synflux | Catch-All

[One can only get so far with the endless simulation trainings. The people here are all at different skill levels when it comes to combat, and sometimes it's hard to beat a good old fashioned sparring session.

Dan Heng is no teacher, but he's patient, and willing to help. For some, perhaps it's enough.]

Right then. Did you have certain focuses in mind, or are we just sparring for now?

[Aside from training, Dan Heng can usually be found in the library. He peruses the books offered, interested in what the collection has to say about the culture of this world. Old fairy tales, fictional works, fantasy...those seem to be the main selections. Still, he finds comfort being here in the quiet, and if he spends his time cataloguing the selection to an archive in his implant...well. It's hard for him to stop archiving. It makes him feel closer to the Express...to home.

He can be found in one of three states, depending on when you visit the library. AKA, what vibe you want! He does tend to be here at random, late (or early, depending on your perspective) hours of the night...:

A. Dan Heng walks alongside the shelves, his eyes aglow with the use of his ocular implant, taking in the titles and authors on the spines of the books, and comparing them to what he can remember from the Express's databanks. He doesn't find many matches, but it's still soothing to sort it all out.

B. You can find him sitting at one of the small tables, books covering the surface, as he reads an open novel. He seems exhausted, and yet quite absorbed in its contents, so much so that there's no glowing from his implant. He's...actually very taken in by this story. Perhaps one would be curious as to what he's reading?

C. Dan Heng is...of a rather cold-blooded race of the Vidyadhara. He's lucky the heat wave ended before he got here...still. He can work with hot climates. Cold however...brings up bad memories for him, so he'd gotten one of the local drones to operate as a small portable heating unit as he read.

Thing is, the warmth seemed to have beaten back the insomnia, and he can now be found sound asleep under. The table. In what can only be considered a rudimentary nest of blankets, his latest chosen books sprawled about.

....mostly sound asleep. Like a cat, he twitches in his sleep as if experiencing a rather vivid dream. A dragon tail of water had formed to curl around him at some point, but it doesn't seem to help much...

Wake him or not, it's up to you.]

[Amid the explosions and ever-present desire to set high scores (the highest is always his goal) Bakugo is routinely present in the training simulation, working it in as part of his weekly schedule he's kept since his arrival. He intended to keep his school's general times as best he can even in this place.

But attacking holographic kaiju isn't always the method of training. Despite the sheer power and versatility of his Quirk, Bakugo would be an idiot if he didn't train his body and combat skills to the same intensity as his Quirk. Quirkless training and workout factors into his schedule in equal measure.

Meaning sparring partners are welcome additions, as well as picking up weapon-based training. Standing cross from the other Outsider, Bakugo pulls his arms across his chest, popping a shoulder with the stretch.]

Unless you're offering sōjutsu lessons, try not to get your ass handed to you too fast.

[Books in Neo Toyko have had an interesting relation with Bakugo. He's never been fond of the implant and ocular in his body, put in without permission, but he's gotten used to it. The scarcity of physical books, however, due to the digital implant and reading online, annoyed him. He checked out books at the few libraries around the city to work on his self studies in line with the university he picked.

But closest to him was a small bookstore that had been owned by a friend until LILITH sent him home. Bakugo and another friend (who had also gone home) had taken care of the store in his absence, until Ratio and other Outsiders spearheaded the addition of the library to the base. After some discussion with those related to the store's previous owner, they'd agreed to donate the books to the library to ensure they were cared for and appreciated by the other Outsiders.

Some of the books have been absorbed into other areas of the library, but a fair section of them are in their own space as a memento for the man who had worked hard to collect and tend to them while he'd been here. Bakugo occasionally comes by the library to return and check out other books, focusing mostly on academic subjects, but hobby interests slip through at times: construction, demolition, motorcycles, cars, cooking, and the occasional adventure book if he's in the mood.

It's while he's browsing through the shelves and reaching up to slot a book back inside the rows that he notices Dan Heng drifting across a row with a focused gaze. Gaze enough to glow. Ugh, that's always creepy... What the hell is he scanning over there? He's not simply searching for a book if his ocular's active.]

Oy. This place is to get away from the damn ocular.

[ Like she can just leave him under a table? He has a room?? What kind of (self-proclaimed) best friend and family member can she be if leaves him out here??

So March crouches down, crawling under the table in a most undignified fashion, and reaches for his shoulder. ]

Dan Heeeeeeeng. Heeeeeeeey.

[You can find insomniacs in the weirdest places, March.

Dan Heng wakes with a small jolt, his heart hammering from the already fading nightmare. He lays still...it's only because he recognizes March's voice even while half-asleep that he doesn't find Cloud Piercer in his hand.

He couldn't bear to point a weapon at her, even accidentally.

He peers at her with a dazed confusion, still clearly tired. She looks upside down from his position on the floor...]

March...? Why're you in...th' archive room...?

[Wow, didn't know the library here had such a history! That's so bittersweet...maybe there should be a book binding club. It'd be neat. Just a matter of getting supplies...

