Now step into my ferry and let me lead you the way you lean.
((This is an AU ask/rp blog set in the Lorax universe, in which the once-ler is a grim reaper.
I will roleplay with anyone.))
“Alive isn’t exactly the correct term, but yes… I am present.”
“I have been here… I will always be here…”
“And for that, I sincerely thank you, miss… My apologies, but I do not think I’ve caught your name…”
“Reapy…?” He gave the other a confused stare, curious as to why they were smiling. “I… suppose so….? I’ve never been called that before.”
He rotated the tray further, claiming a small tin container and setting it on the counter before setting a pot to boil. “It will be a moment, sorry… Shameful to say, but I’ve not used the stove in years, so starting it can be a bit of a hassle”
He eyed the other’s hand warily, standing erect once more. “Do not offer your hand to me lest you desire a swift death, my dear…” a slightly eerie air about the way he laughed. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, as well… Oncie. You may call me Reap-ler… or whatever else you prefer, I suppose.”
With an exasperated sigh, Reap-ler stood, the wood beneath him creaking with each step. The door finally opened, revealing the skeletal man in a bowing position. “Greetings…”
“Very well. You are welcome to join me in the kitchen, if you please… ” he spoke, turning away from her, heading into the small cookhouse. Dust covered nearly every surface, cobwebs filling all empty space… except for one. He approached the lazy-susan in the corner and pushed the side, causing it to revolve and reveal a vast array of teas, from a common earl grey to a rare yellow. “What is your preference?”
With a violent crick, the ancient oak door slowly opened, allowing passage for the timid young Once-ler to enter. Reap-ler, however, was nowhere in site. He resided, still, at the top floor of his Lerkim, silently watching the blood stained sky. The other’s presence known, but not recognized, he chose to ignore it.