22:49] Maria was dozing off to sleep, at this point. Her hues were droopy, as they were sleepy. A chaotic duo, as her eyes suddenly find themselves adrift into nothing.
Her mind wandered. Pain and sorrow finding it's way once again. The shadows of her mind caught in nothing but grief, as those memories rise to the surface.
A good nap was all that she needed. To waste it all away.
"..."
"???"
Suddenly, she feels the thump against her skull! A letter? The carrier bird knocks her away, thrumming at her skull and dropping the letter before flying away. Before she'd had a chance to actually...open the letter, however?
"H-..huh? Hm.."
"!!!"
The horse becomes mere inches from her face. She'd be startled! Widening her eyes and inching backward before colliding with Esoti. Were they there the whole time? Watching her sleep?
"Ah-..."
She pockets the letter. So thats what it was! She smiles droopily at Esoti, shaking her head to snap her out of whatever trance had buried her in the current moment. She tilts her head to Blasthoof. As if asking if they were sure Esoti was telling the truth.
["Did the horse miss me, or did you miss me?"] she asks Esoti, gesturing in his direction. Something told her it wasn't just Blasthoof that missed her.
Nevertheless, she gives the mare a hearty scritch. One against the ear, and the other under the chin. Patting his head and giving a gentle brush, as she did with most animals.
She really wanted one of her own someday...
(Maria Malibu)
23:05] Esoti seems taken aback. Maria is so cute when she's asleep, not realizing that behind the sleeping face is pangs of sadness. He sits next to her deciding to stay quiet for now, and not let anything distur…
oh... the letter got delivered. He chuckles a bit, as now knows he's no longer the only person whom the birds treat as a target practice for headshots.
Whether the letter, the soft chuckle, or Blasthoof's warm breathing, she seems to be awake, and startled.
"Oh, I'm sorry, I didn't realize you were asleep." He gives a soft smile as he catches the blonde woman, his hands gently keeping her upright.
Blasthoof leans into the hair nuzzles, and ear scritches. Esoti never gives him ear scritches, let alone chin rubs. Truly this woman must be an angel, Blasthoof thinks.
Esoti then smiles and speaks softly to the mute woman. "And... as far as your question, a little bit of both.", he says with a smile. I won't deny that I've missed you too. But Blasthoof was the one that insisted. I was trying to do errands, and he just kept taking me to Gloomlight."
He relaxes a bit, letting to of Maria once she's regained her balance.
"Anyway, you seem troubled. If anything's on your mind, I'll listen. Or if it's something you'd rather not talk about, I'll respect your privacy."
He ponders for a moment, wondering if there's any way he can help, before pulling out a slice of pizza, splitting it in half one on each plate, and giving the half to Maria. There seems to be something under the plate too.
(Esoti Liam)
[23:19] The woman lets out a soft yawn. Her eyes were tender, tired. Barely awake amidst the plethora of voices echoing mere yards away. She looked toward their direction, a glance toward the fighters that had decided to spar tonight.
She seemed out of it. Her expressions wary, a voice unheard, unable to be expressed. She already knew it would seem, of the feelings presumed by the other next to her.
She could only wander one thing in her mind. A single thought.
'Why me? You deserve better...'
Than this tired, lonely, alcoholic facade of an outlaw.
Nevertheless, Esoti's response delivers a smile too her features. She'd chuckle lightly, looking up and down the man that seemed to be falling for her.
It was rather silly, to her. For she couldn't quite see why. Maybe if her brother or twin were here, they could give a plethora of reasons to why Maria was worth it.
Yet they weren't here anymore, were they?
Merely this boy, who whether from infatuation of pity, would give her the time of day.
But what use are those thoughts now in the moment?
She continues petting Blasthoof. She giggles at his reaction, them being more than enough to put a smile on her face and echo a giggle from her throat. Truly, the horse was doing a better job at this than Esoti...
"Mm?"
She turns to him now, eyes wavering lightly. They seemed blank. To his words, she turns to Blasthoof and pouts. As if to chide the poor mare into torturing this man any longer with her presence.
["I'm just tired."] Maria gestures too Esoti. Yet something more lingered in her hues, it would seem.
["I have been thinking of my siblings lately. I have been feeling alone."]
["I'm weak."]
"..."
Those were her words, before she'd place her hands back on her legs. She didn't seem to want to speak much on it. Merely basking in the midnight air, a glance toward the moon.
Oh, it would seem it was full tonight.
She takes the slice of pizza. Luckily, her favorite dish. Scarfing it down as quickly as she had obtained it. Poor girl probably had not eaten in a while. If it didn't cheer her up, it certainly filled the hole in her stomach.
"Mm?"
She finds the tokens as well. She scoffs, shaking her head as they were given to her. She offers to give them back to Esoti. It didn't seem she needed such things! Though...it would be nice to save them up for a horse of her own.
Either way, she finished her pizza. She'd remark 'thank you'. But the most she could do was a nod and touch of her chest. A light bow, as she simply gestures the words toward him.
(Maria Malibu)
[23:34] Esoti watches the tired blonde, nervously putting his hand on her shoulder to reassure her. But judging by how much his hand trembled as he did so, he needs the reassurance more than her, the warmth of flames from his soul soothe as he lightly squeezes her shoulder.
