Barnabas Bennett

Do you wish to hear of our Lord and Saviour Jonah Magnus?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Your loyal servant, Barnabas

nnb

All rules and whatnot found on @zizisrpsideblog !!

BARNABAS

He is a creature of the Spiral but an avatar of the Lonely (??) because of circumstances!! They are different okai

IMPORTANT POSTS

1

2

3

figure out the tags yourself I'm lazy .

pfp @/chekadiii

[lonelyfogman]

Peter?

[ What in the hell- oh. It's just. Him. When did he get here? ]

@nothing-besides-remains

Barnabas?

[ Peter stares at him for a good moment before approaching him, still a bit shocked at the sight of the man. ]

It has been some time, huh? Coming back from the Lonely after so long may be difficult… are you alright?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Yes, yes. I feel fine. Wonderous, actually! I do believe I have gotten a proper hold of my domain. Quite a... transformative experience, if I do say.

[ He's holding his hands together, smiling. Something in the air feels ever so off. Perhaps it's just the uncanny feeling of seeing him after so long. ]

[lonelyfogman]

[ He nods, absolutely not suspecting anything. ]

That is very good, Barnabas. I’m so proud of you.

[ He puts his hand on Barnabas’ shoulder. ]

You have done your part. Now that you can control your domain, you can start feeding our Patron. You are ready.

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Oh. Should be play into it? Possibly the best option, let Peter have his little fantasy for a bit. ]

Hmm. I do hope, however, 'our' Patron has not been bothering you lately? Ah, but you must know what I truly am asking. How have you been, Peter? I missed you.

[lonelyfogman]

Peter?

[ What in the hell- oh. It's just. Him. When did he get here? ]

@nothing-besides-remains

Barnabas?

[ Peter stares at him for a good moment before approaching him, still a bit shocked at the sight of the man. ]

It has been some time, huh? Coming back from the Lonely after so long may be difficult… are you alright?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Yes, yes. I feel fine. Wonderous, actually! I do believe I have gotten a proper hold of my domain. Quite a... transformative experience, if I do say.

[ He's holding his hands together, smiling. Something in the air feels ever so off. Perhaps it's just the uncanny feeling of seeing him after so long. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Barnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnabarnaabyss

Good god.

[nothing-besides-remains]

ube mochi donuts for you

[ Another round of is this edible or is it just soap! ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

[The footsteps of some sort of animal come from the hallway, and a bloodhound in a service dog vest enters Barnabas’s hospital room]

Awroo!

- @hounddog-in-headlights

[ Oh god it's another one ]

Ah... Hullo? Are you about to turn human on me, as well?

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[The dog did indeed become human, a teenage girl who was chuckling to herself]

Well obviously you’re either met Alex or Vin then. Doesn’t matter. I know ‘em both. I’m Lucy! One of Sal’s friends!

[She sets a small vase of flowers in the windowsill]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Oh!

[ Barnabas visibly relaxes, and so does the... air. Huh. ]

I do believe Sal told me about you, if I recall now. I am glad they have decided to become acquainted with more people than just myself. Ah, thank you.

[ He adds the last part with a nod to the flowers ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She smiles]

They’re working on it. They split with Misty a while ago, not sure if they told you. But yeah! They’re doing well. Talked about you a few times, I came to see what all the fuss was about.

What got you in the hospital? If you don’t mind my asking.

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ He's a bit surprised Sal actually talks about him but decides not to comment ]

I... may have overestimated my capabilities where it came to the Lonely? I only meant to refine a couple of things, perhaps I stayed for too long. Yes, I must have. Apologies. I did not ponder on it.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She leaned up against the wall, eyes opening on her arms as she shivered a bit]

Sureee. Look I’m not gonna ask the truth outta you but unfortunately I’ve been graced with the ability to nearly always know when someone’s lying to me. Feels like pins and needles. If you’re gonna lie at least make it mostly true.

[she smoothed the eyes down, scolding them under her breath]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ahhh...

[ He smiles sheepishly, at least a hint of apology creeping onto his face ]

Well, I thank you for not prying. Would you prefer to sit? I am sure there one of those intriguing "folding chairs" beneath the bed.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She shakes her head]

No thanks. Can’t do chairs with backs. I’ve got pretty bad claustrophobia. That’s why I had Bird Dog walk in here instead of me.

