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darkballsofsight · 5 years

Text

Can't close the stable door after the horse has bolted

Redglare 02/05/2019

So there you stood, the two of you side by side outside of the entrance to the massive precinct and law housing. The construction on it managed to finish in a timeline manner despite all the crisis and setbacks. It was a marvelous sight, and it was the place you lovingly called home.

"So, what do you think? It's breathtaking, isn't it? Our offices and housing are all here in this massive building." You look up at him with you hands on your hips.

Darkleer 02/05/2019

It sure was a building. A nice one, yeah, nicer than most trolls on Alternia might have. Not exactly better than what you used to have, at times when you still had a hive. Not that you should really care about looks. You don't. You've housed in a tiny hut for the last couple of years- You notice her eyes are still on you. ..Uh, she's.. expecting you to say something, right. Praise it, even? "Ah. Yes. It's nice."

Terrible. You did a terrible job, Darkleer.

This is already awfully tedious and you regret ever coming. Hng.

Redglare 02/06/2019

You give him a nudge and jerk your head in the direction of the door, making your way in and leading him to follow.

"Oh come on! Think of all the space you'll have to tinker!" You flash him a grin.

Darkleer 02/06/2019

"Uh. Sure." You follow obediently. It just slowly dawns on you that you may be expected to move into here too? Oh. Hm.

Redglare 02/06/2019

You prop your cane in the crook of your elbow to free up a hand to open the double doors. You outstretch your arms in a grand fashion and beam.

"Welcome! This is-"

And out the corner of your eye you spy... The Queen's maidens.

Darkleer 02/06/2019

You realize too late that you could have should have helped her with the door, especially with her cane. Well, matter, you can easily reach over her and hold the door open, ready to follow whenever she enters.

Your senses immediately pick up on a few presences though. Quite a few. Not sure if you'd like to engage....

Redglare 02/06/2019

You feel the door being propped open for you and redistribute your weight to your cane once more. You're too stubborn to ever ask for a hand but it's appreciated regardless. You realize now, however, that you forgot to mention the queen had these handmaidens.

"Hello, ladies! We have a new man on the force, but you don't have to fuss over him just yet. I'll give him the tour and call for you if we need help with his luggage." You send them away with an appreciative smile, fearing that their presence would bring him additional stress too early. However, it was probably best he was introduced to them with you in his presence rather than being startled by them later.

Darkleer 02/06/2019

"A-ah, thank you, I won't... be needing help. I can handle the luggage. No need to bother anyone with it..." You greet them with a few hesitant nods, just enough to not have to look up to them. One hand moves to push up the shades covering up the cameras that make your eyes. No need to freak out any residents of this place this soon already.

Redglare 02/06/2019

"Sorry, I probably should have warned we were going to be greeted by them. I just got so used to their presence." With a final wave to them, you continued walking through what was formerly a very grand hotel and what was now the lobby for the precinct and your homes. You wonder on where to begin, and remember that yes, he is carrying his luggage around.

"Did you want to drop off your belongings before we get started? You're welcome to pick any room from any of the floors that has not yet been taken. I still haven't picked one myself, haven't been around much to do so even though my stuff has been sitting in storage..."

Darkleer 02/06/2019

"I can just leave them here if they bother you." You wouldn't mind carrying them around for as long as you need to. The weight means little to you.

"I don't need much in my accomodations in terms of uh, appliances or comfort. Just space. Maybe if you have something like an unused garage... Or basement.. that would do."

Redglare 02/06/2019

You give him a puzzled look for his comment. Bothering you? Goodness, no. You weren't the one that was carrying them.

"It's up to you, they're your bags. As for the space you need..." You give it some thought and realize all you had seen in the building when scouting for a potential room were the residential wards and the kitchen.

"We could do a bit of exploring during the tour to figure that out, because I have no idea. Perhaps I can give Her Majesty a call and see what we can figure out for you."

Darkleer 02/08/2019

"I will hold onto them... for now. Until I find a good place to put them down. They would only be in the way here." You don't mind the prospect of exploring the place. Actually, you'd much rather do that for a whole day than having to consult anyone else around here but ah. That's not up to you. Guess you'll do the thing that normal people do and... talk with people.

