#yes Shattered and Cross are booping

[mrskodzuken]

Dada!

pairing: Kozume Kenma x f!reader

genre: fluff/crack with a sliver of hurt/comfort (domestic AU)

wc: 0.7k

tw/cw: post-timeskip, Kenma and reader are married and had a daughter, one swear word from Kenma.

a/n: my baby fever came back days ago and went to my moot @mitsuyaya for help on anon (🤷🏻‍♀️😂), to which she concocted this short drabble. It was soooo good (I cried ngl 🙈😅) that I decided to continue it, just like what I did for her househusband!Yuta post. Thanks for beta-reading this @luvvmamaia @thy-pickled-plums @mianavs sending lots of hugs and kisses and headpats to y’all ♥️ also tagging @anime-central @hanayanetwork

Want to be a part of my general taglist? Form link on pinned.

“Mama!”

You both froze in place, with your daughter still in your arms, big child-like eyes looking innocently between you and Kenma. You mimicked her look and stared at your husband, who in return stared at you incredulously with those gold-speckled cat-like eyes of his.

His little girl… Kenma’s little angel… just said ‘Mama’ instead of ‘Dada’. It broke his heart and shattered into pieces. His precious little princess had betrayed him. You won. It was Game Over for him.

Kenma broke the silence first, his jaw clenching for a bit. “What the fuck. Did she just—“

“Language, Kozume!” you scolded him, your hand kind of shielding your daughter’s head away from his sudden swearing. He flinched, making his broad shoulders sag and face lowering even more in the process.

“Mama!” your daughter said it again, answering your husband’s suspicions, this time in a squealing, happier tone. Her pudgy hands then found purchase on your cheeks and started massaging (more like patting) on them. You still stared at Kenma, but seeing him so dejected and lost and heartbroken, your eyes saddened and took pity on him.

You mumbled an ‘I’m sorry’ to him and added anxiously, “I-I’m sure she’ll learn how to say ‘Dada’ next, right, sweetie? Be patient and don’t worry about it, okay, Kenma?” But it was too late for that, as Kenma turned on his feet to go back inside your shared bedroom and slammed the door shut.

You stared at the door your beloved husband went into seconds ago and sighed helplessly, before glancing at your baby daughter who busied herself playing with the collar flap of your blouse.

“Oh, sweetie… now you’ve done and damaged Dada’s XP,” you cooed, wiping drool from the corner of her mouth. The little girl then looked at you and blinked (adorably) a few times, eliciting a giggle and nose boop from you.

She cupped both her tiny hands again on your cheeks. “Mama!”

You nodded in reply. “Yes, baby, I’m your Ma~ma!”

Next, your daughter turned her head a bit, her finger pointing towards where your and Kenma’s bedroom was, and said something surprising to your ears. If only Kenma waited for this moment to come…

“Dada!”

———

The ‘Dada’ in question was laying on his bedside, his face still scowling and his body curled into a ball. Fingers tightened around his Switch, Kenma jabbed at his game in a pissed-off manner when he heard his phone ringing on top of the lamp desk. He paused his game for a sec before checking the phone screen. He pouted as he sat cross-legged on the bed.

Beep! “What do you want? I’m busy,” your grumpy (and cute) husband answered, his narrowed eyes fixed directly at your bedroom door, where both you and your daughter were sitting nearby, on the floor.

You tried to suppress your bubbling excitement while talking to him and asked, “Are you… are you still mad because of earlier, Ken?”

A moment has passed before a groan was heard on the other line. “I’m not totally mad about it, Y/N. Just… disappointed that I couldn’t make our little girl call me ‘Dada’. I’m so stupid for turning this innocent name calling into a competitive game. I’m also sorry I shouldn’t have sweared in front of her earlier and walked away from you mad. Y/N, I—“

“Dada!”

Kenma’s eyes widened and his heart began beating loudly. Had his hearing fooled him… or did he really hear his little girl’s voice say the magic word?

He gripped his phone a bit tightly. “W-what did you call me?” he asked, his soft voice cracking as tears began to form on his eyes. “Can you repeat that for me, angel?”

“Dada!” Kenma didn’t notice the door open as you both trotted inside the bedroom, hand in hand, your crouched figure leveled with your kid. His lips curled into a smile.

You cupped your husband’s cheek and placed a gentle kiss on his forehead. “Surprised?” you asked.

He nodded in response. “But… how—“

“After you’ve walked out from us earlier, she just blurted it while pointing to where you’d gone to. Ma~n, that surprised me too, you know!” You chuckled before feeling something wet from your hand. “Eh? Kenma, are you crying?”

“Shut it, kitten. I’m not.” Your now tear-streaked husband finally ended the call and got himself up from the bed before scooping his little angel up in his arms, hugging her tightly and peppering her face with kisses.

“I love you both, you and our little angel.”

“I love you both, too~”

“Mama! Dada!”

Likes are okay, reblogs are nice, reposts and plagiarism stuff are frowned upon 🥰 | ALL WORKS BY MADKITTYBLOSSOM © 2022

[paintedkinzy-88]

Goopnoot in all of your aus meeting Shattered? How would they feel? What would they think? How do they interact? How do they interact with their own Dream's afterwards?

YES SHATTEREDDD

I really wanna make a What If TTS fic with Shattered, but assuming you mean like. Nightmare meeting Shattered but it’s not HIS Dream, like a little meet n greet before getting sent back home:

Dragon Balance: mah boi is mortified. Like legitimately shaking. He’s puffing out smoke from his own negativity. He and Dream have a really good relationship here, so seeing Shattered and knowing the implications of this? Added onto it that, fun fact, TTS!Noot’s bones are permanently shattered and just held together by the corruption, hence why he has a solid bone structure but can still goopify or mold himself? He KNOWS Shattered’s in pain and he does not want to think about it.

Shattered’s a douche to him. Night doesn’t know whether he wants to snark back in some kind of facade of “I’m okay” or just risk hugging the goopy asshole.

Dream’s in for some tight fuckin’ cuddles when Night gets back. And if you thought he was too worried about Dream corrupting just from the negativity in his castle before?? Hoo boy.

Father Error Dragon: Little noodle Night probably doesn’t fully understand what Shattered is. Like he knows it’s Dream, and he can feel the negativity, and yeah, he’s looking at him a little freakily and that’s unnerving but um. Why is he covered in this tar stuff? That looks very uncomfortable, does he need a shower??

But after he figures out why Shattered’s like that, Nightmare is all over him. Crying, apologizing for it like it was his fault, and his instincts are just screaming hoard hoard hoard. I like to think he wins Shattered over, and this goopy ass just carries him back home like “hi this is a very innocent bean please keep it that way.”

Dream also gets tackled with cuddles, but from a bit more of a hysterical, shaking Night now. And Error definitely gets pulled into it. Likely the rest of his hoard too if he’s collected his bois by then.

Winged: Nightmare doesn’t show any outward reaction, but at the very least he’s put off by it. He’s not very close to his Dream, so it’s not as horrible as it is for TTS Noots. Still, unsettling. He doesn’t want this to happen of course, but he’s probably more baffled by how it’s even possible more than if it’d actually happen. Their interaction is either completely silent or very verbally violent.

Night might stare at Dream a bit longer when he comes back, but it otherwise doesn’t change much between them.

Little Apple Nightmares: Oh he’s fuckin mortified. They are surrounded by an overwhelmingly negative world, and he is watching Dream get weaker every day because of it. Just the idea that this could be a possibility? New fear unlocked. He avoids Shattered with a passion, and crushes Dream with hugs when he gets back. The determination to get them the fuck outta that city increased tenfold along with his already overwhelming protectiveness.

Wild Cat Cafe cuz I can: the actual Nightmare probably reacts somewhere between TTS and Winged Noots (not totally torn apart by it but also not practically uncaring) but I just would like to take the time to imagine a slightly teal tinted black panther meeting a slightly red tinted black panther and just. Staring each other down. Shattered’s tail is twitching back and forth with some sort of curious glee, while Night’s is completely still. Ccino’s starting to worry. Are they okay? Is this some sort of dominance game? Are they going to fight?? Should he be stepping in????

Then, verrry slowly, Night’s paw lifts up. He slowly, softly, boops Shattered’s snoot. Realizes oh f u c k he’s real. And just fuckin bolts. A very large, hissy kitty in the corner of the room, only soothed by Ccino, or the Ink, Cross, or Dream cattos.

[ashesstellarbrighton]

Poker Night

Part: 2

Warning: Cursing and Alcohol.

Request: Yes!

You all sat at the poker table. Mark dealt the cards. You were the best at poker, but you constantly butted heads with William. You won the first few rounds, but soon William started to catch up to you. It began to get hard to play due to the alcohol, things began to get silly.

“Wil, you suck!” You said in a slurred voice, you giggled and glared at William, but a smile crept through your glare.

“Well, it’s not my fault I’m better than you” He laughed and took a sip of his whiskey. He smiled at you, seeing you crack from your glare.

Damien rolled his eyes. “You both suck” Damien laid out a Royal Flush. He smirked and leaned back in his chair. He took a sip of his champagne and held it up, showing that he won.

“Fuck!” You threw your cards on the table and leaned back in your chair. You glared at Damien and looked over at Mark, who was staring at Damiens cards. He looked up at Damien.

“You asshole, I would have won!” Mark threw his cards on the table. He crossed his arm, sticking out his tongue.

“Sure,” Damien chuckled. He rolled his eyes and finished his champagne. He set it on the poker table and played with the chips he had won to rub it in that he won. Soon a loud crash caught everyone’s attention, William had slammed his whiskey glass on the ground and then yelled.

“Another!” William stared at the butler as he quickly started to clean the shattered glass. Soon the butler finished getting all the glass and got William another glass of whiskey.

“Wil, what the fuck” you stared at him with a confused look on your face. William just shrugged as he drank his new glass of whiskey. Mark crossed his arms and glared at William.

“Don’t smash my whiskey glasses there expensive,” Mark said with annoyance in his voice as he took a sip of his wine.

“Well, they’re not that expensive if they shatter that easily” William crossed his arms and rolled his eyes.

“You slammed it on the ground!” Mark growled as he sat up, putting his hands on the table.

“Fine! I won’t break your cheap whiskey glass” William was not happy that Mark was getting upset with him. You and Damien just sat back and watched. They always got upset with each other over the things they use to laugh at. Still, you weren’t happy with William yourself, so it was understandable.

“Let’s just play a few more rounds of pokers. Is that okay with you boys” You glared at William and Mark. William got noticeably upset when you referred to him as a boy.

“Alright, that sounds much better than arguing” Mark grabbed everyone’s cards and started to shuffle them. William put his glass on the table and watched Mark deal the cards. You all played a few more rounds. William was the overall winner.

After playing poker for a few hours, you decided to music and play beer pong. You won, obviously.

The rest of the night went smoothly until you got punched in the face by Abe, he took Williams gun away from him, and you needed to give it back to for your plan to work. You almost fell unconscious when he punched you. Damien decided it was best if you went to bed, you protested, but Damien still picked you up and carried you upstairs. You booped Damien’s nose and giggled. You were very drunk, he laid you in your bed and started to leave, but you grabbed his arm.

“Nuuuuu, stay and cuddle with me,” You said in a slurred voice and giggled when he looked back at you, a soft smile spread across his face.

“Okay, but only if you promise me that you’ll be nice to Abe in the morning,” Damien chuckled.

“Hmmm, fine,” you giggled and smiled widely. Damien laid down and happily cuddled with you. Damien fell asleep only in a few minutes. He always fell asleep pretty fast. Soon you find yourself drifting off to sleep but right before you shut your eyes, a loud noise rang through the house. You knew that William had won a game of Russian roulette.

[monoxidecahedron]

drunk on you (julian bashir x elim garak)

wrote a thing for deep space nine (because garashir my beloved), it's long, so i broke it up into two parts. here's the first one, it's 2k words and tw for blood mention, other than that it should be fine! enjoy!

“Mister Garak,” Julian Bashir slurs, leaning against said man’s couch, “has anyone ever told you how very precious you are?”

Garak tilts his head in that Cardassian way of his and gently pulls the bottle of kanar out of his drinking partner’s grip. “I do believe you’ve had enough, Doctor. You of all people should know how potent this sort of drink is in Humans.”

Julian offers him a loopy grin. “Aw, come on, Garak, it’s only two glasses, I’m fine,” he protests. His point is undermined by the fact that he keeps swaying unsteadily as he sits cross-legged on the couch cushion, not bothering to try and stabilize himself. Garak presses his lips together and tries to put on an exasperated expression. He thinks he does fairly well- in any other case it would’ve been impeccable acting, but the glass of kanar he’s already had makes the amusement he’s feeling shine through a little more than he’d like.

His friend doesn’t notice, lost in the alcohol and too busy further destabilizing himself, giggling as he tilts closer and closer to Garak next to him. “Whoa,” he mutters as he tips out of balance, twisting at the last moment and landing with his head in Garak’s lap. Garak freezes, and he has the odd urge to slowly raise his hands in a placating gesture, as if to demonstrate he doesn’t mean this beautiful creature in his lap any harm.

He doesn’t. There isn’t much reason to, anyways. They’re alone in his quarters- no one to be suspicious of him except, of course, himself- and it’s not like he’d hurt Julian anyways. Or want to. The man himself doesn’t seem very worried; in fact, there’s a fond look in his eyes, an adoring, trusting, almost-loving sort of look that he hasn’t seen directed at himself in a while. People look at him, yes, but always with fear or distrust or hatred tainting their expressions. Take your pick of reasons- Tain’s man, Obsidian agent, Cardassian, rumoured spy- but it’s always there, lurking beneath a thin veneer of politeness (or, more likely, outright glaring, veneer nonexistent).

Julian, though. Julian Bashir has always trusted him, from the moment he sat across from him in the Replimat to the time Garak raged and flipped tables at him to now, alone with him and drunk and vulnerable and feeling totally, utterly safe. It almost makes him uncomfortable, seeing the extent to which Julian trusts him. He knows he  doesn’t deserve it, knows the doctor’s illusions of his mysterious but altogether clean past would shatter upon hearing of even the most irrelevant of errands he ran for the Order. Still, even with no small amount of guilt, he savors the kind curve of Julian’s mouth when he catches sight of his Cardassian friend.

Julian, not bothering to get off Garak’s lap, giggles and reaches up. He almost flinches away instinctively, but all Julian does is tap his nose once. “Boop,” he says with yet another giggle. Garak raises an eyeridge.

“And what, exactly, does that mean, Doctor?”

“Nothing.”

“I see,” Garak says, leaning back against the couch and looking around the rest of the room, content to sit in silence for a while.

“No- wait, it’s an Earth thing,” Julian says hurriedly, as if Garak had threatened him.

“Ah, I believe I’ve heard of it,” he responds absentmindedly, reaching down to thread his fingers through Julian’s hair.

“You’re lying,” Julian pouts. His mood suddenly turns serious, and he peers intently at him. “Why do you always lie to me, Garak?”

“Oh, I wouldn’t take it personally, my dear,” he says. He’s vaguely aware that he keeps forgetting to add “Doctor”, but at the moment Julian is warm in his lap and his mind is foggy and he can’t bring himself to deny this simple affection. “It’s simply a habit of mine.”

