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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: Hawk & Cougar: Homelands & Couplings (A Short Story Starring Mr. Epitome & A CrazySugarFreakGirlfriend!)
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 08:30:45 pm EST (Viewed 456 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
Hawk & Cougar: Homelands & Couplings (A Short Story Starring Mr. Epitome & A CrazySugarFreakGirlfriend!)
Dominic Clancy considered leaving the kitchen as his super-senses detected her approach, but it was late enough at night, and he was feeling just tired and stubborn enough, that he decided against making himself scarce for the benefit of the Lair Legion mansion’s latest guest.
Elisabeth Barrie wandered into the kitchen clad only in a slightly oversized T-shirt, with Lynda Carter as Wonder Woman on the front, and matching men’s briefs, before she noticed Dominic standing in his boxer shorts and sleeveless undershirt, as the plug-in kettle on the counter came to a boil.
“Oh!†Bettie exclaimed in embarrassment, clearly unsure of whether to pull the hem of her shirt down or cross her arms over her chest. “I’m sorry, but I didn’t think anyone else would be out and about at this hour -â€Â
“Just making some honey lemon tea for Kat,†Dominic deliberately averted his eyes, in an effort to ease her anxieties slightly, even as he pointed out with a touch of impatience, “You’re not the only ones spending the night here.â€Â
Bettie tried not to flinch, as she strode briskly toward the freezer. “I hope we haven’t been … disruptive,†she offered awkwardly, as she withdrew three tinfoil-wrapped discs of fried bread.
“You’ve been … discreet,†Dominic allowed, declining to mention that his acute hearing could pick up on and make out every noise that she and her two companions had made in their currently shared bedroom.
“Actually, I’m glad to have found you,†Bettie boldly asserted, even as she busied herself with unwrapping the fried bread and placing all three discs on a paper plate. “I was wondering if you might be willing to assist me.â€Â
“With what?†Dominic was genuinely curious now.
“I’m planning to apply for American citizenship,†Bettie finally turned to meet his gaze.
Dominic was the first to blink. “Well, that’s … certainly a commendable goal,†he shook his head in surprise and confusion, “but I suppose I’m wondering why you’ve chosen to do so. Legally, you should still be entitled to claim status as a British subject –â€Â
“Except that the Britain I knew has been dead nearly a century,†Bettie cut him off curtly, her lips pursed in a tight line. “I could go back and live in London, where I was born and raised, except it wouldn’t be my London, would it? It’s become this … thing, that’s grown and changed so much, that the bits of it that are still familiar only make the rest seem all the more strange and alien.â€Â
Dominic nodded. “But because you don’t have any memories of America …â€Â
“Only what I read as a child,†Bettie chuckled. “Cowboys and Indians, inhabiting an unsettled wilderness so vast that it dwarfed even the whole of Europe. It seemed like the setting of a fairytale back then, but after having lived in the actual land of Faerie for close to a hundred years, my former home seems far less real now.â€Â
“Why me?†Dominic needed to know.
“Because whatever else you might be, you are very much a proud American,†Bettie grinned proudly at having pegged him, before she slid the paper plate of fried bread into the microwave, and frowned in concentration for a few seconds as she recalled which buttons to press.
Dominic smiled in spite of himself. “Still,†he couldn’t resist rubbing it in, “you’re asking me, and not Foxglove?â€Â
Bettie winced. “During World War II, I’m guessing that the Allies did not, in fact, defeat Adolf Hitler by employing Captain America to entice him with Hostess Fruit Pies?†she checked.
“I can start tutoring you next weekend,†Dominic rolled his eyes.
“Splendid,†Bettie beamed, stealing a sidelong glance at him as she removed the reheated fried bread discs and began buttering them. “You don’t approve of us,†she discerned simply. It wasn’t a question.
Dominic’s shoulders slumped in exasperation, as he stirred an extra dollop of honey into Kat’s steaming hot mug of lemon tea. “It’s not my place to say,†he evaded.
“You’re right, it’s not,†Bettie shot back sternly, before she sighed wearily, “but if there was one thing I detested about the England of my era, it was how false the niceties of its society were. As much as I might be dismayed by the rudeness of modern manners, I consider dishonesty far more offensive.â€Â
“Fine,†Dominic growled. “You’re giving me permission to speak freely? Then here it is. I think your relationship with Foxglove and his wife is unhealthy. I think he’s using you, and her. I think he sees women as action figures, to play with and add to his collection, and I think you deserve better, than to let yourself get taken advantage of by someone who’s a child compared to you.â€Â
“Because I’m a weak old woman, who’s too lonely and doddering to tell when she’s being preyed upon?†Bettie snorted ruefully.
“Because you should be acting your age, and not enabling the already out-of-control Oedipal complex of an emotional infant, whose mother did enough damage to him to ruin everyone around him!†Dominic bellowed.
“If I acted my age, I’d drop dead on the spot!†Bettie shouted, a quaver creeping into her voice, before she swallowed hard.
