mallow_logs | a welcome;

Entry tags:

a welcome;

Who: Everyone and everyone!
What: Welcoming in the new members to Mallow Hallow
Where: Everywhere!
When: March 2nd.

[ Once everyone’s settled in their particular districts, no doubt thousands of questions running between each individual mind, there’s an announcement. Not over the devices, but rather in speakers all over each and every district. A familiar voice should ring out—you did, after all, hear the voice of your Queen earlier today. ]

Ahem! Can you hear me? Ah, right then.

Hello loveies! You might recall this particular visage which speaks before you—that is, I am your Queen. Call me Queenie, if you must! I’ve met you all on this particular day, and I find it important to bestow some of my boundless knowledge onto you, sweethearts.

Now! Done with formalities, let’s see where we stand… ah, yes! Might I be the first to welcome you all to Mallow Hallow, our wonderful little country. Not too big, not quite too small either! It’s just lovely, isn’t it? Oh, how all my new babies will love it here! Or—perhaps not. [ She clicks her tongue. ] Either way, it doesn't really matter. You're stuck here for the time, so do try to make the most of it, dears.

Of course, there are our sectors within Mallow Hallow. Six… [ There’s silence for a short moment. ] Yes, there are six, aren’t there..? Well, six different communities you might stem off from! Surely you remember the name from our meeting earlier? If not, I’m sure one of the regular inhabitants of each particular district will assist you in naming your new home!

Live where you’d like, eat what you’d like, do what you’d like! Our homes are now your homes, so please, consider us all a big happy family to you! Remember you can reach me or any of the other rulers of any of the districts, over at our voicemails! [ Somehow, that seems sarcastic… ]

Also, don’t cause any trouble, or I’ll personally end you. [ There it is. ]

I suppose that's all. Well then, bye now, dears! And let the word spread—Mallow Hallow is up and rising once again!

[ ooc: Quick links: Lochwell | Mallowhallow | Orlea | Astralfield | Crystalden | Highcrest | Whitewood | Network ]

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[Some people have different priorities. Maybe they are content with a change to the point where it is exciting. That sort of idea is not something that is going through his mind, however. This place really isn't comforting at all. It may be imagined as something like an extensive vacation or a reward for all he has done. But this is worse that someone trying to force the idea of shoes.

There is the factor Oliver isn't alone. Not that it is in reference to people who are here just like him even though that needs to be taken account. No, no. His feathered companion, James, is with him and on his shoulder just as things needed to be. Without the bird, surely things would be at their worst. Now if only other things can be fixed. He needs to get back to his home. Things sounded as though they cannot be undone but that is certainly not acceptable! And how is this to be fixed?

By walking aimlessly, of course.

The boy has went down a path or two, somewhat dragging his bare feet against the dirt. Yes, that is something to keep his interest for a moment. It is enough to distract from the actual thinking. But how is he supposed to think? It is too much of a challenge. Things are not how they are supposed to be. The Queen that probably doesn't even have a name besides that just has decided on things without his permission! Maybe walking can get him somewhere, though. If he walks far enough. If there is an ocean, maybe he can swim. Geography. What is it.

He kicks at a large clump of dirt and comes to a stop. This isn't being productive at all. Oliver lifts his head to look up at the sky as though it is going to drop an idea on him. Nothing. He lowers his head. Nothing. Time to look at the right. Nothing. Well, there are some trees. It is when he turns his head in the other direction that something gets his attention. Not that is going to help him get any closer to his goal, that is.

Is that what he thinks it is? He can't believe his...eye. Over there, by one of those trees was a man. Not that was the remarkable part as much as the friend beside that person. A crocodile! What sort of madness is that? It is then the boy begins to move the path.]

Oi! Mister!

[A hand gently stroking Karen's leathery head, Jim sighed, already planning whatever course of action he could accomplish with his limited sources. He'd need a home, somewhere near water so it'd be easier for Karen, and hopefully the water would be drinkable - it'd save him a extra step. Food had to be found, either earned or what have you; stealing in a area full of knights didn't sound too appealing, and Jim would never be keen on killing an animal. His clothes would do just fine.

All this, that is, just in case he couldn't find an instant way back. The Queen had already said their wasn't any way back, which helped solidify his deduction on that this wasn't his earth. Besides, maybe he was here for a reason? Life always seemed to work that way for him, and back home, the only duties he had to attend to were self-planned fossil excavations - he hadn't signed up for any duel tourneys, so no one would be expecting him. His friends, however, might find out of his absence, but that was a worry for another day.

