@Zapdos No problem in asking hun! I'm a competitive cosplayer and horse trainer. The gig I have is sakura con and next week is Comic con. I just show up and hang out with fans and host panels and tournaments since I was a veteran at the sport.
I've never heard of competitive cosplaying, that's interesting. I've never been to a convention either (it's the kind of thing I'd probably only do with someone else and most of my friends aren't into that scene). I did ride horses maybe once or twice, but that was maaany years ago (I was maybe 5 or 6) and it was because there was a horse farm right by my house.
<Snipped quote by CloseEnough> I've never heard of competitive cosplaying, that's interesting. I've never been to a convention either (it's the kind of thing I'd probably only do with someone else and most of my friends aren't into that scene). I did ride horses maybe once or twice, but that was maaany years ago (I was maybe 5 or 6) and it was because there was a horse farm right by my house.
Yeah its a lot of fun! You make your own costumes and document the progress. Take it to judges and than have to find a way to portray your character as closely as you can. Sometimes cosplay is not for everyone, lot of work goes into it so you have to be dedicated to a character to want to portray them right. That or have money and commission someone. Though you can't take that on stage. Been doing it for 6 years now. Hell if you look up Close Enough Cosplay on face book you'll find me XD
Been riding since I was 4 and upgraded to training when I found out you can get paid to ride crazy animals if you don't die! Can you believe that!? XD
<Snipped quote by Zapdos> Yeah its a lot of fun! You make your own costumes and document the progress. Take it to judges and than have to find a way to portray your character as closely as you can. Sometimes cosplay is not for everyone, lot of work goes into it so you have to be dedicated to a character to want to portray them right. That or have money and commission someone. Though you can't take that on stage. Been doing it for 6 years now. Hell if you look up Close Enough Cosplay on face book you'll find me XD
Been riding since I was 4 and upgraded to training when I found out you can get paid to ride crazy animals if you don't die! Can you believe that!? XD
I'd might consider making a costume, but I wouldn't go on stage. I'm decent at public speaking now, but having people watch me in that way doesn't appeal to me. I am definitely an introvert, I'll say that for sure. I did find your Facebook page though, your costumes are very good! You have a talent for what you do.
Ha, nice. Maybe I should have just learned how to ride a horse instead of getting a Master's Degree :-P Even with the degree, the job market is very tough.
<Snipped quote by CloseEnough> I'd might consider making a costume, but I wouldn't go on stage. I'm decent at public speaking now, but having people watch me in that way doesn't appeal to me. I am definitely an introvert, I'll say that for sure. I did find your Facebook page though, your costumes are very good! You have a talent for what you do.
Ha, nice. Maybe I should have just learned how to ride a horse instead of getting a Master's Degree :-P Even with the degree, the job market is very tough.
Enjoy your time at your convention!
Thank you! And hey, whatever floats your boat, all people from all kinds of back grounds and interests cosplay. Dose not have to be a comic or game or anime, can be literally anything so long as you enjoy it!
Thank you! And hey, whatever floats your boat, all people from all kinds of back grounds and interests cosplay. Dose not have to be a comic or game or anime, can be literally anything so long as you enjoy it!
Well guys... guess I've been removed from the role-play. If any of you would like to keep in contact with me, feel free to PM me. Also my discord number I think is #5153 if anyone wants to try that. Have fun.
Quick Edit: I really enjoyed role-playing and chatting with you guys. I just wanted to let everyone know that. This is an amazing group.
Yes, I am afraid this is true. Lydyn was removed from this roleplay for a number of personal reasons and issues. If you feel some concern about this, feel free to PM me. I will be controlling Lydyn's character for a period of time until Rose can make her exit.
Hope you don't mind, I made a new NPC. General Scales, Inertia, Korkoa and Zapdos all helped out though.
Name: Woodrow "Kumquat" Stagelson Quote: "All the kumquat's a stage, so Stage's the world!" Alias: Stage Age: 49 Gender: All of the above
Family: Stage's mother was a curtain and father was the lighting system Stage's grandmother and grandfather were both TV satellites and decided to marry, the ceremony wasn't much, but the reception was great.
Occupation: Theater performer. Stage's been in so many big shows!
Appearance: Originally Stage was made of the finest imitation MAHOGANY, hand made and polished with only the best. Over the years however Stage slowly got dirtier and dirtier, cracking in places and dust piling on Stage's once beautiful wood. Stage is truly scarred now, years of wisdom under Stage's belt and scratches in Stage's pristine wood. Just recently Stage was completely ripped a new one, however, and the battle wound is noticeable to all who look.
Stage's costume consists of whatever props are placed on Stage that night. Method of Operation: Stationary, but everyone knows Stage. Stage knows Tank the best thanks to their intimate encounter the night Ditch's team met.
Superpower: Stage can give people deadly splinters. The power to make any theater show a hit, too! When its materials collapse on people, it's a hit they'll never forget.
