8/21/06 //IC!Alfons and T!Ed
Who: IC!Alfons and T!Ed
When: 8/21/06
Rating: PG
Category: Side plots, misc. pairings of the very one-sided variety
Summary: T!Ed comes to get his stuff, and finds Alfons at the apartment when he gets there.
T!Ed: *slides out of the taxi that he took to get to his old apartment and stands, still wobbly, and makes his way to the door, knocking lightly and not really even sure if anyone is there or not*
IC!Alfons: ::gets up from the couch, putting his book down, and opens the door, then gapes slightly when he sees who it is:: ...Ahm, Edward... ::not sure what to do::
T!Ed: Um, hi... *was half-hoping nobody really was home and isn't really sure what to do now that someone is* Could I, um, come in..?
IC!Alfons: Of course, bitte, do... ::steps back to allow him entry, rather confused::
T!Ed: *steps inside and looks around, rubbing at the side of his head through the bandages* I, um, kind of... Um... *falters, looking for the right words*
IC!Alfons: ::looks down at him a bit sadly:: Would you like to sit down? I could get you something to drink... ::concerned about the bandages but not sure how to react::
T!Ed: Ah, no... It's - It's fine. *looks away* I, ahm, actually came to let you know I'm back in town... and to get my things.
IC!Alfons: Oh... Alright. Well, I am glad you are back... How have you been...? ::eyes the bandages a little again::
T!Ed: Alright, I guess. Had a small accident, but I'm better now... *catches him looking at the bandages and winces* Hit myself again and got landed in the hospital.
IC!Alfons: Ah... I am sorry... ::frowns sadly, then looks around a bit, awkwardly:: Well... Would you like me to help you get your things?
T!Ed: Yeah, sure! If you wouldn't mind... You still have that medicine around, too, yeah..?
IC!Alfons: Of course I do... You are going to actually make use of it then, I hope..? ::soft, sad smile::
T!Ed: Yeah, for once... *chuckles sadly and slumps against the wall, mostly for support* Might as well, if it's there.
IC!Alfons: I am glad, then... I really think it will help. And if you do not mind me saying so, it was hard to see all of that work I put into it, all for you, not go to use. Because more than anything, I want you to get better. You know that... ::watches him sadly::
T!Ed: I know, I'm sorry... *gives him an apologetic look, shoulders hunched slighty* I'm - I'm going to try to get better, for those who actually care. And especially after what happened with last time... Beat the hell out of myself, and showed me who my friends really were at the same time, too. *sighs*
IC!Alfons: ::reaches forward tentatively to rub his flesh shoulder, shaking his head a little:: There is no need to apologize, I know how hard all of this is on you. I am just glad to see you are working at getting yourself back on your feet, so to speak...
T!Ed: *looks down at his hand, then smiles wanly* Yeah, I'm going to try, anyway. *stands up straighter* Might as well start with the bedroom, I suppose. We should still have some boxes and a few suitcases around here somewhere...
IC!Alfons: ::withdraws his hand and nods a little:: Alright. Let us get a few boxes, then, ja. I know there are a couple in the closet... ::starts toward the bedroom slowly, half-waiting for him to come along as well::
T!Ed: *trails along behind him, looking at things as they pass almost distantly, feeling strange about being back* So, um, how have you been holding up..?
IC!Alfons: ::lowers his head a little, slowing slightly:: Ahm... I... As well as I can, I suppose. ::shakes his head::
T!Ed: I'm really, really sorry... I - I know that can't make up for the things I did and said, but... I am. *bites his lip and makes it over to the closet, digging for a moment and getting a couple of boxes*
IC!Alfons: ::pulls out a couple as well, setting them on the floor by the dresser:: Did you really mean... a lot of what you said to me, over the past few months? ::glances at him briefly::
T!Ed: If you mean my wanting to be alone, then yeah... I was happy out there, I had freedom. I didn't want to come back here and be trapped again with no other place to go. *busies himself setting up his boxes*
IC!Alfons: I... No, I know that, I meant... Well... I guess I did not know what you thought of me anymore. You sent me that set of clockwork figures and told me you loved me, and then the next thing I knew, you despised me. I did not know what to do. The last time something like that happened, you did still love me underneath everything, and you came back to me... ::sighs heavily and starts packing some of Ed's clothing into a box::
T!Ed: *carefully folds his clothing and puts them in the box, biting his lip* Alfons... I - I do still love you, but not in that way anymore...
IC!Alfons: ::winces slightly internally, and continues packing clothing, avoiding looking at him:: What did I do wrong...?
T!Ed: Nothing. Alfons... *makes a small noise in the back of his throat, upset* It... I did everything wrong. I was the one that pushed you away and I don't think I can let you be close again, like we were.
