[ she could. especially considering vax is also currently staring at the ceiling in his room, which is up directly against the wall where vex's is. the only difference is he's scrolling through the network, reading conversations, digitally listening in.
the sound of her voice doesn't surprise him. if anything, he'd been expecting it for a bit. ]
About? [ he's still scrolling, still checking on things, his legs leaning up against the wall. ]
[ As if they'd ever choose any other rooms, tiny as these are. They're free and that's the main thing, but they're not really theirs yet, and after a minute, she sighs and sits up, the thin mattress creaking. ]
It's not an entirely terrible idea. [doesn't sound convinced however]
[ he'd seen vex on that post. he knew she wouldn't be able to say no to the cash for that long. when he hears the bed creak through the wall, vax finds himself exhaling once, turning the device off and tossing it onto the bedside table. ]
No, not entirely. But it did sound a little boring. [ he reaches back and crosses his hands behind his head, eyes still up on the ceiling. ] Why, are you thinking about it?
[ Spoken not from a room over but from his doorway, dark braid slipping over her shoulder as she leans in and around the door frame.
Vex craves stability. And one of the most secure ways of attaining that is through money, and she'll make sure everyone can be taken care of by whatever means necessary. But.. ]
[boring: that gets the slightest roll of her eyes] I'm thinking the basic idea sounds promising. But there's too many loose ends for my liking.
[ he looks up from the bed towards the door to see her standing there. and after a moment of watching her, vax sighs and moves, tossing his legs over the edge of his bed and sitting the right way up, leaving room on the bed next to him if she so decides to come sit with him.
why vex would want to join something like this doesn't surprise him. if anything, he would have expected her to be the first to volunteer. work like that pays better than most of the other stuff they could find themselves doing. ]
Like what? [ and half the reason for the question is just because he knows vex wants to talk about it, and half his own curiosity. he'd been ready to jump in and go for it, but he'd default to vex's opinion on it no matter what. ] Like how she used to lead armies and now wants to organize a handyman gu-group?
[ The more things change, the more they stay the same. Vax moves and Vex follows, his feet touching the floor in time for her to sink onto the bed beside him, body immediately leaning in to his so that their shoulders, their arms, their elbows are touching.
Her eyes don't meet his, fixing instead at a point between her boots, a particular spot of dirt on the floor. ]
I admire the enthusiasm. She certainly seems confident of her own skills. But.. [a huff] I'd rather not run into another Slayer's Take situation.
I think guilds could even be good for business, the city's and ours, but I suppose it depends on what sort of work we want, here. Since we're stuck here, and all.
[ vax moves, and vex settles next to him, and it's right. he feels whole. each spot that their bodies touch, with vex leaning up against him and vax leaning his cheek on the top of her head, he's safe. they're both safe. magical items or no. ]
Hmm. [ it's a thoughtful noise, considering what she's saying and what he found out on his own. ] I don't know if this could be another Slayer's Take. Have you heard of any hydra around here?
[ vax hopes not. gods he hopes not. with just flame-tongue he's in no state to be taking anything down. and he doesn't remember seeing his sister very well equipped either, considering what they're used to. ]
We could always go back to our roots. [ but even vax can't quite keep the amusement out of his voice. ] Picking pockets and hunting. It'll be like old times?
[ She sighs, relaxing with him. It's nice to have this little niche of normalcy in the midst of chaos. ]
I've heard about giant spiders and giant boars, but nothing in the realm of a hydra just yet. But we're also in a big city, and know very little about the country hereabouts.. There could be bigger game.
[And Vex has always loved the wilderness. Exploring beyond the city limits certainly has its appeal -- but she needs to replace her weapon first.]
No stealing, thank you. [she can't resist shoving him, an exaggerated roll of her eyes to follow] It's bad enough we're starting over from scratch here.
Sounds like more of your expertise than mine. Not much for me to do with Flametongue.
[ but still, vex is comfortable and relaxing, and that is all vax really needs. which is why he lets her talk about big boars and giant spiders, and he just agrees noncommittally.
the shove makes his laugh, before he ends up reaching for her shoulder and turning her around, his fingers immediately in her hair and that mess of her braid. he tuts a few words - okay okay yeah turn around come on - before he really starts working at it. ]
Worse than scratch, really, but I'm not complaining. Not with everyone here. [ he brushes through her hair, pulling away at a tangle. ] But I might try working for that guild. It might be boring, but if I can get a better layout of the city that way... [ he's not complaining. ]
Poor you. [genuine; no syrup. a sigh] Not quite the same is it? Though I'm sure flametongue is more effective than me flinging my arrows at my quarry.
[ She huffs at his laughter, rolling her eyes again as he begins fussing, but it's all show and they both know it. She gives in without a peep of complaint as he takes command of her hair, and she shifts on the bed, pulling one leg up to bend at the knee, while the other remains with toes connected to the floor. ]
It is potential work, and we need the coin. We can't stay here forever. [We, as in Vox Machina, in addition to the Twins. She can't not take them into account any more] And if we don't like it, we can just go our own way, like our group always has. Assuming Pike, and Keyleth, and Percy don't find something else to do.
Maybe, but without my boots, or armor, or cloak, getting up close enough for it to be helpful is not on my list of things to do.
[ she can huff all she wants! vax still feels a little unsettled with everything so he's keeping himself together with old habits. besides- her hair is a mess just let him do it. ]
We do need coin. [ there is a much less concerned tone to his words than there probably should be. vex had always been the one to handle the cash, and he knew that no matter what happened she'd figure it out. and if he had to pick a few pockets to do it? well. he already offered, didn't he? for them, or for all of vox machina. even if thinking about percy dealing with being broke was fairly humorous. ]
We might want to see what they plan on doing about that- jobs and all. I'm fine working for the coin but unless there are some major jobs at play, we'll all need to work together. [ he pauses, tugging at a particularly bad knot in her hair with a hum. ] Where do you want to go? [ she'd said 'we can't stay here', and he of course assumes she means the house. it's small, a bit cramped really, and nothing like any of the places they've all gotten used to sleeping in.
and, knowing vex, she had a plan. a next neighborhood, a next house, a next step up the social ladder. ]
You can have your cloak back. [ Siiiiiigh. But really, he needs it more than she does right now, in terms of protection. She at least was able to keep the coldsnap armor, if only because it wasn't highly enchanted, she suspects. ]
[ Percy is always broke because Percy gives all his money to Vex; that's how they had a starting amount of 400 silver even before selling a few of the items Keyleth unearthed from underwater wreckage. So it is to Vex that the stress falls in keeping up with the needs of their large group. Her eyes close, the familiar and comforting tugs and weaves of her brother's fingers as he goes through her hair lulling her a little. But when Vax asks her about where to go...