Weakness: Powerful superheroes, particularly ones with super strength
Skills: Stage has a lot of practice holding a group of people up, supporting them in their efforts to stand above the rest, except when Stage collapses.
Equipment: A full lighting system backs Stage up, with integrated sound. It's a little rusty from disuse, but Stage is still raring to go! Stage also has red, dirty curtains.
Personality: In Stage's prime, Stage was sociable and friendly to Stage's users, but had built up a sense of arrogance and pride because of Stage's popularity over the years. Stage's a little bitter now due to being ignored for so long, but with the surge of new vigilantes coming to Stage's base and meeting Stage that confidence is slowly shooting right back up.
Secretly, Stage is also really kinky, so Tank's first meeting with ripping Stage apart was something Stage will remember for the rest of Stage's life.
Biography: Stage was formed of many logs, which meant many hands went into creating Stage. They all died because they were being paid two cents a day. Now Stage has a new family - a family of vigilantes! Stage's power to give people splinters will finally come to use for more than just vengeance for people wearing dirty shoes! Provided Ditch's team ever brings home any bad guys to Stage.
Theme Song: The Log Song. It reminds Stage of Stage's younger days.
Relationships: Tank: Ever since the dust and filth piled on Stage's beautiful wood, it was tank that cleaved into Stage... literally. It was then the stage was clean once more and a spark formed. There is also a family of feral cats that live with Stage, they like eating microphones.
Extra: Stage is the least normal out of everyone, but Stage is also a trend-setter, since Stage was at Ditch's base before it was cool. Kumquat We're not normal.
Hope you don't mind, I made a new NPC. General Scales, Inertia, Korkoa and Zapdos all helped out though.
Name: Woodrow "Kumquat" Stagelson Quote: "All the kumquat's a stage, so Stage's the world!" Alias: Stage Age: 49 Gender: All of the above
Family: Stage's mother was a curtain and father was the lighting system Stage's grandmother and grandfather were both TV satellites and decided to marry, the ceremony wasn't much, but the reception was great.
Occupation: Theater performer. Stage's been in so many big shows!
Appearance: Originally Stage was made of the finest imitation MAHOGANY, hand made and polished with only the best. Over the years however Stage slowly got dirtier and dirtier, cracking in places and dust piling on Stage's once beautiful wood. Stage is truly scarred now, years of wisdom under Stage's belt and scratches in Stage's pristine wood. Just recently Stage was completely ripped a new one, however, and the battle wound is noticeable to all who look.
Stage's costume consists of whatever props are placed on Stage that night. Method of Operation: Stationary, but everyone knows Stage. Stage knows Tank the best thanks to their intimate encounter the night Ditch's team met.
Superpower: Stage can give people deadly splinters. The power to make any theater show a hit, too! When its materials collapse on people, it's a hit they'll never forget.
Weakness: Powerful superheroes, particularly ones with super strength
Skills: Stage has a lot of practice holding a group of people up, supporting them in their efforts to stand above the rest, except when Stage collapses.
Equipment: A full lighting system backs Stage up, with integrated sound. It's a little rusty from disuse, but Stage is still raring to go! Stage also has red, dirty curtains.
Personality: In Stage's prime, Stage was sociable and friendly to Stage's users, but had built up a sense of arrogance and pride because of Stage's popularity over the years. Stage's a little bitter now due to being ignored for so long, but with the surge of new vigilantes coming to Stage's base and meeting Stage that confidence is slowly shooting right back up.
Secretly, Stage is also really kinky, so Tank's first meeting with ripping Stage apart was something Stage will remember for the rest of Stage's life.
Biography: Stage was formed of many logs, which meant many hands went into creating Stage. They all died because they were being paid two cents a day. Now Stage has a new family - a family of vigilantes! Stage's power to give people splinters will finally come to use for more than just vengeance for people wearing dirty shoes! Provided Ditch's team ever brings home any bad guys to Stage.
Theme Song: The Log Song. It reminds Stage of Stage's younger days.
Relationships: Tank: Ever since the dust and filth piled on Stage's beautiful wood, it was tank that cleaved into Stage... literally. It was then the stage was clean once more and a spark formed. There is also a family of feral cats that live with Stage, they like eating microphones.
Extra: Stage is the least normal out of everyone, but Stage is also a trend-setter, since Stage was at Ditch's base before it was cool. Kumquat We're not normal.
Okay folks, sit down, strap in, and enjoy the FIRST CHAPTER OF THE FIRST EVER NEVER NORMAL FANFIC
DIVERGENCE
AKA Blazion and Korkoa wrote a fanfic before CloseEnough and Artifex could har har neener neener.
You know the city. You know the people. The faces are the same, but... In unexpected places. Divergent paths, some would say. Where two choices could be made, a universe is created for each one. You know the story of one of these universes. Umbra and Ditch, a team of Vigilantes fighting for their home. But what would happen if a few of those details were just... Slightly different?
