[ — his words almost didn't reach her fully, but luckily, she breaks their gaze quick enough so this...whatever this is won't lead into some awkward situation. except, she's already feeling anxious and embarrassed over this. stupid firelight, and his goody-two shoes tactics. the blueberry haired girl huffs out a breath to help her sync back in her persona, and glares daggers at the boy before her. the "softness" still swirling in her cold stare, but it's a dim shine. ]
Yes, I found it. In the forest where your stupid little insects are. ... And you got less than five seconds to let go of me or I'm shooting that hand off.
[There it was again that familiar look stricken across her features causing Ekko's rational emotions to falter, just like that fateful night upon the bridge where he'd beaten her within an inch of her death. Remnants of the girl he once knew were still in there somewhere, trying to break free of the stranglehold Silco had instilled over her fragile mind that has been plunged into chaos. He notes the light tinge of blush over her cheeks a familiar color staining his own if only just as the boy savior holds her gaze unwaveringly.
However; Within an instant the innocent look over her features turns to a more serious expression, an open threat ushered forth causing him to blink as a small gasp escapes his parted lips. Just when he thought Jinx had finally shattered the grip of her corrupt father figure, a solemn look crosses him followed in short by a long sigh. Doing as she asks the fellow teen puts his hands in front of himself to try and ease the tension in the air between them.]
Alright...I believe you take it easy.
[He didn't want to alarm any nearby people breaking into a fight that could drag innocents into this nor did he have the means to fight back at the moment. Enough bloodshed had been spilled the last time they squared off and didn't want to make a repeat performance of that either. A brief pause as he tilts his head with intriguing curiosity at the last bit though, cautiously taking a step back as he puts forth his next question.]
You mean to tell me the Firelights are here too? But...How is that possible.
[ now that she is free from his grip, and gives the two of them space, jinx feels she can breath normally again. note to self: bash the boy savior the next time he gets that close again. because something about it felt as if her heart was ready to flutter into a heart attack. trauma, maybe? ... definitely trauma, and she'll simply chalk it up as that.
her expression twist into irritation again over his yet another question. why does she have to be the one to fill him in? jinx would rather prefer he fend for himself, and get into big trouble all on his own. but of course, not TOO big of a trouble, because it's her job to cause real damage to the bug. after all, she saw him first. anyone can have beef with him, but he is definitely off-limits when it comes to snatches off his wings. the girl scoffs again, and waves her hand up in the air. ]
Beats me. Santa, I guess? Apparently, he's some kind of fat guy that brings stuff from home if you wish hard enough or...I dunno, be good or something. There's a lot of Runeterra crap stranded here.
Your bugs, blast cones, some honey fruits, I've shot some Raptors, those funny Razorfins, and I've found some Topsider fancy schmancy jewelry at the docks once. That's about all I've seen in this joint. But I haven't explored all of this world, so who knows!!
[Just when he thought they might be making some headway on the underlying issues that had been ingrained into her psyche, Jinx’s facade returned to the problematic girl he knew her to be now. If only he'd gotten to her before Silco sunk his claws into her first, joining up with the Firelights to fight against the injustice plaguing the Lanes. What a pair they could have made; Unified together as one instead of the enemies they had unfortunately become.
Her response garners a confused look with a tilt of his head. Who the hell was this Santa guy she was talking about and what did he have to do with bringing things from Runeterra to this world? Maybe this was just another one of her odd rationalities about things that he would never truly understand. In any case Ekko cannot help but shake his head a bit with a small shrug of his shoulders in rebuttal.]
If you ask me he sounds too good to be true but maybe I'll make a wish to see if it really happens and I'll be the judge.
[Something actually substantial like peace between Zaun and Piltover but that might be described as more a miracle than wish at this point given the fragile state of affairs between them. He didn't really have any other questions about that but was curious to know some things about her instead now.]
So...How long exactly have you been stuck here, Jinx?
[ again, quick and casual, as if her presence of being here is of no bother to her. and quite frankly, that is pretty much the truth. aldrip, in her eyes, is a thousand times better than zaun and piltover combined.
does she miss her people? of course, but what she doesn't miss are the rats sneaking away with their food if not careful, or dealing with leaky pipes that might burst in their beds while sleeping. ]
Had a birthday here too! You're looking at Jinx, the eighteen-year-old!!
[ she was an adult anyway, but now she is super grown up and with the old fuddy duddy club now. ]
Vi's been here a little longer, but eh, almost exactly at the same time.
[Instantaneously Ekko was taken aback upon revealing to him that she had been here for more than a year's time, though the final sentiment made his eyes open wide in bewilderment even more so. Not only was Jinx here but Vi as well? Was this place systematically taking them each from their home world for some nefarious means? Just what was their purpose for bringing all of them here he wondered, unfortunately his counterpart standing before him would not have any of these answers. Despite all their differences their enemy was one in the same in this given situation.
