On Your Left

Summer 2021, Week 4, Tuesday evening

Siwards, Downtown

Sorin Fionn

Stretching a small bit before his late night run and having changed out of his uniform, he ponders if his most recent purchase would be a worthwhile one. It had better be.. it was very expensive. Ate up a chunk of my savings, it did! During his lunch break he visited a tailor to order a lightweight, flexible and sturdy outfit, akin to a magician's getup. It was a custom piece that required hard to find materials, and even paid to have a priority order so that it didn't take weeks to finish. 'Should be finished by Friday, now that I your measurements!' She had said, though that process felt a little more invasive than he imagined it would be. Ah, I'm sure she meant nothing by it.
Finishing his stretches, he breaks into a brisk jog for him, which might seem as fast as a sprint for some people watching. Keeping an eye out, he jogs under the lamp lights of the streets. It wasn't long before he makes his way to the riverside, and admires the calm waters as he jogs alongside it.
While jogging along the riverbank, he spies a lone bench in the distance. Glancing quickly about and not noticing anyone, he runs towards it. Time to test out a move. The change to a run from a jog sends a charge of adrenaline flowing through his body as he quickly approaches the bench, and at the last possible moment his nerves fire with an adopted memory of someone performing a variation of a Screwdriver Kong, his legs burning and tingling as he kicks off into the air in such a way he spins, his forward momentum propelling him past as he soars, twirling in the air above the bench before twisting his body into a roll as he hits the ground, effectively somersaulting at the end with a spring back up to his feet. Well, that was a rush! He thinks to himself as he resumes a brisk jog.

[PKR, Normal x1, -3EP (22/25)]

He continues his evening run, keeping an eye on his surroundings. He swears he can see a flier or two zoom across the sky, and waves regardless if he knew them or not; they were too far up in the air for him to recognize them. A potential friend with a good attitude towards me is one less potential standoff and a good conversation. Grinning a small bit, his eyes returning his surroundings among the streets. In the distance, he can make out another figure jogging in the same direction, a bit too far to make out any details of the new person.

Laslow Karivatz-Briggins

Taking this time to clear his head from the annoying voice that seemed to grow ever louder as the days go by, he has taken to jogging while trying to keep his mind blank. The methods he has tried previously, somewhat strange meditation exercises, have proven ineffective to quell the hungry presence that grew in his very being; rather, it made him only hungrier, he needed more power. He wants more of that feeling of power. He remembers feeling the power of fire that he could only use a fraction of, the power of the figure known as Inferno. He felt.. jealous. Inferior.

Boogeyman

H̷͑̉o̸͗̽w̶͇̌ ̷̂͑d̸̽̐ȁ̶͝r̶̆͑ĕ̴̒ ̸̅̋t̶͙̆h̸̔̌e̵̼̔y̸͊͋ ̶̧̎h̸̍̌ơ̷̓a̴̋̓r̷̈́̉d̶̓͝ ̸͆͗ť̷͠h̷̓͠ȃ̸̑t̶̜͛ ̷̅͝p̸̂́o̷͐̈́ẃ̸͝ĕ̵̄ŕ̷̆ ̴̽͒f̶̍̿o̷̾͝r̸̹̔ ̸̓̊t̸̿̑h̴̆̿e̴̔̒m̵͘͠s̷͐̎e̶̡͂l̷̞̈́v̵̤̓e̸̽̕s̴͋͜.̵̛͗.̴̌̆ ̴͆̃Ẇ̸̼e̷͝ must be stronger. BETTER.

Laslow Karivatz-Briggins

Shaking his head, he notices the footsteps that are rapidly approaching from behind him. Almost too fast for a normal person to be running, unless they ran competitively. His pupils narrow into predatory slits, his irises glowing slightly in their normal icy blue hue as he glances back to see the source of the slapping of shoe upon concrete.

[Power Detection, Normal x1, -3EP (12/15)]

He sees the static surrounding the man rapidly approaching, and tries to tune into it. Fascinating.. I wouldn't mind having a bit more luck, if I'm being honest. He looks back forward, grinning a little bit as he continues to jog.

Sorin Fionn

Eventually jogging fast enough, he passes the man, winking and greeting, "Evening! On yer left."

Laslow Karivatz-Briggins

As soon as the man passed, Laslow's hand darted out, reaching for the man's arm to brush up against, just enough to take the power.

Sorin Fionn

But Lady Luck favored Sorin this time, and Laslow's reach did not quite make it to Sorin's arm. Unaware of the sneaky attempt at contact, Sorin sped on forwards, leaving Laslow to eat his dust.

Laslow Karivatz-Briggins

I'll remember you, Irish Sanders. He thinks as he struggles and fails to keep up, glowering at the man outpacing him.

Sorin Fionn

Having drastically outpaced the other man, he continues running for roughly half an hour more, looping around a series of blocks to make a long route back to the riverside, humming a short piece of a song he and Layla would perform at Briar Park on Saturday. Though this time on the bench, he notices a lone figure quietly gazing out towards the calm waters.

