therewerefifty | [Action]

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[This morning she coughs, and there is blood on her palm.

She has no idea how long she sits, curled up in the blanket and leaning against her bed, staring at those damning traces. It's not a lot. It's all she needs. Makie knows the symptoms well enough, watching as her mother wasted away over the passage of time. Suspected from nearly the very beginning. Feared and denied. There's no denying it now.

She showers and dresses without a word, paying barely any attention beyond making sure to wash her hands thoroughly. Her mind is turned inwards. Seems that she's inherited more than her mother's profession, then. How fitting. Fuki took less than a year to succumb, but her living conditions were squalid. She has no idea if that's a good length of time or not. In a place with cleanliness and running hot water, maybe it will be much longer.

What does that mean, in a place like Luceti? They say the dead come back to life. Does she merely have to serve penance the once and come back healthy, or... does she look forward to dying time and again as the disease runs its course over and over? She should find out. She should... somehow... it's hard. How? She can't see herself asking on the journals about it. That would be telegraphing it to the town, and far too much attention. Unlike her home, she has a half hopeful, half afraid thought that the people she has met won't take the news well. She doesn't want to draw all that-- no, she should tell people. Saori. Rin. They deserve that much.

...she's in a house with too many people. She should leave. It's safer. Plenty of empty apartments. She can isolate herself and make sure she's no burden to anyone.

She doesn't want to. That's a surprise.

Life is good, here.

Then there are tears, and she packs her things. There aren't many.

Order of business. She's a coward, and leaves a letter on her bed, addressed to Saori:

I'm very sorry, but I feel I need to move away for a while. You've all been very good to me, and I thank you. It isn't because of anything any of you have done. I don't know how to filter on the journal. If you write to me later, I will explain.

- Makie

After that, she visits three places:

- the forge, to pick up her hopefully now repaired weapon.
- Seventh Heaven, although by 'visit' she'll stay outside and ask one of the staff to fetch Rin, if they could
- finally, community building #1 on a search for Tenten. She met the girl in a kitchen when she first arrived, and she needs to return a sword.

After that, well. She still has a list of empty apartments. She'll find a quiet one somewhere.]

((ooc: despite Makie's intentions, housemates are more than welcome to action in on her before she leaves the house if they prefer. She'll still be visiting these places regardless of the fallout-- where she ends up at the end of the day may change, that's all. Chrissakes Makie, it's not the 18th century, go see a doctor :|))

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[The flush on Vash's face should be one Makie's used to. It was the anniversary of the day he destroyed the city of July back home. A day he hated to remember, but would never let himself forget. Only here he was, stuck still in Luceti. Wolfwood was dead again, Noah was god knows where, Milly may never know she had a child, and he was stuck here with Knives. Not even his real brother. Some other brother he couldn't fully understand. It's enough to drive a man to drink.

Which is what he has spent all of last night and most of the day doing so far. Only he has run out and he wasn't feeling numb just yet. Long hair a mess from the thin long sleeved shirt he pulled over himself and some jeans he wasn't sure when were last wash was good enough for a quick run to the bar to pick up a couple more bottles.

Running into Makie was not what he had been expecting. He forces a smile on his face and tries to straighten out his swayed walk.] Hey! Makie! Wasn't expecting you here. Do you live here? I didn't realize we lived in the same building! [He stares bluntly at the item in her hand. Huh, is that a sword? Swords woman then?]

Edited 2013-07-21 13:34 (UTC)

[Even though Makie isn't paying much attention to others, the reek of liquor coming from Vash is enough that she takes a step back out of surprise and no small amount of wariness. Drunk men are often difficult to deal with. Vash is difficult when he's sober.

After a moment, she replies, cautiously polite. He...didn't seem like the drinking type. Not during the day, in any case.]

I don't. [And she makes a note not to. Ever. 8|] I'm here to return something to a... a young woman.

Oh, that's too bad. It would have made moving in together when we get married so much easier, but that's okay! I will happily move across the stars to live with you! [There's a smile on his face, but his tone is more monotone today when he flirts. He's trying, he really is, but today his heart just isn't into it.]

Oh? Are you learning sword- [Play? Fighting? Or is it play? Eh, he'll go with play.] -fighting from her? I don't think most people in Luceti tend to forget their weapons at people's houses. Unless you two had a really wild night together! Hahahahaha! [He still laughs at his own joke, but there's a forced undertone to it today.]

[The forced undertone goes completely unnoticed, lost under the sheer ludicrous statements that, yet again, Makie doesn't know how to respond. Apart from one thing.]

We aren't getting married, Mr Vash. [It's more blunt than usual, delivered in a dull tone.] Her name is Tenten. Do you know her?

[Vash lets his joke drop. Not having the midset or energy to keep it up at the moment.] Tenten? [It takes him awhile to focus his hazy mind. He's made it a point to know who lives in this building.] Sorry, I don't think she lives here.

[Well, he can't be expected to know everyone. ~~Ha...hah...~~]

I'll take a look, then. Thank you.

Yeah, you can, but I'm pretty sure she's not in this building. [Hopefully Makie doesn't mind the way Vash is staring carefully at her as he says that.]

You feeling alright, Makie? You're looking a little pale.

Edited 2013-07-23 11:30 (UTC)

I haven't been well. [She leaves it at that, heading past him to the elevator.

...the... elevator.

That doesn't exist.

....]

Are all the community buildings meant to have an elevator?

No, they don't. I think you need to go to community building one. They do all kind of look alike.

But if you're sick maybe you should go home and lay down for a bit. I'm sure she wouldn't mind coming to you or waiting a bit to get her weapon back.

[How did she get so turned around? She's been unforgivably preoccupied today.]

I run my own errands, Mr Vash. I'll be going home to rest shortly.

