[SCENE] Maya, Pearl, and Diego in: What the fuck did we just eat.
((NOTE: This crazy thing happens before Diego goes to Hazakura Temple to molest meet with Iris!))
Pearl: *Pearl stands in front of the refrigerator, tapping her foot.* Mystic Maya, which one is better for noodles, green onions or asparagus? I can't remember because they both look similar...
Maya: *Maya walks over to the fridge, ducking down to Pearly's level.* Hmmm...*she places her hand on her chin in thought.* I'm pretty sure it's the green onions.
Pearl: Okay! If you say so! *She beams and gathers up the green onions.* I'll chop them up! I'll be very careful, I promise! *She sets them on the counter and takes out the cutting board and a knife.*
Maya: Alright. *She doesn't really refuse since Pearl has had a good track record with cutting vegetables. Humming can be heard from her as she stirs the noodle-filled water.*
Maya: I think the noodles are almost done Pearly.
Pearl: *Now tall enough to see over the counter, but just barely, Pearl chops the onions very deliberately.* All right! I hope I can chop fast enough... *She screws up her face in thought, and manages to get the onions completely chopped, though they're really irregularly shaped.* We're going to fry them next, right? Or are we just going to eat them like soup?
Maya: We should definitely fry them, it won't take long. *She takes a good second to stare at the noodles and back at the onions, trying to guage the time in her head even though it doesn't really work.* Hey, come over and stir the noodles. I'll fry the onions.
Pearl: OK! *She switches places with Maya and stirs the noodles for a while, watching them swirl around in the pot intently.* Are we going to have dessert today?
Maya: *She pours a light amount of oil into a pan and throws the green onions into it.* Of course! What kinda dinner would this be without it? :D *Her mind wanders into thoughts of the many sweets she would like to have and before she knows it, the green onions are starting to burn slightly.*
Pearl: *Pearl keeps a nice, steady rhythm going on the noodles until she starts to smell burning onions.* Oh! Mystic Maya!! *She turns to see smoke wafting up from the onions.* Be careful!!
Maya: *She is snapped away from her ideas of ice cream cones and cake at the smell of smoke and Pearl's yelling.* Whoa! *She pulls the pan off the flame and places the onions on a dish nearest her to stop the smoke. Still coughing, she takes a look and pokes the onions.* Ah ha! I saved the onions from a fiery death!
Pearl: *Pearl smiles now that Mystic Maya is clearly okay. She claps her hands.* It adds a special flavor! Tonight's dinner will be even more delicious!
Maya: You thi--I mean, of course! Mystic Maya knows how to cook! *She flexes her muscles and laughs.* So, how are the noodles going?
Pearl: I think they're almost done! *With some effort, she draws a few out of the hot water, and they're pretty limp.* Should we turn the water off?
Maya: Yep! That way the noodles don't get soggy. *She checks over all the ingredients.* Do we have everything?
Diego: *Diego looks up at the last of the fading sunlight - it looks dark to him already, but he can still see by the light of the moon. It's been a long walk from the city to Kurain, but he remembers the way. As he walks into the village proper, he takes a moment to remember where the Master's manor is, and makes his way towards it*
Pearl: I think so... *She pokes at the precooked pork cutlets that are warming on another pan and it hisses as the water from the noodle spoon gets on it.* I think you should drain the noodles, Mystic Maya. I'm not very good at it.
Maya: Yeah the pan is kinda heavy. *She grabs the pot with both hands and pretends to strain at carrying it even though it's a fraction of the weight.* ...There we go! *She pours down the noodles into the strainer and lets the water run through.*
Diego: *Steps up to the front door of the manor, staring at it for what feels like a long time. He knows they're inside - he can feel it in his guts. This is what he's here for...but he finds himself afraid to knock, reluctant to break the silence of the village that has yet to notice him*
Pearl: *Pearl takes the pork cutlets off the burner and sets them on a hot pad* They're done now, I think. *She beams at Mystic Maya.* What kind of sauce should we use?
Maya: *She walks over to a cupboard and fingers through a bunch of bottles.* Hmm, let's see...how about this one? *She grabs a bottle from near the top and shows it to Pearl.*
Diego: *the feeling of alienation is almost overwhelming, as if it's not really his hand... but he reaches up, grabs the iron knocker on the door, and raps it three times*
Pearl: I like that o- Oh! Someone's here! *She looks surprised.* I wonder if it's the village ladies... *She looks a bit anxious* Um.. Mystic Maya, will you please...?