Thoughts drift to back home in Runeterra worrying about everyone who'd been left behind in his wake here in this strange new world. Who knows what could possibly happen now between Piltover and Zaun given the fragile state of affairs due to the girl staring him in the face's recent actions. Without any of them back home to stop the ensuing chaos there could be all out war that raged on for years to come filled with horror and death on an enormous scale.]
A year...Who knows what could happen back home in that span of time.
[That left them with no one from Zaun to oppose Silco's leadership who would now ultimately bring destruction and mayhem to the Lanes all in the name of 'freedom'. Gritting his teeth in disdain as a hand curls tightly into a fist in anger, Ekko struggles to keep his cool as he tries to think rationally.]
And you say Vi is here too?
[Perhaps she could help him make sense of things here and was willing to assist in his endeavor to try to find a way home as quickly as possible. For someone had to put an end to Silco's vicelike grip on their people.]
Where can I find her.
[The last bit coming off more as a command than question.]
[ something about him demanding for her big sister's whereabouts irked her the wrong way. is she not be cooperative or supplying the correct answers enough for the all great hero? whatever. jinx rolls her eyes as she scoffs, swinging her/his board around to her front, then begins to tamper with its build. ]
I dunno, probably with the Enforcer somewhere? She does have her on a leash, so find Hat Lady and you'll find Fat Hands.
[ unlatching a hidden compartment from underneath his/her board, a familiar blue shine glistens vibrantly as she carefully pokes the marble with her fingernail. ]
Okay, still in one tact.
[ she says this more to herself than him as she closes the hidden door again. good thing the stone didn't explode or shatter during the crash. the very last thing she needs is another punishment coming from jerry. she's... already been sentenced once by him, and she can't afford another. ]
[Hat lady? She must have meant Caitlyn which was surprising to hear the Piltie Enforcer was here as well. It seems as though they were being plucked from their home one by one to this new world until they were all back together again. Whatever the case may be he just didn't want to hear about him being here of all people which would cause a far more explosive reaction by comparison to running into herself. They had a storied history together and was trying to overlook her most recent atrocities even though he could only forgive so much for her discretions if only to hold the uneasy peace they shared right now. However; When it came to Silco the boy savior would hold no quarter, for the man had been nothing but a stain against Zaun as a whole and wished nothing more than to be rid of him.
Ekko stays quiet until Jinx pulls his hoverboard from her back again to begin tinkering with it, visibly grimacing at the sight just wanting to snatch it out of her clutches right then and there. Holding himself back with pensive restrain his eyes watch cautiously as she opens a hidden hatch upon the bottom of the board, an audible gasp escaping when he notes the Hexgem he thought lost after their battle upon the bridge.]
Wait- How did you get that?
[A sudden realization quickly washing over him; Jinx must have found it in the confused aftermath of her bombing unto the Enforcers whilst he and Caitlyn were caught in the crossfire before their own 'bout.]
So you had it this whole time and that is what you are doing with it now? That thing could explode or some shit if you crash like that and kill even more people!
[Which brings him to another pressing question which immediately crossed his mind, gaze unwaveringly holding her own with a concerned look stricken over his features.]
What do you even plan to do with that thing back home anyways, Jinx!?
[ normally, jinx would tell him his little hypothetical scenario of the gem exploding and killing others had already been prophesied, but the incident between rumpitur and ketsora needs to stay quiet until.... possibly forever.
her partner, ragna, is taking the fall for that, and the plan has to stay intact, or a riot might form. especially if they learn what caused it in the first place. despite the girl being here for a year and knows her fellow neighbors well enough, it doesn't mean necessarily they won't turn on her and hunt for the stone. maybe they will care, maybe they won't, but she isn't going to risk that chance.
propping the board down by her feet again, she flicks her attention back to the boy before her; her smile mix with a hotshot yet puckish flare. ]
I was planning to do whatever with it. Blow up a tree, make a hole in the ground, make pretty fireworks by throwing it at innocent people, 'cause I love it when they scream and beg. The typical girl things, you wouldn't get it.
[ she steps onto his/her hoverboard as it sputters to power up (it needs maintenance pretty bad), and she balances herself carefully by extending out both of her arms.]
Okay, so! — I got to keep going. I'll shoot you later when my schedule isn't soooooo booked!! I'd cancel, but I really promised the gang we'd rob some old fart's furniture shop.
Guess not. Maybe I'm just used to spending my time more productively trying to help people instead. You should try it sometime.
