#this is an edited version of an old RP between me and Grrist's mun!

[ask-these-fantrolls]

Hunger, or something more?

Summary: Perigees before Quaver and Grrist officially become matesprits, a peaceful evening’s lunch date doesn’t go quite as planned.

Rating: T

Warnings: Violence, blood, idiot concussion talk, idiots to lovers, organized crime mention

Words: 10,821

It was a pleasant night out, crisp and fresh after a rain, with only a few small clouds here and there. A perfect night to be out and about, and after contacting Quaver on his phone, Grrist and his new friend had picked it as their next meeting date. The purpleblood was content, bordering on excited as he stepped out of his hive with his guitar in hand. He was dressed a little nicer than he'd been the day he'd run into Quaver; purple stained jeans with polka dots, a baggy, long-sleeved grey and black striped shirt with his symbol on the front, and the usual clownish neck ruffle. His fluffy, wavy hair was tied back into a loose ponytail.

There was a small park he knew of near the market that he'd suggested as a meeting spot. It was a nice place if one wanted a little quiet, and if they felt like grabbing a snack (which Grrist always did), then they would easily be able to. The big juggalo ambled into the area close to the designated time, strumming softly on his guitar, and humming a little tune.

Grrist found Quaver sitting on a bench, happily plucking away at their kalimba.  It had become a certain favorite of theirs to play while their arm was still healing.  A small… disagreement between themselves and a certain member of their gang over plans that had been made and set into motion- nothing too serious, just a few stitches necessary after putting him in his place.  It was difficult having to be their own muscle for the time being… but there was no helping it!  Their previous bodyguard bless her heart had been harmed beyond repair. A stupid wall of purple that was willing to give her life for them…  She was useless to them now.  Though, the Purple neither new of this happening nor needed to at the present.  After all, it was far easier to bring the small instrument along rather than their favorite violin which couldn’t even play at the moment.  

The bard offered a wide smile as they stood to meet their friend.  This night, they wore a pair of boots and puffy shorts over violet tights, a long sleeved shirt, gloves, and a comically over sized hat which resembled that of a wizard.  In most cases, this would probably be seen as especially dressed up... but for Quaver, it was just another outfit.

It had not been too terribly long since they'd last seen the juggalo, but a lot certainly had happened. Conflicts between themself and a certain moirail to their kismesis were riding high, but it was nothing a little manipulation couldn’t handle.  Obelus had always been far too soft and naïve- but that’s what made him a perfect match for them!  Inciting a fight between him and his pale wasn’t hard in the slightest... things would have been almost totally positive in the tealblood's life if not for a small stirring happening within their group.  Small disagreements here and there- ostracized and belittled members who had questioned their motives were nothing to be too worried over... hopefully.  But, that was a topic for thought on another night!  This outing with Grrist was just what they needed to ease their troubled mind.

"Well eve, my good friend I hope you are well!" They greeted in their usual cheery sing-song tone, "To see you again does make my pusher swell,"

A smile lit up Grrist’s painted face as he hurried to greet his new friend, uneven fangs on display. As before, he was delighted by Quaver's clothing choice, visually ridiculous and pleasing to his juggalo sensibilities. And what a sweet hat.

"Hello Quaver!" He rumbled in reply, shuffling up to the tealblood's bench. He was entirely unaware of the happenings in Quaver's life, though by a strange twist, one was closely linked with Grrist's current worries. "Happy to see you, too." He moved to sit down on the opposite side of the bench. "Good night for playing. Nice fresh air. Thanks for meeting up." He bit back a sigh. It was nice to be out, instead of back at hive, sulking.

"How are you tonight?"

"Quite well I would say among other things," They responded happily and scooted a little closer to the larger troll.   Their size difference wasn't all that great, but it still amused them to have to look up at the other troll.  They could probably stand before the other and be at eye height! "Yes, truly a night perfect for picking our strings,"

They punctuated their sentence with a small tune, "Well- strings for you would be just fine. For me, however, I'll make due with tine," A laugh escaped them.  A stupid joke, yes, but still amusing to them.  It was nice to be around someone whom they didn't have to keep up appearances with.  Someone they could have fun around and not be ridiculed or expected to act in a more proper way.  Heading their Merry Men was growing irritating to their patience.

"Good to hear." Grrist nodded. Simple as he was, he still had no idea of Quaver's vicious doings, and viewed them as little more than a friendly songwriter. He still loved Quaver's rhyming, endlessly endeared by the tealblood's creativity and dedication. "Especially in such rocky times." He finally let his sigh go, but instead of focusing on dark thoughts, he was immediately distracted by Quaver's instrument, which he somehow hadn't noticed before.

"Oh! What is that?" He asked, cocking his head and scooting a little closer. "I've never seen an instrument like that before..." His purple eyes seemed to glimmer as he watched Quaver play. It was such a funny looking object, almost like a little xylophone, but Quaver was still plucking the pieces that made sound. How fun!

The bard offered the small instrument to their friend, allowing him to try playing it if he wished, "It's called a Kalimba, though 'Mbira' is another name," they smiled and looked Grrist over.  He seemed slightly... off, as compared to the last time they met, "they come in many styles, though the sound's quite the same," Their brow furrowed slightly. Whatever could be troubling their bearish friend?

 "Sorry to ask, please tell me if I'm off in my sense," They leaned closer, looking to Grrist through their always lidded eyes, "But is something on your mind? You seem quite tense," These times would seem rather nice for those not keeping up with what happened in the shadows.  Unless something was directly affecting the juggalo, they could hardly imagine what had the jovial clown down!

Grrist gasped a little as Quaver offered it to him. He set down his little guitar, carefully, and accepted it, seeming amazed. It was so small, so good...made nice little sounds. It didn't take him long to figure out the key and pluck out a quick, clumsy little song.  It wasn't exactly a perfect fit for his big chunky hands, but neither was his guitar, really. He made do. "This is good. Good sound. Thank you!" he nodded, and gently offered it back, before a look of anxious surprise crossed his face.

"O-oh. Mmmm..." Grrist looked away guiltily. "I don't mean to bring the mood down." He murmured, and reached to rub the back of his neck. He also didn’t want to lay his troubles out willy nilly, especially not with someone who he was unsure may have a moirail or not. Grrist didn't have one, but that didn't mean the same for Quaver,  "Just some...stuff, happened in church, and it's distracting. Someone got hurt and we don't know if she'll be okay." He explains it as simply as possible. "But the Messiahs will surely work a miracle for her. Somethin'." He huffed a little sigh.