Dominic clenched his teeth, conflicted about whether he wanted to bark out a biting retort, or volunteer a terse apology. “I … didn’t mean –â€Â
“I solicited your opinion,†Bettie turned her back to him, to sprinkle sugar into the pools of melted butter on the fried bread, “so I can hardly cry foul when you submit it. This is why it’s better that you and I have this out. If it was you and Dream, you’d be waving your … penises at each other, like a parody of a swordfight.â€Â
“You’re not worried that he’s going to hurt you?†Dominic’s concerned expression was uncharacteristically earnest.
“You’re not that much more mature than him after all, are you?†Bettie’s lilting laughter was brief and bittersweet. “There can be no love without loss. Some things are worth getting your heart broken for … even a second time.â€Â
A swift series of far-from-stealthy footfalls signaled the impending arrival of the subject of their debate, wearing fluorescent orange and neon green bikini briefs.
“Hey, beautiful,†Dreamcatcher Kokopelli Foxglove whispered worshipfully in Bettie’s ear, after he’d practically sprinted into the kitchen and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. “April wondered what was taking you so long, so I came to check on you.â€Â
“Dream,†Bettie gasped, as he devoured her exposed neck with kisses, “we have company.â€Â
Dream registered Dominic’s presence and reluctantly released her from his embrace. “Is he bugging you?†he scowled protectively.
“Not at all,†Bettie patted his cheek. “In fact, Mr. Clancy has graciously agreed to assist me in my naturalization process. Gov. Rashomon’s advocacy helped push through the legislation that abbreviated the prerequisite legal permanent resident time for those of us who were considered contributors to the Parody War effort, but I still want to be prepared to take the citizenship test.â€Â
“Um … well, thanks, I guess,†Dream shrugged at Dominic apprehensively, before suggesting to Bettie in a theatrical aside, “Just make sure he teaches you the Bill of Rights, not Mein Kampf.â€Â
“Ha,†Dominic responded with flat sarcasm.
“He was merely making sure I was entering into this for the right reasons,†Bettie reassured Dream, her double-meaning not lost on Dominic, “which is appropriate, I suppose. In turn, since I am an adult, I trust he will respect that, what I do, I do with my eyes open.â€Â
Dream squinted as he spotted the unspoken exchange between Bettie and Dominic, with Dominic tilting his head deferentially toward Bettie, whose gaze remained steady and level. But because Dream didn’t understand it, he set it aside, and instead swept up Bettie in his arms.
“Grab the fried bread,†Dream reminded her, prompting her to pick up the paper plate, “and don’t spill any butter or sugar on yourself, or else I’ll have to lick it off.â€Â
Bettie blushed, clucked her tongue and swatted Dream on the shoulder with her free hand, as he carried her away with a bound, leaving Dominic to ponder his own affairs, alone.
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Al B. Harper
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Subject: A short story but packed with good characterisation! [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 09:25:48 pm EST (Viewed 1 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 on Windows XP
Real good bits were Epitome's thoughts on Dream:
> I think he’s using you, and her. I think he sees women as action figures, to play with and add to his collection, and I think you deserve better, than to let yourself get taken advantage of by someone who’s a child compared to you.â€Â
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And of course Bettie's rational.
> In turn, since I am an adult, I trust he will respect that, what I do, I do with my eyes open.â€Â
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This does a lot to opening her up as a character one can understand and relate too.
Well done.
Al B.
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: Glad you liked it ... [Re: Al B. Harper]
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 09:40:14 pm EST (Viewed 428 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
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killer shrike
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Subject: He would wear a banana hammock *shudders* [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 10:19:02 pm EST (Viewed 4 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows Vista
A very fun scene between the characters, and a spot on description of how Epitome views Dream and his extended family.
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: Because he has a big enough weiner to fill it out. :) [Re: killer shrike]
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 10:33:36 pm EST (Viewed 398 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
Glad I got Epitome's reaction right. There needed to be an on-panel response to Dream and Bettie's relationship by someone who doesn't approve of it.
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killer shrike
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Subject: Derek Smalls claimed the same thing, and we all know how that ended [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 10:44:32 pm EST |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows Vista
> Glad I got Epitome's reaction right. There needed to be an on-panel response to Dream and Bettie's relationship by someone who doesn't approve of it.
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Anime Jason 
Owner
Location: Here
Member Since: Sun Sep 12, 2004
Posts: 2,834
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Subject: That raises even more questions! [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 10:45:58 pm EST (Viewed 394 times) |
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anime.mangacool.net
(10.0.255.1)
using
Apple Safari 3.0.4 on MacOS X (0.29 points)
Not really, I just felt like using that quote again. 
It's funny how I accidentally characterized Lara Night as standing right between the two points of view on CSFB! and women.
Seeing it from Dream's perspective, she doesn't see him as someone who manipulates, forces, or pushes others, especially women. She sees him as someone who's so genuine and honest about his plans that there's no need for manipulation. Lara would describe her one incident with Dream as feeling like kids playing a particularly naughty game. But she also sees danger in that, because it's easy to undeservedly be painted with a wide and very rude brush for getting too close to him.