Dan Heng himself is used to "e-books" and the like, due to how much digital information he sifts through for the Express. Having it right in his head was a bit to get used to, but not the worst.

He also knows how nice it is to have a solid book, though. They were his only window out into the world for a very long time. But...he also knows how easily they can be taken away. Or lost. So he stores the information the best way he knows...

He does jolt a little at being addressed, so engrossed in his work he didn't even notice someone come in. He blinks and turns off the screens to see who it is, even if he's starting to recognize the always-at-least-a-little-grumpy voice.

Bakugo. Not a bad presence here. ]

The divices have proven quite difficult to "get away from", actually, since they're installed into our heads.

[His expression and tone are very flat. And yet he is absolutely poking fun at Bakugo's wording...]

I'm not. You're in the library.

[ And she sighs, reaching out to lightly rest a hand against his hair. He looks both dazed and a little stricken; better to reassure him that it's fine, whatever he's woken up from. ]

But you've got a room, you know! You're just gonna end up sore if you curl up like this!

[It was a group effort from a set of Outsiders; Bakugo and his friends' decision to donate Nanami's books was something that came after. Still, it's nice to see people getting use out of the texts. Nothing will replace physical books when it comes to research; digital texts are good to use alongside and have as backups, in his opinion.

That said, you can't really "curl up with a good book" if you're palming through an ipad or scrolling through your own brain.

Whatever Dan Heng's doing on his ocular while scanning the books seems almost counter productive. Unless he's...]

I know that! Stop taking shit literally!

[Jeeze! So much for that nervous timidity on Day 1. Someone came into his own.]

You can put them to sleep for a while if you want.

[Though that means being locked out of your room, not able to access your money, silence on the network, and LILITH will turn them back on if they need to push through a message or update. Bakugo tends to put his to sleep while he's studying for an hour or two. Even if you can turn off the alerts, it's not foolproof...]

[Jamie makes it a point to train daily (in moderation, now, and without any stimulants beyond his normal intake of coffee), simply to make up for the fact that he's one of seemingly few people here who don't have crazy superpowers of some kind. He knows he's not going to be able to keep up with anyone who can summon fireballs or lift boulders, but he can at least make an effort to toughen up a little and learn how to protect himself.

Which is what led him here. Jamie looks distinctly sheepish as he faces Dan Heng, hands spread in a little shrug.]

I don't actually know how to fight, like, at all. But I was hoping you could maybe...give me some pointers? Either in hand-to-hand or, I dunno - could you show me how to use a weapon?

[ hunter is no stranger to sleepless nights, pouring over books, studying and training obsessively. in fact, that's basically what brought him here -- to continue studying obsessively like he normally does. looking for any new material. he pauses when he sees dan heng curled up... under the table? ]

[ hunter approaches, crouching, trying not to get hit by the water dragon tail, and.... pokes him ]

Hey.

[Dan Heng's twitching only seems to intensify upon vaguely registering someone nearby. People...coming in to taunt him? Hurt him? The chains hold him in place, he can't move. It's cold, he can't-

A voice he doesn't know. Something prods his leg (gently, but sudden anyway), and his body moves instinctively with a flinch, his tail swinging around in a startled motion that slams into- something? There's a dull thud as whatever it is gets knocked over or away. What? He shouldn't be able to do that-]

What-?! [Dan Heng sits up, eyes wild and confused, before locating--oh, stars--] Hunter??

[ hunter's just hunching over dan heng under the table at this point, wondering if her should try waking him a little harder -- at which point the tail swings up and ]

[ well, he should have expected this ]

[ rule of comedy demands that hunter go flying, so that's going to happen ]

What the-- HEY!

[ he gets knocked into a table and a few books fall on his head, one by one, cartoonishly. somewhere, someone goes "SHHHHH" loudly ]

The...library? Oh.

[He blinks repeatedly, realizing he can't feel the steady movement of the Express. Because they're not...there. A cool hand rests on his head, and he tenses for a moment in surprise before visibly relaxing, her presence chasing away the last of the nightmare.]

Right. I forgot we were...ok. Right. LILITH base.

[He sighs, his eyes closing for a moment.]
I do have a room. I just...couldn't sleep. Until I started reading, I guess...it's not the same but...it's close. To the Archives, I mean.

[So maybe he got a little homesick in all the everything here. He cracks an eye back open, his tail flicking.] You know I slept on the floor on the Express too, right? This isn't so bad.

You had least had the worst excuse for a bed there!

[ March huffs, for all that the hand that pets his hair is gentle. ]

Like, maybe we could get a futon or something for your room, but anyone could just walk in on you here! Geez, Dan Heng...

[ She gets it, though. Not that she'd done this, but she'd had so many days where she was so badly homesick for the Express and the crew and no one was here to cling to. All she had was the little photo wall she'd put up in her room, for some semblance of familiarity. ]

((Ooc: bear with me as I pretend to know things about combat!!))

[Dan Heng is glad to see Jamie in better health, truly. Things have been mellowing out a little around here, which can only be good for the young Outsider. Less reason to run on fumes and energy drinks...]