THE TWILIGHT ZONE OR SOME KUMQUATS
Jason Graves adjusted his suit as he was escorted through the prison. The young man sighed as he was led through the depressing corridors, wishing not for the first time that he didn't have to make this trip in order to see the man that had saved his life. He had been patted down at the gatehouse, and at the entrance, and at every checkpoint in between. All in order to see a man who, at the heart of it, wasn't all that bad.
He was finally led to a stop in front of a small cell, gray and cold. Jason sighed again as he looked at the awful conditions, trying to figure out of there was anything he could do to help the man he was indebted to. The guard stepped forward and unlocked the cell door, ushering Jason inside and locking it behind him. Jason stood awkwardly for a moment before clearing his throat. "Doctor Kasimir?"
The great man in front of Jason didn't even look up. He remained immobile from his position sitting on the small, grey bed, his steel grey eyes focused on the piece of ripped newspaper he held between two thick fingers and a deep frown etched onto his face.
"Kasimir," The guard barked from behind the bars, and finally he lifted his head with brows furrowed. Immediately they raised as he saw Jason, as though for the first time. It was as though a transformation took over him as Zaden Kasimir rose up, the bed creaking with the loss of the large man's weight. His mouth formed a small smile, it almost sad, the edges of his eyes crinkling with crows' feet.
"Jason! Welcome back to my humble abode, young man!" The piece of newspaper was slipped casually into part of the orange uniform before Zaden stepped forward and clapped Jason on the shoulders, almost looming with his height.
"Now what are you doing wasting another beautiful day visiting an old man? Shouldn't a young man like you have a date tonight?" The teasing in the doctor's tone was evident, almost affectionate as though Jason were his own son. Despite his appearance - black hair unkempt and no longer neatly trimmed, the starts of a beard, even the increase of wrinkles it seemed that Zaden continued to muster up the energy to give to Jason. Perhaps he owed it to him.
Jason laughed and pulled the former doctor into a hug, patting him on the back with his prosthetic left hand. "No dates for me tonight doctor, I just had some business to take care of. I had to cut a meeting off early actually, in order to get here before they closed visiting hours. Excuse me just a moment."
Jason turned to the guard standing watch outside the door and cleared his throat. "Adam, excuse me? I know it's your job to make sure I'm safe, but we both know Doctor Kasimir isn't going to hurt me. Can you give us a few moments alone please?"
The guard, Adam, grunted in response, and gave Zaden a quick glare, as if to say he'd be keeping a close eye on him before walking away to check on some other inmates. Jason Graves turned back to Doctor Kasimir, chuckling and runninf his fingers through his jet black hair. "Sorry about that sir." He said, unbuttoning his suit jacket. "I just wanted to ask, out of earshot, how are you doing? Are they treating you okay?"
"As well as someone in my position should be treated," Zaden responded, the cheerfulness in his voice ringing hollow. "It's nice to have someone visiting once in awhile however, though, with no offense to your conversational skills Mr. Graves, the absence of the one I wished was visiting as well is weighting on me..."
"Your daughter still hasn't visited?" Jason asked quietly. Zoey Kasimir, the only child of up-and-coming doctor Zaden Kasimir. Jason had known her a bit when they were children, they were only a year apart in age. He had seen more of her after the accident with his powers, when Doctor Kasimir would come by to check on his progress, but after he was healed and his baseball career began to take off, he'd seen her less and less. He remembered her being a good kid, though not somebody he thought he'd make very good friends with. After the... Unfortunate incident with her mother and Doctor Kasimir going to prison, she had never visited her father. A fact which upset the old man greatly, and Jason on his behalf.
"I'm sorry Doctor Kasimir." Jason said with a small sigh. "I assume she never responded to the letter you sent her either then. I know you don't like to ask for help Doctor, but... Do you want me to look for her? I could go back to the old neighborhood, ask around. Maybe she's still there, or keeps in touch with some of her friends."
"Would you do that for me, Jason, I would be in your debt," Zaden's smile widened just that extra touch, stretching from ear to ear. "I don't blame her for not visiting, I can only imagine what she must be thinking, but I worry about what she's been up to." A great laugh from from the large man's chest, barking and bitter.
"It's rather ironic, in fact, that I ended up here since I didn't want to lose her - and in doing so pushed her farther away than ever. Ah, but sometimes you hurt the ones you love the most..." Zaden's grin was wiped away in a moment, the former doctor straightening out to look down upon Jason with a serious look. "You have done so much for me already Jason, but I must ask one last thing... Do be patient with her. Zoey can be headstrong, and she must be hurting. You're a good man, I know you'll do your best."
"Sir, you saved my life." Jason said, lifting his prosthetic hand. "You helped me when everyone else refused. I would have died in the emergency room if you hadn't come along. I'll do anything I can to help you, and you're not in my debt." Jason lifted himself up a little straighter, looking Doctor Kasimir in the eyes. "I'll find her, and I'll let her know how you are. That you miss her. I'll make sure she's taken care of sir. Can I do anything else for you while I'm here?"