Their smile twitched very slightly.  Oh, no, it couldn't be, right?  His poor juggalo bodyguard who was put out of commission in their last spat?  It wasn’t Obelus’ fault, really!  He was delightful, but an idiot when it came to Quaver’s efforts. His brain was just too small to understand… but, in the end, Quaver supposed they had been the one to agree to meeting his friend who was curious about their Anti-Church scrawlings!  Who would have guessed the troll would make himself their enemy… and further who would have guessed he would decide to try and take their life.  It was a selfish act- one that no doubt left their poor kismesis in shambles.  

Quaver took the instrument back and plucked out a little sting, "How dreadful a thing to have happen to your equivalent kin!  But, with time and faith, I'm sure she'll pull through and win,” it was honestly good to hear that she was not dead - if it even was the same girl.  What had her name been?  Cereal? Cecile?  Whatever the case, her being "hurt" meant that she was most likely still living!

The bard leaned against Grrist slightly, a small sigh escaping their lips, "A grave thing it is when a friend comes to harm," Cercie?  No... that wasn't it...  She never really spoke up much- how were they supposed to memorize her name if she never made an impression?  It wasn't even as though they felt guilt over her coming to harm... but... Seeing Grrist torn up over it did make them feel a little displeased, "I do hope she'll be alright and this happening isn't cause for alarm!"

"I hope so too." Grrist moped quietly for a moment. "I heard she was shot, in the back no less. How does that even happen? She was really nice." He inhaled a calming breath, and then let it go. He'd prayed for her plenty, and she was strong besides that. He had to believe in her strength and the mercy of the Messiahs. Quaver's sympathy, and the way the bard leaned against him, is really nice, too. He fell for it entirely.

"Thank you Quaver. I won't let it cloud up our fun tonight, though. Juggalos are strong. I have faith." He did want to relax a little, and get to know Quaver better too. No sense in being sad when this was supposed to be a much more mirthful occasion. Quaver's well wishes warmed his pusher  though, and he was incredibly nice to even be willing to listen.

"Mmm. What have you been up to since we last met?" Grrist launched a new and hopefully less sad topic.

Quaver thought for a moment in silence.  Okay, yeah, he was definitely talking about Celine.  OH- That was her name!  They would have to agree- she was very nice.  Gullible, quiet, but nice.  Though... her life did pose a possible issue to the safety of their group...  they'd have to look into the possibility of her being a tattle tale at a later date, though.

This date was slightly more important to their pusher, "Not terribly much I am afraid to say," the bard hummed as they played a small looping tune a few times, "I've been working on songs and sleeping through the day," Quaver chuckled lightly at their own half-truth, "Taking things easy and spending time with some friends.  Although..." they settled further against the larger troll, "it would be a lie to say it's all been smiles on my end,"

They felt strange around him.  Certainly not like they could tell him their every life's woe, but they felt compelled to comfort Grrist.  Strange. Quaver smiled, starting to play a gentle song and humming lightly along with it, "Though one thing that I have to admit: I've been looking forward to meeting with you quite a bit!"

Grrist allowed a tired little grin to cross his face. "Mmm, that sounds nice. Rest is always good. Naps make everything better." The juggalo quickly took to matching Quaver, easily following along and switching his key in order to harmonize. It was a little clumsy, since they were just riffing, but he seemed happy to experiment with a little matching bass line to Quaver's looping tune.

Quaver's comment had Grrist's face heating up bashfully. Thank goodness for face paint! Had the bard really anticipated their meeting? Being a humble sort, Grrist had elevated Quaver in his mind after learning about their status as a professional musician.  He was just a simple church helper. He didn't even have a proper vocation lined up yet.......

"Ohh? I hope nothing too bad?" Grrist left his inquiry open. If Quaver wanted to elaborate, they could, but the purpleblood didn't want to pry.

It was strange how at ease Quaver felt with him.  Even out in the open in the middle of the night, while most other trolls were working or off doing their own necessary activities... they felt strangely at home beside Grrist.  Wow, that was a stupid thought!  They made a strange face at their own pan, glad that they were facing more away from him than toward, "Oh, it's nothing I'd want to worry you about.  Suffice it to say that we've both had our share of associate clout"

"Mmm." Grrist rumbled in agreement, trying not to look too somber. "May mirth return to our lives again soon." He said, missing out on Quaver's funny little expression. He had no idea how the tealblood was feeling, but ironically, he was experiencing something similar.  Except??? He could not remember the last time he had felt this way himself. It was something of a problem for the juggalo, that he simply could not seem to hold onto a quad. Many trolls, even those in his own caste, found his lack of direction a bit pathetic, even though he was content enough for himself. He liked his simple responsibilities in maintaining the church and contributing to song and praise. For a while, he'd stopped trying altogether.

The tunes they were creating already were serving to soothe Grrist’s previously frazzled nerves, and he took a deep breath, relaxing against Quaver. This was...really nice.  "I've really been looking forward to this too. I...wrote something new. For our trade." He admitted, blushing worse than before. "Probably not as good as what you can do, but I tried."

They sat up strait, whipping around to look up at him as best they could, "You wrote me a song?? For really and true?" Their genuine excitement was evident in their voice, masking the twang of pain which shot through their shoulder at the sudden movement.  Damn stitches- they needed to be more careful.  Any more excitement and they may find themselves bleeding through their shirt.  Moreover... they hadn't expected him to take them SERIOUSLY about trading music! Their pusher beat just a little faster, "I'm sure it's wonderful!  Please, share!  After, I'll do the same for you,"

Perhaps it was the fact that he was the first other musician they' been able to befriend in a long time. After all, nobody else from their old troupe really wanted to associate with them after the... incident.  They wouldn't blame them- who would want to risk also incurring the anger of a highblood that would publicly tear someone's eye out over a silly little ditty?  They certainly wouldn't if in a similar position... The humiliation of being bumped down to a mere street performer really lost its sting after the sweeps began to pass.  And, even so... with their professional career over at such a young age... They somehow felt complete sitting here with Grisst- the troll who managed to fill the other half of their absent tune.

Quaver absolutely captivated him. They were the very image of whimsy, and incredibly kind when many in their position might act very snobbily. And they were also pretty cute. It had just...taken Grrist a while to realize he felt that way. And then he'd written a song. "Yes, I did." He was blushing under his make up again, and cleared his throat. It certainly wasn't a love song of any sorts, but something cute and simple.

