Earthling
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Male
45,000
PL
Z
Earthling
4MP|3TP
Desperation [x4]
45 POSTS & 6 LIKES
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Post by Alexander Hope on Apr 30, 2020 20:24:46 GMT -6
East City's grand pianos are that of an unremarkable sort. Between the numerous preparatory schools littered throughout the gerrymandered boundaries and the occasional hanger/docking port, the demand often fluctuated. Despite being little less than that of a businessman, Alexander "Lex" Hope knew this all too well. Their price was as steep as they could've seemed for a piano of their scale; yet that was just it -- "seemed". The day was warm, albeit not uncomfortably so, and the skies were clear. A fine enough day to peruse any potential hits. Such diction, however, was provided via an excuse for any who question his activity. The truth of today -- the true reason as to why Lex was out and about, once again -- was that of a mysterious disappearance. In fact, there happened to be multiple. "Pieran, Ticasso, Ladisla, and Mutti have been silent lately. Got any ideas on that, huh?" Atop his left shoulder, unblinking and forever silent: a penguin. Standing at an inconsistently recorded height and bearing the resemblance of a youthful emperor penguin, this particular avian was seemingly allied with Alexander. Recently tried through a notable trial together, alongside Sam, there was a mild camaraderie between the pair. However, a slight issue had made itself apparent over the last few batches of hours. That of, of course, concerning the penguin's lacking grasp upon the modest AMT Hardballer that it was given. Pointed exactly in front of it, always loaded and rarely fired, it has brought attention to the mafia organizer as of late. It was fortunate that the dozen or so cops Alexander had run into were susceptible to believing little white lies. Regardless, the day was still young. "...Nothing? Figures." The penguin wasn't much for conversation. The landscape soon to surround them, however, was bountiful enough for plenty of it. The north side of town was of minimal skyscrapers and highway tubes; a plain of grass, bordering a low tide and a steep cliff. The only major road within it was that of an exit, oddly enough. Why out here? How did four separate family members of the Hope House make their communicative exit here? Were they attacked? Were they kidnapped? There weren't any visible indentations among the blades of turf surrounding Lex. A pause, for thought. A wind swept past the elevated plain. The rising Sun was steadily approaching its peak; suggesting the time to be nearing mid-morning. Waves were audible, even all the way up the cliff's face. Yet enough with the details. Where were his family members?
Thread PL: 3,862 Is the culprit still around? Will we find out Silica
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Makaioshin
IS OFFLINE
Male
17,500
PL
2,772
Z
Demon (Makaioshin)
1MP|1TP
Demonic Blessing [x9]
40 POSTS & 0 LIKES
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Post by Silica on May 1, 2020 10:33:26 GMT -6
Transformations
None 
Silica
7,505 PL
Post
If there was anything Silica cherished more than anything, it was the docile solitude the warm afternoons offered her this time of the year. As the sun reached its zenith, there was little else that could be noted then that the subtle heat blanketed everything almost perfectly.
The busy life of the city had never quite been her sort of scene, but there was something about East City that felt different than the other cardinal cities on the planet. Perhaps it was the lack of any really notable features or just it being on the other side of the Paozu mountain range or the peculiar bamboo forest to the west.
However, it was the northern reaches of the city that appealed to the young woman more than anything. The ravages of modernization had yet to get that far. Flowers blossomed alongside the lonely street despite all of it, the various wild breeds all mingling with one another in an almost serene harmony.
The young woman stood alongside this road, a wagon in hand. The small metal contraption almost looked like a relic from a time long past, creaking wheels attached to derelict axles only further complimenting the scene as it would unfold upon any onlookers.
She pulled it alongside her, keeping to the edge of the street where the largest clusters of the simple plants grew in their patches. A few posts sat in the wagon, most empty, but a solitary rose sitting in the centre, a rare sight this close to the city, the soft white bulb a careful cutting from a bush only recently.
Silica hummed to herself, her mind elsewhere as her soft, pale hands combed over the silken bulbs of tulips and daisies appraising each plant with care in hopes to find the perfect sample to take back home with her.
