March 31, 2012

[not_a_hero]

Celebrating someone's birth is an interesting tradition. Basically, I'm acknowledging the fact that you managed to thrive in your mother's womb and exited it upon the completion of gestation in an act which was largely carried out by your mother and hospital staff. I don't go in for birthdays--not my own or anyone else's for that matter. The continuation of our species is mundane and with so many idiots and vulgar additions to the human race, celebrating the existence of just one decent human being seems far too small a gesture to matter. But you, John, are not just decent; you are extraordinary. You are all that is good in the world, all that could ever be hoped for from a man, and far more than anyone will ever be deserving of. Your birthday passed for you and I a few months back and not often does someone get a second chance to do the right thing. Happy Birthday, John, and many happy returns.

Very sincerely yours,

Sherlock Holmes

P.S. It's a normal cinnamon roll from the dining hall.


John: *noms cinnamon bun happily*

Sherlock :*stays in his room, never to mention the note because... well, some things you don't bother speaking of*

John : *He puts the note into his inner coat pocket, folded up. Then, he makes his way over to Sherlock's room, basically beaming as he pops in.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock's dressed very nicely. Nothing far from ordinary but he's wearing things he knows from observation that John likes him to wear. He's sat composing, nothing else much to do in his spare time these days. He'd be slumming it if it weren't a special day.

He looks over at John when he enters, smiling just a little though trying not to appear awkward.* You look well.

John : *Sherlock looks very nice. John's gaze darts appreciatively on the detective for a moment longer then usually acceptable, then forces his gaze away, up to Sherlock's eyes, still grinning, still obviously in a wonderful mood from the letter and small treat.* Bit of an appreciated sugar boost, I suppose.

Sherlock : *Sherlock chuckles.* Only the best. What are your plans?

John : *shrugs, feeling rather relaxed and easy going, somewhere in his chest feeling tight and warm* Oh, I dunno. Nothing special on the books. Figured I'd just wander about or sit here in the 'flat' with you.

Sherlock : Rather boring time of it. Not a single message on the network from the others. No event announcement from the twins or that mouse or cat. Looks to be a boring weekend all things considered. Best we can really do is try and make the best of it ourselves.

John : I'm sure we'll think of something, we usually do.

Sherlock : *Sherlock nods and gestures towards the kitchen.* I made coffee earlier. Should still be rather fresh.

John : Coffee'd be lovely, thanks. *he goes over to make himself a cup; milk, no sugar.* Will you be wanting some? *He's reaching for another cup, just in case*

Sherlock: If there's any left. May as well not let it go to waste.

John : Right. *There's a bit left, so he makes it for Sherlock, doctoring it the way he likes it and bringing it over to the other man, holding it out as he takes a sip of his own.* You look nice, by the way. *He mutters into his cup almost shyly*

Sherlock : *Sherlock accepts his mug and clears his throat at the compliment.* Well,.. the closets here offer anythng you can think of. Thought I might pull something out a little different. *a little being not very different at all*

John : *John hadn't noticed anything overly different, persay; Sherlock always looked nice and well put together when he wasn't huffing about in his pajamas. But for some reason it was hard to not notice the well tailored outfit. The tips of John's ears turned pink at the thought, and he took a long swig of coffee to distract himself.* It's... good. Yeah. *Then he chuckles, joking* I'm hesitant to let my choices wander outside of what I already own back home, I'm afraid what it'll give me!

Sherlock : It can give you anything. I pulled out an American space suit, gymnast tights, and a pirate costume.

John : *A series of images related to Sherlock wearing all said items flashes through John's head. He snorts into his cuppa, pulling back with a laugh and wiping his face where the coffee had spattered.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock raises a brow and hides his own smirk.* It was an experiment.

John : Of course it was. *giggling still* I guess if I ever need to, pulling my uniform out wouldn't be anything difficult, then, after that.

Sherlock : It might be. The closet isn't so good at specifics. I ended up with a uniform from the American Revolutionary War when I tried to get a British army uniform. Don't suppose you want a redcoat?

John : No burning need for that, thanks. But you never know with this place, you might need it someday.

Sherlock : Very true. *he relaxes into his chair. Good old times.*

John : I'm sure you'd be able to pull it off rather well. *sits on the arm of his chair*

Sherlock : Well, the potion is coming along anyway. Dressing the body shouldn't be too difficult with the closet's assistance.

John : *winces slightly* Lets not linger on that too much, I still don't like the idea of going against Evelyn's request.

Sherlock : Which really says something if you've been this helpful regardless.

John : Yes, well... *presses lips together, glancing at Sherlock. He's loyal to a fault, it seems, since he mentally justifies that usually Sherlock ultimately does something for a good reason.*

Sherlock : Oh, no need to explain. And for your own mental health I won't bother bringing it up again. Still weeks before it's ready. We can discuss most relevant details then. Today is... reserved for other things.

John : ...*He's rather flattered at that notion, and the corner of his mouth quirks appreciatively* Really? Uh, I mean, okay. Right.

Sherlock : Weather's nice.... could go for a walk through the hedge maze if all else fails....

