What Do I Call You?

    The day has arrived some time ago, and Taeyeon has shut away the various needs of the fledling village that serves as the home-in-exile for the people of Eas. While the outside world simply carries on, she is focused on a challenge of her own.

    Facing down both blazing heat, the careful management of a variety of ingredients, and the vagaries of time's fitful passage, Taeyeon faces the challenge that so many have before her: she is baking pie.

    With all the nervous energy of an expectant mother, she has chosen to settle her nerves by sitting at the kitchen table. It's not exactly poorly made, but it's legs are perhaps not exactly the same length. Or the floor itself is not quite flat. That, and the rather modest decorations are reminders of what it means to be away from home. The silence is another.

    But silence can be filled, and so it is that Tae starts to sing. She is staring out the kitchen window at the grasslands and (farther out) the beginnings of a modest forest.

Ayame didn't really know the full extent of the relationship between Wake and Taeyeon. She did, though, know that Wake had asked her to deliver both letters and a few boxes of things to the other woman; so, after arranging matters at home, she'd made the journey. Her shield on her back, the Right Clothes under it, she still affected the shirt, skirt, corset combination she typically wore.

On the path to the small home, she moved quickly, short little steps necessitated by her attire, but she carried herself well and the boxes easily. The singing slowed her, a little, a smile coming to her face, and it's almost regretfully, when she passed into the village and to the designated home, she set the boxes down, and knocked.

She bows, ever so carefully, once the door is opened, and smiles, just a little nervously, to the other woman, studying her "Good morning" She offers to Tae. A moment's nervous pause, and then a gesture down "Ah. Deliveries from the Baroness"

    The door isn't immediately answered. It's actually faster than that. How Tae can move so swiftly from table to door is a mystery that will never be solved, but before a second knock can fall on its surface, that door is opening.

    The woman who opens initially seems to have a breathless quality to her. Her posture is relaxed, but there's a tension in her eyes at the same time. Taeyeon smiles warmly once she sees who it is.

    "Thank god, I was afraid you were a confused Lander!" She peeks her head out the door, looks both ways, and with a playful grin reaches out to seize Ayame by the hand. "Can't have you lingering on the threshold, my dear. They will pounce." In very short order, she's drawing Ayame inside, then gathering up what Elly has sent, and getting that door shut again.

    She leans with her back against it, letting out a sigh that is (perhaps) a touch more dramatic than the situation truly demands.

    "That was close!"

"It's bad out there, then?" Ayame asks nervously, looking back at the door. She'd helped gather things in, set them on the table, place the sealed letters down properly. She'd taken the hand to shake it, then pulled inside - gathering and collecting herself before she responds again

"If it's so bad, should you really be out here without support? I'm sure the Baroness would offer you help and company if you needed it" She says sincerely.

Well. Why does Ayame think she's here? Tch.

    "It's not bad," explains Taeyeon. She laughs softly, "It's just that we have this Lander whoe keeps trying to give me a quest to fetch his pekos. Which he repeatedly allows to escape from his land by leaving the fence gate open. I've done it three times this week already."

    She steps away from the door and settles in front of Ayame. Taeyeon's eyes sweep over the girl for just a moment, almost casually. She then settles on studying Ayame's face for a moment.

    "So you are Wake's secretary now! Wow.. she's bold, isn't she? She's picked a beautiful girl and had the very cheek to show you off like this."

    Tae holds on to a stern, disapproving look for roughly half a second, then abruptly giggles it into sheer silliness. "Apologies, I'm Taeyeon. You can call me Tae, if you like. And to be completely honest, I was told to expect you. Please, be at ease! Come sit with me!"

Ayame pauses a touch - rather surprised, clearly, by the forwardness and compliments, as she sweeps her eyes over Taeyeon in turn as she's studied. Then she flushes, from the ruffled collar of her shirt up, and nods, moving to sit carefully and she smiles, relaxing, brushing the skirt as she sits.

"That sounds just awful" Regarding the Lander "Time to get someone to just seal that gate open, maybe" With a nervous chuckle "I'm glad you're coping with it well. I'm Ayame, but it sounds like you already know that! What else did the Baroness tell you?" She asks, a mixture of curiosity and wariness.

    Taeyeon has no relic to dress herself each day, but she looks very nice, regardless. Living away from Eas, she is far more casual than she had been. Here, she wears a simple white shirt that she's tied up to bare her midriff. A black skirt that ends several inches above the knee and matching knee-high boots complete the look. Her straight, black hair goes down to the small of her back.