IC!Alfons: I... Just feel like everything happened so suddenly. We were perfect, and so happy together, and nothing could bring us apart, and then... You were gone... ::grips one side of the box tightly, refusing to cry any more over him::
T!Ed: It did, and it was my fault. I got scared and ran away. *reaches to touch his arm lightly before retracting his hand, thinking that would be a bad idea* I thought being by myself was better, where I couldn't hurt people, and I think I was right. *fidgets, looking down*
IC!Alfons: ::looks over toward him just a little:: I thought... I thought we would always be together, you know? I guess it was stupid of me to think that. I know I can be naive. And our relationship was the first I have ever had, so expecting it would last forever was too much, but... I thought that anyway.
T!Ed: I know... *looks back, a little teary eyed* But you're sixteen and you're a wonderful person. You'll find someone else that's a lot better for you than I am.
IC!Alfons: ...I do not want to... ::sighs shakily:: Despite all of your imperfections, and despite everything you have done, it is hard for me to imagine someone as fun to be around as you. There is something about you that is just so... magnetic. ::shakes his head and goes back to packing, blinking back tears despite himself::
T!Ed: *winces, putting the last of his clothing into the box* We can still be friends, if you want to... At least I can make that much right for you.
IC!Alfons: Could we..? ::closes the box in front of him:: Because as much as I hate to admit it... You are really the only person here that I feel comfortable with. Well, there is my brother, but he is so rarely around. I am just so alone here...
T!Ed: Of course we could. *smiles a little for him* Um, I'm staying at a new place right here in Central, and you're more than welcome to call or visit when I'm feeling better or something. *gets up and starts gathering some books* So how is your brother, by the way? And how's Kat doing?
IC!Alfons: Danke. May I ask where, then, and what your phone number is...? ::sits up on the bed, looking around to find something else to pack up:: My brother is fine, but he is busy as usual. He has been baking a bit more, though, recently, which is kind of fun. Ahm, and Kat is doing fine too, I think. She is around here somewhere, probably. She might be in my brother's old room, sleeping. Maybe I should go find her, I am sure she would love to see you...
T!Ed: Ah, yeah. Of course. *looks around a moment before finding a pad of paper and a pen, scribbling down the information* There you go. And it's alright. Kat probably doesn't even remember who I am, what with my being gone for so long, you know? *chuckles sadly and surveys the bookshelf* Were there any of these that you wanted to keep?
IC!Alfons: Danke... ::pockets the piece of paper, then frowns:: I doubt that... And even if she does not, do you not miss her? ::looks over the books, then shakes his head:: Take what you want, they are yours anyway.
T!Ed: Of course I miss her... I miss her a lot. *frowns, gathering an armful of books and putting them in the box, stumbling slightly along the way* Well, alright... If there's anything you want to keep, though, that's fine. I don't mind.
IC!Alfons: She is yours as well, you know. She really loves you. You should probably take her with you, too... ::stands to go get her, and notices the stumble:: Careful, are you alright?
T!Ed: Still tired and weak, I guess. I got myself pretty good. *shrugs* And, um, are you sure? She loves you too, I know, and I don't want you to be alone here or anything...
IC!Alfons: Are you sure you would not like anything to drink while you are here? ::frowns a little, then sighs:: With or without her, I am still alone here. There is only so much company a cat can provide, as friendly as she is. You were the one, though, who called her your baby. You ought to take her with you, for her sake.
T!Ed: Yeah, I'll be fine. I'll just take a nap or something when I get back to the other places *bites his lip, fidgeting* If you're sure, then...
IC!Alfons: If you are sure. ::nods a little, sighing:: I am sure. If I feel I need a kitten, I can get another, but Kat is yours. I would be sad if the two of you were separated.
T!Ed: Then I'll take her with me when I go. *nods, putting the last of his books into the box* Um, how are you for rent and things like that?
IC!Alfons: I... Do not know. I am searching for a job, but rent is due in a couple weeks and I am running out of money. ::shakes his head:: I do not want to give this place up, but I may have to if I cannot get a job soon.
T!Ed: Oh... *bites his lip, thinking* Um, well... The apartment I'm at is getting paid for by someone else, but I'm still going back to working at the university. If you, um, want me to help, I can...
IC!Alfons: I would never ask for money from you, Edward... ::smiles sadly:: I appreciate it, but you deserve to keep what you earn...
T!Ed: It's fine, really. *smiles wanly back* Like I said, Envy is paying for things for me so it's not like I need the money I earn at all, and it's the least that I can do for you...
IC!Alfons: ::looks somewhat alarmed:: Envy?
T!Ed: Yeah, Envy. He said he would help me, so... *shrugs*
IC!Alfons: ... ::shakes his head:: I still cannot believe you trust him. And I cannot believe he is willing to help you without having some ulterior motive. ::looks sadly at him:: Be careful, alright? I know I do not need to tell you that, but still...
