terrariums | open; 2024

Isn't it strange, how thoroughly he's taken to the three of them, yet how abruptly his attention seems to have eased off of Jade in particular? There seems to be no end to his playtime with Floyd; whether he's chasing or being chased, Rook always seems delighted to see him. Poor Azul still seems to be suffering from a more open sort of curiosity; it's not unusual to see Rook catching at his arm or lingering to watch him at work, peppering him with questions. What is he doing? Why? Oh, he guesses that makes sense, sort of--but why does he even care about that? Isn't it a whole lot more work to do it that way, when he could just get what he wants for himself? He's so strong and smart, wouldn't it be easy for him?

But Jade..... he seems a great deal quieter about how much Jade intrigues him, these days, even if he follows him more closely than ever. There are still questions, if not quite as many, or as invasive. He still has a tendency to delight in sneaking up on him, to ignore even the slightest pretense of personal space bubbles, to enjoy capturing his time and attention whenever he has the chance. He even still brings Jade presents, especially when they find each other in the forest--colorful insects, small frogs, unusual stones, chunks of moss that are difficult to find without straying far from the well-trodden mountain trails, meat from his hunts..... This is the the first time he's tried outright bringing him mushrooms though, rather than setting up his trap nearby already growing ones, isn't it?

It's clear he's been learning, at least. Suspect though they may be, every mushroom Jade examines looks to be perfectly edible. A few might upset his stomach a bit, but..... well, he's not poisoning Jade outright, is he? That's best to save for when you're closer to someone. Rook waits for Jade to be deep in his notes before he speaks up--his voice comes from high overhead, stretched out on his stomach along a sturdy bough for a good vantage point. "Well? What do you think?"

How often has Jade had to remove Rook from the lounge by now? Even the entire process of setting up the establishment was met with green, prying eyes, though it was nice to have a human tongue to test snacks and beverages with. Floyd even enjoyed throwing just about anything together to see if Rook would turn his nose only for the blond to gulp it down as if it were the best meal he'd ever had. It was bizarre... but maybe he just liked Floyd.

He's easy to like in Jade's opinion. Maybe someone else just finally felt him worthy of the attention he deserves.

So the gifts always surprise him even though he personally adores trinkets. Sea glass, geodes, bits of plant matter, bugs, and food--all the types of things he likes. Though not as much as how he always seems to show himself the moment he lets his guard down. "!!" He grips his book, hand pulling his magipen all the closer before he lets out a slow sigh. It's just worse knowing that he was near already. "I have not seen this species here before. Are they from your dorm?"

What must the temperature be like for them to grow so uniquely with such little moisture? He hasn't spent much time there, but it's obvious from Floyd's own tales and the sun-kissed skin covering the hunter's shoulders that the heat is more than he'd prefer himself. Hardly fitting for a moist creature like himself.

How could he possibly resist hanging about to watch their little business get off the ground, when it's all so interesting? It's such a fancy space, so different from Savanaclaw..... The drinks and food are far different, too. Even Floyd's most whimsical creations are so tasty! Why wouldn't he want to share foods he likes, in return?

Rook just laughs in delight, seeing Jade tense so abruptly at the sound of his voice. For the moment, he doesn't move from his perch; he dangles an arm down instead, waving cheerfully. "Oui! I like eating them in the morning sometimes. You might like cooking them better, though."

They don't look like they'll kill him, but they don't exactly look like they'll be particularly good for him either. Though it isn't uncommon for mushroom toxins to be completely inert once digested so long as there were no cuts or wounds in the mouth or throat...

He's still a little hesitant to touch them. Especially with his upperclassman looming so high above. Perhaps it's just his overly cautious nature. Jade stands, turning his head up toward the hunter with a smile returning to his face. "You gathered these for me?"

"Oui! I thought you especially might like them; not many people besides Monsieur Dent-de-lion have been interested. Aren't they pretty?" Is that an endorsement for how safe they are, that he shares them with a friend who always seems to be hungry? Or damning them with faint praise, making the point that they appeal to someone who's willing to eat just about anything?

Rook shifts where he lays, hooking an arm and leg firmly around the branch--and slipping sideways off of it to dangle from them, hair billowing long and loose as he reaches down to Jade. Amazing how his hat doesn't even budge, isn't it? Who knows, maybe an impressive green thumb like Jade's could manage to cultivate a few of these even in a much cooler, damper climate.

It's fascinating just how strong the other's legs are. So easily able to hang from the branch as easily as the twins float in water. Like the wood itself is a part of him just like every other part of this forest and its surrounding mountain that Jade finds himself so comfortable in. How does it compare to the danger of the Savannah to him? Is it considerably more or less interesting?

