Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

The Tenebrous Wanderer has been a rare sight in the Orphanage since the very beginning. Too happy to be there compared with the other long-term residents, and leaving a trail of bright mood in sharp contrast with the gloomy shadows refusing to surrender to the light after ne passed. But today it was even worse. The very walls of the Nightmarish building caught stray vibrations of delight and excitement while the little absence hovered nir way around the aseptic corridors (yes, ne caught the custom of fusing nir lower legs with a mantle of shadows so ne just has to glide slightly above floor level, does wonders for presentation and efficient displacement), going around to perform nir tasks for the day.

There was a census to be taken on both the permanent inmates and those who appeared just for the sleep cycle. There was checking the dream-orderlies' patrols and patterns of behavior. There was an amount of time ne won't admit spent trying to map a perceived change in the building's distribution when it was actually that ne lost track of where ne was and thought it was the building's fault. There was cleaning some of the most popular rooms to host nightmares, after the dreamer got creative with self-inflicted psychological horror. There was even the chance to intercept a wayward teenager dreamer who got pressured by others to try and brave the "Nightmare Orphanage Gauntlet" by eating some special honey (ne already informed Edward, this will surely need some investigation), who ne protected from seeing something undue by silently following him, a shadow mantle blurring perception and filling every corner of whispers, every wall with scratches and every cell with rattling until he was unknowingly guided to the exit.

Now Tene was tending to the garden, radiating so much joy the little plants around were leaning towards nem. And why is that? Well, let's say Edward gave nem permission to invite the Lied Piper to the Orphanage once nir tasks for the day were finished. And that will happen very soon after a specially diligent day of eagerness-powered work. Just a few moments more! Ne is already daydreaming (as if ne ever stopped) about the moment. Ne can even almost see the Piper crossing the fence.

Comments

re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

Piper knew they really weren't supposed to be doing this. Tene had said nir mentor was secretive, that he would only let Piper find their location in Parabola when he felt ready. And Piper trusted Tene. Of course they did. And this mentor person had saved nem, after all, so of course Piper was beyond grateful.

But. Also. Tene was their best friend and their partner and they wanted to see nem and like hell was anyone going to keep stopping them.

Yes, they had been able to meet Tene in dreams, but Piper had souvenirs to bring through the mirror! They were tired of waiting!! And they were tired of not knowing things and frankly jealous that someone else got to see Tene all the time when they didn't. It wasn't fair.

Piper tried to keep their irritation to a minimum, if only because emotions affected Parabola so easily. Frustration at being stuck could lead to literally walking in circles. Also, they didn't want to accidentally take it out on Tene when they found nem.

Which they would. They were a proper Silverer by now. On their way to being an Oneirotect. Which, granted, may be less helpful to this particular endeavor than if they were an Ontological Cartographer, but still. They know how to work with Parabola. They'd been able to guide Tailor, despite Tailor's frankly abysmal talent for it. They could find their damn best friend, whether nir damn mentor wanted them to or not.

...They were not doing a very good job of keeping their irritation to a minimum. Aaaaand there were their footprints, deepening in the mud ahead of them. Circles.

They took a deep breath and sat down on a rock, which creaked like an old rocking chair. Swayed like one, too. Piper kicked at the ground, pushing themself back and forth, as they closed their eyes. They were wearing their Cosmogone Spectacles - a sure sign they were taking this seriously - and the golden glow persisted even through their eyelids.

They'd told Tailor how to do this. They could do it themself. Look for what wasn't there. They couldn't take all of their own advice - going with the flow of Parabola wasn't possible here, because Tene's mentor clearly had a better grip on it than they did, his will acting like a barrier around their location -

Wait. Huh. That was weird. They reached out, searching for any traces of Gant, and... they could feel nem? Suddenly, when they hadn't been able to catch a glimpse before? It was like a sunspot on the back of their eyelids, and it was like a magnet.

They knew where to go.

Eyes still closed, they stood, took a step to the left, and -

They were in front of a fence. Iron and dark. The building behind it, red-bricked and looming, was even more ominous. Did Tene really live here? ...On purpose?

They scaled the fence easily. Climbing was second nature to them. Then they dropped down on the other side. (Falling was also second nature to them. They barely registered the pain in their legs.)

And then they saw nem tending the garden, and what remained of the pain was forgotten in the mad dash to run to nem.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

The Tenebrous Wanderer had to look twice to be certain. It wasn't just daydreaming? The Piper, here?! Just jumping the fence?! Running towards-?

Thanks to the special nature of Parabola, the Wanderer's conceptualized words could reach the Piper some moments before finally closing the welcome embrace.

My-Piper-best-friend-exclamation

You-are-here-exclamation

Then the impact, momentum put to use folding Tene's arms around the Piper, holding close and happily, rippling as if in a full-body massage of welcome, relaxing on the Piper's embrace during a moment of complete silence.

How-are-you-here-question

I-was-about-to-go-bring-you-here-exclamation

I-just-got-permission-exclamation

I-was-so-happy

Now-I-am-much-more-happy-exclamation

My-precious-Piper-here-with-me-and-sooner-exclamation

Thank-you-thank-you

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

"Your Piper!!" They echoed, picking Tene up by the waist and spinning nem around. It's a funny sight; ne's shadows still connect to the ground, but lag behind just slighty as Piper hugs and twirls nem. Despite being taller, ne's still made of shadows and plenty light enough for Piper to hold easily.