Her shoulders hunch and her head sinks; definitely not in response to the knot he's untangling. ]
I feel so ungrateful. Once this [this room, this house, this chance in a new city] would have been more than enough, wouldn't it. I can think of so many ways this could be worse, and I still want to complain. [heh]
I'm just.. [in a smaller, quieter voice] I'm so tired of losing homes, Vax.
It was a gift. [ aka, he's not taking it back. vax would run around the city naked and weaponless if it meant keeping his sister safe. and while he's sure not everyone would prefer that, vax would. thankfully, he does have clothes, and those clothes aren't going to help protect vex any more than what she already has, so no nakedness will be necessary. ] And besides- I'm offended you think I need it.
[ he's leagues beyond their early days. experienced and talented in more ways that a younger version of him would ever think could happen. and considering how he's about to have some honest work? and an income? and a way to help add to the pot? it's just part of the process, after all. he gets money, he gives said money to vex. in a way, it does add the responsibility on to her and off of him, but he knows she can handle it.
and then vex's shoulders slump, and vax frowns a bit at it. he doesn't like seeing her upset. he never has, and he doesn't believe he ever will. he keeps working his fingers through her hair, unfurling the previous braid before he starts in on a new one. ]
We've gotten used to a lot over the last few years. [ there's some humor to his tone, but not too much. ] And we've lost a lot too. I don't think it's ungrateful to want a little consistency. [ he thinks about the keep, about whitestone, about the destruction of emon. he's always been more ready to move that vex had, and he can't blame her for wanting to settle.
he sighs. ]
To be honest, this place is a little cramped. I'm ready to move somewhere we can all actually stay together. [ namely: so keyleth doesn't feel like she has to stay in another house because of how cramped theirs already is. ] And I don't think that's too much to ask. [ but then her voice lowers, and he sees the weight on her shoulders, and vax's heart hurts. he wants her to have her home back in whitestone back. he wants her to have everything she's ever wanted. and he knows, on his own, he can't give that to her. not all of it. but that doesn't stop him wanting to. ]
Hey. [ there's an attempt at peppiness here, trying to seem optimistic, trying to make it lighter. he leans his head around her shoulder so that he can catch her eyes, and then he smiles. ] We'll figure it out. We always do. And then- [ he sits back to resume his work on her braid. ] We'll find a better home, bigger and fancier and comfier.
You'd just be borrowing it. [she can fuss at you as much as you do her, Vax'ildan, and she may lack weapons but you are in your underarmor wear. Just take the frickin' cape that makes you even more stealthy!!] And I don't doubt you'll find trouble the second you get out of range of one of our group.
[ She can handle the money, certainly. And she always feels better when there's a plan, when there is a set course and point A to B to C. She can be strong, for him, for everyone else, just as Pike does. But that need for consistency genuinely wears on her. She does at least manage a weak smile when he peers over her shoulder, confirms that at least she's not the only one, and she moves her head to the side slightly so she can bump it against his.
Then its back into her hair he goes, and she rolls her shoulders, tries to relax again. ]
Rooms for all of us, [including the sleepers] and with far better decor than Scanlan's mansion. And then a cook, because I really can't imagine any of us doing that well.
At least we have enough water melon to last us a week or two. [thanks for the three large ones currently occupying ALL the space in the fridge; Vex was not about to turn down an offer for free food!
And now, for a random change in subject:] You know, there's a weapons shop in town.
But if you're going hunting you'll need it too. I can manage. [ trouble finds him thank you. and he deals with it swiftly and expertly. and his underarmor wear looks casual. there's no real need to walk around in full armor when the worst thing this place has apparently seen is some underwater creatures and too much fruit.
but even so, vax doesn't think he'll really able to relax until he gets it back. his armor, especially, but all the rest too. he didn't realize how much of his wardrobe had become a part of him, until he was without it. he's not too worried about it, thankfully. with enough work and enough money he could manage something. maybe there would be more quests and the like through the mercenary group, but he'd have to check in on that to be sure.
still, he wants to make sure vex is okay before anything else. he knows how much she internalizes and he tries to carry his fair share of whatever weight. she was worried and she was out of her element for now, but once she had enough time, he knew she'd be back on her feet in no time. ]
And gods, no more chicken. If I never have chicken for another meal again it'll be too soon. [ but, still, vax's chest hurts. thinking about scanlan and the way he'd left, just walked out. he's not quite over it, but he wonders if he ever will. not when you leave like that. ] And tall enough to fit Grog, which will be hard enough as it is.
[ at least they have a little time to prepare for the big guy before he joins them.
and then there's the subject change. which wasn't at all obvious. vax still has most of his attention back on the braid, which is why - to the comment itself - he makes a vaguely interested noise. ] Did you see something you liked?
I have layers and leathers, you don't. [She turns then, well aware she's disrupting the start of the second braid, in order to fix Vax with a Look. It's not on par with Pike's Momster glare, but she does at least want him to take this seriously.] Will you at least borrow it until we have the silver to replace a few things?
[ She'll let herself be maneuvered back to facing the wall and window soon enough, shifting her weight and seating on the bed to stay comfortable. The mention of chicken gets a laugh. ]
So long as we're not going all vegetables all the time in retaliation. I think there's only so much salad I want to look at in a given meal, never mind Grog when he wakes up/ [Some greens are good for you, that much is true, but they can go for something a little more balanced, right?]
[ Fingers thread together and she rests her joined hands on one knee as she hums thoughtfully. ] These apartments won't work for him, but the people here come in all shapes and sizes. We may have less trouble working with that than we did back in Emon, or Westrunn, or Whitestone.
No. But it could have some knives for you to make use of. And it's not like you're unfamiliar with good quality weapons - there could be job openings. [not that she expects him to take a Normal Job, hell none of them are cut from that cloth] I hear they have a forge too. I'll have to remember to mention that to Percy, if he's not aware already.
[ oh, he sees the look. but the difference here is that she's not pike. no matter how great her Look might be, she is also his sister. his baby sister, who is impressive and wonderful and talented and intelligent, but also his sister. so she gives him the Look and vax simply lifts his brows in response, looking back at her innocently. what?
and then he shrugs. ] It might be more suspicious if I do end up wearing them. [ now he's just being difficult, and he knows it, so with a sigh he does relent. ] I'll think about it. If I get on a job that I need it, I'll wear it. Deal?
[ and then he snorts, going back to her braids. this is an easy enough conversation to have, so vax won't complain for a little time to relax and feel like things are normal again. ] Gods no. But I wouldn't complain about some beef stew every now and then. Some fish. Honestly, just a bit of variety? I don't think I could go back to only-chicken. [ though, still, there's an ache in his chest. a kind of knot in his stomach. scanlan was still a sore subject, and vax wonders if he ever wouldn't be. wonders what will happen when scanlan wakes up.
that's something they can deal with when it happens, though. ]
We'll just need to do some searching. House hunting, even. [ he snorts at his own joke, closing the braid he'd been working on and reweaving her feathers back behind her ears.
the next bit, though, has his brow arched curiously at her, his hands falling now that he's finished with fixing up her hair. ] You want me to become a knife salesman? [ he snorts again, shaking his head as he shifts on the bed again so that he's sitting next to her, relaxing.
then there's percy, and vax looks over at vex curiously. it hasn't gone unnoticed, by the way. how differently they're acting around each other. ] How are things going with him, by the way?
