An Itch You Notice When It's Gone

[photonicfighter]

Has anyone seen Zed anywhere? I haven't. Haven't heard from him, either.

[In spite of her best efforts, worry is creeping into her tone.]

He's not by the sparkling fire-wand. I thought for sure he'd be there. Could he be somewhere else...?

Comments

[neverfeltthatway]

Does anyone not like muffins?

[It's half a joke, though his delivery is deadpan. Still, if she wants to change the subject, he'll try to smooth the transition and maybe lighten the mood.]

If you really want to get to him with food, though, make something peanut butter flavored.

[photonicfighter]

It's possible. People have preferences.

[Even if she does realize he's likely joking, it's a serious matter, to her. She'll answer it seriously.]

Peanut butter? Ooh. Alright. Does he... does he like chocolate, too?

[neverfeltthatway]

[Oh, well. That didn't really work, did it? Maybe he should stop trying that way - he doesn't seem to be very good with conveying sarcasm.

He doesn't respond to the first track - trying to explain the joke, or explain that it was a joke, would just make the whole thing much worse.]

He does.

[photonicfighter]

Ah, good. I'll make him something nice. It'll be something to do, too...

[Something to take her attention away from all these uncomfortable feelings. But that doesn't need to be said, does it?]

[neverfeltthatway]

...Let me know if you need anything, all right?

[A distraction, someone to talk to... He knows what it's like to lose people.]

[photonicfighter]

I will. Thank you, Armin.

[She's genuinely grateful for the offer. How kind he is.]

[neverfeltthatway]

Any time.

[And he means it, too. No matter what's going on with him, he'll always be there for a friend when they need him.]