[That kind of response doesn't do Jinx any favors causing him to sigh in frustration with a purse of his lips questioningly. He knew she'd gone off the deep end after aligning herself with Silco but thought maybe just maybe things might have changed with their newfound scenery. Perhaps he was hoping for too much since he wished deep down she and him could have remained friends given his fondness for her in their youth. Unfortunately things change and not all dreams come true, knowing that all too well first hand after meeting disappointment on multiple occasions himself.
Shaking his head solemnly Ekko watches as his counterpart struggles to mount his hoverboard giving a cock of his brow, quickly noting how it seemed to struggle to even start on top of getting her balance. It pained him to see one of his most prized possessions being treated with such disregard for its well being.]
Sounds like 'your' ride needs a tune up. Should probably get someone to take a look at it soon before it blows up in your face and makes that hole in the ground you were hoping for with you in it.
[A brief pause as his expression changes to a bit of concern maybe or maybe not for her exactly since his next sentiment could be taken either way.]
Just be careful with that thing and don't completely break it.
[ jinx mistakes his concern for his attachment over the board, which somehow strikes an idea in her head. while she hates to admit the boy savior being right about anything, he did make one good point.
the hoverboard is in grave danger of being a complete useless mess if she doesn't do something about it, and what will she do then if she can't reach high places? jinx should have tinkered with the thing so many months ago, but life happens, and her scattered brain often leads her to so many projects that she forgets about the others. as the board dies down, jinx spins around to her counterpart — her pinks glisten wildly and smiling from ear to ear. ]
[He anticipates Jinx to just flip him the bird and jet off on his board after giving her the business but was pleasantly surprised when she turns to face him again. Tilting his head with a curious look Ekko takes a cautious step forward with his arms crossed filled with intrigue at the unexpected opportunity.]
What kind of deal we talking about?
[Was she willing to give it back to him if he somehow was able to make another one here or something equivalent in nature? That would take a bit of time but with the right tools and materials at his disposal it could certainly be done. As far as he was concerned this place was just as technologically advanced if not more so than Zaun especially given his limited amount of resources in the Undercity. Or maybe she just wanted to use his expertise and then screw him over entirely you never know with her.]
Wwwwweeeelllll, if you're going to survive here, Bug, you're going to need a place to stay and moolah.
[ she props her hands on her hips, full of cocky confidence and sheer delight. ] — The Inn is free, but I think after a bit, they want you to pay. And as much as I would enjoy watching you sweat and squirm, I wanna be the cause of it. Not this place.
So here's the deal, Ekki! I'll pay you coins if you fix this board for me. And I'll even be nice of enough to give you a little info where you can find scrap around here.
[At first he thought Jinx was about to offer him a place to live which probably would not have boded well given their differences but was quickly followed up the real offer at large. So she wanted Ekko to fix his hoverboard and in exchange she would not only pay him but tell him where to find the materials necessary to make a new one? It wasn't the worst case scenario perhaps but that didn't mean he necessarily agreed to the terms either. Contemplating his options the leader of the Firelights saw no way to get back what rightfully belonged to him given how unfamiliar he was to this place and was alone by comparison to herself with some sort of gang backing her as well. Seeing no other choice in the matter, he decides to agree to fixing the board but had his own set of counter conditions to even the playing field.]
And how do I know I can even trust you after everything we've been through, huh? We haven't exactly seen eye to eye for a long time.
[Especially after she had almost killed him with that grenade of hers back home none too recently. Taking another step closer to leave not but a few feet between them Ekko's gaze holds her own pensively as he puts forth his own proposal in turn.]
I don't want your money. But...If you get me the parts I need to make my own board along with the ones to fix yours we have a deal. That's my offer take it or leave it.
[The fact he was even willingly to work with her on such an endeavor in the first place was saying something so if she wanted this project to pan out it was the only way this would be remotely an even trade in his eyes. She'd already stolen what was his so the least she could do was help him to remake that which was taken.]
[ just to have him size her up with that look in his eye is enough to send goosebumps trailing through her pale skin. when was the last time someone negotiated with her like this? normally, she would offer something and people either blindly agree or reluctantly agree to her demands. but just as expected from the leader of the firelight to fight back or adjust things to make things fair and square. ]
Because we're Zaunites, remember? And we always keep our word when it comes to trades. People who don't, usually get what's coming to them. It's the Zaun way.
[ biting her lower lip out of sheer habit, jinx wiggles an eyebrow his way before elaborating further: ]
Besssiiiiides, the Council is our common enemy. [ realizing quickly what she just said, she correct herself: ] — Oh, not the Council from home. There's another here. And the one who's ruling this joint and got us stuck here. But I'll take the offer, Sport! Wanna spit on our hands and shake on it?
