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.
Guilty as charged— I aim for excellence in everything I do.
[It is, he thinks, one of his finer points, even if he occasionally gets carried away. In this situation, he feels it's just right. In exploring the newness of how their relationship has changed, he sees an opportunity to try and be his best self, share what his heart has to offer.
She smiles, and he knows it's immediately worth it. That she does it so rarely only serves to make it brighten his spirits even more.]
You may have noticed by now that I'm something of a perfectionist.
[There's a great deal of pride in there as well, for better or for worse, but that has no place in tonight's conversation. When they're about five doors down from his own, he slows their pace, inclining his head towards it.]
Ah— here we are. Not far from home, but in some ways, an entire world away.
[On her end, she'll have to get accustomed to how much he shares his heart. Even after gaining a semblance of a life that includes other people, Amelia is highly self-sufficient and is used to being by herself.
With Gale, not only is he sharing himself with her, but Amelia knows that it'll be a process for her to share herself with him. It had been a huge step for her to acknowledge and accept him in the first place. But none of this would be happening right now if she hadn't wanted any of it.]
Did you change the interior? Or am I just going to have to see?
[Rather than answering her directly, his smile only hitches wider as he releases her hand and steps forward to open the door, stepping back and gesturing to usher her inside.]
Ladies first.
[When she enters, she'll find that what awaits the pair of them isn't a room at all— he had, in fact, changed the interior, and dramatically so. What awaits them is a lush field on what appears to be a clifftop at the edge of a forest, the door itself opening just beyond the treeline. They are met by cool evening air and the chirp of crickets, while above stretches an endless night sky, dark velvet studded with bright stars, as well as lights that are somewhat reminiscent of Earth's own aurora borealis.
Not far from where they enter, a blanket is already spread and waiting in the grass, along with several plush pillows, a telescope, and a picnic basket.]
[Amelia takes several steps inside and stops to admire the new scenery that has been laid out for her. There's a special touch to this interior and she can sense it in the air and the way it was crafted with care. Everything from the pleasant chill of the evening air to the ambient sounds, and then the velvety night sky with blinking stars... And that aurora...
She doesn't stop for long since Gale is leading her towards their picnic area. Honestly, she has no words for how touched and almost overwhelmed she is by how much has been done to make this dinner as special as he's hinted it to be.]
[He's practically beaming, having taken her hand to lead her towards the blanket he'd laid out, which looks far too nice to be the sort one would normally put on grass— conjured or otherwise, but Gale's tastes are what they are, which means it certainly suits his very wizardy aesthetic.]
Though things have been a bit fraught back home, to say the least, a part of me does miss certain parts of Faerun— and while I've no doubt that I will sort out a way for you to safely visit it so that I might show you the sights sometime, I thought I might bring a bit of Faerun to you.
[Astronomy is but one of many subjects he's well-studied in, and though she might not know it to look at it, the stars and constellations above them match those that would appear above the Sword Coast around this time of year.]
[Amelia is going to need glasses because of how blinding Gale's smiles are. She can tell he's very proud of himself for the effort he poured into this evening. Having it be a part of Faerun for her to experience, well...
She's going to have to consider how and what to share with him. Future plans are set aside to enjoy the present moment.]
Gale, don't tell me you've also made dinner?
[Rather than sounding incredulous she sounds amused. Because that's exactly what Gale would do. She'll carefully start to sit down on the blanket, starting with her knees.]
I'm starting to be concerned at how much you're trying to spoil me.
[He laughs as she hits the nail precisely on the head, having the good sense to at least look a bit sheepish as he joins her on the blanket once she's seated, sitting cross-legged and moving one of the plush-looking pillows just a bit to give himself room.]
I'm afraid so. Too much?
[He clears his throat as he curls one hand into a loose fist and brings it to cover his mouth, but he can't hide the fact that he's still smiling behind it, amused in his own right.]
I could have gotten something from one of the many fine establishments here in the hotel, but as someone who likes to eat well, I take pride in being able to provide fine meals for myself as well as my friends— but not to worry. I kept it rather simple. I didn't want to overwhelm you— I admit, the sky may have been a bit over-the-top.
