I'ziva Ganajai (![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png)
purrrrfection) wrote in ![[community profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/community.png)
theshipyard2015-11-24 09:26 pm
purrrrfection) wrote in theshipyard2015-11-24 09:26 pm
[ Alien drinks are deceptively mild going down, and alien bar patrons are outrageously convincing.
Day two, being temporarily stranded on this planet, and while they were fortunate enough to come across several of the supplies they needed for repair the last thing they needed was unfortunately going to be the hardest to come by, as it required them to wait until one of the local trade ships made its return in a week. That meant killing time on an unknown world and trying not to go stir crazy.
Thankfully there was no shortage of things to do here, apparently. Upon learning that there was a mall to explore the pilots had immediately set out, something about finding a TV and something about a "food court"... whatever that was. Hunk tried to describe it, but between trying not to notice Lance's flirtation and following Hunk's expressive explanation she wasn't sure she had a clear image. Something about a large gathering of food vendors, NOT a place for any sort of legal proceedings like the Tribunal in Ishgard. O... kay then... She definitely wanted to stop by sometime before they left but not tonight- no. Tonight she thought the four older residents of the castle could go find something to do together, but Allura had other plans. The princess had said something about not missing out a second time, and of course Coran was having none of it, so he was going along to play escort. That left just Shiro and Ziva.
After their escapades in the closet their relationship status had stayed there, complicated. Shiro's concerns weren't entirely unfounded, after all, even if Ziva didn't necessarily share his initial opinion. The fact that they were gearing up for a final showdown with Zarkon was exactly why she wanted to make every moment count. Living with regrets isn't something she cares to repeat, but she wants to respect his wishes. So until they've sorted things out their current status has a big old "IT'S COMPLICATED" on it. It's a talk they need to have, since things were cut rather abruptly short by the power returning to the castle and their timely "rescue" by Keith and Hunk.
Anyway... This is how Shiro and Ziva wound up wandering the planet's "night scene", and how they'd come across a not-quite-seedy but definitely-not-wholesome either bar... diner... thing.
"Stop for a bite?"
Sure, why not? They'd earned some coin earlier by helping out some locals in need of some assistance, might as well get a meal with the cash right?
This is probably more than he'd bargained for, though.
He'd stepped out to check in with the others. She should've been fine. She'd opted to stay back and see if she couldn't pick up on any rumors about Galra movements or plans, and in the process of appearing harmless with a few drinks at the bar she'd become quickly rather more inebriated than she'd wholly intended.
When he comes back inside he'll be in for quite a surprise, greeted by Ziva still thankfully MOSTLY dressed, but stripped down to her undershirt, pants, and boots and dancing on the bar to cheers and catcalls.Get it? CATCALLS. Some folks are even starting to pull out alien bills. Upon spotting him again a rosy cheeked miqo'te's ears give a delighted wiggle, and she beckons enticingly.
"Come dance with me!"
This is the woman you've decided to possibly lay your affections with Shiro what are you gonna do? ]
Day two, being temporarily stranded on this planet, and while they were fortunate enough to come across several of the supplies they needed for repair the last thing they needed was unfortunately going to be the hardest to come by, as it required them to wait until one of the local trade ships made its return in a week. That meant killing time on an unknown world and trying not to go stir crazy.
Thankfully there was no shortage of things to do here, apparently. Upon learning that there was a mall to explore the pilots had immediately set out, something about finding a TV and something about a "food court"... whatever that was. Hunk tried to describe it, but between trying not to notice Lance's flirtation and following Hunk's expressive explanation she wasn't sure she had a clear image. Something about a large gathering of food vendors, NOT a place for any sort of legal proceedings like the Tribunal in Ishgard. O... kay then... She definitely wanted to stop by sometime before they left but not tonight- no. Tonight she thought the four older residents of the castle could go find something to do together, but Allura had other plans. The princess had said something about not missing out a second time, and of course Coran was having none of it, so he was going along to play escort. That left just Shiro and Ziva.
After their escapades in the closet their relationship status had stayed there, complicated. Shiro's concerns weren't entirely unfounded, after all, even if Ziva didn't necessarily share his initial opinion. The fact that they were gearing up for a final showdown with Zarkon was exactly why she wanted to make every moment count. Living with regrets isn't something she cares to repeat, but she wants to respect his wishes. So until they've sorted things out their current status has a big old "IT'S COMPLICATED" on it. It's a talk they need to have, since things were cut rather abruptly short by the power returning to the castle and their timely "rescue" by Keith and Hunk.
Anyway... This is how Shiro and Ziva wound up wandering the planet's "night scene", and how they'd come across a not-quite-seedy but definitely-not-wholesome either bar... diner... thing.
"Stop for a bite?"
Sure, why not? They'd earned some coin earlier by helping out some locals in need of some assistance, might as well get a meal with the cash right?
This is probably more than he'd bargained for, though.
He'd stepped out to check in with the others. She should've been fine. She'd opted to stay back and see if she couldn't pick up on any rumors about Galra movements or plans, and in the process of appearing harmless with a few drinks at the bar she'd become quickly rather more inebriated than she'd wholly intended.
When he comes back inside he'll be in for quite a surprise, greeted by Ziva still thankfully MOSTLY dressed, but stripped down to her undershirt, pants, and boots and dancing on the bar to cheers and catcalls.
"Come dance with me!"
This is the woman you've decided to possibly lay your affections with Shiro what are you gonna do? ]
✨ .//. for zerotoshiro » drunk shenanigans (pt2 electric boogaloo)
purrrrfection
2017-02-24 02:06 pm (UTC)(link)
[ Discretion, we knew thee well.
A night out on the town, a simple dinner at an alien (This deep out in space, to be fair, everything is alien.) establishment, simple? Maybe it COULD have been, if Ziva's curiosity hadn't gotten the better of her.
To be totally fair, though, she'd been trying to blend in, underestimated the potency of the local drinks. How was she supposed to know that the deceptively smooth, soothing colored shot she'd been handed would have all but knocked her on her ass? It was like that time Hunk tried a free sample and had gone from zero to HELL IN YOUR MOUTH in zero seconds.
Shiro, much to his credit, had somehow managed to either convince or wrangle her down from the bar and out with her clothes intact, and gotten her back to the ship in one piece. It was late into the evening by then but he managed it. Now, as the two climbed the steps leading into the long corridor heading for her room (after a very awkward, yet somehow hilarious pit stop in one of the communal areasR.I.P. Lance's dreams of the future Mrs. Blue Lion, take 3) it became clear that Ziva didn't make any sort of distinction between being in private and being in public, or semi-public, because her volume is a bit everywhere, and let's just say it's not the only thing. ]
How much further is it? This'd be mush... [ Wait, no, that's not right- ] much [ THERE we go! ] easier if we were sitting down, sweetling.
[ "This" being her apparent, persistent, valiant attempts to seduce him, because she definitely hasn't stopped half-clinging, kissing, or fondling him since he got her down from the bar. Her free hand running through his hair whenever they had to stop to take a break, her lips teasing at his throat, nibbling at his skin, kissing his jawline, his temple, his cheek, the corner of his mouth, the shell of his ear- nibbling at his earlobe?? She's unstoppable at the moment. If she hadn't needed one arm to keep herself supported on his shoulder- Hell, sometimes not even THAT stopped her and there were one or two instances on the walk back where he'd had to hook her by the waist to keep her from suddenly twirling around to pivot on one foot when something caught her attention.