"I see." He chuckles, his rarely bared hand coming up to partially shield the way his teeth peek past his lips. If Ruggie might eat it then it might just be worth cooking them up and seeing how easily he can sneak them into Floyd's food. He has been rather ravenous due to basketball practice lately... he could use the nutrients. His eyes find their way into Rook's hair, watching the way it so easily cascades despite it's rough texture. "They are lovely... I haven't seen ones quite like them before. What do I owe you for your generosity?"

But does Jade look happy? The smile on his lips is a little more genuine than usual.

The forest is a fun new playground for those from the sea and from the savannah, isn't it? So dense and cluttered with interesting things to explore around every corner, as opposed to the wide open spaces they're both surely more used to. As much as he loves being able to run free, the forest with all its secret, hidden beauty will always hold an undeniable allure.

Rook just laughs aloud at the question, grin widening as he waves his free hand dismissively. Octavinelle guys are so weird sometimes..... Don't they know that you always take care of your pride? When you're important enough to each other, you don't need to keep track of favors. The happiness of one is the happiness of all--it all balances out, in the end! Jade's obvious pleasure is easily reward enough, for him. "Why would you owe me anything? I brought them because I wanted you to have them."

As generous as the act is, it is in his nature to wonder a reason. When you're in the business of deals and trades, it's only natural to apply it to everything in life. This act of kindness doesn't benefit Rook, so why should Jade believe it as something so simple? While he's accepted small trinkets and gifts from Rook before, it has always been with some level of equal exchange in mind. Even if Rook hasn't asked for anything yet, it doesn't mean that Jade hasn't already decided what he'd be willing to offer in exchange for each one.

"Why would I not? Nothing in life is free. Where I am from something like this would be worth something quite considerable." Food is always a valuable resource... even if less than perfectly edible. Potion ingredients like these can potentially be even moreso.

"Vraiment? But it is free to harvest them, unless you count the time it takes for the trip..... As long as you're careful, you don't even have to worry about them running out." Rook looks positively perplexed at the explanation. It isn't like he's buying something fancy and special, right? He just..... wanted to see Jade smile for real. He wanted to share something that makes him happy, so it can make Jade happy, too. Isn't it more fun to enjoy something together, after all? They say sorrows shared are sorrows halved, but joys shared are joys doubled, after all.

"Everyone else leaves them alone, anyway; they can make you feel a little nauseous, before you get used to them. They're delicious though, and I always feel sharp as a knife after I eat them!"

So they are poisonous, then. From the sounds of it they might just have some sort of additional effect... It isn't uncommon for some to use different mushrooms explicitly for those results. He's never tried it himself before, but maybe it wouldn't hurt to eat them slowly to start. Is it worth the potential upset?

He's getting ahead of himself.

"That may be the case for these mushrooms, but what of your other 'gifts'? Surely you expect something in return." Though he can't imagine he has anything the hunter could want... he isn't even a benefit to his warden, either. Although... "Is this because you are friends with Floyd? You don't have to impress me to be closer with him."

"Would Monsieur Spontané really be impressed by me bringing you things? I always thought he was happy enough just to stretch his legs." Nobody else ever seemed to want to play tag with them, after all..... It only made sense to play together, especially when Floyd was such fun.

A quick twist, and Rook rights himself on the branch, instead scooting back towards the trunk so he can slide back down. It's not often Jade has to look up to talk to people, but won't his neck get sore if he stays like this for too long? "I like seeing what you make with them; you're good with your hands in a different way than I am."

"I do not believe I've shown you what I make with them." The little stones, moss, and little beetles always manage to find themselves a new home in his hobbies, but he hasn't invited him to see them. Of course that doesn't mean that Rook hasn't seen them, but... what's wrong with having him admit it?

His gaze follows the other as he slides down the tree to a much more familiar and comfortable height. Really, it's almost a shame how much his brother likes him. His pale hair, face freckled from the sun in a way that reminds Jade of the way his own true flesh is speckled with dark teal. Their mother always told them that their bodies held constellations within those clustered marks... and he feels the same about Rook's skin. Though it would be selfish for him to dwell on such thoughts--especially when his brother so clearly has taken a liking to him (when he is having fun, anyway).

But even thinking that he finds himself looking over the other's muscular, scarred shoulders. Hopefully he's quick enough to snap his eyes back to green ones. "That is still hardly a reward for all your work. Unless you would rather I make something for you with them?"

"No, but you don't hide them, either." And that's all he's really needed to take a look at them, whether Jade is around or not. Even if he's messing around with Floyd, or just peeking through Jade's desk drawer..... Isn't it nice to see the cute little creatures he's collected enjoying their new homes, decorated with some of the baubles he'd so hoped Jade would love?

A quick shake to get his clothes to settle back where they should be, and Rook lets go of the tree, instead lounging against it and tipping his hat back to peer up at Jade. There's no harm in letting Jade stare as long as he wants, is there? If anything, he welcomes it; Rook's grin never wavers, even as Jade's eyes snap back up to meet his. "You don't need to give me anything. But I wouldn't say no, if you wanted to make one for me--or we could make one together! It could be fun to find things for it together, too."