Ne's okay. They knew ne would be, but still, it's a relief seeing it, here in their waking dream.

"You just got permission? Maybe that's why I could finally find you." They'd like to think it was just the force of their will and determination and adoration pushing through the barrier, but honestly, this is way more likely. It had suddenly become easy to make it here.

I-am-so-happy-too-exclamation, they reached out with their thoughts, literally too happy for words now. It was still a welcome surprise every time they realize Tene was just as happy to see them as they were to see nem. My-sweetest-dream-Tene-while-I'm-awake

They smiled, taking a deep breath against Tene's shoulder, relishing nir cool embrace and soft scent.

How-are-you-where-are-you-where-are-we-question It all spilled out at once, but it's more curiosity than interrogation; the hug had wiped away most of their earlier frustration.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

The spin made Tene project silent laughs for a while, delighted with the show of excitement and affection. Ah, if only ne could do the same... Perhaps one day! Just needs to keep practicing. So far ne's learned how to hold and manipulate small things as if ne had strength of nir own, so ne trusts it's just a matter of time.

For now the Piper's emotions were a welcome current to swim on, letting it take nem where them both want to be. Happy and together. Sweetest dream and precious dreamer.

I-welcome-my-precious-Piper-to-my-new-home

Making a gesture with one arm towards the building, while another arm (not to speak many shadowy tendrils) held the Piper close.

The-Orphanage-Nightmare

It-is-not-clear-if-it-is-the-building-what-had-the-Nightmare

Or-if-it-is-made-only-of-people-who-know-it-and-people-who-do-not

Perhaps-both-question

Parabola-is-strange-and-works-weird

And-you-understand-it-so-well-exclamation

I-learned-a-lot-from-you-my-precious-Piper

And-from-my-tutor-Edward

He-is-wise-and-careful-and-also-likes-masks

You-could-be-friends-but-he-does-not-like-interacting-with-people

He-gets-too-nervous-of-doing-wrong-and-prefers-to-be-safe-and-do-nothing

Other-moment-perhaps

But-I-can-show-you-around-exclamation

I-have-a-room-of-my-own-and-places-I-work-on

Like-this-garden

I-like-taking-care-of-gardens-just-like-you-showed-me

Just-be-careful

Some-people-here-does-not-like-visits

I-guide-you-to-prevent-bad-experiences

This being said, Tene has no intention of breaking the embrace right now. So maybe they can spend a little bit more here before moving. And if doing so, they will be holding hands. No other possibility.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

Edward! Piper finally had a name to put with the concept of Tene's tutor. It would have been easier if it was a title; names didn't stick so well in their head, but they would do their best. They were a little disappointed they wouldn't get to see him yet, but not too disappointed, because that did mean more time alone with Tene, which was always wonderful.

"Your own room, huh?" Piper asks, a little... well. They'd worked on making a room for Tene at their secret base, but of course ne would already have one here. It made sense. Well, they'd save the souvenir giving for when they got there, easier for Tene to not have to carry them in the meantime.

"Your garden looks incredible, too. I want to see everything." They smiled. "Except the people who don't want to be seen, I guess."

Which seemed to include Edward. They both wanted to thank the man for helping Tene so much, and also try to get a read on him in general. It was hard to trust someone they'd never met, even though they were trying to, for Tene's sake. A lot of the difficulty was definitely jealousy, though. It wasn't fair that someone else could see Tene all the time when Piper couldn't.

But that was going to change now, because Piper was here, and Tene was here, and it was okay. Ne might have felt some of those thoughts; though Piper wasn't actively trying to project them, they weren't trying to hide them, either. Tene was the one person they felt like they could be truly honest about their feelings with, even if those were feelings they weren't always proud of.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

Tene truly radiated happiness at the Piper's presence, doubly so at their closeness. Ne could catch some hints of the thought process, and grew a bit restless. Not knowing what to say to put nir most beloved friend at ease, ne decides to act. With a bit of focus, ne wills the Gant within the Piper's mask to move, circling their eyes, caressing their cheeks, holding their face. A bit of affection, some solace against complicated feelings.

Isn't it a funny thing? To feel sorry for something you had no faut on? Ne should reflect on that later. For now, Piper was here! And there's so much to see!

Yes-I-have-a-room-I-can-show-you

But-first-garden-is-closer-exclamation

Edward-says-there-was-one-in-physical-as-well

But-here-it-grows-more-things

Some-make-sense-some-do-not

Like-flax

Flax-grows-every-where-always-and-we-have-so-much

Many-colorful-flowers

Edward-teaches-chemistry-to-extract-scents-and-colors-from-them

I-like-the-scents

The-colors-I-can-not-get-right

If-I-extract-them-they-get-faded-and-dull

But-most-things-here-look-dull-so-it-fits

Also-fruits-like-apples-pears-oranges-and-orangeapples

There-is-even-a-vine-that-makes-heads-exclamation

Not-very-nice-heads-though

They-sing-only-at-night-and-do-not-like-to-talk-only-eat

It-tried-to-eat-me-once

I-could-get-out-stepping-through

It-was-a-bit-fun

While the Wanderer explained also guided the Piper towards the mentioned parts. When it's the exceptional plant's turn ne does so from a prudent distance. The heads are asleep now, looking like bearded decapitated saints, with quite the kissable lips, but one can never be too safe.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

It's hard to lean into the touch when the touch is all around you, ephemeral yet physical at the same time. Piper appreciates the sensation more for the intent than anything. They hadn't meant to make Tene feel sorry for them, if anything, it was more of an embarrassing confession. They're not proud of their clinging tendencies; they don't want to come off as controlling. They - well, they've never been in a real relationship before, as far as they remember. They've never really felt they were cut out for one. And they don't want to hurt someone so dear to them with their illogical problems.