T!Ed: I will be, don't worry. *smiles sadly* He's really not as bad as everyone makes him out to be and he promised to me that he wouldn't let me kill anyone. He keeps his promises. *looks around the room before closing up the box*
IC!Alfons: ::sighs heavily:: He did not last time. You know what he did to you last time. I do not want to see that happen again. ::shakes his head:: Alright, if you insist on helping me out, I suppose I should take you up on that because I do need the help, as much as I hate to admit it. But I do not know how I am going to pay you back.
T!Ed: I'll be careful, don't worry. It's fine, really. *sits back on his heels, thinking* You still have the notes and stuff for the medicine, don't you?
IC!Alfons: ::nods:: I do, ja...
T!Ed: Well... You could keep making it for me? In exchange for my helping you out?
IC!Alfons: I would, gladly, although I do not know that that is enough to repay you as I already promised to make it for you. ::smiles softly:: You saved me, so I will help you, remember? The only trouble is that the ingredients are so difficult to find.
T!Ed: I could probably ask Envy to get the ingredients, if that helps. He seems to be able to find things like that no problem. *smiles a little back* Really, you don't have to pay me back for saving your life. I would never ask that of you.
IC!Alfons: I hate even more to rely on him. ::grumbles softly, then shakes his head:: I promised, Edward. It is a promise I will never break. I will do anything I can to help you get through this.
T!Ed: *decides not to say anything more on Envy and nods* If you really want to, then, I appreciate it. And, um, I think that's everything from this room.
IC!Alfons: Oh, ja, alright... ::sighs and picks up one of the boxes, carrying it out and depositing it in the living room::
T!Ed: *hefts the other one and takes it out with some difficutly before flopping into one of the chairs to catch his breath* There's just a few things out here and some stuff I hid under the floorboards, and then, um, I can get out of your hair.
IC!Alfons: No, do not worry about being a bother to me. You are always welcome here.
T!Ed: Alright. You're always welcome over too, you know. Maybe sometime soon for tea? *gets up and heads into the hallway with a box, prying up a couple of the floorboards*
IC!Alfons: ::nods:: Anytime is fine with me. I would love to come over and see where you are living now. ::picks up another empty box and starts collecting Ed's things from the living room::
T!Ed: It's a really nice place. Fairly huge and two stories of a six story building. *throws the random oddities from beneath the floor into the box before putting the boards back in place and closing the box*
IC!Alfons: Considering who is paying for it, I did not expect anything small like this place. ::frowns, continuing to pack miscellaneous books and notebooks and items up::
T!Ed: *drags the box back into the living room* Yeah, I suppose... It's got three bedrooms too. I was thinking of maybe turning one into a workshop or something. A good place to make those clockwork things, you know?
IC!Alfons: ::nods, looking at the coffee table city:: I will never get over your talent with those things...
T!Ed: ...I - I made something bigger at the old house. Kind of made everything else pale in comparison. *watches the city for a moment before sighing* I think that's everything, except for Kat.
IC!Alfons: Oh? What would that be? ::looks over at him, curious::
T!Ed: An entire maze that shifts with the hours. I was going to set traps in it until Hughes came along... Might have been a good thing, in the long run.
IC!Alfons: A maze? That sounds interesting... ::frowns a little:: What about Herr Hughes...?
T!Ed: Hughes... talked to me. In my head... Right before I had that episode. *fidgets*
IC!Alfons: ... ::suddenly realizes what that means:: Oh, Gott, I am so sorry... I am sure he did not mean to scare you...
T!Ed: Yeah, I'm sure he didn't... *ducks his head* But then the rest of the voices came, and the monsters too...
IC!Alfons: ::places a hand gently on his shoulder, trying to be comforting:: I am so sorry. I cannot imagine what he was thinking, to try that. He should have known better... ::shakes his head::
T!Ed: I don't know either... He just wanted to make sure I was okay, I guess, and I already told you all that I was perfectly fine. I just wanted to be left alone out there...
IC!Alfons: I know you did. But you know... I am glad you came back here. I would worry about you if you were always so alone, out in that house in the middle of nowhere. It cannot be good to be away from people so much. It would get to be like being under house arrest again, I would think. After a while you would get sick of it.
T!Ed: I guess so... It really did get lonely out there sometimes, but I did manage. There were plenty of things to keep me occupied, at least. But now that I'm back, I can start doing normal things again, or at least try to. I'm going back to school still, you know.
IC!Alfons: Oh, good. I am glad to hear that. ::squeezes his shoulder gently before dropping his hand awkwardly to his side:: Do you still want to become a doctor?
T!Ed: Yeah. I'm still going to help people, if I can. *smiles sadly* Least I can do still.
IC!Alfons: ::smiles sadly as well, nodding:: I am glad you are going to continue in that direction... I know you will be a wonderful doctor. I have no doubts in my mind about that.
