rockypath | Duplicity IC Inbox

( ever since Faith put the fear of potentially hurting a quota partner in her head, Buffy's mind has been...well, a mess. she's spun countless scenarios, twisting them all into what-ifs she doesn't want to ever see happen to the people she's already come to care about. and after her first, and, god willing, last time at the SLUT center, Buffy's decided to ask for help...

...from a friend. )

i was thinking about what you said about quota partners and how some of them could get hurt if i wasn't careful
and while i know there are other people in the city with strength to match our own, i don't know many
or trust many

which brings me to my question

. . .

would you mind helping me worry a little less, when having to make quota?

[It takes Faith a few minutes to answer. There's just a lot to unpack. In her own mind and in the words Buffy's texted to her.

Still, she can't exactly deny it's not something that's crossed her mind too... even before coming to this place.]

your sexting needs work.

but yeah. i'll help you out, buffy.
we're in this together after all.
and i'll rock your world too, so you'll definitely be wanting to come back for more

my what?

( ...oh. )

there's a word for that?
n/m
ofc there's a word for that
but it's not what i was doing

( she was just asking a question through text instead of over the phone or in person. Faith is definitely sexting, though. )

thank you

although...
maybe i'll be the one to rock yours and you'll be the one wanting to come back for more?

( texting makes it so much easier for her to appear confident. )

[Big talk, Buff. She's impressed!]

only one way to find out for sure, buffy.
tonight?

guess so

tonight, then
i get off work at 8 and can meet you at your place

unless you wanted to meet somewhere else?

my place is fine.
i live alone so it's not like anyone will disturb us.

[Faith is also glad this is over text, because she is also freaking out a little internally. It's not going to make her change her mind about this though.]

you don't have a contract yet?

( same hat, Faith. not that this is hard. just that it isn't exactly easy either. ...although. admittedly. it's easier than she imagined. )

I haven't exactly been looking too hard. I've got until May, I think.

have you bothered looking at all?
May will be here before you know it
you don't need to end up in jail
not for something like contracting

( the line down her neck will not keep her from being cautious and protective. sorry, Faith. )

I'll be fine. Jesus.

[She's not exactly in a rush to 'own' someone. That's not precisely what it is, but it sure feels like it.]

I'll find someone eventually but I'm not just gonna slap my name on the first person who comes along.

what happens if you're not fine?
if you don't find someone between now and then?
you'll just end up in a bind, Faith
you should start now
narrow it down to someone you trust

( she'd offer but she's already contracted.

and it only feels that way if you let it, Faith. Buffy doesn't feel owned in her contract. which is... nice. maybe because Jean's older and seen as nothing more than a sort of parental figure? probably. )

i don't trust very many people, buffy.
the only other person aside from you that comes to mind is a dominant so that's out.
i'll figure it out.
see you at 8.

you're going to have to start trying

and fine
8
i'll see you later

( and as promised she shows after work. )

MEET CAITLIN SNOW! YOU TWO SHOULD TALK ABOUT STRAP-ONS!

okay then. we can talk about this if you actually want to?

Sure, why not. One of these led me to explain what breathplay is to an angel, so.

Strap-ons.

That sounds like one hell of a conversation. Hopefully not with an emphasis on the hell part.

Yup. Strap ons. I have used them before. And had them used on me too. Pretty fun.

Not much judgment. He just seemed confused as to why it would appeal to people.

I have had them used on me. But never used one.

No?
Any interest in giving it a try?

I'll admit that I'm curious about it, yeah.

I'd be happy to let you give it a try sometime. If you think you can keep up with me. I'm quite the handful.

I can usually keep up with a regular handful. It's when they're more than just normal that I start to fall behind.

thats alright. we can make due, i'm sure.
i'm not regular by a long shot, but i'll steer you around the curves.

Sounds like fun.

006-A in the Up Provided Housing.
My name's Faith.
Stop by anytime. Now if you like.
I have a strap-on already.

[Maybe this is moving things too fast? Fuck it.]

Yeah. I think I'll come over now.
Why not, you know?
It'll be about 20 minutes?

Sounds good. I'll be here.

Good. Be there soon.

[ the requested 20 minutes isn't for any sort of travel time. she lives in the up, has lived in the up for most of the time she's been here. it's mostly just for minor primping: swapping yoga pants for jeans, combing her hair, brushing her teeth. this is... well. it's pretty much a booty call, isn't it? or close enough.

thanks, duplicity.

it's more like 15 minutes when she turns up on faith's doorstep, knocking on the door. ]

[Faith gets ready herself, tidying up some and fishing out the strap-on to set on the bed along with a few different options for potential attachments. She checks that she looks presentable, not that she's terribly concerned. Even with messy hair, she knows she's hot.

Still, she might as well impress as best she can.

So when she answers the door, she's got on a tight tank top that cuts nicely into her cleavage and a pair of equally tight jeans. She doesn't her once over of Caitlin particularly subtle. Not that subtlety is at all called for here, considering.] Come on in, Caitlin wasn't it?

[ caitlin doesn't mean to gawk when faith opens the door. but with the image waiting for her on the other side, who wouldn't? the woman is gorgeous, and that outfit only enhances that. suddenly, she feels very inadequate. and very plain. maybe she should have picked something different to wear, put on makeup. she's too busy staring to really catch the once-over.

she pushes that down, fixing an easy smile on her face as she crosses the threshold into the apartment. ] Yes, Caitlin. And you're Faith.

[ stating the obvious for those playing at home. ]

I don't... I don't do this very often.

[Faith waits for her to come inside, eyes tracking her as she walks in, maybe taking a moment or two to make an assessment of her backside too as she passes by before shutting the door and following her into the living area of her apartment.]

No? Could have fooled me with that cool confidence.

[She waggles her brows, perhaps catching on to the fact that Caitlin's a little nervous but is trying to push it down.]

Wanna drink? I've got beer? Or... whiskey, I think. No wine though, I'm not classy enough for that.

[ once inside, caitlin toes off her shoes, a pair of duplicity's best approximation of keds, and sweeps them off to one side with a nudge from her foot. the view of her backside would give faith a great look at her legs, long and toned-looking even through the jeans. the woman takes care of herself with less effort than most people would think.

the comment and the eyebrow waggling turns her smile more genuine, more relaxed. the nerves aren't gone, but more easily ignored when someone is trying to put her at ease. ]

Whiskey's good, if you have it. I should have thought to bring some with me. [ her eyes do a quick sweep of the apartment, looking for any personal touches. ]

How long have you been here?

[Faith is already only in her socks as she walks to the kitchen, getting up on her toes to start searching her cabinets for glasses and the half-full bottle of whiskey.] Sweet, got it.

[Her apartment isn't terribly different than it had been upon her arrival. Spartan, boring. She's really not used to settling in anywhere long enough to make it her own. The only 'decor' that might stick out is a crossbow set on top of an empty bookshelf and a sword rested against it. Her other weapons are a bit more hidden.]

[ in her experience, lack of personal touches means someone is new. or they refuse to settle in. sometimes, it's both. but the crossbow and the sword definitely catch her attention. those are choices. they are some choices.

caitlin stands there, lingering not quite awkwardly as she waits for faith to pour the whiskey. ]

Are those decor or just good home defense?

[Faith's been here about a month now, so perhaps she should settle in. Again, she's not quite accepted that she's stuck here yet.

Coming back, she sets the bottle and two glasses on the coffee table, following Caitlin's gaze to the weapons. She smirks a bit and then takes a seat, pouring the whiskey in both glasses.] Not home defense. Defense yes. And a little bit of offense too, if I'm lucky.

Lucky? [ the question is loaded with an unspoken but definitely audible 'what?' in it. offense, defense. caitlin's eyes sweep over faith again as the woman sits. a fighter type, clearly. tough. ]

What sort of things are you fighting with a crossbow and a sword? [ she takes a seat herself, leaning over to grab one of the glasses. ] Knives are one thing. Pulling out a sword? That's serious.

[She takes a sip of her drink.] Vampires. Demons. Forces of darkness. The occasional mage trying to open a portal to hell. That kind of thing.

[You know. The usual stuff.]

[ there was a time in caitlin's life that she would have thought someone saying this was completely and utterly crazy. before here, that time would be before here. duplicity has opened her eyes to all the things she thought were just mythical. fictional. it still surprises her sometimes. ]

Is it a family business kind of thing? Are you a Hunter?

[ is she from sam and dean's world? ]

No. God no. My family's business was being alcoholics-- [She cleared her throat awkwardly at that when considering the drink currently in her hand. Faith isn't one herself, but all the same, she sets the drink down.]

I'm a vampire slayer. I was chosen. Given powers to fight them. It also put a giant target on my back.

[ alcoholics? there's the smallest flicker of concern in her eyes as she looks from the filled glass to faith and away. she shouldn't judge. it's not her place to judge anyone, and she's fought that tendency hard while being here. besides, caitlin drinks fairly often enough that her past self might be concerned for her.

she keeps a hold on her glass, taking a drink. ]

A vampire slayer. That's... [ her eyes go back to the sword and crossbow for a moment. ] That makes sense. Staking through the heart and beheading? It's all fiction where I'm from, but it's nice to see some consistency there.

[She sees that fleeting look and is very much wishing she'd not let that slip. It's not even the start of her childhood traumas, but she'd never been very good with anyone's pity.]

That's the way it works where I'm from. Stakes, holy water, beheadings, garlic, sunlight, can't come in without being invited...

[She sighs, shaking her head.] There are vampires here that don't all follow those same rules. They all seem just a little bit different.

It's a danger of the multiverse. [ the words are intoned with a knowing sound. ] Things are familiar, but foreign. They're the same, but different. It's all a learning curve, but the steepness varies.

[ they're getting a bit off the rails of what this was intended to be. she takes another drink and sets down her glass. ]

Tell me more about you. Outside of [ a vague gesture towards the sword and crossbow ] all of that.

[Just listening to Caitlin talk she can tell she's smart. Smarter than Faith could ever hope to be.] Sounds like something you've dealt with a lot?

[She looks a little uncertain about that question. Being a Slayer is a pretty substantial part of her life. There are other things she could say, but very little of them happy. Maybe just the basics.] Um, yeah, sure-- [Faith tucks some hair behind her ear a touch awkward.] I grew up in Boston? Uh... been on my own most of my life. I love dancing?

You get some experience with it here. But back home, a few years ago, my friends and I, uh... accidentally ripped some holes in our reality into another Earth.

[ it's not something she could, or would, ever forget. thawne undone by his ancestor's sacrifice. the massive hole in the sky. losing her husband. caitlin blinks hard and gives her head a little shake, trying to dismiss the rising memories.

it's easier, when faith talks and shares about herself. ] That had to be hard, being on your own. [ she doesn't linger on that for long. ] More club dancing than other, I'm betting?

You accidentally ripped a hole in reality? What the hell were you doing? That was more than just a little 'whoopsadaisy'.

[Good lord. Her eyes are a little wide at that.]

Yeah, it wasn't easy. Sometimes though, it just felt easier... being alone? But I got people eventually. It just took a long time. [Too long. And one trip and escape from prison.]

Heh, yeah. Club dancing. I'm not exactly doin' the foxtrot or anything.

Hi, Faith. It's Fraser.

kinda figured with the username. ;)
how've you been?

Pretty well. How have you been, yourself...?

Pretty good. Working.
Got myself a contract even.
Although, I'm betting talking about all that isn't why you messaged me.
Just a hunch. I'm very perceptive, you know.

On the contrary. I'm very interested.
Would you like, perhaps, to discuss it over dinner?

At your place?
Depends. What are you making?

Lasagna, perhaps?

I do like lasagna.
Garlic bread too?

Certainly, if you'd like. What about lasagna, garlic bread, Caesar salad, and tiramisu?

[ Bless Ray for teaching him those recipes. ]

Damn. That sounds amazing.
You don't need to try this hard to get into my pants, you know.

[As soon as she hits send, she grimaces and is filled with instant regret for it. She's nervous about all this. Dates. Dinners. Tiramisu? It's more than she's used to and she doesn't quite know how to handle it.]

[ It takes a couple of minutes for Fraser to respond to that. ]

I won't deny that I'm attracted to you, by any means.
But I want to spend time with you in many contexts.
I want to get to know you in many ways.
I don't consider dinner to be a prelude with the ultimate goal of sex, although I know I am old-fashioned, in thinking there should be a certain sequence of events.
I also want to sit and talk and enjoy a meal with you for its own sake, because I enjoy your company very much.

[Those couple minutes are more than a little nerve wracking for her. When he responds, she's feeling a different set of fears, swirling in her belly.]

I've just never done anything like this before.
I've never really gone on dates. I've never had someone make me dinner.
No one back home who wanted to just enjoy my company and it wasn't just some ploy.
It does sound nice.

I'll endeavour to make it a positive first experience.
I think Andy is planning to invite someone else over at the same time, so that we can pretend you've come to see him if anyone happens to be spying on us. So dinner may be something of a double date, if that's alright. But it's a big house. We don't have to remain in a group for the entire evening, if you like.