Julian hums in acknowledgement, but doesn’t seem to have anything to say to that. He makes a grab for the kanar bottle, still in Garak’s other hand, and sits up, taking another drink before the bottle’s taken away again.

Garak, kanar in hand again, chides, “ Julian. You really should stop,” but for once he feels relatively safe and isn’t cycling through all the reasons he should stay far, far away from the Doctor and the tangled mess of feelings that come with him and so he tips the bottle up.

He sighs afterward, setting the bottle on the coffee table in front of him with a satisfying clunk , other hand still in Julian’s hair. Julian’s got a face full of anguish when he looks down at him, and Garak tilts his head, inviting him to explain. He shakes his head, but a moment later he lets out a long breath and says, “He annoys me so much.”

Garak laughs. “There’s a lot of men who annoy you, Doctor. You’ll have to be more specific.”

Julian goes on as if he never heard him. “Really, though, I wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s splendid, you know?” He gestures wildly on splendid, somehow managing to smack Garak in the face and nearly overturn the kanar bottle sitting on his coffee table. “So mysterious.”

Garak, clenching his jaw against the bitter taste of jealousy, manages to get out an “I see”, but it doesn’t really matter; Julian’s far gone at this point and continues to ignore him, lost in thoughts of this mystery man.

“He doesn’t love me,” he says, giving Garak heartbroken puppy eyes. “He doesn’t love me… he said he hated me, once. He was lying. I think. He always lies but he doesn’t lie sometimes and it’s so confusing- Garak, it’s so confusing. ”

“He doesn’t sound all that nice.”

“He isn’t, really- he’s nice to me, though. Makes me feel nice.”

“That’s nice, then.” Even with years of Obsidian training, it’s still a concerted effort to keep his voice steady. Damn Federaji , damn Humans, damn this particular Federaji Human with his honeyed smile and his charming naivete and his slender body and his brilliant fucking arguments and-

“He’s brilliant, did you know?”

“You seem to have forgotten you still haven’t told me who he is, dear,” Garak says. It’s an indulgement he can’t help but allow himself. He’s lost his Doctor; what’s one little word?

“I don’t know who he is, either.” Garak makes a questioning face. “I don’t know if he knows who he is either. He’s kind of lost. Stuck.”

“Ah.”

“It’s a sad thought.”

“That your-” he pauses for a second- “that he’s stuck?” He feels silly, trying to talk to an obviously drunk, in-his-head Julian who keeps ignoring him. He might as well have put on a movie and tried to talk to the characters.

“Most people have never heard their friends’ actual voice,” Julian says. Garak pauses, considering. It’s an interesting sort of thing to think about, if (as Julian said) a bit sad.

“I learned Kardasi for him,” he continues. And that’s even more interesting- this man speaks Kardasi? He dismisses a thought before it can form. Some aren’t worth entertaining, even for a moment; hope is a dangerous thing, flighty and tempting and ultimately disappointing, and he isn’t such a fool as to invite that sort of creature into his head.

“I learned it for him,” Julian repeats. “It’s a very nice language, you know. Very interesting. I speak it to my friends and no one notices. He didn’t notice either.” So he talks to the mystery man. Hm. He starts to analyse the information, mind almost subconsciously going through the steps and piecing together what he knows. So far, very little.

“Tell me about this man,” he says.

Julian gives him a little head-tilt. “Whatever do you mean? I’ve been telling you about him,” he says. Garak can’t tell if he’s genuinely confused or if alcohol makes him more of a little shit than usual. It’s certainly making himself more impatient.

“I mean that I don’t know who this man is, and if you’ll excuse my bluntness, I would like to know,” he says shortly.

Understanding seems to dawn in Julian’s eyes. “Oops.” Scale-less arms wrap around his neck and he pulls himself up and before he’s got a chance to think bad idea bad idea bad idea soft lips are on his and suddenly all he can think is OH! and Julian’s kissing him harder and maybe the Humans were on to something with their kissing because dear god it’s so good and he leans closer and Julian hums against him and

crash

He’s on the floor, rubbing at his shoulder, at the place where Garak shoved him away. “Garak-”

“Out.”

His eyes widen. “Garak, I’m so sorry,” he says, but his words are slurred and bad idea bad idea bad idea is rushing through and he gets up off the couch ( my dear Cardassia what have I done ) and picks Julian up and goes for the door ( damage control damage control ).

“No- Garak- wait- no don’t leave me I’m sorry we can talk about it-” the door slides open with that same mechanical beep-whoosh as he approaches- “Garak, please- you can’t just leave me out here-”

“I can and I will, Doctor,” he grits out. “You’re drunk. Go home.” Bashir is set down just outside his door.

“Garak- Garak wait- no-” the door starts to slide shut again- “Elim!”

whoosh-click.

He sighs heavily, leaning against it, head in his hands.

bad idea bad idea bad idea bad idea

~~

The pieces of the kanar bottle are sharp as he picks them up off the floor. Julian’s momentum had knocked it against the opposite wall, shattering it, breaking it beyond repair just as surely as he’d broken any semblance of camaraderie between them, and now they lie glimmering in the window's meagre light. He can’t simply leave the pieces on the floor, jagged and dangerous- can’t keep seeing Bashir, all of our usual engagements will have to go, and then some- and so he picks them up, slowly, even though they slide against his palm when he closes it around them, edges breaking skin when he shifts the wrong way ( it’ll hurt, yes, but I can deal with it, I can deal with it, I’ll have to deal with it ).  He can’t feel it, can’t feel much over the roaring in his head- Tain’s voice, of course it’s Tain’s voice, it’s always Tain’s voice- you knew this would happen, it’s your fault, you knew you shouldn’t have gotten closer to him don’t be so selfish now look what you’ve done. He’s gone and deluded himself into wanting someone like you and he’ll never have happiness and it’s your fault your fault your

There’s a sharp pain and the feeling of cold blood trickling down his hand. The glass piece slides out of his grip and lands on the carpet, dripping in the stuff and staining the carpet.

He huffs. Control, Elim. Control is the key. The memories seem to dissipate as he shakes his head, along with Tain’s admonishments.

There’s a knock at his door. Doctor Bashir. He’s the only person who actually knocks, like the Humans used to in the old days before automated doors. He’s also the only person who’d want to come see him in his quarters. “I’m not here!” Garak calls.

There’s a thump that sounds suspiciously like a human fist hitting the door in frustration, a groan, and then Bashir calls, “Let me in, Garak! I just want to talk!”

Unfortunately for the doctor, talking is the last thing he wants to do. Bashir keeps yelling, desperation seeping into his voice, but he simply turns and continues picking up more pieces of the glass bottle. There’s a flash of pain and then cold blood dripping from a fresh cut ( go talk to him, what the fuck are you doing, he wants you, go out there and just take him ) and he shakes his head, sighing, but he tips the piece into the bag he’s using to hold them all because he can’t just leave them on the floor ( the fuck do you mean just go out there and take him you can’t do that you’d destroy him, you know it, you and all your secrets and your cruelty would crush his bright-eyed smile ) and it’s always the harsher voices that are loudest but this one’s right. He can’t give in to the man outside his door, has to not be selfish for once in his entire bloodstained life and so he just keeps going, collecting cuts as he handles the edges of what used to be a beautiful, whole bottle and grits his teeth against the sting.

Eventually, footsteps sound, padding away from his door, and he sighs and slumps against the edge of the coffee table. It digs into his back scales uncomfortably, but he can't bring himself to move.

...

hooray! tumblr didn't kill my formatting (i think)! part two will be up soon, i pinky promise i'll deliver this time i swear it. comments fuel my soul and my writing if you reblog i am legally required to love you forever same goes for comments x

[nanagoswife]

Please, Don't Go. - Chapter 11

Summary: There's a few moments that Obi-Wan and reader go through with some serious conversations in between.

W/C: 2.5k

Warnings: angst, implied intimacy

- - -

You were pacing nervously. The last you heard was that Qui-Gon was being pursued and Obi-Wan had sprung into action. You knew the ship had lifted off, but you weren’t sure if your other Jedi protector was alright.

So, you were in the usual meeting spot you had with Obi-Wan. You weren’t sure he’d be able to get down here, but you went there all the same. If he wasn’t able to come, then you had some time to think. You would have time to ease your worry.

When you heard the door slide open, you were faced the other way and you paused mid-pace. Turning, you were met by a sight you weren’t expecting. Beside Obi-Wan stood a young boy.

“Anakin, meet Princess Y/N Y/L/N,” Obi-Wan said as he guided the boy further into the room.

“Oh please,” you say before kneeling in front of the boy, “you can call me Y/N. It’s a pleasure to meet you Anakin.” You reached your hand out and he happily took it and shook it.

The smile on his face was large and bright. “It’s nice to meet you too,” he replied with a bubbly sounding tone.

Without much warning, he hugged you. You didn’t hesitate hugging him back. Whatever it was, you were drawn to this boy. What it was? You couldn’t say.

When Anakin pulled away he smiled, “I like you. You feel welcoming. It’s a nice change from everyone at home.”

“I’m glad you like me because I like you too,” you reply with a boop to his nose with a finger. He giggled and squirmed in the spot he stood as you wiggled your finger against his nose.

As Obi-Wan watched, his heart warmed. He wasn’t surprised you were good with children, but it was different to actually see it. One day, you would be an amazing mother. The thought darkened. If you stayed with him, you wouldn’t have that opportunity. Not unless he wanted to go against The Order even more than he already has.

He snapped back to the moment when he noticed that both you and Anakin were looking up at him. You wore a concerned expression as you clearly saw his smile fade. The look in your eyes told him you wanted to talk. Whether it was because you started having second thoughts before or it was because of seeing him, he knew you just needed to talk.

Clearing his throat, he finally spoke, “Anakin, go find Qui-Gon. If he’s in the cockpit, you should convince him to let you learn how to pilot the ship.”

“Okay!” Anakin’s face immediately brightened as he could hardly contain himself when he practically ran out the door. Obi-Wan closed it behind the boy, leaving you two in privacy once again.

“Is Qui-Gon alright? Are you alright?” you immediately questioned. Your initial worry was the Jedi Knight, but now you were worried about Obi-Wan. What could’ve happened that dropped his smile that quickly.

“Qui-Gon is fine. There is something that we discovered, but I can’t speak of it until we’re sure,” he replied. His voice was low, meaning that he was thinking of a lot more than that.

Taking the few steps, you took away the distance that was between the two of you. You needed to feel his arms around you.

He returned your embrace, but it wasn’t the same. He seemed distant, like he was second guessing what the two of you have. Please, Maker, don’t let it be that Obi-Wan was thinking of ending it.

When you pulled away, you dropped your arms from him and crossed them in front of you, almost like you would when you were sad and trying to gain comfort from yourself, while taking a step back. It pained Obi-Wan to see you distance yourself because of him. He wanted so badly to pull you into him so he could comfort you, but you clearly caught him in his thoughts.

You were the first to break the tense silence, “You want to end it. Don’t you,” you say in a pained whisper as you look at the ground. If he was going to say yes, you couldn’t bear looking into his eyes when he did. You didn’t want to see the sureness he would have in them.

Only, Obi-Wan was taken aback. He never thought that you would think that. His eyes went wide and took a small step towards you, but you only stepped back. You still weren’t looking up, so you couldn’t see his true feelings.

“Of course I’m not, dearest,” he said, reaching his hand out. He was asking silent permission to take your hand in his.

When you didn’t take it, his heart sunk a little.

“Y/N, please, at least look at me,” he pleaded. He wanted you to know he wasn’t leaving you due to the thoughts he actually had often. He did, however, want you to look in his eyes when he finally voiced these worries. Obi-Wan wanted you to know that you weren’t that he was upset, but that he was upset at himself; that he was upset that he may never be able to fulfill all of the usual things couples do.

Slowly, you lifted your eyes to his. It had taken a few moments, but you did. Obi-Wan’s heart shattered when he saw tears in your eyes. It was far from the first time, but it was the first time that he was the cause of them.

“I’m not ending it,” he started, softly. He wanted you to see just how serious he was. “You aren’t the cause of my worries. It’s myself that I’m disappointed in.”

That had gotten your attention, changing your sad countenance to one of confusion, “What do you mean,” you said shakily.

“When you saw my smile drop, it wasn’t because I was planning to leave you. You were so good with Anakin and I started thinking about how I can never make something like a family happen for you. Kriff! I can’t even properly marry you if we wanted to!” His voice began to grow louder as he expressed more and more frustration with himself.

Immense relief filled you as you realized exactly what he meant. If the two of you made it through everything, he would never be able to provide for you. Not the way he would like to. Not without breaking The Code or leaving the Jedi.

Stepping up to him, you cut him off as he was still rambling about it all by placing a hand on his cheek. You offered a sad smile, showing him that you already had thought about it.

“It’s alright, Obi. That was something that I’ve already come to terms with.”

He tried to offer at least a smirk, but he couldn’t. He hated the fact that you accepted it already. You deserved so much more. You deserved a family. You deserved a husband that you could actually love openly.

You painfully could see what was running through his mind. When he went to open his mouth to speak it, you instead kept him from voicing it and pressed your lips to his. It took him by surprise, but he kissed you back.

“I know you think I deserve more,” you say when the two of you separate, resting your foreheads together. “But I don’t want it if it means I don’t have you. Even if I never have a true family, we’re enough. You are more than enough.”

Obi-Wan almost broke right there. He almost let himself go and crumble in your arms. He almost said that he was going to give everything up for you, but you wouldn’t have that. You wanted him to stay a Jedi because you knew he loved it. You didn’t want him to change who he was just to be with you.

At the thought of just how much you thought about his future as he did yours, it was the final push.

Tears built up in his eyes and he fell into your arms. Gently, you guided him down to the floor as his face was pushing into your chest, nose pressed into your sternum. You guided him so that you were both on your knees, until Obi-Wan instead rested on a hip as he wrapped his arms around you.

Resorting to your usual method of comfort, you started to stroke the hair on the side of his head, starting just above his ear and trailing down to the nape of his neck. Your other hand gently rubbed his back. You could feel the material of your gown grow wet with Obi-Wan’s tears, but you couldn’t care. All you cared about is that he was finally letting it all out.

This was why you loved Obi-Wan so much. He not only had the ability to constantly comfort you, but he trusted you enough that he let his normally composed stature drop, allowing you to return the favour.

When he began to calm, you retrieved a handkerchief from a hidden pocket in the gown. After he pulled away, you used it to wipe his cheeks dry and handed it to him to take care of any other needs.

“Thank you.”

“I love you, Obi-Wan. That’s all that matters. I don’t need everything else if it means that I have you,” you replied, bringing a hand to cup his jaw.

Smiling, he moved his head to kiss your palm.

-

The day on Coruscant was a lonely one. Instead of joining Padmé in all of her diplomatic ventures, you stayed in your temporary apartment. Obi-Wan and Qui-Gon had taken Anakin a few hours ago, not long before the Queen of Naboo joined Senator Palpatine to address the rest of the Senate about their planet’s issue with the Trade Federation.

The time with Anakin had been amazing. Despite what he had been through as a slave, he was quite a happy boy. He was excited about every little detail of the planet as you looked out the window and pointed things out to him.