Being in better health is already a good first step. We can start with the basics, then. Some hand-to-hand combat forms like....hm.

[He dismisses the spear in a shower of stardust. Dan Heng doesn't look at all put out by Jamie's apparent lack of combat knowledge. He'd offered to help train the boy, and he will do his best by him. He's just...now that they're here he's not sure if he knows how? All his combat skill was just. Inherited from Dan Feng.
But Jamie should know the basics on how to defend himself. His particular skillset would be better behind the front-line fighters. But the missions they'll be taking on will be dangerous, and what if there's no one to protect him?
LILITH doesn't seem to care very much about Outsiders' safety. Someone has to.]

Right then. I think we can start with some Cloud Knight fighting forms. I imagine large Kaiju will not be the only enemies we will face. In fact, some undercover missions got rather dangerous, so self defense is important. And if you're to be our strategist, it would help to know some of this. [A small smile at this, meant to be encouraging.] Here. So to punch without hurting yourself, your hand needs to look like this...

[Dan Heng will walk Jamie through some basic combat/defensive forms he's seen Cloud Knights from his birthplace train with. Alot of it does kind of seem like it has a spear in mind, but for later. It's fluid, quick movement to work with Jamie's smaller size and stature, while also pointing out what to look for as far as openings and threats, and how not to get yourself hurt more in the process of fighting. He's really patient as far as demeanor, but one can tell Dan Heng has to back up and slow down several times, since much of this is muscle memory he'd never had to explain before.

Thankfully he's well read.]

((OOC: Up to you how Jamie handles it, if there are any specific parts you want to focus on, or would like to just take it as a training montage and cut to after! If it helps, I'm drawing inspiration from Tai Chi, Kung Fu, and spear katas. Tryin' me best.))

[Very nice. And hey, one can curl up with an iPad! Not as good for your eyes though…

You know how sometimes you can tell that a cat is smug even if their face doesn't quite show it? That's. Kind of the energy Dan Heng has when Bakugo snaps at him.
It means he's comfortable! For better or worse.]

Oh, so that's what you meant. Well…I can see benefits to that, it's just…

[He tilts his head, regarding the books, and the information stored. ]

What if, Lan forbid, something happened to the library? It's organized well unlike the information on the Express, but I guess I'm being…careful? Storing what's here in case it's…gone. Someday.

[Like the Express. He's not sure when he’ll board again, if ever. He sighs, tired, knowing how paranoid he's sounding.]

Perhaps that is a sign I should shut them off for awhile, isn't it…

[He should have known he’d hit someone. Stars. Oh no. He’s starting to recognize that. Particular voice. (It's not annoying to him but it is Very Distinct.)

Dan Heng looks on in horror as the boy has not one but multiple books fall on his head. One. At. A. Time.]

Hunter, I didn’t [bonk] mean to [bonk] hit you, I was just [bonk] startled-- Are you alright?!

[.....Bonk. By the time he thinks to do something about the possible Brain Damage the boy is getting, the books have stopped falling on him. Great. Lovely.] Obviously you’re not. I’m so sorry; did you-

[Someone SHUSHES them, making him wince. Right. Library. He lowers his voice before continuing.] Did you need something? I’m so. So sorry.

[That approach gets the tiniest smile out of Dan Heng. He'd been hoping for a chance to spar with this particular Outsider. Bakugo has an intensity to improve and grow like no other.

Thing is, now that they're here he's not sure how to…proceed. Drawback to inheriting fighting skills from a past incarnation of yourself is you don't really remember how that incarnation learned it all. How Dan Feng trained…just the distant memories of sparring (and losing) against Jingliu. Not many could best her.

Bakugo is likely going to have a very different fighting style. How do they even the playing field? Dan Heng huffs softly with amusement.]

I'll try not to be a disappointment, then. Hand to hand combat is not my specialty, but I believe I can hold my own for a time.

And I've…not heard of the style referred to in such a way, but I can teach some of what I know, if you wish. [He hefts the wooden staff in hand instead of Cloud Piercer. No bladed weapons in training or sparring. He's not a lunatic. ]

((OOC: I thought this was a good idea but now. Basically. How do you wanna do this. How does one write a spar collaboratively? How decide who wins etc.. Etc. Hmm. Help.))

It was a proper bed where I’m from, thank you very much.

[It was more familiar to him too. Beds can be too soft sometimes, when all he’d known was threadbare blankets on the prison floors…it’s not worth pressing the issue. March keeps messing with his hair, and…it’s kind of nice, actually. His eyes fall closed and he hums softly.

If she’s not careful, he might just drift off again…he’s tired.]

Mmm….maybe. That sounds good, actually. Didn’t mean to nap here…most people don’t check under tables for other people, however.

