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.
[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.]
Yet the more you put it off, the more determined he becomes. One has to wonder whose strength of will shall win out.
[He gives her a crooked grin— he absolutely believes that Amelia has the patience and discipline to outlast Gojo under any circumstances.]
He's going to be sorely disappointed, I'm sure, but he'll recover. Speaking of reading, Winter had some rather kind words for you— and went so far as to say he believes I'm good for you.
[He doesn't sound unhappy about that; quite the contrary, but he does raise a brow before letting out another soft chuckle.]
I didn't quite manage to fit in that I think it's more often the other way around.
[Amelia rolls her eyes. As far as she's concerned, she's determined to never engage if only out of pride.]
You're talking to someone whose job is to deal with children who are only slightly younger and sometimes shorter than he is and that would be up to twenty or thirty a time in four periods.
[Being a high school teacher is rough...
When Gale tells her about Winter's words and his own thoughts on them, her expression doesn't betray her thoughts, but the way she looks down at her glass probably says a lot.]
Considering the numerous differences in your approaches to teaching, I've no doubt that he has severely underestimated your strength of will.
[Gojo is never getting that showdown, no matter how hard he tries. When it comes to playing the long game, there's no doubt in Gale's mind that Amelia will remain steadfast without so much as batting an eye.
He smiles gently at her from behind his own glass even as she looks down, setting his own glass down in front of him.]
That he does, but as someone who finds himself often facing the same accusation, I have to say there's some value in what he says.
[He doesn't think she's embarrassed to be with him— that's clearly never been the case, but Amelia is a private person at best, someone who has difficulty accepting compliments or weathering such observations even behind closed doors.]
[Amelia's gaze doesn't leave her glass as she tries and processes her reply. Winter had scolded her for thinking lesser of herself in the relationship. It's only bit somewhat easier to break out of her negative mindset if only because, surprisingly (or not), she wants to make this between her and Gale work.
The past should stay where it is instead of sinking its claws into her whenever the chance of shared happiness appears.]
I think it's safe to say that you're a little more positive between the two of us.
[She looks up at him with a slightly smile.]
Gale. You are good for me. I don't want you to doubt that.
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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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[He gives her a crooked grin— he absolutely believes that Amelia has the patience and discipline to outlast Gojo under any circumstances.]
He's going to be sorely disappointed, I'm sure, but he'll recover. Speaking of reading, Winter had some rather kind words for you— and went so far as to say he believes I'm good for you.
[He doesn't sound unhappy about that; quite the contrary, but he does raise a brow before letting out another soft chuckle.]
I didn't quite manage to fit in that I think it's more often the other way around.
Casts phoenix down on self
You're talking to someone whose job is to deal with children who are only slightly younger and sometimes shorter than he is and that would be up to twenty or thirty a time in four periods.
[Being a high school teacher is rough...
When Gale tells her about Winter's words and his own thoughts on them, her expression doesn't betray her thoughts, but the way she looks down at her glass probably says a lot.]
Winter talks a lot.
opens my arms to you!!
[Gojo is never getting that showdown, no matter how hard he tries. When it comes to playing the long game, there's no doubt in Gale's mind that Amelia will remain steadfast without so much as batting an eye.
He smiles gently at her from behind his own glass even as she looks down, setting his own glass down in front of him.]
That he does, but as someone who finds himself often facing the same accusation, I have to say there's some value in what he says.
[He doesn't think she's embarrassed to be with him— that's clearly never been the case, but Amelia is a private person at best, someone who has difficulty accepting compliments or weathering such observations even behind closed doors.]
Re: opens my arms to you!!
The past should stay where it is instead of sinking its claws into her whenever the chance of shared happiness appears.]
I think it's safe to say that you're a little more positive between the two of us.
[She looks up at him with a slightly smile.]
Gale. You are good for me. I don't want you to doubt that.
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