[Vash sways slightly on his feet. Not even really realizing he does.] That's good, because you look awful. I mean, still beautiful, but in a sick sort of pale way. [Ugh, thinking is a little hard right now. That a compliment, right?]

[I'm always pale, gosh. Makie turns back a little to glance Vash over.]

I may look awful, I suppose. Yet I am not the one weaving in the hallways. Are you ill, or merely drunk?

I'm not weaving that badly!

[...] Am I?

I have seen worse. You are still drunk enough that you shouldn't be wandering the hallways, Mr Vash. Some may get the wrong impression.

Mmhmm. Maybe... [And maybe that wouldn't be so bad. The people here don't know what he's done. Maybe they should think of him at least as a low down, worthless drunk.

What were they talking about before this? His mind is for once hazy with all the drinking he's done today.]

I'm not wandering. I'm getting something. [More booze, but it counts as something. And Makie, was delivering something. Something- that's right.] I can return her weapon to her if you want to go home and rest. Or maybe she could come to you.

[Leave a weapon entrusted to her in the hands of a drunkard who doesn't know where this other woman lives? Because Makie isn't sure either...she thinks not.]

I appreciate the offer, but I would much rather deliver it in person. I'll return home after that.

Mhmm. Alright. [Perhaps if his mind wasn't so muddled he could see how laughable his offer had been. As it is he doesn't and Makie doesn't seem to ill to him on the surface.] Get some rest after. I'll see you at work later. [He heads to the door and waves his arm in Community Building one's direction.] Her building is over that way.

[There's a long hitched pause. Makie hasn't been at work for a month, just how drunk...?

And she won't be coming back.

This is not a subject she has the energy for. At least he managed to point out the right building to her...maybe he does know Tenten after all. Or maybe it's luck.]

Thank you, Mr Vash. Please take care of yourself.

[And she pulls her shawl a little tighter and makes for the door.]

[Maybe it's just chance, or maybe some transcendental will at work, but Saori is just coming in from a walk as Makie is carrying her little bundle out the door. It isn't much, but enough to make her intention clear That draws out a look of surprise, and her lip screws up in confusion for a moment. It doesn't really make sense for the woman to leave, not after the party and how well everything seemed to be going. Had something happened that Saori was unaware of? A disagreement or a feeling of discomfort she'd not picked up on?]

Are you...going somewhere for a while, Makie? Has something happened?

Edited 2013-07-21 15:16 (UTC)

[Her timing is terrible, it seems. Her heart sinks further still, as this isn't a conversation she was brave enough to have face to face.

Makie clutches her bundle closely to herself, and her eyes slide away to stare at the ground.]

I...

[Her words waver softly.]

I left you a letter.

[A pointless letter, which says nothing. Good job, Makie.]

Edited 2013-07-22 05:13 (UTC)

[Saori cants her head worriedly. Something was wrong.]

Makie...

[Her own voice remains soft, but worry slides it's way into her tone.]

What's wrong? You...can tell me, if something's bothering you. If it's something I can help with, please let me.

[Because if it's something she's done, or something Makie needs to be happy, then this housemate is more than happy to see it done. ~~Or just drag her to the doctor's.~~]

[What on earth does she say? To evade even more would be offensive, and pointless besides. But it's so hard.]

It's nothing that can be helped. [Once she says it, there's a certain calm that steals across her features. Inevitability.] It's certainly nothing that anyone here has done, Saori. You're all very kind.

I'm... I don't...

[So. Hard. Everything she should say is just too sharp. But Makie remembers, searching for the words, that this is the woman who told her frankly about her own parents. What she did. Sharp in return.

...]

I'm sick. It's more than a cold.

[It's nothing that can be helped? Well, that certainly is a statement that lends itself to inevitability, yes. But if it's one thing Saori has learned, it's that very few things are set in stone. Things can be upended easily and rules change constantly, one of the simple truths of the universe. And if she knows anything about mortals, they tend not to understand what is truly inevitable.

She pauses at the mention of illness, though. That simple statement is something that was, for many years, one of her greatest fears. That the curse hadn't been broken, and anyone she cared about would fall ill had been an ever-present worry. But after thirty years with Yuuna, and a year with her friends in Luceti she's dismissed that as unlikely. And it's even less likely that Makie is afflicted by it. The disease should've run it's course in days, not weeks.

This is not it.

Which means that Makie is being dramatic, foolish, and likely has no idea that doctors can cure most things. Modern medicine had been a shock to her, too.

Saori plants her fists on her hips, barring the door with a frown.]

Makie. If you're sick, you're not going anywhere except to see Ami. You certainly aren't leaving this house for something like that. Earth and Stars woman, I can't even begin to describe how silly it would be for you to leave while you're ill. Especially if you've got more than a cold. Yuuna's a nurse and Helios is a skilled healer in his own right. We can take care of you better than you can look after yourself.

[There's a beat and she smooths her features back to their usual calm. Makie, you aren't a dog, you can't just slink off and die because you're coughing up a little blood.]

Put your things down and let's go to the clinic.

Edited 2013-07-22 15:24 (UTC)

[She's not quite that dense or foolish, Makie thinks. Whether she agrees with that last statement or no, she shakes her head.]

It's not about taking care of myself. [Who is Ami, anyway? A doctor?] It's infectious. [So many people live here.] I don't want to be responsible for anyone else becoming ill. Not...like this.

[She refuses to be a burden. If she stays, that's all she'll become.]

[It's not that she's dense, it's just that leaving without a word is just going to make things worse rather than better if she really is ill.]

Makie, I can't get sick. And neither can Yuuna, Kitten, or Daisy. Unless the disease you've contracted is some sort of magical curse. Which Helios could break with his magic.

[Spartan physiology and immortality being what they are, she's considering this a safe bet. And she's quite certain that Helios could easily weave a spell to keep himself free of infection as well.]