T!Ed: Thanks... *fidgets for a moment* I should probably call that taxi now and get going...
IC!Alfons: Oh, alright. ::sighs:: Here, let us see if we can find Kat... ::goes to the ex-study, looking around a bit::
T!Ed: *follows after him and spots Kat curled up napping in a nest of blankets on the bed* There she is... *smiles faintly*
IC!Alfons: ::goes and sits on the bed next to her, petting her softly to wake her up::
T!Ed: *stands in the doorway awkwardly, not really wanting to bother either of them anymore*
IC!Alfons: ::picks her up gently and nuzzles her fur, blinking back sudden tears:: Look who it is, Kat... Look who came back for you...
T!Ed: *walks over to them, feeling a lump in his throat, and scratches behind her ears gently* Hey...
Katrinelje: ::rubs her face against Ed's hand, purring lazily::
IC!Alfons: ::sighs a little shakily and watches her, petting her softly::
T!Ed: *sniffles a little and reaches to take her, cuddling her*
IC!Alfons: ::hands her over to him with a small, watery smile::
T!Ed: *takes her gently and kisses the top of her head* Thanks for taking such good care of her for me...
IC!Alfons: Of course, Edward...
T!Ed: Um, I guess - I guess I'll be seeing you, I suppose...
IC!Alfons: ::nods, rubbing an eye a bit:: Call me. Or, well, I will call you, too. But let me know when you are feeling better. Maybe we could have lunch sometime, even.
T!Ed: I would love that, I really would. Once my head is recovered enough, we can arrange something like. *watery smile* Is it alright if I use the phone here to call a cab?
IC!Alfons: Ja, we should. ::smiles a little in return, then nods:: Of course it is alright.
T!Ed: Thanks... *squirms on the spot a moment before heading out into the other room and making the call*
IC!Alfons: ::follows him out of the room and looks at all the boxes in the living room with a sigh::
T!Ed: *hangs up* It'll be here in a few minutes. *opens the door and starts dragging his stuff out one-handed*
IC!Alfons: ::goes to help him, carrying boxes out for him:: Good luck with your new place...
T!Ed: *gets the rest of his stuff and stands at the curb to wait* Yeah, it seems to all be going alright so far...
IC!Alfons: Good, then... ::looks at him sadly, with a small smile:: I hope Kat likes it there...
T!Ed: I'm sure she will. There's plenty of room for her to run around in and Clarence is there too...
IC!Alfons: Oh, right, Clarence... ::smiles a little more, with a soft chuckle:: So unique, and yet somehow so fitting for you to have a pet like that. He is pretty interesting.
T!Ed: When you come over, I can show you the tricks he does. When we got him, he could hum Carmina Burana, but now he can do a few dances and knows La Camparista too. *smiles a bit*
IC!Alfons: ::chuckles:: Amazing. I would love to see that. ::smiles, then shakes his head a little with a sigh, looking at the sidewalk:: Before you go... Ahm... Well, if this is a stupid request, I will understand, and it is not one you have to grant, but... May I hug you one last time...? ::looks at him a bit timidly::
T!Ed: Um, sure... I guess so. Just... Careful of Kat? *holds out one arm wide to hug him*
IC!Alfons: Oh, I know. ::steps closer, a bit cautious, then gently puts his arms around him:: I am going to miss you... But I feel funny for thinking that, since we just spent more time apart from each other than we likely will again for some time...
T!Ed: *hugs him tightly* I know... And it's not like it's goodbye forever, either. We'll still visit each other and stuff...
IC!Alfons: ::presses closer, relieved he's not being shoved away, and closes his eyes:: Exactly... I will be seeing more of you now than I have in the past while... I suppose it is just an odd emotional response. But I am glad beyond words that we can still be friends. Your friendship means a lot to me. More than I can say.
T!Ed: *pats his back lightly* I'm really glad that we can still be friends too, Alfons. It's not like I've got very many people to talk to, anyway, and you're one of the very few that I can trust anymore...
IC!Alfons: I know. Same here. I feel like I can talk to you about anything. There are very few who I ever have felt that comfortable with.
T!Ed: Well, I'll still be here for you. I don't plan on going anywhere now. *fidgets a moment before kissing his cheek quickly and letting go* Taxis here. I'll see you later.
IC!Alfons: Danke. ::sighs softly and lets go as well, and helps him load boxes into the taxi:: Let me know when you are feeling better, ja?
T!Ed: As soon as I feel better, I'll give you a call. *gets the last into the taxi and slides in, holding Kat carefully*
IC!Alfons: ::smiles softly and waves a little:: Tschau, Edward.
