[ her muscles relax as he speaks, and her emeralds holds to his blues so he could continue to keep focus and his breathing. despite how things ended with them and her decision, rogue is not the kind to leave anyone who needs her — especially magneto. she still cares deeply about the man, after all, and witnessing him sacrificing himself pained her just as much as remy's. the woman shakes her head, a wordless response that no, not everyone died that night. people did live through the genocide, even though... those were in small numbers. ]
A fancy paradise called Aldrip. But I declare the spit and shine of this place is all smoke and mirrors.
[ cautiously, she removes one of her gloves and extends out her hand to him — giving him the choice whether he is ready for any physical contact or not. ]
Lemme help ya up, Sugah. I ain't got the full land of the world, but I know where we can simmer down and sit for a spell.
Yes, that is what they told me. [ Whoever "they" really were. Whatever they wanted. Who were they to hold him accountable for crimes he had been forgiven for in his world? For a crime of failure to protect an entire nation of his people which they had not experienced? Suddenly, the bile of bitterness left acid in his throat, but he kept it down. His briefly furrowed brows loosened as his gaze returned to hers. Such a warm, grounding emerald they were, and in no way serving as an uninvited reflection of his own.
He took her hand, not because he needed it, but because it didn't hurt to have someone trusted steady you, and mostly, because he found touch to be centering, and the most comforting sense of all. Once he was standing poised as usual, he did not voluntarily let go. His instincts began to return, which included the desire to make sure she was well.
Taking care of his own well-being was more survival than a priority. Having someone else to focus on helped. Having anything he knew to feel protective towards rather than blindly paranoid was much needed. ] I will follow wherever you lead. Please, do not let me stop you from whatever frivolous revelry the rest seem so entertained by. I do not wish to hold you back, or prevent you from enjoying yourself.
[ the tingling spark once they made contact sends a familiar chill down her spine, but she does her best to not show the sensation of it overwhelming her. some other time, not now. except there is a small sigh escaping her lips, and holds onto his hand a bit longer before finally letting go.
his suggestion, however, she hums a chuckle in her throat, as if she can even think about dancing or partying at a time like this. again, rogue shakes her head and flashes him a reassuring smile. ]
I ain't in the mood for doin' any hoedown. And I'm not dressed for it, either.
[ her gaze shifts over to the locals, gesturing to some who are dolled up in some way with fine wear and make-up. rogue takes flight with ease, but by an inch or two. ]
Can ya fly or ya wanna hoof it?
[ she is fine with either option, to her, it's whatever is easiest for his body and mind. ]
[ The spark, he feels it too, but he will not mention or pursue it without her go-ahead. She had made her decision clear - even if Remy isn't here, he is respectful, if nothing else. Should that change, even under temporary circumstance, as it were, he meant it when he said he would always engage her requests. Being overly attached and romantically committed to someone was not something he felt there was room for in his life or psyche anyways. Maybe that was part of what made her so alluring in the first place, something they had in common, for perhaps differing reasons. But now was not the time to ponder that.
He manages his own smile, not quote a grimace, as if to say 'I am ok, thank you'. Her response comforts him, not for reasons of any personal agenda, but because he does truly need to spend time around someone he knows and trusts, and if he isn't currently a burden, it makes this much easier. He would be lying if he said her method of prioritizing things did not appeal to him. She seemed to be a balance between his ever vigilant, practical world, and the one that wasn't afraid to find the joy in life and engage in good times when they could that came so easily to many of their kind - a lifestyle that eluded him entirely.
His chin lifted at her question, not because it challenged him, but because fortunately, his powers remained intact here, and that was one of few things he was certain of. ] I can fly, my dear. Walking is for humans.
[ He levitates as much as she had to demonstrate, and beckons onward in no particular direction with theatrical motion of encouragement. ] Shall we?
