Jun 18 03:44:28 106 PA - The Knight, The Shopping, The Seasoning
From Chronicles
The current game time is: Sat Jun 18 03:44:28 106 PA.
"Ah. So you a lady errant, so to speak?" Leonard is already out enjoying the early morning sunshine and clear skies. His words are directed to Aislinn, who stands nearby while he leans against an awning's post so that it can bear more of his weight than his favored leg. "That's very noble of you, but it seems a ridiculous amount of travel. The world's a very large place."
Aislinn is standing her her hands clasped behind her back, looking relaxed, enjoying the sunshine. "It is, but I'm not alone in it, and there's no need to travel far to find those in need of aid. The world is a very large place, but it's also full of wrongs that need righting, evils that need to be put to rest."
"Leo!" The voice calling out from nearby as the owner comes from around the awning that Leo is leaning against, after spotting him from behind. The young woman that is Vixen comes right up beside him. She's about to speak when she gets a sense of Aislinn, pausing to look towards her. Though that doesn't stay Vixen from wrapping her arms around the one Leo isn't leaning against. "I hope you weren't waiting too long," she then offers to the man before looking back towards. Aislinn to offer a light, "Heya."
Leonard nods to Aislinn, his agreement with her facts and ideals somewhat mixed. "Not far, but that does mean there's no shortage of... Vix!" The call for him is answered, a grin promptly appearing with Vixen's arrival. "You know you're worth the wait. I've simply enjoyed the weather, my coffee, and some friendly conversation in the interim." He gestures about with his paper cup of caffeine to highlight those points, the last being Aislinn.
"The sharing of names between you two reminds me that I've been remiss in giving mine," Aislinn says with an expression of apology, a slight bowing of her head. "Forgive me the rudeness." She steps forward and her right hand is taken from behind her back and offered forward, to Leonard first. "I'm Lady Aislinn Shaughnessy. It's a pleasure to meet you both." She smiles at Leonard, then at Vixen.
"Vixen," said young woman offers in return, considering Aislinn as she eases back a step, letting Leo shake hands without too much difficulty. It's morning at the plaza and the weather is fine, Vixen's eyes straying a bit to glance about before she notes, "Bet there are some people around here you'll like. They keep insisting on calling me 'lady'." A fact which seems to amuse her, given the casual grin that rises as a consequence of the note.
Rebekkah shuffles out of the Nut 'n' Bolt into the bright morning sun, stifling a yawn with one hand and cradling a disposable coffee cup against her body with the other. Blinking blearily, she hesitates in the doorway to give her eyes a chance to adjust and her brain a chance to process the change in scenery. She shuffles forward again with a secondary, kittenish yawn and angles herself towards the stalls of the Plaza on a quest for breakfast.
"Leonard," is his response as he shifts his drink to the arm partially-relinquished by Vixen so that he can shake the offered hand, "although most shorten that a little. A pleasure to meet you." Once that's completed, his grin returns to Vixen and curls unevenly with wit. "Well, you /are/ a lady. Technically."
"A pleasure to meet both of you as well, truly," Aislinn says after shaking Leonard's hand and returning it behind her back, clasped with her other gauntleted fist. Her blue eyes turn on Vixen and her light brows raise a fraction. "Some people? I'm curious who these people might be an, if you think I would like them, why that is. Maybe some time you could make introductions?" She laughs quietly as her regard turns back to Leo and she says, "Just so, though there's more than one meaning to the word, as well."
"I ain't a lady in the way they mean it," Vixen notes to Leo, her casual amusement lingering. "Alistair likes to do that at times." The comment given as she looks towards Aislinn again. "I ain't much for formality, so I hope you don't mind me calling you just Aislinn. I just figure someone don't call themselves by a title unless they like being called by it." Her shoulders giving a soft roll along with that last. Now that the shaking is done, she moves in closer to Leo again to lightly reclaim the arms had her own wrapped around before.
Rebekkah cozens herself something doughy and fried and glazed with a sticky-sweet syrup and shuffles closer to Leonard and Vixen and their new friend with it hanging out of her mouth like a flaccid, misshapen Frisbee. "Guh mo'nin," she address the couple, waving with a couple of fingers while the rest work to keep her coffee cup from tumbling to the groun.
Leonard makes no objections to the absconded arm, and was already relocating his coffee in preparation. He nods to no one in particular with Vixen's statement, but his words are to Aislinn, as he expounds. "She prefers 'boss,' 'mistress,' or 'dear,' I've learned." It is nearly deadpan, and his telltale grin doesn't appear until he's already turning it towards Bek's greeting. "Morning, Bek. Recharging the batteries?" Sugar and caffeine are the two most important food groups, afterall.
"I introduce myself with the title because it's who I am," Aislinn says with a gentle tone and a constant smile. "Whether you wish to call me by it or not is entirely your option, and I take no offense at you leaving it off. Aislinn is just fine." When she's finished saying this she turns to the new arrival and nods. "It is indeed quite a good one." With a touch of humour she adds, "As looks to be your breakfast."
Vixen smirks, kicking at Leo's foot lightly. An armored boot, but she's careful about it, seeing that no real harm is done. "Don't listen to him. I just go by Vixen.. or Video Vixen, if you listen to my show." Her attention shifts towards Bek and she nods a little towards the other woman in reply to her greeting. It's morning and the weather is currently fine, with the four currently gathered and speaking. "Its what you are?" A tossed in query for Aislinn.
