terrariums | open; 2024

"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?

There is a sort of rustic charm about Savanaclaw's dorm rooms. While they hold a completely different feel than those of his own, he can appreciate the way they suit their students needs. Such open, airy rooms bring some relief from the heat and he can't say that the room doesn't fit Rook. Conquests skinned and tanned, various bows and weapons that would make others wince laid about in easily accessible places... He wonders briefly how many more he can't see.

Though as Rook rummages through his belongings, Jade takes the time to look around. Fingertips brushing against the wood of the standard school provided furniture as he slowly explores. His belongings don't seem as thrown about as others in the dorm, but nor is it exactly as diligently clean as Jade's own half of his room. "Fishing in the ocean is rather different. Catching what I like to eat with a pole would be more along the lines of luck than skill..."

The clanging of various metal items draws his eye, but he finds himself looking at the knife peeking out from beneath one of Rook's pillows instead. Even waking up to Floyd attacking him (if the other wakes up first, which is rare) he hasn't ever felt the need to pull a knife on him. It's an interesting tidbit to tuck away into his mind. A side of Rook that he's unsure what to make of just yet... but then he notices just how much the junior seems to be gathering together. "Is all of that necessary?"

"Vraiment? Do you catch them with your bare hands, then? Or maybe a net?" Are cephalopods really that hard to catch? He admittedly doesn't know much about them..... they're probably saltwater only, hmmm? He should probably do a little research first, if he ever tries to catch one. Or they ever try to catch one? Could he convince Jade to go on a fishing expedition with him?

Either way, it's a very telling little peek into his mindset, being allowed to come into his ~~den~~ room and look around like this, isn't it? For someone who usually seems so sweet and thoughtful, so playful and affectionate..... there certainly is a lot of extremely dangerous gear very easily accessible at any given moment. Rook just grins at the question, reaching up to deposit the hat directly on Jade's head. Perfect!

"Bien sûr! You won't want to dehydrate out there, would you? Or not be able to get at what you want. And what if I come across some perfect prey before it notices we're there? We wouldn't even need to come back for lunch." Can Jade tell he's used to long, hard outings? Even sleeping under the stars doesn't really bother him, especially with the weather so comfortably moderate and dry this part of the year.

"Ah," His fingertips take the brim to carefully adjust it. The band makes it a little snug on his head, but he can't exactly be choosy when borrowing such a considerate tool.

Truthfully he's a touch hungry to begin with having gone to that familiar spot in the mountain explicitly to eat his second breakfast of the day... but he supposes he can wait until lunchtime to dig back in his bag if he doesn't have to use it to secure an escape route or something. From Rook or something out here in the savannah? It's difficult to say, so it doesn't hurt to be prepared. "That is true. Although if I knew no better I would think you were going to either torture and flay me or bury me alive somewhere far off where not even the most trained nose would find me."

A pause before he smiles, hand motioning toward the open 'doorway' leading to the disgustingly hot and not at all moderate weather outside. "Just kidding, of course. Shall we?"

Rook laughs aloud at the 'joke', even as he fills the canteens from an earthen jug. It may not be cold, but it's still cooler than the weather outside; Jade will be glad for it, no doubt. And so will he, depending on how long they're out and about for. "Ahahaha! What a kidder you are! I wouldn't have brought you brought you to my room first, if I wanted to do something like that, of course. Too many witnesses!"

So that means..... what? That he has a secret stash of tools to gruesomely murder people, hidden somewhere out on the savannah? That he would ambush Jade somewhere up in the mountains, where people knew Jade often went, so he wouldn't be considered missing for a good long while? Or is he just playing along with Jade's little jest?

Ah, it doesn't matter. Rook reaches for Jade's arm again, all bouncy energetic excitement. "Oui!"

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