Patting Karen on the head, clicking his tongue to tell her it was time to go, Jim stood, arms stretched high as he groaned. It was only then that he blinked stupidly with his one eye, arms slack in the air when he heard someone call to him. Lowering his arms, Jim looked on at what appeared to be a young boy with a bird companion, the boy shoe-less and wearing a mailman-looking hat, and had bandages over his eye. Jim's hand came to brush against the bottom of his own, before he smiled to himself. It was almost as if he was looking into some strange mirror.

Walking a bit forward, he waved to the boy, eyeing the bird with a curious glance before he sent the kid a smile, one warm but not completely whole; he was a little tired, but that was to be expected.] Hey there.

[Something was certainly noticed and that was what had brought him along. But with getting closer and trying to keep his head up, he acknowledged some sort of fact; the similarities did not fly over the boy's head. It was enough to smile even though he liked his own hat much better. That wasn't the reason of the chosen encounter, however, and he felt a little rushed when he saw the man get up. Wait, no! But the man had been decent enough to stop and it prompted Oliver to stand in front of him for a moment.

And then he looked down. He had been trying not to but fiddlesticks-- it was the initial reason to why he was there even if it was rude to stare. At the very least, he wasn't pointing. Oliver's eye would go from the crocodile to the man and then back to the crocodile again. His smile didn't leave as he was too amazed with things. Whoever the person was, they were already quite incredible. He glanced at James on his shoulder, expecting the bird to be impressed as well. But the bird clearly didn't give a shit, shifting on his feet.

Killjoy.

The boy would look at the man again, in that case.]

Mister, is that crocodile your friend?

[Watching as they came closer, Jim shifted on his feet, scanning over the boy's form once, twice, and smiling all the while. Definitely similar, Jim decided, as he noticed their parallel placed bandages, their animal companions, and was that a flicker of curiosity in the boy's eyes? To Jim, the child seemed light on his feet, shy, but as he walked forward, Jim admired the way he kept his head up, the way a smile was on his face.

Whoever this child was, Jim knew he liked them already.

Calm and composed, Jim maintained a relaxed front, not cautious but not blind - he made sure to keep his gaze from the boy's bandages out of respect, instead peeking at the bird in interest. It was a bit hard on his neck, looking down; one of the downsides of being tall, he supposed. Karen merely remained silent, not growling nor moving, eyes on not the bird but the boy. He was aware she was watching intently for threats, but Jim met her eye in the corner of his own, and she slowly lowered her ever-watchful gaze with a glare at the man. Turning his attention back to the newcomer, he watched as their eye darted, hoping he saw interest in them instead of the usual fear that came when one saw Karen.

Then they spoke, and Jim was glad at what he heard.]

Yep, Karen's my friend. She's been with me for years.

[A quick pause, Jim chuckling as he heard Karen's tail swish in the grass at her mention.]

I take it that bird is your friend also, mate?

[Friendship was something that he had assumed. The crocodile and the man were sitting together rather peacefully so what else could they have been? But maybe it wouldn't have been appreciated if he said something so outright. One had to be mindful around people even though it wasn't easy. Surely he was no good at it. But in this case it had been applied and he was rewarded. The excitement in the boy only grew.]

I knew it!

[He outright beamed at that. The idea of being right was a nice one. It was a wonder how anyone could have a crocodile so closely but if one could do it with cats and dogs then anything was possible. From the boy's point of view, that wasn't something to be questioned as much as it was accepted. When the man made mention of the bird, Oliver was quick about nodding. He glanced at the bird on his shoulder before bringing a hand up and gently around the bird before his other hand joined it. Making sure to keep the hold light, he would hold out his hands to the man all while running a thumb over the top of the American Goldfinch's head.]

His name is James.

[His words had suddenly become breathless. There was something about the bird that was simply all he wanted. Yes, James was not capable of cooking but there were a lot of things that Oliver couldn't do. That had to have applied to everyone, he thought. Maybe like Karen and the man. The boy's voice would then drop down to a whisper.]

Isn't he amazing?

[The boy's enthusiasm was happily shared, Jim grinning all the while at the outburst. Not many were keen on asking him right away about Karen - well, they were, but not in a simply curious nature. They were too mindful, too careful around something they deemed dangerous, most never hesitating to tell Jim so, to call him insane for caring for a crocodile. This was a nice change, someone who seemed accepting of Jim's choice of family instead of scornful.

