madcuriosity | labyrinthum Inbox

[Inside were a small variety of cookies, a brownie, and a cream filled pastry.]

It's my gift as your new neighbor. We'll, my castle isn't nearby, but I met Loki and decided to stop by.

... You're a neighbor but not properly a neighbor. What a curious choice of words, sir! [She presses her lips together.]

I don't know if I'm supposed to invite you inside, sir, right now I'm home by myself, though Papa Loki will return soon enough. [Though, perhaps Katsuki was home and then she could call him over until then.] Are you alright with waiting here on the doorstep?

I think living in the same town should account for something.

[He stands outside for another moment. Naturally, children shouldn't be hostesses when their parents are out; it's not their responsibility nor their role.]

...Or I can leave the cakes with you and return later in the day.

[Unbeknownst to either of them, Loki is actually on his way home. Rounding the corner too, and spotting Tary and Alice both.]

Ho there, Tary and Hail!

[Loki quickened his stride even, to get to the pair faster.]

Hello Pet.

[Clearly to Alice on that.]

[A familiar voice! Taryon turns on his heel, grins, and gives Loki a sure wave.]

Hello! You're just in time for a surprise visit from yours truly!

[Like children often do with their parental figures, Alice was immediately inclined to wrap her arms around Loki, though, as the man was still quite a good deal taller than her, it basically meant she was curling her arms at his hip, which suit her just fine.]

Hello, Papa Loki, Mr. Darrington came to call upon us since he is in the neighborhood, though not our neighborhood, more the neighborhood that is just living in Somnius in general. He actually lives in one of the castles.

I couldn't let him in because Mama Mora stepped out as well.

Well, we can let him in now, can't we?

[Alice wouldn't actually be able to hug him for too long before Loki was just scooping her up in a hug of his own. If she wanted, he'd also move to let her ride on his shoulders and be really tall.]

I think the differing levels are neighbor are just a bit finicky. He wants to be neighborly and come by, it doesn't matter if he's our immediate neighbor or not. And if you would like to step in, Tary, we can do that.

[Taryon stands aside to watch this affectionate reunion between father and daughter. It feels awkward to watch, not because it's a close moment for two people he doesn't know well, but because it's a strangely outwardly loving gesture he isn't used to seeing. Apparently, some dads pick up their kids as part of a tight hug. It's surprising to see it in reality.

When addressed, he stands up and holds out the container of pastries.] If you don't mind me popping in for a few minutes.

[A shock, to be sure. Alice doesn't resist being lifted up and hugged, though she has no inclination to be on his shoulders at the moment. She much rather just be in his arms, they're infinitely warmer.]

He has cookies and brownies. [She explained as he held up the box.] I'll get out another teacup, then. [You simply didn't have pastries without something to drink.]

Do you like tea, Mr. Darrington? If not, we have other things you can drink.

Oh, so he was kind enough to bring treats as well!

[Loki turned to Tary, and playfully winked.]

Even without the little princess here, I've a rather well known sweet tooth myself.

[Alice is welcome to stay held and carried. Loki enjoys holding her and having her close too, warm or not.]

We don't mind at all. If you'll follow me?

[Alice was let down once inside, as Loki prepared to close the door once they were all in.]

Certainly. [He nods in Alice's direction with his hands held together like a large fist before his mid-section.] I do like a subtle back, but herbal teas are fine, too.

[It's polite to accept whatever his guests have, but he has to at least offer options.

He follows Loki inside the cottage, small according to his standards, but there was plenty of furniture and personal items that indicated that this was a home, not just a building that people happened to live in.]

Edited 2024-06-03 00:37 (UTC)

[Once set down, Alice hurried into the kitchen and got out her step stool as the kettle atop the stove began to softly whistle. Grabbing a pot holder, she lifted the kettle off and set it on an inactive burner. She then went about preparing the tea tray, moving the water into the teapot, and getting a black tea blend ready. While the tea was steeping, Alice went about getting three tea cups, milk, and the sugar bowl.

She then carefully picked up the tea tray, wobbling a bit as she stepped off the stool, frowning as some of milk sloshed around and stood still until it settled. Thankfully, nothing dripped or spilled. She then brought the tray into the living room, setting it down on the table.]

The tea is ready!

[This left it to Loki to once more guide the other man to a large room with a small table and various chairs. There were comfy chairs in this room as well, a chess board set off to one side ready to be played, and other signs of all 3 of the inhabitants if one knew how to look. Much as Tary had seen before.]

Be welcome in our home, Tary, and thanks again for your gift. How are you doing?

[Playing host, while Alice got the tea ready.]

I'm well.

[He glances at Alice, who despite her young age, is playing the role of hostess exceedingly well.]

My friends live with me, and I'm meeting other artificers, so overall, this place isn't all that bad. I'm sure it will...show its worse side soon enough.

[When Alice approaches them with the tea set, Taryon smiles at her.] Oh! Just in time.

[Alice waits for both gentlemen to join her at the table before beginning to pour the tea into the teacups.]

Do you like milk, sugar, lemon, or anything else in your tea, Mr. Darrington? [Alice was already preparing Loki's tea the way she knew he liked it, having memorized such a thing long ago. She then went about preparing her own tea.]

Perhaps you can contribute to the debate, is milk to be added before or after the tea?

It is a most serious debate, to warn you.

Take the good times now while you can. Use this time to get adjusted and settled, as things'll come to upset it soon enough. Fortunately, there are mostly good people around. Like Alice, here.

[Raising his cup in mock-toast to her, as Loki talked.]

Is it? [She is a child - it's very important in the world of etiquette, after all. He crosses one leg over the other and leans in.]

After. If you add sugar afterward, it makes sense to mix them together. Plus, you can watch the pattern the milk makes when you pour it in.

[He hopes that's the correct answer.]

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Apologies for the lateness!

Totally fine!

Time to help dispel (or add) to the Awkwardness!

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I'm sorry for the crustiness of this tag

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