"That would certainly make things easier." As long as she handled the call.

The thought of encountering Her Majesty runs a shiver down your spine. From all you've heard so far, the Prospitian queen seems friendly enough. But your last experience with directly serving under a ruler's order has been, well, subpar.

Redglare 02/10/2019

You nod your head and continue your walk, trying to decide what wing to start in first. This building was... a lot bigger than you remembered. "Of course I'll make the call, but you've got to meet her eventually you know."

You look behind and smile at him, a taunting grin that he had seen many times before, but it quickly melted into a warmer smile.

"She's absolutely wonderful. I feel such a sense of calm in her presence. Oh, you. I am so glad to have you here. Can you imagine how strange it feels to be, well, how many sweeps old are we now?" You ramble on in your excitement as you pick a hallway to lead him down. It took you a bit to remember but you think the kitchen is this way. It shouldn't be too busy at this time, you managed to time the tour when most have already had their breakfast and clocked into work. You also think it a good time to bring up what you and Pembrooke had spoken about just last night. "Something to help you get settled, I've got a potential job for you."

Darkleer 02/10/2019

"Too many.." you just reply.

You didn't exactly keep track of your age, especially recently. But you could easily figure out the exact number if you bothered. But what you have learned by now is that no creature should be allowed to last this long, for the sake of everyone else and themselves.

You quietly follow, carefully taking in any detail you can spot. If you're expected to reside here from now on, you should know your way around this place.

A job already? Well, you're not going to complain. Having something to keep you busy would be nice. You're just a bit surprised and possibly overwhelmed at how fast everything seems to happen. "What do you have in mind?"

Redglare 02/12/2019

"Too many indeed, but I'm finally feeling as if I'm doing something worthwhile with the rest of my sweeps. Not that what I tried before my disappearance wasn't but... Look you know what I mean." You give off a chuckle as you continue down the halls. You point out to him and explain each room of importance as you pass. Some were for meetings, some were offices. Some were gathering halls and eateries, and of course, the kitchen.

"Well, when I ducked out last night, I meant with Pembrooke to discuss all that happened since my absence. The force has got a bunch of tech from the enemy lines, which is great timing for your arrival. Is it within your skillset to track down what hands it's all been in and who produced it?"

Darkleer 02/13/2019

"Hm. I will.. have to see the tech. I work well with marechines, but to be honest, it is neigh impossible to keep up with all facets of programming and manufacturing that a single species can come up with. Let alone two or three..."

Ah. She hopefully didn't put all her hopes into you for this, did she? Hh.. You can do a lot of heavy duty and... build machines for heavy duty. You're also good at following leads, but it turns out the world develops far too quick for an old horse like you to keep up.

"I-I will take a look. It may be a very simple and obvious case. And if it's not, I will learn what is necessary.."

You hate to disappoint her, but it may already be far too late for that. Breaking news, you're not that great.

Skylla 02/13/2019

Yer name's Skylla Koriga and you've just changed out of yer uniform after a good day of woofbeast trainin'. Also patrol duty which wasn't all that great, but hey least nothing bad happened this time round.

You were planning on taking a small walk 'round the city; it sure is a big ol' city after all; and thus are in the hallway when ya spy Madam Redglare with....

Wait that ain't a Zahhak. Least ain't one ya know ya reckon.

Darkleer 02/14/2019

Well, your horns and size should definitely betray you as a Zahhak.

You spot her quickly. A future co-worker, probably. A bronzeblood, is she? By far not a small or frail looking one, but smaller than you regardless - and a lowblood. You're aware that blood castes are supposed to matter little in this city and you've long tried to leave the expectations and prejudices pounded into you by centuries of imperialistic indoctrination behind (emphasis on tried). But you can't assume that automatically means she is fine with your presence.

You hunch over a little, more or less consciously making yourself smaller, and turn your otherwise motionless face away.

"Good marening.."

Feferi 02/14/2019

You're name is Feferi Piexes and you are trotting down the hall from the other direction with a spring in your step. you spot Chief Redglare and suddenly feel more anxious. No doubt the inspector reported your folly with the with whole Eidan situation to her and it worries you that you are on thin ice with her. "Oh! H-hi Chief. Welcome home," you say with a bit of a worried smile. "ah and hello, sir," you greet the large Zahhak looking man with her. Wait, is he a Zahhak? Those horns are well, tall but very similar.