He's far from the best at social cues. But even he can tell something is wrong, beyond mere tiredness. Those eyes aren't right. But he's afraid to push the subject. Always afraid. Fear of what he might lose.
And so, he doesn't talk about her emotions. A light smile is given. "Perhaps the middle of a busy street isn't the best place to nap.", he says in response to her admitting her own tiredness.
Yet when she continues on, talking about her lost siblings, he looks with understanding.
"I understand. It was a tragic situation. I did what I could to help, but it wasn't enough." He says, holding out a green glass sphere, that some might recognize as a dreamline.
He looks to himself, and at his green alchemical orb. "If I were better at alchemy, these would have worked better, and maybe things would have gone differently."
He sighs over his own weakness, when Maria continues on. He simply responds, "So am I. Perhaps... we should be weak together."
…wow. That has to be the LEAST romantic thing he could have said. If it were anyone else, that would be a sure fire sign he was trying to tank his own chances. Yet he's completely sincere.
He smiles as the pizza is consumed, surprised at just how fast the petite woman could down the pizza. He offers his half. "You're welcome", he says leaning against her slightly.
(Esoti Liam)
23:41] ["Isn't the best place to talk, either."] she retorts. Canary hues gazing at the collection of people at her view. Many of them famous, having deeds that brought them some level of fame or infamy. They were strong, they were bold, and they were naught but the pinnacle of strength that ruled this island, some of them.
...Who was she? To be apart of them?
Who was she to try and be like them?
"..."
Maria covers her view with her hat, as if trying to ignore their talking. Her gaze turns to Esoti, still smiling with a gentle demeanor. As if appreciating their presence, despite all the noise.
["You're scared too."] Maria gestures. She finds the shiver of his palm, the gentle shake of his skin against hers. The locking of his eyes away from her for just a moment, the nervousness upon his lips.
She didn't have any flames to warm her. Merelythe shadows of her sorrow.
["Aren't you?"]
Maria drops the act. Of the cold and stoic outlaw, instead moving her palm toward his. She smiles, as if telling him that it was okay.
["At least you did something."]
["I did nothing. I stood by...and watched my siblings die."]
Was there anything she could do?
The obsession of power and weakness was evident. Even Maria felt as if she wasn't strong enough. Countless hours of training, countless hours of sharpshooting various weapons. Countless hours of creating gadgets to aid with her magics...and still
She wasn't strong enough.
["It's not your fault either. It's none of our faults."] she shakes her head, an attempt to comfort Esoti. Roles reversed, as she places a hand on his shoulder.
["Or strong together."]
"..."
She feels him lean against her. She doesn't outright deny the gesture. Maria was not an idiot. She knew full well the boy's feelings. And entirely of what they meant.
Perhaps she was scared herself...
Maria lifts herself from her seat, scarfing down her pizza. The petite gunslinger does something rather bold, hopping on the back of Blasthoof. She gestures for Esoti to ride. Eyes fervent and serious at her request.
["Take me somewhere less noisy."] she gestures simply. Allowing for him to do so, if he'd so oblige.
Luckily, she'd assume she had a decent enough bond with Blasthoof that he wouldn't buck her off instantly.
...Hopefully.
(Maria Malibu)
[23:50] Esoti nods, "I'm scared because you're worth being worried over." The view of his gentle smile obscured by her hat as she brings it down.
He bites his tongue. Unsure of if he should tell her about his past, and take camradre in similarity, or if it will turn into a sort of public pity party just making things worse. He doesn't know these things.
He watches her sign more. He also knows what it's like to watch a sibling die. And deep in his heart, he knew he could have saved his brother, but it would have cost his own life.
She's right though, it's not either of our fault. And we could perhaps be strong together. "Perhaps."
The one most surprised by her boldness is Blasthoof himself. Nevertheless the equine kneels down to make it easier. It's hard to mount a horse from sitting on a bench.
Esoti isn't quite sure how to react to this change, and just relies on his instincts... of asking someone else for help. "Okay Blasthoof, you heard her.", he says as he gets on the horse, giving Maria a chance to hold on tight before they start to ride off to the west.
(Esoti Liam)
[23:58] 'Worth being worried over?'
...
'Hardly.'
Maria thought she was undeserving of love. She thought she was undeserving of attention. Why would a girl like her deserve anything? If she wasn't strong enough to protect that love?
She knew it was a lie, deep down.
That none if it mattered.
That she was human. She made mistakes, and she was vulnerable. Sure, those stories she read when she were a child spoke of bombastic and brave heroes. But did they ever speak of who they were, truly?
Of course not.
That wouldn't sell well, would it?
"..."
Blasthoof gallops away from Gloomlight. The setting moon caught in canary hues. Maria grabs onto Esoti's waste, making sure to have a good handle as if not to fall off. A horse as big as Blasthoof could easily buck her off if she wasn'tstable, of course.
She ponders during the ride. Looking deep into the gentle moonlight. It reflects upon her hues, the shadows briskly fading away.
If not for a moment.
They ride to the west, finding themselves on a beach!
She hops off of Blasthoof, giving the stallion a gentle pet and kiss on his cheek. A thanks for taking them so far, and being such a loyal companion.