[A faint tinge of amusement to that last statement. Of course March would find him. It’s no wonder she’d started pursuing the path of the Hunt in his timeline…

He cracks open an eye, regarding her more seriously, if still sleepy. Maybe that’s why he ends up saying what he otherwise wouldn’t.]
Sorry. You’ve been here longer. It must be foolish to see me already …missing the Express. It must have been hard for you…

[ bonk ]

[ bonk ]

[ bonk ]

It's--

[ bonk. bonk. bonk. ]

[ his voice comes out extremely squeaky ]

F.... Fine....

[ and now the shush comes, as he's surrounded by fallen books ]

Was just.... wondering if you had passed out.... under the table...

[It's not the same, risking breaking it compared to pushing a chunky book around. Or cuddling it, whichever you end up doing in bed.

Dan Heng wouldn't be the first person to compare Bakugo to a cat. Smug as fuck, only wants attention when he's good with it, and has a horrible ever-moving limit on tolerating anything going on. At least it's easy to tell when he's going to explode: often. Some compare him to a yappy type dog, but that's a dangerous thing to voice.

Though the dragon's right about now; Bakugo's more comfortable in the library.]

Huh? [Finish your damn sentence! Red eyes flick towards the books indicated.] Storing it? Are you cataloguing the titles or making a copy of the pages inside?

[Yeah, storing the library is half the reason they even had a library put in. (He assumes.) But only knowing the titles of what they had is rather lame if the intent's to salvage the lost tomes. At least Bakugo doesn't mock him for apparent paranoia. Worry over their space here is a legit concern considering kaiju attacks.]

Tch. That's your choice.

[He's never been one to hide his strength, showing it off in threats and intimidation right from the start. The weak and stupid he can scare off means he only has to deal with those worth challenging. Dan Heng had shown (and told) a number of his own abilities early on. They piqued Bakugo's interest.

Unaware of the other man's internal questioning, he's finishing his warm ups and getting ready for a quick beat down. This guy may have his attention, but he's only got one or two moves to keep it. If he's nothing but flash and magic, Bakugo's going to trash him without mercy. Hopefully he gives as good as he presents himself...

He's learned not to underestimate someone purely on their physical appearance. Doesn't mean he'll treat him differently.]

Baka. If you can't fight without your weapon or your skills, you're screwing yourself.

[That said, the idea of getting some training in spearmanship is sorely tempting. He's used a sword via three other Outsiders teaching him, but beyond some childish "watch me spin this stick" practice, Bakugo's not done much with pole-arms.]

Show me a few pointers with the spear. I don't wanna learn that when you're wiped out.

[That'd be some lame lessons...]

Yeah, you're right. [ Loftily. ]

I held it together really well, but it was pretty awful for me. I didn't have anyone around I was that close to... it felt like I was missing a big part of me. I guess I didn't realize how much my experience with the Express makes up my memories.

[ So she was miserable. ]

... Come on. I can at least walk you back.

[Dan Heng will greet Wolfwood at the portal with a customary nod. Then after setting the location, he'll hold out his hand for the man to take. If or when asked, Dan Heng will be...a little embarrassed.] Mr. Vash once advised that it'd help the trip go more smoothly. I'd rather not hunt for food while motion sick, but I won't force it if you'd rather not. [His pointed ears are a bit pink...listen he's not good at this.]

Vash said that, huh?

[What kind of bullshit is Vash running around telling people? Clingy bastard coming up with excuses to hold people's hands.

But, he has never walked through a portal before, just vaguely has enough contextual awareness to know it's supposed to take them somewhere. Yeah, he really didn't think this through before agreeing.

Still. Food for the kids that doesn't cost him money he doesn't have. So, he snatches Dan Heng's hand and squeezes it in his own before stepping through.]

Yes. He's been here longer, so I didn't see a reason to not believe him.

[Still, the way Wolfwood says that makes him think twice...still, his hand gets taken, and they step through, transporting in a blur of colors and disorienting movement that- yeah. Ok. An anchor of someone else's hand in his own is rather grounding.

They land on the warp pad landing with no issues. The air smells of salt, and Dan Heng opens his eyes to see...a place not unlike the arbor. The sands are clean, and the waters are exceptionally clear. It's beautiful, and he's seen some oceans before. He can't imagine how his companion is taking it.

There are indeed crabs scuttling about on the shore. Dan Heng lets go of Wolfwood's hand to point them out. He was not kidding about the varied sizes.] There. Did you want to start with one about that size? [It's like the size of two Dan Hengs.] Or we could start smaller...are you alright?

Edited (I forgot to link the pretty picture) 2024-10-02 00:23 (UTC)

[Ah yes. A victory on a technicality. He'll take it.

Oh March...that she's actually admitting to some of it must mean it was really bad. Is this one of those hug moments Mr. Wriothesley mentioned...? How does he initiate that without being awkward about it?? He sighs, forcing himself to sit up and meet her eyes. Ignore how his horns bump up on the bottom of the table. It's fine.]

The Express is all you've known up until now, it makes sense. Keeping it together in this place after being so suddenly separated...it takes alot of strength. Still, I'm sorry you had to go- [He stifles a yawn. He is serious here, promise.] through all that. Truly. If you...need anything, please come find me, alright? I'll be there. [((Awful event foreshadowing...))