John : That'd be nice. I'd enjoy that, actually. *he finishes his coffee, and stands, humming to himself as he goes to the sink to put it down*

Sherlock : Really?... Well, alright. Seeing as it's spring, there should be nice enough flora in bloom as well making the gardens decent enough.

John : If it sounds dull we can come up with something else first.

Sherlock : *Sherlock nods*

John : *blinks, reaches over and taps Sherlock's head gently* You okay in there? You're rather quiet.

Sherlock : *Sherlock swats his hand away* Of course I'm fine, John.

John : *snaps his hand back, grin wavering* Right, of course. Uhm, but honestly if you're not interested in the gardens we can find something else to do... we could go to the library, perhaps?

Sherlock : No, the gardens are fine. Just in case there is a murder I should acquaint myself the local plant life. Never know when pollen and soil samples will come in handy. *Though he is totally only going for John, really -_-*

John : True, though with the way deaths work around here... *he trails off, the idea of dying in Wonderland once again not settling well with him. Time to change the subject.* ...I wonder, can you deduce your way out of a hedge maze, Sherlock?

Sherlock : No. Not without knowing the person who designed it.

John : Huh. That's still pretty amazing, though.

Sherlock : Is it?

John : That you'd be able to figure it out by meeting the designer. Bloody amazing, that.

Sherlock : Well... *clears his throat again* It's just a matter of recognizing that even supposedly random choices are made by conscious decisions. I don't mind getting lost for the day. I'd rather not but I hear the maze is quite large

John : Ah, well, we could always pull a Theseus and make a track to lead us out once we get tired of it.

Sherlock : *Sherlock smirks*. Follow the left wall; isn't that the way most people do it?

John : That's what I've heard. Means we don't need to carry around a large spool of thread, too.

Sherlock : *Sherlock rises from his chair, making sure his suit is nicely buttoned* Well, shall we then?

John : *John is so not watching his fingers on his suit buttons, of course not...* I'll go get my gun. *jumps up and does so, coming back in a few moments in his jacket and with his gun tucked into his pants*

Sherlock : *Sherlock smiles at him, his scarf and coat on as well. Not ready to retire these yet~* Let's go.

John : *They depart out of the building and out into the garden. John is a tad giddy, his cheeks flushed in the still slightly crisp spring air as he looks around at the blooming flowers and the intimidating, twisting hedge maze. He jogs ahead a few paces up to the first intersection, looking in each direction to try and decide which way to go.* Left?

Sherlock : *Sherlock shrugs, hands in his pockets.* It's the surefire way. Or you can guess at random and see what happens.

John : *John bites his lip a moment as he considers, then remembers how Sherlock didn't want to be lost for too long. Best to play it safe this time around.* Left it is, then. *He declares, leading the way. They go left for the next couple of intersections as well.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock follows, looking around and up. It really is a very tall maze. He can't see above it so certainly John can't.*

John : *Eventually they come across a circular four way intersection. John wanders into the middle, spinning about slowly to take in each option, the sky, and also his detective, stopping when he's facing the other and dropping his arms to his sides. And yet he's still unable to keep the grin off his face; Sherlock willingly doing this with him, the note in the pocket by his heart, the small gift...* Not sure, from here. Which way would count as left?

Sherlock : *Sherlock isn't sure what to do with such a happy John... he's rather pleased to think maybe he has something to do with this but... really, he didn't do much for John to be this happy. He starts walking backwards.* We could split up and see if we're lead back to this intersection.

John : .. *John resists frowning; he doesn't like the idea of splitting up, but they /do/ have phones, so they could still potentially reach one another...* Alright. I'll just go this way, then. *he points at some random path and quickly turns heel in that direction.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock waits until John is out of sight then tries to climb the hedge, getting up on the top after some scraping around and finding it rather unsteady. He can see out into the maze from there, though. They're not terribly off.*

John : *John quickly gets lost in his thoughts as he walks away from the intersection, not really paying attention to what corners he turns, exactly. Instead he's reading far too much into things. Perhaps he was being a bit too perky, and that made Sherlock want to put space between then...?*

Sherlock : *The bushes rustle as Sherlock tries to walk along the tops. Not his best idea but can't beat the view. John chose the right way from what Sherlock can see so he's walking to catch up to him. It's just rather slow going since... it's a bush. Dense, yes, but still a line of bushes.*

John : *...Okay, he hears something rustling in the bushes now, coming towards him at a steady pace. John stops, glancing about subtly, and finally calling out, fingers of his gun hand twitching in anticipation.* ...Sherlock, is that you?

Sherlock : In the interest of not being shot, yes.

John : *Jerks in surprise, spinning around and looking up.* Wh--Sherlock...! *Lets out a breath tinged with a surprised laugh.* You can actually walk on that?

Sherlock : With some measure of difficulty, yes. *As if to punctuate this, one leg sinks down to his knee in the bushes and he has to try and be cool as he tries to get it back onto some better footing*

John : *John makes a rather undignified snort of laughter as Sherlock half sinks into the bush with a neutral expression on his schooled features.* Need any help?

