∮ 002. backdated early morning of 6/16.

[elongates]

[ reed sits, as usual, in an empty laboratory. ]

I'm not the first one to remind you all about the incoming holiday. I'd ask you all a question of a vapid nature like "What does it mean to be a father?" but I would be lying if I said it would be of use to anyone. I know what constitutes a good father, and, well. I know what doesn't.

[ while his shoulders slump low toward his desk, his torso nearly unravels into loops around his work area. ]

The simple fact is: I am going to be a father one day. I’ve been aware of enough of my multiple selves to comprehend this. Children and love are my constant, as they are Susan’s. [ bitterly: ] At least one of us has to accept this reality.

[ plucking a test tube off a bunsen burner with tongs, he passive-aggressively mocks a toast toward the communicator. ]

So, here’s to the inevitable Franklin and Valeria Richards!

[ clink. ]

May you arrive to a better world with nicer, less abusive people.

Comments

[elongates]

Did I? I think most people would try to call it venting.

Which may or may not be agreeable.

[uzi]

Venting, whining, guilt-tripping. I guess they all add up to the same thing.

[elongates]

[ SIIIIGH. ]

Why are you talking to me?

[uzi]

It's as good a way as any to get information.

[elongates]

You could ask. Maybe I'd even answer it.

[uzi]

Fine. What are you trying to prove?

[elongates]

Nothing. [ he spreads his palms wide. literally.

like a foot long each. ] There's no goal to this.

[uzi]

Well then, congratulations for wasting everyone's time.

[elongates]

Wow.

My apologies for not filling your quota of top-secret info for the week. Really.

[uzi]

You're not forgiven. Feel free to go cry in the corner about that.

[elongates]

You're breaking my heart. Really.

[uzi]

Then you're getting off easy. I usually aim for different organs.

[elongates]

[ pause. now, not even trying to hide his exasperation!! ]

What the hell is your problem? Unless my mind is melting, I don't remember stepping on any Avengers' toes.

[uzi]

_{( she smirks, and it's audible in her tone. )}

I guess you just can't account for how people will react to you.

[elongates]

I guess civility is a foreign concept to you.

[uzi]

Just an unnecessary one, actually.

[elongates]

How about something to profit from it?

I'll gladly extend a hand in peace if you would be willing to match.

[uzi]

I suppose I could take you up on that.

[elongates]

Wonderful.

Nobody is going to verbally assault anybody.