Ami's a doctor, though. A brilliant one. And in my time, and hers, illnesses that were thought to be completely incurable can be taken care of with a pill or a shot. You could be completely cured in a matter of days, and probably healthier than you were when you arrived. It's no burden, and it's our responsibility to make sure that you receive the medical attention you need.

[She lets herself smile, a worried and concerned little twist of the lips.]

I know it's not what you're used to. I remember when my world was like yours, I lived through your time. Doctors have changed since then, though. And I know Ami, I respect her ability as a physician. She's bandaged me more than once after a battle here, and I've seen her work with other people.

Trust me, she'll be able to help you.

[Or...you could let Saori drag you. That's always an option.]

[The certainty goes out of her expression at the very first words. In all things she's considered, Makie never once gave thought to the fact that people could be immune. Goddesses and dragons.

Saori is right to an extent. She has to admit that. She's so far out of her depth in this place, even now. Makie is so very reluctant to have to rely on anyone at all, but...

...]

It's lung sickness. [Her voice is faint, the words so uncertain. She knows how this is meant to go. Or she did. Now, she's not so sure.] My mother died from it.

[It's karma. But it's clear Makie has no idea what to think right now. Too much information thrown at her at once. Too much she obviously hasn't taken into account.]

[In fairness, Makie is by far the most 'normal' person living in this house ~~if anyone in the house could be called normal~~ and any normal person would probably have jumped to the same conclusion. ]

Lung illnesses are fatal if untreated, so I can see why you're worried. But don't. You'll be taken care of. I know for a certainty that there are ways to heal sick lungs in the world Ami's from.[She holds out a hand, offering some support, while making a mental note about Makie's mother. Clearly this particular situation was striking close to home, and it was likely her friend had contracted it from her mother. It explained the fear of being near people, certainly. And it adds to the poignancy of the situation for Saori, who lets her smile widen just a hair. A chance for someone she liked to overcome a personal demon was a decidedly worthwhile cause]

I know it's overwhelming. At worst you'll have to stay in the clinic for a night or two, and you'll probably need a special medicine called an 'inhaler' but that shouldn't be any trouble at all.

Now, shall we go? Everything will be fine, I promise.

Edited (frakking html, and wordorder. Last edit, sorry) 2013-07-23 07:27 (UTC)

[Everything will be fine.

She can't allow herself to believe that. Not yet. That a doctor could help her doesn't sound so farfetched in a place like this. She should have thought of that, shouldn't she? And yet, Makie is reluctant to go. It is oddly attractive, the idea of just quietly letting the disease take its course. She doesn't examine that too closely. There's no need.

What eventually gets to her is the smile, and the hand Saori offers. Makie might have certain beliefs about the course of her life, but if a Japanese goddess is saying it's all right, then maybe...

She lowers the bundle in her arms to set it quietly just inside the door, and prop her shamisen beside it. She'll return for the instrument later.]

I'll go. I'm... I apologise for being foolish.

[Saori reaches out and takes Makie by the hand, still wanting to offer what support she can. It can't be easy, living like that.]

There's no need to apologize. All I ask is that if you have a problem or a concern...talk to us. Any of us. We'll help you, and it won't be a problem. Friends and family have each other's back, don't they?

[With a perfunctory nod at the door, she heads out into the summer heat and down the street towards the clinic, Makie in tow.]

[Makie follows along unresistant, fingers closing over Saori's hand lightly. Her steps are pretty small, but that's more because she wants to save her breath.

She's not sure how to answer that question. More, she's struck by the discrepancy, that at home she has neither of those things. Luceti is so very different.]

...all right.

[Saori slowly leads the way down the street then, taking care not to go too fast and offer any support Makie might need. It's a small thing, but it's something simple and tangible she can do for a friend. She's no healer, and she's woefully uneducated on anything more than simple first aid.

It doesn't take them long in any event and when they enter Saori immediately goes over to knock on one of the office doors.]

Ami? I've got a patient here who needs to see you. She's very ill.

[Makie doesn't really want to be here. But she knows well enough she should be, so she stands quietly in the background and waits for the door to open.]

[The words 'very ill' have immediate effect. Ami opens the door after barely enough time to have gotten up from her seat and crossed the room. When she sees Saori, she offers a small half-bow, and her eyes soon move to Makie, who she doesn't know and thus assumes is the patient. She offers a deep nod.]

Please come in right away.

[Quick introductions as Saori gestures for Makie to come along.]

Ami. This is Makie, and she's been coughing and sick for a few days now. She says it's lung-sickness...but I know that could mean a lot of things.

Makie, this is Ami. My friend, the doctor. She'll take care of you.

[It's been a month of coughing, but Makie's too weary to correct it. At Saori's introduction, she just glances up with assessing, cautious eyes, before her gaze slides away again.]

What... do I need to do? [The clinic's surroundings already show her things will be far different than the doctors she's seen in Edo.]

[It's alright; Ami will be taking enough of a history to clear that up anyway. Right now, she makes the effort to put Makie at ease.]

Please sit down, and relax. [She takes the nervousness to be that of someone who simply 'doesn't like doctors', and smiles.] I just want to talk to you for right now. [No medicines or shots - yet.]

[Saori just takes up a position, leaning against the wall to make sure everything goes well. No need to talk, just listen and see if she's needed.]

[A female doctor, at that. It's sort of heartening as well as surprising, and after a moment's hesitation, she sits down slowly in a chair.]

Please tell me your symptoms, and how long they've continued for; when they began, and so on. Please also tell me any other health concerns you have right now.

[She has a small notepad that seems to be used for taking notes on these histories.]

[...rapidfire? It takes her a moment to marshall her thoughts.]

There's a cough. It started... the first time I can remember was just after the cultural fair. I thought it may have been a cold, but it's grown increasingly worse. Uncontrollable at times. I feel-- [She puts a hand to her chest.] It's heavy. Like something clinging to my chest. And I've had a fever that comes and goes. And I am very tired, sometimes.