Darkleer 02/14/2019

Another guest arrives. Which isn't quite correct. You're the guest and this is their home.

You hear her approach right away, but you only turn around when she actually speaks up - and immediately freeze. A seadweller, and a fuchsia one on top. Such a young one, too.

A- and in a servicing position? She called Redglare 'chief'. Hh, that. Is going to take a while to wrap your mind around.

"Hhhell. O. Good mare- mer- ..rning."

Your eyes would go wide if you still had any. Unfortunately, your voice still betrays you. God, what a first impression.

Redglare 02/14/2019

Disappointed? You were nothing of the sort. You instead give a hearty laugh and nod your head at him. "I understand. Or rather, I don't! Which is why I thought to ask you. Just a simple look into it is more than enough for your first task, might be a good way for you to get to know who we're up against."

You were about to open your mouth to say something else but you were greeted by two of your officers. You worry their presence may overwhelm Darkleer, but now was a better time than any to get them aquainted in a relaxed fashion.

You give a way to the first troll that approached the two of you. "Hey there, officer. Apologies I didn't let you know right away I made it back, I know I still owe you lunch."

You turn and bow your head to Feferi, wondering if she was harbouring any fears for bumping into you. Her stammering gave it away. You simply wave and offer a warm greeting in return. "Hello, officer. Thank you, it's good to be back."

"These are two of the officers assigned to the precinct." You offer to Darkleer, looking at him to check for any signs of discomfort.

Skylla 02/15/2019

The need to defend yourself-- physically or verbally-- from the older bluebood is real strong in ya, but then he falters upon seeing Feferi, who also shows up and you take that moment t' reign in yer emotions. It ain't fair of ya t' assume this blueblood will be like those from home. Ya gotta take that chance right??

So you relax yer stance and give him, Fef and Chief a real pleasant smile. "Howdy Chief! Ya ain't gotta worry ' bout none o' that now!"

"And always nice t' meet a new lawfolk Sir! Officer Skylla Koriga at yer service!~"

You wonder how he's related to the Zahhaks if at all; same hatch cluster??

Feferi 02/15/2019

The fact that she's smiling at you and everything sort of only makes you more nervous. You nod to her then offer a hand to the newcomer, "Nice to meet you. I'm Officer Ferferi Piexes."

Darkleer 02/15/2019

Redglare knows you well enough to discover some signs of mild discomfort in you, which means your actual levels of discomfort are through the roof.

You just barely resist the urge to kneel before the young heiress. (Does she even qualify as such *more importantly does even want that do you even have any right to question any of that-)

Judging from the interaction with Redglare, a handshake seems to be the appropriate reaction. While your thoughts arw racing, you manage to make yourself take her hand, soft and careful to not risk hurting her, but somewhat incredibly stiff.

(It doesn't help that the Empress you served under would have gladly seen you licking her boots how could anyone possibly be expect you how to properly handle his situation and oh god did she say Peixes just like--)

"It's. A pleasure. I'm the Ex- Expatriate. Darkleer. Zahhak."

Feferi 02/15/2019

Expatriate? That is an odd title for someone to give themself but you aren't going to judge or make assumptions without hearing his story. A story you are in fact, absolutely curious about. "I look forward to working with you Mr. Zahhak!" you say cheerfully, trying to be something of your regular self in spite of your worry that the chief is going to reconfirm the inspector's admonishments and worse.

Skylla 02/16/2019

Expatriate? Ain't that meaning he be living outside his native land?? Hey just cause ya sound like a country bumpkin it don't mean ya don't know what them big words means! You reckon that he meant t' say a different title; but it ain't the time t' bother the blueblood 'bout it.

"Any relation t' them other Zahhaks we gots here Mr. Darkleer Sir?"

Darkleer 02/16/2019

Indeed, there is a different title. Once your whole pride and life, it feels even more shameful to wear than the one denoting you as the traitor and coward you ultimately are.

"I have... been told about them. I have yet to meet them." You cannot confirm or deny any relation to either of them, but considering the name and blood and apparent similarity. Well uh. It's an obvious case.