[She wasn't wrong about that; Zaunites weren't necessarily known to screw over their own when it came to trade dealings with one another and if they did they usually found themselves at the wrong end of someone's blade if they didn't keep their end of the bargain. Vander had instilled that unspoken rule throughout the Lanes during his tenure and made sure it was adhered to with an iron grip which was commendable. Ekko wasn't exactly expecting Jinx to agree to his terms but was pleasantly surprised, blinking wide a bit in mild disbelief before ushering forth a firm nod of his head in return.]
That's probably the most believable thing you've said in awhile. Save your spit...You got a deal then.
[Teasing her a bit as a flash of an amused grin graces the tip of his lips, cocky attitude shining through as per the norm. The unprovoked information garnered about this 'Council' causes the boy savior's brows to furrow puzzlingly, curiosity getting the best of him now given how much he'd been wondering about just who was to blame for bringing him here in the first place.]
'The Council'...What a coincidence. So they're the ones held responsible for everything that goes on around here?
[Vision narrowing as a look of pure determination washed over his features next. He had some questions for these punks who thought they could just pluck him from their home and bring him here to use as their play things. Ekko didn't have time for their foolish games when shit was hitting the fan between Zaun and Piltover.]
I'd sure like to meet them. Where exactly is this Council holed up, Jinx.
[ woohoo, they have a deal! but just because the deal's been made doesn't mean she'll fork over the board just yet. she needs to make sure the boy savior actually sticks around in aldrip for a little while longer first.
newbies do tend to disappear as quickly as they appear for whatever reason or another. it's like the council are going through a list of people to see who would fit perfectly in this whacko world/simulation they're in. when her other half asks for the whereabouts of the committee, she giggle-snorts like an obnoxious pig and grins ear to ear. ]
Has anyone told you, you look so adorable when you're an idiot? I could just pinch and scratch those stupid cheeks of yours.
If I knew where they were, cog for brains, don't you think I would have taken care of them by now? Yyyyessh, talk about air between the ears.
[Ekko hardly expected her to give him the board right then and there, in fact he thought she might keep that one for herself given the modifications made not to mention her particular choice of branding with her name plastered atop it now. Making his own would give him something to bide his time with over the course of his stay here, a wanton distraction to stop him from worrying so much about the people back home who needed him. There was nothing he could do now but try and find a way to meet with this Council and speak with them personally, perhaps reasoning with them to see the error of their ways and send him back to Runeterra where he belonged.
Until that time he would just have to deal with Jinx's foolhardy attitude, causing the boy savior to roll his eyes with a cross of his arms as he shifts the weight onto his left leg staring at her judgmentally.]
I'm good. Besides, I think you've already handed me enough scrapes and broken bones for one life time recently.
[It was a miracle they both had survive her little stunt on the bridge after he'd nearly beaten her to death, arming that grenade that would render him immobile. Who knows what happened to her but it seems she at least survived the blast as well, though he could not be certain given he'd not yet seen anyone after the encounter there for that matter. He was just lucky that Heimerdinger of all people or should he say Yordles came to his aid in such a dire time of need.]
So no one knows how to find them? Guess that's where I come in.
[His usual cocky attitude shining through as he looks to take on the job himself and succeed where others have failed. After all Ekko was used to trying to overcome unparalleled adversity with his noble goals back home as well.]
Edited 2024-06-20 01:26 (UTC)
cw: i dont know what this is, possessive behavior i think????????
[ she blows raspberries over his confidence, and is doing all that she can to not bark out in laughter like a hyena. jinx could very easily crush ekko's dreams of succeeding him that task, but at the same time, it would be entertaining to watch him work so tirelessly to the point of exhaustion.
and maybe then she can pounce down and nip at his wings and antenna in one big peck. it'd be not only an easy win for her, but it'd be amusing to observe how he does things — especially without his swarm to back him up. with a droll hum in her throat, the girl marches forward with her pinks shining eagerly to his browns. ]
Hm, yeah, you go do that. But remember, Boy Savior...
[ once she enters his personal bubble, she stands on her toes and grabs on his face in a tight clasp. her pointed fingernails poke at his honey-coated skin as she draws him close enough so their noses bump together. ]
... If you get really hurt out here, I won't be too happy. Only I get to leave marks on you. Okay? — I saw you first, so I get to keep you.
[That mocking burst of laughter causes Ekko to grit his teeth in mild frustration as she toys with him like this, watching on intently as Jinx moves to close the gap between the pair of them. A tilt of his head curiously is ushered forth but before he could say anything in rebuttal he finds the girl invading his personal space pressing her face against his own. A bewildered look of shock crosses his face standing motionlessly in place as both confusion and unease courses through him, a faint shade of red filling over his cheeks in embarrassment at the close proximity unable to pry himself immediately away from her intense grasp completely stun locked.
Clearing his throat after a minute or two of silence, the boy bites the inside of his cheek to suppress a breathy gasp before he finally snaps out of it. The jolt of consternation quickly being replaced by one of amusement, a wry grin followed in short by a yank of his head back from the others hold on him finally.]