Sherlock : No, no, I've got it. Before I fall and split my head on the path, though, you should know that you’re headed in the right direction. *he regains his footing and starts walking along the top again, arms out like tightrope walker.*

John : I am? Excellent. *He follows along beside Sherlock, glancing up cautiously every once in a while.* And please don't fall off that hedge. It'd be a rather unfortunate way to die, considering the parallels.

Sherlock : It's quite alright. *He'd actually rather come down now but doesn't know how to without looking like a dork.* Actually, if you want to go on ahead, I can look at some other stuff while I'm up here.

John : 'Other stuff,' huh? * John asks skeptically, since usually Sherlock would rather have him around to praise his stunning observations.*

Sherlock : Yes. Foliage. Things... hardly interesting. *His foot goes right through the top of another not so full hedge but he ends up thigh deep in it this time and there's really no cool way of acting like its great to have one leg shoved down a hedge that far and the other sort of... not.* .. actually, I was thinking I might come down.

John : *snort of laughter* Yeah, thought so, you great oaf. *He gets over as close as possible, reaching one hand in to create a hold for the detective's foot and reaching one hand up as a support for the other's hand, trying to make the way out a bit smoother for Sherlock.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock would like to remain obstinate but he doesn't really mind the help. He uses John's hand to get his leg out of the hedge and takes his hand, pulling himself closer to the edge, breaking plenty of twigs as he goes.* You're going to have to move or I'm going to have to climb down you as well.

John : *Grunts at the weight, his face planted into the bushes* Move where?

Sherlock : *Sherlock chuckles. This is ridiculous. He intertwines his fingers with John's for better leverage and steps off John's other hand closer to him, falling into him as he slides down the hedge

John : *John manages at the last second to get his arm around Sherlock's middle, but they topple over backwards anyways in a flail of limbs and leaves and branches.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock laughs the whole way down and is of no help whatsoever pretty much laying on top of John after they've hit.*

John : *John lays on the ground with his arms around Sherlock's waist and a mouthful of Sherlock's jacket. It takes all of ten seconds for Sherlock's laughter to become contagious and the doctor bursts out as well, ducking his head against the other's shoulder.*

Sherlock : *Slowly Sherlock raises up off of him. He's got twigs and leaves caught in his curls.* How old is too old to be climbing hedges do you think?

John : Sometimes you've the mental age of a 10 year old, so I think you're okay for now. *John sits up, stands, brushing his pants off before he notices the foliage stuck in Sherlock's hair. Biting his lip to stifle a grin, he reaches out and starts picking them out, pressing his fingers into the other's hair to work them out.* Hold still, you've got...

Sherlock : Yes, I imagine so. *He bring his own hand to his hair, feeling out the mess and pulling out a twig. He sees the dirt on John' shoulder from hitting the ground, though, and dusts that off instead of finishing with his hair as John seems to have that.*

John : *The last few leaves and sticks are plucked from Sherlock's hair, and John self-indulgently runs his fingers through it once last time before dropping his hand.* That should do it, I think.

Sherlock : Right, well, now that I've successfully made an ass out of myself, we should be able to find the center quite simply.

John : I thought it was quite a display of agility and balance. *poker face*

Sherlock : All the same, next time I'll just climb on top of you.

John : Uh-huh. Then we can cut right from the climbing to you falling on top of me part of this whole ordeal.

Sherlock : Nonsense. Your shoulders would make an excellent perch. Not quite tall enough to see over the tops from a seated position, perhaps, but still more interesting than walking.

John : *wrinkles nose* I'm not a ladder, Sherlock.

Sherlock : You'll do fine. *He smiles at him and starts walking again.*

John : *John rolls his eyes and jogs after the detective* ...So, you said we were near an exit?

Sherlock : Not the exit. The center.

John : Oh, really? What's in the center?

Sherlock : Flower garden by the looks of it. A large, heart shaped clearing with flowers.

John : Fitting to the "Alice in Wonderland" theme. *They reach one last intersection. John glances over at Sherlock expectantly.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock looks down at him....*.. yes?

John : Wh-- uh, well, do we keep going left?

Sherlock : *Sherlock sighs and kneels down, hands out on his knees.* Come on, then.

John : ...Wha-- Oh... *Slightly embarrassed, John shuffles over, grasping Sherlock's shoulders with curled fingers and stepping onto the foothold Sherlock was making with his hands.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock grunts as he stands a bit, heaving John up.* Make it quick, John.

John : *He wavers, gripping Sherlock's shoulders tighter and looking around. There! He can see the center now, and he quickly maps out the path they need to take mentally to get there before tapping Sherlock's arm* Okay, you can set me down.

Sherlock : *Sherlock just about drops him but manages to get him back on the path without too much further awkwardness. He straightens his suit.* Sometimes I wonder if it's worth it to cheat.