    While Taeyeon and Elly are obviously different, the one trait they do share is the penchant to stop and think before speaking. Taeyeon just doesn't let the dead air hang in silence for as long.

    "She told me to welcome you and enjoy your company. I am very grateful to have you visit. It does get very quiet out here. There isn't as much to do or see, either. There is no grand waterfall here, or dramatic views. But it's safe and the Scale Emblem has been very kind to us."

    Taeyeon looks over towards the oven, then back again. It seems that the pie, for now, is doing whatever it is supposed to be doing.

"Well, I'll be pleased to lend you a hand" Ayame offers with a smile. She slides the shield from her back, leaning it against the table, and tugs out a relic that Taeyeon likely recognises - but not Wake's version, no. Ayame rests the case against the shield, smiling across and considering.

"Whether it's company, or needing help with particulars, I'd be glad to offer help. It's what I try to do for the Baroness, after all" She folds her hands on the table, comfortably studying the other woman, though the blush hasn't quite faded "How do you normally occupy yourself, aside from hiding from peko-losing landers?" With a touch of a grin, there

    Taeyeon has to think about what she does. "Honestly?" She pauses, her brows furrowing as she mulls that over. "I used to entertain. Now I sometimes go on walks. They help me get away from responsibilities that my sweet, beloved, Baroness has gifted me with!" She punctuates this with a too-sweet smile, her eyes drawn shut to complete the image.

    "You are saving my life, Ayame," she says a moment later. She reaches across the table for Ayame's hand.

    "I don't suppose I can persuade you to stay a little while, can I?" She grins playfully, "It's not much here, but I have a soft bed, a nice bath, and trust me, you will eat very well. You are going to love my pie."

Ayame lets Taeyeon take her hand, and she squeezes it gently "Until I'm needed back at Eas, I'd be pleased to" She smiles, and then looks wistful "It's been a long time since I had a proper hot bath. Menu cleaning is enough, normally!" She tilts her head, her fingers stroking ever so briefly "Aside from anything else, I'd love to know more about you both. I'm sure you know more about me"

But for the rest, she nods slowly, thinking "I'm sure I will. I'm an awful cook! I spent all my time looking after people - simple food was about all I had time for. So if you want an incompetent assistant in the kitchen, I'd be delighted to learn" And she smiles softly, holding Tae's eyes.

    Taeyeon searches Ayame's face. Her consideration is punctuated by relaxed, slow blinks. A smile continues to tug at the corners of her lips and she nods, "Well, then it is settled. You will spend a few days here with me! I would be happy to talk about how I met Elly, as well. That is, your Wake. Apologies if I giggle when you call her Baroness, though. She may have steel posture and a fancy way of speaking, but to me she's simply Elly, the once and future Ice Queen."

    Tae actually giggles about it. She gives a warm squeeze of Ayame's hand. "I want to know more about you, though. What Elly thinks is important is not what interests me. I care far less about extolling your skills and potential and grace and far more about.. this."

    Taeyeon taps on her chest, indicating her heart. "What I feel when we are together is what matters most. Not that Elly doesn't understand this, but she's likely to wrap it up in so many words that she'll never find her way to the point. So.. all that aside, what would you like to know most of all?"

Ayame's eye follows the tapping finger. That gets a small cough from her, as she blushes, and says, with a quick grin "I'm sure the Baroness - and Kauchemar - would agree that that's what's important" She tells the woman in the tied-up white shirt

But it's teasing, just a little "I do understand. The rest, for me, are ... means to an end. I help people because we all should, but ultimately, because I want those around me to be well." A little more seriously "As for your giggles, I'll try not to let them effect me." She leans in, just a little, resting an elbow on the table and her chin in her hand "Mostly, I just want to know about you both. I know you by reputation and your connection to the Baroness, but anyone who she cares for so deeply must be special"

    Taeyeon enjoys all the blushing, if the light in her eyes is any indication. She's not even flirting yet! Having Kauchemar named gets a nod from her, as well. "There are a lot of special, beautiful people in my life," she says gently.

    After a thoughtful pause, she goes on, "But not so many that I would let pass an opportunity to invite another remarkable person into my heart." Midway into that sentence, she meets Ayame's eyes and rests her gaze there.

    "As for me, I am sure Elly mentioned that I was a performer. I did the whole talent circuit in Korea for about.. a dozen years? From a young age I trained in song and dance, was assigned to a group, and then performed, lip synched in concerts, was on a dozen variety shows as a regular, rose into my own as a true vocalist so I could -stop- the damn lip synching, and eventually refused to do another 'comeback' and left it all behind with time enough to spare to learn that I was more than the dress and the voice."