Luke Gilmore

"Sorin...? Is that you?" Luke was intently watching beyond the uninterrupted waters. The landscape here filled his mind with serene epiphanies as he sketched the soft, still scenery. He stood up and began approaching the familiar face that had just approached him. "It's been a while...hasn't it?" he said while scratching the side of his neck nervously.

Sorin Fionn

Grinning wide, he greets the old friend from St. Marsh's with a hearty laugh. "'Eyya, Luke! How've ye been? It's been ages!" He opens his arms wide for a big hug, a happy reunion of wayward souls, Sorin's boisterous demeanor shattering the still and calm of the riverside.

Luke Gilmore

Luke awkwardly leans in for a hug, but a feeling of comfort washes over him when their arms lock together. "It's good to see somebody I know. It's been rough these few days after all," he said with a shaky voice. "I'm doing okay though. And you? H-how's the casino?"

Sorin Fionn

His expression grows a bit more concerned, the comment on the rough few days prompting him to ask, "What happened? Were ya caught up in th' Henry fiasco? Or was it somethin' else?"
He grins, stating "Ah, just got off of a shift not too long ago. Hence why I'm still in a bit o' my getup." He gestures to the slacks and vest over a white button-down shirt with the sleeves rolled up to his elbows.

Luke Gilmore

"I tried to stay out of all that conflict. I'm not all that good with chaos...you know how it is. Honestly, it's...been a struggle. I'm working at a library and bills are getting a bit steeper. But I'm managing so far." My wallet could use some extra spending money though...maybe...no, I shouldn't ask him for help. It's rude to do that when we meet again after a long long time

Sorin Fionn

The look on Luke's face told Sorin that 'managing' sounded like a ramen noodles every night kind of budget. After all, he dealt with people with much better poker faces on a regular basis. Pursing his lips for a moment, he replies "Aye, I gotcha. Though struggles like ours can be too much ta bear without support. Family's gotta stick together, blood or bond, aye? Us from th' Marsh especially."
Giving Luke a half-smile, his tone grows more serious as he reaches to his fedora, and pulls out some dollar bills of unknown value from the fabric on the outside of the hat's body. "Norm'ly I'd make it a loan, but I got a.. promotion of sorts, so I'll let it slide this time."
Taking from the folded bills a $50 face, he holds it out and adds with a wink, "This, and I'll give ya my address ta visit every now an' then. Jus' lemme know if yer comin' ahead of time so I know how much dinner ta make."

Luke Gilmore

"Are you...are you sure? I don't want to rely on this, but..."
Luke remembered how much Sorin did for him way back when he was young. How much he did for all the children. He knew what he wanted to do, but he also knew he'd have to make it up to Sorin. Maybe that was alright though.

Sorin Fionn

He chuckles lightly and hands the folded bill over. "Well, don't rely on it; I still got ta donate to Tobias ev'ry now an' then an' feed the Queen of beasts. But hopefully that will help ya with one o' yer bills." He then gives the location of his apartment building, a couple of blocks from the Royal Metro Library.
I wish I were able to spend more time with the kids. Or at least watch over them when they go outside. I can't let.. Naw, not gonna happen, not with Aloy lookin after them.
"So, what brings ya to th' outside world tonight?"

Luke Gilmore

"I've just been sketching the outdoor scenery. Writers block isn't fun so...I don't know, I guess I wanted to...clear my head."
He was still shaking after receiving the donation from his foster brother.
Even now, he's still taking care of us...I really look up to him. Should I tell him that, or would it be cheesy? Maybe just a thank you? No, that's too simple
Luke stared off into space thinking of how to thank Sorin, but found himself simply at a loss for words

Sorin Fionn

"Oh, aye. A change of scenery is good ta clear yer head and get a fresh start on somethin'." He gives a sideways smile, his curiosity getting the better of him and seeing that his little Marsh brother is lost in his own thoughts.
"Would ya mind if I had a look at yer progress? Ya always had a talent with th' arts, even rivaling me with music." He says, gesturing towards the sketch pad and adding a light laugh at the end. "Well, at least in Guitar Hero, anyways!"

Luke Gilmore

"Oh! Y-yeah, sure. It's still a work in progress, so it's not that great."
Despite what Luke says, the sketch shows the shimmering water reflecting the moon's rays. The various shading techniques on the ground allowed it to stretch out and sway in the slight breeze. The night sky bore over everything, only brightened by the white crescent moon.
"Here you go," Luke said as he handed the sketchbook over to his brother.
I hope he likes it. I can't wait till I can save up enough for paints and primer. Then I can put it on a canvas! But first comes nice food. Something other than top ramen and microwaved meals

Sorin Fionn

Gingerly taking the sketchbook, he makes a note of the artistry put into making it almost hyper-realistic. He could almost see the grass waving with the wind, the gentle waves lapping up against the shore as a reflection of moonlight was cast among the slight ripple of the waters. It was a serene, peaceful scene, and he smiles approvingly. "Y'know, I think as-is looks fantastic! I can't wait ta see it if ya finish it."

