meowbel | For death

[Being that this is Olivia's only free time before she goes back to the copious amount of work awaiting her in Kansas City, she's eager to entertain Mabels' whims. The shopping experience was fun, picking up lots of goodies for the twins and their friends, along with people at home.]

[Back at the Mystery Shack, Mabel has escorted her up to the attic, where they have plenty of space to nerd out. Honestly, teaching someone else to play a card game that ironically Cordelia taught her to play years ago is completing the cycle. The next generation is ready to take over.]

"Well, the short version is that you have a deck full of Pokemon that you play onto the field and they do battle with other Pokemon. You give them support through other cards and energy to attack." [For the gifts, she made sure to buy them quite a few starting decks, along with lots of packs to open together on Christmas morning.] "I made sure to pick out a tough and cute deck to start off. Nothing too complicated either."

[As Mabel continued to look at her deck, she wasn't too sure how to feel. While the Pokémon sure were cute and adorable, she wasn't too sure just how they were going to pack a punch on their enemies.]

Then how do we use these other cards and energy to attack? I know there's usually a tutorial to help you with this but nobody got time for that! I want to learn how to play now! [She said before giving a small pout. Once again, this was her being childish as she waited for what the woman would say back to her.]

[There are two different ways to handle this situation, in Olivia's eyes. One is to make Mabel read through long rulebooks in order to understand things. The second is simply a trial by fire. Much as she's against the latter, Mabel is asking for it.]

"Alright, alright. Let's play a few games to get you up to speed." [Dipper does seem like the kind of kid who'll pick this game up in minutes, so Mabel needs to be ready.] "Since you're learning, I'm not going all out on you, not until you've got the basics down. Got it?"

[She's not going to exert years of knowledge on a novice, because that's the fastest way to get someone to stop having fun.] "The cards you're holding, shuffle them up and we'll get the game started."

[The more Mabel listened, the more she continued to have that pout. While she didn't mind the tutorial section of the game, she would much rather learn by doing it.

Luckily, Olivia seemed to understand as the young girl started shuffling her deck.]

I'm guessing this is so you don't know what cards you're going to get? This is something where we can't believe in the heart of the cards, huh?

[Did she get that reference??]

[Mabel is practically a younger version of Cordelia, stubborn and feisty. It's something that she'll get used to in due time, but also another charming part of her personality.]

That's exactly it. Once that's all done, you draw 7 cards to get the game started. [She pulls out a mat, purchased earlier, that conveniently has all the steps of the game printed on it.] Heart of the cards? Are you referring to instinct or luck? Both of those are apparent in the game at certain points.

[Alas, beyond Pokemon, someone isn't a big fan of anime. The reference goes completely over her head.]

[As Mabel looked at the mat and then back at the cards, this was certainly reminding her a lot of that game Dipper played a while back.]

Okay, let's see here... [She said before getting 7 cards once she was done shuffling them. However, she was still looking at the mat wondering what to do next.]

But nah, it's from a show! You know, where you have to play a card game or else it's the end of the world? That kind of show? [It sounds so strange out of context but it was true!]

[Leading by example, Olivia points to the cards Mabel is holding but is mindful to not look at them.]

Next, you're looking for a card saying 'basic' Pokemon on it. Those are typically the smaller version of Pokemon that you start off with. You can play up to six of them, but one is always in the active spot, ready for battle. [She puts one finger on the mat, showing where the card will go.]

Oh, like Adventure Time? That's the most recent cartoon I've seen. [In years, for that matter, as it was one of Cordelia's late-night shows to watch.] I try to avoid watching an excessive amount of TV.

[Once again, Mabel looked at her cards carefully before placing the ones she thinks are ‘basic’ on the right spot in the mat. She still wasn’t too sure how to battle with these cards but she’ll go along for now.]

Let’s see here, I think I got it right? It still kind of sucks knowing that these cute little creatures are going to get hurt! But alas, that is the joys of being in a battle royale kind of game. [She said before shaking her head sadly.

However, as she heard her voices, Mabel didn’t say anything. Instead, she just looked to the side and trailed off her words.]

Sure, I guess you can kind of say that? But then again, that cartoon does talk about the end of the world so it can count. Even if I’m kind of wondering how a children’s show can have that many questionable jokes in it…

Don't worry, I'll give you a hand if something looks off. And you can think about the battles as friendly skirmishes or competitions. No one gets hurt, just knocked out.

[Other adults might protest the 'violence' in Pokemon, but it's a game about teamwork and friendship. In fact, Olivia shows part of her hand to Mabel, showing off a few water Pokemon and some blue energy cards.]

These energy cards can be played once a turn and you'll put one behind the Pokemon of your choice. That allows it to use an attack against the opposing player. Whoever knocks out six pokemon first wins.

[Mabel's sad voice causes Olivia to be more mindful of her companion's mood.]

