[Being sixteen is a challenge all on its own, even without all of the extra hardships that have come into Leo's life. Truly, if Rue could wash away the heavy weight that Leo, Donnie and Peter have all had to carry for so long, they would give them all the chance to simply be silly, carefree teenagers. But not even fey magic can truly alter the past, so Rue will just have to be certain that none of them carry their individual burdens alone from here on forward.
It's a quiet, heartfelt moment between them, the owlbear gently tucking Leo into the warmth and safety of their wings, just until they feel that he's found his composure again. But even as Rue finally pulls away, a feathery paw drops to the young man's shoulder, squeezing, a gentle touch of their unwavering support.]
I should very much like to hear about that sometime.
[Another time. When so much less is at stake. When Leo and Donnie are back to teasing one another. When they can finally look back at this mess and just laugh.]
But you're right. I believe in the bond you've both created. To be quite honest, I somehow doubt whoever is responsible for this had any idea just who they were messing with.
[His voice is stronger now, full of confidence and determination. They will figure out what happened and fix his brother's memory. And whoever did it? Is going to get their butts kicked.
But he looks to Rue, takes in their expression and how they're holding themself. And after a moment, Leo smiles.]
Thanks for... all of this. Usually I've got my other two brothers and our friend April to soundboard off of until I get my footing a little, but. I appreciate it.
[There. That's the Leo that Rue knows. He looks unshakeable in his determination, ready to do whatever he must to get his brother back.
And they will.
Their eyes smile back, warm and bright and full of tender affection.]
You're most welcome. Now, drink your cocoa before it gets cold. Hob should be here shortly with dinner and then we can make a plan of attack. However you want to do things, I am fully prepared to follow. I know that I am not the brothers or friends you have relied on in the past, but I refuse to let you go about this alone.
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It's a quiet, heartfelt moment between them, the owlbear gently tucking Leo into the warmth and safety of their wings, just until they feel that he's found his composure again. But even as Rue finally pulls away, a feathery paw drops to the young man's shoulder, squeezing, a gentle touch of their unwavering support.]
I should very much like to hear about that sometime.
[Another time. When so much less is at stake. When Leo and Donnie are back to teasing one another. When they can finally look back at this mess and just laugh.]
But you're right. I believe in the bond you've both created. To be quite honest, I somehow doubt whoever is responsible for this had any idea just who they were messing with.
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[His voice is stronger now, full of confidence and determination. They will figure out what happened and fix his brother's memory. And whoever did it? Is going to get their butts kicked.
But he looks to Rue, takes in their expression and how they're holding themself. And after a moment, Leo smiles.]
Thanks for... all of this. Usually I've got my other two brothers and our friend April to soundboard off of until I get my footing a little, but. I appreciate it.
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And they will.
Their eyes smile back, warm and bright and full of tender affection.]
You're most welcome. Now, drink your cocoa before it gets cold. Hob should be here shortly with dinner and then we can make a plan of attack. However you want to do things, I am fully prepared to follow. I know that I am not the brothers or friends you have relied on in the past, but I refuse to let you go about this alone.
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Thanks, Rue. I- really appreciate it.
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He's going to be just fine.]
Think nothing of it.
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I'm definitely gonna think of it. I'll pay you back.
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[But Rue is beaming while Leo snuggles beneath his blanket, cocoa in hand, already looking better suited to handle the next fight ahead of them.]
Think nothing of it until we have Donnie back. If you choose to shower me in gifts after, I'll be able to do nothing but graciously accept.
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[please consume them in affection, rue needs it]