Part 32 - The Iron Republic(1)

The boyYesterday at 4:48 AM

Able: The Iron Republic?

Able had heard the deacon talk about it before and how he enjoyed the food there. He had no idea where it was though. The two were walking, right after their Sunday meet, merely wandering through the streets.

.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 4:56 AM

Virgil: You've taken lessons with the bandaged man before, but I'll refresh you on your history; after London's failed invasion of Hell, London had to create a war treaty lest they ended up losing a lot more territory due to an extended war. To compromise, they gave up a small island to Hell that became the Iron Republic, and established the Brass Embassy near Ladybones Road, but that's besides the point. Virgil: The point is that I have a sermon that I need to give while I'm there, and I would like it if I had familiar company along..

The boyYesterday at 5:03 AM

Able: I-...Island? Doesn't that require a boat trip...?

Able looks nervously.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 5:15 AM

Virgil: . . .yes. That is how one typically travels between land masses, unless you're an eccentric sort that prefers dirigibles and risking a crash after a close call with a stalactite..

The boyYesterday at 5:18 AM

Able: A-Ah boats are... not great... erm...

Able looks up at the deacon, suddenly backpedaling.

Able: Not to say I wouldn't go, it's just! A little... stressful... ah... but I would like to see a sermon of yours where I don't get stabbed afterwards..

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 10:58 PM

Virgil: Well, I'm pleased to hear it. Before we go, however, we're going to have to get you a Safe Conduct before you'll be able to get there.

The deacon looks forward, counting on their fingers.

Virgil: I'll do the transaction, but you'll have to get the payment. Not all of it, but you ought to pay for the fine to be formally recognized by the Brass Embassy. After that, you'll need to pack. Avoid clothing made of multiple threads, coarse paper, that sort of thing. . .

The boyYesterday at 11:02 PM

Able: Is it really required...?

Able tilts his head.

Able: Ah, what sort of payment? Does it require some sort of particular exchange? I've not really done many dealings with the Brass Embassy before, though I can't expect its anything I can't get.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 11:14 PM

Virgil: -Dryly.- Oh, I'm sure they'll be happy to do a spiritual kind of exchange. Virgil: It's the usual sordid business of bureaucracy. Forms, filing, accounting; not much different from London's bureaucracy. I'll deal with the greasing of the gears with brandy and wine. Virgil: You, however, will have to pay the typical international fees and be physically examined. Nothing invasive, mind you; merely to make sure that, when you leave the Iron Republic, you'll be the same as you entered. Physically, anyhow.

The boyYesterday at 11:22 PM

Able: Oh joy. Well, I suppose it will all be handled very professionally.

Able pauses, realizing something.

Able: Ah... I will have to find someone to watch my pets... Hm... I suppose I could always pay a sitter... Though... Hmm... Ah I will figure it out.

The boyYesterday at 11:40 PM

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[

11:43 PM

]

Able was miffed. That examination had taken far too long, and was a little bit too extensive. He was fairly sure they were taking their time with it. He put on a fake smile though and went through it best as he could. It was a relief when he was finally released and got to rejoin the deacon waiting for him. He looked like he was straining a smile, and kept making glances behind him.

Able: Ah, thank you for waiting. Let's take our leave if we have nothing left to do.

March 18, 2020

Numerical AnalysisToday at 12:59 AM

The deacon sits up from the wall they're leaning against, brushing off their collar.

Virgil: Ah, excellent. You still have your soul.

The deacon turns to walk along Ladybones Road, keeping an eye on Able as they do so.

Virgil: I've just finished the paperwork; your safe conduct should arrive at your address by the end of the day. That should give you plenty of time to pack.

The boyToday at 1:04 AM

Able: That's very good. I don't suspect I'll have..

Able looks behind him suddenly and seems to be listening intently. He doesn't see or hear anything as they turn a corner.

Able: Lords! They took too much interest in me! Is it usually so invasive? I have never been so closely examined in my life!

Numerical AnalysisToday at 1:12 AM

Virgil: The invasiveness is a necessity. I'm sure you'll be very grateful for their measurements when you return to London with the same number of limbs as you did when you left.

The deacon gives a chaste chuckle.

Virgil: Though, I suspect it was also an excuse to see your soul up close. Tell me, where did they look?

The boyToday at 1:14 AM

Able: It would be a much shorter list if I tell you where they didn't look.

Able crosses his arms tightly against himself, shuddering a bit.

Able: At least my insides were mostly left alone.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 1:15 AM

Virgil: Come now, it's a small price to pay to make sure you still have all your teeth after the trip.

The boyToday at 1:17 AM

Able's face scrunches up in disgust thinking about that.

