#rp transcript

[didderd]

Serious ask time. Not sure if my ask makes sense but, to Rock and Paper, what are ways you support your brothers when they're having a tic attack?

@that-one-rat-in-the-cupboard

Paper: I ALSO TRY TO CHECK UP ON HIM AFTER! AND IF HE NEEDS WATER FOR HIS THROAT, OR SOMETHING ALONG THOSE LINES!

((he throws pillows at Tac for him to put between himself and his hands, and tells him to put on his gloves he made him if he's not already wearing them.))

Scissors: learned not to give him my energy drinks a while ago...

[wickedadaar]

Nauseatingly in Love: Lords' Common

Featuring Grey (he/him) from @apothe-cary, Linlath (he/they) from @trideca-quin, and Shirevas (they/them) from @alliminoobers

Co-written by apothe-cary, trideca-quin, and alliminoobers. Dialogue is pulled directly from RP transcripts with Lanti, Grey, Linlath, and Shirevas with minimal edits

Mentions Ulrich from @hedgiestail 

Word count: 3,860

Linlath is now just wandering, inspecting spaces within the lighthouse they've yet to see, upon finding a space entirely different from much of the other places around the fade haven. You could even smell the sea. “Make way, coming through, warning! Hot, sweet buns! Fresh out of the oven.” Grey held a tray, wearing an apron with the words kiss the rook on it, his hands in pink oven mits as he set the tray down on a table, taking them off. “Hey Birdie, come grab one.”

They swiftly dodge out of the way of Grey walking through with the hot tray, raising their brow with a chuckle. "Think you're a little big for an oven, Raider." They peeked at the tray he had set down, humming softly. They snag a bun and snack on it, raising a brow. They were pretty good. “Means I have more to stomach, birdie. Go ahead, praise my work.” Grey chuckled, “I’m irresistible and amazing, I know.”

Lanti strolls into the room, having followed the scent of sweet rolls. "Bragging about yourself again?" "And showing off, darling. Grab a bite." Grey wiggled his eyebrows a bit playfully. Lanti chuckles and rolls her eyes as she grabs a sweet roll and takes a bite. "I will never get over how delicious these are." "Fishing for compliments, I thought the Lords had more class," Linlath snickers as they snack on the bun in hand. "Praise be the talents of our beloved Raider, else we have starved."

"Savor them, Ulrich has been stealing them though... I guess I let him get away with it." Grey shrugged, then looked over to Linlath, "I'm the classiest of them actually. But yes, continue my sweet, sweet praises." Lanti giggles at his comment as she continues to eat, "Can't argue with that."

"I'll believe it when I see it." They snort at the 'classiest' remark. "I shouldn't inflate your ego more than it already is, else you're liable to get lost to the fade." They finish the bun in their hand and snatch another one. The sweets have helped their mood, but so has Grey. “I never have to worry when you keep my ego in check.” He chuckled, “And with the way you eat my sweetbuns, I have a right to the ego. I'd better whip a second batch for the hungry birds.” Lanti bats her eyelashes at him, "You're the best!"

"You know the whole saying, feed a crow and you've gained a friend and more." Linlath snickers softly, munching on the second bun. Lanti laughs, "It's very true. And you can't get rid of us!" “Is that truly how the saying goes?“ Grey raised a brow, “and nothing wrong with that. The more the merrier.” She chuckles, "You say that now. Just wait until there's a whole murder of us following you around when you bake. It's like dinner and a show." She cringed at her cheesy line and hoped he didn't mind. Linlath snickers wickedly, "You doing the show, probably."

“Hardly a thing to worry about, no? That only means you all crave more of me? Though do be careful, my head is rapidly getting bigger.” Grey winked at Lanti and ruffled Linlath’s hair, “Besides worst that can happen is Viago joins in and tells me how much of a terrible influence I am on his crows.”

Why does everyone mess with their hair?! Linlath swats at Grey's hand, huffing lightly, "I just combed this." Now they're combing their fingers through their hair to 'fix' it. “And you can comb it again.” Grey’s hand again came down on their hair. "I have a knife, you know..." They mutter. "Mine's bigger," Lanti shoots Linlath a dangerous wink. "Size doesn't make the crow. Sometimes smaller is faster." They grin back at Lanti. She strides up to Linlath, studying them. "That's true, and you're 5 inches taller than me." "And you're the one with a bigger knife, apparently, compensating?" Linlath retorted.

“And I’ve got a bigger everything now, please. Can we stop comparing before I force-feed you both?” Grey went back to the kitchen to grab his second batch. Lanti rolls her eyes but smiles. She jokingly sticks her tongue out at the other Crow. “By the way, darling, I was thinking about…A picnic. If you know, you have the time, oh, and a list of your allergies..oh, and favorite foods.” Grey rambled on, muttering about where it would take place or if it was good enough. Lanti lights up at the idea, "I'd love to! No allergies that I'm aware of. As for favorite food, whatever you make, dear. Your cooking is my favorite food." She smiled at him as he rambled. He was truly adorable when he was like this.

"Chocolate." Was Linlath's only response. “Great! Maker…too many ideas. What do I choose?” Grey placed a hand on his chin. “Sandwiches? Scones, cookies! Oh yes, chocolate- wait, chocolate?” He looked over at Lin. Linlath shrugs, "What?" Lanti bites back the fit of laughter brewing within her. “Chocolate, what?” His face contorted in confusion, “You can’t say chocolate and then not follow it up with anything, birdie.” "Chocolate anything." They shrug again, "I'll eat it." They finished off the bun they had.

“You will just eat, that's what you do.” He flicked Lin's forehead. She tries to contain her laughter, but fails; she falls into a fit of laughter at their exchange. They blink at the flick and raise a hand to their forehead. What the hell? "Can't a guy like chocolate?" They huff lightly, glaring at Lanti, laughing. They don't see what was so amusing. Their glare just makes her laugh harder.

“Can’t I be more than just your baker? No, please, Grey, make me something with chocolate. Oh no just blunt ass chocolate.” He raised a brow, also shooting Lanti a playful glare, holding up his hand to flick her too. She playfully threatened him, "You wouldn't dare!" “I’m feeling courageous.” He stepped forward towards her. She deftly lands a jab against his ribs, trying to hit where he's most ticklish. 

Linlath snickers at Grey and Lanti now. Okay, they can see why it's amusing. Grey jumped back, “Oh no, you don’t. That is cheating.” Lanti smirks at him, "Oh, is it? And threatening me is fair play?" she challenged, looking for an opening in his behavior to launch her next attack. They smirk in amusement, watching this. He held up his hands, his feet moving parallel to the door, “Well, dear, I wouldn’t say it’s threatening, more like a tease. No need to get so violent with my sore spots.” She chuckles, studying him closely, trying to predict his next move, steadily closing the gap between them. "Darling, I would never be violent with you, but I can tease you just as well as you can me."

Linlath snickers as they lean against the table nearby, humming to themselves, curious who will win. “Lanti no-“Once again, he slid back to the door. She chuckled darkly, studying him with a cat-like gaze once more. "What's the matter, darling?" she taunted. “I am fully aware of what you might do. And I’m prepared. I’m just terrified.” Grey's own playful glint to them. "You're so paranoid," she teased as she turned away from him, returning to get another sweet roll.

“You’re also a master at your craft.” He sighed a bit in relief, approaching her from behind, bending down to rest his head on her shoulder. She chuckles smugly, "I know." She turned to look at him, leaning against him. "So are you." He pecked her cheek, “You know, I was about ready to throw Lin at you like a human shield. And I think that would have worked too.” He chuckled

"Am I interrupting? Should I give you two some space?" Linlath smirks just a bit, tilting their head at the two of them. They narrow their eyes at Grey, "Oh yes, because you'd be able to reach for me before she got on you." “If we needed space I would have hauled ass with her to my hub so you are safe for now, birdie.” He moved off Lanti’s shoulder, “And I’m big, but I am fast. I was close enough to you. But on to business, then. The lord's room seems a bit empty. I’m debating whether to invite a friend, if you can call him that. Or see if Tira would be willing to spice the place up.”

"It's your common room, we just invaded." They grin at Lanti at that, because there was no place they could keep the crows out. She giggled and blushed at Grey's words and nodded in agreement with Linlath. “You make it sound like crows are an invasive species.” He looked back down at Lanti, chuckling. "Oh, we can be if we want to be," she playfully threatened. “The company is welcome. Despite the other chirping bird.” He shot a glance at Linlath. "Nowhere is safe from a Crow." They hum ominously. They roll their eyes at Grey, "The chirping bird can leave."

“Chirping bird.” He pinched Linlath's nose. “You’re company is just as welcome, don’t get snippy.” They jerk an elbow into Grey's gut. Lanti chuckles at their exchange, smiling to herself. A grunt left Grey as he doubled over, “Fair- I earned that.” "You know, I'd appreciate it if you didn't beat up my boyfriend, Lin,” Lanti said with a chuckle. "At least I didn't stab him." They shrug lightly. Grey ruffled Lanti’s hair, “I did it to myself, darling.” She looked at Lin. "Fair point, and please don't," she chuckles as she playfully swats Grey’s hand away from her hair. "Then stop getting yourself beat up."

"It builds character." He shrugged, "It's fun to poke fun, and how am I supposed to be a warrior without a little training at home?" "Ever train with a Crow?" They muse softly, smirking just a bit. "Oh, I can think of a few more fun ways," Lanti pauses, catching herself, "I did not just say that out loud."

Shirevas peeked into the common room for the Lords, one of the places they hadn't explored yet. Seeing other people there, they stepped fully into the room. "Hello, guys." "You did." Linlath grinned at Lanti, poking her side. Lanti buries her face in her hands, embarrassed. Linlath peeks past Lanti to spy Shirevas, waving to them. "Hey." Grey chuckled, placing a hand on Lanti's shoulder. "That date might come sooner, talking like that." He waved to Shirevas, "Welcome, help yourself to sweetbuns. Apparently, training with crows is also something the lord common room offers if that's what you're into."

She leans into his touch, but doesn't look at him, knowing how fiercely she's blushing. "Hi, Shirevas, welcome!" "Hmm, looking a little red there, Lanti dear~" Linalth hums in a little sing-song voice, absolutely grinning all the while. Lanti, through gritted teeth, toward Lin, "Shut up." Shirevas waved back at all of them, raising an eyebrow at how Lanti was blushing. "I'm all for kicking some of the crow's asses." They teased as they went to grab a sweet bun. "So what happened to make you blush so much, Lanti?"

“She’s the cutest in every shade.” Grey grinned, “And she made herself blush, actually. Which I find even funnier.” Lanti tried to let the blush fade but the effort was in vain as the others kept poking fun at her. "You're not helping." Grey teased her, “I’m enjoying this, why would I help?” "Gave the thoughts in her head voice, about how much she wants Grey," Linlath explained to Shirevas. They perked up at that. "Ooooh, interesting. That's adorable, Lanti." She groaned as the blush deepened even more, "I didn't mean to say it, and I was going to say something... eventually. Just did not plan on saying it today."

He laughed, “I don’t mind hearing it, if anything, it boosts my ego.” He squished Lanti’s face, “Look at her!” "Just the last thing you needed," she teased, "And I will bite you if you don't unhand me." "Don't warn him, just bite him." Linlath snarked lightly with a terrible smirk, "He'd probably like it." Grey leaned into her, whispering in her ear, “Is it a bad time to tell you I’m into that?” Grey pulled back, smiling innocently, “But now is not the time and place to tell you my interest.” Lanti’s eyes go wide, and her blush intensifies tenfold. He chuckled and let go of her face, “Anyways.” He picked up a sweet bun, eating it, “I outdid myself on these buns.”

Shirevas lets out a loud laugh at that. "I think you two might be worse than me and Alecto, honestly-" Snickering, they kept eating the bun. "And yup, these sweetbuns are really tasty!" “I may have taken notes.” Grey shrugged, “Would you believe me if I said I was bad at flirting?” "Don't praise them too much, Grey will get a big head. And it's already big as it is,” Linlath teased. “That hair of yours is looking real fun to mess up, birdie,” Grey jokingly threatened.

"I wouldn't believe you, you seem perfectly fine at flirting with her from what I'm seeing," Shirevas commented. "And I have a knife with your name on it, raider," Linlath lightly threatened Grey back. “I enjoy the thrill, birdie,” Grey smirked, tempted to step forward. He looked back at Shirevas, “A Lot of romance novels. And a lot of it is just things I want to do to her? If that makes sense? It’s like autopilot if she’s the one who started it. I would have never gotten this confident if it weren’t for her.”

Lanti’s crisis intensified at his words. Grey soothed her back, “I think I’ve teased you too much. Sorry, darling.” Linlath narrows their eyes on Grey, but the smirk never leaves their lips. "Remember, Lanti, indoor thoughts." Shirevas took this opportunity to join in, "You two are freaking adorable, I have to admit." As she looked at Linlath, "I will get you back for this. Just know that.” "Good luck with that. Short of a knife, you've got nothing on me." LInlath blew a kiss to Lanti.

“What of your own relationship? Is it much of the same?” Grey looked over to Shirevas, then to Lanti and Lin. “Are you ticklish, Lin? I want to test a theory.” Lanti narrows her eyes at Lin, making a mental note to put out feelers for information about the other elf. "Just tell me if you need help with getting back at Linlath,” Shirevas winked at Lanti with a snicker before turning towards Grey. "I guess it would be? It's a lot of flirting almost all the time." "Oh, I absolutely will, Shirevas. Thank you,” Lanti smirks at Linlath. “As long as we keep the blades at the hips, please.” He kissed the top of Lanti’s head. Linlath rolls their eyes at both Lanti and Shirevas, "You'll both be waiting for a long time." However, they're narrowing their eyes again on Grey. "I don't trust your theories, raider."