Jade's head tilts in thought as his hand comes to his own cheek. What type of terrarium would thrive in the heat of the other's dorm? Something with the natural dirt for sure, though considering the pests they had he would need to purify it with fire magic first. Treating and cleaning rocks and pebbles is simple enough... though for plant life his options are a little more limited. With excessive sun, though not like Scarabia, he would have to consider one a plant that could thrive but not grow in excess... succulents, perhaps? Any sort of grass suitable for the Savanna would get out of hand quickly. It would also be unfortunate if the glass caused a fire of any sort.

"Hm... I would need to think on it, but I believe I have something in mind." Perhaps even some of the mushrooms he's been gifted? Though if they're as plentiful as Rook says that may cause more harm than good in such an enclosed space. Though his last comment brings some pause, even visible on his face. "'Together'? I wouldn't expose you to a hobby that would bore you. I can't imagine you find my work that interesting."

"Already? Incroyable! You really are good at this." How had Jade thought of something in mere moments, even when he's so unfamiliar with the savannah climate? He must know his stuff, or at least have an idea of where to start looking. He can't wait to see how it turns out, whether he's involved or not.

Why does Jade look so surprised by the suggestion, though? Isn't it only natural to offer? Sometimes Jade really does feel like a mystery, no matter how much fieldwork he does..... "Why do you think it would be boring? I like being out foraging. Why wouldn't it be fun to bring part of the outside back inside with me, too?"

"I imagine digging for rocks and succulents is far different than hunting and strenuous physical activity..." Jade takes a moment to look over Rook's face. Taking in the shape of his eyes and the way he smiles... so seemingly easy despite this. Being so used to most of their classmates avoiding him unless absolutely necessary it is a strange position. There are the off and on students who dare approach, but usually their intentions fall more along where he expects.

His hand comes to rest on his chest for a moment as he considers his words. He isn't sure if this is a road he should take, but having someone to hike and forage with doesn't sound terrible... Azul may not currently have a use for Rook, but perhaps in the future it might benefit him to be more friendly now.

"Alright, I accept. I would like to do some research on Savanna foliage, substrates and cacti with you."

"I guess a little....." Is it really that different, though? It all involves long, potentially strenuous treks through the wilderness, roaming far afield looking for interesting things. It's more like..... a less targeted version of foraging, isn't it? Something for pleasure, rather than hunger. You get to enjoy wandering around and finding things that are pretty or interesting enough to want to keep.

It's such an effortless smile, isn't it? Especially the way it suddenly turns dazzling, his whole face lighting up in excitement to hear Jade agreeing to the outing. "Magnifique! When do you want to want to come by?"

"I had planned to spend my day hiking and foraging regardless... I suppose I can be ready now, if that isn't too short notice for you." With how few and far between his days off are he can only lean into the 'no time but the present' mentality here.

He's dressed for strenuous work--well broken in shoes, his shorts as well as leggings to protect him from tall grass and potential bites from pests. Certainly not prepared for snakes, but he's never been intimidated by creatures like them to begin with.

Though he'll need to pack the mushrooms Rook placed for him away... he decides to move to kneel and do that. "My days off are rare as of late."

"That sounds just perfect! Roi d'Effort really is keeping you busy, isn't he? Maybe we can bring something back for him and Monsieur Spontané, too?" After all, they're a part of his little pride too now, aren't they? Floyd directly by virtue of being his friend, (practically a littermate, the way they hunt each other) and Azul by association, by virtue of being so close with the twins. He'll make you a proper friend one of these days, Azul. Just wait and see!

Bringing back treasures for them seems like the least they can do. Looking Jade over as he kneels, though..... He can already clearly see the problems that are going to arise. Jade isn't even wearing a hat, and his skin is just as pale as Rook's--how is he going to manage, going out into the blazing savannah sun? What about his canteen, it's so small..... And he doesn't see any signs of Jade a hunting knife, hatchet, or spade at all. They definitely can't go right away.

He draws a paper bag from his shoulder bag, gently shaking it out before carefully admiring each mushroom as he tucks it away inside. For optimum freshness it's important to use paper rather than anything that encourages moisture... drawing out their natural internal wetness would, while not making them useless, leave them damaged and lose some of their beauty. He'd like more time to sit and sketch them, but he will have to manage that later on. Unless they stumble upon where they grow on their journey... then he might let himself do some personal field study.

Jade stands, dusting off his knees as he tucks the last of his supplies away before turning back to the lion of a man. He feels almost overdressed in comparison, but that's to be expected when one of them is used to rolling and mudding through the savannah grass and dirt. Octavinelle must feel too clean for someone like Rook.

