Future Tech And Travis -RP/Story-

[Tech Wilson]

A new title will be given to this thread later. Maybe Maya can come up with one. But I can't. So the title should explain everything. This is pretty much a never-ending RP between Maya and I over AIM taking place eight years from this point on La Campana. It's about Techolatlallatzin and Travis a boy named Panda.

I should probably clear things up for those who don't know. Travis is meant to be dead by the point when this RP takes place. Five years and seven months from now, they give him an operation fix his lungs because he really is dying. It supposedly failed and Travis is supposed to be dead. Tech is left depressed and widowed and supposed to be moving on in life and getting a new wife/husband like he promised Travis he would. This all takes place about two years after the death.

It is written in massive paragraphs, though AIM/Cbox style RPing. Which caused us to get really screwy on whether we were writing present or past tense. So that may change frequently. Please ignore it. And, though it's obvious at the very beginning... shiftyvine is Panda while divacy is Techolatlallatzin.

It's not done. When we RP more, I shall add it on to this first post and I'll post here saying that it has been updated. Capiche? Okay.

Enjoy.

shiftyvine:
*the boy everyone called Panda hummed under his breath as he made sure his upturned hat was out of the rain. It was a miserable day, and he was already hungry, his stomach growling, remembering the lack of food yesterday was well. It would be another long, slow day, and this weather could hardly improve his performance. Weather like this made him want to grab his blanket, curl up in a covered doorway and fall asleep, a sleep without nightmares of drowning in purple seas.

But no. He needed food. It was a decent place he had found today, and he had to hurry, because there was no way this spot didn't have a regular who would kick him out as soon as they arrived. Coughing once, hating the strain in his lungs (made him think of his nightmares), he tucked his short brown hair behind his ears, not wanting it in his eyes, and pulled his battered coat close to him.

He sang in English, because that was his quirk. He wasn't missing a leg or an eye, and he wasn't that good. But he was a westerner (people assumed, just as he did), and he sung American songs.

"Smile though your heart is aching
Smile even though it's breaking.
When there are clouds in the sky
you'll get by~"

divacy:
*it was like almost every other day, Tech forced himself out of his house for a daily walk. Allowing him to do nothing more than sit around all day like he normally did just wasn't an option. His rather long purplish colored hair was tied at the nape of his neck and he dressed in nothing more than black baggy cargo pants, a long-sleeved black shirt and a black, baggy jacket to match. It all hid how skinny he was, but at least he wasn't Anorexic.

It wasn't supposed to be anything new. Just a walk down the street, through the park and probably just right back again. Then he could curl up in his bed and get one of those many books he keeps saying he's going to read but never does. But Tech was stopped at the sound of music. Singing. Quite often, Tech heard people singing and playing their instruments but the voice he heard now just sparked something inside of him. He recognized the words as being English and, as he walked past the man, he couldn't help but slow down and listen. But he slowed down to a complete stop as he watched the other male* Hey... what songs do you know? *his expression was blank as he stared at the man, his hands stuffed deep in his pockets. It wasn't abnormal for Tech to walk down the street and see people who looked like this man. In fact, for so long, Tech constantly thought he saw an old friend everywhere he looked. This man just looked more like him than any of the others. Tech shouldn't let it get to him, but he did* You do speak English, right?

shiftyvine:
*Panda looks up in surprise. He hadn't heard this man's footsteps. As soon as he did look up, his voice faltered and died. Damn. And this guy looked like he had some money to spare, too. Though that wasn't why he had stopped. No, there was just something about this man, something terribly attractive. His heart started to beat faster, and even in the rain, he could have sworn he felt the sweat on his palms. He had always known that he maybe liked guys, as well as girls, but damn. Never like this.

And he was talking!* "What songs do I know? I... I dunno. I sing a lot. What were you looking for?" *Again, he tucks the hair out of his eyes. He would need to try and find some scissors and cut it, tonight if he could* "English? I should hope so, sir! I'm not too good at speaking anything else!" *he shifted awkwardly, trying to tear his eyes off of the man, trying to nudge his hat forward without being too obvious*

divacy:
*Tech kneels down in front of the other man, keeping his eyes fixed on him as his lips purse. He wasn't even sure what he was looking to hear. After all, he really had never been one for music in the past and, even now, there weren't a lot of songs he knew. But he was just looking to listen to something. Anything, really.*

Something with a quicker tune, perhaps? It sounds to me like you have a nice voice. I'm curious as to just how well you can use it. *He takes a moment to think, turning his eyes up to stare at the sky. He didn't even mind the fact that his hair was getting wet out here. But maybe he should have brought a hooded jacket* Good. I have been looking for more reasons to use English. *Tech sits himself cross legged in front of the boy. So what if the ground was wet? So what if it would get him dirty? Neither of those would phase him in the least. All he knew was that he needed to listen to this young man* Go on now.

shiftyvine:
*when the man kneels down in front of him, Panda feels nervous. Maybe this guy was slightly off his rocker. He was actually going to sit down and listen to him? He cleared his throat, his stomach twisting with butterflies* An English song, correct? Of course, you said you wanted to practice your English... *laughs awkwardly* I knew that. Sorry. A bit nervous, I guess! *another shrill laugh, which turns into a sharp cough* Ah, I... I think I know the song...


"I've given up on giving up slowly
I'm blending in so you don't even know me
Apart from this whole world that shares my fate

This one last bullet you mention
Is my one last shot at redemption
Because I know to live you must give your life away" *he didn't remember where he learned this song, but it was always a favorite. Something special*

divacy:
*Curiously, Tech tilts his head to the side, wondering what song was in store for him as he wore a rather amused expression. But the song and the voice just causes his heart to stop. He holds his breath, his smile falling as all he can do is stare at the boy. Really, he listened more than he did watch. He just drank in that voice he knew so well and the lyrics he'd heard so long ago. Without even thinking, he sang along*

"And I've been housing all this doubt
And insecurity and
I've been locked inside that house
All the while you hold the key
And I've been dying to get out
And that might be the death of me..."

