[ LOG ] - Troy - Before the 'big date'...
Who: Troy, Hervey.
When: Right before Hervey visits Luca.
Where: Troy's room.
What: Hervey tries to convince Troy to join Sheena and his plan of action
Troy: *it's early evening and he is passing the time reading a book on castle-based strategics. He figures it might come in handy soon*
Hervey: *he's looking for Troy, so, upon coming to his door, he casually knocks on it*
Troy: *looks up, curious. He usually doesn't get visitors, but these days....he places a casual hand on his sword* Who is it?
Hervey: Uh... Hervey. *he leans against the doorway, absently massaging his wrist*
Troy: *Oh. He relaxes, even though Hervey does have a habit of jumping him* Come in.
Hervey: *gently pushes the door open, slipping inside and closing it behind him* Well... hey. What's up?
Troy: *gestures to the seat opposite him at the small table he's sitting at* Just a little light reading. What brings you here so late?
Hervey: Nothing. *he makes his way over to the seat, plopping himself down* ... Hey, I wanted to ask you something...
Troy: *raises an eyebrow, obviously thinking it's not nothing, but waits for Hervey to speak* What is it?
Hervey: You can't tell anyone, okay? *he leans forward on his seat a bit, fidgetting with his hands* Like -- no one. I'm trusting you here.
Troy: *Well, that got his undivided attention and he closes the book and puts it on the table* Hervey...that is a lot to ask of a man when he doesn't know what he is concealing.
Hervey: But you trust me, right? *makes sure to make eye contact, still not sure if this is such a good idea or not -- he looks a little nervous*
Troy: Yes. *there is no hesitation, he does trust Hervey* ....... *he sighs and runs a hand through his hair* Tell me this does not involve harm to anyone and I will give you my word.
Hervey: *he cringes at that last sentence, leaning back in the chair* Uh... heh, well, it's me, Troy. You can't expect me to seriously tell you that, right?
Troy: *Frowns at him* Hervey, these days, I cannot in good consciousness agree to hold my tongue against something that would get someone killed... *he's giving him a pointed look here, he knows Hervey's ideas*
Hervey: *he glances away from Troy, avoiding that look by focusing on the floor instead* No one's going to get killed. I can promise you that, at least... *he sounds a bit uncertain*
Troy: *he laughs, bitterly* No one can promise that. *Fixes Hervey with a steely eye* I will give you my word that I will not break your confidence unless someone is in mortal peril....will that satisfy you?
Hervey: Mmph. *he crosses his arms, sinking lower into the chair like a little kid, not answering the question at all* Troy...
Troy: *Amused, in spite of himself* Would you expect me to keep quiet if you were dying and just let you bleed out on the floor?
Hervey: Yes. *says it pretty firmly, glancing back up at Troy* I... no, we all need to take risks... right?
Troy: *Keeps his eyes on Hervey, undaunted* Risks are acceptable...becoming a martyr is not, especially when a friend or comrade can help you.
Hervey: *he takes a moment to think about this, still looking particularly stubborn* What if I'm asking for you to help me, then?
Troy: If I am able to, I would help you....but you may not like the assistance I provide.
Hervey: ... *frowns* What's that s'pposed to mean? *he gives Troy an accusing look*
Troy: Only that if I thought I could help you by knocking you out and tying you the docks, I would if it was in your best over-all interest. *he smiles a bit, but there is just enough of a thread of truth in there...*
Hervey: Mmmmph. *he mumbles something incoherent and then pushes himself up, standing* Troy... You're not someone to lecture me on keeping it safe -- not after what you pulled back then. *he's still frowning*
Troy: *he sits where he is, but drops his eyes* ...I did what I thought was best for the castle. *his voice is even and mild, telling nothing*
Hervey: I'm doing the same thing. *despite the look of frustration on his face now, he moves over to Troy, kneeling down in front of him* Troy. Look at me.
Troy: Is that so? *He does so, his face still carefully neutral*
Hervey: Yeah. Except I'm going to tell you what I'm doing this time, and I'm actually asking for your help. *he tries not to make the words sound stinging, but he can't help it -- he's still pretty annoyed about that whole thing*
Troy: *Frowns, but it is a thin expression and he drops his eyes to the side* I didn't want to involve anyone, Hervey, or I would have told you. *he brings his eyes back up and the expression in them is hard, flashing...with a flicker of regret running through their depths. He blinks it away, quickly*
Hervey: That's the annoying part... *he looks a little less frustrated now, not being able to keep up the annoyance when he catches that expression in Troy's eyes* All I'm saying is I would've trusted you back then, even if you were doing something so damn dangerous -- I need you to do the same thing for me. I'm asking for your help this time, Troy.
Troy: *The silence stretches between them and he lets it, his eyes still resting on the pirate kneeling in front of him. Finally, after what seems like hours and hours of internal dilberation, the captain breaks eye contact and sighs, again raking a hand through his shaggy black hair* Very well, you have my word, Hervey, but do not ask me to keep silent if your life is in danger. I would not expect it from you, and I should hope that you wouldn't ask it of me.
Hervey: *he sighs in relief, suddenly relaxing -- he wasn't even aware he was tense in the first place* ... I know, Troy. Thanks. *very awkwardly, he reaches up to hug the other man, trying to run through how he's going to tell Troy everything without sounding utterly suicidal*
Troy: *he is a bit surprised, but awkwardly returns the hug, wondering just what in heck Hervey is going to tell him* Well...don't thank me yet.
Hervey: *he lets go, sitting down against the table now* Alright... okay, you know Yuber, right? *he holds his breath, waiting for the reaction -- possibly cringing in preperation, too*
Troy: *Frowns, already not happy he agreed to this* .....Yes.
Hervey: Right, so... Sheena and I... have got a plan, after our last encounter with him -- something like, baiting the guy...
Troy: *is wondering if he should tell Hervey he's insane now or let him finish*
Hervey: Heh... *he glances outside the window, still speaking* What we're going to do is probably lure him into the forest -- set up traps and everything. Then, each of us are gonna' abuse the hell outta' our runes... *he stops, looking at Troy* What do you think?
Troy: ........ *he isn't sure how exactly to say 'this is never going to work, and you're all going to get skewered' nicely, so he frowns and sighs and stays silent for a moment longer*
Hervey: *very, very weak laugh* I know this sounds insane, but we can do it -- we just... need a healer. *he looks expectantly and hopefully at Troy*
Troy: .........What?
Hervey: .......... *he tries again* A nurse.
Troy: ............*shakes his head, as if coming out of a daze, and focuses on Hervey* Do you want to be put in the lake now, or later?
Hervey: Uh -- wait, wait! I'm not going to put you in a nurse's outfit, okay?? *he quickly stands up, just to not be defenseless*
Troy: *Just....blinks at him, completely at sea* Hervey...I know I have asked you this before, but do you think before you say those things? *he isn't sure which he wants to do: laugh or throw Hervey into the lake*
Hervey: No. I mean, well... okay, no. I'm just saying!! ... Unless you want to be in a nurse's outfit, which, okay, sure, I'll play along -- but aren't you supposed to be the doctor in that kinda' thing? *he quickly holds his arms up in front of him, just in case*
Troy: Hervey, shut up. *literally reaches over and claps a hand over the pirates mouth, sighing* I am not going to ask about your strange obsession with nurses outfits and playing doctor, but I will tell you that as a tactician, I'd need to see your plans in detail before I'll agree to go along with this....*he leans back, removing his hand* ...I have to be honest, I already don't think this is a very good idea, *frowns* and I am not a nurse. I only have a wind rune, why ask me?
