Path of the Vampire forum

"--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--"

Klara: *Klara dialed the phone waiting for Doc to answer, after getting home from meeting Stefan she had realize a lot about herself and the things Doc had tried to hammer into her skull. She owed him an apology for making his life hell these past few weeks*

Doc: He answered the phone as it rang. He recognized the number, it was Klara, "Hello." He was somewhat wary that she was about to tell him she was going to give Stewart -another- chance.

Klara: *she took a deep breath preparing herself for the tirade that was sure to come about taking her dear sweet time about realizing things but she deserved every bit it for the fool she had been, over a man who clearly wanted another.* I called to apologize

Doc: Doc was relieved, but he was still wary. "Alright. I accept it." He paused, "Can we consider this event closed and done now?"

Klara: *she nodded as she spoke* I sincerely hope so. I met this guy Stefan for drinks tonight. He had some questions and wanted to pick my brain and oddly enough all those things you kept telling me I finally saw enacted in a person. I'd forgotten what it was like to have someone want to be near you because they just did, he kissed me, a very chaste kiss, but a kiss full of promise, it was the perfect, most romantic kiss I've ever gotten and I'd forgotten what it was like to have someone kiss you because they wanted to kiss you not out of obligation but you pointed out how they don't. It was almost like God himself set up this meeting to give me a visual aid about everything thing that came from your mouth. I'm sorry I was so blind and stupid

Doc: "I am glad you see this. Men are dogs. Trust me, I am one. I am not saying this new guy is going to hurt you.. that's not my point." He sighed, "They call it rebound for a reason. take you time. Do not jump into anything. Be friends, maybe friends with benefits.. don't rush anything... alright?"

Klara: *she laughed* I’m not rushing into anything. I just had forgotten what it was like to not be taken for granted. Stefan is a friend, I'm not ready for a relationship right now but I finally started the process to move on and why I decided to have the party to mark a definite time that one phase of life is over and the next is beginning. I don't even know this guy so a friendship will have to happen first. I've met a few new people so just taking my time until I know what I want but I know one thing, the next man who wants me is going to have to do some of the work to get me, I'm not going to be the one pursuing.

Doc: "I think meeting people is great. You centered yourself around Scott way too much. Everything you were .. was tied to him. You need to be you.. in your own right. Not because you are married to someone. You need to discover what makes you happy.. that is NOT tied to another person. Me for instance.. Yes I am with someone .. but if she dumps me again.. I am not going to die or cry about it. I might be annoyed. But I don't 'need' someone else to make me who I am. You.. my dear Klara.. need to discover that for you."

"--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--"

Klara: I see that now. Crissy brow beat that into me a couple nights ago herself. I was raised to be nothing more than a wife and in the country of my birth that was a good thing but that isn't here nor am I that Afghanistani girl anymore either. My whole life, even Alex when he adopted me I was taught it was my job to please others, to please your man and by pleasing him you would find fulfillment. Well that only works if the dickwad wants only you. My whole marriage it always was more about pleasing him. There were times he tried to do the same, though they were rare times it always me working to make him happy. I wasn't even on a flipping date and Stefan acted like he cared more for my feelings than Simon ever did. He cared about Emily's, and Crissy's, and Lyana's, and Renee but mine were always last and having someone focused on you...even without it being a date was eye opening. Never again will I allow another person to define who I am.

Doc: "About ******* time. And no more looking back. No more remembering that douche. After this.. we don't even discuss him anymore. Your time is worth more than spending it on remembering that shithead. So In that vein.. I have decided my character for your party.. Beowulf."

Klara: I know, and why I wanted to apologize for being such an idiot. Ooooooo Beowulf will be awesome. How was he killed?

Doc: "That part I am not so sure about.. yet. Either poison.. or blood loss. Because I am too ******* vain to mess my face up."

Klara: *she laughed* Oh my gosh, that is vain but it's why we love you, you don't make any apologies for it either. I so need to be more like you!

Doc: "Yes you ******* do. And I think you are finally seeing it. I have hope for you yet."

Klara: **she laughed* I am finally seeing it thank goodness. I look at him now and even though I love him, I'm finally seeing him for the first time. He's soooo weak. You know when we first got together we did everything sexually except vaginal because he said he wanted our first time to be perfect because we knew. I find out later he hadn't fully broken things off with Emily and the night before we did it he had given her ring back. He ******* did that so he could say technically I never fucked another woman while with you but I'm sorry oral and anal is still ******* but in his mind that was how justified....I was soooooo stupid. Never, ever, ever again. Next time I'll just shoot them

Doc: Doc shook his head, what a ******* asshole. "I think I actually pity Renee."

Klara: nor do I believe nothing hasn't happened between he and Renee. I don't. Any woman that knowingly gets between a husband and wife deserves what they get. She knew....I didn't.

Doc: "Or she's so ******* desperate she will go after a weakling like him.."

Klara: She knew I was full ensconced in his life and chose not ignore it. He's flirtly and fun and cute but once the newness has worn off, he'll start in with another. It's why there was Lyanna before he and I got married. No one can be that sexual and be flirty with another person is just as sexual and nothing going on. I was sooooooo stupid to believe in him. Why didn't you shoot me in the head?

Doc: "Because you wouldn't have learned anything.. and it would be a waste of good ammo."

Klara: *she laughed* True and ammo wasting is a crime. No I had to see if for myself. I had vowed to try and forget but I realize I need to remember every detail so i don't get sucked in again. We're going to play Pin the Tail on the *** at the party, it's a full body picture of him

Doc: Doc laughed. "I think we should have him there to shoot."

Klara: Ooooo even better. We could do a scavenger hunt of sorts.....5k for each wound.

Doc: "that is my kind of game!"

Klara: it would be a lot of fun though you'd have to hear Renee whine

Doc: "So?"

Klara: You are evil personified...I love you that about you *she looked at her watch needing to get something done* Thanks again Doc, I love you and I truly am sorry for being so blind, but thank you for talking to me and giving me the time to see him for what he was.

Doc: "You're welcome darlin'. I am glad you see it now. have a good evening."

Klara: You too!

==========
Jan. 13, 2015
==========

Doc: * Doc looked at Ari and then Phoenix, and pulled the envelope back, and opened it. "Handfasting ceremony.. " He nodded. What was he supposed to say? His lessons in etiquette never went over handfasting. He looked at Ari for help.

Ariadne: * Ariadne shrugged at Doc and took the offered envelope. "If I have my own, why is my name on his as well?"

Phoenix: "Because you have a choice, he doesn't." She beamed, quite proud of herself.

Ariadne: * Ariadne 's eyes scanned the page quickly before she pulled out her phone and made a quick note for that day. "I don't have any events set. I should be able to attend.

Phoenix: "Because you have a choice, he doesn't." She beamed, quite proud of herself.

Ariadne: :Mindspeak to Doc: It's basically a wedding. Same rules, for the most part.

Phoenix: * Phoenix waited for Doc to figure it out.

Doc: "So .. since this is an invitation.. I am just a guest?" He had worded it the most polite what he could. Because quite honestly he wasnt giving Phoenix to Blake. Period. End. of. story.

Phoenix: "Yes... Unless you wanted to officiate...?" she asked, genuinely curious about the response.

Doc: * Doc shook his head negatively, "**** no. Weddings and I .. well.. we don't like each other." He looked at Ari, who had been witness to the last one, "She knows.."

Ariadne: It's up to you if you accept or not. Maybe Nix is planning not a wedding.

Ariadne: * Ariadne looked at Nix. "Last wedding we attended, he french kissed the bride. "

Phoenix: * Phoenix blinked at Ari's comment, staring at Doc in shock, though really... she wasn't surprised. "There will be no french kissing of the bride. Or the groom," she added, knowing Blake.

Doc: "No french kissing .. Got it."

Ariadne: "I'm going to assume that dress code is formal?"

Doc: "Good Question..." he nods, and is relieved that Ari there to ask all the right questions.

Phoenix: "You sure you won't die, Charles?" she arched a brow at the man before turning to Ari with a nod. "Yep. Purples and golds is the theme."

Doc: "I will wear black."

Ariadne: "Neither of those are abundant in my current wardrobe."

Phoenix: * Phoenix didn't actually know what men generally wore to weddings. "Black seems morbid..."

Ariadne: "Also, black tie formal or suit and tie formal?"

Doc: "I do not have a purple tuxedo.. I do have a black tuxedo."

Phoenix: "Er... What's the difference? You could have a purple tie... or gold."

==========
Jan. 13, 2015 (cont)
==========

Doc: * Doc looks at her, "I will see what I can do..."

Ariadne: * Ariadne sighed and rubbed her head. "Suit and tie formal is generally more casual. Think the American Emmy awards versus the Oscars."

Phoenix: * Phoenix didn't know the difference between the Emmys and the Oscars. "Probably suit and tie formal."

Ariadne: "Thank you. I have a lot of options, so I need a gauge."

Phoenix: "Will you take Doc as your date?" she asked, fluttering her lashes in a hopefully winning manner.

Doc: "I can rock black tie."