[It's a good attempt but no, she's not Pike, much as she loves her. The Look does not waver, even knowing it's really not working, and there's a huff as he deflects, a mock-sulky pout forming until he offers his 'deal'.
She knows full well it's just lipservice. He says this but Vax won't actually wear it. But it's the closest Vex will get, so: ]
Fine. You'd better. [a pause] Or I'll tell, Pike.
[ Don't push her, Brother, she will do it!
Discussing a new home --and that's what they need to make it, a home, it's going to be theirs, she never got to build hers and-- is a good distraction from any distressing topics and trains of thought. She has to chuckle and nod, just slightly, so she doesn't disrupt his work on her braid, and sighs a bit. ]
We'll have to make time, once we have the silver, to try a few meals at the market, see what's good and local. Only a little, though, and then find someone who can make it for us, or something. [because while they can do some basic cooking in the field, none of them are Laina; she swallows then - did the Natha save their staff from the Storm, too?] Think we can find somewhere with some kind of garden for Keyleth? I mean, whatever we get, we'll make do, but I think we should make that a priority.
[ She can't get over the fact Keyleth was awake first, that she'd been awake three whole months. For Vex, it barely seems any time at all since she closed her eyes on the Deera's deck, brother and bear at her side and stars overhead. Then her brother is shifting to alongside her once more, and she pulls the braid over her shoulder, lightly running fingers over the plaited weave. ]
No! Well, not unless you wanted to be. [she chuckles then] I was thinking more that you could offer to show how well specific knives work to potential customers. [dagger dagger dagger, and all that.] Just something to keep in mind, yeah?
[ Pretending you're not pining on some level for a more-than-dear friend is perfectly normal, right? Right! So Vax's question gets a blink, and her nose wrinkles slightly and her brows furrow as she turns her head to look at him. That's a funny question, Brother. There's nothing at all different in how Vex and Percy are treating each other.
[ there is a certain something else that pike has that none of them can really muster. and that's okay. they have their different things. and honestly, vex's Look isn't too bad in the first place! she's just. trying to use it against the one person who probably has complete immunity to it.
but she agrees, and vax doesn't even try to hold the tiny little smirk in response. ] I will. I swear.
[ and then it's on to other things. easier things, or at least he assumes so. things like homes, and food, and silver. he does catch the moment's hesitation, can assume where vex's thoughts have wandered, but they both push through. ]
I'm sure Keyleth could make a garden anywhere, once we settle in a spot and let her know she can have that area. But she'd enjoy that. Her room is a mess of potted plants right now. [ there is so much that weighs on him in that moment. from keyleth's months alone, the lingering way she'd look at them, her separate house. he doesn't like it, but he also knows that there's very little he can do about it.
at least right now. that won't stop him from worrying. and then he's moving, and vex is checking her braid, and he pulls himself out of that line of thinking. later, when he has time to go talk to keyleth. then he'll figure out how to handle it. ]
Like a teacher? [ the incredulous look he gives her is more hypocritical than anything else. it's not so far fetched an idea, he knows, but giving demos and selling items? really? still, he knows her intentions are good, so he does make the effort to at least look like he's thinking about it. especially for the sake of coin. he probably won't, but for vex's sake he will look curious. ]
I'll keep it in mind. [ another shrug-off, but what can you do. it's vax.
then, suddenly, is that feeling again. like something is off. only it's heightened tenfold because it's vex, and nothing should ever be off with his sister. so he watches her, totally unfazed by the reaction she's giving him, both brows raised. is she still trying....they've already had this talk. what is the point of pretending otherwise. ]
Just...well? [ an expectant pause, before vax sighs. ] Sister, last I came to visit you both you- [ and then the thought hits him, sudden and overwhelming, like walking into an invisible wall or not seeing grog come in for a body-slam. he blinks, then his brows furrow. ] There's nothing...you want to talk about?
He swears, and she's almost tempted to turn around just to see if she can catch him crossing his fingers while doing so. But she doesn't, and Vex just huffs again, pulling her other leg up so she's cross legged on the thin blanket. There's just enough room for her to do that, and for Vax to sit comfortably without being nudged off his bed. ]
[a chuckle follows - she can just about picture one of these spaces half full of greenery spilling off window sills and shelves.] Somehow that doesn't surprise me. Well, if we can't get a garden, then she at least needs a room to grow things in. And a prayer room for Pike! ..And you, I guess? [she bites her lip; she hasn't really thought to ask about her friends' godly patrons - perhaps now is as good a time as any?] Any word from Her, out of interest?
Well, more like demonstrator, I guess. But I suppose teaching could work, too? [he's far more patient than she is, after all. Well, on some matters moreso than others. Setting aside that business with that Kynan kid, Vax could do a pretty good job, in her eyes. There's a shrug.] Would being a teacher really be so weird? Assuming there's no one like Asum here who could make use of your talents if our joint "being Vox Machina" doesn't pay the bills. But we can worry about that after we see some of the jobs Highwind digs up.
[She's just trying to do her best to keep as many options open as possible. Hence why she started talking to him about mercenary work in Olympia to begin with.]
[ If anyone would recognise that Vex'ahlia was lying, even with her exceptional gift of the gab, her brother Vax'ildan is it. And there isn't a trace of it in her speech, not in the puzzled looking and headtilt, expression edging into a rather familiar discomfort. ]
I'm not sure what you're asking. [or rather, she has a theory, but first:] And, what do you mean, 'came to visit'? [the bafflement is there, frown forming as an icy finger of discomfort runs its way down her back.] Where did you go that the rest of us haven't been lately?
..This isn't another one of your "keep your eyes open" talks is it, because now is really not the time or place, Brother.