"Okay. I hope you'll like it." He hadn't really written very many songs in his life, or ones with lyrics at least. A lot of his music outside church hymns and religious raps was improvised, and he found he fretted too much when planning a whole song out start to finish. Grrist cleared his throat and began to play, a playful, upbeat tune about meeting new friends and holding onto hope during hardship. It didn't go too much longer than a couple of minutes, but he strummed a little flourish once his was done.

Even the tips of his ears were flushed at that point, giving him away. The notes weren't flawless, as always because of the size of the instrument juxtaposed with his massive hands and claws, but he managed. He looked up to Quaver shyly as he finished, almost afraid that he might disapprove.

When he looked, Grrist would find them bouncing excitedly , hands clasped together in front of their mouth and the faintest flush over their cheeks.  That was adorable???  A dopey grin spread over their mouth, "Oh Grrist my dear, that was simply superb!!" They scooted closer to him, hanging off his arm slightly.  Sure, it was a little rough around the edges, and it was relatively juvenile in terms of lyrics, but they adored it.  He wrote this song specifically for them.  

"O-oh??" Grrist was pleasantly surprised as Quaver proceeded to shower him with praise, suddenly getting a very fluttery feeling in his stomach at the little grin that flashed across the tealblood's face, and the way they cozied up to him. His pusher pounded at the fact that Quaver, a practiced and professional musician themselves, would be kind enough to give such praise for his simple offering. But he'd put a lot of effort into it...so this felt very nice indeed. "Thank you...that means a lot. I'm so glad you enjoyed it..."

Wow- why did that make their bloodpusher beat so fast?  Why did they feel like they might cry from elation if they were a slightly weaker troll? Suddenly, they realized how close they'd gotten to the purpleblood, gasping ever so slightly.  What had gotten into them?  "Ah- my apologies- I didn't mean to disturb,"  They bit their lip lightly before sitting back, now facing sideways on the bench with crossed legs.  They smiled to him, "Such a kind tune... I'll cherish it always,"  They picked up their kalimba, holding a hand over their heart, "It reminds me of nicer times- Sweeter and more gentle days,"

Deep, delighted laughter bubbled from his chest shortly after Quaver scooted away. "That's alright." He'd barely noticed at first...but the sudden proximity hadn't bothered him. Unfortunately, while Grrist had great respect for the tealblood, he held no fear of them whatsoever, as a threat. Too small, too cute.  An unwise outlook. "Yeah. Maybe those will return to us someday. That would be nice. Gotta be optimistic."

Grrist hummed a short, happy hum, and watched Quaver expectantly. Now it was his turn to wiggle in anticipation and excitement, because he would get to hear the bard play a song now. He was absolutely ecstatic to hear Quaver play, honored they'd even consider such a thing. He'd been half tempted to watch out for them on days he went out to the market, to see if they might be out playing, but he'd waited until their meeting instead.

Quaver chuckled lightly. What an embarrassing display. However, it was not nearly as embarrassing as their following realization:  They hadn't actually prepared a song for him in return.  They never thought he would take the offer to swap songs seriously!!  How could they?  

This was silly.  He was the same as any other troll that the bard had ever met!  And stupider than the average one, too... Why did there seem to be a haze over their mind right now?  It worried them and made them feel sick... but sick in a way that didn't upset them. Fuck- what was wrong with them? Oh, well.  They would have to figure that out a little later.  It was their turn to sing.  Unfortunately, though, they did not keep many songs that they hadn't already played in public!  He'd never been to one of their shows- why were they worried about it actually being one that nobody else had heard?  Oblivious.

There was... one song that they had just finished a while ago.  There had been no reason to play it for anyone until now!  After all, who would play such a forlorn love song to a crowd on the street?  The bard began playing a small tune before piping up with their voice.  The song was, if anything, definitely one of romance. Just as short as his own, certainly less upbeat and a little pessimistic, but with a hopeful ending. It was personal to them... and they were honestly very worried about what he might think of it.  Why were they so worried...  Why had their face flushed completely while singing it?  Eugh- these feelings swimming around inside them were foreign and confusing and GROSS.  Anything that hindered their performance was a nuisance.

They finished out the song- much less of a flourish as just an abrupt end, hesitating before looking back to him through closed eyes.  Why did it feel like it meant so much for him to like it?

He was enraptured as Quaver began, sitting completely still as the tealblood started. The sound of the kalimba was so soothing and charming, it fit the song perfectly...and he started to blush a little at the theme of the song. Oh. He hadn't expected a song that touched on romance, and like before, he could feel little butterflies fluttering around in his stomach. Now that he didn't have to focus on playing and remembering words, the way he was feeling and reacting was much more noticeable to him....and it almost made him a little panicky.

No! He wasn’t willing to let his gay thoughts interrupt his enjoyment of Quaver's gorgeous work. When the song came to an end, the purpleblood beamed down at Quaver, and then set his guitar down to clap a little, and clutch his chest. It was a sad sounding song, but sweet all the same. "Oh, Quaver. That was wonderful." He hugged himself a little, unable to stop smiling. In truth, he was a little speechless. "I loved it...what a lovely song, and performance." Welp. He wanted to gush, and felt tongue tied at the same time. What the fuck? "Thank you so much..."

 The bard's face grew hotter as he complimented them so earnestly.  What was happening???  Why did they feel so happy about him liking the song???  They'd received praise for their work plenty of times in the past- they'd gotten standing ovations in theaters, roaring applause at the town square from dozens of trolls more simpleminded than even Grrist!  This should be no different.  "Thank you, my friend!  Your applause warm my chest," They chuckled.  What the fuck?? "Seeing you so elated makes me feel as though I've done my best,"  Hey? Quaver? Why was this feeling of their bloodpumper pounding in their ears so wonderful?

They leaned forward again, patting him on the arm gently, "Sometime soon we simply must together write a song.  With our shared love of music, what could go wrong?" Oh- touching him had been a mistake.  They felt the urge to keep doing it.  To keep in contact with his arm- to move their hand to his hand and hold it.  

He sighed a dreamy sigh, and then swallowed a little as the bard leaned forward to pat his arm. The gentle contact, and especially the suggestion, made the juggalo's pusher skip a beat.

"R-really??" He couldn't even be bothered to feel dumb as he stammered, his purple eyes widening with excitement. "We could do that? I'd love to write a song with you! Wow..." He peered down at Quaver, falling into the same little awkward pause, even though it was mostly just him, once again, trying to process confusing feelings. He didn't even know Quaver all that well yet...but that wasn't always the case when crushes struck. Quaver's company was so kind, so refreshing. He had his circle of church friends, and other juggalos, but none of them had ever made him feel this way. But ugh...what would the bard think if he knew? Grrist gulped. He was not experienced with this sort of stuff...