[ she grins over his remark, happy to see he is coming around from his trauma moments prior. and luckily for them too, the fireworks have ceased, and they can take flight without getting sparked up by accident. rogue takes the lead, her speed not going too hastily so erik can soak in their circumstances more clearly now it's just him, her, and the sky.
down below, he will be able to see the strange layout of aldrip, how one way things look similar to their time — modernized and not quite like new york, but the shops and apartment buildings are constructed like any other city in america. but then as they push further on, the format changes, and it's like they entered some sort of medieval town that are often described in history books. it's pretty jarring from one style to the next, especially the clothing of the citizens who are mixed in between. ]
[ in time, she dives, and lands gracefully on the concrete in front of tavern inn. the noise is drastically different from the other side of town, it's still and tranquil, even with the people entering and leaving the tavern with cups in their hands. ]
They have free rooms here for the new folks. It's where I've been crashin' for a while.
Edited 2024-06-16 03:15 (UTC)
tbh, as a mobile main tagger, i also suffer this problem
[ He is quiet as they fly wherever she is leading him. Following anyone without knowing where he is going and what to anticipate there is uncomfortable and largely foreign to him, but instead of worrying excessively about what is waiting for them, wherever they are going, he focuses on trust, and remaining aware and on-guard, just in case.
The shift from modern city to something medieval is jarring, yet somehow, he prefers this quieter, simpler space. Perhaps this tavern is old-fashioned enough to have mead as well as room and board. That would certainly be delightful. While inebriating his defenses is unwise, it may be the needed remedy. If nothing else, if all hell breaks loose, his sensibilities will be lowered enough to defend the area with reckless abandon and less trauma-centered brain, and that is certainly appealing.
Having ignored all direction and instruction and reason for days, a room with lodging is more desirable than he wants to admit. As he lands with his own sort of grace in front of the tavern beside her, he turns to Rogue, expression a mix of emotions, but discernible among them is his sincerity. ] Thank you, Rogue. We...
[ He considers his words before continuing. ] ...We do not need to have any serious discussion about what we remember or how we came to be here tonight - though I would like to - eventually. Meanwhile, I wonder - will you stay for a drink?
[ It seems for moments that he is struggling with speaking honestly, before he seems to give in. What is there to lose, after all? ] I would enjoy it if you stayed with me, for awhile, at least.
[ He could cringe later, for expressing anything that resembled a need or dependence on others. For now, they were presumably safe, and the tavern had not run dry of its supply, clearly, by the full cups of those around them and wandering in and out. Erik would enjoy loosening up over a cup or five. Rogue was trusted company. ]
[ in truth, she is grateful for his temporary pass on timeline discussion. she had that conversation with kurt and morph already, and honestly, her mind is still trying to process how kurt is younger than them, yet his world has better technology, and apparently scott is around too, but he's from the eighties. it's too much to wrap her head around for a day, and that's not counting for all the events that happened back home. ]
'Course, Sugah. I can go for some firewater right about now. And...
[ she pauses for a moment, chewing her lower lip as if what she is about to say is some sort... betrayal of some kind. ]
And I'll stay with ya. You can... stay in my room. The bed's big enough for the two of us.
[ whether this is right or wrong, magnus, being in this current state, needs to be under supervision. especially with his powers still being intact. and who better to keep an eye on him than someone he feels comfortable with and trusted? she'll be able to keep his mind at ease if nothing else. with another promising smile and a light touch of his forearm, she guides them inside the inn.
inside, it's half empty with faint music playing in the air. there are people at the bar or at tables with drinks or meals and conversing so softly that it's hard to pick up without straining an ear. she makes it to the bar table and takes a seat on the stool — slipping back on her glove before she forgets. whenever erik decides to sit, the barkeep comes their way and skates them a flimsy sheet with a list of finger food and drinks. ]
[ He appreciates her comforting, even if that is all it is. Even if he should feel compelled to urge her away - whatever her reasoning for rejecting him was, there was truth behind it. As there was behind her selfless attempt to ensure he was not about to go nuclear.
Besides, who was he to tell a woman what she should do at any given time? Their lives were such that someone you cherished could be standing in front of you one day and gone the next. Frankly, he appreciated it, especially since he was still confident in his ability to detach and respect her wishes, however changing they were. He did need comfort and supervision, even if he was loathe to admit it. ] I am sure they would allow me my own room, but your offer is more inviting.