*Tech trailed off, his eyes fixed on the boy while his fingers dug into his pant leg, trying so hard to stop his hands from shaking. His yellow contact eyes fluttered shut and he turned his head away as he whispered softly* Do you have a name...?

shiftyvine:
*he steals a peek at the man as he starts to sing, and then the man does something that once again causes his throat to freeze, mid note.

He's singing along.

Nutcase. He always attracted them. But this man... There was something special there. Some story behind every word. Belatedly, he joined in again, his voice meshing nicely with the man's, until he stopped. Panda took this as his sign to halt as well. The man was staring at him with something almost... frightening in his eyes. But Panda couldn't look away, even after the man broke eye contact*

"A... A name? Yes... Kinda. I mean, people call me something." He sighed. "Panda, usually. Which is funny, 'cause I've never seen a panda, and I don't look Chinese."

divacy:
Panda? *Tech had to put a lot of effort into not smiling then and there. Of all names that this guy could be called by, it had to be one like that? Tech always thought he was the panda, not Travis. But this wasn't Travis. This was a man who sounded exactly like him. A man who looked almost identical to him, with the exception that this male was thinner and his hair wasn't exactly blue. Yet he was already trying so hard not to grab this guy and pull him into his arms. It wasn't Travis. He couldn't touch this guy like that*

You definitely aren't Chinese, I can see that. Hn... makes me rather curious as to why they would call you such a thing. *He gets up to his feet, brushing off his behind though it's wet by this point. He slips his hands into his pocket and stares down at this Panda character curiously* Why are you out here? Sitting here on the street singing for money. Why? Your voice is beautiful. You shouldn't need to do this. Shouldn't you be at home getting warm rather than forcing yourself into the rain?

shiftyvine:
*Panda shifted awkwardly, looking embarrassed* It's my favorite animal, I think... *This man made him wish he had brushed his hair this morning- not that it would have helped, with all this rain!- and was wearing something a little more becoming than his threadbare jeans and dirty, soaking jacket. Not that he owned anything else. Was this man really attractive enough to pull these kind of reactions out of him?

Stupid question. Yes, yes he was*

Why am I out here? I... have nowhere else to go, sir. I mean, I could go to one of the shelters, but I'm not weak or dying or anything, so that's not really fair, is it? And singing is better than stripping or sexing. *a blush* Thanks... But no one hires a kid off the street. Not for, you know, real jobs. Anyway, I swear I don't mind! I'm used to it!

divacy:
Mine too. I own a panda. Her name is Kokoro. She's eight years old now, I do believe. *He was amazed that the panda was already getting so old. Had it really been that long? Apparently so. Sighing softly, he stuffed his hands into his jacket pockets, already feeling the water seep through it and plastered the jacket to his skin. That wasn't a good thing. Tech didn't need people knowing that he was thin. But he had to ignore that. He couldn't do anything but ignore it 'cause all his thoughts were just on this boy*

You don't have a home...? And you don't have money to get a home? With a voice like that? *He stops to stare up at the sky, taking his time to think over what he could do about this. Yes, Tech clearly wanted to take this boy's hand and drag him back with him. But it wasn't Travis! He couldn't just pick up some random hobo off the streets. Funny how, at the thought of the boy stripping or having sex for money, he felt a twisting and sick feeling in his stomach. A jealous feeling even. Fuck. He couldn't go doting on every little person who came along and reminded him of Travis* What if I hired you? Would you accept? I could find you some jobs to do around my home and... in exchange, I am willing to give you a roof over your head and food even. All you'd have to do in exchange is much of my housework. Unless... you'd rather not...

shiftyvine:
You... own a panda? *Panda's eyes light up* That... That's amazing! Oh, wow! *He kinda wanted to follow this guy home and meet his panda. Except for the fact that such a thing was the oldest pedophile trick in the book. Not that this guy looked like a pedo! But come on. Everyone knew someone who took an offer like a home for a few days and just never came home. But this guy didn't look very strong, or anything. Hell, he was hardly thicker than Panda himself! Which for some reason made Panda very concerned*

Nah. I don't mind, though! I mean, I've been out here a long time- *he assumed so, at least* -and I get how the system works! *shifts nervously, half wishing this man would just throw some change into his hat and leave. It was the least he could do... he had given him a request, after all* Wait... Wh-what? Hire me? *starts shaking his head* Noooo. No thank you, I'd rather stay here. Because that kinda stuff only ends up good in fairy tales. *his stomach rumbled loudly, and he winced, hand instinctively clutching at it. Dammit, he needed food now* I mean, I'm not going to sleep with you! And I've never cooked!

divacy:
*He nods his head slowly* My father bought it for me back when it was still a baby. I haven't let it out of my possession since. I'd rather not let someone else have it and end up mistreating it... *Tech turns his eyes to the ground, giving a soft sigh. That panda was just so special to him. Perhaps it was all because that creature was the thing that gave him the nickname Lovepanda about eight years back. Either way, he would never harm the creature or allow someone else to bring it misery. It was his panda. Panda was his.*

*Tech pursed his lips and narrowed his eyes at the other male's last comments* I would never ask you to sleep with me. In fact, I don't think I'd allow you in my room. As for cooking... *Tech pauses to roll his eyes* I don't eat the food others make. If there were cooking going on in my home, it would be by my hands. *He was still talking even after the boy had said he wouldn't go with him. Was he trying to convince him to go? No! Tech wouldn't do that. This was a stranger. He wouldn't take a stranger home with him. Of course. Which definitely explained why he was still trying* You are sure you don't want to work at my home? It's warm, a decent size and no one else is there. You'd probably only have to get the dishes done, mop and vacuum the floor and dust, perhaps. And you could feed the panda if you wished. And I'd... probably wish to hear you sing for me again. I'd enjoy that quite a bit.

shiftyvine:
*eyes shining, he smiled* Your father must love you, then! *the smile goes distant, as he tried and failed to remember his own father. Nothing. Not a color or a scent or a word. The same blank space he'd been floundering in for almost two years. Two years of not remembering anything except for periwinkle blue and pandas. No name, no sense of familiarity. None at all. Not that it really mattered- or so he tried to tell himself. Waking up in a dumpster with no fresh injuries and a twenty in his pocket usually said everything needed about whether they missed you at home.