Karen, from her place on the ground, merely growled politely in greeting, Jim's happiness and acceptance keeping her at ease. Both reptile and man, however, watched with rapt attention as the boy gently grasped the bird, holding it out for what Jim supposed was an introduction. Hearing the child's enthusiasm about his own companion, Jim smiled and nodded simply.]

He sure is a pretty bird.

[Companionship. It came in all shapes and sizes, forms and being. Some people found comfort in people, others animals (either accepted by society or not), and some even went to the lengths of finding comfort in things that couldn't speak back, things merely an object. With Karen, he had found a home in something all those years ago, and with her, he had found happiness in her friendship. Despite her mischievousness nature and playful nature, he hadn't been happier.

And even now, at this moment, could he still cling to that simple happiness born many years ago.]

Yeah, he really is amazing!

[Reaching up, he adjusted his hat on his head, fingers skimming over the worn leather.]

I'm Jim Cook, by the way.

[That had all went swimmingly until the man's comment. While it was a compliment, it wasn't appreciated by everyone. James attempted to get out of Oliver's grasp and the boy was not about to try to hold him in. The bird would return to his place on Oliver's shoulder with ruffled wings. It was enough to get the boy to sigh. At least there hadn't been some sort of negative action taken against the stranger, himself.]

I don't think James likes being called pretty. But he is nice, really, he is!

[One would have thought that would have been enough ego stroking for James but apparently not. Oliver was not about to bother the bird. He'd let him wallow in whatever he was feeling. James would surely get over it. It wasn't like the man only said he was pretty. They both had agreed on the 'amazing' aspect.]It certainly wasn't the worst of their problems right now but it wasn't setting much of an impression. Time to bring the boy's mind back to the conversation.]

It's nice to meet you, Mr. Jim! My name is Oliver!

[Maybe they were friends, now. The man seemed rather decent and wasn't saying anything daft. But there was no goal to stay here long. That's right, he had to get back home, somehow. While he was currently enjoying himself that wasn't going to get him out of this place any faster. Jim had to be in the same situation too, right? But Oliver had to make sure, first.]

Uh, if you don't mind me asking...Where are you from?

[Jim observed as the bird went back to his starting position on the boy's shoulders, wings ruffled and leaving Jim with a feeling of embarrassment - he hadn't meant to offend the bird or the boy. Truthfully, it was almost similar to people calling Karen a threat or claiming her with some foul choice words; everyone had their hangups, right? Karen, however, apparently though the whole thing was hilarious, little growls slipping in between her sharp teeth.]

Ah! I apologize, James, and to you too.

[Well, these things happen to everyone, and hopefully it's nothing Jim can't fix with some conversation. Rolling his shoulders awkwardly, hoping this first impression could get back to how it was at the very start, he smiled as the boy introduced himself. Well, seems like they both had something similar in mind, then.]

Well, it's a pleasure to meet you, Oliver.

[Because it really was a pleasure, meeting someone that Jim guessed held similar ideals. Oliver hadn't been anything but amusing and kind since he walked over, James interesting as well. Humming once, the boy's next words made him remember what he was actually planning on doing before he came over: look for a home since getting back to his real home seemed kind of a stunted goal right now. He wondered if Oliver was in in the same situation as he responded with:]

You're fine, mate. I'm from a different world, though, from a place on planet Earth called Australia.

[He wondered how ridiculous he just sounded saying that, but he didn't know if anyone else here was from Earth - different dimensions weren't the easiest book to read.]

Don't worry about it. He can be a little stuffy.

[But maybe if Oliver himself had been addressed as pretty he wouldn't have liked it, either. A compliment was a compliment and James had been rude. Things would have been much worse. Now he was over thinking things! He needlessly shook his head to himself as though it would dismiss all the troubles. His mind needed to stay focused on the more important things...like with Jim talking. What he heard was good news! It was a little off the way it was put but who was to care? Jim wasn't originally from here, either.]

Me too! I mean-- I'm from Earth!

[But it was strange to say.]

I'm from Britain. I...think.

[Now he was not completely sure. He had to be somewhere from there, at least. A hand was brought up to his cheek to rub at it while he furrowed his brow. Where was he exactly from? There was no exact location coming to mind. He was in a hurry to get back and yet he was only stumped. Those were needless details, however. The man hadn't asked at all so there was no need to elaborate. He just knew the current place wasn't where he was meant to be. There were things to do elsewhere.]

I want to find a way back.