They don't want to dwell on that too much now, though; they want to enjoy the time they have together.

"It's beautiful," they say about the garden, still holding Tene's arms close around them. "And you're learning chemistry? That's so cool! I love learning about scents and colors. Do you have any favorites? I'm trying to learn how to work with some of the Neathbow colors here, but I'd welcome any help, for sure. Maybe with your knowledge and my... not being made out of Gant, we could pull it off together?"

They're already putting together dreams of coloring new kazoos with the magical colors. They've managed to make a normal one for Percy, after a few prototypes, and the process was so fun they only want to make more.

"It tried to eat you??" Piper laughed at the mental image. Quietly, though, for fear of waking the things up. "And they sing at night? Are they any good at it?"

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

There was a fun, ticklish vibration escaping non-rythmically across the Wanderer's communication. That's quite the joyful laugh.

They-do-not

They-would-not-armonize-even-if-their-lives-were-at-risk

Did-not-try-to-teach-them-though

May-be-you-could-question

Sounds-like-fun-exclamation

There was a bit of absolute silence, the kind that arises when Tene is deep in thought. To choose a favourite color and smell is difficult.

Color-was-hard-to-pick

At-first-I-thought-garnet-like-Professor

Then-I-thought-scarlet-like-you

But-now-I-know-it-is-blue-exclamation

So-rare-and-hard-to-find

Only-in-flowers-like-forget-me-nots

And-their-dyes-applied-in-clothes-or-drawings

I-like-to-see-it-a-lot

And-about-scents

That-is-easier

The-perfume-of-the-orange-flower

Azahar-is-its-name

I-like-it-above-all-others

Tene was lost in thought for a while, likely exploring the memories that made nem aware of those preferences. The Piper can catch some of those moments of sudden realization. The added joy when feeling them, how they were soothing, and how they fit nir personality. So much directly shared joy.

And-I-would-like-that-exclamation

Working-the-lab-together-yes-exclamation

When-and-where-and-how-question

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

Piper laughs (quietly as they can) and puts "teaching the scary plants to sing well" on their mental list of future activities. (This list is not very solid. Tene may have to remind them in the future.)

They move away from the head plants, to avoid further risks for the moment.

"Blue! A great choice." Piper grins; of course, any color Tene picked would have been great, just for having been nirs. And red and blue go so well together, don't they? They'll have to think of something blue to get nem. None of their current assortment of souvenirs are. "And huh, I guess you don't see it often here, do you...?"

The sky of the surface was blue, but here it was tinted more gold from the Cosmogone sun, and at closest was always a shade too green. And forget-me-nots - did Tene know that those were actually Piper's favorite flowers? Ironic, maybe, but all the more reason Piper loved them. So small and easy to overlook, yet so beautiful when you paid them attention...

Piper voices this aloud, after a moment of contemplation.

"Do you grow those here, too? If not, I'll be sure to bring you some," they add with a smile.

"And orange flowers! You're not saying that just because I like them too, are you?" they tease, even though they know that wouldn't be the case. "I love oranges in general. Don't get them often in the Neath, but I must have at some point in the past, to like them so much. They smell so fresh and alive, don't they? Makes me feel more awake and alive, too. But if I had to pick a favorite smell..."

Huh. This is a bit of a hard question, isn't it? They didn't even pick their favorite color out on their own.

"Um, I might have to think about it. I like ginger a lot. And cloves. And dirt, especially when it's kind of damp. And your smell." They blush a little, still grinning.

So-glad-you-get-to-know-your-self

So-glad-to-get-to-know-with-you

They press a kiss to Tene's cheek, still overflowing with happiness.

"I have a reflection of a lab here in Parabola! You can visit any time you like." Still cuddling close to Tene, they focus the image of their lab in their mind, sharing it so ne will be able to find nir way. "As for how, that might be a lot of trial and error. I can catch light in mirrorcatch boxes, but each color works a little differently. Peligin seems to want to consume anything you try to mix it with. Cosmogone is a lot more flighty. But yeah, I'd have to show you where I'm at with it so far."

They're so excited that Tene is excited about it. It's so fun to share the things they enjoy together!

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

Tene vibrated happily at both the coincidence in tastes and the Piper's approval of nirs. No approval was needed, of course, and ne understands differences in taste are common and healthy, but it is good knowing they have more and more things to share.