T!Ed: Bye, Alfons. *waves before closing the door, and watches him as the taxi pulls off*
IC!Alfons: ::watches the taxi until it's out of sight, then sighs and heads back into the apartment, slumping onto the couch with a heavy sigh::
When: 8/21/06
Rating: PG
Category: Side plots, misc. pairings of the very one-sided variety
Summary: T!Ed comes to get his stuff, and finds Alfons at the apartment when he gets there.
T!Ed: *slides out of the taxi that he took to get to his old apartment and stands, still wobbly, and makes his way to the door, knocking lightly and not really even sure if anyone is there or not*
IC!Alfons: ::gets up from the couch, putting his book down, and opens the door, then gapes slightly when he sees who it is:: ...Ahm, Edward... ::not sure what to do::
T!Ed: Um, hi... *was half-hoping nobody really was home and isn't really sure what to do now that someone is* Could I, um, come in..?
IC!Alfons: Of course, bitte, do... ::steps back to allow him entry, rather confused::
T!Ed: *steps inside and looks around, rubbing at the side of his head through the bandages* I, um, kind of... Um... *falters, looking for the right words*
IC!Alfons: ::looks down at him a bit sadly:: Would you like to sit down? I could get you something to drink... ::concerned about the bandages but not sure how to react::
T!Ed: Ah, no... It's - It's fine. *looks away* I, ahm, actually came to let you know I'm back in town... and to get my things.
IC!Alfons: Oh... Alright. Well, I am glad you are back... How have you been...? ::eyes the bandages a little again::
T!Ed: Alright, I guess. Had a small accident, but I'm better now... *catches him looking at the bandages and winces* Hit myself again and got landed in the hospital.
IC!Alfons: Ah... I am sorry... ::frowns sadly, then looks around a bit, awkwardly:: Well... Would you like me to help you get your things?
T!Ed: Yeah, sure! If you wouldn't mind... You still have that medicine around, too, yeah..?
IC!Alfons: Of course I do... You are going to actually make use of it then, I hope..? ::soft, sad smile::
T!Ed: Yeah, for once... *chuckles sadly and slumps against the wall, mostly for support* Might as well, if it's there.
IC!Alfons: I am glad, then... I really think it will help. And if you do not mind me saying so, it was hard to see all of that work I put into it, all for you, not go to use. Because more than anything, I want you to get better. You know that... ::watches him sadly::
T!Ed: I know, I'm sorry... *gives him an apologetic look, shoulders hunched slighty* I'm - I'm going to try to get better, for those who actually care. And especially after what happened with last time... Beat the hell out of myself, and showed me who my friends really were at the same time, too. *sighs*
IC!Alfons: ::reaches forward tentatively to rub his flesh shoulder, shaking his head a little:: There is no need to apologize, I know how hard all of this is on you. I am just glad to see you are working at getting yourself back on your feet, so to speak...
T!Ed: *looks down at his hand, then smiles wanly* Yeah, I'm going to try, anyway. *stands up straighter* Might as well start with the bedroom, I suppose. We should still have some boxes and a few suitcases around here somewhere...
IC!Alfons: ::withdraws his hand and nods a little:: Alright. Let us get a few boxes, then, ja. I know there are a couple in the closet... ::starts toward the bedroom slowly, half-waiting for him to come along as well::
T!Ed: *trails along behind him, looking at things as they pass almost distantly, feeling strange about being back* So, um, how have you been holding up..?
IC!Alfons: ::lowers his head a little, slowing slightly:: Ahm... I... As well as I can, I suppose. ::shakes his head::
T!Ed: I'm really, really sorry... I - I know that can't make up for the things I did and said, but... I am. *bites his lip and makes it over to the closet, digging for a moment and getting a couple of boxes*
IC!Alfons: ::pulls out a couple as well, setting them on the floor by the dresser:: Did you really mean... a lot of what you said to me, over the past few months? ::glances at him briefly::
T!Ed: If you mean my wanting to be alone, then yeah... I was happy out there, I had freedom. I didn't want to come back here and be trapped again with no other place to go. *busies himself setting up his boxes*
IC!Alfons: I... No, I know that, I meant... Well... I guess I did not know what you thought of me anymore. You sent me that set of clockwork figures and told me you loved me, and then the next thing I knew, you despised me. I did not know what to do. The last time something like that happened, you did still love me underneath everything, and you came back to me... ::sighs heavily and starts packing some of Ed's clothing into a box::
T!Ed: *carefully folds his clothing and puts them in the box, biting his lip* Alfons... I - I do still love you, but not in that way anymore...
IC!Alfons: ::winces slightly internally, and continues packing clothing, avoiding looking at him:: What did I do wrong...?
T!Ed: Nothing. Alfons... *makes a small noise in the back of his throat, upset* It... I did everything wrong. I was the one that pushed you away and I don't think I can let you be close again, like we were.