Another yawn, not so stifled, but at least covered with a hand.] ....Fine. We can do that. [In the process of standing, he might be resistant to attempts at help for a bit if offered, but will eventually accept them.]

[It definitely makes him stumble his first few steps off the landing pad, to say it's a little disorienting would definitely be an understatement. But he forgets to complain about it as he's struck by the smell of ocean water, the salty breeze that accompanies it, and the sight of water. Natural, waving, blue water.

He forgets he's with Dan Heng for a moment, ignoring him as he takes a few steps towards the water. He notes the crabs, but that's not exactly what he was concerned about.]

It's...[He doens't have words to explain it, wide eyed and still as he simply watches. Is that what they were supposed to have? A world like this, had that been the goal? He feels absolutely cheated. Stupid crash landing.]

Um. Right. [He clears his throat and glances back at Dan Heng.]

Do they attack?

[It may be this occurrence specifically that makes Dan Heng really consider signing up for the healing implant. This is completely his fault. Hunter is most definitely concussed, and it’s all his fault. He could intercept with water? But it’d ruin the books, and then Bakugo would kill him probably, and-

They’ve stopped. Thank the stars. Dan Heng is doing that thing where he’s reaching for Hunter but unsure what to actually do. Except. Be. Quiet, apparently.]

It’s not fine. I just hit you and you didn’t deserve it. [Aeons he was just checking on him…stupid. Why did he fall asleep here…

Dan Heng shuffles forward, but stops short of getting in the boy’s space. He’s worried, but not at the cost of causing more distress.]

A…library is familiar to me. I do not sleep well, so I suppose drowsiness snuck up on me here, in a semblance of familiarity. Er. [He holds a hand aloft.] Can I take a look at your head? If you’re concussed, we should really get that looked at…

[Wolfwood's expression makes Dan Heng pause. Thing is...he understands. It may not be the same, but he imagines he made a similar expression the first time he was allowed out into the sun, out of the Shackling Prisons. All before being sent away for supposedly forever.

He gives Wolfwood a moment to take it in, thinking, not for the first time, if it'd be nice to just invite No-Man's-Land residents to board the Express when this is all over. Not like he can, but it is a thought.

Dan Heng smiles faintly when Wolfwood drags his attention back to the task at hand. No need to call attention to the childlike wonder he'd just borne witness to, lest he embarrass his friend. ] I do believe they can attack out of self-defense. These are a sort of...minor kaiju? [Jury's still out on that one. ] Don't get caught in the pincers- the claws. They're very hard to get out of. [And painful, he imagines. Hmmmmm...] There are some weak points addressed in the data. The head. Bad eyesight. If we take one down, do you think we could carry it back...? [Crab tipping...]

[((Hey thank you for the rp sparring guide that was HUGELY helpful and I am keeping it for future reference!!! I really appreciate it!!)) ]

[Understandable. Why waste time fighting what you can easily scare off with some well timed threat displays? And yelling. Can't forget the yelling when Bakugo's involved.

Dan Heng has hidden his abilities for most of his life. Having past life war crimes on your shoulders, exile, and an immortal madman hunting you across the cosmos will do that to a guy. But he's faced alot of it, and many of those factors don't apply here. He also can't afford to hide away what might save them and others in a world as broken as this...the acceptance and even interest on Bakugo's part has been...encouraging, honestly.

Everyone on the Express had vastly different fighting styles, and Dan Heng was the guard. He didn't really spar.

Ah well. Bring it on. ]

...I just said I can though. Just not as well. [Dan Heng tilts his head a little.] Cloud Piercer has always been with me. I've not really had to go without. [It's different when you can just...make a whole spear appear out of thin air. It's not like you can cut that ability or the cloudhymn off completely, right? ~~Not like that's exactly what he's going to be dealing with on their upcoming mission...~~cough. ] I would...appreciate some pointers after we spar.

[Dan Heng does relax a little at being asked about something he knows, at least as far as muscle memory.]

I can do that. Here. [Dan Heng tosses the wooden polearm stand in to Bakugo with no further warning so he can get another one. A test of your reflexes-] Let's start with the stance, like so... [As confused as Dan Heng was on the title sōjutsu, it turns out to be remarkably similar. Because apparently fantasy space China does pull some influences from Japan too or something. I'm pulling from this if a visual helps, not as fast or as fancy of course but. It's there.

Regardless, they're going to get the stance right before proceeding.]

[Ipads are more sturdy than you would think...((mine is so old, dropped so many times, still kicking. It's got a good case on it.)) but would probably lose if against a book in a very bizarre fight. Aw, book cuddling...

I...may have accidentally made the used pronouns unclear. But y'know what, fair. The statements technically apply to the both of them. Maybe it's why they get along? Anyway. I do agree with the Bakugo as a dog statement too; loud yappy guard dog, who actually has good bite behind that bark...if you're smart you'll heed the bark, though.

Library is good! It's fortunate they have one in the base. Close enough in vibes to the archives, but even quieter without all the whirring machines and servers. It's still nice.