It could be too much if only because you make me want to outmatch you somehow.
[An actual unserious jest from the Emerald Witch herself...]
... But thank you, Gale. I mean it.
[She had been smiling at him and turns her head up to look at the stars and the aurora in the sky.]
You're working so hard on this already.
[She doesn't have a proper sense of what's normal and what's not when it comes to intimate relationships. Books were her only reference for the longest time, and then her strange but heart wrenching bond with Briar, dalliances in college, Michael...
In all of those, she had put herself down. With Gale, she doesn't want that to happen. ]
[Knowing her competitive streak— as well as his own— he imagines that's very true, and he can't pretend it isn't something he wouldn't be interested in seeing. Magic is a central focus of both their lives, the very first bonding point between them, and no doubt they would both like to do a bit of showing off in this regard.
He notes, and his heart practically skips a beat as he does so, that he's seen her smile more in the last week than the last few months.]
I can come on a bit strong, I know— but I wanted to wow you.
[At least he can laugh at himself about it, and he does exactly that.]
As for your contribution, of course. Anything you like.
She takes out her phone and turns on a guitar track that brings forth a more mysterious atmosphere. As the guitar strings fill the air, Amelia sets her device aside and sheepishly shrugs her shoulders at Gale.]
[His smile softens as she sets her device aside, and he gives a nod of approval as he leans forward to lay a hand over her own.]
I'd say that's perfect. Thank you. Now the scene feels complete.
[He straightens back up, reaching for the basket that's waiting for them, as well as the bottle he'd set beside it earlier.]
Now, I certainly hope you've brought your appetite— though I realize, belatedly, I likely should have asked if there were any foods you weren't particularly partial to.
[Amelia's fingers are warm when he lays his hand over them. She looks down at it, thinking about how not so long ago, this was not a thing (never mind the library sleepover; that was more foreshadowing than anything else). Funny how things change so quickly and yet paradoxically it took time for her willingness to be in a relationship to bloom.]
I'm not the most voracious eater, admittedly. But I don't dislike most foods as long as it's prepared well.
The area I live in is diverse in terms of human culture so that was reflected in the food. Over the years, my students would show me dishes from their respective cultures and wanted me to try them so I'd give them a go at least once.
If anything, that's an idea; we could explore some dishes together and do a compare and contrast to see if it's similar to what you'd find in your world or if it's completely different.
Well, if I may brag a bit, 'prepared well' should be a given in this situation.
[He exudes the same confidence he does when he speaks of magic; generally, when he sets his mind to something, he works hard to master it as a matter of principle, but cooking was much like magic in that it had become something of a passion. Magic itself, of course, was his life, his greatest pursuit, but cooking had come to be an excellent way to unwind and allow himself to sift through his busy thoughts as he worked, in addition to keeping himself well-fed. That last bit was important.]
I do rather like that idea. I'm always willing to try new things, especially given the incredible array the hotel has provided us.
[The excuse for more dinners together is one he'll gladly take, as well.]
For now, however— [He begins to pull items out of the basket, starting with a pair of handpies that are wrapped in checkered cloth, setting his own aside as he hands her the other, still warm. The next items to appear are two small, covered ramekins that he sets down in front of them, followed by a pair of spoons.] I did aim to keep things picnic-friendly— chicken and mushroom pies with Baldurian mash.
[Amelia's cooking is functional though she finds herself putting more effort when making food for others. Gale, on the other hand, most certainly has a truly skilled hand in it. When he gives her the pies and brings out the mash, he's made specially for this night, she can't help but remark with bemusement.]
... You know Gale... With your skills, I feel like you'd be very popular with a certain niche of people back in my world.
[Suburban mothers come to mind again.]
That is to say, I am deeply appreciative that this is all for us and no one else at the moment.
[He gives a playful wince, unable to keep himself from smiling— that's been a constant struggle this past week or so, not that he minds in the least.]
That niche wouldn't happen to be breathtaking witches who teach literature, would it?
[No? Just her?]