[She takes out a notebook and looks at him almost like she’s studying him]

So. . . when exactly are you from again?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, if you wish. I believe I was... hm. 182...3? 20 itself? Somewhere around there. A researcher, I take it?

[ There's a pause ]

Have we... met before? You seem almost familiar.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

That I am.

And yes, once I believe, though it is wasn’t for very long. I figured reintroductions were necessary.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, I see. Well, I must thank you for taking the time to come this way simply to speak with me again!

[ Barnabas claps his hands together. His delight is genuine. Huh. How many people does this guy have a normal conversation with? ]

I do apologise, given my condition I cannot even do anything as simple as offering tea! But if you wish to conduct any research, please do feel free to.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

Oh no apologies necessary, and I’m sure I’ll have plenty of time for research later. I’ll just get the basics down for now for your journal. I’ll need your favorite color and three to five things you like.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Favourite... ? Ah, I am afraid I do not have any. Well, I am fond of... hmm. My travels, certainly. I do not believe any of my other previous hobbies would be applicable in this era. Would Sal and Jonah count? I am rather fond of them as individuals.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[This seemed to get her attention]

Jonah Magnus?

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Barnabas frowns, like he's confused ]

Yes, him. Oh dear. I have not made things awkward have I? I am aware he has a certain... reputation.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

Wait wait, how old is your Jonah? Because I also know Jonah but mine’s fourteen.

[nothing-besides-remains]

I am quite honestly unsure! I do think I have met that one. He is unfortunately not very fond of me. If I recall, last we met, just a couple of days ago, he pulled out a charming revolver on me!

[ He says this so... utterly cheerfully ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She looks at him strangely for a second then writes this down.

I. . . I don’t think I was aware he had a gun.

He’s like my best friend. Well, besides Pixel or Sal or Alex or Ella or Misty or- y’know what I’m just gonna stop there before we’re here all day. I have a lot of best friends I give out Best Friend status pretty fast.

Oh, and I wouldn’t worry about your previous hobbies. It’s just for decoration’s sake. I put your name on the side of the journal and the stuff you like on the front cover to be decorative! Like this!

[She took out her journal for Sal]

See?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Oh? A whole book? Just for me? I must say, Lucy, i am honoured! What a diligent friend you are! I can see why Sal must like you so much.

[ There's something almost... teasing? In his voice. Oh! It's amusement. But also genuine appreciation ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

I’ve got journals on almost everybody. I’m a researcher first and foremost, but I’ve also got terrible memory and processing issues, so writing down everything I can is very helpful.

It’s actually how Sal and I met. I told them I wanted to study the effects of genuine friendship on someone who was truly Lonely. And whaddya know, it worked out pretty nice for us.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, I do hold a special sort of respect for those who value knowledge, so I understand where you are coming from. Do you research anything other than individuals, I wonder? Or are humans an interest of yours?

[hounddog-in-headlights]

People, the Fears, and especially the intricacies and facets of my domain as well as forests in general. I’m primarily an ecologist, but wherever my research takes me I find myself inclined to follow!

[She said this with much pride in her voice]

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Barnabas, to his credit, does listen like he's genuinely interested ]

How fascinating! I assume ecology is to do with nature, considering you implied your domain is a forest? The whole forest, might I add?

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She absolutely lit up. She hadn’t gotten to explain this to somebody in ages]

Ecology is the study of ecosystems, which covers a really broad range of topics which is why I love it. And yeah! My domain is give or take 50 square kilometers of varying types of forest. Maximum hunting potential there.

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Barnabas makes a mental note to read up about what on earth an ecosystem is later ]

Good lord, and here I am struggling to manage my own domain, I truly must be behind on the times... or perhaps the Hunt is simply inclined to larger domains. Anyhow, I would be most delighted to hear about it on a later date.

[nothing-besides-remains]

[...how the hell did an animal, a wolf no less get into the hospital.]

@youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart

[ He doesn't know and he doesn't want to. This will only end horribly for him. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, apologies on that front. I cannot.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Fucking asshole.

[he mutters, just done at this point.]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah? What have I done this time? And I do remind you, you were the one to enter and begin insulting me. But no bother! If you wish to put that past ourselves I am more than happy to.

[ He's all clasping his hands together and speaking genuinely. What is wrong with him ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

....are you serious right now?

[nothing-besides-remains]

But of course!

