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omg_fmaWho: OOC!Psiren, OOC!Scar, NPC: Moshe, NPC: Rachel, NPC: Claire
When: 03/03/08
Rating: PG
Category: Side Plots
Summary: Clara comes with Mal to pick up his brother and his brother's wife, family intrigue ensues
OOC!Scar: *has set up his guitar and things in his (frighteningly clean) bedroom, and has just had a brilliant idea; poking his head out into the hall where he saw Clara bustle past* Hey, Clara!
OOC!Psiren: *stops abruptly, turning, eyebrows raised* Mmm? Yes Mal?
OOC!Scar: So, I've got my stuff all set up to get my brother, right? I told him I'd be there sometime in the afternoon, but I thought ... maybe you'd want to come with, and have see my dimension for a bit? Maybe? *sounds hesitant, because it might just be a completely dumb idea*
OOC!Psiren: *blinks, then beams* Oh, I'd love to!
OOC!Scar: *grins back at her, nodding his head towards his room* Hardcore! Uh, whenever you're ready?
OOC!Psiren: *blinks* Oh! Um, right now? Um, sure, I... do I need to bring anything? I suppose I should grab a coat or something....
OOC!Scar: *nods* You probably don't need that, even. It's warmer there than here.
OOC!Psiren: Oh, um, well then... I guess we can just go, then. ...It isn't as if we can't come back if we need to. So... um... what do we have to do?
OOC!Scar: *slings his guitar on and adjusts various settings and presses his fingers in the correct chord* Just - hold tight to my arm - the one with the tattoo.
OOC!Psiren: *blinks... is blinking a lot... grabs onto his arm with both hands* ...Why your tattooed arm, specifically? Is that important?
OOC!Scar: *shrugs, heart beating a little faster, excited to go back home and show Clara around* Just works like that. Hold tight, now! *flips the pick between his fingers, and then rakes it across the strings with a flourish*
LET'S DO THE TIME WARP AGAIN~! ...I MEAN....
OOC!Scar: *opens his eyes to see a bustling street in New Leste, just a little ways off; they have appeared in the middle of the courtyard of a fancy restaurant that will not open for several hours yet* Awwww, man. That is still so cool no matter HOW many times I do it.
OOC!Psiren: ...Goodness, that always feels so strange... are we here? *as if it isn't obvious... tentatively lets go of his arm and glances around*
OOC!Scar: Yeah, this is it! *jubilantly, putting his guitar back in the case and winding around the tables, headed for the street* Damn, it's good to be here! *glancing back at Clara every few seconds, his face lively* Here, stick with me, you don't wanna get lost.
OOC!Psiren: *grins, catching his enthusiasm* ...No place like home, hm? I know the feeling. *isn't even going to scold him for the "damn"* Oh no, definitely not.
OOC!Psiren: *follows close on his heels*
OOC!Scar: *calls out in greeting to several people going by, all of whom look startled to see him, but doesn't stop to chat, peering into the street to see if there are any cars coming and then motioning to Clara that they should cross* I want to see if your double's bakery is open, first.
OOC!Psiren: ...Oh! *eyes widen* I didn't even think of that! Goodness! *looks down at herself, wondering if she should've worn a better dress*
OOC!Scar: *goes another few blocks without saying much, though he's walking enthusiastically and seeming genuinely at home; the people are out doing their grocery shopping, or walking their prams, many under parasols, a mix of young and old, Ishabalans and Amestrans and Xingians and others*
OOC!Psiren: *frets briefly about making a good impression on her double, then sort of glances around at the people* ...So this is... New Leste? It's a lot more... cosmopolitan than Central, isn't it?
OOC!Scar: Yeah, this is New Leste. It's actually a little smaller than Central, but there are a lot of things that are the same. See, look, it's the same cab company Ed works for *points at a cab going by* It's an awesome city. Kinda quiet in comparison, though. *waves at a passing group of teenage girls wearing rather elaborate outfits of all black, who acknowledge him with lackadasical nods* Oh - shoot. *points to the next shop on the street, where there is a closed sign hanging* Guess not.
OOC!Psiren: *sort of surreptitiously latches onto Mal's sleeve so she can look around while she walks without losing him... ponders the different clothing fashions* Oh... oh well, it was a nice thought.... *tries not to be too disappointed... wanders over to the shop and peers in the window, curious about what kind of shop she would have... if she had a shop*
OOC!Scar: *hangs around while Clara looks inside, breathing in deeply and having to suppress a laugh - it is nice to wander around without worrying about homunculi and Hell Rivers and psychos of every flavor* I'll bring you back sometime when it's open and you can meet her, OK?
OOC!Psiren: *smiles at the decor, deciding she likes it... straightens and smiles at Mal* Sure, I think I'd like that. *...and next time she can wear a better dress*
Random Dude: *passing by on the sidewalk* Hello, Ms. Smith. Nice day! *and on down the sidewalk*
OOC!Psiren: *reflexively smiles and waves* Hello! ...Oh dear.... *laughs a little*
OOC!Scar: *chuckles, beaming at Clara and elbowing her very gently* Hadn't expected that... where should we go next? Uh ... maybe the park, or ... there's a Catholic cathedral on 8th street if you'd want to see that?
OOC!Scar: *too many fun things, too little time, but somehow he doubts Clara wants to see the guitar shop or clubs or places he is most familiar with*
OOC!Psiren: I suppose we should've, I mean, this is her shop we're standing outside of.... *big shiny sparkly eyes* Ooh! Ooh! Cathedral! Could we? *actually bounces a little*
OOC!Scar: *can see very easily that he's come up with a good idea* No, I was just kidding, of course we can't. *very well-intentioned sarcasm* Sure thing. I haven't ever been inside it, so it'll be fun. *heads off in that direction, watching as a flock of pigeons wheels out of the way before them*
OOC!Psiren: *continued shiny sparkly eyes, hands clasped* Oh my goodness a real cathedral! Oh, I've seen pictures, but I never thought-!
OOC!Scar: *laughs* That's a bit ironic, that New Leste has got one and Central doesn't. *glances idly at the windows that pass by - a joke shop, a coffee shop, a bicycle shop, a theatre, the city library...* Ah, there it is! *nods to the stone building looming up just around the corner of the street, a very ornate, baroque sort of cathedral*
OOC!Psiren: Ironic? I don't know, is it? There's no Catholic community in Central, where we live... I have to go to my Central to go to Mass, and it's just a small church there... Central's parish isn't really any bigger than Aquroya's.... There's that big old abandoned church in Central, but I'm not even sure its Catholic... some related sect, maybe. Anyway, it isn't used. *gasps when she sees it* Oh, it's beautiful! And... gigantic! *sparkly eyes, etc.*
OOC!Scar: *hurries along towards it with her, pausing to look at the fountain in front - adorned with various saints whose names one of his band mates told him once but he has long since forgotten* Well, I'm glad I brought it up, then.