"That's impressive" Ayame nods, watching with fascinating "I saw a lot of performances on TV and such, but I didn't get to go to see many at all. You must have been quite the sight - I mean, you still are, but ..." She flusters a little, grinning and nodding, before she considers a little more deeply

"So now you want to be appreciated for who you are. Not the performance. Not the show. Well -" She thinks, and then smiles quietly "For everything I'm seeing, I'm sure it's even more impressive. You clearly have a strong appreciation for your situation, and are seizing it. I can't help but admire that."

    Taeyeon's expression changes, her eyes lidding and she laughs gently, "My my my," she murmurs. She does look away for a moment when Ayame compliments her appearance. There's a slight reddening of the cheeks. A blush?

    "You are sweet. And honestly, it is complicated. I apologize if I am unclear. I loved to perform. But my fans, my lovely, sweet fans, needed more than I could give. More than I wished to. I wanted to share what I wanted to share, but no more. It became stressful, knowing that seeing me could bring joy to a sad, lonely life. I couldn't keep that up forever."

    "Now.. I want to be loved and to share my love of music, but the only hearts I want to feel responsibility for are those that are near to me." She leans back, then her eyes go wide.

    "Oh shit! The pie!"

    She has to let go of Ayame's hand at that point, and she darts to the oven. Taeyeon puts on her oven mitts before bending over to draws out the pie. Her expression is rather alarmed as she rises and studies the crust with care. Afters setting it down and giving her work a thorough inspection, it seems all is well.

    "My apologies, dear! If I burnt this I have no idea what I'd be able to offer you for dessert."

Ayame darts to her feet as well, as Taeyeon rushes over, and watches the extraction of the pie with concern. Her cheeks are reddened, by the blast of heat, as she hurried over to help examine after a few moments, and she nods "It's quite alright. The sweetest of things is the company, after all" She grins a little, and inhales "But the pie comes a close second. It smells delicious."

"We all want to make boundaries" She responds, returning to the previous comment "And to share what we will with those we allow within." And then she glances, at her things - moving to set the shield and her little pack close to the door, and picking up a slightly bigger pack, and the Right Clothes "Let me help you clear this place, then, before we eat, as I think I might be too comfortable after! Where can I put all these?" She asks

    The pie gives off waves of sweet fruit and cinnamon, among other, more subtle scents. Taeyeon draws it in with a deep breath, then sighs in delight. "And of course you are quite right, dear."

    As for boundaries, with Ayame, Taeyeon isn't really showing many. At the question of where to set things aside, she leads Ayame to the bedroom. It's not large by Taeyeon's standards, but there is a sizable bed and plenty of places to set one's pack.

    "It's not what I would normally offer, but it's comfortable for two, and I have been careful not to crowd it too much for company."

    The explanation is delivered matter-of-factly. "Oh, and don't worry, I have it good authority that I do not snore, though I am rather restless in the night!" She smiles brightly at Ayame. She's teasing! Maybe.

"Oh" Is Ayame's response, and then a small smile. It's not entirely uncommon, after all! Without heating - well, the weather can be cold. She nods, and smiles again warmly "Thank you. I don't think I do, and I'll try to be a good guest" She sets down her things, and looks around, thinking before she speaks

"I do want to do more than just ... enjoy your hospitality, though. I mean, to get to know you. And to help you out here. I'm at my best when I'm busy - I don't really relax all too well" She explains with a nervous little smile "So if there's anything I can do, just let me know. I'm at your service"

    Something in what Ayame says gets Taeyeon literally bouncing on her toes. As soon as Ayame's things are put away, she's set on by a sudden, warm hug. Taeyeon's words are spoken softly, "You are more than what you do for other people, dear. But for now, consider it great kindness if you let me show you what relaxation really can feel like."

    Drawing back, she's positively beaming, "I will let you help, of course, but our main objective is to get you so calm and so happy that you.. practically melt in my hands."

    She laughs suddenly, then bounces back out of the embrace. Her joy is punctuated with an excited clap of her hands. "This is going to be so fun, Ayame! Let's go get started!"

Ayame stiffens in shock as she's embraced. Even her wings buzz frantically for a moment. She shivers in that hug, before returning it gently and nervously "Well ..." It's hesitation, followed with "Thank you. I did say I'd try to be a good guest" With a soft and worried laugh "So if it brings you joy, of course. I'm more used to looking after others, though"

She follows Taeyeon, chattering as she goes, her heeled boots sounding on the floor of the small home "In truth, it's a reason why folk pressed me to the Baroness. I think they realised I might be better helping one who needed it. And deserved it" She muses a moment

    "Psshhh," is the response from Tae at the mention of 'deserving it'. Not out of disdain, but out of something quite different. "My sweet, loyal girl, I assure you that we will get through this together. Besides, you feeling relaxed and calmed and wonderful about who you are is the real point of your visit."