That should be fine.

[she's going to be awkward about it regardless...]

Should I dress up?

There's no need. But if you intend to, please let me know, so that I can do likewise.

Screw it. We're doing this all proper.
Guess I'll wear a dress.

[All in on the awkward, it is. She's just leaning into it.]

Should I wear a suit?

[ She can probably also get him in uniform if she really wants. ]

I mean... Andy did show me a picture of you in uniform. I wouldn't mind seeing that in person?

Oh, he did, did he?

Yup. He sure did.

Very well. But I'd rather not make it a habit.

And I'm not about to make wearing at dress a habit either.
And I'm going to look hot as hell in it too.

Of that I have no doubt. :) And you're right, fair is fair.

Then we have a deal.

Is there a night in the next week or so that would be convenient for you?

I'm pretty open evenings. Maybe next Tuesday?

That sounds good to me. I'll let Andy know.

[There are three sharp knocks at the door. If there's an ability to look out into the darkness, a familiar figure in a suit is standing there with one hand behind his back, his expression neutral.]

[Faith is almost entirely healed, because of the people that came to her aid. But that doesn't mean she's feeling particularly well. She's been drinking for one thing. For another, she's utterly exhausted and defeated.

She's been wallowing in how ineffective she seems to be at every turn. The knock at the door comes soon after someone else has come to check on her. She takes a look through the eye hole to see who it is and curses tiredly under her breath.

Faith leaves the door closed, resting her head against the frame, and calls out.] What the fuck do you want...?

I've brought you something. If you don't want it, I'm sure I can find someone else who does.

[The hand remains firmly behind his back.]

I swear to god if you've brought me a dead mouse like a fucking street cat...

[She sighs. This is a terrible idea, but when has that ever stopped her before? Finally, she opens the door.]

What is it then?

I'm a vampire, not a werewolf.

[Give him a little credit. Actually...don't. It's a terrible idea.

Only once the door is open does he reveal the bouquet of calla lilies.]

A fact for which you should be glad. They take far more than blood.

[She keeps herself from breaking through the threshold line of her doorway. Of course who the hell knows if he needs to be invited...

Faith looks even more confused than she had been already at the presentation of the flowers.]

You got me... flowers? Why?

Is that the wrong custom? Don't tell me these are only for brides and funerals. My face would be so red.

If, you know...it could be.

[Is he 100% full of shit? It's probably a safe assumption, but he looks entirely sincere.]

So, are you going to invite me in?

Why should I? I think I missed the memo where we're friends. The big red guy tossing me through a chimney didn't rattle my brains enough to forget you're a dick.

[And she's not quite drunk enough to think letting him in is a good idea, although part of her is feeling just self-destructive enough not to close the door just yet. She's curious despite herself.]

I did come all this way. I suppose I'll invite myself.

[He pushes past her, likely to prove the point that he can. That old chestnut about needing an invitation circulates in his world. Only crazy vampires actually convince themselves it's true.]

Have a vase?

[Faith curses under her breath when he pushes past. Of course, it's her luck that it seems almost nothing that she knows about vampires in her world holds true for him. Because why would she ever be that lucky? She also doesn't really have the strength to stop him, despite being healed. She's still much too weak. That's not even taking into account the amount she's had to drink.

Watching him head in, Faith has no idea what to do other than play along. What else can she do?] Under the sink, I think. From the previous owner.

[Faith sure hadn't bought one herself. To be honest, she hadn't bought much of anything. Her apartment is fairly spartan other than the weapons laid out on a shelf. A stake, sword, daggers, and of course the crossbow which he no doubt remembers.]

The funny thing is I could have guessed that part without having to be told.

[He calls over his shoulder. Once in the kitchen, he fetches the vase and runs some water into it.]

I don't suppose you have sugar?

[How does he even know cut flowers need it? It's one of those facts that bubbles up from nowhere in the deep recesses of little used knowledge. Always odd to him when it happens.]

The cabinet above my coffee maker.

[She grabs the beer she's been drinking off the counter, keeping her distance, putting the small dining table between them. It's all pointless, she knows how fast he can move. Still.]

You going to tell me why you're really here? I know you don't actually care that I got hurt.

You can take interest in something without caring, yes? You wound up in a fight with something infernal.

[He pulls down the sugar and pours a bit into the vase, giving it a few sloshy swirls to dissolve it. After replacing it in the cabinet, he turns his attention to the flowers.

It will never be his day job. (Ha.) But the arrangement is sufficiently neat and orderly by the time he's done.]

I wouldn't advise taking a sniff. They're more for show, I'm afraid. Now, what do you recall of it? Did you get any blows in? Get any of its blood on you?

[The flowers are pretty, but she's not going to admit that out loud to him of all people.]

He flew down and demanded I join him. Then when I told him to fuck off, he immediately tried to kill me. I was able to dodge him and get on his back. My knife broke trying to stab him before he took flight with me still on him.

So no blood. Just mine. Sorry to disappoint you. [She doesn't seem that sorry.]

It's others with more reason to be disappointed. If I had some of its blood, I could have potentially thrown a wrench into its plans.

[Would he have tried? Absolutely not. Infernal blood is more valuable than wasting it on heroics is worth.]

As it is, I suppose everyone down there is still at its mercy.

[Done fiddling with the flowers, he turns to face her. The table between them is laughable, but he makes no move to show it.]

Right, I'm sure you're just chomping at the bit to play good samaritan and help stop him. [She believes that about as much as the idea that he came here with any sort of good intent.

A frown forms on her lips at the mention of Hellboy still rampaging the Down. Thanks for that oh so helpful reminder that people are being hurt and meanwhile she's up here doing nothing. There's nothing she can do, except get her ass handed to her again, but it still sucks.]

So. Flowers given. [She gestures to the door.] You can leave now.

Is it such a shock that if my interest aligns with others, I can play cooperatively?

[So suspicious! Good girl. He's not trying very hard to hide his amusement.]

I followed your blood trail all this way. Such a lack of hospitality.

[He clicks his tongue against the back of his teeth.]

If you truly wish to drown yourself in a bottle, far be it from me to stop you.

If it's getting you what you want, I'm sure you can play at anything.

[Except she's not entirely sure what it is that he does want. To bite her again? Something more than that? He'd followed her blood all the way here, so maybe that is all that this is about.

She wrinkles her nose at him. Speaking of drinking, she's going to go right back to that, thanks. Lifting the beer, she rattles it at him before taking a swig and setting the empty bottle aside.] Yes, see? I can be self-destructive all on my own without your help. Follow my blood trail out, the same way you came then, please and thank you.

[He does have what he wants. Her address. The rattle of letting himself in. The doubt of the flowers. There's something to be said for a slow build of pressure over time, not to mention most draw strength from anger. It's the place of uncertainty that builds weakness.

His smile is perfectly pleasant and bland. It even reaches his eyes.]

If you insist. Enjoy the flowers. Next time I'll just bring a cheap six-pack.

[Yeah. There will be a next time. He starts for the door.]

i stopped by your apartment earlier but you weren't there
so consider this the same thing
re: me checking up on you after everything big red caused

i'm alright.
my ego's still a little bruised.
a lot bruised.
but the rest of me is okay.

[mostly.]

how about you?
i know dean and you got beat up too.

try not to let it bug you much?
i mean
he wiped the floor with me like i was a dishcloth
or a mop
since you use mops to wipe floors not dishcloths

peachy
dean's boyfriend/angel/sub did some healing mojo and got me like new
yeah dean managed to get p banged up
tbh it's prob the only reason i got out when i did

( letting dean die wasn't an option. )

do you need anything?

that does make me feel a little better.
not that i wanted you to get your ass kicked.

[Maybe she had a little. She would have felt like real trash if Dean and Buffy had kicked HB's ass when she'd not even gotten close.]

castiel? yeah, he offered to do me too.
but I already had someone helping me with healing potions.
glad he found you two.

nothing in particular.
was thinking i should go shopping for some new clothes though if you wanna come?
and not just a catsuit.
although that is something i do need to get.

wow
really feeling the love rn faith
thanks

this being someone you trust?

( this might be her way of weaseling a name out of Faith without outright asking so she can add them to her list of people Faith associates with. just in case! Buffy gets to be protective of Faith, too. )

you want my help in picking out clothes?
clearly hellboy knocked some sense into you
:P
yeah, i'll come with
when did you wanna go?
and yes, it's def an outfit you need to get
sooner rather than later

you're welcome <3

this being andy, he's the submissive of benton the guy who found me.
i trust both of them. a lot.

[she knows what you're up to, buffy! she can take care of herself! mostly. unless she's around grayson or getting thrown through chimneys big red demons...]

maybe i was inviting you to help YOU pick out clothes.
you think of that?
how about tomorrow we could grab lunch after?
oh yeah? you really liked it huh? maybe i'll get it and then you can peel me out of it later.

as long as you trust them that's good enough with me
i'm glad you have people you can trust here

( in fairness Faith doesn't have the best track record of always making the right decisions. besides! it's what Buffy does; worry and try to keep her friends safe. even if they don't think they need it. )
ummmmmm no
yanno why?
bec there's nothing about my style that needs improving
😁
tomorrow and lunch works for me
i'll even let you pick the place

i did
and i'm p positive anyone who saw it also really liked it too
after all
who wouldn't?

the peeling can be arranged
either by hands or teeth

benton is probably the sweetest person in this city.
he's a mountie. and he's got a pet wolf.
what's not to like?

riiight.
you could stand to sex it up a little that's all i'm saying.
tomorrow it is then
how about bitchados? the mexican place.

damn right.
had people comin' out of the woodwork to compliment my legs.

i vote teeth.

a pet wolf?
you know what
can't say it's weird
red's gf has a hyena so

if you're talking behind closed doors?
maybe
for the public to see?
no thank you
i'm good with my wardrobe remaining vanilla in that case

bitchados it is

*just* your legs?

not a vote
but u do have to ask nicely is all

harley? yeah, i've not met her.
but my sub dinah talks about her all the time.

fine, fine.
i'll just pick you out some lingerie then

mmm. maybe not *just* my legs.
but had someone ask to climb up them.

i can ask nicely.
probably.

she looked...colorful from the network post i saw
the good talks about her or the oh no kind?

u pick me something
and i'll pick u something

did you grant them the privilege or did you deny them?

try
cos i promise it'll be worth your while

they're friends back where they're from.
so the good kind of talk.

deal.

mmm... to be determined.

i'll do my best then, in that case. ;)

is the demon from their world too?

you're not leaving them to dangle, are you?

hey
that's all i ask for
i'm sure you'll manage tho

i'm not sure? I don't think he is,

why do you care if I am? maybe i like to draw out the suspense a little... keep them guessing.

curious is all
they - harley and big red seemed to compliment each other is all

cos if you're not gonna let them
then that's just being a cruel
cruel tease
:P

one of them turned into a wolf and peed on my shoe.
so i think i'm entitled to string him along at least a little.

( she's not laughing. really! she's totally, absolutely... laughing her head off at the imagery! sorry, Faith. )

so he was a bad dog and you're still thinking about letting him...what did you tell oz not to do?
oh that's right
hump your leg

yeah, yeah. laugh it up.

[she's willing to bet Buffy is laughing based on that text back.]

and i guess i'm still thinking about it. but i'm going to make him work for it after that shit.
his name's alucard if you've ever met him.

i have no idea what you're talking about
O:)

alucard
ofc it is
does he have any relation to the guy going around claiming to be dracula?

i wonder if we'll get a lestat in the city next?

mmhmm... a likely story.

yeah, he's his son. or a version of him anyway.
he's a dhampir apparently.
kind of a smug dick. but i dunno, he's not terrible.
we got off on the wrong foot

wouldn't be surprised at this point.

vampires able to have kids?
god that's beyond freaky
even for the level of freaky vampires are already
glad our kind can't have kids

( yeah that's gonna hurt in 4 years. )

i'm guessing the wrong foot was the one he peed on?
👉😎👉

wanna take bets on which one shows up first?
lestat, louis, armand or any of the others i can't remember the names of from the movie
oh!
the one christian slater played
what's his face
donny?

yup small favors.

[yeah, she's definitely not going to mention Connor or even clue her in on the possibility.]

good one. i 'walked' right into that one, didn't i?

i would put my money on lestat.

Faith, would you like to come over for lunch? I can make whatever you want.

anything I want? damn how could I say no to that???

how about you just surprise me. you're the cook. :)

Give me some direction? I can still surprise you.

something spicy? I like it hot. Maybe something with chicken or shrimp? Both if you're feeling frisky.

How hot? I do not mean to offend you, but if you could put it on a scale from 1 to 10? Say 1 is England and 10 is Thailand.

8? Not sure where that falls in the spicy country scale. I want a burn but not so hot I can't see straight.

Alright, I am impressed. I think we've landed in Korea... come upstairs in about half an hour? 22B

you got it, hot stuff.

Hi, Faith. How are you?

[ He sends a picture of Diefenbaker looking goofy, tongue lolling out. ]

Hey, Benton.
I'm doing pretty solidly okay. Been a lot of shit lately. City messing with us and all that.

