The Real Life [OPEN!]

[carcinoGeneticist]

Slowly but surely, the woman seemed to be crawling back out of the pit of emotions that she had so abruptly fallen into. Which was good - very good. It was easier for Apocalypse to deal with almost anything other than sadness like that shown by the Corvie, especially when it came to someone he didn't really know. He hooked his arms around his knees, holding onto his shoes as he watched her, trying to force himself not to stare. Staring might unnerve the woman, and that just wasn't going to help the situation.

But there it was, as he was waiting for a response. A flicker of something across the woman's features, something more pleasant than he'd noticed before. It was still sad, her jaw trembling oddly as he watched, but there was more. That much was evidenced by the way that she answered him.

The smile that spread across his human face was wide and genuine, his eyebrows lifting slightly. "Excellent." There it was. A little bit of cheer for his day, and possibly for the Ferret's. He shifted, pushing himself up off of the ground once more, giving his body a quick brush-off to remove any grass that might have still been clinging to him. Fingers slipped through his belt loops, his posture changing to something relaxed and at-ease. He could tell the woman needed some sort of comfort, and the more relaxed he was, the less likely he was to accidentally set her off again.

Lips parted over shark like teeth, and the man let out an amused chuckle. "You know... we've got to have our moments, or else we wouldn't live very long. I guess you just got lucky and met me on a good day." He extended a hand to help her to her feet again, if she needed it. That smile was quite improved, he decided. "I suppose you'll need a name, then. I am Apocalypse. There's... a story there. Please feel free to just call me Pale."

[Callypso]

((Sorry if this is nonsensical... I've been struggling with Iso's muse!))

Wiping clumsily at her eyes with her paws, Iso removed the last vestiges of her tears, and strangely enough, all the subconscious feelings that had barraged her not seconds before. Memory still served to remind her she had toppled only moments ago, but all traces of that particular brand of emotional duress had completely deserted her. It was as if she had watched the episode happen to someone else, and she half-heartedly puzzled over the event before being distracted by the odd grin overtaking much (too much, really) of the man's face. It was a rather peculiar, though still handsome visage, and she very briefly recoiled at his sharp dentistry before being swallowed up with joy over having somehow pleased the man. As he stood up and made light conversation the ferret wrinkled her nose in distaste and then burst into a fit of giggles.

A good day? That's quite a statement for someone who initially engaged me through harassment!

She smiled up at him and accepted his hand as she returned to all fours, wrinkling her nose again as she considered his introduction.

Apocalypse? If there isn't a story there, then your parents must have had a very unique vision for you. Pale, you say? Very well. I am Dr. Iaso Price, but please, Iso will do.

The drugs continued to course through her brain as before, though this time along a very different track than the most recent or even the original. Clearly, Iso was in a playful and somewhat devious mood, which, had she been able to reflect upon at the current, was a spirit which she had not embraced in a very long time. Despite the cheery demeanor, her earlier self-reflection turned from sentimental upset to social anxiety and mild embarrassment. Proper protocol and casual affairs were alien to the young doctor.

Suddenly, she felt ancient and hermetic trying to recall that last occasion she had been on an outing for pleasure and friendly interaction. There had been that Josiggy mouse when she first moved to the city, but that had been a rather awkward situation. She winced upon realizing it had been several years since she had enjoyed a similar outing. Looking apologetic, though smiling broadly all the same, she looked back up at Pale.

I... don't do this very often... Did you have something particular in mind?

[carcinoGeneticist]

((I understand completely. <33 Hopefully, Pale can help her to open up a little and make her easier to talk with, hm? XD))

"Perhaps so, my good lady, perhaps so." The man said with an easy grin, feeling a slight surge of pleasure as she accepted the hand he'd offered and at the almost musical sound of her giggling. Goodness, she was acting rather like a schoolgirl, wasn't she? Slowly, he could tell she was opening up, which would certainly make the rest of their time together much more pleasant. He'd started to feel as though he was ramming his head against a solid wall, and right when he'd been prepared to give up, the curious woman had finally broken under his attempts. "But I wouldn't be entirely true to my nature if I didn't indulge in occasional assholery."