Hervey: Healing Wind. *he blurts out, quite cheerfully, half-leaning, half-sitting against the table now* Look, we need a healer -- any healer, and I trust you not to tell Geddoe. If you haven't noticed, everyone's slowly getting picked off here, and it's only gonna' continue at this rate. *he frowns right back at Troy, looking particularly stubborn again*
Troy: Hervey, I am not a healer. I was not in the business of working to save lives with medicine and runes, only by sparing them steel. *Keeps his eyes on Hervey* And I have already agreed to help Geddoe...something I am surprised you have not considered. *it is a half-asked question, he is curious as to why Hervey isn't working with a larger force*
Hervey: *shakes his head* If you're going to help Geddoe, that's fine with me -- but if you're not gonna' help me with this, you can't tell him about it -- at all. *he runs a hand through his hair in frustration, not sure how to explain this* I don't want anyone to stop me.
Troy: Why do you feel that this is the right strategy to go by? Luca is a berserker, and Yuber is a demon, from what I've heard...what makes you think this will even work? *He leans back in his chair, trying to figure out why Hervey is so focused on doing what he considers an almost surely suicidal ploy*
Hervey: Yuber's so easily baited -- we've learnt that from experience, though I ended up fracturing a few ribs... *he mumbles a little, and then shakes his head yet again* The point is, he'd probably be someone who would fall into traps without realizing it. As for Luca... well, we're just concentrating on Yuber now. *though, suddenly, Hervey looks very troubled, his memory suddenly jolted about the mad prince*
Troy: What makes you think that Luca won't be around? Or that Yuber can even be killed? *he suddenly leans forward and stands, looking down at Hervey* Yuber may be easily baited, but what happens when you've caught him?
Hervey: *he blinks, suddenly finding himself looking up at Troy* He was caught once -- and we'll do it again. Only we'll keep a tighter watch on him this time, that's for sure. *he considers Troy's words for a second* ... If Luca's around, well... heh, I'm sure I'll be a great distraction for him. *says it kind of bitterly*
Troy: And you feel that this is best accomplished with traps in the woods with two men? *Frowns* Pirates are stubborn, but such low numbers...it's suicidal. *the last part of Hervey's statement takes him off-guard* ...For Luca? Why?
Hervey: *he waves a hand casually, shaking his head* Oh, he just wants me to visit him alone in his room. *clearly really grumpy about this*
Troy: *freezes, totally missing the innuendo* And of course you told him no?
Hervey: ........ *very, very quiet* Heh...
Troy: *Looks at him like he's totally lost his mind* ....You.....are you insane?! *he walks over and grabs Hervey's shoulders, looking down at him as if to assess his mental stability* He will kill you, you have to know that.
Hervey: *he looks up at Troy, expression completely serious* He said he'd kill anyone I was associated with if I didn't listen -- what am I mean t'do when it comes to something like that? *shrugs, kind of listlessly*
roy: *It only takes him a minute to absorb the information, and he automatically starts compiling a list of casualties and ways that he can either hide Hervey or prevent this. Luca, sadly, has the power to carry out his threat* I don't know, pirate...hmm.....*his mind is whirring* ....What did you do to him to make him call you out?
Hervey: N-nothin'! Absolutely nothin'. *he studies Troy's expression, looking worried* C'mon, don't worry. He won't kill me -- I can't imagine why he'd kill me out of everyone 'round here, right? C'mon, he told me to wear a nice outfit and everything... *grimaces*
Troy: What do you mean, he won't kill you, he's...umm....*things start to finally click together*...Wait. He....oh. *A little quirk at the edge of his lips flickers, trying to turn them up, and he tries, desperately, to keep it under control*
Hervey: ........ *scowling at Troy now, totally not finding this funny* If you laugh, I will kill you. Right here, right now. I swear!
Troy: *Can't say anything, his whole being is focused on trying not to laugh. Finally, he can't help but smirk, just a teeny tiny bit* Well. *He coughs, trying again not to laugh* This puts a different spin on things.
Hervey: I'm sure he was joking, right? *looks troubled, and half-looks like he's about to deck Troy -- oh man he's so close to doing it* ... ... Right?
Troy: *realizes he's still within range and drops his arms, stepping back just a bit, smirking* Yes...he seems to be the joking type, Hervey. *he can't help it, he chuckles* How long has this been going on?
Hervey: Well, he only dragged me on a date, oh, three years ago. Now there's this and -- *he sighs* Man, I doubt it's a date, though. Maybe you're right, I'm gonna' get my ass kicked... *has no idea what to do*
Troy: *He's vaguely remembering something about this* He must be quite persistant to keep chasing you for 3 years. *While it's amusing, he sobers quickly at the return of his original thoughts* Either way, it's a trap, and nothing good can come of it.
Hervey: *half-glare, but he's too worried to put too much heart into it* I can't imagine what he wants me to do, but either way, I ain't gonna' like it. *sighs* Anyway, that's not what I came here t'talk about, anyway. Forget about it.
Troy: Hervey, if you don't survive your 'date', then your plan to get to Yuber is a moot point.
Hervey: I'm going to survive my date! Dates can't be that bad, though I don't know what happens on your dates that makes you so negative about them. *small, very small smirk*
Troy: *he returns the look* I've never dated a psychopath, that's what makes me negative.
Hervey: *cringe* Ouch. Well, touche, nurse boy. *grumbles*
Troy: *fixes him with a glare* What was that?
Hervey: *... superior smirk* Nurse boy. Didn't you hear me?
Troy: *Suddenly smirks* Well, if you're so involved with this nurse fetish, take it on your date....I'm sure Luca will enjoy.
Hervey: You did not just go there. *very, very stunned stare* You totally didn't just go there.
Troy: *Gives him a look that says he did indeed go there*
Hervey: ... *refrains from totally pushing Troy down into the chair and tackling him* Sorry, but the nurse outfit is reserved for you, y'know? I mean, it's all yours. *forces a grin*
Troy: *Gives him a look that says Hervey won't have to worry about the date OR the plan with Yuber, because Troy is going to kill him*
Hervey: ... *smirk* What's wrong, Troy? Something the matter?
Troy: Only with your date plans. *It comes out droll, a jab....but as he speaks, his face changes, an idea blossoming* Did Luca say, specifically, what he wanted with you?
Hervey: Yeah, I know you'd rather me date you over Luca -- huh? *he blinks, looking kind of stupid* He said to come alone -- uh, why?
Troy: *rolls his eyes, waving off Hervey's remarks* Yes yes....*frowns* He did stipulate you come alone? But not for what?
Hervey: Not for what, no. *shakes his head, not really understanding* I don't know what you're...??
Troy: He did say you go alone, though? Specifically? *shakes his head* When are you supposed to meet him?
Hervey: Uh, tonight sometime...? And yeah, alone. *he repeats it firmly, still confused as hell* Troy, where're you going with this, man?
Troy: I'm trying to see if there is a loophole...*frowns, looking at the table with his recently discarded book as if trying to see inside it, get an idea* ....because he will kill you if you go.
Hervey: C'mon, Troy, it's not like you to worry like this. *he flashes a comforting smile, putting on a brave and cocky face* I won't die, you know that... right?
Troy: *Gives him a dry look* No.
Hervey: ... Well, shows how much faith you have in me. *he laughs a kind of abrupt laugh* I'll be fine -- just sit here all cosy, alright? I've stil got asses to kick after this, and you to force into an outfit. *tries to get Troy annoyed at him again*
Troy: *Serious* Do you really expect someone to just sit here, knowing you're probably getting killed at that moment? *he shakes his head, although a smile flickers across* You might want to warn Luca about that nurse thing you have, maybe it will scare him off.
Hervey: He'll probably like it. *nervous grin, trying to make light of the situation* Troy, I ain't gonna' die. If you want, the first person I'll go see after the damn thing is you -- wouldn't want an old man t'lose his sleep over something like this.
Troy: *tempted to throw something at Hervey* It would make me feel better if you didn't go. Or if I came with you. *he smirks* I could chaperone.
Hervey: You care that much? *grins* What would happen if Luca became the chaperone instead somehow, huh? Can't go having that.