Ariadne: "I assume that was your intention, seeing as how he doesn't have an option for who he brings, yet I do."

Phoenix: * Phoenix smiled as she nodded. "Exactly. I think you two look quite lovely together, too. Especially all dressed up... though black tie and suit formal for men isn't much different, is it?" She tipped her head, "If you want to get all glammed up, dad, by all means."

Doc: * Doc gave Ari an apologetic look. He knew what Phoenix was doing, and knew Ari wasn't interested. Yet she was now put on the hot seat.

Phoenix: * Phoenix just didn't trust Doc's taste in women. At all. Had she not specified, he'd have probably showed up with Mortll on his arm. The thought made her shudder.

Ariadne: "I am not a doll in a dollhouse, Phoenix. It may be your wedding, but I don't like being coerced into a blind date style arrangement. If the stipulation for attending the wedding is that I must go with Doc because you wish it, I shall decline."

Doc: * Doc couldn't help but get Phoenix a 'told ya so' look. "It's alright Ariadne. You take who you want."

Phoenix: * Phoenix shook her head. "No, the stipulation is that you may go with whoever you wish. Doc's stipulation is that he must go with you or solo, should you choose to attend with someone else. Though I would very much like to see you go together, it's not required."

Ariadne: "Doc and I shall discuss it later, if he so wishes."

Doc: * Doc gave Phoenix that 'I long to strangle you' look, except that he knew that strangling her wouldn’t do anything. ******* females.

Phoenix: * Phoenix beamed, "No rush - you guys have till the 3rd to RSVP." Inching over to Doc, she gave him a flutter of her lashes. "I think you're supposed to congratulate me and inform me that you're happy I'm happy or some such thing."

==========
Jan. 13, 2015 (cont)
==========

Doc: "No.. a man never congratulates the bride. However, I am happy that you are happy."

Phoenix: "Why would you never congratulate the bride...?"

Doc: "Because to congratulate the bride is equating the bride to the fact that she had to 'catch' him. Instead of the male winning he through his courting of her."

Phoenix: * Phoenix leveled a deadpan look at him. "You're over-thinking this - not to mention it's kinda sexist. It's congratulating me on being happy with the equal partner I've chosen and who has chosen me."

Doc: "Forgive me if I prefer to follow the rules of etiquette."

Ariadne: * Ariadne went to sort out her piles of bones from killing zombies.

Phoenix: * Phoenix scrunched up her nose. "You still haven't taught me all the etiquette rules... Though... are you two going to Vel and Micah's ceremony?"

Ariadne: "That's tonight, isn't it?"

Phoenix: * Phoenix nodded. "Very soon, too."

Ariadne: * Ariadne glances down at her dust covered outfit. "Well, just.... Damn."

Phoenix: * Phoenix frowned. "I'm sure you can change quickly - I've got an outfit ready, I just need to change and pop over. Like... now..." She frowned. ****... she didn't want to be late. "See you guys there, hopefully! Sorry to bolt!"

Ariadne: * Ariadne eyed Doc. "Are you attending?"

Phoenix: * Phoenix offering a wave, she quickly ducked out to get ready.

Doc: "I was not planning on attending.. Do you think I should? I Didn't RSVP..."

Ariadne: I didn't either.

Ariadne: * Ariadne eyed her phone. "Velve said its ok and wear whatever you like. I should be and get cleaned up..."

Doc: * Doc grinned, "So we're good.. " He tossed another log on the fire. "Wait.. what? you're going?"

Ariadne: "I should, yes."

Ariadne: "You don't want to come?"

Doc: "Wedding.. " he said as if that explained everything quite succinctly.

Ariadne: It's a vow renewal. They're already married.

Doc: Just the words, vow renewal, brought up the Ball and Chain. "Yea.. I don’t think I want to go."

Ariadne: "Alright. I should be back in a few hours."

Doc: * Doc nodded, "Have fun Ari.. "

Ariadne: "I'll do as I normally do. If you keep the fire up I promise to return."

Doc: "I will keep the fire up."

============
Jan. 17, 2015
============

<Phoenix> [text] Charles McDadson.

<Doc> *Text* Boo.

<Phoenix> [t] Boo Nilson?

<Doc> *Text* Your call.

<Phoenix> [t] You're supposed to be like "YES, I WANT YOU FOR REAL AND IN NAME" or something.

<Doc> *text* I didn't say no. You are a ******* adult.. I am giving you that respect.

<Phoenix> [t] Adulthood is determined by age, not maturity

<Doc> *Text* I am glad you realize this. I expect you to take all my guidance in the future therefore.

<Phoenix> [t] ... Deal.

<Doc> *He blinks as he reads the text. '**** me.' He did not expect that. Suspicious now, radar on high alert. *text* What's up?

<Phoenix> [t] Nothing's up. I just wanted to bond and was going to ask if you wanted to do something.

<Doc> *text* If I did not already make an appointment with someone else, I would. Regretfully, I have a business appointment.

<Phoenix> [t] Could always postpone for... family reasons. Or I could come with!

<Doc> *Text* If it was someone other than a faction member, I would. But I respect this person.

<Phoenix> [t] Who is it? Can I come? To learn the business?

<Doc> *text* I believe this person wishes confidentiality. I am sure you understand, that I cannot divulge that information. It is no reflection on you.

<Phoenix> [t] You've been avoiding me forever. I'm developing a complex.

<Doc> *text* I am not avoiding you Boo. I am a busy person, as you well know. When you call I take it. I ignore the majority of calls I get.

<Phoenix> [t] Aww, thanks daddy-o. After your business meeting, you wanna catch a movie?

<Doc> *text* Sure.. what movie do you have in mind?

<Phoenix> [t] Um... Finding Nemo?

<Doc> *Text* I don't I have seen that.. Is it a take on leagues?

<Phoenix> [t] Um... Not particularly. It's about a little fish that gets captured and put in an aquarium, and his dad tries to find him.

<Doc> *Doc read the description. What the ****?* *text* Is this punishment? Are you pissed at me?

<Phoenix> [t] No! It's a good movie, god damn it!

<Doc> *Text* Alright.. Dont get upset. You have to admit it sound.. sketchy.

<Phoenix> [t] The only sketchy thing is you not knowing what Finding Nemo is. But I'm open to suggestions.

<Doc> *text* I never spent much time on television or movies. I was studying. However.. Cat made me realize movies are actually fun. Ari even likes them. So my movie knowledge is lacking.

<Phoenix> [t] What genres do you like?

<Doc> *text* I like action and Drama. Not crazy about comedies. They tend to irk me at how stupid they make people.

<Phoenix> [t] The Avengers. We can watch The Avengers.

<Doc> Avengers. That sounded promising. *Text* Alright. Avengers.

<Doc> *He Makes a note to google finding nemo.*

<Phoenix> She grinned, scanning her film collection to ensure Doppel hadn't stolen it. [t] Deal. Your place or mine? Also, how do you feel about Disney?

<Doc> Disney. As in Disney World. Oh dear god. She wanted to go to an amusement park?! *Text* I ******* hate crowds.

<Phoenix> She facepalmed. [t] Disney movies. Did you not ever watch a ******* Disney movie when you were a kid?

<Doc> *Text* We did not have a television.

<Phoenix> [t] Oh. Well, we'll have to make up for lost time

<Doc> He had a sense of foreboding, why he wasn't sure. It was merely there. *text* Alright. What kind of movies did them make?

<Phoenix> [t] Movies that are geared towards children, but are enjoyable for adults. >.>

<Doc> *Text* Wait.. are they cartoons? I may have seen one.

<Phoenix> [t] Animated, yes.

<Doc> *text* I saw one about lions. It was entertaining. *what he didn't say was he watched it while in Mittens form, at Minx' house.

<Phoenix> [t] Excellent! So you approve.

<Doc> *text* I suppose. I liked that movie. It was entertaining.. once I got past the fact animals were ******* talking.

<Phoenix> [t] You might like Big Hero .

<Doc> *text* I have no idea.

<Doc> (havent seen that one)

<Phoenix> [t] It's about a medical robot thing. And there are so many feels. I'll cry. You'll cry. Everyone will cry.

<Doc> *Text* I dont cry. But.. Medical Robot may be cool.

<Phoenix> [t] I'll make you cry.

<Doc> She reminded him of his mother when he read that. He ground his teeth. He could her voice, "Can't you show that you care once in a while? She was my sister, your Aunt..She loved you! Pretend to be sad for me.." *Text* Do not go there.

<Phoenix> [t] Nah, man. Disney's good for the feels.

<Doc> *Text* We will see. I will give you a call when my appointment is over. Avengers correct?

<Doc> *he was going to google it too, to make sure she wasn't suckering him.*

<Phoenix> [t] The Avengers, yes. Awesome - see you soon!

<Doc> Doc texts Phoenix. *Text* Meeting is over. Did we decide where?

<Phoenix> [t] I have a massive TV - I can summon you.

<Doc> *text* Alright.

<Phoenix> She closed her eyes and summoned him.