Skylla 02/16/2019

Hey to be fair to ya, it's only when ya got t' Midnight City that ya been seeing trolls of similar blood n type; it ain't common at all back on Alternia considerin' that ya don't got what the humans calls "siblings." And the blueblood before ya is loads of sweeps older for sure; it's not that obvious t' you.

"Well reckon they'd be mighty interested t' meet ya! Hope it goes well then Sir."

Redglare 02/16/2019

You watch with pride as the interactions between the three go swimmingly, hoping that his exposure to both a lowblooded troll and the highest of royalty in the same breath would have him come to realize how different things were in Midnight City. Castes of blood were almost inconsequential here, it was only irony that you, as a teal blood, found yourself in a roll similar to that which you once held.

"It's a good thing we all bumped into each other. I wasn't so sure how to surprise you all with his presence, but finding him was the cause of my being away. He's a good friend of mine, and I'm happy to have him on the force." You say with a beaming grin to your two officers. Yes, you had mentioned his descendants to him, and although you agree in their potential interest in meeting their ancestor, he still seemed apprehensive about their meeting.

You saw the signs of discomfort welling up in your dear friend, but hoped that this informal welcome would wash them away. He was difficult to read at times, and you worry that his self loathing was likely to remain as it had all these sweeps. But in due time you knew it in your heart that he'd come to love it here and dedicate himself to the force.

You look back to them after reaching to give him a gentle pat on the arm. "You two off duty now? I was trying to think of where else to bring him on our little tour. Still don't know my own way around here, so I'm doing a bit of discovery myself." You figure it best to set aside work business for now, the stress of the upcoming war must be on everyone's minds and you figure a bit of lighthearted banter and conversation would do everyone, including the ever-nervous Darkleer, some good.

Feferi 02/17/2019

"Oh yeah I am at the moment. My shift was earlier today," you say. "But if there's anything you need I'm happy to help."

Skylla 02/17/2019

"Same; was gonna go walk 'round town but reckon there's still loads of places t' check out right here." Come t' think of it, has the Chief moved in yet? You're sure she's got a home but ya haven't actually seen her round.... then again, she is the Chief so she probably real busy. Like PI!

"Well, we gots the weights n exercise room, as well as the rooftop areas n whatnot!" You suggest helpfully. "What places have ya both already been t'?"

Darkleer 02/18/2019

Oh, you're realizing how different things are here. You've most likely already noticed by observing some people out on the street on the way here. But this? Cultural shock would be an understatement.

Redglare's pat on your arm is not enough to actually calm you down by far, but manages to startle you out of yet another anxious-ridden train of thought. Ah. They're tagging along. Joy.

"Nowhere, really, besides the hallway.." Not to put Redglare on blast. You're just stating the facts. "We were on the way to the kitchen." The exercise room actually sounds tempting, but you'll probably get to that one sooner or later.

Feferi 02/19/2019

"There's also a pool. But I guess at this time of year I'm the only one who likes the water even when it's indoors," you say. On one hand more people hanging out at the pool with you would be great but at the same time, it was kinda nice that you mostly had it to yourself.

Redglare 02/19/2019

"That would be my fault, the direction less wandering." You laugh at Darkleer's throwing you under the bus, but don't take it to heart. You considered it an accidental light jest more than anything.

"A room for excercising and a pool, eh? We really do have everything here. More like luxury resort than a precinct, but I'm not complaining. Suppose I can show off the kitchen first, and then let either of you show us to where you'd like?" You motion for the two officers to continue along with you and Darkleer, thinking the invitation was only polite.

Skylla 02/20/2019

"I'm rather partial to the rooftops really." You admit a bit sheepishly. "Once the warm weather rolls on in, reckon me 'n the Inspector are gonna go abouts plantin' a rooftop garden. There's certainly the space for it! Though the gym is also pretty neat too." Gotta keep on workin' t' keep in shape after all! And also ya can't swim. Sorry Fef!

You're proud t' say you only hesitate a little before taggin' along. It still feels real weird t' be doin' this with highbloods that aren't tryin' t' kill ya.