Lanti crossed her arms and exaggerated a sigh. "Fine, but only for you," she leans into him as she turns her head toward him. “Ouch, you wound me, birdie, and here I thought I was your favorite.” Grey winked the looked back down at Lanti, raising a brow. Shirevas looked at Linlath with a raised eyebrow. "Sounds like you underestimate me, Lin, adorable." Linlath shakes their head at Grey, "Oh, you'll survive."

Lanti rolled her eyes at Grey's antics. "You can't be everyone's favorite, dear." “If I believe hard enough?” He raised a brow. She chuckled, "You might want to find something else to strive for." She patted his arm affectionately. "Why do I feel like that was a veiled insult towards me..." Linlath asked as he arched his eyebrows at Lanti. "Oh, was it supposed to be veiled?" She quipped back at them. Grey held back a chuckle. "I was giving you a chance to take it back rather than say it was blatant. Seems you didn't need it,” Linlath shrugs.

Shirevas covered their mouth as they chuckled. Lanti chuckles, "No, if I'm going to insult you, I want you to know I did it." She gives them a smug smirk. Grey covered Lanti’s mouth with his hand. “And that’s enough of that, dear.” She licked the palm of his hand. He pressed his palm a bit tighter against her mouth, his eyes with a glint of something behind them, “I made no promises if you continue.” Her eyes go wide as his words register, she can't help herself, and winks in response. He moved his hand away, smiling innocently

"Maybe we really should give you the room. Lanti clearly needs something, or someone, right now." Linlath smirks. Lanti grabs a sweet roll and throws it at Lin. Grey gasped, “You did not just use my sweets as a weapon.” Lanti feigned innocence, "You said to keep the knives holstered." They duck the sweet roll, laughing loudly, "What a waste of food." Grey was appalled. “And you use my sweets?! Fuck that use your knives!” Linlath very quickly pushed from the table and put some distance between them and the others, "I'm pretty sure she wants your knife, Grey." They call with a smirk.

Lanti lunges at them, "Get back here!” "Hey, if you need me to use my magic, just tell me," Shirevas chuckled, not yet moving away to do anything but observe. Grey's jaw dropped, “I mean, I know, but some things are best left unsaid. I’m not helping.” Linlath jumps back out of Lanti's reach, already prepared for the lunge. "Oh, come now, Lanti, you're not saying I'm wrong." They snicker as they easily find a beam to dart behind.

Lanti gives chase, "It doesn't matter if you're right." Grey chuckled, somewhat confused, “Bedroom talk was supposed to be my thing?” "Maybe you outta do it more. Why do I have to make it hot and heavy for you two?" LInlath snickers wickedly, peeking out from the beam and quickly rushes towards Lanti, looking as if they were about to crash into her before they drop into a slide, slipping past before they hop back to their feet. "You need to review your training, I think, Lanti." Lanti panted, "Shirevas, can you give me a hand?" Shirevas saluted and sent out a blast of ice on the floor right by Linlath's feet to make them slip.

Grey shrugged, “I was trying to make the air more welcomed and less indulgent of my needs. But if you wanted a show-“ Linlath almost did, but they catch themselves, sending a little glare towards Shirevas, "Uncalled for." They sigh at them, "And here I was being kind and not resorting to magic." Lanti was stunned by Grey's comment, turning to him with a look of shock on her face, temporarily forgetting about her pursuit of the other Crow. He kissed Lanti’s cheek, “Don’t short circuit again, I don’t mean it.”

She returns to trying to throttle Lin. "Aww, pity, seems Lanti really wanted that show." Linlath snickers, blowing a kiss to Lanti. "And that's my cue to go." They grin widely, hopping off the ice to go right ahead and make for the door. “Woops- I restarted her,” Grey chuckled. Without saying anything, Shirevas shot ice once again, feeling like they needed to make Linlath trip at least once in response. Using Shirevas's magic as a temporary distraction, Lanti jumped at the other elf, doing her best to knock them over. “I feel the need to stop this, “ Grey said, mostly to himself.

There's nothing to stop if they're gone, which they are. Linlath spies the ice spell and hops over it before it hits them. They offer a wave to them all as they are out the door, "Play nice, love birds!" Shirevas pouted as Linlath hopped over the ice spell, waving a hand to dismiss all the ice they conjured. They were gonna have to find Linlath at some point and get revenge for that. Just barely missing him, Lanti falls to the ground. once he's gone, she stands and dusts herself off, mumbling, "Pendejo."

Grey decides now would be the time to grab Lanti, hugging her, “I think it’s best we let him go for now.” She relaxes at his touch. "Fine, but I'm getting him back for this.” "You and me both Lanti,” Shirevas sighed. "Also, what does 'pendejo' mean?" Grey kissed the top of Lanti’s head, “Didn’t say you couldn’t, but a break is in order.” He looked at Shirevas, “It’s a bad word, don’t repeat it. And Lanti, don’t tell them either.” Lanti mouthed to Shirevas: I'll tell you later.

Shirevas lips tugged into a smirk. "Of course, we all know bad words are...bad." It was an awful lie, and they didn't try and cover that up. Lanti chuckles at Shirevas's words, "Exactly, we should never say such words," she agreed mockingly. Grey sighed, hugging Lanti like a teddy bear, “You two are terrible.” Lanti rested her head against him. "You love it." Shirevas cleared their throat and moved to leave the area. "I think that's my cue to leave, see ya love birds."

Unable to deny it, he shrugged, “I think if we are going to speak further on what we love, it wouldn’t be in the common room.” Lanti blushed again and chuckled as she couldn't deny it either. "Fair enough." “Awful red, darling,” Grey smiled. She shoots him a glare to try and compensate for the blush in her cheeks. "It's your fault." “All I did was say a few words. Didn’t know you were so shy.” He raised a brow.

Lanti playfully slaps him in the chest. "Oh? Is that all?" She narrows her eyes at him. "You knew what you were doing." “Me? Oh, I have no idea what you are on about, darling. I’m only giving you the words from my heart, and- actually that’s not appropriate to say.” He grinned as she buried her face in his chest. "I can't with you right now." His hand rested against the back of her head. “Oh? What can you do then?” She lifts her head up, meeting his gaze. "This," she pulled his lips down to her and kissed him tenderly.

He pulled her up into his arms, deepening the kiss before pulling back, placing his forehead on hers, “Listen, love, I get you like making the big moves. But I won’t be able to handle it, so.” He lifted her, “To your room?” Lanti chuckles, biting the corner of her lip, "Yours is closer, vhenan." “Maker, you’ll ruin me.” He leaned in, biting them for her. "Only if you'll let me," she whispers against his lips. He lifts her up, carrying her away.

[piloting-an-intern]

Hello? Can you hear me?

Are we connected? This voice recorder is kind of finicky.

Well, if you can hear me.. Hi, my name is Elias Caufield, junior editor and investigative journalist for the Star-5150 intergalactic newspaper! My first and most exciting assignment is right here, on the Tulpar!

I'll be keeping records of my time and thoughts here. And if I can get my comms to work, maybe I can talk to everyone planet-side..

{OOC UNDER CUT}

Hello, yall! It's Ry. I mod for this, and for @curly-capt

18, no sexual asks, He/they

Blog will interact with OC and Canon blogs!! Do not send asks that do not pertain to the Mouthwashing Universe, as I do not do crossovers.

Thank you!

Tag guide:

#Ellie Investigates - Logs of events

#Crew Transcripts - Interactions with the crew(s)

#Comms are up - Asks

#System error? - Post crash

[leastinsanesscpilot]

Day 301 Year 4588u Recovered Mission Report

Problem #1: Units Z-338–348 have been trapped behind enemy lines. Solution #1: Terminate all inaccessible units and reprint at earliest possible availability.

Problem #2: Capture of revolutionary advances in mechanized chassis design must be avoided at all costs. Solution #2: Terminate inaccessible units and allow APMS copilot contingencies to return chassis to safe extraction zone.

Problem #3: No APMS unit, no matter how firmly shackled, can be trusted with complete unfettered control of a war machine. Solution #3: Units Z-338–348 will await extraction via armored personnel carrier with a mechanized chassis escort in an estimated 56 hours.

[morally-ambiguous-bird]

Jan. 13

Things are beginning to get out of my control…

Damn this fuckin’ leash, all because I promised I wouldn’t-

No. No, I made the right decision. I can’t afford to let things spiral that way again, this is what’s best.

…I’ve been feeling stronger lately. I was going to get my medication refilled but now… maybe not.

[goodnightmemes]

THE TUDORS SEASON THREE SENTENCE STARTERS (PART TWO)

s03e05 - s03e08

❛ We must set to work finding a new bride for the King. ❜

❛ It's true, he has an heir, at last, but one is scarcely sufficient. To be safe, he must produce another. ❜

❛ Poor lamb. Never to know his own mother. ❜

❛ Perhaps, someday soon, you yourself will have a child. ❜

❛ You're sheltering a traitor! I want to know where he is. ❜

❛ You are going to tell me, or God help me, I'll kill you, and I have the immunity to do it. ❜

❛ I've grown afraid of my own shadow. ❜

❛ Sometimes I think I do not want this child in my belly. ❜

❛ Like the ruins of ancient Rome, the Colossus of Rhodes, all things tend towards their ruin. Even great houses and the fools who build them. ❜

❛ It's illegal to carry arms in court while the King is in residence. The penalties are severe. ❜

❛ I trust you will now apprehend the villain and prevent any further violence. Otherwise, you will pay the price for your failures. ❜

❛ Everything he might touch is to be washed, and everything he might eat, tasted for poison. ❜

❛ What the King wills, the King must have. It's not to be argued with or crossed. ❜

❛ In the absence of the King there has been much malevolence and violence at court. ❜

❛ There are some who desire disorder with all their hearts, thinking of using it, at the end, to their own advantage. ❜

❛ You presume too far above your very base and low degree! ❜

❛ The King listens to him. That makes him dangerous to everyone. ❜

❛ Perhaps it is my fate never to marry. ❜

❛ I would think less of him if he were to accept such gifts in order to love me. ❜

❛ Though I cannot touch him, I swear I will make him eat his heart. ❜

❛ Death is not ready for you, yet. God has something else in mind. ❜

❛ I know what it is that we have both lost. We have lost our youth. There is nothing in the world, that can ever return it to us. ❜

❛ I will marry who I like! ❜

❛ I want to see my son. What have you done with my son? ❜

❛ Your son is unharmed. He will remain unharmed until we are sure that you are not all traitors. ❜

❛ I ask you, whether such dishonest and treacherous sons could ever have had an honest mother! ❜

❛ With your permission, Madam, may I ask if you would consider marrying the King? ❜

❛ Is it not strange that the King's Majesty was in so little space, rid of his three Queens? ❜

❛ Frankly, Sir, if I had two heads, then one would be at His Majesty's service. Alas, I only have this one. ❜

❛ How can you suppose that at my age, I am capable of plotting anything against anyone? I wish only to live a quiet life, away from this world. ❜

❛ You may well beg mercy, but whom shall say if it be granted or not. ❜

❛ Everyone has an agenda! And what I want doesn't matter! ❜

❛ My father told me that if you leave even a sapling in the ground, one day it will grow into a tree! And that little boy will have 40,000 troops flocking to his banner, and you will be the sucker! ❜

❛ I need pictures! Do you understand? I need to see them. I need to see the woman who's going to be my companion for life. ❜

❛ I'm afraid I was not born for happiness. ❜

❛ I swear he has poisoned the King's mind! And if I could, I would strip him from the King's side, and burn him. ❜

❛ You have ten seconds to get out of my court, or I will beat you like the dog that you are! ❜

❛ I see now what it takes for a man to make his way in this world. He must make a practice of hypocrisy. ❜

❛ I say to you, again, while you still have a free choice, will you live or die? ❜

❛ There's no doubt, now, he must be overthrown by force. ❜

❛ My conscience will not permit me to consummate this marriage because I feel there is some impediment to it. ❜

❛ I tell you, God will not grant me any more children if I continue in this marriage. ❜

❛ Not telling a woman what she must expect on her wedding night is like sending a sailor to sea with no biscuit. ❜

❛ He is charming and very good looking. I think you might like him a little. ❜

❛ I resent the King nothing, but others seek to undermine me, since I was born so low and they so high. ❜

❛ I hope you can forgive my impetuosity. I know we should have been formally introduced, but I couldn't wait. ❜

❛ May I kiss your hand? ❜

❛ I have found someone to amuse the King. ❜

❛ We ran a little wild. There was some fun in it. ❜

❛ I was told before that she was charming, intelligent, well-read, gracious. A true Princess. But nothing prepared me for her beauty. But a beauty that comes from inside. To me, she is the most beautiful creature on God's earth. ❜

❛ The King has noticed you. He may ask to see you. ❜

❛ You didn't step on my foot. How could you? Your feet don't even touch the ground. I wanted a moment alone with you. ❜

❛ Would you like me to kiss you again? ❜

❛ Do not sit there. That is no place for you. Traitors do not sit among gentlemen. ❜

❛ I left her as good a maid as I found her! ❜

❛ My pride has brought its punishment. ❜

[jonathansims-headarchivist]

JON

Statement of Stella Mills, about her… encounter with Jane Prentiss and The Corruption. Statement taken directly from subject, 10:41, on October 24th, 2017. Statement begins.

STELLA

So, you want me to give my statement, Mr. Archivist? I suppose I can do that. I don’t think you deserve it in the least bit, but I’ll give it to you.

I first started working at the archives, oh, about 4 years ago? It’s been a good job. Weird, but good. Paid enough for me to make rent. Paid more over the years as the other janitors started to… go missing. I didn’t have anything to do with that, mind you, regardless of what the police thought. I think the institute just… swallowed them up. The halls, the back halls, are a winding maze. Not quite as bad as the tunnels below the institute, but still had a lot of dead ends and doorways that led right back around. Easy to get lost. Harder to get found.