Dan Heng huffs softly at being questioned. Patience...he thinks alot (perhaps too much) before talking which leads to...alot of pauses...] Starting with the titles. If there is already a record of the pages somewhere, then perhaps I can match them. If not...then I suppose I can work through the pages. It'll be something to do. [Quite the undertaking, really, but not unwelcome. Can you tell someone's restless?

Still. The books are here now. No one's taking them away, except to just...read. And he has access to other forms of information now. It's alright. He has to remember that.

Dan Heng hums, considering. It takes him a moment, but he finds the way to power down the implant, if temporarily. He blinks for a bit, his vision suddenly clear. There's still a pressure in his head, but it's quiet now. How did he get used to the technology just buzzing away in his head all the time...? ]

That...is better, actually. [He speaks softly, as if surprised. He looks at Bakugo, curious. ] Do you have favorite books here on recommendation, perhaps? I think it's been too long since I've just...read. For myself.

[Some things are made to last. Most things nowadays are made to break. Books also don't hurt your eyes from eyestrain after staring at them for too long. If you're in a well-lit area and not being dumb about it...

It makes sense to me! Onward! Whether he's a cat or a dog or transitions between both depending on the commentator, Bakugo's Bakugo and that's the end of that, dammit! WHY DO PEOPLE CALL HIM "YAPPY", DAMMIT?! HE FUCKING ROARS!! (Even his own canon gave him a spikey-haired angry-eyed chihuahua as a dog companion.) These idiots really don't care about their lives, do they, haaa?!

Bakugo's eyebrow twitches up at that small huff. For a second, he thinks the guy's exasperated at him... but no words follow... just silence... and the blonde's starting to realize Bakaryu is kind of a slowpoke.] Oy. Did you swallow your tongue?

[Say something, dammi- oh there he goes.]

... If you wanna make a card catalogue, you better be taking down more than the damn titles! I thought you did bookkeeping on that train! [He said "starting" with the titles, but if he's got that intention, why not gather as he goes?! Ugh, fine to do shit when you're restless, but do it right and don't waste time! Even if Dan Heng makes a catalogue system, there's no promise the Outsiders are going to put the books back where they got them. Though that'll make more work for the dragon, so... good?]

If someone contacts you, it'll turn back on. [Whether that's a fellow Outsider messaging him or an announcement from one of the LILITH agents. Still, if you can put up with the potential interruption, it's nice to have some quiet in your head.]

[ooc: No prob! Glad it helped. Someone gave me a reference too, so passing the favor along, haha.]

[That's Bakugo's thoughts. His time and effort are precious and aren't to be wasted on bullshit that won't help him improve or advance in his life goals. Yelling's part of it. He's an aggressive jerk.

... How the hell could a guard on a train carrying important smart people NOT BE SPARRING?! You'd want said guard to be the strongest person in the damn room! HE'S A GUARD!! Time to see what this guy can do.]

Che! I'll fix that. [Yeah, he heard him. But he's reiterating that belief before they get started.] You don't have to call it out to fight, dammit! [So the "ever-present skill/weapon" isn't an excuse for training how to battle without it!

Bakugo could say the same thing about his Quirk, but when there are people out there with ways to nullify or deactivate a person's Quirk (his own homeroom teacher has a Quirk that can do just that) heroes who turn into vulnerable ducks as soon as their Quirk is gone are pathetic. He says the same thing about villains, so it applies to heroes as well. And people in Neo Tokyo in the same vein. He cracks his knuckles in the opposite palm.] I'll run you ragged.

[Tough guy talk. They can get to sparring after the spearmanship lessons though. Bakugo catches the polearm without a problem (reflexes are top notch) and looks down at it. He shifts his grip to the middle. Yeah, a few times as a kid he swing a pole (stick) around and pretended it was an impressive bo staff. Whatever. He shoves that aside and focuses on Dan Heng. Red eyes take in the dragon's stance for a second or two before he moves into a mirrored image.] All right.

[... he moves his hands, putting his left further back on the pole and his right slightly above dead center. There.]

[ the books have ceased their assault, and hunter just. gingerly rubs at his own head for a bit ]

[ taking care to lower his own voice so he doesn't get shhhed again ]

Seriously, man, it's fine.

[ he has had so much worse. the squeakiness of his voice starts to dissipate, but he does wince a bit as he rubs his head. ouchie ]

Uh. Sure? But let's get out of here first. [ before the librarian murders them both... and before dan heng falls asleep again ]

Yeah, guy from earlier was talking about these things. Said head shots were pretty good.

[He didn't bring punisher along, however, so shooting it was out of the question for him. But he came out of a sense of curiosity, not to kill the damn beach worth of creatures.]

I can definitely carry one of those things though. But I don't really want to try punching that thing. You got a way to bring it down?

[For his part, Jamie is an attentive and conscientious student, listening seriously to Dan Heng's explanations, imitating his movements as best he can, and correcting himself when necessary until he has a particular movement down. He learns pretty quickly, thanks in part to the fact that everything is easily within his range of strength and movement and doesn't rely on reach or power he simply doesn't have.