Dief looks adorable as always, I see.

How've you been faring?

I've been alright. Andy and I seem to have adopted a young man, so that's... wonderful and stressful. But I feel as if I've fallen out of touch with you a bit.

you've adopted a young man? i'm gonna need more details about that. what's his name?

i guess we have. sorry about that, i've been a little all over the place after that whole hellboy thing.

Well, it's also Andy, actually. Andrew Graham.

There's no need to apologize. That's perfectly understandable, and in any case, I've been preoccupied as well. But I wanted to connect again.

So when you say you adopted him? Do you mean you took him on as a sub to protect him?

[That's precisely the kind of sweet thing Benton would do.]

I'd like to connect with you again too ;)

I suppose so. He's just a kid, really.

Would you like to go get something to eat?

I'd love to.
Got any place in mind?

Do you have an opinion of Honestea?

Never been.
But I'll try anything once.
Can Dief come?

He won't be allowed in, but we can get take out and go to the park.

That sounds nice, actually. Like a picnic.

Exactly like a picnic. When's a good time for you?

How about tomorrow?

I'm available. Around noon, perhaps?

You got it, sexy.
See you then.

Edited 2022-06-02 18:41 (UTC)

ah, I've been taught how to express my response to this sort of thing over text:
u///u

you're freakin adorable.

Thank you kindly. You're very charming, yourself.

[Faith shows up outside of Honestea the next day, leaning up against the wall by the door. She's not in anything particularly fancy, just her usual tank top, blue this time, and jeans. It's been far too long since she's seen Benton so when he approaches she's got a broad smile on her face.] Hey, you.

[ As soon as he sees her, he breaks out in a goofy, crooked grin, apparently struck speechless for a moment by her mere presence. He waves, though, and by the time he's got close, he's managed to pull together at least two syllables. ]

Faith. Hi.

[ He's dressed a little differently, thanks to Huaisang and Andy's suggestions, in a fitted v-neck and a utility kilt. He's still wearing his riding boots, though. The outfit comes together well, but it's probably a surprising look. ]

[His reaction sends a warmth down to her belly. Why did he have to be so goddamn adorable? She pushes off from her spot on the wall, taking a moment to take him in. It's quite the look to be sure. She invites herself to his arm, hooking hers into his.]

Love the kilt. [It actually works pretty damn well on him.]

Thank you kindly. You look— you look lovely, as always.

[ He was a little worried she'd think he looked silly, so while he doesn't exactly slump, his shoulders do relax a bit in relief. ]

Shall we go in and order?

[Sure, he kind of looked like he just stepped off the Scottish Highlander or a Ren Faire, but he looks good all the same. Faith tugs his arms closer.] Let's. Don't want to keep Dief waiting too long.

Just so.

[ He lets them in to the cafe so they can grab some takeout sandwiches and pastries. ]

[Faith grabs their drinks too, and once they have all the food, she follows him out the door, but not before giving her iced tea a sip.]

So, this new sub of yours. Tell me about him? You said he was young?

[ Fraser likes Honestea because they offer a bark tea option. Just the best. ]

Yes. I think he's seventeen or so, but—a young seventeen. I'm a little worried about him.

Is it just because he's young? Buffy is seventeen. I worry about her too. I know she can handle herself...

[Or at least she hopes so. She's strong.] But still.

It's not really about chronological age, no. But he's... used to having a certain amount of safety that he lacks, here, I think, and inexperienced in a number of ways.

[ Fraser doesn't think he's weak, and wouldn't exactly call him sheltered, but he's just a normal, nerdy, kind of anxious kid. He shouldn't be in a place like Duplicity. ]

I hate this place more every day. [Because yeah, someone like that sounded like the sort to be chewed up and spat out here. Faith's not even sure she's can handle it all herself.] I could ask Buffy if she knows him? Maybe she can keep an eye out for him too.

She's been trying to form some kind of group or regular get-together with all the teenagers. Give them a space and time that's just about hanging out and not about... Duplicity shit.

That's a good idea. It's important for them to have time to socialize with their peers.

[ Sometimes Fraser really sounds like some kind of walking manual. ]

Ah, yes. Of course. [Faith nods rubbing her chin thoughtfully. And teasingly him with a bump of her hip gainst his thigh.] Very important. Socializing with their peers. Yes, yes.

Well, it is, isn't it?

[ It's honestly difficult to tell whether that wide-eyed look is him subtly messing with her, or if he genuinely does not know how ridiculous he is. ]

It may be true, but you don't have to say it like that. Just say it's good for them to hang out with people their own age for a bit. Or something. You don't have to be so clinical about it, Benny. [She pats his cheek, grinning up at him. Whether he's teasing or genuine didn't make it any less cute.]

I suppose it is a bad habit of mine.

[ That much, at least, is true. Also, she touches his face and he looks at her so mesmerized that he trips over a sidewalk crack. He easily corrects the stumble, but it's still very embarrassing. ]

[She can't help the laugh at his trip, reaching to help catch him and nearly spilling the drinks but he doesn't seem to need the help luckily.] Real smooth. You're lucky you're cute, babe.

[Faith winks, enjoying teasing him further, as they start to come up on the park.]

Sorry.

[ He's not really apologizing for anything, it's just kind of an all-purpose Canadian reflex in the face of being flustered. ]

... shall we go sit by the fish pond?

Sounds great. And I can feed some of my crust to the fish.

[Faith tugs him along to find a spot on the grass to sit, settling the drinks into the ground and leaning plopping down and patting the grass beside her.]

Other than the new Submissive, how's everything else? Good?

I can't complain, really. I know it's been quite awhile, but I'm still not used to the novelty of having a place a little ways out of the city. I'm almost embarrassed by what a difference it makes.

[ Meaning, although he would not and cannot admit that he was secretly completely miserable before, he isn't anymore. ]

Your place is very nice. I'm a ways off from getting a house. Although I don't hate my apartment. Whether I'm there or in a house, I'd still be in this city.

[That wouldn't change regardless of location. She grabs her sandwich and starts to unwrap it.]

I was actually thinking I might try to start a business. Start something from the ground up.

[ Fraser cocks his head in polite but very genuine interest. ]

Really? What sort of business did you have in mind?

I guess it would just be another club, kinda. Which I guess it's boring, maybe? [She tucks a strand of hair behind her ear.] I know there's a bunch already. But it would be a space for open mics for any bands, musicians, anyone to play or whatever. And there'd be a dance floor.

[Faith loved dancing she there would have to be.] I just want a simple place. Nothing fancy. I found an abandoned building in the down. Thought I might buy it.

[She shifts awkwardly.] And I want to give my sub, Dinah, a place to sing. Was thinking I might surprise her with it when I got it done.

I don't think it sounds boring. It sounds like something that would fill a particular niche.

[ The smile he gives her when she mentions Dinah is soft, and maybe a little curious. ]

Dinah... I think we've met, briefly, at one of Huaisang's parties. You must be very fond of her.

[Now it's Faith's turn to be the blushing one where it was usually Benton, ducking her head.] Yeah, pretty fond. This place has... not been kind to her.

[Not to anyone, really, but she's had a particularly bad time of it in Faith's estimation. She grabs her tea, takes a sip, and bumps him with her shoulder.] Pretty fond of you too for the record.

[As much as could allow herself to be in this place. With Dinah at least it was free of concerns of who might see.]

The feeling is mutual, I assure you.

[ He nudges into that shoulder bump, a normal friendly gesture for any watching eyes, even if the intent behind it is more. ]

But I'm glad she's found her way to you, in that case. You can be kind to her even if circumstance is not.

Good. I don't let just anyone make me pancakes, after all.

[Mainly because she didn't spend the night with most people, which is a far more meaningful thing than the pancakes themselves.]

I'm glad too. Although it drives me a little crazy that I can't protect her from everything, you know?

Yes, I understand perfectly. So often in Duplicity, there are forces that simply can't be fought, or dealt with in any lasting way. If I'm honest, I find it incredibly frustrating, too.

[ Dief is trying to steal his sandwich, so he starts to eat it out of self preservation. ]

[Faith is already pulling some meat off her sandwich to toss to Diefenbaker.]

I fucking hate it, you know? Before here, I'd only been out of prison-- well, okay-- escaped from prison, for a couple of months? I wanted to really be what I was supposed to be. What I'd failed to be. A hero, I guess? To help people. And here? It feels like a can't do a damn thing for anyone that really matters.

[Like when she'd tried to stop Hellboy only to nearly get herself killed.]

But I'm really trying to do what I can.

It's all any of us can do.

[ The way he says it is halfway between consolation and regret. It doesn't feel remotely adequate to him, either. ]

I do believe you are helping people here, though. You've certainly helped me.

[Faith blinks up from her sandwich as she's handing a piece of meat to Dief.] I have?

Very much so, yes.

[ This is probably the point at which a normal person would explain in what way Faith has been helpful, but it doesn't occur to Fraser. ]

[Faith chews, face a bit scrunched up. Then she swallows.] Okay... care to share with the rest of the class on how?

Ah. Well.

... did I tell you that, before Duplicity, I'd only ever been with one person?

I figured it probably wasn't many. Since you still say 'been with' as opposed to just calling it 'screwing'.

[It's a light tease, smiling at him over her sandwich as she takes another bite.]

I don't just mean the physical aspect, but emotionally, as well. But then I arrested her.

[ He says it very bluntly, as much to give Faith a chance to tell him to shut up and fuck off as anything. ]

[Faith doesn't tell him to fuck off, but there is a bit of fidgetting happening and suddenly her sandwich seems like the most interesting thing on the planet with the way she's staring at it.

'Emotionally'. She's not really expressed fully her feelings for Benton. But it's no different than it had been for Dinah, saying it out loud is hard. She'd rather face a thousand demons. It would never not feel risky, like she's calling disaster to her door.]

Yeah? What'd she do?

[ He shrugs. ]

She robbed a bank in Alaska and then fled across the border.

I should have let her go.

Maybe, but then you wouldn't be you. Would you? [Faith sets down her sandwich to just listen.]

That's what Andy said when I told him. I hope it's not true. I would like to think I'm not so entirely barren of spirit that it is simply my inescapable nature to follow a perhaps misplaced sense of duty above all else.

[Faith is quiet, thinking.] I can't pretend I wouldn't have pissed if I were her. If Angel hadn't given me the choice to turn myself in and had turned me in against my will...? I would never have forgiven him.

But if you had let her go. What then? Do you think it would have made things better?

I have absolutely no idea.

Okay, so hypothetical. Say we happened to be back home. In your time. Your reality. I did all the things that I did. [She averts her eyes a bit, speaking so openly about her past is still hard.] I killed two people. Hurt a lot more. But you know me like you know me now.

I am a fugitive. I broke out of prison. Sure, it was to help Angel and help avert two apocalypses. But still. I should have been there for at least twenty more odd years. Would you turn me in?

[She's not entirely sure what answer she wants here.]

I really think averting apocalypses should count as something rather more than community service.

[ He mutters that almost under his breath. He can't help it. But he also shakes his head. ]

No, I doubt I would. Of course part of me would feel duty bound by the law, but— I would not truly feel it just to do so.

Besides, I've already made that mistake.

I did help someone try to start an apocalypse at the start of my downward spiral, so... there's that.

[It's not that she wants to downplay her good deeds per se, but she wants him to know. Wants him to see the ugly bits of her too. Faith reaches out to take his hand not occupied by a sandwich, squeezing it. What she really wants to do is lean over and kiss him, but she's able to restrain herself.]

I distracted you from the point you were trying to make though. About me helping you?

Oh. Yes.

... well, I was quite young when I met Victoria. And I wasn't expecting it at all when she found me again, ten years later. She hated me for what I had done, as you can imagine, but I— we became involved again. It didn't end well. That time I let her go. Well... I was going to run away with her, actually, despite the fact that she had just committed murder. And shot Dief. And a number of other crimes. I was going to go with her, and instead my best friend shot me off the side of a moving train.

Anyway, I'm sorry for the long-winded story, but the point I'm trying to make about all this is that that had been my sole experience with love. And with sex. Before I came here.

[That's a lot to take in. Mostly the bits about shooting Dief and Fraser getting shot by his friend she's about to open her mouth to ask more questions when she catches the rest of what he's saying.

Is he saying what she thinks he's saying?]

Before here, I... had plenty of sex. But I can't say that I ever loved anyone. Not really. I was afraid of it. Of getting hurt. Seemed easier not to try.

I can understand that. The desire to protect yourself—to avoid rejection.

[ That was never exactly his problem, but it makes sense to him. ]

Yeah. And I watched my mother go from guy to guy, loser after loser. Some who stole from her. Some who did worse. [She shakes her head, as though trying to shake the memories.] Just didn't want to end up like that. Not that my way was much better.

[She chews a moment on the inside of her lip, looking at him out of the corner of her eye.]

Just now. Were you saying... that you... love me?

Oh. Ah.

[ He did kind of slide that in there, didn't he? He can feel himself blushing, but he nods vigorously while he's trying to gather his thoughts, determined not to leave Faith in any suspense or doubt. ]

Yes. I mean— I was trying to say something else, as well, and I'll get to that, but. I do, yes.

