mddlbro

[mddlbro]

Dice grinned at Ramuda’s words, feeling the familiar tug of affection in his chest. The guy really was too kind—always worrying about him like that. But this time, Dice wasn’t going to let Ramuda foot the bill. Nope, this time, Dice was gonna be the one to take care of things. "Nah, nah, nah," Dice said, shaking his head as he swiped through the menu on his phone. "I’m payin' for this one. You’re always buying me stuff, and I appreciate it, I really do, but now it’s my turn. Don’t you worry about it." A light chuckle bubbled up from his throat as he ordered himself some katsudon—comfort food. Couldn’t go wrong with that. He quickly added a side of salted salmon to Ramuda’s okayu—just in case. Nothing wrong with a little variety. "I made a bit of cash on those bets the other day. So, I got us covered this time, alright?" Dice’s fingers flicked over the screen, finalizing the order, and then he tucked the phone down beside him on the floor.

He let out a content sigh and slid his arm around Ramuda’s waist, pulling him a little closer, just in case he needed extra support. The last thing Dice wanted was for Ramuda to feel like he was gonna fall over. He gave him a reassuring squeeze, smiling fondly down at him. You’re always takin' care of me... this time, it's my turn to do the same. His free hand reached for the remote, flipping through the channels lazily. “Hey, anything you wanna watch while we wait? I’m thinkin’ somethin’ calm, y’know? No action movies or anything too loud. You need to rest.” Dice glanced down at him, his lips curling into a smile. "But hey, if you want me to put on a silly variety show, I can do that too. I’m good with whatever you feel like." It was quiet and comfortable, just the two of them, and for once, Dice wasn’t thinking about anything else. Just this, this moment.

Well, he did eat some sweets the night before. So maybe those really did cause his blood to smell sweet. Maybe that really was something that could happen, Ramuda not thinking too much more about it though. His mind was fairly exhausted as well, just wanting to rest up some. The extra warmth from the blanket helped a lot with it too, a content sigh leaving him as he settled neatly against Dice. Okayu should be good, and hopefully easy enough to eat as well. Worst case, he'd just ask Dice to feed him.

''Mh...you can get yourself something else if you're hungry. I don't mind paying for you to get a good meal.''

Just because he didn't feel like eating a lot didn't mean Dice had to do the same. Especially since he knew how much he could use the food, Ramuda wondering if he had even eaten that day. At least they would both get a meal now, get to unwind a little and just enjoy the warmth.

[mddlbro]

Dice let out a soft sigh, almost a little embarrassed at his own words, but the way Ramuda chuckled—just that little sound—made it worth it. The weird, awkward comment about his blood smelling sweet somehow got the right response, and that lightness settled into his chest, something warm that he hadn’t realized he needed. “Yeah, like you ate a truckload of candy the night before. Heh.” Dice muttered, almost to himself. Okay maybe it was a stupid thing to say, but he shook it off quickly. It wasn’t like Ramuda cared, and, honestly, if it could make him smile—even for a second—then maybe it was worth it.

Dice didn’t resist when Ramuda slid off the couch and eased into his lap, though the slight weight caught him off guard at first. You should really be resting on the couch, dummy, Dice thought as he shifted his legs, trying to make sure Ramuda was comfortable. He adjusted his position, crossing his legs in a way that wouldn’t strain them, then gently shifted Ramuda, making sure his back was properly supported. The last thing he wanted was to make this harder on him. He grabbed the blanket from the couch, wrapping it around them both, keeping him warm. “Here,” Dice murmured softly, eyes glancing down at Ramuda. “Is Okayu, okay? You want something easy to eat, right? I’ll order you something. Something soft, light… rice porridge or soup, something like that." His fingers worked fast on his phone as he searched for a place that would deliver. "I’ll get something similar for myself... we'll see.” He couldn’t help the gentle smile that tugged at his lips, the quiet moment with Ramuda giving him a feeling he couldn’t quite name. It wasn’t about the blood, or the mess, or anything else—it was just about making sure his friend was okay. That, for Dice, was enough.

