sharktoothtotem: (pic#11720626)
Taylor Lin ([personal profile] sharktoothtotem) wrote in [community profile] nexus_crossings2022-03-29 11:24 am

(no subject)

 Taylor's sitting up on a small wall, she's looking at the sketch in her lap, She's just glad that the Twins let her look at their hidden blades so she could figure out what to do about rebuilding hers.  Though she had other things on her mind too.  

"If you were given the chance to lead a group of people... Only because they think you'd be the best for the job, even though you're still only a Novice.... Would you accept the offer?"

She was just glad that they weren't asking her to lead the WHOLE brotherhood, just a small subgroup of about thirty people.  Most of them were double her age, though those were the men and women that had suggested that she lead them.

"Or would you come and hide here vowing never to return?"  Because really, that's one of the options she's liking more because really, she's no leader, she just wants to go on treasure hunts, and surf.  Neither option is really leadership qualities.  

To top it off, she had just found a perfect store front for an antiques shop, which would give her something else to do here.

The sketchbook with the plans for her new hidden blade went tucked away into one of the pockets of her cargo pants.  

itmeanstruth: (Brothers)

[personal profile] itmeanstruth 2022-03-29 05:06 pm (UTC)(link)
Speaking of twins - though definitely not ones with hidden blades - Isamu and Minoru were both in the plaza running errands when they heard Taylor’s question.

“Accepting a position of leadership is not a decision to make on a whim, so it is good that you are weighing your options carefully.” Isamu mused aloud. “Though, you should not base your judgement on whether you define yourself as a novice or an expert in your field. Many studies have shown that it is personality traits, not skills, that serve as key predictors of leadership effectiveness. Most notably, sociability and enthusiasm, followed closely by organizational ability and work ethic. Traits that this group must see within you, or you would not have earned their recommendation.”

Minoru, meanwhile, hopped up on the wall next to her, and sat down. “So, what’s got you thinking twice about it? Maybe we can help you figure it out?”
itmeanstruth: (Brothers)

[personal profile] itmeanstruth 2022-03-29 09:50 pm (UTC)(link)
“Does it?” Minoru shrugged. “Or, well, does it have to?”

“Minoru, to a certain extent, such things are unavoidable. With leadership comes a level of responsibility - for oneself and others.” Isamu countered as gently as his often-stoic tone allowed.

“Not ALL of it. Not ALL of the time.” He insisted.

“Clearly, if you took charge to provide a boat, you have accepted some degree of responsibility before. Perhaps without even being asked. And dare I say, your willingness to acknowledge those with the strengths you need to complete the task at hand, in this case, your navigators, shows quite a bit of conscientiousness in and of itself.” He continued. “And age does not make one a mentor. Experience does.”

Neither of the twins knew that Mentor had a capital M, that it was some kind of title. Honestly, neither of them knew what kind of leadership role she was being offered.
itmeanstruth: (Brothers)

[personal profile] itmeanstruth 2022-03-30 11:45 am (UTC)(link)
Isamu was about to note the benefit of diversity in leadership when Taylor let that last bit slip. He paused, mouth open, and he slowly lowered his finger.

Covert ops? Not, say, her world’s version of a city council? That was… different.

Minoru, though, was less shocked. Unlike Isamu, he didn’t have a specific preconceived notion in his head to back track through. “Well, is it a thing you HAVE to accept? Or, even if you do, is something you have to accept right now?”
itmeanstruth: (Doubt)

[personal profile] itmeanstruth 2022-03-30 04:58 pm (UTC)(link)
Isamu was still not entirely certain what to make of the admission. This added another layer of complexity to the question and potentially made the situation much more delicate. While Isamu was deep in thought, Minoru was only starting to realize the possible implications.

“…this isn’t the kind of thing you can actually say ‘No’ to, is it…”
itmeanstruth: (Brothers)

[personal profile] itmeanstruth 2022-03-30 05:35 pm (UTC)(link)
“Oh…”

“While I do not wish to be so bold as to automatically assume similarities to the Yakuza, or Japanese crime syndicate, I must admit that is the first thing that crossed my mind.” Isamu admitted, blushing slightly. That was not an accusation he wanted to make. Still, he tried to put this into perspective. “Though, I suppose a more appropriate comparison might be closer to a shinobi clan, albeit there is a fine line between historical evidence and legendary exploits. But there would still be very specific rules and regulations that are best adhered to.”
itmeanstruth: (serious)

[personal profile] itmeanstruth 2022-03-31 11:31 am (UTC)(link)
Isamu listened carefully as Taylor described a bit of the structure of her world’s society. “I am afraid I may be squarely out of my area of expertise…”

“Bro, change is still change. Not feeling like you’re good enough. Not feeling ready to handle something. That’s pretty universal.” Minoru shrugged a little. “Truth is, you never know what something’s going to be like until you get there.”