"You've done more than enough for me, Jason," Zaden stepped forward, rather gently clapping the younger man on the back despite the strength his frame held. "However, you can also pass my greetings on to your sister - you've both grown up so well."
Jason smiled and laughed at that, nodding his thanks to the larger man. "Of course sir, Emma will be glad to hear from you as well. I'm sorry to cut the visit short, but I actually have to go pick Emma up. I just thought since I was in the area, I'd come and visit quickly. I'll be back as soon as I have some information on Zoey for you." By this time Adam had returned, and Jason asked him to unlock the door, giving some final goodbyes to the former doctor before following the guard out.
"Be good, Jason! I'll see you next time - Adam, I'll see you next patrol!" Zaden laughed at what he could only presume was Adam no doubt rolling his eyes, but was soon drawing back into his cell. The bed once more creaked in protest as he sat on the thing mattress, retrieving the newspaper article that had him so enraptured. The pad of his thumb ran across the headline, brows furrowing once more with the motion.
'Research Facility Latest Target of Super-Villain Lightbringer!'
Zaden paused, thumb lingering just before the last word in the headline. Lightbringer. A deep sigh left his chest before his hands fell to rest on his legs. At his feet his shadow began to wisp before a delicate little tendril of darkness reached up to retrieve the clipping, sinking back in to disappear at his feet. Another to add to the collection.
Jason slid into the backseat of his limo, looking out at the bleak prison. He felt conflicted about the doctor locked up inside. The man had saved his life and shown him nothing but kindness. He obviously cared for his daughter and before this happened had a promising career as a doctor in front of him. And yet, he had a dark side as well, a temper when it came to protecting those he loved, strong enough that drove him to murder his own wife when she threatened to take Zoey away from him.
Jason sighed, for the umpteenth time that day. He couldn't not like the man, even with that glaring flaw. He was remorseful for what he'd done, and that combined with his other good traits led Jason to believe that he could be a good man.
The driver cleared his throat, bringing Jason back to reality. "Oh, sorry James." He said, rubbing his brow. "Uh, we need to go to the theater downtown where they're holding the Elizabeth Secret fashion show."
The limo began to move and Jason settled into his seat, picking up the days paper and flipping to the superhuman section. There, nestled in between an article on a drug which could possibly supress powers, and a headline about another research facility attacked was a blurry picture of a shillouete, and a very familiar one at that. "LOCAL VIGILANTE 'VAMPIRE' DEPOSITS HEAD OF MUGGING RING IN FRONT OF POLICE STATION" The headline proclaimed, but to Jason's amusement. He had earned the nickname with the descriptions his victims gave of his abilities, saying he 'sucked the energy right out of them'.
After that, Jason had modeled his nightlife around the persona, comissionning a custom suit made to remind people of Bram Stokers' vampire lord, with tall ears, a long cloak, and batlike wings that connected the arms of his costume to his body. Quite a far sight from his everyday attire, the pressed suits and thin ties.
The limo eventually rolled to a stop, and a few moments later the door opened, a beautiful sight stepping in. A figure in an elegant white dress, practically glowing in all the flash bulbs slipped into the limo with him, blowing a kiss to the gathered crowd before turning to him. Jason chuckled and poured a glass of champaigne, offering it to his sister. "So Emma, how did the show go?"
The model grinned at him and took the offered glass, nodding her thanks. "It was wonderful! Everything went off without a hitch, and all the outfits were fantastic! Oh, you should have seen it Jason, you never come to my shows!"
"Forgive me, but the idea of my baby sister prancing around in her underwear doesn't really appeal to me, Emma." Jason said with a smile as he poured himself his own glass. "Doctor Kasimir says hello by the way, he's sorry you couldn't come to see him."
Emma pouted at Jason and set her glass down, crossing her arms. "So you skipped out on one of the biggest shows of my career to go see some old locked up doctor?" She said, her tone making it clear she was teasing. "How is the old man?"
"He's lonely. His daughter still hasn't spoken to him. Tomorrow I think I'm going down to the old place, see if I can find any trace of her. Do you want to join me?"
"Ooh, that sounds like fun!" Emma said. "I can clear my schedule, maybe we can find some old friends!"
The two settled in as the limo drove them away, each telling each other about their day before they arrived home and went their seperate ways. It was easy to have time to yourself in the mansion Jason owned, it was large enough that it could easily house a dozen people, aside from servants; and Jason and Emma were the only ones that lived there. Soon enough the lights went down and the house fell into silence, signaling the end of the day...