[ That acceptance sounded too knowing and eager to him, so he added: ] ...For however long it suits you.
[ He quickly dismisses the query of what he would like to order. Hopefully he wouldn't regret this blind faith in their order. ] Whatever the lady wants, I accept.
[ Which is when he faces her more seriously. ] Rogue... Are you alright? We need not discuss anything now, but - I want to be here for you. However you need.
[ when the bartender glance her way for an answer, she orders them something that is strong enough to loosen any tension, but not quite strong enough for them to forget. unless they have another round, which is disgustingly appealing. rogue also orders them a basket of onion rings despite not really having an appetite.
but she is smart enough to know that drinking on an empty stomach isn't good for the mind, and can lead to a disaster of a mess. and they don't need more of that. once the bartender disappears to make their drinks and to also take the next order, the mutant focuses her eyes solely on the menu in her hands while working her tongue to find the right words for her complex emotions. ]
I feel like a busted mater, but I'm breathin'. I... haven't been quite right since... Remy died. I went slam bonkers, and went to the military base. Demanded answers for Gyrich and Trask.
[ she sets the paper down on the surface and scoots it away from her. ]
I'm still... tryin' to get used to the idea of that swamp rat not comin' around, and steady goin' on 'cause he never got tired of listenin' to himself.
[ Erik motions the bartender to request spicy mustard with the onion rings - and considers this adequate. It would take multiple rounds to wreck him; one or two is just going to take his edge off and make him sociable. Which could be weird for literally anyone but Rogue.
Most X-Men were not accustomed to casually socializing with him, despite the months he had served as their leader in Charles' place. And no, he is not aware that the man is still alive yet, and that he abandoned them for an alien bird queen. Maybe not the best time to mention that. Unless she wants to, of course.
He listens attentively, entirely relating to her choice coping mechanism. If he is supposed to be comforting in a way that discourages her past behavior, he certainly isn't the right man for the job. If he had been free for a single moment after what happened to Genosha, he has no doubt he would have somehow declared war on the whole of Earth.
Still, his tone is measured and sympathetic. Despite himself, he means what he says: ] I hope he does, Rogue. Gambit is a hero. What he did for us... It stays in my mind. I cannot forget it. He downplayed himself to seem lesser than, but in truth, he was the best of us.
[ He is also unaware of Gambit's funeral, or the fact that Rogue was not in attendance. ] I am sorry I could not make his funeral. I hope you will forgive me for that. It was not neglected by choice.
[ His fist clenches around his drink, intentionally avoiding asking questions about those responsible for the attack on Genosha, at any level. ] If only everyone had his courage, and selflessness.
[ Erik glances self consciously at Rogue. ] Apologies, I will refrain from talking about that night, if you wish.
[ when the drinks and the rings come their way, rogue stares down at her poison as she listens to his kind words. it's comforting to hear, really, even though the two men didn't see eye to eye and had this almost unspoken quarrel between them. the white-redhead shakes her head at the apology, then smiles weakly before finally taking a hold of her drink. ]
I didn't go to his funeral, either. I... I didn't want to see it. If I did, it'd make it real, ya know?
[ the sudden impulse to just forget everything (and maybe almost everyone) swells behind her rib cage, and rogue chugs the drink down — not stopping until it's completely empty. so much for pacing and not getting wasted.
she is supposed to be keeping a close eye on him, and for any signs of him spiraling. not the other way around. but having the liquor sting to her forehead is somewhat alluring, and she hopes the stuff will work its magic soon. rogue sets the cup down and breathes out a sigh, eyes shut to help her gear the conversation elsewhere. somehow. ]
I haven't spoken with the folks much. They don't seem too frighten by our powers. That's right good, innit?
no subject
A fancy paradise called Aldrip. But I declare the spit and shine of this place is all smoke and mirrors.
[ cautiously, she removes one of her gloves and extends out her hand to him — giving him the choice whether he is ready for any physical contact or not. ]
Lemme help ya up, Sugah. I ain't got the full land of the world, but I know where we can simmer down and sit for a spell.
no subject
He took her hand, not because he needed it, but because it didn't hurt to have someone trusted steady you, and mostly, because he found touch to be centering, and the most comforting sense of all. Once he was standing poised as usual, he did not voluntarily let go. His instincts began to return, which included the desire to make sure she was well.