Usually, for Minoru, that worked out just fine. Like picking up and moving to a new city, and looking for a new job, every time his brother changed schools. He followed him into interdimensional space, after all. They both lived and worked here in the Nexus.

“You won’t know if you can handle it until you do it.” This time, he thought more about going back to school and then dropping out. “And if it turns out you can’t, you figure it out as you go along. Until you find a way that works for you and you can.”
itmeanstruth: (Brothers)

[personal profile] itmeanstruth 2022-03-31 04:15 pm (UTC)(link)
When Taylor started brainstorming possible solutions, Minoru nodded eagerly. Sometimes the right answer wasn’t ‘yes’ or ‘no.’ Sometimes, it’s ‘yes, and…’

“It doesn’t hurt to ask, right?” He encouraged, and was soon met with a hug.

Hopefully, Taylor would forgive the disgusted expression he made to being kissed on the cheek. He tried to be polite, but that caught him completely off guard.

Isamu, however, smiled. He replied back in matching formality, humbly insisting that it was no trouble at all.

“We are pleased that we could provide some comfort and advice during a moment of need.” He added. “While the circumstances may differ, Minoru is right. We have all faced similar hurdles. And sometimes, we could all use a sounding board.”
itmeanstruth: (Doubt)

[personal profile] itmeanstruth 2022-04-02 12:51 am (UTC)(link)
The twins, while from a Japanese family, were actually born and raised in the United States. Their parents came to America for their masters degrees and ended up staying. The reaction had nothing to do with cultural norms.

This was really just Minoru’s personal quirk - the feeling of wet lips on his skin was icky. (There’s a reason why Ziggy’s always nuzzling him on the top of his head. That fluffy hair is a kiss shield!)

“I can see how that would be awkward, yes. But now you have a plan with which to structure your conversation. So it will undoubtedly be less so.” Isamu smiled. “Good luck!”

“Yeah, let us know how it goes!”
hellfire_andfury: (going to fuck you up)

[personal profile] hellfire_andfury 2022-03-29 05:43 pm (UTC)(link)
"I'd become leader without a second thought. When I was 15 I was thrown out of my house by my moron parents so I joined a street bike gang. Never was the leader but now I am leader of my own rock band The Hell's Angels."

Viktor wasn't ashamed of being kicked out of his house for being a "delinquent" kid. Burning shit down with fire bombs and just getting on the wrong side of the law. Flitting between his own world and the Nexus was becoming easier now that he understood how the PINpoint worked.

"What about you? Are you thinking of becoming leader to a group of people?"

He lit up a smoke and blew a thin trail above his head.
hellfire_andfury: (rock star)

[personal profile] hellfire_andfury 2022-03-29 05:59 pm (UTC)(link)
"I just sort of learnt when I was a kid growing up on the streets with my bike mates who were all adults. Never tried surfing though as I'm from South London. Not much sea down there. More concrete, brick and rivers."

Viktor watched her drink and nodded. He could understand. As for water sports? He'd never been one for those much preferring fire over water. Pyromania was his thing.

"My kind of sport is crafting molotov cocktails and throwing them at cop cars or authority buildings. Piss off the state kind of shit."
hellfire_andfury: (sing like an angel)

[personal profile] hellfire_andfury 2022-03-29 06:11 pm (UTC)(link)
"Yeah, I suppose you could call me a firebug. Vars, my boyfriend, does all the time. I'm a pyromaniac and proud of it. Fuck authority and cops. They shoved my dad away for ten years but that was his fault with his stupid dodgy deals."

The punk shrugged and inhaled his smoke just sighing softly. Would he not see his father for another nine years now? Who knew. Unless they reduced his sentence but that was unlikely.

"A lot of people have their heads up their asses. Authority dicks and the like."
hellfire_andfury: (fighting fuck yeah)

[personal profile] hellfire_andfury 2022-03-29 07:08 pm (UTC)(link)
"Maybe not but who cares? You can like water and surf while still being mates with a firebug like me. Fuck rules and whatever else. Chaos rules. Nice to meet you, Taylor. I'm Viktor "The Devil". That's my stage name."

It sounded rough that she was raised by an authoritative asshole. Viktor felt sorry for her but was glad she got out when she did.

"As well as pyromania I like wrestling."
hellfire_andfury: (BURN!)

[personal profile] hellfire_andfury 2022-03-29 07:19 pm (UTC)(link)
"Are you a punk, Taylor? You remind me of my punk friends back in the UK. Strong, feisty girls who take no shit and get into fights regardless of who they fight, man or woman alike. Minnows can be strong once they become a large group. Bigger fish get scared off that way."

A treasure hunter? Maybe her ancestors were pirates. Viktor smiled.

"Mixed Martial Arts? What kind?"
Edited 2022-03-29 19:20 (UTC)
delphicbooksandbaubles: aal and dor (true love)

[personal profile] delphicbooksandbaubles 2022-03-31 08:53 am (UTC)(link)
Dor's ears perk up a the sight and sound of the lass his beloved has taken a shine too.