Troy: *Shakes his head* You are a strange man, pirate.
Hervey: You always say that when the going gets tough, don't you? *chuckles, teasing him*
Troy: 'When the going gets tough'? *Shakes his head* Hervey, you are a strange man.
Hervey: I am not. I'm a perfect normal, attractive guy! *looks at Troy, challengingly* Unless you disagree with that.
Troy: *waves an arm* Hervey, stop changing the subject. *pauses* And yes, I disagree. Normal people don't push people into lakes in the winter.
Hervey: ... No, fun people do. *shakes his head though* You're right though, I need to stop changing the subject, don't I? *sheepish grin* I've got two hugeass problems to deal with and here I am, jokin' around.
Troy: It wouldn't be you if you didn't joke. *sighs* I guess I'm going to have to come with you.
Hervey: -- wait, you mean, with Yuber? *blinks, very stupidly*
Troy: No, with Luca.
Hervey: -- w-wait, he said to come alone! *bewildered*
Troy: I will follow and wait outside in case of trouble. *smiles ever so slightly, although it is obvious he does not like the idea of Hervey going at all, but it is the only thing he can think of on such short notice* I would not want to disturb your date, after all.
Hervey: Y-you -- *has no idea what to say, so he opens his mouth to say something, but then stops, then tries again* -- what if he's going to notice you, Troy!?
Troy: ....Hervey, I would not obviously follow you.
Hervey: Y-yeah, but -- what if something happens, and he realizes you were waiting all along and then you get hurt??!
Troy: *Blandly* You're worried about the possibility of my injury when you are walking directly into a trap with a madman?
Hervey: *realizes how stupid that sounds, but just keeps going with his train of thought anyway* Yeah! I mean -- at least I know he wants me for something, so he won't hurt me, but you --!
Troy: What happens when you decide not to give him what he wants from you? Do you think that he will not resort to violence then?
Hervey: *looks really reluctant now* C-c'mon, it's not like I have much to give him, anyway. It can't be anything too bad...
Troy: *Just looks at him, knowing not even Hervey can believe that*
Hervey: ... *looks at Troy for reassurance, which he's totally not getting* ... right? Troy? *hopeful tone*
Troy: ..... *raises an eyebrow*
Hervey: ... Troy. *sounds a little more insistent now, frowning*
Troy: .....
Hervey: ...... *stare* You're not helping.
Troy: I'm not trying to.
Hervey: Y-you should be supportive!
Troy: *Eyebrow goes up again* Of your apparent urge to kill yourself?
Hervey: Yes! ... ... Okay, okay, what if we both got hurt? Wouldn't that be worse than only one of us getting hurt?
Troy: Not if you end up dead because of my inaction. *shakes his head* No, Hervey, I cannot let you go alone.
Hervey: *very slowly places his hands on Troy's shoulders, taking a deep breath* ....... Trooooooy. C'mooooon...!!
Troy: *Looks down at Hervey, face serious* You cannot possibly be asking someone to let you walk to your death.
Hervey: I'm not going to walk to my death. *shakes Troy gently* You're being overdramatic!
Troy: No, I'm being realistic. *Lets himself be shaken, not attempting to dislodge Hervey*
Hervey: *mumbles something about overprotective boyfriends and how Troy's probably one of them, and just buries his face in Troy's chest out of frustration*
Troy: *Blinks* What did you just sa-*He is cut off when Hervey leans into him and thinks that it must be tough for the pirate to be facing these things...although you'd never know it...and decides to let it go, putting a hand on Hervey's fluffy hair a bit awkwardly* Hervey...?
Hervey: Grrr...! *still mumbling, somewhat* How do I get myself caught up with psychos all the time, seriously...? I swear there's some sign on my forehead that's yelling 'hey! Psychos, come and get me!' or something!
Troy: ....Should I be offended? *trying to be a bit flippant, lift the mood. He does think Hervey has a point, though....*
Hervey: The overprotective thing, or the psycho thing? *he tilts his head and looks up at Troy, grinning slightly*
Troy: *frowns at him* Both, I think. *Pauses* Overprotective? *He actually didn't hear Hervey totally the first time*
Hervey: *smirks* An overprotective boyfriend -- you just admitted to it. *he's kind of torn between laughing at Troy and making sure he doesn't get hit*
Troy: ....What? I did no such thing. *Is also torn between laughing and punching Hervey in the face*
Hervey: You just did -- you said both! *he laughs and figures it's a good idea to take a step away now -- just in case* There's no denying it, Troy.
Troy: *Grabs his arm* I asked if I should be offended, and you asked if I was referring to your comment about attracting psychotics *frowns* or the overprotective thing, which I am not, and I said I think I might offended about both.
Hervey: *glances at his caught arm, and then back at Troy, laughing* But being offended about it is kind of like admitting it's a trait, right? *tries to work his backwards logic* Which means you admit you're a psychotic that's attracted to me... and that you're overprotective!
Troy: *just looks at him again, still trying to figure out if he wants to be offended or not* Hervey....try to think before you speak.
Hervey: No, no, I got this all worked out! *grins and grabs the hand that Troy's holding onto him with* I think you're just confused.
Troy: I'm confused? *the disbelief is evident in his voice*
Hervey: Yeah, you're confused. I can make sense of myself just fine. *can't help but laugh a bit at that ridiculous amount of disbelief in his tone*
Troy: No one else can, surely. *He frowns at the laughing*
Hervey: I think if you tried, you'd make sense of it easy. Smart, charming guy like you? Piece of cake. *he grins even more, just to be annoying*
Troy: I don't think I will ever figure you out. *He says it off-handedly, but it is the honest truth. Frowning, he contemplates just tying Hervey to a chair, which would solve the problem of the pirate's urge to commit assisted suicide nicely. Hmm....*
Hervey: You just don't try. *he looks smug, as if he thinks he's won -- but he catches the frown, and that worries him, just a little* -- uh, you're not going to throw me in the lake, are you?
Troy: No.....*he looks back at Hervey, realizing that he's been staring off into space, and tugs on the pirate's hand, which he had forgotten he had* Come here for a moment.
Hervey: Huh? *he takes a step closer, a bit hesitantly though, mostly cautious* Wh-what is it?
Troy: *Glances discreetly at the chair and wonders if he could just tie up the pirate...but he might have to gag him. Hmm...that wouldn't work. He shakes his head, thinking that if these are the options he's considering, he must truly be cracking up with nothing to do but read strategy books* ...Nevermind. *he lets go of Hervey's arm*
Hervey: *he looks at Troy, very suspiciously* ... Wh-what the heck was that? *he looks around the room, a little confused* You just -- what was that? *confused as hell now*
Troy: *Hervey's reaction makes him smirk* You look a little paranoid, something the matter?
Hervey: Yeah, you. *throws another accusing look* You just thought of something weird to do to me, didn't you?
Troy: Such as throwing you in a lake?
Hervey: ... *takes an involuntary step back* I've got a date in a bit, you're not throwing me into a lake.
Troy: *Stops teasing, looking at Hervey* ....You're looking forward to this.
Hervey: No way! But if I freeze my ass off half-way through a fight or something, it'd be your fault.
Troy: *Very calmly* Hervey...it's fine if you are looking forward to a date with Luca. I am sorry I mistook your relationship. *he does question Hervey's taste in dates, though*
Hervey: *he can't believe Troy's saying this with a straight face -- he glares daggers, sulkily* You don't seriously mean that, do you? Th-there's no way.
Troy: *Raises a hand in surrender* I am your friend, Hervey, I won't judge.
Hervey: -- no, take that back. That's just cruel. *he half-heartedly pushes at Troy with one hand*
Troy: *Lets him...for now* I hope you both are very happy.
Hervey: *sooo not going to take this -- he pushes him a little harder this time, trying to get him to fall back into the chair* You mean, you won't be jealous? At all?
