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[ruevealing]

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B-3, two is company!

[ployboy]

[No, they can't give him a room in B-1, they say. Why? Because it's full, three occupants to an apartment as it's been for months. No, Tim is not one of those occupants despite the fact that he has the key in his freaking hand. That key is deactivated. It won't work. It doesn't belong to apartment B-1. It hasn't belonged to apartment B-1 in months. Nevermind that Tim can name the layout and contents of the tea drawer in the kitchen. That just bores the poor clerk, and Tim feels like he's crazy. Again.

He can get a room in the B wing if he's so damn insistent about it and so of course he is and so the next thing he knows he's turning the knob and entering apartment B-3, like this is just some bad joke.

So yeah, sue him; he's a little loud shuffling in, automatic motions having him peel off his borrowed sweater before he quiets down in the living room.

All of him quiets- his steps, the lazy irritation radiating off his expression. He ducks his head a bit in a show of boyish recognition of a mistake. This place is... not barren. Not alone. Not lonely. The excitement is pleasant and dreadful, and Tim's just about had it with-- today. With everything, maybe. It's a lot.

The person he sees next is... not a person. It's a lot. His shoulders tense. He steps back. It's a lot. He wonders dumbly if he's being rude. You would be too, his brain supplies lightly, if you had just been fighting off White Things and then entered the den of]

Uhm.

[He's so freaking tired. You know what? Alarms going off in his head and everything, and everything being a lot and everything, and everything earlier, and all Tim does is say,]

I like your necklace.

[because he doesn't want to be rude.]

[ruevealing]

[Not alone at all.

As Tim catches himself, the towering owlbear before him only blinks owlishly in return, intently watching the young man from where they are standing in mid-movement with a floral teapot in hand, just as surprised at the interruption as he is. But he stumbles a little over his own words, clearly too overwhelmed to completely process the situation he's just strolled right into, so Rue does what they can to make it easier.]

Thank you. [Their feathered head gives a gentle little nod back towards him.] And I like your shoes. Quite stylish.

[Oh dear, it's already awkward, isn't it?

With a wave of their wing, Rue gestures for Tim to step inside, all while they turn towards the little kitchen with a swish of their heavy skirts.]

Please come in and sit, my dear. It's quite freezing out there, let me pour you some tea and we can have proper introductions. I assume that you must be my new roommate, correct?

during without a trace

[neonleon]

[Leo's been wandering ADI for a little bit, looking for someone, someone... He doesn't really trust that many people, particularly adults, working here. But there is someone he trusts.

So when he shows up to Rue's apartment next door to his own, it's without the usual fanfare he and Donnie both showed up with previously. It's with a couple of knocks while he waits. (Any more familiarity, and he'd let himself in. He wouldn't think twice. But this isn't the time nor the place right now, this is him trying to ... Do this right.]

[ruevealing]

[After speaking to Donnie, Rue isn't even that surprised to find his brother at their door.]

Oh Leo. [They can't even begin to disguise the sadness that tinges their tone or the way their too-big, dark eyes just look sad.] Please come in. I'm so grateful that you've stopped by.

un: mercyme; text

[graveyounglady]

Good day to you, Rue. It would seem our network has been restored, and I thought now might be a good time to continue our festival preparations in earnest. I fear much further delay on my part will lead only to terrible things intervening and stopping our machinations!

To that end, I have secured a park pavilion for the Season Changing festivities, and I have some ideas of what to do for it that I would most welcome your thoughts and advice on:

1. Campball Lessons and a Match - This is a game from my home that I have not seen played here. There is something similar called 'soccer,' but the specifics of the rules delineate one from the other.
2. A Blanket Wrapped Race - Another tradition from my home. Pairs are designated and one person is wrapped tightly in a blanket with ropes to bind it closed. The wrapped person must then hop, roll, or otherwise find a means to victory across the finish line.
3. A Fashion Show - What better way to celebrate the season than to be dressed in your best to represent it? We could be judges and find a third, or I could request someone else assist me with the judging if you would like to enter, yourself.
4. A Chocolate Fountain and Feast - A feast of sorts, anyway. I have not the funds for a grand banquet, but I believe we can acquire a significant amount of food. Anything not eaten I would see given to those less fortunate in Gloucester. On this point, I have seen a new enterprise has opened that features very colorful candies. Perhaps you would accompany me to the shop to see them and make a selection to bring to the festival?

These are only four things, but if you've further ideas on activities, I more than welcome them!

[ruevealing]

My darling! Good day to you as well!

I must admit, the more that our plans come together, the more excited I find myself becoming. I can already see the success of your festival and the great joy it shall bring to everyone in attendance.