This morning, there was blood.

[She's not eaten all that much lately, but that's not that uncommon with Makie. So she doesn't think to list a loss of appetite.]

[She has a strong idea where these symptoms are likely leading, but Ami keeps herself professional as she continues to ask questions, about specifics now. After some of these are answered, she gives a somewhat serious caution.]

I think you should have come here sooner, with those symptoms. Whenever you're sick, no matter what it is, it's best to receive proper treatment right away.

I'll remember that next time. [It's an automatic courtesy. Makie isn't thinking that far ahead in any case. She keeps her eyes on the floor.]

[A lingering cough, fever... the blood. Ami begins taking Makie's vital signs first while they talk, noting down the numbers. But her questions are already directed.]

How have you been eating lately?

I... have been eating. [A slow blink. Now she thinks on it, Makie understands what she's been asked.] Not a great deal. I haven't been very hungry.

[A nod; she'd suspected that might be the case. And of course with each answer, whether it matches her guesses or not, she's closer to an accurate diagnosis as she gets more information.]

How about sleeping? Have you been sleeping alright?

It... depends. I've had a few bad nights, with coughing. Sometimes it's all right.

[Another nod, a few more notes. Ami maintains a carefully serious but neutral expression as she faces Makie when she glances up from the clipboard.]

I'd like to take a chest x-ray if it's alright.

[Free medical care, Makie. This is something to take advantage of.]

[What is taking advantage of people :|a ~~nless you're killing them at the time...~~ Be that as it may, the confusion on Makie's face may clue Ami in to her question before she asks it.]

What is a chest x-ray?

[Ami's used to breaking down explanations for various people from different points in time and technology. So she barely misses a beat before she has a fairly simple explanation.]

It's a type of technology that lets us see a rough image of inside the body. It's very useful for telling if a bone is broken, or to see whether there's congestion in the lungs.

[She chickens out at the end, doesn't mention tuberculosis yet.]

[O...kay, then. But in light of everything she's seen, Makie feels rolling with it is the easiest path.]

All right. What do I need to do for it?

You just need to show up for your appointment on time.

[This is half a joke; half because she can actually make sure it's taken care of right now.]

We can do it today if you'd like.

...please. I'd like to get this over with as soon as I may. [She'll make her other choices based on what she finds... though Makie is fully expecting to be told she has tuberculosis.

But the treatment might be different. That changes things.]

Of course. It's only understandable. Once the diagnosis is complete, we'll begin to discuss your treatment options as well.

Is it...curable? These days. Saori tells me medication has come a long way...

[Without waiting for a diagnosis, the words just tumble out.]

I don't want to rush ahead before we have the results, but I think I can say that yes, we'll be able to treat this effectively.

Even if it's tuberculosis?

[Ami shoots Makie a quick look. So she already knew...

She feels fortunate that she can nod, and tell the truth, and that it's hopeful.]

Even then. The prognosis in cases of tuberculosis is actually very good these days.

[A drawn out, soft sigh. It hurts to be told that, somehow...but it also means she doesn't have to give this life up. Things can be different--]

It's...it's very likely. My mother died from it, and I spent a lot of time in close quarters with her. If... if it can be cured, then... as long as it doesn't hurt anyone else...

We'll be sure to take all the proper precautions against contagion, too.

It must have been hard, worrying about this for so long.

[That's true, she has to admit. This is something that will hit her when she goes home, too. But there, it wouldn't have been a problem. Makie didn't intend living long enough to die from it.

Here...]

Yes.

But I think... I am in good hands.

My hands are a doctor's hands. I'll do the best I can for you.

[To Ami, it's a relief, the idea that Makie can have a second chance her, go home released from her illness to live a long and fulfilled life. If she can make that happen... she's more than willing to do whatever it takes.]

You should be thinking about the things you want to do in the future.

The future...

[It's an echo, and she can't quite help the wry twist to her smile. That word.]

Here, I would settle for just...living.

Just living? [That sounds sad somehow.] What about your other goals?

[There's a long hesitation.]

I have... goals. But they have to wait until I return home. I'm content to wait.

What are they? I'd like to hear about them. [Even if it can't come true easily while they're trapped in Luceti, it helps sometimes to think about the things she wants outside of here.]

[Her eyes flick briefly in Saori's direction, but what is she to say? She won't tell a woman she's only just met what her intentions are. Even Saori only knows the half of it.]

I mean no disrespect, but my goals are my own. I would prefer not to speak of them.

[After an awkward pause, Ami dips her head, quick to be apologetic.]

I'm sorry. I didn't mean to ask something I shouldn't.

[Makie shakes her head.] No, it's all right. Some things are just too... deep to explain. And too personal.

No, I understand. I shouldn't have asked. [She could get lost in this cycle of apology for quite awhile. Especially since she wasn't entirely sure of what else to choose in trying to change the subject.]

[Makie can drag them both right back on topic, then.]

So what happens now?

Now we start with the x-rays. That will tell us what we need to do next. It isn't certain yet, so, we'll wait on that before discussing treatment and options. I'll want to schedule a time to review this with you.

All right. Just tell me what I'll need to do. I'll... leave things in your hands.

[Rin is fetched! In a hurry, even, because it's Makie and she did have to take some sick leave (at his request, no less) so he's wondering if she's gotten better or worse or what. He's actually not checked up on her as much as he wants.

So...]

Oi, Makie, what's up?

[Of all people today, she smiles for Rin. It's a faint one.]

Thank you for coming out so fast. I... thought I shouldn't come in. And I wanted to ...

[Saying things bluntly in the middle of a path feels a little disconcerting. But there are a lot of people inside. So.]

I... I won't be able to come back for a while. I'm sorry.

