006 | Video | Day 70

[manofiron]

[ Although the video’s on, it shows a remarkably dull view of the sky. After a moment, during which nothing happens, it may become apparent that its owner doesn’t realize that it’s on. When he starts speaking, in the vague, disconnected voice of a man who’s either delirious, sick, or extremely hungover, it may go a long way in explaining why he doesn’t know he’s being recorded. ]

Well, that… must’ve been some night. [ He sighs and the video blurs until it shows a delightful view of the ground. ] JARVIS, where’s the car? And the nearest source of ibuprofen. I need like, a bottle. Or six.

[ There’s a moment of silence. ]

Jay? Don’t do this to me again, buddy. There’s at least enough power in the— [ The image spins, like the hand the camera’s attached to is patting at something. ] Seriously? The car and the transmitter? What the hell happened last night?

[ There’s another blur and it resolves into a wobbly image of the sky again. ]

Okay, this isn’t the end of the world. Deliverance, maybe, or the woodsy version of The Hills Have Eyes. But that’s okay. I can handle it. Just gotta find a gas station, preferably one without a bunch of cannibalistic yokels, call Rhodey, try not to get eaten by said cannibals, and wait for help to come. And then take a vacation, because obviously going down to the Crab Shack for happy hour with Mister Irresponsible is a bad idea.

[ And with that, he stops talking and starts walking. ]

Comments

( v i d e o )

[mentis]

Mr. Stark, welcome back.

[ He thought they were going to lose all the good scientists. ] I confess I don't understand half of what you've said but I hear that being a little erratic when first returning is natural.

Your friend was looking for you while you were gone.

[manofiron]

No, that's--I was talking to JARVIS. Who isn't here, I've discovered.

[ And he actually sounds sad about that. ]

Really? I have friends? News at eleven. Can you write that down? I'd like to have proof to show Pepper whenever I get back.

[mentis]

[ Oh Tony, don't do that. He'll force himself into your life so you can be loved. ]

A lot of people are very fond of you, yes. Can I help at all? With the ... acclimatising.

[manofiron]

A lot? This keeps getting more and more outlandish. Soon I'm going to have to call you a liar.

[ He thinks about that for a second. ]

I don't know. How many memory jogging tricks do you know?

[mentis]

Quite a few.

[ He pauses then seems to steel himself. ] Undoubtedly you were gone when I made my little announcement. I'm a telepath. If you're having trouble with your memories, Mr. Stark, I can help you get them back.

[manofiron]

I'd take you up on that offer, but I wouldn't wish being in my head on anybody.

[ Telepaths aren't the strangest thing he's encountered. And after his experiences with Thor and Loki, he's willing to believe the claim without the usual so tell me what I'm thinking about right now demand. ]

It's a jungle in here.

[mentis]

[ A small smile. ]

Nevertheless, the offer's open if you require it. I wouldn't suggest it if I weren't capable.

[manofiron]

Thanks for that. I'll keep it in mind.

[mentis]

I'll let you get to becoming reacquainted with the place, Mr. Stark. Don't hesitate to call if you need something.