''Ah...sweet? Really?''

At times he really didn't know when Dice was being stupid to be funny, or when he was being stupid just because he was stupid. Did his blood really smell sweet? Though frankly he wouldn't be surprised if it actually did, with him being made in a lab and whatnot. Or maybe it was due to all the sugary treats he ate all the time? He didn't really know if what you ate could alter the scent of blood, but maybe it could. Either way the small bit of stupidity from the other at least got a small chuckle out of him, so that was something.

Just watching him, comforted by the fact he wasn't alone, it really was appreciated. And while the tea was much appreciated, Ramuda much more preferred Dice. Slowly sliding down from the couch and onto his lap, he found it far more comfortable for sure. He still had a lot of quite childish habits, like clinging, that he just never managed to shake. It brought him comfort, so he didn't really want to change it either.

''Something...easy to eat would be nice. I don't really wanna move too much, so...if I can just nibble on it easily, that would be nice.''

While a full meal would help soften the blow if his body broke down again, he just didn't have the energy to actually eat. Having to move his arms so much, just the thought was tiring. But something small he could just stick in his mouth and nibble on? That sounded a lot more manageable for now.

[mddlbro]

Dice kept wiping the desk down, his motions methodical, the rag absorbing the blood like it was nothing more than spilled ink. He could feel Ramuda’s gaze on him, the weight of it pressing in from behind, but he didn't look up—not yet. He had to finish this first, get it clean. It was the least he could do.

“Don't even think about getting up,” Dice muttered, his voice low but firm. “You’re not moving until I say so. You’re resting today, all day. Got it? I don’t want to hear any arguments about it.” He paused, his eyes flicking to the bloodstains again, then back to Ramuda’s tired face. “And about this mess... nah, it ain't gross. Actually... it’s better than cleaning up real blood, if you wanna know the truth. Yours has this sweet smell to it, like sugar, so... don’t worry about it. No big deal.” His mind wandered for a second—sweet smell, sugar, Ramuda (what the hell was he thinking)—before snapping back to the task at hand.

He wasn’t sure if Ramuda heard him, or even believed him, but Dice was determined to finish this, all of it, and he wasn’t leaving until he knew Ramuda was settled. He gave the desk a final wipe, wiping down the chair, the floor, everywhere it’d splattered.

Dice’s eyes softened as he noticed Ramuda’s body, crumpled but still somehow craving someone near, needing that reassurance, like he was afraid of being abandoned. The thought gnawed at him—he couldn’t leave Ramuda alone, not in this state. He wasn’t about to walk away, not when he knew his friend needed him right now.

“Hey,” Dice said, straightening up, his voice softer this time. “I’m staying with you today. Don’t look at me like that—I’m not letting you be alone tonight. I’ve gotta get answers, sure, but I’m not leaving until you’re good, alright? We’ll figure it out together. Rei won’t get away with whatever the hell he’s doing.”

Dice went to the kitchen and warmed up a cup of tea, bringing it back with him and carefully setting it on the table next to Ramuda. “Here, drink this. Slowly, it’s hot.” He sat on the ground next to the couch, leaning against it and looking up at Ramuda with that same protective, unwavering gaze. “You hungry? I can order takeout if you want. You just gotta say the word.”

''I don't know why...why he helped them...why he made us...but he's the one who did...who made the candies as well. I...I really don't know if he...can even help...if he even wants to. I didn't come out right...so maybe he...doesn't even know how I work...''

There really was no telling. Even now he had no idea why he agreed to make the clones, or why he suddenly decided to ditch it all and let Chuuoku fend for themselves. Rei was the one man he still struggled to read properly, since nothing about him made sense. At least with Gentaro and his lies he learned some tells, knew how to figure out what was true. But with Rei? He never managed that, and right now he didn't have the energy either.