Luke Gilmore

"Oh, I forgot to add the finishing touch!"
He waves his hands gently over the sketchbook, his skin barely coming into contact with the paper. Suddenly, the imagery begins moving on the page, flowing identically to the world around it.
"I was thinking of, well, maybe selling live pictures if I can practice getting them to...you know, stay. That would allow me to pay you back, and even maybe help out St. Marsh."

[Drawn to Life, Basic Action, -0 EP]

Sorin Fionn

His face bore the same happy expression, though the feelings that lay beneath were rapidly moving from surprise, shock and wonder to worry and fear for his little brother.
He's an Evo, as well? This is beautiful.. Wait.. Oh, Lord in heaven.. the poor boy.. His smile becomes slightly sad, his voice cracking a little bit as he speaks. "Luke.. th' moving picture is beautiful. I jus'.. don't know if now would be th' right time ta be so public about what ya can do. We've got a lot of people that look down on people that can do such extraordinary things like you."
Offering back the sketch book with the moving image of the scenery before them, he adds while putting his other hand on Luke's shoulder, "Ya said ye work at th' Library, aye? If yer really strapped fer cash.. advertise in th' Evo room if Lavrentis or Lavrentia will allow it. An' be careful who ya give yer name to if they see what ya can do." His expression is melancholic, concern and worry lining his voice.

Luke Gilmore

"I...I know. I just really wanted to bring my drawings to life is all. I had to hide them for a while...but they've gotten better! I just hope, one day, everybody can have a 'Living Painting' in their home...or something."
I've always wanted to help people be happy from the sidelines. I figured ghost writing or painting selling would be nice. Shame the world is what it is...
"Yeah, I wouldn't want to give my name away anyway. That draws attention, and...well, you know me. I'd crack under that pressure. You, uh, said Lavrentis and Lavrentia, right? Maybe that's a good idea."

Sorin Fionn

He smiles a bit more warmly, trying his best to be reassuring. "It's a truly magical sight ta behold, an' I hope someday people can flock from miles around ta get a look at a Gilmore Original painting. It's.. a real damn shame that it can't be today.."
"If ye can work on makin' that more permanent, always movin', I say keep trying fer it. An' it doesn't hurt ta explore what ye can an' can't do, so long as ya keep yerself and people around ye safe." He adds with a half-grin and a wink. "I know I try ev'ry now an' then."

Luke Gilmore

"I'm glad that you like watching my powers. I don't get a whole lot of company at home, so they're kind of...the only friends I have. Maybe...we could chat again sometime?"
The thought of finally having someone to talk to again sparked joy inside Luke's heart. As much as he hates crowds or confrontation, he also dreads being alone.
"Here, I can give you my cell number, umm, if you'd like"

Sorin Fionn

Smiling warmly once more, he nods. "Of course! As long as ye don't mind if I bring some food." He winks playfully as he adds jokingly, "I hope yer not tired of egg mess!"
Sorin happily exchanges phone numbers with Luke, humming the lyrics for Through the Fire and Flames as the song ran through his mind.

Luke Gilmore

"Thanks again, Sorin. It's...so good to see you again." Luke's arms stretched up towards the ever darkening sky as he let out a long and exhaustive yawn. "I should really be getting back home though. It's getting late and I work in the morning."

Sorin Fionn

"Sounds like a plan! I'll be seein' ya around, then." He takes a deep breath and stretches a little bit, preparing for a run to the station when he remembers something. "Oh! I know ya don't like big gatherings an' such, but Layla an' a couple o' friends'll be playin' some music on Saturday. Yer welcome ta come join us to listen, but if not that'll be all right too! No need ta make a decision tonight, jus' mull it over an' spread th' word, if ya can."
Luke would remember that name from St. Marsh's. Layla, the red-headed and boisterous woman that seemed to always be around Sorin, whether it was to help with magic tricks, playing music on a keyboard or just to enjoy the company.

Luke Gilmore

"I'll...think about it. Thank you. Goodnight! It's been, umm, really good to see you again."
Luke was hoping 'A couple of friends' meant one or two, not ten or twenty. He really wanted to spend more time with his brother, but he needed time to think it over.

Sorin Fionn

"Good night, brother! It's good ta see ya again, an' take care of yerself, aye?" He waves good bye, and resumes a light jog towards the metro station, Luke hearing him in the distance singing into the night sky.
"As the red day is dawning, and the lightning cracks the sky,
They'll raise their hands to the heavens above, with resentment in their eyes.
Running back through the mid-morning light, there's a burning in my heart,
We're banished from a time in a fallen land, to a life beyond the stars.
In your darkest dreams, see to believe our destiny this time,
And endlessly we'll all be free tonight!
And on the wings of a dream, so far beyond reality,
All alone in desperation now the time has gone.
Lost inside, you'll never find, lost within my own mind,
Day after day this misery must go on!
So far away we wait for the day,
For the light source so wasted and gone.
We feel the pain of the lives time lost in a thousand days,
Through the fire and the flames we carry on!"

Type

Record, Historical

Medium

Digital Recording, Text