[ It's so hard to tell if he's actually being serious or if he's just fucking with him, the tone's too vague ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Really?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I did say I was, did I not?

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

... how are you this blind?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I am not blind, I simply prefer choosing the path with the best outcome! And for whatever reason I simply feel like it, also.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

...hm.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Well! I will leave you to your own devices. Make a decision if you wish, or forget entirely about this. I daresay this conversation has been long enough as it is, hmm?

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

...you make me want to poke your eyes out.

[nothing-besides-remains]

I'd prefer if you didn't, but then again I have no control over of you do or not. Oh! And please do shut the door on your way out.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

...

[he walks out, opening the door as much as possible.]

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Well, he hadn't expected him to, but at least he's gone ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

[...how the hell did an animal, a wolf no less get into the hospital.]

@youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart

[ He doesn't know and he doesn't want to. This will only end horribly for him. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, apologies on that front. I cannot.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Fucking asshole.

[he mutters, just done at this point.]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah? What have I done this time? And I do remind you, you were the one to enter and begin insulting me. But no bother! If you wish to put that past ourselves I am more than happy to.

[ He's all clasping his hands together and speaking genuinely. What is wrong with him ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

....are you serious right now?

[nothing-besides-remains]

But of course!

[ It's so hard to tell if he's actually being serious or if he's just fucking with him, the tone's too vague ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Really?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I did say I was, did I not?

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

... how are you this blind?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I am not blind, I simply prefer choosing the path with the best outcome! And for whatever reason I simply feel like it, also.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

...hm.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Well! I will leave you to your own devices. Make a decision if you wish, or forget entirely about this. I daresay this conversation has been long enough as it is, hmm?

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

...you make me want to poke your eyes out.

[nothing-besides-remains]

I'd prefer if you didn't, but then again I have no control over of you do or not. Oh! And please do shut the door on your way out.

[nothing-besides-remains]

[The footsteps of some sort of animal come from the hallway, and a bloodhound in a service dog vest enters Barnabas’s hospital room]

Awroo!

- @hounddog-in-headlights

[ Oh god it's another one ]

Ah... Hullo? Are you about to turn human on me, as well?

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[The dog did indeed become human, a teenage girl who was chuckling to herself]

Well obviously you’re either met Alex or Vin then. Doesn’t matter. I know ‘em both. I’m Lucy! One of Sal’s friends!

[She sets a small vase of flowers in the windowsill]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Oh!

[ Barnabas visibly relaxes, and so does the... air. Huh. ]

I do believe Sal told me about you, if I recall now. I am glad they have decided to become acquainted with more people than just myself. Ah, thank you.

[ He adds the last part with a nod to the flowers ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She smiles]

They’re working on it. They split with Misty a while ago, not sure if they told you. But yeah! They’re doing well. Talked about you a few times, I came to see what all the fuss was about.

What got you in the hospital? If you don’t mind my asking.

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ He's a bit surprised Sal actually talks about him but decides not to comment ]

I... may have overestimated my capabilities where it came to the Lonely? I only meant to refine a couple of things, perhaps I stayed for too long. Yes, I must have. Apologies. I did not ponder on it.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She leaned up against the wall, eyes opening on her arms as she shivered a bit]

Sureee. Look I’m not gonna ask the truth outta you but unfortunately I’ve been graced with the ability to nearly always know when someone’s lying to me. Feels like pins and needles. If you’re gonna lie at least make it mostly true.

[she smoothed the eyes down, scolding them under her breath]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ahhh...

[ He smiles sheepishly, at least a hint of apology creeping onto his face ]

Well, I thank you for not prying. Would you prefer to sit? I am sure there one of those intriguing "folding chairs" beneath the bed.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She shakes her head]

No thanks. Can’t do chairs with backs. I’ve got pretty bad claustrophobia. That’s why I had Bird Dog walk in here instead of me.

[She takes out a notebook and looks at him almost like she’s studying him]

So. . . when exactly are you from again?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, if you wish. I believe I was... hm. 182...3? 20 itself? Somewhere around there. A researcher, I take it?

[ There's a pause ]

Have we... met before? You seem almost familiar.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

That I am.

And yes, once I believe, though it is wasn’t for very long. I figured reintroductions were necessary.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, I see. Well, I must thank you for taking the time to come this way simply to speak with me again!