Leaning into his touch with a small sigh, it was clear he very much craved affection in this state. Have some contact, warmth, have someone there so he wouldn't die alone. That was still what scared him the most, dying alone and being replaced without anyone knowing about it, slowly settling into the couch again so his body could properly recover after the breakdown. Even now the pain was quite clear, Ramuda knowing it would take a good bit of time to fade. Tired eyes watched Dice as he cleaned the mess of blood, that pink hue really making it all look like spilled paint. Inhuman.

''Is...isn't it gross to look at...? Knowing that it's blood, only for it to...look so fake? Unreal? I can...clean it on my own...once it doesn't hurt to move anymore. Wouldn't be the first time I had to clean up dried blood...doubt it'll be the last time either...''

[mddlbro]

Dice froze for a moment when Ramuda spoke that name—Rei Amayado—a cold shiver crawling up his spine. He'd heard the name before, sure, seen the man in battle in bits and pieces during the second DRB, but hearing it now, with Ramuda looking so fragile, as though every word might break him... it hit different. "Rei Amayado?" Dice repeated under his breath, trying to process it. "He's connected to this? He’s the one that made you?" He could feel his pulse quicken, a twinge of disbelief swirling with something darker—a mix of anger, confusion, and even a bit of dread.

But now he had something to hold onto. A thread to follow. If there was a way to fix this, to save Ramuda, it had to go through this Rei. And that gave him a sliver of hope, something to hang on to when everything else felt so damn heavy. He could feel the determination bubbling up inside him, a fire that refused to die no matter how deep the darkness felt. I’ll find him, Dice thought. I’ll find Amayado, and I’ll get answers. He swallowed his rising frustration and gave Ramuda a soft, reassuring look before standing up. “Alright, I’ll go talk to him. I’ll find out what the hell's going on.” He reached down, carefully brushing Ramuda’s hair out of his face again, letting his fingers linger just for a second longer than necessary. His heart ached, but there was no time to waste. “Stay put. I’m gonna clean this up.”

With that, Dice grabbed a rag from the desk, pressing it into his palm as he turned toward the bloodstains scattered across the desk. But even as he wiped, his mind was already racing ahead. Rei Amayado, huh? He couldn’t figure out where exactly Amayado fit into this puzzle. Why was he working with Chuuoku? Or was he manipulating them from behind the scenes? Were the other members of Dotsuitare Hompo involved? Didn’t matter now—he was going to find out. He'd tear down whatever walls stood in his way to save Ramuda, even if it meant walking right into the lion's den. And maybe... just maybe, Ramuda's words about love... about needing him... would be the thing to keep him moving forward. That was enough.

''Just...whatever you do, don't get hurt...I don't wanna live when the cost is losing someone I love...''

Because he did love Dice, and Gentaro. They made him feel human, made him feel like his life actually mattered. After so long he finally felt real again, not like some disposable doll to be tossed aside. So the last thing he wanted was to lose one of the two who made it possible, slowly calming a little getting to listen to his heart beat. Taking the candy, he really hoped it wasn't too troublesome to keep him supplied with them.

As he was set down, he was quick to hug one of the pillows instead, just needing the extra bit of comfort it provided him. But even then he worried, he didn't want to have Dice walk into the monster's lair just for him. And it wasn't like Otome even knew anything about how he was made, or how he really functioned. Yet at the same time, should he really tell Dice just who had made him? That mindset of getting harmed for misbehaving was still so very hard to let go of, but if it kept him alive, kept his friends from worrying.

''If...if you want to know more about...me...how I work you need to...go talk to...to...''

Would Rei come after him if he learned his secrets had been spilled? Or did he just not care about that anymore? Would he even be bothered to help? Ramuda really didn't know, if it was worth saying something. Hell, did anyone even know how he worked? After all, he was broken, didn't come out as intended. Still, he wanted to stay alive, knowing if he died then his team would also be in danger. There was no way they would cooperate with his replacement after all, so if he died they would have to go as well.

''...A-Amayado Rei...he was...the one in ch-charge of...making us...making me...''

