Pearl's Plot House ~ Open

"What kinds of foods have you had then? I would like to broaden that spectrum for you. Any foods you haven't tried before, I'll make." Caley begins to eat. He wanted to hurry and make a list, so that he could plan every meal. That way, the foods Yuda doesn't like, he'll find out, and make sure to cook more of what Yuda does like.

"Ok. Let's have Indian tonight then. We can try something different for every meal." Caley was getting excited with the prospect of learning how to cook new foods. Maybe he could be the 'stay-at-home wife' type, and just use the income from his stocks. What a fun idea.

-- Anubis' Successors
-- Ira Edan-Kilborne, Arlo Kilborne

<><><>

Thana's gaze has lingered on his brother a bit long. Arlo arches a brow before noticing that Ira's fickle nature is in full effect as he preens and wags his ridiculously lengthy and frothy tail with a grin that he hides in his brother's shoulder. Arlo discreetly elbows him for this trespass. Neither jackals nor Set hounds have tails that resemble those of foxes or cats. He suspects that Ira specifically asked for this one because of course he would. It's also likely that he knows this to be a weakness for many. Including his twin. Unfortunately...
Arlo resists the urge to fluff it by sheer force of limited will. Ira has no problem being clingy and openly affectionate while his twin is starkly unfamiliar with it. He doesn't know what to do when Ira hugs or praises him so he tries ignore it except when they're in public. In which case he possibly experiences embarrassment and reacts with violence. It'll work eventually.

Fortunately, Thana isn't so distracted that she fails to keep up with the conversation. Arlo gives her a sharp nod. Good, he likes simple solutions that are in line with his own motives. Her words are soft and almost hesitant, but her reasoning is sound. Though he...somewhat prefers that his brother accompany her in his stead. Ira is more attuned to others' emotions and may be able to respond better to such an isolated individual...However, this is likewise an opportunity to reconcile with his past.
Very well, he will do what he can to inspire confidence and coach her in the use of her powers. "Hn. I'll take care of you."

Ira snickers and opens his mouth to say something stupid so Arlo instinctively moves to elbow him again. His brother anticipates this and dances away to stand near Cato, tail wagging and fangs flashing in a frankly disturbing expression of mirth. Ah, he intends to retaliate against Arlo by being more of a troublemaker than usual. Should he be concerned or relieved that they're being separated? Cato doesn't give off the impression of being incompetent but he still feels the familiar rise in anxiety whenever there's a possibility that his twin could come to harm as soon as he leaves his sight.
Though Ira likes to boast of being the 'executioner', it is Arlo who doggedly defends him from any oncoming misfortune. It is a point of contention between them. Ira likely relishes the opportunity to step out of his twin's orbit but is he capable of keeping himself safe, even for a single night?

Arlo suddenly wishes that his brother would return to his side and bother him. His expression actually shifts when he narrows his eyes at the unassuming blond. Truthfully he can't see him well as he isn't wearing his glasses, but the message has likely been conveyed. He can see, or rather sense, Ira childishly sticking his tongue out at him.

Ira avidly listens to Cato's gripes, a faint smile still lingering as Pluto's successor airs out his many grievances. It seems like he's been bottling it up for a while. Poor guy, not like he can take it all to therapy. Didn't work out too well for Arlo, who was needlessly blunt and offered to judge the man's vindictive girlfriend.

"It's ridiculous, is what it is!" Ira agrees, clicking his tongue in censure, "I don't know why they're so obsessed with 'keeping it in the family' so to speak. Anubis doesn't like to talk about his conception either, there are way too many squiggly lines in his family grapevine! Makes you wonder why there isn't a deity for Alabama! I really hope that isn't something that comes with the territory..." At least he doesn't have any sisters. That he knows about...Ira gives his brother a wide-eyed look and is predictably met with a disgusted one.
He wants to keep commiserating with Cato but Arlo's silent 'get to work' energy inspires the blond to flick through the book instead.

"I suppose I can bear your presence for a bit longer~" He teases, peering around Cato to find a name that he'd glimpsed earlier. "There, right! Thom Ferrell. Let's go for him first!" Arlo wouldn't let him kill the guy earlier, but he has the perfect opportunity now!

@ Ember

"That's what makes it so fun. Something different for every meal makes life interesting, does it not?" Caley asks, grinning. Noticing Yuda had finished his bowl, he ladles more food. "Have some more. I told you I'd fatten you up. So keep eating. There's heaps in here. It'll take all day before we finish the lot."

@ inky:

(That's alright. I understand. I'll probably be MIA at times too. I have two assignments due in three weeks.)