Panda felt uncomfortable under the man's glare. Maybe he was offended at the insinuation that he was gay, though he didn't mention it. And he didn't eat anyone else's food... Curious. Important enough to be assassinated, Panda wondered? Can't trust any of his staff, so he has to find a bum on the street? He opened his mouth to reject the man once again, when a particularly loud grumble came from his stomach, along with a shooting pain that had him gasping as he swayed* I... Sir, I... dunno your name!

divacy:
*Tech's face went entirely blank at the suggestion of his father caring for him. As if. At least that man pretended to like him now. After all, Tech was in charge of the academy now. It had always been his dream to do such but, eight years ago, he realized that he'd rather be anything than inherit that academy. It didn't even take effort. It was all just a title* No, he didn't really. It was more of a bribery gift. *He didn't really plan to say anything more than that. No need to get into talk about his abusive and cruel father with a complete stranger. Even if he did feel as though he'd known this stranger for eight years. But he had to get that thought out of his head!*

Hm...? *Tech eyes the boy curiously at the sound of his stomach and forces his smile back, trying to still look as blank and empty as before. But his eyes betrayed him. They are the windows to his soul after all and his soul was feeling rather happy right about now. He brought a hand through his wet hair and frowned at the question* You are correct... I apologize. I am Techo- *He froze and shook his head* Tech Xiaolan. At least, Tech is what people choose to call me. *He kneels down a bit in front of the boy again, watching him while shaking his head* You still wish to turn down my offer? Even if you don't wish to stay, I'm offering you a meal. It's been a few days since I actually cooked something that actually gets entirely eaten.

shiftyvine:
*Panda winced, sensing that he had somehow miss-stepped, and feeling guilty for it. He made a face, chewing on his lip* Yikes. Sorry. Fathers suck, I guess? *He still wished he could remember his. Or any part of his mother. Mothers, he had heard, were supposed to be nicer.* Or so I've heard...

*there was something in this man's eyes that made him want to turn away, giggling. Some lightheartedness that seemed to fall from this man, drying the pavement around him, filling up Panda's hat with shiny coins- that's what he should do!* Techo? Really? Tech... Tech... *sounded the name out, and now he really did chuckle* I totally had you pegged for like... A Ray. Raymond. You look like a Raymond. *looked away again, nervous, trying to ignore the light-headedness he was feeling* F-fine. But just a trial run! Until tonight! I can see if I like staying with you, and you can cook your meal.

divacy:
Not all of them. But mine did. He made my life hell but all that matters is that, without him, I probably wouldn't be who I am now. I don't know if who I am is a good though or not though. I'm kind of boring. *He gives a deep sigh, bringing a hand to rub at the back of his neck. Without his father, he'd have never been sent to that reform school eight years back. He'd also still have all his siblings and probably wouldn't have to act like such an ass toward everyone all the time. Though Tech became rather amused when he started pissing people off. Yet he didn't find himself trying to purposely anger this boy. If he did by accident, he might even feel a bit bad for doing it*

A Raymund? Really? That's quite a coincidence. I always thought that name fit my brother more. His name is Raymundo. Obviously, you have at least a little bit of name guessing talent. But I know that you would have never guessed my real name... much less have known how to pronounce it. No one can. That's why I say just Tech. *He put on a rather accomplished smirk on his face but made himself look off behind himself to hide it and quickly wipe it away. Looking back toward the other male, he gave a very slow nod of his head* Then it's settled. If you decide not to stay with me, you're always allowed to come back though. Even if it's just to mooch food off of me. I've got plenty to spare. And... I'll get you a towel as well once we get there.

shiftyvine:
Oh... *laughs awkwardly* Kinda makes me glad I didn't have one, then. Or whatever. But you don't seem boring to me. I mean, I highly doubt most people sit down on a wet sidewalk to listen to a busker sing. And then offer to take said busker home. See, none of that sounds boring to me... Though maybe that's just me? *he was talking too much, again, and the nerves in his voice were obvious. Already, his lungs were squeezing, refusing to take a good breath. He wheezed for a moment before it stopped, and he was able to gasp in relief*

Yes. A Raymund! *paused, his eyes frozen in shock* Your brother's name is Raymundo? Wow. That was weird... but cool! *hums, trying to think of a name that started with Tech* You know, I have no earthly idea what your full name could be... *his stomach clenched, and he whimpered again* Thank you, Tech. Sir. But, ah... *he waves his hand at Tech's left hand* Won't your wife mind if you kept bringing a hobo home?

divacy:
You're right, that's not boring, that's crazy. Any sane person would just leave you on the street to starve. Any intelligent person may pick you up off the street to make you bend to their will. A sexual person would probably take you home for a good night. Then you have me... who doesn't want any of that. *He pauses a long moment and frowns* I'm not sure what I want from you. But it's not sex or to make you miserable. I guess I just can't let a good voice sit out here and rot. *He shrugs his shoulders, not even realizing that he was smiling at that moment. But the smiling was wiped clean off his face as the boy seemed to be unable to breathe for the moment. He just stared at him, his eyes wide and he just felt as though he were crumbling. This was some sick joke. It had to be. This man was too much like him. But Tech didn't want to believe that someone was purposely tricking him. But he wasn't about to start believing that this guy was his Travis either. Travis was dead.*