[mddlbro]

Cue Ramu booping his nose.

Dice, grinning wide and eyes twinkling with joy, can't help but chuckle as he boops Ramu right back on the nose, voice dripping with playful amusement, "Heh, you're askin' for it now, huh? Well, don’t think you can out-boop me!"

[mddlbro]

Ramuda gives a single widdle boop to Dice's cheek ;3

Dice blinks in surprise, his face flushing a little before his lips curl into a dopey grin—"Haa, what's with that, huh? You think you can just boop me and get away with it?" He boops Ramuda back with a gentle poke to the nose, his voice just a little softer, "Guess I gotta show you how it’s done." His heart beats a little faster than usual, but he hides it behind the usual teasing tone, pretending he’s not enjoying this way too much.

[mddlbro]

??? Doppo, confused, boops the Daisu.

Dice freezes for a second, eyes wide and twitching—did Doppo just boop him? "Oi, what the hell, man?! You think this is funny or somethin’?" But deep down, Dice’s chest is all warm and fuzzy, even if he’d never admit it out loud.

A grin pulls at his lips before he can stop it, his cheeks turning the slightest color of pink as he chuckles, "Heh, I'm just playin', man."

[mddlbro]

Fling Posse dancing all night long ✨

Another mashup I made last year. I rediscovered it on my PC today. I hope it gives you a nice weekend vibe with F.P.✨

[mddlbro]

noooooo!! what do you MEAN i missed boop-oween???? i want some spooky boops too..🥺

[mddlbro]

continued from x

“You having fun? Heh heh.”

Dice couldn’t help but chuckle as he held Ramuda, the way he squealed with delight was just too cute. Glancing up at his cheerful leader from this angle was amusing, to say the least; it was like Dice was the one catching a glimpse of the world from a whole new perspective. "Funny, huh? I’m usually the one looking down at you," he added, the corners of his mouth lifting into a warm smile. Ramuda looked so animated, all that energy bubbling over, and Dice found it oddly adorable—just another effect of Ramuda's charm, he told himself, shaking his head slightly at the thought.

Gently, he set Ramuda back down, his fingers lingering a moment longer in Ramuda's fluffy hair as he gave it a playful pat. "Aight, let’s get going to that cafe you spotted," he said, feeling that familiar warmth in his chest. “And this time, I’ll treat you! I hit the jackpot on the slots yesterday, did I tell ya?” He grinned, leaning in a bit closer. “Besides, you always end up paying for me. Just a little thank-you for being such a good homie, okay?” Dice winked and struck a silly pose, his thumb and index finger forming a finger gun under his chin, beaming with pride over his recent wins. It felt great to finally have the chance to treat his buddy after all the times Ramuda had shown him kindness.

[mddlbro]

“I think you’d better take a break.” Doppo to Dice!

Dice leaned back in his chair, a goofy grin stretched across his face as he flicked a chip between his fingers like it was the best magic trick ever. “C’mon, Doppo! Look at these cards! I’m on FIRE! It’s like the universe decided to gift me with all its luck today! Just a few more rounds and I’ll be rolling in dough!” He shot a wink at the dealer, who rolled their eyes but couldn’t help smirking. Each win felt like a victory dance in his chest—every chip he raked in was a little trophy for his skills… or maybe just luck. But who cared? Luck was his best friend right now!

Sure, his energy didn’t quite match the bags under his eyes, but the neon lights around him pulsed in sync with his racing heart, creating an intoxicating mix of adrenaline and exhaustion. The thrill of the game surged through Dice like a catchy tune stuck in his head. He truly felt invincible, like he could take on the world and win!

But beneath all that energy, he noticed a flicker of concern in Doppo’s eyes, and it ground him slightly. “Okay, okay, I see you’re worried about me losing my edge,” he said, rolling his eyes playfully. “But s’all good, man~ Ya’know, I’ve got luck on my side! If I take a break, I might lose my streak.”