Troy: *He takes a step back, the backs of his legs bumping into his chair* Jealous? No....I would not be jealous of a psychopath.
Hervey: *another push, only more gentle this time -- he's smirking* What, even if he gets me in a room alone? C'mon, you sounded pretty upset just a few moments ago.
Troy: *Braces himself, he would really like to not fall* ...Because he is a psychopath, pirate. It is a concern for your well-being that makes me worried.
Hervey: Aw, so you're worried about me potentially dating a psychopath -- which, for the record, ain't gonna' happen -- but you aren't jealous? *looks mock-hurt, pushing him a little more strongly this time*
Troy: A psychopath that will kill you- *he does indeed fall this time, grunting as he hits the chair* ...And what was the purpose of that?
Hervey: You were saying I wanted to date Luca. *he decides to stay in front of Troy, so he can't get up without being pushed again* You can't expect to say something like that and get away with it.
Troy: Oh....you didn't want anyone to know? *He doesn't try to get up, just looking up at Hervey and wondering if he can argue with him enough to make him miss his 'date'*
Hervey: *for that, he decides to promptly glare and straddle the other man* You're asking to be tortured.
Troy: *Blandly* You realize, pirate, that this might be why people are after you all the time. *he looks pointedly at the pirate sitting on him*
Hervey: *blinks, looking down at himself, and then back up at Troy* I don't do this all the time. Just to people who think it's funny to accuse me of wanting to have a relationship with that Blight guy. *frowns* Still, you're asking to be tortured.
Troy: I feel so honored. *Dryly*
Hervey: *frowns, kinda' frustrated that Troy's not letting up an amusing response today* Good for you -- now take it back!
Troy: Take what back? I'm happy for you. *Straightfaced*
Hervey: .......... *grrrr...* I am not happily dating a psycho -- say it!
Troy: *Frowns a bit* You're not happy? Perhaps you should speak to him, then.
Hervey: *-- frustration!* T-Troy, this isn't funny. Quit that! *still glaring, he steadies himself by placing one hand on Troy's shoulder.... and then pokes him in the side with his free hand*
Troy: *twitches...and then glares* .....Are you sure you want to start that?
Hervey: Take it back and I won't. *says it all too innocently, feeling like he's about to have a small victory here*
Troy: *Looks at Hervey, his eyes serious* I will never speak of it again if you agree to let me go with you.
Hervey: Th-that's hardly fair! *looks genuinely conflicted here*
Troy: It is your decision. *Keeps his eyes on Hervey* If you really aren't dating Luca Blight, and you can do whatever you want but I thought you had better taste, then it is pointless to go without precautions.
Hervey: Better taste like, picking you? *jokes for a second, but then quickly shakes his head* I-I don't know, Troy. I don't like the idea of getting you involved -- I shouldn't have even said a damn thing. *looks uncertain*
Troy: It is my decision. *he makes a face, slightly irritated but equally amused at the pirate's innuendo* Hervey, I am going to start thinking that you are hitting on me, and I do not want to fight off Luca Blight over your honor.
Hervey: What, really? You wouldn't do that for me? *forces a smile* Not that I'd let you -- you're not following me, and that's pretty damn final.
Troy: ......... *He sighs* Very well. *he lightly taps the side of Hervey's thigh* Please get up.
Hervey: Huh? *surprised that was so easy -- he slides off Troy, standing again* Seriously?
Troy: No. *Stands and immediately grabs his wrist* Salome needs to know about this.
Hervey: -- wait, wait, what? Kn-know about what!? *he tries to shake his wrist free, not sensing much good coming out of this*
Troy: If you will not listen to me, then I am sure that Salome will be able to convince you. *'Convince' seems to be synomous with 'imprison against his will'*
Hervey: W-wait, I told you to keep this quiet! *tries even harder to get his wrist free* T-Troy!
Troy: *....damnit, his ruse is broken. He stops, turning to look at Hervey, a bit of his frustration showing* Why are you so set to go and get killed?
Hervey: Because if I don't step up, someone else is going to get hurt, and I'm not gonna' let that happen! *he jerks his wrist away from Troy one more time, almost pointedly* Dammit, believe in me, alright?
Troy: I do, *Lets his wrist go, growling* but this is insane to take it on faith that Luca won't hurt you.
Hervey: How about you just believe that I won't let him hurt me? I'm a good fighter, Troy -- you're treating me like some damsel in distress or something. *he sighs, looking serious despite his words, and massaging the wrist that Troy was just holding onto*
Troy: I am aware of your skills, pirate, that wasn't put into question. Apparently it took an entire country to kill him once. *He frowns, gently taking Hervey's wrist in his hand, checking it over for bruises with a quiet apology* I have seen many men die, sent many to their graves, and I would like to prevent any more if I can.
Hervey: *he lets Troy take his wrist, not putting up resistance this time* I'm not going to try and kill him. I'm only gonna' run -- I'm strangely good at that, y'know. *watches the taller man examine his wrist wordlessly now*
Troy: Are you all right? *he doesn't respond to what Hervey said, instead inquiring about the limb he held*
Hervey: I'm fine. *he looks like he's about to brush Troy off, beginning to move his wrist away, but then he just stops, and lets it be* ... I think I need a nurse to examine it, though. *holding back a smirk*
Troy: *He doesn't move for a moment, still carefully holding Hervey's wrist...then, dropping the offending carpals, he grabs Hervey's shoulders, turns him around, and marches him to the door* Give Luca my best, I'm sure you'll be very happy together.
Hervey: W-wait! Wait wait wait! *he laughs, letting himself get pushed along* I'm kidding, okay? I'm kidding! Geez, a kiss on the wrist might be better than the nurse, y'know? *he suddenly finds himself face to face with the door*
Troy: Ask Luca, I am sure that he has ample experience with both wrist kissing and nursing.
Hervey: Now you're just being stingy. *he tries to turn to look at Troy, grinning at just how strange it is to have Troy teasing him so damn well*
Troy: I do not kiss wrists. *he pauses, thinking of Kooluk and nobles and noblewomen....* .....Not anymore, at least. *He looks down at Hervey, still not letting him go but not smushing him into the door* Besides, you said your wrist was fine.
Hervey: Not anymore? *he looks amused, avoiding the comment about his wrist being fine* What'd I do, miss out on the sale or something?
Troy: *Rolls his eyes* Sale? What do you mean by that?
Hervey: Y'know, like missing out on something that gets grabbed really fast. *he tries to explain*
Troy: *Looks down at Hervey, for once, glad that the pirate didn't get what he was saying* ....You're going to be late for your date, pirate.
Hervey: ... Yeah. *he turns to look at the door, sighing* If I catch you following me, you're dead, alright? *places a hand on the handle*
Troy: *Leans over and places a hand on the door, keeping it closed with his superior height, and looks down at Hervey grimly* I will not force you to accept my help, but please, reconsider you actions. The minute you make that lunatic mad, he will try to kill you.
Hervey: Heh... I won't make him mad. *pauses* Look, princess, if it makes you feel any better -- *he takes advantage of the situation to very awkwardly give Troy a quick kiss on the cheek* -- your knight's gonna' kick some dragon ass.
Troy: *glares* Pirate, I am not a-*Automatically begins to protest but is stopped by the sudden kiss on his cheek. Well, that was unexpected, and the surprise shows on his face as he blinks, leaning back automatically and removing his hand from the door* What was....dragon? *His voice alone says just how cheesy he thinks that is*
Hervey: Dragon. *he says it as if confirming and laughs, quickly opening the door* I'll catch you after he's slayed, princess. *smug, smug look*
Troy: *reaches for Hervey to stop him, but he misses, and the pirate is gone out the door before he can catch him. He curses quietly, but adamantly, hoping that he doesn't have to see another friend dead at the hands of a madman. After all, Hervey's got to survive....he's got to make the pirate pay for those princess remarks.* ....Good luck, pirate.