Garrett was looking forward to some relaxation tonight. He had a busy few weeks, and he finally had some time off from Hell. He was really bored staying there all the time. Even when he normally comes to the surface, he's always hunting someone or something. He's never had much time to relax. But this time, he's got a long holiday. The last time this happened was...300 years ago. The world has changed a lot in that short amount of time. He was a fourth generation demon, one of the high level ones. He was a direct descendant of two original demons, making him extremely powerful. He's old on top of that, making him even more powerful than a normal high level demon. Unfortunately, he was only one of many, which is why he's a bounty hunter. He's constantly catching runaway demons or souls that try to escape via the surface. They think that if they hide in the human world, they'd be safe. Unfortunately, he's got a real sensitive nose, and he can sniff out any demon... kinda like a bloodhound. Well, that is what they call him.

But for tonight, Garrett has time for himself. Garrett has always had flings with women when he has time. But that's like once in 500 years. He doesn't even have any descendants because of this. Garrett heads to the closest bar. As he looks at it, he can hear all the laughter. He can smell the alcohol, the sweat, the fresh human blood coursing through their veins. He blinks for a second, shaking off the thoughts plaguing his mind, and enters the bar. He walks up to the lovely young red haired woman. Her hair was in a fishtail braid, not that he knew what it was. He just thought her hair looked pretty like that.

"Hi," he says softly, as he reaches the bar. "I'd like something strong, please."

( I love that the majority of this is Ira talking~ Arlo has one (1) line and he is completely satisfied with that. )

Yuda gave a slight smile, he still wasn't fully used to having someone care so much, but it was something comforting at the very least. "So what kind of Indian food are you thinking of making," he asked as he started to eat the second helping of food. "Can I ask you a question? If it's not to out of place for me to?'

Yuda listened to him explain what he was thinking of making. He was looking forward to trying it, the different flavors sounding like an interesting combination. He blinked when Caley said that he could ask his question. "Oh...um...well..you just seemed bothered? Is that the word? Or well troubled by something? What was it about?" He looked down at the bowl as he took a few more bites. "You don't have to answer if you don't want to though. if it's to personal feel free to say so and I won't pry."

( He'll have to work his way up to it haha~ )


-- Anubis' Successors 
-- Ira Edan-Kilborne, Arlo Kilborne

<><><>

Arlo stiffens when he feels a slight tug on his coat, catching himself just before Thana walks into his back. "What...are you doing?" He can't exactly turn around with the grip that she has, so he's forced to lift his arm and turn halfway to peer under it. She'd been so quiet and hesitant that her sudden bid for physical reassurance actually surprises him. Arlo hates being surprised, so he mentally reviews his expectations and observations in order to rationalize her simple gesture. He...doesn't exactly give off a friendly or protective air. Definitely not to the general public. Arlo's circle of protection simply encapsulates his twin and his mother. He's never cared for the family he's left behind in Egypt beyond what duties and responsibilities he owed them. This can be said for his role as Sekhen as well. Sutekh is the guardian and champion of the dead. Sekhen is on the other side of that...he doesn't even intend to inspire confidence, not really. And he doubts Thana would know his intentions...ah. He did say he would 'take care' of her, didn't he? Could that be interpreted as this?
It's difficult to manage but Arlo somewhat eyes the arm attached to the gloved hand that is attached to his coat.

"Not afraid of killing me, are you?" His tone is wry as he arches a dark brow at her.

He generally dislikes physical contact- or at least he's meant to. But now a very tactile and overly affectionate brother has interrupted his quiet single organism life and Arlo would never admit it on Pain Of...Something Worse Than Death- but he's kind of. Perhaps. More well-acquainted with it. There are times when Ira sneaks into his bed- likely after another nightmare- to hug him and Arlo doesn't much mind that as much as he'd like to. Not even when Ira jumps onto him excitedly when he's won some inane game. Arlo is forced to project the exact opposite as much as possible because Ira will latch onto any perceived weakness like an alligator in its death roll. Still, Arlo rationalizes their natural inclination as Ira literally being the other half of his soul, so it must be a matter of course. This is not.

She's at least not touching him physically...But does this actually reassure her? Nothing has happened yet. Arlo ponders this for a bit. He's of course taken on the more tiresome job, as usual. But he has to do a little more than half-ass it...this time.

"I will allow it. Ask for permission if you intend to repeat this in the future." Arlo makes his voice stern; this isn't something he means to encourage.

That sorted, he returns to leading her toward the edge of the cemetery, this time taking a smoother path to avoid her tripping on what his longer stride can easily bypass.