I-smell-that-good-question

You-are-always-invited-to-get-close-and-have-it-when-ever-you-want

The invitation is delivered returning the kiss, tilting nir head just so (despite not being strictly necessary) that nir lip-equivalent place now rests against the Piper's own, the soft touch of bandages parting enough to let a 'mass' of shadows slip through and surround their lips, covering them like a very loving lipstick before being retracted back, forehead resting in forehead now.

I-am-very-happy-to-learn-and-know-with-you-too-exclamation

One-of-best-things-to-do-with-best-friend-Piper

Cloves-and-ginger-smell-very-good-too-exclamation

Dirt-is-weird-though

So-many-rich-and-complex-scents-I-get-a-bit-dizzy-with-them

No-forget-me-nots-here-sadly

Orphanage-usually-is-a-place-people-want-to-forget

Parabola-likes-symbolism-a-lot

So-none-get-to-grow

But-may-be-some-where-else-question

Can-your-camp-grow-flowers-question

The cuddling was more than welcome, sharing the memories and feelings of the Piper's Parabolan spaces. Tene answers with a confirming nod, although not a physical one, for that would mean move from this position and that's currently unacceptable.

I-believe-I-could-reach-now

But-I-prefer-you-guiding-me-there-and-be-together

I-can-show-you-the-lab-here-too-exclamation

It-is-full-of-things

Perhaps-it-gives-you-ideas-for-yours-and-yours-for-this-one

My-room-is-on-the-way-too-so-I-can-show-you-both-near

If-you-want

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

Piper giggled into the kiss, the vibrations tickling their lips. They could taste nem just a little, with the same flavor as nir smell: cold air from somewhere up high, a slight hint of vanilla, surface-snow? Has Piper ever smelled surface-snow before, or is the concept just being transmitted somehow? No way to know for certain.

"I don't have any flowers at my regular base camp, but I do have some at my secret base. It's a special little hideout I just made recently. I thought it would be somewhere you could visit, or um, stay, if you wanted. Where no one else would be able to find you, if you didn't want them to."

They don't know all the reasons for the secrecy, but they want Tene to feel comfortable and safe. Regardless, Piper also likes having a second base, something they can use like a home in Parabola, as opposed to the busy place of research their original base camp is.

"Of course, I'll take you there, and to my lab, too. We can go anywhere in Parabola you want. But yes, your lab first! And then your room!" And then Piper could give nem nir presents!!

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

The Wanderer turned to better face the Piper with nir mask, making a surprisingly good mimicry of an expression of piqued interest.

Yes-i-want-exclamation

Both-to-visit-and-to-stay

It-sounds-like-a-good-place

I-am-eager-to-see

But-now-come-come-exclamation

Holding the Piper's hand with an excited squeeze, the Tenebrous Wanderer guided them towards the entrance of the Orphanage. The other side is definitely surprising: Aseptic whiteness, well-illuminated (although not around Tene, the Orphanage has that kindnes) and poorly decorated; as opposed to the dark, gothic, fenced manor visible from the outside. The seemingly endless corridors stretching in all directions showing metallic doors on both sides, some of them windowed, some of them not, most of them with sturdy-looking locks. Every now and then Tene takes a strange turn or suddenly backtracks, usually following the approaching sounds of steps.

These-are-the-Nightmare-orderlies-and-other-staff

They-do-not-like-to-be-disturbed-outside-their-Nightmare-routine

Or-else-they-believe-you-are-an-intruder-and-will-act-in-consequence

Of course there's the occasional agonic scream, hysteric laughter, desperate cries pleading for help... But that's to be expected, in a living Nightmare.

They-are-not-signs-of-real-suffering

Only-memories-being-revisited-and-dreamers-in-torments-of-their-own-making

The Wanderer clarifies, just in case. Ne learned to deal with it, knowing there is nothing ne can do nor need to do so. Ne just hopes to never get and visit the real one.

Until finally the couple reaches belowgrounds through a twisting stair, now in front of yet another indistinct door were not for the helpful sign indicating it as a laboratory. Tene opens the door and indicates the Piper to go inside first (the door may not want to open again to a stranger), then follows.

The inside is particularly well furnished, a perfect place in which to practice the sciences (bar biology and geology thus far), the arts and the crafts. There is a big shared zone, and two smaller corners dedicated to the projects which are either of Edward and not to be touched by anyone else, or by Tene and not to be touched by anyone else, as indicated by the latter.

I-was-getting-ready-for-a-distillation-for-a-new-perfume

Ne says showing a basket full of lavender cuttings and coconut strands. If asked about the coconuts' procedence, ne'll affirm some migrating swallows brought them.

But-it-can-wait

Here-plants-spoil-very-slowly

It-is-the-Viric-I-think

Which-is-great

What-do-you-think-question

Do-you-have-suggestions-question

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

The Orphanage was... weird. Piper couldn't tell for sure if it was weird in a good or a bad way yet. ...Okay, it definitely felt mostly bad, but Tene seemed perfectly calm and at ease despite this.

Too white. Too many screams. It shouldn't have bothered them. It never used to bother them, did it? When had they gotten so soft?

(That wasn't quite true, was it? They'd never liked to see people suffer. They'd just been better at tuning it out.)

The lab was a welcome reprieve. Much bigger than their own, and better furnished, but homier still than the rest of the Orphanage they'd passed through so far. A room that was used and lived in, rather than haunted.

