Interlude B - "Two a Piece"
Cast Appearing:
Bree, Scott, & Tahn
Scott as TheStoryteller
Horam, Aoiya Restaurant
<TheStoryteller> It's another of those long, sleepless nights as Bree can hear something coming from the adjacent training hall downstairs.
* Bree sneaks around to investigate the happenings. "<q> What on earth's going on?"
<TheStoryteller> What Bree finds is Scott Astorian, also unable to sleep, practicing his sword technique. He appears to be using a sword drawing technique, but you notice something different about it, as he's sliced the usually strong practice dummy in half.
* Scott skids to a stop after the technique.
* Bree leans against a wall just watching for the moment
* Scott stands up straight. "You don't have to just stand there, Bree. What's on your mind?"
<Bree> Nothing's on my mind.... just watching....
* Scott goes and stands by Bree. "Notice anything different, strange maybe?"
<Bree> What about you? That poor dummy? Or the fact that we're both sleepless...?
<Scott> About anything....
<Bree> Nothing really important...
<Scott> I know why I can't sleep. A dream. I saw the day I got this scar on my right cheek.
<Scott> How about you?
<Bree> Feeling kinda guilty for freaking you out like that... and wondering why I even travel with you guys...
<Scott> We all wonder things like that. It really bugged me to snap at you like that. Gomen.
<Scott> Anyway, I can't force you to help out, Bree. For one, it's not my style. Second, I respect you too much to do so. You are, after all, my friend.
<Bree> It's ok... I deserved it.... but it was kinda funny... *giggles*
<Scott> I just hope I can get to Nasch and find out what I have to...before Leon gets to him... *Looks at the letter that he just pulled out of his pocket...along with a picture*
* Bree pauses for a moment. "I really don't think anyone here is my friend.... it's not like anyone really got to know me... Leon did though... but I know his reasons..."
<Scott> Bree, I like to think that there is somewhat of a bond between all of us, after facing so many dangers together. Anyway, you're concerned about Leon, aren't you?
* Bree glances at the picture. "Well.. the idiot did leave by himself to go fight a bunch of people... and he may get ambushed..."
<TheStoryteller> The picture shows Scott, as you see him now and smiling, with a dark haired and hazel eyed woman.
<Bree> She's pretty...
<Scott> She's the reason I'm going after Nasch.
<Scott> Want to take a small walk?
* Bree smiles a bit, hint of sadness. "Oh... so you're doing this for love..." *blinks, snapping out of it* "Sure..."
<Scott> Yes..
* Scott starts walking from the training hall. "It happened a year ago. She was kidnapped by Nasch to get at me. After the incident with DarkStar and the Rancor's Fang."
* Bree nods and walks along with him. "Sorry to hear it..."
<Scott> Don't be. That's my battle. Anyway, I want you to know that I, too, am concerned about Leon. I don't hate him, Bree, don't get me wrong. I just can't read him as well as I can others.
* Bree smirks. "I can read him.... the idiot just wants to protect us from harm.. in his own little way, running off is how to do that..."
<Scott> Hmmm.....I know that look, Bree. That smirk. You're really concerned that he'll get himself killed, aren't you? Can't say I blame you.
<Bree> Yeah.. I'm kinda worried about him...
<Scott> But I'll give credit where credit's due. The old boy's tough as a 10 penny nail, but he'll be no match for the stronger members of the Rancor's Fang. Nasch, Ramon, they're 2 very strong fighters.
* Bree nods. "I'm just afraid he's outnumbered..."
<Scott> I've fought a bunch of their mud grunts before, on these very streets. *Turns a corner down a not so well lighted side street* He shouldn't have much trouble with them. The major players such as Ramon, they're the ones to worry about. But Hay, John and I are going after the Fang too. We'll more than likely run into him along the way.
Horam, Sakura Lane
* Bree nods in thought. "Yeah... but Leon wants to finish them off himself... satisfy his own revenge..."
<Scott> If you're as worried as you say, we'll gladly help you find and assist him. I'm sure that after he gets all this hatred out of his system, he'll thank us for it.
<Scott> I know...and there's this problem of getting Nasch to spill his guts about where Tomoe is. He'll just shoot first and forget asking questions.
<Bree> I doubt I'll be much help... plus I really have nothing against them...
* Bree nods. "He'll do just that... so you should stop him before he can blast him to peices."
* Scott stops at the same house he stopped at earlier. "Oh? I beg to differ, Bree-chan. Just your quick wit and charm have made Leo realize that there's more to life than his simple hatred of everything. I've noticed some real changes in him since we started this trip."
<Bree> I feel like a damn councelor, not a theif... *stops and looks at the house*
* Scott slides the door open and gestures for Bree to enter. "Ladies first."
Horam, Tomoe's House
* Bree steps inside looking around. "What is this place...?"
<Scott> It's Tomoe's house. I come here now and then to allow myself to remember the good times that she and I shared in the 2 years that we were together before Nasch kidnapped her.
<TheStoryteller> Bree notices a picture similar to the one that Scott carries on the wall...with a small cut from what looks like a Kunai dagger.
* Bree sighs. "I always end up in other people's houses... looking at their memories..." *glances over at the picture*
<Scott> Maybe you should share some of your own memories with others too. I'd gladly listen to you. *Gives Bree a smile
* Mine are rather boring, till about a year ago.
<Bree> No... it's ok really. I'm not complaining about my memories... but seeing everyone else's gets to a person after a while...