[Jim just nodded at the statement about James, his smile still tired but still kind. Karen had opted to curl up at Jim's feet, clearly ignoring the conversation above as she rested, not asleep but not overly alert, her jaws covering the toes of his boots. Taking his attention from her to Oliver, he smiled at what he considered was good news.]

Well then, that makes things a bit easier.

[Well, maybe. If there were different dimensions, what about different Earths? He shook his head at that; no need to hurt himself thinking about the unexplainable matter of the cosmos.]

Britain. [The "I think" was concerning, but at least it was a start, right?] I've heard of it, but never had a chance to visit.

[Taking a moment to himself as he watched the kid think, Jim frowned. Different worlds, the possibility of different Earths. All sorts of people were here, he imagined - he hadn't met many non-natives yet. Was all of this a game to someone, or was there an underlying goal being carried out in that castle? Would they have to fight to survive like he had to in that one dimension; maybe not, the Queen did seem to be fairly kind about this whole ordeal. But then, the Queen and King: who are they? Too many questions, and Jim's overly-curious nature was starting to show. Luckily, Oliver's voice broke his thoughts.]

I do, too. Unfortunately, I'm not entirely sure of how we can get back as of right now.

[Karen nudged Jim in the leg as he tensed up; once the man started thinking, it's hard to snap him out of it. Sighing, Jim shrugged and sent Karen a grateful smile.]

Frankly, I don't...quite know of what else to do now but find some shelter for the night, and find some food. I don't wanna stay here forever, but I don't want to sit around and do nothing while I wait for answers. All I know is I want to get home soon.

[He was trying to be logical about the situation, as hard as it was to focus. Suddenly, he blinked and smiled apologetically, sheepishly.] Sorry. I just went on a rant.

[Somewhere in Britain he was from, surely. But he wandered. It was not as though he always stayed there. Where he had to be, however, must have been Earth. Where was this place? Did anyone take a notice to him missing? There were many others in the same business as him but it didn't mean he had never been at somewhat of a similar point as them.

Such things were far away, however, and all he could do was listen to what the man had to say. Things were not so light as they had previously been; something had gotten thicker. The situation was a serious one despite having found someone who was outwardly like himself. It was not a game but why did it have to be real? Why was it that he had to be in such a place? But he had to agree with Jim.]

No, you're right. We can't just wait. We have to do something to make sure we'll be okay.

[They could not allow themselves to become complete wrecks. It would not make their situation any easier. While looking around for a decent place to lay down for a moment would not be getting them any closer to actually leaving, they would at least be alive. They had to be alive to leave. Answers would not come easy. It was not what he wanted to accept. Slow progress was an aggravating thing but he had to think about James and his needs.]

Mr. Jim, is it okay if I...

[He paused. Maybe he had considered the man his friend all the sudden even though it may have not been the safest idea or smart. But he was being inconsiderate for wanting to keep onto something. He had to be a man and provide for himself.]

[Jim instantly found himself overcome with something he claimed akin to sadness; he hadn't meant to put such a melancholy tone on their encounter, despite the knowledge he had that said they both needed to get back home, that being in a whole different dimension wasn't a laughing matter. He would know, too, and those were memories he didn't want himself or anyone else to revisit - or relive, not if he could help it.

We. Jim did like the sound of that, the implication that he wouldn't be completely alone in this despite Karen's ever constant presence. More people meant more opinions, maybe also meaning something to be offered that the other couldn't do? But despite Oliver agreeing to his rant, Jim still poised himself on the question of trust. This kid was a stranger; he didn't know anything about him but his name and home - and that other dimension had taught him not to trust just anyone, regardless of who they were.

But then again, Jim had once said, "Is there a reason as to why people become friends?", and that simple question had allowed him to solidify his logic - friendships, companionship: it all happened for a reason, between two people likely to like one another or not. Friends were columns of support in tough times, and more time than many they offered what the other could not - a balance to be created.

Jim may have grown up in the Outback and survived on his own, and he might be able to do that here, but it didn't make it any less lonely.

Even so, he'd make it through if he had to, with company or not. He'd just help if he could, that's all he could do. And with that resignation imprinted on his mind, he tuned himself back into the conversation just when Oliver trailed off on his words. If they were to stick together and build up trust from this encounter, than so be it. If they were meant to fend for themselves, so be that, too. No reason to fight fate, even though Jim was aware at how fate could be a miserable trickster sometimes.]

Would you want to come with me and Karen, Oliver? Maybe just for a bit until we find some homes? If you don't, it's fine - completely your choice.