Able: Oh yes they did spend a long time gawking at those too. They sounded downright shocked at their condition. I don't know if that is a good or bad thing.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 1:20 AM

Virgil: Ah, well, I'll tell you something; your teeth are unusual and, quite frankly, an outlier in London.

The boyToday at 1:23 AM

Able: You're not being very reassuring.

Able looks to be tightening his arms closer to his body.

Able: Ah, but at least it's over. I just need to pack and send the girls over to Thomas. I suppose it won't be terribly long, but I would assume extra clothes would be good.

The boyToday at 1:40 AM

-------------------------------

[

1:45 AM

]

Able spends a little bit of time packing. Not extensively, though. He mostly put his containers of food into his cloth bag and a pair of pants. He doesn't even double check what he put into his bag. With that out of the way he starts cleaning, still surprised to find teeth under things. He finishes fairly quickly, but mainly stops to take time to play with his weasels. Swees seems like she isn't interested in playing with him, and is more big on tackling Winter and play fighting with her. Magenta insists on sitting in Able's lap, and promptly falls asleep. Able realized he was trapped, and then Elle joined Magenta. Soon he had a full lap of Weasels. Able could feel his legs falling asleep.

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Numerical AnalysisToday at 2:39 AM

The deacon is standing at the docks, checking their latch watch. They've already made the arrangements for the trip there and have the necessary Echoes on hand, but the question was whether Able valued speed or comfort. He was excited for this travel, if perhaps for disingenuous reasons; part of the excitement was for his own return to a what was essentially a vacation for him, but part of it was in seeing Able be discomfited by the experience of the Republic (though he knows he shouldn't find enjoyment in that). The deacon is standing near a supporting pole of the docks, waiting as the seconds tick by for Able.

The boyToday at 2:45 AM

Able didn't look very enthused as he made his way to the docks. Not because of the trip, but that he would have to go on a boat to get there. He didn't understand why anyone would want to be on a boat, or near the docks at all. He supposed that it was fine if others wanted to go risk their lives, but he would rather not take needless risk. Able got lost getting there, but he did manage to find it with the help of someone who knew the area. Able sighs, thankful, and pays the man as is common. No one does anything for sympathy, Able seethes to himself. Able spots the deacon, and walks over, politely waving.

Able: Ah! There you are. The docks are shockingly tricky to get to without Thomas leading the way... Ah.. I didn't make you wait too long?

Numerical AnalysisToday at 3:00 AM

The deacon hangs their watch from their lapel again.

Virgil: Not more than usual. You've become more punctual since the first time we've met, did you know?

The deacon gestures for Able to follow, stepping onto the wooden docks.

Virgil: I was wondering what sort of ship you'd prefer going on; there are several ships taking a trip to the Iron Republic for shipping purposes, and I'd like to know which one is to your liking.

The boyToday at 3:02 AM

Able: I was not aware, no.

Able muses for a bit. He didn't feel like he was rushing himself, so he wondered what changed.

Able: ..... Right.. A ship... Hm... Which... takes the least time...?

Numerical AnalysisToday at 3:10 AM

Virgil: Ah, well, there's a clipper available right now for a shipment and the like. Are you sure you'd like that, though? I can't imagine it to be very comfortable.

The boyToday at 3:12 AM

Able: I would rather not have to spend more time on a boat than needed. The zee is filled with horror.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 3:17 AM

The deacon checks their watch again, walking off along the docks as they do so.

Virgil: Ah, well, your choice. I hope you've packed a spare cushion, then; I expect we'll be sharing rooming with the stock on-board. Virgil: Did you make sure your clothing isn't made of multiple fibers? That any foodstuffs you're taking are separated from one another?.

The boyToday at 3:25 AM

Able: I'm sure the floor will suit me fine.

Able looks at his bag.

Able: Well it's all tins and a single pair of pants.. it should be fine?

Numerical AnalysisToday at 3:27 AM

Virgil: . . .well, there are public places to launder one's clothes there, so I'm sure you'll be hygienic enough for the entire trip. Though, how many tins did you pack?

The boyToday at 3:29 AM

Able: I think about fifteen?

Able rummages through his bag a bit, counting them. He notices the vial. He pauses. He ignores it, he could possibly use it.

Able: ...Seventeen. Why?

Numerical AnalysisToday at 3:30 AM

Virgil: . . .it shouldn't be more than a week stay, Able. You're going to a civilized place, not the Elder Continent.

The boyToday at 3:31 AM

Able: I need a lot of food.

Able sounds a little pathetic saying that, closing his bag.

Able: ..And the food there concerns me, from what you've told me.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 3:36 AM

Virgil: -Mock offense.- Come now, Able, I thought you weren't the type of person to be prejudiced against foreign food. Did you recently attend a sermon by Catharine? Ah, here's the ship.