Now, though, you were alone. You were passing the time by reading a holo book before you heard a knock at the door. A little too quickly, you got up to answer it.

After pressing the button, the door slid open to reveal Obi-Wan. He quickly looked around the room, surveying for anyone else, before suddenly enveloping your lips in his. There was an eagerness behind it that the two of you hadn’t been able to act on in almost a week.

You couldn’t help but giggle, “My, my, the padawan is eager.”

“Only because this is the only night we have on this planet. Alone, if I might add,” he said between kisses, slowly removing the outer layer of your dress. You couldn’t help but move your hand to undo his belt so that you could remove his robes and tunic.

“What about-”

“I’ll tell you later,” you quickly said, cutting you off. Letting out another giggle, Obi-Wan lifted you and carried you to the bedroom.

-

You were tracing circles on his chest as his breathing was starting to even out again. The layer of sweat made the feeling of his skin the best thing you ever felt.

Obi-Wan was relishing in the feeling of your hair pressing against his chest and shoulder. Looking down at you in the soft light of the lamp, he brushed a strand behind your ear. Your eyes sparkled in the beautiful way that he knew was only for him.

“Are you going to finally tell me what happened?” you asked before pressing a kiss to his collarbone.

You pressed a few more, each one making their way up his neck.

Suddenly, he flipped you to your back, which earned a squeal from you, and he hung over you, letting out a chuckle before saying, “Not if you keep doing that. I’m afraid I would tell you something slightly different. Again.”

Giggling, you pulled him down from his position on his elbows so that you could kiss him.

“Okay,” you said with a chuckle as his lips moved back from yours, “I’ll be serious now.”

“About which part, darling?” He said in a teasing tone as he looked down at you with raised eyebrows.

Although he knew you thought that you looked like a mess, he thought that you were utterly beautiful.

“Who said that it only had to be about one,” you quipped back. Obi-Wan practically growled as he dove his lips back to yours.

-

This time, you let Obi-Wan have some time before imploring him to tell you what happened. You wanted to know if Anakin would be trained as a Jedi like he had been promised.

“Unfortunately, my prediction was correct. The council said he was too old.”

“But,” you said. You knew there was more. There was no way that his master would take no for an answer. Not when Obi-Wan had told you how much Qui-Gon studied the prophecies.

Obi-Wan chuckled, “But, my master is adamant about the boy being trained. He said that he would train him, which took me by surprise before saying I was ready for the trials.” He sighed, “I tried to step in to defend his decision, but I’m afraid I had spoken out of turn. Then, they let us leave without giving a straight answer. I know Qui-Gon will train the boy with or without the council’s permission.”

“Poor Anakin. He’s such a sweet one,” you said. Obi-Wan hummed in agreement. He had only known the boy a couple of days, but he liked the boy. Clearly, you did as well.

“I just hope they will change their minds. We don’t want anyone with that kind of signature in the force to fall onto the wrong path.”

You looked up at Obi-Wan from your place on his chest. He was staring at the ceiling, no doubt deep in thought. Lightly, you played with his padawan braid. It had been something that he’d let you do more and more as days went on.

“I’m sure, whatever way it is, Anakin will be properly trained. He deserves it,” you say before attempting to stifle a yawn.

Obi-Wan’s attention was brought back down to you, stifling his own yawn. He encouraged you to sleep as he drew patterns on your back. You were partially on top of him, and he loved it. It allowed him to feel your heartbeat not far from his.

His attention was fully on you as he watched as you drifted off. Only when he was sure you were asleep did he allow his own eyes to close. He focused on the feeling of your skin pressed to his as he let sleep overtake him.

- - -

@stardancerluv @where-fantasy-meets-reality @mackycat11 @generousrunawaydonut @jaydenwoo @madmax2003

[help-im-a-gay-fish]

The Birth of Sun and Moon. Part one.

Part 2 part 3, baby blues

The following in part 1 of 3 of a piece of writing about the birth/spawning of the Dark-Cream ship kids Celestial star and Luna light.

This takes place in a universe separate to @zu-is-here dark cream story and splits of somewhere around 'the price of happiness'. Any continuity errors should be accepted as being part of an alternative timeline.

Synopsis, this takes place a few days before the twins birth, it is mostly fluff and setting up head cannons and law :) hope you enjoy.

It had been about a year since Dream had accepted Cross' proposal. And it had been one of the best years they'd ever had.

Dream had wanted to take a little bit of time before talking about marriage, after everything that had happened, he needed time.

He loved Cross deeply, but he had hurt him so much that he didn't want to rush into anything. Things were slow at first.

There had been highs and lows throughout the year. Positive emotions could be very draining to Shattered, they caused weakness in him since he suppressed his negatively. This left him sometimes stuck in bed for a few days every once in a while. Luckily the negative emotions created around these periods seemed to replenish his strength. It was like a reset button.

Of course, the ideas about breaking his curse had been tossed around, normally during these bed ridden times. But these conversations were often dropped when Dream started feeling better and they got wrapped up in there love again. Not that it was a bad thing.

Dream sometimes felt like the curse was more of a blessing. If it wasn't for the corruption him and Cross wouldn't be engaged and he'd still be stuck with his aura. Maybe it was selfish of him to be happy.... But at this point in time, it didn't really matter.

Dream moved his gaze from the bedroom ceiling, to the skeleton sleeping beside him. Smiling he then looked at the bedside table, his gloves and ring sat there waiting for the morning. He sighed and sat up a bit.

Sleeping was never a vital thing that Dream had to do, but he'd found himself enjoying how it felt, even if nightmares sometimes plagued him. But this night he felt restless. There were a lot of things on his mind at the moment. There were a lot of things he'd been worrying about recently.

Cross had for the most part always been so patient. Maybe respectful was a better word.

Dream had often found himself wondering if cross ever wanted more from him. He knew that the way normal monsters reproduced was not the same way energy beings did. He had no idea how they did it, he'd never had a desire to know, but one thing he did know is that most people liked to do it for fun.

He glanced over at the skeleton beside him, wondering... Did Cross ever want to? Dream had often wondered about asking him, but had always been to frightened of the answer. He didn't even know what it was, so he had no idea if it was ever something he could bring himself to do. He cursed his naivety in these matters.

He'd never told this to cross, but cross had always seemed to have an unspoken understanding of it. As if he could read minds. Cross had never brought it up.

Dream leant over and nuzzled cross on his skull. Cross slept on.

He thought back now. A few weeks ago the two of them had experimented slightly with physical contact. Nothing to much, but just enough. Both of them had wanted to get a little closer to each other and this felt like a good way.

It had eventually lead to contact with the soul. For energy beings the soul is a very important part of their selves. It had there entire being wrapped around it. Allowing a partner to touch a soul was the very deepest of intimacy. It represented trust and deep love.

Dream may have been one of the only energy beings that still lived, but he'd always known this, even with no one to teach him. That night he'd finally allowed cross to touch his soul properly.

It had been a wonderful feeling. He'd never felt so close to anyone before. It was nice. Cross had been so gentle, it made Dream smile slightly thinking about it. For Dream it had been a very important step in there relationship. Everything had felt perfect. Why did this have to happen.

Without other energy beings or another kind of close species around him, Dream hadn't been taught how to touch souls safely. He hadn't known what it could cause. He knew now.

There was a new energy around his core. It was separate to his, and was reminiscent of his Crossy's magic. He had a bad feeling he knew what could be happening, he prayed he was wrong.

Logically, he had told himself that he was being paranoid, that this was just probably how it felt after having a partners magic touch your soul. Maybe it meant that they had soul bonded. He told himself that, that was more likely. He squashed his fears again, as he took Cross' hand.

'if what I fear truly was happening, then it would surely be more obvious then simply a new feeling of energy... Right?' He thought to himself.

"Dream?"

Dream jumped slightly and turned to Cross. He was still sleepy, but awake. Laying down, Dream replied "Sorry... Did I wake you up?"

Cross stretched, "Nah, don't worry about it"

He smiled at him "so what is my handsome husband to be still doing up? "

Dream's face dusted with a slight golden blush. "nothing" he replied. He didn't feel much like telling cross about what he was worrying about, especially since he was probably over thinking.

"I was just thinking" he said glancing away.

Sensing a little discomfort from his partner, Cross sat up. "You alright Day Dream? What were you thinking about"

Dream could hear Cross' concerned tone and he didn't like it. He knew he'd have to give him an answer fast. He glanced at his ring again.

"I was thinking about rings!" he said quickly.

"rings?"

"yes rings"

'well done dream, that made a ton of sense' He thought to himself.

"like your engagement ring?" Cross asked.

Dream quickly nodded and sat up again "y-yes, it's a beautiful ring"

Smiling wider, Cross said "Yeah, a beautiful ring for a beautiful skeleton "

Dream blushed a deeper gold this time. He really should have seen that coming.

"hey! Since when are you the one flustering me!?" he said poking is tounge out.

Cross laughed and booped Dream on the nose "Baby's mad again".

Shattered chuckled slightly, and playfully booped Cross back. To Dreams pleasure, Cross went a little purple.

Cross smirked at him "is that a challenge my love?"

Shattered simply booped him again "that's up to you Crossy".

Cross went slightly more purple, much to Dreams delight. "You're still the one most easy to fluster" he said in a slightly cockier tone.

"oh it's on Dreamy" Cross said, and before Dream could react him quickly pined him down to the bed and started kissing him all over his face.

Going a very vibrant gold, Dream kicked his legs out and giggled.

"no! Hahaha no fair! That tickles! Hahha Your evil!"

Cross simply laughed and continued to kiss him on his cheek and face before moving to his mouth.

At first Dream jumped slightly at the sudden kiss but then completely melted as Cross kissed his mouth tenderly. As much as Dream hated to admit it, he often felt weak when cross kissed him like that.

As if on que, his soul gave a twinge. To much positively, it was a recognisable feeling these days. This time though, he didn't care. He felt to good to care. This was just what he'd needed.

After a little while Dream summoned a tentacle and used it to slowly push Cross off. Finally parting the kiss.

"that's enough you" he said and he caught his breath.

"Who's the flustered one now?" Cross teased

Shattered rolled his eyes "if you wanna start a tickling contest, just remember I have these" he said, gesturing to his tentacle as he retracted it.

Cross smirked "oh no I must be in trouble for you to bring one of those out"

Dream pocked his tounge out again and stretched his back slightly as the tentacle fully retracted.

Cross laughed again, as he lay back down "your still just as adorable as ever"

He took Dreams hand in his.

"you'll forever be my cute little Dream boat, my world and my family" he said, kissing Dreams hand gently.

Dream let himself smile, as he felt his worries completely slip his mind. Cross was by his side, there was nothing to worry about.

Or was there?

*************************

OK! Here's part one! I was gonna illustrate it but @zu-is-here asked me to just post it so here you go! Maybe I'll illustrate it later. I hope everything made sense and read ok. Now a lot of this is down to my personal head cannons and ideas so I hope that's OK. Thanks for reading.

Original cross and dream belong to jakei95 and jokublog

Original shattered dream belongs to @galacii

Dark cream comic and story is by @zu-is-here

Dark cream twins belong to me

@official-darkxunshine-kids

[maladaptive-ninja-returns]

It’s The Avengers (03x09)

Loki x Reader Avengers The Office AU (Slowwwwww Burn)

Season 3 Episode 09: I’m Allergic to Bad Memories

Series Summary: Living in the Avengers facility post-apocalypse in a better timeline   Tony Stark has decided to capture every moment by pulling The Office on the Avengers. All of housemates are pretty used to the idea except for you, who had just come here to finish her degree, and the newest member- Loki.

Warnings: *shrugs*

Word Count: I am sick. But I am out of stuff to keep my loud mind busy. So here we are. Be grateful to the Gods of k-dramas

MASTERLIST in bio, darlings. Tags are open (check bio)

The chirps of concern were a train of ramblings coming in between the nudges little orange furry paws were giving you; smushing your lips, your cheeks, booping your nose. The only time they stopped was when that echo that resulted in your unconsciousness announced a little plan. “How about I be of some help, little one?” Lulu stood up on his hind legs while he and his camera saw a pair of pale hands stroke your head ever so gently, whispering something foreign under a sweet breath. The next second, you stirred, perking up the little furball- who smushed your face and head with an endless amount of rubs with his own. You groaned before a yelp found its way out of your throat as you felt the bump at the back of your head thump with piercing pain. “Ow! Ow ow ow ow.” “Ah,” the soothing voice called out from outside the frame, “you hit your head pretty hard, dear.” The realisation of the stranger came a little late- maybe because of the concussion, maybe because of the angelic voice that seemed to make you feel at ease- and once it did, your eyes widened while your legs moved your body away from… “God?” you gasped in question while Lulu’s camera looked at the aged women smiling down at you with a glow unlike any. “More or less, yes,” the glowing woman in a gold dress chuckled before bringing her hand forward. “Come, let me help you, dear.” You tried catching your breath there. “Wh...who…” The smile on that bewitchingly calm face brought this uncalled ease inside your chest. “I’m Frigga.”

. A shrivelled high-pitched scream eroded the den as Javier stood frozen at the expressions similar to that of a spooked out little child on the face of the head of the universe’s deadliest mafia. “No, please do not hurt my face!! That is my one good asset!!! You always hit me where it hurts the most!!!” Taneleer cried. The camera focused from the ball of luxurious fur whispering on the floor to Loki- who stood there with his arms across his chest. “I didn’t even hit you yet. Quit being such a pain in the a-” “Ssso what! You were thinking of hitting me,” Taneleer huffed while he looked up at Loki, “I could see it in those snake eyes of yours. Like you will bite my-my h-head off!” Loki sighed and rolled his eyes.

Loki: *bags under his eyes* I am…*blinks tiredly* surrounded...by the most idiotic scum of this universe *camera pans across his shoulder to show Taneleer calling his henchman* “As long as they are here, make sure that little Terran is safe. Otherwise, I will cut off your limbs and feed it to the street rodents,” he hisses.