"Uh huh," Bek answers Leonard, grabbing her breakfast in her free hand and ripping off a bite with her teeth. She explains her situation with a pithy, "Staff meeting" and a gesture at the Nut, which roughly translates to mean that there's no earthly way she'd be up this early by choice or nature and is compensating for it with a slow death by fried foods and fake coffee. Her eyes shift to Aislinn, blinking owlishly and sluggishly transmuting to tint her irises a honey-gold hue.
Leonard winces at the kick, despite the lack of real harm. That might come later. Bek's explanation garners an "Ahhh" and reminds him to suck down another swallow of his own caffeine before looking between Aislinn and Vix. In light of the latter's query of the former's title, his attention returns to Bek. "How did you get to be so fortunate?"
One day she lurks, another she shops. Navigating her way about the plaza Tirzah is a woman of interest and focus. That is that she is taking time to take in some catchy outfits, exploring all their facets without attention to those about her. She lingers around the shiny metalics that often wrap her flesh but doesnt appear satisfied with that anymore. Her search continues deeper into the plaza.
"Not what, who," Aislinn clarifies to Vixen with another easy smile. "The title was given to me, so now it's mine as much as the name I was given at birth is part of who I am as well, but I don't wield it like a bludgeon and force people to use it, so like I say... Aislinn is fine." Her blue-eyed gaze swings back to fall on Rebekkah, then she follows the gesture toward the Nut with her eyes before returning them to the gesturer. "I gather that this isn't an hour to which you're accustomed to viewing with awakened eyes," she muses. "As I was saying just now, I'm Lady Aislinn Shaughnessy. I suppose it's my own fortune that you're up early enough for me to meet you."
Vixen studies Aislinn quietly for a few moments before her brows rise slightly and she nods once. "Aislinn then. Maybe just Linn if you're not too worried about it. Rolls easier, I think. But that's usually how it is with most names I've heard." She grins a little, then looks up towards Leo. "You been thinking about the clothes any? Don't want you just going a long with it.. if you think there's anything good to add to it."
"Huh?" Bek demands of Aislinn with all the eloquence she can muster. Yeah, she's technically awake and ambulatory but the higher-level computing is still offline for maintenance. "Why's'it your fortune?" Confused, she blinks over at Leonard of all places for explanation. "Is she giving us money?"
"Ah... you might want a second cup, Bek. Or a third." Leonard attempts to answer her confusion in the simplest, and still jovial, manner. Vixen's query is next, and his attention lingers. "I have, to a degree. Your idea still sounds as pleasing as it did before, but I'm not certain what to add just yet. We need to see what can be found first, I think. Work with what we get. It might be the concussion, but even the subtle red for the hair still has my interest."
In the next section Tirzah finds something closer. Something supple, holding sustenance. And yet, still attractive in a similar manner to the others. Collecting her find she clut6ches it momentarily as if it might escape her, turning quickly she absently brushes past the woman in th blue plated dress. "oh sorry, excuse me." She manages, flushing slightly.
"If you wish," Aislinn says to Vixen with a touch of laughter in her voice. "So long as you're not meaning disrespect I take no quarrel with it." Her gaze slides back to Bek. "My fortune because I'm trying to meet people, being new to Kingsdale, and happenstance has delivered anoher across my path." Not that there's a shortage of people to cross paths with here, in the crowded market. Her attention finds its way back casually to Leo and Vix talking about clothes, but as it's not a conversation she has knowledge of and it doesn't concern her much she deosn't give it much focus. "I hadn't intended on giving money but why do you ask? Are you in need?" When Tirzah brushes past her Aislinn turns to her, smiles, and says, "No harm, miss. I apologize for blocking the way."
Vixen grins a little at Leo. "I got just the shade in mind too," she notes to him. "But even if it ain't the right one, we can try a few times." She gives Aislinn a shake of head then, noting, "When I'm looking to insult, I tend to be a bit more obvious. No point in that sort of thing unless its obvious enough to take, right?" Her casual grin risen again along with that jesting note. Her attention flicks towards TIrzah, but doesn't linger long before moving back to Aislinn.
Rebekkah washes down a bite of her breakfast with a swallow of coffee before nodding agreement with Leonard - followed swiftly by a shaking of her head. "Yeah. No, I just need to go back to sleep for a couple of hours. Nice meeting you, lady," she continues, smoothly shifting back to Aislinn and flapping the fried dough at her as a wave. She starts shuffling away, moving away from the group and out where time seems to flow just a little bit faster and it doesn't take long for the marketplace to swallow her up.
Leonard lifts his cuppa Joe to Bek as a parting waveform, then empties as much as possible from it before asking Vixen, "Are you gonig to be doing this yourself, or will I have a professional to blame if I turn the wrong shade? I'd hate to clash." A belated confirmation is given to Aislinn, delayed further as he notes Tirzah's passing. "You can rest assured that when Vixen is upset or insulting, it will be conspicuous."
Tirzah nods coming to a stop to resettle herself and the dress she found as she takes note of those present. "Good morning, guess we're all back here so soon, interesting." She greets before closer looking over the woman she bumped into. "Interesting dress." She notes with a sly smile, coming back into herself. Then remembering Leonard's limp she looks to him. "Do you want to see Sage for your injury?" She asks graciously.