[Because it never hurts to ask, right? Jim wasn't that prideful to where he wouldn't ask for help, anyway.]

[It was a question of how many friends he actually had back at the place that he would refer to as home. He knew of people and he had spoken to them but that actually did not qualify friendship. It was a business, some sort of competition that was nothing too aggressive. There were also two others who were running the same field as himself. He had not a reason in the world to be cruel to the people who worked with and against. But those people were not friends.

All he could do was feel sorry with his sudden ideas. They weren't out of some form of desperation, were they? It was simply different to see someone, meet with someone, who was a little like himself. But he knew they could not be too much of the same with the way Oliver was. He was selfish. It was a reminder that he was still a 'child.' How cruel but he would have to stop with that behaviour. Assuming things was a bit much. He had James, still, and James understood him. It was silly to act the way that he was.

When Jim spoke again, Oliver blinked a few times out of confusion. He certainly was not deaf but he was not entirely anticipating the invitation. It was him not being disregarded completely. He hadn't proved to be of any use and yet he was being offered some sort of ride. Not that it meant that everything else was all well with the world or that he would allow himself to suddenly give up on doing anything for himself. Being dependent on a person was too much and not safe. It was not a free ticket to anything besides having someone who spoke with the same form of mouth as he.]

Yes! I won't slow things down things for you, sir! Not at all! I promise!

[It was then a hand was extended in the man's direction. Oliver had curled his fingers against his palm besides the pinkie. The smallest finger was left holding out. He was going to make sure that what he had said was sincere. He wouldn't do anything bad and he was not going to lie about it.]

[Briefly, Jim wondered the depth of what he had just asked. If he had to guess, maybe it was giving this kid a better chance. When Jim was his age, or what he had to guess was his age, it'd been rough. His parents had been accepting of Karen into their home, both of them similar to Jim with their adventurous nature and love of animals. Other people around his home? Not so much, and Jim knew their words of panic and fear were somewhat well-justified, but being only a kid, he had took those words to heart with a fierce anger. Karen was family, family was important, and he'd accept no treatment of her that was less than that.

And with that personality, that over-protective persona he developed, made some people give up and gave both him and Karen a wide berth. So he adjusted. He adjusted to living with her and his parents, and between the sacrifice he had made to save her that had cost him his right eye to him moving up the ranks at South Academia, he'd dealt with the fact that despite his calm and kind nature, his 'charming' persona as his mother called it, his choice to have a crocodile meant he wouldn't be a people person.

Truthfully, even though he didn't have that many friends, he was damn happy about his life.

Going to Duel Academia had gave him experience with people who didn't care all that much, Jim finally able to call more people than a few 'friends'. But even now, with the knowledge that the people he knew back home were ones he could count on, he wouldn't take it for granted. He wouldn't be dependent on people who he knew probably wouldn't leave, but sometimes couldn't be there. He'd take what would come, good or bad - it was how he was raised.

With Oliver, Jim just supposed his offer meant he was hoping the kid wouldn't have to be alone here.]

Hahah, I believe you, Oliver! Also, you don't have to call me 'sir' if you don't want to. ...But thank you, though.

[His smile, absolutely genuine, grew at the sight of the outstretched pinky. A gesture of a promise? A notion of a pact? Whatever it was meant to be, Jim found it childishly endearing, despite the story behind it being anything but childish. So he extended his own, all fingers curled in but his pinky, and wrapped the finger around Oliver's with a chuckle.]

So...shall we start exploring?

[The boy easily returned the smile. He was not going to lie to this person. At least, not when it is deemed unnecessary. He was not going to laze about when they spend their time together for however long that would be. All he would do was the make the most of it. It would be like a survival vacation that he never asked for.

When he pulled his hand back from the pact it was then brought up to his hat, giving the brim a bit of a tug. He was ready for anything. Well, 'anything' was a rather vague term that he didn't need to be throwing around but he at least knew what he meant and that was what mattered. And James' would possibly understand him, too. Maybe. They weren't exactly in tune.]

Maybe we will find a place to settle for the evening!

[Not that sleeping outside would bother him any. The ground wasn't agreeable to everyone, however, and there were probably other things he wasn't bothering to factor in. It was simply better to try to set a goal to have somewhere to sleep that wasn't completely outside or something relative. Not to forget some other things. A hand was slowly brought over his stomach.]

And maybe some food. Maybe we can find some berries or nuts...somewhere along the way.

[He was not trying to set expectations too high or anything like that.]