John : *indignant look* Says the guy who didn't want to linger in here too long. C'mon, I'll get us to the center fast and then you can deduce your way out. *He starts off through the last portion of the maze, striding quickly*

Sherlock : *Sherlock smirks and follows, happy to at last see the center of the maze. It's rather pretty.*

John : Look at that. *John mutters under his breath, stopping and taking in the sight.*

Sherlock : Mm. Foliage still resembles native plants and flowers of England. Magically already in full bloom given the spring. Not altogether unattractive. *he pokes at a few things.*

John : Do you think this place can tell we're from England? And that's why it's filled with flowers from there? *He's wandering about as well, crouching by some tulips--his mum's favorite--before finding a bench and sitting down, spreading his legs out in front of him.*

Sherlock : The source material for this place is British. Makes sense the place should also be.

John : Good point. *He stretches, back cracking, and relaxes back against the bench, breathing deeply.* ...if you close your eyes, it's almost like being back in London. It's quieter, but kind of feels like sitting in Hyde Park...

Sherlock : *Sherlock looks around and closes his eyes for a moment.* A little. Perhaps. This place has never known the acrid smell of burning fossil fuels, however. The air is sweeter. Smells of rain still even though we haven’t had rain. You can smell the grass as though it's been cut but there are no gardeners here. Nature imitating order. *he takes a deep breath before wandering over and taking a seat.* I like the smell of the smog and ash hanging on the back of the fresh air. But otherwise, yes, this is close to home.

John : ...I miss it. London. *small laugh* Funny, we get much better weather here, too. But... I still miss it.

Sherlock : *Sherlock eyes John for a minute, thinking.* John, do you understand why I'm trying to understand how Wonderland works?

John : *low, curious hum* Curiosity's sake? Because it's you and you like to know how things work?

Sherlock : That too. But mostly because I want to be able to make it work when and how I desire it to.

John : *He turns his head to look at Sherlock, raising an eyebrow* Like how?

Sherlock : Like in letting us stay here as long as we want

John :...*his lips part, like he's going to say something, but instead he just stares for a long moment* ...So you won't go back and be dead.

Sherlock : *Sherlock shrugs.* Several reasons but yes. I don't want to have to deal with our reality. And having read the stories, I know everything that will happen in your life. To some extent, anyway. There are... variables. I choose this place over the alternative. It may not be real but you and I are. Now, the longest anyone's ever been here has been about three years. That is extremely rare, however. Most don't make it even one year. But if I can solve this, maybe we won't have to worry about waking up and finding out the other is gone.

John : Those stories aren't our end all be all for us, Sherlock. They can't be. *John looks away, shifting so he's looking out over the gardens again. However, meanwhile, his hand, lingering on the bench between them, curls its fingers around the hem of Sherlock's jacket just within reach.* ... But I don't want you to disappear again, either. I'm not sure which would be worse, being sent home and forgetting or finding you gone again while I'm stuck here indefinitely.

Sherlock : Did you know, in the books, you get married? It was supposed to happen before Moriarty and I had our final confrontation but who knows. Maybe when you go back you'll find someone to live a nice, mundane life with. And while I wish you the best with that, this is my time still. As long as I'm here, I want you to be here too. There's plenty of time to continue on in the story. It can wait forever. This can't.

John : *Sherlock’s words rip at his heart, sucking the air out of his chest. There is something so final and almost resigned about it, despite the defiance and almost possessiveness at the end. John sits up, turning to face Sherlock properly and pressing his lips into a thin smile.* Rather demanding, that. *He breathes, but it's not chiding, reaching out, hesitating, and then pressing his hand shyly against the cup of Sherlock's jaw and neck.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock doesn't look at him. Anything more he wants to say on the subject he can't without revealing too much about the truth.* I don't share well. Ask Mycroft. I wasn't ready to say goodbye and I'm taking my second chance no matter what.

John : ...That's fine. I can't imagine-- *His fingers flex against Sherlock's neck, gaze trailing along the detective's profile.* Unfortunately for you, I've been in withdrawal, so I'm not inclined to let you out of my sight for too long, anyways. No need to share at all.

Sherlock : *Sherlock smiles a little, looking at him sideways, then stands.* Wonderland is a terrible rehab. Won't do you any good at all

John : *John quirks a small smile back at Sherlock, lowering his hand slowly.* I dunno, seems to be doing wonders for me.

Sherlock : To be doing wonders, you'd have to be getting used to not having me. It seems much more likely to me that it is having the opposite effect.

John : ...*nearly flinches* ...That's fine. It makes me feel better, at least.

Sherlock : All that matters is that you enjoy your stay. *Sherlock looks at a rose bush*

John : I'm deducing that there's a high probability of that. *John teases lightly as he folds his legs onto the bench, resting his hands on his ankles.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock smiles and picks at the flowers.* Did you want to stay here long? Should have packed a lunch.

John : That would have been nice. *John rolls his shoulders and stretches, grunting* Might as well head back in a few--still a bit nippy even with it being spring. *But he doesn't get up, not quite yet, it's nice here after all.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock watches him. Not hiding it. Because it's not worth the bother.*

John : *Notices Sherlock watching him and cocks an eyebrow at the detective, the same time the corner of his mouth twitches into a smile.* What? Have I got dirt on my face?

Sherlock : No.