It's probably because adults make the cartoons kids watch, so they try to make it fun for both audiences? That's my logical guess on the matter. [She could probably say more, as one year a funeral director's service shared the same convention center space as an anime convention. It was...weird to say the least.]

What kind of shows do you like to watch, Mabel?

Yeah, I know but it just still sucks seeing cute creatures get hurt even if it's imaginary.

[Even so, there was a part of her that wanted to win! Alas, she didn't have a choice as she will have to use her imagination on how these adorable fluffy creatures will get hurt in the midst of battle! Regardless, she didn't have to think about it for long as she listened to what she will say next.

As she narrowed her eyes, she nodded to herself.]

I see, that doesn't stop too hard. The most important thing is to get the energy cards right? The more I get, the more I'm able to win! Sounds easy enough!

[Although, this was her being overly confident as she gave a smirk to herself.]

But anyway, I like different kind of shows! Give me the dramatic, the mystery, the cute, and even the horror if you have to! Anything to grab my attention and make me cry until I can see anymore!

It'll be alright. They spring back after the battle, good as new.

[Olivia fears that if she holds back, Mabel will get upset, so it's best to play this out normally.]

Attacking with your Pokemon is the most important part, and you'll need the energy to do that. There's also trainer cards which do specific things to help out, like searching your deck for cards or removing damage. There's also evolution, which is where you'll level up your Pokemon so they do more damage and can take more hits.

[Overconfidence or not, Olivia will play along, as she's simply enjoying having fun with Mabel.]

What's your favorite movie then? Do you have a top 5 list? I'm a fan of horror and sci-fi movies, but occasionally I'll watch something action-oriented.

[As she kept on looking at the mat, she gave a small nod to herself.]

I think I got the hang of it now? It's pretty much the same as playing the video game version expect it's just a little more boring when you play it in real life!

[After all, where was the cool sound effects and the fire from all the destruction? But alas, real life simply wasn't always made it out to be. As she drew out the various Pokémon cards, she placed them according to where the mat had them. Hopefully, she was doing this right?]

But anyway! My favorite movies are generally the kind that are over the top! It can range from things like High School Musical, Paranorman, Nightmare Before Christmas, The Princess Bride, and so on!

[But now that Mabel thought about it? She would be the type to watch anything as long as it doesn't involve extreme gore. That and anything magical. That always gets her attention.]

[There's a small pause while Olivia watches Mabel, finally nodding her head in approval once everything's good to go.]

Looks like you've already started picking things up quickly! You're going to be a master of this game in no time. [Althought the comment does get a laugh.] I said something similar when I first picked up the game, something along the lines of 'why is this fun?'. Turns out, you just have to enjoy it with someone close.

[Speaking of that, Olvia gets the game rolling, showing Mabel how to start her turn and other actions to the game. They can talk movies while playing, and if any questions come up, she's more than willing to answer them.]

Nightmare Before Christmas is okay. I think I prefer Beetlejuice or Edward Scissorhands instead. [Mainly because of all the excessive merchandising Disney does for their films.] What about movies from the 80s? Breakfast Club? Back to the Future?

Why, thank you, I do try if I say so myself! [She said as she gave a bow. Although, she did have to raise an eyebrow at the woman.

She did hear things correctly, right?] Someone close huh? I'm kind of surprised, I didn't expect to hear that coming from you! [Not that she mind as she wanted to get to know her better but it was shocking to hear it from her!

As Mabel looked at Olivia setting up the game, she had to keep on pondering about what other movies she liked. Let's see here, she wondered, what other movies were there?]

But those are some good ones! How could I forget how awesome those 80s movies were? You can't forget classics like the Karate Kid too! Or even better yet, Ghostbusters or E.T? Now you can't ever forget those!

Share some of that confidence with me sometime. I could use it as of late.

[What's that? Is Olivia actually noticeably relaxed and having fun? Yes. Mabel is truly a one of a kind kid who'd be hard-pressed to get her upset.] It's because of Cordelia. In high school, I was alone, but after meeting her, she helped me to get out there and talk with other people.

[As the game begins, Olivia is thinking up her own list of cultural things to discuss.]

You've got a lot of good choices there. Ghostbusters was one of the first scary movies I watched growing up. And really, if we're talking about the 80's, we can't forget the music. Madonna at her peak. Talking Heads and Depeche Mode breaking into the scene. Nothing on the radio can compare to the past.

If talking to more people is what you need, then Mabel Pines is up for the job! It's really easy once you get the hang of it!

[Mabel said as she gave a look at her. Giving a small pout, she looked at Olivia up and down before nodding to herself.] Even without Cordelia's help, I can get you talking to others with confidence in no time!

[If she can do it with Soos, why not Olivia too?]

Oh, oh! How about Duran Duran? Or even Michael Jackson? You definitely can't forget them too! And remember "Don't Stop Believing?" because that is one timeless classic we need to put on right now!