The waves are gentle, they remind the rural woman of her home in Nilharra. They calm her, if not for a moment...
"..."
Maria looks toward Esoti. It was as if she wanted to ask him something, yet didn't have the bravery to do so...
She blushes lightly, tilting her head. Staring at the ocean above. Perhaps Esoti would catch her eye, and be able to convince her to ask what she wanted too.
It was such a silly request.
Yet it would mean the world to her if he let her.
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[00:18] The ride is gentle, with Blasthoof taking small strides to keep everything smooth. It's a great thing that between Esoti and Blasthoof, that ONE of them understands subtlety and romance.
Esoti smiles at the hands around his torso. Yet soon enough, Blasthoof rides over and through the waygate? Horses aren't supposed to be able to do that!
The journey continues to a nearby beach, and Blasthoof gently dismounts both of them together, before walking away along the beach, giving Esoti and Maria some time alone.
"So... umm... I..." Esoti struggles to find his words as he looks into Maria's eyes, glinting upwards at the moon. Great, now there's two mute people on a date.
He musters up some courage, and moves some hair off of her face, his hands gentle and smooth.
"Thank you, Maria, for spending time with me. I know I'm a nerd, and an idiot when it comes to people.". He smiles as she turns to her, silently asking a question that misses it's destination.
The two of them then look again to the sky together. "I don't... know how to pace these things. I'm always afraid of being pushy. I'm always afraid of not understanding people. Yet... I know sometimes I have to make guesses."
A nervous hand wraps around the Malibu's shoulder, and pulls her in close as the two sit under the stars.
"And right now... I'm guessing you feel similarly to how I do."
And so he leans in close, the two foreheads touching one another, before he nervously sputters his next words. "D..do… you want to go out w..with...m.m.m.me?" His nervous jitter can be clearly felt through his forehead as the two touch.
If one listens carefully, they can hear Blasthoof bashing his head against a tree in frustration. Esoti had ONE JOB and he missed it... At least he made progress though.
(Esoti Liam)
[00:33] "..."
"..."
Maria's silence was unbearable. She listens to Esoti. Each and every single word. Yet there was no response from her. No gesture, no reaction. Merely canary hues against the waves. A shining moonlight, echoing upon the desolate waves.
It reminded her of Lavenza, of the shadows in her heart.
"..."
She had to move on...didn't she?
She had to let go...
"..."
She tilts her gaze to Esoti soon enough. Curious and shy, tilting he head, as stuttered words escape his lips.
She couldn't help but smile.
It was...
Cute?
"..."
She listens, nodding in response to his thanks. He was looking into her eyes now. Canary hues filled with sorrow and grief. Filled with shadow...
Yet one can find the slightest glimpse of hope.
What did that outlaw tell her? All those years ago?
...Right..
'Keep your head up'
'She said to em', never look down, never turn back, the moment ya' do, yer world will turn black. Always keep yer head up, an' ye'll never have t' turn tail n' run ever again.'
Her world was turning black as she knew it.
All she needed to do, was keep her head up.
So she does, raising it from the sand below. She doesn't gesture much toward Esoti...her expressions told what needed to be said.
["I understand. I know what it's like. To feel like you do not belong."]
["I should be thanking you."]
She too, felt like an idiot when it came to people. Yet people still liked her, yes? They cared for her. They enjoyed her, even if every bone and brain cell in her body told her otherwise.
That was just her.
And Esoti should know thesame.
"...??"
The waves continue to bellow, as she'd gaze at Esoti. She takes off her hat, leaving room for gentle, canary hues to fixate on his gaze. She sees the blush upon his features, the nervousness on his lips, the boldness, to ask such a question.
Perhaps he was braver than her, taking that leap of faith. She'd need to take a page out of his book. For Levius would have done the same.
His words hit her ear. A plethora of nervous, soft words. She could barely understand amidst all the stuttering! She giggles, smiling and blushing at such a simple request...
She couldn't help but recuperate.
She sits down beside him. And with a single touch, Esoti finds something remarkable.
Her thoughts against his psyche. He finds them echoing, a rural voice, one of a girl who had lived and grew up in the farmlands of Nilharra. Telepathy, at it's most basic principle.
["I don't know, hun. Do you want to kiss me?"] that voice echoes. It was a very specific voice, perfect for a cowgirl or outlaw. And quite typical of a rural voice that grew up on such farmlands.
It was as teasing as it was serious.
Heads collide, allowing a connection of mana circuits and psyches. She opens her heart to Esoti, forgoing the shadows that bellowed in her own. Awakening instead, to a new voice in her psyche.
The shadows dissipate, they forgo, allowing her heart to be taken once again.
["You're doing wonderful."]
["Relax...okay?"]
["Close your eyes..."]
She leans in for an embrace. Yet one that was different then Esoti had ever felt before. While he had one job and probably missed the mark? The little cowgirl simply couldn't accept such a poor ending...
She leans forward, placing her lips on his own.
A gentle embrace against the moonlight.
Silence.
Against the echoing waves.
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[00:50] A giggle escapes her lips and reaches Esoti's ear. He's no stranger to interacting with the vocally challenged. Perhaps all of the practice he's had was to lead him up to this moment.