<Doc> Doc wasn't a fan of being summoned. It was a necessary evil at times. But there was always that thought in the back of his mind.. what if while someone was summoning him they thought of a rock.. or mountain and he became lodged half in and half out of it? He shook it off. He arrived safely. "Hello Boo. " He glanced toward the fireplace.

<Phoenix> Beaming, she'd inched over to wrap her arms around him, letting out a happy little murmur. "I have the movie, I have the TV," she nodded to the corner opposite the crackling fireplace. "And I have blankets.... and a couch."

<Doc> Doc gave her a brief squeeze. His was more comfortable with an affectionate mussing of the hair because it meant he could be about arms length away , but she liked full on body to body. "Thank you for the fire and blankets. I'm old.. you know how cranky I get when I get cold."

<Phoenix> Rolling her eyes, she bounced over to the couch and flopped down. In the same motion, her hand shot out and she grabbed the remote, hitting play on the main menu. "You're not that old," she reminded him as the intro started. "You know anything about superheroes?"

<Doc> He followed her to the couch, and made himself comfortable. "Superheros. Yes." He said smugly. "Superman. Yes i know about Superman."

<Phoenix> "This is a different universe than Superman, but close enough." She grinned, settling in to watch and pulling the blanket up over her.

<Doc> Different Universe? He wanted to ask what she meant, but then she would just roll her eyes and make fun of him, he would wing it. Yes she will never know the difference. He clasped his hands together and prepared to be entertained.

<Doc> "Is this a ******* cartoon?!"

<Phoenix> On a whim, she inched over and rested her head on his shoulder. "No... that's CGI, but it's definitely not a cartoon... Just wait."

<Doc> Doc did not pull away, "Why do all movies start out dark?" He paused, "They all start out at night..."

<Phoenix> She blinked up at him. "Not all of them... maybe just the small sample you've seen. What's wrong with night?"

<Doc> "Nothing.. " Sullenly.. "I just find it odd.. like they know something...And What the **** is a tesseract.. " pause "Nevermind.. Energy source.. got it."

<Phoenix> "Yes. Very powerful energy source. All the cool kids want to harness its powah." She made a few grand hand motions.

<Doc> "Its summoning device.."

<Phoenix> "No, power source. Mystical power source. But the power can be channelled."

<Doc> "I .. want that spear."

<Phoenix> "You would," she grumbled. "I want his suit."

<Doc> "Loki! A god?! Are you ******* kidding me?!"

<Doc> He gives Phoenix a look. "You sure I am going to like this.."

<Phoenix> "No! He's from Asgard! It's another... realm thing, in this universe." She sighed, giving him a shove. "Yes. If you don't, you can pick the next movie."

<Doc> "He ******* turned on him and shot him.. "

<Phoenix> "He had to! The staff, yo... it's the staff."

<Doc> 'Ouch .. that had to hurt.. "

<Doc> "She has spirit.."

<Phoenix> Made a face as she eyed him, "There are a few women of spirit in this movie..."

<Doc> "Aw.. damn .. I liked her.."

<Phoenix> She grinned and hushed, not wanting to give away that the woman had survived.

<Doc> "A ******* rock hit her! She should be dead..."

<Phoenix> "It's a movie," she reminded him. "And she was in a car..."

<Doc> "a roofless car... that strains the lines of credibility.. woah.. " Watches... "Ok.. That is a hot ******* redhead... "

<Phoenix> "I didn't think you liked redheads."

<Doc> "**** yes.. you're pretty.. " talking to the Screen.

<Phoenix> Sitting up straight, she inched off him, huffing. Only slightly offended that he was walking to the damn TV. "I'm pretty."

<Doc> "Shh..."

<Doc> "I like her..."

<Phoenix> She snapped her jaw shut and hushed. "She's like a curvier me."

<Doc> "I love her... "

<Phoenix> She stared.

<Doc> "She better not ******* die.. "

<Phoenix> She gave him another look. "I wish you were this concerned about me."

<Doc> "That little *****.. " then he looked at her.. "Ew.. You're my daughter... "

<Doc> "I don't want to **** you.."

<Phoenix> She stared at him in shock. "If I look like my mom, you wanted to **** her."

<Doc> "Shhh.. she's back.."

<Phoenix> She groaned. At least she'd chosen a movie he'd enjoy, if only for the tits and ***. So much for his gingerhating.

<Doc> "Other guy? He a paranoid schizophrenic?"

<Phoenix> "He's the Hulk."

<Doc> "He's not that big.. stocky yes.. ouch.. anger issues.."

<Phoenix> "You'll see, man. You'll see."

<Doc> "Why is she afraid of him? She beat **** out of guys before"

<Phoenix> She remained silent at that, simply smirking.

<Doc> "Thor too? Two gods in a movie... humans will believe anything..."

<Phoenix> "Two gods from the same place. Yep."

<Doc> "I do like that guy Director Fury..."

<Phoenix> She smirked. "He's good people."

<Doc> 'No way. Do you know how heavy those bags are? Any clue.. NO way"

<Phoenix> "He's genetically enhanced! A super soldier. He's very strong."

<Doc> Doc sat up a bit, "Super Soldier Huh?"

<Phoenix> She laughed, nodding. "Yes. He's a WWII soldier... and he was frozen in ice until earlier that year, I believe."

<Doc> "Who is that?"

<Phoenix> "That's Iron Man, Tony Stark."

<Doc> 'Did he say Pyper?"

<Phoenix> "No, Pepper - his girlfriend."

<Doc> "Mmmm Oh.."

<Phoenix> She facepalmed. "Really!? Celibacy, man..."

<Doc> "He could do sooooo much better than her."

<Doc> He gave her a look.

<Phoenix> "Maybe I could date him, she could take Blake?" she offered, arching a brow.

<Doc> "Yes.. I like .. no I Love that plan.. make it happen."

<Doc> "Wait.. did you see that.. Is that technology real? Or make believe..?"

<Doc> 'Ew god shes homelier close up.. "

<Phoenix> She couldn't help but laugh, then shake her head. "Such an ***! What if he's a woman-beating jerk? And that tech could be real... maybe. It's certainly futuristic."

<Phoenix> She swatted him.

<Doc> "She is!"

<Phoenix> "You're mean."

<Doc> "Stephen Hawking.. " pause " Nevermind..."

<Phoenix> "What? You...? Really?"

<Doc> "It was the real Stephen Hawking.. I am surprised they knew!"

<Phoenix> She sighed. Shaking her head. "That's a... staff technology vision."

<Phoenix> "****. That guy's got two thumbs."

<Doc> "Yea I noticed that..."

<Phoenix> "He's hot. Can I marry him?"

<Doc> "The blue guy? **** no.."

<Phoenix> She laughed. "So Blake's better than a blue guy."

<Doc> "Yes. Yes he is."

<Doc> "I love her."

<Phoenix> Grinning, she nodded. It was a start. "You need to keep your boner to yourself, old guy."

<Doc> "She is hot.. in a violent.. hot sort of way.."

<Phoenix> "That's the vibe I go for."

<Doc> "Ok.. I see all sorts of flaws in that particular flying thing.. one flock of seagulls sucked into the that turbine and they are going down. "

<Phoenix> "Suspend disbelief, ***********."

<Doc> "That is not how stealth technology works."

<Phoenix> "Suspend. Disbelief." She instructed, eyeing him.

<Doc> "Fine.. " He sinks back into the sofa.

<Phoenix> She grinned, leaning over to smooch his cheek.

<Doc> Doc slid a look at her and mussed her hair.

<Phoenix> She gasped in shock, making a face. "Don't hurt my moneymaker."

<Doc> "Sorry.. " He pulled his hand back like he had been slapped.

<Phoenix> Sighing, she grabbed his head and placed it back on the top of her head. "I was kidding, dad."

<Doc> "Oh.. "

<Doc> "Bad move.. he is not invincible.. Out in the open.. he's letting his arrogance get the best of him..."

<Phoenix> "Arrogant men do that quite often... He is a god, though."

<Doc> "True.. " Makes a mental note not to do that...

<Phoenix> Her head flopped down onto his shoulder.

<Doc> "She's a pilot too.. I want her to have my babies.." He grinned and rubbed the back of her head.

<Phoenix> "Someone like her probably did. You know... at least the hair."

<Doc> "He's a show off.. I dislike him already."

<Phoenix> Noting he ignored her last comment, she sighed. "He actually reminds me of you... a younger, more stylish you." She gave him a look - one that clearly indicated she was kidding.

<Doc> "You do not know your mom had red hair.. take that back!"

<Phoenix> "She probably did! Maybe!"

<Doc> '**** .. what did I miss?"

<Doc> "AHAHAHHAHHHA"

<Phoenix> "Thor - God of thunder."

<Doc> "Showed him.."

<Phoenix> "God... he's hot..."

<Doc> Doc eyed her...

<Phoenix> "I would do awful things to him."

<Doc> "You can have him.. you have my blessing."

<Phoenix> "Look at those biceps... Mm..."

<Doc> "Yes.. the blond is much bigger than the brunette."