The deacon puts their watch back onto their lapel; in one of the docks, there's a ship made of a mixture of wood and metal with the front sloped to a point. The ship looks small, but the way its designed leaves the image of a blade slicing through the waves.

.

The boyToday at 3:39 AM

Able snickers a bit.

Able: Oh don't let her hear you say that, she'll have you beat for loudest preacher.

Able looks very uncomfortable being reminded of the zee. He grips his arms tightly. He could get through this. He steels himself.

Able: Ah..

Numerical AnalysisToday at 3:46 AM

The deacon looks at the ship, pointing at the front. . .

Virgil: The angled sloping of the front parts the waves, making it easier to travel through the waters. . .hm.

. . .before pausing, looking at Able.

Virgil: -Nudging their glasses down the bridge of their nose.- . . .is something the matter?

The boyToday at 3:47 AM

Able: Ah.. I'm afraid I will always be a bit nervous around ships and the zee.

Able grips tighter, staring at the boat.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 3:53 AM

Virgil: -Keeping their glasses lowered.- . . .well, for what reason? Do you distrust zailors?

The boyToday at 3:54 AM

Able doesn't look at the deacon, and keeps his eyes on the ship.

Able: Drowning.

Able takes a deep breath before letting it out, his hands relaxing.

Able: Over and over again. Can you imagine a worse fate?

Numerical AnalysisToday at 4:04 AM

The deacon pauses, before pushing their glasses back up along their nose.

Virgil: Perhaps drowning from someone dragging you down, instead of merely failing to stay afloat. Virgil: -Clearing their throat.- Mhm. If you're discomfited, you have no obligation to come. I hope you aren't coming along merely because you feel like you should; I commend sincerity, not guilt.

The boyToday at 4:12 AM

Able looks to tighten his grip briefly before dropping his arms to his sides. He looks up at Virgil, his expression changing to worried.

Able: No I..! ...Discomfort aside, I want to do this with you.

Able shrugs, trying to calm himself internally.

Able: It will be nice to spend some time with you beyond our normal meets. Besides.. I think it will be interesting. A small bother will not ruin it I assure you.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 4:27 AM

Virgil: Well. . .in that case, I commend your will to personally overcome your discomfort to try something new. Virgil: -Taking off their glasses.- . . .and I thank you for doing that, if only because it means that I won't be heading out alone. Usually, it's a solo trip, and I won't deny that I will appreciate your company in this.

The boyToday at 4:30 AM

Able: Ah...

Able gets fairly flush at this, but smiles. He nods.

Able: That is very nice to hear..

Able looks away, scolding himself internally for feeling so happy so easily.

[

4:33 AM

]

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Numerical AnalysisToday at 4:49 AM

The clipper, shaped like a knife made of waxed wood and polished silver, had been travelling for several hours on the Zee. The upper deck is mostly empty; the wood had been sanded, lacquered, and waxed for aerodynamics over grip, and deciding to stand on the deck above came with the risk of falling overboard with one poor wave. In the midpoint between the bow and the stern, there is a small, narrow alcove as the captain of the ship sits in a recessed pit, piloting his vessel with pride. Here, the deacon has been holding a brass telescope to their eye, aiming it at the distant shores on the clipper's starboard. Through it, they can see the vague, blurred maroon smoke of the Iron Republic, small and warped; it's going to be at least five more hours until the ship arrives at its destination.

Virgil: -Lowering the telescope; walking back to the ship's hull.- . . .what a terrible telescope. . .how on earth did they warp the lens this badly?

Below deck, the ship is divided into many, many rooms. Few barracks were available, with most being claimed by the ship's crewman; of the ones available, many were used as extra space for shipments of paper, coffee, and bales of fabric. The deacon and Able share a single room near the rear stern of the ship, separated by one wall from the noisy engine of the clipper. The room is comfortably large, but lacks proper places to sit and rest. There are no tables, no chairs, and not even a rug to sit upon. The only furnishings are two flat slabs covered in half-stuffed blankets bolted to opposite walls and hanging with chains. At the room's side, there is a single, round window blockaded with many iron bars with the smallest image of outside waves rising up and over the glass repeatedly as the clipper cuts through the waves.

.

The boyToday at 4:57 AM

Able had pressed himself into the corner of their room, hugging his knees and facing down. Anytime he looked up he caught sight of the small window to the outside and felt sick. He found himself breathing a bit harder than he usually would, panicking in his head. At least he was safe in this room, he figured. He wondered why the deacon even wanted to go out on the deck, as he nearly tripped when it was docked. He presses himself firmly into the corner, wanting to feel solid at least even with the feeling of movement all around him.

Able: -to himself.- It's fine. I'm fine. It will keep being fine.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 5:07 AM

The deacon is heading down to the lower deck, heading through the hallways as they head back to their assigned barrack. They peer around the door before stepping inside as they look at Able.