He has his son's hand in one of his as he gently bounces him a little in the bjorn and a bag of some things like diapers in the other. he smiles softly and listens raptly, and looking thoughtful before answering.

"Depends on the alternative I suppose.." He murmurs before adding, for clarity. "And as to why and or where they need leading." Though it was hardly, completely uncommon back home per say. There were usually folks and advisors about too. He can't help the slight proud of her smile though. If she was in such a position. Or least being considered for it. "Many things can be learned. While some can't. Like if one has a heart for duty..or to ahem serve their people before themselves."
delphicbooksandbaubles: aal and dor (true love)

[personal profile] delphicbooksandbaubles 2022-04-01 06:24 am (UTC)(link)
Dor grins lopsidedly and warmly. "Can you say Hi Auntie Tay, Gawiany?" He murmurs sweetly and tenderly toward his son as he gently helps him wave by moving his little arm as the smaller blonde opens and closes his hand going, "ba baba babba. "

Gawain's little tail which looks like a golden retriever puppy's wags happily and a mile a minute as he scents the air excitedly. As his paw-pa, walks closer to the nice lady.

Dor hums and nods with a diplomatic head tilt as he listens, taking that in as she sorts some things out. His wife sometimes did the same when figuring certain things out. "Hmm, tis not uncommon that." He murmurs half in thought himself and strokes his chin. As he rubs his cheek gently against his son's head. Earning a wee giggle from the tot.

"Da dada dada." He babbles in his cute way. Dor beams at him proudly. "That's miboy, we learn something new everyday..or at least it's good to keep doing so no matter our age.." He murmurs warmly, and to sharpen ones skills. He nods softly, "Mayhaps, though such things oft need a more sharpel approach I find." He gently advises. Not wishing her to get into a tangle mes of trouble without allies and backup.

He then asks gently, "Have ya had lunch yet lass?" Thinking both the company would cheer Aal and well such things should nto be decided in haste nor on an empty stomach.

delphicbooksandbaubles: aal and dor (true love)

[personal profile] delphicbooksandbaubles 2022-04-02 01:20 am (UTC)(link)
Dor chuckles as well, "Aye, he'll get there." He murmurs and gently pecks the side of his son's temple.

Gawain coo, roos, and then softly giggles. "Ooh, " He murmurs his blue eyes lighting up in glee. As he gently reaches for the shiny. "roo roo, hank roo." He murmurs and swoops it around with one hand while nomming on his plushie a bit. As he looks between and watches them raptly.

Dor hums and nods softly, understandingly. "Indeed. That's rather important to have at least some of such figured out." He agrees. Recalling a time in his own life when he was a wee bit younger than she was. Though he did his best to surround himself with good people.

"Exactly," He murmurs warmly with a wry but fond smirk. When he follows the nod with his eyeline. "Ah, well that could be arranged methinks..and thought it might be good for ya both..Mmh, a small outing for the pups wouldn't go amiss as well." He murmurs mulling some quick ideas and plans etc through his head. If the beach had a spot they could order or cook some things up all the better.
delphicbooksandbaubles: aal and dor (true love)

[personal profile] delphicbooksandbaubles 2022-04-03 04:35 am (UTC)(link)
Dor grins softly at first his eyebrows going up in a pleased manner at the idea. His son wags his tail vigorously and roos' in excitement.

Which causes the older wolf to chuckle. "Aye, now I like the sound of that.." another warm chuckle. "As does Gawiany." He murmurs stroking his son's head. "Sounds like a lovely plan lass." His tone's both warm and greatly pleased by the suggestion and her quick and considerate thinking.
delphicbooksandbaubles: aal and dor (true love)

[personal profile] delphicbooksandbaubles 2022-04-25 03:05 pm (UTC)(link)
Dor smiles boyishly and slightly lopsidedly. "Likewise and nevertheless tis greatly appreciated." He murmurs warmly and sincern. Shooting her a friendly conspiratorially like wink. Before nuzzling his son's head with his check again. "Come on little man let's go get the girls." His tone a near tender almost purr. He warmly chuckles as his son babbles and gives a little opening and closing hand at Tay. As his father turns slowly. If she'd been closer he likely would have tried to hug her around the neck and or try and touch any necklaces or shine things on her.
delphicbooksandbaubles: (shield)

[personal profile] delphicbooksandbaubles 2022-04-26 02:15 am (UTC)(link)
He gives her a grin in reply, "Aye that you will." He murmurs warmly with a firm nod.

"Baabaaroo." Is Gawain's little slightly confused farewell looking tween them. But leans into his papa's pets so he's not too sads. He probably likes hanging around Auntie Tay tay as much as his mum does. And or has a good portion of her curiosity pared with is Papa's liking to explore.

Two golden furred tails wag as they head toward the familiar apartment which is half mid-transition of being used and half-packed with thins not needed imminently to be moved to their new larger spot once things are in order.