Or maybe they just couldn’t handle it and left. There’s a lot of things that aren’t nice to see, down in the maintenance tunnels and tucked away in back corners of closets. It’s like the lower you get in the institute, the closer you get to something awful.

Whatever happened, they were gone. I ended up the only janitor. Dunno why Mr. Bouchard didn’t hire more. Maybe he thought I was enough. Maybe he thought it was more cost-efficient to just have one. Honestly, I don’t know. But whatever the reason, it ended with just me. I minded the extra work, though the pay made up for it.

And for a while, that was it. Things were normal. I’d come to work, stay long hours cleaning and tidying the institute in patterned chunks, and leave late. I got very little sleep, and my attempts at socialization had mixed results, but it got me by. 

One day while I was cleaning some of the back halls I saw something shining on the floor. When I looked down to inspect it closer, it was a little silver worm with a black head. I was never one to kill bugs, so I put it in a little container to put outside later. And then, I found another. And another, and another, until my whole container was full of the wriggling little babies. Once my shift ended, I brought them outside with me and set them free in the bushes out front of the institute.

JON

I’m sorry- you picked them up, carried them outside, and did you just call them babies?

STELLA

Yes. Is there something in your ears as well?

[She laughs, because ha ha there are mushrooms in her ears. Jon is displeased]

Fine. Not one for humor, I suppose. Well, anyway, that is exactly what I did. And what I continued to do. Every time I went down there, I had to bring bigger and bigger containers, there were so many worms. I could barely work.

And then… then I met her. The source of the beautiful worms. My darling, my goddess. Jane. Her hair was like ebony silk, skin like ivory, pocketed with glittering holes of silver and darkness. She had no eyes, but I didn’t mind. She was breathtaking. I felt awed in a way I’d never felt before, and I knew she was the one. She was special. Important. It was love. No, not love. Something stronger, more incomparable, more ethereal. Something so massively engulfing that I could have no hope of understanding it. But I felt it. And I could tell she felt it too.

JON

You… fell in love with Jane Prentiss? Are you sure that’s what you were feeling? It wasn’t… disgust, fear, hatred, the innate human instinct of survival?

STELLA

[sharply] Love is love, Mr. Archivist. Don’t be homophobic.

JON

I’m not- being homophobic! I don’t care that you fell in love with a woman, it’s simply… the specific… woman, if you can even call her that anymore.

STELLA

Regardless, quite rude. Jane is not some horrid monster, any more than you or I.

JON

[sigh] Please just… continue, Miss Mills.

STELLA Fine. One day, I met Jane. And she was… beautiful beyond words. I remember complimenting her dress. It looked wonderful on her. She thanked me, and her voice was like a thousand singing angels.The conversation continued, and talking to her just felt so.. Natural. Easy. Comfortable. Like conversations should feel. There was nothing forced like with my coworkers, or my other… acquaintances. Everything flowed as easily as water. This only confirmed what I was already feeling: That she was my soulmate, she was the one. I visited her every day, spending hours talking about anything that came to mind. It was heaven.

She taught me about rot. I’d always had a fascination with mushrooms, fungi, and the circle of life and decay. But she opened my eyes to the deeper beauty in it all. In the gentle snowfall of spores, the soft fuzz of mold, the singing murmur of bugs. It was enchanting.

I don’t know exactly when I began rotting. It happened slowly, naturally. It felt amazing. Pure ecstasy, knowing that I was spreading and joining the great universal ending. We all decay, Mr. Archivist. If not treated with those horrid chemicals, if not prevented by some unnatural means, we all decay. We are meant to decay. It is our destiny, our fate, our calling. Those who try to avoid this great finality are hubristic fools. I am no fool.

Then that horrible tragedy came. You broke the wall and started her grand plan early. And then you killed her. Killed her and all of her children. You refused her gift of rot, of unity! You never deserved it.

[pause.]

I see your scars, Mr. Archivist. You were so close to receiving her gift, and you rejected it so violently. You could not understand or appreciate it. Your ignorance… your hubristic fear… your small-minded hatred… killed her. Killed my darling beloved. And you didn’t even let her return to the earth. You caged her! Trapped her in a jar in your desk! You…

[sob]

JON

…… [he is unsure of what to do] …continue.

STELLA

[Quietly, and with great difficulty] …I rescued her. I snuck into your office and found her ashes. There’s an… exposed wall in the basement. I filled it… I filled it with life. With rot. I scattered her ashes in it and gave her that beautiful finality. The mushrooms and plants that grew there made the perfect habitat for the few children I saved. They’re blossoming. I’m- I’m so proud of them… [she begins sobbing]

JON

Is that all?

STELLA

[sobs louder]

JON

…end statement.

[click]

[click]

Follow up is… complicated. Miss Mills is, in fact, the only janitor at the institute. Elias will not explain why. Obviously her claims about rotting are correct, as she is covered in fungi and mold. As for the habitat… the Institute is a very complex building, as she claims. We cannot find it, however the ashes of Jane Prentiss are no longer in my desk drawer. I can’t say I’m too upset about it, however the implication that some worms survived is… obviously concerning. I have informed Elias about this. We will see what happens. End recording.

[click]

( @mushworms4ever )

Hello, Stella.

I was not aware you had direct access to the tapes. Since apparently you do, I'm going to instead question who you've sent me an entire transcript of your statement recording?

[w3atherboy-is-lost-again]

How do you say water?

-💛🌕

Why must you ask this all the time?-

Wahter

[lone-starlight]

Wow, so you're not only stupid, but selfish too.

Have you even seen the post? He clearly loves you still.

He'd be happy to talk to anybody at this point.

Especially if that someone is you.

Don't you think that it'd make a good birthday surprise?

And he'll remember ylu regardless.

It's just a difference of whether you want him to remember the young and innocent you or you as the "adult" you grew up to be.

-🎱

I mean. Yeah, I... you have a point. I'd be happy to see him too but...

I don't wanna go

I can't go ba

How would I even

I can't even get him ou

I just... don't know how to go about this. I need time to figure it out.

Time I might not even have.

Transcript:

I don't wanna go

I can't go ba[ck]

How would I even

I can't even get him [out]

Time I might not even have.

[wickedadaar]

Nauseatingly in Love: Prelude

The events leading up to Lanti and Grey's first official date

Featuring Grey from @apothe-cary

Co-written by apothe-cary. Pulled directly from Lanti and Grey’s RP chats with minimal edits.

Word count: 2,401

Grey kicked down his own door. Lanti giggled at his actions. "I don't think that was really necessary, vhenan." “I think I jumped from boyfriend to vhenan calls for celebration.” Wrapping her hands in his hair, "That's fair, but... do you know what vhenan means?" “Something about a heart, yes?” He set her down into his bed, looking down at her. She was impressed. "My heart, specifically," she said as she stared up at him. He leaned down, biting her lip, “So I am yours. Tell me all the ways I am yours, my dear.” His eyes glimmered mischievously.

She leans into him, melting into his touch. "Where would you like me to begin?" she asked, her eyes reflecting his intentions. He put a strand of her hair behind her ear. “How about your favorite part?” "Happily," she wrapped her arms around his neck and pulled him in for another tender kiss. He leaned down, giving her another kiss, this time slow and sweet, savoring each taste. His tongue swept over her lips before pulling back. “Lanti..” "Mmm, yes?" She was putty in his hands. He grinned and lay down, turning away, “Goodnight.”

She chuckled and rolled her eyes. "If you insist," she proceeded to burrito herself with his entire blanket. “Let me take you out first before we do much else. I want it…to mean much more.” His arms wrapped around her burrito self. "Sounds good, but I'm still sleeping here. Your bed is softer than mine," she unrolled part of the blanket and offered it to him. "How about that picnic you mentioned earlier? That sounds lovely." “That's the plan, darling. Was thinking about a place in Rivain, nice picnic at the seaside.” He kissed the top of her head, “I want everything to be perfect with you, Lanti. It’s been so long…since I’ve had this connection, and I can’t bear to lose it with you.”

"Maker, it's been so long since I've been to the beach. That sounds perfect, vhenan." She pauses, cupping his cheek with her hand, staring up at him, "I want you to know that I really do care for you, and I don't plan on going anywhere. We can go at whatever pace is comfortable for you, but just know, I've already fallen for you." He smiled, watching her eyes, watching their sincerity show, “I just can’t help but be afraid of it. Of the worst. Our jobs don’t exactly ensure our lives. But for you. I’d do this all over again to meet you. And fall for you all the same. Now rest up.” He pulled her close. She smiled up at him, his words tugging at her heart. "I feel the same way. I love you, vhenan. Goodnight," she said, tucking her head against the crook of his neck and snuggling into him.

Time Skip— Grey has slept soundly with her in his arms, his eyes fluttering from the sun coming through his window, looking down at Lanti, pulling her further into his chest. She sleepily mumbles something in Antivan, nuzzling closer against him. “Should wake up.” His voice was groggy and mumbled with sleepiness still lingering, kissing her forehead. "Mmm, fine," she grumbles, lifting her face to look into his eyes. "You're even more handsome first thing in the morning." He pulled her into a gentle kiss, “And you are too sweet this early in the morning. Sleep well?” Lanti’s eyes shining, "Better than I have in a long time. Thank you," she leans in and kisses him gently. “Don’t thank me. I’d actually rather you keep sleeping in my bed, though I think that would be selfish.” He chuckled, giving her one last kiss before getting up to change clothes, taking off his shirt. She chuckles, "It's not selfish if I want to keep sleeping here too," she teased as she watched him get out of bed and freezes for a moment when he takes off his shirt, debating with herself if she should be watching him or not

He chuckled, feeling her struggle, “I don’t mind you looking, Lanti. Feel free, it is your claim after all.” She giggled as the blush crept to her cheeks once more. "Well, in that case," she jested as she watched him, studying how each of his muscles moved, enjoying the show. “Plus I have to admit I like your eyes on me.” He winked at her, bending down to grab a new shirt from his drawers. Lanti smiles to herself, thinking she could get used to this, "I rather like watching you." He slipped on the new shirt. “How about I go check around to everyone and make you something in the kitchen?” He leans down to kiss her head. "Sounds good, thanks, love. I'll join you in a little while."

Sometime later, after a few drinks, Lanti escorts Grey back to his room, his arm around her neck to support him. "Come on, take a seat. I'll get you some water, love." He chuckled, “I’m a drunken fool and you coddle me?” "Of course, I do. Like I told you last night, I'm not going anywhere." She gave him a wink and a kiss on the cheek, stroking his hair. “Lucky me to have such a fine lady.” He chuckled, taking her hand and kissing it. "Lucky me to have such a sweet man." She cups his cheek with her hand and looks into his eyes as she smiles. “Hm?” He looked up at her. She chuckles, "What, I can't admire you for a moment?"

“Just surprised me is all. Staring at me like that. Makes it hard to resist.” He chuckled. She giggled, tucking a piece of hair behind her ear, looking away for a moment. "Such a charmer." His hand went to her cheek, having her look back at him, “That’s because you bring it out of me.” She blushed and giggled at him once more. "Are we sure it's me, and not the wine?" She couldn't help but tease him a little. It was basically their second love language at this point. “I’m sure it helps me say it out loud. But I always think it.” He winked, pressing a gentle kiss to her lips

She giggles at his words once more. She traced her fingers through his hair as she kissed him back, melting into his touch. “You know I love you, right?” He hummed against her lips. "Well, now I do," she teased with a chuckle. "Of course I do, and I love you too." She said, giving him another gentle kiss. “I should drink more, it gets you all cozy like this, lets me have you all to myself.” He pulled her down on him. She squeaked as he pulled her onto him, laughing gleefully in surprise. As she lands on his chest, she looks up at him. "You could have just asked," she teased, tucking some hair behind her ear as it fell towards her face

He nipped her ear, “Where’s the fun in that?” "Grey," she hummed at the sensation, leaning into his touch. "You are playing a dangerous game right now." “I’ve always wanted to do that. Seeing your cute ears, I wondered if they turned just as red as you.” He kissed her ear. Her blush finally spread the full length of her ears. "Well, I guess that answers your question," she giggled at his touch. “Yeah, it did, now I’m wondering what else I can make you do.” He hummed into her ear, pulling back to see her face. “You’re gorgeous.”

Her eyes go wide, a little surprised by his boldness. She was speechless as the red in her cheeks intensified further. Grey noticed her reaction and pulled back, “I, sorry, I should. Maker..should I stop?” She paused for a moment, considering her words. "No, it's not that," she chuckled, holding his face in her hands as she kissed his nose. She pulled back just enough to see his face. "I was looking forward to that picnic you promised me," she batted her eyes at him and bit the corner of her lip nervously.

He pressed her into his chest, “Maker…yes, the picnic, I guess I should lay off the wine.” He pecked her lips. "I don't know, I kind of like how bold you are with the wine." She pauses, "You could always pack some for the picnic?" she suggests, resting her chin against his chest as she looks up at him. “Was thinking mini sandwiches and some lemonade, just fresh treats.” He caressed her face. "Sounds lovely." She rests her head and hands on his chest, snuggling into him. "When did you want to go?"

“Tomorrow? If you are interested.” She sat up and looked at him indignantly, "If I'm interested? You really need to ask?" she chuckled, tracing her thumb along his jaw. “I'm still a gentleman, I can’t kidnap you.” He chuckled, rubbing her back. She chuckled and kissed him again. "See, this is why I love you. You make me smile in the most effortless ways." He smiled and kissed her back. She chuckles to herself, "You know, it's funny. I could fall asleep like this, no problem. You're very comfortable." “Feel free to do so.”