I don't think you want to hear my name. It's Aztec. My mother is Mexican. So it's a rather long name and hardly pronounceable. You're better off not hearing it so that you don't have to spend months figuring out how to say it. *Tech, for a long moment, was confused and then he froze. His eyes snapping wide as he pulled his sleeve down over his left hand and shook his head* I... I don't have a wife. The ring is... from a past marriage. But it's over now. It has been for two years. *Looks away, with a mixture of a sad and ashamed expression on his face* I haven't been able to bring myself to get rid of the ring... plus it stops most people from trying to get in my pants 'cause they believe I'm taken or something.

shiftyvine:
*Panda flinched at the word 'starve'. He had been too close, too many times. His stomach growled again, and he winced. Right now was cupcakes in comparison to that* I... am glad that you are not any of those things then, Tech. None of those options sounds very good for me. *He smiled, trying to pretend that none of those had ever happened to him. That was ages ago, after all. Stupid* I do try to avoid being miserable... and sex, for that matter. Especially miserable sex. That's the worst. *talking too much again, but he couldn't help it. This man made him nervous. In a not-bad-maybe-even-good way. He caught his breath and grinned sheepishly at the man* Sorry. Sometimes, my lungs don't like me very much. *more like most of the time, but what could he do?*

You're a Mexican Chinese guy? Awkward. *his eyes went wide* Ah, shit! I didn't mean that, I promise! I meant it's unique! Yeah... Very unique! ...you have an Aztec name? *this guy kept getting stranger and stranger. He should just leave now, but his stomach needed food now or he was going to faint again. So he stuck it out. Wincing at the look in Tech's eyes, he dropped his gaze* I'm sorry. *a heavy pause* You're not taken? *wrong question, wrong question* I mean... How did they die?

divacy:
*He gave a very slow nod of his head, greatly hoping that saying he wasn't going to make him miserable or rape didn't make the other man think he was going to. Though he seemed to be an exact replica, even a clone, of Travis, Tech wasn't about to make a move on him. And to make someone who reminded him of an old love miserable? That just wasn't ever going to happen. Not by his hands. Though the male seemed to be talking a lot again and it made Tech smile. It's not like Tech was ever the most talkative person so, when someone else would talk, it made him feel a bit more pleased. Especially when they have a voice like this guy's* You have problems with your lungs? I do hope it's not something too bad... do you know what's wrong with them?

*Tech rolls his eyes at the comment about his ethnicity being awkward* No, you're right. It is a bit awkward. And, within my family, it's not unique at all. I have had a big family, so I don't feel all that unique. *With a deep sigh, he brushed the wet bangs from his eyes and nodded his head* Techolatlallatzin. The day you manage to pronounce my name, I'll bake you cookies as a reward. And I don't back cookies. I always eat the dough before they reach the oven... *Frowns a bit and shakes his head at his failure with cookie dough. But he started feeling a bit better when the boy asked if he wasn't taken. In fact, he almost giggled, but he caught himself before he accidentally did so* I never said they died. I said that we weren't together anymore... *But Tech trailed off and bit his lip. Well, he might as well talk. It's not like anything he's been saying can be used against him very well* It was a lung problem. They couldn't breathe properly and it was killing them. We tried to get an operation done... but it failed and resulted in... death... *All he could do was shake his head. Fuck the doctors. Tech hasn't gone near a hospital since that day. Not even when he gets high fevers or breaks a bone. But the bone breaking only happened once. But he learned to deal with it all himself*

shiftyvine
*something about the boy's smile made Panda's heart speed up, which was strange, because, well, he probably shouldn't be attracted to the creeper MAN who was trying to take him home. At his question, he just laughs* Yeah, I've had the issue since as long as I can remember... I don't know what's wrong with them, though... *his face falls, and he bites his lip.* I can't remember ever going to a doctor for them! So they can't be that bad! *Couldn't remember, but he knew he had at one point. The deep, harsh scars all across his chest were signs of that. Because they had to be medical. They were too precise for a crime, and if it was some madman who had cut him up, he woulda died of bloodloss anyway*

A big family? *the envy in his voice is way too obvious, and he blushes, embarrassed* Well, you seem pretty damn unique to me! *at the man's name, he can't help but laugh out loud, slapping a hand over his mouth to muffle the chuckles* Sorry! Sorry, I've just never heard a name like that! And some people on the streets have pretty damn weird names... *at the talk of his wife, Panda tenses. This may have been a bad idea* Oh, I thought you said they were dead... *this story made his stomach twist, and he suddenly felt ill.* God. I... I'm sorry. I guess it's a touchy subject, hmm?

Divacy
*Tech had this sudden wanting to reach out toward the boy and touch him. But he didn't want to scare him away. He was already being too much of a creepy stranger as it was. But he wanted to touch this man's chest and see just how bad it was. But, if he learned anything in the past, it was that you shouldn't touch someone's chest if they don't have the best lungs. It could cause some really bad problems* They don't seem to be as bad as they could be. I have seen worse before... just don't put too much strain on your lungs. People would surely miss you if you stopped breathing.

*He gave a slow nod of his head* Yes, I had many siblings. Most of them have passed away by this point though. *He tugs at the end of his wet hair and watched the rain that was hitting the ground as he gave an annoyed hum at the boy's laughing* Yes, you should be sorry. I've been made fun of enough for my name. At least I'm not having to be called Panda. *He rolls his eyes though keeps it his own secret that he was, at one point, called something along the lines of that name. At the suggestion of the topic of his lover being touchy, he nodded his head rather slowly* Yes... it's not the easiest thing to talk about for me. I'd prefer that we drop the subject.

