第十六錯覚; 「accidental video」

[promisedlotus]

[Sorry, but the only thing showing when the PDA comes on is what looks to be a hole. Like someone fell through, with the way old material is peeking upwards toward the sky. If one listens closely, they can hear cursing coming from inside the building

Comments

[tothelastbreath]

[This face, Kanda? Is the straightest face you'll ever see, if you can ignore the slight crinkling at the corners of his eyes, and the not quite satisfied tilt of his mouth.]

Third time's the charm?

[promisedlotus]

Shut up.

[tothelastbreath]

[Shrugs, unperturbed.]

It had to be said, seeing as you're well on your way there and everything.

[But then he cocks his head at the screen, trying to make out Kanda's surroundings. Just another habit Nesreca's bred into him ― always keeping track of everyone ever.]

What are you doing?

[promisedlotus]

Meditating, stupid sprout.

[tothelastbreath]

[There follows a beat of brief but deeply judgemental silence. Come to think of it, you're always meditating when something happens (or falls apart). Allen has nothing against meditation, but he does have quite a bit to say about your choice of timing and location.]

I don't think it's meant to be such a heavy activity. [Yes, he went there.] And it's still Allen, you arse.

[promisedlotus]

I'd like to see you not fall through one of these buildings.

[tothelastbreath]

Bet I can manage that ― by not using them in the first place. What's wrong with meditating in your room?

[promisedlotus]

What's wrong with wanting fresh air?

[tothelastbreath]

Nothing, until you start looking for it in buildings with floors as hardy as rotten cardboard.

[And everytime one caves, Allen's stress level spikes.]

[promisedlotus]

Like I knew that was doing to happen.

[tothelastbreath]

[Of course it was always going to happen. The laws of FML demand it.]

Well, now you do. [beat] Did you break anything?

[And he does mean anything, be it part of you or something potentially useful they could've salvaged from wherever you are. Allen is very, very unpicky about where their resources are coming from these days.]

[promisedlotus]

No, bean sprout, other than the roof and several floors, I didn't break anything.

[tothelastbreath]

The roof and several―

[Stress levels, spiking. He would grouse at you to take better care of yourself, because he knows how your stupid regen works now, except he doesn't want to raise any suspicions. Not to mention it would be extraordinarily creepy.]

It's Allen. Try the ground floor next time.

[promisedlotus]

I'll try whatever floor I want.

[tothelastbreath]

How about the one most likely to stay? Just saying.

[promisedlotus]

I'll live either way.