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Earthling
IS OFFLINE
Male
45,000
PL
Z
Earthling
4MP|3TP
Desperation [x4]
45 POSTS & 6 LIKES
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Post by Alexander Hope on May 2, 2020 12:45:06 GMT -6
Perhaps they truly were still nearby. One could hope. A shift in sight clouded his lacking right-side vision; revealing the flames of life from all that was alive... within a good few miles, at least. Facing away at first by happenstance, Alexander was left unaware momentarily of a lone youth's presence. Specks of will and a supposed spiritual strength were peppered throughout the fringes of East City, yet none stood out. A scan further to his right, along the cliff. Nothing recognizable. Shuffling back around towards inland -- Lex visibly flinched; his mind struck with a sensation of mildly overwhelming willpower. Such a flame was humongous, and well above himself from what he could judge. Quite frankly, it was blinding. As if on cue, the penguin's rotund, beaked head began to rotate as an owl's would. It faced the source of the flame; that of a mere youth, regarding appearance. As Alexander was attempting to feign the lack of reeling, the avian had dissipated into thin air! Its weight had vanished upon the Father's shoulder, as well! Without a moment to waste, the dumpy pengiun manifested itself within the youth's wagon. Unfortunately, it must have miscalculated its pseudo-teleportation; the penguin had reappeared within the confines of a flower pot. Meanwhile, its handler, Lex, was left recollecting himself upon the mid-morning surprise. Nonetheless, however, there's something to be had here. He could work with this.
"Pardon me! Hello there. Hate to bother you, but it looks like my penguin a bit stuck in your lil' wagon. Mind if I take a bit of your time to get 'im outta there?"An almost cheeky grin crossed Alexander's facial features as he began to approach. With any luck, this fellow wouldn't be too aggressive towards kindly strangers. With any further, greater fortune, there'd be no issue with attempting to scoop this one into the Hope House. A chance like this, ever since Alexander brought himself to power, was ultimately rare these days. There was hope in this encounter bearing fruit.
Congratulations! You've been scouted! Would you be willing to join the Hope House?
...We have cookies. People to make them, too, Silica .
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Makaioshin
IS OFFLINE
Male
17,500
PL
2,772
Z
Demon (Makaioshin)
1MP|1TP
Demonic Blessing [x9]
40 POSTS & 0 LIKES
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Post by Silica on May 5, 2020 8:01:42 GMT -6
Transformations
None
Silica
7,505 PL
Post
It was as many days were, a slow one to say the least, the young woman had made her way towards this part of the city's fringes not long before and was pilfering about the foliage at the edge of the rarely busy street. On these days she expected little if anything to occur, as they usually did, she might see one or two drive in to or from the city but for the most part this was the most of it.
Her hands would brush over a shy lily, tucked away in a small alcove. The pure white flower a rarity among most of its sort, typically marred by the errant wild inbreeding such flowers take out here. With trowel in hand Silica uprooted the plant.
A soft thump and rattle would almost ruin her stroke, lifting the lily up without destroying too much of the root structure. A voice would then call her back to the wagon, only to be met with a cloud of feathers and patricial disappointment. She would muse over the small bird in one of her empty pots a moment before grabbing another one and rising to her feet.
"One moment please, if I don't get this poor child replanted she'll die.", Silica replied, lifting a finger to the man. Her movements were swift, getting soil in and around the small flower, stabilizing it for the trip back home later. Following this shortly she would nod to the man, lowering herself some and flipping the small bird and pot unto their side.
"This should only take a moment.", she would whisper, twisting the pot with a sufficient pull to it.
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Earthling
IS OFFLINE
Male
45,000
PL
Z
Earthling
4MP|3TP
Desperation [x4]
45 POSTS & 6 LIKES
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Post by Alexander Hope on May 6, 2020 15:01:38 GMT -6
A further, seemingly harmless approach followed the youth's musings. Alexander ensured that his physical movements were visible, obvious, and transparent; far differing from his "typical" behavior. Fluidly swinging his arms beside himself, evenly planting one foot after the other, the wagon was within arm's reach. It was by then that the youth had a delicate piece of foliage atop a trowel. Often dwelling within the city, Lex was usually left away from any known herbage, flora, shrubs, etc. Within the Hope House, however, a family member by the name of Thom B. Greene had taken to cultivating such greenery inside a greenhouse. The location was east of the illustrious East City, beside a well of little concern. Perhaps, just perhaps so, that could be of a key use. However, the target of Alexander's straightfoward plans took to halting any progress. That flower she held needed replanting; likely via the pots. Briefly raising his palms in a pseudo-surrender, the Father of the Hope House took a step aside. The youth was swift in that fleeting endeavor. Yet, in the meanwhile, a portly little penguin joggled about in a characteristic silence. Strangely enough, it was as if it wasn't truly attempting to escape. Did it want attention? Suddenly the pudgy penguin was brought onto its side, the pot bringing it along in parallel. Whether it be an act or self-preservation, however, the mischievous avian began to slip further into the flower pot; filling it up as if he were a liquid! Rolls overcame any semblance of chin it had, the arctic resident's visage faced outwards from the rim of the pot. Furrowing his brow, Alexander also took to the penguin's "predicament". A stifled sigh escaped him, cautiously crouching downwards alongside the wagon's edge. Preparedly peeking into the overturned ceramic, into the unblinking eyes of an anomaly, Lex was left to remain seemingly friendlier than usual. "Come on now, don't be difficult. You're interrupting this fine lady's business!"The penguin, as it did, hardly responded in any form to that comment. The youth's pulling should surely evict this rascal eventually. Unfortunately, that was the issue: eventually. Was this to be a roundabout recruitment?