Maya: Oh, uh, sure! I'll be right back! *She places the bottle on the counter and walks off towards the door. Without much hesitation she swings open the door and smiles.* Hello! *She bows, expecting someone else to be there.*
Diego: *when the door opens there is a brief moment where he realizes she hasn't looked at him and he considers running - but the words come slowly to him* Hello, Maya.
Maya: So, uh, wh--*It took her a few moments to process, but as soon as she realizes the voice, she is frozen. Bending up slowly, she takes a good look and notices a man whom she thought she'd never see again. She wants to say hello back, but the shock is great and she can't find the strength to say anything, which is rare.* A-A-A..
Diego: *trying to keep his face neutral, he considers her - then he plows forward, not knowing what else to do* ...May I come in?
Maya: *She nods, moving somewhat off the side so Diego has access to inside.* Is..that you...Mr. Armando?
Diego: ...Yeah. I'm out on parole. *he steps inside slowly, almost timidly, looking around* I'm sorry to intrude like this.
Maya: Um, no! You're not intruding! *She closes the door behind him.* I'm..I'm just surprised to see you! *Her eyes start to well up like she's about to cry.*
Pearl: *Comes out of the kitchen with a spoon in her hand.* Mystic Maya, who is i- *As soon as she sees Diego, she drops the spoon and her hand flies to her mouth.* M-Mister Diego!
Diego: I know. I thought about calling, but- *he looks up at the sound of Pearl's voice and winces - he had intended to ask if she was here. Talking to Maya alone would be hard enough, but both of them was going to be something else* Hello, Little Mystic.
Pearl: *She steps from side to side as if she doesn't quite know what to do with herself.* Oh... Oh... Um... *Suddenly, almost without her will, she runs forward and throws her arms around his waist, squeezing tightly. She releases him just as quickly, twitching with nervous energy.* You said you'd come and you came... You really did... *she puts her thumb in her mouth and her eyes dart around.*
Maya: S-So! Um, Mr. Armando! *She's a tad hesitant, looking towards the floor and brushing her foot along. It's hard to get a reading off her. All of a sudden, she jumps up as if nothing happened.* So! What did you do to get out? Did you break out of prison and come on over here looking for a hideout? Huh huh?!
Diego: *reaches down and removes his shoes, setting them by the door* I''m out on parole. I.... I thought I would come and ask the two of you something. Something important.
Maya: Ooh, did you want us to use our powers to change your name? Hide your identity!? Because we probably can! *She looks like she's about to explode with excitement.*
Pearl: I don't think Mister Diego would want us to do something untoward, Mystic Maya.... *She hovers around him excitably, like a little hummingbird.* Please feel free to ask anything, Mister Diego. *She looks up at him expectantly.*
Diego: *he looks down at Pearl, and then at Maya, and the fact that they're excited to smile makes him grin in spite of himself* This will take a while to ask - would it be all right if we sat down somewhere?
Pearl: *Pearl swings her gaze around the entryway.* Um, we could set up the cushions, but... What about dinner? *She looks up to Mystic Maya*
Maya: *Maya's stomach growls at the sound of the word dinner.* O-oh that's right! I almost forgot about dinner! *She pauses.* Hmm, hey are you hungry? *She looks over to Diego.*
Diego: I would be glad to share dinner with the two of you.
Pearl: Good! Okay!! *She dances off to the kitchen* Please follow me! It's already mostly prepared!
Maya: Great! You can be the first person to ever try Maya and Pearly's famous noodles! *She hops on over towards the kitchen, motioning Diego to follow.*
Diego: *he nods, following Maya and Pearl into the kitchen, looking around - he notes the smell of overcooked onions, but doesn't say anything - it's actually familiar to him*
Pearl: *Pearl takes the cutlets out, counting under her breath. There's enough for all of them, because Mystic Maya always tries to eat too many... She waits for Mystic Maya to make the plates so she can put the meat on.*
Maya: *She makes a beeline for the cupboards and makes sure to grab three plates instead of two. Humming the familiar theme song, she arranges them in a neat straight line on the counter and grabs the pot of noodles. Using some tongs to place the noodles on the plate and making sure no one is looking, she places a little extra bit on her plate.* There we go!
Diego: *he stands around as the two girls go around, feeling awkward and slightly out of place, just trying not to get in the way*
Pearl: *She takes out a pair of adult sized chopsticks and fumbles with them for a moment, then slowly and deliberately deals every plate an equal amount of pork cutlets. She whispers to Maya,* You'll be okay with this many, right? *Then, in a louder voice,* Please bear with us, Mister Diego.