Esoti seems a bit surprised as he feels the familiar sensation of telepathy on his mind. Yet despite his mind being touched by psychic powers, he doesn't recoil, he lets it in, and trusts it. Yet the words shock him more.
He responds, his mana circuits filled with both soothing warmth, and healing wellspring as the two approach and lock lips. He doesn't know what he's doing, but he tries his best. He's nervous because he has something to lose.
The two hold their embrace for a few moments that seem to last hours.
And faint thoughts can be heard deep in his mind. He feels as though he's inadequate, and not deserving of this, as he is missing something. Something specific. Yet the details of his doubt cannot be reached in time, as the embrace ends.
The waves continue moving, the tide creeping in, covering both of their ankles, and fireworks display in the distance, yet it's not his magic, as the sky explodes in myriad rainbows. Since when does Blasthoof know explosion magic?
"Thank you.", a small phrase met with his kind eyes gazing upon the Malibu's amber gems.
He clasps her hand and stands up, gently guiding her to her feet also.
"Let's move a bit before we both get soaked by the incoming tide."
(Esoti Liam)
[00:59] ["I...I never realized how cute you were, darlin."] The little outlaw smiles. Her lips betwixt Esoti's. Softly and tenderly lingering against his own. Wanting naught more than to continue to taste his embrace.
It was...such a different feeling.
Her lips are betwixt. She takes it slow, merely kissing and coddling the poor boy against the sand. A hand cusps his cheek, a psyche echoing in his view, mana circuits open, no longer forgone by shadow and sorrow.
["To think you'd fall for little ol' me..."]
["You're lucky I have for you." she teases. The embrace lasts a few seconds or more. Perhaps a minute. Esoti finding the lips of the gunslinger painted on his own, alongside a few pecks of his cheek for good measure.
["I wanted to ask earlier. If you'd let me sing."] an odd request. Yet of course,she'd fulfill his own first.
The tide continues to creep, gentle waves marked against a fervent moonlight. She keeps Esoti in this embrace for a few moments, the psychic connection given a glimpse into his own mind...
Perhaps they were more similar to each other than she thought...
Minds filled with insecurity and fear. A facade of bravery, hiding the guilt in their hearts.
She knew the feelings well. She seemed to know his feelings. All she could say in this moment was her own ["Thank you."] against his psyche.
Alas, Maria didn't know what she was doing either.
She simply...lets it happen. Her lips against his own, tasting every inch of his embrace. For what would seem like hours, even if it was mere minutes.
Eventually, she escapes.
The thoughts echoing in his mind were similar to her own. Of inedawuacy. Maria felt as if she didn't deserve this either. The feeling of love and gentleness in her heart. She felt too, as if she was missing something. As if she didn't deserve something so tender and happy.
The shadows of her heart, they escape her. For one single moment, she finds her voice.
...Would she give in to her sorrow? Would she delve deeper?
Or would she find her voice?
"Aha-...ahh...hahah!"
She giggles, upon escaping that embrace. She giggles madly, blushing like a tomato as she turned away from Esoti.
She felt so happy, the most she had felt in years...
"..C-..cu..-.."
"Cute." she says from her lips, gazing into those emerald gems. She accepts his gesture, grabbing his hand as if not to be soaked by the coming tide. Allowing him to do the work, to carry and guide her forth.
Maria knew how he felt. The insecurity, the fear and the anxiety.
All she wanted was to make him feel better.
For he had caught her eye as well, all those years ago...
["Please? Can I play a song for you?"] she asks. This was the query that had meant the most to her. That she wanted more than anything in the world...
Her chance to move on...
Her chance to find herself amidst all of the shadow.
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[01:05] Esoti Liam shakes his head to Ouka
(Esoti Liam)
[01:15] Esoti smiles as the embrace ends, carrying the blonde girl in both of his arms in front of him, like a princess. He's having a hard time. Physical strength is NOT his strong suit.
His feet slowly carry the both of them onto a nearby patio, both of their faces red enough to illuminate a whole city block.
Her voice. he heard it. He smiles in return. This scene echoing another one he had several years ago, when he heard another mute girl's voice. This time though, something is different... she likes him back.
"I'd love to hear a song from you.", he smiles, his head leaning in close.
He waits patiently. Despite his insecurities, everything will work out. Probably hopefully. Maybe.It's not impossible, right?
And so he listens to the waves crashing. Waiting for a song to emerge and wreathe the air with it's grace.
(Esoti Liam)
[01:52] "!!!"
"Hwuh!"
Maria wouldn't find herself able to defend, as the boy suddenly picks her up in a bridal position! Normally she'd fight and pout, but surprisingly she felt...comfortable in his arms. Even though the wet tides had graced her, she felt as if the world was mere miles away, caught in his arms.
Perhaps he was more romantic than her thought.
"..."
The 'outlaw' finds herself stricken. She is carried and placed on a pation, finding naught but a flush of red to caress her face. Ah, yes? What was was she to do again?
Sing.
Or at least...try.
Her method of speech therapy. And her method off running away from those desolate shadows that plagued her circuits.
Maria does something...surprising. She unholsters her pistol. How long had it been since she has done this?
Opening a portal?
"..."
She fires her first shot from her revolver. It rings nothing but a brief tear in reality. She focuses. Her studies at the forefront of her mind, the directions coming to fruition, as distant as they were.
