially Fig or Kristen, but--well), even if...it takes Gorgug a while to decide how to approach it. If to approach it, directly.

And he decides not to, catching Fabian in that time after they've put away their bowls, when they're about to think about other things, except: ]

Hey, so... I'm thinking. Do you want to--spend some time together today? Maybe a lunch in the Hangvan somewhere nice, or...indoors? At the Maximum? Do you want to do anything today?

[ Hey?? Hey bro??? You want something special? We're just standing here, asking, our hands in our hoodie pocket. ]

[ Gorgug may know what day it is.

But Fabian, who has famously only ever had one.. well, it wasn't even really a girlfriend as much as it was an awkward obsession followed up by an awkward make out session, is not used to thinking about this day this hard. He would have realized later, upon spotting the hearts everywhere, but none of those have popped up during breakfast so far.

Which means that when Gorgug asks him this question, it has an entirely different meaning for each of them. Gorgug is asking him something very, very Purposeful, whereas Fabian thinks he's just asking to hang out..

So Fabian blinks at the other before casually shrugging. ]

Sure? [ He seems so.. cool about this. So nonchalant. Maybe Fabian really just IS that cool about a day of love, huh. (No, that's not the case at all.) ] I mean, I thought you were going off to your lab, but if you want to hang out-- of course I don't mind.

[ Even though there's clearly no special reason to hang out today, right.

Right?? ]

I was thinking about getting some dance practice in, but-- if you want to do a fancy lunch, then sure. Did that idea just suddenly come to you?

[ Fabian is very cool, is the problem.

And that's the thing: Fabian is Fabian. Gorgug could make guesses on what a person might like depending on their personality, but when it comes to Fabian, he's still an enigma, in some ways. The ways in which they're in a relationship, a romantic one, since that's not something Gorgug ever imagined happening.

So from where Gorgug stands, Fabian doesn't care that much about romantic holidays. And that's cool--even if there's a part of Gorgug that's disappointed, it's not the kind that hits hard. Or maybe Fabian doesn't have much faith in Gorgug's ability to be romantic? Which, he won't feel that bad about anyway.

He shrugs, wondering how nonchalant to be about this himself. ] Well, I thought it would be a good excuse to do it, you know, since we were stuck on that train, so we could just-- but it's not like I care that much. It's not a big deal.

[ Look at him, looking elsewhere than Fabian, like he truly doesn't care, pshaw. If he had a surface to lean against, he would! But his hands are already in his hoodie pocket, so... ]

[ ....

Wait, what?

Fabian slowly blinks. Even if Gorgug isn't looking at him, Fabian sure is looking at Gorgug now. He's even squinting a little bit with his one eye, like scrutinizing the other's appearance might lead him to figure out what's going on here. Because something is off. He can't quite tell yet whether it's some weird influence this place is having on the other or if this is Gorgug being weird, but this is nothing like the way Gorgug usually acts. About anything, actually.

So even though Fabian could give a more elaborate answer here - and he often does! - right now he's dumbstruck enough by the other's weird, weird reaction that he only asks: ]

What?

[ He doesn't sound offended or hurt. This isn't upset - it's just plain confusion, especially coupled with the expression on Fabian's face as he looks at the other. ]

[ Please do not put Gorgug in this awkward situation, his life is usually one big awkward situation enough?

Because they're both standing there, Fabian looking at him with such confusion that it pulverises Gorgug's defence of I don't care if we have a fancy date to reveal the awkward half-orc in the centre of that wrapping. Gorgug looks at Fabian, and then he looks at the ground, not sure how to answer when he's already getting the sense he answered poorly.

His hands fidget, one coming temporarily to the back of his neck but not quite rubbing it. ]

I heard-- today's a romantic holiday. In some places.

[ Does that-- does that make sense? Is it that part that Fabian's confused about? Is he fixing things? ]

[ Fabian's jaw drops.

Mostly because he's finally catching on to what's going on here. Even Gorgug's weird dismissive attitude makes sense. Was he trying to copy Fabian? Did he think Fabian didn't care - just because he didn't know - and that's why he tried to act all dismissive?

It's kind of cute, honestly. But it's also kind of blowing Fabian's mind to be realizing all of this at the same time, and so his brain needs a second to reboot before his entire facial expression changes. The shock fades away entirely, instead replaced by a wide grin. Kind of amused, sure, but also just genuinely happy. ]

Wait. That's it?

[ He leans over a little, closer towards the other. ]

You were trying to ask me out on a date? [ Fabian sure seems pleased as punch about the idea.. ]

Edited 2025-03-05 19:16 (UTC)

[ They've been doing plenty together, really. They sleep together, have sex, hang out, kiss and spend time in a way that Gorgug doesn't with other people, and yet: there's something about hearing Fabian call their hanging out a date.

Because it is, technically; that's what they're doing, and trying to do! They're doing this dating thing. But there's a familiarity between them that makes Gorgug see their dating as just an advanced form of hanging out for them, still.

Dating is romantic. And Fabian calling it a date--while leaning in, grinning so wide, looking so pleased--makes both Gorgug's stomach and heart do twists, to jump in different ways. He can feel the skin across his cheeks tickle with warmth, and he drops his gaze from the eye looking at him when- ]

Yeah, [ he answers, voice pitched a little in his fluster. ] Yeah. Do you-- wanna go on a date? As boyfriends? We can make it about the two of us. [ ... ] But you can still go dance. We can still, a day's long-- we can still do other things. But I'll leave my workshop early if we want to do anything.

[ Romance, with the bro!!! He's trying!!! ]

[ This is so cute. It's not really something Fabian imagined at first when he started feeling very new things for Gorgug, considering that revolved a whole lot more around sexual attraction rather than any strong emotions, but here he is. He's looking at Gorgug talking about them having a date, and seeming so shy about it.

And all Fabian can think is how cute Gorgug looks when he gets all shy like this. And how much he likes that.

Which means nothing could erase that grin off his face now. ]

Are you kidding? I'm not going to go dance if you're offering me a date! [ Yes, Gorgug, he is willing to instantly clear the slate for you! (H-He's totally not whipped or anything--) ] Honestly, we should go right now, if you already had an idea in mind!

[ Even in the face of Fabian's grin, there's a relief bigger in the face of his enthusiasm. It doesn't brush away entirely his nerves, but there's a giddiness left behind that's more manageable, tolerable with Fabian being so agreeable. Even though he seems ready to go off on a date right this instant -- ]

I don't-- I don't have something yet, but, I, I can set something up. I'll set up a lunch date. [ For the hurry to explain and clarify his plans (or not yet plans), there's a perkiness to Gorgug's voice, an enthusiasm of his own to put this together. For them to have their date. ] You have anything you want? That you don't want? I can do whatever you wanna do, too--

[ Look, he's gotta make sure that Fabian doesn't have his own ideas! Because Fabian has ideas (read: thoughts) about everything. ]

I want to spend time with you.

[ Sorry, Gorgug. It seems like this is the one time Fabian is letting his opinions go, because he's just that excited about this date idea. Especially with Gorgug seeming all flustered over it. It makes Fabian want to push just a little bit more - an excited grin plastered on his face as he stares up at Gorgug's face.

You know, a little push like-- ]

Right now.

[ Chop chop, Gorgug!! Time for a date!! It's time!! Come on!! ]

[ R-right now!?!?! ]

O-- okay!

[ Right now! It's happening right now! Don't mind the way Gorgug's looking left and right, like an idea will jump out and show him what exactly he has to do. Nothing does, but you know what Gorgug does know you do on dates?

You take your partner's hand. ]

Let's go outside.

[ And you tell them what you're going to be doing together. Yeah! Let's get outside and a plan will surely piece itself together as to what they can do in this strange, strange place called Etraya.