[ Barnabas claps his hands together. His delight is genuine. Huh. How many people does this guy have a normal conversation with? ]

I do apologise, given my condition I cannot even do anything as simple as offering tea! But if you wish to conduct any research, please do feel free to.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

Oh no apologies necessary, and I’m sure I’ll have plenty of time for research later. I’ll just get the basics down for now for your journal. I’ll need your favorite color and three to five things you like.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Favourite... ? Ah, I am afraid I do not have any. Well, I am fond of... hmm. My travels, certainly. I do not believe any of my other previous hobbies would be applicable in this era. Would Sal and Jonah count? I am rather fond of them as individuals.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[This seemed to get her attention]

Jonah Magnus?

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Barnabas frowns, like he's confused ]

Yes, him. Oh dear. I have not made things awkward have I? I am aware he has a certain... reputation.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

Wait wait, how old is your Jonah? Because I also know Jonah but mine’s fourteen.

[nothing-besides-remains]

I am quite honestly unsure! I do think I have met that one. He is unfortunately not very fond of me. If I recall, last we met, just a couple of days ago, he pulled out a charming revolver on me!

[ He says this so... utterly cheerfully ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She looks at him strangely for a second then writes this down.

I. . . I don’t think I was aware he had a gun.

He’s like my best friend. Well, besides Pixel or Sal or Alex or Ella or Misty or- y’know what I’m just gonna stop there before we’re here all day. I have a lot of best friends I give out Best Friend status pretty fast.

Oh, and I wouldn’t worry about your previous hobbies. It’s just for decoration’s sake. I put your name on the side of the journal and the stuff you like on the front cover to be decorative! Like this!

[She took out her journal for Sal]

See?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Oh? A whole book? Just for me? I must say, Lucy, i am honoured! What a diligent friend you are! I can see why Sal must like you so much.

[ There's something almost... teasing? In his voice. Oh! It's amusement. But also genuine appreciation ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

I’ve got journals on almost everybody. I’m a researcher first and foremost, but I’ve also got terrible memory and processing issues, so writing down everything I can is very helpful.

It’s actually how Sal and I met. I told them I wanted to study the effects of genuine friendship on someone who was truly Lonely. And whaddya know, it worked out pretty nice for us.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, I do hold a special sort of respect for those who value knowledge, so I understand where you are coming from. Do you research anything other than individuals, I wonder? Or are humans an interest of yours?

[hounddog-in-headlights]

People, the Fears, and especially the intricacies and facets of my domain as well as forests in general. I’m primarily an ecologist, but wherever my research takes me I find myself inclined to follow!

[She said this with much pride in her voice]

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Barnabas, to his credit, does listen like he's genuinely interested ]

How fascinating! I assume ecology is to do with nature, considering you implied your domain is a forest? The whole forest, might I add?

[nothing-besides-remains]

[...how the hell did an animal, a wolf no less get into the hospital.]

@youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart

[ He doesn't know and he doesn't want to. This will only end horribly for him. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, apologies on that front. I cannot.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Fucking asshole.

[he mutters, just done at this point.]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah? What have I done this time? And I do remind you, you were the one to enter and begin insulting me. But no bother! If you wish to put that past ourselves I am more than happy to.

[ He's all clasping his hands together and speaking genuinely. What is wrong with him ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

....are you serious right now?

[nothing-besides-remains]

But of course!

[ It's so hard to tell if he's actually being serious or if he's just fucking with him, the tone's too vague ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Really?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I did say I was, did I not?

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

... how are you this blind?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I am not blind, I simply prefer choosing the path with the best outcome! And for whatever reason I simply feel like it, also.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

...hm.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Well! I will leave you to your own devices. Make a decision if you wish, or forget entirely about this. I daresay this conversation has been long enough as it is, hmm?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Pushes @dear-everyone-im-froggy at you oh so gently

[ Head in hands please just let him rest ]

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

[ Marie stands in front of him, head tilted as she looks at Barnabas. ]

"Excuse me.. are you okay, sir?"

[nothing-besides-remains]

Oh, yes, please ignore me. I am simply a bit tired is all. Ah... miss? Are you? Please take a seat if you wish.

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

[ She sits next to him, glancing at him but not saying anything. Her presence was calming, quiet– similar to Peter. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Oh, if she's happy to stay quiet so is he. Though the nagging feeling of her appearance out of the blue was... ]

[ ... ]

[ Just ignore it ]

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

[ She stays quiet for a long while, giving Barnabas space to just be, trying to be a soothing and comforting presence. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

...do you have a purpose here?