[The sight of Oliver tugging on his hat made Jim self-cautious of his own, a callous hand going to rest against the rim, adjusting it carefully until he was certain it was in place. The same hand fell over his bandages, and with a slight press of his fingers, he sighed with a smile. Chuckles followed at the enthusiasm of his new friend, and at his feet, Karen (who had been watching the whole conversation curiously) perked up at the sound.]

I sure hope so, although sleeping outside wouldn't be too bad. Well, for me, at least.

[Child of the Outback, he spent countless nights under the stars, sleeping in dirt patches and bundles of leaves, learning to live off the land. Even at South Academia and Duel Academia, when he had furnished rooms and luxuries, sometimes he'd find himself on a grassy field with Karen's back as a pillow. Although now, he didn't have those same luxuries like beds and -

Yeah, food. They would need food.]

Hopefully we'll be able to come up with something more filling than that, although I'm not marking those out yet. Remember the Queen's words? "Live where you’d like, eat what you’d like, do what you’d like."

[It was a straightforward statement, one he couldn't help guessing wasn't so simple.]

Maybe she meant there could be some pubs near by, or a marketplace. Someplace with people to ask and hopefully food to eat.

[He wasn't trying to set his expectations too high, neither.]

[We was watching the man. There was no intention on staring and asking any questions. Nothing was peculiar to him. But he mimicked the man and brought a hand up to the bandages on his face as well. It was like looking into a rather distorted mirror with the possibility of it being the perfect reflection. How backwards and nonsensical. The person before him was his own person. He was Jim. The boy was Oliver.

Those thoughts were disturbed when Jim spoke. Oliver dropped the hand from his face before puffing out his cheeks. Now he realised he sounded like a real prissy! He wouldn't need a bed. Look at him, he didn't even wears shoes. A bed wasn't necessary, not for someone like him. He had only been trying to act considerate for the man but that was a mistake on his part.]

I don't mind it outside, either!

[It was merely the truth and not something stated to try to impress. There was no way he was going to weigh down the person by accident. Yeah, he didn't exactly know what was happening but he was going to just make the best of it and not be demanding at all. Heck, did he even need food? Well, maybe-- no, he did need it. What a life. For someone like himself it was somehow still necessary.

He turned away from Jim in direction of the dirt path he had come down earlier. A foot was kicked in front of him as he took a giant step. Oliver glanced over his shoulder. Maybe he did forget what the Queen had only recently said but it didn't matter. She didn't know him or anything like that. But it wasn't like he knew the Queen of England, either. No big deal. He was still able to eat at home, at least.]

C'mon, Karen-- Jim! Things can't be too off!

Edited 2013-03-03 03:52 (UTC)

[Aware of the slightly endearing scrutiny he was placed under, Jim ducked his head with amused chuckle after Oliver's own hand met his bandages. Again, he had to compare it to a mirror or perhaps a reflection, the sides showing subtle similarities but the viewer would be able to tell the different between the two. A kinship, if you will, of the similarities, and while it was a bit ridiculous, he didn't care. The amusement he felt then had Jim looking down at his crocodile. Karen met his gaze with tired but equal amusement, clearly interested in the boy instead of cautious.

No words needed between the man and reptile, Jim turned his attention back to Oliver. The puffed out cheeks were a childish sight, laughable in a good way, and Jim just supposed he was embarrassed or something. The following words supported it, if he had to guess - he liked kids, but they had a talent of posing themselves as hard to read sometimes.]

Glad to hear it.

[He could see the geniosity behind Oliver's words, and that was more than enough for him. Reaching in his vest pocket, he found the scroll device and patted it, securing its safety - he'd need it for information later. His wallet, filled with some currency, rested in one of his pant's pockets, right below his deck holster, but he doubted his money would be good here. A job might be in order, but he'd wait and see.

Blinking as Oliver suddenly turned, Jim watched his actions. It reminded him of his friend Judai, the one he had known before they had went to Dark World. The carefree, curious one with a big heart. Laughing at Oliver's words, he bent down to quickly attack Karen to his back harness, allowing her a good few seconds to adjust against the leather before Jim sprinted off to walk beside the boy.]

We're right with ya, mate.

[It isn't a mirror at all. That was an idea that had to be abandoned. Things were certainly not the same, no matter the circumstances. Unless he was making his own false assumptions in the back of his mind. But what were the odds of that actually being the case? Well, that wasn't important. The person was nice and there was a possibility of progress in the future and that was all that mattered.