"You as well," Aislinn says to the departing Rebekkah. "Sleep well, when you find your way back to your bed." She provides a departing nod to the half-asleep woman she turns back to smile at Leo and Vix. "It's good to know that if I ever raise her displeasure it will be a hostility born openly, rather than wielded as a subtle knife. Still, I think I'll aim to stay on people's good sides, as always, and strive to avoid any cause for offense being taken or disrespect given." She turns her smile at Tirzah and says, "Thank you. I take it that the three of you are acquainted?"
Vixen lifts a hand in a casual wave towards Bek as she goes, answering Leo with, "Me, of course. And don't worry, I've got a color that's just like yours, so I can always cover over any mistakes." She smiles at him lightly. She grins at Aislinn and simply says, "You're doing fine as is." And she nods, eyes flicking towards TIrzah again. "Yeah, I know her." Her tone kept simply neutral.
"It should mend soon enough, Tirzah, but thank you for the offer. Of course, if she wished to visit, I'd hardly complain." Leonard's reply is on the more pleasant side of neutral, especially with the last. A belated addition is given as the neutral yields to bemused grin with the return of focus to Vixen. "Although she might not recognize me when Vix is finished with her transmogrifications."
Tirzah nods slowly as her expression blanches with a look to Vixen. "We're going to keep hitting this aren't we? An unequitable difference of view. Is it so hard to agree to disagree? Or will you resent my existence and all it touches when it comes close to you?" She asks simply, dropping all pretext in a moment of exasperation. "Leonard and I are friends, and I hold no ill regard for Vixen. But she despise me and my take on things." She then explains to Aislinn in response. "I'm Tirzah by the way." She introduces, slipping back into the polite demeanor with and offer of her hand.
"Lady Aislinn Shaughnessy," Aislinn says as she reaches out to take the hand that's been offered to her, smiling her pleasure at the introduction. "I think I'll stop interrupting and occupying all of your time," Aislinn says with a pleasant smile as she takes a step back, away from the group. "I've got plenty still to see in the city, and many other people to meet, so I'd best be on my way. It was quite the pleasure meeting you all, though. Farewell."
"I don't despise you," Vixen tells Tirzah. "But the way you act towards me does piss me off more than otherwise. Not to mention that you seem to see life as a game when it ain't." With that said, she looks to Aislinn and nods her head a little. "I grew up here, so if you ever need some advice, you know who to ask." She looses one arm from Leo and slips a hand into her armored coat. Drawing out a plain, simple little business card. It has a few lines of text that proclaim, 'Vixen's View' below which a radio frequency and PO box are noted. "Feel free to listen in if you have a radio." The card offered towards her between two fingers.
Leonard follows Vixen's offered card to give Aislinn a smiling nod as the blonde excuses herself. "Try not to get lost in your explorations." It is a wishing of well rather than anything meant to insult. Now there's the matter of the two disagreeing on agreement to disagree, or whatever that is. "You push and prod, Tirzah, which is not always the best action to take, especially when most don't know /why/ you're doing so."
Tirzah shrugs, lightly shaking her head. "Such is my nature, I cant really help it. And apparently few can accept it." She accepts before refolding the dress over her arm. "Life aint a game, it aint fun, it aint a competition? Doesn't sound very appealing, that view of life. But if its your view then you're welcome to it. Let me be welcome to mine. To each their own." She notes before deciding that's enough and turning to head towards the register.
Aislinn takes the offered business card and looks at it before nodding and slipping into a pocket hidden in one of the seams of the dress beneath her armor. "I have one," she says as a simple answer to Vixen. "I'll have to listen. I haven't found myself any long term arrangements for work or home so I'm afraid I don't have a card of my own to give in return. I'm sure that if you're in need, and determined, it wouldn't be too difficult to track me down. I'm staying at the Happy Days Inn, for now." She does smile lastly at Tirzah and says, "Sometimes, people need to be pshed. Even when they don't want to." Then she raises a mailed hand to wave. "A good day to all of you. Take care." With that, she turns and starts to head into the market again.
Vixen lifts a hand towards Aislinn, but keeps her focus on Tirzah. "That's a copout," Vixen tells her. "'Just my nature' just means you don't feel like thinking that maybe what you do sometimes ain't right." She shakes her head. "Life is full of fun and can be competitive, but it ain't a game. You just keep treating people like toys and playthings to be manipulated and tossed aside when you get bored and we'll see how far that gets you. Me, I got more respect for people than that."
"Let it go, Vix. Some people can or won't change, for better or worse." Leonard nudges her softly in a mild reversal of their last attempt at shopping, even if she might not feel much anything through the armor. "Let's see how red you can make me, instead."
Tirzah smiles to the departing Aislinn as she makes her way to the register. Someone gets her at least. Though as she pays for the dress she looks back to Leonard, appearing to feel a tinge of regret before she takes her bag and heads off.
"Yeah, but maybe if you tell 'em once, they'll realize something.. at least then it ain't like they got no excuse when they act like their shit don't stink," Vixen replies to Leo, looking towards him. She breathes out lightly, letting herself calm before she tugs lightly on his arm. "Lets go back to that place now, we can check for the sort of stuff we were talking about."