Ira was watching the retreating pair interact with great interest- and just a hint of jealousy, even knowing that most of what his brother does is out of obligation. He makes a mental note to give Arlo a revenge hug later. Hmph.

Unfortunately, Cato's next inquiry doesn't put him in a better mood. Ira can appreciate curiosity, even concerning himself, but this is a bit...At least he didn't voice all of his questions. He doesn't like being on the other end of his own nigh-scientific curiosity. Why did Cato have to ask that question anyway? There're tons of other perfectly benign ones!
His face is actually heating up and he instinctively wants to cover it but he can't draw attention to his blush. Damn his pale complexion! "I- ah-" Ira pointedly looks away and plays with the braid in his hair. Yes or no? Which is the least ego-damaging answer? "S-sometimes. Ahem. It depends..." He commands his tail to halt its motion. But it can't be absolutely stationary. That'd be suspicious..."When my brother-" Oh, shit! They were just talking about how repulsive incest is! He can't begin a sentence with 'when my brother pets me'! Even if he follows it up with 'it's not like that I swear we just...we have a Connection'! Ira's eyes widen in increasing horror. He'd never be able to look Cato or Arlo in the eye ever again. He might as well become Pluto's successor instead-!

He coughs to buy himself time. It's probably more like choking though. "Ah-ahem s-sorry about that-" No! Not the stuttering! Let's just bypass that- like a kidney-
In the end, he has to save face with the least damaging response. Ira hates hates admitting to any kind of weakness, no matter how small. Especially concerning his role. Admitting that he can't become a giant soul-eating jackal yet is fine, because it can easily be fact-checked and just the promise of it is Glorious. But he doesn't want to admit to lack of control like Thana, especially when he prided himself over her. Ugh.
"Usually it kind of acts on its own." Well, that was embarrassing. He took way too long to answer that and he's still blushing. That might be even more suspicious. Ira laughs to cover up Whatever That Was and fortunately it blends in with Cato's own. They're back to appreciating his tail. Safe Zone.

And then Cato moves onto more Safe questions that Ira himself had been pondering. He immediately perks up, ears swiveling to give the blond his full attention. "Hmhm, I was just discussing that with Sekhen~! Anubis wasn't available to comment, but we've deduced that they may be on separate planes of existence." He hovers one hand over the other as he speaks, "There are layers to ours, as there are layers to yours, yes? You've probably heard of the malleability of Ma'at. I imagine it's something like that~"
"Haha, rhyme~!" He has to interject before continuing.
"We could just be a hop skip jump away~" He wiggles his fingers to represent 'crossing realities'.

Ira whirls around with a shrug. "Nobody really believes in our versions of the afterlife anymore, unless they want to sound cool- but I imagine that who goes where is also a matter of which of us gets to 'em first~" He lifts his chin in challenge with a matching grin. "I mean, there's a reason we're pretty much all that's left, yes? Our patrons are among the most powerful and well-known death gods. The Hercules movie probably really put you on the map, haha~"

-- Anubis' Successors
-- Ira Edan-Kilborne, Arlo Kilborne

<><><><>

Cato's interest returns to his tail- it truly is spectacular! And Ira is happy to show it off until he sees that glint in what he's sure were previously normal-looking eyes. The question isn't quite scientific, but somehow it makes his fur bristle. He curls his tail close protectively, but this time he masks it with a move to smooth his fur. "I can! I imagine it'd be more powerful when I manage a full shift~" He'd like to add more but perhaps it's not the best idea at the moment...Ira wants to wrinkle his nose, this guy's really got him wrong-footed. He must be out of practice when it comes to manipulating conversations...

Ugh. Ira can't help his pout when that stupid- well not really, and that's the problem! - blond easily responds to his reticence. He wasn't truly agitated in the moment, but he was a little too eager. And his tail was a little too expressive. It's too late to hide it now though. "I'm just restless when I'm like this~" He tries to explain away the circling with a sheepish smile. It's a new- bad- habit he's picked up. Ira isn't even sure what it means. There's just a vague notion of 'Hunt'. He'd done it once when he wanted to bite someone and a separate time when he'd felt protective of Arlo so it's a bit of a toss-up.
Oh...Cato said 'close enough yet'? Did he mean to get closer? In what way? Ira isn't sure how to feel about that. They were both too curious in different ways- oh, actually that'd be fun~ They could experiment on each other~ Or on Arlo and Thana! Ira side-eyes his tail even as his ears do that perky 'hello!' Thing that usually precedes a 'wanna be friends?!' Play-bow. But this is not the dog park.
'Don't you dare move.'