“I cannot believe you just thought of hurting me for that Terran,” Taneleer tsked and jumped in annoyance, “she is getting between our friendship.” “You were never my friend,” Loki delivered the blow with a straight face while the boss felt his heart shatter into a million pieces. “And to think I made little marble figures of us both hanging out in Knowhere,” he whispered with the hurt reflecting in his voice. “Who is she to you anyway?” He pouted. “Who is this creature to have you travelling by her side as if you are...she is...you both...what is she to you?!!” “Just get me my fucking grace,” Loki raised his voice while rolling his eyes, “or I swear to all the power in this universe I will personally make you suffer for frying my brain cells with your utter nonsense. What are you trying to do? Buy time till your rotten brain can figure out how to make up an excuse for your incompetence?” Taneleer’s slouching and sad figure straightened up and raised a finger. “More like, trying to buy time before I really tell you who I sold your grace to.” . “Frigga?” The camera took in the glowing pale face smiling in your direction as it nodded in your direction. Your face, on the other hand, was a mess of confusion, surprise and the worst possible daze just sitting on top of your forehead. “Like...Loki’s mom Frigga?” A sparkle went off in Frigga’s eyes as the already glowing face seemed to shine four times brighter. Her eyes widened and her smile seemingly found a reason to grow wider. That was till some uncertain thought crossed her forehead and her smile twitched and transformed into an unsettling concern. “This is…” Frigga trailed off. “Weird?” you tried helping her. “It’s usually Thor that people know me through.” “Huh...makes sense.” “How...do you know Loki?” “Oh, I’m his friend. Y/N Y/L/N. Nice to meet you.” “Ah,” Frigga nodded and mirrored your smile before confusion punched that softness away. “I’m sorry, you are what?!” The Lounge Scott sat on the sofa reading the latest copy of One Piece while the big screen opposite him showed Loki threatening Tivan by his collar. The screen did not seem to take his attention but the figure looking in front of it, going to and fro more times than Scott could count. Actually, Scott stopped counting after six about an hour ago. "Instead of working your legs, it would be better to work that mouth for your friend, don't you think?" Natasha called out from behind the counter, sipping on her kale smoothie. The words stopped Steve short, his whole face a mixture of blushing horror. "W-what." "That's not what she means, you thirsty grandpa!" Scott called his thoughts out without raising his eyes from the latest in Wano arc, "go talk to him." Steve blinked and regained a part of his lost senses, slowly moving towards the dorms. "And kiss him senseless while you're at it," Scott added, stopping the captain midway to give him an irritated glare- one that Natasha was loving.

Natasha: *smirks* I have to say it feels good to have someone else make thirst jokes on Steve too *Camera pans out to show Scott smiling for the lens* Scott: It's me *points to self* she means me. Natasha: I guess there are more coming? Scott: *gushing* you have no idea

The Den “So, if I were to summarise what you just told me, midgardians have no quarrels with Loki, Thanos has been defeated and my son is living with the Avengers now.” Lulu’s camera caught seriousness in Frigga’s brows while you nodded. “And I’m his friend,” you added with a smile before looking at Lulu’s camera.

You: I stressed that for reasons *shrugs nonchalantly*

“Right,” Frigga acknowledged. “So, how is my son? Is he here? My essence is only supposed to be released in his presence or someone he…” Frigga paused and looked back at you, this time with the keen observation that seemed to make you a little uncomfortable. “He is somewhere in the back with the anime-hair guy. They are trying to find a way to get him out of these cuffs my dad made so he couldn’t use magic. Long story. But we got teleported into some galaxy far away and now we are here to help Loki get his powers back so we can go home.” You thought best to blabber than stand there in awkward silence while Loki’s mother was giving you a deep mental once over. “And by we I mean me, Lulu and Javi. We are all friends. Lulu is the little baby we adopted on the way,” you cooed and smiled at the little pile of soft fur purring on receiving scritches from your under his not-so-visible jaw. You looked back up to watch Frigga’s fingers rest on her lips to mask some sort of emotion you were too late to read.

Frigga: This cute little midgardian keeps calling herself Loki’s friend *tilts head* and then tells me they adopted an old beastling’s offspring as their child. *contemplates* So...do marriages not happen on earth lately? Or is this something my son came up with? *raises her brows* no matter the story, *waves her hand* I am not letting him lose this precious one.

“Let’s go meet Loki,” you jumped in controlled excitement taking the first step to lead the way before freezing right there. “Wait,” you interrupted your own buzz with a grim expression, “how do I know you are one of the good ones?” “I beg your pardon, little one?” You sighed, feeling a little heaviness settle in your chest. “How do I know you are not going to hurt him?”

You: Yup *purses lips* reasons *stretches the corners of her mouth in regret*

“Did you just ask me if I was dangerous for my own son?” You could already feel the mother hen judgment even when you didn’t stare into her eyes. “I know,” you sighed, “it’s the space. My nerves are overworked and the only thing I can think of is Loki.” “...” “-’s well being.” Clearing your throat, you nodded at your own words, stealing a glimpse at the camera. “That usually does not happen. I can assure you that.” The surprise at your sheer audacity melted within ten seconds to give place to something soft and glowing; along with something else. You did not expect Frigga to bring forward her hand and cup your cheek with her palm to gaze into your soul while you stood there with disbelief dripping from your skin. “Your hand is so warm,” you commented after flinching a little at her touch, waiting for her to say something. But Frigga took her time, her thumb stroking your cheek while you witnessed the corner of her eyes glistening. “By the Norns, you have been one gentle soul through such wild storms haven’t you, dear,” she whispered, forcing you to grow more confused for a second, “why would someone hurt such a precious soul.” Lulu’s camera moved with Lulu’s body suddenly on alert. He could feel the change in the atmosphere right when the camera caught your crinkled brows release themselves to some invisible realisations that were either too quick- or too heavy- to bring tears to your eyes. All that your face carried was bearings of something that stopped time for you while your tears ran as much as they could; and with them ran your breaths getting shallow by the second till Frigga engulfed you in her warm embrace, her hands soothing your back. “Forgive me, my child,” she whispered, never leaving your cold figure, “forgive me for bringing it all back.” Lulu’s whines and unknown movements from the corridor made Frigga bring herself to face a dazed you. “You are one brave human, my dearest. Trust in yourself. And you are not alone. Take good care of my son till I can see him one last time.” With those words hanging somewhere in the midst of your ears and your brain, she left with a peck on your forehead, dissolving into the same light she was radiating all along.

The Dorms and Their Outer Surroundings The camera zoomed in to focus away from the leaves and into the french window of Bucky’s room where he and Steve sat in their respective love seats five feet apart, trying their best to keep their composure while trying to come up with words. Steve cleared his throat. Bucky moved the bottle of water on the coffee table towards him. “So…” Steve’s throat barely made any noise the first time while Bucky’s red face tried to hide under the shadow of his long unruly hair, “I heard that...ahem...that you…” “I’m gay!” The confession came like a shot of rifle mid-air, taking both Bucky and Steve by surprise. “And that’s o-okay,” Steve stressed, sitting up straight, “it’s okay to love anyone you want.” “So-” Bucky’s fingers wrung each other under the internal pressure to get the words out- “is it...is it okay to love you?” Unknown to them, another camera standing outside in the lawn witnessed an excited Scott perched upon the top of the tree with the headphones on to hear every word they said. And just as the confession came, the poor man caught hold of his chest, muttered, “my heart,” and fell from the branch while his red-headed accomplice waited for more. “Is it okay to love you now?” Steve was on pause, his attention solely taken by Bucky’s words and eyes. “Bucky,” was he was able to get out before standing up, forcing Bucky to mirror him. “I know this may seem out of the blue, Stevie, but I have always...always only had eyes for you. And I know times were different back then, but now I finally have the guts to tell you how I feel and I would completely understand if you don’t-” The words were stopped short right on the lips when Steve took Bucky by the collar and kissed him. “FINALLY!” a victorious cry came from the Black Widow right beside the camera, making the poor thing wobble and fall down lens first onto the ground.

The Weird Den Javier’s camera already caught the shimmer of an orb disappearing from right in front of you as he entered the room but his company was too late to notice any of that golden light that had just illuminated the room. The moment Loki entered the room the camera recorded his senses going off. His eyes ran over every corner of the room, over Lulu rubbing himself on your legs while trying to draw your attention, and then back to your figure standing in the middle with your back to him. “Y/N?” he called out, taking one cautious step at a time. You flinched. That stopped him right in his tracks. “What’s wrong?” Lulu’s camera caught your hands wiping away the tears before turning to face him. That effort was not of much use as both Loki and Taneleer could make out some real tears had been shed. “Nothing. Did you find something for your cuffs?” your nasal voice did not help your case either. Taneleer raised his hands a little as he stepped close to you, bringing forward a dense black fabric. You took without much thought and blew your nose into it, making the boss gag behind you. Loki clearly wanted to ask you about the reason behind those tears but those lines of latent rage in between your brows made him go the other way. “We will have to travel a little further for that, I’m afraid.” You sniffed, finally feeling the air in your nostrils. “Cool. Let’s go,” you muttered nonchalantly and walked out.  Taneleer’s eyes widened and he aggressively gestured his guards to follow you.  Loki’s brows raised themselves in question. “What just happened?” . “Are you sure nothing’s wrong?” Javier’s camera caught the grit of your teeth as you sat down in the transportation vehicle that looked like an exoskeleton of a schoolkids’ van. “I said I’m fine,” you pressed with zero emotions in your eyes. “Then why are you crying,” Loki pressed back while casually leaning on the doorframe and watching you with his intense gaze. You scoffed. “Because I’m allergic to you,” you spewed into the air and shifted to face away from him. Taking full offence of that statement, Loki opened his mouth to say something before shutting it back. Tight. “You know I’m still single right?” Tivan whispered from behind the God with a smirk. The latter did not pay much attention to his words. “I’ve taken some of your inventory. Don’t bother getting it back in one piece.” Loki was about to step into the van when Taneleer decided to open his mouth. “She knows you are here.” Loki paused, his hand resting on the frame and his biceps feeling a tug under his dark shirt. “She knows you are out of hiding, Loki. She will come for you. I know you already know that. And she will come for anything-” his gaze shifted from Loki’s beautiful back to yours- “-that stands between her and you.” No words came from the other side except for the tap of a finger on the frame before Loki got inside the van and came to sit next to you. Tivan’s guards were already putting the vehicle in full throttle to fly towards your ship while Loki waited for you to say something. But you were stubborn in your own way, not letting out a peep but turning to watch where exactly Loki is sitting. “Lulu,” he stressed with a note of caution when he did not let Javier secure him in his seat, leading to the fur-boy slump in his seat and sulk till Javier presented him with candy. At the same time, you scooched closer to Loki- still not facing him- and let your fingers feel his overcoat in them. Your eyes still carried the remnants of the tears along with a hidden hurt that you did not want to show anyone. But the high definition cameras everywhere were quick to catch it all; even the slight break of your heartstrings when you felt the fabric of comfort in your fingers move away. It also captured the shock that followed when you felt his arm come and rest behind your neck to prevent the discomfort of the metal rails on the back of your head on this bumpy ride, giving you full access to take the support of his shoulder and arms in that moment. You didn’t even realise when the waterworks came again. “What,” Loki looked at you expressionless, “I’m just resting my arm.” You blinked and took in the snot rising up in your nose. “I’m still allergic to you,” you muttered while resting your head on his shoulder. A smile born for two seconds was seen by no one except the camera.

[shiftingslightly]

tw for blood at the end, nothing major just cuts. also sorry about the abrupt fandom change

Mister Garak,” Julian Bashir slurs, leaning against said man’s couch, “has anyone ever told you how very precious you are?”

Garak tilts his head in that Cardassian way of his and gently pulls the bottle of kanar out of his drinking partner’s grip. “I do believe you’ve had enough, Doctor. You of all people should know how potent this sort of drink is in Humans.”

Julian offers him a loopy grin. “Aw, come on, Garak, it’s only two glasses, I’m fine,” he protests. His point is undermined by the fact that he keeps swaying unsteadily as he sits cross-legged on the couch cushion, not bothering to try and stabilize himself. Garak presses his lips together and tries to put on an exasperated expression. He thinks he does fairly well- in any other case it would’ve been impeccable acting, but the glass of kanar he’s already had makes the amusement he’s feeling shine through a little more than he’d like.

His friend doesn’t notice, lost in the alcohol and too busy further destabilizing himself, giggling as he tilts closer and closer to Garak next to him. “Whoa,” he mutters as he tips out of balance, twisting at the last moment and landing with his head in Garak’s lap. Garak freezes, and he has the odd urge to slowly raise his hands in a placating gesture, as if to demonstrate he doesn’t mean this beautiful creature in his lap any harm.

He doesn’t. There isn’t much reason to, anyways. They’re alone in his quarters- no one to be suspicious of him except, of course, himself- and it’s not like he’d hurt Julian anyways. Or want to. The man himself doesn’t seem very worried; in fact, there’s a fond look in his eyes, an adoring, trusting, almost-loving sort of look that he hasn’t seen directed at himself in a while. People look at him, yes, but always with fear or distrust or hatred tainting their expressions. Take your pick of reasons- Tain’s man, Obsidian agent, Cardassian, rumoured spy- but it’s always there, lurking beneath a thin veneer of politeness (or, more likely, outright glaring, veneer nonexistent).

Julian, though. Julian Bashir has always trusted him, from the moment he sat across from him in the Replimat to the time Garak raged and flipped tables at him to now, alone with him and drunk and vulnerable and feeling totally, utterly safe. It almost makes him uncomfortable, seeing the extent to which Julian trusts him. He knows he  doesn’t deserve it, knows the doctor’s illusions of his mysterious but altogether clean past would shatter upon hearing of even the most irrelevant of errands he ran for the Order. Still, even with no small amount of guilt, he savors the kind curve of Julian’s mouth when he catches sight of his Cardassian friend.

Julian, not bothering to get off Garak’s lap, giggles and reaches up. He almost flinches away instinctively, but all Julian does is tap his nose once. “Boop,” he says with yet another giggle. Garak raises an eyeridge.

“Nothing.”

“I see,” Garak says, leaning back against the couch and looking around the rest of the room, content to sit in silence for a while.

“No- wait, it’s an Earth thing,” Julian says hurriedly, as if Garak had threatened him.

“Ah, I believe I’ve heard of it,” he responds absentmindedly, reaching down to thread his fingers through Julian’s hair.

“You’re lying,” Julian pouts. His mood suddenly turns serious, and he peers intently at him. “Why do you always lie to me, Garak?”

“Oh, I wouldn’t take it personally, my dear,” he says. He’s vaguely aware that he keeps forgetting to add “Doctor”, but at the moment Julian is warm in his lap and his mind is foggy and he can’t bring himself to deny this simple affection. “It’s simply a habit of mine.”

Julian hums in acknowledgement, but doesn’t seem to have anything to say to that. He makes a grab for the kanar bottle, still in Garak’s other hand, and sits up, taking another drink before the bottle’s taken away again.

Garak, kanar in hand again, chides, “ Julian. You really should stop,” but for once he feels relatively safe and isn’t cycling through all the reasons he should stay far, far away from the Doctor and the tangled mess of feelings that come with him and so he tips the bottle up.

He sighs afterward, setting the bottle on the coffee table in front of him with a satisfying clunk , other hand still in Julian’s hair. Julian’s got a face full of anguish when he looks down at him, and Garak tilts his head, inviting him to explain. He shakes his head, but a moment later he lets out a long breath and says, “He annoys me so much.”

Garak laughs. “There’s a lot of men who annoy you, Doctor. You’ll have to be more specific.”

Julian goes on as if he never heard him. “Really, though, I wouldn’t have it any other way. He’s splendid, you know?” He gestures wildly on splendid, somehow managing to smack Garak in the face and nearly overturn the kanar bottle sitting on his coffee table. “So mysterious.”

Garak, clenching his jaw against the bitter taste of jealousy, manages to get out an “I see”, but it doesn’t really matter; Julian’s far gone at this point and continues to ignore him, lost in thoughts of this mystery man.

“He doesn’t love me,” he says, giving Garak heartbroken puppy eyes. “He doesn’t love me… he said he hated me, once. He was lying. I think. He always lies but he doesn’t lie sometimes and it’s so confusing- Garak, it’s so confusing. ”

“He doesn’t sound all that nice.”