Leonard chuckles. "Sometimes it takes alot more than once." He knows this too well, unfortunately, but it does not dampen the mood as he straightens and limps with her. "Any ideas on something for yourself while we're there? Or am I allowed to make suggestions?"
"You can make all the suggestions you want, Leo," Vixen replies as they start walking. She keeps it slow and steady to favor his lingering soreness. "I was thinking a jacket and some short shorts would go good with the bodysuit once I get it. Just some things to be a little showy even though I won't really be, you know?" "I know," Leonard nods, "so I'll keep an eye out for something showy. You would be more than welcome to wear them without the bodysuit, of course, but that's just my humble opinion." He will never argue against anything revealing where she is concerned.
Vixen laughs lightly. "For you, maybe.. but I like to be a bit careful when it comes to how I dress out in public. I don't want guys thinking they can score with me. At least, not giving them the idea if they aren't one to just think it even if I was just wearing a sack or something. So I keep it to a certain level unless I got reason to dress it up or down." Said as she walks along with him, nearing the location of the big tent.
Leonard may be less mobile than normal, but his manners remain. As they reach the tents entrance, he pauses slightly to, quite needlessly, push the opening a bit wider and allow her to step in, first. "Most everyone would drool, even if you were wearing a sack... or heavy plate." A tap with a finger upon said plate accompanies his point. "I'm quite anxious to see the bodysuit, or you in it, rather."
Vixen grins a little, moving in first, but turned to stay close as he comes in. Watchful over him. "I don't suppose I'll ever get tired of that silver tongue of yours, Leo." With them inside, she will draw him along to start browsing the clothing. It's not so bad inside this morning, just a few others wandering around to peruse the merchandise.
"So you're finally accepting that pedestal, hmm?" A wry grin, and then it's off to the clothing. Between the both of them, dividing and conquering an aisle shouldn't be too difficult, and the jeans are ubiquitous enough that he focuses upon the shirt and vest. "Hmm... how dark are we looking for?" A requestfor verification with his extraction of a cherry red button-up from the rack.
"I know why you say those things, Leo. And I appreciate 'em," Vixen tells him as she considers the shirt. She then shakes her head. "Darker than that. That shade is too bright.. won't fit just right." She considers, then points at a sweater nearby with a dark, 'blood red' sort of shade. "Like that shade." She continues to scan slowly, a hand moved out to flick through a few of the shirts on the rack.
Leonard is corrected and nods. "It is a bit bright..." He gladly tucks it back somewhere and continues to skim with a chuckle. "I suppose that if I do manage to get shot, stabbed, beaten, or whatever else, it wouldn't show." Quite a bit of red is passed, and he's not touching the sweater other than as a reference.
"Lets not think about that," Vixen suggests, looking towards him with a little frown. "At least, not until things are more.. safe, I guess." She shrugs her shoulders a little as she spies.. "Ahh!" She lets go of his arm to pull out a shirt. It's a dark crimson with darker buttons. There's a nice, faint striped pattern to the cloth itself. "This looks alright. What do you think?" She lifts it up to show him.
"Hmm," is the thoughtful noise as Leonard turns to study and feel the material. He then nods with an approving smile. "Not bad at all. We should get more than one, if it's to be worn consistently." His eyes then shift further down the aisle, the prior bloody jest dropped completely. "Now it's just a matter of finding a vest. Pinstriped."
"Well, the stripes would be a nice thing, but we don't exactly need 'em," Vixen replies. "And maybe some other colored shirts." She smiles, seeming pleased that part of the new look has been secured. There is, fortunately, one other shirt just liek the first and she snaps that one up at once, both of them carefully folded over her arm. "Maybe a dark purple one if you spot it. Black goes good with solid, dark colors."
Leonard chuckles. "I should've known..." Perhaps he kept that in mind, as well, as his hand moves easily to a spot already passed in his perusing, a few feet back. One, then two, shirts in plum are retrieved, though their tint is not quiet solid. The slight shimmer of irridescence is notable as he displays them for her opinon. "Suitable, or too ...shimmery?"
"Oh.. that's nice," Vixen breathes, reaching out to touch the fabric. Her eyes lift towards him. "This sort of thing ain't so bad, Leo.. as long as you think it fits you. Not all guys like that sort of thing. It is sort of showy. But I approve if you want to give 'em a try." She will reach out to add those two to the collection.
"The idea is to add a bit of flair, isn't it?" They are handed over to join the pile as Leonard notes, "I'm not worried of my masculinity, if that's what you mean. You do a wonderful job of ensuring that. If anyone else decides to question my manhood, you can always beat them up, right?" A wink follows. "I'm glad you like them."
Vixen grins a little and turns towards a nearby rack. "Don't worry, Leo. I got ways to make sure you don't forget what's real." Her head turning a little to toss a sidelong glance back at him. When she looks forward again, her eyes alight on a vest and she pulls it out. Black, with thin, dark red pinstripes. It has a deep V neck and three buttons securing it closed. "This is almost perfect," she says, turning to show it to him.
Leonard abandons his side of the rack to follow that glance right to her, even if it is only a few steps. He's nearly at her shoulder to peek over when she turns to display her find. "Perfect." The vest is not even viewed as he makes this firm assertion, since his attention is fully upon her.