John : *Blinks, sits back, setting one foot back on the ground.* Oh. Alright then. *Gaze wanders over the garden before non-discretely snapping back to Sherlock's.*

Sherlock : *Who is still watching him.*

John : *A brief flash of confusion goes across his face, but he sets his mouth into a quirked line and stares back, lifting his eyebrows in question once again.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock shrugs and finally looks away.*

John : *Well, what was that about?* Sherlock, you okay?

Sherlock : Fine. Why?

John : You just... never mind. *John stands, brushing off his jeans and beginning to walk over to the detective.* Shall we...?

Sherlock : *Sherlock nods and heads towards a different entrance to the center area.* Well, we can be assured the construction of the maze is such that will certainly offer further challenges should we try again.

John : *John grins to himself and jogs after the detective, falling into pace with him eventually.* Right. We can always come back. *spares a glance over his shoulder at the center area as they leave it, steps slowing for a brief moment.*

Sherlock : With a picnic lunch. And something to read. Make a day of it. *See these plans being made for the future? Yep.*

John : *John looks back at Sherlock, honestly surprised at the idea of the detective wanting to make a day of lounging in the garden, but he smiles after him* Twist my arm, why don't you. *John once again jogging to catch up with Sherlock, bumping their shoulders purposefully but acting innocent after.*

Sherlock : Oh, I doubt I'll have to. *He smiles. When he fell on John he felt the paper crinkle under his jacket. He's pretty sure he knows what that was.*

John : *John chuckles to himself, shoving his hands into his coat pockets and feeling an overwhelming calm and unquestionable sense of right as the two of them stride together through the twisting walls of the maze, retracing their steps.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock follows the left wall. He’s not in so much of a hurry now and doesn't bother climbing things. Or rather, he doesn't have anything to show off to John so there's no need to try and hurry them along.*

John : *John takes a long, deep breath and sighs, content obvious on his face. They're nearly out of the maze now, or at least the mansion is looming close in a way that suggests it.*

Sherlock : Not much of an adventure but... something different all the same.

John : Well, considering what I've heard about this place, we'll probably get adventure soon enough. And I enjoyed it. Sometimes mundane works.

Sherlock : Sometimes. But no, it's not likely that we'll have any chances for fun till next week. There's always a message with hints given before an event begins and events generally begin on weekends meaning messages are delivered Thursdays and Fridays

John : Ah, right then. *puckers his lips in thought*

Sherlock :...could do.. a movie night.*how dull.*

John : *John makes a face at Sherlock like he knows what the other is thinking.* Don't strain yourself, there, Sherlock.

Sherlock : You seem to enjoy them.

John :...I do, but you obviously don't. Not after that Bond marathon.

Sherlock : Well, it's not very realistic, now, is it? Just a bunch of explosions and shagging.

John : *can't fight a grin* I'll give you that, but a lot of movies are like that.

Sherlock : Then don’t pick one of those.

John : What, you still want to do a movie night with me?

Sherlock : *Sherlock shrugs* I did suggest it

John :...I should make you watch Harry Potter, since you're brewing up a potion from that universe.

Sherlock : Is it shit?

John : *Fails to snort back a laugh, pressing his fist to his mouth in surprise at Sherlock's cuss* It--ahaha--it's a book to film adaptation, but it's decent enough.

Sherlock : *Sherlock smiles at him. He's always very pleased when he can make him laugh.* Is there just the one?

John : *giggles taking their time to fade* A-ahah, no, it's an 8 part film series, but we don’t need to watch them all.

Sherlock : Oh, good. So dinner and a movie tonight, my room?

John : *laughs--it sounds so much like a date, but with them it's just... normality.* I'll be there. Curry?

Sherlock : Sounds good. Bring the films as well. You should be able to locate them better than me.

John : *They're coming to the exit of the maze, but with the upcoming plans John doesn't feel too disappointed.* Will do. I'll bring the first three films, how's that? Then we can call it a marathon without you wanting to destroy something in the flat before the end of it.

Sherlock : Alright. But if it's three we should start before dinner or we'll end up running through to tomorrow morning. *Sherlock looks above. The day is still rather young.*

John : We can start the first one before dinner, and then once that's over we can get the food and start the others. *The very domestic image of them sitting on a couch wrapped in blankets eating curry and watching movies together makes him feel flustered and oddly giddy*

Sherlock : Alright. I should shower again. *pulls at his bangs* I smell like foliage.

John :...Not always a bad thing.

Sherlock : For trees. *Sherlock holds the door to the mansion open for him as they approach it.*

John : *steps inside, turning around and walking backwards as he continues talking to Sherlock.* Better then smelling like you fell into dirt. At least plants are somewhat pleasant smelling.

Sherlock : No, I had the good fortune of falling into an army doctor. Nice aftershave, by the way. Is it new?

John : *Lets out a strangled laugh, cheekbones flushing as he remembers Sherlock falling into him and that face against the side of his neck.* Yes, actually. It's the one the room gave me, perhaps I should listen to it's suggestions more often.

Sherlock : Well, in this case at least it did well. That stuff Harry got you was awful. I much prefer this one. More subtle.