As for your points, I shall address them one-by-one, so I do not miss any of your wondrous ideas.

1. Unfortunately, I must say that I have never heard of such a game before! Soccer, is a touch more familiar to me, but I'm afraid I shall need a full rundown. That being said, once I understand the game fully, I am quite happy to put such an activity together for your festival! Do you envision that it should be played for fun or competitively? From experience, I find the allure of a prize is a great incentive to get as many people involved as possible.

2. How darling! Another game we could easily gather prizes for. Tell me, my dear, what is the unbound person's role in the game? Or are they simply there to secure the ropes and cheer on their teammate?

3. Now this I need no further guidance on! Of course I shall be happy to assist you and stand on the judges panel. As for participation, considering my involvement in the planning on the festival, it does not feel fair to allow me to compete as well, but if you would allow me to judge, I would be truly delighted. I am also happy to bring forth suggestions for a third, should you need them.

4. Most excellent! I can acquire a chocolate fountain, you need not worry about that, and I shall spread the word among our friends for any sweet treats they can contribute. As far as funds go, I do not wish for you to empty your purse on this, dearest Mercy. Though it is been a modest business on the side, I've been saving coin specifically for this event from the tailored clothing I've been making. I am more than happy to contribute it, both to finishing up our decorations and for catering. It's nothing at all, my friend.

Tell me, what do you think of a set aside place for photographs? Such technology was not accessible in my home plane, but I see how valuable and treasured such a thing is here. Even I must admit, I have become quite the fan of selfies. As such, I have been sketching out some ideas for gorgeous fabric draped against tree branches and small statement lanterns, it may make a perfect station of pictures. Then everyone can leave with a memento of the festival.

Text Message

[archonloaf]

[Sent during the day of Elidibus' induction; Urianger is not foolish enough to meet an old enemy, however cordial, without letting Someone know and lucky Rue! By virtue of random housing assignment, he and Tim get to be said someones]

Chance hath delivered an old acquaintance unto ADI; fret not, therefore, if I am late returning. Mr Galvus and I have much to discuss. Regards, Urianger

[ruevealing]

An old acquaintance! How lovely. Please, my dear, should you want to bring your old friend over for tea, you know that Tim and I would be happy to give you the space you require.

[while also absolutely listening in]

If you are out past sun down, please remember to bundle up against the cold. It's still so brisk outside in the late evenings.

video; un: imwithgenius

[energyfieldgood]

[It's a recorded message, a longer one, and it starts with Rodney in his apartment. It kind of looks like he made some effort to have a good background, good lighting. Tech equipment and laptops and other gadgets draped on counters.

He sits, hands clasped, and looks rather serious, almost formal, but there's an edge to it, an artificiality. Someone trying to convey solemnity or what he expects it to look like.]

Hello. This is a message for Del-- Delloso de la Rue.

[He pronounces everything wrong except Rue.]

This is Dr. McKay. Uh. Obviously. You, [gesturing at his face] you can see my face.

[He scowls, looks down, he's nervous. He doesn't like being nervous and he tries to talk over it, the clasping giving way to circular gestures while he looks everywhere but the camera.]

So. We haven't talked in a while and I have since had the opportunity to review our last encounter [and get some outside perspective] and, uh, the rather frosty note on which it ended. And I have come to the conclusion that I possibly, potentially may not have conducted myself in the most... [acceptable] affable manner?

[He clears his throat, drawing in new air with a sniff, frowns.]

I am aware that I have certain... shortcomings when it comes to-- [everything] certain areas and I just wanted to let you know that I wasn't trying to be disrespectful.

[There is a pause after that and it stretches out for a moment, like he's reviewing his own words.

And then there is a distinct shift and a change on his face, the expression more troubled, more open, more genuine. His voice calms, losing the affectation, his real voice, a rare thing.]

... No, I suppose I was. I do that. Sometimes? Putting others down to lift myself up and compensate for certain feelings of inadequacy and insecurity. But there was no need for it then, there was never-- What I am trying to say is that you? You have been nothing but excellent to me since the day we met and you did not deserve that and... and for that I'm sorry.

[The words ring loud and he falls silent, rubbing the side of his face, uncomfortable. He starts a few times but more words won't come, his mouth opening, closing.]

Right. Uh. I, I should get back to work. I--

[Another attempt, another opening of his mouth, closing.]

Yeah.

[The message stops here and he just sends it out before he can have a change of heart.]

[ruevealing]

Dr. McKay.