(How about a ride on the trolley? Should they ride in the Hangvan if the trolley isn't around to get on? The Kwik Trip isn't a good dating spot.... and they already ate, so there's no point going to the café....) ]

[ Poor Gorgug's mind is so full of thoughts, and yet Fabian's is so empty. It seems like they have switched for the moment, considering how the default is usually the opposite of what's going on right now.

But.. you know, why would Fabian even have to think about something right now? He's being taken out on a date! Okay! Yay!

So he's just standing there with Gorgug. Outside now. Confidently. Sure the other has a full instantaneous date idea. Hence why he just grins over at the other, asking: ]

So, where are we going?

[ No pressure!!! (A lot of pressure.) ]

[ Oh no, where's his instantaneous date idea the second he and Fabian stepped out of the manor?? Where is it!! ]

U-uh-- [ Uh-- ] How about we, I was thinking... how about we check out the maze behind the boat? You ever thought about what's in the middle?

[ How about it, Fabian?

Have you ever wanted to walk your own family home's hedge maze? ]

.. you mean the hedge maze?

[ There's even a brief pause before he says it. Fabian slowly blinks. It's like he had to even think for a moment what Gorgug meant by the maze behind the boat, since Fabian certainly wasn't expecting the other to suggest a date idea that's.. practically part of Fabian's actual house..

He blinks once, then twice, and then-- ]

Gorgug, you want to have a date over at my place?

[ Though Fabian sounds more confused than disapproving of the plan, it's not all that hard for a nervous mind to stretch it into the idea that Fabian might not be feeling happy about this plan.. ]

[ ... ] I've always wanted to see what's in the middle.

[ He asked Fabian, but in truth, it was him: he wants to see what's in the centre! And he does feel shy about admitting it, but he's going to continue to be honest: ] And I thought if we're having a date all day... maybe some time just walking and talking-- we don't do it a lot. The day looks good. It'd be fun solving a hedge maze with you?

[ Is that-- okay? It's not very exciting, Gorgug knows, but he kinda likes the idea of just... walking with Fabian. When they never really have anywhere to walk to, or they're usually sitting and chatting or laying in bed...

This could be some time for them. Without trying to impress each other.

(And it gives Gorgug more time to try and impress Fabian later in the day!) ]

[ At first he's still quiet. That's the thing with Fabian, after all - he's always lived such an over the top life, far from anything normal, that the idea that a date can just be walking together seems kind of wild to him. Especially on a day that's meant to be special. To celebrate love. Dates have always been something over the top in his mind.

(If only he shared this knowledge with Gorgug-- It might have prepared the other for the sight he would witness this night when coming over to the Manor, really.)

Not that Gorgug's suggestion is bad. It's just.. unexpected. New?

But if Gorgug wants to do this, then it's not like Fabian is going to say no. Especially when the other has such a lengthy explanation as to why he wants this. ]

Alright. [ It's maybe not the world most energetic agreement, but nothing about it seems like Fabian is feeling some sort of reluctance about it. ]

If you want to, then we can go in there. Though I've been in there before. [ Obviously. It's Fabian's house! Even if he hasn't lived there for incredibly long, given that they only settled down in Elmville once he started going to the Adventuring Academy, it's still been a few years. ] Though not recently, so I'm fairly sure I don't remember the path through there.

[ He does know what's in the center.

But Fabian is at least tactful enough to not tell Gorgug that. ]

[ Gorgug's sure Fabian is humouring him when he agrees to it, but it isn't laughing or scoffing in his face, so--that's a win in Gorgug's book. He's not exactly sighing out in relief, but there's a fondness when Fabian accepts it; because it might be a silly and simple ask, but it's nice that Fabian wants to give it a go. Now and then, Gorgug likes life to be simple.

And while solving a hedge maze isn't simple to Gorgug (it's kind of a secret Goal), it's probably low on the list of activities Fabian would have in mind. But he's going along with it, and that's what counts. ]

You can't help me unless I ask for help. [ His voice is already sounding brighter, determined. He's gently pulling on Fabian's hand so they can start walking around the back. ] I've got a good feeling. I can solve this in no time.

[ He even has a trick up his sleeve that he got through...some of it before! Granted, he doesn't know how much because he got so incredibly lost and then ended up being spat back out the way he went in, but he's pretty sure he remembers some turns! And that might mean something!

...

This is a new day and a new Gorgug Thistlespring!! ]

[ Well, sounds like it's time to start heading in the direction of the hedge maze! Which Fabian is already doing, heading towards the room's door so they can make their way down the Manor and outside - but rather than walking over to the door in a straightforward way, Fabian just has to be a little bit dramatic about it.

Which, in this case, means that he's walking towards the door backwards, not even having to look at where he's going.

Instead he's looking at Gorgug as he heads backwards, grinning as he says: ]

This sounds more like a date for you than a date for me.

[ Gorgug, he's teasing!!! He's just teasing now he's gotten over the surprise, okay!! That's all!!! ]

[ Uh oh, Fabian. You're in the best position to see the clogs in Gorgug's head turn, the excite in his face starting to drop away as he might be thinking about how this is not a date activity--

are you going to stop what's coming next?! ]

[ Oh, gods. One would think that Fabian is used enough to Gorgug being Gorgug to stop these things fully from happening before the thought even forms in Gorgug's mind - by saying something else, for example - but Fabian just can't help but naturally want to tease sometimes.

Apparently that overrides his Gorgug senses, since he only realizes a moment later what kind of avalanche he just started in the other's mind.

There's a touch of exasperation in his face as he quickly says, before Gorgug can speak up: ]

It's a joke! A joke!

[ Please, Gorgug, learn to recognize a joke!!! Get your joke recognition stat up!!! ]

If I did not want to go into the hedge maze with you, I would have told you! You know I would have told you! [ If not just because Fabian Aramais Seacaster is absolutely incapable of not whining about something when he doesn't like it. ]

O-oh. Y-yeah.

[ O-oh.

What Fabian says does make sense, even if it takes a moment for Gorgug to realise it (and with Fabian's help), a sheepishness crossing his face. But he's picking his pace back up, his mind still feeling like it's having a little difficulty making sense of 2+2=4 in his head: that is, that this is still an okay dating opportunity.

And he figures out why, with those few seconds. ] You have to tell me if you get, like, bored. If this isn't fun for you? We can both make guesses... or we can do something so it's fun for both of us?

[ Liiike. ] Maybe you can blindfold me and tell me which direction to go, and we can see if we get there.

[ Look. He's thinking on his feet.

Nobody said Gorgug Thistlespring is good at thinking on his feet. ]

...

[ There's a slight moment of hesitation where Fabian wonders if he should be this horny on main or not, but then he does say, trying to pass it off as something real casual in both tone and facial expression-- ]

There are some other places we could try blindfolds.

[ Hint, hint. Nudge, nudge.

But again! Trying to play it off as casual, so he quickly instead says: ]

But I assure you that it isn't necessary here! Do you think talking with you isn't fun to me, even though I do it all the time?

[ dogloading.gif, what could Fabian possibly mean--

oh, too bad he can't ask about it, since Fabian's moving along. But doesn't he want to do the blindfolds...?! ]

Yy-- yeah, sure. Is it? [ Uh. ] It's fun for me, too. But I guess, you know... would you still consider that a date, or hanging out?

[ There were opportunities in there, for Gorgug. To simply agree with Fabian, and let himself off the hook on needing to do anything more, or to even keep questioning this choice of action despite Fabian's reassurances. But he can't help it: is this fun for Fabian too?