Darkleer 02/20/2019

"I doubt the pool would be suitable for me.. though it is wonderfoal that such options are provided." You follow along towards the kitchen. In passing you glance briefly at the young Peixes, then at the lowblood, which.. is probably not the right term to refer to her as here, and you feel the rising sensation of wanting to make yourself even smaller.

"Gardens on the roof.. I did not think that is feasible, but that is a creative and efficient use of space."

Redglare 02/20/2019

Redglare's eyebrow raised at the mention of the rooftop garden. It sounded like something out of a movie. You've probably only tended to one plant in your life, and even that you were lucky it survived, but it sounded like something you wanted to be a part of.

The irony of this strange spectrum of trolls parading the hallway still hadn't left you, and you all held positions that would have never worked in Alternian standards, maybe save for yours.

"We have the space for all of it, I think it's great we've made a community out of the different branches of the force." You all managed to make it to where the kitchen was located, and point it out. "Y'know, I've been to this part. But I hadn't stepped foot in the dining room yet."

Feferi 02/20/2019

"Wow I didn't know about the garden. Not surprised though. Her majesty seemed to cover everything when she got this place for the force," you smile. "I'll bet she'd got a library or somefin else unexpected somewhale in this hotel."

Horuss 02/20/2019

You are one Horuss Zahhak and you are currently loitering within the kitchen of the dorms, of which you are neigh a permanent resident but you accepted the offer of a secondary accommodation for when it was too unreasonstable or you were simple unstable to return to your own stable, a good arrangement, certainly there was quite a bit of value to the idea.

Anyways you hoof just finished a particularly eventful shift and are taking the time to relax and unwind and get yourself something to eat, manely a salad of mixed vegetables and a few pieces of fruit afterwards. It is very difficolt to miss the collection of trolls making their hay into the room you currently inhabit so you do neigh.

You recognize two of them by introduction, one by reputation and choose to be wilfully in denial about the identity of the last and the far too numerous similarities between himself and you and Equius detailing a definitive possibility, certainty even, to his identity. Lovely. You nod to the group, "Greetings," then take a bite of a piece of tomato, technically a fruit but still allowed within the classification of what is acceptstable for salad.

Darkleer 02/21/2019

The mention of 'her highness' puts you at unease once more. You have yet to meet her, but your experiences people in power, especially of the female variant, have been franky abyssmal. But. She wasn't Her Imperial Condescension, and the people around here spoke of her with admiration, so... maybe she was quite alright.

You quietly follow, occupied by your thoughts and worries, until your group reaches the kitchen. You immediately recognize him, of course. Mostly because it has been pointed out to you more than once that your very descendants are abou, else you might have been inclined to deny his existance as much as he does. You've already been dreading the day you meet them, but you absolutely weren't prepared for that to be today.

You freeze up just outside the door as your everything revolts at the mere thought of making even another step forward and having to confront your very own legacy.

Redglare 02/22/2019

Ah! The timing of this couldn't be more awkward. Another new officer you had yet to meet to get to know, and of course he's one of the Zahhak's you had mentioned to Darkleer. You've heard great things about his work so far, and while you're happy to finally meet with him, you fear it might be too soon for your dearest friend.

Did he just bite into a tomato?

"Hey there, officer. You must be Horuss. My apologies for not having met with you yet, I'm Chief Redglare." Your assumption was most likely correct from the matching horns. You notice that while Darkleer fought through his anxiety to greet the other two you had caught up with, he had yet to manage even a hello at the troll before them. You give him a tiny nudge with your elbow.

Feferi 02/22/2019

"Oh hi Horuss!" you greet him warmly. Looking around you remember you need to go pick up some food your lusus wants. "I've got to go, but I'll see you all later. Nice you meet you!" you tell the newest Zahhak before waving to all and heading off.

Horuss 02/22/2019

A singular ear flicks backwards before returning to a mare neutral position in a quick motion as you notice the... other Zahhak freeze utterly and completely. Neigh too impressive for an initial face-to-face reaction, neigh too impressive insteed. Your attention shifts away decisively as Redglare's words request your attention.

"Insteed, Horuss Zahhak, pleasure to meet you Chief." Your words to Redglare are ones with a polite, respectfoal difference as befitting to speaking with a superior. "There is neigh need for apology for being occupied with other duties."

"A pleasant hay to you Feferi," you offer the seadweller as she makes her departure of the group.