John : It was? Erk... I've never been good at picking out scented things... Didn't really matter in the Army.

Sherlock : I've done a study on aftershave. Was going to write it up on my website until someone pointed out that no one reads my website. It was the companion piece to perfumes. The types of men who use the overpowering smells are generally trying to compensate for body odor or trying to be imposing to all of one's senses in a sort of power play.

John : Oh. *wrinkles nose* Well, I'm not trying to do either of those things, I assure you.

Sherlock : No, which is why Harry's is not right for you. Her lack of knowledge of men informs a rather poor opinion on what they want and what a man should smell like. Though I've noticed that generally you only save aftershave for date nights and special occasions. I'm inclined to agree. As long as one is clean, there's no reason why smelling naturally a bit musky is disagreeable.

John : *He looks rather bemused at Sherlock's commentary on Harry* She probably treats aftershave like perfume. *Then he looks thoughtful as he considers Sherlock out of the corner of his eye.* So, do you wear aftershave?

Sherlock : *Sherlock smirks a little, looking down.* No, a bit too harsh. I use a skin conditioning balm. Unscented. Less irritating to the skin.

John : *makes an understanding humming sound under his breath, not bothering to look away, trailing his gaze across Sherlock's profile and the edge of his scarf where his pale neck is visible... He suddenly clears his throat.* That suits you, I think.

Sherlock : Well, it's utilitarian and completely based on my own comfort rather than the general consensus of male grooming so yes; I'd say it does. *Sherlock chortles slightly.* This conversation's turned silly. We'll be discussing hair products next. This is a true testament to how dull things are.

John : Yeah, I'd say so. *sits down on the main steps into the lobby, stretching his knee absently* Or the weather. Or we could talk about our star signs. *laughs*

Sherlock : Oh god. *Sherlock rolls his eyes* As if I know my star sign.

John : Your birthday is January 6th, right? So... You'd be a Capricorn.

Sherlock : *Sherlock looks at him like he has three heads.* You actually know this stuff?

John : *He flushes, rubbing the back of his head* One of my ex-girlfriends was really into it. She read up all sorts of things about compatibility and everything. Liked to talk about it often.

Sherlock : Oh? And did she say you two were perfect for each other and destined to be together forever?

John : Sometimes. More often than not she used it to justify things or blamed it on our signs when we argued.

Sherlock : You are so much better off without her. Really, where do you get these women?

John : *weak grin* I have a gravitational charm?

Sherlock : Is that supposed to be a solar system pun?

John : *mouth twitches* Did it work?

Sherlock : No. You're terrible. *trying not to smirk.* Please tell me this particular woman was from your more desperate, early twenties.

John : What you don't think my universe puns are stellar? *trying not to laugh* I was dating her when I started med school, actually.

Sherlock : *Sherlock groans at the next pun. Make the man stop~* Was your idea of adventure dating complete nutters?

John : Some might say I haven't exactly grown out of that. *leans his head in his palm and grins against his fingers*

Sherlock : *Sherlock pauses at that...hm.* Well, Sarah was perfectly sensible if not a bit dull.

John : *cocks an eyebrow* She also knocked a Chinese assassin off of you with a pole, if I'm not mistaken.

Sherlock : Did she? Hm. Well, all the more reason why she was one of the better ones. What ever did happen with her?

John :...*looks away and shrugs* Too much adventure for her, I guess. She said my priorities were obvious and she wasn't one of them... O-or something along those lines.

Sherlock : Even after you took her to New Zealand? Seems she enjoyed your adventurous spirit at least some of the time.

John : *He smiles fondly at the memory, thought they broke up shortly after that trip.* Yeah, New Zealand was fun. Seems to solidify some things for her, though.

Sherlock : So it wasn't related to me, then. That's good.

John : *Glances back at* Oh? I thought you took pride in driving my girlfriends away. *bemused tone*

Sherlock : Pride? You act like I do it on purpose.

John : You mean you don't? Sometimes it seems like it.

Sherlock : *Sherlock rolls his eyes a little.* Please. You go through them so quickly it's hardly worth the effort. Do you really sleep with all of them?

John : *Nearly gawks* What? No, I don't, not that it's any of your business.

Sherlock : It's a perfectly normal question.

John : *Shakes his head* Not really, but if you must know; I don't always jump my dates after one night out. Once in a while its happened, sure, but not anyone recently.

Sherlock : A true romantic, I see.

John : *His ears color* That's not a bad thing.

Sherlock : So does this true romantic believe in true love as well?

John : *gnaws on the inside of his cheek* ...I suppose. I mean, I believe that there are people you're destined to be with, that you're lead to. But people change a lot so... *flusters* ...It sounds stupid aloud.

Sherlock : So you believe you have a soul mate out there somewhere or that there is the potential for true love with many people as they change?

John : I'd like to think I have a soul mate, but... it seems more reasonable to think the potential for true love changes. Our line of work doesn't exactly enforce the everlasting nature of love, either....You have any opinion on this?

