i_speak_softly | Sixty-Eighth Theory [Action]

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Sixty-Eighth Theory [Action]

[For the past few weeks, Don has spent an increasing amount of time staring out the windows of his winter room, watching for signs of spring. As comfortable as the room is, after two-plus months of living in it he really just wants to get out.]

[To that end, he has been packing for a camping trip, and today - not knowing that winter isn't yet done with Luceti - he shuts down all the systems in his room and leaves the house.]

[Anyone out and about in the village may see the Turtle, bundled in his snowsuit and carrying a duffel bag, heading out of town. He's not going anywhere in particular and isn't in a hurry, so he'd be happy to stop and talk.]

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[Ah, the jig is up. Not that it isn't an obvious association, but still.]

So you heard what I asked, did you? Yes, it is related to that. I wanted to get opinions from other worlds, but as it turns out, there aren't many differences between them.

[Don crosses his arms and shifts his weight a few times before speaking again.]

If I tell you something, can you keep it just between us?

[Richard blinks, then nods.]

Of course-- what is it?

[Don glances around, lowers his voice, and says:]

I wasn't aware of women until I was about nine years old.

You mean you didn't even know they existed?

[This is a bit hard for him to believe, though he can understand how it could be possible, having lived an extremely sheltered life himself.]

[Don nods, giving Richard a minute to absorb that this is exactly what he means.]

[Richard considers this for a brief moment before smiling.]

Don't worry-- they're still rather mysterious even to those of us who have grown up around them.

Glad to know it's not just me. [He smiles, and drops the secretive air.] If you ever want a different perspective...

On women, or on men?

Both, I guess. [Why are you looking at him like that.]

I think a different perspective on women would be more useful if I actually had any interest in them beyond mere friendship.

[... wait. He's supposed to be trying to cultivate that interest in them right now. Whoops.]

[Blink.]

Oh. You're one of those.

[It's not pejorative at all, just a non-specific category.]

"One of those"?

[Unfortunately, given Richard's current mindset and his recent experiences, his instinct is to assume that there's some sort of negative connotation to this.]

Sure. [Don rubs the back of his head awkwardly.] I guess I should be asking you for advice.

I'm not quite sure I understand what you mean.

[He's still thinking that Don meant something bad by it.]

[Blink. Richard doesn't know?]

Well, my partner is one.

[Oh. Oh. That makes a lot more sense.

Richard smiles, but it's a sad one, and he just shakes his head.]

I see. I'm afraid I'm not the best person to be seeking that sort of advice from...

[Not after his last relationship fell apart so spectacularly.]

Oh.

[Well. That's awkward. He's not sure what to say now.]

Let's just say it's a long story. But if you're looking for advice, you might wish to speak to Billy and Teddy. The two of them seem to be quite happy together.

[Don frowns; he doesn't recognize these names.]

Who are they?

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