[Rue's video sent in response is taken while the owlbear is back in their apartment at the end of the day, their soft, feathered expression beaming warmly back at the man. Clearly, whatever hurt they felt that day the last time they spoke together is long gone.]

I most appreciate your apology. Truly, it is water under the bridge, my friend. You do not need to worry about my having taken offense. I admit, your words did wound me in the moment, but I know now they were not meant as an insult against my - [Rue's dark eyes blink slowly, head tipping slightly to the side] - ah, my beastly shape. [Rather the fey in general, which Rue isn't nearly as offended by.]

I'm afraid I must apologize as well. It was unfair of me to presume you were referring to the old prejudices I faced back in the fey realm. Speaking plainly, it was not uncommon for others to make their own assumptions about me and my nature, for them to gossip that I was fighting back a natural pull towards aggression or that I was unintelligent, simply because I was born a beast.

[Truly, nothing is more infuriating and disheartening than to have spent the last few millennia being perfectly cordial and pleasant and overly accommodating, giving the whole of their life to the happiness of everyone else, only to be told that any show of true emotion was inappropriate but expected given their shape, because it is simply in a beast's nature for such outbursts.

An owlbear in a beautiful dress, they have heard whispered, is still just an owlbear.]

But your insight into yourself and into the matter at heart have soothed me greatly. Pray, if you have the time, would you enjoy taking tea together? I should love the chance to catch up.

text; un: Parkour

[heyunderoos]

[Maybe five minutes after Peter messaged Rue on his embarrassment of a post. He hits up their inbox.]

Hey, Rue!

I guess we're talking about my boyfriend? that still feels weird to type, ngl.

[ruevealing]

I'm so happy for you, my dear! Nothing is quite as beautiful as new love.

Tell me, who is your new beau? I should very much like to meet him!

text | un: badgirlcoven

[edalyn]

Hey
u free tonight? [Things have felt... a tiny bit weird since the whole chocolate related incident but she could really, really use a friend at the moment.]

[ruevealing]

[Rue has known Eda long enough to pick up on a few of her tells. And even with only four words between them, they feel like something is very wrong.]

Absolutely, my friend.

The boys are out of the apartment tonight if you would prefer to come over for once. It may not be quite as cozy as your nest, but I do have some new wine I've been meaning to taste test.

I could use your expert opinion.

text | un: badgirlcoven

[edalyn]

can I ask you a favour or two, dear thing? ♥

it looks like the dang tail's not going anywhere and none of my clothes are made for one. [And they know she can do her own sewing, given she does some of it for their little business. But it's an excuse to stop by and chat, which brings her to the second one.]

and I could... really use some advice.

text | un: rue

[ruevealing]

[Rue knows Eda could take care of such a minor adjustment all on her own, so there's clearly some ulterior motives here.]

Please, I'm always happy to have you stop by. Shall I put on some water for tea?

[Or is this the kind of talk that deserves something stronger?]

text; un: donnie_d - backdated to end-ish february

[semilethal]

[After the conclusion of this thread (perhaps even a couple days afterwards), Donnie finally reaches out to Rue.]

I've regained my memories of Leo.

Are you still having issues? I have some suggestions you could try but they aren't great ones.

[text, un: rue]

[ruevealing]

My dearest, Donnie.

I am most relieved that you have regained your precious memories! I have also had mine return, earlier yesterday, before breakfast. I'm afraid that Hob and I had quite the embarrassing public confrontation beforehand, but it has all been resolved and we are as happy as ever.

Are you doing well?

text | post-wedding???

[sneakery]

My dearest Rue,

Though it has been scant hours since we parted I find myself missing you terribly. Are you free for lunch?

Yours,
Knickolas

[ruevealing]

[it doesn't matter how many times rue receives the same text, it still sends their heart all a-flutter]

My most darling husband,

For you, I always have the time. Shall we meet back at the apartment?

Yours Always ♥

[ployboy]

You know, he'd rather not get into how he knows Rue is in their apartment. He's glad, because it means they're away from those things causing the nosebleeds, invading people's minds. Away from the bloody skeletons and fire ants and spiders.

He's glad, because it means he can linger awkwardly at the door before he musters up the courage to knock and call out, "Rue!"

Which in reality sounds more like Roooooo, a raspy little hound-y howl.

Good lord.

!!!

[ruevealing]

"Tim?"

Is it any surprise that the owlbear is there almost immediately after the release of that howl, throwing their front door open with a touch more force than usual? Their large, dark eyes find their former roommate waiting for them, and Rue wastes no time in pushing a gentle, but large paw to his back, carefully guiding him inside.