Quaver absently leaned forward slightly more.  Why did they want to be close like this?  Why did they want to run their nimble fingers through his hair- to take off his silly face paint and look at him... To press their lips to his and-

OH sHIT.  They suddenly shot up from the bench, turning away from the juggalo with a laugh, "This night is QUITE pleasant, wouldn't you agree?"  Wow- did their voice just crack??  That wasn't a good sign.  "I think there are food stalls just down the way if you're hungry?"  So, that's what was wrong with them.  They couldn't say they'd ever experienced it before- they'd written countless songs by commission, written poems and made art of it...  They'd always been possessive over their prospective Quad mates before, but this? This was a new feeling.

The fluttering in their chest, the warmth of their face that they were now forcing away, the reason his words meant so much to them...  They had a crush.  Why for this buffoon of all people??  Why would they feel the need to like someone like him?  Someone big and dumb and dopey and muscular and soft and gentle with a nice voice and a wonderful smile wAIT- No, bad.  They shook the thought from their pan.  Disgusting.  Juggalos were big and gross and they absolutely did NOT need to like one- especially not one so close to the church.  "I myself am famished- I could just eat a bunch!" They turned back to him with a warm smile.  These feelings weren't real.  They were just fake chemicals made in their pan because he was a musician like themselves!

He meant nothing to them.

"Shall we go find one and grab some lunch?"

The juggalo nearly startled as Quaver suddenly hopped up from the bench. "Oh, yes," he hardly even noticed Quaver's quavering, "Sounds good!" He took a deep breath, and picked up his guitar, offering an easy going smile. No need to make things weird, he repeated to himself in his head. Grrist had only limited experience with quadrants, in his past. A couple of red crushes that hadn't gone anywhere; puppy love.  A violent kismesissitude that had ended badly. Feelings like this were scary...he almost felt shallow for it. Was it just because Quaver was nice? They were good company? Come to think of it...

Grrist squinted as his pea brain worked over why Quaver would want to spend their time with an amateur like himself. Ulterior motives? He had smarter, more cunning juggalo friends who were always harping on that kind of bullshit. But what use could he possibly be to someone like them? No...no. They just wanted music friends! Trolls can be friends, Grrist reminded himself.

"You oughta choose, this time." He grinned, looking down at the tealblood. "What do you feel like having? I like just about everything...I'm not picky."

That fact didn't surprise them in the slightest.  Grrist really did seem like the kind of guy that would go along with whatever happened around him- be it the meal choice, or something more serious.  Quaver's initial motives weren't all bad; someone to play music with and hash out tunes against was a luxury they were mostly unable to come by at this point!  But the appeal of replacing their old, now hospitalized, juggalo with a new one was appealing in it's own right.  Now the only real obstacle was to get their weird feelings under control!  

Quaver hummed in thought, walking a few steps ahead of Grrist, "As far as food goes, I too am not horribly picky," a lie, but a white one.  They continued playing that little looping tune from earlier, occasionally pausing at it's end to try a different note or two.  Were they writing a new song?  "As long as it tastes good it can't be too tricky!" They chuckled, leading him down the still rain-dampened road.  The rain... it was such a perfect muse for lyrical scribing! Picking out patterns in the pitter-pattering of droplets and listening to notes against the roaring sound of a storm... the scent plants gave off after the rain had stopped and the cold humidity it left behind!  They twirled around effortlessly on the balls of their feet as they walked, reveling in the delightful atmosphere.

Just because they were the head of an ever growing band of anarchists didn't mean they had to give up their whimsical delight, after all!  If anything, it seemed to make the relationship they had with their subordinates stronger!  They were approachable, but still entirely dangerous.  How many people were capable of laying out a troll two castes higher than themselves and twice their size with such simple acrobatics?  On-lookers in their meeting place were astonished by how easily they squelched the navyblood who dared to question their leadership, and that's how it should be.  Terrify with a smile, and none shall question!  Or, at least, that's what they thought.  

Entirely unaware of Quaver's wicked intentions, he smiled lopsidedly as the tealblood replied, trying not to become too distracted by the pleasant sound of their kalimba-playing. "True! Mmmmm...what's your favorite kinda food?" He grinned as he asked, figuring he would allow that to help make their decision. The market had so many nice choices to pick from that he knew he wouldn't mind what it was, one way or another.

Grrist was certainly enjoying the night himself. There was nothing nicer than the fresh air after a good rain, and though he was glad it had let up for a while so that they could be out and about, he felt similarly to Quaver. The emotions one could draw from the world around them were vast, and the rain always served to put him in a relaxed, soothed state of mind. Even if thunder could be a little scary, who could deny the excitement of a thundershower? Thankfully, the recent rain hadn't become that intense. Before he knew it though, the atmosphere of the peaceful park had vanished, giving way to something new...

The sound of the bard's kalimba helped to fill the otherwise silent street with noise.  It all had a sort of eerie feeling to it with dim and flickering lamp posts and the light of the moon being the only thing to guide the pair.  Quaver followed the same route they they'd become familiar with using- dank back alleys provided security from most prying eyes and listening ears, after all, "I am quite serious though, about what I said before," The bard finally spoke up, words echoing slightly in the tight corridor as they walked backwards in order to face Grrist properly.  Their face was no longer flushed finally, "To make a song with you is something I'd truly ado--"

The juggalo chuckled softly as he followed after Quaver, watching their fanciful spins and steps, ever charmed by the bard. Grrist was undaunted by the emptiness of the street; rather, he was captivated by Quaver instead, and set to plucking his own instrument every so often, to harmonize a little, or provide a bass line. Even though he was far from the perfect example of his caste, or a juggalo, Grrist still possessed that deep seated notion that he was Strong and Untouchable as a highblood out on the streets. Nevermind that he was following a near stranger into the alleyways of town. He was confident...and quite dumb to boot. What could possibly go wrong?

Everything, it seemed. His face had begun to light up as Quaver brought up their previous suggestion again, their words were cut short as something came in contact with their body, sending Quaver's lithe form careening into a nearby brick wall with a sickening crunch.  Teal blood splattered to the ground as they coughed, opening their dazed eye to see what had done the damage.  To see who had done it.  Three trolls stood in the alley after revealing themselves from various corners and branching paths- a Jade, another Teal, and the Blueblood who they had put in his place just earlie that dayr.  Quaver tried to speak, but found they could not from the lack of air in their lungs.  They tried to get up or move forward, but found their body too pained to move any further.