BANG!
Nothing...
Again?
BANG!
Better.
A portal opens for a mere second, a guitar falling from the opened tear in reality. Her mother's. That she had brought all the way to Nilharra to here, to play this single song.
She holsters her pistol, bashfully carrying that guitar in her arms. She sits down, blushing madly. Yet somehow having the ability to play.
She couldn't sing, she couldn't play like the masters...
But she could move on.
From the shadows of her heart.
Her digits strum, echoing a gentle sound. She was so proud that she still knew how to open portals in the Lifestream. She was still worthy! She was still able to learn how to be a Wayfinder...
But for now?
She was a musicion.
Strumming her mother's guitar, it's echo crossing the beach. It's silent waves, interrupted by her strums and her voice.
She plays the song her mother had played. Time and time ago, when she was little. When the world was so simple, and when she idolized those who cherished this song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=na47wMFfQCo&ab_channel=RHINO
Her digits cross, strumming, playing the instrumental of this ancient song. A true visual for an outlaw, the pinnacle of what it meant to be one.
It meant much to her, this song. For it was her voice, her freedom...
"..."
"Duh, duh duh, duh duh, duh."
"La, la, la, la, lalala, la...la...la..." Her voice echoes, as she scats along he strumming. She couldn't speak the words, she could never believe to ever speak them. But she could try.
She scats, bobbing her head up and down alongside her strumming. Maria was rusty, of course. She'd mess up every now and then. But what was said was the gentle strums that would echo in her heart. A song for a woman with no name...
A song for outlaws.
"Daaaah...dah...dah, dah, dah, dah..."
"Laaaa...laaa...laaa..."
She continues to strum. Her voice sings and scats, a smile upon her face as she held tight to mother's guitar.
It meant the world to her, for someone to listen...
For someone to care and understand.
Eventually, the song ends. Maria looking bashfully at Esoti. He was the first that she'd ever play toward besides her siblings. The shadows of her heart dissipating, making way for a new magics...
She finds her voice...echoing upon her heart.
"Th-...thank..."
"...Thank...you..." she says softly. Moving her hues away. Tired and exhausted, as would anyone be, playing such a song.
Wanting nothing more than to be noticed.
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[02:10] Esoti smiles as Maria works to gather the courage to sing. He knows all too well how hard it can be to muster up courage.
BANG!
He looks startled. But when it sinks in that it's indeed Maria and not a random shot from over on the main island, he relaxes again. Perhaps her instrument of choice is the roar of gunpowder? An unusual instrument to be sure, but if anyone can make it work, It's Ma--
BANG!
His thoughts are interrupted by another shot echoing through the air. Much more of this instrument, and he'll be deaf. Oh, a wayfinding portal and a guitar. That makes so much more sense.
The song starts, and he listens. He's studied many things, but music isn't one of them. He's unprepared for this, and so he decides to just listen and go with his heart.
The music is wonderful, the strums of the strings work with the crashing of waves as a secondary rhythm.
And then she sings. A brave moment for her, as these notes, flawed and unpracticed as they may be, reflect the heart.
Eventually, the song ends, the outlaw having expressed themselves, bearing their heart for the world to see. Esoti starts to clap, but stops himself, instead listening to the echos of her song as they grow ever fainter.
"You're wonderful, Maria." The notice and acknowledgement she so desired, followed by a gentle, but warm hug.
(Esoti Liam)
[02:11] {Item} You picked up Token x25. Dropped by Esoti Liam.
[02:16] "..."
The silence was unbearable. The song ends, Maria holding her mother's guitar close to her chest. This ancient little thing, for once her mother had played her heart out for a roaring applause.
Once upon a time, when Meryl Malibu was her age. So innocent and happy.
Not anymore.
Maybe Maria carried on that legacy, more than she thought.
"..."
She smiles, a bashful expression upon her features. A distinct red across her face, as she breaks eye contact with the Lam.
So much for a stoic and brave cowgirl, mm?
She was still that little girl. Deep down inside...
"..."
She smiles once again. Blushing. She wanted to stay more with Esoti. To do more with him, besides just this. To express herself more than she can ever imagine...
Perhaps another time.
She takes her pistol again. She winks toward her newfound partner, smiling happily, for the first time in so long.
She could feel the shadows escape...for just a moment. Did she still need them? Did she still need that sorrow?
Of course not.
She winks, before taking her leave. She shoots another bullet, and another, and another. Until eventually she can form a portal a mere mile away.
She'd see the Lam again someday, that was for sure. But for now?
Maria would escape, finding the passion in her heart once again.
A passion once long forgotten..
"Buh...-"
"Buh bye..."
"Esoti..."
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[02:21] Esoti continues on the hug for an eternity that only lasted two minutes.
But all things must end sometime.
And so, as she draws her revolver, he understands what she is trying to do, and releases the hug.
Shots resound through the air, each one both a signifier of a failure to commune with the lifestream, and a promise to try again.
That is until the last one, when the green portal opens, and the Malibu leaves.
"Bye, I'll see you again, Maria."
He waves gently, until the portal fully vanishes from sight.
(Esoti Liam)
[02:21] Maria Malibu says, "S-see..."