Maya: *She looks at her small amount of cutlets and sighs quietly to herself.* I don't think I'll mind. *She lies through her teeth, of course she wants more.* There, I think that's it! *She finishes sprinkling the onions.*
Diego: *takes his own pair of chopsticks and takes his spot at the counter* Thank the both of you. This looks very good. *that much isn't a lie*
Pearl: *Pushes the plate over to him, and takes a seat next to him, pulling her own plate close to herself with a small smile.* Itadakimasu!
Maya: *She nods and barely goes along with Pearl before she almost downs her pork in one bite.* So um...Mr. Armando...what's parole? *She asks, while she slurps her noodles at the same time.*
Diego: Itadakimasu... *he lifts up some noodle with scraps of pork - it's been a long time since he used chopsticks, but he's still functional, more or less* Parole... is what happens when the authorities let you out earlier than your sentence says because they believe you won't commit any more crimes. It's a probationary period where they'll be keeping an eye on me and making sure I don't do anything bad.
Pearl: *Stares intently as he speaks, not eating yet.* Oh, I see! *she smiles.* That's very kind of them!
Maya: So..you don't need us to do anything sneaky?...Not even a little? *She frowns, poking at her noodles before taking another big slurp.*
Diego: *takes a bite as he considers that, and speaks only after swallowing* Actually, there is something I want to ask you, though it's not sneaky.
Pearl: *Pearl lifts some noodles to her mouth now that the both of them have been eating. After she chews and swallows, she tilts her head.* Please go on! We'll listen!!
Maya: Well whatever it is, you can count on us! *She salutes herself before rewarding herself with more noodles.* What is the mission?
Diego: *he watches Maya, momentarily dumbfounded, before going back to his food* I am going to travel to Hazakura for spiritual cleansing. What I meant to ask you *there is a pause of about a beat* was if I would be able to stay in Kurain afterwards.
Pearl: *she smiles.* Of course! We have plenty of room, and we could help with your spiritual training too! *It's a moment before her mind catches up to who she's actually speaking to. Her smile becomes pasted on for a moment, and then her expression becomes serious.* Y-you mean you want to... live here...?
Maya: *She nearly chokes on the last of her pork, but manages to swallow it.* Are you serious Mr. Armando? You'd want to live here with us?!
Diego: If you'd let me. *he doesn't look up from his food* I would like to work to support the village in any way I can.
Pearl: *Pearl puts down her chopsticks, pressing her hand to her mouth slowly.* Y-you really want to? *She grips his sleeve with her other hand, looking intensely up into his face.* You'd stay here with us?
Maya: This is going to be so cool! *Her tightening grip is almost enough to break the chopsticks.* Don't worry Mr. Diego, you'll have an awesome stay here! *She exclaims, jumping up from her seat.* Don't you worry about that!
Diego: *he looks down at Pearl* I would, as long as you'd have me. *when he looks at Maya, her enthusiasm surprises him - literally* ...I'll take that as a "yes"?
Maya: Of course! *She smiles.*
Pearl: *Her grip on his sleeve tightens, she tugs on it.* Of course, Mister Diego! Of course!! *She shakes a little bit.* It's just me and Mystic Maya in this big house... *she trails off and looks down, then back up at him, and her voice is strong, her eyes shining just slightly,* I want you to live here... I would like it very much if you did.
Diego: *he looks between the two of them, still eating as he talks - for whatever reason, the topic has not diminished his appetite* I didn't mean in the manor proper - I meant as a field hand, maybe building myself a shack near the fields. *pauses* Would you rather I stayed here?
Maya: Mr. Armando, you don't have to do all that. As Pearly said, it's just me and her in this huge manor. *pauses* Besides, I don't think you can anyways. *She points at Pearly.*
Pearl: *She looks down shyly.* Um... There's lots of rooms in the manor, Mister Diego. You wouldn't have to build a shack. It might be cold! You should stay here.
Diego: ...Heh. *grins, setting down his chopsticks on his empty dish* I suppose I shouldn't argue with the Master and Apprentice.
Maya: Well, then it's settled then! *She nods happily.* Mr. Armando, welcome to your new home!
Pearl: *Pearl jumps down from her chair, leaving her mostly-untouched bowl of noodles aside. She does a half-circle, anxious circuit of the kitchen, her thumb in her mouth.* Oh! Oh! We'll have to air out the futon then, and um, you can sleep on a futon, right Mister Diego? How long will you be staying before you go to Hazakura? How long will you be staying there? We should buy more food because...
Pearl: ...you're pretty big so I bet you eat about as much as Mystic Maya... um... um... *Her eyes dart around and settle on his face, she's behind the counter in front of him now.* It's really okay? You really want to stay?