She nuzzles against his chest once more, taking a deep breath and realizing how good he smells. She wraps her arms around his shoulders, pulling herself closer. "Mmm, it's very tempting." He kissed the top of her head, his arms tight around her waist, “Then rest. I’m here with you.”

Some time passes before she wakes up from her nap. As she began to stir, she looked up at Grey, "How long was I out?" “Your guess is as good as mine. I was distracted.” He chucked, holding her, “Enough for it to be morning.” "Distracted, hmm? By what, I wonder?" She chuckled. He was too sweet. Grey brought up his hand, gently caressing her face, pushing her hair behind her ear, “Hmm, I don’t know, maybe this stunning lady I have in my bed.” He kissed her cheek, “So that picnic, is that still your fancy for today?”

She blushed and smiled up at him. "Always such a charmer." She paused, sitting up a little. "That picnic sounds wonderful, amor. I can't wait." Her smile widened, and a twinkle appeared in her eye. This would be their first date outside of the Lighthouse, and she was beyond excited for it. “How do you feel about swimming? Was thinking we can swim in a lake too after we eat, but heard some people here don’t like the water.” He raised a brow. She paused for a moment, "Maker, I couldn't tell you the last time I went swimming for fun. That sounds amazing." She chuckled, "Well, I was born Dalish and grew up in Treviso, the city of canals. Being uncomfortable around water would have made my life infinitely worse."

Grey chuckled, “I’m sure it’s not unheard of, but to keep you comfortable, I had to ask.” He sat up, stretching out, moving Lanti to a comfortable pillow. "Well, I appreciate it, vhenan." She sat up on her elbows as she watched him, noticing how soft his pillows were. Truly, a luxury she was unaccustomed to in the Crows. “Then, I propose we get a move on. I still have to cook the food and get a basket to store it in. Though I might find one in the kitchen.” He got up, heading to his closet, “Wear something light as well, darling, easy to strip.”

She hops up off the bed, pretending his last comment didn't send her into a mini spiral, blushing racing across her cheeks, up her ears. "Then I guess I should go change. I'll meet you in the kitchen?" “Of course.” He kissed her cheek, letting her go but not before giving her a light slap on her bottom. Grey returned to looking for clothes before deciding what to wear. She blushed even harder after that, glad he couldn't see her face as she left to go to her room. She was running through possible outfits, and she finally landed on the perfect one. She just needed to find it.

She returned after changing, hoping Grey would like her outfit. She knocked gently, waiting for him to answer. "Can I come in?" Grey found himself a fresh set of clothes, a loose, low-cut shirt, and some pants. He opened the door, looking down and admiring Lanti, “Maker, if you do, you might not leave.” She chuckled and blushed again at his words. Maker, he knew just what to say every time. "So you like the dress?" She teased a little, twirling to show the entirety of her outfit. “What makes the dress is the person in it.” He gripped her chin, his other arm around her waist, pulling her in.

She squeaked a little as he pulled her against him. "Always the charmer," she teased as she looked up at him, resting her hands on his chest. He leaned down, kissing her, “I do try.” He murmured against her lips. She giggled into his kiss, the heat returning to her cheeks as his breath tickled her lips. "Maker, you'll be the end of me," she whispered back to him, forgetting herself for a moment.

He gave her one more kiss before pulling back, “We'd better head out before we get carried away.” He walked over to his personal kitchen. “There were other things I wanted to grab from the bigger kitchen, but there was some drama going on there, and I decided against it. So we have fruits, sandwiches, and homemade cookies. Wish I could have packed some more.” He grabbed the basket on his counter. She nodded in agreement, following him. "Well, in my humble opinion, it sounds perfect." She approached and wrapped both hands around one of his arms, leaning against him. "So, where did you have in mind for our picnic?"

“Little spot in Arlathan, found it when I was treasure hunting. It’s got a nice waterfall around too, which is why I asked if you could swim.” He hummed. She chuckled, "You know I've never been to Arlathan? I hear it's beautiful, though." “Interestingly enough, I go there often. A lot of treasure. Ready to go?” He raised a brow. She gazed up at him, smiling. "Lead the way."

[piloting-an-intern]

>[There was a loud noise coming from the medical room. It seems like someone dropped some glass in there.]

>[As you entered the room, a girl about a year older than you was cleaning the mess on the floor.]

>[This is the first time you'll be interacting with her.]

>[From what you heard from Curly, she is Anya's Intern... Nearly everyone forgotten her name, well... Except for Daisuke.]

>[Would you like to talk to the medical intern?]

> @mouthwashingcameronrookie <

((00C: hello! I love your OC blog!:D))

{OOC: Thank you!! I love yours, too!!}

[Why yes. Yes, he would. He'd been struggling to work up the nerve to talk to anyone on board, and honestly, he was starting to get nervous that he'd not talk to anyone before the haul was completed.]

[But opportunity strikes eventually. It always does.]

"Excuse me?"

[He takes a step closer, his voice recorder clutched tightly in hand. After a moments hesitation, he crouched down across from them.]

"Would you like some, uhm, help, maybe? This is a pretty big mess.."

[sheriff-deacon-keller]

what happened to you and arthur that one day? you said you needed to talk then completely went mia. were you guys ok? did you do something gay????

Arthur and I try to keep private conversations of the internet. Ya never know who’s watchin’.

[morally-ambiguous-bird]

Jan. 19

Hurts… fuck everythin’ hurts. Somet’in’s bleedin’, ‘dunno what, think i’s ‘nside though…

Keep throwin’ up, ‘s all red ‘nd frothy ‘n’ gross, what the hell d’I eat?

…no, wai’ it can’t be someth’n’ I ate c’se I haven’… th’nk I need t’ go lay down, m’head hurts…

[thepollyjustice]

Hi Mr Justice

”Hi there! Nice to meet ya.”

[thekinkyleopard]

A Shifter’s Tale

AlxKoxNai RP Canon Lore Transcript

Part 1

⚠️Content Warning⚠️

Foul Language, Demons, Sneaky Snz Mention

Description: Two residents of hell, are released out onto our reality on Earth. Each with their own set of reasons. How will that turn out for an Anti-Christ that craves chaos and a Gate Hound that just wants to understand? Join them on discovering the meaning behind being “a person” and building connections.

Author’s Notes: I knoooooow I announced this months ago and just getting to it nooowwww I’m sorryyyyy LOL me and Geez have also been behind on the RP anyway so this will be a short part! Hope you all enjoy 🤪 @aller-geez owns Kanai and Draeko, and did the lovely cover art!

Kezz: Alistar laid back against a large, blackened stone lounge, stretching his long limbs before scratching his stomach and smacking his lips, looking upward at the space above his head. Fire, brimstone, ash. It surrounded him, and for some it would be exhausting to breathe within such a contaminated environment, the demon only thrived. He counted each flickering speckle of dusted ash that floated across his vision before he heard it, the booming sound of his father’s hoove steps. “Abaddon,” he called out, coldly, harshly, like a knife secretly at your kidney. Dont make any sudden movements or sounds. Alistar, however, unphased by the Deity’s darkened, and aggressive manner turned his head, slowly, painfully so. It made the large half goat half demon’s eye twitch, snarling with impatience. “It’s time…while you weren’t due for your collection til next week, Cerberus has asked me that you accompany Kanai to earth, keep him straight,” he narrowed his goat like eyes, staring into the the emptiness that was Al’s true form, his blackened scleras and reddened irises rolled across the back of his skull. “Yeah, okay, whatever gets me the fuck out of her—…” suddenly a sharp pain at his throat, like he couldn’t breathe, and his body slowly lifted off the surface he once was standing on.

He moved to speak, but nothing could come out, every time he tried it was like fire in his esophagus. “Abaddon, there is no room for Error in this mission, shall I discover you’re /slacking/ or failing in anyway….I will not hesitate to eliminate you,” the monster was clear with what he meant, and Alistar was sure in even the farthest corner of his mind, his father meant it, he'd seen him smite others for less. His eye twitched but he didn’t whimper, or cower. He simply went limp, eyes glaring daggers in the direction of his so called dad.

“Yes, that…right there Abs….hold onto that hatred, that anger….itll come in handy…don’t go soft when you get down to earth,” as if someone had tossed a baseball, just as casually, Al went flying through the air, collapsing to the ground with a rough thud and scrape of his jeans, creating more tears in them. “Understood…” he spat, avoiding eye contact now but refusing to show a glimpse of emotion. “Good boy,” Satan smirked waving his hand off to signal that demon’s exit. “Be gone now, do as you were created to,” Alistar came to a stand, dusting himself off and with a grunt, headed toward the gates.

“Fucking bastard…” he grumbled once out of ear shot. “Real piece of work that Satan…” scoffing to himself before he reached his destination. “Nai! S’go!!” His hands cupped around his mouth to amplify the sound of his voice calling out to his best friend.

Geez: Meanwhile, Kanai stood at the huge iron gates as large flames licked up the metal, the thick black layer of soot constantly kept fresh throughout the millennia with ease. The hellhound stood tall and proud, like he wasn’t the size of an ant standing in front to the terrifying three headed beast that was his father. Cerberus had long ropes of drool that slid between his massive teeth as he panted, although Kanai stood completely motionless as if his body was made of stone, his black rimmed heterochromatic eyes focused straight in front of him to show his respect for the huge canine.

“Lucifer has offered for you to be accompanied to the mortal world by his son. He will be joining you to ensure your safe return after your Ramspringa. You are my smartest son, and I have faith that you will simply become bored of the mortal world. Your intelligence should make this the shortest Ramspringa yet, and when you return, I will begin to personally train you to begin the process of taking my place in front of the gate.” Cerberus clapped one massive paw against Kanai’s shoulder and although he didn’t move a muscle, the sheer force behind the encouraging gesture was enough to make the Merle hound lose his balance a little, taking a few small steps to the side in order to regain his balance.

“Yes, father. You have nothing to worry about. I have located a few points of interest that I would like to indulge. I will be returning shortly to allow you to finally step down.” The borzoi nodded very slowly, now allowing himself to make eye contact with one of the three terrifying canine heads that sat atop his father’s shoulders. “I have faith in you, boy. Now, go find his offspring and make sure your temporary flesh vessels were created correctly before you depart through the portal. You will only get one after porting to earth.” His father warned with a stern expression, to which Kanai nodded silently to show he understood.

Just as the hellhound turned to trek through the familiar fire and brimstone that he had called home for 2500 years to locate Alistar, his ears perked up to sit gently upon his head as the same deep, frustrated voice of his best friend resonated within his head. The gold piercings that dangled from the tips of his ears swayed lazily as he whipped his head around towards the familiar voice, his blue and brown eyes instantly connecting with the silhouette of the redhead calling out to him. Padding down the array of blackened stones that let from the thick iron doors, Kanai finally stood face to face with Alistar. “I thought you had no interest in returning to earth, Donnie?” The hound asked with a tilt of his head as they both began to trudge towards the Vessel Laboratory, both mentally preparing for the lengthy process that leaving hell always was.

Kezz: Alistar waited out, kicking the greyish terf about with the point of his steel sole, flesh bound foot cover. Sighing deeply he looked off into the distance, seeing a horizon of fire and the echoing sounds of tormented souls shrieking loudly in his ears. It was mundane. The same shit everyday. Torture. Fire. Ash. Then you have the frozen layer. Torture. Ice. Cold. Even more boring than the fire. He couldn’t wait to get back onto earth. He had only had a few sessions of training down there, supervised of course by a higher level demon, recruited under his father as always. So he never got to have an authentic experience. He just hoped he could at LEAST, find a couple mythicals walking around so he can get some real good tail. His best friend just wasn’t cuttin’ it anymore. The second the Borzoi headed toward him he already nodded his head, running a grey hand through his ruby red hair.

“No interest? Oh Kanai, my dear sweet canine friend, the opposite is true!” He raised his arms high. “There is so much to discover on Earth, so much mischief! You thought mischief down here was entertaining? Wait til we get up there!” Pointing upward toward what could be considered the sky to hell but more or less was just more brimstone. Hell was a lot like being stuck inside a giant castle on fire. While the two of them made their way to the Lab, Alistair sighed with a dreamy like tone to his voice. “It’s going to be so great…two of us…taking on planet earth,” he just really wanted to get the fuck away from the world’s biggest Narcissist ever created. His father. He couldn’t stand being surrounded by brothers who all praised and kissed their father’s ass, with said father eating it up like a thanksgiving brunch. A vulgar sight to see.

He wouldn’t have to speak to them ever again, so long as he kept his vessel alive, and away from any of his brother’s also on earth. Shouldn’t be hard. They were all busy with their objective. Collect souls for hell. The more souls signed over to Satan, by his name or in his honor, the less powerful Lucifer’s chain tethers are. There are tethers in heaven that connect to restraining Lucifer into hell and keeping him there. The less souls in heaven VS in Hell, the less power Heaven has over hell, slowly releasing him. Once he can regain visitation to Earth, he can take over and rule all. Eye rolling himself into the sun, but this is what Al was trained, groomed, and bred to do. Yet, he rejected every part of it. Fuck that. If he was FORCED here, he was going to have the free will his grandfather intended for him, and indulge.

“They better have gotten my customizations right, swear I don’t wanna have to do it down ON Earth it’s so much worse when you’re occupying the vessel,” his half lidded, disinterested eyes turned to that of slight worry, hoping the lab demons didn’t get lazy, or petty. It’s a gamble working with demons. They walked through the archway, and immediately the lackies began to scatter about to get things in line for the two Princes. “Your Majesties…” they began “Ew stop, I’ve told you, don’t do that, My father isn’t a King,” Alistar rolled his eyes. “Our vessels ready? And you didn’t fuck up the instructions did you? Cause I’ll fucking rip that tiny useless head right off your shitty shoulders,” stepping forward with his excruciatingly violent demeanor making the workers shrink nervously.