<Scott> Bree, as I said, I can't force you to do anything. You have to follow your own path. But, if you're as concerned about Leon as I think you are, it would be a wise choice, for friendship's sake, to go after him. We all have to make hard decisions in life, but if you follow your heart, it'll lead you down the right path.
* Bree laughs. "Follow my heart.... pfft..." *looks off, around the room*
<TheStoryteller> A scent permeates the room. It smells of the ocean breeze in Meribia.
* Bree sighs, facing off away from Scott.
* Scott puts a hand on Bree's shoulder. "What are you so afraid of, Bree? If you are worried, why not try to help him? I would. As I said, I don't hate the old boy, but I do worry that he'll kill the wrong person in a hate-filled rage."
* Bree pulls away, uncomfortable. "I'm not afraid of anything..."
<Scott> Oro?
<Bree> Just what I said.. I'm not afraid of anything.... why would I be afraid?
<Scott> We all have different fears, Bree. I can't look at myself in the mirror without my worst fear coming out. I fear losing that person I love with all my heart. The one I failed to protect when she needed me most.
<Scott> Maybe you won't let anyone close to you because you're afraid of being hurt by them.
* Bree sighs, speaking quietly, "...At least you have someone to protect..."
* Scott turns his face toward the picture on the wall. "I'm not as dense as you may think, Bree. I can read between the lines. I know about what you and Tahn were talking about. And about your feelings of, what's the word, uncertainty? I can tell from your voice just now.
<Bree> It's not what you think... I don't like him... but he does seem to like me...
<Scott> And the rest of us also like you, Bree. Jack, Haylee, Johnathan, Tahn (though he may like you a little too much), and I, we all like you. And Leon does too, I'm certain. Though he won't admit it, he'll need help with what he's doing.
<Bree> That's not what I meant... he's an ok guy.. but I don't "like him" like him... if you know what I mean...
<Scott> As I said, I'm not as dense as you think. I can see that.
<Scott> Bree, what can I say to show you that I do care about you as my friend? We've been through a lot together.
<Bree> I dont think you're dense.. but from what you said it sounded like you thought friendly like...
<Bree> I'm sure you think of me as a friend.... but I really don't feel like we are...
* Scott kneels down, looking around. "You know, I was hoping that you would help me find Tomoe, and assist Leon in the process. Your eyes give it away that you're worried about him, as am I. I didn't want to get into that confrontation with him earlier, Bree, but being unable to read him like I do others, he just...got to me like no one else has, except Nasch."
<Bree> I'm not THAT worried about him.... if you're hinting at something else...
<Scott> Did I sound like it? Gomen. I didn't mean to.
<Bree> Yeah.. each time you mention it, that's what it sounded like...
<Scott> Sorry.
* Scott stands up and looks Bree in the eyes.
<Bree> It's ok... just dont spread that around.. I dont want people thinking I like him like that...
* Bree blinks. "What is it?"
<Scott> Just curious, that's all. You can usually read a lot about a person from their eyes.
<Bree> What do you see then? *stares back*
<Scott> Well, you won't let anyone close to you, for one. Why, I can't see. You don't seem to be interested in a relationship with anyone and you have several internal questions that are bugging the hell out of you. Am I wrong?
<Bree> ...sorta...
<Scott> Where am I wrong? I am interested in getting to know you better.
<Scott> But only as a friend, Bree.
<Bree> The relationship part, mainly...
<Scott> Oro?
<Bree> But... lets not talk about that ok?
<Scott> Suits me just fine.
<Scott> I wanted to tell you something, Bree. Thank you. For your support during that battle with DarkStar. I couldn't have won without it.
<Bree> It's ok... I really didn't know who I was fighting for..... still don't.
<Scott> I asked myself that same question, Bree. On several occasions back when I was in the guard. "What am I fighting for?" Back then, I was just working under orders from the Chancellor, till a while back...then I realized I had something worth fighting for.. Search inside yourself, in your heart.
* Bree grumbles quietly. "Wish you'd quit mentioning my heart..."
<Scott> Gomen. Anyway, you look like you wanted to say something. What's up?
* Bree shakes her head. "I don't want to say anything..."
<Scott> Hmmm...
* Scott looks over at Bree. "What are your plans as of right now? I know that first thing in the morning, I'm leaving for Zaback. I got a clue that the Fang's major players might be there."
<Bree> I'm probably leaving too... can't let myself leave Leon like that... I want to be the first one to hit him for being an idiot...
<Scott> Want some help? We're going the same direction.
<Bree> Sure... why not. No use in running off like Leon did.
<Scott> Ok. Thank you, Bree. And it was fun talking to you.
* Bree blinks "That's it? End of conversation?"
<Scott> Not if you don't want it to be.
<Scott> Oh, I noticed something about one of your fighting skills. It reminds me of one that my sparring partner uses. Want to go back to the Aoiya?
<Bree> Nooo thanks.. I dont fight unless I have to...
<Scott> Ok. I'm kinda wore out from that technique I used on the training dummy. Notice anything different between it and a normal battou jutsu?
<Bree> I may.. if I knew what a Battou was...
<Scott> A sword drawing attack.
<Bree> I really don't watch other people fight... I just watch for the damage, to see how much harder I need to work..
<Scott> Hmm...then you weren't able to read it. I just hope Nasch isn't able to either.
<Bree> Well.. unless you mean the left foot thing.. I got to watch that, since I didn't have to pay attention to an enemy...
<Scott> That's what separates a normal sword drawing attack from that one. Normally, you'd lead in with the right leg. That one was my succession technique.
