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[lightconductor]

If you have a message for me, Dr. John Watson, please leave it here. I shall certainly get back to you as soon as I can.
- JW

Comments

[lightconductor]

He takes a moment to think about it, to choose his words carefully.

"It unsettles me a little," Watson admits. He does not stop petting César's neck, though. "I would be lying if I said it didn't. Still, if you find it agreeable, at least temporarily, I cannot be angry about it."

[pineapplesalmon]

César huffs a bit. "You don't need to carefully choose your words. The unsettled part makes sense. But why angry?"

He's a very relaxed bird. That petting is incredibly nice.

[lightconductor]

"Hm. I suppose mean angry on your behalf. That this was done to you without your consent. I realise it isn't the first I've seen someone's body changed on this ship. And you're certainly taking it better than other people here."

Security. He's thinking of Security.

"You are... so soft," he adds, with a bit of a laugh.

[pineapplesalmon]

César chuckles warmly, having expected that was the reason for anger. But César's also thinking of Security. It never wanted to be closer to human.

"You're so protective of me." He laughs, too. "I really am. It's like I'm wearing a down blanket."

[lightconductor]

"Emus were generally not something one had the chance to pet, when I was a boy, you understand. Rather, something to be chased off." Watson shakes his head. "Which... I apologise for trying to chase you off. Not my wisest moment, I admit."

[pineapplesalmon]

"It's a funny story to tell people later." César teases. "But aren't you glad I didn't let that ruffle my feathers?"

Hey, the fact they've gone this long without a bird pun is a fucking miracle.

[lightconductor]

Watson snorts, out of general principle, but also genuine amusement.

"I'll ruffle your feathers, if you don't watch out."

[pineapplesalmon]

"Ha!" César doesn't bother to move, not threatened by that 'threat'. "If you do, I won't let you pet me for a whole week."

[lightconductor]

"Is that really punishing me?" Watson points out. "And for that matter, I can think of better things to do with you than pet you. Of course," he continues, smiling, "not as an emu."

[pineapplesalmon]

"I'm really soft, so yes, it is." César lets out a happy sigh. "Not as an emu. ... but I kinda want to sleep now. I ran around a lot."

[lightconductor]

"Hm. And how does an emu sleep, then?"

His touch is gentle, soothing.

"You're welcome to nap right here, if you want."

[pineapplesalmon]

"Anywhere they can rest their head, to be honest. I'm my own fluffy blanket." César hums. "I think I might just. I haven't napped with you for a whole three days."

[lightconductor]

"Has it been that long?" Watson laughs. "Well then, my dear, take a nap. I shall be quite a comfortable pillow for you. You aren't heavy at all, like this."

[pineapplesalmon]

It takes a moment for César to reply. "Mmm. You indulge me so. You're an excellent pillow."