    Taeyeon pauses to peek into the bathroom on the way, then moves along towards the kitchen. "We'll need to get some hot water. Plenty of it, in fact." The explanation of what she meant earlier has to wait until that is started. Of course, heating up water isn't always terribly easy when one doesn't have access to hot springs.

    "But I will start easy with you. For now, you can help me fill up your bath with nice, hot water," explains Taeyeon.

"Well, I can heat the water easily enough" Ayame smiles a touch. There's a nervous stiffness to it, though, and she moves even more carefully, now, to assist Taeyeon, following her lead, even as her brow furrows a touch.

"It was? I thought the Baroness just wanted to have me meet those important to her, but ... I should really thank her, among other things. And yourself, of course" She chuckles nervous

    Taeyeon will leave the fire and water to Ayame. She will only give clear direction on when to stop adding heat to it. Once she's satisfied, she adds soap with the gentlest scent of strawberry and a very small hint of vanilla.

    "I'll let you have a bit of privacy so you can get into the water," she explains. Taeyeon then steps out of the bathroom, leaving precious little time for questions or protests. This is her special 'bullying power' in action.

Ayame fusses. The Sylph is good with her magic, yes, but she's also rather bowled over by the speed of Taeyeon's statements, trying to catch up as she fusses and arranges things. Finally, though, the water's ready, and she undresses, folding things, setting her boots aside and the gloves and everything else. There's maybe a few moments of guilt before she slides into the water, up to her neck, letting out a small sigh as she closes her eyes for a few moments. Just savoring the sensation

    While Ayame confronts the challenge that is accepting a perfectly heated bath, Tae is getting ready, as well. She is fidgeting about in the bedroom. Some things must be determined in response to the needs of the moment. She's picking something out for herself.

    What it is about becomes evident when the door opens a few minutes later. Taeyeon has changed, now wearing a thin, blue robe. By the sheen, it may be of silk. It is bound to her slender waist with an elaborately-tied belt. It's not an obi, but it's nearly as elegant.

    "I hope that I didn't make you wait too long," Taeyeon announces in a playful tone, her nose wrinkling in amusement. She imagines Ayame will be not be expecting her return.

    As irresistable as an avalanche, Taeyeon walks up behind the bath and explains, "It's time for a crash course in relaxation."

    A heartbeat or ten later(depending on the state of one's pulse) finds Taeyeon settling her hands on Ayame's shoulders. "This is just a modest sampling, but I bet you are quite tense and we cannot have that, can we?"

Ayame lets out a squeal. It's a little one, cut short as she dips even further under the water, so her eyes and nose peer up. Her hair is still in a bun. Her heart is racing, and she reaches out to grab at her things nervously - stopping herself after a moment.

"I, I wasn't actually expecting ..." She says weakly. Then the touch to her shoulders makes her stiffen even further, letting out a breath "Ah, yes. Yes, quite tense. Can't think why" She practically gabbels

    The squeal is not entirely unexpected, but the response does leave Tae on the brink of laughter. Her expression is hidden from view by a raised hand and on account of slipping behind Ayame.

    "I didn't realize you would be so sweet and charming," she says casually. Taeyeon furrows her brows slightly as her fingertips start to explore the other woman's neck and shoulders. "Nor did I suspect you were quite so tense! How has it been for you, to be stranded in this place? You speak often of taking care of others, but how well do you take care of yourself, I wonder."

    The flirting aside, Taeyeon's truly focused on the business of relaxing her guest. Certainly this will be a challenge, but the woman has no intention of giving up and clearly knows what she's doing.

Ayame is indeed tense. Those shoulders are stiff, tight, slowly yielding under Taeyeon's skilled hands. Ayame lets out a shiver and another little gasp, trying not to twist around but remain sunken under the water.

"It wasn't so bad. My sister is stranded here too - I only came in to celebrate the new year with her. I don't really play the games myself, so it was a big shock" She gives a weak little laugh, and then another small groan, rolling her shoulders "And thank you. You're a darling - you really are"

    Taeyeon nods, which doesn't do much good, considering where she's standing. "It's wonderful being here with people you love, isn't it? Certainly there are things to miss, but what matters most is good company." She laughs gently, "Though, frankly, I miss Ginza and good shoes. I miss.." She lowers her voice, as if afraid someone might catch her saying this, "McDonald's and Mos Burger."