I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with you. Even on vacation, you've been working far too hard. I think an evening like this is long overdue. I also have wine, if you're interested.
[He doesn't even wait for her to answer— his spectral Mage Hand appears and produces a pair of glasses, then proceeds to uncork the bottle he'd set out.]
[those future lesson plans and book clubs don't write themselves sweetie,,,
It's a good thing he brought out the wine because she was about to protest about her workload not being difficult to get through, just time-consuming!! But first. Wine. Yes. She claims a glass and holds it out, thank you Mage Hand for your services.]
Now give me some credit; I'm working on the next book club and not my teaching obligations.
[Mage Hand will be serving as their sommelier this evening, it would seem, and proceeds to fill both of their glasses with a rich-smelling red wine, starting with Amelia's. Once it's through, Gale lifts his glass to toast her efforts.]
Work that is very much appreciated by all those fortunate enough to be involved. I cannot overstate how much I enjoyed the previous book club.
[He can't help but wink in her direction; he is absolutely referring to their cozy little sleepover, unexpected as it had been.]
That said, do let me know if I can be of greater assistance this time. I can offer more than just cupcakes.
[The toast is returned and she takes a sip. It's delicious and smooth as expected. Surely, she can blame the wine for making her flush and not Gale's reminder about their library sleepover.]
I think I'd like to bounce ideas off of you for the discussion prompts after you read the book of course. I've chosen our next novel already.
[There's a notable pause from Amelia. This shouldn't be a big deal, but it occurs to her that Gale would know of a certain elf's condition and how her next selection might be very on the nose...
. . .
Give her a sec, she needs to drink half of this glass.]
[He just so happens to be drinking deeply from his own glass when she says it— it's a title he is, actually, familiar with, and it blindsides him just enough that he sputters and almost chokes, spraying a bit of wine.]
Dracula!
[This is not a cool or smooth display in the least.]
That's, ah— that is to say, an excellent choice, I've actually started that one independently and look forward to being able to discuss it. I'm sure others will certainly find it... interesting.
[Astarion, how long are we keeping this a secret, it's literally killing him.]
[Ms. Amelia Steinbeck is impressively, not reacting to Gale's reaction towards the title. Her next sip of wine is casual and dainty.]
Oh, is that so? I hope you find the style of story exposition of letters, diary entries, and articles interesting. There are many characters to keep track of aside from our titular man.
[He draws in a breath and collects himself, a vague wave of his hand being all it takes for a bit of prestidigitation to clean up any of the wine that may have landed elsewhere. He covers his mouth long enough to clear his throat and ensure he's recovered before answering, watching her sip at her wine with interest.]
I do find the storytelling approach to be rather engaging. It's not the only book I've seen of its like, but the style has been used to great effect. Is there—
[Hm.]
Any particular reason for this choice? It's a classic where you come from, I take it; the name came up when I was looking into significant literature titles from your world.
[He's just going to casually start on his dinner, but his eyes are definitely still on her.]
[Now she can't really say that Astarion indirectly gave her the idea. So she just shrugs.]
Why not? Gothic literature has an ambiance all of its own that I would like to share with others. January tends to be a moody month after the holiday rush, so I like settling down with an equally moody book.
[She'll also start on dinner and hey, it's a great time to redirect because Amelia perks up at the taste.]
Alright. Aside from the discussion prompts, you'll definitely have to contribute more than one type of treat for the next book club. This is delicious, Gale.
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[It is, he thinks, one of his finer points, even if he occasionally gets carried away. In this situation, he feels it's just right. In exploring the newness of how their relationship has changed, he sees an opportunity to try and be his best self, share what his heart has to offer.
She smiles, and he knows it's immediately worth it. That she does it so rarely only serves to make it brighten his spirits even more.]
You may have noticed by now that I'm something of a perfectionist.
[There's a great deal of pride in there as well, for better or for worse, but that has no place in tonight's conversation. When they're about five doors down from his own, he slows their pace, inclining his head towards it.]
Ah— here we are. Not far from home, but in some ways, an entire world away.
[You'll see what he means in a minute, Amelia.]