“How ‘bout joining me?” He flashed a cheeky grin and patted the seat next to him, hoping to pull Doppo into the fun. After all, life was all about these wild moments, right? “Let’s just ride this lucky train a bit longer! Trust me, I’ve got a good feeling about this!” His crazed laughter echoed around them, it was a hearty blend of carefree joy tinged with a hint of sleep deprivation.

[mddlbro]

Dice’s heart raced as Ramuda’s words settled in his head. His eyes widened in disbelief—how did Ramuda know about his mom? The questions swirled in his thoughts, but he shook his head to clear them. This wasn’t the time for that. Ramuda needed him, and right now, all that mattered was being there for his friend. “Nobody’s coming after you. Not after that scare Gentaro and I gave them. We sent them packing, remember? That means, Chuuoku’s out of the picture,” Dice reassured him with a steady voice. But the anxiety gnawed at him; he needed to stay positive, but what if...? No, he couldn’t let those thoughts spiral. “If they ever try, you know I’ve got your back. Always.”

Feeling the warmth of Ramuda’s fragile frame against him, Dice’s hand drifted from Ramuda’s cheek down to his shoulder. He gripped it firmly but careful not to hurt, pulling Ramuda into a secure hug, as if he could shield him from the world’s cruelty. Inside, a storm of worry brewed. What if Ramuda’s health didn’t improve? The thought was suffocating. He needed to talk to his mom again—to uncover whatever secrets lay hidden; there had to be a way to save him.

“Ha.. Everything will work itself out, you’ll see. Just trust me on this,” he gave a small smile, hoping it would convince Ramuda. Or himself? Fuck that thought, Dice KNOWS Ramuda will pull through! He reached into his coat pocket with his free hand and pulled out one of Ramuda’s candies, the small stash he kept for emergencies. He peeled back the wrapper and offered it to Ramuda, hoping it would lift his spirits even a little. “Forget about the hows and what-ifs for a second. You’re gonna pull through this because you just will, and that’s that!”

“Now, c’mon. Let’s get you to the couch,” Dice said gently, guiding Ramuda as he walked him over, easing him down onto the soft cushions. “I’ll clean up this mess. You just rest, alright? If you need anything, just say the word.” Before he started cleaning up the mess, his resolve solidified. He’d go see his mom after this—no matter what it took, he’d find a way to help Ramuda. He couldn’t let his friend slip away, not now. There had to be hope, and he’d do everything in his power to make sure Ramuda would live.

''I also got...lot of people who want me dead...don't really think you can make your mom back off...I'm ruining all her precious plans by still being alive...''

He was meant to be long dead, be replaced with one of the perfect clones. Instead he was clinging to life, having his friends risk injury just to keep him supplied with candies. How much longer until they wizened up and sent the clones out without a decent supply? The thought couldn't linger though, desperately clinging to Dice as a coughing fit hit him. Shaking, his body was really struggling with stabilizing.

Still, he tried to force himself to endure somehow, try to get up somehow so he could clean up the mess he had left. No point in leaving it, having the blood stain anything. Though he really didn't manage to even move, weakly leaning against Dice with a small sob. He wanted so badly to believe he could survive, but he knew fully well it was only a matter of time.

[mddlbro]

Continued from here.

Dice felt a sharp pang in his chest as he heard Ramuda's words. “Don’t! Ramuda, please don’t...” He can’t even finish the sentence. Inside, his mind raced. How could he convince Ramuda when the weight of reality hung so heavy in the air? The sight of blood pooling on the desk, the way Ramuda leaned against him like a fragile tower ready to collapse—it made his heart ache. Damn it, Ramuda, you’re not dying! He thought fiercely. You still have a lot of fight left in you, even if you can’t see it.