A little obsessive don't you think, Jinx?
[Taking a few steps back as he collects himself after the odd sensation that settled over his figure, crossing arms over his chest to put a guard up around himself sighing solemnly.]
Just make sure you keep your end of the bargain and get the materials I'll need to fix the board along with creating a new one. Got it?
[A beat as he points a finger towards the board she claimed as her own now.]
I'll need to take a look at it soon enough to see what exactly is wrong. Until then...Try not to wreck it any further.
Edited (fixed some grammatical things that bugged me looking back) 2024-06-22 23:07 (UTC)
[ and to show her immaturity beyond just her statement, she sticks out her tongue and pulls down her lower eyelid in a kid-like taunt. but now, with her enemy backing away, she readjusts the board on her shoulders and spins her back to him — waving nonchalantly while he's still in mid-speaking.
how rude, but jinx doesn't need to hear his whole speech about responsibility, holding her part, and to be careful. in fact, she is strolling off instead of hopping back on the board. it shows how much she's listening!! ]
Yeahyeahyeah, blah, blah, blah. I got it, I got it! Listen, I'll call or write to you later when my schedule's all cleared.
[ and what does she mean about calling and writing him? that, he will have to figure out later by someone else (possibly from levi about cellphones!). but before she is entirely out of earshot, she yells out: ]
By the way, Happy late Birthday...!! — Don't let being nineteen get to your head!
[A confused glare initially strikes over his features at the mentioning of calling or writing to him when she was ready, but just how exactly did she mean to reach him? Was there some sort of tube system like in Zaun where they could communicate with one another? No one had really explained to him the nature of the tablets and their capabilities yet so he was at a loss.]
Yeah sure you just give me a 'call' whenever you're done getting into trouble...Which is likely never.
[Some things never change, still that mocking girl he grew fond of all those years ago teasing him without remorse, Ekko rolling his eyes as an exasperated sigh leaves his parted lips. Shaking his head idly to himself when Jinx turns on the heel of her boot to depart he thought she would leave things at that with her last taunt but was caught off guard at the sentimental send off. After all this time she had remembered something so trivial in the grand scheme of things such as his birthday? But how? It had been over half a decade or so since they last celebrated their time of births and thought she would have forgotten by now all things considered that have changed between them. Sure he remembered hers as well but he was just a tad more adjusted by comparison but maybe deep down she really did still care for him if only just a little.]
Can't believe she actually remembers that...Powder.
[Muttering the words quietly under his breath using her real name instead of the self appointed one she had taken up in the wake of Vander's demise on top of everything else that happened on that fateful night she had been abducted by the tyrant 'father' that now ruled over Zaun unjustly. Brows furrowed in anguish as he watched her walk away from him rather than jetting off on the hoverboard. At least it seemed like she was taking his heed of caution seriously, all in all Ekko thankful for that much.
He didn't try to stop her this time around as their business had been concluded, but he definitely felt as though Jinx was not the same person he'd last met back home. She still held that patented over eccentric attitude the majority of the time but there were glimpses of that reasonable little girl he'd known all those years ago. Here's hoping she can be trusted after all and doesn't leave him in the dust, laughing at his misfortunes whilst she gallivanted on blissfully.]
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expiationlogs2024-06-10 07:58 am
2/2
Yes, I found it. In the forest where your stupid little insects are. ... And you got less than five seconds to let go of me or I'm shooting that hand off.
no subject
However; Within an instant the innocent look over her features turns to a more serious expression, an open threat ushered forth causing him to blink as a small gasp escapes his parted lips. Just when he thought Jinx had finally shattered the grip of her corrupt father figure, a solemn look crosses him followed in short by a long sigh. Doing as she asks the fellow teen puts his hands in front of himself to try and ease the tension in the air between them.]
Alright...I believe you take it easy.
[He didn't want to alarm any nearby people breaking into a fight that could drag innocents into this nor did he have the means to fight back at the moment. Enough bloodshed had been spilled the last time they squared off and didn't want to make a repeat performance of that either. A brief pause as he tilts his head with intriguing curiosity at the last bit though, cautiously taking a step back as he puts forth his next question.]
You mean to tell me the Firelights are here too? But...How is that possible.
no subject
her expression twist into irritation again over his yet another question. why does she have to be the one to fill him in? jinx would rather prefer he fend for himself, and get into big trouble all on his own. but of course, not TOO big of a trouble, because it's her job to cause real damage to the bug. after all, she saw him first. anyone can have beef with him, but he is definitely off-limits when it comes to snatches off his wings. the girl scoffs again, and waves her hand up in the air. ]
Beats me. Santa, I guess? Apparently, he's some kind of fat guy that brings stuff from home if you wish hard enough or...I dunno, be good or something. There's a lot of Runeterra crap stranded here.