Finally, though, they manage to make it to her room, and that's the point when Ziva's arms wind around- LOCK around Shiro's neck and she takes the opportunity to get closer, her chest pressed firmly against his rather suddenly, her voice still loose but also thick with obvious want. ]
Hmmm, if you wanted to get me alone, all you had to do was ask... You're staying, aren't you?
[ Hope you can concentrate through more of her kisses along your throat and fingers in your hair there, Shiro, because that's what she's doing. ]
A night out on the town, a simple dinner at an alien (This deep out in space, to be fair, everything is alien.) establishment, simple? Maybe it COULD have been, if Ziva's curiosity hadn't gotten the better of her.
To be totally fair, though, she'd been trying to blend in, underestimated the potency of the local drinks. How was she supposed to know that the deceptively smooth, soothing colored shot she'd been handed would have all but knocked her on her ass? It was like that time Hunk tried a free sample and had gone from zero to HELL IN YOUR MOUTH in zero seconds.
Shiro, much to his credit, had somehow managed to either convince or wrangle her down from the bar and out with her clothes intact, and gotten her back to the ship in one piece. It was late into the evening by then but he managed it. Now, as the two climbed the steps leading into the long corridor heading for her room (after a very awkward, yet somehow hilarious pit stop in one of the communal areas
How much further is it? This'd be mush... [ Wait, no, that's not right- ] much [ THERE we go! ] easier if we were sitting down, sweetling.
[ "This" being her apparent, persistent, valiant attempts to seduce him, because she definitely hasn't stopped half-clinging, kissing, or fondling him since he got her down from the bar. Her free hand running through his hair whenever they had to stop to take a break, her lips teasing at his throat, nibbling at his skin, kissing his jawline, his temple, his cheek, the corner of his mouth, the shell of his ear- nibbling at his earlobe?? She's unstoppable at the moment. If she hadn't needed one arm to keep herself supported on his shoulder- Hell, sometimes not even THAT stopped her and there were one or two instances on the walk back where he'd had to hook her by the waist to keep her from suddenly twirling around to pivot on one foot when something caught her attention.
Finally, though, they manage to make it to her room, and that's the point when Ziva's arms wind around- LOCK around Shiro's neck and she takes the opportunity to get closer, her chest pressed firmly against his rather suddenly, her voice still loose but also thick with obvious want. ]
Hmmm, if you wanted to get me alone, all you had to do was ask... You're staying, aren't you?
[ Hope you can concentrate through more of her kisses along your throat and fingers in your hair there, Shiro, because that's what she's doing. ]
We're almost there.
[Discretion really was cool while it lasted.
The night did take a turn Shiro was not expecting. Despite everything that happened-- you know, alien drinks being a lot stronger than regular drinks and aliens knowing how to party just as, if not, harder than humans, and then throwing Ziva and her table-dancing shenanigans into the mix--it was fun. Even if they're supposed to be defending the universe, that doesn't mean Shiro is completely above cutting loose if the opportunity presents itself. Anything would beat thinking about Zarkon 24/7.
Though, that also doesn't mean he'd let himself get drunk, which brings him here... probably having to explain everything to Allura, Coran, and the others about what exactly is going on here eventually and trying to get Ziva to her room so she can sleep everything off (if she somehow doesn't feel the effects of the drinks in the morning, that'd be incredible), but that's proving to be a bit difficult, especially since she's been trying to seduce him the entire time. Through the kisses and groping, it's amazing Shiro didn't spontaneously combust yet. Or that they didn't topple over each other on the way up the stairs.
In fact, it's more amazing that they even managed to eventually make it to her room with little to no problems (not counting what went down in front of everyone). Just as he was about to guide her to her bed, that is when Ziva suddenly wraps her arms around his neck. L o r d....]
That's not-- [Wow. Those are definitely her lips on his neck, aren't they? Ziva, please stop making this harder than it should be!!] That's not why I'm here.
[He'll just... grab her forearms in hopes that it'll help her loosen her grip if not get her to completely let go. And exhale. He didn't even realize he was holding his breath.]
[Discretion really was cool while it lasted.
The night did take a turn Shiro was not expecting. Despite everything that happened-- you know, alien drinks being a lot stronger than regular drinks and aliens knowing how to party just as, if not, harder than humans, and then throwing Ziva and her table-dancing shenanigans into the mix--it was fun. Even if they're supposed to be defending the universe, that doesn't mean Shiro is completely above cutting loose if the opportunity presents itself. Anything would beat thinking about Zarkon 24/7.
Though, that also doesn't mean he'd let himself get drunk, which brings him here... probably having to explain everything to Allura, Coran, and the others about what exactly is going on here eventually and trying to get Ziva to her room so she can sleep everything off (if she somehow doesn't feel the effects of the drinks in the morning, that'd be incredible), but that's proving to be a bit difficult, especially since she's been trying to seduce him the entire time. Through the kisses and groping, it's amazing Shiro didn't spontaneously combust yet. Or that they didn't topple over each other on the way up the stairs.
In fact, it's more amazing that they even managed to eventually make it to her room with little to no problems (not counting what went down in front of everyone). Just as he was about to guide her to her bed, that is when Ziva suddenly wraps her arms around his neck. L o r d....]
That's not-- [Wow. Those are definitely her lips on his neck, aren't they? Ziva, please stop making this harder than it should be!!] That's not why I'm here.
[He'll just... grab her forearms in hopes that it'll help her loosen her grip if not get her to completely let go. And exhale. He didn't even realize he was holding his breath.]
[ "Almost" wasn't quite good enough, if the way she continued trying to tempt him was any indication, but eventually "almost" became "Okay we're here!!!", and behind closed doors was exactly what they needed. Even drunk Ziva realized that there was no way Shiro would consent to doing something "indecent" out where just anyone could happen by, but the privacy of her own room? Now that was fair game.
She can hear the undertone in his words, one that tells her that he's not immune to her advances, that there's a part of him that's maybe enjoying all this a little too much. ]
Now, don't be like that, sweetling...
[ She purred enticingly, refusing to let go like he was going for. Instead she'll give him her most imploring look as he holds her at arms length. ]
There's nothin' pressin' going' on now. Stay with me, Shiro.... I can promise you I'm thinking quite clearly...
[ This isn't her first time being table-dancing drunk, sir.
And as though to prove her point- or try -Ziva lets out a LOUD purr, tail ticking like a cat getting ready to pounce, winding up. If he isn't quick enough she just might. Probably better to sit them down voluntarily. ]
Clearly enough t' know I want you out of these clothes, right now. Stop teasing me now, I don't bite that hard.
[ She's going to try to get close enough again to prove THAT point too, if his grip isn't good and secure. Look that throat was MADE for nibbling on. And kissing, and licking, and s-OKAY ZIVA THAT'S QUITE ENOUGH NOW. ]
She can hear the undertone in his words, one that tells her that he's not immune to her advances, that there's a part of him that's maybe enjoying all this a little too much. ]
Now, don't be like that, sweetling...
[ She purred enticingly, refusing to let go like he was going for. Instead she'll give him her most imploring look as he holds her at arms length. ]
There's nothin' pressin' going' on now. Stay with me, Shiro.... I can promise you I'm thinking quite clearly...
[ This isn't her first time being table-dancing drunk, sir.
And as though to prove her point- or try -Ziva lets out a LOUD purr, tail ticking like a cat getting ready to pounce, winding up. If he isn't quick enough she just might. Probably better to sit them down voluntarily. ]
Clearly enough t' know I want you out of these clothes, right now. Stop teasing me now, I don't bite that hard.
[ She's going to try to get close enough again to prove THAT point too, if his grip isn't good and secure. Look that throat was MADE for nibbling on. And kissing, and licking, and s-OKAY ZIVA THAT'S QUITE ENOUGH NOW. ]
[PLS. He's not teasing her. Honest!!!]