<Phoenix> She burst out laughing.

<Doc> "HAHAHHAA"

<Doc> "That was great."

<Phoenix> "Iron Man is pretty great."

<Doc> "Drapes.. " *He snickers*

<Phoenix> "I'd take his hammer... for real."

<Doc> "Yes.. I would have him as a son in law"

<Doc> "I bet you would..." snickers

<Phoenix> "A god as a son in law. Hmm..." She paused, scowling. "Perv!"

<Doc> "Hahaha.. "

<Doc> "That is amusing.."

<Phoenix> "Captain Killjoy..."

<Doc> "Where did his parachute go??"

<Phoenix> She blinked. "Haven't a clue..."

<Doc> "That was unexpected.. I want that SHIELD!"

<Phoenix> "It's made out of a fictional metal... Sorry."

<Doc> "If you love me.. " he gives her an obvious teasing look, then puppy eyes, "You would get it for me..."

<Phoenix> "I'll consider it for a birthday gift... When is that?"

<Doc> "Same as yours."

<Phoenix> "Mm... biceps... I... August 9th?"

<Doc> "No.. he's a god. That is not a threat."

<Doc> Doc snorts. "NO."

<Doc> He gives her a look. "December 31st."

<Phoenix> "Oh. Oooh... That's in a long *** time. Maybe Father's Day."

<Doc> "She's not a real redhead... I just realized that."

<Phoenix> "What gave it away?"

<Doc> "Eyebrows. Too dark."

<Phoenix> "You know about redhead eyebrows, how?"

<Doc> "Genetics. DNA. "

<Phoenix> She snickered, "Aww... Killjoy."

<Doc> He rubbed the back of her neck absently, "I have a feeling something bad is going to happen. Too much kum-bi-ya happening."

<Doc> "What is he doing? Why would he do that?"

<Phoenix> "Which bit, exactly?" she tipped her head.

<Doc> "Why did he Goose the smart guy?"

<Phoenix> "He wants to see if he'll turn into The Hulk, duh!"

<Doc> "hmmm" He pretended that made sense. It didnt.

<Phoenix> She could tell he didn't believe. "You'll see soon enough."

<Doc> "I think this would make more sense if I knew what the 'big guy' was"

<Phoenix> "The Incredible Hulk! Big, green, angry?"

<Doc> "Green?"

<Phoenix> "Yes."

<Doc> He frowned, "OH!! I got this.. VULCAN!" He nodded "Yes!"

<Phoenix> "What!? No!"

<Doc> "But the Vulcan wasn't that big..."

<Phoenix> "That's Star Trek."

<Phoenix> She hushed him.

<Doc> oYes. I have seen that."

<Doc> "Shhh. She's back."

<Phoenix> She willingly hushed and stared at Black Widow’s fine ***.

<Doc> "She is right, love is for children"

<Phoenix> "I'm your child."

<Doc> He looked at her.. "You know what I mean..."

<Phoenix> She grinned, fluttering her lashes. "Yes. I know you love me, you just won't say it because you're scared to admit it - you're scared it'll be used against you."

<Doc> 'Maybe.. " Yes let her think this.. "Or maybe she means love as the be all end all.."

<Phoenix> "You can love someone without being consumed by it, dad."

<Doc> 'Hmmmm ... Maybe.. "

<Doc> "Most people I know.. let it rule them. To their detriment."

<Phoenix> "Love with a dose of logic works well."

<Doc> "Who was sent to kill her?"

<Doc> "Of course.. Russia.. they do not have red heads."

<Phoenix> "Hawkeye, the guy that Loki turned against them all at the beginning."

<Doc> "Hmmm" He winces at the soliloquies.

<Doc> "HAHAHAHAH **** YES!!! Played his ***!"

<Phoenix> She snuggled in, letting her eyes fall shut for a moment. "The guy with the bow is Hawkeye."

<Doc> "I don't remember anyone with a bow.."

<Phoenix> She laughed, "You'll see!"

<Doc> "See.. Loki is ******* going to win?! No ******* way."

<Phoenix> She gave him a light, playful elbow, "You'll see!"

<Doc> 'Oh.. that guy.. I wasnt impressed with how easy he sold out."

<Phoenix> "He was put under some kind of... spell... thing. Induced by the energy source."

<Doc> "Did you see that?! I knew it! I knew that design was a bad idea!"

<Phoenix> She laughed, shaking her head, "Yep... Not very well thought out..."

<Doc> "oh.. "

<Doc> "well.. "

<Phoenix> "Well what? You're now impressed by the big guy?"

<Doc> 'Yes I am."

<Phoenix> She grinned, shaking her head - surprisingly, she was rather enjoying herself.

<Doc> "Ow."

<Phoenix> "No ****..."

<Doc> "He made a god bleed. Impressive:"

<Phoenix> "He's a very angry guy... and large."

<Doc> "Why could he not get that hammer?"

<Phoenix> "That's Mjolnir - Thor's hammer. It can only be wielded by Thor."

<Doc> "Ah. Yes I think I read about that"

<Phoenix> "It's part of traditional Norse mythology. In this, they're saying that the Norse mythos was actually based on a race of advanced aliens."

<Doc> "Well the is guy is off the plane.. ship.. whatever thing"

<Phoenix> "For now."

<Doc> "Two engines down.. not good."

<Phoenix> "Iron Man's working on it, give him time, yo."

<Doc> 'Oh ****!.. that one guy.. whats his name?"

<Phoenix> "Hawkeye?"

============
Jan. 17, 2015 (cont.)
============

<Doc> "No.. the one in the red white and blue..."

<Phoenix> "Captain America," she laughed.

<Doc> "Oh.. I must have missed that..."

<Phoenix> "They also call him Captain Rogers."

<Doc> "Ant... meets boot..."

<Phoenix> She frowned. "But that's my future husband..."

<Doc> "Gotta admit she is ******* hot..."

<Phoenix> "She is."

<Doc> Doc nods.

<Phoenix> "I'd do her. For real."

<Doc> "HAHAHAHHAHAAAA"

<Doc> "You lack conviction... BAM.. so that's what it does.."

<Phoenix> She snickered, nodding. "I want that gun..."

<Doc> Doc sat forward.. "Me too.."

<Phoenix> "Not sure your penis has that in it..."

<Doc> "No.. but you will make sure my next one does.."

<Phoenix> "... Your next one? I didn't think it was replaceable... One of a kind..."

<Doc> "Shhh... movie..."

<Phoenix> She snorted. "Love you."

<Doc> He pet her head.. absently.. he was watching the movie.

<Phoenix> She grinned, refocusing her attention on the screen.

<Doc> Doc snorted, "Pigeons.."

<Phoenix> "Better than people."

<Phoenix> "Hah. Condition..."

<Doc> "Son.. you've got a condition.. " He laughed.. "Yea he does.."

<Phoenix> "If there was ever an understatement..."

<Doc> "Agreed..."

<Phoenix> Hushed, since Black Widow was on screen.

<Doc> "I don't like him..."

<Phoenix> "You're just envious."

<Doc> "Maybe.. " He huffed. "She is hot."

<Phoenix> "Uh huh. Maybe I'll get you a blow up doll..."

<Doc> "He is a full tilt Diva.. sounds like Pratt..."

<Doc> "**** you."

<Phoenix> She cackled, "You're also a bit of a diva sometimes..."

<Doc> Doc looked at her "No ******* way!"

<Phoenix> She just grinned.

<Doc> "I am not a ******* Diva!"

<Phoenix> "I was teasing!"

<Doc> He huffed, was he a Diva? God.. He hoped not. "Who is Jarvis?"

<Phoenix> "Jarvis is Iron Man's artificial intelligence computer system."

<Doc> "HAHAHHAHHHAA.. Performance issues..."

<Phoenix> She snickered, nodding. "I love that scene."

<Doc> "That can be an issue for sure.. "

<Phoenix> "God those things are hideous. Would not ****."

<Doc> "I would hope not."

<Phoenix> "I have far better taste."

<Doc> "No way that would happen."

<Phoenix> She laughed, elbowing. "Suspend the disbelief, man!"

<Doc> "It would explode on impact"

<Doc> "What.. the **** is that..." He stared at the flying worm thing.

<Phoenix> "It's a space whale..."

<Phoenix> "Like alien transport."

<Doc> "Its ******* huge."

<Phoenix> "It is."

<Phoenix> "Like my boobs."

<Doc> "Haha.. That was humorous."

<Phoenix> She grinned proudly.

<Phoenix> "Yaaay, Hulk's back!"

<Doc> "You like him..."

<Phoenix> "I like them all."

<Doc> "I like the green guy"

<Phoenix> "That's Hulk, da."

<Doc> He laughs out loud. "Better clench up..."

<Phoenix> She snickered. "Smash."

<Doc> "And he does it soooo well"

<Phoenix> "It's amazing... I'd love to see Superman with this group."

<Doc> "Yes.. Where is Superman? Why wasn't he invited?"

<Phoenix> "He's with DC... These guys are all Marvel - they're rival companies."

<Doc> "I do like her.. and I have no idea what you are talking about."