“He isn’t, really- he’s nice to me, though. Makes me feel nice.”

“That’s nice, then.” Even with years of Obsidian training, it’s still a concerted effort to keep his voice steady. Damn Federaji , damn Humans, damn this particular Federaji Human with his honeyed smile and his charming naivete and his slender body and his brilliant fucking arguments and-

“He’s brilliant, did you know?”

“You seem to have forgotten you still haven’t told me who he is, dear,” Garak says. It’s an indulgement he can’t help but allow himself. He’s lost his Doctor; what’s one little word?

“I don’t know who he is, either.” Garak makes a questioning face. “I don’t know if he knows who he is either. He’s kind of lost. Stuck.”

“Ah.”

“It’s a sad thought.”

“That your-” he pauses for a second- “that he’s stuck?” He feels silly, trying to talk to an obviously drunk, in-his-head Julian who keeps ignoring him. He might as well have put on a movie and tried to talk to the characters.

“Most people have never heard their friends’ actual voice,” Julian says. Garak pauses, considering. It’s an interesting sort of thing to think about, if (as Julian said) a bit sad.

“I learned Kardasi for him,” he continues. And that’s even more interesting- this man speaks Kardasi? He dismisses a thought before it can form. Some aren’t worth entertaining, even for a moment; hope is a dangerous thing, flighty and tempting and ultimately disappointing, and he isn’t such a fool as to invite that sort of creature into his head.

“I learned it for him,” Julian repeats. “It’s a very nice language, you know. Very interesting. I speak it to my friends and no one notices. He didn’t notice either.” So he talks to the mystery man. Hm. He starts to analyse the information, mind almost subconsciously going through the steps and piecing together what he knows. So far, very little.

“Tell me about this man,” he says.

Julian gives him a little head-tilt. “Whatever do you mean? I’ve been telling you about him,” he says. Garak can’t tell if he’s genuinely confused or if alcohol makes him more of a little shit than usual. It’s certainly making himself more impatient.

“I mean that I don’t know who this man is, and if you’ll excuse my bluntness, I would like to know,” he says shortly.

Understanding seems to dawn in Julian’s eyes. “Oops.” Scale-less arms wrap around his neck and he pulls himself up and before he’s got a chance to think bad idea bad idea bad idea soft lips are on his and suddenly all he can think is OH! and Julian’s kissing him harder and maybe the Humans were on to something with their kissing because dear god it’s so good and he leans closer and Julian hums against him and

crash

He’s on the floor, rubbing at his shoulder, at the place where Garak shoved him away. “Garak-”

“ Out .”

His eyes widen. “Garak, I’m so sorry,” he says, but his words are slurred and bad idea bad idea bad idea is rushing through and he gets up off the couch ( my dear Cardassia what have I done ) and picks Julian up and goes for the door ( damage control damage control ).

“No- Garak- wait- no don’t leave me I’m sorry we can talk about it-” the door slides open with that same mechanical beep-whoosh as he approaches- “Garak, please- you can’t just leave me out here-”

“I can and I will, Doctor,” he grits out. “You’re drunk. Go home.” Bashir is set down just outside his door.

“Garak- Garak wait- no-” the door starts to slide shut again- “Elim!”

whoosh-click.

He sighs heavily, leaning against it, head in his hands.

bad idea bad idea bad idea bad idea

~~

The pieces of the kanar bottle are sharp as he picks them up off the floor. Julian’s momentum had knocked it against the opposite wall, shattering it, breaking it beyond repair just as surely as he’d broken any semblance of camaraderie between them, and now they lie glimmering in the window's meagre light. He can’t simply leave the pieces on the floor, jagged and dangerous- can’t keep seeing Bashir, all of our usual engagements will have to go, and then some- and so he picks them up, slowly, even though they slide against his palm when he closes it around them, edges breaking skin when he shifts the wrong way ( it’ll hurt, yes, but I can deal with it, I can deal with it, I’ll have to deal with it ).  He can’t feel it, can’t feel much over the roaring in his head- Tain’s voice, of course it’s Tain’s voice, it’s always Tain’s voice- you knew this would happen, it’s your fault, you knew you shouldn’t have gotten closer to him don’t be so selfish now look what you’ve done. He’s gone and deluded himself into wanting someone like you and he’ll never have happiness and it’s your fault your fault your

There’s a sharp pain and the feeling of cold blood trickling down his hand. The glass piece slides out of his grip and lands on the carpet, dripping in the stuff and staining the carpet.

He huffs. Control, Elim. Control is the key. The memories seem to dissipate as he shakes his head, along with Tain’s admonishments.

There’s a knock at his door. Doctor Bashir. He’s the only person who actually knocks, like the Humans used to in the old days before automated doors. He’s also the only person who’d want to come see him in his quarters. “I’m not here!” Garak calls.

There’s a thump that sounds suspiciously like a human fist hitting the door in frustration, a groan, and then Bashir calls, “Let me in, Garak! I just want to talk!”

Unfortunately for the doctor, talking is the last thing he wants to do. Bashir keeps yelling, desperation seeping into his voice, but he simply turns and continues picking up more pieces of the glass bottle. There’s a flash of pain and then cold blood dripping from a fresh cut ( go talk to him, what the fuck are you doing, he wants you, go out there and just take him ) and he shakes his head, sighing, but he tips the piece into the bag he’s using to hold them all because he can’t just leave them on the floor ( the fuck do you mean just go out there and take him you can’t do that you’d destroy him, you know it, you and all your secrets and your cruelty would crush his bright-eyed smile ) and it’s always the harsher voices that are loudest but this one’s right. He can’t give in to the man outside his door, has to not be selfish for once in his entire bloodstained life and so he just keeps going, collecting cuts as he handles the edges of what used to be a beautiful, whole bottle and grits his teeth against the sting.

Eventually, footsteps sound, padding away from his door, and he sighs and slumps against the edge of the coffee table. It digs into his back scales uncomfortably, but he can't bring himself to move.

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[revasserium]

bewildered madness with keiji

send me a number and a character, and i’ll write you a drabblerequests are currently: closed 

155. bewildered madness akaashi ; 1,921 words

a/n: in which akaashi is prince hans, and you are the snow queen ( aka the disneyxhaikyuu that no one asked for ) ; also my submission for hqcreation’s monthly prompt sweater weather 

he only catches a glimpse of you, through the cover of trees, the forest frozen around you by the unnatural permafrost -- the moonlight above shattering the quiet darkness below, splintering into glimmering shards of light, refracting off the snow-covered earth. 

he sighs. 

but there are things he must do, for the sake of his future — for the kingdom that is yet to be his. 

he hears you before he sees you, the melody haunting as his childhood dreams, crushed beneath the feet of those with the simple advantage of an earlier birth; he’d always thought that custom ludicrous and dated. he was ever bit the man (and more) than his older brothers — why shouldn’t he have a chance at the crown? 

he shivers, and sighs, and pulls his thick cloak ever tighter around his shoulders and thinks that no matter how beautiful your voice might sound, you’re still the key to a kingdom that might one day be his. and for that, he’s willing to do anything. 

“i don’t want to hurt you.” 

the first words he says to you. 

“i’m not who should be worried about getting hurt.” 

your first words to him. 

“fair, fair —” he laughs, an unexpected sound, a strange, warm thing that blossoms from him. 

and for a second, you almost believe he’s sincere. 

“what i mean is, i mean you no harm, physically or otherwise — i simply with to…” 

you raise an eyebrow, drawing yourself up, your dress woven of silver and broken dreams heavy around your shoulders, even if the material feels weightless. 

“talk?” you offer. 

akaashi grins, sheepishly. 

“in a sense.” 

you cast him an unaffected sort of glance. 

“you wish to ask for my sister’s hand in marriage. i declined. what else is there to talk about?” 

he licks his lips, taking a moment to square his shoulders. 

“then i should be so daring as to ask for your hand instead.” 

a chill runs down your spine. 

“what?” 

akaashi lowers himself to one knee, bending his head, a hand outstretched. 

“you want to marry me.” 

he lifts his head to look up at you, and there’s something so broken, so strange yet familiar in his gaze that you find yourself taking half a step forward, and then a full one. 

it takes you a moment to realize that it’s loneliness — 

a thing that’s kept you company your whole life, and in doing so, isolating you from everyone else. not by choice, perhaps, but maybe — you swallow and think — maybe be design. 

you lick your lips. 

“you know, if you’re after the kingdom, this is a terrible way to get to it.” 

akaashi remains kneeling. 

“i don’t think so.” 

you scoff. 

“by fleeing arendelle, i am forfeiting my right to the throne — my sister will be queen, and —” 

“but you are the queen by birthright, arenelle runs in your blood — she will always be yours, so long as you have the courage to take it.” 

“and if i don’t… have that courage, i mean.” 

akaashi smiles, a sweet, soft, gentle thing, as he lifts himself up from his knees and takes a step towards you. 

and perhaps there’s still an entire ocean of loss and hurt between the pair of you, but for a moment, just a moment, you allow yourself to fall into the possibility — the thought of marrying, of being queen, of living a normal life.

maybe, maybe, you’d even be happy. 

“then i shall wait with you here until you do.” 

it’s such a strange sentiment, to be offered company in loneliness. and you’ve been alone for so long, willfully or not, that there’d seemed no other option. and yet here he was, this prince from some faraway southern isle, offering you — not love, but companionship, in a way that isn’t burdened with familial relationship. 

“and… if i hurt you?” 

he opens his palms, and slowly, ever so slowly, takes off his gloves. 

“then i shall let you.” 

that night, he tells you about his childhood, of growing up with so many brothers his own parents couldn’t remember if everyone’s eaten. of dreaming of one day having some place to call his own, of scheming of a way to get there. 

“you know, you shouldn’t be telling me this. especially if you’re trying to steal my kingdom.” 

akaashi slates you a look. 

“steal it? no, no — i just want to belong to it.” 

(oh.) 

“oh.”

you look down at your hands, the instruments through which your powers flow. and a part of you, the deepest, darkest part of you, whispers that you understand. 

such a strange thing — the wish for belonging — so simple to say, and so thoughtless to people who have it, but to those who don’t.

“it’s like… moving mountains or shifting seas,” you say. 

akaashi’s smile is a dancing shadow on the planes of his face, and for the first time, you take the chance to really look at him, sitting cross-legged on the floor of this ice castle, built from spirit and resignation and years of pent-up loneliness — 

and you think that he’s quite handsome like this, all dark hair and bright, intelligent eyes. 

“both of which, need i remind you, my queen, you are capable of.” 

you bite your lip. 

he inches closer. 

“and you’ve been capable of it since long before you knew.” 

you smile. 

“it’s a curse.” 

he chuckles. 

“it’s a gift.” 

you give him a flat-lined look and he shrugs. 

“call it what you will, but it’s power. and where i come from, that’s worth something.” 

you curl your fingers into your palms and wrap your arms around your knees, bringing them into your chest. 

“are you cold?” 

you laugh, even as he removes his jacket. 

“i don’t know if you’ve noticed, but cold is kinda my thing,” you say, gesturing at the palace around the pair of you. 

akaashi shuffles closer on his knees, and then drapes his thick cloak over your shoulders. 

“i know, but… you still seemed… cold to me. there, better?” 

he shifts back to admire his handiwork, the thick woolen cloak now fastened tightly over your dress. 

you flush, for the first time, feeling heat creep up your cheeks as he sits back down across from you, closer than before. 

and then, a moment later. 

“you really think i could do it?” 

“do what?” 

“be the queen… learn to control — ” you wave a hand around the cavernous hall of the ice palace, “all this.” 

akaashi smiles. 

“yes. i know you can.” 

you peer at him. 

“how do you know?” 

“because i’ve seen greed up close — i’ve felt it in my heart, and for the longest time, i thought that was what drove me. but then… seeing you, witnessing your power for the first time — it was… humbling. and, i guess i just never thought i could feel that kind of awe, that kind of…” he blushes, the color tinting his already pale cheeks the color of a winter sunrise. 

“... wonder.” 

you feel yourself warming, from somewhere deep in the depths of your belly. like all those mornings when papa would make hot cocoa and momma would tell you and your sister stories of the creatures that lived in the woods — friendly creatures, some, and others, not so friendly. 

“but momma, why are some creatures not friendly?” you’d asked, once upon a winter’s morn. 

and she’s laughed and booped your nose and tugged a spoon handle out of your sister’s mouth with the patience only a mother could muster. 

“because, my darling girl, sometimes what’s good for you, isn’t always good for others. and so those creatures, the not so friendly ones, might not mean you any harm — it’s just that what’s good for them, be the exact opposite of what’s good for you.” 

you’d frowned, leaning into the warmth of your mother’s embrace as she rocked you over her lap. 

“what do you do then?” 

momma had let out a small sigh, and brushed a strand of hair from your eyes. 

“you try to understand them… and, you try to forgive.” 

akaashi reaches out to sweep a strand of hair from your cheek and you almost flinch back, but something inside you holds you to the spot. 

here are two creatures, you think, towards whom the rest of the world is unfriendly. 

not because it wants to hurt you, but simply because… 

“... what’s good for the world, isn’t necessarily good… for us…” 

“hm?” akaashi’s head lilts to one side, and for a second, you can see the boy in him, the boy that had been forced to grow up faster than his age because of his brothers, his father — everyone who’d ever told him no. you see the boy that had just wanted a place to belong to, to call his own. 

you offer him a smile, one that’s true and honest and just a little broken. 

“nothing… just remembering an old story my mom used to tell me and my sister.” 

“tell me,” he says. 

you lick your lips, you think of all the reasons you shouldn’t trust this prince, this prince who makes no effort in concealing his motives in coming to find you, who asked for your hand in marriage simply because he wants to be king — but who also offered you his coat, and is sitting with you in this frozen palace, listening to your stories. 

and this is the thing about falling in love — it comes from the unlikeliest of places. its springs from rocks and trees, from the budding leaves of spring, the dazzling blooms of summer, from the afire-trees of autumn, and sometimes — especially — from the frosted mornings of winter. 

it’s kind of madness, you decide, some time later, with akaashi’s hand in wrapped around your own, trying to find steadiness in the way your heart is hammering inside your chest — love is. it’s a madness from which some people never recover, but what beautiful madness it is, to be in love — to love and be loved back, and to know it. 

“do you love me?” you’d asked, one of those many frigid nights the pair of you had spent in that castle hidden in the mountains, dancing and singing, and sharing stories. 

akaashi had smiled, pressed his forehead to yours and said, “no, but i think i’m learning to.” 

and you’d laughed and said, “me too.” 

because if he’d said yes, you’d have known he was lying, and you prefer it this way anyways. 

honesty, always. between the pair of you. 

“why me?” you’d asked another night. 

and he’d said, without a single thread of doubt in his voice, “because you.” 

and that, you’d decided was all there is to that. 

now however, standing at the precipice of what you knew would be the rest of your life, looking down over the kingdom that has always been yours, you feel a coldness spreading through you. 

you shiver, and akaashi reaches out to wrap his arms around your shoulders. 

“cold?” he asks. 

you grin, “a bit.” 

he reaches out to tighten the cloak around your shoulders — his cloak. 

“there, better?” 

you laugh, nodding. 