I'm sure you are, but you've had a lot to drink. It's best that you get some sleep instead.
[Shiro has always been a pretty sensible guy, always doing what's right, or at least what makes the most sense, even when he has to get his drunken girlfriend (!!) to lie down so she can sleep off her current, drunken state. On the other hand, Ziva's intuition isn't exactly wrong. He'd be lying to himself if he said part of him didn't like the attention and would very much like to indulge her.Unfortunately, Shiro doesn't let that get the better of him.]
Now, let's get you on the bed.
[Wait. Hold on. Let him read the situation, again. And move back once he sees her trying to lean in again.]
--so you can rest.
[THERE. Since Ziva's not letting go, he moves one of his arms back down to her waist to turn them toward the bed so he can guide her. Or try to, anyway. Don't think he didn't notice the looks she's been giving himJESUS.]
I'm sure you are, but you've had a lot to drink. It's best that you get some sleep instead.
[Shiro has always been a pretty sensible guy, always doing what's right, or at least what makes the most sense, even when he has to get his drunken girlfriend (!!) to lie down so she can sleep off her current, drunken state. On the other hand, Ziva's intuition isn't exactly wrong. He'd be lying to himself if he said part of him didn't like the attention and would very much like to indulge her.
Now, let's get you on the bed.
[Wait. Hold on. Let him read the situation, again. And move back once he sees her trying to lean in again.]
--so you can rest.
[THERE. Since Ziva's not letting go, he moves one of his arms back down to her waist to turn them toward the bed so he can guide her. Or try to, anyway. Don't think he didn't notice the looks she's been giving him
[ . . . SHIRO PLS. That was rude. She wanted to jump on that verbal misstep!!! Oh, fine.
He's not going to budge on this. Even drunk Ziva can tell. Shiro putting his foot down always serves to sober her up a little bit, because she can tell when he means business even in her addled state of mind. So as they finally do manage to make it to her bed and he gets her to sit down she stops trying to give him the octopus treatment, though she does still catch his hands, and instead just looks back up at him, disappointed but maybe a little hopeful. ]
You really won't stay?
[ YOU COULD AT LEAST STAY WITH HER TO SLEEP SHIRO IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE FOR SEXbut wouldn't that be really nice- I mean no it's ok.
She is going to bring his hand to her face instead so she can nuzzle against his palm like an apologeticor attention demanding cat. Her eyes are already closing. ]
I promise I'll b'have. Just stay. Don't want to sleep alone.
He's not going to budge on this. Even drunk Ziva can tell. Shiro putting his foot down always serves to sober her up a little bit, because she can tell when he means business even in her addled state of mind. So as they finally do manage to make it to her bed and he gets her to sit down she stops trying to give him the octopus treatment, though she does still catch his hands, and instead just looks back up at him, disappointed but maybe a little hopeful. ]
You really won't stay?
[ YOU COULD AT LEAST STAY WITH HER TO SLEEP SHIRO IT DOESN'T HAVE TO BE FOR SEX
She is going to bring his hand to her face instead so she can nuzzle against his palm like an apologetic
I promise I'll b'have. Just stay. Don't want to sleep alone.
http://jurihan.tumblr.com/post/160750774279/thecommonchick-omg-this-is-the-cutest-thing Ziva tbh
zerotoshiro
2017-05-17 01:53 am (UTC)(link)
[No, Ziva. You pls. Especially before he spontaneously combusts.
Had she have not been drunk, she would have gotten her way, but Shiro had to put his foot down. Even if she insists she is in her right mind, he knows full well she isn't and wouldn't want to take advantage of that. It's good that she's finally cooperative, though he still can't resist that look she's giving him coupled with her holding his hands... bringing them up to her face to nuzzle them, no less. Darn it, Ziva.]
That... wasn't part of the plan, no... but--
[Sigh. OKAY, FINE. YOU CAN HAVE YOUR WAY, ZIVA. IN A SENSE, ANYWAY.It'd be very nice BUT EVEN BETTER IF YOU WERE IN YOUR RIGHT MIND, ZIVA]
Alright. I'll stay, but I'm holding you to that.
[He offers her a smile, as he brushes his thumb over her cheekHE MAY AS WELL I MEAN SHE DID PUT HIS HAND ON HER FACE ok before he moves his hands back to her shoulders. She can't exactly go right to sleep just yet.]
Now, let's get you some water first.
Had she have not been drunk, she would have gotten her way, but Shiro had to put his foot down. Even if she insists she is in her right mind, he knows full well she isn't and wouldn't want to take advantage of that. It's good that she's finally cooperative, though he still can't resist that look she's giving him coupled with her holding his hands... bringing them up to her face to nuzzle them, no less. Darn it, Ziva.]
That... wasn't part of the plan, no... but--
[Sigh. OKAY, FINE. YOU CAN HAVE YOUR WAY, ZIVA. IN A SENSE, ANYWAY.
Alright. I'll stay, but I'm holding you to that.
[He offers her a smile, as he brushes his thumb over her cheek
Now, let's get you some water first.
"I don't know where you've just come from, but if you're not injured and you don't plan on being plant food I'd suggest you move that handsome arse!"
Mister tall, dark, and unfairly handsome was definitely not the prize Ziva'd expected to return with when she set out to hunt that morning.
Restlessness saw her up before the sunrise, unclear dreams leaving her with a sense of unease, but not quite dread. Something was going to happen, and soon, but she couldn't for the life of her put a finger on the what. Frustrated, she'd turned to Cirina and Temulun in hopes of finding answers. Afterwards, having been told quite certainly by both that the gods had spoken of no ill turn of events there was little other recourse than for Ziva to find a use for her excess energy. So while the others went about doing their own morning rituals the miqo'te set out, intent on doing what she did best: explore, hunt, search.
The rush of the hunt was a beautiful thing, this much Ziva had known since she was first old enough to wield a weapon and join her sisters. For all else that was going on, their time on the Azim Steppe had thus far been the most peaceful and familiar to her. It was comforting to be back among warriors, hunters, and travelers who lived solely off of the land rather than the labors of others. They pitched basic shelters, tents both simple and layered to protect from the elements. Some rarely even bothered with that much and braved the elements constantly on the move. It was a land teeming with life, wild, untamed, and her children lived or died by their own merits. It was natural order, and it was beautiful, easily just as much a comfort as her favorite childhood dish. Long before the sounds of ringing steel and outraged cries of man and beast alike had become familiar sounds, she'd been intimately familiar with the noises of the tropical forests and whistling arrows or blades. Silent kills from amidst the underbrush or treetops, unless one favored the blunt precision of the pugilists' arms. The sounds of nature had once been her lullaby, rather than the chatter of companions or patrons in inns and the bustle of cities beyond her windows.
It did, in some respects, almost seem like a homecoming, of sorts. The huntress from the islands to the South felt as though she belonged.
In other words: It was love at first sight.
She stopped to give Vari, her amber draught (a two seater came in handy when one had to cart back fresh kills or supplies), a chance to drink from a river just beyond a cave when the unnatural shuffling of a particularly large beast caught her attention.
So far into the Steppe she'd come by all manner of creature, and having traversed a good portion of the world by that point there was very little left to surprise her. The over sized Chaochu, eyeing she and her companion, however?
With a resolved grunt she'd slid her favorite blades from their sheathes and turned to face the creature. She would need to lead it away from Vari, but she was confident that she could handle the beast... until the two little ones showed up alongside.