“Y-Yes Mr. Abaddon, Sir,” snorting he folded his grey arms over his chest.

“Let us see then,” nudging a look over to Kanai to gauge his reaction as their vessels were exposed to them. The bodies looked more or less like they would as people, but Alistar’s flesh was way more lively, blackened hand tattoos and matching blacked out neck, flames going up the wrists. The vessel had piercings, long snakebite spikes, septum, Medusa and tattoos under his eyes. Under the left was 666 under the right was a Leviathan cross. At the end of the day, he hated his dad, but, he knew he was safe covered in their family sigils whilst on earth. Gotta be protected by the radicalized Catholics and religious nuts that’ll try and douse him with holy water. “Oh hey look you did get it…wait…” the Anti-Christ stepped closer to the vessel examining it before looking inside the waist band. “Yo! What the fuck! That ain’t 10 inches!” He looked up with almost shocked rage.

“L-Look S-Sir we had to go with E-Eight….it was t-too much your d-dad said…” they cringed and cowered.

“Typical…fucking Old man, killin’ my buzz…” he crossed his arms and let out an irritated grunt, exhaling loudly through his flaring nostrils.

Geez: “I’m very intrigued to see how the mortals live.” Kanai nodded as he paced along side his best friend. As the two approached the facility, his ears pressed back against his skull, displaying his discomfort clearly as the demons began to fuss over them. They scurried around the building, trying their best to quell the redhead's temper. While the others were all busy with Alistar, the hellhound padded silently towards the vessel they had created for him, his dual colored eyes scanning up and down the mortal flesh before him. One of the worker demons from behind the rest of the group noticed his interest and broke away from the others to stand beside him, nodding with a hopeful look in their eyes. “I hope the vessel we have crafted for you meets your specifications, your majesty?” They asked cautiously.

Despite the redhead’s adversity to that word, Kanai couldn’t help but enjoy the special treatment. As the youngest son of Cerberus, and the only one who didn’t constantly get themselves into savage battles in the name of their father, he didn’t get the special treatment very often. So of course, he took advantage of it at any time he could. The vessel that lay lifeless on a stretcher was gorgeous, more than he even expected to receive. The grey skin accented the shoulder length blue grey hair, and the shiny black horns that protruded from its skull were a perfect replica of his own. The corners of the hellhounds muzzle turned up slightly when he noticed the upside down crosses that hung from the human ears. Littered across the vessels face were a multitude of different piercings: gold cheek piercings, two top lip labrets, two bottom lip labrets, as well as black rings in both nostrils, and another ring buried within its septum.

“It exactly matches my request, you have my gratitude.” Kanai nodded, his dual colored eyes flying to meet with Alistar’s. “Are we prepared for departure then, Abaddon?” His tone was changed only slightly as his impatience began to get the best of him, his paws shuffling until him as he began to get antsy to experience anything besides the bowels of hell that he was used to.

Kezz: Alistar sighed, crossing his arms over his chest and huffing to himself. “8 inches…PFT…” he grumbled under his breath, but before long his pouting intercepted by Kanai’s question. “We gotta get into the vessels first dingaling….and stop calling me that, I made myself a new name for my new life…it’s Alistar….so yeah, from here on Abaddon is dead,” his voice was still very clearly irritated by the work that was done on his vessel, it was such a minor detail to everyone else, it was but a few inches in detail but it was enough to piss him off.

“I’m sorry your highness, truly, it was out of our judgement,” the grey skinned male rolled his darkened eyes and simply waved a hand about.

“Whatever just connect us to the vessels,” trying to get this show done and over with at the least so he could get to having a good time. Fuck this place. Alistar and Kanai were then approached by two tiny goblin like demons, and handed each a small tiny vile of black liquid.

“Here you are, Sir,” Al took the glass in his hand, observed the contents before ultimately downing it like a shot of alcohol. Similarly as well, it burned down his throat and made his whole body shutter violently. Used to the feeling as they had snuck in many times to steal vessels for their entertainment.

Soon the vessel that was once unanimated and laying down started to vibrate and glow a bright crimson and eventually so did Al. “Here we-..” he started to himself before long, the light was so bright neither body was distinguished from within the light, and with a loud crackling sound, BOOM. He and the vessel combined and as a large cloud of black smoke appeared from the sound, it slowly dissipated and revealed Alistar now standing in front of the team of demons all clapping their hands.

“Wonderful! How’s it feel your majesty?” Al exhaled with annoyance once more behind the sounds of celebration, rolling his now clear white scelaras and Ruby irises.

“Stop calling me that,” he didn’t want to be royalty. He wanted to be a God. Every time they called him a prince, your highness, majesty, he was reminded that he was nothing more than a successor to his damn father. No. He wanted to out rank that old man. And he would, so help him, he would.

“Our apologies…does the vessel feel comfortable?” the trembling demon asked.

“It would if I had a bigger dick but I suppose this’ll do….” Shaking his head back and forth in response.

Geez: Kanai snorted a chuckle through his nose. Growing up with Alistar, he completely understood the redhead's adversity towards his father. He, however, wanted nothing more than his father’s approval. His father was a fierce, legendary warrior that was respected by the creatures of hell, and he felt pure admiration for the three headed beast. But because of his overall lack of interest in savage battles like his siblings, he was often overlooked by his father. The fact that he was chosen to take his place in front of the gate should have been the best thing that had happened to him, but he couldn’t help but feel some sort of envy towards his siblings for getting to live their lives separately. How was he supposed to return to the bowels of hell quickly when the only thing waiting for him was solitude?

Getting torn from his own thoughts, a vial of the same viscous black liquid was thrust into his field of view, to which he tossed the goblin a nervous glance. Before he even had a chance to speak, Alistar had downed the substance, and after a moment, his best friend stood in front of him within the new vessel. The hellhound blinked a few times, trying to process the transformation, sure they'd done this a few times behind everyone's backs but this felt weird doing it on purpose, which only made the demon next to him jab an elbow into his side gently. “It’s your turn now, Your Majesty.”

With a nod, Kanai sucked in a deep breath, before taking the vial within his teeth and throwing his head back, the liquid sliding down the side of the glass and emptying down his throat. The liquid had a horrible, sickening taste that one could only describe as acid as it burned down his esophagus and filled his stomach, making the hellhound gag audibly, resulting in the the glass shattering against the ground in front of him. Ugh, he hated that taste.

“Your highness!?” The goblin shrieked nervously as they hopped around trying to avoid the glass that scattered around their feet. Before he could speak, the vessel they had prepared for him also began to vibrate and emit a navy blue light, and his canine body followed suit shortly after. Moments pass before his body was replaced by a disembodied blue orb of light that quickly disappeared within the vessels open mouth with a deafening sparking sound, followed by complete silence.

After a second, the human eyes of the vessel flew open, revealing Kanai’s blackened scleras and heterochromatic irises, and he slowly sat up before lifting his greyed hands and flipping them back and forth in front of him, reunited with human hands instead of the four paws he was used to standing on.

“D-Does…. Does everything feel o-okay for you, my prince?” The goblin asked cautiously as Kanai began to peel his new body from the stretcher it once laid in.

“Different.. but.. Sufficient.” Kanai nodded respectively.

Kezz: Alistar stretched his new arms out, admiring his tattoos and his newly colored flesh. He couldn’t believe that he was this close to getting the fuck out of this literal hell hole. His Ruby gaze stared closely as Kanai swiftly shifted and changed to combine with the vessel waiting for him. Once the body animated to life, he himself smirked and clapped his hands. “Alriiiiiight, let’s do this shit then…gotta get back to the gates in our new vessels and get the whole entire fuck out of here!” Grabbing his best friend now by his very human like shoulders and shaking him back and forth. “We’re gonna be free beings, Nai!” His teeth grinned brightly ear to ear, he couldn’t wait. The parties, the sex, the drugs, the chaos, all of it. The humans too. He couldn’t wait to pluck their souls and fuck with their heads. He hated those little cretins.

“Ready?” He asked as he cocked a look to his best friend. Not long after they found their way back across the darkened ashy wasteland Alistar stared about the large black, metal gates. Though, if you were to touch them, your fingers shall whisper through like an illusion. Around the gates was a large bursting wall of blue flames. “Alright, how the fuck do we do the thing and get down to earth then, are we like…waiting for your dad with the key or…” he looked around with an empty epression on his face but his body jittered with impatience.

Geez: The bright blue light from the flames in front of them reflected in Kanai’s black scleras as he examined the gate for a second, until he finally processed what Alistar had asked him. Turning his head towards the redhead eerily slowly, his face could only display what one would imagine would be a confused expression but it was nearly the same as any other. “…Have you forgotten that the gates of hell require no key, Donnie?” He tilted his head to the side as he questioned the demon, thoroughly confused by the sentiment.

Alistar had grown up in Hell with the hellhound, and had seen the gates used many times in that time. Maybe he had simply forgotten? As his heterochromatic eyes stayed locked on his best friend's, one greyed lanky arm was outstretched in front of him and his palm met with the iron bars of the legendary gate. The closer his hand got to the gate, the more transparent the flames behind it got until they disappeared completely as his skin made contact. He simply pushed lightly against the metal, and the massive gate creaked loudly as it was dragged against the stone ground to open a few inches.

“See? We only have to push it while the seal is lifted for our departure.” He nodded to punctuate his statement before the intense chill of the unfamiliar air behind the gate made the hair on his outstretched arm stand on end. Retracting his arm back quickly as if he had been shocked, his gaze snapped towards the gate as he held his hand to his chest. He had never been close enough to the great gate to feel the other worldly air, and it was a stark reminder that he was about to leave hell, the only place he’d ever known, for the first time.

His heart thudded loudly in his chest, but his facial expression didn’t change at all. Once able to process his thoughts, the hound quickly adjusted the halo that glowed brightly over his head, and turned back to Alistar. “Piloerection while in the vessel feels way more intense with less hair.. I must discover the reason once we have adequate time on earth, Abad-…. Alistar.” Correcting himself quickly, Kanai nodded again as almost a pat on the back for remembering the redhead’s new preferred name. “If you are ready, we may depart. Make sure to remain close behind me, so you may also depart without instance.” He told the other offhandedly, although all of his focus was on the gate now as he reached out both hands and forced the gate open just enough for the two to squeeze through.

Even if it was only opened slightly, the metal made a bone chilling sound as it scraped the ground, and the icy air from outside the gate was strong enough to blow Kanai’s grey blue hair back as it rushed in. Without stopping, suddenly the hound began to move forward and through the gate, into the overwhelming darkness on other side. Shortly, the darkness consumed his entire body, and in the time it had taken him to blink, he suddenly found himself having to squint against the sun that burned his unaccustomed eyes. Raising a hand over his brow to shade his vision, the hellhound looked around at his surroundings. He was standing in an expansive field of well kept sod grass, and off in the distance were metal and plastic structures where a few children hung off of them while laughing, and a few others ran around them, equally bright smiles on their faces. Kanai had never seen such a thing..

As he stood staring into the distance, his train of thought was interrupted by the loud smack of footsteps that seemed to be getting louder, until a teenager ran past them wearing jogging shorts and tennis shoes, but no shirt. “Nice horns, faggot!” The teen jeered as he passed, followed by a sarcastic chuckle and a shake of his head. “You have my gratitude.” Kanai called after him with a nod, taking a moment to run his fingers across the points of his horns thoughtfully. “That was generous of that mortal..” he whispered to himself.

Kezz: Alistar stood there examining the metal from a far. He looked over at Kanai and frowned as he watched him effortlessly open the gates. Sure, he’d seen it done, that doesn’t mean he hadn’t been manipulated. “Easy for you to say asshole, I was told if I try to even touch the gate that I’d explode into a hurricane of guts and return as a worm….but now that I think about it….my dad really is a dirty fuckin liar….” Pursing his lips with agitation and thought. “You forget that only one of our dad’s tells the truth about shit,” rolling his crimson eyes, almost as if he was annoyed that Kanai often forgot how cruel and awful Lucifer is, but I suppose one can only know based off their personal experience, and Lucifer was generally neutral to be around for most everyone in hell. When suddenly Kanai pulled back, Alistar felt a slight tinge of panic from within his chest. “Are you gonna explode?!”

Fearing that maybe his father was right and no one that wasn’t holding a position of power, couldn't in fact open the gates. Noticing there was no look of horror, torment or pain spread across his friend’s face, Alistar chucked a brow up as he looked at him closely noticing that the hound was starting to slowly come back to reality, he then began squinting slightly as the hellion spoke. He allowed the other his slip up, and decided to make no fuss on it. He just shrugged his shoulders.

“Look, I’d rather we didn’t waste anymore time here, let’s go,” starting to fall impatient as they just stood between the very real, obtainable moment of being on earth, and the harsh reality that was the fact, they were still standing in Hell. Once Kanai started to actually open the gate, Al creeped closely behind, hoping to avoid getting lost and them appearing in two different locations.

Luckily, as the darkness that started to consume them, disappeared like clouds opening up from the sun, Alistar squinted, and suddenly like the fog was cleared, he realized they were no longer in hell. The echoing sounds of small humans playing filled his ears, along with the teen, insulting his friend, as he passed by Kanai. The red head swiftly, and in great timing, stuck his leg out and burst into laughter when the kid went flying face forward into the concrete. “Ah!” He exclaimed as his nose hit the cement and blood trickled down his face. “What the hell man?”