“Listen, you can’t just talk like that! You’re not going anywhere, got it?” Dice said, his voice taking on a more urgent tone, infused with determination. He brushed his fingers down Ramuda's face, settling on his cheek; a gesture meant to be comforting, but it felt like he was clinging to the last thread of hope. “You’ve got battles to win, and me and Gentaro are right here with you! We’ll figure this out together, okay? So no more talk about dying or being buried! You’ll be around for the next rap battle and beyond! Just... trust me.” His eyes sparkled with defiance, as if willing Ramuda’s spirit to rise again. You’re not done yet, not by a long shot!

[mddlbro]

slow replies slow replies slow responses

[mddlbro]

Dice sank deeper into the couch, playfully trying to escape Ramuda, but it was too late. He caught sight of those big, shiny blue eyes starting to pool—ugh, that’s cheating! The gambler groans, his willpower quickly dwindles.

“Look at you! Trying to guilt-trip me with those big puppy eyes? But it’s not going to work, you know!” He tilted his head in slight contemplation. “Haa..But… I guess it is lonely being the only one puffing away, huh?” He couldn’t let Ramuda get all sad on him; especially when he gets called out for having the same bad habit! Whoops!

Dice lowered the cigarette pack slightly, wagging it in front of Ramuda’s face. “But let’s be real—if Gentaro shows up and finds out we’re both being bad, he’ll turn this place upside down! So, I guess I could spare one… just to keep my buddy from tears.” Finally relenting, he playfully tapped Ramuda’s head with the pack before handing it over with a chuckle. “But you’ve got to promise to share the blame if he finds out! Deal?”

Tch, Ramuda was too slow to get at those cigs!! Dice is sooooo mean to him! He huffs, cheeks puffing up in a pout as he hops to try (and fail) to get at those cigarettes.

"But you have the same bad habits, silly Dice!!" The difference, of course, being Ramuda's own health. But he's choosing to forget that for this conversation, because it's no fun if he brings it up! "So if Gencharo hears, he totes would scold you too~!! Do you really wanna do that~?"

"Besides, I'll cry!!" He watches Dice, eyes wide and shiny with tears (lol). "So gimme one, pweaaaase!! It's lonely to smoke by yourself~!!"

[mddlbro]

As Jyushi leaned in to take a bite of the sakura roll, he couldn't help but think: OMG, how is he agreeing to this so easily? What is going on here? The flavors danced on his tongue, and he felt a warm fuzzy feeling at the new closeness they were sharing. Sure they were close friends and all but they’ve never fed each other before. Do friends feed each other? While it was a little embarrassing, it felt.. nice.

After savoring the treat, he leaned back, his cheeks flushed with color as he covered his face with his hands, sighing softly. “S-Sorry! I know I fed you first, but I don't normally do this! H-How are you so calm about this?!” he squealed, peeking out through his fingers, his heart racing with confusion and happiness.

He smiled himself. He was having such a great time with Jyushi. He was finding himself actually getting a little flustered. He hoped he could hide it well.

"Yea. It's really good. We may need another one of those. Though we did agree to share his treats."

As the other leaned forward he chuckled, putting some on the fork and feeding it to him. It was a cute little Sakura roll with a nice matcha cream. Pretty much a rolled and decorated cake.

"It's so good. The flavors mix nicely."

[mddlbro]

Jyushi felt his cheeks warm at Kuko’s delighted response, a pleased smile spreading across his face. “Right? I knew you’d love it!” He watched as Kuko savored the cake, a flutter of happiness stirring within him at this shared moment. “It’s like a little celebration in every bite!” He leaned back, setting down his utensils with a satisfied smile.

“So, can I get a bite of that sakura treat?” he asked, wondering if the other would agree to it, but he's feeling bold; And so he just leans forward, closing his eyes and parting his mouth. “Ah~!”

"I totally agree. Something sweet just adds to any experience."

He nodded, pulling over the sakura treat he had picked, taking a small bite. He had finished his bite just as Jyushi had offered the cake, nodding.

He didn't even think, he just leaned forward and took the bite off the fork. There was a hum and a pure smile of joy.

"Oh my gosh that is so good. Definitely a good choice Juju."