Diego: I should probably go in the morning, so I can get back sooner; yes I can sleep on a futon. And yes, I really want to stay. *he watches Pearl in particular - he's not sure he's ever seen her this energetic, not a year ago, not ever*
Maya: Great then! *She attempts to take more noodles, but notices that her helping is already gone.* Then tonight will be a sleepover then! There's so much we can do and talk about, haha!
Pearl: *Pearl gives a happy little jump* You can help us read aloud, if you want! We're reading Harry Potter!!
Diego: *grins* Harry Potter, eh? *lifts up his bowl, heading to the sink to wash it* Well, since you two made dinner, I'll wash everything up while you two get ready for reading. That sound all right?
Maya: *She loosens her body and reachs out long for a nice, large stretch. Walking around the table, she goes up to Diego and pauses.* ...I'm really happy to see you're back. *She gives Diego a large hug.* Just like you promised...
Pearl: *Pearl starts slightly but then relaxes, not about to jump to any conclusions after what happened with Mister Nick. She kicks her legs out as she silently eats her noodles, leaving one last pork cutlet for the last. She pushes her dish forward to Mister Diego.*
Diego: *he flinches too - it's been a while since anyone approaching his own size tried to embrace him, and the feeling is odd, though not unfamiliar - he can't return it, as he is elbow-deep, in soapy water* ...Yeah. Just like I promised. *takes Pearl's dish and begins to suds it, too* All right...you two go get ready, and we'll do some reading. I'll be finished soon.
Maya: *She finally releases her grip on Diego.* Alright. *She nods happily.* Come on Pearly, let's get that book.
Pearl: *Nods and jumps down, eagerly following Mystic Maya to retrieve it.*
Diego: *is another few minutes washing and drying the dishes and figuring out where to place them, and then follows after the two girls*
Maya: *The two of them arrive at their destination.* It's still hard to believe isn't it Pearl? *She puts her hand horizontally against her forhead and 'scans' the room.*
Pearl: *She crosses her arms and looks down with a small smile.* A little, yes. But I'm happy.
Maya: *She nods happily.* Yep, definitely! *She pauses* Though, I didn't expect to see him so soon.
Pearl: He said he wouldn't be out for a while, but I'm glad that he was mistaken. *She searches the room with her eyes.* I'm glad... I hope everything goes all right.
Maya: I bet it will! I mean..*She strikes a very familiar pose.* Even when everything was bleak, the Steel Samurai always managed to make everything better again!
Pearl: *She smiles.* Yeah. We have to be heroes sometimes, too! Let's do our best!
Maya: That's the spirit! *Pause* Hey Pearly...where did you put that book?
Pearl: Ummm, I think I fell asleep, so... *She puts her thumb in her mouth.* Oh! *She opens the closet and lifts the pillow from the top of the futon, revealing a copy of "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban"* There it is!
Maya: Great thinking there Pearly! *She walks over towards Pearl and the book.* Man, that thing is pretty thick, huh? *She pokes at the book.*
Diego: *steps into the room, hands in his pockets, and tilts his head - he's standing behind them, out of their line of sight, and spends a moment just watching the two of them*
Pearl: It's a pretty big book, but if we read it together we can finish it much faster than if each of us read it on our own, right? *She beams*
Maya: Of course! *She laughs.* And we also have Mr. Armando here to help us too!
Diego: *grins and steps over to the two of them, looking over their shoulders* So what book are we reading?
Pearl: *jumps in surprise, but only a bit. Turns to face him.* Oh you're here! Um, Harry Potter!! Mystic Maya and I have been reading it lately, she does really great funny voices!! *She beams*
Maya: We have! *She clears her throat, grabs the book, and opens it to a random page reciting a few lines.*
Diego: All right. *listens to Maya recite her lines, actually grinning at the voice she uses for Harry* Well all right then. Are we taking turns?
Pearl: We usually do one person each chapter, and I usually start because I'm slower, but you're new so you should start! *She smiles and goes to the closet, pulling out the futon for all of them to sit on.*
Maya: *She hands the book to Diego, smiling and heads towards the futon Pearl set up and plops down near the center.*
Diego: *take sthe book from Maya and sits on the side of her opposite Pearl, flipping through it* Which part are we on?
Pearl: *She's seated on her knees, and she leans forward to look at Diego.* We only just started, so we are on chapter seven! Um, Draco Malfoy just got hurt, but it was an accident.
Diego: *flips to the beginning of chapter seven, and takes another cursory glance at the girls before clearing his throat. He hasn't read aloud since grade school, but when he speaks he sounds like the narrator in a children's movie* Malfoy didn't reappear in classes until late Thursday morning, when the Slytherins and Gryffindors were halfway through double Potions...
