Amelia Eva Steinbeck 📚 Teacher 📚 Witch 📚 Available for pop culture consultation regarding the arts, literature, and other foreign mediums of expression.
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NAME: Amelia Eva Steinbeck BIRTHDAY: February 28th FAV CAKE FLAVOR: Mixed berries, whipped cream, and lemon curd
WHAT THEY WANT MOST FOR THEIR BIRTHDAY: For her AP Lit. class to pass their test w/ a 3 or higher.
[Her collection grew over the years and remained sizable even if she switched some out or gave some away. Most of them were enchanted to some degree and it was a way to use her excess magic.
... And to keep a fragment of him alive.
With their drinks mixed she moves to the table, sits, and slides Gale's drink to him.]
I use them to practice new spells or to animate them to a degree. More importantly, wind chimes make me think of summer and makes even the cold days feel warm.
[She sips her drink and it's lightly sweet, fizzy, with a hint of the vermouth's liquor touch.]
I lived too long in a place where there was only snow outside so... That would explain my preferences.
[He smiles as he accepts his drink, fingers closing around the glass as he gives her a nod of thanks, listening intently. He always listens, of course, but those moments where Amelia reveals just a little more of herself always stand out to him as being especially important, things to be handled with care given how much caution she took in offering them.]
While I'm hardly surprised you found a practical use for them, it seems they serve you well even without it. My mother loves wind chimes, as well. No doubt she would have great appreciation for your collection— they remind me of cool sea breezes blowing in through open windows.
[He takes a sip of his own drink, followed by a soft exhale of satisfaction— he doesn't know what this particular combination is called, but the taste of vermouth is familiar to him, and the rest of it is bright and refreshing, sparkling on the tongue.]
That is lovely. [Pardon him while he's being fantasy British.] Where you live now, it's far more temperate, yes?
[Her smile at his compliment for the mixed drink is hidden behind the rim of the glass.]
It is. The state is large, like I've mentioned previously so the weather and atmosphere varies depending on the region. We even have a desert called Death Valley.
Needless to say, that place is too extreme for me.
[That makes her chuckle lightly as she rests one arm on the table.]
Believe it or not, people do live in Death Valley. It is definitely not a place for the faint of heart.
But that's why, I live in Blackgale. [Her head glances at the window to look at the illusionary outside.]
Summers can be tough depending on the year but otherwise, it's a good town. Quiet enough unless something important enough catches my notice.
[She's been away for a long while now and she thinks about how she'll drop in soon to check up on her house and the school. To go months without teaching is rather unprecedented.]
I... May go back to do a quick sweep of things. Not any time soon, but I'll let you know when I do go so you're not caught unawares.
If they live there voluntarily, they must have impressive constitutions, from the sounds of it.
[He follows her gaze towards the windows, the illusion of the garden, yard and all that lies beyond, and smiles warmly.]
It does sound idyllic— I'm glad you've made a home for yourself somewhere that suits you. From all you've told me, they're quite fortunate to have you, as well. Who else would feed their lake monster, if not for you?
[He turns his attention back to her, that mischievous glint of his in his gaze, though his smile softens as his expression shifts to something akin to understanding.]
It's been some time, hasn't it? You're due for a visit home. You can't stay on vacation forever, much as we might wish to, but I'm sure your friends and students will be glad to hear from you. Of course, you'll be missed here, but I would never presume to keep you from your responsibilities.
[It's comforting, to know that many of them can come and go as needed— though he doesn't count himself among those with the luxury of doing so.]
[She's been mildly surprised that she's stayed this long without dropping in constantly. Maybe Amelia isn't too far gone into workaholic-ism like her friends and acquaintances may joke about.]
You've... Been a very good reason for me to stay this long.
[Wow, she sounds awkward saying that and it shows in her light blush once it's too late to take that back.]
[He won't overlook how challenging it must have been for her to say it so openly, as well— and as awkward as she might feel, it doesn't feel the slightest bit out of place for him.]
You've certainly been the highlight of my time here— but even so, I suppose I cannot be selfish. Well, not entirely. I'll simply have to spend the time you're away thinking of a suitable way to welcome you back.
[He gives a bit of a laugh at his own expense, his gaze mirthful as he looks at her over the rim of his glass before taking another drink.]
I could beg you to stay, to ignore your responsibilities, but that would be terribly unbecoming of me— and I can't say I would feel inclined to do so. I only wish I could accompany you, but I'll eagerly await your return when the time comes.