"Yeah, that'll fit nice, I think. Even with the purple shirts." Vixen folds that one with the four shirts and smiles, seeming quite content. "I think that was the hardest.. the jeans will be around here, then we can go to another place for some good boots. Then we can try some colors for your hair. Keep it subtle for now, then if you feel like something more obvious, we can do that too."
"Black jeans are easy enough, and then you are welcome to play with my hair." Leonard then considers, "I do have a pair of boots, already, although they aren't as tall as you suggested. More just sturdy shoes, I suppose. Not that boots are all that hard to find."
"Lets try it with some calf length ones. They add a certain something," Vixen notes lightly. "Though we should get you some light pants to, for days when its too hot to be wearing jeans around." She smiles and will go along with him to find those last more common bits. Good, black jeans are quick to find, two pair of those and two pair of semi-formal slacks are added to the mix. The prices are good, the shimmery shirts a bit more than the rest, but one does have to pay for good quality material like that. Later on, a small shoe seller is perused for some boots. She suggesting an only slightly used, broken in pair of boots. Simple, half calf high with a dull sheen and sturdy laces. Not too expensive for something so simple and straightforward.
Leonard is curious to see what that certain something might be, but it will take to culmination and amalgamation of everything to see it, of course. "A very good idea." He doesn't even mention already owning almost nothing but black slacks, but most are heavy formals. Now that the pile has grown, completed and moved to sacks, he asks, "Are you sure you don't want me to carry any of that?" She done all the toting and, limp and/or general wussiness aside, he does feel a touch guilty.
"It's ok, Leo," Vixen replies to him as they go to pay for the items. "They ain't real heavy and you'll have enough to handle with me hanging off you all the time." She winks at him as she draws out her cred stick once they get to the table that's been set up near the entrance for paying. "We'll work out the cred thing when we get home," she adds. Preempting any discussion in that realm as well with a knowing grin.
"It's going to take me a while to work all of that off..." This comes as Leonard eyes the total as she hands over her stick. The apprehension in his words is far outmatched by his growing grin. No strenuous activity for a week? Yeah, right. "After you've turned my head into a fireball. Subtly, of course."
Vixen smirks faintly, turning half way towards him as the purchase is made. "Hardly that much red.. little highlights is what I'm going for. A little red in with the brown. Makes it a bit more interesting so it draws attention, just not obvious enough that everyone will notice right off the bat." She looks back towards the table as her credstick is handed back and the clothing is packed neatly into a bag.
Perhaps just to be contrary, Leonard steps up to take the bag once its packed. "Just a little exagerration, Vix." Her smirk is returned before he admits, "Although annoying you right before you do this might not be the best idea..."
Vixen holds on to the bag a moment before she relents. "You just be careful of those knees. Don't want you limping around forever. Should probably get you back and off your feet for a little while anyway." With the transaction done, she lightly takes up his other arm with her own, not putting too much weight on him. "Maybe you should let Sage take a look at you.. natural healing is alright, but I'd feel better if it was all done with." She looks towards him.
"I don't want to be, either, although the keeping me off my feet doesn't sound so bad." Vixen gets a wink as he hefts the bag on his stronger side. "We can go see Sage, or invite her over, if you wish. I don't mind visiting her, but I wasn't about to give Tirzah too much satisfaction."
Vixen purses her lips faintly as they move out into the plaza, considering for a few moments before she wonders, "So I guess you and she had something go on.." Her expression evening out as she makes the stab in the dark. Obviously its a tender spot still, that subject. But she keeps herself in a steady place, letting him respond without a great leaning in her outward emotional state.
Leonard arches a brow at her comment. "Myself and whom?" The very fact that he's asking for clarification may not be the most encouraging, but she is speaking rather vaguely. "What do you mean?"
"Tirzah," Vixen specifies. "The other day, when she came by.. Sounded like you'd had some.. encounter before or something." She does keep it vague and her own expression as relaxed as possible. Though after a moment she breathes out and says, "I'm just.. I guess I'm being paranoid again, but I want to know if anything happened. I promise I won't freak out or anything. Just tell me what's real. That's all I want."
"Nothing ...spectacular happened, Vix." Leonard rolls his shoulders, somewhat unevenly. "I tried to turn the tables once, be aggressive back at her, flirtatious. We danced at the Alibi that night... after you and Maya left. Then we ventured to her apartment, and did little other than talk. There wasn't anything physically sexual."
Vixen nods to that and relaxes a bit. "I shouldn't have asked, but I'm glad you were honest with me," she murmurs softly, her head leaned against his shoulder. "I promise some day I'll stop worrying about it.. eventually." A pause for a moment before she wonders, "Wanna go visit Sage, then? We're not too far from where she lives, it would be easier than going home, then going over there."
Leonard nods. "I don't want you to worry, babe, but I understand that you do. Sure, if it's not far, anyhow, we might as well see if she's around. Of course, then I couldn't impress you as much by carrying all of this." Vixen smirks a little as she turns Leo in the right direction, heading out towards The Retreat. "You'll impress me more since you can carry it there, then all the way back to our place since you're feeling so helpful." A casually sly little grin given as she guides him along to the place in question. It won't take too long and she knows just where she's going.
"I've been had!" Leonard's complaint isn't much of one, since he still travels with her to Sage's flat. He even goes so far as to knock on the door once he knows which it is. "You know, I don't think I've ever been here or seen their place..."