Pearl: *Pearl stands in front of the refrigerator, tapping her foot.* Mystic Maya, which one is better for noodles, green onions or asparagus? I can't remember because they both look similar...
Maya: *Maya walks over to the fridge, ducking down to Pearly's level.* Hmmm...*she places her hand on her chin in thought.* I'm pretty sure it's the green onions.
Pearl: Okay! If you say so! *She beams and gathers up the green onions.* I'll chop them up! I'll be very careful, I promise! *She sets them on the counter and takes out the cutting board and a knife.*
Maya: Alright. *She doesn't really refuse since Pearl has had a good track record with cutting vegetables. Humming can be heard from her as she stirs the noodle-filled water.*
Maya: I think the noodles are almost done Pearly.
Pearl: *Now tall enough to see over the counter, but just barely, Pearl chops the onions very deliberately.* All right! I hope I can chop fast enough... *She screws up her face in thought, and manages to get the onions completely chopped, though they're really irregularly shaped.* We're going to fry them next, right? Or are we just going to eat them like soup?
Maya: We should definitely fry them, it won't take long. *She takes a good second to stare at the noodles and back at the onions, trying to guage the time in her head even though it doesn't really work.* Hey, come over and stir the noodles. I'll fry the onions.
Pearl: OK! *She switches places with Maya and stirs the noodles for a while, watching them swirl around in the pot intently.* Are we going to have dessert today?
Maya: *She pours a light amount of oil into a pan and throws the green onions into it.* Of course! What kinda dinner would this be without it? :D *Her mind wanders into thoughts of the many sweets she would like to have and before she knows it, the green onions are starting to burn slightly.*
Pearl: *Pearl keeps a nice, steady rhythm going on the noodles until she starts to smell burning onions.* Oh! Mystic Maya!! *She turns to see smoke wafting up from the onions.* Be careful!!
Maya: *She is snapped away from her ideas of ice cream cones and cake at the smell of smoke and Pearl's yelling.* Whoa! *She pulls the pan off the flame and places the onions on a dish nearest her to stop the smoke. Still coughing, she takes a look and pokes the onions.* Ah ha! I saved the onions from a fiery death!
Pearl: *Pearl smiles now that Mystic Maya is clearly okay. She claps her hands.* It adds a special flavor! Tonight's dinner will be even more delicious!
Maya: You thi--I mean, of course! Mystic Maya knows how to cook! *She flexes her muscles and laughs.* So, how are the noodles going?
Pearl: I think they're almost done! *With some effort, she draws a few out of the hot water, and they're pretty limp.* Should we turn the water off?
Maya: Yep! That way the noodles don't get soggy. *She checks over all the ingredients.* Do we have everything?
Diego: *Diego looks up at the last of the fading sunlight - it looks dark to him already, but he can still see by the light of the moon. It's been a long walk from the city to Kurain, but he remembers the way. As he walks into the village proper, he takes a moment to remember where the Master's manor is, and makes his way towards it*
Pearl: I think so... *She pokes at the precooked pork cutlets that are warming on another pan and it hisses as the water from the noodle spoon gets on it.* I think you should drain the noodles, Mystic Maya. I'm not very good at it.
Maya: Yeah the pan is kinda heavy. *She grabs the pot with both hands and pretends to strain at carrying it even though it's a fraction of the weight.* ...There we go! *She pours down the noodles into the strainer and lets the water run through.*
Diego: *Steps up to the front door of the manor, staring at it for what feels like a long time. He knows they're inside - he can feel it in his guts. This is what he's here for...but he finds himself afraid to knock, reluctant to break the silence of the village that has yet to notice him*
Pearl: *Pearl takes the pork cutlets off the burner and sets them on a hot pad* They're done now, I think. *She beams at Mystic Maya.* What kind of sauce should we use?
Maya: *She walks over to a cupboard and fingers through a bunch of bottles.* Hmm, let's see...how about this one? *She grabs a bottle from near the top and shows it to Pearl.*
Diego: *the feeling of alienation is almost overwhelming, as if it's not really his hand... but he reaches up, grabs the iron knocker on the door, and raps it three times*
Pearl: I like that o- Oh! Someone's here! *She looks surprised.* I wonder if it's the village ladies... *She looks a bit anxious* Um.. Mystic Maya, will you please...?
Maya: Oh, uh, sure! I'll be right back! *She places the bottle on the counter and walks off towards the door. Without much hesitation she swings open the door and smiles.* Hello! *She bows, expecting someone else to be there.*
Diego: *when the door opens there is a brief moment where he realizes she hasn't looked at him and he considers running - but the words come slowly to him* Hello, Maya.