And while this might still be Fabian's place, Gorgug doesn't stop himself from warning 'Door' when they get close to the door leading out to the back hedge maze--or, more specifically, Fabian's back getting closer to said door. ]

Well--

[ He starts, but that's when Gorgug warning comes, and Fabian does take a quick glance over his shoulder just to make sure he doesn't bump into the door like an idiot. His hands reach behind him, finding the doorknobs with his hands on the double doors, and he just pushes them open as he continues to move backwards into the outside air.

Despite doing all that, Fabian looks like he's pretty seriously in thought. This question is more complicated than the one about whether it's fun for him, honestly. Especially if he has to give a genuine answer. ]

I don't know. I mean.. With us the line there is always thin, isn't it?

[ It's how it feels to Fabian. When he was going for Aelwyn, he always thought of it as some.. courting situation. He didn't think about just regularly hanging out with her.

But he likes regularly hanging out with Gorgug. Gorgug isn't just his boyfriend, but his friend too.

So where does that line run? Even Fabian himself isn't sure, as inexperienced with dating as he is. ]

[ See, that's the thing!! That's the thing!!

What do they say about dating your friends? Is it a good thing? A bad thing? For Gorgug, the line's been difficult to perceive at times: are they two people dating, or are they two friends acting like people dating? It would be easier to tell if Gorgug didn't enjoy their activities, what they did and got up to; but sometimes he worries about how thin that line is, if he isn't putting a certain level of effort into the boyfriend department as he is the friend department.

He doesn't think about it that hard right now, can't get lost into it. But he tries to consider it: not his personal insecurities about their relationship, but, instead--and so so carefully: ]

Well... not to talk about previous relationships, but whenever I hung out with Zelda at her or my place, that might've not been a date, but it did feel special since, we were spending time together. Maybe it's the intent that makes it a -- quasi-dating situation. Because it's about us.

[ Did he go from posing a question about what the nature of their time together was, to putting forward an answer to it? Yes, yes he did.

Because he doesn't want Fabian thinking he doesn't see them as dating, or anything. This is a date! Because they said so! ]

[ It's dating because it's.. special, even when it's not a date..?

... It's weird to think about. Because Fabian does think times he hangs out with Riz are special in their own way too, yet the thought of dating him makes a big neon 'nope' sign appear in his mind if he just stops to consider it for a moment. It must mean there's a difference, but.. what is it?

It's definitely more difficult than he anticipated. Fabian did not think he'd be walking over towards his own hedge maze with what feels like a growing headache, okay. ]

Does this feel special right now?

[ ????

Gorgug, you have more experience. Maybe you answer this one. ]

[ Does this feel special?

Well, considering what they're doing, Gorgug's gaze narrows, his face getting serious as he nods. ]

I'm gonna find out what's in the middle of the fucking maze.

[ HE'S SO SERIOUS ABOUT THIS, FABIAN. Does this truly answer Fabian's question though? Who knows. Except Fabian. ]

[ That definitely does not answer Fabian's question whatsoever!!!!

Not that he isn't glad that Gorgug seems to have found his determination and excitement over this once again, but-- uh, it's still leaving Fabian a little baffled in the face of it all. Is this special? Is it not? Does he expect something more romantic, or does Gorgug?

.. maybe it's something to think about. Or maybe he should just set up a very romantic date later today? Make sure to show to Gorgug just how special this is to him? ]

[ Either way, it's not something he can do anything about right now. So, you know what-- ]

Sure, sure. [ Now they're outside, they're practically at the edge of where the hedge maze starts anyway.. ] You go ahead, so you can make sure I'm not helping you cheat.

[ Maybe this is enough for now, actually. ]

hey
people are getting extra points if they find cards with challenges and do them
romantic
friendly challenges?
i got a toy from someone

do you want the points?

[ He thinks he already knows Fabian's stance on this, but. Boyfriend check up!! ]

[ .. oh.

Uh oh. ]

do you mean those dumb hearts
i have actually been burning the ones i found in the manor

[ Yeah, Fabian's stance is probably pretty obvious, huh. But whereas he usually wouldn't have cared, now he feels a little bit awkward when Gorgug is asking after them.. ]

should i have saved them for you?

[ Wow... Fabian's answers was flames... ]

well
do you
want me to do them?

i don't know if i can do burned ones
unless i ask aurora what was on them?

[ Should he?? ]

i mean

[ Pause. ]

i don't want to have anything to do with any of this

[ Okay, that's the easy part. It's just the truth. And Fabian is pretty sure that anyone in this place who knows him also knows this about him. ]

but you can do whatever you want
i can't stop you

i don't care about them
i would do them if you wanted to do them too
it seems like a relationship kind of holiday?
so
but i won't do them either
we'll not do them together

[ Not doing something together is another way of doing something together. Obviously. ]

[ There's another slight pause this time - though without Fabian having written and sent something already. Like he needs a pause for thoughts right off the bat this time around. ]

you don't care about them?

no
they're just points

[ Hm. ]

do you think i care about points?

not points necessarily

[ Sure, Gorgug has bought a lot of stuff, but.. he also needs a lot of stuff! Life is much easier when your class just involves your own physical body and very little else. Other than like.. you know. A sword. Which Fabian already had. ]

but you often care about different stuff here than i do
i didn't know if this was one of those things

Edited 2025-03-11 18:19 (UTC)

[ It's interesting. Meaningless, really, but Gorgug still wonders enough to ask: ]

what do we care about that's different?

[ There's a slight pause.

Maybe Fabian doesn't really know how to put it into words until after he's considered it for a moment. Maybe he's trying to figure out how to not sound mean about it, since he doesn't mean it in a rude way, but-- you know, tone is hard to get across over text. Especially when you're not some expert texter. ]

you care about changing this place for the better

[ Or so it seems to Fabian, anyway. Which is a good thing, in a way. It's a kind thing. In fact, Fabian is pretty sure he's making himself sound like the worse one here when he admits-- ]

i would just burn it all down to the ground if i could

[ Does he want to make this place better? It sounds more virtuous than he feels about things, but maybe it comes across that way, somehow. In comparison to Fabian's bitterness, which comes through in the next message sent.

It's dramatic, but also probably sincere (he should never underestimate his friends), and Gorgug doesn't focus on its extreme nature. He considers the two emotions, and instead, after a moment or so: ]

i want to make things better for my friends
for you
but i don't think i can change anything about this place for the better

we're still trapped and far away from home
it's always going to be a cage
no one can change that

[ No matter what's inside it. ]

[ But that doesn't change the difference here, Fabian thinks. The more his mind lingers on that thought, the less he likes it, so he ends up not voicing it. Not even through text. He pushes it down. For another time, maybe. Or for never.

Instead-- ]

well i like this place better since we started dating
not that i like this place
and i still want to destroy it
but you know what i mean

[ ... ]

i suppose what i am trying to say is that you did change one thing for the better

[ He doesn't truly believe he can change anything--that's Gorgug's verdict on his actual capabilities within Etraya. What has he done to change anything? Except buy a couple of buildings... that's about it. Sure, maybe he helped with putting people's souls back into their bodies that one time, but it hasn't made an overall difference.

But Fabian's message back does make him smile. Boyfriend cute... ]

it doesn't have a lot of dating spots

[ Or any, really.... ]

but i like you too

i don't want to lose you and riz

[ There's an unspoken too, made clearer by the inclusion of Riz--because this is his team. Fabian and him might be dating, but there's more than that between them, a deeper bond underneath this side of their relationship.

And it feels unfair to exclude Riz in some subjects, even if they're not dating him... ]

unfortunately it seems like we have very little influence on that

[ Not to be a bummer after their cute exchange just now, but.. well, it's just the truth of the matter, isn't it? Fabian isn't even turned off by the way Gorgug words it, because Fabian feels the same way. It doesn't matter that he's dating Gorgug and not Riz - they're still all friends. A party. Fabian doesn't want to lose his boyfriend nor his best friend.