Humming to herself, Sage makes the finishing touches on dish she's cooking. She hears the knocking, and turns her gaze towards the source. "Just a minute!" She calls out, but figures the door will change that to an intelligable noise by the time her voice makes it through the door. Turning off the heat and moving her creation off the burner, she wipes her hands off as she moves to answer the front door. A brief pause is given to look through the peekhole before she opens the door. "Hey..." She says softly as she gazes out at the couple through the partially opened door. She gives them a mildly quizzical look as she hadn't expected them.
"Now is the time, then. Cali and Sage room up here together," Vixen notes to Leo before the door opens, And after, "Heya, Sage. We wanted to ask a favor if you had a little time," she offers, giving her a light smile. She's armored up, sans helmet and has her arms lightly wrapped around one of Leo's. leaning ever so slightly against him. "Leo's knees are a bit messed up and we were wondering if you might take a look at 'em. If you have a little time."
Leonard is leaning a bit more against Vixen, holding a large shopping bag on the arm not claimed by her. "Morning, Sage. I hope we're not interrupting." Since Vix's explanation was more concise and straightforward than he would likely have managed, he doesn't add to it.
Her gaze drifts between the two as they greet her before Sage focuses on Vixen. A curious look coming to her features as she's being asked for a favour. "Oh..." She replies with faint surprise before she steps back to hold the door open for them. "Of course, come in, please." She says softly, before her gaze gains some concern as she looks over Leonard. "What would be more comfortable for you? Sitting? Laying down? ... Hovering in the air?" She adds that last one with a hint of humour in her tone.
"I was sort of wanting to talk to you too, but that can wait a bit," Vixen notes, releasing Leo to extract the bag from him before she enters. "Leo already got some healing, but it didn't quite do the whole job. We've let him heal normal for a few days, but just want to make sure everything is good," she details, lightly setting the bag down near the door, whilst letting Leo decide on his comfy place.
"Hovering?" Leonard arches a brow at the last suggestion and chuckles as he steps inside. Vixen gets a mild smirk as she swipes the purchases, but nothing more. "That's very intriguing, but sitting sounds a little more ...stable." A long glance is given around the unfamiliar surroundings. "Where would you prefer I do that?"
Faint amusement shows in Sage's eyes as the man asks about 'hovering', but she decides not to clarify it and simply smiles at the chuckle. She glances towards Vixen with a faint nod to acknowledge the woman's words. "When the time is right then." She comments simply, before she turns her attention back to Leo. "We can use a chair from the table..." she gestures in the direction of the table near the kitchen before she gestures over towards the couch. "Or the couch." She offers as she closes the door behind the two.
Vixen decides that she prefers the couch, stepping over towards it. Though she doesn't go through the process of taking off her armor, she does re move her coat, draping it over the arm of the couch before she settles down next to it, careful with the heavy protection she wears now. "I'm not in a rush today. Tomorrow is going to be the day of work, so to speak."
Leonard was leaning that way, himself, so to speak. A few limping steps both carry him there and illustrate the concern. He makes a rather slow, controlled descent into a seated position with his arms bearing the weight. A brow now arches to Vix at her comment. "What else is happening tomorrow?"
"Okay." Sage replies easily to the other woman before she notices the choice of the two. "Let me know if you'd like a bite to eat. I just got through cooking something up." She mentions, "I'll be with you in a moment." She adds, before briefly ducking into the kitchen to finish off the drink she was having and covering up her meal to better retain its heat. Then she walks back out of the kitchen and towards the couch.
"Just have to keep on with checking out the Dregs. For the refugees. They're going to try and settle there. Takes time to figure out the power structure in that area. Going to be out for a while tomarrow, probably until later in the day doing legwork." Vixen tells Leo lightly. She then lifts her voice to Sage, "Just some water. Been out a bit, the day's pretty nice right now. Had a bite a little while ago."
"Thank you, but I'm fine." Leonard notes to Sage's offer before nodding to Vixen's explanation. "At least you're already dressed for it." There is obvious concern, but he mentions nothing further on it. <OOC> Leonard warns that he may be slow for a bit.
With a glass of water in tow, Sage wanders up to the two. She offers the glass over to Vixen. "Here you go." She comments softly, and will let go of the glass once it is taken from her. Then, she moves to settle herself into a sitting position before Leonard. "I presume you would be okay with me psychically diagnosing you?" She asks the man softly, waiting for the man's response before she will begin to do anything.
"Thanks, Sage." Vixen takes a sip from the glass before she notes to Leo, "Ain't too worried about trouble there. I can usually keep out of it. Usually I like not going armored, cause that means more than going there lightly garbed. Means you're expecting trouble, though I'm expecting it from a different side." She settles then, nursing the water as she observes Sage and Leo.
Leonard chuckles softly that Sage would ask the question, following their more than implied request. "Yes, Sage, I am fine with you doing whatever it is you will do." He trusts her enough to shift his attention back to Vixen as she potentially does so, even. "It's not the expected trouble I worry about, at least when it's you I'm worrying about."
A slight nod of the head acknowledges the man's consent before Sage settles into a comfortable sitting position. As she doesn't require touching the man, she decides against potentially awkward situations should the man or her arm shift unexpectedly. Her eyes slide shut as she concentrates on focusing on her psychic gift and bringing it forth to examine the man in detail.