[He grins across the table at her, leaning back in his seat as he lowers his glass.]
I would say that's only moderately selfish. I'm well-aware that I take up a good deal of your time as is.
It would be nice, if you were able to accompany me.
[But the possibilities were only so vast. As much as Hotel Caelum opened up so many opportunities and new connections, the end of the long string had to appear somewhere.]
But even though we spend the most time with one another... I'm actually a little curious about other people you've been able to talk to or befriend.
[He knows there's no use being wistful about such things right now— and he also doesn't intend to simply accept that as the way things are indefinitely. He already has designs of overcoming such obstacles, and he knows Amelia has been thinking about it as well.
Instead, he leans forward against the table with an eager look, his smile hitching to one side.]
Oh, I've made plenty of friends, many of whom I've learned some interesting tidbits about in recent days— as recently as within the last hour, in fact. Our resident warlock, Winter?
[Gale manages to be much more sociable than her so she has no doubt in her mind that he would be able to find out some very interesting information she isn't privy to.]
Winter? What's he been up to according to you?
[She's friends with the warlock but she knows that there's definitely a lot she doesn't know simply because she doesn't pry as much.]
[She has admittedly not been looking too closely at other people's relationships aside maybe giving an eye towards Sumina, but that's because she cares for the younger woman. Other than that, she's largely left things alone, so Gale truly has the keener eye.]
Then again, yes that makes sense. I'd imagine they'd be thick as thieves seeing as they went through with the espresso machine heist.
[He's never had direct confirmation, but let's be honest, it wasn't too terribly difficult to put the pieces together on that one.]
I'm tempted to ask Astarion about this situation myself, but I have a feeling he might panicked and Misty Step away if I do. He's not typically one to want to discuss feelings, but overall, I think it will be good for the both of them.
[Gods know Astarion could use some genuine affection in his life.]
[She can't help, but roll her eyes slightly at that last part.]
As much as I've grown to find him affable, he is rather avoidant. Still, whatever he and Winter have going on, perhaps it is good for them.
[Amelia takes another idle sip of her drink before making another remark.]
My observation skills are on the lower end when it comes to looking at other people's relationships. Even when I had two students who would work closely together in my classes, I'd think little of it outside of whether they were disruptive or not.
So glad to hear you two are getting on these days.
[He doesn't even try to disguise his crooked smile, chuckling.]
To be fair, I was told, rather than making an observation— and you simply have... other priorities, shall we say. Especially in the classroom, one would think, dedicated as you are.
I don't see any reason to change the way you do things. You're hardly missing out— I doubt the high school rumor mill can compare with all we hear around these parts.
[There are all sorts of interesting things going on around here, many of which people have felt inclined to tell him freely, as well as others he's had to do a bit of prying for.]
Speaking of which, I've also heard that a certain sorcerer has been particularly 'neighborly' towards our resident innkeeper.
[He chuckles, his smile quirking to one side; in truth, it's simply that he's a very friendly sort and there are a good handful of people who feel comfortable talking to him, or at least find him reasonably charming enough to let things slip when he does pry.]
Yes, the very same, though details remain scarce. Gojo was intent on getting similar details out of me, insisting that you wouldn't tell him anything, and I thought it only fair to prod for something in return. Apparently, there was cooking involved.
[His expression becomes a caricature of solemnity. Cooking for someone is no small matter, in his opinion.]
[She's seen him be friendly to others at least on the network and his easy rapport is one of the many reasons Amelia is endeared to him after all. He's more comfortable with talking than she is, fundamentally.
At the mention of Gojo prying for details, she rolls her eyes and finishes up her drink, ice clinking around in her glass.]
That man may be an adult, but he reminds me too much of the boys in my classes I've had over the years. The class clowns; you know the ones.
... I suppose it's been long enough that Sumina may know some things about him that we don't. I suppose it's natural they've grown closer as a result.
[And Amelia can definitely see how the sorcerer's easygoing attitude could bounce off of Sumina's diligence and professionalism.
(And in regards to herself and Gale... Well, there's much to learn about each other still and she needs to step up).]
[He resists the urge to laugh again when she rolls her eyes; it's more or less an expected response when Gojo's name comes up. Given that he was a troublesome student, himself... yes, he certainly knows.]
A great deal can happen in a few short months— the time we've spent here feels as though it's been both ages and yet none at all.