“Nah, I don’t live there anymore but, you’re more than welcome….” Alistar stared deeply into the kid’s eyes and towered over his body that still lay on the ground. “Be gone, cretin,” he hissed at the teen, and before long the boy scrambled to his feet and took off. “Kanai, Faggot is an insult, he was essentially saying you’re a dirty dick sucker….which in theory doesn’t make sense…because sucking dick and having your dick sucked is actually….really fucking great so idk, kid is a buzzkill I guess,” he shrugged his shoulders before he looked around to see where exactly they landed.

It was a huge park, massive, in the middle of a very large city, buildings everywhere. “Shit where the hell did the gates drop us off at?” He looked around questionably, before realizing there was stuff in his pockets. He reached down, patted at his pants and realized there was a cell phone, a wallet and any information he would need as a “human.” IE Social Security card, ID (fake address provided) a bank card connected to an account that was indeed, full. “Damn dad really made sure we were set,” he snickered going through the phone and realizing just how much freedom they had now. “Let’s go do something fun….Fuck everything else,” the red head turned to look at his best friend, smirking before someone behind Kanai caught his attention.

A man smoking a cigarette, which intrigued Alistar so much he actually pushed past Kanai to talk to the stranger. “Hey dude do you have another one of those?” The stranger looked at Al up and down, squeezed his eyes with an air of judgement before he scoffed.

“No, who the fuck are you? Fuckin bum, get out of here,” the red head frowned, and scoffed audibly.

“Fine then,” his eyes closed and when they opened again, they were entirely black and suddenly the man went stiff, frozen in place. “Give me all of the Smokey sticks you have,” demanding slowly of the man, who nodded in return, shoveling his hand in his pocket only to pull the pack out and hand it over. “Good, now fuck off,” he spat at the stranger he essentially mind robbed. “Look Nai! Treats!” He held the box up like a trophy, making his way back.

Geez: Watching the boy run off further into the park for a second before turning his attention back to the redhead as he spoke, Kanai was yet again confused by the explanation he was given. “An insult?… but he said he liked my horns, which is a compliment, yes?” The wheels in the hellhounds head were clearly turning, but the concept was lost on him. “Regardless, that mortal seems to be rather uneducated to think that I was ever unclean while engaging in fellatio..”

How would this strange creature even know about his life in hell? Maybe they had certain powers that he hadn’t read about that allowed them such insight into his past life?

Still quite obviously mulling these thoughts around in his head, he opened his mouth to fire off another endless string of questions for the redhead, but was quickly cut off as he was pushed to the side. The hellhound’s halo that hung in the air above him slid a little from the abrupt movement, however he caught the glowing ring in his hand before it manage to slip off of his head and clatter to the ground below him. With what could assume was a frustrated grunt, the halo was readjusted over his head again while he watched Alistar’s exchange with the stranger.

Suddenly, Kanai could feel the energy switch to hostility in the human as he squinted toward the redhead, making the quick decision to stay back and observe on the off chance that if this man attempted to attack, he would quickly become the demon's first soul harvest of their adventure. The hound wasn’t the most adept when it came to physical altercations, so what would it hurt to have a little more first hand experience before he was faced with the task? Although just as quickly as the energy between the two had become hostile, the man became compliant, stuffing the strange box into Al’s outstretched black hand. Huh. Guess there would be no epic battle for him to study.

The word ‘treats’ echoed in Kanai’s head for a second before his multi colored irises finally lifted to the box being held up. He had no idea what the exchange was even over, but he could tell that his friend was excited about their gift, and this alone calmed the warning bells that had been going off in his head. Slowly he made his way across the rest of the field that lie between him and the redhead, and when he finally stood in front of Alistar again he squinted slightly as he attempted to replicate the expression he had seen a few times already. Sure, he didnt know exactly what feeling he was supposed to be conveying by holding his eyes as such, but there couldn’t be that many emotions to fabricate. It must have at least been close to it.. right?

“…. What did you receive? I am unfamiliar with any treats that look as these do..” Kanai asked after a second of intense study, turning his head to look at his friend once again with a seemingly irate expression. Any kind of emotion looked strange displayed on his face having gone 2500 years with the same stoic, blank features, but this one definitely took the cake.

Kezz: Alistar placed his hands at his hips and couldn’t help but chuckle slightly at the other’s naivety. “It was sarcasm, Nai….I see I have my work cut out for me,” he shook his head but then grinned. “You’re not wrong on that end though pal,” pointing at him with finger guns.

Once retrieving the pack of cigarettes, which conveniently had a lighter tucked within the contents. “This is a …cancer stick? Cigarette? Stoge? The humans call them many things…they’re for sinners though…and I hear they taste awful but make you feel really good,” explaining the foreign item to his best friend, looking more at it than his strange expressions.

He slid one out of the package and brought it to his lips. “You light it like they do in the movies with this thing,” pulling out the lighter, he struggled with it a bit. Not exactly sure how to get the fire going. His red brows furrowed inward as he attempted to give the button a press. Nothing. What?

“Hm….” He contemplated audibly before examining the tool closely, the stoge hanging loosely from his lips. “Come on….tch…Uncle fucking Christ dude…why won’t it light??” Starting to get increasingly frustrated before eventually, by accident, his thumb slid along the rolling metal gears of the contraption, and pressing the button, boom, a small flame flickered about.

“Ah-hah!” He grinned with success, bringing the fire up to the end of the cigarette, and soon the demon’s lungs began to fill with smoke as he inhaled. After a few short drags, he exhaled gingerly, allowing the nicotine to rush straight into his brain. “Holy shit….” He stumbled, not used to the kick behind it. “Nai you gotta try this!” The trail of smoke lingering amongst the two and tickling Kanai’s sensitive nostrils, consuming his ability to smell anything else but the burning tobacco.

Geez: “I will have to study the subject more I suppose.” Kanai shrugged, not giving it any more thought. He released a short, sharp exhale to show that he had heard the redhead, his eyes locked onto the lighter in the other's hand as he struggled, although he had no insight on the foreign object so he stayed mainly quiet. When the flame finally managed to lick across the metal of the lighter, the hound's eyes lit up a little, fascinated more by the lighter than the cancer sticks that Alistar was so excited about. “…Mortals have pocket fires?” He asked curiously, reaching out to gesture for a closer look at the object. After a few seconds of silence as the redhead took a few drags, Kanai lifted his gaze from the lighter and back up to meet the other's ruby orbs. He had to admit, watching Alistar experience the intense nicotine rush did make him a little curious to try it himself. You know, for research reasons.

“I suppose I could parta—..” The hound was cut off mid sentence, already attempting to take the cigarette from Al’s outstretched hand, when he began to be overwhelmed by sensations that were completely new to him. His eyes quickly began to water, filling to the brim with liquid that seemed to force him to squint, making the bright blue from his irises almost glimmer in the sunlight they stood in. Within seconds, it felt as if someone had lit fire to the inside of his sinuses, and it only increased exponentially when he attempted a quick sniff to chase off the unbearable itching. The hellhound couldn't help but suck in an involuntary gasp of air as his eyes snapped shut, and he was instantly overwhelmed as the tickle bloomed into two unintentionally harsh releases into the space between them.

“huh’KIISSHH’ah! Eh'kgsssshihh!!“ Dazed, Kanai blinked slowly a few times, feeling an unfamiliar pressure behind his eyes as a single tear slipped from his left eye and down his grey cheek. “Apologies,” the hound sniffed once again as his eyes caught the small cloud of mist he had made into the air reflect the sunlight. With the strange feeling suddenly gone, he attempted to take the cigarette from Alistar once more, although the wind only directed the smoke straight towards him. He didn’t even have time to react this time as the tickle returned with vengeance. “hh’KSHHh’hieww!”

What the hell was going on? This had never happened while he was home. He wasn’t even sure what to call it.. how would he do any research on the subject?

With another quick sniffle, he dropped his outstretched hand to his side and shook his head. “I don’t think they are compatible with my vessel, Donnie.”

Kezz: Once Alistar finally got a flame going he felt much more confident in his abilities to figure out human tools. He smirked and looked over at Kanai with a grin. “Yeah, funny huh? In hell most of us can just flick our fingers and have a spark….humans are so useless they need to make tools for such tasks,” he cackled a bit before taking another large inhale of the cigarette while handing the hound the object in question for him to examine. Enjoying the rush the nicotine gave him as his head, thoughts and reality swirled amongst him.

He was suddenly caught extremely off guard by the sounds exploding out of his best friend. He blinked his crimson eyes once, twice, three times in confusion as the sound didn’t seem to stop, his cheeks turned a slight hue of red and he bit his lower lip, watching as his best friend’s eyes began to leak and his nose crinkled with every blast. “What the hells is that?” He asked curiously, watching as each time Kanai is faced directly with the trail coming off his lit stoge, it caused these loud and moist fits that made the demon’s body tingle and tremble upon witness.

“Looks like /I’ve/ found something to research!” He snickered before pulling his cellular out and typing into the search ‘what is the loud noise that humans make sometimes from their face when there’s smoke around,’

Google: Sneezing

“Hm….what..is….sneezing?” He ticked into the search bar now.

Google: sneeze /snēz/ verb gerund or present participle: sneezing make a sudden involuntary expulsion of air from the nose and mouth due to irritation of one's nostrils. "the smoke made her sneeze"

“Interesting…apparently what you just experienced is a ‘sneeze’ Nai and it says here, they’re 1/8th of an orgasm! ….hot….do it again…” he grinned up now at his best friend wafting the smoke trail closer to the other before they heard a loud commotion.

“Come on dude! I just need a nap! I’m exhausted!” he heard one of the two voices exclaim.

“Find a friend's house to crash at, no sleeping in public parks,” the red head looked over to see what he recognized as a human police officer, aka the fun ruiners and some dirty looking man arguing with him.

“Hmmm might have my first prospects….” He mumbled to himself. He did come here on a mission. Granted, one of his own, without his father’s knowledge….but that was for him.

“Nai, I’m gonna run a collection, then we are gonna get settled and find lodging, cause we can’t just sleep outside,” he scoffed, realizing they had to get some ground work done before any real fun could begin.

Geez: Kanai wiggled his nose back and forth, sniffling lightly as Alistar explained the concept. “A.. sneeze?” He asked, almost cautiously, until the redhead compared it to an orgasm and he was suddenly intrigued again.

The hound leaned forward to place his face in the trail of smoke once again and focused on the newfound sensitivity that instantly sprung to life on his face. Well, if it were 1/8th of an orgasm, this next one should send him over the edge, if the research was correct. Inhaling sharply, the burning sensation once again stole his breath in a ragged gasp before a loud, “HEH'kkssshuuh!” exploded from his features for a fourth time. Scrubbing frantically at his pierced nose, he emitted a quick groan before his bleary eyes peeled open again to almost glare at Alistar. “That—“ he cleared his throat, “—did not feel like any orgasm I have ever experienced, Donnie. The information seems to be inaccurate.”

Shaking his head, his gaze followed the demons and settled upon the officer. He couldn’t understand the need for such an enforcer, but Alistar was right, they needed to find somewhere to sleep for the night sooner rather than later. “Yes, it seems as if he knows where we could find such.. if you don’t mind, I will observe from here and will stay out of your way.” The hound replied matter of factly, his eyes never leaving the human in the uniform as he fiddled with the lighter within his grey fingers.

Kezz: Alistar watched closely, if the man had a tail it would be wagging furiously as he stay witness to his best friend’s research. Hoping that he would get to see this new vessel he was in, come to climax in front of his very own red eyes. When it came flying out of his mouth, he was disappointed slightly by the lack of convulsions and pleasured sounds and crossed his arms. “Well what the fuck! That’s what my cellular device said!” The red head huffed but shrugged his shoulders. “Maybe it has to be the right trigger? Hm? Like something stronger….” Almost contemplating ditching all their efforts of trying to figure out how to settle in out here, and go on an entire rampant search for the orgasm inducing sneeze. It really was hard to stay on track out here.

Almost fully allowing the right side of his brain to lead him into distraction, the left side began to itch and gnaw at him. “I guess we will figure that out later, we have plenty of time for research,” nodding respectively, feeling proud to choose productivity over horny, but it may be the only time.

Allowing his long slender legs to carry him across the grass to the interaction of the two people; he first approached the more authoritative figure.

“Hey, me and my friend are new in town, where’s the closest domicile I may purchase?” The cop raised a brow and folded his arms over his chest.

“What do you mean?” Al crooked his head, unsure of the officer’s confusion and rolled his eyes with impatience.

“You know, a place we can sleep? Eat? Have privacy? A domicile?” The cop scoffed and shook his head.

“What is this the 1800s ?” He chuckled loudly the sound echoing obnoxiously in Alistar’s ears. Already regretting this interaction as a whole.

“I am unclear what that means, but can you help us or not? Is that not what you do?” cocking his hip with judgement at the officer. Alistar couldnt beleive the incompetence, and disrespect. Arent they servants of the public? Scum.

“I don’t baby sit, move along sir, you can find hotels on every corner,” the cop narrowed his eyes and looked over at the homeless man once again. “You get out of here before I ticket you,” the man on the recieving end sighing, gathering his things and starting to walk away as the officer glared back at the two demons. “And you two better not cause any trouble out here,” pointing a stern index at them before he too, began to take his leave.

Al felt slighted, disrespected, what the hell was that? Not even a proper answer he snorted angrily through his nose before quickly walking after the homeless man. “You! What say you? You know where I can find shelter?” The man froze, almost looking at the red head with mocking disbelief.

“Dude if I did, I wouldn’t be getting kicked off a bench now would I?” The dirty man crossed his arms with a read of mistrust.

“Look, I have money, I just need to know where to give it to sleep permanently, I need a…thingy! One of those things that the humans go back to every day after their shenanigans,” mulling his hands in circles trying to remember the human languages he loosely, lazily, half-assedly learned.

“A fucking house, dude?” almost unbelievable how clueless the crimson eyed figure was to the homeless man in front of him, his brows raised.