OOC!Psiren: Yes, thank you Mal, what a lovely idea! *craning her neck to look upward, can't get over how big it is* Oh, wow.... Is it still in use? I mean... do people actually have Mass here?
OOC!Scar: Yeah, they do all the time. I mean, not at this time of day, I'm pretty sure, but people can come in and wander around. *going up the shallow stairs leading to the large doors, not able to help marvelling at the stonework himeslf, even though he usually hates this kind of thing*
OOC!Psiren: *is so excited she might pass out... goes in the doors, stopping almost immediately, staring at the GIANT SHINY ALTAR waaaaaaay down at the other end of the building* ...Heavens! *spots a vessel of holy water attached to a pillar... it's made of marble, omg... dips her fingers in it and crosses herself*
OOC!Scar: *follows a few steps behind her, glad to see her enjoying herself so much, and reassured when he sees a few other people inside, some sitting scattered around the pews, others wandering the perimeter and looking into the little alcoves and chapels; takes a seat at the back, looking up at the stained glass and deciding to wait for Clara here so she can go do her thing*
OOC!Psiren: *has temporarily forgotten he's there, taking a few steps down the VERY LARGE central aisle, looking up at the intricately carved pillars and things, barely remembering to keep her mouth from hanging open... glances around for Mal after a few seconds, smiles at him, then heads in the direction of the GIANT SHINY ALTAR, reminding herself that she needn't feel nervous in God's house*
OOC!Scar: *just chilling happily, rooting around for a crumpled piece of notebook paper from his pocket and unwrinkling it over his knee, finding a pencil stub somewhere and beginning to work on a new song*
OOC!Psiren: *stands in front of the altar and gazes at it with awe for a minute or so, then, sidles into an unoccupied pew at the front, folds down the kneeler, and begins to pray*
OOC!Scar: *keeps writing, glancing up once to see that Clara has sat down and, feeling glad that she is happy after she has had such a terrible week / month / year, wait patiently*
OOC!Psiren: *after a few minutes, sighs, opening her eyes* ...Amen. *smiles, standing and replacing the kneeler... heads back in the direction of Mal by way of investigating the chapels on one side of the cathedral*
OOC!Scar: *tapping his pencil on the page, trying to think of the next line of the melody he is composing*
OOC!Psiren: *eventually works her way back to him, sitting next to him, a giddy grin on her face* Mal, this place is amazing! *feels compelled to whisper*
OOC!Scar: *can understand that impulse, since every noise echoes and is amplified by the wide space* I'm glad you like it!
OOC!Psiren: Oh, it's wonderful, I can feel it, this place... it's just full of the Holy Spirit, you know?
OOC!Scar: *blink blink, she lost him a little there, just goes with the nodding thing*
OOC!Psiren: *breathes in deep and sighs happily, relaxing back into the pew... as well as you can relax in a pew... looking up and admiring the stained glass*
OOC!Scar: *feels a smile tugging at his lips, and spins the pencil in his fingers*
OOC!Psiren: *after a minute or two, looks over at him* ...Um, did you have any other ideas of places you wanted to show me? Because I could seriously spend all day in here, but I understand if you wouldn't want to. *grins sort of sheepishly*
OOC!Scar: *shakes his head, whispering back* Not really, as long as we leave in an hour to get Moshe, I don't want to make him wait.
OOC!Psiren: *no longer whispering, but still speaking quietly, out of respect* Oh no, of course not... how far is it to... wherever we're meeting him? *bounces her knees in nervous excitement*
OOC!Scar: It'll only take a few minutes to walk from here. You go ahead. *too happy to see her happy to mind spending time in a church of all places*
OOC!Psiren: Okay... if you're sure... you alright just sitting here? *spots the notepaper* Working on a song?
OOC!Scar: *nods to the song question* I'll be fine, Clara. No need to worry so much. *has a lot of experience not getting bored when forced to sit in religious buildings, oh yeah*
OOC!Psiren: ...Okay. I'm gonna go- *gestures vaguely, grinning and standing up*
OOC!Scar: *waves vaguely at her, already back in writing mode*
OOC!Psiren: *makes a beeline for the confessionals*
~TIME PASSES~
OOC!Psiren: *having emerged from the confessional a number of minutes ago, is now happily inspecting the chapels on the other side of the cathedral*
OOC!Scar: *has actually dozed off, tired from a solid week of staying up too late for various reasons, his head resting sideways on his arms which are draped over the pew in front of him*
OOC!Psiren: *glances at her watch, then looks around for Mal, smiling in amusement when she sees him... goes over to him and touches his shoulder* ...Hey... Mal....
OOC!Scar: Mmhm? *blinking open his eyes and, realizing he's not in his bed, sits up and stretches, looking around and remembering where he was; in a soft, blurry voice* Time's it?
OOC!Psiren: *holds her watch out for him to see* Time to go pick up Moshe and Rachel, I think. ...Did you have a good nap? *grins*
OOC!Scar: *rubbing his face with his hands and standing up, knees popping as he does so* Didn't meanto fall'sleep. *closes his eyes against the bright light as the doors to the cathedral open, waking up a touch more*
OOC!Psiren: It's okay... it's very peaceful in there.... *sighs happily*
OOC!Scar: *sighs deeply as well, adjusting the guitar-strap on his shoulder and trying to finger-comb his hair into some kind of order*
OOC!Psiren: *walking along beside him, suddenly feeling nervous again... again wishes she was wearing a better dress* Oh, Mal, I'm really nervous... I hope they like me.... *fidgets with her fingers*
OOC!Scar: *just about awake now after almost running into a street lamp, but not nervous at all* Come on, Clara. They're gonna love you, don't worry. *turns them down a side street, into what seems instantly like another city - all the shops are Ishbalan, all the signs in two languages, and some of the people passing by are wearing traditional clothing*
OOC!Psiren: *suddenly feels out of place, although she enjoys the exotic (to her) clothing, and the strange smells of Ishbalan cooking... tries not to look like a tourist and FAILS UTTERLY*
OOC!Scar: *doesn't need to go much further, turning down a wide street with old but well-tended houses on it, going up to the door of the third one to the left and vaulting up the stairs leading to the entrance* You ready? *he calls over his shoulder*
OOC!Psiren: *suddenly feels like this is a lot like her own neighborhood, and instantly feels a lot more comfortable* ...I'd better be! *laughs nervously and hurries up, following a few steps behind him*
OOC!Scar: *pounds on the door with his fist, beaming fit to split his face*
OOC!Psiren: *the grin, it is infectious*
Claire: *a woman who looks exactly like Clara - though not in quite the same dress, and with longer hair - opens the door, asking* Who is-- oh! It's Malachi. Malachi's back *calling over her shoulder*
Claire: And who is it you've--- oh? *staaaaaare*
OOC!Psiren: O.O
Claire: O.O
OOC!Psiren: *was sort of expecting this, but still... staaaaare*
OOC!Psiren: *recovers quickly, beaming* Hello! I'm Clara!