[02:21] Maria Malibu says, "...Ugh-..."
[02:22] Maria Malibu huffs! She knew what he was trying to say! She winks, before falling into that portal...
(Maria Malibu)
[00:18] The ride is gentle, with Blasthoof taking small strides to keep everything smooth. It's a great thing that between Esoti and Blasthoof, that ONE of them understands subtlety and romance.
Esoti smiles at the hands around his torso. Yet soon enough, Blasthoof rides over and through the waygate? Horses aren't supposed to be able to do that!
The journey continues to a nearby beach, and Blasthoof gently dismounts both of them together, before walking away along the beach, giving Esoti and Maria some time alone.
"So... umm... I..." Esoti struggles to find his words as he looks into Maria's eyes, glinting upwards at the moon. Great, now there's two mute people on a date.
He musters up some courage, and moves some hair off of her face, his hands gentle and smooth.
"Thank you, Maria, for spending time with me. I know I'm a nerd, and an idiot when it comes to people.". He smiles as she turns to her, silently asking a question that misses it's destination.
The two of them then look again to the sky together. "I don't... know how to pace these things. I'm always afraid of being pushy. I'm always afraid of not understanding people. Yet... I know sometimes I have to make guesses."
A nervous hand wraps around the Malibu's shoulder, and pulls her in close as the two sit under the stars.
"And right now... I'm guessing you feel similarly to how I do."
And so he leans in close, the two foreheads touching one another, before he nervously sputters his next words. "D..do… you want to go out w..with...m.m.m.me?" His nervous jitter can be clearly felt through his forehead as the two touch.
If one listens carefully, they can hear Blasthoof bashing his head against a tree in frustration. Esoti had ONE JOB and he missed it... At least he made progress though.
(Esoti Liam)
[00:33] "..."
"..."
Maria's silence was unbearable. She listens to Esoti. Each and every single word. Yet there was no response from her. No gesture, no reaction. Merely canary hues against the waves. A shining moonlight, echoing upon the desolate waves.
It reminded her of Lavenza, of the shadows in her heart.
"..."
She had to move on...didn't she?
She had to let go...
"..."
She tilts her gaze to Esoti soon enough. Curious and shy, tilting he head, as stuttered words escape his lips.
She couldn't help but smile.
It was...
Cute?
"..."
She listens, nodding in response to his thanks. He was looking into her eyes now. Canary hues filled with sorrow and grief. Filled with shadow...
Yet one can find the slightest glimpse of hope.
What did that outlaw tell her? All those years ago?
...Right..
'Keep your head up'
'She said to em', never look down, never turn back, the moment ya' do, yer world will turn black. Always keep yer head up, an' ye'll never have t' turn tail n' run ever again.'
Her world was turning black as she knew it.
All she needed to do, was keep her head up.
So she does, raising it from the sand below. She doesn't gesture much toward Esoti...her expressions told what needed to be said.
["I understand. I know what it's like. To feel like you do not belong."]
["I should be thanking you."]
She too, felt like an idiot when it came to people. Yet people still liked her, yes? They cared for her. They enjoyed her, even if every bone and brain cell in her body told her otherwise.
That was just her.
And Esoti should know thesame.
"...??"
The waves continue to bellow, as she'd gaze at Esoti. She takes off her hat, leaving room for gentle, canary hues to fixate on his gaze. She sees the blush upon his features, the nervousness on his lips, the boldness, to ask such a question.
Perhaps he was braver than her, taking that leap of faith. She'd need to take a page out of his book. For Levius would have done the same.
His words hit her ear. A plethora of nervous, soft words. She could barely understand amidst all the stuttering! She giggles, smiling and blushing at such a simple request...
She couldn't help but recuperate.
She sits down beside him. And with a single touch, Esoti finds something remarkable.
Her thoughts against his psyche. He finds them echoing, a rural voice, one of a girl who had lived and grew up in the farmlands of Nilharra. Telepathy, at it's most basic principle.
["I don't know, hun. Do you want to kiss me?"] that voice echoes. It was a very specific voice, perfect for a cowgirl or outlaw. And quite typical of a rural voice that grew up on such farmlands.
It was as teasing as it was serious.
Heads collide, allowing a connection of mana circuits and psyches. She opens her heart to Esoti, forgoing the shadows that bellowed in her own. Awakening instead, to a new voice in her psyche.
The shadows dissipate, they forgo, allowing her heart to be taken once again.
["You're doing wonderful."]
["Relax...okay?"]
["Close your eyes..."]
She leans in for an embrace. Yet one that was different then Esoti had ever felt before. While he had one job and probably missed the mark? The little cowgirl simply couldn't accept such a poor ending...
She leans forward, placing her lips on his own.
A gentle embrace against the moonlight.
Silence.
Against the echoing waves.
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[00:50] A giggle escapes her lips and reaches Esoti's ear. He's no stranger to interacting with the vocally challenged. Perhaps all of the practice he's had was to lead him up to this moment.
Esoti seems a bit surprised as he feels the familiar sensation of telepathy on his mind. Yet despite his mind being touched by psychic powers, he doesn't recoil, he lets it in, and trusts it. Yet the words shock him more.