Virgil: -Leaning against the wall.- . . .how are you handling it so far?.

The boyToday at 5:10 AM

Able: Well... I'm alive..

Able groans, wrapping his arms around his knees tighter. He looks up, actively trying to not look at the window. He still seems to glance over a few times regardless.

Able: How much longer do we have..?

Numerical AnalysisToday at 5:14 AM

The deacon checks their lapel watch.

Virgil: Well, we had departed five hours ago. Ordinarily, it'd take two to three nautical days, but this ship is a clipper. It's going to take. . . Virgil: -Putting their watch back onto their lapel.- . . .about seventeen more hours.

The boyToday at 5:19 AM

Able groans, tucking his head back into his knees. He would have to try to get through it.

Able: Ghh.. I suppose that's.... better than days...

Able looks up again. He makes a little noise of distress when he sees the window.

Able: Honestly it's a bit rough over here.. I will survive, though.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 5:27 AM

Virgil: I'd advise just sleeping through it. At the very least, you need to be well-rested before you head out onto the docks.

The deacon pauses, staring at Able as he glances at the window.

Virgil: -Slightly amused.- . . .ah. Of course, you can't quite rest if you keep looking at things that distress you.

The deacon sighs dramatically, unbuttoning their robe.

The boyToday at 5:30 AM

Able looks confused, but dismisses the deacon's undressing as a way for him to get comfortable. He was more distracted by the movement of the boat. Able moves his head back to his knees, half as comfort, half to give the deacon privacy.

Able: Not sure how anyone could sleep like this..

Numerical AnalysisToday at 5:33 AM

The deacon unbuttons their robe; underneath, they're wearing a white buttoned undershirt without a collar, with dress pants colored a peligin gray. They move to the window, hanging their robe over the bars of the window so it covers the window.

Virgil: Easily. When you spend days at zee, the rocking feels comforting.

The deacon pauses, before moving along towards where Able was sitting in the corner, sitting on the "bed" near him.

Virgil: I must admit, however, that these beds are truly awful.

The deacon sits for a moment, merely observing Able before lowering their glasses.

Virgil: . . .have you ever seen the Iron Republic's marketplace? I can tell you that it's much more diverse than London's Bazaar.

The boyToday at 5:40 AM

Able looks up. He notices the window is covered, and seems to relax enough to not have his arms wrapped around his legs.

Able: No I.. I've never been outside London.. I suspect it would have to be something interesting for you to come all this way more than once.

Able still presses himself against the corner, but lets his legs settle out in front of him instead of pressed against his body.

Numerical AnalysisLast Wednesday at 9:54 PM

Virgil: It's a very unique market. Well, markets; changes every day, or at least however long you think a day is. Virgil: -Moving to sit at their bunk.- It's a good place to go when you wish to dine on ideas. You could try a new honey, if you'd like.

The boyLast Wednesday at 10:00 PM

Able scoffs a bit.

Able: Aye, that's why I'm nervous about eating there. I do not know what eating an idea would even do. Able: Ah... I was not aware there were many kinds of honey, though.

Numerical AnalysisLast Wednesday at 10:28 PM

Virgil: There's as many kinds of honey as there are flowers. Perhaps more, if you consider honey made form multiple flowers as distinct, which I don't.

The deacon lies down on their slab, sighing.

Virgil: There's the ones made on the surface, which. . all taste the same, really. There's a vague scent, but nothing more beyond that. Ah, but you should try Gaoler's honey, if you get your hands on it. It's an experience..

The boyLast Wednesday at 10:32 PM

Able: ...When you say experience.. It makes me a bit uneasy..

Able slides down the wall, reclining a bit.

Able: Hm.. I suppose I should attempt to sleep. Though sleep recently has been just as uneasy as being at zee. I will try not to bother you.

Able looks at the planks above him. He didn't like the thought of sleeping, but if he didn't he would be sorely tired by the start of the day.

[

10:34 PM

]

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The boyLast Wednesday at 10:45 PM

Greased waters are set on fire, a shimmering light of reds and oranges. It burns his hands as he tries to grab for the surface. The thick sloshing of the zee knocks him deeper, but he fights against it. The fear of never seeing the world again, of only staring at waters and stalactites fills him with dread. Able breaks the surface of the water, gasping, burning.. He catches a glance of a figure turning towards him, but before he could clear his lungs he's pulled under. He chokes, his body cold. He reaches for the flame riddled surface but its of no use. He looks down. He's dragging himself down, but his face is wrong. It's blurry and melting. He gasps, taking in more of the sludge. He finds himself unable to fight more, and lets the water and himself, drag him further down. Able wakes up with a start and a gasp. He covers his mouth as his breathing becomes heavier. He can breathe, he isn't drowning. He lifts himself up, gasping into his hands, covering his face. He feels a sudden movement in the floor and he hits the side of the wall. Able curls himself up. He tries very hard to keep himself quiet as he cries to himself. He can't bother him about this. He feels the floor move again harshly, and he gasps. He presses himself so tightly against the wall.

