sixwordstories | (no subject)

Are you injured?

I'm fine. Just need a cold drink and a warm body.

I'm glad. I couldn't help but worry a bit.

Worried? About what? The force was small; we were barely needed.

Well.. Small forces can be deceptive. They weren't in this cases, but anything could happen..

Don't worry, my Lord. Your hide is well-protected.

That wasn't quite my worry, actually..

Hm?

Unlike some of the other scholars, I worry about those protecting us as well, even if that is their job.

*smiles before shaking his head*

You really are something, my Lord. Humility isn't something I see in the upper classes that much. False respect for those in higher positions, but never humility or sincerity.

So, you care to join me in relieving one of those urges I mentioned?

I don't know whether it's humility or merely concern for a friend. You're one of the very few I have in this place.

Of course. That sounds quite enjoyable.

You consider me a friend already? We barely know each other.

I know a nice inn not too far from the Forbidden City.

Oh.. I apologize if I presume too much. I suppose I use the word more lightly than I should.. Perhaps..

Wonderful. Lead the way, and I will follow. ~~And won't talk anymore.~~

No, it's fine. I was joking. So, if we're friends, should I drop the "My Lord" deal?

Don't fall too far back. ~~Or stop talking. I'll hit you.~~

That would be perfectly fine with me. More than fine, actually.

I won't. I know how to keep up.

Great. You don't know how much it kills me to be talking so proper all the time.

Good. He starts walking towards the palace gates. The man's still in his underarmor, and seems quite relaxed in it.

I can only imagine. I haven't met too many of the people who are above me, but I've been very careful with those I have... Of course, his careful usually ended in things broken, simply because he tried too hard..

He walked almost alongside the other, just a step or two behind.

*He lets out a barking laugh* So I've heard.

Yes.. yes.. I know. It's a well known fact that seems to give plenty of other people endless amusement.

Aw, don't be so grouchy. It's all in fun. Besides, if people were speaking about you in a bad way, I'd make sure they'd quit.

I really don't mind it, most of the time. I know I stick out here... Makes me think I'd be better off in Fuzhou. But I do like it here.

..And thank you.

Don't say that. You're just new, and a bit clumsy, so palace gossip spreads around you. Just let people get used to you and things'll be fine.

Don't mention it.

They arrive at the inn some time later. Judging from the noise emitting from the establishment, many people were already well on their way to being drunk.

I know. It's just a bit discouraging. Still, I know I'll be fine. Especially with a few friends.

He had to smile at that, looking up at the inn. Well, this would be a new experience, at least one so busy..

I'm sure you will.

He grinned happily at the comment and led Bohai into the inn. Much to expectation, the inn was slightly dingy and loud with the drunken conversations of its patrons. Behind it all could be heard music playing, almost drowned out by the chatter. Qiu led the younger to an unoccupied table in the back and sat down.

So, how's Beijing for you so far?

Bohai looked around. It reminded him of home. More people, a little louder, but it was still the same atmosphere. Not that he spent much time in the inn at home, but he'd gone in there enough.

He sat down with Qiu and smiled.

I love it. For all the trouble I'm causing at times, I really do love being here.

So many people, so many foods I've never had..

The food? *Snort* You really are from the country, aren't you?

Sure am!

The city has a lot of different dishes than we eat in the country. I've been enjoying trying new things.

Good, you can try some more new stuff.

As an attendant arrives, he orders for the both of them. When the food finally arrives, it's a plate of a rather spicy food, and highly alcoholic drink. Qiu keeps talking between bites.

Tell me, Bohai. Your family's upper class, right? That mean you're betrothed or anything?

He nodded slightly, looking at the food and drinks, trying small bits of both first, seeming to decide he quite likes them both.. though each bite of food is spicy enough to warrant another drink from his cup.

I.. I suppose I should be, but, it's a bit odd. My father actually told me once that he'll wait until I choose my bride. He smiled a bit, shaking his head. Afraid he'll be waiting awhile. I don't think most of the women in this city will consider me prime marriage material.

Why wouldn't they think that?