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With Gale, not only is he sharing himself with her, but Amelia knows that it'll be a process for her to share herself with him. It had been a huge step for her to acknowledge and accept him in the first place. But none of this would be happening right now if she hadn't wanted any of it.]
Did you change the interior? Or am I just going to have to see?
[She leans her head towards his door, curious.]
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Ladies first.
[When she enters, she'll find that what awaits the pair of them isn't a room at all— he had, in fact, changed the interior, and dramatically so. What awaits them is a lush field on what appears to be a clifftop at the edge of a forest, the door itself opening just beyond the treeline. They are met by cool evening air and the chirp of crickets, while above stretches an endless night sky, dark velvet studded with bright stars, as well as lights that are somewhat reminiscent of Earth's own aurora borealis.
Not far from where they enter, a blanket is already spread and waiting in the grass, along with several plush pillows, a telescope, and a picnic basket.]
Right this way.
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She doesn't stop for long since Gale is leading her towards their picnic area. Honestly, she has no words for how touched and almost overwhelmed she is by how much has been done to make this dinner as special as he's hinted it to be.]
You did all this...? Just for dinner?
[Like, just to be sure and all!]
And are we going to be stargazing??
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Though things have been a bit fraught back home, to say the least, a part of me does miss certain parts of Faerun— and while I've no doubt that I will sort out a way for you to safely visit it so that I might show you the sights sometime, I thought I might bring a bit of Faerun to you.
[Astronomy is but one of many subjects he's well-studied in, and though she might not know it to look at it, the stars and constellations above them match those that would appear above the Sword Coast around this time of year.]
Besides, it's hardly 'just' dinner. You're here.
[gross]
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She's going to have to consider how and what to share with him. Future plans are set aside to enjoy the present moment.]
Gale, don't tell me you've also made dinner?
[Rather than sounding incredulous she sounds amused. Because that's exactly what Gale would do. She'll carefully start to sit down on the blanket, starting with her knees.]
I'm starting to be concerned at how much you're trying to spoil me.
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I'm afraid so. Too much?
[He clears his throat as he curls one hand into a loose fist and brings it to cover his mouth, but he can't hide the fact that he's still smiling behind it, amused in his own right.]
I could have gotten something from one of the many fine establishments here in the hotel, but as someone who likes to eat well, I take pride in being able to provide fine meals for myself as well as my friends— but not to worry. I kept it rather simple. I didn't want to overwhelm you— I admit, the sky may have been a bit over-the-top.
[Because of that, it's so very him.]
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[An actual unserious jest from the Emerald Witch herself...]
... But thank you, Gale. I mean it.
[She had been smiling at him and turns her head up to look at the stars and the aurora in the sky.]
You're working so hard on this already.
[She doesn't have a proper sense of what's normal and what's not when it comes to intimate relationships. Books were her only reference for the longest time, and then her strange but heart wrenching bond with Briar, dalliances in college, Michael...
In all of those, she had put herself down. With Gale, she doesn't want that to happen. ]
Actually, could I make one little contribution?
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[Knowing her competitive streak— as well as his own— he imagines that's very true, and he can't pretend it isn't something he wouldn't be interested in seeing. Magic is a central focus of both their lives, the very first bonding point between them, and no doubt they would both like to do a bit of showing off in this regard.
He notes, and his heart practically skips a beat as he does so, that he's seen her smile more in the last week than the last few months.]
I can come on a bit strong, I know— but I wanted to wow you.
[At least he can laugh at himself about it, and he does exactly that.]
As for your contribution, of course. Anything you like.
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She takes out her phone and turns on a guitar track that brings forth a more mysterious atmosphere. As the guitar strings fill the air, Amelia sets her device aside and sheepishly shrugs her shoulders at Gale.]
How's that?
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I'd say that's perfect. Thank you. Now the scene feels complete.
[He straightens back up, reaching for the basket that's waiting for them, as well as the bottle he'd set beside it earlier.]
Now, I certainly hope you've brought your appetite— though I realize, belatedly, I likely should have asked if there were any foods you weren't particularly partial to.