Numerical AnalysisLast Wednesday at 11:34 PM

The deacon is lying on their back, their eyes wide open as they sit on the slab. He isn't asleep; the accommodations are uncomfortable, and being spoilt on infernal luxury and beds of wax and water means that the most he could hope for is to merely physically rest without sleep. They are distracted from counting the number of ridges scored into the ship's hull from gasping. He turns his head, their eyes squinted (partially to keep the amber reflection from disturbing Able, if he was sleeping) as they look at Able pushed against the wall.

Virgil: -Quietly.- . . .are you awake, or do you have a habit of tremors in your sleep?

The boyLast Wednesday at 11:38 PM

Able holds his breath. He presses himself even tighter against the corner. He gasps as the ship hits another wave. He lets out a very shaky sigh.

Able: -muttering.- ...Dreams..

March 19, 2020

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 12:07 AM

Virgil: . . .mh. I see. Virgil: -Dryly.- Well, have this for solace; at least if the ship goes down, you'll be heading down with utmost comfort.

The boyYesterday at 12:14 AM

Able catches his throat in a sob, his crying a lot more noticeable. He didn't want to think about that, he clutches himself tightly. It's a gross wet sobbing, and little whines of distress. His head was pounding now as he wheezed into his knees, keeping himself curled up into a ball. That did not seem to land well.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 1:16 AM

The deacon props their head up, a bit surprised by the outburst.

Virgil: Er. . .not that you will have to worry about that. The Zee is fairly tame, Able; many more ships sail safely than sink, and the trip isn't going to be that long.

The deacon quickly sits up on their "bed", sighing; perhaps that was not the best thing to say.

Virgil: Calm down.

The boyYesterday at 1:25 AM

Able tucks himself into his knees, quieting his crying. He could still feel the fuzz of his half awake brain pull at him with nightmares, but it was slowly fading. He mutters something but its all caught up in his throat and muffled by his legs.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 1:45 AM

Virgil: . . .pardon?

The deacon lifts their back off from the metal wall, leaning forward.

Virgil: Able, you need to speak up, if only so I know whether to get you something to eat to help you calm down or to call the on-board medic on your behalf.

The boyYesterday at 1:46 AM

Able mutters quieter, still clutching his legs.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 1:56 AM

The deacon stands up, moving to Able's side of the barracks.

Virgil: Able, please. You're going to make me worry if you're going to be muttering like this.

The boyYesterday at 1:57 AM

Able doesn't speak up, and seems to get even quieter though it's still clear he's saying something.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 2:03 AM

The deacon nears closer, their eyebrows furrowing.

Virgil: Able, what are you saying?

The boyYesterday at 2:06 AM

Able grabs the deacon by his wrist, pulling him down closer. He looks up, miffed, but still fairly red in the face from crying.

Able: I said "Don't be a twat."

Able lets go, and laughs to himself a bit halfheartedly. He's clearly still distressed.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 2:26 AM

The deacon pauses for a moment, caught of guard by Able's directness.

Virgil: Ah. Virgil: -Pausing.- . . .well, you can't tell me what to do; if I believe I ought to be a twat, then a twat I shall be.

The boyYesterday at 2:32 AM

Able looks at the deacon a bit wearily, and sighs.

Able: Sit with me then?

Able stretches his legs out in front of him, looking away.

.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 2:55 AM

The deacon pauses, before seating themselves on Able's left side.

Virgil: Well, I can do that for your sake.

The deacon sits back, pressing their back against the wall.

Virgil: . . .do you have a plan as to what to do when we dock?

The boyYesterday at 2:59 AM

Able: Ah, I hadn't had much... time to think about it.

Able leans back against the wall, wincing when he feels the ship hit another wave.

Able: Perhaps you can give me some ideas? You seemed fairly excited just talking about going.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 3:07 AM

Virgil: Well, the place is an experience. Perhaps not a fun experience, if you're not well attuned to it; even most devils are wary of the place. I find the lax laws. . .freeing, though. Virgil: -Sighing.- It's the best way I can relax, under the supervision of the church anyhow. Never mind that, though. . .what sort of things do you like? Food? Entertainment?

The boyYesterday at 3:16 AM

Able looks over at Virgil. He blinks, smiling a bit.

Able: Company? I suppose?

Able makes a face that looks a bit amused, but a little confused.

Able: I don't suppose it'd be too much to ask to just see you enjoy yourself? I.. Anything that...

