use_everything | [IC Inbox]

No, it doesn't. [ A beat then: ] Are you implying he needs a bodyguard with a link even at 20?

There's no need for implication. It's a matter of fact, particularly given the situation with Lucifer.

And you think a random person he's sworn in is the one for that job? I can't say I fully understand this whole oath deal even with what you've shown me.

[He doesn't answer that immediately. He sets his chin on his fist and merely watches her. There could easily be stating the obvious... but the fact that she was in no way random was beyond that. This wasn't honest objection.

This was kicking on the way down.]

Regardless, as the Lord Vorkosigan, approve of the choice.

[Letting go of the high manner in which the last line was delivered, the next was muted, sincere.]

You are welcome to the position, but not obligated. Please think it over.

Approve already, huh?

[ It's more rhetorical than anything else. He wouldn't have bothered showing her anything if he didn't approve. Whether or not she wants this...

The jury is still out, but with any luck she'll have time to decide. ]

I'll think about it. Would I still be collecting my pay as usual?

[The affirmative gesture comes easily.] Keep receipts for expenditures, travel and suchlike. They will be handled.

[ Wait, what? ] Just for during this mess or...?

As an armswoman, you are working. Those are routine reimbursements.

Working the same hours I usually do or around the clock?

[Ah, here we are.]

Around the clock, full pay for on shift, quarter-pay for off. Naturally, you're expected to be on call. Hazard and active combat is double. Standard, really.

If I get brought in when off shift, what then? And what about injuries? A normal healer won't work and last I heard, we didn't have a tech on call that could handle mechanical bodies. I know someone at StarkTech who would likely do repairs [ For free, but she'll leave that part out for now. ], but who knows when he'd be available.

Full pay begins at the moment of the call, hourly rate until the stand down is given. [This was said with the same bland, automatic answers as the rest. The next gives him a pause. That was a truly unique problem.]

It would be our duty to provide... We'd have to talk in detail, should you accept.

[ She nods in acceptance of the facts. That's information she'll be tucking away and keeping track of with computer-precision. ]

It's hard to make a decision if I don't know all the details ahead of time. What else is it your duty to provide?

Safe accommodation for you, and such family as you take. Three meals in house, rations or stipend out. Two dress uniforms in good working order, two undress. Access to commsat- a little difficult here, we should assume the network shall suffice. Two weeks paid leave, schedule and timing subject to approval in order to receive pay. Those are the major ones.

There are more archaic and less useful ones still in record. I will assure you they rely on such provisions as swords and horses.

I wouldn't say no to more weapons, but I can do without the horse unless you're planning on doing all the upkeep.

[ There's a small pause as she considers the more serious list then nods. ] Am I right in assuming this doesn't need a written contract? It's just guaranteed with the oath?

An oath is a contract, binding and complete.

So I'm learning. I still need time to think on it, but you're fine with being stuck with a connection yourself?

[There's a nod, acknowledging that need. He'd set his own arguments down, there was no need to chase it now. Counterproductive at best.]

Both you and I have control over it, independent of each other. It is no imposition.

And Gregor? He glossed over being 'fine' with it and if I have to decide soon, I can't exactly wait for him to get older.

The era where I spoke in his place ended the moment I arrived here. I don't fancy returning to it even for however long this mischief lasts.

[ She nods. ] I was hoping more for advisement, Lord. But I'll try to get a straight answer out of him next time we speak.

[That gets a sharp smile, acknowledging the teeth in that title.]

Ah, advisement, I can offer. You've deduced that a lack of answer is an answer, or at least a rather complicated statement. If he speaks less, you are pushing too hard. A frank question, space and patience may have a more honest reward.

[ She sighs. Not the answer she wanted, but she did ask. ]

If only I knew how much time we had. I'll give him some, but I'd like to make sure he's not going to be bothered by the link if it becomes permanent.

I can't guarantee you will get an altogether helpful answer. But it will do him good, at this age, to be asked.

I tried before and I'll try again. And hopefully Miles won't come to regret this when he returns to normal.

(no subject)

use_everything - 2016-04-03 22:23 (UTC) - Expand