"Notebooks. Cardboard. More plastic bottles. Batteries. Seriously, batteries?! That's so fucking awful, who throws away batteries anymore?! These things leak acid everywhere - assholes, I swear. More water bottles?! All these things do is go to the landfill. I swear I'm going to find whoever keeps throwing these away and fill their house with bottles. And stop laughing, Jasper!" An empty clang rang through the alley as one of the offending water bottles bounced off the brick wall of the tall buildings, just inches above a laughing blonde's head. Jasper merely shook her head, short bangs of her pixie cut falling into her gaze as she watched her friend's tirade.
"I'm not going to miss next time, jackass!" The redhead huffed, a glare tinting her sharp features. The threat of the gesture seemed to be lost on Jasper, considering that Zoey Kasimir was currently standing knee deep in an awful smelling metal green container.
"If the smell knocks me out first at least you'll have a stationary target."
"Oh har har, Miss Comedian, you didn't have to come."
"Someone has to stop you from murdering the poor people just trying to throw their garbage out." Zoey stuck her tongue out in response to Jasper, the motion barely seen beneath the green bandana wrapped over her nose and mouth. Nonetheless the redhead turned back to her task, her own gloved fingers picking through the mess, tossing the biggest pieces of recycling over the edge to an awaiting, properly colored, blue bin.
"I wouldn't murder them... Just beat some sense into them. Oh come ON! Look at this!" In one swift motion Zoey was jumping out of the bin, landing rather gracefully but thrusting the offending object into Jasper's face. "You know what these are?"
"... Soda rings."
"Soda rings! Uncut! These things are a death trap if you just toss them! Fish-"
"Get caught in them."
"Birds-"
"Get their heads in them."
"And turtles-"
"Shells get compressed. I know. You've told me."
"Now if only others would listen as well as you," Zoey huffed, tossing the offending piece of plastic over her shoulder. It landed solidly in the bin, the steaming redhead slamming the lid shut before beginning to roll the container out of the alley. Jasper pushed off the wall to follow after Zoey casually, hands in her pockets as she watched her friend work.
"Yeah, well if anyone had to listen to you drone about it every day..." The shorter woman teased, causing Zoey to roll her steel-blue eyes in return. She declined responding, instead finishing with her task of loading the recycling bins contents into the truck and returning the bin. Jasper waited patiently until Zoey returned to climb into the passenger's side of the work truck, listening to Zoey's grumbling under her breath.
"I swear, going to strangle someone with those rings..."
"Did you read the news yesterday?" That caught Zoey's attention, her eyes flickering briefly away from the road to Jasper. The fighter was looking out the window, arms crossed to clasp her bare arms, left uncovered by the tank top she wore.
"Of course I did," Zoey finally responded, returning her attention to driving. "They only saw Lightbringer, and they're still cataloguing what's missing - if you read between the lines."
"Mm. That security guard is in the hospital for fractured ribs." Zoey's grip around the steering wheel tightened, the redhead grimacing.
"He'll ... live." She finally muttered between her teeth, though there was a touch of emotion creeping into her voice. Guilt, almost.
The rest of the drive was in silence, Jasper of course getting out of the truck a block away from the recycling facility. Tag alongs weren't technically permitted, after all. It was short work after that for Zoey to finish her day off, soon backtracking on foot to meet up with Jasper - minus the work overalls in favor of some plain jeans and a threadworn white button up shirt, the sleeves rolled up to her elbows. Of course, Jasper made a point of theatrically leaning in to sniff Zoey the instant she arrived.
"Oh fuck off, you jerk," Zoey elbowed Jasper away, more play in her voice than irritation. Jasper merely laughed.
"Well, despite your lack of appreciation, you're at least lucky most of that smell clings to your uniform. Though, I suspect some is natural..."
"Asshole," The redhead flicked her ponytail in Jasper's face as she began walking, her older friend soon falling in step as they headed back home.
Meanwhile, after a day of searching through tennant records from the various apartment buildings he owned, Jason Graves found the information he was looking for. Zoey Kasimir, a tennant at the new Vale Street apartments. He breathed a sigh of relief, he'd thought he would have to go door to door looking for this girl, but she was renting a room from him! He didn't bother looking at the other name on the apartment, he had found the girl he was looking for. After giving Emma a quick call and telling her where to meet him, Jason hopped onto his motorcycle and took off, heading for the apartment building aross town.
Upon his arrival, Jason took a few minutes to examine the building. The outside was pristine, as per his request when buying it, and the inside was clean as well. He was overall pretty pleased by this, the building manager seemed to be doing a very good job. Though he'd have to ask Zoey about her rent as well, make sure that the manager wasn't skimming anything. He took the elevator up to the seventh floor and stepped off, looking down the hallway. A little dirty here, but it was a very high traffic area. He soon found the door he was looking for, and knocked on it, glad he hadn't worn his suit, but instead an oversized hoodie.
"Miss Kasimir? Are you at home?" Silence reigned for a few moments, any movement in the apartment unheard. If there was one thing about the building it's that it was well built, the walls thick enough to block voices - and people. However another heartbeat and the click of a lock being opened sounded. Then another. And one more.
