001: Video

[tryingitall]

[The first images that appear are fuzzy close-ups of a hand. Calloused, tan fingers, a grass-stained palm, and—ah! He’s been covering up the lens accidentally. Balthazar has never had occasion to use one of these things before, and, already uncomfortable and disoriented, he’s a little slow to learn. Oops.] Oh. There I am. Do I look that bad? Eurgh.

[He does, in fact, look ill; eyes shadowed, skin pale and clammy.] I’ve decided I don’t enjoy pain, except in very small, controlled doses.

[There’s a long pause, during which Balthazar looks like he’s trying to construct a speech, or maybe just keep from throwing up. Or both. He may not be dealing with the shock of arrival very well. In any case, he gives up on profound observations quickly.] However, I do enjoy alcohol, in large, uncontrolled doses.

[His smile is wan.] No, I’m not asking. I don’t take candy from strangers.

[Another pause, with him staring elsewhere, frowning mildly. The questions he really wants answers to--what the hell happened? why am I here? what do I do now?--don't seem to have simple answers. And the question 'who else is out there?' may have answers he doesn't like.]

…So, are there games on this thing? [Beep-boop-boop. Hello, button mashing.]

Comments

[tryingitall]

Yes. [For a moment he looks serious, even a bit depressed.] This place may be cursed, but I don't like my chances back home, either.

[The smile returns just as quickly as it left.] Well, here's hoping neither of us gets kicked out, mm?

[uberboned]

Two years and counting. Haven't left yet. [Gabriel, at least, has enough forced optimism for everyone.]

[tryingitall]

[He'll accept that optimism and hope that Gabriel being older and wiser means that it's justified.]

When you hit three, will I be invited to the party?

[uberboned]

Make it to October and then we'll talk.

[tryingitall]

Your vote of confidence is underwhelming, but it's a deal.