During a break, as he takes measured gulps of water from a bottle he brought with him (because what if Dan Heng's are finite?? he doesn't want to waste them!), he's feeling a little excited about the progress he feels he's made. Still, he wants to check in with his teacher.]

How am I doing so far? I know I've got a ways to go, 'specially with some of the spear moves, but I think I'm getting the hang of most of the other stuff.

[OOC: "Training montage with interludes" is cool with me, and idk anything about combat stuff either, so we're all learning things here. :V And again, I apologize for being so slow to tag.]

[Alas for the advancement of computer technology. Higher capabilities but so much more breakable. And...also true. Maybe staring at so many screens in the dimly lit archives is why Dan Heng has glasses in some game art...

Bakugo is indeed Bakugo...perhaps people think he's yappy because of the Pomeranian shaped hair? Sorry man. Roar little lion man- sorry. (Ahhh that fits. We have a chihuahua. He also thinks he roars.) Yeah I should stop teasing in the meta narrative for self preservation, yea.

Dan Heng's formulating thoughts halt at the insinuation of swallowing his own tongue. He shoots his companion a pointed look.] While my vidyadhara physiology can pose certain challenges, swallowing my tongue is not one of them. I am thinking. [Yes he's a bit of a slowpoke sometimes. And again took Bakugo literally....]

.......Good point. It was much more digitally based on the Express. Going through an entire library isn't as common for me...[So maybe he got a bit carried away with taking in all the books and subjects...he didn't think through an entire system. If they wanted to do all that, he'd need label makers, stickers, and alot of time and people not taking books out. ...ha. Librarian dragon. Dan Heng is a hunt pathstrider, but the idea of hunting down people with overdue books is a bit absurd.

Still. Maybe it's a good idea to slow down, actually. Turning off the ocular device made that clear enough. ] That's good. Thank you for telling me. It's not a true 'do not disturb' mode, but close enough... I'll take it. And I'll also take... [And here he pulls out some books; one on fairy tales of this world, another on flora and fauna, and one on the evolution of technology through recent years; all of which are totally books that are there, right? Right.] these. I'd just gotten here, might as well learn more about this world for myself. [Much quieter mind made up, Dan Heng makes a beeline for a nearby empty table. Bakugo is free to follow or...do whatever Bakugos in libraries do.]

[That's one source of it, as well as the dog breed's noisy vocals and "cute" aggression. WHO THE FUCK'RE YOU CALLING LITTLE?! He'll show you just how loud he can get!! With explosions in the mix!! (My cousin has a miniature chihuahua... How's it get even smaller I ask?) Tease away. He can't hurt you on screen.

That pointed look only makes Bakugo tilt his head slightly in a deflecting challenge, lips curled slightly as if Dan Heng wants to start something. Oy! What the hell?!] I didn't mean it literally, dammit! [Taking more than a minute to answer is still weird in most conversations! Asking for an answer, not a fucking essay genned up in the brain! At least hold a finger up or say you'll think on it. Sheesh.]

It's not huge. [Though Bakugo's not sure most of the Outsiders would even know what a library card catalogue was, much less how to use one, or being willing to. Everything's digital nowadays. But if Dan Heng wants to busy himself with the project, no one's going to stop him. Some Outsiders would think the old-fashioned system charming. Alas, Bakugo can't assure all the books will return, so maybe that's another good point for a catalog.

He doesn't voice more when Dan Heng summarily thanks him and decides on books before whisking off with his trio of finds. The blonde's not sure if that was an actual selection or if the dragon wanted to escape the conversation with the most convenient out available. He's certainly not one to dis aborting a talk; though his are far less polite. That said, the dragon's talk about learning suggests he's going into a book binge, and Bakugo's not one to interrupt someone for no reason. Considering he gets pissed when he's interrupted. So Dan Heng's free to take his leave and read while the blonde scans for another book for himself.

He'll check out in a bit and steal off to his room rather than read in the library.]

Guy from earlier? Sounds like you did your research. [Was that teasing? Curiosity? Commendation? Who knows. When Wolfwood asks about bringing one down, Dan Heng nods, summoning a spear out of seemingly nowhere.]

I can handle it. [He watches the crab skitter around for a moment. Wolfwood might notice his pupils dilating, not unlike a cat about to pounce.

…..not that WW would know what a cat is…probably.

Spectral water forms around Dan Heng’s legs, providing a sort of springboard for him to launch himself through the air towards the overlarge crustacean. In a flash, he’s on it, bringing the butt of his spear down hard on the targeted part of its head.

The crab screeches, a claw jerking as if to grab him but much too slow. It stumbles forward, and Dan Heng throws a water dragon in front of its legs, forcing it to trip and fall.

And down the beast goes…Dan Heng steps off it back to the sand, delivering a precise stab between the shell bits to put it out of its misery quickly.