"Oh my darling, are you quite alright? Please, come in."

log | Something's Clearly Wrong

[edalyn]

[Eda is… worried. She’s been worried since Rue’s artifact, and she’d only gotten more worried when Raine said they checked on them and that they didn’t seem good.

They’ve been slower to answer messages, not sending their own. It's certainly all been adding up, but, well, since they’ve started having weekly friend-dates, Rue hasn’t missed one. And it really isn’t like them to simply not show up without saying something. But… maybe it's just everything else happening right now. She has her own times she wants to be left alone, after all.

Or... maybe they don't want to see Eda, specifically. She'd sort of thought if anyone would understand the whole owl beast situation it would be Rue. She sort of thought they had. But maybe that's too much to expect from anyone. Or maybe they just need... space for now.

But them not showing up to brunch nags at her all day–not that she has much time to focus on it. It turns out to be a long day, full of dealing with remaining artifacts and every other chaotic element the ADI manages to cram into an 8-hour shift.

She does, at one point towards the end of it, think to text Hob. They aren’t particularly close, but it seems unlike him not to answer is Rue alright. Had Raine not been working too, she’d probably have sent them over.

As it is, she finally clocks out, tired and stressed, and checks her phone again. Nothing. Well, she's near the apartments anyway. Hope you don’t mind a concerned harpy climbing in your window, Rue. To be fair, it probably isn’t the first time.]

[ruevealing]

[It certainly isn't.

Rue, to their credit, doesn't look too plussed to find Eda busting into their apartment - it's practically routine at this point - the owlbear not even batting an eye as their friend shimmies and wiggles her way inside.

But it's maybe a little strange, knowing Rue as well as they do at this point, that they don't leap to their feet to sweep Eda inside and offer tea, that they don't brighten up considerably at the very sight of her, that Rue barely so much as blinks as the woman straightens up once she's inside. Instead, they remain perched on the couch, a blanket draped over their lap, a pile of fabric spilling out of a tote on the floor. It's easy enough to put together that they've been sorting through their supply and grouping fabrics together by color, the coffee table a splash of robins eggs and lavenders and blushes.

A little mindless work, completely unnecessary, but it's keeping them busy in this late hour when they feel most alone.]

One day you will surprise me by using the front door.

text; sometime after hob's departure

[neonleon]

primetimechampion: i sense something changed
primetimechampion: u ok?
primetimechampion: need any company?

text | un: rue

[ruevealing]

[how does he know.]

I would never say no to your company, but please, do not put yourself out for my sake.

video; un: imwithgenius

[energyfieldgood]

[This is hard.

This is feelings, so this is hard, but he doesn't really know where to go else with these feelings (see, here's the thing, you don't do feelings with Sheppard, that's the whole point, that's why they're disaster boyfriends in the first place because they both suck and don't expect anything healthy ever to come of it) and WELL okay, hi, here he is. Pestering the only person who could possibly understand how he feels right now.]

Hello. This is a message for Delloso de la Rue. Of the... Fae something, look, I'm sorry because it's been like months at this point and I really don't remember and it's not disrespect, I just don't, I don't care and remember and anyway.

[Despite the attitude his voice is smaller, softer, different from the arrogant man that pestered their inbox months ago in search of a difficult apology for mundane Math matters.]

I--

I wouldn't bother you if it wasn't important but it's--

I guess it's important.

Can you--

Do you know--

[He doesn't know what to do. He doesn't know how to word. He doesn't know how to handle.]

I am, just, I, I am wondering about the whereabouts of Donatello Hamato and maybepossiblyhisdumbbrotherifyoumust and I just can't-- [stand the idea of not knowing, or having the artifact having erased the last interaction he ever had with that kid, like, that is just the WORST and all of this is just the worst okay, and he is hurting so much but how to even]

I just thought that maybe you, uh, you knew? Anything? About anything?

[video, un: rue]

[ruevealing]

[Oh. It absolutely breaks their heart to have to be the one to tell Rodney this.]

Rodney, my friend, I am afraid that as far as we know, young Donnie and Leo have returned home. I have been most heartbroken about their disappearance, but at the same time, I know it was their goal to leave this place. They held no love of ADI nor it's work. They only wanted to go home.

[Even Rue can not hide the melancholy that clings to their tone, the sadness that reflects back in their too-big, gentle eyes. To have lost all of the children they had adopted - Tim, Peter, Donnie, Leo - it has made their stay here so much more disheartening.

It is becoming increasingly difficult to fight in this war when the people they fought for keep leaving.]

So, as sorrowful as their departure has been, I must be grateful that wherever they have gone, it is together. I know that is what they wanted. I'm sorry for telling you such unpleasant information. I did not know that you were close to them.