IC!Alfons: I... Just feel like everything happened so suddenly. We were perfect, and so happy together, and nothing could bring us apart, and then... You were gone... ::grips one side of the box tightly, refusing to cry any more over him::
T!Ed: It did, and it was my fault. I got scared and ran away. *reaches to touch his arm lightly before retracting his hand, thinking that would be a bad idea* I thought being by myself was better, where I couldn't hurt people, and I think I was right. *fidgets, looking down*
IC!Alfons: ::looks over toward him just a little:: I thought... I thought we would always be together, you know? I guess it was stupid of me to think that. I know I can be naive. And our relationship was the first I have ever had, so expecting it would last forever was too much, but... I thought that anyway.
T!Ed: I know... *looks back, a little teary eyed* But you're sixteen and you're a wonderful person. You'll find someone else that's a lot better for you than I am.
IC!Alfons: ...I do not want to... ::sighs shakily:: Despite all of your imperfections, and despite everything you have done, it is hard for me to imagine someone as fun to be around as you. There is something about you that is just so... magnetic. ::shakes his head and goes back to packing, blinking back tears despite himself::
T!Ed: *winces, putting the last of his clothing into the box* We can still be friends, if you want to... At least I can make that much right for you.
IC!Alfons: Could we..? ::closes the box in front of him:: Because as much as I hate to admit it... You are really the only person here that I feel comfortable with. Well, there is my brother, but he is so rarely around. I am just so alone here...
T!Ed: Of course we could. *smiles a little for him* Um, I'm staying at a new place right here in Central, and you're more than welcome to call or visit when I'm feeling better or something. *gets up and starts gathering some books* So how is your brother, by the way? And how's Kat doing?
IC!Alfons: Danke. May I ask where, then, and what your phone number is...? ::sits up on the bed, looking around to find something else to pack up:: My brother is fine, but he is busy as usual. He has been baking a bit more, though, recently, which is kind of fun. Ahm, and Kat is doing fine too, I think. She is around here somewhere, probably. She might be in my brother's old room, sleeping. Maybe I should go find her, I am sure she would love to see you...
T!Ed: Ah, yeah. Of course. *looks around a moment before finding a pad of paper and a pen, scribbling down the information* There you go. And it's alright. Kat probably doesn't even remember who I am, what with my being gone for so long, you know? *chuckles sadly and surveys the bookshelf* Were there any of these that you wanted to keep?
IC!Alfons: Danke... ::pockets the piece of paper, then frowns:: I doubt that... And even if she does not, do you not miss her? ::looks over the books, then shakes his head:: Take what you want, they are yours anyway.
T!Ed: Of course I miss her... I miss her a lot. *frowns, gathering an armful of books and putting them in the box, stumbling slightly along the way* Well, alright... If there's anything you want to keep, though, that's fine. I don't mind.
IC!Alfons: She is yours as well, you know. She really loves you. You should probably take her with you, too... ::stands to go get her, and notices the stumble:: Careful, are you alright?
T!Ed: Still tired and weak, I guess. I got myself pretty good. *shrugs* And, um, are you sure? She loves you too, I know, and I don't want you to be alone here or anything...
IC!Alfons: Are you sure you would not like anything to drink while you are here? ::frowns a little, then sighs:: With or without her, I am still alone here. There is only so much company a cat can provide, as friendly as she is. You were the one, though, who called her your baby. You ought to take her with you, for her sake.
T!Ed: Yeah, I'll be fine. I'll just take a nap or something when I get back to the other places *bites his lip, fidgeting* If you're sure, then...
IC!Alfons: If you are sure. ::nods a little, sighing:: I am sure. If I feel I need a kitten, I can get another, but Kat is yours. I would be sad if the two of you were separated.
T!Ed: Then I'll take her with me when I go. *nods, putting the last of his books into the box* Um, how are you for rent and things like that?
IC!Alfons: I... Do not know. I am searching for a job, but rent is due in a couple weeks and I am running out of money. ::shakes his head:: I do not want to give this place up, but I may have to if I cannot get a job soon.
T!Ed: Oh... *bites his lip, thinking* Um, well... The apartment I'm at is getting paid for by someone else, but I'm still going back to working at the university. If you, um, want me to help, I can...
IC!Alfons: I would never ask for money from you, Edward... ::smiles sadly:: I appreciate it, but you deserve to keep what you earn...
T!Ed: It's fine, really. *smiles wanly back* Like I said, Envy is paying for things for me so it's not like I need the money I earn at all, and it's the least that I can do for you...
IC!Alfons: ::looks somewhat alarmed:: Envy?
T!Ed: Yeah, Envy. He said he would help me, so... *shrugs*
IC!Alfons: ... ::shakes his head:: I still cannot believe you trust him. And I cannot believe he is willing to help you without having some ulterior motive. ::looks sadly at him:: Be careful, alright? I know I do not need to tell you that, but still...