Shiftyvine
*Panda shoves his hands in his pockets to refrain from pressing his hands to his chest. No need to concern the man. He wasn't even aching today, and on a day where he could sing... Well, he didn't really have anything to complain about. It could always be worse* Nah, they're not that bad at all! I mean, if they were, I'd be dead, right? *involuntarily, he winces at that last line* Miss me? Not really. Out here it's every man for themselves, and I don't have a crew like a lot of people do. I'd just be another unnamed body in an alley. *again*

*a frown* Oh, I'm sorry. I keep bringing up the touchy subjects, don't I?*another laugh at Tech's reaction to his laughter* This isn't teasing laughter, I promise! I think it's kinda cute! *his cheeks flush, and he looks away. He hadn't meant to say that* And Panda's not my REAL name, anyway. *nodding, he tries at a smile* Consider it dropped, Tech sir!

Divacy
*He slowly shook his head and watched the man* You would be missed. Now that I've met you, if I found out you were gone, I'd be a bit displeased. I think the world needs more pretty voices like yours... *sighs softly as he forces his hands back into his pockets again. He was just so obsessed with this guy's voice. But it sounded just as Tech remembered Travis's voice. Being able to hear it just calmed him and put a happy feeling inside of him. Really, if this Panda guy ended up dead, Tech would be far more than displeased*

Don't worry about it. If you bring up touchy things, I won't bite you for it. But I'd still really prefer that you don't. *he freezes a moment at the comment of his name sounding cute and he blushed, dropping his head to let his hair fall across his face* Cute...? Hm... I haven't had someone tell me that for awhile. Surely Panda is a cuter name than mine though. But, if Panda isn't your real name, then what is? *Not being able to kneel in front of the boy anymore, he got back up and allowed himself to stretch his legs* Thank you then.. Panda...

shiftyvine
*his face turns bright red, and he looks away from the man, his whole body made pleasantly warm from that comment* Th-thank you, sir. Tech. Yeah. *said to the ground* That's probably the nicest thing anyone's ever said to me... *Sure, maybe it was a trick, but he was sold now. He would follow this man anywhere, at this point. Okay, exaggeration. But whatever*

Just let me know when to shut up, and I will! I tend to shoot my mouth off, more than is needed. I've gotten in deep shit because of it, before... *chuckles awkwardly, then realizes the man is blushing. Goodness, of course his wife had died. No one would give this man up willingly* Panda is... an awkward name for someone older than ten, I think. *he winces* My... real name? Eh... *another awkward laugh* I don't really remember...

divacy
You don't have to call me, Sir... I'd really prefer just Tech. Sir makes me feel old and more important than I want to be. *he sighs softly and smiles without really thinking about the fact that he was trying to keep his face blank. He was rather happy that his comment seemed to please the boy and he watched him curiously* You're welcome... but everyone in the world has someone who would miss them if they died. I'm sure of it.

*giving a soft laugh, he shakes his head* No. it's alright. I enjoy the talking. I haven't been able to have a conversation with someone who wasn't a child or my father in awhile. I'm... rather enjoying it. Thank you... *taps his fingers nervously against his leg as he forces himself not to start feeling too giddy. Not over this guy. He shouldn't be feeling this happy right now* I don't think it's awkward at all... I like that it's your name. *pauses, tilting his head curiously as he frowns* Why aren't you able to remember your own name? If anyone can't remember their name, it should be me... I'm the guy with the massive forgettable name.

shiftyvine:
*looks at him, eyebrow raised* Sir makes you feel old? Well, how old are you, Tech? *Smiling again. Good. Tech should keep smiling, Panda decided. He looked better that way, more relaxed. And way younger. Shaking his head, he grins* Everyone? I doubt that. I don't think anyone even knows I exist, really... Except for the people who are talking to me in the moment, I mean.

You haven't been able to? Why not? *smiles widely* You're enjoying it? Good! I'm glad! I would hate to be boring you, or anything. That would suck. Really? Panda makes me feel like a little kid... *Not that he knew what a little kid felt like, but he could imagine* My name? Well... *this was awkward. He shifted, coughing, and looked at the ground* I don't really remember my name... Because I don't remember much of of anything...

divacy:
I'm only... twenty-four. I'd rather not have to feel any older than that until I hit an older age. *he bites his lip nervously as he lifts his gaze to watch the boy. But the nervous feeling is taken away and replaced with an almost annoyed feeling as he frowns* Obviously I know that you exist because I am talking to you right at this moment. Even if I weren't talking to you, I don't think about to forget your existence, idiot. *he rolls his eyes and wonders if the insult had gone too far. It wasn't anything big. Plus it was what he'd always called Travis in the past. Maybe that fact is why it worried him so much to call other people by that insult*

Because I don't leave my house... I have no reason to. I don't exactly have friends in this country. So I don't... have people to talk to. *he brushed the bangs from his eyes* I am enjoying it... so really, thank you. Even if you're just some guy on the street, you're the only one who says more than goodbye to me. *sighs deeply* Panda doesn't have to be a little kid name so it fits fine for you. When you call a cute person by a name like that, it's okay. *he founds his eyes fixed on the other boy, silent for a long moment* Are you suffering from memory loss then? Did you... hit your head or something?

shiftyvine:
Twenty-four? *his shoulders slump* Wow. I feel suddenly awkward. I didn't realize... I mean, you just make me feel like a silly schoolboy, or something... *shrugs his shoulders, feeling strangely shy under the man's frown* Lots of people just forget about the homeless kids. Even if they think they have a nice voice... I've gotten used to it. And at least I'm smarter than I look, am I right?