Sorry, he's never usually like this. You've heard that enough times though, right Silica ?
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Makaioshin
IS OFFLINE
Male
17,500
PL
2,772
Z
Demon (Makaioshin)
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Demonic Blessing [x9]
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Post by Silica on May 7, 2020 11:03:54 GMT -6
Transformations
None
Silica
7,505 PL
Post
Silica paid little mind to the man standing nearby, her attention squarely on the pot before her filled to the brim with avian fluff. It was the first time she had been this close to a penguin of all things and could help little when she pondered over the hilarity of this moment and each second of it that passed.
Pursing her lips, she turned the pot around, peering down at the small black and white feathered creature with an amused sparkle in her eye. "Now now, let's not get stuck.", she whispered with a soothing tone and a smile to boot.
Lifting a hand up, she would poke the tiny penguin, hoping to get a slight grip on some portion of the bird in attempts to pull it from the ceramic container.
"Carried on, the midnight wind to silver lakes below. The lotus leaves and memories of men that you should know.", Silica would begin to sing to herself as she probed the little bird. Each word trilled lightly with the next.
"Do you father, mother still remember those days fine? When lotus leaf and hope grew upon the vine.", a gentle warmth would surround the girl as the song rose into a crescendo, tracing her in a soft blue light that seemed to rise from her core and yet something she herself was not privy to.
"A man of men, a cunning beast, and child of the seed. Their paths had met and journeys bound across the astral sea."
"Cast upon the argentine waters they call home, the lotus cast dichotomy will one day rise again to roam."
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Earthling
IS OFFLINE
Male
45,000
PL
Z
Earthling
4MP|3TP
Desperation [x4]
45 POSTS & 6 LIKES
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Post by Alexander Hope on May 9, 2020 0:47:04 GMT -6
Admittedly, the moment was bordering beyond the point in which even Alexander wasn't entirely sure what was going on in the penguin's mind. Allowing the acquaintenced youth to prod and mildly probe at the semi-solid avian, the moment went on with thought. Was it attempting to appear as an endearing handful? Was there a greater scheme to this? Nevertheless, Lex had to improvise. Shifting his gaze by minute distances, a choice to deliberately pass his chance to interrupt Silica was made. A tune broke out, that of the vocal sort. Another pause, yet not via contemplation. As this cessation had occurred, however, the ultimately bothersome yet equally bothered avian made an initial attempt to shove itself further into the flower pot. Unfortunately, the ever-titular penguin had too much of a roly-poly figure. Yet, refusing to escape, albeit conduct an ulterior motive of its own: a rotund head shape peeked from the pot's rim. It began gliding itself upwards (or rather, downwards) from the safety of ceramic, as if from a motion tween. Adjusting itself accordingly, as the youth sang, silence struck both man and penguin alike. A Silica seemingly concluded her unprecedented performance, an appalling heckling noise became audible. As likely as both Alexander and Silica were to provide attention towards the source: a plastic number "six" plopped onto the wagon bed. "Uh..."Alexander could only bring himself to utter a sound and blink in his unenthused bewilderment. Another, equally perturbing heckling. Just barely more elongated than the first, the result procured another plastic number: "ten". A suitable line, presumably also composed of a similarly pliable material, imposed itself between the two numbers. 6/10. Alexander, quite frankly, hardly stifled a snicker. Clasping a palm upon his upper lip, gripping at his cheeks, he was amazed at the gall of this lad. What is a penguin to judge man's musical ability? What a riot! Briefly glancing upon the tepidly moist display pieces, Alexander rose to his full height. Exhaling a leftover chuckle, leaving it at his utmost to remain as polite as he could, the Father aimed to move on from that subject.