He responds, his mana circuits filled with both soothing warmth, and healing wellspring as the two approach and lock lips. He doesn't know what he's doing, but he tries his best. He's nervous because he has something to lose.
The two hold their embrace for a few moments that seem to last hours.
And faint thoughts can be heard deep in his mind. He feels as though he's inadequate, and not deserving of this, as he is missing something. Something specific. Yet the details of his doubt cannot be reached in time, as the embrace ends.
The waves continue moving, the tide creeping in, covering both of their ankles, and fireworks display in the distance, yet it's not his magic, as the sky explodes in myriad rainbows. Since when does Blasthoof know explosion magic?
"Thank you.", a small phrase met with his kind eyes gazing upon the Malibu's amber gems.
He clasps her hand and stands up, gently guiding her to her feet also.
"Let's move a bit before we both get soaked by the incoming tide."
(Esoti Liam)
[00:59] ["I...I never realized how cute you were, darlin."] The little outlaw smiles. Her lips betwixt Esoti's. Softly and tenderly lingering against his own. Wanting naught more than to continue to taste his embrace.
It was...such a different feeling.
Her lips are betwixt. She takes it slow, merely kissing and coddling the poor boy against the sand. A hand cusps his cheek, a psyche echoing in his view, mana circuits open, no longer forgone by shadow and sorrow.
["To think you'd fall for little ol' me..."]
["You're lucky I have for you." she teases. The embrace lasts a few seconds or more. Perhaps a minute. Esoti finding the lips of the gunslinger painted on his own, alongside a few pecks of his cheek for good measure.
["I wanted to ask earlier. If you'd let me sing."] an odd request. Yet of course,she'd fulfill his own first.
The tide continues to creep, gentle waves marked against a fervent moonlight. She keeps Esoti in this embrace for a few moments, the psychic connection given a glimpse into his own mind...
Perhaps they were more similar to each other than she thought...
Minds filled with insecurity and fear. A facade of bravery, hiding the guilt in their hearts.
She knew the feelings well. She seemed to know his feelings. All she could say in this moment was her own ["Thank you."] against his psyche.
Alas, Maria didn't know what she was doing either.
She simply...lets it happen. Her lips against his own, tasting every inch of his embrace. For what would seem like hours, even if it was mere minutes.
Eventually, she escapes.
The thoughts echoing in his mind were similar to her own. Of inedawuacy. Maria felt as if she didn't deserve this either. The feeling of love and gentleness in her heart. She felt too, as if she was missing something. As if she didn't deserve something so tender and happy.
The shadows of her heart, they escape her. For one single moment, she finds her voice.
...Would she give in to her sorrow? Would she delve deeper?
Or would she find her voice?
"Aha-...ahh...hahah!"
She giggles, upon escaping that embrace. She giggles madly, blushing like a tomato as she turned away from Esoti.
She felt so happy, the most she had felt in years...
"..C-..cu..-.."
"Cute." she says from her lips, gazing into those emerald gems. She accepts his gesture, grabbing his hand as if not to be soaked by the coming tide. Allowing him to do the work, to carry and guide her forth.
Maria knew how he felt. The insecurity, the fear and the anxiety.
All she wanted was to make him feel better.
For he had caught her eye as well, all those years ago...
["Please? Can I play a song for you?"] she asks. This was the query that had meant the most to her. That she wanted more than anything in the world...
Her chance to move on...
Her chance to find herself amidst all of the shadow.
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[01:05] Esoti Liam shakes his head to Ouka
(Esoti Liam)
[01:15] Esoti smiles as the embrace ends, carrying the blonde girl in both of his arms in front of him, like a princess. He's having a hard time. Physical strength is NOT his strong suit.
His feet slowly carry the both of them onto a nearby patio, both of their faces red enough to illuminate a whole city block.
Her voice. he heard it. He smiles in return. This scene echoing another one he had several years ago, when he heard another mute girl's voice. This time though, something is different... she likes him back.
"I'd love to hear a song from you.", he smiles, his head leaning in close.
He waits patiently. Despite his insecurities, everything will work out. Probably hopefully. Maybe.It's not impossible, right?
And so he listens to the waves crashing. Waiting for a song to emerge and wreathe the air with it's grace.
(Esoti Liam)
[01:52] "!!!"
"Hwuh!"
Maria wouldn't find herself able to defend, as the boy suddenly picks her up in a bridal position! Normally she'd fight and pout, but surprisingly she felt...comfortable in his arms. Even though the wet tides had graced her, she felt as if the world was mere miles away, caught in his arms.
Perhaps he was more romantic than her thought.
"..."
The 'outlaw' finds herself stricken. She is carried and placed on a pation, finding naught but a flush of red to caress her face. Ah, yes? What was was she to do again?
Sing.
Or at least...try.
Her method of speech therapy. And her method off running away from those desolate shadows that plagued her circuits.
Maria does something...surprising. She unholsters her pistol. How long had it been since she has done this?
Opening a portal?
"..."
She fires her first shot from her revolver. It rings nothing but a brief tear in reality. She focuses. Her studies at the forefront of her mind, the directions coming to fruition, as distant as they were.
BANG!
Nothing...
Again?
BANG!
Better.
A portal opens for a mere second, a guitar falling from the opened tear in reality. Her mother's. That she had brought all the way to Nilharra to here, to play this single song.