Sherlock : *Sherlock shrugs. He generally doesn't talk much on the subject.* Love isn't something I've given much thought to. I've only recently become aware of the dangers of sudden infatuation. Seeing how easy it is for the heart to be manipulated, I'm not quite sure it should be trusted to make decisions involving lifelong romantic engagements.

John : *He frowns, remembering the Irene incident, and a fierce sense of protection washes over him. He'd hated how she'd manipulated Sherlock, how he hadn't seen what was going on and stepped in to stop it, the only impact being "Tell him you're alive, I'll come after you if you don't"* ...It's not always like that, you know...

Sherlock : For normal people, no. I imagine it's quite different. For me, however, it's rather par for the course.

John : *He gnaws on his lower lip, flexing his fingers, testing his nails against his jeans.* Oh...

Sherlock : I don't think I'm necessarily missing anything. I have companionship. I have friendship. I have more than I've ever had. It's not necessary to be loved.

John : No, it's not. *He breathes, glancing up at Sherlock.* Whatever you think is best for you, mate.

Sherlock : *Sherlock smiles at him* Likewise.

John : *He catches Sherlock's smile, and one tugs on his own lips despite an uncertain ache between his ribs at Sherlock's dismissal of love. He had no reason to feel that way, right? Sherlock's love life was his choice, after all. John stood, fiddling his right hand absentmindedly as he looked past Sherlock and out a window at the darkening sky.* ...It's getting late.

Sherlock : *As always, Sherlock chooses his words carefully. No, being loved is not necessary, but there is not much he can do about himself feeling love for another.* Well, I'll make it a quick shower then so as to not hold things up. *He starts towards his room*

John : *John licks his lips absentmindedly, staring after the detective* I'll go get the movies and food. *He finally mutters, taking off to do so.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock showers and dresses in his night clothes and dressing gown since there's little point in getting back into anything else at this hour. He gets a nice sized TV from the closet and sets it up

John : *When John knocks on the door, he has the food in one hand and movies tucked under his arm. He hasn't changed out of his jeans, but he's barefoot and wearing his striped shirt--having popped into his room for a moment. Saying nothing, the doctor puts the dvds by the tv and starts pulling the cartons of food out of the bag and placing them on the table by the couch; he's gotten quite a lot for the two of them.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock notices. He eyes the titles of the films but continues to give looks to the meal.* So who else are you planning to invite over?

John : Hm? *John's distracted, and doesn't realize what Sherlock asks for a few moments, then he jerks and shakes his head.* Oh! Erm, no one. I just... hungry. Figured left overs wouldn't be so bad either.

Sherlock : *Sherlock smirks and puts in the first DVD, bringing the case back with him to critisize.* Leftovers in a place that makes magic food?

John : He's already settled onto the couch, folding his legs under him and clutching a container of chicken curry, a fork in his mouth, he mutters around it to reply* Sometimes leftovers taste better then fresh food.

Sherlock : Then I'll make sure to do you the favor of saving you plenty. *He sits on his side, legs up on the table as he tears into some naan, dipping it into an open curry container.*

John : *The movie starts up, and John blindly gropes over to steal some naan, dipping it into his curry as well, realizing how hungry he is after the first bites hit his stomach; the only other thing he ate today was the pastry Sherlock had given him. After the students have arrived at Hogwarts, he sets his container of curry on the table.* I'm going to make some tea. Want any?

Sherlock : *Sherlock nods, his narrow, somewhat cross expression very intently fixed on the screen.* Nn. Tea. Yes.

John : *grins to himself at Sherlock's concentration, making his way into the kitchen to make the tea, going through the process of making each of their cups and eventually wandering back, holding out Sherlock's tea to the detective as he sits down, tucking one leg under him and stretching the other, his psychosomatic one, out in front of him under the table. He's missed a bit of the story in the process, but he's seen this movie before.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock takes his tea without looking away from the movie.* I don't understand why they would separate the children by virtue of personality traits. Similarities cause as much conflict as differences if not more so. They are breeding bad blood.

John : *chuckles* I suppose. I think it's to create a strong sense of community, but it really does cause a lot of issue in the series. *sips his tea, leaning back on the couch.*

Sherlock : Community? John, they're wizards. They have a community identity.

John : They're still kids. It's all about being in exclusive groups back then.

Sherlock : *Sherlock makes a disapproving sound but goes back to watching it with interest and munching on some food. This is going over much better than the Bond movies but Sherlock is figuring all this stuff out pretty easily.*

John : *John watches Sherlock more than the movie, feeling childishly giddy over the other man enjoying it to a degree.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock eventually starts yelling at the TV after he's solved everything and all the kids are still running around ~_~* Come on, Hermione, I thought you were supposed to be the clever one!

John : *When it starts happening, John nearly drops his curry in surprise, but then he sits back and sniggers at Sherlock's comments, nearly choking on his food a couple of times.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock can't help himself. At all. He continues to yell at the tv until it's over and he is validated because, yep, he called it. He is utterly perplexed when Harry has to go back to that awful place though* Wait, if they know his home is terrible, why is he being sent back there?