"Mmmm." They stuck their nose into the basket. "Lavender is familiar, but I've never smelled coconut! It's a nice soft smell, kind of sugary? A little like vanilla! Is it for you? It would smell good on you, of course, but you hardly need it."

They made a show of nuzzling Tene's neck, giving nem a sniff and a kiss. Silly.

"I don't think I have any suggestions? I've never made perfume before, so I'd love to see how you do it! And was there any reason you picked these scents in particular? Are you making it just for fun, or is there something you want to do with it? Have you made any others so far?"

They have so many questions all of the time. Maybe they won't come so rapid-fire after the two of them have spent more time catching up, but for now, it's almost like being introduced to nem all over again. Except completely different, now that ne's had more time to develop hobbies and nir own experiences and life outside of the Professor and Piper. Once, Tene had told them ne hadn't lived long enough to have any secrets, and somehow in just a few weeks that's completely changed. There's still a little nervousness about that, but it's swallowed up in excitement. They get to grow and learn together, and there's nothing better than that.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

Tene observed the Piper sampling the collected scents with delight (isn't it curious how accommodating Parabola is of nir peculiar nature, allowing nem to project sensations beyond physical reach?). Even more when they comment, nuzzling and kissing nem, rippling in loving laughter. Ne raises a hand and sinks nir fingers in the Piper's hair, softly caressing their scalp.

Thank-you

More vibrating giggles. That compliment felt specially good.

I-make-them-in-part-for-fun

Scents-can-change-so-much-depending-on-method

But-it-is-also-useful-exclamation

Parabola-is-half-memory

Smell-inspires-memories-so-easy-in-people

Sometimes-spraying-the-right-scent-can-help-navigate-Parabola

Like-short-cuts

I-can-show-you-exclamation

I-have-some-ready-for-testing

These-are-to-find-a-specific-person

I-try-to-recall-her-scent

I-believe-it-will-be-similar-to-this-one

As soon as this was said, Tene leaned more towards the Piper. As if as soon as the plan was spoken it lost its appeal when compared to the closest and more satisfying source of joy.

We-have-lots-of-time

I-can-show-you-to-distill-perfume

You-can-show-me-your-lab-and-projects

We-learn-and-help-each-other-exclamation

But-now-I-can-hardly-think

On-any-thing-better-than-you-being-here

Now who's nuzzling who?

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

Head scratches! Piper loves head scratches. It's a more catlike trait for one who's spent so much time around rats, but it always makes them feel warm and safe and cared for.

"Woah, that's brilliant. I never thought of that, you'll definitely have to show me. A specific person, huh? Can I ask who it is?"

As soon as ne said 'her,' it reminded them of how they'd told Maven they'd help her find her sister. Would such a method work to help with that? Did Maven have any smells associated with her that might act as a beacon, if she'd gotten lost in Parabola, somehow? It seemed both like a stretch, and like as good of an idea as any. They'd have to bring it up with her later, if she wasn't who ne was talking about in the first place.

Then Tene was nuzzling them back, and ne had their full attention again.

You're-right

We-have-time

Not-used-to-it

You'd think Piper doesn't rush anything, with how much procrastination they do. But half of the reason they put so many things off is because they can't decide what's most important, and know it's only a matter of time before they forget half anything they start. Then, of course, there was the rush to make Tene's life as full as possible before it ended, and then the attempts to make as much of Piper's sleeping hours as possible. But there are no such time constraints now.

"I'll try to rush less," they said, snuggling into Tene's embrace. It's cool and soft and makes them a little sleepy, and they're not sure if that's because of nir Nightmare status, or their adrenaline crash, or just the general feeling of comfort. "Though if you wanted to show me your room, I wouldn't be opposed to a place to sit down."

They're blushing a little. They'd talked about seeing nir room already, but now they wonder. There are things couples tend to do in bedrooms. Piper doesn't know if Tene would want to do those things, if ne's capable, or if they want to, or if they're too nervous, or. This isn't something Piper's ever had to think about before. Luckily, they don't have to put their feelings into words, exactly. They convey what they can of their meaning through thought and touch, and hope Tene will understand. (Ne will, but will ne understand?)

I-like-some-things

Like-what-you-did-with-the-taste-testing

Their blush deepens.

But-many-things-I-don't-know-what-I-like

Don't-want-to-disappoint-you

Like-to-keep-clothes-on, they add, because that is one thing they do know. Maybe that could change, eventually, but for now.

Hope-that-is-okay

They also hoped they weren't thinking too fast in the other direction, and Tene hadn't been thinking about that at all. Maybe they are still rushing too much. They're not very good at slowing down, once they've gotten started.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

Given the satisfactory reaction, Tene keeps providing head scratches, enjoying the touch of their hair rubbing nir fingers. The Piper could feel the little tendrils coiling around and lingering for moments.

She-is-a-Seamstress-who-harasses-the-Professor

I-interrupted-a-Nightmare-she-sent-after-them

I-want-to-prevent-it-happening-again

Ne doesn't seem too distressed by this, thought. Not because of a lack of care regarding what the Professor is going through, but because ne knows there's nothing ne can do at the moment, so worrying in this moment of joy would be wrong.