Taking care of his own well-being was more survival than a priority. Having someone else to focus on helped. Having anything he knew to feel protective towards rather than blindly paranoid was much needed. ] I will follow wherever you lead. Please, do not let me stop you from whatever frivolous revelry the rest seem so entertained by. I do not wish to hold you back, or prevent you from enjoying yourself.
no subject
his suggestion, however, she hums a chuckle in her throat, as if she can even think about dancing or partying at a time like this. again, rogue shakes her head and flashes him a reassuring smile. ]
I ain't in the mood for doin' any hoedown. And I'm not dressed for it, either.
[ her gaze shifts over to the locals, gesturing to some who are dolled up in some way with fine wear and make-up. rogue takes flight with ease, but by an inch or two. ]
Can ya fly or ya wanna hoof it?
[ she is fine with either option, to her, it's whatever is easiest for his body and mind. ]
no subject
He manages his own smile, not quote a grimace, as if to say 'I am ok, thank you'. Her response comforts him, not for reasons of any personal agenda, but because he does truly need to spend time around someone he knows and trusts, and if he isn't currently a burden, it makes this much easier. He would be lying if he said her method of prioritizing things did not appeal to him. She seemed to be a balance between his ever vigilant, practical world, and the one that wasn't afraid to find the joy in life and engage in good times when they could that came so easily to many of their kind - a lifestyle that eluded him entirely.
His chin lifted at her question, not because it challenged him, but because fortunately, his powers remained intact here, and that was one of few things he was certain of. ] I can fly, my dear. Walking is for humans.
[ He levitates as much as she had to demonstrate, and beckons onward in no particular direction with theatrical motion of encouragement. ] Shall we?
i need to learn how to proofread....
down below, he will be able to see the strange layout of aldrip, how one way things look similar to their time — modernized and not quite like new york, but the shops and apartment buildings are constructed like any other city in america. but then as they push further on, the format changes, and it's like they entered some sort of medieval town that are often described in history books. it's pretty jarring from one style to the next, especially the clothing of the citizens who are mixed in between. ]
[ in time, she dives, and lands gracefully on the concrete in front of tavern inn. the noise is drastically different from the other side of town, it's still and tranquil, even with the people entering and leaving the tavern with cups in their hands. ]
They have free rooms here for the new folks. It's where I've been crashin' for a while.
tbh, as a mobile main tagger, i also suffer this problem
The shift from modern city to something medieval is jarring, yet somehow, he prefers this quieter, simpler space. Perhaps this tavern is old-fashioned enough to have mead as well as room and board. That would certainly be delightful. While inebriating his defenses is unwise, it may be the needed remedy. If nothing else, if all hell breaks loose, his sensibilities will be lowered enough to defend the area with reckless abandon and less trauma-centered brain, and that is certainly appealing.
Having ignored all direction and instruction and reason for days, a room with lodging is more desirable than he wants to admit. As he lands with his own sort of grace in front of the tavern beside her, he turns to Rogue, expression a mix of emotions, but discernible among them is his sincerity. ] Thank you, Rogue. We...
[ He considers his words before continuing. ] ...We do not need to have any serious discussion about what we remember or how we came to be here tonight - though I would like to - eventually. Meanwhile, I wonder - will you stay for a drink?
[ It seems for moments that he is struggling with speaking honestly, before he seems to give in. What is there to lose, after all? ] I would enjoy it if you stayed with me, for awhile, at least.
[ He could cringe later, for expressing anything that resembled a need or dependence on others. For now, they were presumably safe, and the tavern had not run dry of its supply, clearly, by the full cups of those around them and wandering in and out. Erik would enjoy loosening up over a cup or five. Rogue was trusted company. ]
no subject
'Course, Sugah. I can go for some firewater right about now. And...
[ she pauses for a moment, chewing her lower lip as if what she is about to say is some sort... betrayal of some kind. ]
And I'll stay with ya. You can... stay in my room. The bed's big enough for the two of us.