[ she can remember it all she wants. vax isn't going to be doing any of this differently. vex resettles and so does vax, comfortable in the shared space between them, feeling at ease with the familiarity of it all. even with the topic of conversation somewhere else, vax feels at ease, and he's not really sure he wants to change that. ]
She's also got a pet. [ he's quiet for a second, thinking about the room, about their conversation. ] A little bird. [ and....now he waits for the quippy comment from his sister. because he knows it's coming.
he snorts at vex's complicated tone regarding the raven queen, shrugging even if she can't see it from behind her hair. ] Worry about Pike first. She'd like a prayer room, and I can figure something else out in the mean time. [ he knows he should be putting more attention to it. knows that his time in zephrah had been spent slowly getting better. every whitestone trip had been with the understanding that some of that time would be praying. would be giving service. percy had built that temple for them both, hadn't he? vax falls, a bit distractedly, into that line of thought so much that it takes a moment before he realizes his sister has asked him a question.
he worries at his lower lip. ] No. [ a pause, and then a sigh. ] Not that I got many words from her back home, either, but it's...different. I still have some of the use of my magic here but no...connection? I guess? To her. [ he doesn't feel like he's constantly being watched, which is the biggest thing, but he also doesn't want to talk to his sister about his battle with the crushing weight of paying back that debt. she doesn't need to worry about it. he doesn't want her to worry about it.
he makes a noncommittal noise at the idea. ] Maybe. It'll depend on how well the jobs pay. I'll think about it. [ and he actually will. because while he'll never think of himself as the teaching type, if it'll help get kids off the street? why not?
but then the conversation shifts. they're sitting side by side again, and vax is watching her, and vex isn't lying. isn't playing a game. isn't playing coy. as she asks her questions, his brow continues to furrow even further, his frown a bit thinner.
then he remembers his conversation with keyleth, and vax's stomach lurches. ] Sister. [ with the kind of tone that makes it obvious how serious he's being, no matter what is about to come out of his mouth. ] What's the last thing you remember doing before the Storm? And you were brought here?
[ In this maelstrom of crazy, sibling time makes everything better, and Vex is profoundly grateful that her brother's here with her. Not that she doesn't dearly love their friends, and certainly doesn't envy what Keyleth went through, but it wouldn't be the same without Vax being here. ]
A pet. [echo echo. she can't quite hide the grin that starts forming] A bird? It's not a raven, is it?
I can worry about you both, even if I would prefer to ensure I don't have reason to. [she rubs a finger along the pleats of her braid, tipping her head slightly to one side.] May be worth checking if the temple district allows worship for gods other than the Moon-- You know, Zahra would think that's hilarious, and right up her alley-- because who knows if someone who follows Sarenrae or the Raven Queen were here before us.
[ or, you know. don't encourage worship of other gods, and they'll need to keep it on the downlow. That could also be a legit cause for concern here.
As it is, she turns a little, watching his face as he chews on his lip, and there's a light bump of her shoulder to his. Vex doesn't consider her life as something held in the balance, but she knows her brother. She's well aware of why he's in the Raven Queen's service to begin with, but You've still got me, she thinks, so that means something. Or should. She doesn't say anything more on that, however.
Instead, she's watching him watching her, trying to figure out what he's digging for, trying to fathom what it is he wants to know. This isn't his own brand of heart-on-sleeve sharing, either, not with how his lips twist and his expression grows so stern and serious. She doesn't like it. Doesn't like that herald of bad news that easily rival's the gun of the same name.]
What is..? [She shifts on the bed, brown eyes locked with brown, trying to get a bead on why he's asking this] We were on the Deera, night time. You were with me, and Trinket, up on the deck, looking at the stars. [is he serious? ..he really honestly is asking that question. She can feel her back stiffening] Heading south from Ank Harel, across the Ozmit, had maybe less than half a day until we reached Glintshore.
[ if he was going to be honest - he probably wouldn't be here if it weren't for her. not here here so much as he means able to sit still, in a room, in a bed, relatively relaxed in spite of it all. if vex wasn't here, vax wouldn't be able to sit still, spending every waking moment he had up near the mods searching her out. waiting.
now, though, he can have a semblance of a time outside of that. one where he has a cramped room in the same house on some kind of new land that he's, apparently, supposed to live. but that's another thing to think about for another time, because right now? vex is giving him that look and vax is rolling his eyes. ] No. It's a little blue thing. Very chipper. [ he's not jealous he's not jealous he's not jealous-
but then there are gods and the religious district and vax just shakes his head. he's gotten better at it, yes. he's accepted his role for it. but talks about temples and talking to other worshipers and possibly dealing...vax shakes his head. ] I don't know if the Orbiters really want us messing with that, you know? I'll probably try and do some research, but I might...hold off on asking if I can set something up for the Raven Queen in the district just yet. [ is vax avoiding all of that? just a little bit. but also there's a whole lot more he feels like they should focus on instead.
like, for instance, this whole issue with memories. and time. and things being off. he still hasn't quite wrapped his head around it from his conversation with keyleth, but it hadn't even occurred to him that vex would be off too. except that it starts to settle in, and when he asks the question and she watches him in return, his stomach drops out from under him. ]
Deera? Heading to...Glintshore? [ he asks, as if trying to remember himself. which, all things considered, is a bit harder to place. the amount that had happened over the last year for him is hard to keep straight on its own, nevermind trying to remember specific moments. days. things that happened. he does know the deera. he remembers the crew. captain damon. the last time he saw them, it'd been-
vax freezes his eyes going wide at the sudden realization he has. not about thordak, not about the conclave, but about a time before. when they'd been searching out the vestiges, their chase around the land. he remembers the cloak, whisper, their journey to get there. it had felt so long ago that it didn't really seem important to bring up before now, but with the way vex and percy had been acting, how frustrating it had been to watch, it suddenly...makes more sense. ]
I...remember. We were chasing after Ripley.
[ if vex is watching close enough, she probably sees a very unfamiliar look cross over vax's face. a look that he had never really experienced before. a two part thought of she doesn't know and do i tell her happening all at once. ]
[All their small talk, everything from little blue birds to religion, falls to the wayside as a new and unexpected topic raises its head, and something in Vex clenches hard. They had been parted so briefly aboard the space station, tossed into this strange new life, and yet here he is and here Vex is, and Vax is staring at her with an expression she doesn't understand.
Something in that look scares her. Just a little, just enough, that one hand sinks into the fabric next to her, vice grip turning knuckles white. The other tightens around her braid. ]
Right. Glintshore. We were going after Ripley to take the vestiges she stole back. And then beat the ever living shit out of her for Percy. [to put it mildly.
(She has no idea.)
Vex had never heard Percy admit to fear before. not for anyone, not even when facing down the Briarwoods. Not as he had in the tavern, hunched over his ale and barely meeting anyone's eye, self-loathing for such fear evident. Vex wanted that woman dead, for his sake, because that woman had done such harm, and would do so again if left unchecked.
And now here again is a Look, a different look that she doesn't understand, dredging up an entirely different sense of dread. Vex doesn't know what it is her brother sees, what he's thinking, and she doesn't like it. Not at all. ]
..What's wrong? Vax? [she swallows, tongue suddenly leaden] What do you remember?