She also sees from Dominic's perspective in a way, too. Dream doesn't take any of it the least bit seriously, to the point where it can be heartbreaking later on if she didn't know it was a game. But that's the limit of Lara agreeing with Dominic - she would take issue with his assertion that Dream uses people. She doesn't feel used at all, more like she had to give up a "playmate" because she didn't want to play the game anymore.
At the same time Lara might be against the idea of Bettie joining Dream and April. Not because it's so extreme in her mind, but because she'd be worried about Bettie having to endure the undeserved firestorm for getting too close to him. Undeserved scorn from Dominic, undeserved caution from Hatman, and a general distancing from the others of the Lair Mansion (except maybe Anna, who hasn't quite learned about interactions yet).
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: "You don't want to wind up alone ... LIKE ZOIDBERG!!!" [Re: Anime Jason]
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 10:56:10 pm EST (Viewed 346 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
Dream's primary model for adult relationships has been his parents, particularly his mother, who's practiced a flexible form of "monogamy" at best.
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: I think Bettie and April would be able to tell if it was a tinfoil-wrapped cucumber. :) [Re: killer shrike]
Posted Wed Dec 12, 2007 at 10:57:45 pm EST (Viewed 343 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
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Visionary
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Subject: He should start a tutoring job for all Mythland refugees. [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 12:12:22 am EST |
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Posted with Mozilla Firefox 2.0.0.11 on Windows XP
Teaching physical therapy for Maggie, US government and history to Bettie... now if only he could teach those dwarves how to be taller...
A nice job of working into continuity the arguments about Dream's new living arrangements. The "action figures" comment seemed spot on from Dominic. You do love that fried bread, don't you?
And now I know what to buy the Legionnaires and guests for Christmas: Robes.
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: I bet he could organize all sorts of camps for them ... [Re: Visionary]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 01:17:03 am EST (Viewed 401 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
... Full of concentrated amounts of activities.
> Teaching physical therapy for Maggie, US government and history to Bettie... now if only he could teach those dwarves how to be taller...
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He has his uses. Really, though, I can't imagine anyone better qualified for the roles he now has in Maggie and Bettie's lives. Dream or Vizh would be absolute disasters in either of those roles, for many of the same reasons.
> A nice job of working into continuity the arguments about Dream's new living arrangements. The "action figures" comment seemed spot on from Dominic. You do love that fried bread, don't you?
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It's a good anytime food, that's relatively simple to cook and reheat, and it actually serves as a distinctive reminder of Dream's heritage. As much as I enjoy playing with myth, I cringe when "Native American" is reduced to shorthand for "shaman" or "warrior" in characterization, even though Dream is both of those things.
I ultimately had Dominic defer to Bettie because, aside from Mumphrey, she's got the most years of living of anyone at the mansion under her belt, and as a conservative, it'd probably go against his instincts a bit to disrespect his elders too much. Even when he argued with her, I wanted to convey his sense of frustration with her choices, because he'd have a hard time understanding how someone with the benefit of her wealth of experiences could not know better than to avoid dealing with Dream.
I almost included an exchange in which Bettie called Dominic on projecting his own issues onto Dream, because she'd see that a stoic like Dominic is worried that he's somehow taking advantage of Kat, by turning to her as an occasional emotional shelter from his storms. I couldn't quite make it fit, but it would have culminated with Bettie telling Dominic that everyone is entitled to seek comfort from someone, although I doubt he'd accept that.
> And now I know what to buy the Legionnaires and guests for Christmas: Robes.
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To be fair, Bettie is still reasonably modest, but it's no fun having an attractive mature Englishwoman, who was raised to be a proper lady of society, if you don't contrive to scandalize her at least a little bit. Besides, you know you wanted to imagine Lis Sladen's hot 60-year-old ass.
By the way, you'll note I left the door open for any non-U.S. natives who aided in the Parody War to become citizens, without requiring the number of years that it would actually take to naturalize in real life. If nothing else, that's one less barrier preventing Robo-Americans from becoming official "Americans."
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HH
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Subject: When you think about it, Mr Epitome has a lot to put up with. [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 05:29:29 am EST |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 on Windows 2000
> Hawk & Cougar: Homelands & Couplings (A Short Story Starring Mr. Epitome & A CrazySugarFreakGirlfriend!)
>
> Dominic Clancy considered leaving the kitchen as his super-senses detected her approach, but it was late enough at night, and he was feeling just tired and stubborn enough, that he decided against making himself scarce for the benefit of the Lair Legion Mansion’s latest guest.
>
> Elisabeth Barrie wandered into the kitchen clad only in a slightly oversized T-shirt, with Lynda Carter as Wonder Woman on the front, and matching men’s briefs, before she noticed Dominic standing in his boxer shorts and sleeveless undershirt, as the plug-in kettle on the counter came to a boil.