“Yes! House! Lodging! Shelter! Whichever! Can you point me in the right direction? I can make your wildest dreams come true, trust me,” winking at the man mischievously. “Just grant me access and ownershipofyouressence and it shall be done in the name of Alistar Satanos,” he held up a proud index finger to the sky, knowing full well he was convincing enough to the human ear. The man tilted his head and peaked a brow up.

“Huh?” Unsure of what the strange red head meant or even said, was he purposely mumbling?

“Promise me the directions towards a lodging facility and ownershipofyouressence and I will grant you your deepest desire,” the man considered this for a moment, he looked around and his brows raised with curiosity. At this point, the man just wanted to see if he could benefit from this insane reaction so he interrupted with a wave of his hand.

“Okay let’s say I do, my deepest desire is to be successful and rich so I’ll never have to starve again, you can do that?” still not fully believing the tall random man, but something about Alistar’s smirked coaxed him further.

"I can do more than that but, yes, I can," the stranger swallowed nervously but then nodded and immediately, crimson eyes turned solid black, and they began to glow with an ominous narrowed stare.

"Then so it shall be, in the name of Alistar, you sign yourself to me, and all to which you desire, will come to fruition," his voice suddenly dropping several octaves, echoing loudly in the fore front of this stranger's brain.

At the first thought of acceptance, the stranger froze. Suddenly, the man's eyes rolled back, his arms outstretched wide and Alistar reaches out with an open palm.

"In Alistar's name," the unknown male gurgled behind a strained voice. A brightly shining translucent sphere seemingly floats out from the man’s open throat, and into the demon’s hand, immediately absorbed. Everything fades, his eyes slip back from his head and he sees Alistar standing there normally as he once did.

“Excellent, now, where can I find lodging?” The red eyed demon grinned mischeviously. The man now obviously empty, falls back to a standing position, a shell of what he once was.

“Downtown you can find a realty office, they sell houses fast and cheap, I just could never afford it,” his voice monotoned, the color drained from his cheeks, you almost would believe the man was sickened.

“Well, Steve my man, you can now, enjoy your lifetime of riches and success,” snapping his index and thumb the man’s life, as agreed, changed forever, with a huge disadvantage. Now that Alistar owned his soul, he would never walk the earth as the same man he once was.

Alistar walks away, satisfied with the deal he struck and returning back to Kanai’s side. “Man humans are so fucking stupid and desperate,” he threw his head back in a joyous chuckle. “One soul down, several million to go and I’ll out rank dad,” shooting a wink towards his obtuse partner in crime. “Anyways, Gotta go down town, there is the place called a realty office ….we talk to them and they’ll provide lodging,” exuding confidence as he pulled out his electronic box once more. “Ah, maps, that should help,” clicking the app open he input “realty office downtown” within the search bar. The GPS managed to pop up his results in a matter of seconds, giving the demon an estimation of arrival. “It says if we start now, we will get there in 26 minutes by walking….”

To Be Continued……

Author’s Notes: HAH. Snuck some snz in there. Anyway, sorry if this is so short and slow and only mildly entertaining, mostly just logisitics building and getting them into earth first, it’s all we have as of right now but we plan to write more this year 🥰

[dr-maitland]

ISBA Transcripts (Interview #2, Interview #4, ICC Docket 294)

I Swear by Apollo (2384) dir. CHRISTOPHER DARNIELLE

CHRISTOPHER DARNIELLE ([Preliminary dataset 234.]) Recording initiated. Interview two: Dr. Hiram Layil Maitland. Tribunal WITNESS # 12 in Federation v. Polis. Palais de Concorde, Paris. 2384:164. 

CHRISTOPHER DARNIELLE (Pauses briefly.) Dr. Maitland, thank-you for agreeing to speak with me. You’ve said before that memory is unreliable. That trauma distorts it. Do you trust your own?

(DR. HIRAM MAITLAND, is seated in formal posture with his hands folded motionlessly in his lap. He wears an understated suit, and a white coat over-top with the COMER CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL logo emblazoned on the shirt pocket. He wears a lanyard around his neck with his hospital ID photo - within it, he's smiling warmly - a stark contrast to the man in the frame. When he speaks, his tone is calm and measured. His expression, unlike in the photo, does not move. Neither does he sound cold or rude. Simply matter-of-fact.) HIRAM MAITLAND  Only in the negative. If I remember something, then I remember it. If I do not, then I assume I did it anyway. CHRISTOPHER That’s a striking statement. You assume guilt by default?

HIRAM I assume responsibility. 

CHRISTOPHER Help me understand the difference. The people watching these interviews, they’ll want to understand why a man like you, a Federation-licensed pediatrician, once helped design operations that killed civilians. Do you believe you're a fundamentally changed person? HIRAM I believe I am a person. That wasn’t always true.

CHRISTOPHER You mean under hishuri. During your time in the LR.

HIRAM Yes. I was chemically and neurologically overridden from the age of three to approximately 12. I regained persistent volition by 13. 

CHRISTOPHER And yet you still refer to those decisions, those operations, as yours.

HIRAM They are. I do not relinquish them. That would be dishonest.

CHRISTOPHER Then let’s go back to that child. Tell me what it was like. Your first memory of combat.

HIRAM I was four. Not quite old enough to operate a hand phaser with any dexterity, I was assigned as a porter. Delivering mail, carrying things. TG1 operated primarily within the Ke'dash Desert, in Zone 23. Big, sprawling encampment. It was attacked by Aven forces and I did as I was trained. The smaller ones such as I would throw jihnan grenades. Compact devices which exploded on impact. I threw six devices at the incoming vehicles.   (There's a faint click of the holo-recorder starting to zoom in. When CHRISTOPHER speaks again, he leans in slightly. Visible now behind the camera rig: no tie, collar open, blazer creased from sitting in it for so long.) CHRISTOPHER You were four years old. Do you remember the sound they made when they went off?

(HIRAM'S eyebrows arch, and he blinks a couple of times, as if realizing something. He then shakes his head once.) HIRAM No. I only remember how it felt, in the ground. Everything shook and fell down around me. I fell down, as well. My memory is not linear, after this. I saw boots that scuffed up sand, which got in my eyes. A man picked me up, shone a flashlight into my eyes. He was shot shortly after at point-blank range by my unit's Specialist.  CHRISTOPHER Do you remember his face? The man with the flashlight.  HIRAM I remember his face, yes. He had black eyes, like a Betazoid. I recall the manner in which he picked me up. With his back to the shooting. The flashlight may have been to determine if I was impacted by hishuri. Or it could have been to detect any injury from the sand. I do not think he was attempting to harm me.  

CHRISTOPHER You were four. And someone shielded you with their back. Do you think if you hadn’t thrown those grenades, he would have lived?

(HIRAM does not react at all, not even to check if the camera is still rolling.) HIRAM It is exceedingly likely that he would have survived that initial encounter, as my Unit Commander entered the area searching for me. However, as he was a member of the convoy which approached our field outpost, he may have been murdered by someone else, in another way. 

CHRISTOPHER You use the word murdered. You don't think they were casualties of war?  HIRAM No. War has rules of engagement.  CHRISTOPHER But it was your grenade barrage that made the approach chaotic. That’s what pulled the Specialist to your position, right? Do you remember the Specialist’s name?

(HIRAM merely nods, acquiescing.) HIRAM Yes, it was my barrage which caused the commotion. (There is no denial, no attempt to justify or defend himself.) No, I do not recall their name. That child was murdered very shortly afterward, and we did not memorialize our dead. 

CHRISTOPHER Did you ever feel the absence of that? Or was it something you learned to stop noticing? HIRAM I did not feel the absence as I held no understanding that it was something common to other cultures. The capacity to develop meaningful companionship did not exist, as I spent a majority of my upbringing under the influence of hishuri. This diluted my capacity for emotion. (His lips flick upward a little, now. It's so unlike any other interview, there are no ebbs and flows. No sharp crescendos of pain and grief, or even outrage. It's one long, flat line leading into the endless horizon of blue that reflects in his eyes, glowing that otherworldly-blue. A relict of hishuri, sustained all this time.) As I am certain you can tell. 

CHRISTOPHER I can tell, yeah. You remember everything. You say it plainly. Whether it's lack of emotion, I dunno. But it is controlled, and it's not just for the cameras.  (HIRAM shakes his head, confirming what CHRISTOPHER already knows.) HIRAM No. It is simply my way. 

CHRISTOPHER Would you say that you ever… wanted it to be different? How you are, I mean. The... flatness. (The pause between question and answer is far longer, this time. Not because of any affective difficulty, but because HIRAM is clearly putting thought into his response. When he speaks, it's with the same level, measured, respectful cadence as conducted for the entire interview thus-far.) HIRAM I observe that sentient beings, emotive beings, hold experiences between one another that I am not capable of experiencing. It is a natural curiosity, perhaps relative to my position as a thinking, experiencing individual, that I wonder what it would be like to be other than I am. But I do not possess any type of grief or sadness over my way, as that would necessitate being different than I am, by definition.

CHRISTOPHER (Under his breath, only picked up by the sensitive audio equipment.) G-d, that’s elegant. (Throat-clearing.) You know, there’s this moment in Gilgamesh. Earliest surviving story we’ve got on Earth. Gilgamesh asks the gods why people suffer, why they die. The gods basically go, because you’re human. There’s no fix, and that changes things for him. For someone watching this, what do you want them to be changed by? If anything? (For perhaps the first time, HIRAM's eyes flick from their position centrally fixed on the camera to meet CHRISTOPHER's directly. The sun is slowly rising in the sky outside the window behind him, painting his profile in soft light. Perhaps it is this that makes his expression itself appear softer.) HIRAM I would... desire for people to interrogate their conceptualization of binary concepts such as good versus bad, justice versus injustice, victim versus perpetrator. In many cases - that of my own and those of the patients, the children whom I see on a regular basis - these binaries serve as tools to degrade rather than to develop an accord bound in repair. To be changed in this way, is to develop compassion for a population of people who are rarely afforded it. 

CHRISTOPHER So how do we make folks realize these aren’t just trial transcripts or footage, but actual people's lives? Shaped by the shit no one wants to look at.

HIRAM Perhaps that merely starts in undertakings such as this. I am merely WITNESS # 12, but there are hundreds more. Many of whom are still children, still grievously injured. With evidence that has not faded from their bodies. For me, it looks only like this. (He touches under his own eyes, drawing attention to their eerie, nearly-glowing quality, as if generating wavelengths of light on their own, not merely reflecting them.) You will have an opportunity to connect with these people. To share their stories in their own words. If I might make a request of you. Save your hardest questions for this room, rather than theirs. Facilitate their story in their own words, and reserve rigor for this place alone. I will answer any question which you pose. They may be less emotionally prepared for it.  CHRISTOPHER That’s a commitment I can make. When you’re ready, we’ll keep going. No rush.

HIRAM Of course. I am prepared, Mr. Darnielle. 

CHRISTOPHER Alright. Let’s talk about the day you defected. What happened, leading up to it?

(HIRAM's head tilts somewhat, but he blinks-forward in his version of a subtle nod - understanding the reason for such a question, even though it is unapplicable to his circumstances.) HIRAM I was the Specialist Pilot of the LRV Navas. I engaged with the USS Turing, near Aven Station in Iro territory. The commanding officer of the Turing, then-Captain -- now-Admiral Maitland, beamed me off of my vessel and into the brig of his own. It was not a matter of choice. I was still under the influence of hishuri and thus could not make the decision to defect. I was captured by Federation officers and detained. 

CHRISTOPHER So the defection was forced, rather than voluntary -- but something must have changed later. Can you describe what that process was like?

HIRAM I can make an attempt. My first year in Federation territory was spent at McKinley Station. I developed Medullary Dysregulation Syndrome - Riel 's Syndrome - as a result of prolonged hishuri usage. This affected my neurological and respiratory systems. They placed the phrenic nerve pacer implant that permits me to breathe autonomously, and treated my hypophosphataemia and IDV.

After this, I was moved to Chicago, where I lived in the Forensic Rehabilitation Unit of Comer Children's Hospital for approximately four years. From ages 12-16. During this time, I was formally adopted by Admiral Maitland and his wife, Nathalie. They are my parents. Comer maintains the only program dedicated to Disarmament, Demobilization and Reintegration within Sol territory. I was enrolled in accordance with the protocols of CACSI. Satiz-Irath is the star-system where Laile is located. I worked with highly competent and dedicated clinicians. 

Over time, many years, they were able to facilitate a process of deradicalization and community engagement within me. They did not give up, they did not falter. Even when I attacked them or verbally abused them. Likewise, my parents demonstrated unconditional regard toward me, despite my lack of reciprocation at the time. I credit these individuals for saving my life, figuratively and literally.  CHRISTOPHER Hishuri, can you describe what that is, for the record?  HIRAM Yes. It is a tropane alkaloid, used to deleterious effect via Synaptic Proximal Pairing. This occurs in combination with psychological imprinting and high doses, and results in the complete suppression of free will in the affected party. 

CHRISTOPHER Synaptic Proximal Pairing - it literally links up your nervous system with someone else's. (Mutters) Jesus Christ. (The comment is stricken from the audio files shortly after.) So what determines who's in-charge, so to speak? Just the dose?  HIRAM Typically it is determined via dosage, yes. It also is impacted by the age and maturity of each person, and on how psychologically suggestible you are to begin with. Once the pairing has formed, however, there is no ability to resist. 

CHRISTOPHER it sounds like a monumental challenge, both for you and for those clinicians.

HIRAM Indeed. That is not to say I do not now feel that I have overcome significant difficulty as an adult. I am grateful that I was afforded the opportunity to receive treatment, and to obtain education as a physician. 