She muttered under her breath. "... Well shite. You brought friends."
So much for the gods predictions.
Some time later, with her clothes beginning to reek of plant beast something decidedly very strange happened. Somewhere in the space between dodging gnashing teeth, wildly swinging, barbed whiskers (Antennae? Stems??), and flashes of glinting metal she was aware of a brief, blinding light and something dark and heavy hitting the ground. There was barely time to register the fact that it was a person that had landed behind her before one of the beasts behind her decided the newcomer might make a better treat than the annoying, bitey cat-thing. With a nimble backflip and another flash of her blades a very pronounced THUMP sounded, punctuated by furious, pained screeching and the tromping, staggered footfalls of one Chaochu, sans two stemwhisktennae.
"I don't know where you've just come from, but if you're not injured and you don't plan on being plant food I'd suggest you move that handsome arse!" She warned, rasp and hiss both more pronounced for the heat of battle, her eyes darting between the remaining beasts coming in to circle now.
Mister tall, dark, and unfairly handsome was definitely not the prize Ziva'd expected to return with when she set out to hunt that morning.
Restlessness saw her up before the sunrise, unclear dreams leaving her with a sense of unease, but not quite dread. Something was going to happen, and soon, but she couldn't for the life of her put a finger on the what. Frustrated, she'd turned to Cirina and Temulun in hopes of finding answers. Afterwards, having been told quite certainly by both that the gods had spoken of no ill turn of events there was little other recourse than for Ziva to find a use for her excess energy. So while the others went about doing their own morning rituals the miqo'te set out, intent on doing what she did best: explore, hunt, search.
The rush of the hunt was a beautiful thing, this much Ziva had known since she was first old enough to wield a weapon and join her sisters. For all else that was going on, their time on the Azim Steppe had thus far been the most peaceful and familiar to her. It was comforting to be back among warriors, hunters, and travelers who lived solely off of the land rather than the labors of others. They pitched basic shelters, tents both simple and layered to protect from the elements. Some rarely even bothered with that much and braved the elements constantly on the move. It was a land teeming with life, wild, untamed, and her children lived or died by their own merits. It was natural order, and it was beautiful, easily just as much a comfort as her favorite childhood dish. Long before the sounds of ringing steel and outraged cries of man and beast alike had become familiar sounds, she'd been intimately familiar with the noises of the tropical forests and whistling arrows or blades. Silent kills from amidst the underbrush or treetops, unless one favored the blunt precision of the pugilists' arms. The sounds of nature had once been her lullaby, rather than the chatter of companions or patrons in inns and the bustle of cities beyond her windows.
It did, in some respects, almost seem like a homecoming, of sorts. The huntress from the islands to the South felt as though she belonged.
In other words: It was love at first sight.
She stopped to give Vari, her amber draught (a two seater came in handy when one had to cart back fresh kills or supplies), a chance to drink from a river just beyond a cave when the unnatural shuffling of a particularly large beast caught her attention.
So far into the Steppe she'd come by all manner of creature, and having traversed a good portion of the world by that point there was very little left to surprise her. The over sized Chaochu, eyeing she and her companion, however?
With a resolved grunt she'd slid her favorite blades from their sheathes and turned to face the creature. She would need to lead it away from Vari, but she was confident that she could handle the beast... until the two little ones showed up alongside.
She muttered under her breath. "... Well shite. You brought friends."
So much for the gods predictions.
Some time later, with her clothes beginning to reek of plant beast something decidedly very strange happened. Somewhere in the space between dodging gnashing teeth, wildly swinging, barbed whiskers (Antennae? Stems??), and flashes of glinting metal she was aware of a brief, blinding light and something dark and heavy hitting the ground. There was barely time to register the fact that it was a person that had landed behind her before one of the beasts behind her decided the newcomer might make a better treat than the annoying, bitey cat-thing. With a nimble backflip and another flash of her blades a very pronounced THUMP sounded, punctuated by furious, pained screeching and the tromping, staggered footfalls of one Chaochu, sans two stemwhisktennae.
"I don't know where you've just come from, but if you're not injured and you don't plan on being plant food I'd suggest you move that handsome arse!" She warned, rasp and hiss both more pronounced for the heat of battle, her eyes darting between the remaining beasts coming in to circle now.
Something had gone very, very wrong.
To be fair, lots and lots of things had gone very, very wrong in the last day or so. The fact that they had followed that skeevey Ardyn up to the depths of the Disc to try and get Titan's blessing for Noct, the Empire showing up, having to fight the Astral of Earth himself, nearly losing Noct in the process.... and then the blessing happened. A flash of light as the Empire launched an attack and the feeling of something ripping into his chest-
Then darkness.
Then the sounds of battle, but it was difficult pulling at his consciousness. What the--? There was someone, a female, calling out at him- his head lifted and he stared around him as his head spun horribly, and- shit!
He clamored up, unconsciously summoning his weapon to hand as he stared at the monster not that far from him. Where the hell was he? Where was Noct?! Still, he grit his teeth and for the moment, launched himself towards the monster. After it was gone, he could figure it out.
So he snarled low and jumped up, slamming the massive great sword along the back of that disturbing plant.
To be fair, lots and lots of things had gone very, very wrong in the last day or so. The fact that they had followed that skeevey Ardyn up to the depths of the Disc to try and get Titan's blessing for Noct, the Empire showing up, having to fight the Astral of Earth himself, nearly losing Noct in the process.... and then the blessing happened. A flash of light as the Empire launched an attack and the feeling of something ripping into his chest-
Then darkness.
Then the sounds of battle, but it was difficult pulling at his consciousness. What the--? There was someone, a female, calling out at him- his head lifted and he stared around him as his head spun horribly, and- shit!
He clamored up, unconsciously summoning his weapon to hand as he stared at the monster not that far from him. Where the hell was he? Where was Noct?! Still, he grit his teeth and for the moment, launched himself towards the monster. After it was gone, he could figure it out.
So he snarled low and jumped up, slamming the massive great sword along the back of that disturbing plant.
I'm learning that plant monsters are not the easiest to write combat with LOL
purrrrfection
2017-07-23 07:14 pm (UTC)(link)
She'd seen many a strange thing in her day, as previously stated, but even after witnessing Alisae summon an aether blade from the pages of an arcane book she could scarcely believe the weapon that simply materialized in the stranger's hands. A pity there was no time to dwell on it.
While he went after the larger she set about keeping the lesser two occupied, an unusual turn of events, but experience told her it was better to deal with the smaller threats first and then combine efforts to tackle the larger. Having taken the new arrival for some manner of Dark Knight Ziva made to subtract the new additions, ignoring the angry bellow of agony from the lead monster. The wounded was staggering away now, beating a hasty retreat.
With fewer creatures to divide her attention she made quick work of her remaining opponent. Too nimble to be easily caught, she sliced, stabbed, looking for the openings that would fell them, because damn if she didn't have questions. What sort of teleportation spell was that- if it was one at all? Where had he come from? How did he summon his weapon from nothing? And most important: WHO was he?
"Be mindful of those vines! They pack one hell of a punch!"
While he went after the larger she set about keeping the lesser two occupied, an unusual turn of events, but experience told her it was better to deal with the smaller threats first and then combine efforts to tackle the larger. Having taken the new arrival for some manner of Dark Knight Ziva made to subtract the new additions, ignoring the angry bellow of agony from the lead monster. The wounded was staggering away now, beating a hasty retreat.
With fewer creatures to divide her attention she made quick work of her remaining opponent. Too nimble to be easily caught, she sliced, stabbed, looking for the openings that would fell them, because damn if she didn't have questions. What sort of teleportation spell was that- if it was one at all? Where had he come from? How did he summon his weapon from nothing? And most important: WHO was he?