It's more of 'not scaring people with my profession or personality'. I've gone out before and when someone asks what I do for a living, they immediately recoil when I tell them I'm a mortician.

[This is why it's so much easier talking to non-adults.]

All of them are great artists. Who can forget that song? I'm pretty certain it was sung at one point during a drunk karaoke session. [She can't help but blink and take a quick look around the room, spotting what appears a bedazzled boombox.] Well, what are you waiting for? Go throw on some tunes.

Which I think is a little weird. I think that would be a great conversation starter if you ask me! It's not everyday you get to meet someone who works with dead people for a living!

[But then again, maybe it was just Mabel who find that kind of thing interesting. Even if it met dealing with rotten bodies here and there. But without another moment to lose, as son as she heard Olivia said that? She quickly rushed over to turn on said boombox.] Let's see here, what do we got first...

[Suddenly a loud song was heard! You hear that? That is the sound of a girl gasping to herself before singing along!] Oh my gosh, I forgotten about this song! How can I forget about this?!

You'd be surprised, it's often the opposite. A lot of weird questions like 'Aren't you scared?' and 'Isn't a morgue haunted?'. Conversing with adults is hard.

[Olivia leans back against the nearest bedframe, taking in the dusty and relaxing vibe the Shack offers. She likes it here in the Pacific Northwest and would be sad to learn Mabel actually lives in California.]

[But then the boombox starts playing and a smirk appears on her face.]

Yeah, it was in Footloose! Such a good film... [She's not as boisterous as Mabel, but once the lyrics start up, she's singing right along.] Where have all the good men gone, and where are all the gods?

[Unlike before, she actually knows the lyrics to this song!]

What? Psh, they just don't know how to make talking about the dead more interesting! Isn't it much better to ask how not to make bodies rotten? Or how you can even play dress up with them?

[Said the girl who is use to fighting the supernatural. Although, Mabel had to admit. While it was a little scary to meet someone who was use to working in a morgue, she was always seen as weird. She has never been one to be 'normal'.

And that was fine with her.

But as she listened to the song, she had to giggle. How could she not sing along?]

Where's the streetwise Hercules, To fight the rising odds~ [She sang before pointing right back at Olivia!]

Wording it like that doesn't exactly make it sound better. I'd prefer to think of it as helping people grieve for their loved ones.

[She's a bit of a stickler when it comes to how her career is portrayed but is grateful that Mabel is trying to offer positive solutions.

But frankly, thinking about job interviews and the stress of being an adult can go jump off a bridge, cause it's karaoke time.]

Isn't there a white knight upon a fiery steed? Late at night I toss and I turn, and I dream of what I need! [Her arms and shoulder move to the beat, passing it back off to Mabel for the addictive chorus.]

And that's a good thing! I know all this talk about death isn't exactly the nicest thing but it means you have a pretty interesting life! Nothing to be ashamed about!

[But then again, this was Mabel. She had already gone through a bunch of strange and unusual things during her time in Gravity Falls. To know that there was someone who was making fun of another who had something equally strange and usual?

How could Mabel not stand up and say something?

But she'll push that aside for now as Mabel continued to sing. Here comes her singing the beginning chorus at the top of her lungs!]

I need a hero! I'm holding out for a hero 'till the end of the night...! [She said before pointing back at Olivia! You sing the second line!]

No, no...you're right. [There are other things for her to be ashamed about, like getting involved with the police.] What about you Mabel? Do you go to school here in Gravity Falls?

[Does Gravity Falls even have a school district? Getting an answer to those questions aren’t important, but she understands why Mabel is so understanding towards her profession. She’s never seen any of the weird stuff within the town, but can believe in the crazy and wild myths.]

He's gotta be strong, and he's gotta be fast. And he's gotta be fresh from the fight!

[She nails the second line to the best of her singing ability, not singing nearly as loud as Mabel, but still having fun all the while.]

[Mabel could see where she was going with this but she shook her head.]

No, I don't. I'm only here for winter break before I go back home. [Although, there was a hint of regret in her voice. As much as she loved her parents and her friends back in California, there was something about Gravity Falls that she loved. If she could stay here forever, she would.

But alas, if only things were meant to be.

However, as soon as she heard the rest of the lyrics? She couldn't help but be overly dramatic. As she sang her lyrics, she placed her knees on the ground before throwing her arms up in the air!]

I need a hero, I'm holding out for a hero 'till the morning light! He's gotta be sure, and it's gotta be soon...!

[Oh. That news makes Olivia frown for a split second, but she's quick to offer encouragement.]

Maybe you can move back up here after college? That's the whole reason I'm in Oregon. I've been applying for funeral home jobs up here to get away from Missouri.

[There's no fun in singing alone, and Olivia joins in with Mabel, happily going along with the rest of the tune.]

"And he's gotta be larger than life, larger than life!" [She's up on her feet, dancing to every beat and rhythm, shaking her hips and moving her arms up and down.]

For death_calling

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