[...Okay that was surprising. His tail droops some and he glances around. Yeah, there's people here, but while he does consider that he should be in back more, he also considers that - well, if she can't be back a while, she might be in trouble or something. Maybe she's more sick than he thought, in which case]

Y'wanna talk about it a little more? Uh, somewhere privater, probably.

Yes. If you don't mind. [She's relieved.] It's a little awkward to talk out here.

Alright - you wanna go out back or like... Iunno, in the back? Maybe somewhere else?

Edited 2013-07-30 23:28 (UTC)

Somewhere there aren't other people around. I don't mind where we go, other than that.

Alright. Let's head out that way. There's a bench we could sit on or somethin' a little off the square. [With a glance over at that direction. A hand motion, a little tail flick, and he moves to head on over towards it. Urging her to go forward with him]

[Makie follows quietly, and sinks down onto the bench, starting to speak right away before she loses her nerve.]

Ah... I'm not sure how things work here. I've been to see a doctor this morning, so it might... not be forever, or... it's not very reliable, having a worker who can't come in for a long while.

-So, wait- 're you more sick than you thought?

[That's a more immediate concern than anything. Yes, work is serious and you need reliable people. But this is someone's health, so]

It's...

...yes. More than I thought. [It's a white lie. But made for the sake of keeping things simple.]

I've been to see a doctor. [Wait, she already said that part.] The most likely diagnosis is tuberculosis. Ah...

...I'm infectious. So.

[No jobs washing dishes. She falls silent.]

--Tuberculosis? Isn't that- that is really serious. Do you have some kinda treatment thing set up?

[Should he burn it out? Could he? He has no idea if it would work on something natural like that. But ... ]

[She smiles a little, more for the concern she sees there, an attempt to reassure.] Where I come from, it's-- well. Modern medicine...I'm told that it's curable. I just have to take medicine for a very long time.

...I'll be all right. But it's best I make sure I'm not around too many people. Especially, washing dishes for them is...unwise.

I'm very sorry.

Oh no, that makes total sense. We're gonna miss the help, and miss you- but. But nah, look, you gotta just get better.

[He's rambling a little. Fumbling a little too]

[Oddly she finds that endearing. It's certainly a reaction that puts her a little more at ease, and Makie shakes her head.]

I'll do exactly what my doctor asks of me, so I should be fine. If... if I can work again in the future, I'll let you know. Though of course, you may have found all you need by then.

Mmm. [...] I'm not gonna say for sure that we're not gonna find other people to work there. But when it comes to work, you gotta have people you know can handle things. So once you're better, who knows, but I'd like to have you back.

[He exhales after he says all that]

[...

...Rin, you're kind of a sweet kid. Tail and all.]

Once I'm better. [She's been told she'll get better, so...] I'll be back.

Then- [And he briefly raises his hand, as if he's going to offer to shake it, remembers she's sick, thinks better of it, and sets it on his knee after giving her a smile]

I'm looking forward to it.

[Her smile is understanding, if a little wistful. Caution is sensible. And to cover the awkward, her tone is deliberately dry.]

I'd prefer if you didn't tell Mr Vash why I'm no longer working. He's already difficult enough to deal with.

[Vash has been away for weeks on a mission, mind; Makie just doesn't know that. But still, the thought stands.]

Oh. ...Uh, sure. If you want, I won't tell the guy. [That's sort of vague reasoning and he's not sure he gets it, but if the sick woman says so he's not about to say "no."]

[Vash is a pest. She just wants him to have less reasons to harass her, that's all. Have you seen how obnoxious that guy is lately >>]

Then... hopefully I'll see you again some time soon, Rin.

Yeah, same. I'm lookin' forward to talking with you when you're all better, Makie.

[When night comes, the Spartan girl resides in House 44 to rest, letting herself eat, and then rest over the couch, hugging the plush toy of a cartoony white tiger half her size in her arms, a prize she got along with Shiki from the days of Lucetiland. Some semblance to remember older days where she knew everyone.

The door opens, and Daisy looks up, noticing Makie. She was usually the one to arrive later in the house because of her training and duties. This girl was usually earlier.]

Mi-- Makie? [She corrects herself from using formality among her new housemates.] I noticed you're late...

Edited 2013-07-23 04:05 (UTC)

[By nightfall, Makie's emotional turmoil has smoothed out into a calmer, numb state of business-as-usual. She hadn't expected to return here tonight, but Saori had been quite insistent...and Makie hadn't had the heart to stick to her guns. Not this time.

At Daisy's words, she glances up and registers her appearance, and offers a tired smile of sorts.]

Errands to run. It's... it's been a long day. [And how. But she won't be leaving again for a while.] Hello, Daisy.

Edited 2013-07-23 07:36 (UTC)

[She tries to smile. Or at least, show that things are alright.]

Hello, Makie.

[The taller girl moves to gather a few cups. But this time, it's something more of her tastes for something this late at night: Hot chocolate.]

If it's no problem... you could have asked us to get them. To get them in less time.

[The offer is appreciated, but Makie merely shakes her head, sinking into a chair with relief. She's tired.] I wanted... to talk to Rin at the restaurant in person to tell him I wouldn't be back. ['For a while', she'd said. She's not sure that's true.] It felt better that way.

[She looks up. The 'I wouldn't be back', especially, catches her attention. Did she mean... what Daisy herself did two years ago? Of moving back?]

Ma'am... Makie. [She corrects herself.] May I ask... what did you mean? To leave? Why?

[And after what happened to Daisy days ago, she is worried.]

[So Saori hasn't told anyone. Makie's quiet for a moment.]

Daisy... Saori tells me you can't get sick. Is that true?

[Daisy tilts her head a little.]

I got a lot of vaccinations from back home, and I have a strong immune system. It's harder for me... But why? What do you mean?

[And now suddenly unsure, because Saori had said--

--something to reassure her, right? The words come out in a rush, though quietly, fingers curling in the folds of her kimono.]