[ it's the confirmation that does it. a sudden moment in his eyes, on his face- confirmation that his fears were founded, that vex doesn't remember it, any of it. it feels a lot like the floor is falling out from under him, even when he's sitting. this space growing wider between them.
briefly, he wonders if this is how keyleth has felt since they arrived. if this is what she's been carrying. vax feels like he understands that look she has been giving him a little better now, not that it does anything to the dark curl of guilt there. ]
Right. [ he repeats her word without really thinking about it, his eyes moving from her to his lap to the room around them. for whatever reason, knowing that vex doesn't know - know what? the list is endless. where does he even start? the vestiges, thordak, raishan, percy. does he tell her? could he? what was important, and what wasn't worth the time? - makes vax unsure of himself. a pillar of his life he'd always had, now...what?
it's not panic that constricts his throat, but certainly something close to it. but before letting it overwhelm him, he takes a breath, his eyes still to the floor as he starts. ] Keyleth told me about this- this thing. [ which, really, is a fair place to start. ] I don't understand it. I don't know what it means. But they do something to some of our memories. We can all be together, but when we wake up here not all of us remember everything. You- [ this time when vax looks at her, it's with a tired, scared kind of look, brows slanted and eyes wide. she's seen that one, they both know she has. lost and helpless and young. he searches her face for some kind of tell, some idea of how she's reacting to all of this. vax doesn't want to hurt her, would never do anything to hurt her, but he also doesn't want to lie to her. ]
The last thing I remember is over a year later from when we went to Glintshore, Vex'ahlia. And for Keyleth, it's been even longer.
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
whaaaatttt they're not in the same bedroom?????
Date: 2017-09-25 05:08 pm (UTC)the sound of her voice doesn't surprise him. if anything, he'd been expecting it for a bit. ]
About? [ he's still scrolling, still checking on things, his legs leaning up against the wall. ]
only for five minutes THEY HAVE TO AT LEAST PRETEND THEY'RE NOT ATTACHED AT THE HIP 90% OF THE TIME
Date: 2017-09-25 05:53 pm (UTC)[ As if they'd ever choose any other rooms, tiny as these are. They're free and that's the main thing, but they're not really theirs yet, and after a minute, she sighs and sits up, the thin mattress creaking. ]
It's not an entirely terrible idea. [doesn't sound convinced however]
THERES NO POINT LYING TO EVERYONE IS THERE???
Date: 2017-09-25 06:13 pm (UTC)[ he'd seen vex on that post. he knew she wouldn't be able to say no to the cash for that long. when he hears the bed creak through the wall, vax finds himself exhaling once, turning the device off and tossing it onto the bedside table. ]
No, not entirely. But it did sound a little boring. [ he reaches back and crosses his hands behind his head, eyes still up on the ceiling. ] Why, are you thinking about it?
WE LIE TO OURSELVES ALL THE TIME WHY STOP NOW
Date: 2017-09-25 08:11 pm (UTC)[ Spoken not from a room over but from his doorway, dark braid slipping over her shoulder as she leans in and around the door frame.
Vex craves stability. And one of the most secure ways of attaining that is through money, and she'll make sure everyone can be taken care of by whatever means necessary. But.. ]
[boring: that gets the slightest roll of her eyes] I'm thinking the basic idea sounds promising. But there's too many loose ends for my liking.
DONT BRING THAT INTO THIS COME ON NOW
Date: 2017-09-25 09:23 pm (UTC)[ he looks up from the bed towards the door to see her standing there. and after a moment of watching her, vax sighs and moves, tossing his legs over the edge of his bed and sitting the right way up, leaving room on the bed next to him if she so decides to come sit with him.
why vex would want to join something like this doesn't surprise him. if anything, he would have expected her to be the first to volunteer. work like that pays better than most of the other stuff they could find themselves doing. ]
Like what? [ and half the reason for the question is just because he knows vex wants to talk about it, and half his own curiosity. he'd been ready to jump in and go for it, but he'd default to vex's opinion on it no matter what. ] Like how she used to lead armies and now wants to organize a handyman gu-group?
HEY I SAID WE, WE'RE IN THIS TOGETHER
Date: 2017-09-25 10:24 pm (UTC)[ The more things change, the more they stay the same. Vax moves and Vex follows, his feet touching the floor in time for her to sink onto the bed beside him, body immediately leaning in to his so that their shoulders, their arms, their elbows are touching.
Her eyes don't meet his, fixing instead at a point between her boots, a particular spot of dirt on the floor. ]
I admire the enthusiasm. She certainly seems confident of her own skills. But.. [a huff] I'd rather not run into another Slayer's Take situation.
I think guilds could even be good for business, the city's and ours, but I suppose it depends on what sort of work we want, here. Since we're stuck here, and all.
YEAH BUT THATS THE NORM
Date: 2017-09-25 10:46 pm (UTC)Hmm. [ it's a thoughtful noise, considering what she's saying and what he found out on his own. ] I don't know if this could be another Slayer's Take. Have you heard of any hydra around here?
[ vax hopes not. gods he hopes not. with just flame-tongue he's in no state to be taking anything down. and he doesn't remember seeing his sister very well equipped either, considering what they're used to. ]
We could always go back to our roots. [ but even vax can't quite keep the amusement out of his voice. ] Picking pockets and hunting. It'll be like old times?
CHANGE IS BAAAAD
Date: 2017-09-26 01:09 am (UTC)I've heard about giant spiders and giant boars, but nothing in the realm of a hydra just yet. But we're also in a big city, and know very little about the country hereabouts.. There could be bigger game.
[And Vex has always loved the wilderness. Exploring beyond the city limits certainly has its appeal -- but she needs to replace her weapon first.]
No stealing, thank you. [she can't resist shoving him, an exaggerated roll of her eyes to follow] It's bad enough we're starting over from scratch here.
CHANGE CAN BE GOOD but only if it's always together
Date: 2017-09-26 03:44 am (UTC)[ but still, vex is comfortable and relaxing, and that is all vax really needs. which is why he lets her talk about big boars and giant spiders, and he just agrees noncommittally.
the shove makes his laugh, before he ends up reaching for her shoulder and turning her around, his fingers immediately in her hair and that mess of her braid. he tuts a few words - okay okay yeah turn around come on - before he really starts working at it. ]
Worse than scratch, really, but I'm not complaining. Not with everyone here. [ he brushes through her hair, pulling away at a tangle. ] But I might try working for that guild. It might be boring, but if I can get a better layout of the city that way... [ he's not complaining. ]
OKAY FINE thats acceptable i guess
Date: 2017-09-27 01:38 am (UTC)[ She huffs at his laughter, rolling her eyes again as he begins fussing, but it's all show and they both know it. She gives in without a peep of complaint as he takes command of her hair, and she shifts on the bed, pulling one leg up to bend at the knee, while the other remains with toes connected to the floor. ]
It is potential work, and we need the coin. We can't stay here forever. [We, as in Vox Machina, in addition to the Twins. She can't not take them into account any more] And if we don't like it, we can just go our own way, like our group always has. Assuming Pike, and Keyleth, and Percy don't find something else to do.