T!Ed: I will be, don't worry. *smiles sadly* He's really not as bad as everyone makes him out to be and he promised to me that he wouldn't let me kill anyone. He keeps his promises. *looks around the room before closing up the box*
IC!Alfons: ::sighs heavily:: He did not last time. You know what he did to you last time. I do not want to see that happen again. ::shakes his head:: Alright, if you insist on helping me out, I suppose I should take you up on that because I do need the help, as much as I hate to admit it. But I do not know how I am going to pay you back.
T!Ed: I'll be careful, don't worry. It's fine, really. *sits back on his heels, thinking* You still have the notes and stuff for the medicine, don't you?
IC!Alfons: ::nods:: I do, ja...
T!Ed: Well... You could keep making it for me? In exchange for my helping you out?
IC!Alfons: I would, gladly, although I do not know that that is enough to repay you as I already promised to make it for you. ::smiles softly:: You saved me, so I will help you, remember? The only trouble is that the ingredients are so difficult to find.
T!Ed: I could probably ask Envy to get the ingredients, if that helps. He seems to be able to find things like that no problem. *smiles a little back* Really, you don't have to pay me back for saving your life. I would never ask that of you.
IC!Alfons: I hate even more to rely on him. ::grumbles softly, then shakes his head:: I promised, Edward. It is a promise I will never break. I will do anything I can to help you get through this.
T!Ed: *decides not to say anything more on Envy and nods* If you really want to, then, I appreciate it. And, um, I think that's everything from this room.
IC!Alfons: Oh, ja, alright... ::sighs and picks up one of the boxes, carrying it out and depositing it in the living room::
T!Ed: *hefts the other one and takes it out with some difficutly before flopping into one of the chairs to catch his breath* There's just a few things out here and some stuff I hid under the floorboards, and then, um, I can get out of your hair.
IC!Alfons: No, do not worry about being a bother to me. You are always welcome here.
T!Ed: Alright. You're always welcome over too, you know. Maybe sometime soon for tea? *gets up and heads into the hallway with a box, prying up a couple of the floorboards*
IC!Alfons: ::nods:: Anytime is fine with me. I would love to come over and see where you are living now. ::picks up another empty box and starts collecting Ed's things from the living room::
T!Ed: It's a really nice place. Fairly huge and two stories of a six story building. *throws the random oddities from beneath the floor into the box before putting the boards back in place and closing the box*
IC!Alfons: Considering who is paying for it, I did not expect anything small like this place. ::frowns, continuing to pack miscellaneous books and notebooks and items up::
T!Ed: *drags the box back into the living room* Yeah, I suppose... It's got three bedrooms too. I was thinking of maybe turning one into a workshop or something. A good place to make those clockwork things, you know?
IC!Alfons: ::nods, looking at the coffee table city:: I will never get over your talent with those things...
T!Ed: ...I - I made something bigger at the old house. Kind of made everything else pale in comparison. *watches the city for a moment before sighing* I think that's everything, except for Kat.
IC!Alfons: Oh? What would that be? ::looks over at him, curious::
T!Ed: An entire maze that shifts with the hours. I was going to set traps in it until Hughes came along... Might have been a good thing, in the long run.
IC!Alfons: A maze? That sounds interesting... ::frowns a little:: What about Herr Hughes...?
T!Ed: Hughes... talked to me. In my head... Right before I had that episode. *fidgets*
IC!Alfons: ... ::suddenly realizes what that means:: Oh, Gott, I am so sorry... I am sure he did not mean to scare you...
T!Ed: Yeah, I'm sure he didn't... *ducks his head* But then the rest of the voices came, and the monsters too...
IC!Alfons: ::places a hand gently on his shoulder, trying to be comforting:: I am so sorry. I cannot imagine what he was thinking, to try that. He should have known better... ::shakes his head::
T!Ed: I don't know either... He just wanted to make sure I was okay, I guess, and I already told you all that I was perfectly fine. I just wanted to be left alone out there...
IC!Alfons: I know you did. But you know... I am glad you came back here. I would worry about you if you were always so alone, out in that house in the middle of nowhere. It cannot be good to be away from people so much. It would get to be like being under house arrest again, I would think. After a while you would get sick of it.
T!Ed: I guess so... It really did get lonely out there sometimes, but I did manage. There were plenty of things to keep me occupied, at least. But now that I'm back, I can start doing normal things again, or at least try to. I'm going back to school still, you know.
IC!Alfons: Oh, good. I am glad to hear that. ::squeezes his shoulder gently before dropping his hand awkwardly to his side:: Do you still want to become a doctor?
T!Ed: Yeah. I'm still going to help people, if I can. *smiles sadly* Least I can do still.
IC!Alfons: ::smiles sadly as well, nodding:: I am glad you are going to continue in that direction... I know you will be a wonderful doctor. I have no doubts in my mind about that.