I'm ill. It's lung sickness... tuberculosis. [So said the health professionals.] It's infectious. Saori insists many here can't catch it, but I don't want to put anyone at risk.

[Tuberculosis... tuberculosis... She comes to remember the illness. One of many lessons given to Spartans about diseases to be careful about, but eventually given as merely an afterthought after numerous vaccinations and strengthened immune systems.]

A lot of diseases disappeared from my world with the advances in medicine. I can't get sick from it, and a lot of people here are strong enough.

Even with the medical tech here... it can get treated. We've got a lot of great doctors in here.

Mm. [She nods quietly, relieved once more.] Saori told me that this morning. I...hadn't given it much thought before that. I must confess I was intending to leave rather than put you all at risk.

[Daisy sets her cup down.]

Makie... you already know what the three of us spoke about a few days ago. We help eachother. There's missions here. [She looks up.] I can use some of the points I haven't spent for you.

I'm not too familiar with the missions. [It's an admission that that part of the explanation was very confusing, and she didn't read much into it.] But I appreciate it, Daisy. I think I understand.

[Her smile is small.] And I'm... back here, again.

[She didn't run.]

[Daisy turns to Makie. One hand reaches for her shoulder, smiling, for a moment resembling an older sister.]

Welcome home.

[She sets her cup closer.]

Just remember. You are safe. We'll find a way to overcome it.

[Ah...

...it's still so unexpected. To get a response such as this. Makie's lost for words. No one has ever said such a thing to her before. Safety.

Something she can't risk ever taking for granted. But...]

...

...Thank you, Daisy. It's...

...it's good to hear.

[Abruptly, she feels close to tears.]

[By now there's got to be a bell or something on the door, to alert the busy smiths when someone comes in. Hearing it, Raven heads to the front of the building and looks surprised at the visitor.]

Hey. [Not that Makie would be able to tell she's surprised.]

[Makie's eyes widen in more obvious surprise as Raven makes an appearance. A girl, working in a smithy?

...well, why not? This isn't the person she spoke to before, however.]

...good morning. I left a weapon here for repairs some weeks ago. [She hadn't been in a hurry to retrieve it, really. Now it's just another loose end to tidy. She hasn't the energy to be evasive now.] It's a three section bladed staff. Are you familiar with it?

Edited 2013-07-23 05:05 (UTC)

Oh. With Sokka? [Or maybe...if it was long enough ago, it might have been Hiccup.] Tall, dark hair, scruffy beard?

[The smith. Not the staff. She's trying to recall if she's seen a weapon like that.]

No, I don't think so. Younger. [She sounds vague. Makie's thoughts are elsewhere.] He didn't have a beard, certainly.

[Hiccup, then. That was a long time ago, at least for a weapon repair.]

He went home. It might not be done. Hold on.

[Back to the back she goes. Three-part thing with a blade...]

[She's been otherwise distracted with terrible health >_>a]

...oh. [Of course, by the time she says anything at all, Raven has gone. Not been done? That's distressing... but then again, it's hardly as if she'll be using it anytime soon.

She glances around to see if there's a place to sit (and takes it if there is), feeling the scratchiness in her chest start building up again. And waits quietly.]

[There is a place to sit, keeping customers waiting on their feet is unfair sometimes. Eventually Raven comes back, bearing something wrapped up and unwieldy-looking. She stops before handing it over though.]

Uh...are you okay? [She just doesn't look right.]

[A seat is wonderful. Makie's face lights up with relief when Raven comes back as she sees the bundle. It's enough that she just smiles at the question]

I'm being asked that a lot today. I'm not very well, that's all.

So go to the clinic.

[Here stands before Makie the most vibrant-haired hypocrite in the village.]

[So blunt Raven, gosh.]

I've already been. [Take that.] I'm just running some errands before I go home.

Mmh. [It wasn't her business anyway.] That's your weapon, right?

Yes, it is. [She stands, placing her shamisen on the front counter.] Is there a charge for repairs?

Not anymore. [Sokka is over it.] Bring it back if it breaks again.

I will, thank you.

...ah. Can I ask your name?

Raven. [Maybe she's misunderstanding what happened with the weapon here.] I didn't fix it. Sokka probably did, if Hiccup didn't finish.

That's fine. I would just prefer to know the names of the people here. It makes it easier to ask after things. [She gently hooks the lid back of her shamisen, folding the weapon carefully inside.]

I make these. [She taps two fingers on the glass of her accessory display counter.]

Oh, really? [Her interest is caught a little by that-- she'd wondered where they came from. So the girl doesn't make weapons after all?] ...you're quite talented.

Thanks. [Her skill with smithing is one of the things Raven will acknowledge outright now.] If you want one, just ask.

I'll be sure to keep that in mind. For now, though, I should head home. [She smiles a little.] I'll stop by later. [When she's not dead on her feet.]

Thank you, Raven.

[ Tenten can be found walking out of her apartment with a large scroll on her back. Seeing Makie in the hallway confuses her, mostly because she doesn't live her. ]

Hm...? Makie!? What brings you to here?

[Ah. Finally the person she was looking for, after getting thoroughly turned around by Vash. She thanks the gods that Tenten is outside and thus she isn't forced to knock on every door.]

Hello, Tenten. I've...come to see you, actually. Do you have a moment?

When do I not have a moment? This is Luceti after all. [ Things are very slow around here. Too bad that will change forever soon. ]

[She smiles.]

I've come to return your sword. And to thank you. It's been very useful to me these past weeks.

What did you use it on? You can't just say something like that without giving me the details!

[...such enthusiasm. 8|a Makie blinks at her and then shakes her head, looking sheepish.] There's not much to tell. I've mainly used it to practice my swordplay. [Although.] I meant to return it much earlier, but my own weapon was broken in a fight. I just picked it up from repairs this morning.