i'm glad we could agree to this
Date: 2017-09-27 02:51 pm (UTC)[ she can huff all she wants! vax still feels a little unsettled with everything so he's keeping himself together with old habits. besides- her hair is a mess just let him do it. ]
We do need coin. [ there is a much less concerned tone to his words than there probably should be. vex had always been the one to handle the cash, and he knew that no matter what happened she'd figure it out. and if he had to pick a few pockets to do it? well. he already offered, didn't he? for them, or for all of vox machina. even if thinking about percy dealing with being broke was fairly humorous. ]
We might want to see what they plan on doing about that- jobs and all. I'm fine working for the coin but unless there are some major jobs at play, we'll all need to work together. [ he pauses, tugging at a particularly bad knot in her hair with a hum. ] Where do you want to go? [ she'd said 'we can't stay here', and he of course assumes she means the house. it's small, a bit cramped really, and nothing like any of the places they've all gotten used to sleeping in.
and, knowing vex, she had a plan. a next neighborhood, a next house, a next step up the social ladder. ]
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-28 03:59 pm (UTC)[ Percy is always broke because Percy gives all his money to Vex; that's how they had a starting amount of 400 silver even before selling a few of the items Keyleth unearthed from underwater wreckage. So it is to Vex that the stress falls in keeping up with the needs of their large group. Her eyes close, the familiar and comforting tugs and weaves of her brother's fingers as he goes through her hair lulling her a little. But when Vax asks her about where to go...
Her shoulders hunch and her head sinks; definitely not in response to the knot he's untangling. ]
I feel so ungrateful. Once this [this room, this house, this chance in a new city] would have been more than enough, wouldn't it. I can think of so many ways this could be worse, and I still want to complain. [heh]
I'm just.. [in a smaller, quieter voice] I'm so tired of losing homes, Vax.
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-28 04:39 pm (UTC)[ he's leagues beyond their early days. experienced and talented in more ways that a younger version of him would ever think could happen. and considering how he's about to have some honest work? and an income? and a way to help add to the pot? it's just part of the process, after all. he gets money, he gives said money to vex. in a way, it does add the responsibility on to her and off of him, but he knows she can handle it.
and then vex's shoulders slump, and vax frowns a bit at it. he doesn't like seeing her upset. he never has, and he doesn't believe he ever will. he keeps working his fingers through her hair, unfurling the previous braid before he starts in on a new one. ]
We've gotten used to a lot over the last few years. [ there's some humor to his tone, but not too much. ] And we've lost a lot too. I don't think it's ungrateful to want a little consistency. [ he thinks about the keep, about whitestone, about the destruction of emon. he's always been more ready to move that vex had, and he can't blame her for wanting to settle.
he sighs. ]
To be honest, this place is a little cramped. I'm ready to move somewhere we can all actually stay together. [ namely: so keyleth doesn't feel like she has to stay in another house because of how cramped theirs already is. ] And I don't think that's too much to ask. [ but then her voice lowers, and he sees the weight on her shoulders, and vax's heart hurts. he wants her to have her home back in whitestone back. he wants her to have everything she's ever wanted. and he knows, on his own, he can't give that to her. not all of it. but that doesn't stop him wanting to. ]
Hey. [ there's an attempt at peppiness here, trying to seem optimistic, trying to make it lighter. he leans his head around her shoulder so that he can catch her eyes, and then he smiles. ] We'll figure it out. We always do. And then- [ he sits back to resume his work on her braid. ] We'll find a better home, bigger and fancier and comfier.
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-28 08:15 pm (UTC)[ She can handle the money, certainly. And she always feels better when there's a plan, when there is a set course and point A to B to C. She can be strong, for him, for everyone else, just as Pike does. But that need for consistency genuinely wears on her. She does at least manage a weak smile when he peers over her shoulder, confirms that at least she's not the only one, and she moves her head to the side slightly so she can bump it against his.
Then its back into her hair he goes, and she rolls her shoulders, tries to relax again. ]
Rooms for all of us, [including the sleepers] and with far better decor than Scanlan's mansion. And then a cook, because I really can't imagine any of us doing that well.
At least we have enough water melon to last us a week or two. [thanks for the three large ones currently occupying ALL the space in the fridge; Vex was not about to turn down an offer for free food!
And now, for a random change in subject:] You know, there's a weapons shop in town.
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-28 10:21 pm (UTC)but even so, vax doesn't think he'll really able to relax until he gets it back. his armor, especially, but all the rest too. he didn't realize how much of his wardrobe had become a part of him, until he was without it. he's not too worried about it, thankfully. with enough work and enough money he could manage something. maybe there would be more quests and the like through the mercenary group, but he'd have to check in on that to be sure.
still, he wants to make sure vex is okay before anything else. he knows how much she internalizes and he tries to carry his fair share of whatever weight. she was worried and she was out of her element for now, but once she had enough time, he knew she'd be back on her feet in no time. ]
And gods, no more chicken. If I never have chicken for another meal again it'll be too soon. [ but, still, vax's chest hurts. thinking about scanlan and the way he'd left, just walked out. he's not quite over it, but he wonders if he ever will. not when you leave like that. ] And tall enough to fit Grog, which will be hard enough as it is.
[ at least they have a little time to prepare for the big guy before he joins them.
and then there's the subject change. which wasn't at all obvious. vax still has most of his attention back on the braid, which is why - to the comment itself - he makes a vaguely interested noise. ] Did you see something you liked?
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-29 12:31 am (UTC)[ She'll let herself be maneuvered back to facing the wall and window soon enough, shifting her weight and seating on the bed to stay comfortable. The mention of chicken gets a laugh. ]
So long as we're not going all vegetables all the time in retaliation. I think there's only so much salad I want to look at in a given meal, never mind Grog when he wakes up/ [Some greens are good for you, that much is true, but they can go for something a little more balanced, right?]
[ Fingers thread together and she rests her joined hands on one knee as she hums thoughtfully. ] These apartments won't work for him, but the people here come in all shapes and sizes. We may have less trouble working with that than we did back in Emon, or Westrunn, or Whitestone.
No. But it could have some knives for you to make use of. And it's not like you're unfamiliar with good quality weapons - there could be job openings. [not that she expects him to take a Normal Job, hell none of them are cut from that cloth] I hear they have a forge too. I'll have to remember to mention that to Percy, if he's not aware already.
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-29 02:12 pm (UTC)and then he shrugs. ] It might be more suspicious if I do end up wearing them. [ now he's just being difficult, and he knows it, so with a sigh he does relent. ] I'll think about it. If I get on a job that I need it, I'll wear it. Deal?
[ and then he snorts, going back to her braids. this is an easy enough conversation to have, so vax won't complain for a little time to relax and feel like things are normal again. ] Gods no. But I wouldn't complain about some beef stew every now and then. Some fish. Honestly, just a bit of variety? I don't think I could go back to only-chicken. [ though, still, there's an ache in his chest. a kind of knot in his stomach. scanlan was still a sore subject, and vax wonders if he ever wouldn't be. wonders what will happen when scanlan wakes up.
that's something they can deal with when it happens, though. ]
We'll just need to do some searching. House hunting, even. [ he snorts at his own joke, closing the braid he'd been working on and reweaving her feathers back behind her ears.
the next bit, though, has his brow arched curiously at her, his hands falling now that he's finished with fixing up her hair. ] You want me to become a knife salesman? [ he snorts again, shaking his head as he shifts on the bed again so that he's sitting next to her, relaxing.
then there's percy, and vax looks over at vex curiously. it hasn't gone unnoticed, by the way. how differently they're acting around each other. ] How are things going with him, by the way?