[It's good she doesn't leave her wondering long, especially after what she's just said, but now she's blinking back like an idiot. She swallows a bit trying to find the words. She looks to Dief for a moment like he's somehow gonna help her find them. But then she finally looks back.]

I... feel the same way. [Even if she's no idea how to navigate these feelings in a place like this. Especially when she has them for multiple people.]

[ Fraser lights up helplessly. He barely stops himself from saying, "Really?" It would be unbecoming. ]

Ah.

Thank you.

[Any tension she's got in her dies at that reaction and she snorts.]

God, you're such a dork. [It's part of why she loves him, honestly.]

Sorry.

[ He's not actually sorry, and doesn't sound it. He still can't wipe the smile off his face. ]

Um. What were we talking about?

[She shrugs, smiling too.] I have no idea. You had more you wanted to tell me about how I helped you? I think. I'm not sure where you were going with it.

[Faith had gotten more than a little distracted herself, obviously.]

Ah. Yes. That's right. I'm sorry for being so long-winded about it.

[ It seemed important to give all the background, but now he's a bit embarrassed. He pauses to take a sip of tea and eat some sandwich, mostly to compose himself. It's extremely difficult not to kiss Faith right now. ]

[Faith is barely restraining herself from kissing him, herself. The possibility of giving Benton a citation is the only thing that keeps her from it. If it was just risking herself, she wouldn't have hesitated. Damn the rules.]

That's okay. I'll forgive you. But just this once. Next time I'll have to give you a spanking. [She laughs, reaching for her tea to distract herself away from thoughts of making out with him in the middle of the public park.]

Oh, dear.

[ Faith, please, he'll die. However, he takes another judicious sip of his tea and pulls himself together. ]

... anyway, what I was trying to say is that you've helped me simply by being yourself. I have—difficulty, with women. It's easier with men, somehow... and even then, you can ask Andy, I still tend to freeze up. But for all my awkwardness, you—I find myself at ease around you. You're— I know I can trust you.

I feel safe, I suppose, with you. To be honest, not only are you the first woman I've fallen for since then, but you're also the first woman I've— well, slept with, whose presence didn't send me into an immediate dissociative episode afterwards.

So, um. Thank you. I don't—I'm sure I'm not expressing myself terribly well.

[Faith's gaze is searching, uncertain, but hopeful too. She feels like something is trying to claw out her insides.]

Y-You're expressing yourself just fine. [She manages, nearly forgetting about her food entirely. So hopefully Dief didn't take advantage.] Back home... most people don't... I don't know if I can say the trust me. Maybe Angel. He's here now you know. Angel. But he doesn't remember any of him helping me. Just me trying to kill him. [That hurts too. It feels like losing her best friend.] They all think I'm going to fuck up again. They don't say that, but I can tell just by the way they look at me.

And maybe sometimes, I think I'm going to screw it all up too. [She sniffs, trying to push down the tears that are threatening.]

I feel safe with you too. When I got hurt. I was so happy to see you. Like, somehow I knew everything would just be alright.

[ Everything he might say seems inadequate, but that's fine. He doesn't have to say anything at all. Instead, he reaches for her hand, finding it and holding it firmly in his. There's something of fairy tales about the gesture—not in a romantic, happily ever after sense, but something both older and more innocent. Like a pact between children, holding hands before going into the dark woods.

Also, Dief totally does steal both of their sandwiches. ]

hey
can i ask u something

only one way to find out.
shoot.

can i put you in my contract as the person who gets my stuff if I disappear?

im touched but
should i be worried?

no no im good
just, i have a sub now so
i wanna make sure if he, you know, opens a store or gets his own place or w/e
and something happens to me
it goes to u
so he can keep it without a hassle
u get me?

you got it then.
i'll make sure they'll be covered.
what's his name, this sub?

Ben Mason
thx i owe you one

you got it.
can i do the same in reverse?
if i go you get my shit and take care of my sub Dinah?

[It's clear she's talking to her from one of the shitty apartments in the Down. Rick is out, so this feels a little less embarrassing, but not much. As soon as she starts talking, it's very fast, almost run together fast but still intelligible.]

Hey, so don't hang up on me, although I wouldn't blame you if you did. That night at the bar I wasn't at all myself. Fucking city had me convinced I'm like...the biggest prude in the whole world, and I'm the exact opposite of that.

You were fucking luscious in those pants, and this has been haunting me ever since I came out of it, but I was so damned embarrassed...

[She finally pauses for a breath.]

Anyway, hi, I'm Cinder, and I'd love to meet you as the real me. I promise I'm not some rude choad.

[Give her a minute to translate what the hell she's saying, blinking at the fast panicked talking. Faith recognizes her of course, she's hard to miss and their first meeting had been hard to forget.]

I know my ass looked choice in those pants. If anything... it was an interesting feeling being rejected like that. [It didn't feel good, but it did feel novel.] Most people don't say no to me.

We can meet if you like. I am happy to hear you're not a rude choad. You'd have had a rough ass go of it in this place if you were like that all the time. And with tits like that it would have been a fucking shame too.

I bet they don't.

[She grins, glad that it's easy enough to clear up such a shitty misunderstanding relatively easily. At least she hadn't swung at her or anything. Knowing her, it could've gone either way.]

Seriously. Like...I do know some people here like that, and they are holes of the ass. Big time.

[She makes a show of dragging down her tank and giving a jiggle.]

Right? Evidence that some god somewhere had a shitty sense of humor. Where would you like to meet? Big shocker, I got nothing going on right now.

Really don't know how someone like that survives in this place. Don't think a stick up their ass qualifies for their quota.

[Faith thinks about it.] How about Wild Pony?

[Possibly so she can encourage Cinder onto the mechanical bull because that would be one hell of a show.]

I have no idea where that is, but I love the name, so sold.

Ha! I said something like that to some dude my first time around who tried to lecture me about showing cleavage. Asked him if the stick in his ass was for quota.

Guess great minds think alike, huh?

They sure do. Shit, I can't wait!

((OOC: wanna take this to a log?))

[[ooc: moved here!]]

Hi Faith. It's Bela. One of Dinah's friends?

Do you remember several months ago when we texted about a threesome? Well, I'm cashing in on that now.

Except you'll need to give me a week as I'm in jail.

Of course I remember. Not the kind of thing you forget.
Jail? Oooh, bad girl. I like it.
What'd you do?

Poked around somewhere I shouldn't have. Gained myself two weeks in jail so at least I'm half-way there now.

I'd rather focus on the positive. Like you and Dinah.

Read you loud and clear.
So you wanna just come over to our place once you're out?
Or would you like your place better?

I think it would be easier for me to come to your place.

What do you like to drink? I'm happy to bring something over.

I'll never say no to free liquor. I like something strong. Bourbon, whiskey, scotch even.

Should I tell Dinah or did you want to reach out?

Something strong. Got it.

You can tell Dinah. I haven't even mentioned anything about being in jail so you can tell her that too.

Faith? I've kinda got something to tell ya...

[There's a beat, and Dinah swallows hard.]

Something happened my first night at Scratch. Something bad.

[Faith can feel her stomach dropping.]

What? What happened?

I made a bet. With Roman... and I lost. It was only stripping. Loser loses their clothes. No biggie, right?

[She rushes to add the last few sentences. It shouldn't have been a big deal.]

Except... Fuck. Faith. And it wasn't Vic's fault, right? I mean, if anything, it was probably mine. If I'd just done it - but I had to open my damn mouth. I am sorry. I am so, so sorry, Faith.

Why would you even talk to-- [She curses under her breath, not wanting the yell. That's not what's important right now. Although Faith is already shaking with rage on Dinah's behalf.]

What did Roman do? Where are you?

He sat down next to me. [Dinah almost yells down the phone. She didn't mean to. She's just - and if it comes out and Faith hasn't heard it from her? Not good. She repeats herself, more quietly, more controlled.]

I was gambling. Poker - between sets, right? And he sat down next to me. We played a hand and I won. Obviously, he was pretty mad so he said some shit about women or submissives or - I dont remember now - but we ended up betting again. Loser strips. And I lost. Not the worst thing, right? Except fucking Zsasz shows up and actually pulls my damn dress back up and that really pissed off Roman and he made fucking Zsasz bet - me and Vic go free, or Roman fucks me on the poker table.

[There's a beat.] I'm at my place in the down. Door's open if you wanna talk. I get it if youre mad at me though.

That doesn't mean you have to agree to his bets! He's not your Dom! [Faith reasons her voice shaking in her frustration and fear. She wants to keep Dinah safe, but it seems like maybe it's impossible to do.]

I'm upset but that doesn't mean I don't want to see you. I love you. [Her breath catches.] Did he... did you lose the last bet?

He gets in my head. I don't know how he fucking does it.

[Through a decade and more of conditioning that makes her susceptible to his games. He knows her buttons, what to push, probably better than anyone. Which is really unfortunate when his aim is apparently to torment her forever.]

You gotta know I love you, right? You know I love you? More than anything? God, Faith, I love you.

[Dinah didn't answer the question. That seems to be answer enough. Faith's already grabbing her keeps and heading out the door so Dinah will hear her rustling around and a door opening and closing and soon after that the sounds of the open air and hustle and bustle of the city.]

I love you too, Dinah. But you scare me. All this shit with Roman and Victor. I want to help you. If walking down to Roman's place and ripping his fucking head off with my bare hands would help you, I'd do it! [Despite trying not to be that kind of person anymore. She doesn't want to be a murderer. But she will.]

It's Roman. Victor's fine. I'm fine. I mean - I swear, I'm fine. I just - I don't want you to be mad at me.

[Maybe Faith can hear footsteps? That'd be Dinah pacing her tiny room back and forth, as she tries to control her emotions.]

I wish we could fucking rip his head off. I've just yelled at him over text. I just - he's coming for me.

Except Roman and Victor have a permanent contract. So there's no separating them is there...?

[Plus he helped kill Dinah and hurt her too before apparently getting better. So that doesn't make her think of him all that fondly. She knows Dinah cares for him, but Faith's never even seen him so it's hard to form much of an opinion beyond that.]

Coming for you now? What do you mean coming for you? [And now she's moving a hell of a lot faster to elevators.]

Surely there must be a way? Like, if Roman's abusing him - and fuck, he fucking waterboarded the guy, Faith. Zsasz is scared.

[She shakes her head, not that Faith can see.] Like, he's not gonna stop. He's said. Every network post. Every club night I do. Everywhere I go. Fuck - Faith - your club. Faith, I can't - he'll shit all over it. I can't sing there. I can't do - fuck. I can't ruin it. He thinks I belong to him - he thinks - he thinks that I've betrayed him. It's why he keeps going and gets in my head and fucks me the hell up.

I don't know, Di. I've never looked into how it can be done. If Victor can get out of his contract somehow, I'll fucking sign him. I just don't know if he can?

[Even if Faith didn't trust him, really. It would help Dinah though. That's the important thing. She's still making her way quickly to the elevator even if Roman's not about to bust down her door.]

I know he's dangerous. But you also give him more power than he actually has Dinah. Just because he's a Dominant doesn't mean he can do whatever he likes to you. He steps one foot into our place, I'll toss him out on his ass myself. He's not welcome. And every person working for us will know it too. You don't belong to anyone. Okay? He comes into your network post. You ignore him. Or mock him. But just don't let him think he's actually getting to you. Even if he is. And if he tries to come for you or me. He doesn't know who the fuck he's dealing with. Okay? We'll fuck him up together. And if that means we get a citation. We get a citation and then fuck him up again when we get out. As many times as it takes for him to stop. I'm not fucking playing.

[She's practically seething now. But takes a few deep breaths.] Sit tight, babe. I'll be there soon. About to head into the elevator so I might lose you.

It does though. One word from him and the Sin Guards are there to fucking arrest me. Again. They listen to him, even against you. I dunno what the hell Roman's got on them, but he's got something.

[Dinah sounds so frustrated.]

I know I don't belong to him. I know that. I fucking yelled at him over text. But... I'd rather you hear it from me.

[It's nice that Faith's this upset. Well, no, it's fucking terrible. But nice that she cares this much? Cares enough to get citations. Dinah nods to herself. She's gonna do it. She's gonna broach the subject of murdering Roman.]

Edited 2022-06-30 22:14 (UTC)

[Faith does lose her connection when she gets in the elevator. She doesn't call back, instead, she tucks her phone into her pocket and rushes toward the apartments in the Down toward Dinah's place. She really should insist that Dinah stay with her.

It would at least make Faith feel better having her closer. Finally, she gets there in the shithole Down apartments and she's knocking at her door.] Dinah? It's me.

[Dinah lets her in. For a second, she stares awkwardly, before just putting her arms around Faith.]

I'm so sorry. I didn't mean to like... cheat. I didn't mean for it to happen with Roman. Either of them. I am so sorry.