<Doc> "HAHHAHHHAAA."

<Phoenix> "There are two main superhero comic companies. Marvel and DC. These guys are Marvel universe... Superman, Batman, Wonderwoman, etc are DC."

<Doc> "I did not see that coming.."

<Phoenix> "Punched my man..."

<Doc> "It was funny..."

<Phoenix> She huffed, "It was..."

<Phoenix> "Loki deserved that."

<Doc> "HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA!!!"

<Doc> "Puny god.."

<Phoenix> That scene never failed to have her burst out laughing.

<Doc> "That was ******* great!"

<Phoenix> "Epic. ******* epic."

<Doc> 'Yes.. It was Epic."

<Phoenix> "I'm shocked at how Hulk's pants always stay on..."

<Doc> "That is a damn fine point."

<Phoenix> "Though I'm willing to suspend disbelief on that one point..."

<Doc> He glanced at her, "Alright fine.. for this particular moment."

<Doc> He shuddered, "Homily."

<Phoenix> "Maybe she has a shining personality!"

<Doc> He burst out laughing..

<Doc> "She still ******* homily."

<Phoenix> Shaking her head, she tugged the blanket up and tucked it in tighter. "It's not all about the looks."

<Doc> "No it isn't.. but it helps.."

<Phoenix> "Yes. It helps. I love Blake's ***... and face..."

<Doc> Doc pressed his lips together. "Right."

<Phoenix> "I like Tony's car."

<Doc> 'Thats a triumph! I have that ******* Bike!"

<Phoenix> "So you're a hip old man. Bring Ari for a ride!"

<Doc> "She doesn't strike me as the Bike riding type..."

<Phoenix> "Maybe not, but you strike me as the type to want her clinging to you."

<Doc> "That is a point..."

<Phoenix> "Could always ask. Worst she can say is no!"

<Doc> "What is it going to take for you to understand.. she isn't interested?"

<Phoenix> She sighed, sitting up once the credits started to roll to eye him. "I asked her. She said she is interested, she just doesn't think you'd be happy without sex."

<Doc> "Oh.. another scene..."

<Doc> He looked at her.

<Phoenix> She arched a brow at him.

<Doc> "I have had a nice time.. lets not ruin it.."

<Phoenix> "Why don't you believe me!?"

<Doc> "I never said I didn't believe you."

<Doc> "I said shes not interested.. I never said in what.. "

<Phoenix> "Fine... I'll let it drop... for now." She fluttered her lashes before settling back in against her side. Her hand shot out, flipping from the blu ray to the satellite. Animal Planet. "So... You enjoyed?"

<Doc> "Yes.. I did.. It was.. quite entertaining.. "

<Phoenix> "The Avengers is a gateway movie." She preened.

<Doc> "Gateway movie? What do you mean?"

<Phoenix> "Like a gateway drug. It's your gateway to addiction to movies."

<Doc> "Well.. if Natasha is in some more.. I could watch them..I suppose."

<Phoenix> "She's in a few more, but there are other types of movies, you know."

<Doc> "Just Natasha.. not her face.. " He grinned crookedly, "Something about a woman that can kick ***.. is a turn on.."

<Phoenix> She facepalmed. "You realize how similar she and I are, yeah?"

<Phoenix> "In ***-kicking capabilities."

<Doc> "Daughter.. not fuckable."

<Phoenix> "Yes. Yes I see the difference."

<Doc> "Ok then. "

<Phoenix> She nudged him lightly. "You know... I like having you."

<Doc> He looked at her, "Really? Why?" His question was genuine. The whole reason he offered to have her walk away was because he thought she was be repulsed at best.

<Phoenix> She bit her lower lip, worrying the skin for a moment before giving a shrug, "It's nice... having someone that... actually wants to try."

<Doc> "You sell yourself short. You need to realize you have worth."

<Phoenix> "When did you realize that?" she asked, genuinely curious. "You never used to like me..."

<Doc> "You are formidable. You're impulsive. You are not predictable. I am still wary of you."

<Phoenix> "You're saying you don't like me?" she frowned.

<Doc> "No. I am saying.. that I wish I was more like you.. But I am not. And I find that intimidating."

<Phoenix> She tipped her head curiously. "You wish you were impulsive and unpredictable? Or just... balls to the wall dangerous?"

<Doc> "If your enemies can't predict you.. they avoid you.. yes?"

<Phoenix> "I think I'm predictable? I'll charge in no matter what and kick ***."

<Doc> "You say that.. You may believe that.. but if Blake's life hung in the balance.. how would you act? That is where you are unpredictable."

<Phoenix> "If Blake's life hung in the balance against what? That really would depend on the situation, though I'd probably kill everyone standing between him and I."

<Doc> "And if someone held him.. wanted you to do something to win his freedom .. then what?"

<Phoenix> "Hm... That would depend on what they wanted."

<Doc> "That is the point.. you aren't predictable."

<Phoenix> "What would you do?" she asked, tipping her head.

<Doc> "I'd Iet them kill them."

<Phoenix> She blinked at him, frowning. "You... would...? Why? Why would you risk someone you care about just because you don't like the principle of the thing."

<Doc> "No its not the principle Boo. It is the fact that If I will not be bullied.. It sends a message.. That I don't care. The person I care able .. knows, that is not true. They know and I know.. they will come back. Then the miscreants have no card to play. They are dead people walking. They come back. They die again. That tells others.. we will not be ******* bullied."

<Doc> "I would fully expect that if you are faced with that option.. you let me die."

<Phoenix> She frowned, "So you'd... let someone die just because you don't want people to have leverage?" she blinked. "That... doesn't make sense..."

<Doc> "I am will to kill to protect the masquerade.. I am will to die for the larger picture." He looked at her "Once their leverage is gone.. the door is open for you to **** over yes?"

<Doc> "I'd take a bullet for that."

<Phoenix> "I'm not strong enough to really think you care about me if you left me to die... Not that I couldn't get myself out of dodge, but still... I'd be upset."

<Doc> Doc looked at her. "maybe not now.. in time" He nods with firmness, "You will."

<Phoenix> "Really? You think so?" She tipped her head curiously. "That sounds fundamentally not very me..."

<Doc> "Its not about you.. its about .. US"

<Doc> 'Once we understand each other better.. we should know what to expect"

<Phoenix> "True... but I'm not sure understanding it would make me less upset... because I'd want you to save me."

<Doc> "You just told me you were as kick as Natasha.. the guy on the phone was about to blow her up.. "

<Phoenix> "And she fought her own way out," she pointed out. "And that guy wasn't her dad."

<Doc> "As I would expect you to do. IF a human can do it.. you can. AND make the Natasha look lame."
<Phoenix> "I don't have her hips, but my hair's better. And I think I'm faster..." she frowned, thoughtful for a moment. "You don't have to worry about me getting hurt because you care about me, you know... I'm not weak."

<Doc> 'I do know this." He wondered how he would feel if she were in danger, "I do not wish harm on you.. you do realize this? It's purely hypothetical."

<Phoenix> "Yeah... I know. But physical harm doesn't run nearly as deep as mental hurt."

<Doc> "Then you should know.. that I know you." He stared at her. "from our talks.. I know you. You are stronger than you think you are. And I would never want you to think I would put you in harms way if I didn't think you could handle it."

<Phoenix> She swatted him playfully, scrunching up her nose. "You know, I'd just forgotten that I'd spilled my guts to you in therapy... That's horrible."

<Doc> "I have not. I know who you are." he grimaced at her, "if that situation happened, I would envision it as the Phoenix dying and being reborn."

<Phoenix> She drummed her fingertips against the sofa. "Tell me something? When did you actually start... liking me? For lack of a better word. You used to hate me... ish."

<Doc> "Do you know why I ******* hated you? You attacked my faction. Plain and simple." He stopped for a moment. "But you wanted help. I thought you were playing me. For a long time I thought that.. But .. you did what I asked. You are still ******* demanding.. which pisses me the **** off.. but I am trying .. to understand it."

<Phoenix> "It's my faction too... again..." she reminded him gently. "But I needed help for a long time. I just suck at asking for it. I'm not that demanding... I just... make requests that sound like demands."

<Doc> "Yes you do. That pisses people off.." he gave her sympathetic look, "It won't be easy.. but you need to work on that. And I know I say you need to work on this and that ..a lot.. But understand I know I am not perfect. I need to work on **** too. Like .. " he pinched the bridge of his nose, "Explaining myself. Like showing people I dont hate them.. I do get it. And I do know its hard. It doesn't negate the fact we both need to do it."

<Phoenix> "Alright... Then practice time. Tell me you love me without it sounding horrible, forced and like I'm dragging it out of you."

<Doc> "I never say that word. Do you know why? Because people want it to be something it isn't."

<Doc> "I care about you. I do. That is all you will ever get. Dont hate me for it."

<Phoenix> "What do people want it to be? It's love, plain and simple."

<Doc> "No.. They want it to be the BE all, END all, of affection all quirks and twists forgiven. That is not the case. No one .. 'loves' like that. No one."