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-29 06:27 pm (UTC)She knows full well it's just lipservice. He says this but Vax won't actually wear it. But it's the closest Vex will get, so: ]
Fine. You'd better. [a pause] Or I'll tell, Pike.
[ Don't push her, Brother, she will do it!
Discussing a new home --and that's what they need to make it, a home, it's going to be theirs, she never got to build hers and-- is a good distraction from any distressing topics and trains of thought. She has to chuckle and nod, just slightly, so she doesn't disrupt his work on her braid, and sighs a bit. ]
We'll have to make time, once we have the silver, to try a few meals at the market, see what's good and local. Only a little, though, and then find someone who can make it for us, or something. [because while they can do some basic cooking in the field, none of them are Laina; she swallows then - did the Natha save their staff from the Storm, too?] Think we can find somewhere with some kind of garden for Keyleth? I mean, whatever we get, we'll make do, but I think we should make that a priority.
[ She can't get over the fact Keyleth was awake first, that she'd been awake three whole months. For Vex, it barely seems any time at all since she closed her eyes on the Deera's deck, brother and bear at her side and stars overhead. Then her brother is shifting to alongside her once more, and she pulls the braid over her shoulder, lightly running fingers over the plaited weave. ]
No! Well, not unless you wanted to be. [she chuckles then] I was thinking more that you could offer to show how well specific knives work to potential customers. [dagger dagger dagger, and all that.] Just something to keep in mind, yeah?
[ Pretending you're not pining on some level for a more-than-dear friend is perfectly normal, right? Right! So Vax's question gets a blink, and her nose wrinkles slightly and her brows furrow as she turns her head to look at him. That's a funny question, Brother. There's nothing at all different in how Vex and Percy are treating each other.
At least, not from where Vex is sitting. ]
Well, I suppose?
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-29 07:19 pm (UTC)but she agrees, and vax doesn't even try to hold the tiny little smirk in response. ] I will. I swear.
[ and then it's on to other things. easier things, or at least he assumes so. things like homes, and food, and silver. he does catch the moment's hesitation, can assume where vex's thoughts have wandered, but they both push through. ]
I'm sure Keyleth could make a garden anywhere, once we settle in a spot and let her know she can have that area. But she'd enjoy that. Her room is a mess of potted plants right now. [ there is so much that weighs on him in that moment. from keyleth's months alone, the lingering way she'd look at them, her separate house. he doesn't like it, but he also knows that there's very little he can do about it.
at least right now. that won't stop him from worrying. and then he's moving, and vex is checking her braid, and he pulls himself out of that line of thinking. later, when he has time to go talk to keyleth. then he'll figure out how to handle it. ]
Like a teacher? [ the incredulous look he gives her is more hypocritical than anything else. it's not so far fetched an idea, he knows, but giving demos and selling items? really? still, he knows her intentions are good, so he does make the effort to at least look like he's thinking about it. especially for the sake of coin. he probably won't, but for vex's sake he will look curious. ]
I'll keep it in mind. [ another shrug-off, but what can you do. it's vax.
then, suddenly, is that feeling again. like something is off. only it's heightened tenfold because it's vex, and nothing should ever be off with his sister. so he watches her, totally unfazed by the reaction she's giving him, both brows raised. is she still trying....they've already had this talk. what is the point of pretending otherwise. ]
Just...well? [ an expectant pause, before vax sighs. ] Sister, last I came to visit you both you- [ and then the thought hits him, sudden and overwhelming, like walking into an invisible wall or not seeing grog come in for a body-slam. he blinks, then his brows furrow. ] There's nothing...you want to talk about?
(no subject)
Date: 2017-09-29 09:23 pm (UTC)He swears, and she's almost tempted to turn around just to see if she can catch him crossing his fingers while doing so. But she doesn't, and Vex just huffs again, pulling her other leg up so she's cross legged on the thin blanket. There's just enough room for her to do that, and for Vax to sit comfortably without being nudged off his bed. ]
[a chuckle follows - she can just about picture one of these spaces half full of greenery spilling off window sills and shelves.] Somehow that doesn't surprise me. Well, if we can't get a garden, then she at least needs a room to grow things in. And a prayer room for Pike! ..And you, I guess? [she bites her lip; she hasn't really thought to ask about her friends' godly patrons - perhaps now is as good a time as any?] Any word from Her, out of interest?
Well, more like demonstrator, I guess. But I suppose teaching could work, too? [he's far more patient than she is, after all. Well, on some matters moreso than others. Setting aside that business with that Kynan kid, Vax could do a pretty good job, in her eyes. There's a shrug.] Would being a teacher really be so weird? Assuming there's no one like Asum here who could make use of your talents if our joint "being Vox Machina" doesn't pay the bills. But we can worry about that after we see some of the jobs Highwind digs up.
[She's just trying to do her best to keep as many options open as possible. Hence why she started talking to him about mercenary work in Olympia to begin with.]
[ If anyone would recognise that Vex'ahlia was lying, even with her exceptional gift of the gab, her brother Vax'ildan is it. And there isn't a trace of it in her speech, not in the puzzled looking and headtilt, expression edging into a rather familiar discomfort. ]
I'm not sure what you're asking. [or rather, she has a theory, but first:] And, what do you mean, 'came to visit'? [the bafflement is there, frown forming as an icy finger of discomfort runs its way down her back.] Where did you go that the rest of us haven't been lately?
..This isn't another one of your "keep your eyes open" talks is it, because now is really not the time or place, Brother.
(no subject)
Date: 2017-10-02 05:12 pm (UTC)She's also got a pet. [ he's quiet for a second, thinking about the room, about their conversation. ] A little bird. [ and....now he waits for the quippy comment from his sister. because he knows it's coming.
he snorts at vex's complicated tone regarding the raven queen, shrugging even if she can't see it from behind her hair. ] Worry about Pike first. She'd like a prayer room, and I can figure something else out in the mean time. [ he knows he should be putting more attention to it. knows that his time in zephrah had been spent slowly getting better. every whitestone trip had been with the understanding that some of that time would be praying. would be giving service. percy had built that temple for them both, hadn't he? vax falls, a bit distractedly, into that line of thought so much that it takes a moment before he realizes his sister has asked him a question.
he worries at his lower lip. ] No. [ a pause, and then a sigh. ] Not that I got many words from her back home, either, but it's...different. I still have some of the use of my magic here but no...connection? I guess? To her. [ he doesn't feel like he's constantly being watched, which is the biggest thing, but he also doesn't want to talk to his sister about his battle with the crushing weight of paying back that debt. she doesn't need to worry about it. he doesn't want her to worry about it.
he makes a noncommittal noise at the idea. ] Maybe. It'll depend on how well the jobs pay. I'll think about it. [ and he actually will. because while he'll never think of himself as the teaching type, if it'll help get kids off the street? why not?
but then the conversation shifts. they're sitting side by side again, and vax is watching her, and vex isn't lying. isn't playing a game. isn't playing coy. as she asks her questions, his brow continues to furrow even further, his frown a bit thinner.
then he remembers his conversation with keyleth, and vax's stomach lurches. ] Sister. [ with the kind of tone that makes it obvious how serious he's being, no matter what is about to come out of his mouth. ] What's the last thing you remember doing before the Storm? And you were brought here?