*laughs* You never leave your house? Wow! I'm so jealous! I bet your house is warm, and cozy, and pretty and cool! *nodding, he grins* Yeah, a cool guy like you must have a cool house! *freezes, then looks down, embarrassed* Cute? Eh... thanks? *he stares down at his shoes. Dammit. Another hole in them* I dunno what happened... I woke up in a dumpster, like... a year and a half ago? couldn't remember anything.

divacy:
People always think that I'm far older than I really am... incredible. Only a few years back, I was constantly mistaken for a ten year old. It's unbelievable. *gives a deep sigh as he runs his hands through his hair, clearly not liking the fact that he never looks his age* I don't forget the homeless... I don't really know what it's like to live without money or a home. But I still wouldn't dare forget about the people who have no home. If I weren't so anti-social, I'd offer them all a home. *gives a quick look over the boy, raising an eyebrow* True, you are smarter than you look. You look like you have absolutely no education but being able to keep up a conversation with me proves that wrong.

*glares at the other male* I leave my house. I force myself to leave every morning on a walk... if I didn't do that, then I'd never leave. I'm just not the most social is all. *gives a soft hum and a slow nod* Two floors... a basement... five bedrooms, always heated in the winter and air conditioned in the summer but always so empty... *puts his eyes back on the male and finds himself smiling a bit* I'm still offering you a place in this house. But, as you said, we should go through a little test first to make sure you like it there. *gives a soft laugh* You're welcome... though rather cute, you'd look better with... less dirty clothing... *his gaze drops though and he starts to think. A year and a half ago. No, no, no. Get the thoughts of Travis out of your head. It was barely two years back when he lost Travis. This wasn't Travis he couldn't start thinking that it was* That's... a real shame. I mean, I'm sorry... that such happened. You don't have any memories at all?

shiftyvine:
Well, I didn't think you looked old, or anything! You just look so much more... mature than me. Yeah. *blinks, then chuckles* Aww! I bet you were an adorable ten year old! *blushes, ducking his head and standing up to cover this fact, made very aware of how shabby he looked compared to the man in front of him* If you're so anti-social, then why offer me a home? No offense, but you're not really adding up. *makes a face* Ah... Thanks. I think.

Walking is good. *smiles* I don't think I've ever really been in a car! Well, not a moving one... *looks confused for a moment, before snapping out of it* Empty? I guess places feel that way, after you've shared it- shutting up now! Sorry! *brushes at his clothing, scowling* Yeah, I'm a bum... dirt gets everywhere and doesn't leave... *bites his lip, suddenly nervous* I have two memories, I think. I dunno. It's where I got my name, remember? I remember that I love pandas... and I remember periwinkle blue. Lots of blue... *shakes his head* That's it, though. Kinda useless.

divacy:
Mature... I guess that's what happens when you're forced to grow up too quickly. There's no going back to being a child once you've grown up. So, yea... maybe I am a bit mature. *he gave a deep sigh but tensed as a deep blush spread over his cheeks* Sh-shut up! I was... a creepy ten year old... trust me on that one. *turns his back to the boy, watching for any others who happened to be passing by as he hums softly* I don't like being anti-social. I'm just afraid I'll talk to the wrong people and get into fights. But, when I heard your voice, I guess I just felt drawn and didn't think you'd hurt me for starting up a little chat.

*he glanced back at Panda, a rather confused look in his face and a worried feeling inside of him* What do you mean "not a moving one...?" *frowns a moment and shakes his head* That's not it. It's just a big house is all... and I'm one person. Of course it feels empty, it always has. *eyes the boy and sighs softly* You can use my shower, if you wish... and I've got some clothes that I think would fit you decently well if you'd like to use them. *without thinking, he turned back to the boy and reached out to gently take the end of his hair between his fingers, giving a soft hum* Periwinkle blue... you'd look good with blue hair... *snatches his hand back, forcing it back into his pocket as he looks away, panicking over the fact that such a movement wouldn't freak the man out* Do you... want to start walking to my house? You know... get out of the rain sooner? It's not too far from here. Maybe ten, fifteen minutes.

Shiftyvine
Growing up... Yeah, I've heard that's a pain... *laughs awkwardly, not wanting to push yet another apparent touchy subject. His blush, his obvious embarrassment dies funny things to Panda's stomach, and he giggles, feeling lighter than he had in a long time* Aww! No, a pretty man like you musta been adorable growing up! I mean, you're pretty... for a guy... not girl pretty... yeah. *rubs the back of his neck. Gah. He needs to shut up more often* You were... drawn to my voice? Gee, I dunno what to say to all these compliments... Thanks, again...

*his eyes go wide, and he looks away, his stomach turning. No, he wouldn't be sick* Ah... A parked one? Yeah. See, when I woke up, I didn't really have any money, and I didn't realize I could sing, so... *stops, shivering* Never mind. You don't need to know about that. *his eyes light up* Shower? And new clothes? Mister, I am damn sold! *freezes as the man reaches out to brush his hair, his eyes frightened* H-hair? Ah, o-okay? *to distract himself from what the man had just done, he nods* I'll... follow you, then.

Divacy
*slipping a hand over his mouth to hide his smile, he drops his gaze and blushes deeply. How could he be feeling so nervous over this boy's compliments. It just made him want to explode with happiness and giggles. But that would be abnormal and he'd be labeled as crazy and probably not human* No... I... I really don't think so. I mean, I had so much wrong with me as a kid... I still kind of do. I could never be adorable or all that pretty... *sighs deeply, pulling his hand away to watch the boy and put on a warm smile* Mhmm... you don't have to say anything to these compliments. I'm just throwing out the truth about my opinions on what I see and hear from you.