“sure is.” 

you take a deep breath; he takes your hand. 

“do you love me?” you ask. 

akaashi nods, “yes.” 

he squeezes your hand, and you feel the warmth in your stomach blossom into something so very much like spring. 

“let’s go home,” you say. 

akaashi smiles, and it’s a beautiful thing. 

“yeah, let’s go… home.”

--- 

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[julessworldd]

Little Rose ch. 3

Sorry for the late update, I was stuck between a short or long chapter.. Warnings: Pure fluff, maybe one sad part if you look hard enough. mentions of alochol, sex, pregnacy. Hope you enjoy! I might need a duff’s hoe help for the next part. I’m thinking about a groupie showing up :)

Axl made me take a few days off after Duff announced his engagement to Mandy. I think he finally put two and two together, figured out I had feelings for his bass player. He didn’t say much when he dropped me off, he stayed and held me forever. He didn’t show any anger when he was at my apartment, but I’m sure some alleyway was destroyed from an Axl twister.

A knock on the door, tore me from my thoughts. I looked out the peephole, it was Izzy. I swung the door opened and planted myself to him, “Hey kid”, Izzy said, rubbing my back. “Okay, let me and the bootleggers in”, Izzy joked as I still had him in the hallway. I pulled a blue Johnny Bootlegger out of the black bag he had. I downed the small bottle, “Thanks, I really needed that I ran out of Tequila this morning”, I wiped my mouth.  “It’s alcohol not water you know that right, kid?”, Izzy looked concerned. “Yeah and you know that my heart is shattered by your asshole bass player, who shall remain nameless in my presence.”, I sassed. “Right, uh”, Izzy trailed off. “What, Iz?”, I asked, opening another bottle. “Bass player wants you to come with you to uh pick out a wedding ring.”, Izzy said. “Okay, you tell him that he has lost his goddamn mind, if he thinks I’m gonna help or support his wedding. I’m not coming either”, I said, looking at Izzy with disbelief. He honestly thought I was gonna be fine after two bootleggers and Duff wanting my help.  “I told him you wouldn’t, but he wouldn’t take no as an answer. I just passed the message, Janie”, Izzy said, holding my hand.

“I know, Izzy. I’m sorry for yelling at you”, I pulled his skinny ass in a hug.

It had been two weeks since, everything I was still at home. Talking to anyone besides Duff and Mandy. Kelly had came over one day, we ended up fucking, but he knew it was just to forget about him for a night. Kelly is a good guy, I hate that I used him like that. He was understanding and didn’t say it bothered him.  “Coming”, I said, prancing to the door. I swung it open to have Duff’s tall frame leaning on the frame. “You have some fucking nerve showing up here! Get out of here!”I screamed, attempted to slam the door, but his foot caught the door. Duff stood up, “Janie” I was already in my living room, trying to not kill Duff on a Thursday night. “Janie, we need to talk”, Duff said standing behind the couch from the door. “No, we don’t” I said, clenching my fist. 

“Please, I need to tell someone”, Duff said, almost crying. I tore my head in his direction, his eyes were holding some tears back and he sucked air in to keep himself from breaking down even more. I unclenched my fist and held my arms open for him, “Come here” Duff practically ran to me, he started crying and held me close. “Shh, it’s okay, Duff. I’ve got you now, nothing is gonna happen to you. Shh”, I held him close, kissed his head. Duff had calmed down and was looking up at me, he fell to his knees after I put my arms around him.  “She cheated on me. I kicked-”, he said, but started crying again. “I’m sorry Duff”, I whispered as I petted his hair. “I came home from an interview with Slash, I didn’t notice his Camaro  when I came home. I caught them in bed, where I slept. You must think this is funny, karma got me.”, Duff said, while laying his head on my stomach. 

“No Duffy, I don’t. I hate it for you, my heart is broken with yours. I’m sorry, she did that, I know how much you loved her.”, I whispered. Duff had stood up and grabbed my hand, “I’m sorry for talking shit about you, going off on you at the studio both times. I didn’t love her much as I love you, Janie. I’ve loved you since, I came over for the audition. You in your Johnny Thunders shirt and boxer shorts. The sassy comment you made to me about my siblings. The secret glances when I was playing with Izzy and Axl, I’ve never forgotten our first time together after that Seattle gig.  I looked at him and started crying. Duff stared at me.

“I’m sorry for saying anything, you’re with Kelly aren’t you?”, Duff asked. 

“Don’t be sorry and no, I’m not”, I smiled. “Then why did you start crying after I confessed my love for you?”, Duff asked softly. “Because, I’ve loved for so long now, I lost you once and I don’t want to lose you again. Screw what people think, especially Axl. I love you, Duff Mckagan”, I smiled. Duff’s grin grew a thousand times more, “So you wanna be my girl officially?”, Duff put his hands on my back. “More than anything, been waiting too long”, I reached up and kissed him. He pulled away, “Way too long, babe” I grinned at him, “Wanna spend the night?” “Yeah, my place is a wreck right now”, Duff whispered, laying his forehead on mine. “We can go tomorrow to clean it up. Right now, I just wanna hold you”, I said. Duff picked me up, I wrapped my legs around his waist. He reached my bed and laid us on it, “I love you, Janet Aless Rose”, Duff said, looking down at me. Nobody knew my real name besides Axl and Izzy, people from home. I stared at him, “Where did you find out my real name from?”, I asked softly. “You left your wallet at my house, after our drunken sexapedes. I looked into whose it was. And you’re not 5’6”, missy”, Duff said. “I stood on my toes, smart ass. What’s your government name?”I asked, brushing my finger over his nose. “Micheal Andrew”, He grinned. “Sounds like a news reporter. Thank you, Micheal Andrew for the traffic report”, I giggled. Duff tickled my sides, “At least, I don’t have a song from Rocky Horror picture show for my name” “Hey, that’s a good movie. I love Tim Curry in that”, I pushed him away. 

“Here's a ring to prove that I'm no joker

There's three ways that love can grow

That's good, bad or mediocre

Oh J-A-N-E-T I love you so”, Duff sang and crawled back over me.

“I love you too, Duffy”, I kissed his nose. I rubbed his nose, “Is there something on my nose, babe?”, Duff asked. I shook my head, “Then what?”He asked. “It’s cute, you got a little button nose. So boopable”, I booped his nose. 

Next morning, Duff and I drove to a diner for breakfast. He wanted to talk before we went to his apartment. He had been looking for houses for him and Mandy to move into. “Who says we can’t move in together?”, Duff casually asked, while taking a swig  from his drink. “Duff, we’ve not had our first date yet. Hold your horses, bub”, I gulped. “Right, uh wanna go out Saturday? You know before we head out for tour?”, He asked, holding my hand across the table. “Sure, I’d like that”, I smiled, as our waitress dropped off our check. “How much is my half, D?”I asked, looking for my purse. “Doesn’t matter, my treat”, Duff pulled some cash out. “I can at least do the tip?”, I sighed. “No”, Duff grinned. “I can pay for my own stuff, you know?”, I said, rolling my eyes. “I know you can, Janie. Just let me pay for breakfast”, Duff gave me a toothy grin. “Fine. I’m paying for dinner Saturday”, I crossed my arms over my chest. “Who says we’re going to dinner?”, Duff asked, while grabbing my hand. “Then what are we doing, McKagan?”, I stood up with him. “You’ll see, baby Rose”, Duff winked. I hate when people call me that and anything that shows I’m related to Axl. He’s my brother and I love him, yes. But I’m my own person and don’t need Axl’s clout or connections to  make it in the world. We pulled up to Duff’s apartment complex. They were a couple cop cars, we thought nothing of it.

 “Oh yeah, you’ve not heard it yet. You will on the tour, the first night”, Duff grinned, grabbing my hips. “Can’t wait”, I grinned back at him. “Mr. McKagan?”, a tall cop asked. “Yeah, that’s me. What’s going on?”, Duff stood in front of me. “You two follow me, please?”, the cop turned around. Duff grabbed my hand and pulled me with him. We reached Duff’s apartment, the cop had walked in. “Duff”, I said with bewilderment. His apartment was trashed, almost like he had got robbed. He said he had an Axl moment and threw things, but this was like he got raided. Suddenly, his landlord approached us, “I’m kicking you, McKagan. This place is trashed and I’m tired of the noise complaints from girls and parties” The landlord had two cops behind him. “Okay, I’ll start packing, Frank. Why did you call the cops? I’m not gonna lose my mind and hurt you”, Duff said amazed. “After seeing what you did to this place, I didn’t know what you did when I told you to get out.”, Frank gulped, staring at Duff. 

“I’ve been looking at houses, Frank. I’ll just stay at my girlfriend’s place for now. Here’s the key”, Duff said. Frank and the cops left, we had until 10pm to clean the place and have Duff out. “Duff, who are gonna stay with?”, I asked, throwing a baggie with leftover white powder. “Like I told Frank, my girlfriend’s place”, Duff shook his head. “I heard, but I’m your girlfriend, who you haven’t asked if you could crash”, I said. “I freaked and you were behind me so it made sense. I’ll call Slash and ask him, no problem”, Duff walked to his room. “Hey, I didn’t say you couldn’t stay with me”, I yelled. It was 8:30, when everything was packed in his car and mine. “Alright, Mr. McKagan, leave”, Cop said standing outside his patrol car. 

I decided to let Duff stay until we left for tour, but he decided he would stay at Slash’s house instead. “Can you please come stay with me again?”, I pouted. “Baby”, Duff groaned. “Please Duffy, I’ll be lonely”, I whined, crawling into his lap. “Alright, you broke me God!”, Duff threw his head back. “Yay!”, I kissed his cheek. We got back to my place, Axl was sitting outside my door half asleep. “Ax?”, I looked at him. He jumped, but stood up when he recognized us, “Hey, you two made up!”  “Yeah, we did. Little too early to tell you this, but better than you hearing on the tour bus.”, I smiled. “Oh, you two are together now. Nice. Come here Duff.”, Axl pulled me aside. Duff stood in front of him, “If you ever break her heart like you did with your engagement to Mandy, I’ll kill you and have you replaced before sunrise. Understood?”, Axl had pulled Duff down by his leather jacket laplets. “Understood”, Duff said. “Alright, Ponch he gets the point”, I rolled my eyes. I opened the door and the men followed suit behind me. “I’m here to tell Janie something”, Axl said. “Tell me what, Ax?”, I walked into the kitchen. Duff was leaning on the counter with a beer in hand, Axl had a look on his face. It was the kind when our step dad yelled at him, told him he would never be nothing, but a criminal. “Are you okay, Ax?”, I walked over to him and grabbed his hand. “Yeah, I am. Uh, shit how do I tell you this?”, Axl sighed. “Axl?”, I asked, getting worried. “Just tell her, she looks scared”, Duff said. “Erin’s pregnant”, He whispered- yelled. I was gonna be an aunt, “Oh my god. That’s amazing, Axl. Congrats”, I pulled him into a bear hug. “Janie, can’t breathe”, Axl squeaked out. “Sorry”, I let go of him. “How long is she?”, I grinned. “12 weeks”, Axl smiled. “Thought it would be Izzy who would be a parent first”, I giggled. “Izzy almost had a stroke when I told him. He knocked me to the floor from excitement”, Axl laughed. 

Sunday morning came quicker than expected, I was packing my last bag when a knock was heard. “Coming”, I skipped to the door. “Oh hey Kells, what are you doing here?”, I asked. “Forgot a pair of jeans, I know you’re leaving for the tour today”, Kelly smiled. “They’re on the dryer, I thought they were Axl’s”, I followed him to the kitchen. “Thanks, kid. Aw you washed them too”, Kelly grinned. “Yeah”, I breathed out. “Heard you’re Duff’s girl and an auntie”, Kelly said. “I am”, I grinned. “Uh listen, Kelly. I wanna say thank you for letting me cry over Duff. I’m sorry those two times I slept with you”, I said, Kelly furrowed his eyebrows. “I feel like I used you, Kelly. You’re a really nice dude, I feel like shit about it, getting you wrapped up in the drama that was between Duff and I.”, I said. “It’s cool, I was a distraction. No hard feelings, you got him so we had a good plan if you ask me.”, Kelly grinned. I met the guys in the terminal. Erin spotted me and ran to me. “Hey take it easy”, I grinned. “Did he tell you?”, She grinned. “He did, congrats. I’m happy for you”, I pulled her into a hug. “Janie be careful!”, Axl yelled. “He begged management to let me come”, Erin said. “Tour isn’t a place for an expecting mother. Days are too close together, you need to stay for doctor visits. Please update us. I love my niece so much already”, I smiled at her stomach. “I think it’s a boy, but we’ll let Auntie Jane think that you’re a princess”, Erin giggled while rubbing her stomach. “It’s a girl”, I stubbed up. “Here”, Erin grabbed my hand, pulling it closer to her stomach. “Erin, no. I don’t wanna hurt you”, I squealed, making the guys whipped their heads over to us. “You’re not, I promise. Feel”, Erin whispered. “You’re too early to be having them kick”, I said. “Just wait”, Erin grinned. I felt them kick my hand, “Holy shit! Hi Precious, I’m your Auntie Jane. I’ll take Janie too”, I started to cry, I felt a hand on my back. It was Axl, “She active any?”

“Little bit, maybe that’s Erin breathing”, I wiped a tear. “It’s a boy you saps”, Erin rolled her eyes. “No it’s a tiny remake of me”, I sassed. “Alright come here”, I held my arms out and Axl entered them. “Not you, I’ll see you everyday”, I shoved him away. Axl looked offended. “Now tell me everything that happens at appointments, how big they’ve grown, how many times they kick you. And be careful for godsakes. I love you”, I pulled her into a hug. “You’re worse than  Ax”, She giggled. I walked over to Duff, whose back was turned to me. “Hi”, I sighed. “Hi to you too, you okay?”, Duff turned around. “Yeah just so excited that I felt my niece kick. Do you think she heard me?”, I looked at him. “Probably not this early but she sensed someone new. Doesn't it feel weird them kicking back?”, Duff asked. “Yeah, but a good weird. How do you know?”, I asked. “I’m uncle”, Duff grinned. “An Uncle Duff huh?”, I grinned, wrapping my arms around his waist. “You’re an aunt now”, He kissed my forehead.

 We finally boarded the plane, I had to sit with Izzy. “Axl said you knocked him over when he told you about the baby. Did you really?”, I asked. “No, but I hugged for the first time in years”, Izzy sighed. “Figured it was fable in his mind. How does Auntie Janie sound?”, I asked. “They’ll probably butcher it, but it’s a cute one”, Izzy patted my thigh. “Hey Auntie?”, I heard Slash say from the sit in front of us. I kicked his chair, but a yelp appeared in the air. “Oww”, It was Steven. “Oh I’m sorry, Stevie”, I raised up and patted his head. 

[datawyrms]

Still Robophobic?

Chapter 2  while crawling through all of K1-B0′s text so I can inanely chatter and make depth that probably wasn’t there because it makes me happy. and you can’t stop me. Once again I am serious this is all of his text so this is LONG. (and if you didn’t read my first super long post covering Prologue/ch1, you might want to do that first) someone make me work on my fics lol

Also I totally just realized Keebo is totally hiding behind Himiko after Monokuma’s return to life and I just MISSED HIM lol. He trusts Kaede and Shuichi, even when they’re being sketchy as heck and says he’ll think of plans too, because more plans are better than less. shame upon me for overlooking more of his trusting and trying to help nature. MOVING ON.