(no subject)
Date: 2017-10-02 08:51 pm (UTC)A pet. [echo echo. she can't quite hide the grin that starts forming] A bird? It's not a raven, is it?
I can worry about you both, even if I would prefer to ensure I don't have reason to. [she rubs a finger along the pleats of her braid, tipping her head slightly to one side.] May be worth checking if the temple district allows worship for gods other than the Moon-- You know, Zahra would think that's hilarious, and right up her alley-- because who knows if someone who follows Sarenrae or the Raven Queen were here before us.
[ or, you know. don't encourage worship of other gods, and they'll need to keep it on the downlow. That could also be a legit cause for concern here.
As it is, she turns a little, watching his face as he chews on his lip, and there's a light bump of her shoulder to his. Vex doesn't consider her life as something held in the balance, but she knows her brother. She's well aware of why he's in the Raven Queen's service to begin with, but You've still got me, she thinks, so that means something. Or should. She doesn't say anything more on that, however.
Instead, she's watching him watching her, trying to figure out what he's digging for, trying to fathom what it is he wants to know. This isn't his own brand of heart-on-sleeve sharing, either, not with how his lips twist and his expression grows so stern and serious. She doesn't like it. Doesn't like that herald of bad news that easily rival's the gun of the same name.]
What is..? [She shifts on the bed, brown eyes locked with brown, trying to get a bead on why he's asking this] We were on the Deera, night time. You were with me, and Trinket, up on the deck, looking at the stars. [is he serious? ..he really honestly is asking that question. She can feel her back stiffening] Heading south from Ank Harel, across the Ozmit, had maybe less than half a day until we reached Glintshore.
Remember?
[ He...does remember. Doesn't he? ]
(no subject)
Date: 2017-10-02 10:37 pm (UTC)now, though, he can have a semblance of a time outside of that. one where he has a cramped room in the same house on some kind of new land that he's, apparently, supposed to live. but that's another thing to think about for another time, because right now? vex is giving him that look and vax is rolling his eyes. ] No. It's a little blue thing. Very chipper. [ he's not jealous he's not jealous he's not jealous-
but then there are gods and the religious district and vax just shakes his head. he's gotten better at it, yes. he's accepted his role for it. but talks about temples and talking to other worshipers and possibly dealing...vax shakes his head. ] I don't know if the Orbiters really want us messing with that, you know? I'll probably try and do some research, but I might...hold off on asking if I can set something up for the Raven Queen in the district just yet. [ is vax avoiding all of that? just a little bit. but also there's a whole lot more he feels like they should focus on instead.
like, for instance, this whole issue with memories. and time. and things being off. he still hasn't quite wrapped his head around it from his conversation with keyleth, but it hadn't even occurred to him that vex would be off too. except that it starts to settle in, and when he asks the question and she watches him in return, his stomach drops out from under him. ]
Deera? Heading to...Glintshore? [ he asks, as if trying to remember himself. which, all things considered, is a bit harder to place. the amount that had happened over the last year for him is hard to keep straight on its own, nevermind trying to remember specific moments. days. things that happened. he does know the deera. he remembers the crew. captain damon. the last time he saw them, it'd been-
vax freezes his eyes going wide at the sudden realization he has. not about thordak, not about the conclave, but about a time before. when they'd been searching out the vestiges, their chase around the land. he remembers the cloak, whisper, their journey to get there. it had felt so long ago that it didn't really seem important to bring up before now, but with the way vex and percy had been acting, how frustrating it had been to watch, it suddenly...makes more sense. ]
I...remember. We were chasing after Ripley.
[ if vex is watching close enough, she probably sees a very unfamiliar look cross over vax's face. a look that he had never really experienced before. a two part thought of she doesn't know and do i tell her happening all at once. ]
(no subject)
Date: 2017-10-03 12:18 am (UTC)Something in that look scares her. Just a little, just enough, that one hand sinks into the fabric next to her, vice grip turning knuckles white. The other tightens around her braid. ]
Right. Glintshore. We were going after Ripley to take the vestiges she stole back. And then beat the ever living shit out of her for Percy. [to put it mildly.
(She has no idea.)
Vex had never heard Percy admit to fear before. not for anyone, not even when facing down the Briarwoods. Not as he had in the tavern, hunched over his ale and barely meeting anyone's eye, self-loathing for such fear evident. Vex wanted that woman dead, for his sake, because that woman had done such harm, and would do so again if left unchecked.
And now here again is a Look, a different look that she doesn't understand, dredging up an entirely different sense of dread. Vex doesn't know what it is her brother sees, what he's thinking, and she doesn't like it. Not at all. ]
..What's wrong? Vax? [she swallows, tongue suddenly leaden] What do you remember?
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Date: 2017-10-03 12:58 am (UTC)briefly, he wonders if this is how keyleth has felt since they arrived. if this is what she's been carrying. vax feels like he understands that look she has been giving him a little better now, not that it does anything to the dark curl of guilt there. ]
Right. [ he repeats her word without really thinking about it, his eyes moving from her to his lap to the room around them. for whatever reason, knowing that vex doesn't know - know what? the list is endless. where does he even start? the vestiges, thordak, raishan, percy. does he tell her? could he? what was important, and what wasn't worth the time? - makes vax unsure of himself. a pillar of his life he'd always had, now...what?
it's not panic that constricts his throat, but certainly something close to it. but before letting it overwhelm him, he takes a breath, his eyes still to the floor as he starts. ] Keyleth told me about this- this thing. [ which, really, is a fair place to start. ] I don't understand it. I don't know what it means. But they do something to some of our memories. We can all be together, but when we wake up here not all of us remember everything. You- [ this time when vax looks at her, it's with a tired, scared kind of look, brows slanted and eyes wide. she's seen that one, they both know she has. lost and helpless and young. he searches her face for some kind of tell, some idea of how she's reacting to all of this. vax doesn't want to hurt her, would never do anything to hurt her, but he also doesn't want to lie to her. ]
The last thing I remember is over a year later from when we went to Glintshore, Vex'ahlia. And for Keyleth, it's been even longer.
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