"What do you want Wilson, we're paid up and I haven't been in the garbage all mo-" The redhead that answered the door paused, standing up straighter to look at the hooded man before her. Zoey's eyebrows furrowed, so much like her father, before her grimacing mouth twisted into a small, polite smile. "I'm sorry, I thought you were ... someone else. Can I help you?"
Jason smiled in a friendly way and offered his non-prosthetic hand out to her in a handshake. "Hi Zoey, you, uh... Probably don't remember me. I'm Jason Graves, we kind of grew up together... You got tall, I don't remember you being my height." Almost on reflex Zoey took Jason's hand to shake, though the puzzled expression remained fixed in place as she watched him.
"... There's no way you can be Jason. What would you be coming to see me for?"
Jason laughed and waved with his other hand, in his experience the prosthetic was enough ID for most people, as it was pretty recognizable. "What, a guy can't stop in on an old friend?" He asked, deciding to keep her father out of the conversation for as long as possible. She was likely still angry at him, and he couldn't blame her.
"Truth be told Zoey, I missed the old neighborhood. Call me crazy, but-- Well, I don't miss the PLACE, you understand, but the people who lived there. I kind of own this building, and I stumbled across your name. It was... A reminder, I guess. I wanted to stop in, see how you're doing. Ask if there was anything I could do for you."
"Not... really," Zoey tilted her head, rather like a puzzled dog as she continued to study Jason. Her eyes had briefly flickered to his prosthetic before returning his gaze once more, accompanied by a little, stiff shrug. "Not unless I can convince you to put solar panels on the roof, anyway."
"She's obsessed with solar panels, don't let her rope you into that conversation!" A voice called from further within the apartment. In a seemingly well rehearsed motion, as though she had done it thousands of times to the same voice, Zoey rolled her eyes.
Jason's gaze flickered through the partially open door for a moment, chuckling at the banter. "Your roommate, I suppose?" He asked with a grin. "See Zoey, the thing about that is, the roof of this building isn't large enough that solar panels would make much of an impact on the energy footprint of the building as a whole."
"But..." He continued as he saw a coldness settle into Zoey's face. "I have been doing some other research, and there's been a lot of work put into fully transparent panels for use in windows. I'm getting quotes now to see how much it would cost to put solar windows into every window pane the building has. That would be a lot more efficient than just covering the roof up, and let's face it, it looks nicer too. Does that help?"
Zoey's expression had changed. Something strange had settled in her eyes as he spoke, her lips pressing together to form a thin line. When she finally spoke, her voice was almost cautious.
"... You've heard of those panels too?" A moment of consideration more before her smile was a bit more genuine, a laugh in her throat. "If I didn't know better, Mr. Baseball star, I'd say you were trying to lure me in." Zoey shook her head but finally pushed away from the doorframe.
"You, uh, you want to come in? It's better than the hallway," Another uncaring shrug. "Unless you have more things to do in the building. I'm sure you're busy."
Jason stepped forward, accepting her invitation. "You know, I would like that. Even if not just to see an old friend, it'll be good to get an inside look at my apartments, making sure everything's okay here." He said with a wink. "Believe it or not, I do care about this place Zoey. I remember where I came from, who I am. I'm trying to make a better life for the people here, better than... Than what we had."
"Oh, and Emma's probably coming by in a bit too, I mentioned I was coming to see you today." Zoey seemed to react oddly to the last bit of news, having been nodding along with Jason's words to show she was listening. A streak of red quickly lit up over the bridge of her nose and she cleared her throat.
"Ah, well, you're both certainly welcome. You own the place, after all."
"Oh, but that doesn't mean I have a right to come into your home uninvited." Jason said with a grin as he entered the apartment. He stopped short as he entered the living room and saw a bright streak of blonde hair sitting on the couch. It was, of course, attached to a person, and an oddly familiar one at that. he felt his mouth go dry and his stomach tighten up as he cleared his throat, trying to regain his composure. "Um... Alice Jasper, is that you?" He asked with a genuine smile. "I didnt expect to see you here, though I really should have!"
"Well, Mr. Graves, surprise seeing you here," Jasper glanced up from where she was using her phone, the screen darkening as she turned it off before rising up. "Mostly that Zoey had the manners to invite you in."
"Oh, shut it Jasper," Zoey muttered behind them. Jasper merely let the smile play at her face as she offered her hand out to Jason, silently mindful that he wouldn't have to shake with his prosthetic.
"It's a pleasure seeing you again. I shouldn't be surprised, considering the care you give your buildings."
"Oh, I bribed Zoey with the promise of solar windows." Jason said with a sly wink, taking the offered hand and shaking it firmly. "And it was worth it, to see you again as well. Please, it's just Jason, only the reporters call me Mr. Graves these days." Jason stepped back and scanned the apartment, pleased to see that everything looked like it was in working order. "So, everything has been alright for you two? No problems, nothing that needs improvement?"
"Everything's working as intended, other than Zoey complaining that Wilson won't let her dumpster dive."