[Faith isn't entirely sure how she feels. There is a tinge of irritation at Dinah for letting herself listen to a damn thing Roman tried to coax her into, but more she's upset at him than her. ]

Cheat? It's not that. I just... I'm worried about you, okay? [She pulls back to look at Dinah's face searching.] You didn't want him to do what he did. [Faith doesn't see it as much different than a rape, regardless if it was a 'bet'.]

[Dinah's face is falling, fast. She knows she's fucked up. She knows she's ruining everything with Faith.]

It was a bet. I mean - no. No, I didn't want it. No, it had got way out of hand. But it was a bet, Faith. A bet I agreed to. [Kind of]

I am so, so sorry. I - FUCK I'm sorry.

You don't need to apologize to me. I'm not mad because this is some kind of betrayal to me! I'm mad because I wish this fucker would leave you the hell alone.

[Part of her does think that Dinah really needs to learn to stand up for herself. But that doesn't make Roman any less of a piece of shit.]

What do you need from me? And I'm telling you that if I ever see Roman in person, I may not be able to stop myself from breaking every bone in his body...

Don't you get it? Roman is never going to leave me alone. I could be on top of a mountain or at the bottom of the ocean and he'd be there behind me. Until I fucking lock myself back up in his damn cage, he's never gonna go away. Never, Faith. And -

[She hates herself for saying it. She hates him for forcing them into this situation]

Even if we break every damn bone - even if we kill him - he comes back. This damn city loves him. Fucking bastard. But - Faith, and I swear to god that I love you - but if you wanna be with me, you gotta accept he's fucking there too.

[She's yelling though it's out of frustration rather than anger. After a beat, she adds,]

I'm sorry. I'm so sorry.

[Faith can feel her own rage building, but she's never going to direct it at Dinah. Never again. She wants to keep what she has with her. It's one of the few things in this fucking place that makes sense.]

Then why'd you even tell me it happened? It's not like I can stop myself from being upset about what he did. [Part of her wonders if Dinah can't stop herself from being around the man, either. Like some awful attraction.] Am I supposed to just not care?

Because I LOVE you. And if you found out and I hadn’t told you? It’s even worse right? Faith, I’m just so sorry. Sorry it’s happened. Just sorry for everything. I’m sorry for telling you. I’m just -

[Dinah shrugs and almost collapses onto her bed. Her voice had been getting dangerously high but as defeat steals into her posture, the rattling objects still.]

I love you so god-damn much, Faith. I don’t wanna hurt you. You’re the best thing in my life. I don’t wanna hurt you.

I love you too, Di... it just... it hurts me when you're hurting.

[She follows Dinah to the bed, sitting beside her.]

I want to help you. Somehow. I just... I don't know how. And it sounds like you're asking me to do nothing at all. To just watch as he continues to do things like this to you over and over again.

What the fuck else can we do? I've tried to fight. I've tried to stay away. They don't work. I don't know what else to do except wait for him. Or go back? He'll back off if I lock the cage again.

the whole insincerity thing has the network going wild, so who the fuck knows when or if this will get to the intended recipient

but this is andy young and i wanna know when ur birthday is thx

this is faith.
i the one you meant to reach?

it's Dec 30th...? why?

andy jr told me like 2 days ago that it's his bday on the third, and i figured i should maybe start a calendar

if we're still stuck here by then we're gonna throw a little party at the camp

that mean i'm invited?
should i get a gift?
what kind of things does he like?

you're absolutely invited, and he likes teen stuff. if u got any media from your world, he'd love that. he's been trying to collect music and movies that aren't the local porno versions.

[ The Monday after they return from Insincerity, Faith gets a text from Kazu with an image attached. ]

Faith? I'm sure you'd rather not, but I really want to speak with you. Sooner rather than later.

Are you hungry?

If I'm uninvited to your party, that's okay.
I understand.
Congratulations though.

I'm not hungry. I think if I ate right now I'd puke.

It's not exactly a party and congratulations aren't in order yet, but that explanation isn't important right now. You're not uninvited.

Well, so much for that bribe. Can I come over?

I'm not at my apartment.
I'm at the Back Door.
My open mic bar. On the roof.
There's a door in the back with a set of stairs. It's unlocked.

Okay. I actually wanted to ask you if just playing an instrument would be welcome there, but that's also really not important right now.

I'll see you shortly.

[ He saw the call-out post. ]

Hey, you want some company? Talking optional, drinking also optional, torn on whether chocolate and snuggies should be mandatory.

(a snuggie is a blanket with sleeves)

Can I just come over there?
I haven't been back to my apartment.

[And she doesn't want to go back, on the off chance Buffy will be waiting. Maybe it's cowardly to just avoid her, but she doesn't really care right now.]

Yeah, just come over. I got snuggies at home.

okay. i'll be there in a few.

[Faith heads right there. Andy and Benton's place feels like one of the few safe spaces she has right now, so it's not a hard decision to go. When she arrives she comes with a bottle of bourbon in hand, giving the front door a tentative knock.

When he answers, Andy will find Faith, who looks like absolute hell. She's clearly been crying, but's trying to put on a brave face like she hasn't been at all.]

[ Andy's not all that well-informed on the ongoings of Faith's world. He's gathered the basics, though, chosen monster hunters, trained since either childhood or teenagehood. and he figures that can't possibly be a healthy and wholesome environment for a kid.

So while he figures the kid on the network isn't lying about what happened back home, he's absolutely certain Faith's working on being better. He's a big fan of self-improvement.

Which is why it's very easy for him to open the door and immediately move to pull her into a hug. ]

[Fuck.

That sets out a floodgate of tears she'd thought she'd be able to steel herself from. The moment his arm is around her she lets out a shaky sob.]

I did e-everything she says I did... but it's been years. I... I went to prison... I...

[She doesn't even know what else to say.]

[ He was prepared for tears, and he's very good at hugs. He wraps both arms around her firmly. ]

Hey, she has every right to be angry, and you have every right to be hurt. This isn't fair for either of you.

[ People deserve the opportunity to learn and be better and not be haunted forever by the fuck-ups they did at 17. Andy will tell Faith that, once they're inside and have chocolate and snuggies. ]

I'm sorry about all of this. I got you, and Ben's got you, and you're always welcome here.

[She finally manages to collect herself enough to pull back from him so that can get inside and shut the door behind her. Faith wipes at her face with the back of her hand.]

Thank you. I don't deserve it, but thank you... [She feels like she deserves what Buffy is lobbing at her. Not kindness.] You said something about snuggies?

Hey, you deserve good things. Including hugs and snuggies.

[ He has Many Snuggies because they can double up as wizard robes and Andy's a huge nerd. He gets her one and smiles at her. ]

I haven't gotten Ben to wear one yet.

What? Why not?

[Talking and Benton is at least a good way to distract her. She sets the bottle of booze she brought on the coffee table and puts it on, one arm at a time. She looks ridiculous.]

Is he just afraid to look this cool?

[ Andy puts on a pink one because he can't let Faith look that cool by herself. ]

He runs warm, so I haven't found an excuse yet. Maybe it'll freeze this winter and there'll be yeti attacks and he'll have to wear one. For protection.

[She's smiling for the moment, but it doesn't entirely reach her reddened eyes. Moving, Faith sets herself down on the couch.]

That or you could just break the furnace in the winter? Course, then he'd probably just fix it before you could even bring out the snuggies. So maybe better to wish for the yeti thing.

I'm hoping for the freezing cabin with one blanket scenario.

[ Look, Andy can do distraction. ]

Do you want some tea or do I bring you your booze back?

Unless the tea is a Long Island. I'll stick with the bottle of booze.

[She curls her legs underneath her.]

[ Andy gets up to grab the bottle, then comes back to sit next to her. ]

You wanna talk about, well, everything? No pressure though, we got a little projector, I can make popcorn and put on a movie, and when Ben gets home we can just bask in his soothing Canadianess.

[She takes the bottle taking a sip, shifting to let him on the couch beside her.] We can talk some... but the rest sounds amazing, to be honest.

Everything she said. I did. I killed people. Tried to kill Angel, her Ex. Stole her body. Did a lot of shit she didn't even say. I was a mess. But at a certain point. I just wanted it to be over. [Another sip.] Tried to get Angel to kill me at the end. And he wouldn't do it. He saved my life. And I turned myself into the cops. Got twenty-five to life.

I already told Ben about this. [So it's not going to be a shock.]

[ Andy read the post, and he heard Faith when she came in, so he's not shocked either. ]

How old were you? Eighteen?

[ It seems clear to him that the monster-slaying gig is a thing teenagers are apparently tasked with, which sounds insane to him, but he also knows Faith has superpowers. So maybe superpowers can only be acquired when you're young or something. ]

Eighteen when it started. Eight months of that in the coma Buffy put me in. Nineteen when I went to prison. Feels like lifetimes ago. But it's only been four years.

[She sips from the bottle, offering it out to him if he wants it.] I'm different now. Or trying to be. Buffy doesn't want to hear that though, I know. But it's fresh for her. I've already been through all this with her. Back home. And before I showed up here we were fighting together again. On the same side. Not without butting heads, though.

[They may never get along entirely and that idea does hurt. And she knows she's no one to blame but herself about that.]

[ He takes a sip too, then hands it back. ]

You were a kid. She's a kid right now, even people who aren't tasked with the fate of the world change a lot from nineteen to twenty-three.

Just give her space, and if you need a middle man, I'm not terrible at conflict de-escalation.

[ This isn't the kind of conflict he was ever trained to de-escalate, but he knows anger and he's sturdy. ]

And hey, if she remembered this, maybe she'll catch up with you eventually.

I also had a lot of time to think... and a lot of correctional counseling.

[Prison hadn't been a vacation. It had been hard. But she'd tried to turn it into an opportunity.]

Thanks for the offer. I don't know that I want that. Every person on there defending me? Somehow just made me feel worse. I'm sure at some point we'll have it out. Or... I was thinking I might just let her beat my ass. Not my best plan. Still workshopping it.

[She moves closer to him, provided he'll allow it, to rest her head on his shoulder. Having someone close helps.]

She didn't gain enough time for that. I think she only got about a year. Right before I went to prison. And I also didn't tell her here. We've been here months and I never told her how things went wrong. She still thought of me as a friend. As a sister Slayer. I selfishly wanted her to be my friend again... so that's yet another reason for her to hate me.

[ It's very easy for Andy to just wrap an arm around her and let her lean in. Really, all he needed to know about Faith to trust her implicitly is that she's with Ben, that's the bottom line. She trusts Ben, Ben trusts her, so Andy's all for doing his best. ]

It's not like meeting a younger version of someone who's your friend now but you hurt before is a thing people are taught how to deal with. Maybe you should've told her, but you couldn't have known if she'd remember, or how much she'd remember, or even if her version of you was actually you.

You didn't want to hurt her. And I think that makes a lot of sense, you can take responsibility for the hurt you caused before, but the hurt going on right now isn't on you.

There's so much that's happened between where she is and where I am now. Things that don't even have to do with the two of us. Things I didn't tell her either. Things that will hurt her to know. I couldn't tell her those things either and I wasn't sure I should.

[How did one tell someone that their mother died? Or that they died too and got resurrected? That had been even harder to approach.]

Yeah... I don't know.

[ He really has no idea. Ben's from the past, but Andy doesn't know him, he can just tell him to buy some Amazon stock. ]

If your situations were reversed, if she was the one from the future, what would you want?

[She stays there in quiet contemplation for a moment to really think about it.] I mean, I can't know for sure but I don't think I'd have wanted her to tell me anything...?

I don't think I'd like to know either, but if I knew there was something to know, I'd lose my entire mind until I knew it. It's a tricky situation, and you can only do your best with the information available to you.

And it sounds like you did, so I don't think there's anything to beat yourself up about.

[ He doesn't know everything, but he does believe Faith did the best she could, and possibly that not telling Buffy was harder for her than it would've been to spill everything. ]

Also, just— as a future thing from someone who is relatively well-versed in guilt. The option that makes you feel worse isn't always the best option, and you're allowed to get a sounding board. Ben's a good one.

Easier said than done. I've beat myself up for so long, that I'm an a real pro at it.

[She wraps moves closer wrapping a Snuggied arm around Andy's waist, staring out a far window where she can see the woods that are around the house.]

I dunno. You're being a pretty good sounding board yourself. Don't sell yourself short. [Not that she doesn't already plan to talk with Benton about this.] I am glad I told Benton what I did before all of this came out. So he didn't learn about it from Buffy...

[She would have worried herself sick that he would have rejected her for it. Not that Fraser was the type to do that out of hand, the fear would be there still.]

I think Ben would've been fine. I mean, I don't think you owe anyone your background, and I don't think he'd have felt entitled to the whole thing, even if he'd learned about it from that post.

[ Andy didn't know any of it. And it's not that he doubted Buffy's account— he didn't because Faith's the sort of person who'd have yelled bullshit if it had been bullshit, but also Duplicity gives people plenty of opportunity to be assholes while providing plausible deniability, and Faith hasn't taken any of them.

So while Buffy told the truth about what happened, she was obviously wrong about who Faith is now. ]

That said, Ben values honesty, and he's the most trustworthy guy I know, plus, it's nicer to let people in, I think. Give someone the means to hurt you and knowing they won't.