Maya: So, uh, wh--*It took her a few moments to process, but as soon as she realizes the voice, she is frozen. Bending up slowly, she takes a good look and notices a man whom she thought she'd never see again. She wants to say hello back, but the shock is great and she can't find the strength to say anything, which is rare.* A-A-A..
Diego: *trying to keep his face neutral, he considers her - then he plows forward, not knowing what else to do* ...May I come in?
Maya: *She nods, moving somewhat off the side so Diego has access to inside.* Is..that you...Mr. Armando?
Diego: ...Yeah. I'm out on parole. *he steps inside slowly, almost timidly, looking around* I'm sorry to intrude like this.
Maya: Um, no! You're not intruding! *She closes the door behind him.* I'm..I'm just surprised to see you! *Her eyes start to well up like she's about to cry.*
Pearl: *Comes out of the kitchen with a spoon in her hand.* Mystic Maya, who is i- *As soon as she sees Diego, she drops the spoon and her hand flies to her mouth.* M-Mister Diego!
Diego: I know. I thought about calling, but- *he looks up at the sound of Pearl's voice and winces - he had intended to ask if she was here. Talking to Maya alone would be hard enough, but both of them was going to be something else* Hello, Little Mystic.
Pearl: *She steps from side to side as if she doesn't quite know what to do with herself.* Oh... Oh... Um... *Suddenly, almost without her will, she runs forward and throws her arms around his waist, squeezing tightly. She releases him just as quickly, twitching with nervous energy.* You said you'd come and you came... You really did... *she puts her thumb in her mouth and her eyes dart around.*
Maya: S-So! Um, Mr. Armando! *She's a tad hesitant, looking towards the floor and brushing her foot along. It's hard to get a reading off her. All of a sudden, she jumps up as if nothing happened.* So! What did you do to get out? Did you break out of prison and come on over here looking for a hideout? Huh huh?!
Diego: *reaches down and removes his shoes, setting them by the door* I''m out on parole. I.... I thought I would come and ask the two of you something. Something important.
Maya: Ooh, did you want us to use our powers to change your name? Hide your identity!? Because we probably can! *She looks like she's about to explode with excitement.*
Pearl: I don't think Mister Diego would want us to do something untoward, Mystic Maya.... *She hovers around him excitably, like a little hummingbird.* Please feel free to ask anything, Mister Diego. *She looks up at him expectantly.*
Diego: *he looks down at Pearl, and then at Maya, and the fact that they're excited to smile makes him grin in spite of himself* This will take a while to ask - would it be all right if we sat down somewhere?
Pearl: *Pearl swings her gaze around the entryway.* Um, we could set up the cushions, but... What about dinner? *She looks up to Mystic Maya*
Maya: *Maya's stomach growls at the sound of the word dinner.* O-oh that's right! I almost forgot about dinner! *She pauses.* Hmm, hey are you hungry? *She looks over to Diego.*
Diego: I would be glad to share dinner with the two of you.
Pearl: Good! Okay!! *She dances off to the kitchen* Please follow me! It's already mostly prepared!
Maya: Great! You can be the first person to ever try Maya and Pearly's famous noodles! *She hops on over towards the kitchen, motioning Diego to follow.*
Diego: *he nods, following Maya and Pearl into the kitchen, looking around - he notes the smell of overcooked onions, but doesn't say anything - it's actually familiar to him*
Pearl: *Pearl takes the cutlets out, counting under her breath. There's enough for all of them, because Mystic Maya always tries to eat too many... She waits for Mystic Maya to make the plates so she can put the meat on.*
Maya: *She makes a beeline for the cupboards and makes sure to grab three plates instead of two. Humming the familiar theme song, she arranges them in a neat straight line on the counter and grabs the pot of noodles. Using some tongs to place the noodles on the plate and making sure no one is looking, she places a little extra bit on her plate.* There we go!
Diego: *he stands around as the two girls go around, feeling awkward and slightly out of place, just trying not to get in the way*
Pearl: *She takes out a pair of adult sized chopsticks and fumbles with them for a moment, then slowly and deliberately deals every plate an equal amount of pork cutlets. She whispers to Maya,* You'll be okay with this many, right? *Then, in a louder voice,* Please bear with us, Mister Diego.
Maya: *She looks at her small amount of cutlets and sighs quietly to herself.* I don't think I'll mind. *She lies through her teeth, of course she wants more.* There, I think that's it! *She finishes sprinkling the onions.*
Diego: *takes his own pair of chopsticks and takes his spot at the counter* Thank the both of you. This looks very good. *that much isn't a lie*
Pearl: *Pushes the plate over to him, and takes a seat next to him, pulling her own plate close to herself with a small smile.* Itadakimasu!