[It was incredible how very much could happen in a matter of days; the ordeal he and Astarion were facing back on the Sword Coast had been going on for a number of weeks, at best. Hardly any time at all, compared to what time they've spent here, and yet it had changed their lives irrevocably.]
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[Her collection grew over the years and remained sizable even if she switched some out or gave some away. Most of them were enchanted to some degree and it was a way to use her excess magic.
... And to keep a fragment of him alive.
With their drinks mixed she moves to the table, sits, and slides Gale's drink to him.]
I use them to practice new spells or to animate them to a degree. More importantly, wind chimes make me think of summer and makes even the cold days feel warm.
[She sips her drink and it's lightly sweet, fizzy, with a hint of the vermouth's liquor touch.]
I lived too long in a place where there was only snow outside so... That would explain my preferences.
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While I'm hardly surprised you found a practical use for them, it seems they serve you well even without it. My mother loves wind chimes, as well. No doubt she would have great appreciation for your collection— they remind me of cool sea breezes blowing in through open windows.
[He takes a sip of his own drink, followed by a soft exhale of satisfaction— he doesn't know what this particular combination is called, but the taste of vermouth is familiar to him, and the rest of it is bright and refreshing, sparkling on the tongue.]
That is lovely. [Pardon him while he's being fantasy British.] Where you live now, it's far more temperate, yes?
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It is. The state is large, like I've mentioned previously so the weather and atmosphere varies depending on the region. We even have a desert called Death Valley.
Needless to say, that place is too extreme for me.
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[He scrunches his nose, amused, pausing to take another sip of his drink.]
Faerun has plenty of places with similar names— I assume 'Death Valley' shows there can be truth in advertising, for better or for worse.
[If it's hot, he's definitely going to say it's for worse, and he looks just a little flat at the thought of it.]
I can't stand the heat.
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Believe it or not, people do live in Death Valley. It is definitely not a place for the faint of heart.
But that's why, I live in Blackgale. [Her head glances at the window to look at the illusionary outside.]
Summers can be tough depending on the year but otherwise, it's a good town. Quiet enough unless something important enough catches my notice.
[She's been away for a long while now and she thinks about how she'll drop in soon to check up on her house and the school. To go months without teaching is rather unprecedented.]
I... May go back to do a quick sweep of things. Not any time soon, but I'll let you know when I do go so you're not caught unawares.
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[He follows her gaze towards the windows, the illusion of the garden, yard and all that lies beyond, and smiles warmly.]
It does sound idyllic— I'm glad you've made a home for yourself somewhere that suits you. From all you've told me, they're quite fortunate to have you, as well. Who else would feed their lake monster, if not for you?
[He turns his attention back to her, that mischievous glint of his in his gaze, though his smile softens as his expression shifts to something akin to understanding.]
It's been some time, hasn't it? You're due for a visit home. You can't stay on vacation forever, much as we might wish to, but I'm sure your friends and students will be glad to hear from you. Of course, you'll be missed here, but I would never presume to keep you from your responsibilities.
[It's comforting, to know that many of them can come and go as needed— though he doesn't count himself among those with the luxury of doing so.]
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You've... Been a very good reason for me to stay this long.
[Wow, she sounds awkward saying that and it shows in her light blush once it's too late to take that back.]
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[He won't overlook how challenging it must have been for her to say it so openly, as well— and as awkward as she might feel, it doesn't feel the slightest bit out of place for him.]
You've certainly been the highlight of my time here— but even so, I suppose I cannot be selfish. Well, not entirely. I'll simply have to spend the time you're away thinking of a suitable way to welcome you back.
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So what you're saying is that you could be a lot more selfish?
[Actually... Yeah, she can see it.]
Though, if you acted on it, you'd get an earful from me.
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[He gives a bit of a laugh at his own expense, his gaze mirthful as he looks at her over the rim of his glass before taking another drink.]
I could beg you to stay, to ignore your responsibilities, but that would be terribly unbecoming of me— and I can't say I would feel inclined to do so. I only wish I could accompany you, but I'll eagerly await your return when the time comes.
[He grins across the table at her, leaning back in his seat as he lowers his glass.]
I would say that's only moderately selfish. I'm well-aware that I take up a good deal of your time as is.
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[But the possibilities were only so vast. As much as Hotel Caelum opened up so many opportunities and new connections, the end of the long string had to appear somewhere.]