Your bugs, blast cones, some honey fruits, I've shot some Raptors, those funny Razorfins, and I've found some Topsider fancy schmancy jewelry at the docks once. That's about all I've seen in this joint. But I haven't explored all of this world, so who knows!!
no subject
Her response garners a confused look with a tilt of his head. Who the hell was this Santa guy she was talking about and what did he have to do with bringing things from Runeterra to this world? Maybe this was just another one of her odd rationalities about things that he would never truly understand. In any case Ekko cannot help but shake his head a bit with a small shrug of his shoulders in rebuttal.]
If you ask me he sounds too good to be true but maybe I'll make a wish to see if it really happens and I'll be the judge.
[Something actually substantial like peace between Zaun and Piltover but that might be described as more a miracle than wish at this point given the fragile state of affairs between them. He didn't really have any other questions about that but was curious to know some things about her instead now.]
So...How long exactly have you been stuck here, Jinx?
no subject
[ again, quick and casual, as if her presence of being here is of no bother to her. and quite frankly, that is pretty much the truth. aldrip, in her eyes, is a thousand times better than zaun and piltover combined.
does she miss her people? of course, but what she doesn't miss are the rats sneaking away with their food if not careful, or dealing with leaky pipes that might burst in their beds while sleeping. ]
Had a birthday here too! You're looking at Jinx, the eighteen-year-old!!
[ she was an adult anyway, but now she is super grown up and with the old fuddy duddy club now. ]
Vi's been here a little longer, but eh, almost exactly at the same time.
no subject
Thoughts drift to back home in Runeterra worrying about everyone who'd been left behind in his wake here in this strange new world. Who knows what could possibly happen now between Piltover and Zaun given the fragile state of affairs due to the girl staring him in the face's recent actions. Without any of them back home to stop the ensuing chaos there could be all out war that raged on for years to come filled with horror and death on an enormous scale.]
A year...Who knows what could happen back home in that span of time.
[That left them with no one from Zaun to oppose Silco's leadership who would now ultimately bring destruction and mayhem to the Lanes all in the name of 'freedom'. Gritting his teeth in disdain as a hand curls tightly into a fist in anger, Ekko struggles to keep his cool as he tries to think rationally.]
And you say Vi is here too?
[Perhaps she could help him make sense of things here and was willing to assist in his endeavor to try to find a way home as quickly as possible. For someone had to put an end to Silco's vicelike grip on their people.]
Where can I find her.
[The last bit coming off more as a command than question.]
no subject
I dunno, probably with the Enforcer somewhere? She does have her on a leash, so find Hat Lady and you'll find Fat Hands.
[ unlatching a hidden compartment from underneath his/her board, a familiar blue shine glistens vibrantly as she carefully pokes the marble with her fingernail. ]
Okay, still in one tact.
[ she says this more to herself than him as she closes the hidden door again. good thing the stone didn't explode or shatter during the crash. the very last thing she needs is another punishment coming from jerry. she's... already been sentenced once by him, and she can't afford another. ]
no subject
Ekko stays quiet until Jinx pulls his hoverboard from her back again to begin tinkering with it, visibly grimacing at the sight just wanting to snatch it out of her clutches right then and there. Holding himself back with pensive restrain his eyes watch cautiously as she opens a hidden hatch upon the bottom of the board, an audible gasp escaping when he notes the Hexgem he thought lost after their battle upon the bridge.]
Wait- How did you get that?
[A sudden realization quickly washing over him; Jinx must have found it in the confused aftermath of her bombing unto the Enforcers whilst he and Caitlyn were caught in the crossfire before their own 'bout.]
So you had it this whole time and that is what you are doing with it now? That thing could explode or some shit if you crash like that and kill even more people!
[Which brings him to another pressing question which immediately crossed his mind, gaze unwaveringly holding her own with a concerned look stricken over his features.]
What do you even plan to do with that thing back home anyways, Jinx!?
OMG english im sorry.
her partner, ragna, is taking the fall for that, and the plan has to stay intact, or a riot might form. especially if they learn what caused it in the first place. despite the girl being here for a year and knows her fellow neighbors well enough, it doesn't mean necessarily they won't turn on her and hunt for the stone. maybe they will care, maybe they won't, but she isn't going to risk that chance.
propping the board down by her feet again, she flicks her attention back to the boy before her; her smile mix with a hotshot yet puckish flare. ]
I was planning to do whatever with it. Blow up a tree, make a hole in the ground, make pretty fireworks by throwing it at innocent people, 'cause I love it when they scream and beg. The typical girl things, you wouldn't get it.
[ she steps onto his/her hoverboard as it sputters to power up (it needs maintenance pretty bad), and she balances herself carefully by extending out both of her arms.]