Maya: *She nods and barely goes along with Pearl before she almost downs her pork in one bite.* So um...Mr. Armando...what's parole? *She asks, while she slurps her noodles at the same time.*
Diego: Itadakimasu... *he lifts up some noodle with scraps of pork - it's been a long time since he used chopsticks, but he's still functional, more or less* Parole... is what happens when the authorities let you out earlier than your sentence says because they believe you won't commit any more crimes. It's a probationary period where they'll be keeping an eye on me and making sure I don't do anything bad.
Pearl: *Stares intently as he speaks, not eating yet.* Oh, I see! *she smiles.* That's very kind of them!
Maya: So..you don't need us to do anything sneaky?...Not even a little? *She frowns, poking at her noodles before taking another big slurp.*
Diego: *takes a bite as he considers that, and speaks only after swallowing* Actually, there is something I want to ask you, though it's not sneaky.
Pearl: *Pearl lifts some noodles to her mouth now that the both of them have been eating. After she chews and swallows, she tilts her head.* Please go on! We'll listen!!
Maya: Well whatever it is, you can count on us! *She salutes herself before rewarding herself with more noodles.* What is the mission?
Diego: *he watches Maya, momentarily dumbfounded, before going back to his food* I am going to travel to Hazakura for spiritual cleansing. What I meant to ask you *there is a pause of about a beat* was if I would be able to stay in Kurain afterwards.
Pearl: *she smiles.* Of course! We have plenty of room, and we could help with your spiritual training too! *It's a moment before her mind catches up to who she's actually speaking to. Her smile becomes pasted on for a moment, and then her expression becomes serious.* Y-you mean you want to... live here...?
Maya: *She nearly chokes on the last of her pork, but manages to swallow it.* Are you serious Mr. Armando? You'd want to live here with us?!
Diego: If you'd let me. *he doesn't look up from his food* I would like to work to support the village in any way I can.
Pearl: *Pearl puts down her chopsticks, pressing her hand to her mouth slowly.* Y-you really want to? *She grips his sleeve with her other hand, looking intensely up into his face.* You'd stay here with us?
Maya: This is going to be so cool! *Her tightening grip is almost enough to break the chopsticks.* Don't worry Mr. Diego, you'll have an awesome stay here! *She exclaims, jumping up from her seat.* Don't you worry about that!
Diego: *he looks down at Pearl* I would, as long as you'd have me. *when he looks at Maya, her enthusiasm surprises him - literally* ...I'll take that as a "yes"?
Maya: Of course! *She smiles.*
Pearl: *Her grip on his sleeve tightens, she tugs on it.* Of course, Mister Diego! Of course!! *She shakes a little bit.* It's just me and Mystic Maya in this big house... *she trails off and looks down, then back up at him, and her voice is strong, her eyes shining just slightly,* I want you to live here... I would like it very much if you did.
Diego: *he looks between the two of them, still eating as he talks - for whatever reason, the topic has not diminished his appetite* I didn't mean in the manor proper - I meant as a field hand, maybe building myself a shack near the fields. *pauses* Would you rather I stayed here?
Maya: Mr. Armando, you don't have to do all that. As Pearly said, it's just me and her in this huge manor. *pauses* Besides, I don't think you can anyways. *She points at Pearly.*
Pearl: *She looks down shyly.* Um... There's lots of rooms in the manor, Mister Diego. You wouldn't have to build a shack. It might be cold! You should stay here.
Diego: ...Heh. *grins, setting down his chopsticks on his empty dish* I suppose I shouldn't argue with the Master and Apprentice.
Maya: Well, then it's settled then! *She nods happily.* Mr. Armando, welcome to your new home!
Pearl: *Pearl jumps down from her chair, leaving her mostly-untouched bowl of noodles aside. She does a half-circle, anxious circuit of the kitchen, her thumb in her mouth.* Oh! Oh! We'll have to air out the futon then, and um, you can sleep on a futon, right Mister Diego? How long will you be staying before you go to Hazakura? How long will you be staying there? We should buy more food because...
Pearl: ...you're pretty big so I bet you eat about as much as Mystic Maya... um... um... *Her eyes dart around and settle on his face, she's behind the counter in front of him now.* It's really okay? You really want to stay?