[ He says eventually, because it's rude to ignore people ]

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

"I'm not really sure.. I just got kind of pulled here for some reason. I suppose I've just been talking more recently."

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, I see. It must be... odd. To be 'pulled' towards some stranger's sickbed. Whyever did you listen to the urge?

[ Sounds a lot like his current patron... ]

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

[ She smiles, a little embarrassed. ]

"I am taking more chances, being less.. held back. It got me passage on quite a stunning ship so I have been following my instict more in the hopes of more pleasant events."

[nothing-besides-remains]

Hmm? Could you perhaps be referring to the Tundra? Goodness, now that I remember I must speak to Peter... ahem, excuse me.

[nothing-besides-remains]

BarnANTbas

What is this even supposed to mean

[nothing-besides-remains]

[...how the hell did an animal, a wolf no less get into the hospital.]

@youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart

[ He doesn't know and he doesn't want to. This will only end horribly for him. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, apologies on that front. I cannot.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Fucking asshole.

[he mutters, just done at this point.]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah? What have I done this time? And I do remind you, you were the one to enter and begin insulting me. But no bother! If you wish to put that past ourselves I am more than happy to.

[ He's all clasping his hands together and speaking genuinely. What is wrong with him ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

....are you serious right now?

[nothing-besides-remains]

But of course!

[ It's so hard to tell if he's actually being serious or if he's just fucking with him, the tone's too vague ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Really?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I did say I was, did I not?

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

... how are you this blind?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I am not blind, I simply prefer choosing the path with the best outcome! And for whatever reason I simply feel like it, also.

[nothing-besides-remains]

[The footsteps of some sort of animal come from the hallway, and a bloodhound in a service dog vest enters Barnabas’s hospital room]

Awroo!

- @hounddog-in-headlights

[ Oh god it's another one ]

Ah... Hullo? Are you about to turn human on me, as well?

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[The dog did indeed become human, a teenage girl who was chuckling to herself]

Well obviously you’re either met Alex or Vin then. Doesn’t matter. I know ‘em both. I’m Lucy! One of Sal’s friends!

[She sets a small vase of flowers in the windowsill]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Oh!

[ Barnabas visibly relaxes, and so does the... air. Huh. ]

I do believe Sal told me about you, if I recall now. I am glad they have decided to become acquainted with more people than just myself. Ah, thank you.

[ He adds the last part with a nod to the flowers ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She smiles]

They’re working on it. They split with Misty a while ago, not sure if they told you. But yeah! They’re doing well. Talked about you a few times, I came to see what all the fuss was about.

What got you in the hospital? If you don’t mind my asking.

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ He's a bit surprised Sal actually talks about him but decides not to comment ]

I... may have overestimated my capabilities where it came to the Lonely? I only meant to refine a couple of things, perhaps I stayed for too long. Yes, I must have. Apologies. I did not ponder on it.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She leaned up against the wall, eyes opening on her arms as she shivered a bit]

Sureee. Look I’m not gonna ask the truth outta you but unfortunately I’ve been graced with the ability to nearly always know when someone’s lying to me. Feels like pins and needles. If you’re gonna lie at least make it mostly true.

[she smoothed the eyes down, scolding them under her breath]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ahhh...

[ He smiles sheepishly, at least a hint of apology creeping onto his face ]

Well, I thank you for not prying. Would you prefer to sit? I am sure there one of those intriguing "folding chairs" beneath the bed.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She shakes her head]

No thanks. Can’t do chairs with backs. I’ve got pretty bad claustrophobia. That’s why I had Bird Dog walk in here instead of me.

[She takes out a notebook and looks at him almost like she’s studying him]

So. . . when exactly are you from again?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, if you wish. I believe I was... hm. 182...3? 20 itself? Somewhere around there. A researcher, I take it?

[ There's a pause ]

Have we... met before? You seem almost familiar.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

That I am.

And yes, once I believe, though it is wasn’t for very long. I figured reintroductions were necessary.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, I see. Well, I must thank you for taking the time to come this way simply to speak with me again!