"Be mindful of those vines! They pack one hell of a punch!"
Edited 2017-07-23 19:18 (UTC)
I was going to make a plant-related pun here but I decided to leaf it alone.
iwillshieldhim
2017-07-23 11:44 pm (UTC)(link)
"Got it!" Who was she?? He pivoted on his left foot when his feet caught the ground, bringing his blade around in a swing that barely kept the tip above the ground but built all the momentum of his strength as it cracked into the side of the beast, hard enough to actually stagger it nearly to its side in a blow. It told Gladio more about the thing - the center of gravity, the weight, the strength, because if it could stand that which would have sent lesser creatures onto their side, he had to be careful.
He was forced to jerk back when a vine slammed down into the spot where he'd been standing a second ago, but he growled low (his head swimming, damn how much of a blow had he taken from Titan?!) and tried to make sure the big one stayed focused on him instead of whoever she was. She had that quick movement like Ignis and he thought he saw a pair of daggers in her hand. A style he could work with, was familiar with.
As he saw the smaller creatures running, he called out, "I've got it's attention! Just take it out!"
He was forced to jerk back when a vine slammed down into the spot where he'd been standing a second ago, but he growled low (his head swimming, damn how much of a blow had he taken from Titan?!) and tried to make sure the big one stayed focused on him instead of whoever she was. She had that quick movement like Ignis and he thought he saw a pair of daggers in her hand. A style he could work with, was familiar with.
As he saw the smaller creatures running, he called out, "I've got it's attention! Just take it out!"
She allowed herself a brief smirk. Whoever he was, Ziva was impressed. Not some rookie literally thrown in over his head, in any case, as she had first feared. As the lead beast stumbled and lashed out she too made sure she was out of reach, until he called in for her to finish the job.
With a running start she raced up the slope of a rocky outcrop, using it like a launch pad, and with a quick twist, landed atop the creature bringing down the full force of both of her blades with a guttural cry. As the creature shrieked and tried to shake her loose she kept one blade embedded for a hold and struck the killing blow with the other.
Finally, with one final earth shaking step the monster collapsed and stilled, vines falling limp to the ground.
Ziva pulled both blades free and stood carefully, looking over at the stranger as she moved and leaped down back to the ground in a light crouch.
"No idea where you popped in from, but you've my thanks, stranger."
She straightened with a flick of both knives, dislodging as much of the green blood as she could from the blades before resolving to wash them in the river a few paces away- in a moment, of course. More pressing matters at the moment, more pressing questions.
Bright sea-green eyes lifted from her weapons, ears perking atop her head as she regarded Gladiolus curiously. Her pupils were human enough, putting aside the bright color, but as she spoke he might catch the points of her fangs, and then of course there were the ears. For her part she would have placed Gladiolus as a Hyur, naturally, with the skin tone and the features, broad shoulders, broad chest, tall, at least taller than her at her meager 5'1".
"Are you alright?"
Well, he HAD arrived in a bit of a heap on the ground, after all.
With a running start she raced up the slope of a rocky outcrop, using it like a launch pad, and with a quick twist, landed atop the creature bringing down the full force of both of her blades with a guttural cry. As the creature shrieked and tried to shake her loose she kept one blade embedded for a hold and struck the killing blow with the other.
Finally, with one final earth shaking step the monster collapsed and stilled, vines falling limp to the ground.
Ziva pulled both blades free and stood carefully, looking over at the stranger as she moved and leaped down back to the ground in a light crouch.
"No idea where you popped in from, but you've my thanks, stranger."
She straightened with a flick of both knives, dislodging as much of the green blood as she could from the blades before resolving to wash them in the river a few paces away- in a moment, of course. More pressing matters at the moment, more pressing questions.
Bright sea-green eyes lifted from her weapons, ears perking atop her head as she regarded Gladiolus curiously. Her pupils were human enough, putting aside the bright color, but as she spoke he might catch the points of her fangs, and then of course there were the ears. For her part she would have placed Gladiolus as a Hyur, naturally, with the skin tone and the features, broad shoulders, broad chest, tall, at least taller than her at her meager 5'1".
"Are you alright?"
Well, he HAD arrived in a bit of a heap on the ground, after all.
[ Oh my God you've just made her the happiest cat on this ship. Hands down. And a happy Ziva can't resist the really easy play on words you just threw her way. ]
You can hold me all you want, anytime. I like bein' in your arms.
[ She purred out the words almost, continuing to nuzzle against his palms, smiling back up at him and relishing in the little gestures of affection. She's so pleased that when he moves his hands to her shoulders instead and suggests a drink that ISN'T alcoholic she gives a perfectly cooperative nod.
Getting to her feet with Shiro's help is easier than without. Despite her claims that she wasn't really drunk, truthfully she was definitely beyond her ability to be a proper judge. Thankfully they wouldn't have too far to go, the living quarters closer to the kitchen than the bays with the lions. ]
You can hold me all you want, anytime. I like bein' in your arms.
[ She purred out the words almost, continuing to nuzzle against his palms, smiling back up at him and relishing in the little gestures of affection. She's so pleased that when he moves his hands to her shoulders instead and suggests a drink that ISN'T alcoholic she gives a perfectly cooperative nod.
Getting to her feet with Shiro's help is easier than without. Despite her claims that she wasn't really drunk, truthfully she was definitely beyond her ability to be a proper judge. Thankfully they wouldn't have too far to go, the living quarters closer to the kitchen than the bays with the lions. ]
That was impressive to witness, what he could make out of what she did. Gladio squinted up against the light towards her where she stood on the plant-monster's back, only lowering his blade when he was sure it had breathed its last before dismissing his blade back into the Armiger. "Could say the same to you," he called to her, approaching with a certain amount of caution in mind for her clear ability to fight, the ringing still in his head, and the exactly zero idea of where she had come from.
Forgive the change in his expression when he got a proper look at her - his eyes widened and his lips parted and he very openly stared.
It... It was a cat lady. He was looking at a cat lady. A honest to the Six cat lady. With fangs and ears and cat lady.
Given that there was nothing but humans in Eos, he was in utter confusion of what he was looking at. Just how hard had he hit his head?! His hand crept up to his skull, feeling for a tender spot. "I- um," all of his normal charm and ease deserted him in a rare moment, before he shook his head. "I'm starting to think I'm not."
Forgive the change in his expression when he got a proper look at her - his eyes widened and his lips parted and he very openly stared.
It... It was a cat lady. He was looking at a cat lady. A honest to the Six cat lady. With fangs and ears and cat lady.
Given that there was nothing but humans in Eos, he was in utter confusion of what he was looking at. Just how hard had he hit his head?! His hand crept up to his skull, feeling for a tender spot. "I- um," all of his normal charm and ease deserted him in a rare moment, before he shook his head. "I'm starting to think I'm not."
Sorry, work was a doozy today (also wow. Worst early "enter button" press ever. :P)
purrrrfection
2017-07-25 01:48 am (UTC)(link)
Ziva couldn't help but grin, amiable enough, confident in her abilities to defend herself if she had to, but he seemed alright. If he'd wanted to hurt her- or try -he could have easily done so while she was otherwise occupied. She didn't think he'd go to all the trouble of saving her hide just to attack her after,
Then again, stranger things had happened.
His shock clearly confused her, though, not because she thought he was reacting to her, but because she didn't know what he was reacting to. The fact that his attention was focused on her when that cloud of confusion and surprise passed over his face was... well- startling.