>
> “Oh!†Bettie exclaimed in embarrassment, clearly unsure of whether to pull the hem of her shirt down or cross her arms over her chest. “I’m sorry, but I didn’t think anyone else would be out and about at this hour -â€Â
>
> “Just making some honey lemon tea for Kat,†Dominic deliberately averted his eyes, in an effort to ease her anxieties slightly, even as he pointed out with a touch of impatience, “You’re not the only ones spending the night here.â€Â
>
> Bettie tried not to flinch, as she strode briskly toward the freezer. “I hope we haven’t been … disruptive,†she offered awkwardly, as she withdrew three tinfoil-wrapped discs of fried bread.
>
> “You’ve been … discreet,†Dominic allowed, declining to mention that his acute hearing could pick up on and make out every noise that she and her two companions had made in their currently shared bedroom.
>
> “Actually, I’m glad to have found you,†Bettie boldly asserted, even as she busied herself with unwrapping the fried bread and placing all three discs on a paper plate. “I was wondering if you might be willing to assist me.â€Â
>
> “With what?†Dominic was genuinely curious now.
>
> “I’m planning to apply for American citizenship,†Bettie finally turned to meet his gaze.
>
> Dominic was the first to blink. “Well, that’s … certainly a commendable goal,†he shook his head in surprise and confusion, “but I suppose I’m wondering why you’ve chosen to do so. Legally, you should still be entitled to claim status as a British subject –â€Â
>
> “Except that the Britain I knew has been dead nearly a century,†Bettie cut him off curtly, her lips pursed in a tight line. “I could go back and live in London, where I was born and raised, except it wouldn’t be my London, would it? It’s become this … thing, that’s grown and changed so much, that the bits of it that are still familiar only make the rest seem all the more strange and alien.â€Â
>
> Dominic nodded. “But because you don’t have any memories of America …â€Â
>
> “Only what I read as a child,†Bettie chuckled. “Cowboys and Indians, inhabiting an unsettled wilderness so vast that it dwarfed even the whole of Europe. It seemed like the setting of a fairytale back then, but after having lived in the actual land of Faerie for close to a hundred years, my former home seems far less real now.â€Â
>
> “Why me?†Dominic needed to know.
>
> “Because whatever else you might be, you are very much a proud American,†Bettie grinned proudly at having pegged him, before she slid the paper plate of fried bread into the microwave, and frowned in concentration for a few seconds as she recalled which buttons to press.
>
> Dominic smiled in spite of himself. “Still,†he couldn’t resist rubbing it in, “you’re asking me, and not Foxglove?â€Â
>
> Bettie winced. “During World War II, I’m guessing that the Allies did not, in fact, defeat Adolf Hitler by employing Captain America to entice him with Hostess Fruit Pies?†she checked.
>
> “I can start tutoring you next weekend,†Dominic rolled his eyes.
>
> “Splendid,†Bettie beamed, stealing a sidelong glance at him as she removed the reheated fried bread discs and began buttering them. “You don’t approve of us,†she discerned simply. It wasn’t a question.
>
> Dominic’s shoulders slumped in exasperation, as he stirred an extra dollop of honey into Kat’s steaming hot mug of lemon tea. “It’s not my place to say,†he evaded.
>
> “You’re right, it’s not,†Bettie shot back sternly, before she sighed wearily, “but if there was one thing I detested about the England of my era, it was how false the niceties of its society were. As much as I might be dismayed by the rudeness of modern manners, I consider dishonesty far more offensive.â€Â
>
> “Fine,†Dominic growled. “You’re giving me permission to speak freely? Then here it is. I think your relationship with Foxglove and his wife is unhealthy. I think he’s using you, and her. I think he sees women as action figures, to play with and add to his collection, and I think you deserve better, than to let yourself get taken advantage of by someone who’s a child compared to you.â€Â
>
> “Because I’m a weak old woman, who’s too lonely and doddering to tell when she’s being preyed upon?†Bettie snorted ruefully.
>
> “Because you should be acting your age, and not enabling the already out-of-control Oedipal complex of an emotional infant, whose mother did enough damage to him to ruin everyone around him!†Dominic bellowed.
>
> “If I acted my age, I’d drop dead on the spot!†Bettie shouted, a quaver creeping into her voice, before she swallowed hard.
>
> Dominic clenched his teeth, conflicted about whether he wanted to bark out a biting retort, or volunteer a terse apology. “I … didn’t mean –â€Â
>
> “I solicited your opinion,†Bettie turned her back to him, to sprinkle sugar into the pools of melted butter on the fried bread, “so I can hardly cry foul when you submit it. This is why it’s better that you and I have this out. If it was you and Dream, you’d be waving your … penises at each other, like a parody of a swordfight.â€Â
>
> “You’re not worried that he’s going to hurt you?†Dominic’s concerned expression was uncharacteristically earnest.
>
> “You’re not that much more mature than him after all, are you?†Bettie’s lilting laughter was brief and bittersweet. “There can be no love without loss. Some things are worth getting your heart broken for … even a second time.â€Â
>
> A swift series of far-from-stealthy footfalls signaled the impending arrival of the subject of their debate, wearing fluorescent orange and neon green bikini briefs.