Claire: Are you... *blink, SO CONFUSED, but offers her hand because polite is the best default* Claire. *faint voice*
OOC!Scar: *slipping past Claire, hearing the sound of footsteps coming from inside the house* Hey, Moshe! *exuberant*
OOC!Psiren: *shakes her hand, thinking WOW THIS IS SURREAL* ...I'm sorry, this must be a bit of a shock to you... there's a logical explanation, I promise. ...Well. There's an explanation. *laughs a little*
Moshe: *coming down from upstairs, dressed in a tailored shirt with rather paint-covered jeans and with large, wire-rimmed glasses, otherwise looking like an older, somewhat squarer Mal*
Claire: ^_^; Well ... come inside ... I'll go and get Rachel ... *flees!*
OOC!Psiren: *oh dear, I scared my own double away... steps inside, somewhat apprehensively, looking around*
OOC!Scar: *sees his big brother and catches his breath for a moment, shocked at how much he had missed him, thinking over everything that's happened in his time at Central and all the times he's wished Moshe was there ... rushes over and nearly knocks him over with a hug, clinging to him tightly*
Moshe: *oof; a bit stunned for a moment but then smiles briefly, the corners of his eyes crinkling, and kisses Mal on the top of the head*
OOC!Psiren: *trying to be unobtrusive, beams in the general direction of the reunited brothers... family stuff just slays her*
Moshe: *turning to greet Clara even as Mal is still doing a koala impression* Good afternoon. *has a faint Ishbalan accent, the kind of accent that doesn't make him hard to understand, but rather reminds you that he is bilingual and thus probably smarter than you* You're Clara, I assume?
OOC!Scar: *peeling himself away from his big brother with difficulty* Oh - yeah, oops, I should've... Moshe, Clara. Clara, this is my brother.
OOC!Psiren: *more beaming, offers her hand* It's lovely to finally meet you! I've heard so much about you!
Moshe: *shakes her hand firmly, gesturing towards a sitting room* Please, sit down, make yourself comfortable. Rachel's making tea, now. Malachi did not tell me you would be coming?
OOC!Psiren: Oh, thank you... I'm sorry, I hope it's not too much trouble, but I really wanted to see New Leste and he was nice enough to show me around.... *sits as daintily as possible... which is pretty damn daintily*
Moshe: *shaking his head* No trouble at all. I have looked forward to meeting you, since Malachi wrote to tell us what had happened. *rather stern look at Mal, who is sprawling comfortably on the couch at that moment* Rachel and I were sick with worry. We thought he had run off with his musician friends, but they came back without him and said they had not seen him in weeks. *GUILT-TRIP*
OOC!Scar: *feels his stomach twisting with guilt and responds with a rather sullen shrugs, muttering* I wrote as soon as I knew how to...
OOC!Psiren: *internal flail* I'm sorry you had to go through all that... the dimensional fractures are so random... some people have no contact with their homes at all, sometimes for years... it's sort of a bizarre lucky fluke we can get letters through to some places. Don't ask me how that works. *nervous smile*
Moshe: *watches her making excuses for his little brother with a rather thin-lipped look, but then glances over at the doorway as Rachel and Claire show up* Oh, good, you are here. This is my wife, Rachel.
Rachel: *beams at Clara, bearing a tray with the right number of cups of tea, her hair bound back in a tightly-knotted scarf of dark blue, looking about six months pregnant and glowing with it*
OOC!Scar: *stares at her, feeling roughly as though his internal organs have all turned to lead*
Rachel: *sets the tray down and moves first to embrace Clara, bending over with a little difficulty and then smiling at her as though she is the most delightful thing on earth, as though they are already the closest of friends* Thank you for taking such good care of him.
OOC!Psiren: *beams back, hugging back carefully* Oh, really, he takes care of me most of the time. *laughs a little* It's wonderful to meet you, finally! *a voice in the back of her head goes, "goodness, no wonder"... glances at Mal, smile flickering briefly when she sees the look on his face*
OOC!Scar: *tries to cover up the look of soul-crushing devastation, hugging back as Rachel moves on to him before settling herself next to Moshe on the opposite couch*
Claire: *distributes the tea to everyone before claiming her seat next to Rachel, still a bit apprehensive of the doppelganger her*
OOC!Psiren: *hurts a little on the inside, also trying to hide it... pretty successfully, actually... thanks her double when she hands her the tea, smiling sort of apologetically*
Moshe: *launches off* So, Clara, tell us how Malachi came to stay with you?
OOC!Scar: *glances over at Clara, mentally cursing himself for not warning her not to bring that up, having thought it would be common sense, barges in first* Uh-
OOC!Scar: Well, see, as soon as I got there I met her and - uh - *giving her a work-with-me look* She's got this gigantic house, see.
OOC!Psiren: *give the woman some credit, geez... gets over her brief spate of panic then settles into telling the truth... some of it* Mmm, yes, I've been fortunate enough to acquire a house that is much to large for me, so I've been letting people stay in my spare rooms... actually, if I'd known earlier you didn't have anywhere to stay.... *glares affectionately at him*
Moshe: *is actually a very intelligent man and can tell that something is fishy from his brother's dreadful lying, but will pester him about it at a better time* You run an inn, then?
Rachel: *watching the conversation contentedly, now and then gently tapping her fingernails on the tea cup*
OOC!Psiren: *laughs a little* No, not exactly... I wouldn't dream of accepting money. When I first came to the city, I didn't have anywhere to stay either... by luck I ended up staying in the house, and... later, when it passed into my hands, I thought I ought to pass on the favor. Everyone who needs to stays for free... up until I run out of rooms. ...Hasn't happened yet. *feels embarrassed, like she always does when she's discussing the House*
Moshe: *shaking his head before she even finishes talking, fishing in his back pocket for his wallet despite what she said about not accepting payment, because that is just nonsense* Malachi, how long have you stayed at her house?
Rachel & Mal: Moshe. *exasperated tones*
Claire: *wishes she had a big house like that where she could have people stay to bake for and take care of*
OOC!Psiren: O.O No no no, I can't accept your money! I mean, I really can't. It's... please, it's complicated. It's a promise I made to myself. And anyway, it isn't as if Mal's some sort of freeloader! He's very helpful around the house... he helps with cooking and cleaning and errands and other such things, just like everyone who stays there. That's the agreement.
Moshe: *skeptical look, but he can accept the idea that Mal is doing chores for his keep, and puts away his wallet, albeit reluctantly*
OOC!Psiren: *relieved, takes a sip of tea... goodness, did not expect this to be such an ordeal*
OOC!Scar: *isn't really that helpful, but is very glad Clara is making it sound like it* And I've got a job at a record store, Moshe. It's not like I'm just hanging around all day.
Rachel: *lays a hand on Moshe's knee, squeezing gently* That's wonderful, Malachi.
Moshe: *nods his approval, as well* Although I still do not see why you insist on staying there, when you are able to come home, now.