... Was it one of those "Seven hells, you're the Warrior of Light!" deals?
"I always carry a few potions and elixers on hand, but if you need a healer we'll be needing to make back for the Mol's camp, or Reunion. Why don't you sit for a spell, first?"
Frowning, ears rocking back a little with concern she cautiously closed a bit of distance.
Regardless of his answer she was already drawing out her whistle, calling for her bird to rejoin her. Her bags were there, and she figured if he pulled a dead faint on her, better to have the chocobo close by than not. She could probably manage to pick him up, but in case those little beasts came back and a hasty retreat of their own was necessary...
Then again, stranger things had happened.
His shock clearly confused her, though, not because she thought he was reacting to her, but because she didn't know what he was reacting to. The fact that his attention was focused on her when that cloud of confusion and surprise passed over his face was... well- startling.
... Was it one of those "Seven hells, you're the Warrior of Light!" deals?
"I always carry a few potions and elixers on hand, but if you need a healer we'll be needing to make back for the Mol's camp, or Reunion. Why don't you sit for a spell, first?"
Frowning, ears rocking back a little with concern she cautiously closed a bit of distance.
Regardless of his answer she was already drawing out her whistle, calling for her bird to rejoin her. Her bags were there, and she figured if he pulled a dead faint on her, better to have the chocobo close by than not. She could probably manage to pick him up, but in case those little beasts came back and a hasty retreat of their own was necessary...
Edited 2017-07-25 01:49 (UTC)
No worries! Was trying to get down V2S last night. 2% Enrage. >.<
iwillshieldhim
2017-07-25 12:53 pm (UTC)(link)
Well, while the mention of potions and elixers was a familiar one, he was still very much looking at some sort of impossible cat woman, with an accent of a sort he had never heard before. Gladio said nothing while she whistled in an equally familiar way and moments later, the biggest damn chocobo he'd ever seen came trotting up. His brows shot up at the sheer size of it, eyeballing it over before deciding to actually look around.
...And he was somewhere he had no idea where he was.
This place was a vast plain surrounded in mountains, not that entirely different than places he had been but with absolutely none of the familiar landmarks of Duscae - the wide arcs of stone, the broad lake, the Disc - so he immediately knew he definitely wasn't in Duscae anymore, nor did he see his friends. Something had happened and every passing second was layering on another bit of reality to suggest that either he was deep in some kind of injury-based dream (could you know that inside of the dream and stay in it?) or... what? Was he actually somewhere different?
"...where am I?" Gladio finally asked the cat woman because if she was willing to talk, or at least seemed concerned about him (he was getting concerned about himself, too), hopefully she'd be willing to answer a few questions before she ran off on her monster-sized chocobo.
...And he was somewhere he had no idea where he was.
This place was a vast plain surrounded in mountains, not that entirely different than places he had been but with absolutely none of the familiar landmarks of Duscae - the wide arcs of stone, the broad lake, the Disc - so he immediately knew he definitely wasn't in Duscae anymore, nor did he see his friends. Something had happened and every passing second was layering on another bit of reality to suggest that either he was deep in some kind of injury-based dream (could you know that inside of the dream and stay in it?) or... what? Was he actually somewhere different?
"...where am I?" Gladio finally asked the cat woman because if she was willing to talk, or at least seemed concerned about him (he was getting concerned about himself, too), hopefully she'd be willing to answer a few questions before she ran off on her monster-sized chocobo.
SORRY, again! Strange work schedule this week. This one will be back to normal. Mostly.
purrrrfection
2017-07-29 01:46 pm (UTC)(link)
(ooc: I will be working Sunday though, and all day Monday (ugh) so I might not get to tag unless it's early or late.)
The more time that the two spent outside of battle the more certain Ziva became that something was amiss. She had to scrap the teleportation spell gone wrong theory, given that he hadn't appeared anywhere near a crystal, so far as she knew, and you couldn't teleport to a crystal you hadn't attuned with- not accidentally anyway. So then, where had he come FROM, was the more potent question. A closer look at his garb told her that while it COULD pass in Eorzea, it definitely didn't fit in, least of all in Othard.
At least his surprise over the chocobo wasn't out of place. Besides the fact that she was bigger than others, she also bore such an unusual color- the bright red of the rare genetic mutation spawned in the Hinterlands.
She took Vari's reigns still watching the man, teal eyes darting up and down his figure a moment. Introductions hadn't been swapped yet, but those could wait another moment or two. It was clear they were both worried about more pressing matters at the moment.
"The Azim steppe. Continent of Othard." She threw in the last part as almost an afterthought, and to see if that information might trigger some sign of recognition. Ziva had a growing suspicion that it wouldn't. Then she added, surprisingly calm and almost nonchalant. "... So what land do you hail from, stranger? It's clearly not this one."
The more time that the two spent outside of battle the more certain Ziva became that something was amiss. She had to scrap the teleportation spell gone wrong theory, given that he hadn't appeared anywhere near a crystal, so far as she knew, and you couldn't teleport to a crystal you hadn't attuned with- not accidentally anyway. So then, where had he come FROM, was the more potent question. A closer look at his garb told her that while it COULD pass in Eorzea, it definitely didn't fit in, least of all in Othard.
At least his surprise over the chocobo wasn't out of place. Besides the fact that she was bigger than others, she also bore such an unusual color- the bright red of the rare genetic mutation spawned in the Hinterlands.
She took Vari's reigns still watching the man, teal eyes darting up and down his figure a moment. Introductions hadn't been swapped yet, but those could wait another moment or two. It was clear they were both worried about more pressing matters at the moment.
"The Azim steppe. Continent of Othard." She threw in the last part as almost an afterthought, and to see if that information might trigger some sign of recognition. Ziva had a growing suspicion that it wouldn't. Then she added, surprisingly calm and almost nonchalant. "... So what land do you hail from, stranger? It's clearly not this one."
Don't worry. XD Promise, it's fine! Tag when you can. No rush. Love this thread though ^^
iwillshieldhim
2017-07-29 06:21 pm (UTC)(link)
The unusual color didn't surprise him, really, given that Wiz's ranch eagerly and happily let them pick their own coloring for their chocobos (his was a bright *red* despite the fact Noct constantly told him it was more magenta then red; Noct was just mad he couldn't get a black chocobo) but damn. Biggest chocobo he'd seen, easily, by double.
Then she informed him he was somewhere he had absolutely never heard of, never mine been before.
"...no, definitely not here," Gladio admitted, trying desperately to think of the maps he'd studied in his youth but despite his poor head for it, he was sure he had never heard of an entire continent called Othard. "Come from Insomnia of Lucis." Hoping, somewhat beyond hope now, that he would see any sign of recognition in her face because she had gotten none with her information.
Given that he was talking to a cat woman who had a chocobo as big as an airship, maybe it shouldn't have been such a surprise he was somewhere he'd never heard of. Only he had no idea of just how far he really was from home.
Another quick look around - this place was absolutely breath taking the more he took note of things, somewhere he wouldn't have mind spending time if they weren't in a somewhat horrible race against a deadly clock - before adding, "...am I the only stranger you've seen?"
Where were the others??
Then she informed him he was somewhere he had absolutely never heard of, never mine been before.
"...no, definitely not here," Gladio admitted, trying desperately to think of the maps he'd studied in his youth but despite his poor head for it, he was sure he had never heard of an entire continent called Othard. "Come from Insomnia of Lucis." Hoping, somewhat beyond hope now, that he would see any sign of recognition in her face because she had gotten none with her information.