"Ah -- ahem, so, how about I direct you to a nearby gardening center? The greenhouse there would definitely -- hah -- ahem, er, get this little dunce out of your hair, yes?"'Good show, Empy.'Behind impassive, glazed eyes, the penguin flashed a thumbs up straight from its heart. Despite Alexander, solely with a dash of sufficient insight, being ever able to acknowledge this fully; the exchange between them was sealed. Perhaps this haphazard jape would bear fruit, one way or another. Guiding his left hand, directing an outstretched index finger due north-northwest, a modest dirt road was narrowly within sight. It was a good few yards out from where the trio stood. Ensuring ample time to follow the signaled direction, Alexander soon swiftly fluttered his palm about: transforming a point into an "after you" gesture. Surely this youth would be willing to get Empy outta there, after what it did. A modest grin creased the Father's facial features.
"..."
'Vinny. This is Alexander. Gather any available information about a pale, silver-haired young woman with sapphire eyes, approximately 1.5 - 1.7 meters tall, and, if useful, possessing a red hand wagon. Anything will be utilized for a potential recruit.'
At least Empy didn't give you under a 5/10. Room for improvement, Silica !
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Makaioshin
IS OFFLINE
Male
17,500
PL
2,772
Z
Demon (Makaioshin)
1MP|1TP
Demonic Blessing [x9]
40 POSTS & 0 LIKES
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Post by Silica on May 10, 2020 14:45:54 GMT -6
Transformations
None
Silica
7,505 PL
Post
Distracted by her own muse, Silica's attention was starting to wane regarding the penguin itself. The avian was making matters all the more difficult as it sank into the container without any clear intention of wanting to escape or be removed for that matter. Silica's brow furrowed some before she shrugged, placing the pot back into the wagon and rising to her feet impassively.
"Six out of ten, clearly your bird is tone deaf.", the young woman would scoff towards the man with a sardonic sarcasm. Her eyes back to the road ahead of her, only occasionally glancing back to assure that the minute bird was not enacting any sort of wild behaviour on her plants.
"Greenhouse? Sounds more interesting than sitting here attempting to pry this bird out of a ceramic pot." Silica's tone persisted on the more sarcastic, shrugging as she began moving ahead of the man. At this point she was unconcerned on whether or not the man's intentions were proper or not. Judging by his, lack of, control over his pet she figured he was harmless enough.
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Earthling
IS OFFLINE
Male
45,000
PL
Z
Earthling
4MP|3TP
Desperation [x4]
45 POSTS & 6 LIKES
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Post by Alexander Hope on May 13, 2020 13:40:15 GMT -6
"Yes, of course. This little one is only a few months old at most. Oddly intelligent, strangely enough."Progressing towards the aforementioned location with a modest pace, Alexander was attentive to when his acquaintance spoke. It'd be a poor time indeed to interrupt; now or otherwise. The youth's mention of the greenhouse, seemingly welcome to the idea, urged Alexander to press onward. Acceleration ensued from both parties on the matter. Maintaining a pace just short of Silica's, the Father figured it was only a matter of time and "innocent" inquiry until a report or two came rolling in. Slipping his palms into his pockets, glancing about, something came to mind. "So, where are you from? Got any roots in town here?"Better than asking about the weather, by any means. Initiating small talk for the utilization of a relaxed atmosphere, Alexander maintained a modest few feet from Silica. Step, step. The road crawled past them by the footfall. The day was becoming that of a meandering sort. With any luck, this wouldn't end poorly; regardless of what came next. 'Father Alexander, we've gotten only one match of your description. There are few women in East City with silver hair -- much less under the age of forty. Silica Emil Dyer, raised in the Miskatonic Orphanage, obviously unknown parents, etcetera. Krad is trying to glean more information with the others as I speak. Professor Reeb is also with him.'Shifting his brain case away from this "Silica", furrowing his right brow, Alexander gathered such a swift response with ease. A pretty standard background, particularly for Hope House recruits at or under age eighteen. Its always the youth that bring out the bog-standard tragedies, isn't it? Nonetheless, peeking at the targeted acquaintance before him, the Father altered his game plan. There may be an additional portion of prodding. Lex softly cleared his throat, guiding his left palm along his Adam's Apple. Stroking the cartilage briefly, an attempt was made. There was risk for this; always was. Blowback was nigh inevitable.