OOC!Psiren: *blinks, this only just occurring to her now*
OOC!Scar: *doesn't roll his eyes, barely; with a forced kind of grin* Well, it's good for you two, now that- I mean- *can't quite say it, feeling like he might be sick, nodding at Rachel*
Claire: *just as perspicacious as her counterpart, has long since known about Mal's crush and feels intensely sympathetic for him* Why don't I run down to the shop and get us all some pastries?
OOC!Psiren: *smiles a little* Oh, we went by your shop earlier, they looked lovely....
Moshe: *wrapping an arm around Rachel's shoulders*
Rachel: *in a quiet voice* That doesn't mean we want you to leave, Malachi. There's plenty of room for all of us, here. We love you very much.
OOC!Scar: *shakes his head vehemently, his heart breaking into various little pieces, suddenly realizing why he hasn't visited earlier, and why he was so glad to stay in such a violent and dangerous dimension - because he doesn't have to deal with this* Well, I like it better there. *defiantly, to hide the fact that his voice would shake if he let it* I like it better there, so I'm staying.
Claire: *OH THE AWKWARD; focuses on her double to avoid it* Oh, thank you!
OOC!Psiren: *totally paying more attention to the family's discussion, and trying to pretend she isn't* ...You know, I think we really ought to have a recipe swap... I bet I have a few good ones you'd like....
Claire: *claps her hands together, overly bright and cheery at the notion* Yes, of course!
OOC!Scar: *wishes the ground would open and swallow him up*
OOC!Psiren: *internal eyeroll... woman who are you trying to fool... balks, wondering how transparent Claire finds her*
Rachel: *slightly hurt look* Well ... if you think that is best. *rearranging her traditional skirt around her legs*
OOC!Psiren: Well then, I'll make sure I send my favorites back with Moshe and Rachel after they visit.
Moshe: *sighs, after a moment* It is probably best. You are almost twenty, and that's well time to be moving out on your own. *glancing at the two Smith women and hating to interrupt their little love-fest, but* Perhaps we should leave, soon? How long does the journey between worlds take?
OOC!Scar: Only a minute or two. *still speaking shortly, feeling wretched on the inside and wanting to go back to Clara's, even though he knows the problems won't go away when he's there* I should probably take you one at a time, though.
Claire: I'll send a letter with some of my recipes when I have the time. *stands up*
OOC!Psiren: Oh, wonderful, thank you! *notices imminent departure, tries to drink more of her tea*
Moshe: *stands up as well, walking into the hall to fetch a suitcase he's packed for their visit; looks perplexed once more as Mal takes out his guitar* Malachi? I thought we were leaving? *half-exasperated, half-amused*
OOC!Psiren: ...Mal, you haven't explained your magical guitar? Just what do you put in those letters? *slightly less forced cheer, finishing her tea*
OOC!Scar: *rolls his eyes so that everyone but Moshe can see* I try to explain, but sometimes he just doesn't want to believe me no matter what. Which I probably deserve.
Rachel: *laughs, an endearing and delighted laugh*
Moshe: *clears his throat irritably, does not appreciate being gossiped about*
OOC!Psiren: *grins, but manages to avoid laughing... stands* So, who first?
Claire: *grasping Clara's hands for a moment as she prepares to leave* It was nice to meet you. *heads for the door*
Moshe: I will go.
OOC!Scar: *manages not to react, even though he had been waiting for this, and was sure that Rachel had been, too; he loves his brother, but he is very predictable sometimes* Sure thing.
OOC!Psiren: Oh! Yes, and you! *sort of wishes she had more time to talk to her double... watches her leave*
OOC!Psiren: *sort of thinks she ought to go back first so she can welcome them to her own home, but doesn't say anything*
OOC!Scar: *waits until Moshe is holding on tightly before striking the chord, the two of them vanishing with a brief flash of something vaguely resembling an ominous satanic Gate*
OOC!Psiren: *beams at Rachel* Congratulations, by the way, when are you due?
Rachel: *smiles at Clara while waiting for them to return* Thank you! In three months, right around the start of summer. *sighs happily, repeating her earlier statement* It is very good of you to take care of him. Malachi is a wonderful boy.
OOC!Psiren: *DEEP BURNING BABY ENVY* ...He really is. He's been such a great friend to me, I can't even express.... *smiles fondly*
Rachel: *resting a hand on her pregnant belly idly, without thinking about it* I am glad to hear it. He does not have enough good friends. *eyes rather downcast, but with a small smile* I don't believe he likes me very much. I'm not surprised, of course. He and Moshe only had one another to rely on for a long time. But- I am glad to hear he is doing well in your home. I feel like less of a wicked usurper.
OOC!Psiren: *glebrahkzlkakjz!... ARGH WHAT DO I DO?!* Err, um, I'm sure that isn't how he thinks of you, um... I've never heard him say anything bad about you....
Rachel: *beams* Then it's not totally hopeless, is it? *looking up with a soft gasp as Mal reappears with an aborted screech of his guitar, scowling fiercely, having just come back from a brief but uproarious fight with his brother in the short space of time that they were alone together.
OOC!Psiren: *blink, concerned frown* Mal?
OOC!Scar: Mal: *closes his eyes, shaking his head; in a gentler voice than he usually adopts* Sorry. I was just arguing with-- I told Moshe it might not be safe for me to take you ... I don't know if travelling between worlds is bad if you're pregnant. *clenches his teeth, then shakes his head once again* But he insisted, or said he wouldn't come at all. *looks at Rachel, not wanting her to let Moshe make the decision for her like always*
OOC!Psiren: ...Oh. *trying to think if she's ever heard anything about pregnant women going between dimensions*
Rachel: *demure smile* Thank you, Malachi. I'm sure it will be fine; Ishbala will protect me. *looks at Clara, politely asking* Would you like to go first?
OOC!Psiren: I... oh no, please, you go ahead. I'll wait.
Rachel: *wraps her hands around Mal's arm, and then disappears with him as the makes the journey once more*
OOC!Psiren: *sighs, sitting down on the couch, putting her head in her hands* ...Goodness gracious.... *shakes her head, then says a brief prayer for Rachel, just in case*
OOC!Scar: *appears again much quicker this time, looking utterly relieved; seeing Clara's exhausted position on the couch* Yeah, I know what you mean. *weary voice*
OOC!Scar: She got through just fine.
OOC!Psiren: *smiles* Praise the Lord.
OOC!Scar: *shifts his weight from foot to foot, momentarily awkward, offering his hand to help Clara to her feet* I'm sorry, Clara. About- *gestures vaguely, as though to say 'all of this'*
OOC!Psiren: *accepts his hand and stands, but doesn't let go of it... folds her other hand over it and catches his eye* Hey. Family's complicated. I understand. ...I've got your back, alright?
OOC!Scar: *wavery smile* Thanks. I just- thanks.
OOC!Psiren: *smiles* You're more than welcome, Mal. I know you've got mine, too.