>
> “Hey, beautiful,†Dreamcatcher Kokopelli Foxglove whispered worshipfully in Bettie’s ear, after he’d practically sprinted into the kitchen and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. “April wondered what was taking you so long, so I came to check on you.â€Â
>
> “Dream,†Bettie gasped, as he devoured her exposed neck with kisses, “we have company.â€Â
>
> Dream registered Dominic’s presence and reluctantly released her from his embrace. “Is he bugging you?†he scowled protectively.
>
> “Not at all,†Bettie patted his cheek. “In fact, Mr. Clancy has graciously agreed to assist me in my naturalization process. Gov. Rashomon’s advocacy helped push through the legislation that abbreviated the prerequisite legal permanent resident time for those of us who were considered contributors to the Parody War effort, but I still want to be prepared to take the citizenship test.â€Â
>
> “Um … well, thanks, I guess,†Dream shrugged at Dominic apprehensively, before suggesting to Bettie in a theatrical aside, “Just make sure he teaches you the Bill of Rights, not Mein Kampf.â€Â
>
> “Ha,†Dominic responded with flat sarcasm.
>
> “He was merely making sure I was entering into this for the right reasons,†Bettie reassured Dream, her double-meaning not lost on Dominic, “which is appropriate, I suppose. In turn, since I am an adult, I trust he will respect that, what I do, I do with my eyes open.â€Â
>
> Dream squinted as he spotted the unspoken exchange between Bettie and Dominic, with Dominic tilting his head deferentially toward Bettie, whose gaze remained steady and level. But because Dream didn’t understand it, he set it aside, and instead swept up Bettie in his arms.
>
> “Grab the fried bread,†Dream reminded her, prompting her to pick up the paper plate, “and don’t spill any butter or sugar on yourself, or else I’ll have to lick it off.â€Â
>
> Bettie blushed, clucked her tongue and swatted Dream on the shoulder with her free hand, as he carried her away with a bound, leaving Dominic to ponder his own affairs, alone.
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killer shrike
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Subject: Re: I bet he could organize all sorts of camps for them ... [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 08:33:26 am EST (Viewed 3 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows Vista
> I ultimately had Dominic defer to Bettie because, aside from Mumphrey, she's got the most years of living of anyone at the mansion under her belt, and as a conservative, it'd probably go against his instincts a bit to disrespect his elders too much. Even when he argued with her, I wanted to convey his sense of frustration with her choices, because he'd have a hard time understanding how someone with the benefit of her wealth of experiences could not know better than to avoid dealing with Dream.
> I almost included an exchange in which Bettie called Dominic on projecting his own issues onto Dream, because she'd see that a stoic like Dominic is worried that he's somehow taking advantage of Kat, by turning to her as an occasional emotional shelter from his storms. I couldn't quite make it fit, but it would have culminated with Bettie telling Dominic that everyone is entitled to seek comfort from someone, although I doubt he'd accept that.
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Some very good insights into the Paragon of Power. You should write him more often. 
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: It came together for me ... [Re: killer shrike]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 03:14:15 pm EST (Viewed 408 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
... When Fleabot pointed out, in his interview, that we tend to react more strongly to traits we recognize in ourselves.
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: So do all those Republican politicians who are OMG NOT GAY!!!111 :) [Re: HH]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 03:17:36 pm EST (Viewed 357 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
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L!
Location: Seattle, Washington
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,038
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Subject: As always, a nicely written story! [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 08:25:47 pm EST (Viewed 385 times) |
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Posted with Apple Safari 3.0.4 on MacOS X
I should probably know this but who's Elisabeth?
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: Thank you! [Re: L!]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 09:43:36 pm EST (Viewed 366 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
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Al B. Harper
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Subject: Very prosaic. [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Thu Dec 13, 2007 at 10:12:39 pm EST |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 on Windows XP
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: It was an experiment that I've been told worked. :) [Re: Al B. Harper]
Posted Fri Dec 14, 2007 at 12:19:32 am EST (Viewed 415 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
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jack
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Subject: An interesting scene with Dominic helping Bettie [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Fri Dec 14, 2007 at 09:11:25 am EST |
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Posted with Apple Safari 3.0.4 on MacOS X
> Hawk & Cougar: Homelands & Couplings (A Short Story Starring Mr. Epitome & A CrazySugarFreakGirlfriend!)
>
> Dominic Clancy considered leaving the kitchen as his super-senses detected her approach, but it was late enough at night, and he was feeling just tired and stubborn enough, that he decided against making himself scarce for the benefit of the Lair Legion mansion’s latest guest.
>
> Elisabeth Barrie wandered into the kitchen clad only in a slightly oversized T-shirt, with Lynda Carter as Wonder Woman on the front, and matching men’s briefs, before she noticed Dominic standing in his boxer shorts and sleeveless undershirt, as the plug-in kettle on the counter came to a boil.
>
> “Oh!†Bettie exclaimed in embarrassment, clearly unsure of whether to pull the hem of her shirt down or cross her arms over her chest. “I’m sorry, but I didn’t think anyone else would be out and about at this hour -â€Â
>
> “Just making some honey lemon tea for Kat,†Dominic deliberately averted his eyes, in an effort to ease her anxieties slightly, even as he pointed out with a touch of impatience, “You’re not the only ones spending the night here.â€Â
>
> Bettie tried not to flinch, as she strode briskly toward the freezer. “I hope we haven’t been … disruptive,†she offered awkwardly, as she withdrew three tinfoil-wrapped discs of fried bread.