[ Barnabas claps his hands together. His delight is genuine. Huh. How many people does this guy have a normal conversation with? ]

I do apologise, given my condition I cannot even do anything as simple as offering tea! But if you wish to conduct any research, please do feel free to.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

Oh no apologies necessary, and I’m sure I’ll have plenty of time for research later. I’ll just get the basics down for now for your journal. I’ll need your favorite color and three to five things you like.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Favourite... ? Ah, I am afraid I do not have any. Well, I am fond of... hmm. My travels, certainly. I do not believe any of my other previous hobbies would be applicable in this era. Would Sal and Jonah count? I am rather fond of them as individuals.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[This seemed to get her attention]

Jonah Magnus?

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Barnabas frowns, like he's confused ]

Yes, him. Oh dear. I have not made things awkward have I? I am aware he has a certain... reputation.

[hounddog-in-headlights]

Wait wait, how old is your Jonah? Because I also know Jonah but mine’s fourteen.

[nothing-besides-remains]

I am quite honestly unsure! I do think I have met that one. He is unfortunately not very fond of me. If I recall, last we met, just a couple of days ago, he pulled out a charming revolver on me!

[ He says this so... utterly cheerfully ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

[She looks at him strangely for a second then writes this down.

I. . . I don’t think I was aware he had a gun.

He’s like my best friend. Well, besides Pixel or Sal or Alex or Ella or Misty or- y’know what I’m just gonna stop there before we’re here all day. I have a lot of best friends I give out Best Friend status pretty fast.

Oh, and I wouldn’t worry about your previous hobbies. It’s just for decoration’s sake. I put your name on the side of the journal and the stuff you like on the front cover to be decorative! Like this!

[She took out her journal for Sal]

See?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Oh? A whole book? Just for me? I must say, Lucy, i am honoured! What a diligent friend you are! I can see why Sal must like you so much.

[ There's something almost... teasing? In his voice. Oh! It's amusement. But also genuine appreciation ]

[hounddog-in-headlights]

I’ve got journals on almost everybody. I’m a researcher first and foremost, but I’ve also got terrible memory and processing issues, so writing down everything I can is very helpful.

It’s actually how Sal and I met. I told them I wanted to study the effects of genuine friendship on someone who was truly Lonely. And whaddya know, it worked out pretty nice for us.

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, I do hold a special sort of respect for those who value knowledge, so I understand where you are coming from. Do you research anything other than individuals, I wonder? Or are humans an interest of yours?

[nothing-besides-remains]

Pushes @dear-everyone-im-froggy at you oh so gently

[ Head in hands please just let him rest ]

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

[ Marie stands in front of him, head tilted as she looks at Barnabas. ]

"Excuse me.. are you okay, sir?"

[nothing-besides-remains]

Oh, yes, please ignore me. I am simply a bit tired is all. Ah... miss? Are you? Please take a seat if you wish.

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

[ She sits next to him, glancing at him but not saying anything. Her presence was calming, quiet– similar to Peter. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

[ Oh, if she's happy to stay quiet so is he. Though the nagging feeling of her appearance out of the blue was... ]

[ ... ]

[ Just ignore it ]

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

[ She stays quiet for a long while, giving Barnabas space to just be, trying to be a soothing and comforting presence. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

...do you have a purpose here?

[ He says eventually, because it's rude to ignore people ]

[dear-everyone-im-froggy]

"I'm not really sure.. I just got kind of pulled here for some reason. I suppose I've just been talking more recently."

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, I see. It must be... odd. To be 'pulled' towards some stranger's sickbed. Whyever did you listen to the urge?

[ Sounds a lot like his current patron... ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

dates at you, then slides a habanero pepper to you along with like twelve breath mints.

...am I supposed to eat this?

[nothing-besides-remains]

[...how the hell did an animal, a wolf no less get into the hospital.]

@youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart

[ He doesn't know and he doesn't want to. This will only end horribly for him. ]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah, apologies on that front. I cannot.

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Fucking asshole.

[he mutters, just done at this point.]

[nothing-besides-remains]

Ah? What have I done this time? And I do remind you, you were the one to enter and begin insulting me. But no bother! If you wish to put that past ourselves I am more than happy to.

[ He's all clasping his hands together and speaking genuinely. What is wrong with him ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

....are you serious right now?

[nothing-besides-remains]

But of course!

[ It's so hard to tell if he's actually being serious or if he's just fucking with him, the tone's too vague ]

[youstillhauntthecornersofmyheart]

Really?

[nothing-besides-remains]

I did say I was, did I not?