Cold open with the funeral that starts at Kaede’s portrait so you think it’s current but no this is for our viewing pleasure only...Gonta finds the horse a hint...Kaito abuses a doorbell and shepherds Shuichi out of the room...get to the dining hall and Keebs is muttering questions so he can be the first one talking in a scene again!

K1-B0: Writing...? Gonta: Yeah! Like someone try to hide writing in grass! Weird, right!?

keep shining on with your refusal to do anything but ask questions unless talking to Kokichi or a Protag, Keebo. As Keebo is garbage at people, he has zero reaction to the Hatless Reveal. The human has removed part of their clothing and he does not care. If you’re curious, Maki, Ryoma, Himiko, Keebo and Kiyo are the only ones not to remark on it at all. :v

Kokichi: Kirumi, be my mom! Gonta: Gonta want you to be his mom, too! K1-B0: ...What are you two even saying?

even keebs knows you two are being hecka weird by asking that guys. Which is probably the joke that the robot calls them on this. Or it’s him not getting the point of moms/what they’re asking for...since you know. Built in a lab...(Though he does know, since he made fun of Kaede that way.)

K1-B0: ... Kokichi: Hm? What's wrong, Kee-boy? You're not eating— Oh yeah! I totally forgot you can’t eat! Y’know, cuz you’re a robot! K1-B0: ... Kokichi: Hey now, don't look so down. I'll bring you a broken TV later. K1-B0 I don't want that... I'm not a waste receptacle. Angie: Nyahahaha! Keebo and Kokichi seem to be getting along swimmingly!

Everyone’s eating and Keebo is just listlessly staring at food. Till Kokichi decides to loudly announce to everyone that’s what he’s doing. Which, judging by the fact Kaede had to ask...Keebo might have told Kokichi based on how he says ‘he forgot’ that and no one has really noticed he just watches. It’s been a busy set of days, I suppose. Angie is right in a way, she notices how Kokichi’s poking isn’t getting as much of a response and how the little punk keeps pushing on to get some words out of him. Course, it mostly looks like he’s making fun of him, but that’s Kokichi! for an ‘emotionless robot’ you sure picked out his emotion, tiny terror. Things Keebo doesn’t call robophobic: being told to eat broken electronics. He is pretty down though, Kaede’s FTE makes it pretty clear he’s pretty jealous that he can’t eat. Considering it looks good to him and all. (Who programmed that. Why would you do that.).

Shuichi falls into the depressing narrative ‘everyone is faking being normal’ mode after that conversation, we talk about the horse a hint again/Gonta’s gullibility.

Kokichi: Nee-heehee... Gonta, you're so gullible. Y'know, if you keep being this gullible... You’ll be killed before you know it. Understand? Shuichi: ...Ah! The moment Kokichi said that word, the warm and casual mood shattered. K1-B0: What's wrong, everyone? Is there a problem with Kokichi's advice? Gonta: Oh, Kokichi... You no should say thing like that, even as joke.

Keebs can sorta read the air to tell the mood just got real nasty...but has no idea why because to him it’s perfectly sensible advice. this boy. If someone is tempted to commit murder, logically they’ll try to trick people. Who do you trick? Someone gullible. He knows it isn’t a joke. No one actually answers him either, though he can probably guess by Tenko calling Kokichi insensitive. this is why he’s bad at people, people ignore him aaa

Kokichi tries reminding people hey monokuma is totally gonna exploit your glaring weakpoints lol/ups his dislike score, said bear shows up,  kubz give area unlocks/ make an attack on titian reference with the nape of the neck thing and they skadoodle. (keebo also having a neck weakness...tsumugi....)

Kokichi: Hmmm... Seeing that robot-looking one get left out makes me think of Keebo...

yes keebo, you really, really are. No one else even says anything about this, Maki moves the conversation to the items they just got. Poor guy wants to pretend he isn’t that left out. Oh well...he’ll probably figure it out...eventually... Shuichi gets given the job of rubbing items on things because he is the Protag so Go Unlock Stuff, Boy. Keebo hangs out with Tenko near the to-be-unlocked pool.

K1-B0: That item we received earlier...I think we can use it on this stone monument. Can you try?

Tutorial robot strikes again. There is information I know, so i am going to say it and have no fluff dialogue. Tenko has a pretty sweet little scene with Shuichi here and he’s just beep-boop my protagonist powers know a puzzle when I see it.

K1-B0: The ivy withered in seconds. What remarkable technology... Tenko: Ah! We can get in! We can go in from there, right!? K1-B0: ...You intend to go inside? That course of action seems dangerous. Monophanie: No, it’s not dangerous. There’s just a pool in there.

This is why no one invites you to their DnD sessions Keebo. Sure, it’s true they probably shouldn’t blindly blunder into new places but you literally just told Shuichi how to open the door. ‘Ah, a new discovery. Time to ignore it.’ Of course he’s impressed by tech bordering on magic, which is fun. I wonder if the Kubz got summoned to make sure Keebo didn’t chicken out on exploring :v He honestly seems to trust they won’t lie to them, or at least not blatantly/in ways that would get them killed.

Tenko: What should we do? There may be a pool, but we’re not going for a swim, are we? K1-B0: But...if it is not dangerous, then maybe we should take a look. It is never bad to have too much information. Shuichi: Yes, I suppose you're right...

K1-B0: It looks like there's a pool inside. We should take a closer look. It would be best to know the specifics.

Easily swayed, this robot. Two seconds ago you were all ‘let’s not go in there’ and now you’re This Is Totally Not Dangerous, time to Take A Look. Because the Monokubs said it was okay. It had the opposite effect on Tenko, but she’s outvoted by the ahogeholders. I’d say ‘make up your mind’ but this is how Keebo makes up his mind. If he knows something ‘for certain’, he wants to know more. If it’s iffy, he’s cautious. It does look like he’s indecisive as hell though xD

Shuichi: ...Then I suppose that dream is pretty far away. K1-B0: It’s not necessarily a dream of mine... But swimming with everyone does sound fun. If I tried to swim, I would just sink. Shuichi: ...And that one is even farther.

He tries to relate to Tenko a little bit here, in the swimming is her dream but really he just thinks it sounds fun to be included, he knows he can’t swim...they’re in the same boat in that regard! Tenko actually does want to learn to swim, it comes up quite a bit in URDP. Keebo not so much. He really is more chatty about himself in smaller groups :v

K1-B0: I wonder if the day will ever come when I can swim with everyone... Tenko: Keebo! I was wondering... If you fell off a boat and sank to the bottom...would you be stuck living under the sea, beneath a rock or in a pineapple!? K1-B0: What...? Shuichi: No, I believe that before you'd get too deep, your body would be crushed by the pressure... K1-B0: Please don’t say such scary things, both of you! Or I’ll never set foot on a boat!

K1-B0: ...If I ever get the chance to ride a boat, I will wear a state-of-the-art flotation device.

He’s scared. By both of them. He doesn’t get the reference at all, obviously. His hopeful wondering that he might be able to take part in something gets redirected into either being trapped alone at the bottom of the sea forever or crushed to death. From a question that basically comes out of nowhere! But he apparently is still willing to go on a boat with proper precautions. To not be left out. he just wants to be your friend guys. you could at least say sorry for freaking him out come on. His struggle with Not Being Swim Compatible continues.

Shuichi: This looks like...a storage room? K1-B0: I peeked inside and discovered all manner of pool supplies in here. It is fully stocked with kickboards, water polo balls, and even sturdy rubber inner tubes. Perhaps I can float in water if I inflate them and attach them all over my body. Shuichi: Ah, I think you would look like that tire company's mascot...

shh let him do it, it sounds funny. It’s interesting Shuichi’s willing to say this out loud, he usually keeps his snark in his head. Also, you got a lot of info from a peek Keebo. Thank you for also mentioning rubber inner tubes exist here, as this will be plot relevant later. :p

Tenko: Oh, Keebo! Are you a degenerate male or a girl!? Which is it!? 

Shuichi: Really? How interesting...I suppose I did just assume he was a...he. But Keebo is a robot, so...

Non binary keebo is canon. ‘don’t know’ he/him pronouns on the profile page for the robot.  Because he literally hasn’t even thought about it before. And it doesn’t seem like he intends to either! He doesn’t start rationalizing out which one he might be, just admits he...cares so little it never crossed his mind. but seriously how old are you. how long have you existed and not a SINGLE person asked you Keebo your backstory is super shaky. Or secretly depressing. also i totally forgot Miu gets way too excited by the tennis machine. no wonder she takes so long to drag keebo to the lab :v Shuichi wanders off to unlock everything else, and they all meet back up in the gym.

Angie: Alrighty then, check this out. K1-B0: That is a peculiar-looking flashlight...So, what of it? Angie: Umm, I dunno what it is either. I inspected it pretty good...Nyahahaha, but in the end I couldn't figure it out.

we’ve been here for two seconds and you’re back to asking questions aaa Though the fact Angie and Keebo have actually talked to one another again is good, it helps explain why she might have chosen to add him to her ‘friend group’ -cough- Angie then explains she asked Monokuma, he shows up, sorta explains the flashback lights.

Kaito: Hey! Don’t just give up on explaining after a single sentence!  K1-B0: So...what should we do? Tenko: What should we do...? You mean, should we or should we not use the flashlight? No way! I refuse! It reeks of fishiness!

keebo i’m confiscating your question mark key. Taking relying on others opinions to entirely new levels, this robot. But hey he’s actually been answered twice! That’s better than posing the question to the sound of crickets chirping. Tenko seems to like him better in general after hanging out a bit too. (and the whole ‘is not a boy thing.) Kaito and Kokichi face off in ‘should we use the flashback light’ annnd

Tenko: I'm...staying. After hearing that degenerate’s speech, running away would just frustrate me! Gonta: Gonta also stay... Is what true gentleman would prolly do. K1-B0: I also agree with Kaito. Our defeat is 100% assured unless we stand up to this. That’s... how I feel, deep inside. Just a whisper- Kokichi: You hear it in your ghost? I'm pretty sure robots don't have ghosts, though. K1-B0: ...Leave me alone. 

First mention of his inner voice! Kokichi pounces on that, which just gets Keebo to actually stand up for himself a little, though pretty pathetically. He doesn’t seem all that sure if it’s him feeling what’s right or the inner voice though...calling it a whisper. He’s completely convinced to go along with it though, he’s really more of a follower...but of course the outside world is going to compel the protag to get plot details. then they actually use the light

Shuichi: I can't either...I suddenly realized... I could not remember any important details of the Ultimate Hunt... K1-B0: It’s no use, I can’t remember either. I can only remember being chased... I can't remember anything else at all. 

Way to echo Shuichi’s inner thoughts, Keebo. This whole flashback light should really be confusing him more than it does. but we’ll get to that.

Ryoma: Could the reason be that...we were caught by the Ultimate Hunt? Shuichi:  Caught...by the Ultimate Hunt? K1-B0: You mean, we tried to escape by erasing our memories, but they found us anyway... And subsequently, we were captured as part of this Ultimate Hunt? 

At first I thought Keebo’s ‘returned’ memory might have been slightly different to compensate for the glaring issue but nope! Here he is, stating they erased their memories. and he’s summarizing again lol. keebs. i don’t care if you throw your harddrive in a washing machine, you are going to very quickly re-learn that you’re a goddamned ROBOT. He doesn’t even question this memory, no one does! (ok, kokichi probably caught it based on what he does right after this but otherwise) did you think you were a slightly less ultimate robot how did this even logic in your head. Questions that will never be answered.

Kaito: We just gotta work together. If we cooperate, we'll make it out of here alive. Just like a certain someone said... Shuichi:  ...Kaede. K1-B0: But I believe cooperating with each other is the most logical course of action— Kokichi: *snore* I’m snooooring! K1-B0: ...Why are you sleeping!? Kokichi: Whoa! Huh, what!? Tsumugi: Hey, Kokichi...we're having a serious conversation here. Kokichi: And is it written somewhere that I have to take serious conversations seriously? Kaito: Tch, quit acting so immature! Kokichi: Hm? I’m a teenager...so duh I’m immature. Aren’t you guys forgetting to act your age? K1-B0: But I don't have a biological age... Kokichi: Don't worry about it, Keebo. I'm just talking to the humans right now! K1-B0: ...Grgh!  Kokichi: What were we talking about again? Something about working together to escape, right?

he thinks kokichi is actually sleeping. he genuinely buys it when he says I’M SNORING. you sheltered little robot. He is super bad with people in so many new and exciting ways. Which effectively stops him from being a driving force/leading anyone...which is probably exactly what sleepyhead wanted here. Then excludes him further with the not a human reminder, which Keebo still doesn’t actually contest. No fitting in for the robot, can’t be trusted. That and the conversation gets re-directed to the mastermind among them from this diversion. Use Robot for Free Topic Change :v Keebo doesn’t speak up  again at all after this, but he’d probably have no idea what to say about Ryoma just casually going ‘nothing to live for bye’ so. Free time dialogue time!. First time slot...he’s in the dining hall

K1-B0: ...Shuichi, if you have free time, would you like to spend it with me? There's something I want to ask you. 

Lookit him, taking some initiative and asking Shuichi to hang out. Negative five points because you want to ask questions. he’s a very curious robot. Second time slot he retreats to his room.

K1-B0: There's an area in this school that is closed off. It seems there are other hidden rooms as well. 

There’s a lot of hidden rooms! He really doesn’t talk about anything but current events and the school... Free time ends, kubs bungle the motive delivery, Shuichi watches Kaito’s video...and goes to run off to tell him right away about his sad looking grandparents....

Shuichi: Keebo! Have you seen Kai-- K1-B0: Impeccable timing Shuichi! I was on my way to get you! Shuichi: You were? K1-B0: Everyone is gathering in the dining hall. Please come right away. I'll go get everyone else. 

Keebo’s been promoted to sleepy student fetcher in the meantime, or more likely volunteered to help Kaito when he proposed gathering everyone to talk about it. Good thing Kaito didn’t beeline for Shuichi or he might have actually seen the video :v

Kirumi: Shall we wait for everyone then? Until then, I can provide you all with massages— K1-B0:  Thank you for waiting! We gathered everyone else! Korekiyo: My word...and after I was about to finally experience one of Kirumi's famed massages... K1-B0: Wh-What do you mean? Are you also suggesting that I cannot read the air? Maki: So what is it? Why did you drag us here?

kiyo you’re hurting the robot’s feelings with your massage lusting. Keebo no idea and just assumes it’s a reading the air thing pffft. Getting everyone together to discuss the kubspads is a bit more important, even if they wanted to do something first. Not that anyone is going to tell him that :v

Kokichi: So, what are these videos? K1-B0: No doubt they’re the motives from Monokuma, but why were they all mixed up...? Gonta: Y-Yeah! Why Gonta get Tsumugi's video— K1-B0: No! Don’t say it Gonta! Gonta: ...Hm? Tsumugi: Aah...I heard it... I see... So Gonta has my video... Gonta: ...Huh? Gonta not supposed to say it? Miu: Who fuckin’ cares!? We’re gonna exchange ‘em anyway, right? K1-B0: No, we cannot exchange them. Shuichi: What? We can't? Ryoma: Why not? They're videos of the most important people in our lives. K1-B0: And that is precisely why we cannot exchange them. Although we do not know why our motives were mixed up...As long as we don't exchange them, we don't have to see our motives at all. Himiko: So it’s better to just ignore them... K1-B0: Yes. At least, that is what I think. Tenko: Th-That's true... If we ignore them, then we won't have a motive... Ryoma: I'm against that.