But even though we spend the most time with one another... I'm actually a little curious about other people you've been able to talk to or befriend.
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Instead, he leans forward against the table with an eager look, his smile hitching to one side.]
Oh, I've made plenty of friends, many of whom I've learned some interesting tidbits about in recent days— as recently as within the last hour, in fact. Our resident warlock, Winter?
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Winter? What's he been up to according to you?
[She's friends with the warlock but she knows that there's definitely a lot she doesn't know simply because she doesn't pry as much.]
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[His eyes are practically gleaming with mischief.]
I have it on very good authority that he and our dear Astarion have formed an attachment.
[It's absolutely the most Jane Austen way he could have put it.]
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Oh! Him and Astarion...? I had no idea.
[She has admittedly not been looking too closely at other people's relationships aside maybe giving an eye towards Sumina, but that's because she cares for the younger woman. Other than that, she's largely left things alone, so Gale truly has the keener eye.]
Then again, yes that makes sense. I'd imagine they'd be thick as thieves seeing as they went through with the espresso machine heist.
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[He's never had direct confirmation, but let's be honest, it wasn't too terribly difficult to put the pieces together on that one.]
I'm tempted to ask Astarion about this situation myself, but I have a feeling he might panicked and Misty Step away if I do. He's not typically one to want to discuss feelings, but overall, I think it will be good for the both of them.
[Gods know Astarion could use some genuine affection in his life.]
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As much as I've grown to find him affable, he is rather avoidant. Still, whatever he and Winter have going on, perhaps it is good for them.
[Amelia takes another idle sip of her drink before making another remark.]
My observation skills are on the lower end when it comes to looking at other people's relationships. Even when I had two students who would work closely together in my classes, I'd think little of it outside of whether they were disruptive or not.
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[He doesn't even try to disguise his crooked smile, chuckling.]
To be fair, I was told, rather than making an observation— and you simply have... other priorities, shall we say. Especially in the classroom, one would think, dedicated as you are.
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[Hell, she barely sounds natural relaying that information to the few people who know about her and Gale here.]
It's best to let things bloom without any assistance.
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[There are all sorts of interesting things going on around here, many of which people have felt inclined to tell him freely, as well as others he's had to do a bit of prying for.]
Speaking of which, I've also heard that a certain sorcerer has been particularly 'neighborly' towards our resident innkeeper.
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[But it works because that last part definitely piqued her interest.]
That's... Gojo and Sumina??
[You know, just to be sure! Amelia's looking very contemplative now.]
They had been conversing intensely during the book club...
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[He chuckles, his smile quirking to one side; in truth, it's simply that he's a very friendly sort and there are a good handful of people who feel comfortable talking to him, or at least find him reasonably charming enough to let things slip when he does pry.]
Yes, the very same, though details remain scarce. Gojo was intent on getting similar details out of me, insisting that you wouldn't tell him anything, and I thought it only fair to prod for something in return. Apparently, there was cooking involved.
[His expression becomes a caricature of solemnity. Cooking for someone is no small matter, in his opinion.]
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At the mention of Gojo prying for details, she rolls her eyes and finishes up her drink, ice clinking around in her glass.]
That man may be an adult, but he reminds me too much of the boys in my classes I've had over the years. The class clowns; you know the ones.
... I suppose it's been long enough that Sumina may know some things about him that we don't. I suppose it's natural they've grown closer as a result.
[And Amelia can definitely see how the sorcerer's easygoing attitude could bounce off of Sumina's diligence and professionalism.
(And in regards to herself and Gale... Well, there's much to learn about each other still and she needs to step up).]
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[He resists the urge to laugh again when she rolls her eyes; it's more or less an expected response when Gojo's name comes up. Given that he was a troublesome student, himself... yes, he certainly knows.]
A great deal can happen in a few short months— the time we've spent here feels as though it's been both ages and yet none at all.
[It was incredible how very much could happen in a matter of days; the ordeal he and Astarion were facing back on the Sword Coast had been going on for a number of weeks, at best. Hardly any time at all, compared to what time they've spent here, and yet it had changed their lives irrevocably.]
Time is relative, as they say.
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[Amelia reaches over and pokes Gale on the nose.]
I like reading the praises you have for me, but I refuse to let that brat goad me into a fight.
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Casts phoenix down on self
opens my arms to you!!
Re: opens my arms to you!!
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