*he could feel a sick feeling in his stomach and, though he didn't feel like he'd throw up, he had this sudden urge to punch things* Prostitution then? Panda... *narrows his eyes and shakes his head* You're not gonna be doing such a thing ever if you're staying with me, okay? 'Cause you... you don't need to. You shouldn't have to resort to something like that. It's your body. Don't let anyone else touch it without your permission... and not for money. Never for money. I have more than enough money for the both of us... trust me. *freezes his, eyes snapping wide with realization* I mean... there would be enough money if... you really wanna stay with me longer... *shrugs his shoulders as he puts on a nervous smile. He wanted the man to come home with him so bad. He just felt that, if this guy were around, life would be so much better. Even if he wasn't Travis, he could make life happy again* Mhmm... you just look like a blue color person to me. I think blue hair would fit... and a hair cut... *giggles softly and winces, realizing that making such a noise 'cause of a stranger was wrong. So, quickly, he turns his back and starts walking in the direction of his own home* Alright, come on then.

shiftyvine
*Tech's reactions made him look even younger, and Panda could imagine him younger now, quite easily. He chuckled, enjoying this man's company more and more. That was a rather dangerous thing, but he didn't mind. Crap had happened before, and he had already gotten more enjoyment out of this than he usually did* Wrong with you? Like what? You look perfectly fine to me! Emphasis on fine, of course. *bites his lip* I just think you're being a little free with your compliments, is all.

*flinches at the 'P' word, his face going pale* Ah, yeah... That. I... understand if you don't wanna take me home because of it... *thinking that Tech is glaring, he looks away, eyes cold, then freezes in surprise at his words* Wh-what? N-no, I don't do that stuff anymore, I promise! I haven't for a long time... *worrying at his lip* I don't need your charity, Tech. I don't wanna be reliant on someone... No offense, but I can't afford the debt I might end up owing. *He wasn't talking about money, either* But a night or two does sound really wonderful. Thanks again... *Even if he was tempted to stay longer, learning all he could about this man, who lives alone in a big house with a dead wife and family* A hair cut? Something wrong with my hair? *he runs his hands through it, suddenly self-conscious* I've only ever cut it myself. *giggling! His smile slipped back onto his face, as if it had never left, and he hurries to pick up his empty hat and catch up with the man*

divacy
Fine? I'm Albino... have you not noticed how pale I am? Or maybe the fact that I'm back on the verge of being anorexic. I couldn't look fine when I'm like that. *pursing his lips, he looks away and frowns. Yes, he hated that he was anorexic but he couldn't bring himself to eat. It just made him sick. And the Albinism? That wasn't fixable* No, trust me. I don't give out compliments often unless I really do mean them.

*shakes his head* I still want to take you home, Panda... *freezes and blushes deeply* I don't... I'm sorry. I didn't mean to make you sound like a puppy or something. I just don't want to leave you out here. Something bad could happen to you. You could get killed or raped and I just... don't really want that. I know I'm a stranger and I'm worrying... I'm sorry. *brings his hands to rub at his temples* There would be no debt, Panda. You'll never have to pay me back for the money I'm happily willing to spend on you. Honestly, you can stay as long as you wish. *glances back at the man with a slight smile* You cut it yourself? No wonder why it looks a it off~ *giggles softly* No offense~

shiftyvine
Albino? *he crinkled his nose* But that doesn't take anything away from your sex appeal, does it? I mean, not that I know... Though anorexia is probably not safe? You should eat more! You have enough money to. Is it because you're depressed? *hums innocently, wishing he could take that last comment back* Ahhhh... Oops?

A... puppy? *shakes his head* That's not what I was thinking, at all. But I can take care of myself, don't worry. I haven't been killed or raped yet! *coughs at that, looking awkward* Ah, no offense, but why? I mean, there are a whole crapload of kids like me, who can sing or dance or play whatever... way better than me. *looks down at his empty hat* I didn't mean money, either. I don't have anything at all to give, anything at all. I'm just letting you know that now. *looks back up with another forced smile* So it won't be a long stay, I promise. Ahhh... yah. I didn't really have a very sharp knife, or anything...


divacy
No... I guess not. Albinism just makes me really pale. And, with my hair dyed this purple color, I'm told it clashes a lot. I honestly hate being so pale... I pretty much glow in the dark. *rolls his eyes before he almost stops walking. Still, he forced himself to keep walking forward and his eyes were fixed forward as well with a hard look in his gaze* Yes, that would be the reason. I'm not quite happy with life. I guess you could say I made an attempt and starving myself... and I've barely succeeded in making myself not quite anorexic anymore.

*sighs deeply, his hands moving from his pockets* Keyword being yet. It could happen. I know I'm some stranger but I doni't want you to die, Panda... I'd rather something not happen to you. *this time, he stops walking, his gaze moving over to the man and all he can do is stare a moment* Why you? Because... *drops his gaze* I guess... you remind me of someone I know. I'm sorry. *quickly starts walking again* You don't have to give anything, Panda. The only thing I want from you is for you to give me a chance. *sighs deeply, rubbing his hands together to try and keep them warm* Well, I have scissors and I'm decent with cutting hair. If you want, after your shower and once you've had something to eat, I can try to fix it up a bit. Nothing that would ruin it, I promise you.

shiftyvine
Clashes? *he shakes his head quickly* No way! No, you're probably the only person I've ever seen who can pull off purple hair like that! It suits you. though glowing in the dark is... kinda creepy... *he stares in horror at Tech's back, his heart pounding. The fact that this man had tried to kill himself made him terrified in a way he couldn't explain* Why... Why the fuck would you do that? You idiot! Why would you try to die? that's just... Stupid, that's so stupid!