When: Right before Hervey visits Luca.
Where: Troy's room.
What: Hervey tries to convince Troy to join Sheena and his plan of action
Troy: *it's early evening and he is passing the time reading a book on castle-based strategics. He figures it might come in handy soon*
Hervey: *he's looking for Troy, so, upon coming to his door, he casually knocks on it*
Troy: *looks up, curious. He usually doesn't get visitors, but these days....he places a casual hand on his sword* Who is it?
Hervey: Uh... Hervey. *he leans against the doorway, absently massaging his wrist*
Troy: *Oh. He relaxes, even though Hervey does have a habit of jumping him* Come in.
Hervey: *gently pushes the door open, slipping inside and closing it behind him* Well... hey. What's up?
Troy: *gestures to the seat opposite him at the small table he's sitting at* Just a little light reading. What brings you here so late?
Hervey: Nothing. *he makes his way over to the seat, plopping himself down* ... Hey, I wanted to ask you something...
Troy: *raises an eyebrow, obviously thinking it's not nothing, but waits for Hervey to speak* What is it?
Hervey: You can't tell anyone, okay? *he leans forward on his seat a bit, fidgetting with his hands* Like -- no one. I'm trusting you here.
Troy: *Well, that got his undivided attention and he closes the book and puts it on the table* Hervey...that is a lot to ask of a man when he doesn't know what he is concealing.
Hervey: But you trust me, right? *makes sure to make eye contact, still not sure if this is such a good idea or not -- he looks a little nervous*
Troy: Yes. *there is no hesitation, he does trust Hervey* ....... *he sighs and runs a hand through his hair* Tell me this does not involve harm to anyone and I will give you my word.
Hervey: *he cringes at that last sentence, leaning back in the chair* Uh... heh, well, it's me, Troy. You can't expect me to seriously tell you that, right?
Troy: *Frowns at him* Hervey, these days, I cannot in good consciousness agree to hold my tongue against something that would get someone killed... *he's giving him a pointed look here, he knows Hervey's ideas*
Hervey: *he glances away from Troy, avoiding that look by focusing on the floor instead* No one's going to get killed. I can promise you that, at least... *he sounds a bit uncertain*
Troy: *he laughs, bitterly* No one can promise that. *Fixes Hervey with a steely eye* I will give you my word that I will not break your confidence unless someone is in mortal peril....will that satisfy you?
Hervey: Mmph. *he crosses his arms, sinking lower into the chair like a little kid, not answering the question at all* Troy...
Troy: *Amused, in spite of himself* Would you expect me to keep quiet if you were dying and just let you bleed out on the floor?
Hervey: Yes. *says it pretty firmly, glancing back up at Troy* I... no, we all need to take risks... right?
Troy: *Keeps his eyes on Hervey, undaunted* Risks are acceptable...becoming a martyr is not, especially when a friend or comrade can help you.
Hervey: *he takes a moment to think about this, still looking particularly stubborn* What if I'm asking for you to help me, then?
Troy: If I am able to, I would help you....but you may not like the assistance I provide.
Hervey: ... *frowns* What's that s'pposed to mean? *he gives Troy an accusing look*
Troy: Only that if I thought I could help you by knocking you out and tying you the docks, I would if it was in your best over-all interest. *he smiles a bit, but there is just enough of a thread of truth in there...*
Hervey: Mmmmph. *he mumbles something incoherent and then pushes himself up, standing* Troy... You're not someone to lecture me on keeping it safe -- not after what you pulled back then. *he's still frowning*
Troy: *he sits where he is, but drops his eyes* ...I did what I thought was best for the castle. *his voice is even and mild, telling nothing*
Hervey: I'm doing the same thing. *despite the look of frustration on his face now, he moves over to Troy, kneeling down in front of him* Troy. Look at me.
Troy: Is that so? *He does so, his face still carefully neutral*
Hervey: Yeah. Except I'm going to tell you what I'm doing this time, and I'm actually asking for your help. *he tries not to make the words sound stinging, but he can't help it -- he's still pretty annoyed about that whole thing*
Troy: *Frowns, but it is a thin expression and he drops his eyes to the side* I didn't want to involve anyone, Hervey, or I would have told you. *he brings his eyes back up and the expression in them is hard, flashing...with a flicker of regret running through their depths. He blinks it away, quickly*
Hervey: That's the annoying part... *he looks a little less frustrated now, not being able to keep up the annoyance when he catches that expression in Troy's eyes* All I'm saying is I would've trusted you back then, even if you were doing something so damn dangerous -- I need you to do the same thing for me. I'm asking for your help this time, Troy.
Troy: *The silence stretches between them and he lets it, his eyes still resting on the pirate kneeling in front of him. Finally, after what seems like hours and hours of internal dilberation, the captain breaks eye contact and sighs, again raking a hand through his shaggy black hair* Very well, you have my word, Hervey, but do not ask me to keep silent if your life is in danger. I would not expect it from you, and I should hope that you wouldn't ask it of me.
Hervey: *he sighs in relief, suddenly relaxing -- he wasn't even aware he was tense in the first place* ... I know, Troy. Thanks. *very awkwardly, he reaches up to hug the other man, trying to run through how he's going to tell Troy everything without sounding utterly suicidal*
Troy: *he is a bit surprised, but awkwardly returns the hug, wondering just what in heck Hervey is going to tell him* Well...don't thank me yet.
Hervey: *he lets go, sitting down against the table now* Alright... okay, you know Yuber, right? *he holds his breath, waiting for the reaction -- possibly cringing in preperation, too*
Troy: *Frowns, already not happy he agreed to this* .....Yes.
Hervey: Right, so... Sheena and I... have got a plan, after our last encounter with him -- something like, baiting the guy...
Troy: *is wondering if he should tell Hervey he's insane now or let him finish*
Hervey: Heh... *he glances outside the window, still speaking* What we're going to do is probably lure him into the forest -- set up traps and everything. Then, each of us are gonna' abuse the hell outta' our runes... *he stops, looking at Troy* What do you think?
Troy: ........ *he isn't sure how exactly to say 'this is never going to work, and you're all going to get skewered' nicely, so he frowns and sighs and stays silent for a moment longer*
Hervey: *very, very weak laugh* I know this sounds insane, but we can do it -- we just... need a healer. *he looks expectantly and hopefully at Troy*
Troy: .........What?
Hervey: .......... *he tries again* A nurse.
Troy: ............*shakes his head, as if coming out of a daze, and focuses on Hervey* Do you want to be put in the lake now, or later?
Hervey: Uh -- wait, wait! I'm not going to put you in a nurse's outfit, okay?? *he quickly stands up, just to not be defenseless*
Troy: *Just....blinks at him, completely at sea* Hervey...I know I have asked you this before, but do you think before you say those things? *he isn't sure which he wants to do: laugh or throw Hervey into the lake*
Hervey: No. I mean, well... okay, no. I'm just saying!! ... Unless you want to be in a nurse's outfit, which, okay, sure, I'll play along -- but aren't you supposed to be the doctor in that kinda' thing? *he quickly holds his arms up in front of him, just in case*
Troy: Hervey, shut up. *literally reaches over and claps a hand over the pirates mouth, sighing* I am not going to ask about your strange obsession with nurses outfits and playing doctor, but I will tell you that as a tactician, I'd need to see your plans in detail before I'll agree to go along with this....*he leans back, removing his hand* ...I have to be honest, I already don't think this is a very good idea, *frowns* and I am not a nurse. I only have a wind rune, why ask me?