"Don't worry, Leo.. at least, not too much. After what we've been doing as of late, I think a walk in the Dregs would be pretty easy to pass off. Besides, soon we might be doing a lot in there. And its only North Dregs. Not as bad as some other spots. I'm just glad they didn't try and drop them into the south east. That would have been bullshit." A slight frown coming to her before she sips her water again.
The damage to Leonard's knees is tissue damage: strained ligaments, sprained tendons. One is nearly healed to the point of no discomfort, but the other is another story. Other than this, he's currently in fair health. "It all could be much worse, I know. Still alot of work to do."
It takes some time for Sage to sense out the man's injuries and focus on the areas that need attention. Once the main point of concern is recognized, her mind works at formulating the options for treatment. She breathes out as she concludes her meditation, and begins to open her eyes.
Vixen sits quietly as she waits for the results to come. Watching closely, though there's not too much to see when it comes to how Sage's abilities work. Her brow furrows, lips slightly pursed. Though it relaxes away somewhat when Sage's eyes open. "I suppose the news ain't too bad, since you don't seem too upset," she comments lightly to Sage.
Leonard turns back to regard Sage as Vixen looks to her. "Will I live?" It is a jest, but the long term answer goes well beyond his current state.
At the other woman's comment, Sage glances to her to give a small smile before the man's question draws her attention away. A brief sparkle of amusement comes to her eyes before she settles to answer. "You'll live." She confirms, "But... you will need to rest that leg. I could recommend a few herbs and their application. Rest will be the best thing, though."
"I've been keeping him off his feet most of the day, but we've been out walking occasionally. A little exercise, but nothing more than walking," Vixen offers. "Giving a little rub to his knees too, occasionally. Not that I know much about it, but he seems to like it." She gives Leo a casual grin along with that last.
"I'm trying to, but she's a taskmistress..." Leonard almost makes it sound convincing before Vixen clarifies things. He relents with a shrug to Sage and a sidelong grin to Vixen. "She's taking pretty good care of me, to include the rubbing of knees that I enjoy even if it doesn't heal anything. I don't doubt she'll keep me from doing anything I shouldn't."
A soft chuckle escapes her as the man tries to bemoan his caretaker's attentions, as Sage shakes her head gently to it. She looks te Leonard, "Well, don't underestimate threputhic rubbing... there is something to be said for feeling comfort while healing." She comments, before nodding faintly and looking over to Vixen. "Its good that you're willing to help him." She says simply, unsure of how things are developing between the two of them now. "I'll do anything to help him get better," Vixen tells Sage without reservation. "Herbs or whatever.. how long do you think it will be before he's ok? Just.. when he's not limping no more? I dunno much about healing and stuff. I wanna make sure I know when to let him start doing.. whatever, you know?" She lifts the glass for another drink then.
Leonard nods to Sage, his prior wit gone completely and his smile soft. "I don't ignore that factor, Sage, nor her part in it." An arm reaches about Vix's armored shoulder. "I'm not that stupid. Anymore." While this isn't done to clarify any questions Sage might have concerning them both, it might answer them, nonetheless.
A soft hum comes from Sage as she purses her lips, "If he doesn't suffer a setback, he could be well enough after a week... but, he should probably take it slow at first" She comments, I can prepare a herbal mix for him and have it sent to you if you'd like." She offers as she looks over to Vixen.
Vixen is smiling at Leo as he speaks, leaning over to him to press her lips briefly against his cheek. Keeping some of her lean as she looks to Sage. "Sure, just make sure to send some instructions too. What sort of herbal thing will it be.. just something for him to drink or eat?" Her head tilting a little towards Leo as she asks, though not enough to rest on his shoulder.
"If it's something I can just drop into the coffee pot," Leonard opines to Sage with only partial mirth, "that would be even better. Anything that might help would be appreciated, and thank you." His head turns to Vixen's close at hand. "I'm anxious to heal so that I can repay all the spoiling."
Having been wrapped up in her own affairs, Sage begins to think its just as well that she hadn't been there through the rollercoast these two have been through. She raises to her feet and pats the man on the shoulder furthest from Vixen. "Dump into a coffee pot it is, then." She comments, getting an amused smile on her lips. "Of course, that probably means I don't have to worry about making it taste good." She teases lightly before she looks to Vixen. "I'll include the instructions on how much." She adds.
"Don't matter what it tastes like, he'll be drinking it down," Vixen assures Sage, giving Leo a sidelong glance. She then looks back towards Sage and notes, "I've been hearing you're having some issues? The private sort, I guess. I was wondering if maybe you could use a hand. Or a voice or some other thing like that." A quick transition to the promised need to talk.
Leonard winces, and from more than just the promise of horrid tastes in his morning caffeine. Enough sugar and milk can fix that. "Have matters improved at all, Sage?" He doesn't list any specifics, but he is also aware of some issues.
A soft chuckle comes from Sage to the assurance that the man will be drinking whatever creation she comes up with. "I'll try not to make it too bad." She offers to the man with a little too much amusement in her expression and tone. She grows more reserved when the topic of her personal affairs are brought up. "That's one way to put it." She comments, unsure of how much the other woman knows about it as her gaze considers the man briefly. "I've gotten some advise since, and I think I have an idea of how to approach it." She comments, "But, I may need some support later on depending on how things turn out."