    A fit of giggles follows her confession. Yet she maintains the massage with practiced ease and a remarkable amount of focus. The woman manages to go from warming strokes to ever deepening kneading without causing any twinges of pain.

    "Where is your sister? Is she actively adventuring?"

"She is. We keep in touch, I help her out now and then. Nice young Imp. Kuroyuri. Sympohonist." Ayame says. It's not even really tired. It's comfortable, and the sleepiness that that brings with it. She sighs a little, the tension melting slowly under those skilled hands and slow touches.

"I understand missing those! I miss KFC. I'd feel awful even thinking about eating a peko" She laughs gently in turn, eyes closed, hair pinned up, just - luxuriating "There's a lot to miss. On the whole, though, the world is better here for so many." She nods slowly "Being able to be yourselves, and be with those you can. I understand it."

    Taeyeon makes a mental note to not serve Ayame any Peko. Fortunately, that wasn't part of the menu for this evening. She falls quiet for a time, letting the conversation slow down and time naturally stretch out into a relaxing silence. The warm water in the small room leaves the air just the right temperature to instill a pleasant drowsiness.

    Somewhere in the midst of this quiet, Taeyeon has started to hum softly as she works. She only interrupts herself to say, "It was truly a blessing for Elly and I to be openly in love. It was impossible before." Another long pause follows and she adds quietly, "There is more room here to explore the many yearnings of our hearts and to share ourselves with those we love."

"I know." Ayame says. She shifts a little under the water, one hand moving to bring a hand up, to lay on top of Taeyeon's a moment. Just a soft, damp touch, reassuring and quiet, before it retreats back under the water "There's such a lack of judgement here. It makes things better for those who couldn't be open" She sighs, and a small smile touches her lips "I'm glad you can both be open and honest. It must be such a weight from you. I quite agree - it's a blessing"

Another little shift. Small, comfortable movements, the Sylph letting the steam and hot water sink in deeply "I can't begin to imagine what it must be like, being able to do the little things together without judgement. Just walk, holding hands, a kiss to the cheek. You must have thought it was paradise"

    "It was amazing from the first, yes!" This makes Taeyeon think back. "Even before the Cursed Wave, letting a few close friends know about our relationship was special. When we couldn't logout, we ran off together and played house for a few months. Of course, you know Elly. She had to eventually get back into things."

    What Ayame cannot see, is the slight blush that comes to Taeyeon's cheeks. That gentle touch slips through a barrier that she is happy to be without.

    "You are a special person," she says suddenly. "Elly was right. Far more than the things you offer to others."

    The silence that follows is different, somehow. Taeyeon senses something very fragile in the air. Her usual, playful bravado is absent as she sinks deep into thought.

    All the while, her hands continue their work. They can communicate care and affection in their own way, and so they do. Deeper and slower strokes follow as she banishes all the stress that has been locked away in Ayame's shoulders.

"Thank you" Ayame says with a small shift and smile. She tilts her head, to rest it against Taeyeon's arm, breathing slowly, and she lets out a little sigh "I don't know her terribly well. I hope to. I know her enough to know I admire her, and maybe can learn to be more like her. I admire her" Her cheek lifts in a half smile "But at the same time, she's fascinating to me. She wears her position so easily." And then a soft little chuckle, an imp of amusement as she asks, quietly.

"Does she drop the position like her dress?" As her giggle continues. Clearly, she's relaxing at least a little

    "In time, you will know her," replies Taeyeon. "And.. by that I mean the real her. Elly, not Wake." She looks down at Ayame, smiling at the sweet image of the woman relaxing. Whatever little walls were between them, it feels like honesty is opening them up.

    "She has some admirable traits, and it is easy to be awed by her confidence and bearing. It's no accident she carries herself the way she does, and even now I would have to say she was still a more powerful presence in the real world." Taeyeon's tone is affectionate, and she laughs as she thinks of her 'Ice Queen' in the world before.

    "For all that, though, she's a woman, not a goddess. The position is a part of her, and it lets her express her compassion and love for others. And of course she has her flaws and her masks. Even her friends have to confront them, but I've learned by shattering them all. If she loves you-and she's moving in that direction-you will learn how to do that as well. Elly has.. a bit of a secret, though."

    Taeyeon leans down and whispers into Ayame's ear, "She considers herself a coward."