Okay, so! — I got to keep going. I'll shoot you later when my schedule isn't soooooo booked!! I'd cancel, but I really promised the gang we'd rob some old fart's furniture shop.
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[That kind of response doesn't do Jinx any favors causing him to sigh in frustration with a purse of his lips questioningly. He knew she'd gone off the deep end after aligning herself with Silco but thought maybe just maybe things might have changed with their newfound scenery. Perhaps he was hoping for too much since he wished deep down she and him could have remained friends given his fondness for her in their youth. Unfortunately things change and not all dreams come true, knowing that all too well first hand after meeting disappointment on multiple occasions himself.
Shaking his head solemnly Ekko watches as his counterpart struggles to mount his hoverboard giving a cock of his brow, quickly noting how it seemed to struggle to even start on top of getting her balance. It pained him to see one of his most prized possessions being treated with such disregard for its well being.]
Sounds like 'your' ride needs a tune up. Should probably get someone to take a look at it soon before it blows up in your face and makes that hole in the ground you were hoping for with you in it.
[A brief pause as his expression changes to a bit of concern maybe or maybe not for her exactly since his next sentiment could be taken either way.]
Just be careful with that thing and don't completely break it.
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the hoverboard is in grave danger of being a complete useless mess if she doesn't do something about it, and what will she do then if she can't reach high places? jinx should have tinkered with the thing so many months ago, but life happens, and her scattered brain often leads her to so many projects that she forgets about the others. as the board dies down, jinx spins around to her counterpart — her pinks glisten wildly and smiling from ear to ear. ]
Wanna make a deal?
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What kind of deal we talking about?
[Was she willing to give it back to him if he somehow was able to make another one here or something equivalent in nature? That would take a bit of time but with the right tools and materials at his disposal it could certainly be done. As far as he was concerned this place was just as technologically advanced if not more so than Zaun especially given his limited amount of resources in the Undercity. Or maybe she just wanted to use his expertise and then screw him over entirely you never know with her.]
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[ she props her hands on her hips, full of cocky confidence and sheer delight. ] — The Inn is free, but I think after a bit, they want you to pay. And as much as I would enjoy watching you sweat and squirm, I wanna be the cause of it. Not this place.
So here's the deal, Ekki! I'll pay you coins if you fix this board for me. And I'll even be nice of enough to give you a little info where you can find scrap around here.
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And how do I know I can even trust you after everything we've been through, huh? We haven't exactly seen eye to eye for a long time.
[Especially after she had almost killed him with that grenade of hers back home none too recently. Taking another step closer to leave not but a few feet between them Ekko's gaze holds her own pensively as he puts forth his own proposal in turn.]
I don't want your money. But...If you get me the parts I need to make my own board along with the ones to fix yours we have a deal. That's my offer take it or leave it.
[The fact he was even willingly to work with her on such an endeavor in the first place was saying something so if she wanted this project to pan out it was the only way this would be remotely an even trade in his eyes. She'd already stolen what was his so the least she could do was help him to remake that which was taken.]
cw: jinx is being weird
Because we're Zaunites, remember? And we always keep our word when it comes to trades. People who don't, usually get what's coming to them. It's the Zaun way.
[ biting her lower lip out of sheer habit, jinx wiggles an eyebrow his way before elaborating further: ]
Besssiiiiides, the Council is our common enemy. [ realizing quickly what she just said, she correct herself: ] — Oh, not the Council from home. There's another here. And the one who's ruling this joint and got us stuck here. But I'll take the offer, Sport! Wanna spit on our hands and shake on it?
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That's probably the most believable thing you've said in awhile. Save your spit...You got a deal then.
[Teasing her a bit as a flash of an amused grin graces the tip of his lips, cocky attitude shining through as per the norm. The unprovoked information garnered about this 'Council' causes the boy savior's brows to furrow puzzlingly, curiosity getting the best of him now given how much he'd been wondering about just who was to blame for bringing him here in the first place.]
'The Council'...What a coincidence. So they're the ones held responsible for everything that goes on around here?
[Vision narrowing as a look of pure determination washed over his features next. He had some questions for these punks who thought they could just pluck him from their home and bring him here to use as their play things. Ekko didn't have time for their foolish games when shit was hitting the fan between Zaun and Piltover.]
I'd sure like to meet them. Where exactly is this Council holed up, Jinx.
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newbies do tend to disappear as quickly as they appear for whatever reason or another. it's like the council are going through a list of people to see who would fit perfectly in this whacko world/simulation they're in. when her other half asks for the whereabouts of the committee, she giggle-snorts like an obnoxious pig and grins ear to ear. ]
Has anyone told you, you look so adorable when you're an idiot? I could just pinch and scratch those stupid cheeks of yours.