The Navyblood's laughter filled the space as he taunted them, "You thought you could just get away with it?  Thought you could just FUCKING humiliate someone better than you and not have to pay?" He flipped the large club in his hands a couple times, not seeming to have really taken much notice of Grrist just yet, "You're pathetic.  How's it feel, being the one treated like you're nothing for a change?"

Grrist could feel a fit of rage coming on. Tears pricked the corners of his eyes at the sight of his hurt friend, and he charged forward, uncaptchaloguing the thick branch of a club that served as his weapon. He roared at the three trolls, and stepped between them and Quaver. All too quickly, his eyes were beginning to fill with red.

"GET AWAY!!" Grrist warned loudly, and slammed the club against the bricks with a menacing thunk, his chest heaving as he showed them his uneven fangs. He was angrier than a whole nest of hornets, but inwardly, his confidence flagged for the briefest of moments. Could he take three trolls if it came to it? What did they even want with Quaver? It didn't matter. He couldn't stand by idley and risk them getting hurt any worse. Barely able to control himself, he only waited a split second before advancing on the three.

Because fuck it. That navyblood was going to pay for what he'd done.

A pained, groaning, whine came from the teal as they watched Grrist charge at the group of assailants. Their mind was foggy from the way their horns impacted the brick wall- like a tuning fork that lead directly into their pan.  God- fuck, they definitely had a concussion and a few fucked up ribs...  the corners of their vision darkened as they struggled to sit up from their place slumped against the wall.  This was... this was too much.  Grrist was a wall of meat that was very nicely doing his job to keep their attackers away- he was doing exactly what they wanted him to do! So... why did they feel such a disgusting weight in their chest?  Why did their pan scream for them to have him leave them behind and abandon this unbalanced strife??  The bard tried to vocalize their worries, but all that managed to come from their mouth was the juggalo's name groaned pitifully as a small trickle of blood came from the corner of their mouth.  Maybe they'd bitten their tongue...

The Navy lunged back as his partners scattered out of the way.  They, at least, didn't seem to have weapons, "Oh braaaavo," He mocked in the semi-conscious Teal's direction, almost as if ignoring Grrist's actual presence save for dodging his charges, "you've already replaced your body guard, huh?! Should've expected nothing less from out brave and fearless leader!"  

The other two trolls seemed much less gung-ho about attacking Grrist or even Quaver.  They kept off to the side, watching the fight and waiting for their time to strike.  A juggalo with a club was dangerous... especially one as enraged as this one seemed!  "Our beef isn't with you, choir boy~" the enemy Teal called from the sidelines. The Jade hopped up on a nearby dumpster as she watched her Navy leader barely evade the Juggalo's swing, "Just leave the little shit with us and walk away!  There's no need for more blood to spill tonight than needed,"

Grrist was quickly becoming too enraged to comprehend much of what the opposing trolls were even saying, the image of his crumpled friend stuck in his mind, gasoline on the fire of his rage. The tidbit about a replaced bodyguard sort of went in through one ear and out the other, and he read it as some kind of weird taunt. He loosed another fearsome roar, and even though the navy's two helpers scattered to the sidelines, he'd already made a decision about what he wanted to do next.

Wrought with inward desperation, the juggalo had started to activate his chucklevoodoos. The atmosphere of the alleyway began to simmer with the terror he was trying to project outwardly, enhanced by his raw minded state. His powers might not have been as effective on the navyblood, but his accomplices, and even Quaver, would no doubt feel the abject fear begin to seep into their thinkpans as it radiated off the juggalo.

"FUCK OFF!!!" Grrist took another angry swing at the navyblood as he lingered in one spot...he wanted to charge, but was afraid of leaving Quaver unprotected. He stomped a booted foot, challenging the navyblood to come close enough again.

The fear did indeed begin to take hold of the lowerbloods, first starting with the Jade.  She became visibly on edge with the whole situation- she already seemed to be the least sure of the current event, and now it was even more severe.  What were they thinking?  They couldn't survive against a juggalo!  She was going to die- oh hell she was going to die and have to watch her friends perish all the same!

The atmosphere of the already creepy alleyway shifted and seemed to roil under with Grrist's rage. The cocky tealblood was taken aback by the feeling of dread welling up inside of them.  Maybe attacking like this had been a bad idea.  Quaver, similarly, was absolutely terrified.  Why the fuck were they so scared?  Were they scared that Grrist would be hurt, or were they frightened of the enraged juggalo himself?  They couldn't actually tell... but nevertheless they found themselves recoiling away from the fight, pushing back further against the wall as tears formed in their eyes.

Grrist panted heavily as his eyes darted between the three, never once backing down from his battle stance in front of the bard. They'd picked a bad spot, because even if they did try to tag-team, the tight quarters of the alleyway would make it hard for anyone to get around behind Grrist. They would all have to attack from his front, and even if he hadn't had a weapon, Grrist was still a force to be reckoned with. He wasn't about to let his new friend be pummeled by some fuckfaced highblood.

Finally, the Navy was affected by the chucklevoodoos.  He still felt a terror in his chest, but he could still fight!  He uh.. he could still...  his legs shook and he was seemingly frozen in place in fear for the shortest of seconds.  He watched Grrist taunt him, anger welling alongside the tingle of fear.  The navyblood took a hesitant step forward, biting his lip in thought for a hot minute.  You know what? FUCK this.

The highblood raised a hand to his mouth, sending a shrill whistle through the alley that signaled his companions to retreat.  The Jade was the first to abscond, followed quickly thereafter by the other Teal.

"FUCK!" the Navy snarled, stepping backwards from the massive juggalo, "You won't always have that GODSDAMNED DOG with you!  You better fucking pray we never cross paths when he's gone." He boasted and tried to sound assertive, but that's just a little hard to follow through when you're retreating, huh?  "And YOU." the blue finally acknowledged Grrist, his same snarl on his lips, "You better watch your back for the day they put a bullet through it."

Grrist finally started to descend from his wrathful state of being as the navyblood began to bark empty threats. He still saw fit to snarl in response, largely confused by what the other troll was saying, and uninterested in trying to puzzle anything out. By this time, he'd stopped trying to use his chucklevoodoos, allowing the fear to vanish once he saw that the bluff had worked.