He began to swing his arms while he walked. It was partly due to a pleasant mood that had settled in and the fact that his arms just needed to be doing something. He was happy enough with his own thought process. But he was making sure not to swing too hard in case of somehow smacking something or whoever.]

Hey, Jim? What did you do in Australia? Did you have a job or something like that?

[Hopefully that wasn't too much of a personal question as there was no mind for him to be cautious about it. He deemed it as something to ask to learn about the other. Maybe favourite colour would have been a better topic but Oliver knew what it was like to do some sort of business. It could not have been nearly as exciting as what he imagined Jim doing back at his own home. Either way, he was interested. And it was a way to not think about his hunger.]

[The child's glee was easy to take as his own, Jim humming softly to himself: a rhythm light and airy, one he'd sung to Karen many times after his accident with his eye. Expectantly, he felt her slacken against the harness and with a spared chuckle, hummed it in earnest. Boots crunching slight gravel under the leather heel, Jim skimmed a gloved hand over his deck holster resting at his thigh, a motion of comfort that said a duelist was nothing without his deck.

Well, apparently it was time to share that beloved fact.]

I'm a duelist. Back home, there's a game called Duel Monsters, a card game that's just as popular as soccer or football. I mean, it's known all around the world. Anyway, before I graduated from South Academia, one of many schools that teaches Duel Monsters, I was the champion there.

[He spoke those words not with bragging nor snobbishness, merely treating his known skill in the game as a fact, not a trophy. He had learned bragging wasn't something to do unless you could deal with everything to follow, and since he didn't know the future, why brag?]

Even though I'm out of school, I still duel, and I was planning on entering a tourney before I arrived here. But when I'm not dueling back home, I'm looking for fossils and dinosaur bones - I'm a paleontologist. Karen here helps me with my excavations.

[Now that he could talk about with equal glee; he loved fossils as much as dueling, and his excavation finds back home sure proved that fact.]

My life's fairly simple. [He stated that with a chuckle.] Mind if I ask you the same thing?

Wait, what? That wasn't simple at all! There is a card game that people went to school for? That definitely was...different. He had never heard of such a thing or maybe he had in passing as the name sounded like he heard of it before. Or maybe he wanted to convince himself such as to understand. The game itself must have been truly difficult if there was a need to have schools for it. But there was one thing he did understand:]

You're a champion at that game at your home? That is incredible!

[He has never been a champion of anything, really. Not that it bothered him one bit. He could always be the champion of something if he actually took the time to think about it. That could be something he would tend to once he somehow got home. And he should have anticipated that there would be much more to Jim than going to school at some point. Not that there had been anything wrong with that, of course.]

Blimey! You do all of that? Your life...it's rather amazing! That means you must get to go out often!

[Envious? Maybe. But everyone has some sort of responsibility in life. It is not as though he does not contribute to society, himself. It wasn't the same as what Jim did but it seemed that he would be asked about it. Oliver took a moment to think about it though he knew what he did with his own life.]

...I'm a singer.

[Jim could only laugh at Oliver's enthusiasm as the kid spoke, and Jim made a mental note to show Oliver his card deck whenever they'd get the chance to settle down for the night. He didn't have his duel disk with him in his pack, and he highly doubted the technology to create the holograms didn't zap here with him when he arrived. Oh well, he could make due with cards - sometimes simple was more fun.]

Hahah, I suppose so. The other champions are more impressive, though. [Like O'Brien and Johan, and Am - wait, no...Amon was gone.] The ones at other schools.

[His smile faltered at the thought of the late duelist - even now, the memories of that world seemed either to haunt him or confused him further. Sometimes he doubted if his memories were correct, but that was purely wishful thinking. Luckily, he didn't have to dwell on it, instead allowing himself to pick up his steps again to where he was scuffing his boots in the dirt before.]

It's just how I've always lived, mate. But yeah, guess I do go outside a lot.

[Although he didn't know what the significance of going outside meant to Oliver; the kid seemed to stuck a bit on that point. He knew everyone had paths in life, choices to make and responsibilities to handle, but surely he wasn't that busy or prestigious of a kid? (Not that being that was necessarily a bad thing.)

Well, then again, maybe he was.]

A singer? Heh, now that's impressive to me. I can't carry a tune at all!

[On his back, Karen wholeheartedly growled her agreement.]