Able looks away, and down at his hands.

Able: Anything that I've... Desired has never been about... enjoyment. It's just been a constant wish to merely survive. Things I've sought out for...

Able clears his throat. He was trying to find a way to describe it, furrowing his brow.

Able: It was never things or fleeting nonsense, it has always involved being with someone else. It's why I have my girls, it's why even now I do things for the bandaged man, or even why me and Thomas still keep in touch. Able: I suppose what I'm saying is, that I'm unsure. I don't know what I would enjoy, I haven't experienced enough to make a judgement.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 3:47 AM

The deacon pauses in thought, musing for a bit. This was. . .not the answer he was expecting.

Virgil: Hm. A steadfast, dedicated sort of enjoyment. Admirable. . .if an excellent way to risk being manipulated, if you dedicate yourself to an ill-intentioned crowd. Virgil: If all you wish for is to just see me enjoy myself, though, then I hope you're prepared to visits to many restaurants. It's not the same, having it shipped overseas to Dante's and eating it th-

The ship suddenly rocks hard to the left, the thin blankets on the metal cots sliding; overhead, you can hear the noise of crewmen quickly, but voicelessly, scrambling to tending their part of the clipper, the ship quickly restoring to normal orientation.

.

The boyYesterday at 4:05 AM

Able tuts at the deacon's comment, a little miffed to hear him suggest he would be so easily fooled. He sighs. He then feels himself jump off the floor slightly with the movement of the ship.

Able: Christ!

Able wheezes, holding tightly onto the deacon's side, pressing into him. He sounds like he's trying to seem miffed, but his voice shakes. He keeps one hand gripped at the back of Virgil's shirt, and the other on his upper arm, keeping him from moving further.

Able: -A little shaky- Why would anyone enjoy travelling by zee. Lords.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 4:32 AM

The deacon sits up a bit, surprised by Able clinging to them.

Virgil: . . .Able, it was a moderate wave, not the Wax Wind.

The deacon's arm is strangely warm; despite the boat being a chilly temperature and the layer of dress shirt between Able's hands and the wax husk, there is a definite warmth to the deacon's upper arm.

Virgil: . . .possibly because travel by Zee is the only option to travelling in the Neath; if you don't love it, you'll go insane drifting about the dark oceans.

The boyYesterday at 4:38 AM

Able: I am simply not used to it.

Able presses further into the deacon without thinking. He looks up at Virgil.

Able: Ah, youre very warm. Is that normal?

He seemed to be momentarily distracted by ambient fear to focus on how close he was to Virgil. He does loosen his grip, but doesn't let go.

.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 4:41 AM

The deacon stares at Able, their amber eyes clearly reflected in the little amount of light there is down in the barracks.

Virgil: . . .yes. Ignoring that my ambient temperature is higher than yours, recall that my body is made up of chitinous plates. Every movement I make with this husk on makes them rub against each other, and makes my husk warm. Virgil: That's why it was imperative it was made of lamplighter beeswax; so it wouldn't risk melting.

The boyYesterday at 4:47 AM

Able: Really? Hmm..

Able leans his head against the deacon's arm for a bit, seemingly comforted a bit by the warmth. Able blinks. What was he doing?

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 4:48 AM

Virgil: . . .are you going to let me go back to bed, or should I just stay while you use my body to lounge on?

The boyYesterday at 4:52 AM

Able suddenly lets go and scoots fairly far away fron the deacon.

Able: A-Apologies! Er... Yes go rest... ah...

Able turns away from the deacon, trying to hide his flush face. He was doing it again. He swallows the lump in his throat, cursing himself.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 4:56 AM

Virgil: -Flatly.- Oh no, by all means; I'll sit still as a statue while you warm your hands on me.

The deacon stands up, moving to their cot and lying down on it.

Virgil: You should get some rest, though; we're almost there.

The boyYesterday at 4:59 AM

Able: A...Ah... Hm... Right..

Able curls into the corner, laying down. He still didn't trust that he wouldn't just fall of of the... "bed" so he opted for the floor. Able sighs, his head spinning with guilt and emotions he didn't want in this moment.

[

4:59 AM

]

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The boyYesterday at 4:52 PM

Able didn't sleep much, but he did feel himself fall in and out of sleep. He feels a lot more stressed than before, but he knew why. Able tried to ignore it. He didn't really expect the deacon to be so warm, and was a little too happy to be close to him. Able would have to stop that, even if he wasn't lusting, yearning was just as bad. He figured that Virgil would brush it off regardless, but he didn't feel good about it either way. Able doesn't fall asleep deep enough to have proper dreams, so his mind simply wanders. Virgil was sometimes a little bit of a twat, Able decided. His ability to comfort must be legendary, he snickers to himself. Able thinks about how it will be nice, to see him enjoy food and be happy a little. Able covers his face. Why did that fluster him? He turns to his other side. He feels himself fall half asleep again, but wakes up when he feels the ship hit the dock. It surprises him enough he sits up. He was confused when he didn't feel any further movement. Was he dead? No, that was too ridiculous.