<Bree> What difference does a foot make though?
<Scott> A fraction of a second, and as such the user also walks a thin line between life and death.
* Bree nods. "If you say so... I guess it'd be like my talking about lock picking... or breaking into places... it'd sound strange for the first few times of explaining.."
<Scott> Hehehe...
<Scott> Anyway, Bree, let's head back. If I stand here and smell any more of Tomoe's perfume, I think you'll see a side of me that I DON'T want anyone to see.
* Bree smiles, mood lightening. "At least you laughed..."
* Bree nods. "Yeah.. I'd hate to smell purfume from my past too... so let's go."
* Scott smiles too. "I do now and then. I'm not always so serious."
* Scott starts back to the Aoiya.
Horam, Sakura Lane
<Scott> I have a question for ya, Bree-chan.
* Bree follows Scott "What is it?" *looks over at him*
<Scott> What got you started as a thief? I don't know many, so I just wanted to know what got you started.
* Bree smiles. "I was wondering if someone would ask me that..."
* Bree looks at the sky as they walk. "I had to... in order to live."
<Scott> This is the first chance we've had to talk, away from Leo that is, so..I was wondering.
<Scott> Oro?
<Bree> My family had nothing... we had to steal to live.
<Scott> I didn't know. Where did you live?
<Bree> Raculi... not exactly the richest town in my opinion....
<Scott> I've heard. I guess living in Vane can make a person oblivious to such things, because I spent most of my life in magic school.
<Bree> I wish I had... there's not much calling for a thief in this group...
<Scott> Hmm...there just might be soon. ^_^x
* Bree glances over. "Oh? You think so? Well.. I know I'm still the one with the most cash on me..." *grins wide*
<Scott> wWll, I do have my ideas on how to gain information vital to this trip.
<Bree> Ruff some people up?
<Scott> If necessary, though I'd like to keep from it. But being a thief, you are pretty good at getting around un-noticed, right?
* Bree nods. "Even you didn't notice who I was when I flung that paint at you... so yeah..."
<Bree> And Leon thought you did it.. *giggles* I dumped ice water on him... he got the whole bucket on the head.
<Scott> That one was classic, Bree.
* Bree smiles happily. "Glad you liked it..."
* Scott smiles as he starts laughing.
* Bree giggles. "Got you to laugh again..."
<Scott> You're pretty good at that.
<Bree> I'm good at cheering people up... but lousy at cheering myself up...
<Scott> You remember that guy at the trial, Saloni, right?
* Bree shakes her head. "Not really.. I haven't been paying much attention. I didn't think I'd need to remember all those faces since they had nothing to do with me..."
<Scott> Never mind, it's not important right now.
* Bree nods. "Sorry about that..."
<Scott> It's ok.*smiles
* Anyway, if you're from Raculi, how'd you wind up at the announcement?
<Bree> I was looking for someone... and I followed him to that town.. and I kinda got ushered into the announcement..
<Scott> Hmm.....sounds like we have something in common. We're both looking for someone.
<Bree> Yeah.. but you have a chance to save someone... I don't.
Horam, Aoiya Restaurant
* Scott sits down on the Aoiya's front steps. "Maybe, but you can count on me to assist you in finding that person."
* Bree nods and sits down "Thanks... but, I don't want him dead... I used to, but after I seen everyone else wanting death as revenge.. I'd rather see him end up like my father.. imprisoned..."
<Scott> Don't get me wrong, Bree. I'm not in this for revenge against Nasch. I only want to save Tomoe. If that means I have to fight Nasch, then so be it. I'd rather see him stand trial for his crimes too. From what I've learned Nasch Byars has remorselessly killed so many people that if you were to line them up head to foot, they'd cover Meribia 10 times.
<Scott> That's not a person I'd want to fight alone, either....
<Bree> You have two others wanting his head right? So you'll have help...
<Scott> Which 2? Leon, I know of...and who?
* Bree blinks. "Didn't Tahn want them too? Or.. was it John?" *scratches her head confused*
<Scott> I think it's Tahn.
* Bree nods. "Either way... you're not alone."
<Scott> Besides, I'm not really interested in the bloodshed. I'm not a killer.
<Scott> What about you? I heard you're in the good graces of the Bunny dojo down the street. Not bad people.
* Bree blushes. "H..hai.. they seem to like me..."
<Scott> And those ears are rather...kawaii? Is that the word?
* Bree nods, bunny ears on her head flopping around. "That's the word..."
<Scott> Hehe.
<Bree> What's so funny now?
<Scott> Nothing. Just noticing how your bunny ears flop around when you nod. ^_^x
* Bree giggles, looking up at them. "Yeah... they do flop around don't they.... why'd you bring up the dojo anyway?"
<Scott> Oh, just a few memories. One of them tried to recruit Lisa last year when I was here. And Marie-dono and I are on pretty good terms with each other.
<Scott> You could have gotten in with worse, like the wind school. Goddess, they've taken a turn for the worse since 1100 years ago.
<Bree> Hehe... anyone who just runs away isn't really worth training with...
<Bree> Hai... those guys are easily laughed at though...
<Scott> No joke. For since 1100 years ago, they've taken a SERIOUS turn for the worse.
<Bree> Hard to beleive they were serious once.... but, what do you know about the Bunny Girl Dojo?
<Scott> Not very much. I've had a chace to talk to Marie-dono once and she seems like a nice person. They don't take too kindly to a lot of males, especially the arrogant ones.
<Scott> But their karate is genuine. A school of aikido, if I remember correctly.