He meets Wolfwood’s eyes, and gives the most deadpan thumbs up you’ve probably ever seen. He then gestures for the man to come over.] Here, come look. I’ll show you where the meat is and how to prepare it. I think there are some grills still around…

[What vengeful books. It wasn’t Hunter’s fault he got sent flying…]

A-Alright… [It’s not fine. Attacking any member of the express, on accident or not, is unacceptable. That extends to here, especially to one of their younger members. Dan Heng should be in more control. However he also knows all the apologies could be even more distressing…he can let it go. For now.

But…yes. They should move. He can still feel fatigue pulling at him, but the shock of the everything that just happened has Dan Heng wide awake. He tidies up his books a bit, then…some of the ones that toppled everywhere before following Hunter out of the library.

He sighs, dispersing his tail before peering at the other.] I…actually do appreciate you waking me. The dreams I was experiencing were…far from pleasant. Now…may I see? [He gestures to see the top of Hunter’s head, which actually may require the younger Outsider to lean down. Curse his short stature.]

[Damn, he's kind of jealous of the pulling weapons out of thin air thing. It'd be so nice to have his at the ready without essentially losing a hand carrying his around.

Dan Heng strikes him as the quiet calm guy, but there's something predator about him when he's got a spear in his hand and prey in front of him. He has no reason to doubt the guy's confidence, so he simply crosses his arms and observes the fierce battle between claw and spear.

He whistles after that crunch, making his way closer, looking over Dan Heng's shoulder at the meaty mess below.]

And down it goes.

[He steps to the side, kicking curiously at one of it's claws. It's heavy, and kind of wicked looking. And if he wasn't the kind of guy that ate the heads off of flying insects he might question why anybody would want to eat this creepy ass water bug.]

I'm all ears, Teach.

[Hey Wolfwood you should check out the rewards, some hammerspace gloves might be right for YOU– chased out for dumb ooc sales pitch.

The claw twitches slightly at being kicked, but then goes still. Dan Heng huffs.]

I’ve seen creatures similar to these, but never as big. [Not to mention Xianzhou Luofu vidyadhara seem to have a taste for seafood in general…

He gestures to one of the smaller legs.] There’s alot of meat in the claw and body, which I feel would be a waste since we wouldn’t be able to finish it here. Leaving it in the shell for now will help maintain its freshness longer. [Dan Heng cuts into the joint connected to the main body.] Help me pull this off? [He’ll need help cracking the leg open too, which will be easy with Wolfwood’s strength. He just guides along with cuts from his spear.

…Yingxing would be rolling in his nonexistent grave if he knew Cloud Piercer was being used for something like this. Alas. A blade is a blade.

Working together, they should be able to extract some crab meat. It’s a kaiju, but it’s still the expected white and pink coloring. Dan Heng eats some first to be sure…hm. He smiles a little.] Good. It’s about what I’d expected. It’s better to cook it, which we’ll do in a bit, but crab is safe to eat raw too. See? [Up to Wolfwood if he wants to try it too. Hey, at least it’s not covered in bug juices? Just normal ocean moisture, maybe some sand.

((Disclaimer: sometimes crab is not safe to eat raw depending on the location or where you bought it from. Could be bacteria, parasites...eugh. SINCE THIS IS A BIG FANTASY KAIJU CRAB though let's just say it's safe here ok? ok.))]

[He watches Dan Heng tear the thing apart like he's an expert, helping where he's told to. The shell is still damn sturdy. He can see where guns aren't the best tool against them. Though...he's not sure the spear is the best suited for the job either. But, hell, he's not judging.

He stares at the meat in Dan Heng's hand before shrugging and taking it from him. He's never been picky when it comes to food, and he's never hesitated to eat a worm, so this might just be a step up for him. As sad as that is.

He makes a bit of a face, the flavor entirely new to him.]

Does it taste different heated? Not bad, but ain't exactly sure it screams a kid's favorite food to me.

Catch-All

Combat Training/Practice

General Prompts: Sleepless(?) Nights

at your leisure. these can be background threads.

as is above so is below

c

OUGH March sweetie

Sneaks a reply from work...

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sneaky sneaky

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c

I am. So sorry about this.

never be sorry

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I do my best. Then work bowls me over for like a week...

Alright I won't but Dan Heng definitely is lmaooo

Hello!! I overthought how this would work. Gomen.

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he is allowed but you are not

Eeeh i'm about to have a week as well, so i know the feel...

Ah don't strain your brain over it too hard! It's all good and fun~

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Beach trip! (Closed to Wolfwood)

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Aye aye capn'

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That's my secret...I'm always overthinking (lmao)

OOf. Best of luck on that Week then, too...

Week's done for me. Sorry he's such a grumpy bear. HAhaha...

Is it better than underthinking?

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Work's crazy again here. And don't be sorry I love grumpy Bakubear- alsoooo I hope you are safe

Work is the necessary evil. Me and mine are safe, asides from plant debris. Power's back.

Hi everything's on fire in event, but here's. Belated beach episode reply?

woe, another late reply upon ye

le old drama free days

Yes! And I do have a point I'm aiming for here, prommy

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