As the words left him, he screwed up his face at the rather odd choice of terminology, then let go of the thought with a chuckle that brought the smile back to his features and a carefree shrug. He was in a rather good mood, and he wasn't going to let a little thing like a nonsense word ruin that.

Ahh, the reaction over his birth name... He'd prepared a false story for that, of course, and in response to Iso's light prodding, he grinned. "Either a vision or a lack of understanding of the common tongue. Regardless, it's quite the mouthful." Her own introduction gave him slight pause. A doctor, then? He knew that a number of Corvistownians traded in medicine as their specialty, and something about the realization made his skin crawl. She was exactly the sort of person he'd spent a large portion of his life trying to avoid, out of fear of discovery. But now that he'd actually met the woman, he couldn't say he felt that same fear. Not in the slightest. "Iso it is, though Iaso is a lovely name." Softly, he pressed a kiss to the back of the paw that he was still holding before releasing it and standing fully.

The woman's next question, however, made the King pause thoughtfully. He hadn't exactly considered where he would take her when he'd made the offer, he'd just thought it was the right thing to offer at the time. All things considered, he still thought that it was - he was just going to need to consider things a little more deeply. Iso almost certainly wouldn't approve of the man's usual haunts.

"There's a lovely little café a few blocks from here," he mused, rubbing absently at his chin with a hand. A moment later, his gaze shifted back to the Ferret. "I've been there a few times on business. The food is a fairly standard mix - general Capital stuff, nothing to write home about. The draw is the patio. Seems a shame to waste a lovely day like today inside. Does that sound tolerable to you?" There was a playful lilt in his tone, and a smile that just wouldn't subside.

((...-hits him- laying it on thick, there, aren't you? Forgive him, he is a shameless flirt and also an asshole. XD))

[Callypso]

It was turning out to be a pleasant afternoon after all. Abandoning all self-delusion and empty promises of securing assistance from worthy artisans (clearly there were none to be had in this ridiculous city), she instead devoted all her energies into pursuing this indulgent diversion. Pale’s catty ((pardon the pun)) variety of candid honesty was deeply satisfying and surprisingly... fun. She unsuccessfully stifled another giggle at his fantastic vocabulary and explanations of his bizarre name.

Understandable, to be sure, though they might have asked for assistance to ensure proper translation.

An amused chuckle escaped her again, though this time she was immediately stunned into silence as Pale’s lips touched her paw. Had she been “herself” (whatever that was, and clearly she was not) she might have flown into a quiet rage at his impropriety and tactless behavior, however, as it was her eyes widened and she quickly put a paw to her flushed cheek and bashfully averted her eyes. It had been quite a while since she’d encountered any sort of advance, as relatively harmless as his gesture had been.

Clearing her throat in an attempt to hide her pleased and flustered countenance, she looked back up at the man as he pondered their destination.

That sounds wonderful. The sun is quite nice, today.

His smile was so infectious (a bit off-putting, but still) she couldn’t help but mimic his display. Pale was a rather charming, if not unusual man. The sun warming her back, the allure of the caracal’s company and the steady thrum of narcotics through her veins had finally blended in just the right way. And Iso was feeling good.

Lead the way!

((Bwahaha, that's okay. Iso is hiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiiigh!!!! <3 <3 <3))

[carcinoGeneticist]

((HAHA. Muse, I cans have some! Apologies if it's not the best, I might have some but it's still rather rusty.))

With the general mood of the day having taken a dramatic spin from where it had been before, Apocalypse felt oddly at-ease and, if truth be told, rather cheery. It wasn't that he didn't feel cheerful before seeing the strange woman take her drugs, but he'd been alone then, and in the King's book being alone was never as satisfying as having company. Even if the company he'd found was rather odd, she was also female. And lovely. That only improved his mood.

"I did some research on it myself," he said with a small shrug, then shook his head. "It turns out that they probably did ask someone. It just so happens that the most literal meaning of the word "apocalypse" is far from the meaning it's gained over time. Various connotations of the end of the world and that aside, it's almost nice. My mother certainly expected something of me, even if she may have doomed me to a life of something entirely different through cultural misunderstanding."