"Perhaps this is too forward of me; but I don't see too many people such as you at this side of town often. Despite the looks, its never been the friendliest part of East City. Do your parents know you're here?"The reaction garnered from Silica was imperative to the following actions from Alexander. One bad move, however, and it was likely over for this venture. Then again, this youth seemed rather... mild. One would hope that such a detail wouldn't oscillate towards an extreme shift. Alexander, hands deep in his pockets, awaited a retort of any sort. That was, at least, the common response.
It begins. Care to wish me luck Silica ? 
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Makaioshin
IS OFFLINE
Male
17,500
PL
2,772
Z
Demon (Makaioshin)
1MP|1TP
Demonic Blessing [x9]
40 POSTS & 0 LIKES
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Post by Silica on May 14, 2020 9:05:36 GMT -6
Transformations
None
Silica
7,505 PL
Post
Honestly the girl's attention was so far gone at the notion of plants, recollecting what she had found on this trip in her mind as she walked in the direction suggested by the taller man. She'd be oblivious to his attempts to learn more about her with his colleagues, not that it would have bothered her much, after all she knew it was rather suspicious seeing someone her build and appearance age wise wandering so freely in a place like this.
Almost as it on cue this very question was offered to her by the man. She would stop a moment to ponder it, the creaking wheels of the red wagon halting to nothingness and her brow quirking a moment before she would nod, taking slow steps in the direction once more as she began to reply. "How old do you think I am?", she asked frankly, glancing back at the man who was treating her like someone half her age or less.
Without waiting for a proper answer she would shake her head and continue, "For one, I am very much old enough to be on my own.", she laughed some at this comment, keeping her eyes on the path ahead of her as she mused on, "And for two, I'm not bothered by the population around here. People keep their distance from me and I tend to the plants. It's how it goes anymore.
Cutting her reply curtly she would nod, glancing back once more and then turning her attention to the penguin once again with a wry smile. The small creature still eluded her some, but it was what it was and perhaps the greenhouse would some some problems there... maybe? She didn't know but it never hurt to try.
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Earthling
IS OFFLINE
Male
45,000
PL
Z
Earthling
4MP|3TP
Desperation [x4]
45 POSTS & 6 LIKES
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Post by Alexander Hope on May 16, 2020 0:11:50 GMT -6
Hm. Not an unprecedented rejoinder, albeit certainly a less forgiving one. Alexander raised his brows as Silica spoke. As briefly as such a silent response it was, there was no such time to retort anyway. Willful, just brash enough to assert her way, definitely a bit of an excelling wit about her -- just perfect. There have been a number of abrasive hotheads about the House recently. An addition such as Miss Dyer would be a fine addition indeed. To think, she appeared so mild not but a handful of moments ago. Allowing an instant to ensure that this youth had concluded her argument, Alexander took to another push -- all in kind, of course.
"I've doubted you to be a day over twenty, Miss. I had only wondered if they knew. It'd be just a damn shame if no one knew you were out there."It wasn't the utmost dignified prodding, yet it was a means to an end. Alexander's bare, negotiated leading capabilities were rarely all that tested. Silica, a strange orphan out in the fringes of the East, was one that brought it to the table. Unfortunately, this was no time to appear doubtful of oneself. In the meantime, the ever omnipresent penguin, as it was, was jostling up and down within the ceramic. With each upward and downward movement, every other partially visible roll of its fat wriggled in a childish, mocking energy. Was Empy having fun? Was it making fun (of Silica)? Well, it hardly mattered; that semi-solid avian guaranteed a conversation with Miss Dyer, nonetheless. It was only a matter of time before the trio had finally approached the greenhouse. Alexander closed in on the mirror-esque structure. Outside, if one to peer inwards to the interior, there would be naught but a hazy image. An obscuring film encased the entirety of the building. A short few feet beyond the entryway, however, was a classically constructed water well. A rudimentary bucket for collection hung from its frame. Rustic, indeed. The area was attempting that akin to an enclosure; bamboo, oak, birch, and all other sorts of tree soon surrounded the greenhouse. However, this exhibit of foliage was a incomplete assortment. Of course, to remain less conspicuous, the front was bare and open to the rest of the modern world. Nevertheless, the very environment around this habitat of greenery encapsulated a fine semblance nature. It was Thom's finest work to date. "Have a look. This is the Greene House."Alexander brought forth an outstretched index finger, directing Silica's attention towards an protruding sigil atop the door frame. "...Get it?"Despite his underlying intentions, there was a bit of a genuine urge to parade his family member's work. As coarse of a pun as it was; it was Thom's, and Thom's only. Speedily flashing a crooked smirk, alongside a single chuckling exhale, Alexander brought his raised palm onto the glass door. A knock. Then, without a moment to spare: a haphazard push upon a handle. With a fluid click, push, and slide, the greenhouse was open to Miss Dyer. The very same hand to bring the greenhouse ajar gestured for ladies first.