Given that he was talking to a cat woman who had a chocobo as big as an airship, maybe it shouldn't have been such a surprise he was somewhere he'd never heard of. Only he had no idea of just how far he really was from home.
Another quick look around - this place was absolutely breath taking the more he took note of things, somewhere he wouldn't have mind spending time if they weren't in a somewhat horrible race against a deadly clock - before adding, "...am I the only stranger you've seen?"
Where were the others??
Thank you for being so patient! ;A; Also yes! This is going to be a GREAT team up. Bonus: Road Trip!
purrrrfection
2017-07-29 07:07 pm (UTC)(link)
In spite of the reigns clutched in one hand Ziva's arms moved to fold, tapping one fist against her cheek, as she frowned in contemplation. No hint of recognition from him, and he'd get none from her in return as much as they both might have wished otherwise.
After pondering over his question and answer for a few seconds she finally seemed to concede defeat, lifting her head with a shake and a slight shrug of her hands, a non-verbal apology.
"I'm sorry, can't say I know the place. You must be a good way from home."
Inwardly she wondered if those were names used in the Empire, but that didn't seem right. Still, she didn't rule out the possibility as she continued to study him.
"The first today, in any case. Even if you weren't, wouldn't be sayin' much since most of the faces in these lands aren't known to me to begin with."
He was welcome to take from that what he would, for the time being. For now Ziva offered out her free hand to finally give her name. Better sooner than waiting until AFTER she'd invited him back to the Mol encampment.
"Ziva Ganajai. Circumstances aside, I'd say well met."
After pondering over his question and answer for a few seconds she finally seemed to concede defeat, lifting her head with a shake and a slight shrug of her hands, a non-verbal apology.
"I'm sorry, can't say I know the place. You must be a good way from home."
Inwardly she wondered if those were names used in the Empire, but that didn't seem right. Still, she didn't rule out the possibility as she continued to study him.
"The first today, in any case. Even if you weren't, wouldn't be sayin' much since most of the faces in these lands aren't known to me to begin with."
He was welcome to take from that what he would, for the time being. For now Ziva offered out her free hand to finally give her name. Better sooner than waiting until AFTER she'd invited him back to the Mol encampment.
"Ziva Ganajai. Circumstances aside, I'd say well met."
Edited 2017-07-29 19:08 (UTC)
Just be prepared for a flirt. XD Also just wait until Gladio sees one of the Auri he will freak.
iwillshieldhim
2017-07-29 07:27 pm (UTC)(link)
Hells, she even had claws, if his eyes were deceiving him. Now he wondered if he was looking at skin or very fine fur. However, there were more important things like the fact that neither of them knew the location of the other, not even the name at all. Where could he be? As the one day Shield of the King, his knowledge had to be advanced on certain subjects (though nothing like Ignis, he never knew what information they had crammed into that sharp mind). He had to know at least basics about the different nations and cultures of Eos so he knew potential threats, allies, and motivations. Sure, it had been about risk and threat assessment but he had dutifully paid attention.
So to hear about a continent he knew nothing about? It suggested one impossible idea to him, one that made his stomach tighten even as his mind tried to comprehend. Don't jump to conclusions. Maybe it's a local name. Maybe this is somewhere Lucis had no contact with. There's a dozen possibilities before either this being a dream, I'm dead, or this is some kind of other universe.
So she was a stranger to these lands as well? At least her words seemed to indicate that, or if nothing else a relative newcomer. Still, the offer of a hand and a name was more than familiar enough so he matched it, taking her hand in his and giving a firm shake without it being one of those assholes who felt the need to crush the other's hand. For someone who looked like a Hyur, he was built nearly as big as a Roegadyn. Half-breed, maybe? "Gladiolus Amicitia, but Gladio's fine. Pleasure to meet you." He still found himself giving a warm smile - one, it was skin, not fur, two, she was a hell of a fighter and he respected that, three, cat woman or not, she was still damn pretty.
"I'll be frank with you. I've got no idea where I am or how to get back where I belong." Not terribly keen on admitting that to a near-stranger, but it wasn't like he had a mass amount of choices given he had no idea how he'd even ended up here. Also, now that he thought about it, she didn't even quite talk like anyone he'd ever heard before. Sort of more formal? But somewhere between the accent and the odd phrasing, he couldn't quite place it.
So to hear about a continent he knew nothing about? It suggested one impossible idea to him, one that made his stomach tighten even as his mind tried to comprehend. Don't jump to conclusions. Maybe it's a local name. Maybe this is somewhere Lucis had no contact with. There's a dozen possibilities before either this being a dream, I'm dead, or this is some kind of other universe.
So she was a stranger to these lands as well? At least her words seemed to indicate that, or if nothing else a relative newcomer. Still, the offer of a hand and a name was more than familiar enough so he matched it, taking her hand in his and giving a firm shake without it being one of those assholes who felt the need to crush the other's hand. For someone who looked like a Hyur, he was built nearly as big as a Roegadyn. Half-breed, maybe? "Gladiolus Amicitia, but Gladio's fine. Pleasure to meet you." He still found himself giving a warm smile - one, it was skin, not fur, two, she was a hell of a fighter and he respected that, three, cat woman or not, she was still damn pretty.
"I'll be frank with you. I've got no idea where I am or how to get back where I belong." Not terribly keen on admitting that to a near-stranger, but it wasn't like he had a mass amount of choices given he had no idea how he'd even ended up here. Also, now that he thought about it, she didn't even quite talk like anyone he'd ever heard before. Sort of more formal? But somewhere between the accent and the odd phrasing, he couldn't quite place it.
LOL It's just as well, Ziva (used to) can be a huge flirt herself. The worst. And sounds hilarious!
purrrrfection
2017-07-29 07:58 pm (UTC)(link)
A sure grip, firm, though not too rough. Calloused hands from work, solid, definitely a fighter, even if she hadn't just seen him go head to head with some of the local nasties. She respected that more than just a little. One could never be surrounded by TOO many capable companions, especially handsome ones.
She ignored the twinge the thought brought, as she often did, and redoubled her focus. Allowing for a grin, finally, Ziva nodded as though either approving, or committing the name to memory. "Gladio, then."
And the chocobo gave a loud trilling "KWEH!" as if in agreement, earning a short laugh from her keeper. Still, there were more pressing concerns at the moment, and it was only a bit reluctantly that Ziva returned her attention to them.
"Been thinking on that myself, and I can't say I've an answer for you either. You're more than welcome to return with me to the Mol... They're the clan putting up my companions and I at the moment."
Her hand, once again free, jerked back over her shoulder to thumb in the direction she'd come from for emphasis.
"We've a map among our supplies. You're welcome to look it over, over a hot meal if you want?"
She ignored the twinge the thought brought, as she often did, and redoubled her focus. Allowing for a grin, finally, Ziva nodded as though either approving, or committing the name to memory. "Gladio, then."
And the chocobo gave a loud trilling "KWEH!" as if in agreement, earning a short laugh from her keeper. Still, there were more pressing concerns at the moment, and it was only a bit reluctantly that Ziva returned her attention to them.
"Been thinking on that myself, and I can't say I've an answer for you either. You're more than welcome to return with me to the Mol... They're the clan putting up my companions and I at the moment."
Her hand, once again free, jerked back over her shoulder to thumb in the direction she'd come from for emphasis.
"We've a map among our supplies. You're welcome to look it over, over a hot meal if you want?"