.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 10:47 PM

The deacon is on the upper deck, having never slept and feeling that their destination was close. Literally; something was tugging at his shirt buttons, popping them off. He knew that they had arrived. On the waxed upper floors of the clipper above, the deacon is handing several documents to the captain of the ship and a goat-devil standing on the deck above.

Virgil: I have no customs to declare, but I do have an associate that has packed some cans of food. A non-issue, I presume? A Goat-Devil: Ah, there's no need to declare that. I don't expect that it'll stay long, and it's more work than it's worth to record it. Virgil: -Sighing; handing a document over.- That's what I was worried about. I'll figure it out, mind you; no unnecessary credits to the Embassy, if I can handle it.

The deacon finishes their business on the upper deck before turning and heading down to the lower deck.

Virgil: -Quietly; stepping through metal hallways.- . . .perhaps I can convince him to eat from the imported market. . .ah, Able. Good to see that you're awake.

The deacon is standing at the doorway to the small barracks.

Virgil: -Moving to their side of the barracks.- The clipper's just docked; don't come up just yet, I have to hand your Safe-Conduct.

The deacon reaches under the cot, pulling out a small, leather suitcase covered in burn marks.

The boyYesterday at 10:53 PM

Able is stretching, a little relieved to not be moving much. He tries to get out all of the little cricks in his neck and back from laying on the floor and being jostled about. As soon as he stretches his back he can feel and hear his spine crack and loosen. He felt loads better.

Able: Ah, finally. I will get my bag then and wait.

Able moves over to where he last put his bag, and carries it over his shoulder.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 11:09 PM

The deacon sets their suitcase down onto the cot, opening it; all that's contained inside is a change of clothes, and their spirifer fork and crook.

Virgil: -Lifting a spare shirt.- Ah, there they are.

The deacon pulls out two small bottles, both a bit smaller than a bottle of Greyfields. On the both bottles, the top is corked and sealed with black wax draped liberally over the neck of the bottle. In the first bottle, there is a large mass of viscous maroon that sticks to the inner walls of the bottle; throughout the sludge, there are streaks of what looks like champagne-colored syrup. On the second bottle, there is a small cage of wires (of the kind used for imported champagne corks) wrought over the (slightly scraped) wax seal on top; inside, there's a rolling mass of watery brown fluid and a small haze of blue vaporizing off of the brown.

Virgil: -Lifting the second bottle.- This one is yours.

The deacon closes the suitcase, before standing up and placing the bottle on Able's cot.

Virgil: -Flatly.- Notice the cork cage on top..

The boyYesterday at 11:14 PM

Able moves over to his, fairly unused cot, and picks up the bottle.

Able: Yes yes, "Do not open". All that nonsense.

Able sighs dramatically, placing the bottle into his bag. He still felt like he wanted to open it.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 11:23 PM

Virgil: Able, it's not nonsense.

The deacon moves to the window, taking their coat off of the iron grille.

Virgil: It is important that you not open it in any capacity. At all.

The deacon pulls their coat over their shoulder, turning to look at Able in the eye.

Virgil: This is not a farce. You, specifically you, cannot survive the Iron Republic without a Safe-Conduct, and I'd rather not have to explain to London's embassy why one of her citizens has returned mangled. You need to make sure you don't lose it, that you don't forget it, and that you don't open it. Understand?

The boyYesterday at 11:25 PM

Able is a little surprised by the shift in tone but nods curtly. He supposed he was serious.

Able: Ah, I will make sure it's safe then.

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 11:30 PM

Virgil: Good. Now, hold that bottle close, and follow me.

The deacon walks into the barracks hallways, beginning to head to the upper deck.

Virgil: -In passing.- . . .by the way, if you see yourself on the upper docks, don't talk unless you are talked to first.

The deacon heads up to the upper deck, not bothering to see if Able is following behind them.

The boyYesterday at 11:32 PM

Able looks confused. He follows the deacon a bit closely.

Able: ... h... what?

Numerical AnalysisYesterday at 11:49 PM

As Able and the deacon walk up onto the upper deck, the shore of the Iron Republic comes into view. Overhead, there are clouds of maroon streaked with lightning coiling throughout it. The docks are swaying ever so slightly, the support poles of the pier appearing slightly warped. Along the posts, lightning arcs along, coiling around it like snakes and illuminating the pier. Further along, the buildings of the Iron Republic come into view.