"Mister Greene is a fairly harmless man. He's just as family to me, so do treat him with a kindness, yes?" Well, that last statement wasn't incorrect. A Soldier ranked member of the Hope House, Thom B. Greene was but a mere Earthling male. True to Alexander's word, however, Greene was truly just about harmless. Despite having been almost entirely inactive within the House, the cultivator still had his uses. Of course, Alexander made sure of that. If Silica wished to keep in good graces, regardless of any gaps between her and the Father: she wouldn't sniff around too much.
Oh look, we got somewhere. Good thing too, eh Silica ?
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Makaioshin
IS OFFLINE
Male
17,500
PL
2,772
Z
Demon (Makaioshin)
1MP|1TP
Demonic Blessing [x9]
40 POSTS & 0 LIKES
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Post by Silica on May 17, 2020 12:22:22 GMT -6
Transformations
None
Silica
7,505 PL
Post
Still the slightest bit skeptical, Silica did her best to keep a steady distance between herself and the peculiar man. She wasn't foolish and knew well enough when someone had intentions, but she couldn't quite put her finger on whatever his was. "Mmm, and I wouldn't place you as the type to just invite a random girl to a location business owned or otherwise.", she mused back with searing sarcasm. Glancing back, she would ponder the man once more.
"I-", Silica would start to reply to the pun before shaking her head in almost clear disgust. Taking a moment to study the exterior of the building, she took some mental notes at the design and layout. Cautious steps led her into the structure, her ears trained on the man insistent on guiding her inside.
"I smell... Oleander, Hemlock, Nightshade, Foxglove...", her brow furrowed from curiosity to concern. "This isn't a normal greenhouse is it?" She turned to face Alexander, her eyes flaring with concerned determination and her hands coming to rest firmly in her pockets. She wasn't a fool and knew full well what each of these flowers was capable of and used for.
Not waiting for a response Silica would turn around, taking slow, quiet steps around the structure, sniffing occasionally for anything else that may draw her attention to it.
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Earthling
IS OFFLINE
Male
45,000
PL
Z
Earthling
4MP|3TP
Desperation [x4]
45 POSTS & 6 LIKES
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Post by Alexander Hope on May 22, 2020 0:15:16 GMT -6
The inclusion of the ever-beloved sarcasm enticed Alexander yet ever more. However, there was oft little time to admire potential gain. As mentioned previously, allowing Silica to enter first, an unfamiliar voice rang out. A bell, alongside it, jangled from above. From the opposing corner of the Greene House: a broad man, propping a pocket of flora atop a short shelf. Evidently alleviating himself of eye contact, Thom vocally acknowledged a visitor. " 'Allo there! Just a mom'nt!" Built akin to a stack of bricks and then some, excluding a pair of oddly dainty hands, there was certainly something about such a visage. A pointed chin, albeit a wide jawline. Thick eyebrows, yet minuscule eyes. Dressed within a meager t-shirt and overalls, Thom definitely took to the appearance of a gardener well. A pair of miniature, gloved palms receded to their proper positions. A glance. Suddenly, a strangely cheerful facial expression marked the greenhouse keeper. It was as if a patch of dirt-smeared dandelions were suddenly shown the Sun. Perhaps a bit too excessive, yet nonetheless; it was one of eternal gratitude. Thom waved to Alexander. " 'Ey Boss! Who's the little boss with ye?" The keeper's employer often thought it amusing how he referred to everyone as "boss". As long as Thom knew who deserved the capital "B". Regardless, a single, waving motion returned the greeting as Alexander made his entrance.