"IF YOU EVEN TRY TO HURT THEM I'LL BASH YOUR SKULL IN!!!" Grrist roared after him, still panting as he waited for his opponent to fully retreat. He snarled and growled and kicked a trashcan after the blueblood, his adrenaline still going, pusher still pounding. Had to get some of that energy out, until the bastard rounded a corner and left Grrist's sight. Shaking, he captchaloged his club and turned to Quaver, terrified of what he'd see...yeah, wow, it was even worse than he thought.

Teal soaked through their shirt, the stitches from their own wound having been torn open from the impact.

"Q-quaver?!" The tears that had formed in his eyes began to flow now, and he hated himself for it. Of course Quaver was going to find out that he was a gigantic cry baby the very first time they hung out. Very uncool. Very unjuggalo. But, fuck, where was all the blood coming from? The purpleblood nearly stumbled as he knelt down at the tealblood's side, panic gripping him as he reached down to set a shaky hand on them. "F-fuck, fuck, gods, are you-- oh fuck, please be alive..." He babbled, "Did you get cut, w-what the fuck is this..." The shirt had no holes, there was no wound, so why was Quaver bleeding there???

"Gotta get you to the medicullers..." He shifted to start to lift the tealblood into his arms. No time to waste.....

They groaned in pain as he took then into his arms.  It felt nice and relatively secure, even if the lingering fear from their agitated nerves was making it impossible for them to actually settle against him.  Why was he crying?  What a big idiot... shameful, really!   ... they reached a hand up to cup his cheek, tears from pain and the sudden shock falling from their own eyes, "N-no medicullers nghhh-no need, I'm fine and alive," the bard kept their voice steady, making their pain behind a strained sing-song tone. Why did they care about him worrying anyway?

"J-just old wounds- medicullers... ask too much... just t-take me hive," thinking of rhymes was growing difficult with their hazed over pan.  There wasn't much a hospital could be able to do for them- they could stitch their own wound up again... you can't set broken ribs without surgery, and a concussion just needs to be observed...  They would be fine if they could just climb into their recooperacoon for a few hours.

The Teal cringed in his arms, gripping at the sides of their shirt out of pain.  Goddamn something was NOT right in their abdomen, though...  they grit their teeth, the large knick in their tongue causing more blood to seep from their mouth.  Okay- okay... maybe they should call someone- one of their lackies that could be trusted... but for now, being vocal hurt too much.  Quaver buried their face into his chest, a small whine escaping their throat. At least they weren't alone when this all happened... they... they would be dead if Grrist hadn't been here.

Grrist, in true idiot fashion, had not even considered that Quaver might have been affected by his powers; only that he'd been desperate to get those other trolls to fuck off without a prolonged struggle or a fight that ended up injuring him as well. He was surprisingly gentle as he gathered the tealblood up, sniffling and trying to staunch his stupid tears. Gods, Quaver looked horrible, so fragile and sad and hurt -- and still rhyming. If he weren't so upset, he might have laughed, but he was frightened as they argued.

"You gotta. The hospital's not far....it'll be okay." Grrist swallowed at the nervous lump rising in his throat, not sure if that would be the truth or not. They had hit that wall so hard, he could still hear the sound it had made, threatening to bring on more tears to his eyes. No, he told himself. Gotta focus. Gotta get help. He moved surprisingly quick for such a big troll, doing his best not to jostle Quaver as he held them close to his body.

Now that Grrist was somewhat calmer than before, the questions had begun to surface in his small pan. Who had those trolls been, anyway? What had they meant by some of those things they had said? The thoughts swirled in with the rest of his panic. He couldn't ask now, not with Quaver in the state he was. The purpleblood forced himself to focus on the way to the hospital, turning onto a more populated street (worried they might be followed), and hauling down the walkway as quickly as he could. They were only a few minutes away from the clinic he visited infrequently...

"Nonono no no noo don't- please," they pleaded with him.  Rhymes were impossible by this point.  The IDIOT didn't know what he was doing- the questions that professional medicullers would ask, the lengthy treatments that would keep them from doing what was needed... it was too much!  But... they weren't really in a position to easily protest, now were they? Quaver moved a shaking hand to grip into the front of his shirt, opening their good eye to look pleadingly up to him.

"N...no hospitals...Grrist, please..." it sounded like they might cry.  He just needed to listen to them- he didn't need to think for himself here.  Wait... what about thinking for himself? Strange, their past trail of thought seemed to be completely deteriorating.  Their head was getting foggy and foggier...  where exactly were they going tonight?  Their vision seemed to be in a long, deep tunnel...  Why were they suddenly so tired?  The bard's hand fell from Grrist's chest and back on to their own battered torso.  They felt warm and safe here... surely it would be okay to close their eye for a while... right?

"It'll be okay, the medicullers are good where we're goin'. Promise." Grrist panted softly, determination overriding grief as he managed to staunch his tears and focus on getting there. The blood dribbling from the tealblood's mouth had Grrist's stomach sinking sickly. Did they have a cut...or was it something worse? Sweeps spent scrapping and fighting during his younger days had leant him some knowledge about injuries. Mostly from getting them himself.

They sounded so scared. Grrist hated it, hated this had happened, but what else was there to do??? He had almost no medicull experience himself, so he couldn't just take them hive like they wanted. He blinked after a moment, and glanced down. "H-hey....hey!" He shook Quaver gently, his voice low but insistent. "Uhhh...where is your hive, anyway?" He tried to get Quaver to stay awake, to keep talking. They were so damn close...

Quaver let out a pained groan as they were jostled.  Medicullers... They didn't need any stupid medicullers!  Why was he being so insistent?  Why was their pan so fogged up again?  nothing was making sense...  They just wanted to sleep.  "Your arms feel... nice," The tealblood spoke weakly, looking up to him with a wavering smile.  It looked like they might pass out at any second- Oh, they definitely needed a hospital.

They chuckled lightly at his question, sounding in the twilight between awake and asleep..  Why was he asking for where their hive was again? They didn't care.  The pain in their chest was growing more and more distant as they fell farther and farther from consciousness, "How scaaaandalous~"  They crooned up to him with now fully closed eyes, "We barely know eachother and you want an invitation to my hive?" Their words were slow and slurred. Not thought out, certainly not rhyming. "You're lucky... that... you'..re...cute,"  The bard's voice grew quieter, before words stopped coming altogether.  Grrist was taking care of them.  They were safe...  sleep was calling to them, and they were giving in to that call.