* Bree sweatdrops. "They really dislike Leon... and I thought it was just his being male... but he's arrogant too."
<Scott> Hehe...he's not too easy to understand.
<Bree> Why do they hate guys though? Any reason?
<Scott> For some, I think it's because they've been hurt by old boyfriends, some are just that way..prejudiced against men. Marie's pretty straight-forward. She doesn't hate all men, but for some like Leon, she can really get violent. Like that chi attack she has..reppasempujin, I think it is.
<Bree> Just that way....?
<Scott> I'm not a psychologist. I don't know how to describe it.
<Bree> Do you mean.. just don't like men... or... the other 'that way'.. if you know what I'm talking about...
<Scott> I get your point, but I really don't know.
<Scott> I've not spent a lot of time around them.
* Bree nods. "Ok.. I was just wondering... it just seemed that way.."
<Scott> But as I said, a lot of them are nice people...I just think they've been hurt by old boyfriends and are really turned off when it comes to certain men..personality wise, that is.
* Bree nods. "Sure.. just thought... well you know..." *figits*
<Scott> Hehe..it's ok. I just don't know the biggest part of them that well.
* Bree nods. "It's ok.. I guess I'd have to ask another woman about that... they wouldn't easily tell a man that.."
<Scott> True...
* Bree leans back on the steps looking at the sky.
* Scott looks up at the stars too. "They are a thing of beauty, aren't they?"
* Bree nods. "They really are.... hope one comes into my life..." *smiles*
* Scott holds his hand out to Bree, as a tiny star starts to form in it. "Like this?"
* Bree smiles, then shakes her head. "Not really... I meant it figuritivly.. not literally.."
<Scott> Hehe...that's what I like to see..that smile.
<Bree> Don't you start liking me too.. I already have enough people liking me.. *sweatdrops*
<Scott> Don't worry about that, Bree. I'm already spoken for.
<Scott> I just like you as a friend, that's all.
* Bree nods. "Tahn and Leon like me... even though Leon doesn't admit it.. I think he does... just has that look in his eyes.."
* Scott lies back, looking up. "That's one situation I cannot advise people on. I am no good with giving advice on affairs of that matter. I was doing good to even be able to speak to Tomoe when we met."
<Tahn> ...A lot of people like you.. just in our own different ways.
* Scott looks back. "Hi, Tahn."
* Bree sweatdrops looking at Tahn. "Oh.. Hi Tahn! Didn't see you there..."
<Scott> How long have you been back there?
<Bree> .oO( Long enough to hear me talk about him I bet... )
* Tahn steps out of the shadows and smirks. "About 10 or so minutes... I couldn't really get to sleep..so I decided I'd check out here... and then I heard you two talking.. I honestly didn't mean to eavesdrop, but curiousity killed the cat.."
<Scott> Hehehe...
* Bree scoots over on the steps "Want to sit down?"
<Tahn> Sure.
* Tahn sits down next to Bree.
<Tahn> Listen.. I didn't mean to startle you like that earlier tonight..
<Scott> so, what's on your mind, Tahn-dono?
<Tahn> I've just been thinking... about Gregory, Leon, and most of all the Fang..
* Bree says quietly, "It's ok.. really.."
<Scott> Haven't we all. I know that I really don't think it'll be a good idea for Leon to go after them alone. He may be tough as a 10 penny nail, but he's still one man.
* Tahn looks over to Scott. "If you have to forsake the trust of a friend to regain the same trust... is it worth it, Scott?"
<Scott> Oro?
<Scott> What do you mean?
* Bree blinks at Tahn. "What are you talking about?"
<Tahn> I've been thinking about what you've told me about Tomoe.
<Scott> And?
<Tahn> If I hadn't told you this before..
<Tahn> I did have connections with the Fang not too long ago... they hired me to kill someone named Lane... I believe you and he met, Bree-chan? Anyways...
* Bree blinks. "We did?" *scratches her head*
<Tahn> Technically, the contract the Fang put me on doesn't expire until I get the money for what happened to Lane. At that time, I could ask to do something else for them.. I'm not sure what.. but I could ask them to do it, in exchange for Nasch's possession of Tomoe..
<Tahn> Would you forgive me if I did that?
<Scott> Tahn, there's no reason for you to do that.
<Tahn> How so? It's not like you can just go up to Nasch and ask him nicely to give her back.
<Scott> I've already called my informants in the Zaback area. There's rumors that the major players in the fang are going to be there. I plan on challenging him for her release.
<Tahn> Which makes it that much worse for Leon..
<Bree> You can always try the safe way first.. then challenge as a backup plan...
* Tahn lowers his head. "As much as I want to deny it... I'm worried about Leon-san... Ramon is not the man you want to underestimate."
<Scott> You may not know this, but as of last year, I also had been ordered by Kash Ausa to investigate the Rancor's Fang.
<Tahn> I can give you as much information as I have on them..
<Tahn> Which, unfortunately, isn't nearly as much as you would need..
<Scott> I have informants.
* Bree plops her head in her hands, looking around at the houses and scenery.
<Scott> Bree, this is a matter of my wanting to save her, but I won't sacrifice a friend to do so. I'll challenge Nasch.
<Tahn> What much do I have to live for anyways?
<Bree> Erk.. I thought Tahn was talking about exchanging his cash payment for her...
<Scott> Besides, I want to know how good his sword style is against my Hiten Mitsurugi style.
<Tahn> No, Bree..
* Tahn looks to Scott. "So this is just as much for personal honor than for love?"