"Perhaps. I doubt Azul will hold much interest," unless he can use it "but Floyd may enjoy a gift from you. He was rather fond of the jerky you prepared for us last time." He starts back down the hill, head turning to look at the blond beside him while he does. "He is rather fond of foods with rough and 'springy' textures."

His brother can't say he isn't anything but a wingman for him if he's encouraging Rook to provide him with suitable gifts, can he?

"Oh, I love those, too! Don't you?" That should be a universal like, as far as he's concerned. Floyd and Jade both have fangs, after all--doesn't that mean they both should enjoy being able to gnaw on something? Not that he needs to bring back a gift for Jade, when they're both going out together..... Who knows, though? Maybe he'll find some prey while they're out and about.

He wonders what Azul would like, from a trek like this. Everyone likes food, don't they? But the portions Azul eats are so small..... It's a little sad, honestly. How is he not hungry all the time? He's never going to get tall and strong without more protein. Oh, well. The twins are more likely to convince him of that than he is. In the meantime, they can enjoy the fruits of his labors even if Azul turns his nose up at them.

Before even that, though? Rook is studiously resisting the impulse to latch onto Jade's arm, at least until they pass through Savanaclaw's mirror. Jade isn't as tactile as Floyd is, is he? He might be uncomfortable with it, at least until Rook needs to guide them back to his dorm room so they can load up on supplies.

"Cephalopods have my favorite texture. There is a perfect balance of interesting textures that varies by species." He won't lie, land animals don't exactly compare... but he does prefer meat to a majority of vegetables. He eats them, of course, but it wouldn't be his first choice if he wasn't attending to a human body's needs versus what he craves when he's hungry.

It doesn't help that all seafood on land pales to compare to something he rips apart with his bare teeth.

He's walked this path many times now that it's a short enough trip back to the mirror, leading to just a hop away into the ~~disgusting~~ heat of Savanaclaw's dry climate. Already Jade looks slightly less enthused, but his smile only twitches rather than completely slip. "Summer isn't even upon us, but it is already this warm..?"

"Cephalopods..... I've never tried them before. Maybe we could go fishing sometime?" Were he actually a lion of a man, his ears would immediately be pricking up with interest. How can he resist the idea of a new meat to try? Vegetables are nice, sure, but they can hardly compare to the pleasure of tearing flesh straight off the bone. What do they taste like? What do they feel like between your teeth, if their texture is perfect?

Rook is at least tactful enough to resist the urge to laugh, hearing Jade so quietly dismayed the moment they set foot inside Savanaclaw..... It doesn't stop him from grabbing the merman's arm, though, tugging him towards the dorm building with more enthusiasm than strictly necessary. "It never gets too cool here. We won't have to worry about getting much rain until it gets properly hot, either--but you'll still burn like kindling if you don't at least put on a hat. You can borrow one of mine!"

Normally he enjoys the cool feeling of leather on his skin, but the sheer warmth of Rook's hand latching onto him is almost unbearable in this heat. Even without sleeves he wonders how any of the Savanaclaw students don't simply wither away... though considering a large majority of them were born in the conditions he can't be surprised. There are non-merfolk in Octavinelle, after all... some beastmen too. They must hate the cool, dark oceanic views just as much.

"I suppose that is fair enough. I rarely wear my own outside of my uniform..." Because it's more for show than actual purpose. He's easily dragged along--still just as impressed by Rook's strength despite his average height as he was the first time he met him.

Fortunately Jade seems compliant as he follows along, his free hand shielding his light colored eye from the sun. "Do you do much fishing? I imagine your options here are somewhat limited."

"Oui! Fish can get simply enormous if the lake or river are big enough to accommodate them. It's great fun! Monsieur Dent-de-lion even accompanies me on fishing trips, sometimes." Because as light on his feet as Ruggie is, a strenuous sport like hunting simply isn't his style. Far more pleasant for him to relax in the shade with a rod in hand most of the time, lounging and chatting, eating a picnic lunch together while they see what they can catch and roast up for dinner.

It just sounds bizarre to him. Why have a hat at all, if it's not going to be useful for something? Hats are for protection, after all! Whether they're to keep you warm, or protect you from the sun, there's no point in wearing something just for style alone. At least the hat he digs out for Jade, once they make it to his room, is nicely functional; Rook is quick to dig through his wardrobe and find the broadest-brimmed hat he owns, for poor Jade's sake. Enjoy admiring the rough, rustic wood and stone, and the bold patterned rugs--he's going to be in there for a hot minute. They'll want a nice sack to carry everything, a spade to dig with, a good stout hunting knife just in case, his bow and quiver, a canteen--

No, better make it at least two canteens, the big ones. Jade is going to need plenty of water, he can already tell. It isn't as though he'll mind toting along the extra weight. What would the poor thing do if he got all dried up out there?

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