Ayame listens, considering, musing and taking it all in. Her eyelids are heavy, at the sensation of armth - but the touch, as well, the closeness of another. There's a momentary shiver and a blinking back of tears, before she collects herself, smiling up, tilting her head back

"That's ... honestly, I'd not ... expected that" She says quietly, blinking slowly "I really hadn't" A small pause "I don't think she is. There's a difference between cowardice and pragmatism. You ... some fights, you just can't win. So you don't" Another small pause.

"You fight where you can win and make a difference. I see her doing that. There's no point in ... in throwing things away to make a point that helps no one. That's what I admired. That sense of principle and how it's used. And the rest, yes, but that first? That's what I first caught"

Another pause, a small chuckle "Well, not the first. That case I brought? A relic like hers. Another Right Clothes. When people found I had one, they told me about her! I don't use mine day to day, though." Ah, yes. That would be Out Of Her Control.

    "She is afraid to lose me and this place and since the logout vanished, she has never died. Wake has had some incredibly close calls, mind you." Taeyeon sighs gently, "I knew she was afraid of it, and so before she left our home to return to her adventures, I made her promise she would not die. It was a promise she made swiftly and easily. All this time later and we finally know she was right to be afraid."

    Taeyeon's fingers tremble until she forces them to stillness. She draws in a deep breath and explains, "I released her from that promise when the war started and ever since I have been afraid. I have thought about asking her to promise again. She has something to fight for, and no matter what she thinks, she's not going to flinch away from dying now."

    Taeyeon draws in a deep breath and releases an even deeper sigh. "The truth is, I am a coward. I want to see the world, but I am afraid of getting hurt. That is why I spend my time at home. I don't want to lose what I've found, either."

    Turning her attention to the relic helps her calm down. "Elly uses hers almost every day. We used to.. hmm.. have you used it today, by chance?" Vulnerable fear aside, Taeyeon sees a chance to make things more fun and will take it.

"I've not" Ayame chuckles "I save it for if I need it, you know? I have a few shirts and such, a few slips I wear. I like to carry things where they're available, not just stuff things into an inventory. Aside from anything else, people might need them when I'm sleeping"

She listens, and nods, breathing slowly and then brings a hand up, squeezing Taeyeon's hand faintly. And her voice is reassuring and gently "If you give others the strength to bring themselves back home, that's not being a coward. It's terrifying to see others leave and not know if they'll be okay. But we trust in them, and we believe in them. We have faith" She smiles up again, head tilted back "It's not cowardice to believe in others."

    "It is, yes. And it's strange being in this place. It's too lonely for my tastes. It almost makes me miss being hounded by reporters in Seoul!" Taeyeon laughs gently and leans forward, so she can peer down at Ayame's face. The warmth in the air has her face a bit flushed. Her eyes flick for just a moment and then return swiftly to lock on Ayame's. It doesnt seem right that the secretary is able to make /her/ blush.

    "Since you haven't used it.. we can do so tonight!" Taeyeon is quite pleased with the idea. "I bet it will make something lovely. Elly's always makes the cutest things when she uses it in the evening. And.. I've kept you in the water long enough, I think. We don't want to have your lovely skin wrinkle up!"

"I almost don't want to get out" Ayame smiles "WHile I'm here, we can go hiking, perhaps. Look for an onsen, or such. The locals would love it, and I adored the ones near my home" She shifts a little, reaching for a towel

"I've seen some of the Baroness's clothes. It has a fabulous sense for her position" She smiles warmly, nodding, her cheeks pinked with warmth "I can't imagine being chased by reporters, though! or even worse, missing it" She teases "A little anonymity must be a good thing, surely. And don't worry. I doubt you'll be lonely here long!"

    Taeyeon steps to the side of the bath, offering a hand to help Ayame to her feet. It's done automatically, without much worry for the exact situation. The mention of onsens has her acting as if she were in one.

    "I think you will have more luck finding one back in the mountains than here in the Tower. I suppose it is possible, though. It's a very strange place with quite unusual rules."

    She grins playfully, turning her attention back to the relic. "I bet yours just needs regular use. Also, it will give what is most appropriate for the situation, if I understand it correctly. The reasons for each selection may not be evident without some measure of faith and willingness to take a leap."

Ayame flushes, sinking in at the offer of a hand. Quite self conscious "Ah, if it's no trouble ..." She apologises, glancing to the door. A small smile and a soft laugh as she waves off her embarrassment "We all have things that we're cowards about" But her eyes are warm, as she waits for Taeyeon to leave "If you'll just slip out, I'll dress" Indeed. Her old clothes are right there. Travel-worn, even!