"It's called sorting, you heathen," Zoey huffed but moved passed the two towards the small connected kitchen to the very plain living room, nudging open the door. "You want a drink, Jason? We have water-"
"Not bottled though, Zoey has a thing about that."
"-orange juice," Said redhead continued in a louder voice, "Some peach schnapps, crown royale-"
"Basically if you like alcohol Zoey has it."
"Actually." Jason said, shrugging off his backpack and reaching inside. "I brought something a little special." He grinned and pulled out a ceramic bottle, setting it on the counter. "This is Viking's Blod mead, my favorite drink in the world. Only a couple stores in the city carry it, it's a mead based on a 600 year old recipe from the Viking era. I figured we could share some." Jasper whistled sharply, having followed to watch the theatrics and rile Zoey up some more. Zoey herself raised a brow and carefully picked up the ceramic bottle to study it.
"... I think this thing cost more than it did to have Jasper's arm fixed last week." Zoey finally muttered, setting it down once more as though afraid of breaking it. "We couldn't..."
"You're actually turning down alcohol?" Jasper drawled, leaning against the refrigerator. "Are you sure you're not sick?"
Jason laughed and took the bottle back, popping the cork out of it with practiced ease. "Don't feel bad about drinking it, this is actually not too bad in terms of price. About thirty bucks for this, which is a bit more than something decent, and way more than the shitty stuff yeah, but for what I consider to be top shelf mead? It's a fucking steal."
At that moment, there was another knock at the door, and a muffled voice. "Jason? Are you in there, asshole? Someone let me in!" Any further protests Zoey had quickly died, and Jasper snickered at the worried expression on her friend's face.
"That's your call, lover girl. Go answer the door," A quick shooing motion had Zoey glaring but leaving the small kitchen to go to the front door. Jasper just chuckled and leaned close to Jason, whispering to him, "Want to bet on how many shades of red Zoey can turn in a conversation?"
"Oh, that's right!" Jason whispered back. "Zoey had a crush on Emma... Well, she'll be in for a treat then. How many shades of red are there? Because I bet all of them." He said with a grin, deliberately not mentioning that he had always had a crush on Jasper.
"Darn, you took my bet," Jasper drawled lowly, with a low chuckle. "And that's without even seeing the pinups Zoey has..."
The subject of Jasper and Jason's whispered conversation seemed rather oblivious to it as she almost stalked to the front door, fingers nimbly unlocking the door with practiced ease.
"You got this, you're not some flustered kid anymore," The redhead whispered under her breath, before clearing her throat and standing straight as she opened the door to greet Emma, though the words died at the tip of her tongue.
"Hi! Zoey, it's Emma! Damn, you got tall hon, you look fantastic! Is Jason still here, I--"
SLAM.
Nope, Zoey in fact did not have this. Jasper stared incredulously from the kitchen.
"... Did she just... Well, she's definitely red."
"Uh... Hey Zoey? Can you let my sister in please?"
A shake of her head.
"You know, if you don't open that door she'll assume Jason isn't here and leave. Or think you hate her." A glare this time, since from Jasper's expression she was enjoying this way too much. Zoey took a deep, steeling breath this time and cautiously opened the door this time, trying to look everywhere but at Emma.
"Um... Hi Zoey... I think we got off on the wrong foot or something? Can, um... can I come in?" Zoey merely answered with a short nod and stepping aside, head tilted just slightly to look to the ceiling. Jasper shook her head at the sad sight, calling from the kitchen.
"Miss Graves! I have your brother in the kitchen. Care to join us for drinks?"
"Uh, sure!" Emma called, hanging her coat up at the door and walking into the apartment, her white heels clacking on the floor as her matching white dress flowed around her. She grinned when she saw Jason and Jasper, though her eyes still showed confusion. "Oh Alice, it's so nice to see you!" She said, running over and giving her a hug. "Why is Zoey acting so weird?" She whispered as soon as she though she was out of earshot.
"She's been working in the sun all day - plus, you saw how red she is, she's rather sick," Jasper whispered in return as she returned Emma's hug with one arm, strength rippling through the fighter's body as she did so. Of course, she didn't mention to Emma that it was mere lovesickness that Zoey suffered from. The redhead shuffled over, even her neck red beneath the white collar as she rubbed at her arm.
"Riiight..." Emma said, not quite believing the other blonde. Fortunately, Jason broke the awkward silence by picking up the bottle again.
"How about we get to that drink we were going to have? I'm glad we could stumble onto each other today you guys, it's... It's been really nice. I think we should make it a regular thing."
"You know, that doesn't sound half bad, rich boy," Jasper teased lightly, reaching passed him to the cupboard to retrieve some glasses. "Isn't that right Zoey?" A cleared throat and Zoey mustered up a small smile, even nodding.
"Yeah... Yeah that'd be nice to see you two again. Maybe not Jasper."
