tushanshu | 05 § video;

[Tony starts out sitting in front of the console. He's a little slow to start up what he wants to say-there's an awkward pause beforehand like he's just sizing them up through the video itself.]

So, I've been busy lately. And I've gotten a little distracted by other things, but-

[Something catches in his throat and cuts him off. Tony clears his throat and tries to look casual and calm. He's distracted and maybe in need of some sleep, with his attention wandering from the feed, but he's not going to drop the flippant tone. Especially not now.]

But apparently there have been some strange disappearances lately, and those people might actually still be around.

[He seems to want to say more, but his heart isn't in it. Maybe he should be offering to try to help those semi-disappeared people. Probably. Unfortunately he can't make himself do that.]

That's not what I want to talk about. I need... [Don't finish that, Stark.]

I need someone who knows how to take care of flowers. Horticulture isn't my thing and I have some and I have to make sure they, they don't die, so if you have any advice, I could use it. That or animal counselors. I'm sure those exist out there somewhere.

[ooc: cw for mentions of child deaths and violent arguing.]

Flat | Top-Level Comments Only

[He nearly rolls his eyes. Nearly. But he manages to stop himself.]

Yeah, I know. Stay out of trouble and follow your lead, right? [Gosh Tony you're supposed to be the fun one!]

I don't think that will be a problem.

As long as you get the picture.

[But, really, how much is Tony of all people going to enforce anything? He'll probably be in more trouble than Teddy. And he does seem to realize that, because after his little show at playing the adult, Tony grins.]

And make sure you keep in touch, too. I don't want you to wander off and have fun without me.

[Teddy grins in return.]

I promise if anything remotely fun comes along, you'll be the first person I call. [After Billy and Cassie...probably.]

Mhm. I'm sure you will.

[He chuckles, because he knows full well that the kids do whatever they want. He doesn't completely approve, but it could be worse.]

Just try not to wreck the place. Too much, anyway.

You got it.

[He clears his throat.]

And if you ever need anything...you know where to find us. Just, you know, in case.

I'll give you a call.

[Or not. He'll be keeping his eye on them either way.]

Take care of yourself.

[And with one more little nod Tony disconnects.]