*He can't help but roll his eyes. Panda was not the one he should be worrying about, it sounded like* I'm not completely helpless, or anything. I mean, I've had to defend myself before. *he couldn't see out of one eye and it hurt to breath for three weeks, but he hadn't died. He stops, freezing in his tracks at the man's gaze* I remind you of someone? *he almost wants to cry. Reminding this man of someone made him someone as well, right? He bites his lip so he isn't tempted to ask who. Knowing this guy, he was probably dead* A chance? *a nervous laugh* Sure thing, Tech. *he shivers, and wraps his coat tighter around him* That sounds perfect! Though... not too short, okay? I like sorta long hair, I think. You... You have a lot of hair! Doesn't it make you mad?

divacy
I'm... not sure. I've seen a lot of pale people with purple hair in my short time. They were mostly girls though... they could look really good like that. *eyes on the wet ground underneath his feet, he didn't dare looking back at the boy* I have reasons. I wasn't always a happy person, you know. I'm still not. Today is just... an exception... I guess...

*rolls his eyes in return* I'm sure you've defended yourself before but you can't protect yourself from everything just by yourself. *as the other male stops, he glances back at him and nods* Yes... someone I was really close to. He was rather important to me. *turns back and starts walking again* I agree. Your hair should stay around the same length it is. I'll just make it more even. It's up to you if I'm dying it blue though. *runs a hand through his hair, smiling a bit at the boy's question. It's true. Tech's hair did go to almost his knees* Not if I tie it back and out of the way. I forgot to cut it for awhile and I just decided to keep it long.

shiftyvine
Girls? *a confused look on his face* I knew a girl with purple hair once. She was very pretty... But I think you pull it off better. it looks almost natural, I think! *still watching him, interest obvious in his face, the anger already fading. He didn't know why, but the thought of this man dead terrified him* Well, you should try an make those other days the exception. That would be best.

*pouting* I can so! I'm stronger than I look! And I'm street smart! *winces, and begins to walk again* Another dead body in your past? Yikes. No offense, but... You're not cursed, are you? *nods, combing his hands through his hair* Blue? Sounds fun, but I don't have the money for dye... I like your hair! A lot! Though you kinda look like a girl.

divacy
Natural... huh... that's weird. Naturally, I'm blond. I don't think anyone could ever tell though. I never let the blond roots of my hair be seen ever. *turns his eyes to the sky, allowing them to fall half lidded as he watches the rain* There's very few things in the world that can make me happy anymore. Meaning there are very few days in a year that I can be happy. Normally, I'm just left feeling rather neutral about the world and everything in it.

Whatever. You'd still probably get yourself killed at some point. *yawns boredly and frowns, not speaking up at more people being dead in his past* Not cursed. I've just got bad luck. *glances back at him a bit* My sister use to have rainbow hair. There isn't a color of hair dye that isn't in my house. But only if you really do want me to dye it blue. *looks back in front of him, rolling his eyes at the girl comment* I could never pass for the manly look. I've always enjoyed looking like more a girl than a guy.

shiftyvine
You're a blonde? You don't look like you would be. I mean, you have that no nonsense look about you, you know? *stares hard at the man now, his cheeks reddening. The man looked so peaceful, so beautiful in the rain* Im sorry about that. I mean, I'm sorry for your loss. Losses. It's rough, I mean... I've never had anyone to lose, but I would imagine it would be difficult. *closes his eyes for a second* Makes me wonder if anyone missed me.

Killed? Nah! I'm gonna live forever! *a spring to his step now* Blue? Blue sounds awesome! Yes, I'm so excited, now~ I've never had a haircut or anything! *shrugs, walking faster* We almost there? Anyway, you can pull off the girliness.

divacy
Well, I am. Platinum blond. It came with being Albino. But I'm not one of those clueless and ditzy blond chicks you see around. *slowly, he shakes his head* It's fine. They're in the past now. *frowns a bit, finding himself blushing in the slightest, yet he keeps his head down* If I had known you before... I'd have missed you.

*smiles a bit* Really now? I hope you're right then. I'd be rather displeased to hear that you got yourself killed somehow. *rolls his eyes and glances back at the boy* Well then, your first hair cut? I'll have to make sure I'm gentle then. Wouldn't want to accidentally cut you instead of your hair... *slows down a moment to fall into step behind the other male and nods* Yep... we're close. Another three or four minutes. *smiles warmly at the compliment, or rather the man himself* Thank you... that actually pleases me... *without thinking, he reaches down to grab Panda's hand and gently tugs him along with him* Come on, if we go quick, it should only take another minute to be home and out of this rain.

shiftyvine
I would never peg you for one of those chicks, don't worry! You seem nothing like 'em, as far as I can tell. Don't really talk to many girls that aren't hookers or anything, though. So I may not be the best judge...? *hums awkwardly* Still. I'll try to avoid them. The sensitive spots... Yeah. *stares at him a moment, in confusion, then turns red* Ah... th-thank you?

*nods enthusiastically* Yeah! Yeah! I don't plan on dying until I'm nice and grey, thank you very much! *shudders at the thought* No, please no accidental cutting! That does not sound enjoyable in the least! *nods, and sneaks a peek at his face* Close... is very good. Thank you so much. *he blinks* I'm glad... to have pleased you? *looks in surprise at their joined hands, and hides his other 'hand' deeper in his pocket* O-okay! Following you!


divacy
*he takes in a deep breath, shutting his eyes a bit tightly as he grimaces* Yes... no sensitive spots. So I really prefer that you also don't bring up... hookers and all that. It... I don't know. Just don't talk about them. That whole topic has always bothered me far too much. *gives a bit of a glance to the other male and manages a bit of a smile* No need for a thanks. You just seem like a really good person. Someone who deserves to be missed.

*laughs and shakes his head* That makes the both of us. I'm not supposed to die till I'm around that point either. I've lived this long... I think I'll manage to live to then as long as nothing horrid goes wrong. *smiles warmly and nods a bit* It isn't enjoyable. Being cut is not enjoyable.. *hesitates* Normally. *watches a moment* Glad? Really? That only makes it better. *he tries hard not to tighten his grip on Panda's hand though it's almost tempting because he found that he really didn't want to let the other male go* Don't follow me... walk beside me. It's easier that way.