<Scott> You know my answer. It's for Tomoe alone, but a part of me wants to fight him to find out just how strong he is, and how strong I am too...it answers an internal question."
<Bree> Well.. I'm not going to let you trade yourself.. if that's what you're meaning to do Tahn...
<Tahn> No, it wasn't..
<Tahn> And still, like I said, what is there for me to live for?
<Scott> Look at my right cheek, Tahn. I can't look at myself in the mirror because of my knowing I failed to protect Tomoe when she needed me most.
* Bree sweatdrops. "Now I'm really confused about what you're doing..."
<Scott> I am too. He's going to sacrifice himself? I can't see why. There is a lot to live for.
<Tahn> Like what?
<Tahn> And who said I'd sacrifice myself?
<Bree> Maybe I should just be quiet... I'm just really lost in all this talk...
<Tahn> Even though.. it is an option, now that I think about it..
<Scott> That's what it sounds like...Hoo boy, I'm lost as a blind goose in a hailstorm.
* Bree raises an eyebrow at Scott. "If you say so...."
<Tahn> I planned on doing something, -anything- for the Fang in exchange. If that meant my life, so be it.
<Scott> Tahn, you know what we could do. We could go question that Saloni guy. Remember him..from the trial?
<Tahn> But it wasn't for me to decide.
<Tahn> Sa..
* Tahn snaps his head up.
<Scott> Eh?
<Tahn> How could I have been so blind then?
<Scott> What is it?
* Bree pokes Tahn in the cheek. "You ok?"
<Tahn> I just realized..
<Tahn> Saloni...
<Tahn> We'd have no problems finding him. But I doubt you want to question him for something like that.
* Bree smiles to herself, looking back up at the sky.
<Scott> Why's that?
<Tahn> Saloni.. is one of the higher-ranking members.
* Scott gets a slight grin. "Even better."
<Tahn> Like I said.
<Tahn> I doubt you'd want to question him for something like that.
<Scott> We'll find out when we get to Zaback.
<Tahn> Saloni dabbles in the reverse side... so to speak. If it's a forgery or an untruth, he knows it and exploits it.
<Tahn> I doubt you'd get a real answer from him.
<Scott> Well, we'll talk about it later. I'm kinda tired and off to bed.
<Tahn> ... Alright, Scott-dono.
* Bree sits up. "Going to bed, Scott?"
<Tahn> Rest up.. it's gonna be a helluva day tomorrow.
<Scott> Later, Tahn, Bree-chan. Yeah, I'm going to bed. Got my training in, though I could have gone for a sparring match with Aoshi earlier. But I'm kinda tired. Later.
<Tahn> Anyways..
* Scott heads inside, tired and headed to bed.
<Tahn> Are you still up for talking, Bree?
<Bree> Yeah.. if you want to, I'm still awake.
<Bree> So....... what's on your mind Tahn?
* Tahn rests his head on his hands.. "I heard... and, I understand why you were so edgy before... but still...love goes deeper than what you're thinking of.. love is genderless, really."
* Bree blushes, looking at Tahn startled. "What do you mean?"
<Tahn> Even if I hadn't heard what I did, it'd be fairly easy to piece it together... about your.. "preferences", so to speak..
* Bree sweatdrops, nervous. "Oh...s..so you figured that out huh?"
<Tahn> You make it sound like you guarded it so heavily from detection.
* Bree nods. "Yeah... I did. It's not the sort of thing that I just want to tell anyone..."
<Tahn> I didn't mean in words.
<Tahn> I meant in actions.
* Bree nods. "That's the best way to hide it, right?"
<Tahn> Also the hardest.
* Bree sighs deeply. "What would you think if I hung all over a girl? Some people would run away.. so that would hurt more..."
<Tahn> I.. I don't know how I'd react. Like I said, true love is genderless... man, woman, it really makes no difference. It's the feeling that counts.
<Bree> I'm really sorry if I mislead you, Tahn....
<Tahn> How would you have? I feel like the one who's done the misleading..
<Bree> Well... you thought I liked guys... and, you said I was hiding it in my actions.. so I must have fooled you some how...
<Bree> How could you have mislead me?
<Tahn> Not just you..
<Tahn> All of you.
<Bree> Oh... well like me, you had reasons...
<Bree> I didn't want to get treated like a freak... so that's my reason for misleading...
<Tahn> I'm not really quite as caring as you guys think.. that's a side of me that died back in Vane.
<Tahn> And, really, I don't know what the reasons are I'm like this, lately.
<Bree> Like what?
<Tahn> What do you mean "Like what"?
<Bree> You said 'like this lately'... just wondering what you meant.
<Tahn> Well... like how I've been.
<Bree> You mean the "nervous in love" guy? *smiles*
<Tahn> I mean the "nervous worries about people" guy.
* Bree nods. "Maybe worried about their safety? If you mean the people traveling with us..."
<Tahn> But.. that's not how I usually am.
<Bree> Dont worry about it, it's sorta natural to do that with people you care about.
<Tahn> But..
<Bree> But what?
<Tahn> I haven't cared about people for more than 5 years now.. I've been...quite like Leon, actually.
<Tahn> Remember how I was back at the Sunken Tower?
* Bree smiles sweetly. "Then welcome back to the land of the living. I remember, sorta.."
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> I know you of all people know it wouldn't be that easy to change back..
<Bree> You mean back to those who have feelings?
<Tahn> Back to what you were in the past. Just in general.