[She ducks her head, tugging her snuggie closer and clutching the bottle.]

Back home. I don't... I don't have many people. Really only one. The one who helped me crawl my way back. Angel. I didn't let anyone else in. Always seemed easier at the time, but then I just ended up being alone.

I still expect people to leave me or betray me. For most of my life, it's been one or the other, yanno?

[She takes a long swig from the bottle.]

That's really been the only good thing about this place. I have people. People that checked on me after this. Ben, you, Dinah, people I barely even know too...

[It means more than she can really express.]

Trusting people is terrifying, even when you're a sheltered guy who's never seriously been hurt.

[ He's speaking about himself. Andy'll let almost anyone go at him with a riding crop, but back home, his secrets are reserved for a handful of people. ]

It's a learning process, and there's always this awareness that on paper, trust is a bad call. You're giving someone your kryptonite and hoping they won't use it against you.

It's not like keeping myself locked away was really helping me. Pushing people away is what led me to betray Buffy. Among other things. That doesn't mean it's not still scary. I just know now that the alternative is worse...

[She wraps her snuggie tighter around her.]

I just... I hope she doesn't hate me forever.

She didn't before, right? So I think there's a good chance that'll remain consistent.

[ Andy squeezes her tightly for a moment, before loosening his hold a little. ]

Just give her time and space.

Come to the beach. I'm waiting for you. There's booze.

And me

Please come

[She doesn't answer, but she does come. Faith looks like hell when she approaches their spot on the beach. She's been crying and drinking. And still drinking, if the opened bottle of whiskey in her hand is any indication.

Faith doesn't say anything at first, she just sits down next to Dinah and sets the bottle in the sand between them. Finally, though she does manage a few words.]

Please don't fight her.

I can’t fight her. Super strength, remember?

[Dinah sounds flat. Her decision to stick with Faith has already had consequences- a network attack that’s left her rattled. But it’s nothing, nothing compared to what Faith’s going through.]

Faith? I love you. Nothings changed. I love you. You’re a good person.

You told her to watch her back.

[She'd been reading. It's touching but also hurts at the same time.]

If she wants to come beat my ass. I think I'll just let her.

[Faith isn't mad at Buffy for that post. She'd more or less expected it. She reaches out to take one of Dinah's hands.]

I love you too, Di. I saw... I saw Roman on there too. And that Hope girl whoever she was. I was about to say something but then you messaged me first.

Doesn't mean I'm gonna fight her openly. There are other ways to fight. Maybe cause her ears to bleed a little?

[Dinah definitely looks alarmed at Faith's suggestion.]

Don't you fucking dare sit back and take it. Look at me. Yeah, you've fucked up, Faith. When you were younger. When you were a kid. But you were under so much pressure. You were tormented and fucking gaslighted by some guy - the first guy who had ever paid you attention, right?

[She reaches out to smooth some hair out of Faith's face but Dinah's hand lingers there]

You're a good person, Faith. A good person forced into a shitty situation and forced to compare yourself to Buffy. You fucked up. But Faith, you've paid for it and she had no damn right to shout your life over the system.

[She goes to kiss Faith.]

Please fight. Because I'm fighting for you, just like you've fought for me with Roman.

[She sighs] D'you see what I mean, though? Always there, always fucking harassing me. And Hope? Don't go near her. She's a vampire but she can do all this shit to your mind. I quit a job she gave me because I was getting fucking harassed for taking it. She's not let it go yet. It doesn't matter. I can deal with them idiots. But let me help you deal with yours.

[Tears start anew as she meets Dinah's eyes, kissing her back, then resting her hand on Dinah's shoulder when she pulls back.]

I don't want you to hurt her. Or for her to hurt you. [Faith wipes at her face with her free hand to try and clear the tears.] It's been years for me, but not for her. How many times did you call out Roman on the network? She's feeling the same way. Maybe I didn't do nearly as much hideous shit as he did... still, I don't blame her. I knew she'd do it. I knew the moment she went into that coma.

[How many times had she thought about confessing to Buffy before she remembered and chickened out? She'd lost count.]

You can fight for me. But please try to just do it with words. Please? I care about her, even if she hates me right now.

I called out Roman when he did something here. When he carved up my ass or tried to kill me. I didn't call him out for the shit he did to me back home. It's different.

[Dinah sighs.]

I didn't know she didn't know. Faith, I wish you'd told me. I coulda come with you, told her...
But I'm here now to help you deal, any way you want. But I'm not letting you hurt yourself over it. Faith, you're worth way more than who you were.

Is there somewhere we can meet? I want to talk. Just talk. If you think this is a trap, bring a weapon or whatever. I don't care.

[Not that he's expecting this to be anything but awful and uncomfortable. It still needs doing.]

[As though his defending her to Buffy hadn't been confusing enough. Then there's whatever the hell this is.]

Trap's the only thing that would make any sense. And even then not much sense.

[Since Grayson could probably catch her unaware pretty easily if he'd a mind to without the need for cryptic messages.]

Can't just tell me what this is about over the phone?

I can. I'd rather not. If it's what you'd prefer, I will.

[Phones only make awkward things exponentially more awkward.]

[yeah this is just feeling all sorts of odd.]

Fine, shit. Stop acting so weird! It's freaking me out. I'm at my apartment.

I probably won't try and light you on fire unless you give me a reason.

Lucky for me this isn't that kind of...thing, then. I'll be there soon.

[With no promises this won't be weird. Because it already is. He's inwardly cursing this ridiculous arrangement he has made with Dorian. It has led to nothing but awkward encounters and people doing and saying things that make no sense to him in any context.

However, this is about more than that, which is likely why he's more dubious about any sort of success or resolution.

He arrives as comported as ever, onyx tie and kerchief, with a perfunctory knock.]

[Faith really is completely unsure what to expect here. Oddly she believes him that it's not some kind of trap. That doesn't really make her feel better though. The unease on her is probably palpable.

She opens the door, giving him a once-over. He still looked like him, so that hadn't changed. She steps aside still holding the door, giving him a sweeping gesture to come inside.]

Whelp. This oughta be interesting.

[He inclines his head in thanks as he steps through the doorway into the apartment.]

That's one word for it.

[He turns to face her.]

We know more about each other than either of us should or would without the influence of this city. It's how I know what Miss Summers said is wrong, and it's why I believe she'll come around to that understanding in time.

[He pauses, his left eye screwing a little tighter than his right briefly.]

I can't...be the way you punish yourself anymore. That isn't who I am. I'm not saying I've turned over some new leaf, or that I'm secretly a good person. I haven't, and I'm not. I'm just...not that kind of bad. Or rather, I don't want to be, and I finally have some space to think about that. Not using it would be a wasted opportunity.

[Her hand is gripping the doorknob so tightly it's a miracle she doesn't crush it as he speaks. Whatever she suspected he might say, this is not it. She stares at him and is really wishing that she'd insisted on having this conversation over the phone rather than in person as she can also feel her cheeks flushing with the embarrassment.

But she can't refute him, as that's precisely what she's been using him for. As he'd said, he knows her better than she wished he did. When she speaks her voice is taught like a string.]

And what brought this change on? Burning alive? [Because, yeah, she'd seen that particular network post.]

No. Why does everybody think that?

[He resists the urge to rub at the bridge of his nose.]

When I arrived here, I was operating under a certain logic that doesn't apply in this place. Things have happened to make me realize that.

[And... There's the nose rub.]

I was doing the same thing you were. There are better ways to...manage all of that.

[Not that he knows exactly what they are. Knowing what they aren't is the first step.]

[Her arms cross under her chest to keep them staying as fists at her side where they'd been awkwardly clenching.]

Yeah, well. I've never been too good at therapy.

[She looks skeptical about all of this. It seems genuine? Maybe? He wanted to better himself in some small way. Maybe that's a good thing. Yet it makes her feel worse about herself somehow.]

Is that all? If you're finished with this weird breakup, then you can go.

I'm not suggesting therapy. And I'm not...Jesus, it's not a...a breakup.

[There's something stark in the abrupt silence that falls. He should leave. It's the path of least resistance.]

Don't you just...Fuck. What I liked about it was knowing there was no expectation I'd be anything other than brutal and destructive and that's so easy for me to reach.

I saw that mirrored in you, and that you hated it. So it was easy to give it to you. Hate is something. Something real and visceral. Tangible. One of the very few things that still makes me feel alive. Ish.

Is it destruction or nothing? Having that in common? Because there's a wide swath of territory between holding hands and singing...whatever that song is. I don't recall the name. Or beating the shit out of each other and fucking.

So, what? Do you want us to be friends? Fuck buddies?

[She feels like she's going a little crazy, honestly. Faith wants to believe he's trying to be better in some small way because it would make this fucking shitshow of a city a little better. Yet she can't let herself trust this out of hand. She still hates him... or she wants to still hate him because it's easier.]

I need a drink. [Faith gives him a dismissive wave and walks toward her kitchen to go in search of a bottle and a glass.] I saw you defend me to Buffy. Was that part of your 'new leaf'?

I don't know. I've never really done friendship, not with vampires or with kine. And to be honest, unless there's some drug involved, I'm not that into sex.

[That part is more difficult to admit. Is this what embarrassment feels like? It's awful! He would like to be anywhere else, but that would be quitting. He's no quitter. He watches her walk away and stays put, raising his voice to carry.]

No, that was just...the truth. Like I said. You told me a lot about yourself. I know your feelings for her are complicated. Nothing you did here was an effort to hurt her.

She's...incredibly annoying. I do think she'll come around. She doesn't strike me as the grudge forever type, no matter how hard she wants to play it.

[He pauses and glances back toward the door.]

Not that it's my business, but I am a good judge of character. I've had time to observe people. Centuries of time. I've observed you enough to know whoever you were who did those things, you've grown since then.

[Faith looks honestly shocked when he says he's just not that into sex, staring at him just as she'd been about to unscrew her bottle of bourbon. She thinks back on all their encounters so far and it all starts to fall into place. Both times before the last she'd been drugged and he'd bit her. And that last time... well, that hadn't exactly been all that pleasant for either of them.]

Okay. So no to the sex then. Then I'm struggling to understand what you want from me here? And why you even bothered coming to tell me this in person? You said it yourself, you're still you. You're still a dick. So it's not like you want some kinda redemption sponsor.

[She pours herself several fingers worth of bourbon into her glass and tosses back nearly half of it in one go.]

Thanks for the vote of confidence. [Her tone is thick with sarcasm but also tired. She's not slept much at all since Buffy woke up from her coma.] No, I don't think she'll hold a grudge forever. But she's never going to trust me again. Not like she did. Even if I have changed. Some things can't be fixed.

Because that's a stupid conversation to have on the phone. I believed it was something we both deserved to hear and say in person.

[Because in some small ways he's trying to do better by himself, and in the process that sometimes means doing better by others.]

No. She won't trust you like she did. Whatever comes out of it will be more honest. Maybe messier. It usually is when blood is involved.

I'm going to say one more thing, and if you want me to go, I go, and that's it.

[He spreads his hands and drops them by his sides again.]

The fighting's not so bad. It's an outlet. It's not as... It doesn't tear both ways. I wouldn't mind if we still did that. Without the biting. I know what that does to you, and I... It's hard on my control in different ways. Bad ones.

[Faith doesn't answer straight away. It would be easier to reject the offer out of hand. Be completely done with him and having him out of her life entirely. One less complication. But having someone to fight that she could truly let loose on? Anyone else she fought here she'd hold back on at least somewhat. Because she didn't legitimately want to hurt them.]

I could use someone to kick the shit out of from time to time...

[Have someone to let loose her Slayer on since the battles here were few and far between.]

You can always try.

[This part is easier, more familiar, an effortless cockiness he doesn't have to reach for.]

Or I'll find you first. Glad we worked this out. Be seeing you.

[It's a relief, as he has few outlets of that nature himself. More so because the night at the fountain felt...dirty...in a way that left him uncharacteristically uncomfortable and doubting. This is cleaner. He closes the door behind him on his way out.]

we need to talk. usual spot. 6pm. I'll be waiting.

[Dinah's not sure if she's excited or nervous. She feels alive with energy, like every nerve is buzzing inside her. She's not sure if Faith will want to join, or be done with her, but today's the day.

She's waiting on the beach for Faith by a roaring fire. Between the crackle of the kindling and the crashing of wave on rock, Dinah's hoping they won't be overheard. When Faith comes, she pats the log beside her.]

Hold me?

[Faith doesn't respond to the text, she just heads to the beach from the Back Door. She really doesn't know what to expect here, having no knowledge of anything that might have been going on with Dinah that warranted a conversation. So she's nervous as she approaches, trudging through the sand.

When she sees Dinah's face she's a little bit comforted, but still uncertain. All the same, she sits beside her and tugs her into a tight hug, one arm curling around her waist and eyes searching her face.]

What's up, Di? Is something wrong...?

No, but -

[She looks round furtively.] No one followed you, right? [Dinah keeps her voice low.]