OOC!Scar: *heavy sigh* Let's get out of here, shall we? *offers her his arm*
OOC!Psiren: Mmm, yes, let's go before they get hopelessly lost in my house. *takes his arm*
When: 03/03/08
Rating: PG
Category: Side Plots
Summary: Clara comes with Mal to pick up his brother and his brother's wife, family intrigue ensues
OOC!Scar: *has set up his guitar and things in his (frighteningly clean) bedroom, and has just had a brilliant idea; poking his head out into the hall where he saw Clara bustle past* Hey, Clara!
OOC!Psiren: *stops abruptly, turning, eyebrows raised* Mmm? Yes Mal?
OOC!Scar: So, I've got my stuff all set up to get my brother, right? I told him I'd be there sometime in the afternoon, but I thought ... maybe you'd want to come with, and have see my dimension for a bit? Maybe? *sounds hesitant, because it might just be a completely dumb idea*
OOC!Psiren: *blinks, then beams* Oh, I'd love to!
OOC!Scar: *grins back at her, nodding his head towards his room* Hardcore! Uh, whenever you're ready?
OOC!Psiren: *blinks* Oh! Um, right now? Um, sure, I... do I need to bring anything? I suppose I should grab a coat or something....
OOC!Scar: *nods* You probably don't need that, even. It's warmer there than here.
OOC!Psiren: Oh, um, well then... I guess we can just go, then. ...It isn't as if we can't come back if we need to. So... um... what do we have to do?
OOC!Scar: *slings his guitar on and adjusts various settings and presses his fingers in the correct chord* Just - hold tight to my arm - the one with the tattoo.
OOC!Psiren: *blinks... is blinking a lot... grabs onto his arm with both hands* ...Why your tattooed arm, specifically? Is that important?
OOC!Scar: *shrugs, heart beating a little faster, excited to go back home and show Clara around* Just works like that. Hold tight, now! *flips the pick between his fingers, and then rakes it across the strings with a flourish*
LET'S DO THE TIME WARP AGAIN~! ...I MEAN....
OOC!Scar: *opens his eyes to see a bustling street in New Leste, just a little ways off; they have appeared in the middle of the courtyard of a fancy restaurant that will not open for several hours yet* Awwww, man. That is still so cool no matter HOW many times I do it.
OOC!Psiren: ...Goodness, that always feels so strange... are we here? *as if it isn't obvious... tentatively lets go of his arm and glances around*
OOC!Scar: Yeah, this is it! *jubilantly, putting his guitar back in the case and winding around the tables, headed for the street* Damn, it's good to be here! *glancing back at Clara every few seconds, his face lively* Here, stick with me, you don't wanna get lost.
OOC!Psiren: *grins, catching his enthusiasm* ...No place like home, hm? I know the feeling. *isn't even going to scold him for the "damn"* Oh no, definitely not.
OOC!Psiren: *follows close on his heels*
OOC!Scar: *calls out in greeting to several people going by, all of whom look startled to see him, but doesn't stop to chat, peering into the street to see if there are any cars coming and then motioning to Clara that they should cross* I want to see if your double's bakery is open, first.
OOC!Psiren: ...Oh! *eyes widen* I didn't even think of that! Goodness! *looks down at herself, wondering if she should've worn a better dress*
OOC!Scar: *goes another few blocks without saying much, though he's walking enthusiastically and seeming genuinely at home; the people are out doing their grocery shopping, or walking their prams, many under parasols, a mix of young and old, Ishabalans and Amestrans and Xingians and others*
OOC!Psiren: *frets briefly about making a good impression on her double, then sort of glances around at the people* ...So this is... New Leste? It's a lot more... cosmopolitan than Central, isn't it?
OOC!Scar: Yeah, this is New Leste. It's actually a little smaller than Central, but there are a lot of things that are the same. See, look, it's the same cab company Ed works for *points at a cab going by* It's an awesome city. Kinda quiet in comparison, though. *waves at a passing group of teenage girls wearing rather elaborate outfits of all black, who acknowledge him with lackadasical nods* Oh - shoot. *points to the next shop on the street, where there is a closed sign hanging* Guess not.
OOC!Psiren: *sort of surreptitiously latches onto Mal's sleeve so she can look around while she walks without losing him... ponders the different clothing fashions* Oh... oh well, it was a nice thought.... *tries not to be too disappointed... wanders over to the shop and peers in the window, curious about what kind of shop she would have... if she had a shop*
OOC!Scar: *hangs around while Clara looks inside, breathing in deeply and having to suppress a laugh - it is nice to wander around without worrying about homunculi and Hell Rivers and psychos of every flavor* I'll bring you back sometime when it's open and you can meet her, OK?
OOC!Psiren: *smiles at the decor, deciding she likes it... straightens and smiles at Mal* Sure, I think I'd like that. *...and next time she can wear a better dress*
Random Dude: *passing by on the sidewalk* Hello, Ms. Smith. Nice day! *and on down the sidewalk*
OOC!Psiren: *reflexively smiles and waves* Hello! ...Oh dear.... *laughs a little*
OOC!Scar: *chuckles, beaming at Clara and elbowing her very gently* Hadn't expected that... where should we go next? Uh ... maybe the park, or ... there's a Catholic cathedral on 8th street if you'd want to see that?
OOC!Scar: *too many fun things, too little time, but somehow he doubts Clara wants to see the guitar shop or clubs or places he is most familiar with*
OOC!Psiren: I suppose we should've, I mean, this is her shop we're standing outside of.... *big shiny sparkly eyes* Ooh! Ooh! Cathedral! Could we? *actually bounces a little*
OOC!Scar: *can see very easily that he's come up with a good idea* No, I was just kidding, of course we can't. *very well-intentioned sarcasm* Sure thing. I haven't ever been inside it, so it'll be fun. *heads off in that direction, watching as a flock of pigeons wheels out of the way before them*
OOC!Psiren: *continued shiny sparkly eyes, hands clasped* Oh my goodness a real cathedral! Oh, I've seen pictures, but I never thought-!
OOC!Scar: *laughs* That's a bit ironic, that New Leste has got one and Central doesn't. *glances idly at the windows that pass by - a joke shop, a coffee shop, a bicycle shop, a theatre, the city library...* Ah, there it is! *nods to the stone building looming up just around the corner of the street, a very ornate, baroque sort of cathedral*
OOC!Psiren: Ironic? I don't know, is it? There's no Catholic community in Central, where we live... I have to go to my Central to go to Mass, and it's just a small church there... Central's parish isn't really any bigger than Aquroya's.... There's that big old abandoned church in Central, but I'm not even sure its Catholic... some related sect, maybe. Anyway, it isn't used. *gasps when she sees it* Oh, it's beautiful! And... gigantic! *sparkly eyes, etc.*
OOC!Scar: *hurries along towards it with her, pausing to look at the fountain in front - adorned with various saints whose names one of his band mates told him once but he has long since forgotten* Well, I'm glad I brought it up, then.
OOC!Psiren: Yes, thank you Mal, what a lovely idea! *craning her neck to look upward, can't get over how big it is* Oh, wow.... Is it still in use? I mean... do people actually have Mass here?