Grrist had always been told you weren't supposed to let people with potential head injuries go to sleep. Was that a real thing, or just some silly rumor? He couldn't remember now, and it scared him worse. Quaver's babbling was scaring him too, cluing him off to the fact that someone was definitely wrong. Yeah, they were going whether the tealblood wanted it or not. Maybe they were scared of hospitals? Grrist would stick around...make sure they would be okay.

 Now he was being called cute?! He found himself blushing at his new friend's delirious babbling. Yeah...definitely delirious. How anyone could find himself cute was beyond Grrist. "You asked me to take you hive." He tried to respond teasingly, even though his voice was tense and still choked with leftover emotion. He was never going to forgive himself if the bard fell asleep and never ended up waking again. Grrist trashed the thought. They would be fine...

Finally he turned onto the right road...and there it was, all lit up. There were only a few trolls drifting up and down the sidewalks, and Grrist couldn't care less that they'd caught a few looks along the way. "Almost there, hold on!!" He sped up toward the mediculler office, and practically exploded in through the front doors.

"MY FRIEND IS DYING, PLEASE HELP!"

Various mediculler nurses looked to the door as Grrist stormed in, carrying the battered and bloodied body of the small bard.  He was rushed in an instant, helpful trolls here to ask what had happened, why they were unconscious, and how they had been hurt.  They assured him that they would do everything they could for his small friend as they had Grrist place Quaver on a stretcher so that they could be properly seen to.

The ocean of noise was muddled in the Teal's pan.  Why was everything so noisy?  Why were people prodding at them and bothering them so much?  Was is so much to ask just to have a nap??  They snarled at the nurse who shook their shoulder whenever they seemed to get too comfortable.  Bitch.  A small bit of fear welled within them- where were they right now?  What was going on?  The sound of Grrist's voice was the only real assurance as their surroundings began to fade away...

It would be a few hours at the very least, the nurses had told him after a while. Grrist was crestfallen but hopeful. It had been hard to quell the awful emotions that roiled in his chest, and finally he was starting to care more about the why. Why had that all happened? Quaver had enemies? Enemies willing to kill them.  It was a hard concept to handle, given that Quaver was so outwardly sweet. Grrist spent the rest of the evening lurking in a waiting room, eating vending machine snacks and letting his thoughts chase themselves in circles. He'd ended up trying to remember what the navyblood had said. Something about bodyguards? Something about being shot in the back? He wished he hadn't been so riled up. The harder he tried to remember, the more confused he became. Eventually...he gave in and napped.

 And then… Quaver woke up. Their eye fluttered open and they looked around, taking in the scenery.  White curtains, the sterile scent of medicine, and the unmistakable hushed murmur of other patients and doctors that lie just beyond their currently secluded bed.  Ah, the hospital.  They tried to sit up, but sucked in a hiss of pain as their muscles moved, "ffffuck-!"  It wasn't often that they cursed, but this was certainly the time to.

The nurses had taken him up to Quaver's room once the bard had been stabilized and admitted to a bed. He'd taken a spot in a chair in the corner, and had promptly dozed off again, even though he'd meant to 'guard' the room. Would the bad trolls come looking for them here? Grrist certainly hoped not. He'd been slumped over in his chair, until the sound of the tealblood's voice woke him with just the slightest jump. Shifting to stand, he peered behind Quaver's curtain. "H-hey...you're awake..." He grinned weakly. Hi. "I uhh, stuck around...wanted to make sure you were gonna be okay."

"How long have I been here?" They grimaced, but were happy all the same.  He'd stayed with them, at least...  Quaver wasn't sure whether or not they should be furious with him for ignoring their wishes, or if they should be thankful that he'd gotten them seen to anyway.  In any case, they couldn't bare to spare a glance in the juggalo's direction, instead turning to unbutton the night shirt they'd been put in to survey the damage. Their shoulder was stitched back up and covered, and there looked to be compression bandages on their ribs.  fuck...   They sighed, letting their head fall back on to the pillows.

"Almost all night." Grrist replied. It was nearly morning now, though it was hard to tell with the heavy curtains pulled. He looked away for a moment out of politeness as Quaver opened their shirt to look at themselves, before scooting the chair just a bit closer so they could speak properly.

"Sorry for all the trouble, dear," The bard's usual melodic tone was replaced with one of seriousness.  They were still too tired to try rhyming, "We'll have to have our date another time," it was difficult to speak- not from their injuries, but from the thoughts racing in their pan.  What exactly had happened after they were knocked silly?  They barely could remember the exact sequence of events...  they were hit, they felt terrified, and then they were somewhere warm... They'd been carried here, right?  Oh goodness- did that mean Grrist had carried them all this way??  Their arm moved to cover their face as a small flush formed over their cheeks, ears drooping. This was embarrassing.  So fucking embarrassing.

"Not your fault....I'm sorry too." Grrist drooped. "You begged me not to bring you here, but I didn't know what else to do. I'm sorry if it was scary."

Grrist sniffled. The juggalo was something of a sight himself. His face paint was smudged in spots, and his clothes had splatters of dried teal blood here and there. "I'm really sorry if it's weird to even still be here. Those bastards mighta followed or something...I didn't want to risk them, uhh. Getting you again." His ears drooped apologetically, though when Quaver mentioned a do-over for the date, he was inwardly elated. "I wanted to play some and say a few prayers but the nurses said it would be too noisy for the other patients." He wrinkled his nose. "Are you okay?" He tilted his head as Quaver covered their flushed face.

They looked over him from under their lidded eyes, slightly skeptical.  Why... why did he care so much?  It was weird.  They barely knew him, and yet they distinctly remembered him standing between them and their attackers!  What kind of idiot even does that??  It was... it made their cheeks warm.

"I'm glad you stayed... waking up here alone would have been worse,"  they chuckled, taking the arm from their face in order to gently touch his cheek.  It was fine. They still had the excuse of being on pain medication if he thought it was weird, "Thank you for watching over me.  I'm sure your prayers would have been lovely,"  the bard chuckled, immediately regretting it as pain shot through their abdomen.  Goddamn they hated broken ribs.  They tended and squirmed slightly, having to take a moment before they were able to talk again.

Grrist was thinking along the same lines...here he was, having stuck around for some troll he was only meeting for the second time. Part of him was terrified Quaver was going to think he was weird. But, how could he have lived with himself if he'd left them in the alleyway to be bludgeoned to death? It just wasn't something he could do. Especially not after they'd traded songs...made plans to write music together. Even if they didn't end up being friends, Grrist felt it would not be very mirthful to let someone with such talent perish so horribly. It was a good deed in the eyes of the Messiahs, and something he'd have done anyway. The navyblood and his lackeys were filthy cowards for going three against one, regardless of the reasons they had for attacking.