Of course, there was no misunderstanding the way she reacted to the simple gesture. He took mental note of it, and for a moment, his grin broadened. Quickly, he turned away. He didn't want to make her feel uncomfortable, but he couldn't help but feel a little thrill of excitement at her response. It was sweet, almost, especially the amount of time it was taking her to recover from it. "It really is. Just keep close, I don't want you to get separated from me..."

And with that, he was walking through the crowded streets, clearly with a goal in mind. If this evening went well - well, there was no telling what would happen, and that alone was exciting to the King. His pace slowed when they were nearing their destination, and he glanced back over his shoulder to make sure Iso was keeping up with him. Then, finally, he stopped entirely, standing outside of the glass doors of the cafe. "I'll get us on the list for the patio, if you'll excuse me for a moment." The man gave her a small nod, then slipped inside. It was only a moment before he was back, clapping his hands and then rubbing them together. "It should only be a few minutes."

[Callypso]

((Perfectly understandable... I think I haven't RP'd in a month!! We can be rusty together! XD))

The ferret felt her bright mood blossom into genuine contentment as Apocalypse elucidated on his parents' misunderstanding. It was impossible for her to recall the last time she had made an effort to connect with another Card, even on the most basic of levels. Mindless chatter about the weather or lighthearted displeasure regarding the effect of inflation on one's favorite material goods had always seemed, to her, precious time wasted.

A bemused, good-natured smile curled her lips as she listed to her acquaintance's tale and nodded to show she was listening. Amazing, really, how wonderful this relatively unimportant exchange made her feel. His words roused her spirit, a most pleasing sensation combined with the warmth of the sun upon her pelt. It didn't hurt, either, that the overall effect was sweetened by the glow that lingered within from the caracal's earlier flirtations.

She absently pondered whether the pills - oh right, she had medicated herself - or the interpersonal interaction had the greater impact on her endorphin levels. Say! That was a marvelous research proposal… must remember that one for later. Dreamily, she retrieved a small notepad and writing utensil from her coin purse and jotted down her half-thought before glancing up to catch the feline turning away to hide a remarkably larger grin (how did his mouth stretch like that??).

The doctor distractedly wondered whether she had missed a joke when she was once again caught off-guard by his coy remarks. A delighted laugh left her lips as she flushed (thank the Realms she was so darkly colored!), I doubt you'd lose me even if I tried to leave!

Oh, this was fun. Her brazen retort both surprised and satisfied her. The earlier paranoia, fear and irritation had completely left her and she felt absolutely rich with positivity. Iso was mildly certain she had traveled to the bazaar for a particular reason, but what did it matter, really? Perhaps she would find her studies easier once she had given herself a break. This was a rather delightful outing and she certainly had interesting company…

Iso broadened her steps as the man wove his way through the crowds with determined purpose and smiled reassuringly whenever he glanced backward to check on her. His abrupt stop would have had her crashing into him, but luckily a self-important equine Highlander had thrust himself in front of her in his desire to reach a passing vendor. She smiled, Of course[/b], as Pale excused himself and she took in the quaint little cafe while he requested a table. The restaurant seemed quaint. Broad red awnings decorated the large glass doors and she caught a glimpse of jaunty matching umbrellas shading the tables lining the patio. It looked neat, mildly busy but not overwhelmingly noisy or uncomfortable. Her companion quickly returned with news of the wait and she smiled again.

Perfect.

[carcinoGeneticist]

Such a laugh! If only he had seen this side of the woman earlier, he would have been much faster to stop tormenting her and instead to ask her to join him for a meal! From his earlier experiences, he had the distinct impression that her laugh was something that was rarely heard, at least not by a stranger such as himself. He turned to face her once more, one eyebrow lifting playfully as he fought the urge to laugh himself. Damn, but he was feeling giddy! "And why ever would you want to try, dear lady?" He teased, inclining his head to the side. "I've been nothing but a gentleman, have I not? We've not yet had a chance to eat, either!"