OOC!Scar: Yeah, they do all the time. I mean, not at this time of day, I'm pretty sure, but people can come in and wander around. *going up the shallow stairs leading to the large doors, not able to help marvelling at the stonework himeslf, even though he usually hates this kind of thing*
OOC!Psiren: *is so excited she might pass out... goes in the doors, stopping almost immediately, staring at the GIANT SHINY ALTAR waaaaaaay down at the other end of the building* ...Heavens! *spots a vessel of holy water attached to a pillar... it's made of marble, omg... dips her fingers in it and crosses herself*
OOC!Scar: *follows a few steps behind her, glad to see her enjoying herself so much, and reassured when he sees a few other people inside, some sitting scattered around the pews, others wandering the perimeter and looking into the little alcoves and chapels; takes a seat at the back, looking up at the stained glass and deciding to wait for Clara here so she can go do her thing*
OOC!Psiren: *has temporarily forgotten he's there, taking a few steps down the VERY LARGE central aisle, looking up at the intricately carved pillars and things, barely remembering to keep her mouth from hanging open... glances around for Mal after a few seconds, smiles at him, then heads in the direction of the GIANT SHINY ALTAR, reminding herself that she needn't feel nervous in God's house*
OOC!Scar: *just chilling happily, rooting around for a crumpled piece of notebook paper from his pocket and unwrinkling it over his knee, finding a pencil stub somewhere and beginning to work on a new song*
OOC!Psiren: *stands in front of the altar and gazes at it with awe for a minute or so, then, sidles into an unoccupied pew at the front, folds down the kneeler, and begins to pray*
OOC!Scar: *keeps writing, glancing up once to see that Clara has sat down and, feeling glad that she is happy after she has had such a terrible week / month / year, wait patiently*
OOC!Psiren: *after a few minutes, sighs, opening her eyes* ...Amen. *smiles, standing and replacing the kneeler... heads back in the direction of Mal by way of investigating the chapels on one side of the cathedral*
OOC!Scar: *tapping his pencil on the page, trying to think of the next line of the melody he is composing*
OOC!Psiren: *eventually works her way back to him, sitting next to him, a giddy grin on her face* Mal, this place is amazing! *feels compelled to whisper*
OOC!Scar: *can understand that impulse, since every noise echoes and is amplified by the wide space* I'm glad you like it!
OOC!Psiren: Oh, it's wonderful, I can feel it, this place... it's just full of the Holy Spirit, you know?
OOC!Scar: *blink blink, she lost him a little there, just goes with the nodding thing*
OOC!Psiren: *breathes in deep and sighs happily, relaxing back into the pew... as well as you can relax in a pew... looking up and admiring the stained glass*
OOC!Scar: *feels a smile tugging at his lips, and spins the pencil in his fingers*
OOC!Psiren: *after a minute or two, looks over at him* ...Um, did you have any other ideas of places you wanted to show me? Because I could seriously spend all day in here, but I understand if you wouldn't want to. *grins sort of sheepishly*
OOC!Scar: *shakes his head, whispering back* Not really, as long as we leave in an hour to get Moshe, I don't want to make him wait.
OOC!Psiren: *no longer whispering, but still speaking quietly, out of respect* Oh no, of course not... how far is it to... wherever we're meeting him? *bounces her knees in nervous excitement*
OOC!Scar: It'll only take a few minutes to walk from here. You go ahead. *too happy to see her happy to mind spending time in a church of all places*
OOC!Psiren: Okay... if you're sure... you alright just sitting here? *spots the notepaper* Working on a song?
OOC!Scar: *nods to the song question* I'll be fine, Clara. No need to worry so much. *has a lot of experience not getting bored when forced to sit in religious buildings, oh yeah*
OOC!Psiren: ...Okay. I'm gonna go- *gestures vaguely, grinning and standing up*
OOC!Scar: *waves vaguely at her, already back in writing mode*
OOC!Psiren: *makes a beeline for the confessionals*
~TIME PASSES~
OOC!Psiren: *having emerged from the confessional a number of minutes ago, is now happily inspecting the chapels on the other side of the cathedral*
OOC!Scar: *has actually dozed off, tired from a solid week of staying up too late for various reasons, his head resting sideways on his arms which are draped over the pew in front of him*
OOC!Psiren: *glances at her watch, then looks around for Mal, smiling in amusement when she sees him... goes over to him and touches his shoulder* ...Hey... Mal....
OOC!Scar: Mmhm? *blinking open his eyes and, realizing he's not in his bed, sits up and stretches, looking around and remembering where he was; in a soft, blurry voice* Time's it?
OOC!Psiren: *holds her watch out for him to see* Time to go pick up Moshe and Rachel, I think. ...Did you have a good nap? *grins*
OOC!Scar: *rubbing his face with his hands and standing up, knees popping as he does so* Didn't meanto fall'sleep. *closes his eyes against the bright light as the doors to the cathedral open, waking up a touch more*
OOC!Psiren: It's okay... it's very peaceful in there.... *sighs happily*
OOC!Scar: *sighs deeply as well, adjusting the guitar-strap on his shoulder and trying to finger-comb his hair into some kind of order*
OOC!Psiren: *walking along beside him, suddenly feeling nervous again... again wishes she was wearing a better dress* Oh, Mal, I'm really nervous... I hope they like me.... *fidgets with her fingers*
OOC!Scar: *just about awake now after almost running into a street lamp, but not nervous at all* Come on, Clara. They're gonna love you, don't worry. *turns them down a side street, into what seems instantly like another city - all the shops are Ishbalan, all the signs in two languages, and some of the people passing by are wearing traditional clothing*
OOC!Psiren: *suddenly feels out of place, although she enjoys the exotic (to her) clothing, and the strange smells of Ishbalan cooking... tries not to look like a tourist and FAILS UTTERLY*
OOC!Scar: *doesn't need to go much further, turning down a wide street with old but well-tended houses on it, going up to the door of the third one to the left and vaulting up the stairs leading to the entrance* You ready? *he calls over his shoulder*
OOC!Psiren: *suddenly feels like this is a lot like her own neighborhood, and instantly feels a lot more comfortable* ...I'd better be! *laughs nervously and hurries up, following a few steps behind him*
OOC!Scar: *pounds on the door with his fist, beaming fit to split his face*
OOC!Psiren: *the grin, it is infectious*
Claire: *a woman who looks exactly like Clara - though not in quite the same dress, and with longer hair - opens the door, asking* Who is-- oh! It's Malachi. Malachi's back *calling over her shoulder*
Claire: And who is it you've--- oh? *staaaaaare*
OOC!Psiren: O.O
Claire: O.O
OOC!Psiren: *was sort of expecting this, but still... staaaaare*
OOC!Psiren: *recovers quickly, beaming* Hello! I'm Clara!