I need to talk to you about something serious, but... But, Faith, you could end up in trouble for even knowing about it, if it goes wrong. I mean, it shouldn't, but, you know? There's always the chance. I guess it's if you wanna take it with me.

No, I don't think anybody followed me.

[Of course she'd not been looking for that. She glances from where she came back to Dinah, a frown forming on her lips. She listens, reaching a hand to brush Dinah's cheek. The idea of what consequences there might be if whatever this plan was failed, made her more concerned for Dinah than herself, honestly.

Maybe her being there might help see it actually succeed at whatever it is.]

If I can help I will.

[Dinah looks round again, and then leans into Faith, as if she's going to kiss her cheek. With her lips just millimetres from Faith, Dinah whispers,]

We're making a plan to try to overthrow the government here. Don't ask me details cause I dunno any yet. But we're gonna do it. We're finally gonna win.

[Faith plays along leaning in. She wants to believe Dinah. That they can do something to actually make this place better. It's been too long of her doing absolutely nothing to fight back, maybe this is her chance? Although it sounds like they don't have much of a plan yet. Just the will.

She's had worse odds before.]

Then there ain't no way I'm sitting this out. [Faith actually kisses her then, mumbling against her lips.] I got your back.

Yeah?

[Dinah hugs Faith tight.] I'm hoping it won't come to it, honestly. If I can take 'em out with my Cry - even knock 'em unconscious - there won't be too much fighting, hopefully.

It's important to have contingencies in any plan. Just in case, you know?

[Faith draws her fingers down the side of Dinah's neck, just craving that absent touch.]

I know. But you know we're gonna be in shit if this fails, right? I mean, it shouldn't do, but if. Faith, it's gonna be the Zoo, or worse. And not just for me, for you as well.
[Dinah rests her fingers on Faith's cheek.]

I love you too much for you to get hurt for me. You can't do this just for me.

You're the most important thing in my life, Di. If you're not a good reason to do something. I don't know what is. If we do this and it means, no one else has to endure the Zoo or whatever the hell else again. I say the risk is worth it.

[Faith slides the hand on Dinah's cheek to lean in to kiss her firmly. She mumbles against her lips, looking right into Dinah's eyes.]

I'm a big girl. This is my choice. If it goes sideways. I'll deal. And anything that happens won't be on you. Okay?

I love you.

[Dinah let’s herself her drawn into the kiss. With Faith’s reassurance, she lets the tension that hD been holding her body stiff release. Her arms go about Faith, one around her back and one reaching to Faith’s hair to initiate the kiss again. Dinah mumbles,]

I love you, Faith.

[Faith melts into the kiss when Dinah tugs her forward for more, answering back with an 'I love you' back that's lost in Dinah's mouth as the kiss continues.]

( Buffy has typed and erased this message close to a hundred times before finally sending it. )

hey
i was wondering
are you free later on today?

[Give Faith a few minutes as she stares at this text and sender a hundred times in turn.]

yeah.
why?

was sorta hoping we could meet and talk

( what she has to say isn't anything she wants to say through texts. )

whenever and wherever is convenient for you

[to say faith is worried about what this is about is the understatement of all understatements.]

wild pony tonight work?

[She'd rather not have this at the Back Door in case whatever this is about went sideways. Better to cause a scene somewhere else, right?]

( Buffy would mention it's nothing bad and calm Faith but, oblivious Buffy is oblivious. )

i've never been before but there works
say about 8ish?

if you get there first and they have tables or booths or whatever that aren't so crowded
snag one

( also what she wants to say is between only them. no need for an audience. you know, opposite of the network post she had made...

...holy crap, when did she become the loose cannon?! )

8ish.
you got it.
i'll find a secluded spot.
c u then.

[And she's going to purposefully get there early so that she can be a couple of drinks in before Buffy even gets there. She's no idea what this is about, but she's nervous as hell. Faith is sipping on her third beer in a booth in the far corner when she catches sight of Buffy walking into the doors]

( the instant she steps through the doors there isn't the slightest hesitation in moving forward – both literally and figuratively. no second-guessing her decision about having Faith meet her here to talk about them. about not necessarily forgetting but forgiving and letting the past stay where it is.

at least that's what Buffy's hoping for.

spotting Faith she makes her way over to the booth. awkwardly standing there a moment with a small smile and a, ) Hi. ( before slipping into the seat across from Faith.

noticing the two empty glasses sparks the realization she's likely made Faith stew unnecessarily. good job, Buffy. ) Shit, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you think this was gonna be a bad talk. It's not. I'm not. I mean, I'm not here to fight. In fact I asked you here for the opposite. ( she confesses in one long breath. )

Hey. [Faith manages, trying not to show how worried she is, but it's still plainly obvious. She blinks when Buffy tries to assure her, still uneasy, clutching her current beer.]

So, what then? [She'd not been sure what to make of Buffy's reaction to her in the rain before the body swap. Like she wanted to be near her and like nothing had even happened. Faith hadn't thought any sort of return to what they'd had was even possible.] You wanted to have a good talk?

( at the question Buffy's gaze lifts from the mugs to settle on Faith's face. her smile falters when the nervousness in her gut takes a sharp turn that tightens in her chest. )

That's kinda the plan. ( of course it all depends on how Faith reacts to what Buffy's about to say. how Faith wants to answer or handle Buffy's terms. but however this ends up panning out will be – has to be better than this limbo they're stuck in, right?

keeping her hands twisted together under the table Buffy takes a deep breath. it's now or never. )

I hate this. ( she realizes immediately it's not the best opening, especially if she wants to put Faith at ease. and she does! so she quickly continues to explain. ) Not this... ( she sighs, pulling out a hand to gesture across the table between them. before shoving it back under again when she reconsiders, ) Actually no, I do hate this. This walking on eggshells bullshit we do when we can't seem to avoid each other. ( she swallows hard. ) Because I miss you. And I'm tired of missing you. ( it was easier when they were home. where they'd only ever been friends. here, though, Buffy has months of memories impacting her in ways she thought she could push aside, hoping to forget. ) I just don't know if I can trust you again. Not the way I did but... I wanna try.

[Faith swallows, feeling a lump forming in her throat when Buffy admits to missing her. She tries to look her in the eye as she talks despite the fact that each word makes her want to avert her gaze in discomfort. She can't help the pained expression that crosses her face at the end of it.

'Not the way I did'.]

I miss you too. I know you might not be able to trust me again. I know. And I... I know you said not to apologize. [Or she'd beat her to death. That had been the words she'd chosen. Faith had listened and read every last word in that network post.] But I am sorry. I know I should have told you. I just... I wanted... fuck, I don't know what I wanted.

[She'd wanted to be selfish.]

I don't know what the last thing you experienced was. But I was in prison. For years. I turned myself in. I had to break out recently to help Angel.

And then I stayed out. To help you.

( there's a flash of a smile, one that reaches her eyes when Faith admits to missing her too. it's one thing to think Faith might have missed her in return, but it's another to have it confirmed.

and then she immediately winces, remembering what she said not just here but at home, too. in the heat of the moment – both moments, she actually meant it. or it sure felt like she had. emotions had been running high. seeing Angel and Faith had been the tipping point in Los Angeles. here it was the months of added memories Buffy saw as another betrayal. but now that her anger has subsided, she knows it wasn't the reaction Faith needed from her. )

Not one of my finer moments. ( she acknowledges regretfully, blowing out a puff of air and slouching into her seat. ) What happened between us, I should have kept between us. I shouldn't have given everyone a front-row seat to our issues. And for that I'm sorry. ( because Faith isn't the only one who messed up. isn't the only one who has to make things right. )

The very last thing I experienced would be Angel hitting me. You had gone up the steps when he grabbed my arm. Punches were thrown. ( she'd woken up from the coma feeling the sting where his fist had landed. none of that matters right now. instead, her attention is on what Faith last remembers. concern worries its way between her brows. )

No matter how curious I am, and believe me when I say I'm super curious to find out, I'm not going to ask you why Angel needed help, or why I did. It's up to you if you wanna tell me. And if you say we're good at the point you're from, I'm going to choose to believe you. But Faith... If I fall asleep again and find out there's more you haven't told me – about us, anyway, that's it. No third chance.

[Buffy's reaction and having her apologize to Faith makes her feel like she's in the twilight zone. It's not the response she ever expected. It's a response that she couldn't have even really imagined. But then she's never been a particularly optimistic kind of gal.]

I messed up too. I know that. I know I should have said something. I liked being what we used to be again. The Chosen Two. And then we became more than that and it got even harder to say.

[She's no idea what they'd been, really. It hadn't been anything they'd put a name to, seeing as this place made everything so complicated. They'd certainly become more than friends.]

We've fought more, sure, seems like it's just our vibe now. But nothing like... what I did before. There was a minute there I got put in charge instead of you. That's really the only thing. Although I screwed up being in charge pretty quick so that was short-lived anyway.

[Faith ducks her head, staring into her now half-empty beer. Taking another sip, she lets out a long sigh afterward.]

There are things that have happened between your time and mine-- huge things-- but nothing I did. Still, they are things I'm just not sure that I should say.

[How could she even begin to explain to Buffy about her own death? Dawn? Willow falling off the deep end? Tara? Anya? Spike?]

If you really want me to tell you, I can. What I know anyway, seeing as I wasn't there for most of it. Prison and all. [It might even take some of the weight off Faith's shoulders, but she's not convinced it will do Buffy much good obsessing over her future like that once she knows.]

I liked what we were, too.

( she confesses on the heels of Faith's own. and it's true for what they were at home; friends. and for what they had grown to be here; something Buffy had never given a title to. but she can say with absolute certainty what the feeling weaved into the unspoken label was; love. and why coming back here, knowing what had happened between them, hurt more than it did at home. )

We have a vibe? ( she snorts. ) Not that there's anything wrong with a vibe. I'm... I'm glad we have it because it's something. ( good. is implied. it means they really are better than what Buffy remembers.

all too soon the mood shifts. a cloud, heavy with all the future holds, settles over Buffy. dark and tempting. and the urge to open Pandora's box ━ to ask Faith to tell her everything, to leave nothing out no matter how much it'll hurt, is there. weighing on Buffy. suffocating.

in silence, she considers what to do. stomach twisting itself into knots as she thinks about her mom. Giles. Xander and Willow. Riley. wondering if they're all okay. but it's not like Faith telling her now will give her any sort of preparation for whatever comes next. not when she knows from experience that when they send people home, you don't remember a single thing about this place. which is unsettling on its own. add in the horror of a future you know is coming but can't change and well... her expression pinches and her gaze drifts to her lap.

there's the slightest shake of her head when she settles on what to do. then, when she speaks, her voice is soft, trying to quiet the screaming urge to know. )

No. It's better you don't tell me anything. No matter how much you know, it's not going to change things. Not for the better. ( she reasons, squeezing her hands together. swallowing. ) I'm not going to ask for any details. Even if you accidentally slip and let something out, you don't need to worry. I'll pretend not to have noticed. Or try to anyway. But I won't ask what you meant or to explain.

[Faith blinks, stunned to hear that Buffy wants them to have at least 'something'. The possible implications of why twist around in her insides and make her throat threaten to tighten.

The offer to tell Buffy everything lingers in the air and Faith feels the tension in her release when Buffy decides she's better off not knowing. It's good because there's so much that Faith doesn't want to tell her because she knows it will only hurt her. And Faith really doesn't want to hurt her. Never again. The stray punch in a spar didn't count. The kind of hurt that actually lingered.

Her hand slides from her glass, settling closer toward Buffy but not quite far enough to take her hand, still afraid to take that step, worried she might startle Buffy away like some wild animal that's allowed her close. Never mind that Buffy is the one who'd wanted this meeting in the first place. So maybe it's truly Faith who's the skittish animal.]

Alright, good. Then I don't have to worry if I slip up. [Faith manages a small smile and laugh.] Like if I accidentally tell you that Wesley actually gets to be kind of a badass and a little bit hot? [Which, honestly, is still a bit disconcerting for Faith still even now. Her smile turns into a playful teasing grin.] And I won't have to worry about any follow up questions...

Faith? Hi. I'm Jesus. I was wondering if we could chat in person?

Dinah's friend, right? Sure we can chat. Just cleaning up at the Back Door. Bar in the Down, we're closed right now but I can leave the door unlocked.

On my way.

[It doesn't take him very long. He's been here before.]

Nice place.

[When he comes inside, Faith is behind the bar, currently in the process of wiping down the bartop with a rag. She laughs at the comment looking around them. The Back Door is very much a dive bar. But it is her baby so she does appreciate the sentiment, even if he's probably just being nice.

She blinks a bit at the look of him because he did look pretty on point for a 'Jesus'. Although she's a little afraid to ask if he's literally Jesus. Her brain can't quite fathom the idea of that, so she's choosing to believe he's just leaning in very hard into the name.]

Thanks. I poured my heart into it.

Dinah sold me on it, but this [the dive bar aesthetic] is really where I'm at home anyway.

[Which he would argue was probably true for the Biblical Jesus, too.]

