Chapter Text
“Why are we going to the Medieval fair anyway?” Steve asked, turning to look at Dustin and Erica in the backseat. It was too hellishly early in the morning on a Saturday to be hustled out of his bedroom, dressed up, given drive-thru coffee and berated and confused into driving into greater Indiana. And he suspected strongly that this had been PLANNED a long time without his knowledge.
“Ren-ais-sance.” Erica said slowly. “No Black Plague or Crusades, more semi-Ice Age and high Art.”
“They aren’t so much about history now - but the first ones in the US were founded by black-listed actors and educators during the McCarthy Red Scare in the 60’s.” Dustin lectured.
“We are going because it’s fun, dingus, and Eddie put us on the list so it’s free. And it’s the last day of the season and this is the only Saturday Steve and I both have off work for a month.” Robin said, applying more eye liner and adjusting her ‘robin hood’ hat. “Eyes back on the road, Steven, let’s get there in one-piece.”
“I don’t get it, Eddie said his band plays there but. Corrupted Coffin has electric guitars. They are fully.... Like Heavy metal, right?” Steve
“ Corroded Coffin.” Dustin corrected. “And the acoustic version of Fireball slays.”
“So we are supporting Eddie. And that’s why I’m wearing this stupid outfit?? No offense Rob - looks fine on you. But I feel like a mega-dork.” Steve looked down and grimaced. The vest (‘doublet’ Robin had said) was tight on his neck. And the poufy shorts were just tied on at the crotch with a flap in a way that made him feel weirdly exposed - but might be convenient for some activities.
Robin and Steve were matching in a way they hadn’t since the Scoops Uniform days.
“You don’t look stupid. Except your face.” Erica said. “Which is period-appropriate for you.”
“Thank you. Miss Erica. That’s so very sweet of you to say.” Steve let sarcasm dripoff his tongue - but couldn’t help checking his face in the rearview for stupidity in case she was correct.
“It’s not that they need our support, particularly,” Dustin went on, “...they are doing really well.... Actually anything that mentions D&D does very well, those songs get enthusiastic clapping and tips when they pass the hat. They do some folk covers, but mostly their own stuff.”
“And they all got side jobs at the fair. Jeff does these incredibly intricate braids. Grant works for a tin-smith. Gareth works at the Stocks - insulting people most of the day - apparently that is his calling.” Erica said.
“What about Eddie?” Robin asked.
“Oh! He’s at the henna booth. And - If you ask for ‘artist’s choice’ instead of a flash piece from the book Eddie will make the design twice as big as you paid for and sign it with a little bat.” Dustin enthused.
“I still don’t understand why I’m dressed like this. I could just be a ... a time traveler and wear my normal clothes.” Steve whined.
“Because the ladies there will love it.” Robin said.
“Okaaaay then. Why didn’t you just say that from the start.” Steve put his foot down heavily on the gas.