"Hey Thom! This here's a little Miss that looks like she could use a few places to stow away some flowers. Figured you'd be a good spot!"The two concluded their greeting, guiding their respective palms aside once more. "Ah yeah? Think I got s'me dividers somm'ere." Hustling a few paces towards Alexander and Silica, Thom soon lurched to the floor. The audible ruckus of rummaging followed with an abnormal swiftness. In the meantime, however, Alexander shifted to his left, intruding himself upon a row of pots and greenery. All hues of the rainbow and more littered the crystalline construction. Alstroemerias, Calla Lilies, Carnations, Daisies, Foxgloves, Gardenias, Gerbera Daisies, Hemlocks, Lilies, Nightshades, Oleanders, Orchids, Roses, Sunflowers, Tulips, Peonies, Dahlias, Marigolds, and more were strewn about in no particular order. Despite the organization of the rows, tables, and shelving, the utmost surfaces of each were misaligned and dusted with dirt. Several hooks, each dangling a multitude of pottery and less picturesque plant life, lined the ceiling, as well. Regardless of the modest chaos, however, it was as if it were the home of a man fascinated with flowers and flora alike. Unfortunately, a little Miss Silica had to point out the... less than safe material. Steered clear of the front-line vegetation, bundles of such items -- described as poisonous -- still emanated a scent. The rummaging persisted, a mumbling or two escaping Thom. With Alexander, meanwhile, there was one, honest response. Regardless of the youth's lacking patience for a retort, it had to be said. Just as with the sigil determining the "Greene House", there was a genuine sort to it. "And what's wrong about them? Can you blame someone for picking their favorites?"Alexander shrugged as he spoke, raising his palms to further exert the gesture. Just barely twirling atop his heel, the Father paced in parallel to Silica, continuing. "Thom's mentioned that he always enjoyed the simplicity of flowers like those. Like how Oleander and Nightshade had starfish-like shapes. And those "Foxgloves" looked like tuba horns, or little rounded off cups."The rustling ceased. Swinging to his full height, Thom gingerly clasped his fingers about a few thin, paper slices. As the dividers were procured, Alexander haphazardly shifted his gaze -- by the neck -- to inquire something briefly. "Thom! Do you mind if I tell her all this?"A positive response, signaled by a raise of a divider. "Nah Boss, go 'head. Don' mind much, y'know that!"
"Great!"A turn, facing Silica once again.
"You know the cutest little thing? Have you ever seen those "Hemlock" whatsits and thought "they look like little dandelions, but outta little other flowers"? Its what Thom thought when he first brought them up to me."It wasn't so much that Alexander was attempting to conceal any sort of poison operation. Seemingly, it was more so as if Alexander was defending a younger brother he preferred a bit too transparently in comparison to another. Such things, be it poisonous or harmless, was a specialization chosen by Thom. By Hope House and Alexander's personal ideology: there should be nothing mocking or diminishing of that. Nevertheless, the scheme derailed somewhat; just for a moment. Hastily grasping at his collar with his right index finger, Alexander cleared his throat. Falling silent for a moment, additional clinks and clunks echoed somewhat. Thom was pressing a few containers aside atop a table. It was positioned near the front door. Yet, abruptly, a comment. Then, a collection of such.
"...I gave Thom this greenhouse. I admit, it was a cheap investment and run down to shit. Then again, it was like it was all he ever wanted when I first took him around here. Thom B. Greene was one of the first that I ever added to my family, just about two years ago. I couldn't do much then. Now, I can offer all the better for him, but he always considers the rest of the family before him, and anyone else that comes after. By his word, on that note... allow me to ask something of you."Shuffling, followed by a swipe against a silken fabric. Reaching within his overcoat, Alexander acquired a thickly printed 3.5 x 2 inch card. Pinching it between his left hand index and middle finger, the Father of the Hope House presented it to Silica. The card was a dark blue, displaying a formal, albeit somewhat brief invitation. At its front, however, it was labelled with a distinct pair of words. HOPE HOUSE
___________________
You are cordially invited to join a family of many.
x A. Hope HH
It was direct. Too bold, at this time, as well. It was, perhaps, beyond his place at the moment to try this. Yet, with a smidgen of a likely naive hope, it would just possibly succeed. If worst comes to worst: Alexander could always just hunt a reject or two to the ends of Hell itself for no particular reason whatsoever.
"If you're so suspicious of me that you'd rather not ask any questions, then do please leave. Otherwise: talk to me."
Sniff around, ask away, poke a bear, getting off-topic, what's today?
Do tell me if this is stupid, Silica , that's what we're here for, right?
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