Hervey: Healing Wind. *he blurts out, quite cheerfully, half-leaning, half-sitting against the table now* Look, we need a healer -- any healer, and I trust you not to tell Geddoe. If you haven't noticed, everyone's slowly getting picked off here, and it's only gonna' continue at this rate. *he frowns right back at Troy, looking particularly stubborn again*
Troy: Hervey, I am not a healer. I was not in the business of working to save lives with medicine and runes, only by sparing them steel. *Keeps his eyes on Hervey* And I have already agreed to help Geddoe...something I am surprised you have not considered. *it is a half-asked question, he is curious as to why Hervey isn't working with a larger force*
Hervey: *shakes his head* If you're going to help Geddoe, that's fine with me -- but if you're not gonna' help me with this, you can't tell him about it -- at all. *he runs a hand through his hair in frustration, not sure how to explain this* I don't want anyone to stop me.
Troy: Why do you feel that this is the right strategy to go by? Luca is a berserker, and Yuber is a demon, from what I've heard...what makes you think this will even work? *He leans back in his chair, trying to figure out why Hervey is so focused on doing what he considers an almost surely suicidal ploy*
Hervey: Yuber's so easily baited -- we've learnt that from experience, though I ended up fracturing a few ribs... *he mumbles a little, and then shakes his head yet again* The point is, he'd probably be someone who would fall into traps without realizing it. As for Luca... well, we're just concentrating on Yuber now. *though, suddenly, Hervey looks very troubled, his memory suddenly jolted about the mad prince*
Troy: What makes you think that Luca won't be around? Or that Yuber can even be killed? *he suddenly leans forward and stands, looking down at Hervey* Yuber may be easily baited, but what happens when you've caught him?
Hervey: *he blinks, suddenly finding himself looking up at Troy* He was caught once -- and we'll do it again. Only we'll keep a tighter watch on him this time, that's for sure. *he considers Troy's words for a second* ... If Luca's around, well... heh, I'm sure I'll be a great distraction for him. *says it kind of bitterly*
Troy: And you feel that this is best accomplished with traps in the woods with two men? *Frowns* Pirates are stubborn, but such low numbers...it's suicidal. *the last part of Hervey's statement takes him off-guard* ...For Luca? Why?
Hervey: *he waves a hand casually, shaking his head* Oh, he just wants me to visit him alone in his room. *clearly really grumpy about this*
Troy: *freezes, totally missing the innuendo* And of course you told him no?
Hervey: ........ *very, very quiet* Heh...
Troy: *Looks at him like he's totally lost his mind* ....You.....are you insane?! *he walks over and grabs Hervey's shoulders, looking down at him as if to assess his mental stability* He will kill you, you have to know that.
Hervey: *he looks up at Troy, expression completely serious* He said he'd kill anyone I was associated with if I didn't listen -- what am I mean t'do when it comes to something like that? *shrugs, kind of listlessly*
roy: *It only takes him a minute to absorb the information, and he automatically starts compiling a list of casualties and ways that he can either hide Hervey or prevent this. Luca, sadly, has the power to carry out his threat* I don't know, pirate...hmm.....*his mind is whirring* ....What did you do to him to make him call you out?
Hervey: N-nothin'! Absolutely nothin'. *he studies Troy's expression, looking worried* C'mon, don't worry. He won't kill me -- I can't imagine why he'd kill me out of everyone 'round here, right? C'mon, he told me to wear a nice outfit and everything... *grimaces*
Troy: What do you mean, he won't kill you, he's...umm....*things start to finally click together*...Wait. He....oh. *A little quirk at the edge of his lips flickers, trying to turn them up, and he tries, desperately, to keep it under control*
Hervey: ........ *scowling at Troy now, totally not finding this funny* If you laugh, I will kill you. Right here, right now. I swear!
Troy: *Can't say anything, his whole being is focused on trying not to laugh. Finally, he can't help but smirk, just a teeny tiny bit* Well. *He coughs, trying again not to laugh* This puts a different spin on things.
Hervey: I'm sure he was joking, right? *looks troubled, and half-looks like he's about to deck Troy -- oh man he's so close to doing it* ... ... Right?
Troy: *realizes he's still within range and drops his arms, stepping back just a bit, smirking* Yes...he seems to be the joking type, Hervey. *he can't help it, he chuckles* How long has this been going on?
Hervey: Well, he only dragged me on a date, oh, three years ago. Now there's this and -- *he sighs* Man, I doubt it's a date, though. Maybe you're right, I'm gonna' get my ass kicked... *has no idea what to do*
Troy: *He's vaguely remembering something about this* He must be quite persistant to keep chasing you for 3 years. *While it's amusing, he sobers quickly at the return of his original thoughts* Either way, it's a trap, and nothing good can come of it.
Hervey: *half-glare, but he's too worried to put too much heart into it* I can't imagine what he wants me to do, but either way, I ain't gonna' like it. *sighs* Anyway, that's not what I came here t'talk about, anyway. Forget about it.
Troy: Hervey, if you don't survive your 'date', then your plan to get to Yuber is a moot point.
Hervey: I'm going to survive my date! Dates can't be that bad, though I don't know what happens on your dates that makes you so negative about them. *small, very small smirk*
Troy: *he returns the look* I've never dated a psychopath, that's what makes me negative.
Hervey: *cringe* Ouch. Well, touche, nurse boy. *grumbles*
Troy: *fixes him with a glare* What was that?
Hervey: *... superior smirk* Nurse boy. Didn't you hear me?
Troy: *Suddenly smirks* Well, if you're so involved with this nurse fetish, take it on your date....I'm sure Luca will enjoy.
Hervey: You did not just go there. *very, very stunned stare* You totally didn't just go there.
Troy: *Gives him a look that says he did indeed go there*
Hervey: ... *refrains from totally pushing Troy down into the chair and tackling him* Sorry, but the nurse outfit is reserved for you, y'know? I mean, it's all yours. *forces a grin*
Troy: *Gives him a look that says Hervey won't have to worry about the date OR the plan with Yuber, because Troy is going to kill him*
Hervey: ... *smirk* What's wrong, Troy? Something the matter?
Troy: Only with your date plans. *It comes out droll, a jab....but as he speaks, his face changes, an idea blossoming* Did Luca say, specifically, what he wanted with you?
Hervey: Yeah, I know you'd rather me date you over Luca -- huh? *he blinks, looking kind of stupid* He said to come alone -- uh, why?
Troy: *rolls his eyes, waving off Hervey's remarks* Yes yes....*frowns* He did stipulate you come alone? But not for what?
Hervey: Not for what, no. *shakes his head, not really understanding* I don't know what you're...??
Troy: He did say you go alone, though? Specifically? *shakes his head* When are you supposed to meet him?
Hervey: Uh, tonight sometime...? And yeah, alone. *he repeats it firmly, still confused as hell* Troy, where're you going with this, man?
Troy: I'm trying to see if there is a loophole...*frowns, looking at the table with his recently discarded book as if trying to see inside it, get an idea* ....because he will kill you if you go.
Hervey: C'mon, Troy, it's not like you to worry like this. *he flashes a comforting smile, putting on a brave and cocky face* I won't die, you know that... right?
Troy: *Gives him a dry look* No.
Hervey: ... Well, shows how much faith you have in me. *he laughs a kind of abrupt laugh* I'll be fine -- just sit here all cosy, alright? I've stil got asses to kick after this, and you to force into an outfit. *tries to get Troy annoyed at him again*
Troy: *Serious* Do you really expect someone to just sit here, knowing you're probably getting killed at that moment? *he shakes his head, although a smile flickers across* You might want to warn Luca about that nurse thing you have, maybe it will scare him off.
Hervey: He'll probably like it. *nervous grin, trying to make light of the situation* Troy, I ain't gonna' die. If you want, the first person I'll go see after the damn thing is you -- wouldn't want an old man t'lose his sleep over something like this.
Troy: *tempted to throw something at Hervey* It would make me feel better if you didn't go. Or if I came with you. *he smirks* I could chaperone.
Hervey: You care that much? *grins* What would happen if Luca became the chaperone instead somehow, huh? Can't go having that.