T!Ed: Thanks... *fidgets for a moment* I should probably call that taxi now and get going...
IC!Alfons: Oh, alright. ::sighs:: Here, let us see if we can find Kat... ::goes to the ex-study, looking around a bit::
T!Ed: *follows after him and spots Kat curled up napping in a nest of blankets on the bed* There she is... *smiles faintly*
IC!Alfons: ::goes and sits on the bed next to her, petting her softly to wake her up::
T!Ed: *stands in the doorway awkwardly, not really wanting to bother either of them anymore*
IC!Alfons: ::picks her up gently and nuzzles her fur, blinking back sudden tears:: Look who it is, Kat... Look who came back for you...
T!Ed: *walks over to them, feeling a lump in his throat, and scratches behind her ears gently* Hey...
Katrinelje: ::rubs her face against Ed's hand, purring lazily::
IC!Alfons: ::sighs a little shakily and watches her, petting her softly::
T!Ed: *sniffles a little and reaches to take her, cuddling her*
IC!Alfons: ::hands her over to him with a small, watery smile::
T!Ed: *takes her gently and kisses the top of her head* Thanks for taking such good care of her for me...
IC!Alfons: Of course, Edward...
T!Ed: Um, I guess - I guess I'll be seeing you, I suppose...
IC!Alfons: ::nods, rubbing an eye a bit:: Call me. Or, well, I will call you, too. But let me know when you are feeling better. Maybe we could have lunch sometime, even.
T!Ed: I would love that, I really would. Once my head is recovered enough, we can arrange something like. *watery smile* Is it alright if I use the phone here to call a cab?
IC!Alfons: Ja, we should. ::smiles a little in return, then nods:: Of course it is alright.
T!Ed: Thanks... *squirms on the spot a moment before heading out into the other room and making the call*
IC!Alfons: ::follows him out of the room and looks at all the boxes in the living room with a sigh::
T!Ed: *hangs up* It'll be here in a few minutes. *opens the door and starts dragging his stuff out one-handed*
IC!Alfons: ::goes to help him, carrying boxes out for him:: Good luck with your new place...
T!Ed: *gets the rest of his stuff and stands at the curb to wait* Yeah, it seems to all be going alright so far...
IC!Alfons: Good, then... ::looks at him sadly, with a small smile:: I hope Kat likes it there...
T!Ed: I'm sure she will. There's plenty of room for her to run around in and Clarence is there too...
IC!Alfons: Oh, right, Clarence... ::smiles a little more, with a soft chuckle:: So unique, and yet somehow so fitting for you to have a pet like that. He is pretty interesting.
T!Ed: When you come over, I can show you the tricks he does. When we got him, he could hum Carmina Burana, but now he can do a few dances and knows La Camparista too. *smiles a bit*
IC!Alfons: ::chuckles:: Amazing. I would love to see that. ::smiles, then shakes his head a little with a sigh, looking at the sidewalk:: Before you go... Ahm... Well, if this is a stupid request, I will understand, and it is not one you have to grant, but... May I hug you one last time...? ::looks at him a bit timidly::
T!Ed: Um, sure... I guess so. Just... Careful of Kat? *holds out one arm wide to hug him*
IC!Alfons: Oh, I know. ::steps closer, a bit cautious, then gently puts his arms around him:: I am going to miss you... But I feel funny for thinking that, since we just spent more time apart from each other than we likely will again for some time...
T!Ed: *hugs him tightly* I know... And it's not like it's goodbye forever, either. We'll still visit each other and stuff...
IC!Alfons: ::presses closer, relieved he's not being shoved away, and closes his eyes:: Exactly... I will be seeing more of you now than I have in the past while... I suppose it is just an odd emotional response. But I am glad beyond words that we can still be friends. Your friendship means a lot to me. More than I can say.
T!Ed: *pats his back lightly* I'm really glad that we can still be friends too, Alfons. It's not like I've got very many people to talk to, anyway, and you're one of the very few that I can trust anymore...
IC!Alfons: I know. Same here. I feel like I can talk to you about anything. There are very few who I ever have felt that comfortable with.
T!Ed: Well, I'll still be here for you. I don't plan on going anywhere now. *fidgets a moment before kissing his cheek quickly and letting go* Taxis here. I'll see you later.
IC!Alfons: Danke. ::sighs softly and lets go as well, and helps him load boxes into the taxi:: Let me know when you are feeling better, ja?
T!Ed: As soon as I feel better, I'll give you a call. *gets the last into the taxi and slides in, holding Kat carefully*
IC!Alfons: ::smiles softly and waves a little:: Tschau, Edward.
T!Ed: Bye, Alfons. *waves before closing the door, and watches him as the taxi pulls off*
IC!Alfons: ::watches the taxi until it's out of sight, then sighs and heads back into the apartment, slumping onto the couch with a heavy sigh::