    Taeyeon tilts her head, looking down over Ayame's figure curiously. She sees nothing to be embarassed about! "Well, certainly I can step out, just please be careful, dear. It can be a bit slippery in the humidity."

    She takes a step, then pauses, bends down and scoops up the dirty clothes. "And don't worry, I'll get these cleaned up for you. I will set The Right Clothes right by the door where you can safely get it once you are ready."

    Without pausing for any response, she is out the door! Certainly she went so quickly to avoid letting in a bunch of chilly air. The soft bump of the case touching the door can be heard a short while later.

There is a stare! And even a huff, before Ayame emerges from the tub. She pats herself dry, and unfurls her hair, drying that as well. Then she sneaks the door open a few inches, dragging the relic inside and giving it a long, slow look

"Behave yourself"

Then she flips it open. And just sighs. Well. Sleek shorts and a tank top are comfortable. And appropriate for lounging about the house, she supposes. She slips them on reluctantly, fastening her hair back up and opening the door before the new clothes get steamed "Taeyeon?" She asks, padding through to follow and listen for the woman

    Taeyeon is found sitting on the bedroom. Her expression is rather serious as she speaks to an unvoiced question. "I don't know. But I'll follow my heart, as always." Whatever the response is, it has her smiling warmly. "You're right, of course. Ugh, why are you suddenly the relationship expert?" Another pause before she says, "Yes, yes, I know, Ms. Ice Queen with a Ph.D. Anyway, she's probably dressed by now." A further pause. "I love you too, my Ice Queen. Be well!"

    Taeyeon has keep her robe on. It's comfortable and works well considering they haven't quite gotten to eating the evening meal just yet. By now, night has come and curtains have been drawn. The fitful light of candles casts dancing shadows about the room.

Ayame smiles a little as she hears a little of it, knocking before she enters "Hey" She offers, smoothing down the sleek attire "My relic has apparently decided we're staying in tonight" She chuckles weakly, but nods, looking around at the room "Though I think we'd want to anyway. Even though storm season's over, still quick rain showers are a thing" She breathes out, stepping in fully and looking at the room "Letting her know I arrived safe?" She asks

    Taeyeon's jaw does drop a bit at the outfit. But only for a moment. She doesn't want to be rude! Still, she is openly appreciating the choice of The Right Clothes. "The relic has.. incredible taste. That is both adorable and very flattering. Of course, it's also appropriate for the situation. When you use it at night, it seems better able to focus on what is best for the remainder of the day."

    She hops up from the bed, closing the distance between the two with a delighted laugh. "And yes, checking in with Elly is something I do as often as I can. She's frequently busy, but just a few words here and there keeps us moving in the same direction."

"That relic seems to agree with you I need to relax" Ayame grins weakly, offering a hand "And who am I to deny it, and you, and the Baroness?" With the smallest of chuckles "So. Your plans for the evening?" As she sighs, not sadly "It's good to just ... ask that. Not planning, preparing. Just, an evening in, through choice."

At the discussion on the chimlink, she only nods "I understand. Just touching on one another briefly, that reassurance you're still there, and all's well" She smiles warmly "Believe me, I understand that well"

    Taeyeon looks at Ayame's hand seriously, then takes it in both of hers. "You are Ayame, a beautiful and kindly spirit. And you can deny anything that doesn't suit you, or that comes too swiftly. Time here can move remarkably fast, but the best things come in their proper time. That isn't always now."

    She suddenly smiles and a little bit of mischief lights her eyes. "Plans for the evening.. well, first we had better share a proper meal, then we can see how well I did with that pie. After that, well. Just enjoying being together with someone special would be perfect, as far as I'm concerned. Perhaps I might just sing something for you! Who knows? The night is young and so are we, right?"

"And all the time in the world" Ayame smiles, nodding, one arm folded self-consciously across herself and gripping her other elbow as she moves to follow "I admit, I could use a meal. Your cooking smells amazing, so I hope it lives up!" Just a little playful, just a little teasing.

"And only if you want. But I'd love to hear. What was your favorite song to perform?" She asks, trotting along behind to the kitchen

    "I hope so as well," replies Taeyeon cheekily. "After all, a way to a person's heart is through their stomach, yes?" Getting into a more playful mood again, she adds a bounce to her step. She also asks, "What kind of person are you most attracted to, Ayame?"

    The kitchen having been reached, she turns and gives the most innocent of smiles, her eyes lidding shut and her nose wrinkling with a very slight wagging of her chin.