She holsters her pistol, bashfully carrying that guitar in her arms. She sits down, blushing madly. Yet somehow having the ability to play.
She couldn't sing, she couldn't play like the masters...
But she could move on.
From the shadows of her heart.
Her digits strum, echoing a gentle sound. She was so proud that she still knew how to open portals in the Lifestream. She was still worthy! She was still able to learn how to be a Wayfinder...
But for now?
She was a musicion.
Strumming her mother's guitar, it's echo crossing the beach. It's silent waves, interrupted by her strums and her voice.
She plays the song her mother had played. Time and time ago, when she was little. When the world was so simple, and when she idolized those who cherished this song.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=na47wMFfQCo&ab_channel=RHINO
Her digits cross, strumming, playing the instrumental of this ancient song. A true visual for an outlaw, the pinnacle of what it meant to be one.
It meant much to her, this song. For it was her voice, her freedom...
"..."
"Duh, duh duh, duh duh, duh."
"La, la, la, la, lalala, la...la...la..." Her voice echoes, as she scats along he strumming. She couldn't speak the words, she could never believe to ever speak them. But she could try.
She scats, bobbing her head up and down alongside her strumming. Maria was rusty, of course. She'd mess up every now and then. But what was said was the gentle strums that would echo in her heart. A song for a woman with no name...
A song for outlaws.
"Daaaah...dah...dah, dah, dah, dah..."
"Laaaa...laaa...laaa..."
She continues to strum. Her voice sings and scats, a smile upon her face as she held tight to mother's guitar.
It meant the world to her, for someone to listen...
For someone to care and understand.
Eventually, the song ends. Maria looking bashfully at Esoti. He was the first that she'd ever play toward besides her siblings. The shadows of her heart dissipating, making way for a new magics...
She finds her voice...echoing upon her heart.
"Th-...thank..."
"...Thank...you..." she says softly. Moving her hues away. Tired and exhausted, as would anyone be, playing such a song.
Wanting nothing more than to be noticed.
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[02:10] Esoti smiles as Maria works to gather the courage to sing. He knows all too well how hard it can be to muster up courage.
BANG!
He looks startled. But when it sinks in that it's indeed Maria and not a random shot from over on the main island, he relaxes again. Perhaps her instrument of choice is the roar of gunpowder? An unusual instrument to be sure, but if anyone can make it work, It's Ma--
BANG!
His thoughts are interrupted by another shot echoing through the air. Much more of this instrument, and he'll be deaf. Oh, a wayfinding portal and a guitar. That makes so much more sense.
The song starts, and he listens. He's studied many things, but music isn't one of them. He's unprepared for this, and so he decides to just listen and go with his heart.
The music is wonderful, the strums of the strings work with the crashing of waves as a secondary rhythm.
And then she sings. A brave moment for her, as these notes, flawed and unpracticed as they may be, reflect the heart.
Eventually, the song ends, the outlaw having expressed themselves, bearing their heart for the world to see. Esoti starts to clap, but stops himself, instead listening to the echos of her song as they grow ever fainter.
"You're wonderful, Maria." The notice and acknowledgement she so desired, followed by a gentle, but warm hug.
(Esoti Liam)
[02:11] {Item} You picked up Token x25. Dropped by Esoti Liam.
[02:16] "..."
The silence was unbearable. The song ends, Maria holding her mother's guitar close to her chest. This ancient little thing, for once her mother had played her heart out for a roaring applause.
Once upon a time, when Meryl Malibu was her age. So innocent and happy.
Not anymore.
Maybe Maria carried on that legacy, more than she thought.
"..."
She smiles, a bashful expression upon her features. A distinct red across her face, as she breaks eye contact with the Lam.
So much for a stoic and brave cowgirl, mm?
She was still that little girl. Deep down inside...
"..."
She smiles once again. Blushing. She wanted to stay more with Esoti. To do more with him, besides just this. To express herself more than she can ever imagine...
Perhaps another time.
She takes her pistol again. She winks toward her newfound partner, smiling happily, for the first time in so long.
She could feel the shadows escape...for just a moment. Did she still need them? Did she still need that sorrow?
Of course not.
She winks, before taking her leave. She shoots another bullet, and another, and another. Until eventually she can form a portal a mere mile away.
She'd see the Lam again someday, that was for sure. But for now?
Maria would escape, finding the passion in her heart once again.
A passion once long forgotten..
"Buh...-"
"Buh bye..."
"Esoti..."
"..."
(Maria Malibu)
[02:21] Esoti continues on the hug for an eternity that only lasted two minutes.
But all things must end sometime.
And so, as she draws her revolver, he understands what she is trying to do, and releases the hug.
Shots resound through the air, each one both a signifier of a failure to commune with the lifestream, and a promise to try again.
That is until the last one, when the green portal opens, and the Malibu leaves.
"Bye, I'll see you again, Maria."
He waves gently, until the portal fully vanishes from sight.
(Esoti Liam)
[02:21] Maria Malibu says, "S-see..."
[02:21] Maria Malibu says, "...Ugh-..."
[02:22] Maria Malibu huffs! She knew what he was trying to say! She winks, before falling into that portal...
(Maria Malibu)