Diego: I should probably go in the morning, so I can get back sooner; yes I can sleep on a futon. And yes, I really want to stay. *he watches Pearl in particular - he's not sure he's ever seen her this energetic, not a year ago, not ever*
Maya: Great then! *She attempts to take more noodles, but notices that her helping is already gone.* Then tonight will be a sleepover then! There's so much we can do and talk about, haha!
Pearl: *Pearl gives a happy little jump* You can help us read aloud, if you want! We're reading Harry Potter!!
Diego: *grins* Harry Potter, eh? *lifts up his bowl, heading to the sink to wash it* Well, since you two made dinner, I'll wash everything up while you two get ready for reading. That sound all right?
Maya: *She loosens her body and reachs out long for a nice, large stretch. Walking around the table, she goes up to Diego and pauses.* ...I'm really happy to see you're back. *She gives Diego a large hug.* Just like you promised...
Pearl: *Pearl starts slightly but then relaxes, not about to jump to any conclusions after what happened with Mister Nick. She kicks her legs out as she silently eats her noodles, leaving one last pork cutlet for the last. She pushes her dish forward to Mister Diego.*
Diego: *he flinches too - it's been a while since anyone approaching his own size tried to embrace him, and the feeling is odd, though not unfamiliar - he can't return it, as he is elbow-deep, in soapy water* ...Yeah. Just like I promised. *takes Pearl's dish and begins to suds it, too* All right...you two go get ready, and we'll do some reading. I'll be finished soon.
Maya: *She finally releases her grip on Diego.* Alright. *She nods happily.* Come on Pearly, let's get that book.
Pearl: *Nods and jumps down, eagerly following Mystic Maya to retrieve it.*
Diego: *is another few minutes washing and drying the dishes and figuring out where to place them, and then follows after the two girls*
Maya: *The two of them arrive at their destination.* It's still hard to believe isn't it Pearl? *She puts her hand horizontally against her forhead and 'scans' the room.*
Pearl: *She crosses her arms and looks down with a small smile.* A little, yes. But I'm happy.
Maya: *She nods happily.* Yep, definitely! *She pauses* Though, I didn't expect to see him so soon.
Pearl: He said he wouldn't be out for a while, but I'm glad that he was mistaken. *She searches the room with her eyes.* I'm glad... I hope everything goes all right.
Maya: I bet it will! I mean..*She strikes a very familiar pose.* Even when everything was bleak, the Steel Samurai always managed to make everything better again!
Pearl: *She smiles.* Yeah. We have to be heroes sometimes, too! Let's do our best!
Maya: That's the spirit! *Pause* Hey Pearly...where did you put that book?
Pearl: Ummm, I think I fell asleep, so... *She puts her thumb in her mouth.* Oh! *She opens the closet and lifts the pillow from the top of the futon, revealing a copy of "Harry Potter and the Prisoner of Azkaban"* There it is!
Maya: Great thinking there Pearly! *She walks over towards Pearl and the book.* Man, that thing is pretty thick, huh? *She pokes at the book.*
Diego: *steps into the room, hands in his pockets, and tilts his head - he's standing behind them, out of their line of sight, and spends a moment just watching the two of them*
Pearl: It's a pretty big book, but if we read it together we can finish it much faster than if each of us read it on our own, right? *She beams*
Maya: Of course! *She laughs.* And we also have Mr. Armando here to help us too!
Diego: *grins and steps over to the two of them, looking over their shoulders* So what book are we reading?
Pearl: *jumps in surprise, but only a bit. Turns to face him.* Oh you're here! Um, Harry Potter!! Mystic Maya and I have been reading it lately, she does really great funny voices!! *She beams*
Maya: We have! *She clears her throat, grabs the book, and opens it to a random page reciting a few lines.*
Diego: All right. *listens to Maya recite her lines, actually grinning at the voice she uses for Harry* Well all right then. Are we taking turns?
Pearl: We usually do one person each chapter, and I usually start because I'm slower, but you're new so you should start! *She smiles and goes to the closet, pulling out the futon for all of them to sit on.*
Maya: *She hands the book to Diego, smiling and heads towards the futon Pearl set up and plops down near the center.*
Diego: *take sthe book from Maya and sits on the side of her opposite Pearl, flipping through it* Which part are we on?
Pearl: *She's seated on her knees, and she leans forward to look at Diego.* We only just started, so we are on chapter seven! Um, Draco Malfoy just got hurt, but it was an accident.
Diego: *flips to the beginning of chapter seven, and takes another cursory glance at the girls before clearing his throat. He hasn't read aloud since grade school, but when he speaks he sounds like the narrator in a children's movie* Malfoy didn't reappear in classes until late Thursday morning, when the Slytherins and Gryffindors were halfway through double Potions...