<Bree> Maybe it's that. I'm tired... but, you're really confusing me tonight, Tahn...
<Tahn> I'm sorry... this is just how my mind works..
<Bree> It's ok.. just means we talk longer is all. *smiles*
<Tahn> Well...
<Tahn> What were you like, say... 10 years ago?
<Bree> 10 years.... I was with my father.. and happy...
<Tahn> Exactly. Do you think it would be easy to be that same happy self today that you were 10 years ago?
* Bree sighs, shaking her head. "Not really... I'd need someone else to be happy with..."
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> Someone else...
* Bree looks down. "Yeah... and for me... it'll take a miracle..."
<Tahn> What happened to your father?
* Bree pauses for a moment. "He died..."
<Tahn> ..Sorry... I didn't mean to hit a nerve... I was just wondering.
<Bree> It's ok.. that's what happened... he was imprisoned.. and died in there...
<Tahn> ....
<Tahn> I guess that's what happened to my parents..
<Tahn> I'm not really sure...
<Bree> Sorry to hear that.... *sighs*
<Tahn> I just wish I knew for sure exactly what did happen...
<Bree> I'm sure you'll find out what happened..
* Tahn smiles a little, still somewhat depressed.
<Bree> Maybe we should talk about something else? *smiles a bit*
<Tahn> Like?
<Bree> I don't know... anything really...
<Tahn> Heh..
<Tahn> It's not like our lives have become fun and merry ever since we both got into this group... There's not many subjects any better than the one we were talking about.
* Bree nods. "I was thinking about staying here and leaving everyone..."
<Tahn> Yeah... I think you'd like it here with the Bunny Dojo.
* Bree nods. "That's why I wanted to stay..."
<Bree> It's one of the few places I'd actually fit in...
<Tahn> Even though I don't know how anyone could stand those annoying Wind guys for more than a week without going insane..
<Bree> Well.. being an actual member of the Bunny Dojo.. I'd get to beat on them in the tournaments... *smiles*
<Tahn> Got a point, there.
<Bree> So that'd vent frustrations...
<Tahn> I'd personally like to stay here myself.. but there's not really anywhere I could go..
<Bree> No where for me really... you could join a dojo too I guess... that's something...
<Tahn> I couldn't really..
<Tahn> I'm nothing near what resembles a fighter in any way, shape, or form.
<Tahn> I'm an intellectual.. the type more suited for Vane... provided that it didn't happen to be in several pieces right now..
<Bree> Open a shop? I don't know... I barely found a place I fit in...
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> It's not just that..
<Tahn> I'd be too worried about the rest of them. Scott, Johnathan, Haylee... especially Haylee...
* Bree blushes. "<q> H..hai.. me too..."
<Tahn> Maybe.. Maybe after this is all over, we all... me, you, Scott, Haylee, John, maybe even Leon and Emmi.. Maybe we could all come back here?
<Bree> That'd be nice... depending on how we all end up...
<Tahn> Hopefully we all end up living. *chuckles slightly*
<Bree> I didn't mean that.. I meant.... if we ended up as friends or not...
<Tahn> Well, I don't know about Leon... but the rest of us seem to be in it till the end. ^_^
<Bree> I'm not sure if I'll feel comfortable around everyone in the end...
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> Why?
<Bree> <vq> I kinda like Haylee... and.. well if she knew... she may freak out around me...
* Tahn smirks slightly. "I would too if I found out that three people were after my heart."
<Tahn> But other than that...
<Tahn> Haylee's a very forgiving person... she'd understand, at the very least.
<Bree> Well.. I mean like if you found out a guy was after you as a date...
<Tahn> It's subjective, like I've said before.
<Bree> I don't want forgiveness! I haven't done a damn thing wrong! *bites her tounge, tearing up*
<Tahn> ...
* Tahn puts his arm around Bree's shoulders, trying to console her. "That's not what I meant... Haylee accepts everyone for what they are, is all... forgiving may not have been the best word to use, ne?"
<Bree> <q> Not really... but I dont want her to know.... I know she doesn't care for me like that... so I'd rather her not know at all...
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> You never know until you try.
<Tahn> But..
<Tahn> It appears I've overstayed my welcome here.
<Bree> No.. you haven't...
<Tahn> Well...
<Bree> I don't have anyone to talk to about this... so, even if I look sad.. I'm happy I can at least talk.
* Tahn looks up to the skies.
<Bree> What were you going to say?
<Tahn> I'm.. not sure any more..
<Tahn> I'm a jumble of wierd emotions.
<Bree> Well, what did you plan to say?
<Tahn> I never meant to make you feel bad in any way.
<Tahn> As uncharacteristic as it feels for me.
<Bree> It's ok Tahn.. I'm just sorry I made you feel bad... for liking me, and I don't feel the same way...
<Tahn> You don't know that..
<Tahn> You do like me... just not in the same way.
<Tahn> You like me like you like Scott or Leon..
<Tahn> As a friend.
* Bree nods. "But you know what I meant.."
<Tahn> Actually, I'd be quite content with just being your friend.
<Tahn> If that was all that it could be..
* Bree nods. "That's all it'll be Tahn.... sorry."
<Tahn> You shouldn't be the one that's sorry...
<Tahn> I feel sorry for...well... taking Haylee away from you. If me and her had never met...
* Bree shakes her head. "No.. I've had to suffer like this alot... even in childhood.... my crushes hurt alot more than normal ones..."
<Tahn> ...people are idiots. They can't see past their own fears.