Yes-we-can-go-to-my-room-now

I-am-thinking-how-to-furnish-it-and-I-do-not-yet-know-how

Edward-is-not-very-good-with-personal-items

It-is-fine

But-I-want-lots-and-lots-of-beautiful-things-and-mementos

The Wanderer's words stop there when Piper comments. There's a tilt in nir head, which very casually has it lean on the Piper's shoulder, the mask's sockets looking at those of the Piper.

Why-would-you-disappoint-me-question

I-only-want-you-by-my-side-and-happy

And-here-you-are-exclamation

I-am-more-than-pleased

I-do-not-need-to-take-the-clothes-from-you

You-dress-funny-and-I-like-it

While saying this, a couple of little shadow tendrils crossed the Piper's clothes from the outside, as if feeling their texture.

But-if-you-want-more-taste-testing

I-made-whipped-cream-this-morning-for-breakfast

Little-people-have-breakfast-here-though

And-I-did-so-much

I-am-curious-about-how-it-tastes

Texture-is-interesting

Does-not-fall-if-upside-down-even-at-normal-gravity

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

"You helped Professor? So you've seen them again? Are you guys... um, did you make up?" They don't want to pressure Tene, but they can't help a bit of hope at the prospect. It would be nice to all be able to visit together. "...Wait, a lady harassing the Professor - does she speak Spanish? Is that the lady I saw on Mutton Island?"

They'd forgotten all about that. Nothing more had seemed to come of it, but then again, Piper hadn't exactly remembered to pay attention.

At Tene's later words, Piper laughed, both from relief and from the tickling sensation of having their clothes felt. From anyone else, being told they dressed funny would be an insult, but there's nothing but delight between them.

Okay-yay-exclamation-exclamation

They hadn't realized how much pressure that would take off of them. They should have known it wouldn't be an issue, but it was nice to have confirmation, directly.

Love-you-so-much-want-by-my-side-and-happy-too

Give-you-lots-and-lots-of-beautiful-things-yes

Have-presents-for-you-exclamation

Also-whipped-cream-sounds-tasty-later-yes

Didn't-know-you-cooked

Maybe-you-can-teach-me-some-time-later-question

I-am-very-very-bad-at-it

They're blushing again, though less from embarrassment now. They still have to find a way to get nem back for last time, don't they? They'll have to think on that. It's been practically impossible to fluster nem so far. Not even by embarrassingly jumping to the wrong conclusion about bedroom intentions (which they are still grateful to be wrong about). This is going to be quite the challenge - but luckily, they have plenty of time.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

The Wanderer observed the Piper with curiosity. Although ne still lacks a facial expression, the Piper has learned to read nir eyeless stares and voiceless silences as what they are.

I-do-not-know-what-languages-she-speaks

Language-in-Parabola-is-a-strange-thing

But-when-they-were-together-there-was-distress-and-claims-for-a-debt-to-be-repaid

She-was-being-too-pressing-and-forceful

So-I-decided-to-act-and-drive-her-out-the-dream-of-the-Professor

We-did-not-talk-afterwards

They-woke-up-shortly-after

But-I-gave-their-spectacles-back

Let-them-see-me-so-they-know-how-and-where-I-am

They-looked-pleased

I-liked-that

Then the Piper's relief and joy made nem ripple in endeared laughs, squeezing a bit nir hold on them. The excited vibrations tickling their skin in contagious joy.

You-have-presents-question

I-want-to-see-them-exclamation

I-lead-you-come-come

Then Tene guided the Piper by the hand back upwards towards the rest of the Orphanage. This time, ne could choose paths mostly unvisited by either dreamers, dreams or inhabitants, so it was a more silent walk through faded, misty corridors in which coherence started greying around the edges without repeated visits. Edward usually tends to those areas, Tene explains, and ne is learning how to take care of them as well, but sometimes they are useful due to their silent and solitary nature.

The-Professor-and-Mycologist-taught-me-some-of-cooking

Edward-teaches-me-more

He-does-not-like-spices-too-much

But-I-am-slowly-teaching-him-to-enjoy-them-as-well

So-I-can-teach-you-too-exclamation

At the end of the path lays Tene's room: Comfortably placed at the center of the line separating 'narrow' from 'ample'; equipped with a window despite any considerations architecture could have in the matter and showing what definitely isn't the Orphanage's outdoors; a double bed, tidy and mostly unused; an armchair, more used but unshaped by its owner's lack of weight; a full bookshelf, probably extensively used; and a trunk for keeping nir tools and other useful objects (Parabola likes nem to make an effort and look for what ne needs before giving it to nem). It is also pleasantly warm, and there's no source of light in sight besides the window, but one can see perfectly fine.

Here-we-are

My-room-exclamation

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

It was probably the same person, then. But if Tene wasn't too worried about her, and clearly had the situation handled, then Piper didn't need to worry.

"I like spices a lot," they said while following Tene to nir room. "Then again, I'll eat basically anything." They were sure that anything Tene cooked would be extra delicious for being made with love.

Then it was time to see Tene's room!! It was... well, they could see why ne said it needed decorations, but it was nirs! A place to call nir own had to be special after sharing so much with the Professor before.

Piper flitted from place to place, inspecting everything. Patting the mattress (firm), examining the books (more science? or fiction?), peering through the window (how did it choose what was outside?).

"I like it! It's cozy. Do you sleep?" They tilted their head at the bed. "I didn't think you did, but - I don't actually know, I guess."

Anyway, it wasn't nearly as spooky as the rest of the Orphanage. They hadn't known what to expect from nir room, but they were glad it wasn't creepy. Even if they did think the room they'd made for Tene in their own base was better.

"Anyway! Presents!" They plopped down on the floor, opening up their bag. The Holdeverything didn't always work predictably in Parabola - they'd found a few items missing when they'd looked for them on the other side of the mirror, afterwards - so they'd brought their old satchel today. Luckily, none of the souvenirs they'd brought had any problems making it through.

First, the Scrimshander Carving Knife the Professor had helped them decide on.

"I found this at the bottom of the ocean, during the fruits of the zee festival. It's not very sharp or anything, but I thought it was pretty. And Professor said you liked the stories of the whalebone carvers. Oh, um, speaking of Professor - this one's from them. If you want it."

They set out the coral toy horse Professor had found. Piper was glad they had at least seen each other recently, even if things were still complicated between them.

"And I know this one looks a bit similar, but it's a chess piece. A Night, from the Principles of Coral. I thought maybe I could teach you how to play chess sometime? Of course, we'll need more pieces than this, but I have my own set." They'd invested in one when they'd gone to the Principles, to finally replace the one they'd had to ditch when quitting the Great Game. "I, um - well, you know. If you ever ended up in the Moonlit Chessboard, for some reason, I'd want you to know how to navigate it."

Then there was a pair of Mournclimbers Wraps, which they'd traded for the second week of the festival.

"They're really soft! I thought maybe it would be like a more comfortable type of bandage? If, um, you want to try them."

There are other knicknacks. They feel better about how many they brought, now that they see how bare the room is. Oneiric pearls, pieces of sea glass, shells, coral -

"Oh! And photos!" They'd pasted some of the copies into a little book so they wouldn't get lost. Others were hanging in Piper's secret base. "I wish you could've been there, but I thought I could at least share the memories with you." They hoped it didn't make nem feel more left out. Unlike Piper, ne didn't seem like the jealous type, though.

After that, there was only one more present. The one wasn't from the festival, but traded from the Rat Market later. Still, it was the best gift Piper had, one they knew ne would like. They wiggled with excitement, but wanted to give nem time to look over the other presents first.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

The books were an almost 1:1 mixture of fiction and non-fiction. Science-fiction coupled with pure science probably for cross-checking; novels coupled with biographies to better understand the places they were inspired in; mythologies with atlases to know where each place is and what they believe...

Most-of-them-I-have-not-yet-read

There-is-so-much-exclamation

Can-not-wait-to-reach-for-them

The window seems to show an unstable sight, wobbly as if seen through a layer of water. Further inspection would show it is a layer of water contained within the wall.

I-wanted-a-window-to-show-me-places-far-away

Orphanage-works-better-with-windows-showing-what-it-remembers

So-this-is-a-middle-ground

If-you-let-your-mind-wander-while-looking-into-it

Parabola-shows-itself-through-it

It-is-great

But then the time for presents comes and ne starts vibrating in anticipation, letting go for a moment of the Piper's hand to allow them better handling of the objects, but the ripples in the air are still very obvious around nem.

In the silence of non-contact, the Wanderer holds the knife carefully, with reverence. Passing a bandaged hand across its surface covers it with a thin layer of Gant, which later concentrates along the countless carvings, making them stand out as beyond-dark on the clear blade's surface. Ne could get lost in the reading, but right now there's a special visitor with whom to spend as much precious time as possible, so it can wait. It is placed in the bookshelf where it belongs.

The little toy horse is held with both hands, softly caressing it as a blind person would do to learn its shape. It clinks pleasantly with nir vibrations, showing just how happy ne is to have it. It is placed in the nightstand besides the bed, a place of honor.

The piece of coral chess is received with excitement, turning it around in nir hands as in a more traditional way of looking at it. There is a jump (an ingravid one, so funny to behold) then slow yet emphatic nods. Learning and playing chess with the Piper! What's not to love?

Finally the Mournclimbers. Now those are quite interesting! Yet another gift to be worn! Ne likes those a lot, more chances to show off just how much people loves nem. Ne doesn't lose any time, already wrapping the soft damask around nir hands, bandages retreating up the arm's length to allow direct contact with the Gant underneath. Fingers are formed again then flexed.

The first field test of these new hands is to reach for the Piper and close a tight, loving hug.

Thank-you-thank-you-thank-you

Thank-you-exclamation

I-love-them-so-much

They-are-so-interesting-and-beautiful-and-promising-and-yours

And-the-Professor-too

Give-them-my-thanks-if-you-see-them-before-I-do

Then the photos arrive! And ne can't even let go of the Piper's touch while looking through them, rippling giggles shared througy their contact. Ne specially likes the one with them all around the fire (but for the fire itself, that thing is evil), and laughs at the one with the Piper on the sand with the volley ball. The sand monster was watched for a long time, nir head resting on the Piper's shoulder imagining them with such a form. People enjoying the wind, ne would have liked to feel the wind, perhaps some day? Even more so with kites! And plenty of questions about how rubbery lumps taste and smell like, or how it is to be beneath water. The effigies and toy boats prompt more questions about what are they for and how are they made...

Definitely, all of these were a great idea.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

There was so much to read. It reminded Piper that it had been a while since they'd gotten to read any fiction, so busy studying Parabola and other matters of chemistry and science. Which was great fun! But it was also nice to relax with a story from time to time, even if they were unlikely to remember it afterwards.

Piper smiles at the window, remembering the far away places they'd gotten to visit with Tene, before... well. They hope one day, they'll be able to again. Though for now it's a wonderful relief just to be with nem, no matter where they are.

They return the hug happily, with an extra layer of joy at the Professor's gift being well received.

You're-welcome-exclamation

So-glad-you-like-them-exclamation

I-will-tell-Professor-of-course

They have a great time explaining the photos, telling stories, trying to describe tastes and sensations and smells. Not too viscerally this time, there will be plenty of time for that later, if they want.

But there's still one more present!! The best for last!!!

Piper takes the mirrorcatch of Gant from their bag, almost too excited for words again. Which is fine, because their right hand is still tangled with Tene's left.

I-did-it-exclamation

Found-some-Gant-for-you

From-Rat-Market-not-zee

Will-find-you-more-promise

I-know-many-kind-rats-they-find-cool-things-like-this

And-now-I-can-give-to-you-exclamation

Hope-it-is-good-for-you-make-you-feel-good-and-whole

By now they've been sitting on Tene's bed, and Piper places the box in Tene's lap, for ne to decide what to do with. Piper isn't sure how ne goes about using the Gant, themself.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

At the Piper's retellings and shows of joy there's even more joy in return. Ne's been missing all nir friends, and even if Piper filled the deepest hole, there were still empty places in nir metaphorical part, now being tended to. It felt so good...

But then the greatest gift was produced, and all emotions got replaced by one, taking over all of nem: Ecstasy.

Ne can't even transmit the concepts properly. A thousand thank yous tangle among them, the excitement feels like static interferences among the ecstatic waves, love was already permeating every interaction.

So the only way to properly show what Gant did for Tene was to do it right then, right there, with Piper. So the mirrorcatch box is deftly opened with the free hand and then...

There is nothing.

A sudden explosion (implosion?) banishing every other color, every singular beam of light, every hint at form or distance or time, all of those considerations disappered before an eye finished blinking.

Everything fades to nothing. You are nothing- No. Nothing is you. Thus you are everything. You can hold all that is, the cold and empty embrace that holds everything in its place. The void in which matter dances. And it dances in you.

The Piper could feel those are still not their own feelings, but Tene's. Ne seamlessly merging within nir mind, because they are both more connected than ever. Tene covers every square inch of their skin, coats every space within their body, it is Tene they breathe, it is Tene they swallow, it is Tene they see and touch and hear. How not to feel what ne feels?

Ne is you as well. Within every empty space.

This is what ne was, once. One with the whole, until that whole was sliced and molded and given form and purpose and place.

It is a good form, it is an exciting purpose, it is a wondrous place.

But it is still not home. And this is a touch of home. And with all the strength from home, ne can go back and be nemself again, for longer, stronger, happier.

A proud slice of the nothing that holds everything.

And among that everything, you.

The most special, precious Piper friend.

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[theliedpiper]

There weren't words to describe how Piper felt, experiencing this with nem. It wasn't any kind of overstimulation, in fact you could say it was nothing at all, and yet it was so different from the nothing they'd almost been, the first day they'd met Tene. How could there be different shades of nothing? How could one feel like giving up, and another like coming home?

This was Tene's home, and so Piper felt at home too. Wherever ne was, so was their heart.

They were held. From within and from without, beneath skin and clothing (how funny, after everything, that they still manage to be stripped bare, and find it nothing but a comfort). Their heart and their lungs shrowded in shadow that brings light.

They... They're so glad. They're so grateful. The deep hole they hold in their heart is full of nothing - whole.

They're content.

When the darkness fades, they're holding Tene on the bed, curled around nem loosely. Not so desperate, just... Peaceful. There's so much they still want do, but for now, they really could just fall asleep in their partner's arms...

Re: Beaking around the Orphanage

[ticktopis_observatorium]

The darkness fades, light always having its way sooner or later... But the Gant doesn't vanish. Instead, it coalesces, concentrates and reforms in a discrete silhouette, almost-humanoid, if the darkness had learned what an humanoid shape is due to the absence it produces when blocking the sunlight. The bandages, gabardine, mask and stockings lay scattered around, the nobody within expanding beyond their reach, and now reforming too far from it.

But it doesn't matter. It is Piper with nem, all is well.

So Tene, reformed and basking in the aftergloom, accepts Piper's cuddles and bestow nir own. Comfortable, calm... Yes, peaceful. So peaceful.

Thank-you-my-precious-Piper-friend

It-felt-very-good

Even nir thoughts have tuned to the lower, feeling more like whispered caresses into the consciousness than the understanding of a conversation bypassing the ears.

Perhaps ne would like to properly learn how the bed is used for rest, all of nem holding onto the Piper and unwilling to let go.