But that's the problem with this place. ]

i doubt adaine wanted to leave us here either
yet she's gone
and we don't even know where she is

i know
and i know she doesn't like you any less than i do
or any of us

[ Fabian!!! He was trying to share how much he cares about you (and Riz)!!!! ]

i just wanted to say that i care about both of you a lot

[ Can he make this better? Not really, but after a few seconds-- ]

should we ask aurora if we can stay until we all get kicked out? she told me people who don't want to go back can stay here
i want to go back, but i don't want to leave you and riz
so
i don't know how it's supposed to work but that would mean we still get to see each other?

[ ????????? ]

[ Sorry, Gorgug. This just happens to be one of those topics Fabian has a whole lot of feelings about! (You know, like pretty much any other topic ever.) ]

i'm not sure whether that is a good idea
it might be used against us
maybe it wouldn't ever let any of us go back home

[ He knows the other is willing to trust Aurora, but.. even with Gorgug's faith in her, Fabian has absolutely none. Maybe it's his father speaking through him, or just natural distrust, but he doesn't want to lay this sort of thing in anyone else's hands. ]

i will just do what i can to ensure i will be here with you two
nothing else we can do

[ It's never good to bring up asking Aurora for a favour, huh...

He might still do it, just for the chance of sticking with Fabian and Riz. There's no way Fabian will agree to it, so it's something they'll have to find out -- but hopefully not. ]

we can have a date. i set up another one for us

in an hour

[ Another text: ]

captain gets a kiss

[ Maybe this way he can lighten the mood... if just a little! With a tiny call back. ]

[ . . . . . ]

are you trying to distract me from thinking about how dumb this place is with a date
because it won't work

[ Literally not even ten full seconds later: ]

alright
it might be working actually

[ Dammit, Gorgug! Do you know what sort of power you hold over him? ]

[ Wow Fabian he was just about to answer that first part, but-- ]

good
i put a lot more work into this than the last one

[ The one that was them walking around Fabian's hedge maze... ]

and if i can't distract you from everything else by being your boyfriend
i don't know if that's a good sign?

i would have to work harder

[ Probably?? ]

are you going to at least tell me what it is

[ Because Gorgug is being all mysterious about it! He can't tell him that he put more work into it - a low bar, technically speaking, given what Gorgug had to think of on the spot earlier today - and then not say what that work lead to! ]

Edited 2025-04-14 13:19 (UTC)

[ Oh, Fabian wants to know? ]

i was thinking we could have lunch on that lake by the maximum? i can use the hangvan to get out on the water and we could open the side door and have a nice view

[ The waters aren't choppy, they don't have to worry about getting wet. ]

what do you think?

[ He's about to offer they stay on land if Fabian wants, but he'll let the other guy make the choice himself!! ]

[ .. oh.

That's actually kind of nice.

Sure, it may be on the simple side of things, but considering the way this place can get at times.. maybe simple is actually kind of nice. For once.

Fabian stares at the words for a moment, but then does reply. ]

that sounds good

[ Pause. ]

is it going to be romantic? [ B-Bro? Bromantic? A bromantic date, bro? ]

[ that sounds good

Phew!! Oh boy, great, he's never sure if he's hitting the mark--

is it going to be romantic?

Doesn't it sound romantic?! Gorgug deflates some upon reading that follow up, but he just needs to-- he needs to stay strong! He wants to mention about flowers, but decides instead: ]

i'll light candles

[ He's going to find all of the scented candles he can and then find places to sit them on a sway van boat. ]

[ Gorgug may be stressing over here, but Fabian is texting so absolutely casually.. A total mismatch of vibes going over here..

But thankfully for the other, the next reply that arrives is: ]

sounds good

[ A-Approval!!! ]

i will be there in an hour
you are working hard

it's no big deal

[ Even in the midst of working hard, he's gotta be cool about it...!

But after that, he gets to work: an hour is a good amount of time to prepare. He's got most of the details settled, just with an extra trip taken to grab the candles, and Gorgug spends the rest of the time setting up the back of the Hangvan, with Zaphriel's guidance, chill as always. Another trip is taken to look for double-sided sticky tape (so that the candles don't accidentally tip over), and all of this takes place out by the lake close to where the Maximum sits.

It makes Gorgug think about if Fabian were to look outside and spot them, but he also doubts Fabian would ever do something so random.

He does his best. He's got a basket with food inside, plates and cups and some choice of drinks set together, and the Hangvan is already in flotation mode by the edge of the lake. Gorgug's wearing clean clothes, a hoodie swapped out for a plaided hooded shirt and white tee underneath. Something to keep him cosy, though the weather is warming up.

And he got a cologne, too...!!

After it's been an hour since their last contact, Gorgug shoots Fabian a message, we're ready. can you see the hangvan from the maximum?, and he'll get off from the van and stand on the land between it and the lake-- with some flowers behind his back, ready to present once Fabian does show up... if he shows up... if he won't be delayed!!

We're doing our best Good Boyfriend attempt, here! ]

[ Gorgug is lucky in some ways - mostly the way that Fabian actually can't peek out from the Maximum, because he's no longer there. The moment he realizes this is going to be a date for real, it's not like he can just show up in any outfit! He has to shower, and then put on his normal clothes, and then head over to the Manor to actually pick out something that feels a little more date-appropriate from his huge wardrobe.

Which means that when Fabian does show up, he isn't coming from the direction of the boat-slash-dance-studio, but from their compound instead. Dressed to the nines. Does he know Gorgug probably won't be? Sure, but that doesn't mean Fabian can't dress up! Doesn't Gorgug deserve to have a little bit of eye candy while they're on their date?

Still, when he shows up and realizes that Gorgug.. well, did kind of dress up in his own way, Fabian smiles. It's just cute, watching Gorgug make these efforts to make this something special. Something special for them. It makes the smile a little grinny since it's amusing, but there's something very genuinely excited about it too. ]

Hey, handsome.

[ Same greetings as back on the train, even though he's not even putting on an act this time.. It's just a very excited-to-see-Gorgug-happy-puppy-style little tease, okay.. ]

Nice shirt.

[ Some of us just expect Fabian to be carrying around stylish clothes to change into after dancing his little heart out. And some of us are apparently wrong.

Not only that, but Gorgug was wrong about whatever expectations he had on Fabian's style of dress. When he shows up, the outfit takes him back-- and definitely makes him feel underdressed, but Gorgug doesn't get self-conscious about it, at least. He's smiling, looking Fabian up and down when he approaches him with his own grin and suave. ]

Thanks. You look dressed for a restaurant instead of the back of my van. [ Truly... he looks overdressed for the occasion. Nevertheless, Gorgug brings the arm he's been hiding behind his back to hold out to Fabian a small bouquet of flowers of mostly red and white (definitely more red than the whites), and a singular yellow freesia-like flower in the centre. ]

I got you flowers, [ he states the obvious, the smile he's been wearing turning a touch shy, but also more giddy and hopeful. ]

[ Please, Gorgug, can some of us not dress up for a back of a van water picnic as if they were visiting a famous restaurant?

Not that there's any time left to comment on clothes. Not for Fabian, anyway. Because Gorgug pulls out those flowers, and Fabian just--

He stares.

Only for a moment, and then he's already taking the small bouquet from the other, but even then he's technically still staring at the flowers. Just as they are in his own hands now, rather than Gorgug's.

(But it did feel special, Gorgug had said, earlier today. Maybe it's about the intent.)

Fabian stares at the flowers like he has been mesmerized by them. His cheeks grow a little darker, and despite the fancy outfit he's wearing, he doesn't really look all that cool in the moment. If anything, he seems half-baffled, half-shy. ]

No one has ever given me flowers before. [ A pause, and then, perhaps remembering another incident with Gorgug-- ] W-- Well, not like this.