<Phoenix> She tipped her head curiously, eyeing him. "Dad... I don't want the be all and end all... I want my version of love. And mine is just... like... father daughter bond. That's love. Not mushy gushy love, but like.... bromance." Not that she was sure she was making sense...

<Doc> "No We aren't equals.. like brothers. You are my daughter. You are my responsibility. Those that hurt you.. hurt me. And whether I strike fast or slow.. I will strike.. might take years... but I won't forget. You may forgive.. I won't. Not until I have my payback. Which is why ..Blake better ******* never .. do what he did to the others .. to you. Because the others.. were NOT my daughter. You are. And if he **** you over.. I will not rest until he is obliterated." He smiled. "Seriously."

<Phoenix> She couldn't help but smile back at that, giving a shake of her head. "I'll let him know. I don't know what others you're talking about, though... Zoey and...?"

<Doc> "No. Do not let him ******* know. Then he is on his guard. I want
him to be himself."

<Doc> He frowned at her like.. whats the point if you are gonna tell him.

<Phoenix> "Fine, I won't tell him... Just... I'd like to know who else he supposedly fucked over."

<Doc> "No.. ignorance is bliss.. " He mussed her hair.

<Phoenix> "No way... Ignorance sucks. I know exactly what happened with Zoey... but not this other person."

<Doc> "Exactly why ignorance is bliss. I do not know all the details that you would want. It would eat at you. Not tell you, frustrates you.. but ultimately you are happier."

<Phoenix> "You're silly sometimes... I asked for a name, not details."

<Doc> 'This much I know.. females never only want just 'a name'... thats what they say.. but they lie.. there was this skirt in University.. Thought she ******* owned me.. she was wrong.. But I messed by by giving her a name.. I will never do that again."

<Phoenix> She arched a brow, eyeing him curiously. "Sounds like me."

<Phoenix> "And you do know that I'm not like other females, in case you hadn't noticed..."

<Doc> "Riiiiiiight." Disbelieving tone. "Females where a male is involved.. not taking that chance."

<Phoenix> Her head tipped curiously. "You never take chances? I'm half you, remember."

<Doc> "I am not a chance taker. Haven't you realized that yet?"

<Phoenix> She poked his cheek lightly. "Yes, but I keep hoping you'll realize there's some fun to be had by taking a risk. Maybe I'll take you gambling some day..."

<Doc> 'I dont gamble. It's too.. I dont like it." He frowned at her, "I like to know my options ahead of time. If I don't know my options. I go with the safest scenario. i.e. someone held for ransom. Kill em. One person dead versus several. See?"

<Phoenix> She tipped her head curiously, "But if it's one person held for ransom, why would you assume they'll stop at one person if they don't get what they want."

<Doc> "One person head for ransom.. a group rushes them.. first thing they are going to do.. if they are me.. is kill the hostage.. then take out as many people as they can.. 90% is the average. Yes I have studied this. Nine out ten times .. the hostage always dies. Easier to tell the miscreants, 'Ok. Kill the hostage.' It does two things. Leaves them without a play and tells them you are ******* screwed."

<Phoenix> "What if it was me and they took me outside Harper Rock...?" She frowned. Though she'd never tried, she'd heard the rumors and decided it was best not to test them.

<Doc> That made him stop.

<Doc> He weighed the options. "You saw that about to happen.. you would HAVE to push it.. make them kill you in Harper Rock. You allow them to take you outside Harper Rock.. I can't promise we could track you."

<Phoenix> "I can't guarantee that... Or what if they didn't say anything about location, you just assumed that they had me in the city. You called their bluff and I never come back...?" she frowned. The thought actually disturbed her far more than it should have.

<Doc> "You're right. I did. You cannot be taken out of the city." He reached over to squeeze her shoulder, "You cannot.. be taken out of the city. Promise me this." that thought made him cold. The thought someone would steal her and take her that far away. "You make sure you are in Eyrie.. or here.. every night. Do you hear me?"

<Phoenix> She blinked, clearly surprised by his sudden concern for her wellbeing. Mutely, she nodded, reaching up to lay her hand over his and give a gentle squeeze. "Promise I'll try my best."

<Doc> "No .. not your best.. YOU will"

<Phoenix> "But what if it's circumstances beyond my control? If someone ransoms someone you care about... you pay it. Because even in this stupid city, nothing's ever guaranteed."

<Doc> He hadn't thought about that eventuality. He raked a hand through his hair. The sense of weakness at that thought bothered him more than he wanted to admit. Subconsciously he stood up and started pacing. It was his role to keep people safe. And she just presented him with a ******* scenario where that didn't work. He paced.

<Phoenix> She watched him pace curiously, though she recognized it as thinking, and so she didn't interrupt. Instead, she flopped across the now empty space, sprawling out across the couch. "Sometimes caring is weakness, but only when you can afford the loss... If you're not 100% certain of the outcome, don't gamble with something you're not willing to lose."

<Doc> He paced, "You have a tome.. You have to make it small .. ******* tiny.. so it's overlooked.. " He nodded as he paced, "the size of your thumb .. no bigger.. Sew it into your waistband.. " he nodded as she spoke. "Right.. you hook your thumbs in your waistband.. poof you're gone.. You can do that.. right?" He voice brooked no rejection. "Right?"

<Phoenix> "I wear different pants every day..." she reached up to brush her hair aside, the beads on her bracelet clicking together. The sound had her pause and a grin slowly broke over her features. "What if it's made into a bead?"

<Doc> Doc grinned at her, "that is a ******* awesome idea..."

<Phoenix> "I'll see if Blake can make one for me, since he can work metals. But that is pretty brill if I do say so myself." She wouldn't admit aloud that she was pleased with his reaction - causing people worry and being happy about it rarely went over well.

<Doc> "It is.. if he can't... he sucks royally."

<Phoenix> A smile curled her lips as she stepped over to press a kiss to his cheek. "Night dad - see you soon. I’ll get the bead."

"--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--"

========
02/05/15
========

Doc: : Doc: You're a vampire now.. not a paladin. I need intel on the paladins. What can you tell me?

Dominique: Minx: raises a brow. "Nothing. Just as I have given you words you can count on the value of I hold to the ones I have given in the beginning. I will not break them. Should I then what value do those that I have given you really hold?

Doc: : Doc mimics her with a quirked brow of his own. "Indeed?" He leaned back in his seat. "I am not asking for locations. Or asking you to serve them up on a platter. I am asking for.. " he shrugs ever so slightly, "insights into the individual paladins. For instance, who is a paladin.. but only for the perks.. who are rapidly set on our destruction... that sort of thing.." He looks at her, "I know several paladins, and I attack them -all- on sight. However, I would be willing give the ones that is just there for the 'perks' a pass, now and again."

Dominique: Blinks. "No. Not giving names." Inclines head a bit. "You ask this of Kenlie?"

Doc: : He nodded slowly. He could press the issue. But he knew it wouldn't do any good. Her sense of honor in keeping her word was ingrained in her. It was unusual for a thief to have such a strong moral ethic in that respect. He knew the names of the ones that considered the highest of threats, and he could ask her specifically about each name he knew, but she wouldn't help. It wasn't the answer he wanted.. but now he knew where he stood. "Not as of yet.. but I will."

Dominique: She eyed him from where she sat. She was relaxed. Perhaps her nape of her neck was a bit more sensitive but that was not unusual in his presence. "Why attack those you see. Have they struck you?" She had no room to really talk when it was just a year ago she would have no issue striking those in much the same manner. She had changed, yes. There would be more change. However, she was in a place where she was taking time to sort it all out. She had not forgotten where she came from and she was not going to go forward blind to what was ahead. No she had to watch her steps more than ever. She now, shrugged lightly. "Curious is all." Of course she was.

Doc: : "From my personal point of view, it sends the message that we know who they are, they need to be on their toes, because we are not going to let them pass. I killed three in the sewers the other day, on a smoke break. We have to keep their numbers low, or it could be all out war if we do not. If it comes to war.. and the populace learns about us, and then turn against us with the paladins.. it's only matter of time until we are all wiped out. It doesn't matter that majority of us, don't even feed off humans anymore. They will wants us dead regardless. They will fear us, and in turn kill us."

Dominique: He answered and he was behind what he said. "Thank you for the answer." The whole feeding part was a topic she could skip. She was bit enough when she was still warm. It was hardly something she wanted to put someone through. that and she had no sharp points to offer. The taste of blood was lost on her. Perhaps because she was a non-drinker. Self-boosting was what sustained her and now she was reminded it was a task she would take to hand when she was out of this impromptu meeting with the one who was her creator as they say.

Doc: : He nodded silently, as if to say she was welcome. He watched her. It seemed to him, that she was still trying to sort her place out in this 'new' world she found herself in. She had thrown herself into the paladin movement with such fervor and so quickly, and yet now even a year after her rebirth, it seemed as though she still had not accepted it. Perhaps because it was forced on her. but it was apparent to him, she was just existing. She was just plodding along day to day, with no purpose. That would have to change, for her own good.