Claire: Are you... *blink, SO CONFUSED, but offers her hand because polite is the best default* Claire. *faint voice*
OOC!Scar: *slipping past Claire, hearing the sound of footsteps coming from inside the house* Hey, Moshe! *exuberant*
OOC!Psiren: *shakes her hand, thinking WOW THIS IS SURREAL* ...I'm sorry, this must be a bit of a shock to you... there's a logical explanation, I promise. ...Well. There's an explanation. *laughs a little*
Moshe: *coming down from upstairs, dressed in a tailored shirt with rather paint-covered jeans and with large, wire-rimmed glasses, otherwise looking like an older, somewhat squarer Mal*
Claire: ^_^; Well ... come inside ... I'll go and get Rachel ... *flees!*
OOC!Psiren: *oh dear, I scared my own double away... steps inside, somewhat apprehensively, looking around*
OOC!Scar: *sees his big brother and catches his breath for a moment, shocked at how much he had missed him, thinking over everything that's happened in his time at Central and all the times he's wished Moshe was there ... rushes over and nearly knocks him over with a hug, clinging to him tightly*
Moshe: *oof; a bit stunned for a moment but then smiles briefly, the corners of his eyes crinkling, and kisses Mal on the top of the head*
OOC!Psiren: *trying to be unobtrusive, beams in the general direction of the reunited brothers... family stuff just slays her*
Moshe: *turning to greet Clara even as Mal is still doing a koala impression* Good afternoon. *has a faint Ishbalan accent, the kind of accent that doesn't make him hard to understand, but rather reminds you that he is bilingual and thus probably smarter than you* You're Clara, I assume?
OOC!Scar: *peeling himself away from his big brother with difficulty* Oh - yeah, oops, I should've... Moshe, Clara. Clara, this is my brother.
OOC!Psiren: *more beaming, offers her hand* It's lovely to finally meet you! I've heard so much about you!
Moshe: *shakes her hand firmly, gesturing towards a sitting room* Please, sit down, make yourself comfortable. Rachel's making tea, now. Malachi did not tell me you would be coming?
OOC!Psiren: Oh, thank you... I'm sorry, I hope it's not too much trouble, but I really wanted to see New Leste and he was nice enough to show me around.... *sits as daintily as possible... which is pretty damn daintily*
Moshe: *shaking his head* No trouble at all. I have looked forward to meeting you, since Malachi wrote to tell us what had happened. *rather stern look at Mal, who is sprawling comfortably on the couch at that moment* Rachel and I were sick with worry. We thought he had run off with his musician friends, but they came back without him and said they had not seen him in weeks. *GUILT-TRIP*
OOC!Scar: *feels his stomach twisting with guilt and responds with a rather sullen shrugs, muttering* I wrote as soon as I knew how to...
OOC!Psiren: *internal flail* I'm sorry you had to go through all that... the dimensional fractures are so random... some people have no contact with their homes at all, sometimes for years... it's sort of a bizarre lucky fluke we can get letters through to some places. Don't ask me how that works. *nervous smile*
Moshe: *watches her making excuses for his little brother with a rather thin-lipped look, but then glances over at the doorway as Rachel and Claire show up* Oh, good, you are here. This is my wife, Rachel.
Rachel: *beams at Clara, bearing a tray with the right number of cups of tea, her hair bound back in a tightly-knotted scarf of dark blue, looking about six months pregnant and glowing with it*
OOC!Scar: *stares at her, feeling roughly as though his internal organs have all turned to lead*
Rachel: *sets the tray down and moves first to embrace Clara, bending over with a little difficulty and then smiling at her as though she is the most delightful thing on earth, as though they are already the closest of friends* Thank you for taking such good care of him.
OOC!Psiren: *beams back, hugging back carefully* Oh, really, he takes care of me most of the time. *laughs a little* It's wonderful to meet you, finally! *a voice in the back of her head goes, "goodness, no wonder"... glances at Mal, smile flickering briefly when she sees the look on his face*
OOC!Scar: *tries to cover up the look of soul-crushing devastation, hugging back as Rachel moves on to him before settling herself next to Moshe on the opposite couch*
Claire: *distributes the tea to everyone before claiming her seat next to Rachel, still a bit apprehensive of the doppelganger her*
OOC!Psiren: *hurts a little on the inside, also trying to hide it... pretty successfully, actually... thanks her double when she hands her the tea, smiling sort of apologetically*
Moshe: *launches off* So, Clara, tell us how Malachi came to stay with you?
OOC!Scar: *glances over at Clara, mentally cursing himself for not warning her not to bring that up, having thought it would be common sense, barges in first* Uh-
OOC!Scar: Well, see, as soon as I got there I met her and - uh - *giving her a work-with-me look* She's got this gigantic house, see.
OOC!Psiren: *give the woman some credit, geez... gets over her brief spate of panic then settles into telling the truth... some of it* Mmm, yes, I've been fortunate enough to acquire a house that is much to large for me, so I've been letting people stay in my spare rooms... actually, if I'd known earlier you didn't have anywhere to stay.... *glares affectionately at him*
Moshe: *is actually a very intelligent man and can tell that something is fishy from his brother's dreadful lying, but will pester him about it at a better time* You run an inn, then?
Rachel: *watching the conversation contentedly, now and then gently tapping her fingernails on the tea cup*
OOC!Psiren: *laughs a little* No, not exactly... I wouldn't dream of accepting money. When I first came to the city, I didn't have anywhere to stay either... by luck I ended up staying in the house, and... later, when it passed into my hands, I thought I ought to pass on the favor. Everyone who needs to stays for free... up until I run out of rooms. ...Hasn't happened yet. *feels embarrassed, like she always does when she's discussing the House*
Moshe: *shaking his head before she even finishes talking, fishing in his back pocket for his wallet despite what she said about not accepting payment, because that is just nonsense* Malachi, how long have you stayed at her house?
Rachel & Mal: Moshe. *exasperated tones*
Claire: *wishes she had a big house like that where she could have people stay to bake for and take care of*
OOC!Psiren: O.O No no no, I can't accept your money! I mean, I really can't. It's... please, it's complicated. It's a promise I made to myself. And anyway, it isn't as if Mal's some sort of freeloader! He's very helpful around the house... he helps with cooking and cleaning and errands and other such things, just like everyone who stays there. That's the agreement.
Moshe: *skeptical look, but he can accept the idea that Mal is doing chores for his keep, and puts away his wallet, albeit reluctantly*
OOC!Psiren: *relieved, takes a sip of tea... goodness, did not expect this to be such an ordeal*
OOC!Scar: *isn't really that helpful, but is very glad Clara is making it sound like it* And I've got a job at a record store, Moshe. It's not like I'm just hanging around all day.
Rachel: *lays a hand on Moshe's knee, squeezing gently* That's wonderful, Malachi.
Moshe: *nods his approval, as well* Although I still do not see why you insist on staying there, when you are able to come home, now.