[ That first day of school didn't count! That was different. Gorgug was right earlier today, this does feel different!! ]

[ Fabian's probably gotten flowers on other occasions. The sort that Gorgug can't imagine, except for something to do with family functions, though his father's side of the family doesn't seem the sort to hand them out. But when it comes to dating? Gorgug nods, understanding, considering-- well. Aelwyn. ]

I didn't think you did. But, I like flowers. [ He figured that out, after talking about them all day. ] And I figured if you didn't like them, we could throw them away. But I got these because, these colours make me think of you. [ He points, first to the red, ] Because you wear your Owlbears jacket all the time, and the white [ pointing! ] is like your hair.

And then this-- [ to the singular yellow ] --is the way you stand out.

[ He's smiling, has been this entire time, and he looks at Fabian now with that fond look; a little flushed himself, but in a good mood kind of way. ]

I don't know what the flowers are or if they mean anything.

[ He's not that deep into flowers. ]

[ He shakes his head. ]

I don't want to throw them away. [ Quite the opposite. The more he looks at the bouquet, and the more he thinks about every single word Gorgug is telling him here, the more Fabian actually wants to look into whether there's a spell to make sure that flowers will never wilt. To preserve-- this. All of this. This moment. The gift, given to him because it's something Gorgug likes, because it made Gorgug think of him.

The way Fabian stares at the flowers is a little shy, especially with that blush on his face, but at the same time kind of like he's in love with the flowers. ]

I like them. I like that you like them. I mean--

[ He may be realizing that he's sounding like a total dork here, but that's just making him blush more. ]

.. thanks for the Valentine's present.

[ If Gorgug were a little more perceptive, he might see clearer the depth of Fabian's reaction. What he does see is the touched expression, and that might be enough--Fabian likes them. He says that he likes them, and that Gorgug likes them too, and that's nice. Gorgug likes those things too, and nothing about him is judgmental about what Fabian says, or even knows he could be judgmental.

He just continues to smile, pleased that he made a good choice. ]

Cool. [ Cool. ] I'll get you flowers more.

[ That's a little note he can make about Fabian to himself. And with that being simple and straightforward to Gorgug, he turns a step, half-facing between the van and Fabian. ]

You wanna get in? I got a vase in case you decided to keep the flowers.

[ When and if Fabian decides to get in, though he can see the sight of the interior from where he stands, there's an onslaught of soft cushions on two sides of a low table, scented candles sitting on small square boxes turned over and covered with different fabrics (and also clued to said structures); there's a picnic basket tucked to a corner, and lo-fi tunes are coming from the van's radio. ]

[ Gorgug doesn't have to wait. Fabian follows him into the van right away, that smile still lingering on his face - strengthened every time he looks back at the flowers for a second.

Besides, the interior of the van does help keep the smile there. It does look romantic in that sappy way Fabian really likes, and he does note the way the music is way different from the stuff Gorgug usually listens to. (Or rather - the stuff Gorgug listens to when he's not around. It's not like Fabian hasn't noticed that the tunes coming from the lab are usually pretty different before he approaches..) ]

You worked hard. [ He says - the acknowledgement of what Gorgug had said and promised earlier.

Fabian doesn't sit down immediately, but it's mostly so he can step over next to Gorgug. One of his hands frees itself from holding onto the flowers so he can put it on Gorgug's neck, pulling the other down a little so Fabian can plant a kiss on his lips. ]

It really looks romantic. [ He adds, once their lips part. ]

[ That kiss on the lips? A pretty good sign he did a good job. Gorgug does lean down when Fabian urges him, closes his eyes for the kiss that comes, and then opens them to a rather cheery expression, sweet and touched by the gesture.

This is what their relationship needs more of, apparently. And he was second-guessing the flowers. When that's the key ingredient to being romantic in a relationship! ]

Then let's do romantic more. I like romantic.

[ There's an idea there, something for the future, nothing concrete to do about now, but one day. He gives Fabian another kiss, one that's quicker than his on the lips, but only because there's something he has to do. His hands are on Fabian's chest though--not pushing him away, but just resting there. ]

You sit-- I need to move the van out to get a good view. Then I'll join you.

[ Unless Fabian wants the view of the land and with the Maximum in the distance. Gorgug wouldn't protest more than once. ]

[ Good thing Gorgug likes romantic, or Fabian will have to throw out his own plans for tonight entirely!!

But right now he's not saying a thing about it. That's a surprise for later. Instead Fabian is still standing there for now, staring at Gorgug and nodding when the other adds that last part. ]

Sure, mister driver.

[ It doesn't have the same ring to it as captain, but-- look, this is still a van. Fabian refuses to acknowledge it as a boat. This will have to do.

There's another quick kiss, more of a peck, but then Fabian is already stepping away to go put those flowers into the vase. ]

I do hope you will be joining me for even more.. romantic things.

[ Don't mind him ~~and his flirting~~ though-- He'll just quickly sort out the flower situation, position the vase nicely, and then move to sit down so he doesn't fall over like an idiot once Gorgug starts driving the van. ]

[ His van is a boat and his boat is a van, Fabian. Respect the lore!!

Gorgug would reply about romantic things he would be willing to do, but Fabian is already off to deal with the flowers, so he hops into the front to take at the controls. A voice perks up in his head than in the console, an encouraging, 'Thumbs up on the flowers, huh, my guy? Like I tooold you, nothing to worry about!' and Gorgug hums in place of the laugh he nearly gives, smiling, and saying a small 'Yeah, thanks' under his breath when he starts up the engine. ]

Ready? [ he asks Fabian, and once he is, sitting down in place, Gorgug starts to direct the van out in boat mode, a light thrum running through the van as Gorgug makes a turn and drives out farther into the lake. Somewhere that looks like it has a nice view, even if it's a simple and scenic one that takes out the buildings from the equation, leaving water and distant land.

The lights survive the drive, glued into place--ripping them off later might be a bigger issue. But after five minutes or slow, Gorgug settles the van and crawls back into the back. Spotting where Fabian sits and giving him a smile, checking the view from the opened doors (with a little splash around the opening, but nothing that could reach in and catch at Fabian). Gorgug sits on one side of the low table, as is usual courtesy when hanging out with a pal.

...

...but then he gets an idea--even this late into planning!--and decides to take the place of picnic basket, scooting over and lifting it, and sitting it on his lap. ]

Sitting closer is more romantic.

[ He's so big brained, Fabian! ]

[ Fabian laughs. A very genuine laugh. Sure, maybe it's a little bit at Gorgug's expense, but-- it's meant in a fond way, really. There's something about the way the other puts things that's just very amusing to Fabian in an endearing sort of way.

A true romantic genius, indeed. ]

Hmm, that does sound romantic. [ Fabian agrees - though still with that amused tone now. ] I should have known I was dealing with a dating expert, considering you did manage to set up this whole date for us after all.

[ He gestures at the open doors with one hand - indicating that.. you know. They're out here! They're really doing it! They're having a date that's not just cuddling in bed or hanging out at either the Maximum or Gorgug's lab! ]

[ Another Gorgugism occurs, as he listens to Fabian's deduction and he considers his reasoning, even looking at where Fabian gestures to his evidence. Calculating it together and deciding, sincerely, with a slow nod: ]

I am. I'm pretty good at this. [ Sometimes, Gorgug will have an ego about the most random of things... but it seemingly inspires him, with him now closer to Fabian, Gorgug reaches over and takes Fabian's closest hand and links them together, even though his next action is to look at the picnic basket and start poking through. He's given himself a singular hand to do with the job, but fortunately, the actual meals inside are in bento boxes, so those are easy to sit on the table. ]

This is the fish, [ he says, and if Fabian opts to look in, he'll find unadon: grilled fish on top of a bed of rice. But Gorgug is still bringing out some more things to sit on the table: like a small fancy wooden chopping board. A cutting knife, a butter knife, and butter for said butter knife. He lets some demi baguettes sit spread out next to the side farther from him on the table, and then brings out... blocks of cheese, and a sealed packet of meat.