Dominique: Her eyes never strayed for long from fixing in return on his. There was something about him as he was silent that spoke to her. She could feel it. There was a progression in this dark path she was currently on. Expectation. She was to be what he created. Perhaps this was common with those who were not known to offer themselves to the power of the dark side so willingly. Humanity lingered longer. It would make sense. What also made sense is that she was aware that more and more things were changing. Despite how much she fought it it was taking place and she was no longer denying it. Keeping her word was not denial, it was simple as it was...keeping her word. The fact she was just as much a vampire as he was, just as damned to the eternity he passed on to her. The pull she felt that ultimately bound her to him rolled through her veins and filled her with acceptance. She was of him when it came down to it. More so than a part of anything else in the world. Nothing could change that and from where she was sitting and the mind set she was in she doubted she would if she even could.

Doc: : The silence between them grew. It wasn't an uneasy silence though. It was more or less a companionable silence. It was such a silence, that did not require anyone to break it in order to release the tension, because there was no tension to release. There very few persons that Doc felt comfortable enough to allow such a silence. Usually he preferred solitude; Dominique was one of the few exceptions. However, even the silence was amicable, he still worried about her. He knew for her to thrive, more than just exist, She needed a goal to pursue. He wanted to help her see this, but for them time being he was at a loss as to what to suggest to her.

"--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--"

Dominique: "We both know it is only a matter of time." Her dark eyes floated across the space between them. They did not narrow to assess or pry to discover something out of suspicion. That all had ended a while ago. It was only a matter of time. She was no different in the end than any other in her situation. There were no exceptions. "Anything concerning you?" Her fingers plucked at the arm of the chair she sat in picking up nothing but her attention as she eyed her inked fingers and their movements.

Doc: A slow nod, followed her first comment. Yes, it was just a matter of time. He could feel it, which is why he didn't want to push her about the paladins. And time was one thing they both had the luxury of having; so he would give her that time. His hope for her was for her to follow in his steps, but a hope is all it was. He knew she would have to make her own way in this life, but for her to do that, she needed a desire, a goal, a purpose. And it was as though she knew he worried, that gave him that opening. "Yes. I am concerned. I am concerned about you. I worry that you are merely existing day in and day out.. with no goal to speak of.."

Dominique: Her eyes raised from her fingers while her body wiggled back in the chair that cradled her. "I opened a business and have some clients already. I am self- sufficient. Am I missing something?" She was curious what his answer would be. "The little pink house with the white picket fence, a mortgage and 2.5 kids and a seat on the city council was never going to happen." Had he not been there in her place caring for her animals while she was gone? He could see a busy place full of energy. Her work in the shop. It hardly was the surroundings of someone who was rotting away. Not that she could see. What was she missing? She spent a year coming to a point of acceptance. She was there. Had she missed something?

Doc: Doc couldn't help but grin at the house, mortgage and kids comment. "I would not wish that on you, even if it were possible. Talk about the slow horrible death." he grimaced. He took a moment before addressing the real issue. "Yes you do have a business, and lovely home. But you 'have' that now. In this moment. You will have it tomorrow, and the day after. At some point however, that will cease to be acceptable. Because it had already been achieved. And has been achieved for a while. Life will become rote. A thing to do. Nothing more. You need a goal, a long term goal, to work for."

Dominique: "Such as?" She could ponder several ideas he would make a point to mention but they did well with direct to the point conversation. Always had as far as she could remember. Even when they were volatile and at eachothers throats.

Doc: "That my dear is for you to decide. I cannot make your goals for you.." He paused, "I could.. but would they be your goals, really? Or just something else for you to fit into your routine?" He looked at her evenly. "I have no complaints with you, your work, your friends. But you are like me.. you keep most people at arm's length. And it doesn't matter why. But it makes life lonely.. if you have nothing else to work toward. A goal that has not been achieved."

Dominique: He had a point, of course. He usually did. She was quite aware of a few voids in her nights. Not so much such that needed to be filled by a physical presence but more consistent amounts of time that needed to be invested in something beyond work and the mundane routine she was predictably moving through. "I know what you mean. You are right." She gave a single nod and looked away from him to the wall behind him. Getting out there and establishing a presence beyond the work the shop brought to her and those that came and went at Vita Bella was needed.

Doc: Seeing that she understood his concern and agreed with him, was enough for the time being. A goal was not something someone should just choose on a whim. No it was something that need careful thought, and he knew she would put the thought into it. Her goal may not come to fruition for months, and he was fine with that. The main point was that she needed to be aware of it. And she may have subconsciously known this all along, but now she had verbalized it, and it would be there in the background of her mind as she went forward with her days and nights. It was enough for the moment.

Dominique: Again they had come to a silent understanding. It likely was not made at the moment her eyes returned to fix on his. She would be more willing to bet on the fact they reached this understanding long ago. So much she could gather now by reflecting back. There was a path they walked even back then to arrive to where they were now. She stumbled at various times and he had even hauled her forward with heels dragging. This was all known and already decided by fate. "Looks like I have some work to do." She pulled her body up from where she sat and slid her hands in her back pockets briefly instead of letting them dangle without purpose in the air. "I think I will get to it and leave you to your own."

Doc: Doc appreciated her 'straight to the point' attitude. She didn't waffle, or to deflect in order to soften her words. She said what was on her mind and that was it. He respected that. He nodded. There was no need for him to say anything more on the subject. "Stay safe Minx."

Dominique: "You too.." She was at the door when she turned and looked back at him. "Thank you." She left the room and found her way out into the street. The cool air on her face caressed her skin as she paused briefly while a few cars passed by. Once it was clear she darted across and made her way to where she could usually be found outside business hours. However this time she would be changing things up a bit and putting some effort into working on what was discussed. It wasn't about him and what he thought. It was something she needed to work on. She couldn't imagine doing the same thing forever. It was time to expand her horizons beyond the routine.

"--The following transcript was a live chat roleplay--"

=========
02/03/2015
=========

Phoenix: Phoenix sent you a telepathic message:
"Dick. I was crying last night and I needed someone to cry at and you weren`t there."

Doc: *text* Why were you crying? Did Blake make you cry? You know what we can do to his testicles..

Phoenix: [t] Not Blake! It was Micah. He's got his panties up in a massive bunch all up in his mancunt over something and took it out on me. Again.

Doc: *Text* So leave him the **** alone. I was in Eyrie last night.. you could have found if you had looked.. a wee bit harder.

Phoenix: [t] I don't have access to the Eyrie. So.

Doc: *Text* Ah.. you didn't want the tome to Eyrie.. I didn't realize this. Makes sense.

Doc: *text* So why didn't you scream at my head last night?

Phoenix: [t] I prefer my Citadel. It's... quieter. And safer. But I feel isolated.

Phoenix: [t] Because I didn't think to scream at your head. I just curled up and cried.

Doc: *text* Do you want to summon me.. or Should I make my own way?

Phoenix: [t] You can summon me.

Doc: *text* Alright. but I need move locations.

Phoenix: [t] Okay.

Doc: Doc entered his hut and summoned Phoenix.

Phoenix: She didn't move or react in any way to the summons. Those honey brown eyes remained fixed on nothingness, vacant and unseeing. She didn't even realize her surroundings had changed and she'd gone from curled up on the couch to huddled on the floor.

Doc: Doc waited for a few seconds thinking, she would stand up. But when that failed to come to fruition, he realized things were not good at all. He moved toward her, he squatted down and held out his hand to her. "Boo.. Come over to the sofa with me.. " He didn't want to force her, but he also didn't want to leave her in a pile on the floor either.

Phoenix: She wasn't even aware that he'd moved, not until the aching dryness of her eyes forced her to blink. That seemed to refocus the world; when did a hand get there? She blinked again, sending a fresh wash of tears over her cheeks that she didn't bother to wipe away. It felt like her arm was made of lead; that's the effort it took lifted it to take his hand, and when she managed, she squeezed so hard she trembled.

Doc: When she finally took his hand, it was like a death grip. Something was way off here. "Ah Boo.. What happened...?" His voice was soft and comforting, unusually so for him. He pulled Phoenix to her feet, then he wrapped her in a hug and slowly smoothed her hair back from her face, then rubbed the back of her head.

Phoenix: Later, she wouldn't remember how he'd managed to drag her unwilling body its feet, but she'd be glad he did. Releasing her grip on his hand, she snaked her arms around him and held on as if her life depended on it. How could she explain what had happened? She didn't trust herself to speak without devolving into high-pitched sobs, though she did managed one word; a name. "Micah."

Doc: Doc had been planning on moving her to the sofa, but he discounted that idea immediately upon her clutching him. She was not in a the state for him to demand details or an explanation. He didn't know what Micah had said, threatened or done. "Aw Baby.. I'm sorry." And surprisingly he was sorry, he was sorry that she felt things so deeply.

Phoenix: She just clung to him, thoughts racing through her mind a thousand miles a minute. Concepts, ideas, feelings she barely understood and wouldn't resolve themselves into concrete, coherent sentences. All she managed was a few whimpered, disjointed words between choked sobs. "Competition... not meant to be disrespectful... strike... Vel knew...cancelling the wedding..."