Skylla 02/23/2019

Aw well shit. Now yer on yer own with two much older and far higher trolls. Least Horuss is here though ya reckon he don't look all that pleased t' be seeing the Expatriate. It ain't none of yer business though so ya ain't gonna bring it up.

Instead ya give Horuss a wave in greeting. "Howdy Partner! How ya been??"

Horuss 02/24/2019

"I hoof been well enough, Miss Koriga, thank you for the inquiry," words accompanied by a nod in her direction. "I trust the hays hoof been treating you kindly in return?"

Darkleer 02/26/2019

It is indeed to much for Redglare's dearest friend. Horuss' noteable refusal to ackowledge you was both a relief and a painful sting into the exact fear that almost kept you from coming in the first place. Maybe he just didn't recognize who you are, which honestly would probably be the best for all involved. Or if he chooses to ignore you, well, so be it.

The little elbow nudge manages to snap you out of your paralysis, though possibly in opposite effect than she intended. While your descendant is distracted with the bronze-blood you turn at Redglare. "I, uh. Will wait elsewhere. Excuse me."

Redglare 03/04/2019

You're dismayed at this turn of events. Perhaps you set your expectations too high, perhaps you didn't know your officers as well as you thought. You also curse yourself for having this idea in your head about someone you had not yet met. Maybe Horuss was just as shocked to see his ancestor yet lives as Darkleer was surprised to hear about his descendents? Still, you feel guilty that the first meeting did not go pleasantly.

You look up to get a reading on Darkleer's face and manage a small smile and concern in your voice. "We could leave them to catch up and continue on our tour if you'd like. I'm sure Skylla could catch up later to us later to show off what she wanted."

Darkleer 03/04/2019

Yet again you're a coward. In a situation where much less is at stake, admittedly. But a a coward still. And what a disappointment you must be to the young Zahhak - if not yet, then definitely now.

Fortunately, at least Redglare is merciful on you and your pathetic plight. "That.. would be favorable, yes" you nod, eyes strongly fixated on the Chief so you don't have to see Horuss' reaction.

Horuss 03/04/2019

You are neigh disappointed by the turn of events, to be disappointed you would hoof needed to hoof high hopes of some kind and your expectation about this particular for-mare improbability had been completely neigh-existent. You are neigh too surprised to see him connect the Zahhak name with coward once mare though, it is, something you know how to deal with.

You do neigh allow yourself a STRONG outwards reaction, you are going to keep your polite and professional difference to the situation at hoof and allow him the retreat he wishes.

Redglare 03/06/2019

You offer an understanding smile and nod your head. With a hushed tone, "I can come up with something for our departure."

You hold up your hand to both officers and betray non of your internal emotions. Instead, you appear as your usual excitable and tired self when you call out to them. "We're gonna let the two of you catch up and keep going with our exploration! We've got a lot of ground to cover on Darkleer's first day. It was good to see you officers, I'll make sure to get better aquainted with you both."

Skylla 03/07/2019

"So far so good Partner!~" Ya chuckle, forgettin' for a moment that there's two Ancestors in the same space as yerself n Horuss. Though ya gotta admit, he be actin' real polite-like; like way more than normal.

Then yer Chief speaks up and yer reminded real quick 'bout the situation yer in. Ya wouldn't mind chatting up Horuss but ya don't wanna bug him neither. And yet ya reckon ya ain't quite ready t' be on yer own with two much older highbloods.

" Ah... is that right?? Well if Partner here don't mind a bit o' company...?"

March 12, 2019

Horuss Last Tuesday at 12:07 PM

Ah, that truly confirms it for you. Darkleer, you know that name near better than your own. Hmmm, seems you were right to hoof long discarded any want you previously had to gain... whatever the Empire had wanted you to in regards to him. You nod at the Chief's words focusing on Skylla and completely dismissing the two elder trolls, allowing your ancestor his retreat. "I do neigh mind the company Miss Koriga."

Darkleer Last Tuesday at 5:52 PM

Ah. Hh. She mentioned your name. Well, it wasn't much but of a secret, but now he knows for sure. Hn.

"Thank you." You step back a little, then anxiously wait for Redglare to join you and guide you around.

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