[012]

[fortune_sought]

[when Sophie turns on her CAT, her expression is neutral--very carefully so. on the surface, she seems normal, but someone looking closely might notice that her eyes are a bit red and puffy. otherwise, she has a blue shawl wrapped around her shoulders and is seated on the sofa in her townhome. as soon as she begins to speak, that neutral expression goes out the window, and her bitterness is clear]

Since they've so graciously given us some time to ourselves, I think we should use it wisely. It's been cold all day, and--knowing this town--that means it'll be worse tomorrow. I suggest everyone visit the stores and prepare for that. Also, I am going to knit hats and gloves with protective charms in them for anyone who is interested. If you'd like some, please stop by my townhome so I can take measurements.

[she pauses] And...to everyone who... [but her voice catches in her throat, and she lets it trail off. she swallows hard before adding, quickly, her voice thick:] Oh, nevermind! [she quickly shuts off her CAT]

[filtered to Kanaya]

[she takes a moment to collect herself before sending out another message, keeping her tone as businesslike as she can do] I know we met under rather...false pretenses. But if you do know how to knit, and you wouldn't mind, I could use your help. Would you like to?

Comments

[fortune_sought]

[she gives Kanaya a curious look] Yes, not to be rude, but I have been wondering. You don't like a golem or demon or anything I'm familiar with. What, erm, sort of being are you, exactly?

[chainsawspistice]

[Way used to that look by now.] I am of the troll race, from a universe far removed. I understand that humans are generally skeptical when the topic of extraterrestrial life is inexplicably smacked across their faces with the exact amount of fanfare of a wingbeast flying into a polished window, but I am being entirely sincere.

[fortune_sought]

A troll! Goodness, I think they have a different appearance where I'm from.

[confused] Why would I be skeptical? You're clearly here. It'd be incredibly foolish to try to claim you don't exist!

[chainsawspistice]

Yes, precisely. If only the remainder of your brethren could be as sensible. In fact, I was suspected of wearing makeup when I first arrived.

How do trolls in your familiarity appear?

[fortune_sought]

What? By whom?

Well, I haven't met one personally, but I've heard they're rather--and this is all rumour, mind you--but they say that trolls are quite...monster-like. [she's clearly embarrassed so say so, though] Large and violent, among other things. I don't know if it's the truth, but I'm certain if they'd seen trolls like you, the rumours wouldn't be what they are.

[chainsawspistice]

Luke. The boy with the quaint blue newsboy cap. [At least "growing up" in a human environment taught her human terminology.]

Actually... There may be more truth there than you suspect. We as a race are vicious by design; those who are not, or who fail to present their practical value to Her Imperious Condescension, are more often than not eliminated before maturity. So I would say the rumors are reasonably founded, if your trolls are in any manner like mine.

[fortune_sought]

Really? Well...he is very young.

Oh goodness! [she frowns] That sounds quite sad. Are you in any danger, Kanaya? Erm--if I can call you that.

[chainsawspistice]

Of course you can. Should I call you Sophie? [The "Miss" and "Mister" stuff doesn't come naturally to her, but she'll go with whatever Sophie wants.]

Our practices may seem strange, but I believe it's a matter of perspective. Do humans not "put down" their pets when they are incurably sick or crippled? It's a similar concept. As for myself, I was never in danger of being culled for those reasons; I lived largely in isolation, and I was tasked with an important responsibility besides.

[fortune_sought]

Yes, of course. [Sophie doesn't mind mutual informality; she just doesn't want to be improper]

But...just for lacking the right temperament? If you ask me, that sounds quite despicable.

[curious] What sort of responsibility?

[chainsawspistice]

[In the past, Kanaya would have found it odd that Sophie found it odd, but she has a much better picture of human standards now.]

I am to guard and nurture the Matriorb. It will hatch a new mother grub, which will in turn give birth to more trolls, much like a queen bee in a hive. As the last mother grub is now dead, the Matriorb in my possession is essential to the survival of my race.

[fortune_sought]

[her eyes widen] That certainly sounds like an important responsibility! [and then a rather horrible thought occurs to her, and she gasps] It's not here with you, is it? [because this town is nothing like a safe place]

[chainsawspistice]

Yes, it's in my room. Is there a problem?

[She figured no one around here cared enough to make assassination attempts... Not that anyone ever has.]

[fortune_sought]

Oh, not specifically. But in this town... [she frowns] I just wish something so important hadn't been brought here. [trying to be reassuring] But, of course, we've always made it back home all right.

[chainsawspistice]

[Unfortunately, she has already learned of certain unfortunate events thanks to friends based in the future, and a sudden expression of distaste settles on her face at the thought of it.

Time for a subject change.]

Shall we get started on the hats and gloves?

[fortune_sought]

Yes, of course. [she's relieved, to be honest, and she eagerly slips back into a business-like tone] Naturally we'll split the work, but I will need to do a bit on each set myself--in order to knit the charms into them. Now, do you know how to knit, or just how to sew?

[chainsawspistice]

I prefer to sew, but I have dabbled with needles. I should be able to navigate the patterns sufficiently with a bit of instruction.

[A curious look.] What kind of charms?

[fortune_sought]

Oh, that's very good to hear. [she smiles]

I think one for protection and one for warmth. Or is there anything else you think everyone would need?

[chainsawspistice]

So, magical charms?

[She might be staring a little. Because magic.]

[fortune_sought]

[Sophie nods, not sure if that reaction is skeptical or just curious] Yes. [a bit embarrassed] I haven't had formal training, but I can talk life into things. Right now, I think those particular charms would be most helpful.