John : You know, I've wondered that myself. *John's sure he's overeaten, it was just too delicious, so he sets down the container and flops back into the couch, sprawled a bit more obviously with a food coma edging around his senses.* He could've easily stayed with someone else.

Sherlock : Obvious plot hole, too noticeable for even the writer to miss, so it must be of some later significance. *He's still just sort of grazing on food. He smirks at John who is obviously stuffed.*

John : Perhaps. I haven't read all the books. *He sighs happily, full and warm and content*

Sherlock : *Sherlock leans back and watches him*

John : *He shuffles a bit, getting comfortable, then glances over at Sherlock, only to be caught, as the other is staring at him. He darts his gaze back to the TV, ears red at having been caught*

Sherlock : *Sherlock hops of the couch and puts in the next DVD.* How many are we watching?

John : I only got the first three, hope that's okay.

Sherlock : *Sherlock nods and plops back down.* You going to fall asleep watching these?

John ::*Chuckles* I hope not, said I'd watch 'em with you.

Sherlock : Good. This one has secret in the title. I have high hopes. *He settles in, perched more so than sat, and watches the next one*

John : *John grins widely, watching Sherlock once again more than the movie, glancing over at the film once in a while to keep track of what the detective is reacting to. This is the one with the polyjuice potion in it, if he's remembering correctly, so this will be at least partially insightful to the detective.*

Sherlock : *Indeed, he is very careful to pay extra close attention to those parts* John. How complete is the transformation?

John : *shifts* I think in every way. They alter the voices in the movie so people don't forget it's the main characters, but it should be a complete transformation.

Sherlock : I suppose the fact that it's magic really shouldn't make me doubtful that shrinking and having my genitalia turned inside out should be at the least discomforting.

John : Not an experience I'd look forward to. Props for dedication.

Sherlock : *Sherlock chuckles* Oh, I'm making a nice, sizable batch. You'll have a go someday I'm sure.

John : *wrinkles his nose at the detective* Uugh, do I have to?

Sherlock : Never know.

John :...Just don't try and sneak it into me. *huffs at the tv screen, watching the movie a bit as he slides down in his seat, drawing up his legs again*

Sherlock : Sneak? No, I know you didn't appreciate that. I'd rather not do it again.

John : Good. *hugs his stomach lightly, curling his toes against the couch*

Sherlock : Are you not feeling well?

John : Just overate a bit, don't worry about it. *sighs*

Sherlock : *Sherlock looks at him for a second then shrugs and goes back to the movie*

John : *relaxes, dropping his head against the back of the couch, rolling it slightly and watching Sherlock watch the movie, eyes half lidded before he decides to close his eyes for a minute, humming to himself. He's awake, just loose and warm and content.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock looks at him for a bit and after he thinks he's asleep he gets up off the couch and turns the movie off*

John : *John twitches at the sudden lack of noise, awareness filtering in from the light doze he'd fallen into. He makes a confused, questioning noise, shifting in his spot and flicking his eyes open, letting out a slurred 'Sh'lock?'*

Sherlock : *Sherlock looks over at him* You're asleep, John. Close your eyes.

John : No 'm not... *He closes his eyes nevertheless, though.* ...What 'bout th' movie?

Sherlock : It'll still be there. *Sherlock cleans some stuff up and grabs a blanket from the closet which he spreads out over John.*

John :...Said I'd stay awake... *frowns lightly, shifting as the blanket is spread over him, forcing his eyes open when he feels Sherlock close by*

Sherlock : It's fine. It's your birthday. Sleep well.

John :... *He closes his eyes again, brow still furrowed slightly, even as he sinks into the couch and breathes in the comforting scent of the flat and Sherlock. Absently, he remembers that this is Sherlock's 'bed,' and will try to rouse himself, but he's unfortunately far too comfortable.*

Sherlock : *Sherlock leaves him to his sleep, working quietly through the night on some research for Wonderland. It's nice to have John there. Like they're really home again. At midnight, the room turns into a Japanese school room but lucky for them, it's a lounge and the couch stays the same. Sherlock is minimally amused. Until his microscope turns to butterflies and flies away..... He leaves the kitchen area of the lounge and heads to the window, getting a look outside at the new world. He's already excited to share it with John but it will wait till morning... it was John's birthday after all. Sherlock curls up in a chair and tries to sleep as well, just to make the night pass faster.*

John : *John twitches into awareness two hours after midnight, a soft tickling on his nose. He half wakes, squinting open bleary eyes to find a butterfly perched there. The doctor, still believing it to be a dream of some sort, blows a gust of air at it and it takes off, fluttering about the room with a few other of its kind. John follows it's movements lazily, before his gaze lands on Sherlock in the armchair*

Sherlock : *He's very much curled in on himself in an egg shape/fetal position, hugging his knees to his chest.*

John :... *that doesn't look very comfortable... John, sleep muddled, stands, keeping the blanket he didn't remember receiving wrapped around his shoulders as he shuffles over to the detective.* Sh'lock... *He whispers, crouching next to the chair, reaching out to brush his hand against Sherlock's arm* Sherlock... you should take the couch...


*RP-ed via AIM by Niko and Em