Wait, let me get this straight. [ Her eyes narrow in some sort of judgment glance. ] You tell me there's really nothing much to tell before you vaguely hint at a fight!? [ Her eyes fire up with an intensity that topples the first outburst. ] C'mon! I love hearing what my weapons got into while they were out!

[Seriously she just used that sword to go through sword forms and avoid getting rusty in the past month. 8|a Makie looks unsure.] Your weapon hasn't been used to draw blood. Since my weapon was damaged, I've merely used it as a replacement for-- [...for what?] Defence. Practice.

Oh. [ Booooooooring. ] I'm happy it was sufficient enough to keep you in tip top shape, Makie. You know, I might want to spar one day. Just don't leave me like your brother.

[That's a sore enough point Makie's fingers hitch slightly as they lift up the wrapped sword. Then she puts it down gently on the nearest flat surface.]

...would you like to see the blade I normally use?

[ Tenten's eyes are totally lighting up at this moment with a sparkle and a passion of a thousand Edward Cullen's. ]

Of course!! I always love to see people's weapons! Show me what you got! [ Tactless Tenten does not notice how her words hurt ): ]

[It's all right, tactless Tenten. She knows many like you. The subject is diverted a little, and she really doesn't mind showing Tenten-- as a thank you, because it seems she judged correctly and Tenten will fangirl over such weapons. Not that she knows what a fangirl is, shh. >.>]

I keep it in my shamisen, you know. Mostly because a woman who carries a weapon in public will attract all kinds of attention... [She puts the instrument down on the table, unclipping the top.

And then she pulls out this long, three section pike...thing. :|a]

Hmm... I don't think it'll bring attention here but I understand your reasoning. [ She looks at it excitedly before blinking twice and looking at Makie in confusion. ]

Isn't that a pike? That's not a sword! [ Tenten has a PhD in Weaponry™. ]

[Her PhD in Weaponry will definitely pin the weapon as exotic and likely designer/one of a kind, then. |D]

I never said my primary weapon was the sword. I certainly use a sword adequately, but this is the weapon I know best.

Its name is haru-no-okina.

[ She does recognize the fact that it looks very very unique! ]

Hmmm... so does Haru-No-Okina work like a staff with a pike end? [ Most pikes don't have the three sectional fold part. ]

It can do. It can be a difficult weapon to wield effectively, but with speed you can use momentum with the blades quite effectively. [She glances briefly upward at the height of the ceiling.]

I...could give you a demonstration some time. Though it wouldn't be for a while.

Well, Team Guy is all about speed! I'd be excited to learn this weapon with you but I'm kinda curious why you'd have to hold off.

[ pushy tenten is pushy. ]

I'm ill. [Though she feels much better about the idea than she had a few hours ago, it's still a faintly painful admission. Makie smiles.] And under orders not to do anything taxing.

Who gave you those orders? They sound pretty sensible so I won't mess with it. [ Tenten doesn't notice the pain. ]

A doctor down at the clinic. [There's nothing to notice, really. She's just getting used to the fact.] In a few weeks, perhaps.

Which doctor? I know quite a lot of them there. People from Konoha have habits of getting injured. [ They're a clumsy, fearless bunch! ]

I'm not surprised. You're shinobi, after all.

It's Dr Mizuno.

[During one of the woman's trips to the square, Raine notices her walking away from Seventh Heaven. It's been a while since she's seen her at the tea shop, so she'll wave a hello toward her.]

Good afternoon, Makie.

[She's getting tired now, and Makie was slowing down even more as she passed the fountain, wondering if she could get away with sitting for a while. Probably not. At the greeting, she turns and blinks in confusion at Raine before she finally recognises her.]

...Miss Raine. How are you?

... I'm well, thank you. [Makie's slow movements are not lost on Raine, familiar with tiredness.] What about yourself?

Ah... [Her eyes slide away to the fountain, but Makie smiles faintly anyway.] I've been a little unwell. I'm sorry I haven't been by recently.

You don't have to apologize for that. When you're unwell, the important thing to do is to make sure you're taken care of, after all.

...that's true. And it might not take long. [One way or the other.] When I'm healthier I'll make sure to stop in.

You're out and about now... do you not have any help where you are?

...ah. I suppose I thought my errands were too personal. I've been working at the restaurant, and I needed to explain why I wouldn't be in. It felt better to come in person.

[She doesn't like the journals. And she'd end up advertising to the whole town if she used it-- Makie needs to learn to filter.]

Hmm... well, you could have sent a message to them privately, to spare yourself the strain of coming out here. [Fresh air is good, but there's a difference between taking a rest outside and running errands all over the plaza. She should know. Of course, Raine herself is more comfortable with in-person conversations.] Though I suppose that's water under the bridge now.

I've yet to learn much about the journal. [It's an embarrassing admission. But the thing is so alien.] Private messages?

It's called filtering. You can ... lock a message to a person or a group of people. The process can take a little time to get the hang of, though it is useful to know.

Oh. [That sounds very convenient. Far better than having to ask the entire village after the location of one man. Although, given she didn't know his name at the time...] I'm afraid I'm not used to technology at all. But if filtering is a possibility, it would be wise to learn it. Thank you for letting me know.

It's all right. The journals aren't exactly conventional technology either. If you like, I could show you a few tricks when you're feeling up to it.

[When is something she's not sure of yet. But this morning she's been told that her illness is curable, so...]

...that would be lovely, Miss Raine. When I'm feeling better.

Thank you.

You're welcome. Ask me anytime, and we can work it out from there. [Just in case the woman thought she might be a bother to her.]

I'll do that. [Although an amusing thought does occur to her.] Perhaps when I visit the teashop again, I'll look out for you, and remember that. There would be a certain irony to having to ask you for journal tricks across the journal.

[She has to chuckle at that.]

Indeed. That's what I thought you might have done anyway - it is usually where we see each other the most, after all.