"I'll be fine once I have time to heal... you, on the other hand..." they smiled, smudging his already ruined paint with their thumb, "look like you could use a good meal.  Tell me, Grrist dear, you stayed with me all night?  I'm so terribly sorry... that must all have been quite the sight," There we go, they were back to their rhyming self again!  ...sort of. They found that they couldn't stop the teal hue that was spread over their cheeks and at the tips of their ears any more.  Maybe he wouldn't notice... damn, why was their pumper being so fucking stupid?  He only saved their life- that wasn't something to be set aflutter about! ... right...

Quaver's touch pulled the juggalo right out of his thoughts, and he looked startled for a moment, trying desperately to stop himself from blushing. "It was nothin'. Figured it woulda been rough, not knowin' what happened. I can't believe those motherfuckers cheap shotted you like that." His lip curled slightly in disgust, before he melted back into worry as Quaver squirmed. "Careful..." he murmured, encouraging the bard not to strain himself.

"Yeah, you gotta rest and take it easy." The juggalo reached up to take Quaver's hand and squeeze it gently. "N-no worries, I got some hospital food. The nurses here are real nice." He managed a toothy grin, and realized that oh no, Quaver was blushing again. Cute? Or maybe he was hurting...Grrist couldn't quite tell. "You okay? I should probably get goin' and let you rest some. I could come back later, if you wanted..." Grrist wasn't sure how long they'd actually be in the hospital.

"No!" They squeezed his hand, recoiling at the force of their own words.  They grimaced, "You should stay here... I mean to say,"  They shifted painfully onto their side.  It was selfish to keep him here- if he wanted to go, they should- Wait, since when did they care about being selfish?  God, whatever medication they were on was fucking with their pan more than they thought! Still, though...  They smiled at him, winking open a glassy blue eye to see him properly.  Was this the first time he'd really seen their eye open?  Oh, well...  They didn't exactly care about hiding them... though, they would keep their empty socket shut and hidden, "I like having you near.  Having a friend around would really brighten my day?"

They were in pain. Their chest hurt from the blow they'd taken, but their goddamn pumper hurt for some other reason.  They didn't like this crush they'd developed, and it'd only gotten worse with Grrist stepping in to rescue them... just like some knight in a fantasy novel or something, only bigger and more lumbering with stronger hands to hold theirs with nO STOP.  They sighed, screwing their eyes closed tight.  They needed to get a hold of themselves... this was stupid.

"Please, If you would stay with me while I sleep..." The bard's flush lessened as they spoke earnestly- straight from their pusher, and not through any attempts to suppress how they felt, "It would make me feel... good.  safe. to be under your watch's keep," They anxiously clutched the starchy bed sheets.  God, he was going to see how desperate they were acting and laugh in their face.  Pathetic.

A little startled look crossed the juggalo's face as Quaver protested suddenly, arguing with him over leaving. He was even more surprised as the bard opened their eye, and Grrist realized; had they been squinting all this time? The little details one failed to notice at times were strange, but Grrist didn't call attention to it, not wanting to sound impolite. As the bard went on, Grrist began to blush again. They liked having him around. That, combined with Quaver's anxious tone...how could he even think of leaving?

"If you want me to," Grrist offered an anxious grin, "I can stay.  I just didn't wanna intrude, or be a bother or whatever." The heat was rising to his face again. He couldn't help but think about how Quaver had called him cute last night, too....but no no, they'd been delirious with the pain of their injuries. Surely they hadn't meant it?? The juggalo squeezed the tealblood's hand in return. "You don't got anyone else comin' to see you?"

Grrist tilted his head some, obviously referring to possible quadmates. Did Quaver have any? Surely they had to have a moirail at least...the juggalo hated to be nosy in that way, but it was so sad to see the little bard in such a state. They needed all the support they could get.

"Not ...anyone that I would trust," they shifted uncomfortably.  Maybe if Obe was off work... no nono, they couldn’t let their kismesis see them like this! Quaver always taunted him for being so weak- inviting him to their hospital room was just a recipe for disaster! "Besides, with you at my side, to this bed I don't feel trussed,” They didn't need anyone else watching over them.  On any other day, the bard would detest the idea of anyone seeing them in such a weakened state!  But... the thought of Grrist keeping watch over them... it didn't make them as nervous.

Their face felt hot as they turned away from him slightly.  They were acting like such a fool.  Needy, desperate, desiring any and all attention that he would give them- this crush having thing was disgusting.  They should be encouraging him to leave!  They should push him away so that they could focus on what was important in this moment!  ...But, what was important?  This was a lot to take in.  They... they almost died Last night.  Was all this- this "cause" and this idea of theirs really worth that?  Was it worth putting the people that they actually did feel something for in danger... The tealblood's hand hesitantly shifted to lace their fingers together with his, still with their gaze averted, "Call someone else if you feel that you must- healing is better in company, they say... but there are very few people I trust.  Right now, it's just you where that faith lay..."

Grrist listened intently, his head tilting a little as they declined. What a shock. Was the charming little bard really without anyone else? The juggalo found this revelation surprising, to say the least. Then again...he didn't know Quaver. There could be plenty of explanations for why they had no one else to come see them, right?

"O-oh, no, I meant more...your quadrants. But, I'm sorry, I didn't mean--" The juggalo stammered a little, and trailed off. He felt impolite, to be saying it out loud, but really, he'd only meant well. He chided himself inwardly after a moment, because if Quaver had anyone, they'd probably have found a way to call them by now anyway. Or the hospital would have contacted them. Something. This realization made Grrist's pusher twist sadly for the bard. He couldn't imagine being all alone, beat up and hurting and stuck in a hospital bed...even he had a few stupid church pals who would come cheer him up. But since when had he felt this protective of anyone? He found himself blushing as well, and it only got worse as Quaver laced their fingers with his. He squeezed softly.

"Of course I'll stay. Make sure nobody bothers you." He gave Quaver a big, dopey grin. "It's no fun to be stuck in a place like this. I could even play for you a little, maybe."

“I’d like that a lot, if your playing is allowed,” they smiled, their eyes closed once more.  It was strange how at ease they felt… They were in a great deal of pain, and they could barely stand to keep awake, but having Grrist by their side like this?  “I want to keep you to myself, so try not to be loud,”