And starts sitting them on the farther end on Fabian's side. ]

And cheese and bread. Like we're having a fancy picnic.

[ He thought of it all!! ]

[ For once Fabian shuts up for a bit, allowing Gorgug his deserved glory as he shows off everything he planned out for this.

Besides, he doesn't mind being quiet about this one at first. There's something about Gorgug holding his hand and the way the other seems so proud of his ideas here that make a very genuine smile appear on Fabian's face as he's watching the other explain.

With his gaze half on the things Gorgug is showing off, sure-- But sometimes also just turning his head to look at Gorgug himself, a very adoring gaze in Fabian's eye. It's cute! He likes it when Gorgug is confident, okay! ]

That truly is a picnic worthy of a Seacaster. [ He finally comments.

And-- look, it's true, okay? There's fish! Fish!! That clearly means Gorgug thought of everything. You can totally bribe Fabian into instantly thinking your plan is great with a fish meal involved.

He squeezes Gorgug's hand. ]

It's as if we are out on the sea together, and you are my handsome helmsman. [ Sorry, Hangman. That does imply the Hangvan is a ship. He's betraying you for hand holding and a fish meal. ]

[ Wow, a picnic worthy of a Seacaster. Coming from Fabian, and maybe even somebody saying it like that in general, gives it a higher status that even Gorgug feels its worth. Which means the sides of his smile are crinkling when it widens, a further pride in his bones, his chest. Fish, cheese, and bread... who knew that's the way to a Seacaster's heart!!

And a Seacaster isn't the only one whose heart is being reached. Being a handsome helmsman? So very cool, and Gorgug looks at Fabian after he says it, giving his hand a squeeze back. ]

Really? I'm a handsome helmsman? [ Handsome, and a helmsman. Who knew those words would come out of Fabian's mouth about him? ] Would you like that? We could get a real boat, one with a helm, and I could really steer you out on the lake.

[ The lake. Because there isn't a sea, but maybe this piece of fantasy inside their reality would be nice to Fabian? Even if the size of boat Gorgug is imagining might be smaller than Fabian. ]

Edited 2025-05-15 16:02 (UTC)

Of course you are. And the most sexy. [ Fabian says, though he apparently can't help but add: ] After me, of course.

[ Does it help if he's at least saying that last part in a seductive whisper? Maybe? Does that fix ruining your own compliment for someone else with your own ego? Who knows.

At least he does seem like he's going to help Gorgug here, since he's already reaching for the cutting knife. He gestures for Gorgug to grab one of the baguettes - Fabian could, but he doesn't want to let go of the other's hand just yet - so Gorgug can hold the bread while he cuts it. Teamwork.

They have other matters to discuss as they work on it, after all. ]

I really like the idea though. [ And judging by the look on Fabian's face? He really does. The smile on his face seems so genuine, and kind of sweet.. Like an excited kid.. ] Do you think you could steer a whole ship though?

[ They are definitely thinking in different sizes here.. Sorry, Gorgug. Time to test your water vehicle proficiency. ]

[ He's the most sexy... after Fabian, naturally. Gorgug can accept it!

But he was getting distracted from the actual food, surprising as that might be. Fabian reaching for the knife does call his attention to it, though, and he follows Fabian's gesture, grabbing the baguette and... thinking he should let go of Fabian's hand. Which he might start to do, unless Fabian says no and takes it back.

Which Gorgug might say, 'I'm holding it one-handed?', but accept with a chuckle in his throat. He can do that! He'll just hold it to the small table, and hopefully Fabian won't bump his hand.

But as for other potential issues: like steering. ]

Well-- yeah. [ Does he think so? sure! ] You steered your dad's ship in hell. I can steer a ship too. I steer my vanboat.

[ Which is the same thing no matter how Fabian may want to protest. Sorry, but it's true!!! Live with the facts! Are you going to argue with this face smiling back at you, Fabian?

(probably.) ]

[ He is definitely taking back that hand. It's his now!! Not allowed to let go, Gorgug! It'd be one thing if the other did it before Fabian got the idea of doing this one-handed into his mind, but it's too late now. He's settled on this plan. He is taking back Gorgug's hand, and thankfully high dexterity on Fabian's end allows him to cut the bread just fine without accidentally cutting Gorgug's hand along with it. You can keep your fingers for now, Gorgug. ]

That's not the same.

[ Sorry, bro. Even on a very romantic date Fabian will protest that. It's a matter of principle! ]

I mean-- Yes, technically the Hangvan is a boat right now. But that's still different from a ship! If we would be on a ship together, it would be one far larger than the van!

[ Well, a lot of boats can be larger than the Hangvan--they've got large hulls, for the most part. Gorgug would be willing to learn how to steer a boat to have a fun time with Fabian (and they could even invite their friends!), but giving it some thought, while pushing open the baguette so that Fabian can butter it when he's ready: ]

What if you teach me how to ride a boat?

[ Wouldn't that be the most fun? ]

[ He's about to switch from the knife to cut with to the butter knife, but stops before he can actually dip it into the butter.

Mostly because he has to turn his head so he can actually properly look at Gorgug with his eye. A little surprised. Nothing too shocked, but-- ]

You'd want to learn?

[ --still sounding a little breathless, for some reason. Just a touch. ]

I mean-- You're serious about wanting to go out on a ship together sometime?

[ Gorgug sees the action stopped, the turn of Fabian's head in his vision, and so he looks back at Fabian. Surprised, if less than him; more curious, though he does turn that inward as he considers what he just said and decided. ]

--Yeah? [ He doesn't need that long to ponder. ] Boats are cool. We can go together and hang out with our friends.

[ Hmmm. Oh, you know- ]

Should we pick up fishing?

[ Would that be any fun? ]

[ He can stay back.

That's what Gorgug finds out from talking to Aurora during her announcing the mission: he can stay back, if he chooses. With a cost, but he can try and do something about the defences of Etraya, with try being the keyword. Can he do anything about it? He's just one guy, and he knows he can make good tools and equipment when he puts his head down, but Etraya's a big place. Is it even worth it? But leaving Etraya so soon after finding out that more trouble might come to their door in the state it's in is...

He doesn't like it. It doesn't feel right. Gorgug's sitting in his workshop after the fact, the bot he was in the middle of putting together now left on the table in front of him, its innards exposed, not yet covered. He could do that now, but his mind isn't on it. He should talk to the other two, he should talk with--everyone. This mission is about survival.

Gorgug shoots them off a text, which means Fabian will receive a ping. Hopefully he's paying attention to his earpiece these days--! ]

do you want to talk about the mission? manor or maximum?

[ Manor or dance studio, he means. Where you at, boyfriend?? ]

maximum

[ You seem to be in lucky today, Gorgug. It doesn't take long at all before that reply arrives. Maybe Fabian was keeping an eye on his messages ever since he saw the message about the mission going up, just in case one of his friends was going to shoot him a message about it..

And it's really no surprise that Gorgug might want to talk about him. Especially when he brought up the idea of going to a world like this in the first place, asked people about it. Maybe he's got some thoughts. They can talk. ]

i'll wait here for you

[ It doesn't seem to be very busy there today, so even if Gorgug is going to say something that requires some privacy - though Fabian doubts it - then they should be fine, he figures. No need to go back to the Manor first. ]

okay. coming

[ It might be a trip, short of a one it might be, but Gorgug doesn't mind taking it for this. The mission itself is worth talking about, and then there's the side discussion involving what he talked about with Aurora that... might be imp-- no, is important. But maybe he should bring it up later instead of first? He shouldn't just spring it onto Fabian, right? He'll want time to complain and huff about a new mission announcement and what they'll have to do.