There was something oddly relaxing about new company. Even if it kept him on his toes a little more than he was used to, Apocalypse didn't see any real reason to complain. This was mental exercise, of a sort, thought not the kind most indulged in. He was flirting with danger, literally it would seem. He'd never imagined danger would be quite so cute when she laughed, though...

Besides, she was only really a danger to him, and only then if she were to learn his secret. Which wouldn't happen, especially not now when there was no risk of him getting into a sticky situation where he found himself without the use of his other forms.

Life had really started to get easier for the King.

As he walked back to Iso's side, Apocalypse glanced around. "There might be a menu posted nearby, if you'd like to look it over while we wait." That way, they wouldn't need to wait quite as long for food once they'd gotten settled. He could already feel the first twistings of hunger, and he was starting to really look forward to having a meal. Especially with company as lovely as he had. "Then we can--"

He was cut off, however, as his name was called. Surprise showed plainly across the man's face - he hadn't expected the wait to be quite that short. He gave Iso a sidelong glance, shrugging. "Or not. M'lady?" The ferret was offered a hand and a charming smile, and if she took it, he would lead her into the dining room and then out to the patio. It was busy inside, noisy in the enclosed space, but as soon as they had reached their table outside the noise was greatly reduced, simply a low murmur. Apocalypse pulled out a chair for his companion, then sat down across from her. The menu he was given was glanced at, then set aside as he quickly decided what he wanted.

"So, how long have you been in the Capital?" he asked, deciding that now was the time for some more idle chatter.

[Callypso]

Exhilarating! This diversion could only be described as such. The pair had certainly had a tremulous introduction, but now? Presently, Iso found it difficult to repress her desire to giggle at the most minor of comments and had settled for a look suggestive of a smile at the slightest provocation. It rather became her and she simply could not abate the feelings of pleasure that surged through her at the moment. Her earlier judgment had been true: this Card was trouble… but now she rather thought it was the sort she would be willing to engage in.

Iso flushed again at her own musings to glance at her companion who seemed to be having as lovely an afternoon as she. Oh, but you are a bit of a rascal! I’m no fool, sir! I will definitely have to keep on eye on you! She playfully waved a paw at him and shook her head while another laugh escaped her lips. Ha. This banter was marvelously thrilling. No matter the bistro her friend chose, the ferret was sure the fodder could not compare to the deliciousness of their word play. Hee.

For once, the doctor was pleased that her agitation had allowed her to stray from the Outer Bazaar. Her work could not have been so important that she couldn’t indulge herself from time to time. What accomplishment had she been trying so desperately to achieve, anyhow? Obviously it was of no real importance, as her mind swiftly lost interest in pondering her cursed research and returned to the present- which was filled with Pale and promise.

Another giggled slipped out as her companion was interrupted mid-thought and she gracefully accepted his outstretched hand. The patio was surprisingly comfortable and rather subdued compared to the interior. Such a gorgeous day, it’s a wonder anyone would eat inside! Oh my, she had uttered her thoughts aloud, hadn’t she? How… different... from her usual mannerisms. Instantly, she was charmed by her surroundings and the agreeable curiosities that this day continued to bring. The menu was far less exciting than her company, but she managed to sort through the options fairly quickly. The wine, on the other hand, seemed rather enticing at the moment. Far more dignified than fruity, sugary noxious concoctions, anyway.

Oh, not very long. She tilted her head trying to recall how many weeks it had been since she relocated. There was some vague recollection that hinted at extreme discomfort and eternity of some sort… but the city surely hadn’t been that bad, had it?

A couple of months, perhaps. Sometimes it feels longer. A dullness was creeping into her voice, though she was quick to correct it. My brother passed several months ago. I didn’t inherit it, per se, but it fell to me as my parents are happy in Corvistowne. I’m rebuilding it, as it were. It’s not going as well as expected.

Moodiness threatened to strike again; she had the vague sensation that the unpleasant topic was hovering heavily around her and decided to change the focus.

But what about you? Do you have business nearby, or are you simply visiting?