Troy: *Shakes his head* You are a strange man, pirate.
Hervey: You always say that when the going gets tough, don't you? *chuckles, teasing him*
Troy: 'When the going gets tough'? *Shakes his head* Hervey, you are a strange man.
Hervey: I am not. I'm a perfect normal, attractive guy! *looks at Troy, challengingly* Unless you disagree with that.
Troy: *waves an arm* Hervey, stop changing the subject. *pauses* And yes, I disagree. Normal people don't push people into lakes in the winter.
Hervey: ... No, fun people do. *shakes his head though* You're right though, I need to stop changing the subject, don't I? *sheepish grin* I've got two hugeass problems to deal with and here I am, jokin' around.
Troy: It wouldn't be you if you didn't joke. *sighs* I guess I'm going to have to come with you.
Hervey: -- wait, you mean, with Yuber? *blinks, very stupidly*
Troy: No, with Luca.
Hervey: -- w-wait, he said to come alone! *bewildered*
Troy: I will follow and wait outside in case of trouble. *smiles ever so slightly, although it is obvious he does not like the idea of Hervey going at all, but it is the only thing he can think of on such short notice* I would not want to disturb your date, after all.
Hervey: Y-you -- *has no idea what to say, so he opens his mouth to say something, but then stops, then tries again* -- what if he's going to notice you, Troy!?
Troy: ....Hervey, I would not obviously follow you.
Hervey: Y-yeah, but -- what if something happens, and he realizes you were waiting all along and then you get hurt??!
Troy: *Blandly* You're worried about the possibility of my injury when you are walking directly into a trap with a madman?
Hervey: *realizes how stupid that sounds, but just keeps going with his train of thought anyway* Yeah! I mean -- at least I know he wants me for something, so he won't hurt me, but you --!
Troy: What happens when you decide not to give him what he wants from you? Do you think that he will not resort to violence then?
Hervey: *looks really reluctant now* C-c'mon, it's not like I have much to give him, anyway. It can't be anything too bad...
Troy: *Just looks at him, knowing not even Hervey can believe that*
Hervey: ... *looks at Troy for reassurance, which he's totally not getting* ... right? Troy? *hopeful tone*
Troy: ..... *raises an eyebrow*
Hervey: ... Troy. *sounds a little more insistent now, frowning*
Troy: .....
Hervey: ...... *stare* You're not helping.
Troy: I'm not trying to.
Hervey: Y-you should be supportive!
Troy: *Eyebrow goes up again* Of your apparent urge to kill yourself?
Hervey: Yes! ... ... Okay, okay, what if we both got hurt? Wouldn't that be worse than only one of us getting hurt?
Troy: Not if you end up dead because of my inaction. *shakes his head* No, Hervey, I cannot let you go alone.
Hervey: *very slowly places his hands on Troy's shoulders, taking a deep breath* ....... Trooooooy. C'mooooon...!!
Troy: *Looks down at Hervey, face serious* You cannot possibly be asking someone to let you walk to your death.
Hervey: I'm not going to walk to my death. *shakes Troy gently* You're being overdramatic!
Troy: No, I'm being realistic. *Lets himself be shaken, not attempting to dislodge Hervey*
Hervey: *mumbles something about overprotective boyfriends and how Troy's probably one of them, and just buries his face in Troy's chest out of frustration*
Troy: *Blinks* What did you just sa-*He is cut off when Hervey leans into him and thinks that it must be tough for the pirate to be facing these things...although you'd never know it...and decides to let it go, putting a hand on Hervey's fluffy hair a bit awkwardly* Hervey...?
Hervey: Grrr...! *still mumbling, somewhat* How do I get myself caught up with psychos all the time, seriously...? I swear there's some sign on my forehead that's yelling 'hey! Psychos, come and get me!' or something!
Troy: ....Should I be offended? *trying to be a bit flippant, lift the mood. He does think Hervey has a point, though....*
Hervey: The overprotective thing, or the psycho thing? *he tilts his head and looks up at Troy, grinning slightly*
Troy: *frowns at him* Both, I think. *Pauses* Overprotective? *He actually didn't hear Hervey totally the first time*
Hervey: *smirks* An overprotective boyfriend -- you just admitted to it. *he's kind of torn between laughing at Troy and making sure he doesn't get hit*
Troy: ....What? I did no such thing. *Is also torn between laughing and punching Hervey in the face*
Hervey: You just did -- you said both! *he laughs and figures it's a good idea to take a step away now -- just in case* There's no denying it, Troy.
Troy: *Grabs his arm* I asked if I should be offended, and you asked if I was referring to your comment about attracting psychotics *frowns* or the overprotective thing, which I am not, and I said I think I might offended about both.
Hervey: *glances at his caught arm, and then back at Troy, laughing* But being offended about it is kind of like admitting it's a trait, right? *tries to work his backwards logic* Which means you admit you're a psychotic that's attracted to me... and that you're overprotective!
Troy: *just looks at him again, still trying to figure out if he wants to be offended or not* Hervey....try to think before you speak.
Hervey: No, no, I got this all worked out! *grins and grabs the hand that Troy's holding onto him with* I think you're just confused.
Troy: I'm confused? *the disbelief is evident in his voice*
Hervey: Yeah, you're confused. I can make sense of myself just fine. *can't help but laugh a bit at that ridiculous amount of disbelief in his tone*
Troy: No one else can, surely. *He frowns at the laughing*
Hervey: I think if you tried, you'd make sense of it easy. Smart, charming guy like you? Piece of cake. *he grins even more, just to be annoying*
Troy: I don't think I will ever figure you out. *He says it off-handedly, but it is the honest truth. Frowning, he contemplates just tying Hervey to a chair, which would solve the problem of the pirate's urge to commit assisted suicide nicely. Hmm....*
Hervey: You just don't try. *he looks smug, as if he thinks he's won -- but he catches the frown, and that worries him, just a little* -- uh, you're not going to throw me in the lake, are you?
Troy: No.....*he looks back at Hervey, realizing that he's been staring off into space, and tugs on the pirate's hand, which he had forgotten he had* Come here for a moment.
Hervey: Huh? *he takes a step closer, a bit hesitantly though, mostly cautious* Wh-what is it?
Troy: *Glances discreetly at the chair and wonders if he could just tie up the pirate...but he might have to gag him. Hmm...that wouldn't work. He shakes his head, thinking that if these are the options he's considering, he must truly be cracking up with nothing to do but read strategy books* ...Nevermind. *he lets go of Hervey's arm*
Hervey: *he looks at Troy, very suspiciously* ... Wh-what the heck was that? *he looks around the room, a little confused* You just -- what was that? *confused as hell now*
Troy: *Hervey's reaction makes him smirk* You look a little paranoid, something the matter?
Hervey: Yeah, you. *throws another accusing look* You just thought of something weird to do to me, didn't you?
Troy: Such as throwing you in a lake?
Hervey: ... *takes an involuntary step back* I've got a date in a bit, you're not throwing me into a lake.
Troy: *Stops teasing, looking at Hervey* ....You're looking forward to this.
Hervey: No way! But if I freeze my ass off half-way through a fight or something, it'd be your fault.
Troy: *Very calmly* Hervey...it's fine if you are looking forward to a date with Luca. I am sorry I mistook your relationship. *he does question Hervey's taste in dates, though*
Hervey: *he can't believe Troy's saying this with a straight face -- he glares daggers, sulkily* You don't seriously mean that, do you? Th-there's no way.
Troy: *Raises a hand in surrender* I am your friend, Hervey, I won't judge.
Hervey: -- no, take that back. That's just cruel. *he half-heartedly pushes at Troy with one hand*
Troy: *Lets him...for now* I hope you both are very happy.
Hervey: *sooo not going to take this -- he pushes him a little harder this time, trying to get him to fall back into the chair* You mean, you won't be jealous? At all?