* Bree rubs her head. "I looked alot like a boy back then... so it was a real big let down when I thought they liked me... and they thought they liked me... until they found out..."
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> Tachimukau saki ni kawaita kaze hageshiku fukiaretemo...
<Bree> Hmm?
* Tahn shakes his head. "Never mind."
<Bree> Something about wind?
<Tahn> "No matter how hard this wind tries to push me back.." Part of a saying my family had since the days we lived in Vane.
* Bree nods. "I think I get what it means..."
<Bree> Just have to keep going at it, right?
<Tahn> Yeah.
<Tahn> Set the pace your own way...let things come at you like you want them to.
* Bree nods. "It's just really sad to be me.... all the guys like me... but no one I want does..."
<Tahn> One of those guys may help you along the way...
<Bree> How could a guy help me out?
<Tahn> Just wait and see.
* Bree sighs. "I really dont see how.. but waiting is all I have left..."
<Tahn> Anyways, till then, do you want to tag along with us? I mean, You probably have your own vendettas against the Fang, and you're really much more useful in a battle then you'd like to think..
<Bree> Not really... I'm only after a single person.. and as far as I know... he's not with them.
<Tahn> A single...?
<Tahn> If it's not imposing... tell me more?
<Bree> The guy who put my father in prison... I also have reason to beleive he's responsible for his death in there too...
<Tahn> ...No names?
<Bree> Wish I knew it...
<Bree> I'm horrible remembering names... so even if it's mentioned I may forget...
<Tahn> At least you have someone who you could blame..
* Bree nods. "Yeah... though I'd rather just have my father back..."
<Tahn> I'd love to have my parents back too...
* Bree nods "I can understand that... I'd like to have my mother back too..."
<Tahn> But... eight years...
<Tahn> Maybe the Blue Star is inhabitable.. maybe they're there. I wish I could believe that.
<Bree> If they are... I hope they're all happy... *smiles*
<Tahn> If they weren't, I doubt they wouldn't find their way back.
<Bree> Their way back?
* Tahn sighs. "Eight years ago, Kashier Ausa sent my parents to investigate the Blue Spire... the place where Lucia appeared, 100 years ago. They... never returned."
<Bree> So.. they may be alive then?
<Tahn> If they are, I don't know where.
<Tahn> After I left Vane to escape from Gregory, one of the first places I went was the Blue Spire. I explored the area for about a week... with no sign of either of them, whatsoever.
<Bree> Maybe they never arrived? Maybe they're just lost?
<Tahn> ...For eight years?
<Bree> it's possible right?
<Bree> They may be captured too...
<Bree> Like Tomoe is...
<Tahn> ...By wh...
<Tahn> The Fang? But...
<Tahn> Why?
<Bree> I dont mean them.. I'm just saying like what happened to her.
<Bree> Could be someone else...
<Tahn> Who?
<Tahn> Zeio isn't on this plane of existence any more, and..
<Tahn> Virtue?
<Bree> Maybe it's just a band of weirdos with no affiliation...
<Bree> All I'm saying is.. don't give up hope.
<Tahn> Just like you, Bree-chan.
<Bree> Hmm?
<Tahn> My parents, your.. uhm... you know. Both of them seem like lost causes, but there's got to be an answer out there for both of us...
<Bree> Not for mine... I know for sure they're gone...
<Tahn> Not talking about your parents. They still live on with you, in spirit.
<Tahn> You know what I'm talking about.
<Tahn> But I won't bring it up again.
* Bree shakes her head. "I don't know what your talking about, really..."
* Tahn rolls his eyes. "Let's not worry about it then. It's not that important."
<Tahn> Anyways... I've kept you up too late anyways..
* Bree smiles. "Nah... I can talk forever..."
<Tahn> Yeah, but we're going to have to go after Leon as early as possible tomorrow morning...
<Tahn> The later we stay up, the later we get up. The later we get up, the bigger of a head start he has.
* Bree nods. "Yeah.. and there's no one to drag me along over their shoulder since he's gone.. so I have to get up." *sweatdrops*
<Tahn> I would, but I'm a little too weak to do something like that .^^;
* Bree winks, sticking out her tongue. "I'm sure you would..."
* Tahn winks and sticks out his tongue back. "Remember, just friends. I have to keep good on that too."
* Bree smiles. "I know.. just teasing you... sorry."
<Tahn> Not a problem. ^_^
<Tahn> You've really cheered me up.
* Bree smiles. "Good... at least I did some good..."
* Tahn smiles back. "Anyways, we better get to bed... otherwise, they might leave without us. And, no offense, but I don't think the Bunny Dojo would like people waking up at lunchtime either." ^_^
<Bree> True true... but I'm not staying anymore...
* Bree stands up, dusting herself off. "But whenever you figure out how a guy could help me.... please let me know.."
<Tahn> I already know how. I just can't tell you.. it would defeat the purpose. ^_-
<Bree> You're not going to tell her are you?!
* Tahn blinks "Of course not! That would be more likely to hinder than help!"
<Tahn> ....No offense.
* Bree blinks. "Ok.. I'm just confused now..."
<Tahn> Try not to think about it.
<Tahn> Go with the hand Fate deals you. ^_^
* Bree sweatdrops. "Why does that scare me?"
<Tahn> Heh... gomen ne!
<Bree> It's ok.. really.. but, I'm not used to putting my fate in the hands of others..
<Tahn> You don't need to.
<Bree> Then what're you going to do?
<Tahn> You'll see.
<Tahn> Just be assured that I won't tell Hay anything that you wouldn't tell her yourself.