>
> “You’ve been … discreet,†Dominic allowed, declining to mention that his acute hearing could pick up on and make out every noise that she and her two companions had made in their currently shared bedroom.
>
> “Actually, I’m glad to have found you,†Bettie boldly asserted, even as she busied herself with unwrapping the fried bread and placing all three discs on a paper plate. “I was wondering if you might be willing to assist me.â€Â
>
> “With what?†Dominic was genuinely curious now.
>
> “I’m planning to apply for American citizenship,†Bettie finally turned to meet his gaze.
>
> Dominic was the first to blink. “Well, that’s … certainly a commendable goal,†he shook his head in surprise and confusion, “but I suppose I’m wondering why you’ve chosen to do so. Legally, you should still be entitled to claim status as a British subject –â€Â
>
> “Except that the Britain I knew has been dead nearly a century,†Bettie cut him off curtly, her lips pursed in a tight line. “I could go back and live in London, where I was born and raised, except it wouldn’t be my London, would it? It’s become this … thing, that’s grown and changed so much, that the bits of it that are still familiar only make the rest seem all the more strange and alien.â€Â
>
> Dominic nodded. “But because you don’t have any memories of America …â€Â
>
> “Only what I read as a child,†Bettie chuckled. “Cowboys and Indians, inhabiting an unsettled wilderness so vast that it dwarfed even the whole of Europe. It seemed like the setting of a fairytale back then, but after having lived in the actual land of Faerie for close to a hundred years, my former home seems far less real now.â€Â
>
> “Why me?†Dominic needed to know.
>
> “Because whatever else you might be, you are very much a proud American,†Bettie grinned proudly at having pegged him, before she slid the paper plate of fried bread into the microwave, and frowned in concentration for a few seconds as she recalled which buttons to press.
>
> Dominic smiled in spite of himself. “Still,†he couldn’t resist rubbing it in, “you’re asking me, and not Foxglove?â€Â
>
> Bettie winced. “During World War II, I’m guessing that the Allies did not, in fact, defeat Adolf Hitler by employing Captain America to entice him with Hostess Fruit Pies?†she checked.
>
> “I can start tutoring you next weekend,†Dominic rolled his eyes.
>
> “Splendid,†Bettie beamed, stealing a sidelong glance at him as she removed the reheated fried bread discs and began buttering them. “You don’t approve of us,†she discerned simply. It wasn’t a question.
>
> Dominic’s shoulders slumped in exasperation, as he stirred an extra dollop of honey into Kat’s steaming hot mug of lemon tea. “It’s not my place to say,†he evaded.
>
> “You’re right, it’s not,†Bettie shot back sternly, before she sighed wearily, “but if there was one thing I detested about the England of my era, it was how false the niceties of its society were. As much as I might be dismayed by the rudeness of modern manners, I consider dishonesty far more offensive.â€Â
>
> “Fine,†Dominic growled. “You’re giving me permission to speak freely? Then here it is. I think your relationship with Foxglove and his wife is unhealthy. I think he’s using you, and her. I think he sees women as action figures, to play with and add to his collection, and I think you deserve better, than to let yourself get taken advantage of by someone who’s a child compared to you.â€Â
>
> “Because I’m a weak old woman, who’s too lonely and doddering to tell when she’s being preyed upon?†Bettie snorted ruefully.
>
> “Because you should be acting your age, and not enabling the already out-of-control Oedipal complex of an emotional infant, whose mother did enough damage to him to ruin everyone around him!†Dominic bellowed.
>
> “If I acted my age, I’d drop dead on the spot!†Bettie shouted, a quaver creeping into her voice, before she swallowed hard.
>
> Dominic clenched his teeth, conflicted about whether he wanted to bark out a biting retort, or volunteer a terse apology. “I … didn’t mean –â€Â
>
> “I solicited your opinion,†Bettie turned her back to him, to sprinkle sugar into the pools of melted butter on the fried bread, “so I can hardly cry foul when you submit it. This is why it’s better that you and I have this out. If it was you and Dream, you’d be waving your … penises at each other, like a parody of a swordfight.â€Â
>
> “You’re not worried that he’s going to hurt you?†Dominic’s concerned expression was uncharacteristically earnest.
>
> “You’re not that much more mature than him after all, are you?†Bettie’s lilting laughter was brief and bittersweet. “There can be no love without loss. Some things are worth getting your heart broken for … even a second time.â€Â
>
> A swift series of far-from-stealthy footfalls signaled the impending arrival of the subject of their debate, wearing fluorescent orange and neon green bikini briefs.
>
> “Hey, beautiful,†Dreamcatcher Kokopelli Foxglove whispered worshipfully in Bettie’s ear, after he’d practically sprinted into the kitchen and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. “April wondered what was taking you so long, so I came to check on you.â€Â
>
> “Dream,†Bettie gasped, as he devoured her exposed neck with kisses, “we have company.â€Â
>
> Dream registered Dominic’s presence and reluctantly released her from his embrace. “Is he bugging you?†he scowled protectively.