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I'm not the most voracious eater, admittedly. But I don't dislike most foods as long as it's prepared well.
The area I live in is diverse in terms of human culture so that was reflected in the food. Over the years, my students would show me dishes from their respective cultures and wanted me to try them so I'd give them a go at least once.
If anything, that's an idea; we could explore some dishes together and do a compare and contrast to see if it's similar to what you'd find in your world or if it's completely different.
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[He exudes the same confidence he does when he speaks of magic; generally, when he sets his mind to something, he works hard to master it as a matter of principle, but cooking was much like magic in that it had become something of a passion. Magic itself, of course, was his life, his greatest pursuit, but cooking had come to be an excellent way to unwind and allow himself to sift through his busy thoughts as he worked, in addition to keeping himself well-fed. That last bit was important.]
I do rather like that idea. I'm always willing to try new things, especially given the incredible array the hotel has provided us.
[The excuse for more dinners together is one he'll gladly take, as well.]
For now, however— [He begins to pull items out of the basket, starting with a pair of handpies that are wrapped in checkered cloth, setting his own aside as he hands her the other, still warm. The next items to appear are two small, covered ramekins that he sets down in front of them, followed by a pair of spoons.] I did aim to keep things picnic-friendly— chicken and mushroom pies with Baldurian mash.
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... You know Gale... With your skills, I feel like you'd be very popular with a certain niche of people back in my world.
[Suburban mothers come to mind again.]
That is to say, I am deeply appreciative that this is all for us and no one else at the moment.
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That niche wouldn't happen to be breathtaking witches who teach literature, would it?
[No? Just her?]
I am grateful for the opportunity to share it with you. Even on vacation, you've been working far too hard. I think an evening like this is long overdue. I also have wine, if you're interested.
[He doesn't even wait for her to answer— his spectral Mage Hand appears and produces a pair of glasses, then proceeds to uncork the bottle he'd set out.]
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those future lesson plans and book clubs don't write themselves sweetie,,,It's a good thing he brought out the wine because she was about to protest about her workload not being difficult to get through, just time-consuming!! But first. Wine. Yes. She claims a glass and holds it out, thank you Mage Hand for your services.]
Now give me some credit; I'm working on the next book club and not my teaching obligations.
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Work that is very much appreciated by all those fortunate enough to be involved. I cannot overstate how much I enjoyed the previous book club.
[He can't help but wink in her direction; he is absolutely referring to their cozy little sleepover, unexpected as it had been.]
That said, do let me know if I can be of greater assistance this time. I can offer more than just cupcakes.
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I think I'd like to bounce ideas off of you for the discussion prompts after you read the book of course. I've chosen our next novel already.
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It would be my pleasure. No doubt they will be as well-chosen and thought-provoking as the last, of course. What's the novel?
[Just out of curiosity...]
1/2
. . .
Give her a sec, she needs to drink half of this glass.]
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[There is noooo problem.]
I thought it would be good to make sure the genres are different for each meeting.
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Dracula!
[This is not a cool or smooth display in the least.]
That's, ah— that is to say, an excellent choice, I've actually started that one independently and look forward to being able to discuss it. I'm sure others will certainly find it... interesting.
[Astarion, how long are we keeping this a secret, it's literally killing him.]
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Oh, is that so? I hope you find the style of story exposition of letters, diary entries, and articles interesting. There are many characters to keep track of aside from our titular man.
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I do find the storytelling approach to be rather engaging. It's not the only book I've seen of its like, but the style has been used to great effect. Is there—
[Hm.]
Any particular reason for this choice? It's a classic where you come from, I take it; the name came up when I was looking into significant literature titles from your world.
[He's just going to casually start on his dinner, but his eyes are definitely still on her.]
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Why not? Gothic literature has an ambiance all of its own that I would like to share with others. January tends to be a moody month after the holiday rush, so I like settling down with an equally moody book.
[She'll also start on dinner and hey, it's a great time to redirect because Amelia perks up at the taste.]
Alright. Aside from the discussion prompts, you'll definitely have to contribute more than one type of treat for the next book club. This is delicious, Gale.
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