OOC!Psiren: *blinks, this only just occurring to her now*
OOC!Scar: *doesn't roll his eyes, barely; with a forced kind of grin* Well, it's good for you two, now that- I mean- *can't quite say it, feeling like he might be sick, nodding at Rachel*
Claire: *just as perspicacious as her counterpart, has long since known about Mal's crush and feels intensely sympathetic for him* Why don't I run down to the shop and get us all some pastries?
OOC!Psiren: *smiles a little* Oh, we went by your shop earlier, they looked lovely....
Moshe: *wrapping an arm around Rachel's shoulders*
Rachel: *in a quiet voice* That doesn't mean we want you to leave, Malachi. There's plenty of room for all of us, here. We love you very much.
OOC!Scar: *shakes his head vehemently, his heart breaking into various little pieces, suddenly realizing why he hasn't visited earlier, and why he was so glad to stay in such a violent and dangerous dimension - because he doesn't have to deal with this* Well, I like it better there. *defiantly, to hide the fact that his voice would shake if he let it* I like it better there, so I'm staying.
Claire: *OH THE AWKWARD; focuses on her double to avoid it* Oh, thank you!
OOC!Psiren: *totally paying more attention to the family's discussion, and trying to pretend she isn't* ...You know, I think we really ought to have a recipe swap... I bet I have a few good ones you'd like....
Claire: *claps her hands together, overly bright and cheery at the notion* Yes, of course!
OOC!Scar: *wishes the ground would open and swallow him up*
OOC!Psiren: *internal eyeroll... woman who are you trying to fool... balks, wondering how transparent Claire finds her*
Rachel: *slightly hurt look* Well ... if you think that is best. *rearranging her traditional skirt around her legs*
OOC!Psiren: Well then, I'll make sure I send my favorites back with Moshe and Rachel after they visit.
Moshe: *sighs, after a moment* It is probably best. You are almost twenty, and that's well time to be moving out on your own. *glancing at the two Smith women and hating to interrupt their little love-fest, but* Perhaps we should leave, soon? How long does the journey between worlds take?
OOC!Scar: Only a minute or two. *still speaking shortly, feeling wretched on the inside and wanting to go back to Clara's, even though he knows the problems won't go away when he's there* I should probably take you one at a time, though.
Claire: I'll send a letter with some of my recipes when I have the time. *stands up*
OOC!Psiren: Oh, wonderful, thank you! *notices imminent departure, tries to drink more of her tea*
Moshe: *stands up as well, walking into the hall to fetch a suitcase he's packed for their visit; looks perplexed once more as Mal takes out his guitar* Malachi? I thought we were leaving? *half-exasperated, half-amused*
OOC!Psiren: ...Mal, you haven't explained your magical guitar? Just what do you put in those letters? *slightly less forced cheer, finishing her tea*
OOC!Scar: *rolls his eyes so that everyone but Moshe can see* I try to explain, but sometimes he just doesn't want to believe me no matter what. Which I probably deserve.
Rachel: *laughs, an endearing and delighted laugh*
Moshe: *clears his throat irritably, does not appreciate being gossiped about*
OOC!Psiren: *grins, but manages to avoid laughing... stands* So, who first?
Claire: *grasping Clara's hands for a moment as she prepares to leave* It was nice to meet you. *heads for the door*
Moshe: I will go.
OOC!Scar: *manages not to react, even though he had been waiting for this, and was sure that Rachel had been, too; he loves his brother, but he is very predictable sometimes* Sure thing.
OOC!Psiren: Oh! Yes, and you! *sort of wishes she had more time to talk to her double... watches her leave*
OOC!Psiren: *sort of thinks she ought to go back first so she can welcome them to her own home, but doesn't say anything*
OOC!Scar: *waits until Moshe is holding on tightly before striking the chord, the two of them vanishing with a brief flash of something vaguely resembling an ominous satanic Gate*
OOC!Psiren: *beams at Rachel* Congratulations, by the way, when are you due?
Rachel: *smiles at Clara while waiting for them to return* Thank you! In three months, right around the start of summer. *sighs happily, repeating her earlier statement* It is very good of you to take care of him. Malachi is a wonderful boy.
OOC!Psiren: *DEEP BURNING BABY ENVY* ...He really is. He's been such a great friend to me, I can't even express.... *smiles fondly*
Rachel: *resting a hand on her pregnant belly idly, without thinking about it* I am glad to hear it. He does not have enough good friends. *eyes rather downcast, but with a small smile* I don't believe he likes me very much. I'm not surprised, of course. He and Moshe only had one another to rely on for a long time. But- I am glad to hear he is doing well in your home. I feel like less of a wicked usurper.
OOC!Psiren: *glebrahkzlkakjz!... ARGH WHAT DO I DO?!* Err, um, I'm sure that isn't how he thinks of you, um... I've never heard him say anything bad about you....
Rachel: *beams* Then it's not totally hopeless, is it? *looking up with a soft gasp as Mal reappears with an aborted screech of his guitar, scowling fiercely, having just come back from a brief but uproarious fight with his brother in the short space of time that they were alone together.
OOC!Psiren: *blink, concerned frown* Mal?
OOC!Scar: Mal: *closes his eyes, shaking his head; in a gentler voice than he usually adopts* Sorry. I was just arguing with-- I told Moshe it might not be safe for me to take you ... I don't know if travelling between worlds is bad if you're pregnant. *clenches his teeth, then shakes his head once again* But he insisted, or said he wouldn't come at all. *looks at Rachel, not wanting her to let Moshe make the decision for her like always*
OOC!Psiren: ...Oh. *trying to think if she's ever heard anything about pregnant women going between dimensions*
Rachel: *demure smile* Thank you, Malachi. I'm sure it will be fine; Ishbala will protect me. *looks at Clara, politely asking* Would you like to go first?
OOC!Psiren: I... oh no, please, you go ahead. I'll wait.
Rachel: *wraps her hands around Mal's arm, and then disappears with him as the makes the journey once more*
OOC!Psiren: *sighs, sitting down on the couch, putting her head in her hands* ...Goodness gracious.... *shakes her head, then says a brief prayer for Rachel, just in case*
OOC!Scar: *appears again much quicker this time, looking utterly relieved; seeing Clara's exhausted position on the couch* Yeah, I know what you mean. *weary voice*
OOC!Scar: She got through just fine.
OOC!Psiren: *smiles* Praise the Lord.
OOC!Scar: *shifts his weight from foot to foot, momentarily awkward, offering his hand to help Clara to her feet* I'm sorry, Clara. About- *gestures vaguely, as though to say 'all of this'*
OOC!Psiren: *accepts his hand and stands, but doesn't let go of it... folds her other hand over it and catches his eye* Hey. Family's complicated. I understand. ...I've got your back, alright?
OOC!Scar: *wavery smile* Thanks. I just- thanks.
OOC!Psiren: *smiles* You're more than welcome, Mal. I know you've got mine, too.
OOC!Scar: *heavy sigh* Let's get out of here, shall we? *offers her his arm*
OOC!Psiren: Mmm, yes, let's go before they get hopelessly lost in my house. *takes his arm*
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