>
> “Not at all,†Bettie patted his cheek. “In fact, Mr. Clancy has graciously agreed to assist me in my naturalization process. Gov. Rashomon’s advocacy helped push through the legislation that abbreviated the prerequisite legal permanent resident time for those of us who were considered contributors to the Parody War effort, but I still want to be prepared to take the citizenship test.â€Â
>
> “Um … well, thanks, I guess,†Dream shrugged at Dominic apprehensively, before suggesting to Bettie in a theatrical aside, “Just make sure he teaches you the Bill of Rights, not Mein Kampf.â€Â
>
> “Ha,†Dominic responded with flat sarcasm.
>
> “He was merely making sure I was entering into this for the right reasons,†Bettie reassured Dream, her double-meaning not lost on Dominic, “which is appropriate, I suppose. In turn, since I am an adult, I trust he will respect that, what I do, I do with my eyes open.â€Â
>
> Dream squinted as he spotted the unspoken exchange between Bettie and Dominic, with Dominic tilting his head deferentially toward Bettie, whose gaze remained steady and level. But because Dream didn’t understand it, he set it aside, and instead swept up Bettie in his arms.
>
> “Grab the fried bread,†Dream reminded her, prompting her to pick up the paper plate, “and don’t spill any butter or sugar on yourself, or else I’ll have to lick it off.â€Â
>
> Bettie blushed, clucked her tongue and swatted Dream on the shoulder with her free hand, as he carried her away with a bound, leaving Dominic to ponder his own affairs, alone.
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CrazySugarFreakBoy!
Member Since: Sun Jan 04, 2004
Posts: 1,235
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Subject: Even his help doesn't come without difficulties, though ... [Re: jack]
Posted Fri Dec 14, 2007 at 09:09:56 pm EST (Viewed 355 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
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Hatman
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Subject: I think she made a wise choice in seeking out Dominic's help [Re: CrazySugarFreakBoy!]
Posted Wed Dec 19, 2007 at 04:24:10 pm EST (Viewed 340 times) |
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Posted with Microsoft Internet Explorer 7 on Windows XP
> Hawk & Cougar: Homelands & Couplings (A Short Story Starring Mr. Epitome & A CrazySugarFreakGirlfriend!)
>
> Dominic Clancy considered leaving the kitchen as his super-senses detected her approach, but it was late enough at night, and he was feeling just tired and stubborn enough, that he decided against making himself scarce for the benefit of the Lair Legion mansion’s latest guest.
>
> Elisabeth Barrie wandered into the kitchen clad only in a slightly oversized T-shirt, with Lynda Carter as Wonder Woman on the front, and matching men’s briefs, before she noticed Dominic standing in his boxer shorts and sleeveless undershirt, as the plug-in kettle on the counter came to a boil.
>
> “Oh!†Bettie exclaimed in embarrassment, clearly unsure of whether to pull the hem of her shirt down or cross her arms over her chest. “I’m sorry, but I didn’t think anyone else would be out and about at this hour -â€Â
>
> “Just making some honey lemon tea for Kat,†Dominic deliberately averted his eyes, in an effort to ease her anxieties slightly, even as he pointed out with a touch of impatience, “You’re not the only ones spending the night here.â€Â
>
> Bettie tried not to flinch, as she strode briskly toward the freezer. “I hope we haven’t been … disruptive,†she offered awkwardly, as she withdrew three tinfoil-wrapped discs of fried bread.
>
> “You’ve been … discreet,†Dominic allowed, declining to mention that his acute hearing could pick up on and make out every noise that she and her two companions had made in their currently shared bedroom.
>
> “Actually, I’m glad to have found you,†Bettie boldly asserted, even as she busied herself with unwrapping the fried bread and placing all three discs on a paper plate. “I was wondering if you might be willing to assist me.â€Â
>
> “With what?†Dominic was genuinely curious now.
>
> “I’m planning to apply for American citizenship,†Bettie finally turned to meet his gaze.
>
> Dominic was the first to blink. “Well, that’s … certainly a commendable goal,†he shook his head in surprise and confusion, “but I suppose I’m wondering why you’ve chosen to do so. Legally, you should still be entitled to claim status as a British subject –â€Â
>
> “Except that the Britain I knew has been dead nearly a century,†Bettie cut him off curtly, her lips pursed in a tight line. “I could go back and live in London, where I was born and raised, except it wouldn’t be my London, would it? It’s become this … thing, that’s grown and changed so much, that the bits of it that are still familiar only make the rest seem all the more strange and alien.â€Â
>
> Dominic nodded. “But because you don’t have any memories of America …â€Â
>
> “Only what I read as a child,†Bettie chuckled. “Cowboys and Indians, inhabiting an unsettled wilderness so vast that it dwarfed even the whole of Europe. It seemed like the setting of a fairytale back then, but after having lived in the actual land of Faerie for close to a hundred years, my former home seems far less real now.â€Â
>
> “Why me?†Dominic needed to know.