Doc: "It's alright." He soothed her her back. "You can get past this.." He was speaking about the strike, "We all get excited and say **** that gets taken the wrong way. It happens to me all the ******* time.." He said it in a soft commiserating way, as he went through the iterations of everything else she said. "And with Micah.. you two are too volatile to be let loose at one another. You both should know better." He wasn't going to touch the topic of her wedding while she was in this state. "We.. will get past this.." He sighed, "I should have mode an effort to make sure you were assimilating alright."

Phoenix: All she could do was shake her head. She appreciated the reassurance in some forgotten place she'd think to consult later, but right then, she couldn't agree with his assessment, and the tears kept falling. She sniffed, sucked in a breath and managed to formulate a clear - albeit choppy - sentence. "I feel... betrayed... ganged up on... unappreciated..."

Doc: Doc nodded as he continued to hold her and comfort her. "Those are normal feelings. But perhaps," his voice was soft but slightly analytical. He couldn't help it. That was how he was, and when there is a problem he goes into fix it mode. And for him fix-it mode meant trying to get her to see things from a different view point. "that was not what meant..? You know you have issues with explaining things, and.. " he paused, "Understanding things. But you're hurt. It's alright to be hurt."

Phoenix: "How things are meant... doesn't matter." If what she meant hadn't mattered, what they'd meant didn't, either. She wanted to say more, but when she opened her mouth, all that came out was a cough. It suddenly occurred to her that she could speak into his mind. "Vel knew I didn't mean it how she took it. I'd already admitted could see how it was misinterpreted and told her I'd be more careful with my wording. What was meant by a strike after that?"

Doc: He gave her a quick squeeze, "Baby,..it's important that you understand that there is a difference in friendship.. and acts of leadership. You may not have meant it.. as it came out. But that is what came out. That is what caused the strike. Vel and Micah, as leaders cannot give you pass, because after it is said you 'suddenly' didn't mean it that." And before she got angry with him, for that comment. He tightened his hold on her, "Because that is how 'others' would see it. You know its not true. Vel knows its not true. But Words cause repercussions."

Phoenix: "The actions of leadership also have repercussions," she replied flatly. What he said completely shut her down, the tears along with the rest of her. All she wanted to do was retreat into the safe space she'd occupied before he'd summoned her. She tried to push him away, though she didn't feel like she had the strength to disengage.

Doc: "Yes they do.. " Doc agreed, feeling her wanting to pull away, he was torn as to what to do. The counselor in him said, let her go. But there was something else telling him no don't let her go. He may regret it, but he went with the second option. "Look Boo.. you cannot dwell on this ****. You know what you meant.. was not what you said. Simple. Yet now you have to take the reaction. The strike. It's alright though. Because we are going to use this to help you improve your communication skills. And I said 'we' because I am going to help you. You may not like it.. but we need to work on this for you.. and for me." he pulled back from her for a moment to look at her face and confessed, "I am not good with emotions. I bury them and forget them and I walk on. You are the opposite. You feel every word and you let it hurt you inside over and over. I need to be more expressive.. You need to learn to think before you speak."

Phoenix: She listened, even though she refused to meet his eyes. While he spoke, she tried to tuck away the maelstrom of emotions so that she could hear what he was saying over the lashing winds of self deprecation. The message wasn't what she wanted to hear, though. "I tried working on my communication skills and this is what happened. Because I tried to show I wasn't upset, that I didn't care, and didn't think it was a big deal, I got a strike. Micah treats me like ****, over and over, and he's the leader. I just won't communicate."

Doc: Doc pulled her back into the hug, "For now, maybe you shouldn't. Not because I don't think you can handle it. But because I think.. you would feel safer that way." He rubbed her neck, feeling how tightly she was wound up. "And yes, and maybe you were treated like ****, I wasn't there so I can’t say for sure, but I will take your word for it, because he tends to treat a lot of people like ****. He could use some communication lessons too. But baby, you are strong enough not allow mere wieghtless words to harm you." He paused, "Take the strike, forget the rest. We move forward.. do you think you can do that?"

Phoenix: To her credit, she actually paused to think about it and consider the likelihood of success if she just... forgot the rest and tried to get over it. Finally, she shook her head. "No," she whispered. "I'm not strong enough. I feel betrayed by the person that's constantly telling me to trust her."

Doc: "Alright. That is fair." Her words were firm, this meant a lot to her. He would have just moved on. But she didn't want to. "You say you aren't strong enough to move on.. but to balk at the strike, and fight against it, you are going to have to be strong. And you need to accept that possibly that you will lose. And if you lose, ... you may not be in Ty anymore. So what do you want to do?"

Phoenix: She waved a hand dismissively - it was probably the most movement he'd seen since he'd summoned her. "I'm not balking. I'm not fighting. I'm being hurt. If that's how Vel wants to handle it, that's completely her call, but she can't then expect the same level of dedication. I'll do what's required, but contributions aren't required. Picking up my phone isn't required. If she's going to treat me like I'm disposable, I may as well be disposable. "

Phoenix: "Just like half the rest of the faction who never get yelled at, no matter how little they participate."

Doc: Doc nodded. "Alright.. As long as you do what you need to for the faction.. that is all that we ask. The faction doesn't require anyone to not have a life or things outside the faction." He almost said it, but held it back. Part of the reason he enjoyed time with Mortll, was because they never talked about the faction. "For the record, I do not think you are disposable."

Phoenix: "Maybe you don't, but Micah does. He also thinks it's okay to treat me like dirt as both a leader and a... 'friend'." She stopped, there. All things considered, friend hardly applied to the man and hadn't for a long time, and that stung the most. "I'm tired of Micah demanding respect in one breath and giving absolutely none in the next."

Doc: "It does seem like a contradictory action for the response he wants, I agree." He pulled away from her somewhat, "However, I was not there, so I cannot comment as a fact." He reached out to take her hand, he wanted to lead her to the sofa. "Come sit with me. We wont think about Micah or his words. Rather, we can talk about other things.. yes?"

Phoenix: She looked skeptical at the hand being offered, but she took it, letting him guide her to the couch. Once within reach, she let herself fall onto it gracelessly before pulling her knees up to her chest and hugging herself. "Alright... Stuff like what?" she managed to ask, finally meeting his eye.

Doc: Doc reached over to grab a cushion. He then offered it to her wordlessly. He knew she liked cushions. "Positive things. How you overcame a great adversity to get back into Tytonidae. How you had no family at one time.. and now you have family." He shrugged somewhat, "Granted its a dysfunctional family.. but you have family."

Phoenix: For a moment, she considered the cushion like some two-headed beast. It looked harmless enough, so she accepted it despite her misgivings and wedged the thing between her knees and her chest. "Then why do I feel alone? And like nothing's changed?"

Doc: "Because you built the idea up in your mind, that once you obtained those things .. your life would be happy and perfect." He looked at her evenly, "Obsessions can do that to you. If you obsess on negatives.. you pull yourself into a pit of despair. But if you obsess on goals with unrealistic responses .. you get hit with a wave of disappointment when you find out it.. it isn’t what you had hoped. And I am sorry Boo."

Phoenix: "When I woke up on Sunday, I was happy. Life wasn't perfect, but I wasn't upset. Now everything's pretty much ruined over something completely... pointless. Something I didn't even care about. If they want me to consider how other people perceive things, was displaying exactly how little they care for how I perceive things the right way to go about it?" She'd already said it once - she didn't want to repeat that ruining everything had included the handfasting, which was what she was most focused on.

Doc: Doc nodded, "So you know it is pointless. So why are you letting this pointless event ruin your mood? Why are you giving it that power? You have the ability to make your mood what -you- want it to be. It's not easy. I know this. I struggle with it myself. But I refuse to allow.. words, especially words that should never have been said.. to affect me."

Phoenix: By way of response, she sent him a memory. It was simple as far as memories went, just her reading the final text she'd received from Micah, the words written over the screen in that innocuous Apple font. "**** you. You cheated. You and Blake BOTH cheated. This is the first time I have EVER had someone be so ******* greedy that they can't stick to what they signed up for. You ruined this for everyone. Simple as that and Im sorry that you can't detach your lips from Blake's **** to see that. Now. Go **** yourself and leave me alone. And shove your wedding up your *** because I wont ******* be there."

Doc: "That is harsh." He wasn't going to get into the details over whether she and Blake did or did not cheat. His stomach rolled. He fought the impulse to go hurl. "He can be emotionally volatile." He looked at her, the muscles of his face were strained, "But so can you. It is still just words. It will only hurt you if you let it hurt you." He had to stop and focus in order to continue. "You feel things too strongly."

Phoenix: She shrugged; she hadn't intended the emotional attachment to the memory, but it didn't surprise her to find that she'd leaked. "Sorry," she mumbled, noting the strain, and curled more tightly around the cushion. "It's not the words. It's that he said them. It's that he will never apologize for the hundreds of times he's made me feel like less than a worm for daring to try to talk to him."