[carcinoGeneticist]

Apocalypse couldn't understand those that ate inside either. After all, before he'd encountered Iso (had it really been earlier today? Her personality had undergone such a strong change that he felt as though it must have been much longer), he'd been enjoying the weather himself. The sun had always held a strong appeal for the man, but now even more so that he didn't need to risk his naked skin. Full-body sunburns were wickedly unpleasant, he'd found. "Their loss," he said, cheerfully. It was, after all, the silly people currently dining indoors that had enabled them to get a seat as quickly as they had.

The fact that she spent more time mulling over the wine list did not go unnoticed, and Apocalypse inclined his head to the side thoughtfully. "If you'd like a bottle, feel free to order something. I haven't had a nice glass of wine in a long time, and the Court of Hearts will be paying for whatever we decide sounds enjoyable." Well, it would come out of his wallet, but it was the money he made as King that he would be using. It was the same basic thing - right?

As the woman spoke, Apocalypse had the distinct impression that perhaps he had asked the wrong question. That first hint of dullness was reminiscent of the way she'd spoken moments before breaking down entirely, and he could feel the hairs on the back of his neck starting to stand on end. Not now, damn it, things were just starting to get good... As she continued, however, the King began to really understand exactly why she might have been feeling a little morose. With a small nod, he reached across the table to give her paw a reassuring squeeze.

"I hope it starts to pick up for you soon. Adapting to a new environment can be tricky at the best of times," A short little piece of advise, but he hoped it sounded somewhat sympathetic. After all, the character he played in day-to-day life had only recently arrived from the Bog.

The change in topic was nice, all the same. He didn't always feel entirely comfortable speaking "in-character", as it was. "Ah, a bit of both, actually." The man shrugged lightly, giving a slight shake of his head that dislodged his hair from where he'd had it stuffed behind an ear. His eyebrows furrowed. Damn. He needed another haircut. "Often, meetings with the other Courts occur in neutral locations - like the Capital. Today, I was meeting with a liaison from the Diamond Court, but things went rather smoothly. Normally, a meeting like that would keep me occupied for the rest of the day." Water was delivered, and Apocalypse took a small sip of his and then smiled flirtatiously at his companion. "...I daresay, I'm feeling rather glad that I was freed from those duties early. This is much more fun."

[Callypso]

Iso nodded knowingly at Pale’s unsympathetic dismissal of the ridiculous Cards who had holed themselves up despite the glorious weather. Their loss, indeed. The doctor wasn’t one to take advantage of others’ foolishness, but if no harm came of it, why shouldn’t she enjoy their error? Beside, she ensconced herself much too often in that lab. How many wonderful opportunities had she missed slaving away in that impossible mess??

I don’t imbibe very often, but it seems appropriate this afternoon, don’t you th-

Her words halted as her eyes widened considerably at the mention of the Court’s role in their dining experience. Oh, oh suits. He wasn’t just some King, then, he was a King King! Had their encounter failed to take a more pleasant turn she might have been at the mercy of the Court. She had little head or heart (ha), for politics, but she was sure the players could exercise their influence almost indiscriminately. She lost her color for a moment considering the possible implications of her former actions. A second later her mind switched tracks again as she processed the significance of his offer and blushed deeply.

Surely you don’t mean to accept the entire tab??

Suddenly she recalled why she had severely limited her social excursions. There were all these unspoken codes! He had asked her to lunch, but did that mean he should settle both their debt? They had only just met! Her head swam with embarrassment and confusion over etiquette, looking less than dignified for a Card of her profession. She preferred conducting a lobotomy to this agitating situation.

Luckily, Apocalypse’s observations saved her from the dismal discussion on her incomplete workspace with a few delicately chosen words of solace. He displayed further tact in answering her questions about his day’s activities, which proved to be rather more engaging than expected.

Must be challenging, she observed, Negotiations and such. But also a bit intriguing?

Iso had no predilection toward participating in Court enterprises, at least, not in a professional capacity. She flushed lightly again and looked up at Pale with a smile.

I agree. This is much more enjoyable.