>
> “Because whatever else you might be, you are very much a proud American,†Bettie grinned proudly at having pegged him, before she slid the paper plate of fried bread into the microwave, and frowned in concentration for a few seconds as she recalled which buttons to press.
>
> Dominic smiled in spite of himself. “Still,†he couldn’t resist rubbing it in, “you’re asking me, and not Foxglove?â€Â
>
> Bettie winced. “During World War II, I’m guessing that the Allies did not, in fact, defeat Adolf Hitler by employing Captain America to entice him with Hostess Fruit Pies?†she checked.
>
> “I can start tutoring you next weekend,†Dominic rolled his eyes.
>
> “Splendid,†Bettie beamed, stealing a sidelong glance at him as she removed the reheated fried bread discs and began buttering them. “You don’t approve of us,†she discerned simply. It wasn’t a question.
>
> Dominic’s shoulders slumped in exasperation, as he stirred an extra dollop of honey into Kat’s steaming hot mug of lemon tea. “It’s not my place to say,†he evaded.
>
> “You’re right, it’s not,†Bettie shot back sternly, before she sighed wearily, “but if there was one thing I detested about the England of my era, it was how false the niceties of its society were. As much as I might be dismayed by the rudeness of modern manners, I consider dishonesty far more offensive.â€Â
>
> “Fine,†Dominic growled. “You’re giving me permission to speak freely? Then here it is. I think your relationship with Foxglove and his wife is unhealthy. I think he’s using you, and her. I think he sees women as action figures, to play with and add to his collection, and I think you deserve better, than to let yourself get taken advantage of by someone who’s a child compared to you.â€Â
>
> “Because I’m a weak old woman, who’s too lonely and doddering to tell when she’s being preyed upon?†Bettie snorted ruefully.
>
> “Because you should be acting your age, and not enabling the already out-of-control Oedipal complex of an emotional infant, whose mother did enough damage to him to ruin everyone around him!†Dominic bellowed.
>
> “If I acted my age, I’d drop dead on the spot!†Bettie shouted, a quaver creeping into her voice, before she swallowed hard.
>
> Dominic clenched his teeth, conflicted about whether he wanted to bark out a biting retort, or volunteer a terse apology. “I … didn’t mean –â€Â
>
> “I solicited your opinion,†Bettie turned her back to him, to sprinkle sugar into the pools of melted butter on the fried bread, “so I can hardly cry foul when you submit it. This is why it’s better that you and I have this out. If it was you and Dream, you’d be waving your … penises at each other, like a parody of a swordfight.â€Â
>
> “You’re not worried that he’s going to hurt you?†Dominic’s concerned expression was uncharacteristically earnest.
>
> “You’re not that much more mature than him after all, are you?†Bettie’s lilting laughter was brief and bittersweet. “There can be no love without loss. Some things are worth getting your heart broken for … even a second time.â€Â
>
> A swift series of far-from-stealthy footfalls signaled the impending arrival of the subject of their debate, wearing fluorescent orange and neon green bikini briefs.
>
> “Hey, beautiful,†Dreamcatcher Kokopelli Foxglove whispered worshipfully in Bettie’s ear, after he’d practically sprinted into the kitchen and wrapped his arms around her waist from behind. “April wondered what was taking you so long, so I came to check on you.â€Â
>
> “Dream,†Bettie gasped, as he devoured her exposed neck with kisses, “we have company.â€Â
>
> Dream registered Dominic’s presence and reluctantly released her from his embrace. “Is he bugging you?†he scowled protectively.
>
> “Not at all,†Bettie patted his cheek. “In fact, Mr. Clancy has graciously agreed to assist me in my naturalization process. Gov. Rashomon’s advocacy helped push through the legislation that abbreviated the prerequisite legal permanent resident time for those of us who were considered contributors to the Parody War effort, but I still want to be prepared to take the citizenship test.â€Â
>
> “Um … well, thanks, I guess,†Dream shrugged at Dominic apprehensively, before suggesting to Bettie in a theatrical aside, “Just make sure he teaches you the Bill of Rights, not Mein Kampf.â€Â
>
> “Ha,†Dominic responded with flat sarcasm.
>
> “He was merely making sure I was entering into this for the right reasons,†Bettie reassured Dream, her double-meaning not lost on Dominic, “which is appropriate, I suppose. In turn, since I am an adult, I trust he will respect that, what I do, I do with my eyes open.â€Â
>
> Dream squinted as he spotted the unspoken exchange between Bettie and Dominic, with Dominic tilting his head deferentially toward Bettie, whose gaze remained steady and level. But because Dream didn’t understand it, he set it aside, and instead swept up Bettie in his arms.
>
> “Grab the fried bread,†Dream reminded her, prompting her to pick up the paper plate, “and don’t spill any butter or sugar on yourself, or else I’ll have to lick it off.â€Â
>
> Bettie blushed, clucked her tongue and swatted Dream on the shoulder with her free hand, as he carried her away with a bound, leaving Dominic to ponder his own affairs, alone.
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