Many children in these circumstances are not as fortunate. They often are ostracized by their communities upon returning home, usually with long-term disabilities and impairment. The communal infrastructure may be physically destroyed, which limits their opportunities, as well. 

My recommendation, as a result, would be for your documentary to devote equal focus to these groups of people on Laile, whose stories are worthy of greater elevation than my own. 

CHRISTOPHER Yeah. You're not wrong, there are a lot of folks still stuck in those oppressive systems. When you think about this whole damn mess, what keeps you going? The trial, accusations, all of it. How do you keep such an even keel?

(In a moment of unexpected humor, HIRAM mimics air-percussion.) HIRAM The drums. Do not underestimate the cathartic power of banging on things very loudly.  (Laughter, surprised.) CHRISTOPHER No shit. And you? What do you want people to know, first and foremost? About you, not just the man in the witness box.

HIRAM I am simply a person, as varied as any other. I have hobbies, quirks and flaws as anyone else. I can tell several good jokes. I have a cat, and a tortoise. I care for my family, and for my patients, very much. I care about these proceedings, and all who are impacted by them. My greatest desire is that these recordings can be utilized to beneficial effect. To show the world what has happened, here. To ask that people's eyes not be drawn away from it.

(CHRISTOPHER DARNIELLE)

CHRISTOPHER DARNIELLE ([Preliminary dataset 237.]) Recording initiated. Interview four: Dr. Hiram Layil Maitland. Tribunal WITNESS # 12 in Federation v. Polis. Palais de Concorde, Paris. 2384:200. 

(The soft hum of the recording equipment fills the quiet room. CHRISTOPHER leans in slightly, regarding HIRAM with a steely, probing gaze.) CHRISTOPHER Dr. Maitland, I want to ask something that might be difficult. You mentioned yesterday that your unit threw jihnan grenades at incoming vehicles. You identified them as Aven, but in your memories, the people killed were civilians. Were you ever confronted with the morality of those actions? In the heat of battle, did it ever occur to you that the people you were fighting were real, flesh-and-blood, just like you?

HIRAM At the age of four, no. I did not have any meaningful conception of life and death. As I grew older, yes. I knew that I was killing sentient beings. 

CHRISTOPHER How do you reconcile that with your role now as a physician dedicated to healing children -- (The question hangs like an anvil for several long moments, but CHRISTOPHER continues undaunted.) --many of whom might be survivors of similar violence?

HIRAM There can be no reconciliation. (His stare fixes onto a point just behind CHRISTOPHER's shoulder.) The concepts are entirely opposing. 

CHRISTOPHER What about forgiveness? For yourself. From those you impacted. Your victims. Is that something you seek? If the world ever demanded your trial, do you feel that would service the interests of justice? HIRAM I do not seek forgiveness from those I have impacted. Nor do I focus upon the concept of forgiveness toward myself. Were the world to demand I stand trial, I would do so. What I feel is not present, nor relevant.

CHRISTOPHER So, if the trial is less about your feelings and more about... what, exactly? Accountability? Truth? Or is it simply a procedural inevitability? When you say what you feel is not present , does that mean the hishuri has shaped you so fundamentally that emotion doesn’t factor in anymore?

HIRAM I would hope that it is about justice, accountability and truth. Those things are not guaranteed, but I would expend significant effort to ensure that it was. As far as my emotions go, they are not precisely entirely absent. But in a general manner of speaking, they do not factor in any longer. I very rarely experience them.

CHRISTOPHER Has that ever left you feeling isolated? Like you’re observing sentience rather than fully living it?

HIRAM My manner does indeed render me distinct from other beings. However, I do not experience distress as a result of this. Your assertion, that I possess the role of an outside observer to neurotypical sentient beings, is quite accurate.

CHRISTOPHER Do you ever wish you could feel more? Or do you think that’s something people like me project onto you, because it makes us uncomfortable? HIRAM I do think that, at times. I have often found that a majority of people do not 'believe' me when I explain my nature to them. It takes sustained interaction before they begin to understand, and then they typically undergo a period of adjustment.

CHRISTOPHER Has anyone ever told you that you frighten them? Not because of what you’ve done, but because of how calm you are about it?

(HIRAM nods, not even needing to consider it beforehand.) HIRAM Yes, in both cases. (A curious expression winds its way across HIRAM's features.) But please know, you are safe, here.

(CHRISTOPHER leans forward just slightly, enough to close the emotional distance without crossing physical boundaries. His voice is quieter now, more intimate, not performative.) CHRISTOPHER It’s not about fear for my safety, Hiram. It's more - you’ve been to a place inside the psyche we can’t even map. I can see how that's threatening to people. (This clearly comes as a surprise to HIRAM, as both of his eyebrows arch toward his hairline.) HIRAM I... am not certain that I follow.

CHRISTOPHER People look at you and think - if I had gone through that, I wouldn’t be standing. Maybe worse - maybe I'd become the next RATAN POLIS. But you didn't. And you're still standing. It's like coming to grips with your own mortality, in a way. HIRAM I am uncertain that I agree with this analysis. (The doctor straightens as he works to convey his meaning.) A majority of sentient beings are incredibly resilient, it is something I encounter on a near-daily basis. Many people who have experienced the depth and breadth of life, the worst trauma you can envision, before they are even old enough to read a book. They come back from it, in most cases. With the right tools, and treatment. I am no better than someone who might struggle to greater degree in similar circumstances as my own. Every person is unique. How they handle difficulty is unique. But neither is there any shame in requiring greater assistance. Most often it indicates a person who struggles with emotional regulation and distress tolerance - these are skills that can be taught. For someone who might, as you say, become a monster, sufficiently powerful formative trauma can indeed create cycles of violence and hardship. Those people are still worthy of engagement, of calling back into the fold.

CHRISTOPHER That’s not just something you believe about yourself, is it? That’s something you believe about POLIS.

HIRAM I believe that RATAN POLIS is a dangerous person. I am uncertain that he is equipped to function outside of a very specialized, individualized environment. But, yes. I believe it is important to treat all persons with dignity and respect, including Mr. POLIS.

CHRISTOPHER When I first started on Apollo, I wanted the truth, but I also wanted it neat. There are sides. Good, evil. It's a comforting lullaby. Yet in some capacity this film is a reflection of judgment, on you. Not necessarily negative or positive, it just is. Yet you're here, refusing to cast judgment on someone like that. 

HIRAM Not precisely. I do cast judgment on RATAN. He is an individual who has committed immense harm, and has very little remorse for it. His actions were and remain highly unethical. He is a predator, and it is incumbent upon us to ensure that our communities are protected from people such as this. But, no, I do not believe he is insentient. CHRISTOPHER Not even after all of the violence, all of the pain he has caused?

HIRAM Violence is a sentient action. As varied as any other.

(JAVINARA TARISH , NEILAN SHERER)

CHRISTOPHER DARNIELLE ([Preliminary dataset 304.]) Recording initiated. ICC Docket 294. Dr. Hiram Layil Maitland cross-examination. Tribunal WITNESS # 12 in Federation v. Polis. Palais de Concorde, Paris. 2384:284. 

TARISH, JAVINARA | DEFENSE ATTORNEY | “Dr. Hiram Layil Maitland, I’m calling you back to the stand to clarify matters regarding your background. I’d like to ask you to repeat, for the record, how old you were when you were first assigned to a Task Group and whether you were given the tropane alkaloid hishuri.” MAITLAND, HIRAM | WITNESS # 12 | "I underwent Basic Combat Training with Laile Resistance Task Group 1 from ages three to five, and completed Advanced Individualized Training from ages five to 10. As all youth combatants in the LR, I was given hishuri, yes." TARISH, JAVIE | "And were you considered an exemplary soldier within your Task Group, Dr. Maitland? You’ve offered strong opinions about cognitive and volitional impairments under hishuri. Yet, according to multiple Cessation of Armed Conflict in Satiz-Irath protocols, you not only performed at a high operational level, but carried out command functions before the age of 10."

MAITLAND, HIRAM | "No. Command-level functionality is not anomalous. Higher-order functions in patients given hishuri are precipitated by Synaptic Proximal Pairing override. My capacity was directly relative to the physiological ability for my body to comply with the demands it was given, not my individual cognitive or athletic prowess."

TARISH, JAVIE | "So you’re saying your exceptional performance was due to being more thoroughly overridden, not less." MAITLAND, HIRAM | "That's correct." TARISH, JAVIE | "You’ve testified that anomalies in behavior; children failing to follow orders, don’t indicate volitional resistance. You’ve argued they’re chaotic or meaningless aberrations. If that’s the case, Dr. Maitland, how do you explain your own deviation? You eventually defected." MAITLAND, HIRAM | "I was a Specialist Pilot of the LRV Navas, and engaged with the USS Turing near Aven Station, in Iro space. I was beamed out and transferred to the Turing's brig in accordance with the Optional Protocol of the Federation Charter. I did not begin to display genuine resistance to my role in the LR until later. Admiral Maitland has exhibited extraordinary patience and resilience these many years, ensuring I was afforded sufficient treatment and helping me to obtain Federation citizenship."

TARISH, JAVIE | "Typically Federation citizenship is incurred by reason of birth to a Federation race. Why were you required to undergo the process of immigration?" MAITLAND, HIRAM | "As I had been an active member of a Violent Non-State Actor, I was considered a Manual Citizen – this means I was not automatically permitted to live or work in Federation territory without undergoing additional security debrief procedures." TARISH, JAVIE | "You say that children under the influence of hishuri don't exhibit volitional patterns. That any discrepancies are meaningless. That there is no evidence of intent. Yet, here you are. You did change. You did recover volition. Your medical records from Comer indicate this. Enough to become a witness in this tribunal. Enough to practice medicine. Why should we trust your testimony, when this proves that you were and are capable of making decisions?" SHERER, NEILAN | OFFICE OF THE PROSECUTOR | "Objection, highly inflammatory. Dr. Maitland is not the individual on trial in these proceedings and it is exceptionally egregious to speak from a presumption of guilt or innocence in this matter." ALLEYNE, SHIRA | JUDGE # 6 | "Sustained. Strike."

MAITLAND, HIRAM | "Am I permitted to answer the question? I would like to ensure maximal understanding of this phenomena." ALLEYNE, SHIRA | "You are, yes. Belay strike. Proceed, Dr. Maitland." MAITLAND, HIRAM | "Volition can re-emerge, yes. That is very correct. But not during active hishuri intoxication. My voluntary behaviors re-asserted themselves the longer my body went without the shur. Nevertheless, I will be impaired in some manner for the rest of my life due to this drug. Riel's Syndrome is permanent." TARISH, JAVIE | "Then let’s talk about what you did under its influence. You testified that you were involved in at least three confirmed operations resulting in widespread civilian casualties." MAITLAND, HIRAM | "Yes." ALLEYNE, SHIRA | "Registering redirect. Mr. POLIS, the floor is Yielded to you." POLIS, RATAN | COMMANDANT, LAILE RESISTANCE | "So you do remember what it was like." MAITLAND, HIRAM | "I do." POLIS, RATAN | "You led a mission to detain fifty people. Including children. I promoted you for this. For your efficiency in executing the targets which were threats to the LR." MAITLAND, HIRAM | "That's correct. I was not capable of resisting the commands you gave to me. I do remember what it was like. I remember every life that I took. I remember how it felt to be imprisoned in my own body." ALLEYNE, SHIRA | "Mr. POLIS, your Yield expires without a valid legal argument. Make it now." POLIS, RATAN | "May the Court forgive me. I beg indulgence a moment longer. The targets that you executed. What were they wearing, Layil? That you recall. What were they all wearing?" MAITLAND, HIRAM | "My surname is no longer Layil. It is Maitland." POLIS, RATAN | "Ah, pardon me. Dr. Maitland, then." MAITLAND, HIRAM | "...I do not recall this information." POLIS, RATAN | "No? Allow me to assist you. Do you remember what the color their skin was?" MAITLAND, HIRAM | "...They were Orions. Green. It was dark green." POLIS, RATAN | "I submit before the Court that these people were not Orions. They were Aven. Members of the Iro Corporate Congress. Wearing kaski'deyan bio-film. This turns the skin green. All that is required for an explosion is that they generate skin-to-skin friction. Do you know how many lives you saved that day, Dr. Maitland?"

MAITLAND, HIRAM | "I do not know, nor do I recognize your rationale." POLIS, RATAN | "310, Dr. Maitland. That's how many. Do you remember the Canal Sweep? The one near Tolash?”

MAITLAND, HIRAM | "Yes. You made me run the perimeter calibration manually. The guidance matrix was offline.”

POLIS, RATAN | “And you told me the delay would cost us six seconds on relay for every strike vector.”

MAITLAND, HIRAM | “You overrode me. You wished for the element of fear, more than the kill ratio.”

POLIS, RATAN | “You were right. We missed three."

MAITLAND, HIRAM | “You missed three. One of them lived. He was in my group, at Comer. His spine was reconstructed at McKinley Station.”

SHERER, NEILAN | "Objection, relevance?" ALLEYNE, SHIRA | "Sustained. Strike. Get it back on track, Mr. POLIS, Mr. TARISH, or Yield your time." POLIS, RATAN | "I Yield, Your Honor." TARISH, JAVIE | "We have encoded communications from Resistance HQ. Signed by Layil. That's you, isn't it? Co-drafting tactical strikes against civilian infrastructure. Memoranda that specify force multipliers. Routes for evacuation denial. Emotive Suppression Targets. That was your phrasing, wasn’t it?" MAITLAND, HIRAM | "My name was Layil. It is not, any longer. I apologize, Mr. Tarish. I do not know about any of the details that you are espousing. It was a common practice for LR leadership to obscure their communications using the names of those such as myself. Perhaps you may gain greater clarity from Mr. Polis."