Indeed. It's a most enjoyable place. [She rather misses it.]

It is. [Though the smile fades with a more concerned look.]

Do you need to head back to rest? Or to your errand? I hope I'm not keeping you from that.

It's all right. I needed to rest a moment. [She smiles a little ruefully.] Although it is true the sooner I'm done, the sooner I can go home.

Indeed. Where are you staying?

It's house 44, I believe. Although it doesn't look much like the homes around here. [Her housemates turned it into a castle tower before she ever arrived. It's an odd place.]

44... ah, does that mean you're living with Helios? He certainly put a lot of effort into having his house look different. [But at least it's only a castle on the outside...]

That's right. There's quite a few people there. Saori offered me a place to stay there when I first arrived. It's... I'm content there.

I'm glad to hear that. It sounds like you were very lucky.

Yes... Saori at least recognised what time period I'd come from, so she was a lot of help. I'm very grateful for her assistance.

Still absorbing all of the cultural differences, huh? Has it gotten any easier over time?

It has, in a sense... oddly because there is such a clash of so many cultures. It's overwhelming at times, but I've long come to terms with the village always being chaotic. I don't need so much to fit in, because anyone does, here. Does...that make sense?

[Because community building one is a happening place, really. Temari sees her in the hallway and a neutral expression quickly becomes a little puzzled and questioning.] You live around here?

[It's the Hidden Village of the Elevator, of course it is. :|a Makie glances at Temari for a moment with recognition, and shakes her head.] No. But I met a young woman here who... loaned me something.

[If the something is what she's got bundled in a scarf there, it looks rather like a sword.]

[Oh, good, she hasn't missed anything obvious. She nods toward the bundle Makie's carrying.]

And are you returning it?

Yes. She gave it to me on my first day here as a replacement in case some of my belongings didn't arrive. [And then shortly after that, some jerk of a mutant kinda mangled her weapon of choice. So it's been useful.] Perhaps you know her? Her name is Tenten.

[She huffs -- an sort of laugh.] Yeah, Tenten and I are from the same world. We knew each back home, too.

[Sorta. Kinda. It works.]

[..that's interesting to know, given the type of person Tenten appears to be. Makie tilts her head, distracted briefly from her ~~of self-pitying angst~~ own thoughts.]

Are you also shinobi?

I am. I'm from a different village but the basics are the same.

I see. There certainly are quite a few of you, here.

Yeah. We're kind of taking over.

[The idea makes her smile, however small.] I suppose you will never lack for familiar company.

Sorta. Like I said, I'm from a different village. There's some familiarity, but some of them I knew only by sight -- if that.

[The same world, though. It gives her pause. So many from the one place.]

There are shinobi in my world, but they tend to be less...colourful, I suppose.

Do you know which of these apartments Tenten resides in?

[Temari actually chuckles a bit at the comment. Oh, yeah. They're a colorful bunch.]

Down the hall. You're almost there.

[Ah. Good. Makie gives a small bow.]

Thank you, Temari.

...I hope your garden is going well.

[Her expression softens a bit.] It's not bad, thanks.

I'm glad.

...I'll talk to you again, some time.

[Getting home soon is probably wise. She's tired.]

[Shikamaru's just leaving the building for a day of work when he spots someone else coming down the path.]

Yo. If it isn't elevator girl again.

Edited 2013-07-28 06:48 (UTC)

[The nickname makes her wince a little, reminding her of that week. But he probably doesn't mean it in any sneering way.]

Shikamaru. [She's holding a scarf-wrapped bundle that looks well like it could be a sword. 8|a] How have you been?

...Better. [He didn't think of it until he spoke, saw the lines tighten around her mouth. It feels like something worth clarifying. An apology, in less words.] Are you visiting your friend?

[He hasn't seen that guy around much lately.]

[The lines ease at that response, and she smiles at him tiredly.] Not today. At least, not the gentleman you're thinking of. I'm here to see a young woman.

...she lives on your floor, I think. Though I've been known to be wrong. [Heh.]

[He holds up four fingers.] Fourth floor?

It's where I saw her. [Sudden doubt. She walked into the wrong building earlier, for chrissakes.] A girl named Tenten.

[He wrinkles his nose, amused. He knew if it was the fourth floor, it had to be a ninja.]

Didn't know you'd already met some of my friends.

[...heck, if she was on the fourth floor, she may have already met half the people from his world, if they were all home at the time. If he weren't so lazy, he would move. 8|]

[Oh good, she's not lost for once.]

I first woke up in this building. I met a few people on the way out the door. She, ah... was washing weapons in the kitchen. You're from that world?

[He nods.] Mm. We're easy to pick out.

[He taps the forehead protector on his arm.]

{she'd suspected that was the case. Though she's met a few who don't seem to wear one... but then, they all come from different places, don't they?]

Part of your uniform?

More or less.

Do you still wear it here from habit?

[Honestly she wonders what a community of ninja would find to do in this place. But then she hasn't exactly paid any attention to its inner workings lately.]

[He shakes his head. The flak jacket (not present today), maybe. He wears it for all the times it could be useful, but also because of how natural it feels to shrug into it some days. His forehead protector, though?]

It's important to me. I like to keep it close.

...I can understand that. [Ironic that she gave away what was important before she arrived, though. The shamisen doesn't quite count.] It's a reminder of home.

In a way.

[It's also a reminder of what he fights for.]

[She smiles.]

...I'm sorry for holding you up. Would you mind telling me which apartment Tenten is in?

Oh yeah. Same floor - it's the apartment one over from the kitchen.

Thank you. I guess... [Her smile is faintly amused.] I'm sure we'll run into each other again some time soon.

[It seems to be happening a lot. :|a]

You keep turning up here, probably.

[Or you know. Maybe you'll magically become his mom someday. WHO KNOWS. He gives a short wave, and starts out in the direction of town.]

See ya.

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