What did she tell you?

[She glances at the door, half-considering locking it. They shouldn't be overheard, but the city seemed to have eyes everywhere.]

Yeah, said you two were cooking up some plan. Wanted to use her cry to do it.

[He keeps his voice low; it naturally is anyway. But he's aware of the exits, ready to change the subject the moment a door creaks.]

It wouldn't be just us. But yeah, she could do a lot.

Can I get you a beer? Cause I need a beer. [She slaps the rag on the bar, wiping off her hands before grabbing a glass to start filling it up from the tap.]

I told her I'd have her back. So I mean to come too. Who else?

[He nods at the offer of beer and takes a seat at the bar]

I don't know who's serious yet. I'm taking orders from Scott.

[And so far he's content to follow Scott's lead. Scott is a professional domestic terrorist at home; he's better equipped than Jesus is to lead a group in an attack on a symbol. But Jesus has gone his own way, done his own plans, before and he will again if he thinks it's right.]

What did you do before this place?

Summers? Yeah, I know him. We spar pretty regularly. Did always seems like he was plotting something all secret like so can't say I'm surprised.

[The way he'd seemed to be cataloging people and their skill sets hadn't been entirely subtle.]

Before here? Oh, you know. This and that. Slaying vampires, demons, and fighting the forces of darkness. Pretty basic stuff. [She deadpans, but her straight face doesn't last long, flashing into a smile as she slides him a glass of beer.] I'm really good at killing stuff, basically. Super-strength, agility, and I'm pretty much a natural with any weapon you put in my hands.

I don't have his plan. [Just so there's no misunderstanding. Jesus is finding people who are interested in fighting; it doesn't mean he's in Scott's inner circle.]

But I mean to do something. The more interested people with powers we have on our side, the better.

[He sips his beer] What are the vampires like?

He does keep things close to the chest. Unlike some people who like to blast their plans for rebellion right on the network.

[Faith's not a tactical genius by any means, but she's not quite that careless. She leans against the bar as she drinks her own beer.]

The vamps where I'm from are soulless monsters. Doesn't matter how sweet of a person they were before they were turned, they'll still kill, and feed on anyone they can get their hands on. The vampires here aren't like that. Don't get me wrong, some of them are still complete assholes, but they're still different.

[They aren't for the most part completely irredeemable.]

There aren't any where I'm from. No superpowers, either. Turns out people aren't very different with or without them.

[Faith tilts her head considering him, brow furrowing a bit.] How do you mean?

[He takes a second, thinking] If someone had told me I'd be here with people who can take down a room with their voice, or create lasers in their eyes, I wouldn't have thought I'd have an easy time settling in. Working with them.

But we all just want the same things. It's comforting, isn't it?

I guess. [Faith's never really thought about it, really. Considering she's a person with powers.] I mean we are all stuck here. And we all have more or less the same enemy.

[The government that brought them here and forced them into this fucked up system.]

We do.

Some people adapt. Some people even like it here. There are things I like about this place. But I'm willing to lose them if we can get something better.

[That's the hard part, though. You only have so much control over what comes next.]

You're willing to risk all this for her?

All this? [Faith scoffs a bit, looking around them.]

You mean this bar? I built this for Dinah. I would burn it and this entire fucking city to the ground if it meant she never had to suffer one second in the Zoo ever again.

It's very likely we'll fail before we succeed. Whatever we end up doing, if it's going to make any difference, we'll probably get hurt.

[Dinah is doing it because she believes in it. So is Jesus. He's never dealt with someone who was fighting specifically for another person, instead of for a cause, before.]

I know there's a risk. I'm not stupid. And I'd definitely rather I was there to help than let her do this without me. Fuck that. If you are worried that I don't know what I'm getting into. Don't.

[Faith's no illusions about their likelihood of success, but she'll still keep trying.]

Ever since the day I was called as a Slayer, I've had to jump into situations where I might die or worse. Where people I cared about might die too. Hell, I'm already older than most Slayers ever get.

[he's convinced by the end. Still wary, the way he's wary of anyone who has a very strong attachment to a specific person, but Dinah trusts her.]

Talk to Scott. He's the one with the plan, I'm just on board helping where I can.

... What do you mean, you were called as a slayer?

I'll ask him the next time we spar. [That way it won't seem like an out-of-the-blue meeting. Less suspicious that way.]

Slayers aren't born. We're chosen. 'One girl in all the world who can stand up to vampires, demons, and forces of darkness.' A Slayer dies and another is called. Teenage girls. I got called at seventeen.

That's horrible.

[But he says it as someone who is very used to horrible things happening.]

How long do slayers live?

Most only last a few years. Getting out of your teens is a fucking miracle. I'm basically geriatric for a Slayer at twenty-three. Course, when I got called it was a bit more complicated. Buffy, she died. Drowned, but was resuscitated. That called another anyway. Kendra. Kendra was killed. Then there was me. So at least there isn't one of us anymore.

[She's just going to gloss over all the shit that came after and everything she did to hurt Buffy.]

... You mean there's only one at a time? How do they expect that to work?

Its complete bullshit is what it is. [Faith agrees.] We had Watchers, people who find us, train us, and help. But it's too much responsibility for one person. And a Watcher can only do so much.

Before I showed up here though, we actually changed things. Hopefully for the better. Pays to know a super powerful witch. Now every girl with the potential to be a Slayer now is a Slayer. There might be hundreds of us now. And now we've got a choice if we want that burden or if we just want to live our lives. Since there are enough of us now to have that luxury.

If you went back today? What would you choose to do?

Being a Slayer is really the only thing I've ever had in my life that made me feel worth anything. [Faith shakes her head.] Never really thought about doing anything else.

Until I got here anyway. With running this place. [She gestures to the bar.] So maybe I'd do something like this too. But I don't think I could ever leave being a Slayer behind completely. Not when I know I could be doing something to save people.

[And make up for her past wrongs. Not that she says as much.]

[He nods, and looks around them]

How long did it take you to adjust? To not having to fight all the time.

[It takes Faith a moment to think about it.]

Longer than I'd like to admit. There are so many vampires in this place, it's still got me a little wound up. So it was hard at first to settle and not fight everyone I ran across. Eventually... I dunno, I just realized it was kind of pointless. And they're stuck here too just like the rest of us.

Hi, Faith. How are you?

Been better.
Dinah left the city.

I'm sorry. That must be very difficult for you.

yeah. more than.
but it's fine.
i'll be fine.

Would you like some company?

Only if you're not busy.
And you bring Dief.

Certainly. Are you at the Backdoor?

yeah. on the roof patio.

I'll be there shortly. Would you like something to eat?

No. That's okay.
I'm not that hungry.

Understood.

[ He'll be there within about half an hour, with Dief at his side. ]

[He'll find her on the roof patio swinging on the hammock, a half-drank bottle of beer in hand. But she does sit up to lean over to give Diefenbaker a hug and scritch around the ears. But it's clear she's subdued and very much not as fine as she'd claimed as she glances up at Benton.]

Hey, you.

Hi.

[ He comes over and sits next to her even though it's a hammock so they have to squish. He puts his arm around her. ]

Is this okay?

[She tenses at first, like she's not entirely sure that it is fine, but finally leans into him.]

It's okay. I'm just... I'm tired of losing people.

[And how long until she loses him too?]

[ He kind of hovers there until she does relax, then properly settles in. ]

I understand.

Before here, it always seemed easier to keep people at a distance. Not as easy to hurt me that way. Lonely, sure. But safer...

Sometimes it does feel easier, doesn't it? Just you against the world.

Exactly. [She ducks her head, burying it a bit into his shoulder.] I know it wasn't good for me. Being alone. But seems like that's where I'm gonna end up anyway, right? Eventually. [She knows she's rambling now.] You'll leave too. Or I will. Or you'll realize what a mess I am and that I'm not worth risking a citation for when you've got Andy and... I met Ray on the train, so I know you've got him too.

[And maybe she feels jealous. Even though it's fucking stupid to be.]

[ He smooths his hand over his hair, just trying to make it clear that regardless of what may happen, he's here now. ]

I have to thank you, Faith.

Thank me? [she peaks her head up to look at him, confused.]

For allowing me to spend this time with you. Even though it might cause you pain. Even though you're afraid. I feel ... very honoured.

[she feels her cheeks heat.] Well, you're welcome.

I cannot imagine deciding that the risk of an unjust punishment from a nonsensical and inhumane government could ever outweigh the value of your presence in my life, or the privilege that you grant me by letting me hold you in my arms. And the fact that there are other people I love and care for by no means diminishes how much I love and care for you.

[ His voice is low and steady, but the words come slow and a little halting—even if the sentences themselves are reasonably eloquent, he says them a bit awkwardly, a bit shyly. It's difficult to talk about his feelings like this, but it seems important right now to make the effort. ]

Edited 2022-11-19 16:32 (UTC)

[Her breathing grows a little unsteady as he talks, emotions welling up in her. Faith is still fucking terrified and worried, but hearing him talk helps even if it makes her want to cry.]

Before you got there I thought about pushing you away to protect myself somehow... to tell you not to bother with me. Something. [Faith still doesn't entirely believe she's worthy of love. Dinah leaving had brought that feeling up in full force.] But I can't do it. The idea of hurting you makes me physically ill. And I don't want to let you go. I can't.

I can't tell you had glad I am to hear it.

You should be. [She jokes, laughing despite her shaky breath, bumping her elbow playfully into his side.] I'm amazing.

[Maybe if she says that last part enough she'll actually start to believe it.]

I had noticed that, yes.

Yeah? [She pulls back to look up at him before pulling him down in a kiss. The roof is relatively secluded... or at least that's what she's telling herself.]

Very much so.

[ He doesn't resist at all, kissing her deeply. ]

[Faith receives a festively wrapped bottle of whiskey with a single gardenia tucked into the bow as a clue. It's signed only, "Season's greetings from the Christmas Elf" and has a kissy face drawn crudely on the inside of the card.]

Faith? I... I dunno if I'm shouting into the void. I've not seen you since I've come back. I don't know if you're even here no more. But if you are?

Faith? I love you and I miss you and I'm so sorry I disappeared.

YOU'VE BEEN BLASTED BY THE

( ) ) *
)\ ) ( /( ( ( /( ( ` (
(()/(( )\()) ( )\ )\()) )\))( ( )\
/(_))\ ((_)\ )((_|(_)\ ((_)()\ )((_)
(_))((_)__((_) ((_)_ ((_)(_()((_|(_)_
/ __| __\ \/ / | _ )/ _ \| \/ || _ )
\__ \ _| > < | _ \ (_) | |\/| || _ \
|___/___/_/\_\ |___/\___/|_| |_||___/

ONCE YOU'VE BEEN BOMBED, YOU HAVE TO BOMB 8 OTHER PEOPLE! IF YOU GET BOMBED AGAIN YOULL KNOW YOUR REALLY SEXY!!1 IF YOU DIFFUSE THE SEX BOMB CHAIN, YOULL SUFFER A VERY UNSEXY BRAIN INJURY! BOMB WHOEVER YOU THINK IS SEXY!!

*** NO BOMBING BACK

an unsexy brain injury
shit.
that sounds serious!

and if i could id absolutely bomb you back for being sexy.

hey. orgy at swallow wood (my place) on oct 21, courtesy of my beautiful friend margo. the theme is halloween, so costumes are required. +1 allowed but they must be hot. hope to see you there.

shouldn't be too hard to find a hot +1 in this place.
but you got it cutie.
should i bring some knives or save that for another time?

hell yes bring the knives!

will do.
and hope you don't get too attached to your halloween costume.

i very much look forward to being cut out of whatever ridiculous getup i manage to squeeze myself into. so, consider me unattached. :)

excellent. something to look forward to.
plus the screwing.

Heads up that I can't make it tomorrow.

[Several minutes later, when she realizes how that sounds:]

Like physically cannot make it. Not I'm saying I can't make it because actually I don't want to and it's easier to skip.

[Naturally Faith assumes from that first text, that this is just Rosita blowing her off... but then the follow-up comes.]

Why's that...?
Someone got you tied down or somethin?

This is the longest I've been conscious in like two days.

Stay away from the Solace trees. They make people fucking crazy.

Think I already had a run-in with someone affected by them...
Didn't lead to unconsciousness though.

You got someone watching over you?
Making sure you don't die in your sleep?

[She assumes that's a joke, honestly, but - yes. Quite literally yes, she has two people at her side ready to deal with what happens if she dies.]

Yeah, well. Meds do that.

I've got people.

Good.
Sorry, you got the shit kicked out of you.

[nevermind she threatened to do the same not too long ago.]

You give as good as you got?

Better.

I don't just kill zombies.

[She remembers.]

Fair enough.

Rest up.
You're not getting out of that drink.

Believe me, I don't want to. I'd really rather be fucking drinking right now.

Duplicity IC Inbox

text | un: destructogirl

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horny singles in your area!

un:lehane | text

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text >> action

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cw: mentions of alcoholism

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un: Cst.B.Fraser; text, private (encrypted)

un:lehane | text | private (encrypted)

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