This should be fun :3 Also I couldn't help it. Velox is 'swift' in latin. XD
iwillshieldhim
2017-07-29 08:15 pm (UTC)(link)
The sudden, loud 'kweh!' made him jump (damn thing even had a lower call than the ones he knew!) but it still made him laugh, looking up to the beast and shaking his head. "Chocobos. They always have to say their piece." As if he wasn't quietly affectionate with his own, a decently sized RED male by the name of Velox (Gladio never saw the point in naming pets weird names, so he went with something normal) but he wouldn't admit it.
He had no idea what exactly the Mol were, beyond a clan (a clan of what?), so he gave a quick nod of appreciation. "I'd appreciate all of it, if you can spare the extra meal." From his pocket, he pulled the familiar whistle to call Velox, but frowned down at it. ...Worth a shot, but he didn't have high hopes. Still, he put it to his lips and produced the familiar signature to call the bird, but after several long moments of silence, nothing.
"It was worth a shot," he admitted while pocketing the chocobo whistle away.
[ooc: Two years later, an exhausted, confused red chocobo shows up in a random spot on the Steppe looking for someone... XD]
He had no idea what exactly the Mol were, beyond a clan (a clan of what?), so he gave a quick nod of appreciation. "I'd appreciate all of it, if you can spare the extra meal." From his pocket, he pulled the familiar whistle to call Velox, but frowned down at it. ...Worth a shot, but he didn't have high hopes. Still, he put it to his lips and produced the familiar signature to call the bird, but after several long moments of silence, nothing.
"It was worth a shot," he admitted while pocketing the chocobo whistle away.
[ooc: Two years later, an exhausted, confused red chocobo shows up in a random spot on the Steppe looking for someone... XD]
With the tension of battle gone there seemed a rather easy air between them. Even putting aside Gladio's predicament (and it was in fact a big one) he seemed the easy going type by her reckoning. It gave her the impression they'd get along swimmingly. In fact, if they'd met just under a year sooner her thoughts might not have been so innocent.
"Nothing a bit of extra hunting won't fix, even if not." A good excuse to see what else he might be capable of, in any event, because Ziva was nothing if not curious. Fitting, considering her race's resemblance to domestic felines.
Truthfully she was relieved to hear him speak of the feathered mounts. It reassured her that for whatever else was revealed in the coming hours there was still a good chance his home was within the realm. She winked, offering the reassurance easily. Then, gripping the saddle she went on to easily draw herself up to sit, then still grinning turned to offer a hand up onto the pillion should he need it.
"I'm sure your feathered friend will be waiting for you once we get you back home. In the meantime Vari's strong enough to carry two. Up you get, sweetling."
(ooc: LOL Aww, poor thing! Also, Gladio should get used to "sweetling" she uses the term of endearment fairly often. Pffft.)
"Nothing a bit of extra hunting won't fix, even if not." A good excuse to see what else he might be capable of, in any event, because Ziva was nothing if not curious. Fitting, considering her race's resemblance to domestic felines.
Truthfully she was relieved to hear him speak of the feathered mounts. It reassured her that for whatever else was revealed in the coming hours there was still a good chance his home was within the realm. She winked, offering the reassurance easily. Then, gripping the saddle she went on to easily draw herself up to sit, then still grinning turned to offer a hand up onto the pillion should he need it.
"I'm sure your feathered friend will be waiting for you once we get you back home. In the meantime Vari's strong enough to carry two. Up you get, sweetling."
(ooc: LOL Aww, poor thing! Also, Gladio should get used to "sweetling" she uses the term of endearment fairly often. Pffft.)
"Wouldn't mind helping to put dinner on the table." At least some things didn't change. A hunt was something he was comfortable enough with that it didn't even so much as phase him, though in the back of his mind he stayed worried for his friends. Did they even know he was gone? Were they worried, looking for him in the Disc? (Was he dead-- get rid of that thought, Gladio.)
A chocobo strong enough to carry two. Given its size and her words, he had no reason to doubt it and shrugged after a moment, taking the offered hand but putting most of his strength into the grip he took on the massive double saddle to pull himself up. Damn if the chocobo barely even swayed! How could he get something like this beautiful monster home...?
Sweetling. Gladio actually almost laughed at the term. "Let's see how fast your monster chocobo can run."
A chocobo strong enough to carry two. Given its size and her words, he had no reason to doubt it and shrugged after a moment, taking the offered hand but putting most of his strength into the grip he took on the massive double saddle to pull himself up. Damn if the chocobo barely even swayed! How could he get something like this beautiful monster home...?
Sweetling. Gladio actually almost laughed at the term. "Let's see how fast your monster chocobo can run."
The chocobo seemed to be watching his progress with her own level of intelligent curiosity, or as though she wondered if he was going to be climbing up or not.
His reply was encouraging enough for her, and it was likely easily arranged, adding one more to that night's meal.
She took notice of how he managed getting into the saddle, one keen eye on their surroundings. It wouldn't do to be caught off guard by whatever might come looking for an easy meal. Something was bound to do exactly that before long, when the scent from the kill caught on the breeze.
Back to Gladio, however, she definitely took note of the weight he put on her, versus the weight he put on Vari's saddle. Her legs held firm, but given the man's size it was just natural that she would be moved at least some. Watching his skin smoothly shift taunt over hard muscle Ziva couldn't help it if her mind wandered a bit to what else he could lift with a physique and arms that strong.
Focus!
While Gladio himself might not have laughed, Ziva allowed herself one at his response. With the reigns in both hands now she guided her bird in the direction of the familiar hills.
"Best make sure you have a tight hold, back there." She grinned cheekily in an answer of her own. And without further ado they were off.
She set a good pace, not so fast as to make it impossible to speak over the air rushing past, but not a slow pace, either. It served double purpose, affording them a bit of time to converse before they were in mixed company as well as giving Gladio time to take in some of the sights. Ziva was banking on the notion that maybe other familiar things might be spotted along the way, anything to allay her own suspicions, but it didn't seem likely or wise to hope so. After learning of the true origins of the Warriors of Darkness... Could it be? And if it were true, what could that mean? How could such a thing be happening?
One way to be sure: Find out if Gladio possessed a crystal of light... or... of darkness.
"You asked about strangers, should I take that to mean you weren't alone before you turned up here, Gladio?"
His reply was encouraging enough for her, and it was likely easily arranged, adding one more to that night's meal.
She took notice of how he managed getting into the saddle, one keen eye on their surroundings. It wouldn't do to be caught off guard by whatever might come looking for an easy meal. Something was bound to do exactly that before long, when the scent from the kill caught on the breeze.
Back to Gladio, however, she definitely took note of the weight he put on her, versus the weight he put on Vari's saddle. Her legs held firm, but given the man's size it was just natural that she would be moved at least some. Watching his skin smoothly shift taunt over hard muscle Ziva couldn't help it if her mind wandered a bit to what else he could lift with a physique and arms that strong.
Focus!
While Gladio himself might not have laughed, Ziva allowed herself one at his response. With the reigns in both hands now she guided her bird in the direction of the familiar hills.
"Best make sure you have a tight hold, back there." She grinned cheekily in an answer of her own. And without further ado they were off.
She set a good pace, not so fast as to make it impossible to speak over the air rushing past, but not a slow pace, either. It served double purpose, affording them a bit of time to converse before they were in mixed company as well as giving Gladio time to take in some of the sights. Ziva was banking on the notion that maybe other familiar things might be spotted along the way, anything to allay her own suspicions, but it didn't seem likely or wise to hope so. After learning of the true origins of the Warriors of Darkness... Could it be? And if it were true, what could that mean? How could such a thing be happening?
One way to be sure: Find out if Gladio possessed a crystal of light... or... of darkness.
"You asked about strangers, should I take that to mean you weren't alone before you turned up here, Gladio?"
Page 1 of 6