"Better than a bloodhound." He archly corrects. He's made it clear that his haughtiness is for show however, as Cato has likely already parsed from his little pleased grins afterwards. "I can track people by their soul, whether living or dead." The fact that he can't actually see souls doesn't need mentioning. Cato can just show him the general area for him to attack.
"I have fangs," He flashes them in a brief grin. "No claws though, sadly. The ears, tail, and fangs are the most important parts. They make me the 'jackal-headed' god. I could probably just walk around with my head replaced by a jackal's but. Ew." Arlo did it once to scare him. He has the absolute Worst and most random sense of humor. Ira nearly got a concussion when he fell out of bed to get away from him...Arlo even recorded the unholy shriek he'd made to use for 'disciplinary purposes'.

"Oh, hm?" His response is absentminded. "I was just letting her know that Sekhen wouldn't make her kill anyone right away. He'd let her watch his version of the process first, to ease her into things."

The previous terrible memory is quickly wiped over with the mental image of him and Cato doing donuts in the cemetery whilst driving someone else's car. They're plowing through every standing gravestone. Arlo seethes in the background with palpable disapproval. "Pfft, hhaha! That'd be amazing~!" Ira nearly keels over with laughter. It's completely unexpected- something that he'd suggest, really- which makes it all the better coming from a fellow successor~
"Are you serious? Really? Ha, I wish!" It'd be the perfect way to get back at his brother- but would any unattended cars be parked around the cemetery at this time of night?

He straightens with some difficulty. Usually Arlo either reluctantly supports him when he falls into him with laughter or kicks him away. Falling into Cato had been an instinctive move toward the closest person at the time, but he didn't want to force him to bear his weight- not that there was much of it.
"I don't think we'd have a wealth of vehicle options to choose from- unless we run after Sekhen and force our way into his car~" He smirks at the thought.

"Let me get a lock on his location first." He suggests, "Then we can decide which route would be quickest. It wouldn't be fair to you if you had to run all the way home." His tone is perhaps over-smug.
With a decisive swish of his tail, Ira closes his eyes and focuses on the memory and imprint of his odious prey. He's seen that face more times than is healthy, both in reality and...otherwise, so it isn't difficult. In fact, Ira has to pretend that the action doesn't have immediate results. He's always been at least borderline aware of the man. Old habits and all that. Unlike Cato and his brother, he can't accurately determine the worth of a dead soul. The living, however...
It's a foul stench. Cigarettes and gluttony. Lust. Other unhonorable mentions...He doesn't want to focus on any of- all that. He just needs a location. A general direction will do, but he knows all of Thom's favorite haunts so it makes it that much easier. His ears swivel, attempting to find a sound to go with the scent. In what he's come to call his partial deity shift, Ira's senses go beyond even the subhuman. Even so, he's limited by the effects actions have on one's soul rather than the simple motions of one's life. He's more likely to smell a murder a city away than an equally deadly altercation right next to him. Unfortunately, Sutekh is more a guardian of the dead than the living, but Ira intends to do both. He's already trained himself to decipher the difference between weak souls and strong ones whilst still in living bodies. Thom's is weak, the coward.

"Hm." Ira opens his eyes and cants his head toward his companion. "Where's your house again?"

"Why don't you relax than," he asked with a frown. "If you spent so long working hard you should take it easy for a bit." Granted he was being hypocritical as he often overworked himself, almost to the bone. He mulled over the last comment. "I'm still going to ask if I'm allowed," he commented. "I don't want to cause you discomfort." He looked back down at the bowl as he continued to eat the second helping.

Yuda finished the second bowl and stood up to take the bowl to the kitchen. He shifted on his feet a bit, biting back a retort he just headed over to the kitchen placing the bowl in the sink. He switched on the water to rinse it out as he mulled over what Caley had said. He released a sigh, something about Caley, he couldn't place. He couldn't place why he got flustered around him or why his heart missed beats when the latter smiled at him. He couldn't help the smile that was forming on his face with the knowledge that there was someone that cared.

Yuda moved out of the way to let Caley rinse his bowl. He pressed his lips together before finally speaking. "When do you want to discuss this whole marriage thing," he asked him. He watched Caley for bit. "If you want to talk about it later that's fine, but there's a lot to planning weddings right?"

"I don't care much in regards to the cake, I don't really like sweet food," he commented. Yuda thought over colors, he didn't much care for those either. "Maybe some darker colors? To give a contrast?" As for the other things Yuda didn't know, which one of them should serve as the bride? As for music? He wasn't sure, did Caley have something specific he wanted? Weddings he had been to usually had more instrumental.