Troy: *He takes a step back, the backs of his legs bumping into his chair* Jealous? No....I would not be jealous of a psychopath.
Hervey: *another push, only more gentle this time -- he's smirking* What, even if he gets me in a room alone? C'mon, you sounded pretty upset just a few moments ago.
Troy: *Braces himself, he would really like to not fall* ...Because he is a psychopath, pirate. It is a concern for your well-being that makes me worried.
Hervey: Aw, so you're worried about me potentially dating a psychopath -- which, for the record, ain't gonna' happen -- but you aren't jealous? *looks mock-hurt, pushing him a little more strongly this time*
Troy: A psychopath that will kill you- *he does indeed fall this time, grunting as he hits the chair* ...And what was the purpose of that?
Hervey: You were saying I wanted to date Luca. *he decides to stay in front of Troy, so he can't get up without being pushed again* You can't expect to say something like that and get away with it.
Troy: Oh....you didn't want anyone to know? *He doesn't try to get up, just looking up at Hervey and wondering if he can argue with him enough to make him miss his 'date'*
Hervey: *for that, he decides to promptly glare and straddle the other man* You're asking to be tortured.
Troy: *Blandly* You realize, pirate, that this might be why people are after you all the time. *he looks pointedly at the pirate sitting on him*
Hervey: *blinks, looking down at himself, and then back up at Troy* I don't do this all the time. Just to people who think it's funny to accuse me of wanting to have a relationship with that Blight guy. *frowns* Still, you're asking to be tortured.
Troy: I feel so honored. *Dryly*
Hervey: *frowns, kinda' frustrated that Troy's not letting up an amusing response today* Good for you -- now take it back!
Troy: Take what back? I'm happy for you. *Straightfaced*
Hervey: .......... *grrrr...* I am not happily dating a psycho -- say it!
Troy: *Frowns a bit* You're not happy? Perhaps you should speak to him, then.
Hervey: *-- frustration!* T-Troy, this isn't funny. Quit that! *still glaring, he steadies himself by placing one hand on Troy's shoulder.... and then pokes him in the side with his free hand*
Troy: *twitches...and then glares* .....Are you sure you want to start that?
Hervey: Take it back and I won't. *says it all too innocently, feeling like he's about to have a small victory here*
Troy: *Looks at Hervey, his eyes serious* I will never speak of it again if you agree to let me go with you.
Hervey: Th-that's hardly fair! *looks genuinely conflicted here*
Troy: It is your decision. *Keeps his eyes on Hervey* If you really aren't dating Luca Blight, and you can do whatever you want but I thought you had better taste, then it is pointless to go without precautions.
Hervey: Better taste like, picking you? *jokes for a second, but then quickly shakes his head* I-I don't know, Troy. I don't like the idea of getting you involved -- I shouldn't have even said a damn thing. *looks uncertain*
Troy: It is my decision. *he makes a face, slightly irritated but equally amused at the pirate's innuendo* Hervey, I am going to start thinking that you are hitting on me, and I do not want to fight off Luca Blight over your honor.
Hervey: What, really? You wouldn't do that for me? *forces a smile* Not that I'd let you -- you're not following me, and that's pretty damn final.
Troy: ......... *He sighs* Very well. *he lightly taps the side of Hervey's thigh* Please get up.
Hervey: Huh? *surprised that was so easy -- he slides off Troy, standing again* Seriously?
Troy: No. *Stands and immediately grabs his wrist* Salome needs to know about this.
Hervey: -- wait, wait, what? Kn-know about what!? *he tries to shake his wrist free, not sensing much good coming out of this*
Troy: If you will not listen to me, then I am sure that Salome will be able to convince you. *'Convince' seems to be synomous with 'imprison against his will'*
Hervey: W-wait, I told you to keep this quiet! *tries even harder to get his wrist free* T-Troy!
Troy: *....damnit, his ruse is broken. He stops, turning to look at Hervey, a bit of his frustration showing* Why are you so set to go and get killed?
Hervey: Because if I don't step up, someone else is going to get hurt, and I'm not gonna' let that happen! *he jerks his wrist away from Troy one more time, almost pointedly* Dammit, believe in me, alright?
Troy: I do, *Lets his wrist go, growling* but this is insane to take it on faith that Luca won't hurt you.
Hervey: How about you just believe that I won't let him hurt me? I'm a good fighter, Troy -- you're treating me like some damsel in distress or something. *he sighs, looking serious despite his words, and massaging the wrist that Troy was just holding onto*
Troy: I am aware of your skills, pirate, that wasn't put into question. Apparently it took an entire country to kill him once. *He frowns, gently taking Hervey's wrist in his hand, checking it over for bruises with a quiet apology* I have seen many men die, sent many to their graves, and I would like to prevent any more if I can.
Hervey: *he lets Troy take his wrist, not putting up resistance this time* I'm not going to try and kill him. I'm only gonna' run -- I'm strangely good at that, y'know. *watches the taller man examine his wrist wordlessly now*
Troy: Are you all right? *he doesn't respond to what Hervey said, instead inquiring about the limb he held*
Hervey: I'm fine. *he looks like he's about to brush Troy off, beginning to move his wrist away, but then he just stops, and lets it be* ... I think I need a nurse to examine it, though. *holding back a smirk*
Troy: *He doesn't move for a moment, still carefully holding Hervey's wrist...then, dropping the offending carpals, he grabs Hervey's shoulders, turns him around, and marches him to the door* Give Luca my best, I'm sure you'll be very happy together.
Hervey: W-wait! Wait wait wait! *he laughs, letting himself get pushed along* I'm kidding, okay? I'm kidding! Geez, a kiss on the wrist might be better than the nurse, y'know? *he suddenly finds himself face to face with the door*
Troy: Ask Luca, I am sure that he has ample experience with both wrist kissing and nursing.
Hervey: Now you're just being stingy. *he tries to turn to look at Troy, grinning at just how strange it is to have Troy teasing him so damn well*
Troy: I do not kiss wrists. *he pauses, thinking of Kooluk and nobles and noblewomen....* .....Not anymore, at least. *He looks down at Hervey, still not letting him go but not smushing him into the door* Besides, you said your wrist was fine.
Hervey: Not anymore? *he looks amused, avoiding the comment about his wrist being fine* What'd I do, miss out on the sale or something?
Troy: *Rolls his eyes* Sale? What do you mean by that?
Hervey: Y'know, like missing out on something that gets grabbed really fast. *he tries to explain*
Troy: *Looks down at Hervey, for once, glad that the pirate didn't get what he was saying* ....You're going to be late for your date, pirate.
Hervey: ... Yeah. *he turns to look at the door, sighing* If I catch you following me, you're dead, alright? *places a hand on the handle*
Troy: *Leans over and places a hand on the door, keeping it closed with his superior height, and looks down at Hervey grimly* I will not force you to accept my help, but please, reconsider you actions. The minute you make that lunatic mad, he will try to kill you.
Hervey: Heh... I won't make him mad. *pauses* Look, princess, if it makes you feel any better -- *he takes advantage of the situation to very awkwardly give Troy a quick kiss on the cheek* -- your knight's gonna' kick some dragon ass.
Troy: *glares* Pirate, I am not a-*Automatically begins to protest but is stopped by the sudden kiss on his cheek. Well, that was unexpected, and the surprise shows on his face as he blinks, leaning back automatically and removing his hand from the door* What was....dragon? *His voice alone says just how cheesy he thinks that is*
Hervey: Dragon. *he says it as if confirming and laughs, quickly opening the door* I'll catch you after he's slayed, princess. *smug, smug look*
Troy: *reaches for Hervey to stop him, but he misses, and the pirate is gone out the door before he can catch him. He curses quietly, but adamantly, hoping that he doesn't have to see another friend dead at the hands of a madman. After all, Hervey's got to survive....he's got to make the pirate pay for those princess remarks.* ....Good luck, pirate.