"Too bad you're stuck with me," Jasper responded cheerfully, setting four glasses down in front of Jason. "The honor is yours."
Jason poured the glasses full and raised his own high, waiting for the others to do the same. "To old friends. To new oportunities. To those people we've left behind, and those who can't be with us today." He said, keeping an eye on Zoey to see what her reaction might be.
Something shifted in the redhead's expression, something dark. Zoey's eyebrows furrowed, the eyes themselves narrowing and lips once more pressing together in a thin line. Even some of the red in her face from Emma's proximity seemed to fade. She brought her drink down once the toast was done, not even drinking from the glass as she studied Jason once more, like a puzzle. This time however her steel gaze flicked down to Jason's prosthetic hand, lingering briefly.
Jason tipped his glass back and took a drink, watching as Emma and Jasper did the same. It was pretty obvious that something had changed for Zoey. Jason set down his glass and looked over to the redhead, tapping the fingers of his prosthetic hand against the counter. "Are you okay Zoey? I didn't mean to bring up any bad memories, just... Well, I think we all have people we wish we could see again, right?"
"... Yeah, of course," Zoey finally responded, though her smile was almost pained with how insincere it was. "I'd love to be able to see my mother again, but I'm sure you can relate." She finally lifted the glass to drink from it, in one swift motion downing the entire thing before placing it none too gently against the counter.
Jason nodded as he took another sip from his glass. "I'm sorry. That must have been a pretty inconsiderate thing of me to bring up. We haven't seen each other in years, and practically the first thing I say is talking about our dead mothers. Let's just... Move on to something else, right? Happier topics?" Zaden would have to wait to see his message delivered, Zoey obviously wasn't ready to talk about that yet.
"... You're forgiven if you get those solar panels installed," Zoey finally muttered, causing Jasper to chuckle lowly at her side. The redhead shook her head but gestured back to the living room. "Why don't you two tells us what you've been up to? Aside from, you know, what we can read in the papers."
"And the magazines you're in of course, Emma," Jasper added on, none too subtly elbowing Zoey as she walked by. "Zoey just loves those."
Emma giggled and blushed a bit as she followed Zoey into the living room. "Oh, you've seen that, huh?" She said, catching Zoey's eyes. "Honestly it's more of a hobby for me at this point, what I really like to do is help local charities plan fundraisers and things. Underpriviledged kids, soup kitchens, park cleanups, things like that. Jason focuses on making better living conditions, while I try to clean up everything else."
"Yeah," Jason added, waiting by the kitchen for Jasper to head into the living room. "And as for me, since I got out of sports it's just been a lot of meetings, planning, investing, things like that. I have been starting to get into Superhuman Rights though, I think that's a topic that needs to be addressed. Have to be careful with that one though, I don;t want anyone getting suspicious that I'm 'Super' and have them take away my trophies." He said with a nervous laugh.
"I'd kind of want to see a league with just supers though," Jasper commented smoothly in return. "It's always a concern down at the pit, but we sometimes get this group of supers with masks on who ask to use it to let loose."
"Honestly, I think it could work." Jason said with a smile. "A league full of super strength, and speed, some of those other off the wall powers. Some people might try to call it segregation, but I don't think it is, it's just differently abled people doing what they do."
"I agree. It's a bit sad those guys down at the Pit have to wear masks - the owner's happy to let them though. Makes betting interesting." Jasper shrugged as she flopped onto the couch, crossing one leg over the other as she leaned back. "It's good of you to try and look out for them though - and your own efforts as well, Emma."
"Yeah, it's ... it's pretty amazing," Zoey added on, casting a small red-tinted grin to Emma. "That you guys haven't forgotten where you've come from. It was nice just getting a place like this to move into."
Jason chuckled and sat down in a neighboring armchair, mimicing Jasper's pose unconsciously. "We do remember where we came from, even if we got lucky. That's all it boils down to really, dumb luck. I won a little league game and caught the attention of a recruiter. Emma was seen in the stands at one of my games. It could have happened to anyone."
Emma interjected, sitting daintily on the couch next to Zoey and smiling warmly at her. "Not that's we're ungrateful it happened to us. It's given us the chance to give back to this place. When we had nothing everyone around here banded together to help. It's the least we can do." Zoey, of course, turned another shade of red but cleared her throat.
"You two are pretty amazing. When I take over the world I promise not to enslave you," The redhead added on, a grin playing at her face.
"With solar panels?" Jasper drawled in return.
"Recycling is important and I will not have you talk about it that way!"
"You talk enough about it for the both of us."
Jason chuckled as he settled in, nodding to the gathered group. "I appreciate the sentiment Zoey, and I promise if there's anything we can do to help either of you two out with anything, just ask."
The conversation went on for several more hours, going to topics such as old friends, interesting stories, and funny anecdotes. Eventually though, the day had to come to an end, and the Graves siblings left the small apartment behind, feeling quite happy with the day they'd shared.
:
