[ Peter is having a bad day. Actually, scratch that, Peter is having a spectacular shitty day, and that's saying a lot, considering it's only 7:40 am. First, there was a creepy as fuck giant bug perched on his nose when he woke up, and he's pretty sure that the rainbow skull butterfly insect is the reason he was even awake at 6.30 in the morning to begging with.
He got startled and tried to swat it away, only to hit himself in the face in the process and then fall off the bed, bruising his right shoulder. There was no way he was falling asleep again after that, so he dragged his sorry ass to the shower. The hot water ran out before he was finished, and he slipped on some spilled shampoo, hitting his knee on the shower wall.
When he finally stopped cursing from the pain and got dressed with a simple long sleeve shirt and a pair of sweatpants, nothing happened, thanks God. That didn't last, Peter walked into the kitchen to find that Paku Paku, one of the mini dragons that sometimes stayed at his place, had raided his cookie stash while he was sleeping, and left a mess of crumbs all over the counter and floor. The coffee machine refused to work, and he was really considering throwing it out of the window out of pure frustration. Instead, Peter tripped on a spoon on the floor, no doubt also left there by the little dragon, and for the second time today, his knee took the brunt of the fall.
Dazzled, with white spots dancing in front of his eyes, Peter doesn't even have enough energy to curse his bad luck. He also doesn't seem to be able to stand, not with a possible busted knee. After some long minutes, he reaches for his bracelet and asks help from the nearest person he knows. Spock is getting a short but miserable text from him. ]
I think I'm dying, could you come over and pick me up from the floor? Thanks.
[ Spock has also been having one might call a 'shitty day.' He awoke before dawn, as usual, had a light breakfast, exercised a bit, and retreated into meditation. It was during that part a bug interrupted him by landing on his hand.
It's been a low-level Hell ever since. Attempts to wave his hand around to make it fly away ended with a hole in his dry wall and a busted knuckle. (The bug's fine, don't worry.) Cleaning up this wound resulted in his bathroom faucet exploding and soaking him in water. He managed to stop the leak, get dry, find clean clothes, and use the kitchen sink instead. This worked until he decided to have a drink and immediately spilled juice all over himself.
Anyway, he's now on his fourth set of clothes for the day. The wall only has one hole in it but the countertop has two. Thankfully, he's only sustained the one injury so far. The same can't be said for his living room windows. Unsure what the hell was happening, he decided to meditate again. Nothing could go wrong if he just sat in one spot, surely. This is when Peter's message came through.
Spock broke out of meditation and glanced at his wrist, quickly reading the message. Once it registered, his eyes widened and he quickly leapt up- then crashed right into the floor.
So a minute or so later, far longer than he would have liked, Peter's door finds itself suddenly imbedded into the wall. Spock meant to open it rather forcefully in case it was locked but, uh- Anyway. He manages to rush around and find Peter on the kitchen floor without injuring himself or the apartment complex further.
He blinks, looks him up and down. ]
I do not possess a medical degree, but you do not seem to be dying at the moment.
[ Spock steps forward to help him up- and falls back to the floor beside Peter. ]
[ The crash might have startled Peter any other day. Given how things are going, he just regretfully adds the door and wall to the long list of things that need to be fixed, cleaned, or replaced. It's very touching how fast Spock came to his aid, so he's not about to complain about the hastiness. ]
When you think about it, all of us are always dying. [ Peter tries to shrug and then the pain that shoots up his back reminds him that it's a bad idea. He's lying on his back but tilting his head to peer at Spock and give him a look to convey how miserable he feels. His hair is still damp and curling from the shower he had, he is on his kitchen floor and the bruise on his cheek is still visible. He's pretty sure he looks utterly stupid but he doesn't get to ask Spock to 'please be a doll and help me get off the floor' because the other man is soon joining him down here. ]
Are you okay? [ Peter says, wincing in sympathy and turning his head towards Spock. His neck might be the only body part that doesn't hurt at the moment. The injured knuckles the Vulcan is sporting are hard to miss, and the greenish bruises make him realize that Vulcan's blood is the same color as Gamora's.
Maybe if they stay very still on the floor, the universe will leave them alone for five minutes. ]
I've lost count of how many times I hurt myself this morning and I think my knee might be broken. What if I can't walk anymore? My days of disco dancing can't be over so soon, I'm too young to go around in crutches. [ It's not broken, thankfully, it's just one contusion on top of another, but it does hurt like a bitch and Peter is a big baby. ]
Oddly enough, I believe the lack of disco dancing in the future is the least of our problems.
[ His voice is a little muffled against the floor, because he really, illogically doesn't want to move either. Though, Spock is concerned about that knee and would love to take a look at it as soon as he stops worrying about what he'll break next. After all, that could be Peter. The wall might be able to deal with a few extra holes but humans aren't prone to it.
He does manage to get up the gumption to roll over, though, ending up on his back while his busted hand swings out and bashes itself against the kitchen cabinets. Spock's only reaction is a deep sigh. ]
The odds of these incidents happening in continuous succession and to us both at the same time are far too low to be viable. These circumstances must be the cause of some sort of outside force... I just no longer know which one...
[ There's people with strange powers and the Augur itself and whatever this planet thinks it's doing half the time. The whole damn place is illogical. His father wouldn't last a week here. ]
Can you still move your leg? [ Is the risk of getting up and breaking you in half worth it, Peter? ]
You might be right. [ Peter is inclined to agree only given their shitty circumstances because music is one of the few things that make living bearable and any other day he would have been defending disco for longer.
Spock doesn't answer Peter's concern about his well-being and the blond is quick to figure out that he's right, whatever is going on is affecting them both. He's worried about the hit Spock's face just took a minute ago but when Peter opens his mouth to speak, he hears the Vulcan's hand hitting the kitchen cabinet. Ouch. Furniture can be repaired, bones are harder to fix, Peter is less worried about the state of his apartment and more about Spock injuring himself further. ]
Do you think we've been cursed? Or perhaps it's the building? You and I didn't do anything together lately that might have caused this. I don't think so at least. [ At the question, Peter tries to shift his legs to the side and pain shoots up his knees and then gives him a cramp that has him cursing under this breath again. ] I can...feel and move my toes. That is something, right?
[ With great effort, one of his hands reaches out to grab the leg of a nearby chair and use it to lift his upper body. He's now sitting on the floor with his legs stretched in front of him, success! While he did that, however, the sleeve of his shirt caught on a nail that's sticking out of the chair's leg, getting ripped in the process. Peter didn't even know this chair had nails, what the fuck. ]
Do you want some ice for your hand? I have a cold compress in the freezer, but chances are it might fall on top of us if we try to open it. I think the furniture is out to get us.
[ Spock considers their situation, running through anything that he and Peter may have in common. The building is certainly a good idea. It could be that everyone here is affected similarly, though he hadn't gotten a call from Jim yet. (Which could be a good or very bad thing. Unclear.)
Instead of answering immediately, Spock also sits up slowly, only using the floor as leverage. He's very careful and doesn't fall to harm or break anything, so that's good so far. Once he's upright and eyeing Peter's torn sleeve, he finally answers. ]
I am well. Considering the circumstances, retrieving ice may not be entirely worth the risk. Your leg, however, seems to be a far worse injury. May I touch you? I... will make every attempt to not damage you further.
[ Still not making a guarantee but he wouldn't offer if he really thought he'd hurt him worse. ]
As far as the cause, do you recall what you were doing right before this began? Most of my morning had been uneventful.
[ Peter has a growing headache and hadn't really had time to consider who else in the building might be having shitty problems. Once he thinks about it, he will send a message to Finn and Jim, and if he is a bit lucky, his bracelet won't explode or anything of the sort.
He eyes Spock and gives him a small smile. Misery loves company and all that. Then he makes a pitiful face when it's clear that there will be no ice for his throbbing knee but Spock it's right. It's not worth losing some other limb to the freezer falling on them. ]
Are you sure? That was a nasty fall, Spock. [ Peter reaches out for him, fingers aiming to brush gently against the back of his head and check for lumps. ]And you can always touch me, no need to as for permission. [ He smiles somewhat flirty, an attempt at levity despite the pain. ]
We could try dragging our sorry asses to my couch, it's not that far away, and it's comfortable. [ Dragging is the right word because walking is beyond Peter's abilities right now. ] I was woken up by a bug. [ His smile falls, in fact, he is almost pouting. ] I shouldn't have never left the bed, it seems to be one of 'those days', you know?
[ Spock stays very still while Peter touches him, illogically paranoid enough to fear breaking his fingers if he twitches his head a certain way. ]
Vulcans are more resilient than humans. I will be all right, but your concern is noted.
[ Despite Peter also being half-Human, Spock's a bit worried about that knee. Dragging may be the proper term, but he wonders if that'll cause more harm than good...
But he's distracted by those thoughts when a bug is mentioned. Spock looks up from the knee and blinks at him. ]
Was it similar to the Terran butterfly or moth? One perched on me while I was meditating... before all of this began... [ His super smart brain is chugging overtime, putting some pieces together. It doesn't make sense but what does around here?
While he's thinking about it and without further ado, he gently prods at Peter's knee to make sure nothing's broken (and hopefully not break it himself). ]
In any case, the couch is a logical goal. Removing ourselves from the kitchen will increase our chances of survival by 54.8%.
[ Just-... This is how he frets, all right? There's knives in here, man. ]
[ Peter is also trying to be very, very gentle while touching Spock's head but somehow his finger gets caught in a tangle, and he accidentally pulls at his hair. ]
Ach, sorry! [ How did that even happen? Spock's hair is usually the softest thing Peter's ever touched. He manages to move away his hand without causing further problems after a moment, looking apologetic. ]
Even if you're more resilient, you still feel the pain, right? But yes, it was a really creepy butterfly, I think it had a skull-like pattern. Do you think they're causing all this? Like the skull flowers making us hallucinate when we first met? I'm starting to see a pattern.
[ Skulls on anything= bad mojo, clearly. Spock's idea is as possible as any other and Peter accepts it as a possibility until they figure out what's going on. He lets out a small, pained squeak when Spock touches his knee but doesn't try to move away from the hands checking on him. ]
I didn't know that my kitchen was such a death trap, but I trust your math. [ He's also looking around them with wariness in his eyes for a couple of seconds. ] Okay, let's move.
[ Easier said than done, though. Peter glares at the nearby chair, as if to dare it to ruin his clothes again with another unexpected nail sticking out, and holds onto it to try and pull himself up. ]
[ Spock's hair possessing a tangle is also a statistical impossibility but here we are. He doesn't wince (much) from the pull, though. Could have been worse, under the circumstances. ]
I do feel pain, but Vulcans are able to control their body to the point of blocking pain receptors when necessary. [ It's so hard to win an argument with him, Peter, I'm sorry. ] Either way, yes, we should endeavor to research and avoid these so-called butterflies.
[ As he says it, he's already moving his hands away from Peter's injury. It's to easy to hurt him further, but nothing actually seems broken. A plus. But it's time to move, anyway.
Spock blinks as he watches Peter attempt to use the chair as help, and wants to offer himself except... the chair's probably safer. He should focus on getting himself out for the time being.
Feeling confidence because nothing he's done has gone poorly in the last three minutes, Spock gets his feet under him with his usual grace, rises, trips on his own feet, and lands right back where he started... He gets his feet under him again, rising slooooowly. ]
If this, too, proves challenging, perhaps we should call for aid from someone unaffected.
[ It's something Peter also didn't think possible. Which only proves further that whatever is going on it's not normal. ]
Dude, that's so cool. [ Lucky you. That's fine, he's impressed by Spock's biology, some arguments are worth being lost. The chair he's holding onto doesn't break, the miracle of all miracles, and Peter smiles for a second before he's witnessing Spock fall on his ass and grimacing in sympathy. He says nothing about the fall and waits for Spock to try again, ready to reach out and help if anything went wrong, but with the deep suspicion that such action would end with both of them back on the floor. ]
Or we could just burn them with a flamethrower, they're long-range weapons. [ Fuck risking getting more injuries just because the creatures should be studied. In Peter's opinion, if they are really the cause of all this, they should be obliterated on the spot.
He's going to need Spock's help to walk towards the couch still, the chair can only help him stay upright, but that too seems risky. ]
How do we know that whatever we've got from the butterflies isn't contagious?
[ Finally! Spock's standing! A supremely illogical surge of victory fills him. ]
Perhaps said flamethrower would be beneficial in creating a stable environment before testing can proceed. [ Look at him, all for obliteration suddenly. But he still doesn't want this to happen again, so his science side really wants to crop up, too.
But that's for later. Way later. Right now, he carefully shuffles closer to Peter and reaches out, ready to assist him to the couch very carefully. But then he stills. ]
I did not consider that possibility... Perhaps we should be quarantined instead until we learn more.
[ His ancestors must be so proud. 100% correct use of those lovely long legs, Spock. ]
I might have one of those in my ship. [ Peter jokes but if his tone of voice is anything to go by, there might be a smidge of truth in that statement. Rocket has built a lot of weird gadgets, some involve fire and grenades.
He looks at Spock with a mixture of concern and relief when the man moves towards him. Some help is very needed, yet Peter wonders they might accidentally stab each other with something like that. Wonders of wonders, nothing terrible happens, but Spock is still an arm away from him. The suggestion prompts Peter to smile at him suggestively. ]
Why, Spock. Do you want to spend some quality time alone with me? You only had to ask. [ Peter makes an attempt to take a step forward and meet the Vulcan halfway, only for his feet to slip under him (the floor isn't even slippery, why does this happen) and he all but falls onto Spock's arms. ]
Oops, sorry. [ Men swooning over Spock, isn't it nice? ]
[ As it turns out, Spock believes Peter 100% when he says that he has a flamethrower on his ship. The likelihood of its existence is pretty high, he figures. If this flamethrower doesn't exist, however, Spock's also pretty sure he can easily build one.
But that train of thought is cut short when he ends up with an armful of Peter. Thanks to how he's turned into a cat in the balancing department right now, his feet have been planted firmly enough that he doesn't fall over, too. Lucky! Hopefully, karma doesn't notice.
He blinks down at him. ]
Apologies are unnecessary. Also, spending time in your presence alone is always pleasant. [ He says it almost as if he's teasing, like he's kind of amused, but it's a bit hard to tell. ]
Let us attempt to reach the couch without causing ourselves further injury.
[ And away they go! Spock's speed is that of a snail since he's being so careful but they're moving! ]
[ Good choice, Spock. Once their luck changes again, and they're not at risk of blowing themselves up, Spock and peter should work on some tech projects together. Could be fun.
Peter has the decency to look somewhat apologetic after Spock catches him. He's giving the other man nothing but trouble today and for that he's sorry. On the other hand, being this close to Spock is the nicest thing that has happened to him since he woke up. ]
Have I ever told you that your way of talking is very charming? In a direct sort of way, I really appreciate it. [ First, because Spock is not the sort of person who would lie to him to get something out of him, and Peter really likes that. He had been lied to plenty enough in the past. And second, even if that's something he doesn't want to think about in detail, it also reminds him of Gamora's blunt genuineness. ]
Okay, let's hope we manage. [ Peter straightens himself as much as his injured knee allows him and they both move towards the couch. It has never taken him this long to cross his living room, it's ridiculous. Nothing bad happens, he doesn't trip again, the floor doesn't crumble, no piece of the ceiling falls...Peter sighs in relief as they lower themselves to the cushions. Only to curse again when one of the couch's legs breaks under their combined weight. ]
Come on! You gotta be kidding me. [ Peter laments, sounding incredulous. It's not a new couch, but it has survived more than just two people sitting on it at once. ] By the end of the day I'm going to have to move to a new apartment.
[ His eyebrows creep as they're slowly traversing across the room. ]
You have alluded to this appreciation before. I am... grateful for this. [ Not many humans like the way he talks, or at least they don't mention it. Usually the opposite. So Peter's forwardness with the compliments is pretty great and refreshing, to be honest.
Anyway, while he's been contemplating that, they've arrived at the couch only for the poor thing to break. Spock's just grateful it didn't fall through the floor with them on it. Like, they're not injured (from that), so yay? ]
Perhaps we can share a space to contain the amount of chaos we reap in a singular area.
Ah...well, a reminder never hurts, that way you don't forget. [ And that way, Spock can be sure Peter meant it, and it wasn't just him praising the other man to flirt. Peter realizes now that Spock really seems to like it, and makes a mental note to appreciate him out loud more often. Peter is also silent a couple of seconds longer, mourning his sofa. ]
I'll have to go furniture shopping once this is over.[ He eyes Spock at the suggestion, first tilting his head and narrowing his eyes a bit, then slowly a smile starts to appear on Peter's lips. ] Are you suggesting we should snuggle?
[ Peter sees your possible kidding/not-kidding and raises the stakes. ]
[ Spock very much does like the compliments and the repetition of such. Though, it doesn't take repetition for him to know that Peter means the things he says. The other man is just kind and honest like that.
He glances down to the couch with the intention of commenting on this upcoming shopping venture when Peter asks a question that has his eyes darting back up. ]
I was not. That being said, it would make more sense to contain our chaos to singular point instead of merely a shared room. Your own suggestion, if you were making it, is logical.
[ The first negative doesn't come as a surprise and Peter isn't deterred, still smiling. Spock going on and agreeing to stay close almost gets him to chuckle, and he does perk up despite the pain in his knee. He manages to keep his amusement in check and nods enthusiastically. ]
Very logical. We've been sitting for 2 minutes straight and the couch hasn't caught on fire, so far so good. [ Peter's going to take the risk and lean into the other man, resting his head on Spock's shoulder. Then he waits for something terrible to happen, hoping it won't be THAT bad. ]
[ Spock freezes as Peter shifts closer and rests against him, not because he's adverse to the touch but because of genuine fear. But nothing happens after ten seconds, so he relaxes marginally and eventually gets his arms around Peter very very gently.
As is the cure with most ailments on this planet, Spock poses that it's possible sex could alleviate them of their bad luck. However, if his theory is incorrect, they could be in much worse shape by the end of it, if there was any satisfactory conclusion to even be had. So he doesn't mention it. But he does think about it. ]
To borrow a human idiom, I believe it would be wise to not tempt fate, Peter.
[ Peter pauses for a second once he senses Spock go stiff as a board, wondering if he's overstepping, if he's read the situation wrong. He was being playful and given their current back luck wasn't planning on anything serious, but he still doesn't want to make the Vulcan uncomfortable. Ehen Spock wraps an arm around him, Peter can't help, but the charmed at the care. He huffs and smiles at the reply, relaxing at the explanation for Spock's wariness and giving a nod. ]
Fair point. But my leg's already feeling better now that we're not moving, so thanks for coming here to help.
[ Peter hums, leaning into Spock a little more, and another solid minute goes by without the floor crumbles form under them. He is starting to believe the worst has happened.
And then there's a crash coming from the bathroom as if something hit the half-opened window and broke the glass. It's followed by an angry, loud: ]
[ Spock fully relaxes as Peter rests against, even closing his eyes and enjoying the moment for what it is. So long as they don't move, then surely-
Spock's eyes pop open from the crash... Oh. Never mind. ]
Perhaps if we do not move-... [ He whispers to Peter, his eyes darting in the direction of the bathroom. But it already sounds like the animal is pissed, so- ]
[ Peter's metaphorical spider senses are tingling, and not in a good way. ]
Maybe it will go away? [ He murmurs back, low enough for only Spock to hear because he doesn't feel like getting the goose's attention. Under normal circumstances, he would have little trouble shooing the thing out of his apartment or hunting it down to turn it into a future dinner.
With the shitty luck they've having, and his probably-not-broken-but-hurting-like-a-real-bitch knee as a liability, peter isn't sure any of those options are possible. He doesn't even have his blasters on him. He hears the door of the bathroom rattle ominously, as the hellspawn bird is trying to get it open. ]
I don't suppose you carry a gun on you? Or a large knife?
I usually carry my blasters or some gadget with me, but since I just woke up a few hours ago, and I wasn't planning on leaving the house. They're in my bedroom.
[ And it's too far away to reach them now, same with any knife from the kitchen. There's more honking and hissing coming from the bathroom, and Peter's starting to suspect that the goose might be possessed. He clings to Spock's arm. ]
Fleeing sounds like a great idea right now. Your place, perhaps?
[ He grabs one of Peter's arms and loops it over his shoulders before standing up. The fact that Spock doesn't immediately fall is progress, honestly. Quickly, before the lack of awful luck drains away (an illogical thought), he starts quickly shuffling them to the exit.
... And then there's a crash from the direction of the bathroom. The ensuing honk no longer sounds like it's in a different room.
It's illogical to be frightened of a goose so he is not. But he does start running as best he can. ]
It's okay, it happens to me too. DW is sometimes drunk
[ Peter holds his breath when they stand, expecting to meet the floor with his face soon enough again, but this time the bad luck gives them a break. He moves alongside Spock as fast as he can, wincing a little at the many aches of his body, and then shuddering when he hears the crash. ]
Ah, shit, no. [ Fuck logic, Peter is going to freak out, at least internally, as much as he can. With his free hand, he reaches for the nearest thing on their way to the door - a vase he doesn't even remember buying, it must have come with the apartment- and throws it behind him in hopes of hitting the angry duck and stalling it.
Instead of the muted sound of a vase impacting with a living creature, he hears glass shattering against the floor and an offended HONK! that sounds far too close for his liking. ]
I'm afraid my aim isn't very good when I'm not looking at what I am trying to hit.
[ Peter's voice has an edge to it, slightly panicked, while he tries to keep it light by joking. He's glad that Spock is practically dragging him out of the house because he couldn't have moved that fast on his own. Once they're out, e kick his uninjured leg back, closing the door with a loud THUD, followed by (really close, furious) honking. There are the sounds of the goose scratching and hitting the door with its beak, and Peter is really glad it's not them. ]
Welp, I guess I'll have to burn down the whole apartment. I'm not getting in there anytime soon.
[ Things have been quite lively, but then Kori is slowly getting accustomed to the fact that they always seem to be lively here. She's also learned not to let it stop her from living her life as usual; right now, that includes finding a nice, warm spot to absorb some sunlight and replenish her energy.
And on such a warm, sunny day, what better place to do just that than the beach?
So that's exactly where she is. Large blanket stretched out across the sand, her clothes shed entirely, pulled up into a pile near a corner of said blanket. At first she kept the panties of her swimsuit on, but now she's standing up to remove them as well. There aren't that many people around anyway, and the few who are hardly seem to be bothered by her naked body.
Besides, it's much easier for her to absorb the sun's energy like this. She lays out across the blanket, stretching her arms comfortably, then settling on her stomach with her arms folded above her head. ]
[ And this is the scene that Spock walks up on. Kori completely naked and sunbathing on a public beach. He's pretty sure this isn't a nude beach but also he's pretty sure the whole island is a nude beach, all things considered. Her state of undress doesn't seem to be bothering anyone or attracting unwanted attention, so what does it matter?
She's also very beautiful in her confidence, an objective fact that has no bearing on the fact that he's approaching. At least he's not forest green and trying to avert his eyes or something.
He stops a foot or two off from her side, hands tucked neatly behind his back. ]
Good morning, Kori. Am I intruding?
[ Spock had been wanting to meet with her in a less sexually charged setting, anyway. Unclear if this is actually it, though. ]
[ Well, it is a sex island. During her time here, she has seen far more explicit and blatantly sexual things in public than just a girl trying to relax and enjoy a warm sunny day.
She's not so far gone that she doesn't hear him approach, and she props herself up on her elbows (enjoy the boob show, I guess), beaming a wide, bright smile up at him. ]
Spock! No, of course not. Come sit with me.
[ Wiggling just a little to give him enough room to sit on the blanket. ]
I meant to speak with you, after our first meeting. But this place keeps me quite busy. I'm sorry. How are you?
[ He's proud at himself that he only pauses to blink once before stepping forward to take the proffered spot. This seems to be something other than the island's trickery, for once. Kori's culture must be far more comfortable with nudity than many Spock's seen. Kind of surprising he hasn't seen it more often, now that he thinks about it. ]
Thank you, and apologies are unnecessary. I intended to contact you, as well, and failed on my part. Regardless, I am well. And you?
[ He's curious to know what she thinks of this place so far, but she doesn't seem to be too stressed out. That's a good thing. ]
[ Her state of undress certainly has nothing to do with the island's influence. Kori has no issues with being naked out here at the beach, and she wouldn't be bothered even if it was crowded with people. Luckily there aren't that many Islanders to begin with, and not many of them are out here at this hour, giving them both plenty of quiet and privacy to talk. ]
I'm doing alright. I've found a place to live in, and I've been meeting new people and making friends. What about you? [ She realizes she's never asked before, what with the nature of her first meeting, so— ] How long have you been here on the island?
[ Not that she's felt any difficulty, mind. In fact she looks almost like she belongs here, particularly in her current state, naked and sprawled out on the sun like a happy cat taking a nice nap. ]
Do you have many sexual partners?
[ That probably counts as a personal question, but anyway. ]
Adaptation, in this case, would depend on the individual's mindset. I managed to acclimate simply because I decided early on that this planet would make no logical sense in any form.
[ And that was lucky or he'd be a mess right now.
Anyway, his eyebrow twitches up at the forward question but, hey, is it really that forward in this place? ]
No. I have been with a few only once, yourself included, but there are two on this planet who I have shared multiple sexual encounters with. In my home galaxy, I only share such encounters with my romantic partner.
[ Which is a huge can of worms that he thinks about way too often. ]
I've never seen a place such as this one. I've once been to a planet where many sentient species lived, and one of them was capable of emitting certain chemicals through touch and intimacy that could affect the nature around them, but never a place that worked like this.
[ But then that's why she's sure their current predicament is all due to the Augur running this place, deciding on how and when they'll get things they might want or need. Nothing that's natural to the world itself. ]
Oh, how interesting! Humans are often monogamous, too. It's not so common among my people, though I have had a few monogamous relationships myself.
[ By 'a few' it's probably... one or two, but that's already a lot for her. Especially when she was even engaged at one point, during one of them. ]
I'm curious. And I'm interested. [ No reason not to be candid about that. ] So you have someone back home?
[ His head tilts as she speaks of this apparently-telepathic being. ] Fascinating. [ Indeed.
But as far as her line of questioning is concerned, he can understand that the only drive behind them is that of curiosity. He easily accepts the explanation. ]
Indeed. Lieutenant Nyota Uhura is Chief Communications Officer on the same ship I serve on, the Enterprise. She is human and a remarkable intellectual.
May I ask, what do your people call themselves? I am half-Vulcan and half-Human myself.
[ She's nothing if not honest, and she has no qualms about confessing to him her genuine curiosity, as well as her interest. Though their first meeting wasn't exactly ideal, it was very pleasurable. She would like to revisit that. ]
I'm sorry that you're kept away from her while you're here.
[ She understands how difficult that can be for anyone in a monogamous relationship. After all, it may not be her norm but she has had one very happy relationship like that, herself. ]
Oh, I'm Tamaranean. I come from a planet in the Vega star system, have you ever heard of it?
[ All he does is nod when she gives her condolences. Spock misses her greatly, but he also has no idea how to react if she ever arrived her, if she'd understand or if she'd be angry or both. It's a troubling matter... but he would very much like to see her again.
But it's illogical to currently dwell on that so he doesn't. Instead, his eyebrow perks up. ]
Yes, I know of the Vega system. I was born on the planet Vulcan in the Vulcan system. My mother and many of my friends are from Earth in the Sol system. Do you know of these?
[ It's curious that he hasn't heard of her people before and wonders if they could be from the same galaxy or simply... similar ones. The latter would be unfortunate. ]
[ Kori may not see relationships the same way, but that doesn't mean she doesn't understand. Besides, she has been in at least one monogamous relationship, and she can't even imagine how difficult it would be for her to be in a place like this were she still engaged to Dick. She would certainly feel guilty, and even if she feels like Dick would do his best to understand, she can easily see how something like this would have affected their relationship.
So in a strange way, she is grateful she's in no such relationship now. It would make any potential reunion all the more complicated and bittersweet. ]
I know Earth; I've been there many times, and I've even live there for a period of time. But I've never once heard of Vulcan, nor seen anyone quite like you.
[ She tilts her head slightly. ] Similar, perhaps. But other than your ears, outwardly you are quite similar to Humans, so it's unfair to make that comparison.
It appears our homes are similar but not the same, then. I have not heard of your people, either, and my ship's mission is to explore new worlds and make contact with new civilizations. The Vega system has been explored long before my career truly began. [ Alas. ]
As for my physicality, Vulcans and Humans are extremely similar, but it is true that I also take some physical characteristics from my mother's side, as well. My eyes, I have often been told, appear human.
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TDM
ft. Jim
Text
He got startled and tried to swat it away, only to hit himself in the face in the process and then fall off the bed, bruising his right shoulder. There was no way he was falling asleep again after that, so he dragged his sorry ass to the shower. The hot water ran out before he was finished, and he slipped on some spilled shampoo, hitting his knee on the shower wall.
When he finally stopped cursing from the pain and got dressed with a simple long sleeve shirt and a pair of sweatpants, nothing happened, thanks God. That didn't last, Peter walked into the kitchen to find that Paku Paku, one of the mini dragons that sometimes stayed at his place, had raided his cookie stash while he was sleeping, and left a mess of crumbs all over the counter and floor. The coffee machine refused to work, and he was really considering throwing it out of the window out of pure frustration. Instead, Peter tripped on a spoon on the floor, no doubt also left there by the little dragon, and for the second time today, his knee took the brunt of the fall.
Dazzled, with white spots dancing in front of his eyes, Peter doesn't even have enough energy to curse his bad luck. He also doesn't seem to be able to stand, not with a possible busted knee. After some long minutes, he reaches for his bracelet and asks help from the nearest person he knows. Spock is getting a short but miserable text from him. ]
I think I'm dying, could you come over and pick me up from the floor? Thanks.
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It's been a low-level Hell ever since. Attempts to wave his hand around to make it fly away ended with a hole in his dry wall and a busted knuckle. (The bug's fine, don't worry.) Cleaning up this wound resulted in his bathroom faucet exploding and soaking him in water. He managed to stop the leak, get dry, find clean clothes, and use the kitchen sink instead. This worked until he decided to have a drink and immediately spilled juice all over himself.
Anyway, he's now on his fourth set of clothes for the day. The wall only has one hole in it but the countertop has two. Thankfully, he's only sustained the one injury so far. The same can't be said for his living room windows. Unsure what the hell was happening, he decided to meditate again. Nothing could go wrong if he just sat in one spot, surely. This is when Peter's message came through.
Spock broke out of meditation and glanced at his wrist, quickly reading the message. Once it registered, his eyes widened and he quickly leapt up- then crashed right into the floor.
So a minute or so later, far longer than he would have liked, Peter's door finds itself suddenly imbedded into the wall. Spock meant to open it rather forcefully in case it was locked but, uh- Anyway. He manages to rush around and find Peter on the kitchen floor without injuring himself or the apartment complex further.
He blinks, looks him up and down. ]
I do not possess a medical degree, but you do not seem to be dying at the moment.
[ Spock steps forward to help him up- and falls back to the floor beside Peter. ]
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When you think about it, all of us are always dying. [ Peter tries to shrug and then the pain that shoots up his back reminds him that it's a bad idea. He's lying on his back but tilting his head to peer at Spock and give him a look to convey how miserable he feels. His hair is still damp and curling from the shower he had, he is on his kitchen floor and the bruise on his cheek is still visible. He's pretty sure he looks utterly stupid but he doesn't get to ask Spock to 'please be a doll and help me get off the floor' because the other man is soon joining him down here. ]
Are you okay? [ Peter says, wincing in sympathy and turning his head towards Spock. His neck might be the only body part that doesn't hurt at the moment. The injured knuckles the Vulcan is sporting are hard to miss, and the greenish bruises make him realize that Vulcan's blood is the same color as Gamora's.
Maybe if they stay very still on the floor, the universe will leave them alone for five minutes. ]
I've lost count of how many times I hurt myself this morning and I think my knee might be broken. What if I can't walk anymore? My days of disco dancing can't be over so soon, I'm too young to go around in crutches. [ It's not broken, thankfully, it's just one contusion on top of another, but it does hurt like a bitch and Peter is a big baby. ]
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[ His voice is a little muffled against the floor, because he really, illogically doesn't want to move either. Though, Spock is concerned about that knee and would love to take a look at it as soon as he stops worrying about what he'll break next. After all, that could be Peter. The wall might be able to deal with a few extra holes but humans aren't prone to it.
He does manage to get up the gumption to roll over, though, ending up on his back while his busted hand swings out and bashes itself against the kitchen cabinets. Spock's only reaction is a deep sigh. ]
The odds of these incidents happening in continuous succession and to us both at the same time are far too low to be viable. These circumstances must be the cause of some sort of outside force... I just no longer know which one...
[ There's people with strange powers and the Augur itself and whatever this planet thinks it's doing half the time. The whole damn place is illogical. His father wouldn't last a week here. ]
Can you still move your leg? [ Is the risk of getting up and breaking you in half worth it, Peter? ]
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Spock doesn't answer Peter's concern about his well-being and the blond is quick to figure out that he's right, whatever is going on is affecting them both. He's worried about the hit Spock's face just took a minute ago but when Peter opens his mouth to speak, he hears the Vulcan's hand hitting the kitchen cabinet. Ouch. Furniture can be repaired, bones are harder to fix, Peter is less worried about the state of his apartment and more about Spock injuring himself further. ]
Do you think we've been cursed? Or perhaps it's the building? You and I didn't do anything together lately that might have caused this. I don't think so at least. [ At the question, Peter tries to shift his legs to the side and pain shoots up his knees and then gives him a cramp that has him cursing under this breath again. ] I can...feel and move my toes. That is something, right?
[ With great effort, one of his hands reaches out to grab the leg of a nearby chair and use it to lift his upper body. He's now sitting on the floor with his legs stretched in front of him, success! While he did that, however, the sleeve of his shirt caught on a nail that's sticking out of the chair's leg, getting ripped in the process. Peter didn't even know this chair had nails, what the fuck. ]
Do you want some ice for your hand? I have a cold compress in the freezer, but chances are it might fall on top of us if we try to open it. I think the furniture is out to get us.
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Instead of answering immediately, Spock also sits up slowly, only using the floor as leverage. He's very careful and doesn't fall to harm or break anything, so that's good so far. Once he's upright and eyeing Peter's torn sleeve, he finally answers. ]
I am well. Considering the circumstances, retrieving ice may not be entirely worth the risk. Your leg, however, seems to be a far worse injury. May I touch you? I... will make every attempt to not damage you further.
[ Still not making a guarantee but he wouldn't offer if he really thought he'd hurt him worse. ]
As far as the cause, do you recall what you were doing right before this began? Most of my morning had been uneventful.
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He eyes Spock and gives him a small smile. Misery loves company and all that. Then he makes a pitiful face when it's clear that there will be no ice for his throbbing knee but Spock it's right. It's not worth losing some other limb to the freezer falling on them. ]
Are you sure? That was a nasty fall, Spock. [ Peter reaches out for him, fingers aiming to brush gently against the back of his head and check for lumps. ]And you can always touch me, no need to as for permission. [ He smiles somewhat flirty, an attempt at levity despite the pain. ]
We could try dragging our sorry asses to my couch, it's not that far away, and it's comfortable. [ Dragging is the right word because walking is beyond Peter's abilities right now. ] I was woken up by a bug. [ His smile falls, in fact, he is almost pouting. ] I shouldn't have never left the bed, it seems to be one of 'those days', you know?
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Vulcans are more resilient than humans. I will be all right, but your concern is noted.
[ Despite Peter also being half-Human, Spock's a bit worried about that knee. Dragging may be the proper term, but he wonders if that'll cause more harm than good...
But he's distracted by those thoughts when a bug is mentioned. Spock looks up from the knee and blinks at him. ]
Was it similar to the Terran butterfly or moth? One perched on me while I was meditating... before all of this began... [ His super smart brain is chugging overtime, putting some pieces together. It doesn't make sense but what does around here?
While he's thinking about it and without further ado, he gently prods at Peter's knee to make sure nothing's broken (and hopefully not break it himself). ]
In any case, the couch is a logical goal. Removing ourselves from the kitchen will increase our chances of survival by 54.8%.
[ Just-... This is how he frets, all right? There's knives in here, man. ]
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Ach, sorry! [ How did that even happen? Spock's hair is usually the softest thing Peter's ever touched. He manages to move away his hand without causing further problems after a moment, looking apologetic. ]
Even if you're more resilient, you still feel the pain, right? But yes, it was a really creepy butterfly, I think it had a skull-like pattern. Do you think they're causing all this? Like the skull flowers making us hallucinate when we first met? I'm starting to see a pattern.
[ Skulls on anything= bad mojo, clearly. Spock's idea is as possible as any other and Peter accepts it as a possibility until they figure out what's going on. He lets out a small, pained squeak when Spock touches his knee but doesn't try to move away from the hands checking on him. ]
I didn't know that my kitchen was such a death trap, but I trust your math. [ He's also looking around them with wariness in his eyes for a couple of seconds. ] Okay, let's move.
[ Easier said than done, though. Peter glares at the nearby chair, as if to dare it to ruin his clothes again with another unexpected nail sticking out, and holds onto it to try and pull himself up. ]
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I do feel pain, but Vulcans are able to control their body to the point of blocking pain receptors when necessary. [ It's so hard to win an argument with him, Peter, I'm sorry. ] Either way, yes, we should endeavor to research and avoid these so-called butterflies.
[ As he says it, he's already moving his hands away from Peter's injury. It's to easy to hurt him further, but nothing actually seems broken. A plus. But it's time to move, anyway.
Spock blinks as he watches Peter attempt to use the chair as help, and wants to offer himself except... the chair's probably safer. He should focus on getting himself out for the time being.
Feeling confidence because nothing he's done has gone poorly in the last three minutes, Spock gets his feet under him with his usual grace, rises, trips on his own feet, and lands right back where he started... He gets his feet under him again, rising slooooowly. ]
If this, too, proves challenging, perhaps we should call for aid from someone unaffected.
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Dude, that's so cool. [ Lucky you. That's fine, he's impressed by Spock's biology, some arguments are worth being lost. The chair he's holding onto doesn't break, the miracle of all miracles, and Peter smiles for a second before he's witnessing Spock fall on his ass and grimacing in sympathy. He says nothing about the fall and waits for Spock to try again, ready to reach out and help if anything went wrong, but with the deep suspicion that such action would end with both of them back on the floor. ]
Or we could just burn them with a flamethrower, they're long-range weapons. [ Fuck risking getting more injuries just because the creatures should be studied. In Peter's opinion, if they are really the cause of all this, they should be obliterated on the spot.
He's going to need Spock's help to walk towards the couch still, the chair can only help him stay upright, but that too seems risky. ]
How do we know that whatever we've got from the butterflies isn't contagious?
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Perhaps said flamethrower would be beneficial in creating a stable environment before testing can proceed. [ Look at him, all for obliteration suddenly. But he still doesn't want this to happen again, so his science side really wants to crop up, too.
But that's for later. Way later. Right now, he carefully shuffles closer to Peter and reaches out, ready to assist him to the couch very carefully. But then he stills. ]
I did not consider that possibility... Perhaps we should be quarantined instead until we learn more.
[ See? Science good! ]
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I might have one of those in my ship. [ Peter jokes but if his tone of voice is anything to go by, there might be a smidge of truth in that statement. Rocket has built a lot of weird gadgets, some involve fire and grenades.
He looks at Spock with a mixture of concern and relief when the man moves towards him. Some help is very needed, yet Peter wonders they might accidentally stab each other with something like that. Wonders of wonders, nothing terrible happens, but Spock is still an arm away from him. The suggestion prompts Peter to smile at him suggestively. ]
Why, Spock. Do you want to spend some quality time alone with me? You only had to ask. [ Peter makes an attempt to take a step forward and meet the Vulcan halfway, only for his feet to slip under him (the floor isn't even slippery, why does this happen) and he all but falls onto Spock's arms. ]
Oops, sorry. [ Men swooning over Spock, isn't it nice? ]
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But that train of thought is cut short when he ends up with an armful of Peter. Thanks to how he's turned into a cat in the balancing department right now, his feet have been planted firmly enough that he doesn't fall over, too. Lucky! Hopefully, karma doesn't notice.
He blinks down at him. ]
Apologies are unnecessary. Also, spending time in your presence alone is always pleasant. [ He says it almost as if he's teasing, like he's kind of amused, but it's a bit hard to tell. ]
Let us attempt to reach the couch without causing ourselves further injury.
[ And away they go! Spock's speed is that of a snail since he's being so careful but they're moving! ]
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Peter has the decency to look somewhat apologetic after Spock catches him. He's giving the other man nothing but trouble today and for that he's sorry. On the other hand, being this close to Spock is the nicest thing that has happened to him since he woke up. ]
Have I ever told you that your way of talking is very charming? In a direct sort of way, I really appreciate it. [ First, because Spock is not the sort of person who would lie to him to get something out of him, and Peter really likes that. He had been lied to plenty enough in the past. And second, even if that's something he doesn't want to think about in detail, it also reminds him of Gamora's blunt genuineness. ]
Okay, let's hope we manage. [ Peter straightens himself as much as his injured knee allows him and they both move towards the couch. It has never taken him this long to cross his living room, it's ridiculous. Nothing bad happens, he doesn't trip again, the floor doesn't crumble, no piece of the ceiling falls...Peter sighs in relief as they lower themselves to the cushions. Only to curse again when one of the couch's legs breaks under their combined weight. ]
Come on! You gotta be kidding me. [ Peter laments, sounding incredulous. It's not a new couch, but it has survived more than just two people sitting on it at once. ] By the end of the day I'm going to have to move to a new apartment.
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You have alluded to this appreciation before. I am... grateful for this. [ Not many humans like the way he talks, or at least they don't mention it. Usually the opposite. So Peter's forwardness with the compliments is pretty great and refreshing, to be honest.
Anyway, while he's been contemplating that, they've arrived at the couch only for the poor thing to break. Spock's just grateful it didn't fall through the floor with them on it. Like, they're not injured (from that), so yay? ]
Perhaps we can share a space to contain the amount of chaos we reap in a singular area.
[ Is he kidding? Tough to tell... ]
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I'll have to go furniture shopping once this is over.[ He eyes Spock at the suggestion, first tilting his head and narrowing his eyes a bit, then slowly a smile starts to appear on Peter's lips. ] Are you suggesting we should snuggle?
[ Peter sees your possible kidding/not-kidding and raises the stakes. ]
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He glances down to the couch with the intention of commenting on this upcoming shopping venture when Peter asks a question that has his eyes darting back up. ]
I was not. That being said, it would make more sense to contain our chaos to singular point instead of merely a shared room. Your own suggestion, if you were making it, is logical.
[ Still kidding/not kidding. ]
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Very logical. We've been sitting for 2 minutes straight and the couch hasn't caught on fire, so far so good. [ Peter's going to take the risk and lean into the other man, resting his head on Spock's shoulder. Then he waits for something terrible to happen, hoping it won't be THAT bad. ]
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As is the cure with most ailments on this planet, Spock poses that it's possible sex could alleviate them of their bad luck. However, if his theory is incorrect, they could be in much worse shape by the end of it, if there was any satisfactory conclusion to even be had. So he doesn't mention it. But he does think about it. ]
To borrow a human idiom, I believe it would be wise to not tempt fate, Peter.
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Fair point. But my leg's already feeling better now that we're not moving, so thanks for coming here to help.
[ Peter hums, leaning into Spock a little more, and another solid minute goes by without the floor crumbles form under them. He is starting to believe the worst has happened.
And then there's a crash coming from the bathroom as if something hit the half-opened window and broke the glass. It's followed by an angry, loud: ]
HONK!!!
[ Uh, oh. ]
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[ Spock fully relaxes as Peter rests against, even closing his eyes and enjoying the moment for what it is. So long as they don't move, then surely-
Spock's eyes pop open from the crash... Oh. Never mind. ]
Perhaps if we do not move-... [ He whispers to Peter, his eyes darting in the direction of the bathroom. But it already sounds like the animal is pissed, so- ]
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Maybe it will go away? [ He murmurs back, low enough for only Spock to hear because he doesn't feel like getting the goose's attention. Under normal circumstances, he would have little trouble shooing the thing out of his apartment or hunting it down to turn it into a future dinner.
With the shitty luck they've having, and his probably-not-broken-but-hurting-like-a-real-bitch knee as a liability, peter isn't sure any of those options are possible. He doesn't even have his blasters on him. He hears the door of the bathroom rattle ominously, as the hellspawn bird is trying to get it open. ]
I don't suppose you carry a gun on you? Or a large knife?
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[ This clearly isn't most circumstances, though.
His eyes scan their immediate surroundings, seeing nothing very fruitful. ]
As it is currently occupied... perhaps we should attempt to flee. Or hide.
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[ And it's too far away to reach them now, same with any knife from the kitchen. There's more honking and hissing coming from the bathroom, and Peter's starting to suspect that the goose might be possessed. He clings to Spock's arm. ]
Fleeing sounds like a great idea right now. Your place, perhaps?
I NEVER GOT THE NOTIFS FOR THESE JSDLKFJ
[ He grabs one of Peter's arms and loops it over his shoulders before standing up. The fact that Spock doesn't immediately fall is progress, honestly. Quickly, before the lack of awful luck drains away (an illogical thought), he starts quickly shuffling them to the exit.
... And then there's a crash from the direction of the bathroom. The ensuing honk no longer sounds like it's in a different room.
It's illogical to be frightened of a goose so he is not. But he does start running as best he can. ]
It's okay, it happens to me too. DW is sometimes drunk
Ah, shit, no. [ Fuck logic, Peter is going to freak out, at least internally, as much as he can. With his free hand, he reaches for the nearest thing on their way to the door - a vase he doesn't even remember buying, it must have come with the apartment- and throws it behind him in hopes of hitting the angry duck and stalling it.
Instead of the muted sound of a vase impacting with a living creature, he hears glass shattering against the floor and an offended HONK! that sounds far too close for his liking. ]
I'm afraid my aim isn't very good when I'm not looking at what I am trying to hit.
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[ But Spock didn't have enough time to tell him the chances of hitting the intruder, so now they're here. But at least there's the door! ]
Quickly--
[ He shuffles them through the doorway, hoping Peter can swing it shut in time since it's on his side. ]
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[ Peter's voice has an edge to it, slightly panicked, while he tries to keep it light by joking. He's glad that Spock is practically dragging him out of the house because he couldn't have moved that fast on his own. Once they're out, e kick his uninjured leg back, closing the door with a loud THUD, followed by (really close, furious) honking. There are the sounds of the goose scratching and hitting the door with its beak, and Peter is really glad it's not them. ]
Welp, I guess I'll have to burn down the whole apartment. I'm not getting in there anytime soon.
action;
And on such a warm, sunny day, what better place to do just that than the beach?
So that's exactly where she is. Large blanket stretched out across the sand, her clothes shed entirely, pulled up into a pile near a corner of said blanket. At first she kept the panties of her swimsuit on, but now she's standing up to remove them as well. There aren't that many people around anyway, and the few who are hardly seem to be bothered by her naked body.
Besides, it's much easier for her to absorb the sun's energy like this. She lays out across the blanket, stretching her arms comfortably, then settling on her stomach with her arms folded above her head. ]
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She's also very beautiful in her confidence, an objective fact that has no bearing on the fact that he's approaching. At least he's not forest green and trying to avert his eyes or something.
He stops a foot or two off from her side, hands tucked neatly behind his back. ]
Good morning, Kori. Am I intruding?
[ Spock had been wanting to meet with her in a less sexually charged setting, anyway. Unclear if this is actually it, though. ]
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She's not so far gone that she doesn't hear him approach, and she props herself up on her elbows (enjoy the boob show, I guess), beaming a wide, bright smile up at him. ]
Spock! No, of course not. Come sit with me.
[ Wiggling just a little to give him enough room to sit on the blanket. ]
I meant to speak with you, after our first meeting. But this place keeps me quite busy. I'm sorry. How are you?
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Thank you, and apologies are unnecessary. I intended to contact you, as well, and failed on my part. Regardless, I am well. And you?
[ He's curious to know what she thinks of this place so far, but she doesn't seem to be too stressed out. That's a good thing. ]
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I'm doing alright. I've found a place to live in, and I've been meeting new people and making friends. What about you? [ She realizes she's never asked before, what with the nature of her first meeting, so— ] How long have you been here on the island?
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That is fortunate to hear. I have been well. Though I have been on this planet for 6.8 months, it does not, as you might say, feel like it.
[ Time has certainly 'flown.' ]
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[ Not that she's felt any difficulty, mind. In fact she looks almost like she belongs here, particularly in her current state, naked and sprawled out on the sun like a happy cat taking a nice nap. ]
Do you have many sexual partners?
[ That probably counts as a personal question, but anyway. ]
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[ And that was lucky or he'd be a mess right now.
Anyway, his eyebrow twitches up at the forward question but, hey, is it really that forward in this place? ]
No. I have been with a few only once, yourself included, but there are two on this planet who I have shared multiple sexual encounters with. In my home galaxy, I only share such encounters with my romantic partner.
[ Which is a huge can of worms that he thinks about way too often. ]
Why do you ask?
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I've never seen a place such as this one. I've once been to a planet where many sentient species lived, and one of them was capable of emitting certain chemicals through touch and intimacy that could affect the nature around them, but never a place that worked like this.
[ But then that's why she's sure their current predicament is all due to the Augur running this place, deciding on how and when they'll get things they might want or need. Nothing that's natural to the world itself. ]
Oh, how interesting! Humans are often monogamous, too. It's not so common among my people, though I have had a few monogamous relationships myself.
[ By 'a few' it's probably... one or two, but that's already a lot for her. Especially when she was even engaged at one point, during one of them. ]
I'm curious. And I'm interested. [ No reason not to be candid about that. ] So you have someone back home?
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But as far as her line of questioning is concerned, he can understand that the only drive behind them is that of curiosity. He easily accepts the explanation. ]
Indeed. Lieutenant Nyota Uhura is Chief Communications Officer on the same ship I serve on, the Enterprise. She is human and a remarkable intellectual.
May I ask, what do your people call themselves? I am half-Vulcan and half-Human myself.
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I'm sorry that you're kept away from her while you're here.
[ She understands how difficult that can be for anyone in a monogamous relationship. After all, it may not be her norm but she has had one very happy relationship like that, herself. ]
Oh, I'm Tamaranean. I come from a planet in the Vega star system, have you ever heard of it?
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But it's illogical to currently dwell on that so he doesn't. Instead, his eyebrow perks up. ]
Yes, I know of the Vega system. I was born on the planet Vulcan in the Vulcan system. My mother and many of my friends are from Earth in the Sol system. Do you know of these?
[ It's curious that he hasn't heard of her people before and wonders if they could be from the same galaxy or simply... similar ones. The latter would be unfortunate. ]
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So in a strange way, she is grateful she's in no such relationship now. It would make any potential reunion all the more complicated and bittersweet. ]
I know Earth; I've been there many times, and I've even live there for a period of time. But I've never once heard of Vulcan, nor seen anyone quite like you.
[ She tilts her head slightly. ] Similar, perhaps. But other than your ears, outwardly you are quite similar to Humans, so it's unfair to make that comparison.
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It appears our homes are similar but not the same, then. I have not heard of your people, either, and my ship's mission is to explore new worlds and make contact with new civilizations. The Vega system has been explored long before my career truly began. [ Alas. ]
As for my physicality, Vulcans and Humans are extremely similar, but it is true that I also take some physical characteristics from my mother's side, as well. My eyes, I have often been told, appear human.