If I knew where they were, cog for brains, don't you think I would have taken care of them by now? Yyyyessh, talk about air between the ears.
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Until that time he would just have to deal with Jinx's foolhardy attitude, causing the boy savior to roll his eyes with a cross of his arms as he shifts the weight onto his left leg staring at her judgmentally.]
I'm good. Besides, I think you've already handed me enough scrapes and broken bones for one life time recently.
[It was a miracle they both had survive her little stunt on the bridge after he'd nearly beaten her to death, arming that grenade that would render him immobile. Who knows what happened to her but it seems she at least survived the blast as well, though he could not be certain given he'd not yet seen anyone after the encounter there for that matter. He was just lucky that Heimerdinger of all people or should he say Yordles came to his aid in such a dire time of need.]
So no one knows how to find them? Guess that's where I come in.
[His usual cocky attitude shining through as he looks to take on the job himself and succeed where others have failed. After all Ekko was used to trying to overcome unparalleled adversity with his noble goals back home as well.]
cw: i dont know what this is, possessive behavior i think????????
and maybe then she can pounce down and nip at his wings and antenna in one big peck. it'd be not only an easy win for her, but it'd be amusing to observe how he does things — especially without his swarm to back him up. with a droll hum in her throat, the girl marches forward with her pinks shining eagerly to his browns. ]
Hm, yeah, you go do that. But remember, Boy Savior...
[ once she enters his personal bubble, she stands on her toes and grabs on his face in a tight clasp. her pointed fingernails poke at his honey-coated skin as she draws him close enough so their noses bump together. ]
... If you get really hurt out here, I won't be too happy. Only I get to leave marks on you. Okay? — I saw you first, so I get to keep you.
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Clearing his throat after a minute or two of silence, the boy bites the inside of his cheek to suppress a breathy gasp before he finally snaps out of it. The jolt of consternation quickly being replaced by one of amusement, a wry grin followed in short by a yank of his head back from the others hold on him finally.]
A little obsessive don't you think, Jinx?
[Taking a few steps back as he collects himself after the odd sensation that settled over his figure, crossing arms over his chest to put a guard up around himself sighing solemnly.]
Just make sure you keep your end of the bargain and get the materials I'll need to fix the board along with creating a new one. Got it?
[A beat as he points a finger towards the board she claimed as her own now.]
I'll need to take a look at it soon enough to see what exactly is wrong. Until then...Try not to wreck it any further.
wrapping up!!
[ and to show her immaturity beyond just her statement, she sticks out her tongue and pulls down her lower eyelid in a kid-like taunt. but now, with her enemy backing away, she readjusts the board on her shoulders and spins her back to him — waving nonchalantly while he's still in mid-speaking.
how rude, but jinx doesn't need to hear his whole speech about responsibility, holding her part, and to be careful. in fact, she is strolling off instead of hopping back on the board. it shows how much she's listening!! ]
Yeahyeahyeah, blah, blah, blah. I got it, I got it! Listen, I'll call or write to you later when my schedule's all cleared.
[ and what does she mean about calling and writing him? that, he will have to figure out later by someone else (possibly from levi about cellphones!). but before she is entirely out of earshot, she yells out: ]
By the way, Happy late Birthday...!! — Don't let being nineteen get to your head!
🎀
Yeah sure you just give me a 'call' whenever you're done getting into trouble...Which is likely never.
[Some things never change, still that mocking girl he grew fond of all those years ago teasing him without remorse, Ekko rolling his eyes as an exasperated sigh leaves his parted lips. Shaking his head idly to himself when Jinx turns on the heel of her boot to depart he thought she would leave things at that with her last taunt but was caught off guard at the sentimental send off. After all this time she had remembered something so trivial in the grand scheme of things such as his birthday? But how? It had been over half a decade or so since they last celebrated their time of births and thought she would have forgotten by now all things considered that have changed between them. Sure he remembered hers as well but he was just a tad more adjusted by comparison but maybe deep down she really did still care for him if only just a little.]
Can't believe she actually remembers that...Powder.
[Muttering the words quietly under his breath using her real name instead of the self appointed one she had taken up in the wake of Vander's demise on top of everything else that happened on that fateful night she had been abducted by the tyrant 'father' that now ruled over Zaun unjustly. Brows furrowed in anguish as he watched her walk away from him rather than jetting off on the hoverboard. At least it seemed like she was taking his heed of caution seriously, all in all Ekko thankful for that much.
He didn't try to stop her this time around as their business had been concluded, but he definitely felt as though Jinx was not the same person he'd last met back home. She still held that patented over eccentric attitude the majority of the time but there were glimpses of that reasonable little girl he'd known all those years ago. Here's hoping she can be trusted after all and doesn't leave him in the dust, laughing at his misfortunes whilst she gallivanted on blissfully.]