[ whether this is right or wrong, magnus, being in this current state, needs to be under supervision. especially with his powers still being intact. and who better to keep an eye on him than someone he feels comfortable with and trusted? she'll be able to keep his mind at ease if nothing else. with another promising smile and a light touch of his forearm, she guides them inside the inn.
inside, it's half empty with faint music playing in the air. there are people at the bar or at tables with drinks or meals and conversing so softly that it's hard to pick up without straining an ear. she makes it to the bar table and takes a seat on the stool — slipping back on her glove before she forgets. whenever erik decides to sit, the barkeep comes their way and skates them a flimsy sheet with a list of finger food and drinks. ]
no subject
Besides, who was he to tell a woman what she should do at any given time? Their lives were such that someone you cherished could be standing in front of you one day and gone the next. Frankly, he appreciated it, especially since he was still confident in his ability to detach and respect her wishes, however changing they were. He did need comfort and supervision, even if he was loathe to admit it. ] I am sure they would allow me my own room, but your offer is more inviting.
[ That acceptance sounded too knowing and eager to him, so he added: ] ...For however long it suits you.
[ He quickly dismisses the query of what he would like to order. Hopefully he wouldn't regret this blind faith in their order. ] Whatever the lady wants, I accept.
[ Which is when he faces her more seriously. ] Rogue... Are you alright? We need not discuss anything now, but - I want to be here for you. However you need.
no subject
but she is smart enough to know that drinking on an empty stomach isn't good for the mind, and can lead to a disaster of a mess. and they don't need more of that. once the bartender disappears to make their drinks and to also take the next order, the mutant focuses her eyes solely on the menu in her hands while working her tongue to find the right words for her complex emotions. ]
I feel like a busted mater, but I'm breathin'. I... haven't been quite right since... Remy died. I went slam bonkers, and went to the military base. Demanded answers for Gyrich and Trask.
[ she sets the paper down on the surface and scoots it away from her. ]
I'm still... tryin' to get used to the idea of that swamp rat not comin' around, and steady goin' on 'cause he never got tired of listenin' to himself.
/yeets typos
Most X-Men were not accustomed to casually socializing with him, despite the months he had served as their leader in Charles' place. And no, he is not aware that the man is still alive yet, and that he abandoned them for an alien bird queen. Maybe not the best time to mention that. Unless she wants to, of course.
He listens attentively, entirely relating to her choice coping mechanism. If he is supposed to be comforting in a way that discourages her past behavior, he certainly isn't the right man for the job. If he had been free for a single moment after what happened to Genosha, he has no doubt he would have somehow declared war on the whole of Earth.
Still, his tone is measured and sympathetic. Despite himself, he means what he says: ] I hope he does, Rogue. Gambit is a hero. What he did for us... It stays in my mind. I cannot forget it. He downplayed himself to seem lesser than, but in truth, he was the best of us.
[ He is also unaware of Gambit's funeral, or the fact that Rogue was not in attendance. ] I am sorry I could not make his funeral. I hope you will forgive me for that. It was not neglected by choice.
[ His fist clenches around his drink, intentionally avoiding asking questions about those responsible for the attack on Genosha, at any level. ] If only everyone had his courage, and selflessness.
[ Erik glances self consciously at Rogue. ] Apologies, I will refrain from talking about that night, if you wish.
lelelel
I didn't go to his funeral, either. I... I didn't want to see it. If I did, it'd make it real, ya know?
[ the sudden impulse to just forget everything (and maybe almost everyone) swells behind her rib cage, and rogue chugs the drink down — not stopping until it's completely empty. so much for pacing and not getting wasted.
she is supposed to be keeping a close eye on him, and for any signs of him spiraling. not the other way around. but having the liquor sting to her forehead is somewhat alluring, and she hopes the stuff will work its magic soon. rogue sets the cup down and breathes out a sigh, eyes shut to help her gear the conversation elsewhere. somehow. ]
I haven't spoken with the folks much. They don't seem too frighten by our powers. That's right good, innit?
[ or rather so far, so good, at least. ]