[He had been listening intently to the other but it seemed that it wasn't enough. Oliver looked over his shoulder when he realised that Jim was no longer walking. It prompted the boy to stop as well. Something had went wrong when he wasn't looking but he wasn't sure what it was. The kid was no mind reader.

It had to be something back from home. They had lives prior to arrival. Oliver did not properly know the person despite getting some insight about the other. Someone's life could not easily be discussed in a matter of minutes. There were so many things, people, it was just hard to let it all out then. Maybe Oliver's own life hadn't been the same way but he could at least understand that.]

Hey, hey, there are a lot of singers out there, you know that! So, it is simply...what it is! I may be succeeding in my field compared to the others who work under the same name as myself but when looking at the big picture there are many others who are much more renowned than me. I guess it's always like there will always be something above of you. But it doesn't matter. It's no big deal. As long as you're happy with what you do. You're a champion in something and you're good in something and I am proud of you!

[Himself on the other hand was something different. His job was not always a fun one even though it was his purpose in life. Results were not always pleasant. But it made the people who listened to him happy enough in some cases. People wanted different things.]

[A look of pure apology was sent Oliver's way when Jim noticed the boy had stopped too while Jim was lost in memories he'd rather not remember right now. But never forget - he never would forget. Instead of clarifying why he stopped, he just shrugged, smiling a bit when he heard Karen blissfully asleep in the back harness, little hitches in between her snores. Then it was forgotten for now, Oliver speaking gaining his attention.

And Jim couldn't help the smile on his face - sure, the kid had missed the actual reason for his momentary melancholy attitude; he knew that someone being better at him in Duel Monsters would never truly bring him down. Yet, it was nice, hearing what Oliver said. For starters, Jim got to hear more about his new friend which was always good, but hearing someone was proud of him - he hadn't heard that in a while.

Maybe it made him think of home. Just a bit. Maybe.]

Thanks, Oliver.

[Finding the old bounce in his steps, he chuckled to himself. It'd all be fine for now, it would all be okay. Sure, life was tough. It'd beat you down or go a different direction than what you had hoped. It'd make you wish things you'll regret later, and you'd do things you'll either praise yourself for or beat yourself down due to. It was life, and Jim knew life wasn't easy. But worrying about it? He'd learned not to do that so much, and if it was wrong not to fret, then he'd be gladly wrong.]

Position, who's better than who - it's trivial sometimes. Ah, anyway, that's great that hear you're doing well with your career - I can be proud of you for that, my friend. But wait, you're a singer with other people, like a group; is that what you meant 'by under the same name'? Or is it one of those solo groups?

[He was nowhere near as smart with musical education then he was with fossils, and unfortunately, that fact was now showing. Sure, he could pluck a string or two on a guitar if he tried hard enough, but if you asked him to name what he was playing, he'd stare at you. But still, knowing his new friend was a singer? That was a first; hopefully he'd sing for Karen or something one day. Well, that is if they stick together that long.

Oh, well. Come what may, right?]

[It was a bit difficult for him to be worrying about something outside the current situation. Or, at least, from his point of view. But Jim had gotten upset about the game even though it isn't here. Right now should have been about trying to leave this place but since 'home' was the objective maybe such thoughts were bound to come up. And maybe he simply didn't understand that sort of thing. Definitely wouldn't be the first time.

Oliver would soon sigh. 'Doing well' was a questionable term. It would probably mean that it promised a particular kind of release that would not happen. However, the industry was allowing more singers to be like him under particular functioning. Maybe that was 'doing well' for them, however. He wasn't quite sure with that technical talk of business. And there was the matter that plans changed often within that sort of work.]

There are nearly fifty of us who operate under the name that allows us to be a singer. I suppose it's like a competition. But three of us represent the same company but I guess we may be competition to each other as well.

[Not as he saw a point. All the money ended up in the same place, somehow.]

Al and Ann are the other two who sing for the same company as me. But they've been doing it longer and they're both much older than me. I think we're supposed to have another man join us, soon.

[But those are more details that he didn't understand so much and maybe he didn't need to. The new person isn't going to have the same voice type as himself and it's pointless to worry, anyway. When did things become so serious? It wasn't like he had anything to worry about.]

Cue big bro Jim time?

eyeofamiracle - 2013-03-23 04:29 (UTC) - Expand

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a welcome;

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Can I just say I love this so far? <3

awesome, 'cause I do too! .w.

Awesome~ :3

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Sorry for the delay!

I don't mind at all!

<333

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sorry my L key likes to act as the enter, sometimes

Haha, you're fine! :3

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Cue big bro Jim time?