There are several tall buildings (which bring to mind the dizzying heights of the Flit) wrought of pure iron, the buildings seemingly swaying and curving. On the ground, there are several people, devils, and children walking around on the streets. At least, judging from the neck down; some of them have heads of weasels and wolves, some with heads of wine glasses and rope, and yet more with heads of mushroom and fruits. Further along, there are pets that are walking through walls, and yet others still that are greeting themselves. The deacon steps down onto the pier, turning to face Able.

Virgil: Don't listen to anyone who claims you can change your face here. Your Safe-Conduct will make sure you have the face you were born with when you leave.

The boyYesterday at 11:56 PM

Able keeps close to Virgil instinctively. He was wary of the docks, but almost as wary about his new surroundings. He wonders if this was a good idea. He steels himself, before his stomach protests. Ah, he would have to eat soon. He ignores it for now.

Able: Good to know.. Do... people enjoy such things? Changing their face?

Able looks out into the crowds of people, noticing that it was very common to see people have clear changes to themselves. Those who weren't obvious, he wondered if they were altered in some minor way.

March 20, 2020

Numerical AnalysisToday at 12:02 AM

Virgil: I'd wager its less having a different visage so much as having the liberty to do so.

The deacon walks along the pier; a nearby arc of lightning leaps across from one post to another, sending an electrifying feeling along Able's head as it leaps overhead.

Virgil: -Unfazed.- . . .it's one of the reasons I personally enjoy the Iron Republic. The freedom from all laws, social and physical, is liberating. . .and every so often, I need to be free for a little moment..

The boyToday at 12:11 AM

Able looks over at the deacon.

Able: Is that why you were so excited then? I suppose being watched by both the church and the embassy can grow a bit thin.

Able jumps a bit, a little surprised.

.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 12:29 AM

The deacon walks forward, hoisting their suitcase over their shoulder.

Virgil: -Relaxing slowly.- Quite frankly, I need to take more vacations. It's not often that I get a visit to the Iron Republic that's sponsored by both Hell and with the favor of the church. . .never mind that hosting a sermon will be difficult, especially if the clergy suddenly disappears. . .ah, remember what I told you, Able.

Ahead, there are two people heading along the pier; a person with the body of the deacon and the head of the huskless deacon, and a person with Able's sweater and the head of an opossum.

The boyToday at 12:36 AM

Able looks over, seeing... someone with the deacon. He is unsure until they speak.

◉Able: -Quietly, to the other deacon- Well I can't just not. That would mess with my head and time.

Was that really him? It was odd.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 12:41 AM

◉Virgil: -Quietly; to the other Able.- . . .fine, but say only what you heard yourself say. . .ah. Good evening, deacon.

The pair advance along the pier, meeting themselves. It was absolutely bizarre, seeing the deacon with the head of a bee speaking to themselves in their husk.

Virgil: . . .evening. The stay was. . ? ◉Virgil: . . .it was. . .pleasant. Virgil: Ah, that's a relief. . .

The boyToday at 12:45 AM

◉Able: Alright alright.

The opossum Able gestures for himself to come over. He does, but cautiously. The opossum doesn't look at Virgil, and instead speaks low to himself. Able looks concerned.

◉Able: -Quietly- You should try that honey she sent you, very good in tea.

The other Able quickly turns around, heading back to the docks. That was odd.

Able: Ah... ok?

Able furrows his brow confused, until he remembered that he did see it in his bag. Must've been nice?

Numerical AnalysisToday at 12:53 AM

◉Virgil: -A little hurried.- . . .er, if you'll make space, deacon. Virgil: -Stepping aside.- Right. After you, and have a safe trip home.

The other deacon quickly walks past the pair, not glancing at Able as they quickly move up towards the other Able; as they head towards the ship, a haze spreads over the other Able's head while the other deacon's head flakes away like burnt wood, slowly revealing their normal heads. They talk near the ship, too distant to hear.

Virgil: -Looking back.- . . .well, now we know that, before we leave, we must talk to ourselves. Come, Able.

The deacon walks ahead, heading along towards the pier as they step onto the cobblestones of the Iron Republic.

The boyToday at 12:57 AM

Able: I suppose that is another thing I will have to remember...

Able follows the deacon, not making much out of the encounter. Not the first time he's seen himself... but certainly the first time he's talked to them. He stuffs his hands into his pockets.

Able: Do you know what you want first? I assume your sermon isn't for a bit.

Numerical AnalysisToday at 1:14 AM

Virgil: I. . .could do with a bite. Not souls, mind you. Virgil: -Biting their tongue.- I am, after all, technically on a missionary to proselytize to the public of the Iron Republic, but I will be eating soon. Ah, but first, I need to get accommodations. We'll need to check in at the Brass Embassy. . .if it exists. Otherwise, we'll have to wile our time. . .

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1:16 AM

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