And after all that, Gorgug can throw in a 'BTW, I'm thinking about staying back?' at him. Because that will go down a treat.

... so maybe Gorgug still needs to work out how he's going to talk about it. Which isn't a decision he comes to by the time he pulls up outside the Maximum in the Hangvan. That's alright. He leaves Zaphariel to chill, not even broaching the topic with them (maybe he should've, but, he didn't have enough time to really decide that), and enters the part dance studio, walking his way over to where he usually expects to find Fabian inside one of the dance rooms.

If not, he'll check the bar and lounge. But Gorgug pops his head in to check, will enter only after finding the infamous Fabian Aramais Seacaster.

In the usual spot, king? ]

[ To be fair to Gorgug, it is a little harder to find Fabian than it usually would be. Most of the time he's got music playing to dance, after all. But after getting those messages, he's been winding down the dance practice he was working on, turning off the music after the final song was done.

Instead he will find the other sitting on the floor of one of the dance rooms - his legs spread, apparently in the middle of stretching, considering Fabian's hands are tugging on one of his feet. ]

Hey.

[ It's not exactly the world's most enthusiastic greeting. Is Fabian happy to see Gorgug? Yes. Is he happy about the circumstances of it all? Certainly not. It dulls the greeting a little.

He lets go of his foot, apparently having stretched enough, and pulls his legs closer to himself to sit criss-cross applesauce. ]

Do you want to sit down with me here for this? [ Might as well, since he's sitting on the floor already anyway - and it's not like there's anyone else around. Maybe it's because of the mission announcement, but the Maximum seems pretty devoid of people today. ]

Edited 2025-04-04 19:08 (UTC)

[ The greeting is as appropriate to the mood that Gorgug suspected Fabian might be in--displeased about another mission, but far too used to it to make his usually agitation be known off the bat. Gorgug gives a quick ] Sure [ to the invitation, the sound of his boots echoing well inside the music-less room, the door closed behind him.

And where does he sit? Directly next to Fabian, slipping down close where Gorgug's leg bumps against a knee poking out, the bent limbs allowing some short space between their bodies. His own legs sprawled out, in the same manner as Fabian's had been in the middle of his stretches--but Gorgug's not getting into those, himself. ]

I didn't think the mission about the dying universe would involve entertaining a bunch of people.

[ It feels like idle chatter, the talk before getting to something deeper. Which it is, and yet, it's more than what Gorgug has extra on his mind. He wants to figure out Fabian's mood: how into prep talk and the such he's eager to get into. ]

Yes, me neither-- Though I suppose it's preferable to the alternative. [ Which would be-- what, just standing there and watch a world die in front of their eyes? Fabian is pretty sure that would have been his idea of it when the idea was brought up by Aurora through Gorgug. It's not like they were going to actually let them save a world, anyway.

Not that Fabian is necessarily saying this like it's a good thing. The guy still both looks and sounds kind of grumpy, but it's the usual levels of grumpy whenever Fabian gets into talking about this place. His usual rambles. This mission might involve a dying world, sure, but it doesn't seem to get him more worked up than the usual. ]

Like working. [ He rolls his eyes. ] I swear, if I have to listen to a boss again-- oh, gods.

[ Fabian moves his hands up, starting to gather some of the hair that slipped out of his bun to make his hair a little bit more neat. There seems something casual about his entire talk. Something habitual, like this is just more of the same to Fabian. He certainly doesn't seem to be catching on to the fact Gorgug might be thinking of something more or something different here. ]

[ Gorgug hums a sound that's agreeable to Fabian's exasperation, if short. A glance taken at Fabian, before he's looking back at the length of his legs, longer than Fabian's own beside him. Anything they have to talk about the mission should be done with Riz, and he'll surely have a hundred things to rattle off for them to consider and start putting together.

He rocks his feet, lightly tapping the tips of his shoes together. Slow, but: ]

--I'm still worried about Solmara. About the people checking up on us and trying something. [ It's funny, how the pair of them had been speaking about this: Gorgug worried about a problem he didn't take seriously before (tried to even get Fabian to leave it alone, even if it wasn't the root of what Fabian was attempting to deal with), and now they're here with it-- Aurora nearly getting parts of her snatched, with Etraya itself nearly being disrupted and the people inside it.

Gorgug wonders if Fabian will say something about it. He wouldn't blame him if he did. ]

Aurora isn't...great, about defending herself. And it's been pretty easy for people to come here and do whatever they want.

[ When Fabian looks at Gorgug while the other speaks, there does seem to be something like that thought in his expression. His eyebrows raise in surprise-- because yes, it is strange. He does remember talking about it with Gorgug in the dark. And while Fabian hadn't been very personally worried about the topic itself back then, it did seem like Gorgug had wanted to desperately avoid it for some reason.

And now he's.. bringing it up? By himself? It's not even like Fabian prompted it. Gorgug could easily have let Fabian ramble on about how annoying and dumb the missions are, and it's not like Gorgug ever would have had to say a word about it.

(And-- well, Gorgug's care for Aurora is a bit of a touchy subject, and it doesn't really sit right within Fabian, but he's a big boy. He's been grown to try and be a little bit more of a big boy, anyway. He can shove down the feeling of having someone he's close to care so much for something he hates. It's not like it's the first time he's ever done it.)

So rather than commenting on that, Fabian's eyebrows knit together as he instead asks: ]

It didn't sound like you wanted to do anything about it before.

[ It's not really criticism - you know it's criticism when it's coming from Fabian, considering he never bothers to hide that in his tone - as much as it's.. well, confusion. He wonders what changed for Gorgug. ]

[ Okay, it might not be a criticism, but don't call Gorgug out anyway? Even pointing it out makes Gorgug wince. ]

No one else was doing anything-- I didn't know what to do! [ Or maybe there had been some ideas given, but it's purely defensive, and Gorgug lets his shoulders slump as his head sinks in defeat. Ughhhh. ] I'm an idiot. I should've done something. I should've-- said something about it.

[ Even if now, Gorgug doesn't know if it would have changed anything. But there's blame in the pit of his stomach, and in gurgles down there at times like annoyance, but it's still mostly directed at himself. He should've been better, but he hates these kinds of calls: making any, deciding what to do.

He looks at Fabian now, as pitiful of a kicked dog as he looks. ]

I don't want people coming here and fucking things up when it sucks we're stuck here in the first place.

[ Okay, now that seems to snap Fabian out of his more contemplative state. ]

Hey, you're not an idiot! [ He'll even nudge Gorgug's shoulder as he says it, lightly pushing against it with his hand. Fabian will defend Gorgug from anyone saying that. Even himself. He'll fight you, Gorgug.

It may not be the main point here, but Fabian still wants to have said it. It's important! Gorgug's got to have some self esteem! ]

Besides, what's important isn't not having done anything so far. It's what you'll do in the future! Do you want to do something about it? Should we do something about it?

[ Does Fabian care about Aurora?

Not in the slightest.

But, you know, you can't just make a Bad Kid do something by themselves. That isn't how it works. They're a collective! ]

[ B-bro.

Gorgug looks bad when Fabian calls him out--in defence of himself. Not that he wasn't already, but it's somehow an appreciative bad-looking, where he's thankful, but still sheepish about the current situation. The current discussion.