"Well, if you wanna clue me in to what's going on, maybe I can think about if I can help out," Vixen offers. "And in case you're worried, if you don't want me to, won't broadcast what's said. I got that kind respect for you, chick. Especially if it comes to whatever you're up to being discreet to throw off opposition or whatever." She lifts her glass again to sip lightly as she considers Sage quietly.
"If you need anything," Leonard nods with Vixen's statement, "just let us know. I understand that you both want discretion, but you're not alone. It is good to hear that you have a solution, or a path to one, at least. That is an improvement from before, yes?"
"I appreciate it." Sage replies, not focusing on either in particular with that comment. "Help does have a way of coming from unexpected placed." She adds, before pursing her lips as she considers each of them in turn. "Although, you'll have to forgive me if I choose breakfast over going into my tale of woe for the time being." She gives a soft smile, "But, yes, seeing a different way to approach things is an improvement." She adds, "In the end, it seems I shall have to make my bed and lay in it... for better or worse." She pauses briefly, "Is there anything else I can help either of you with while you're here?"
Vixen purses her lips, then shakes her head a little. "We won't hold you up," she murmurs, getting up from the couch. "Whenever you want to talk about it, I'm open to it. Just can't make no promises on being able to help on short notice," she adds as she lifts up her coat, starting to slip it on.
Leonard presses and pushes himself up from the couch with a grunt. "If you wish it, Sage, I can enlighten her on your behalf. I doubt that I know of all the finer details, but it might be enough for her to help if or when it's needed." A smile follows. "We don't want to delay your meal, and thank you, again."
A faint nod is given to Vixen, "Okay." Sage replies, before glancing towards Leonard with a faintly raised brow. "I'm not exactly sure what you're understanding of it is... but, I suppose letting her know a flavour of it can't hurt." She comments, "Although, I'd prefer it to be kept on the quiet side for the time being." She adds softly, before smiling to her visitors. "It was nice of you both to drop by, though." She comments, as she turns to head towards the door to open it for them.
Vixen is quiet as she finishes a bit more of the water, only speaking once she's set the glass down. "Thanks, Sage. Good luck with your thing," The first half honestly given, the second with a bit of firmness before she turns to make her way to and through the open door. Only waiting long enough for Leo to join her before she heads along on her way.
Leonard nods to Sage. "I can manage that." With a parting smile to her, he limps his way out the door to rejoin Vixen. "I'll take that bag back, now. Cured or not, I can still carry it..."
"Take care." Sage says softly, "I will be in touch." She adds as she widens the opening of the doorway as they begin to depart. Once they're left and she wont run the risk of closing the door in their face, she closes the door gently. Then, left to her own devices, she goes about checking on her meal.
Vixen frowns as she hands over the bag. Once the door is closed, she looks to Leo. "So what is it with people just not telling me nothing? Try and be nice and just.. nothing." She shakes her head, starting to stalk down the hall with an annoyed look lingering.
"Vix..." Leonard starts after her (or to keep pace) as best as he's able. "I told you what I could, and I wasn't keeping anything from you because of you..." Already, it seems that he's done wrong. Again.
"I'm not talking about you.. I'm talking about Sage," Vixen murmurs, looking towards him. She notes his move to keep pace and slows, taking a slow breath. "I mean.. would it really be that big a thing to eat and talk at the same time? Or something? I don't get it.. maybe she was just looking for an excuse to not tell me anything." Her frown lingers, eyes lowered to the ground before her.
Leonard puts a hand on her shoulder, and not just to lean on it. "Maybe she didn't realize anyone else knew? The only reason I learned of anything was from Tirzah breaking down in tears, and then she demanded I not share it. Not everyone is open about everything, and Sage's family, or clan, or whatever one calls it, is involved, so it's a political matter, too."
"Then she should have just come out and said she didn't want to tell me," Vixen replies, frowning faintly. "Nevermind that that sort of thing is right up my alley or anything, but just telling it like it is wouldn't have hurt." She shrugs. "You don't gotta tell me anything.. if she wants my help, she can just tell me herself, whenever. But like Is aid, can't promise to help suddenly on short notice. I got shit to do too." The young woman a bit grumpy over the whole thing, yes.
"I don't /have/ to tell you anything," Leonard sighs, "but I want to, and know I'm able to. You're taking all that a bit personally, aren't you?" After a pause and more walking, he adds, "You need to calm down, or my hair might wind up green..."
"And why shouldn't I take it personal?" Vixen asks. "I'm offering a friend help, promising to be as discreet as she wants, but she can't even tell me what's going on. You can tell me, sure, but then what? Maybe you only got half the story, then what if I try and help and I fuck it up cause I only got half the story?" She shakes her head slightly. "Sage thinks she's got what she needs, so I ain't gunna spend no time on it. I offered, she turned me down. That's all there is to it."
Leonard considers a rebuttal, then finally decides against it and simply nods. "You're right. If she's good, the she'll be fine. If not, then you'll hear from her. I don't want to contribute to anything half-assed." A tentative smile returns for her benefit. "Maybe I should be the one doing the massaging when we get home?"
Vixen looks towards Leo and grins a little. "I think we'll just have to see what happens when we get back." The grumpy shoved aside as she slips her arm into Leo's and adds, "Just don't think you can worm your way out of whatever herbal junk she decides to send our way." There will be plenty enough to distract and lift her spirits today and the evening to come. And so she lets herself think towards that.
