[This Victor recognizes in himself as well. He knows the snark defense mechanism. When you're a small man, words become a viable weapon. So the smirk only gets the same calm expression. The sharp tone almost demands he be sharp back, but he's trying to be a professional right now. Now is not the time to get into a verbal row with a stranger. Instead, he tries to work out the question that had been asked. He's never heard it spoken of in that vernacular but he's pretty sure he's being asked the date of his graduation.]
1886. [Yes. Enjoy the man for whom modern concepts such as a zipper and cotton candy are just that, concepts.]
Of course not. There's surely some other explanation for the rapidness of your breathing or heart rate. Perspiration. Elevated temperature. [He could continue, layering all the signs of a nervous breakdown well on it's way to happening. But he stops because he does actually understand.
His expression goes tight. It's true. He doesn't have friends. Not anymore. They'd all left or shut themselves away. It's just himself and the looming shadow of his creatures. His tone goes a bit arch.]
No. I am fully aware of how tedious as these sort of things can be. Even more so when it seems we've been given no choice but to attend. [And in clothing he would have never picked for himself.] And yes. I am quite certain it is you I should be worrying about. But in you insist, I'll simply wait. I've no interest in joining the dancing and even less interest in the food and drinks.
[Which means that for the moment, Simon is stuck with him. Victor isn't going to just walk away until he's sure that he won't be coming right back to treat the man if he faints.]
no subject
1886. [Yes. Enjoy the man for whom modern concepts such as a zipper and cotton candy are just that, concepts.]
Of course not. There's surely some other explanation for the rapidness of your breathing or heart rate. Perspiration. Elevated temperature. [He could continue, layering all the signs of a nervous breakdown well on it's way to happening. But he stops because he does actually understand.
His expression goes tight. It's true. He doesn't have friends. Not anymore. They'd all left or shut themselves away. It's just himself and the looming shadow of his creatures. His tone goes a bit arch.]
No. I am fully aware of how tedious as these sort of things can be. Even more so when it seems we've been given no choice but to attend. [And in clothing he would have never picked for himself.] And yes. I am quite certain it is you I should be worrying about. But in you insist, I'll simply wait. I've no interest in joining the dancing and even less interest in the food and drinks.
[Which means that for the moment, Simon is stuck with him. Victor isn't going to just walk away until he's sure that he won't be coming right back to treat the man if he faints.]