One where Fabian asks if they should do something, and he feels stumped. Lost. ]

We can, [ he says first, since--he wouldn't ever stop them from trying. ] I know I could make some bots to watch from outside the barrier, or inside, if Aurora won't let me stick any out there. But I don't know what to do if they come from inside the hospital... I don't know if we should try and talk to anyone who shows up outside the barrier again.

[ God, Gorgug doesn't want to make that decision. Should they try and convince them not to sell them out? Say they could join Etraya?

These aren't the kind of decisions he likes to make by himself. ]

[ Could Fabian give suggestions here? Make decisions?

Sure, he could. He's never really been all that indecisive about these sorts of things. But he doesn't - exactly because he can see Gorgug hesitate in front of him. For such a big guy, he starts looking so small during moments like these, and Fabian hates to see it. Gorgug really should feel more confident about himself.

And if this does have to do with those rage nightmares.. well, then Fabian can't just solve it for him. That won't make them go away. It's something Gorgug has to do himself, encouraged by him. Isn't that what Fabian is a bard for? ]

Well, what is your impression of those people go far? What does your gut say?

[ Come on, Gorgug! Time to talk about your feelings! It's your favorite thing to do, baby!! ]

[ His gut wants to avoid the problem. Or maybe smash things? He wants to smash his problems.

Gorgug looks down when the question is posed to him, clearly not happy about it, not wanting to come to any conclusion when he feels so-- all over the place with the problem. But what is his impression? He's seen some conversations about it... ]

...I guess that, they're just trying to survive. Whoever left that banner could've been taunting us, or they could have been leaving a warning, seeing all those marks they left on it-- it was a countdown. Why be obvious if you're going to slip people inside in secret? Not everyone's on the same page about screwing us over.

[ so... ] So I think if-- we could get more intel on what the leader over there can do, or what the dangers are; if we can actually get someone on our side who knows something, we could take out the bigger problem, and maybe see if we can fix their city up so they don't have to go out and screw over people for resources. [ Which feels wrong somehow, and Gorgug looks at Fabian, something uncomfortable in his expression. ]

If they're going to be stuck in a prison, they might as well be stuck in a comfortable one.

[ Like them. ]

[ As he takes in all these thoughts from Gorgug, Fabian takes in a deep breath, slowly exhaling before he speaks. ]

Back before you showed up here, there was talk about another city like this one where the people were forced to fight each other. [ At least-- Fabian feels like that talk was so early on that even Gorgug hadn't joined them yet. Back when it had still been him and Riz and Adaine..

There's not a whole lot of passion in Fabian's voice as he speaks, but his demeanor lacks the awkwardness that Gorgug has when he speaks about all of this. ]

I don't remember if they put a name to that other city though, so I don't know whether or not it's the same place as the one these people come from. But if it was, it might explain why they're acting like a bunch of weirdos.

[ Gorug remembers being told about that. He nods at them being weirdos, an agreed upon impression. Even though: ]

The ones in charge could've been assholes before they even showed up. I just want to keep them off our backs, or having them all come to stay with us. Even if Aurora took them in, would that stop people from showing up at the other place?

[ He grimaces at the idea. ]

Then there's a chance we end up getting people trying to fuck us over again.

Well, then go for it!

[ .. truly inspiring words.

On the other hand, it's not like Fabian knows what specific plan Gorgug wants to go for. All he's trying to do here is trying to be supportive, even if Fabian doesn't particularly likes talking about or thinking about matters that involve Aurora in some way. It just gets him feeling grumpy. Maybe that's why his statement is so vague - because it's more about the encouragement for Gorgug than the actual content of what the other wants. ]

Sure, the mission is coming up and all, but there's time to gather some information before then, if you want to. [ If you're being proactive!!

In fact, despite all of the above, Fabian is still Fabian. Which means he does offer: ]

I can help, if there's anything you think I can do for this.

i'm back

i'm at cabin flamingo

[ It's a message he sends to both of his teammates (his true teammates), since he figures this is the most important information he can give them. As well as sitting outside by the steps of said cabin, his knees bent up high while he sits on a log too small for his tall frame. He'll stretch them eventually, just like he'll get a shower and a change of clothes eventually too, though, making his sitting position might come first.

But he thinks Fabian and Riz would enjoy seeing him first. Also? Gorgug would like to see them before a shower and all that. He's got chores or something, but whatever.

First, comes his guys: one who happens to be his boyfriend.

And who he isn't expecting an actual reply back from that isn't him showing in person. Actually, did Fabian said he prefers voice calls more for things like this? Uhh.... ]

Edited 2025-06-02 10:43 (UTC)

[ There's definitely no text in return. Which may not always be a good sign, given Fabian's tendency to not really check his text messages in the first place - but this is one he's been waiting for. Even kind of nervously, really. There's the part of Fabian that - as reluctant as he is to ever admit to feeling this about anyone ever - just really missed Gorgug. Even with Riz here, it didn't feel the same. They just need all three of them together for things to feel normal, not to mention that Fabian didn't quite realize how empty his bed feels without Gorgug in it.

Especially the horrible, horrible stupid dumb cabin beds here. Terrible. He deserves his huge bed and 80,000 thread count elven sheet blankets, thanks. How is anyone supposed to sleep like this, especially without their boyfriend to cuddle with?!

And then there was also the reality of the mission Gorgug went on. Fabian may trust Gorgug to be able to smash just about anything into the ground, but he's also aware of how dirty this place can be. What if it does something to Gorgug that the other can't participate? If that mission put him through hell and back, Fabian would be about ready to burn this place to the ground.

So somewhere between his own desire to see Gorgug again and his worry about the state the other could be in, Fabian immediately heads towards the cabin when he gets that message. He doesn't care if he has to drop an activity he was in the middle of. Gorgug first. ]

Gorgug!

[ Instead of getting that text back, Gorgug will hear that-- and then a set of footsteps approaching. Rapidly. Very rapidly. Fabian just ran straight over, if the way he's slightly out of breath by the time he actually can spot Gorgug is something to go by. He only stops running when he's right in front of where the other is sitting, his eyes scanning Gorgug immediately to make sure the other is.. alive? Not wounded? Alright? All of the above?

And also kind of trembling with pent up energy, considering Fabian really wants to hug or kiss or make out or actually all of that with Gorgug right now, but isn't so sure if the other is in any state for Fabian to just grab him and do that. He's vibrating, Gorgug!! Vibrating!!!! ]

[ When Gorgug hears his name, his head turns to look for the figure it belongs to, but he also finds that he doesn't actually want to be sitting anymore, actually. So when Fabian comes to him, he's up, dressed without his usual hoodie, but in a long-sleeved button up thing and baggy trousers, in a sense of fashion unlike him. A fashion that Fabian probably saw him pack beforehand for his trip, seeing as it was important for him to dress for hot and dry.

But what's maybe important? Is the smile on Gorgug's face. A smile that grows the closer that Fabian gets to him, and here, they're standing in opposite places from the time Fabian and Riz came back from their mission, and Gorgug stayed behind. With the energy different, and even Gorgug feeling a different energy, too. Not so confused, or lost.

He's looking down at Fabian standing there, trembling in his spot. And Gorgug feels-- warmer, to see a face he wanted to see. One of the most important, that for the pause that Gorgug treasures finally getting his wish: ]

Hi. [ It's only a pause, with that hi needing to come out, but his feet following it soon after. Gorgug closes in their distance and wraps his arms around Fabian completely, leaning in and smothering him, like a comforter he hasn't been able to appreciate in a week. And it's been nearly an entire week since he's been gone, and now he's here.

Kinda dirty, dusty, but not bloodied. Only sighing with a relief he's been waiting for, and saying into much his own arm as he does Fabian's neck. ]

Missions are boring without you guys.

etraya ic inbox.

( idk WHENEVER MINGLE HAPPENS IN JUNE ), voice

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day of Having It chat, text

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