    Slightly more seriously, she turns her attention towards preparing the food. She has a pair of finely marbled steaks and an array of vegetables and spices. Though the kitchen is no match for what she has back home, she has all the tools she needs to whip up something remarkable.

    "When it comes to music, that is a tricky one to answer. It depends on the moment, I imagine. Tonight, I believe the only song I ever wrote and released would be fun to sing. It was very popular, but I felt.. almost naked, having my words so thoroughly critiqued. The title of the song is 'I'." She pauses, looking thingss over.

    "I feel like it's almost right.. but.." Taeyeon turns suddenly, facing Ayame. "Something. Is. Missing." Her words are punctuated with a dreadfully serious expression and a tap of her foot on the floor.

Ayame frowns immediately, looking around at that dreadfully serious expression "It is?" She asks nervously "Well, can I help you find it? What's missing?" She asks, before a faintly suspicious look flicks across her face. Perhaps she suspects she's being played!

"Attracted to?" She asks, fumbling "I didn't - I didn't date before. I never really got the chance. A few chances, nursess, and such, but it never ... went anywhere, you know?" Her smile is halfhearted

    The dating information and the lack of clarity get an arched eyebrow from Taeyeon. She smiles too-sweetly again and tries another angle. "Well, then.. let's try something more specific. Like, what are you attracted to. For instance, do you like short, slender girls, or curvier ones?"

    With a little extra pause and another serious expression she nods to herself. "Anyway, something is missing!" She bounces on her toes and brushes a kiss against Ayame's cheek. "Love! Critical to all cooking."

    Her giggling comes out in ripple after ripple. She's certainly pleased with herself. Until she decides it is time to get serious again. Sort of.

    "Okay!" she blurts out abruptly. "I need you to.. tenderize the steak!" A breath, a calm smile, and she adds gently, "And I will wash and cut the veggies!"

"Lo - oh, you're incorrigable" Ayame exclaims with a little laugh, moving to assist, to pound away at the steak with swift and sure motions. She makes herself think, though, before answering "Honestly, most people have their charms. Slenderness is definitely appealing" She glances down and grins wryly "Certainly I can see the appeal of that" She chuckles

"Height isn't so much a thing. But it's all about the proportions From what I've seen, yes, you're very attractive, and you know it" With a mock-tutting tone "And you're flaunting it"

    "Guilty as charged, I suppose, though honestly I am convinced you are loving every second." With expert ease, Taeyeon dices and slices the vegetables in short order. She even has plenty of time to pause and watch Ayame. Watch her work.

    Ayame's praise doesn't get her blushing one bit. Instead, she preens and poses to show off her appeal just a bit more. The accusation of flaunting leaves her grinning. Not an ounce of regret is to be seen.

    "I am. And while I have been told I'm attractive by many people over the years, that isn't what is important now." She grins wickedly, "What is important is that I'm utterly irresistable."

    With casual ease she moves her work from a cutting board and into a pan. This she sets over flame. She'll move to Ayame's side, then, and examine the steak. "Let's see.. you've done a beautiful job with them. Just need to add a bit of salt and pepper and we'll be ready to go."

Ayame nods, watching Tae work with the food, thoughtfully and considering and working through ideas. She pose just brings the redness back to her cheeks, and she sighs, though again, it's less than aggravated. Tolerating with amusement, perhaps. "You so very clearly are" She smiles a touch "And I get why. After ... everything? Being able to flirt, for yourself, must be heaven" She says warmly, agreeably

    Taeyeon, it seems, is pleased with that answer. When it comes time to get serious, she gives the culinary arts her utter focus. There's still a dance in her step, and she does share smiles and playful affection (she rather enjoys bumping hips, it seems), but nothing will be allowed to prevent her from making a great meal to share.

    "Please settle in at the table, dear," she says gently. "Is wine okay, or would you prefer sake?"

    There's an urgency to her work, moving food swiftly to plates, getting it arranged just-so, and then delivering it to the table so it remains wonderfully hot and with a power, enticing aroma.

"Wine is just fine" Ayame smiles, moving to set the table beforehand, helping with a practiced hand and an easy smile. The first hipbump catches her off guard, but she returns the second carefully. Once all is almost ready, she sits, tugging her chair in and watching Taeyeon move, prepare, with a warm, appreciative smile "Thank you, by the by."

    The meal is enjoyed with a smattering of light, pleasant conversation. It seems that more serious topics aren't meant to intrude at the table. Even the flirting lets up until it's time for dessert, at which point Taeyeon makes up for lost time.

    When both women are satisfied and dishes cleaned and set in their proper place, the candles are put out and it is time for a relaxing sleep.