<Bree> But... you intend to have her like me? *raises a brow*
<Tahn> I intend to have her be more willing to accept the idea... whether she likes you as a person or not is entirely up to her.
<Bree> If she accepts the idea.. then she'll know about me... and how I feel...
<Tahn> Not if I can pull this off right.
<Bree> Tahn.. I appreciate it.. but please don't do anything... I'd rather just suffer.
<Tahn> .....
<Bree> Sorry... I just dont want her to know... *looks down*
<Tahn> I...
* Bree blinks, waiting for him to finish.
<Tahn> ...
<Bree> You ....? *tries coaxing it out of him*
<Tahn> ........
<Bree> "ome on Tahn... what is it? *looks at him, concerned*
<Tahn> Nothing.
<Bree> I won't let you sleep until you tell me...
<Tahn> Nothing to tell you.
* Bree sighs. "Fine... if you don't want to tell me, then you don't have to..."
<Tahn> I didn't say I didn't want to tell you.
<Tahn> I was being quite honest when I said there was nothing to tell you.
<Bree> Then why'd you stop at I?
<Tahn> I just was trying to make sense of you.. mainly your feelings for Hay.
* Bree blushes. "I think it's just being cooped up with her and being so close physicly.... that's why I want it to pass... it's probably not rooted in anything solid..."
<Tahn> I could say the same thing about her.
<Tahn> Doesn't mean that it's true.
* Bree rubs her head, still blushing. "Though I wouldn't mind finding out... but that'll never happen..."
<Tahn> And I'll never find out about what happened to my parents. That answer the question you had earlier?
* Bree shakes her head. "No. But, I really can't just run up and declare my feelings.. and steal a kiss.. and run off again... even though I could.. and I doubt anyone could catch me..." *giggles*
<Tahn> The worst case is rejection..
* Bree nods. "Right... that's what I'm afraid of..."
<Tahn> .... No reason to. I'd be more afraid of acceptance.
<Bree> Why? *blinks*
<Tahn> You're used to rejection... it won't be quite as painful, or new, for you.
<Bree> Gee.. you make it sound like a good thing...
<Tahn> Didn't mean to.
<Bree> You're right though... but I'll have to be around her for a while... I can't run off if things go bad...
<Tahn> Well..
<Tahn> You can, but I'll hate you for it. *smirks slightly*
* Bree laughs under her breath. "You're right... maybe I'll just disguise myself, run in and steal a kiss, then take off..." *giggles*
<Tahn> Heh... *sweatdrops*
<Bree> Not a good idea? *smiles*
<Tahn> Dunno.
<Bree> I'm only kidding anyway...
<Tahn> ;)
<Tahn> Deep down I don't think you are.
<Tahn> I'd do the same thing in your position.
* Bree blushes. "Maybe I will try it... maybe the next town... I'll see if I can't pull it off."
* Tahn chuckles. "I'd advise against."
<Tahn> You don't know if I'll be nice or mean to you if you do... I may uncover you right before the decisive moment. ^_-
* Bree smiles. "I'd still kiss her and run off... and I know you couldn't catch me.."
<Tahn> No, but I know who could.
<Tahn> All I'd have to do is scare him into running into your direction ;)
<Bree> Who? *blinks*
* Tahn tries his best to imitate the voice "We run away reeeeal fast! Always win!"
<Bree> The wind dojo guy? *sweatdrops*
* Tahn laughs.
<Tahn> Who else? ^_- If all else fails, he could make a serviceable football.
<Bree> He won't be there if we're in the next town... *grins*
<Tahn> You don't know that... *grins*
<Bree> At least I'll get the kiss. *smiles*
<Tahn> You know... you're just like a friend I had at the guild.. ^_^ Except... um... he didn't have a chest. ^_- No offense.
* Bree smiles. "I'm sure he doesn't take any." *winks*
<Tahn> I was talking about you, you gooberette. *ruffles her hair*
<Bree> Hey! *fixes her hair back* "I meant to say it that way...
<Tahn> I know. *winks*
<Tahn> ...
<Tahn> Greeeat.
<Bree> What is it now?
* Tahn sweatdrops bigtime. "Look over on the horizon."
<Tahn> Sun's starting to come up. ^^;
<Tahn> We wasted the whole night. ^^;
* Bree sweatdrops. "I wouldn't say waisted... just used more than we should have..."
<Tahn> Got a point. Anyways, shall we go look for some place to eat, or should we wait for the rest? ^_^
<Bree> Which ever you want... either is fine with me. I snuck off early for a nap so I'm ok on sleep...
<Tahn> A simple spell should hold me over, so same here..
* Bree nods. "So which will it be?"
<Tahn> Up to you.... *grins* "Bree-kun.
* Bree sweatdrops. "Don't call me that... I may not like guys.. but I'm not A guy!"
* Tahn chuckles. "Just kidding! Just kidding!"
<Bree> I dont act that macho... do I? *blinks*
<Tahn> Only when you try to. ^_^
<Tahn> Usually just around Leon when he's not trying to kill me. ^_-
* Bree rubs her head. "I didn't know I was that bad.... well I know how Haylee feels.. I attracted almost as many people as she did..." *giggles*
<Tahn> Anyways, the Aioya probably isn't open yet, so shall we go look for some place to eat?
<Bree> Sure, that's fine with me.
<Bree> If it wasn't for me being the way I am... we would have been tied at two a peice... *smiles, giggling*
* Tahn chuckles.
~~ END Interlude ~~