sootprints | PC: Childe

... Yes. I can't abandon them.

Mm. [He gets it.] That's very brave of you. [...] There's no one who can help?

It's complicated. A reckless approach would endanger everyone.

... There was a boy who went back with me, after the last "round." He was going to help.

...Our hosts--did you ask them about how time works, while we're here? Is he there without you?

Rupert said that he asked, and that time should be paused... So he must be.

I see. [...] He should be safe for now, then. But we'll need to get you back to him safely, after all this is done.

[ there's a slow nod. ]

... I will. I can't afford not to.

Yes. I believe that's true. [Obviously he doesn't know her that well, but he's sharp, and he pays close attention to people. She's intelligent, and determined--that's all he needs to know to support her claim.

He's quiet for a minute, then gets up, from his seat, moving to kneel down in front of her. He can't see any facial features, but his gaze is steady, fixed where eyes would be on anyone else.]

I know I'm a stranger to you. And with what you've been through... I wouldn't blame you for not trusting me, or anyone here, for that matter. But I promise you that I'll do whatever I can to help get you home, so you can do what you need to do.

[He holds out a hand, then--pinky extended towards her in offering.]

[ his gaze is fixed on her, and at that angle, there's truly no way of telling what kind of expression kate might be making in turn.

a pinky promise? it's a little childish, in itself... ]

You really are an odd one...

[ ... ]

Okay. I believe you.

[ she reaches a hand out, extending her pinky in turn. ]

[With a gentle smile, Childe hooks his pinky around hers, uncaring of the soot that might get on his gloves for it. It's fine. They've had worse stains. More importantly, he clears his throat and recites:]

You make a pinkie promise, you keep it all your life. You break a pinkie promise, I throw you on the ice. The cold will kill the pinkie that once betrayed your friend, the frost will freeze your tongue off so you never lie again.

[WHAT THE HELL KIND OF PINKY PROMISE IS THAT.]