The robot has learned the technique of how to cut people off mid sentence, but was a bit too slow on the draw here. This is basically the first time Keebo takes the lead on an idea though, so of course it’s about keeping everyone safe. poor gonta. Innocently having no idea why the weird robot is suddenly pushy at him. The fact this clicked really quick for Keebo while Shuichi is still half ‘but i gotta show it to Kaito’ is pretty interesting, but makes sense. He’s probably less likely to have that emotional ‘oh friend would want to know this, i must let them know’ moment our detective is having. I expect he saw it as a motive first, and all else second. Kaito is the one who takes over when it comes to confronting Ryoma, because Keebo and conflict do not mix well. because he’s a doormat. He does speak up again though!

Kokichi: Who cares? Ryoma just stated his opinion. Actually...I feel the same way as him K1-B0: Are you...trying to cause trouble again? Kokichi: Don't get the wrong idea. I'm not saying we shouldn't care about killing or dying...But I think it'd be better if we didn't cooperate with each other...Actually we *definitely* shouldn't cooperate with each other!

...because Kokichi speaks up! Kokichi likes to remark on him, so darn it, he’s going to remark back on on the purple terror. He keeps going on for a long time here too. The fact Keebo was one to originally bring the ‘don’t share’ plan up might be why Kokichi goes so hard against it here. he doesn’t trust keebs as far as he can throw him, so anything he wants done must be obstructed. It’s early on enough that he hasn’t really had time to confirm Keebo is as harmless as he says he is (usually.) And hey if it doesn’t work he’s still showing himself as ‘difficult’ for future evil plans.

Kokichi: Anyway, I’m warning you all for your sake. Let's just exchange our motive videos instead of cooperating with each other. K1-B0: ...I cannot comprehend that logic. Kokichi: Well, now that I've said I won't cooperate, I can't afford to be seen with you losers...C’mon Gonta, let’s go.

good job keebo. don’t refute or argue, just state you have no idea how his brain works. He doesn’t speak up at all once Kokichi leaves either, not even when it devolves into Kirumi getting a bunch of orders. He isn’t one of the ones that leaves so apparently he just...watches everyone eat hot pot :v Then it’s time for more free times!

K1-B0: Everyone seemed to really enjoy that delicious-looking tripe hot pot... It's fine. You do not need to worry about me. *sigh*...

oh he literally did. I forgot this line. keebo. why do you do this to yourself. The food thing is...a big thing for him. Is this why you hate vending machines Keebo. Do you think those machines ate the food. In Free time slot two he’s alone still (he’s almost always alone, no matter where he is. Kokichi and Kaito were just in the room he’s in now the previous free time tho.)

K1-B0: I also want to know what is contained in my motive video... But...if a killing were to happen because of that... It would mean that we've betrayed the very wish that Kaede entrusted to us.

I want to know but am putting everyone being safe first. Though also ‘Keebo what on earth could you been shown that would make you thinking killing is okay suddenly.’ Then I’m ‘oh do you mean you don’t trust the person you trade with to not go murder’. Do you have Shuichi’s, Keebo? Is that making you double down on Kaede’s wish, right to Shuichi’s face? Kaito is surprised to know Shuichi has his, there’s nothing saying they had to be ‘swapped’ to match...it’s just interesting to think about. another interesting thing is Himiko and Angie are hanging out in the same room during this free time. V3 is pretty good about foreshadowing future events if you go talk to everyone! Anyway, Keebo shows up in Tenko’s parasol event/bonus scene. 

K1-B0: I am grateful for your care, Kirumi. Kirumi: This is more people than I had been told. Tenko: I'm sorry... I just wanted Himiko to feel like a celebrity, too! Angie: Can I join? Atua says He wants to feel like a celebrity too! Himiko: If Atua wants to be a celebrity, then we might as well invite him too. Tenko: S-Sure... If that's what you want, Himiko. Grrrrgghhh...I just wanted to vacation like a celebrity with Himiko! Shuichi: ...Would a god want to be a celebrity? 

This bit is interesting! Tenko objects to Angie coming, but she must have invited Keebo herself, as he isn’t here to set anything up. He doesn’t spend either of his free time spots at the pool, so it’s not coincidence that he’s there either. Maybe they’ve bonded over their inability to swim. He wouldn't just tag along of his own accord. Tenko then tries to shoo Shuichi away here because of course she does :v

Shuichi: ...What about Keebo? Tenko: Keebo's a robot, so he's neither male nor female! He barely passes! K1-B0: ...I cannot tell if that remark is robophobic or not. Shuichi: Well at the very least, you're better off than I am... 

Want to be included...eclipsing need to be treated the same...Even though he’s self admitted to not being either! :v Keebo honestly doesn’t know what he wants. Shuichi apparently thinks you’re enough of a guy to get turfed out with him Keebo, so that’s probably something you like? It’s nice to see Tenko remembered though, considering she was the one who asked him in the first place.

Kirumi: By the way, Keebo... K1-B0: Yes? Kirumi: In your case, would you prefer oil over tropical juice?

Kirumi: Keebo, Tenko requested I help her feel like a celebrity. And she has included you as one of her guests... I will do my utmost to fulfill her request, for that is how a maid must conduct herself. So please tell me what food or beverages I can prepare so you feel like a celebrity Shuichi: Such pride and dedication... Kirumi's prowess as a maid is showing! K1-B0: Um...I do not require food. And I would not be able to taste it in the first place...

He’s a bit hard to read here! He’s happy with just the offer, but seems a bit awkward about it judging by the sprite being used. Actually being accommodated for seems to put him off a little. It seems he’s fine on oil on the moment so he has no need or desire for it though. Which conflicts with Kirumi’s goal and seems to actually irritate Keebo by pressing. He’s doing the exasperated hands up sprite when he’s stating he doesn’t need or taste food. Would it be nicer to just go ‘okay fine oil’, probably. but he doesn’t since uh. It could just be the ‘I just said no thank you why does no one LISTEN’ getting to him! that and we know keebo has like -10 to tact anyway. That and...asking him what he needs to ‘feel like a celebrity’ probably just sent him thinking ‘THAT’S A FEELING???’ so he just sticks to a fact and pretends he’s not at a loss. Keebo then spends his time more interested in the parasol than anything else, because of course he is. He honestly looks puzzled by it, it’s kinda cute.

K1-B0: Out of curiosity, do you really need that parasol even though we're indoors? Tenko: Of course! If you wanna feel like a celebrity, you absolutely need a parasol! A robot like you wouldn't understand what it means to feel like a celebrity, huh Keebo? K1-B0: Ghhhh... Th-This is a difficult feeling to understand!

Keebo cannot have a nice thing without getting dumped on for it almost immediately after :v He basically admits he doesn’t know what ‘feeling like a celebrity’ is like by trying to justify himself...but really tenko the question was fair and you just go ‘haha robot’ instead of maybe realizing it’s an atmosphere thing not a feeling thing.  In the morning after Shuichi chats with Ryoma...

Shuichi: Good morning, Keebo. K1-B0: Good morning. Um, have you seen Kokichi or Gonta? Shuichi: Ah, I haven't seen them... K1-B0: I see...I saw them earlier...and they seemed to be sneaking around. Given Kokichi's penchant for mischief, do you think he's planning to cause more trouble? Gonta is very earnest but also very naive... Kokichi could easily fool him. Shuichi: That's true... That is a bit disconcerting. K1-B0: ...I wonder why Kokichi is so determined to undermine our cooperation. True, Monokuma does interfere with our attempts to cooperate, but consider this...Perhaps what Monokuma fears more than anything...is our cooperation. That is why I think that Kaede was not wrong. Shuichi: ...I think so too. I’ll always be thankful for what Kaede tried to do for us. K1-B0: That's right! If we all cooperate, I'm sure we will be able to escape this place! If we meet every morning for breakfast, we will slowly but surely become more united. Shuichi: Yeah! K1-B0: Well then, I will go to the dining hall now.

Keebo and Kokichi are mutually on one another’s case and it’s pretty hilarious. He doesn’t call Kokichi cruel or anything either...just mischievous. Even someone terrible at people saw what kind of person Gonta is, and has apparently decided Shuichi is the one who has to hear about his concerns. He’s pretty into the getting along and working together thing, but Kaito really takes the roll from him in most group settings, so we kinda only see it when Shuichi is alone. Though Shuichi maybe uh. don’t be thankful about the attempted...murder...I know that’s not what he means but hahaha it does not read well xD also Kokichi is totally Keebo’s rival, not Shuichi’s. because keebo is the real protag. :v he’s totally Togami levels of dickery to Keebo, who’s pretty Makoto-ish...even if I do read Kokichi more favourably at times for that sort of comparison :v  Moving on to the dining hall.

K1-B0: According to my calculations, not everyone has gathered today. Shuichi: You can see that without doing any calculations...

You know you’re low on the totem pole when Shuichi will dunk on you. Out loud. This is the opening bit for this scene! You couldn’t remark on people missing, no. it is dunk time. Everything Keebo does is in numbers detective, he’s a robot! He doesn’t need to inform you that he calculated it, yes...but he’s trying to impress people and he just sucks at it >> anyway yes people did not come to breakfast.

Tenko: Maybe she's hiding a bunch of kids in there that she's secretly taking care of! Shuichi: What? She's not some stray dog on the streets raising pups... K1-B0: I also saw Kokichi and Gonta sneaking around together. Miu: A couple of virgins sneakin' around sounds like bad news to me!

Keebo reiterates the ‘kokichi is a menace and has gonta with him’ fact for the rest of the class/people who don’t read optional dialogue. Yet he doesn’t mention how this concerns him like he does to Shuichi alone! because that’s not a fact and we’re in a group setting.

K1-B0: Himiko is acting rather odd. I do not fully understand what she is doing...

The Ultimate Mage might not have anything nice to say about him, but he’s paid enough attention to notice the weird ‘calm’ Himiko isn’t normal. Better point it out to Shuichi! and keebo you don’t even halfway understand what she’s doing, it’s ok. Though I suppose 1% of understanding is technically not ‘fully understanding’ something too :v

Himiko: Nyeeeh...as long as I pray like this, I don't need to waste my energy on useless stuff. No matter what happens or what trouble lies ahead, my heart will be calm... K1-B0: I see...It’s escapism. Angie: No... She has merely abandoned reality to speak to Atua. Tsumugi: That *is* escapism.

He found an answer! it’s delightfully cynical and calculated and thus hilarious. He’s doing his little ‘hand up/i’ve deduced something’ pose so he looks pretty proud of it too. Tsumugi of all people backs him up on this! Though I suppose she’d know allllll about escapism! :V gdi moogie. Yet even with his short, matter of fact answer he’s still confused after all the back an forth/ the hug scene.

K1-B0: What’s going on...? Did Angie...do something to Himiko? Angie: Hm? I just undid her brainwashing, that's all. K1-B0: But...Himiko is clearly acting strange. Himiko: That’s rude. I’m not acting strange. This is my true self... I guess Atua's words can't reach robots... K1-B0: Wha—! You're being robophobic again! Angie: It's okay! Atua has compassion for robots who look human! K1-B0: O-Okay... 

Aw. He’s worried about his friend...who doesn’t like him and said we should kill him. this boy, I swear. Very forgiving. We can add one to the ‘times Keebo actually outright said something was robophobic’ count...annnnd Himiko is literally using the reason that he’s a robot to invalidate his concern over her behaviour. i think he’s justified! Not to mention he instantly backs down when Angie basically goes ‘oh Atua would include you’ and doesn’t argue for any other robots here...really just say ‘stop treating me like i’m sub human’, but then they’d just say he is sub human so. robophobic it is :v He just wants to be included so badly...but he’s getting the message as a robot he can’t. and that is sad. of course he listens to angie later, atua and her will include him, even as a robot. Though not at first! The next time he talks...

Angie: No, noooo, that's wrong. It's not enough to simply live here forever. Our lives must also be full of divine purpose. In other words...We must make this academy  heaven on earth! Shuichi: What...? Angie: In doing so...our desire to leave will vanish, and the killings will cease. K1-B0: Are you...being serious right now? Angie: This place provides us all with shelter, food, clothing, and wonderful friends! What more could you possibly desire? Do not give in to your greed.

He’s very much on the ‘no, we are not staying here forever’ train. He can’t parse if she’s being serious or not. He’s also doing the job of reacting since Shuichi is still mostly reacting in his own head instead of out loud. Her argument might compel him a little though, considering how alternate plans of escape haven’t really shown up...

Himiko: Now is the time to demonstrate my powers. My magic is the only thing that can heal your twisted hearts. K1-B0: But in our current predicament, performing magic tricks is quite illogical- Himiko: Nyeeeh, don't disturb my concentration. You gotta learn to read the mood already. And...it's called a magic show cuz I do magic. Not tricks

Cut off again and dismissed! Keebo needs to avoid people shorter than himself, apparently it never goes well for him. Though he does get an unintentional stab at Himiko here by outright ignoring her ‘magic’ bit to clarify that they’re tricks. He isn’t too great at telling a sort of performance could cheer people up, sure...but people really should be thinking of other solutions too. but no we’re gonna dunk on the robot and go ‘shut up you’re dumb’. The fact he still attends when he clearly doesn’t get how it should help, or why...he’s trying so, so hard.

Korekiyo: Kehehe... Faith as intense as this can be quite terrifying. K1-B0: There may be no cause for concern. This does not appear to be related to our motive videos. Kaito: You're only worried about that? K1-B0: Of course. We cannot afford to take Monokuma’s motives lightly. Tsumugi: But...everyone who isn't here could be showing each other their videos, right?

yes kaito, he already expressed concern over Himiko’s behaviour and basically got told to sit down and shut up. Twice. Of course he’s only focused on the only thing he didn’t instantly get shut down over. You should have backed him up earlier! I really do love Kaito, but Keebo never really benefits from Kaito’s good qualities.  Free time again, he’s hanging out on the 3rd floor. Same general area as Maki’s lab...so basically alone, as usual.

K1-B0: A magic show...It seems unconnected to the killing game, so I do not foresee any issues with it... 

Fortune telling is not one of his skills. Though I suppose the show itself has no issues, it’s what happens before...This is also the last FT slot in the chapter so I’m smacking the level one FTE here.

K1-B0: Since you have come to speak to me...I can only assume that you've taken some sort of interest in me. Shuichi: Ah, well...you are a robot, after all. K1-B0: Indeed. Curiosity is a very useful human quality...Very well, I shall humor you. Shuichi: ...Hm. I feel as though he's talking down to me a little... K1-B0: So first, I will explain my functions. As a robot, I'm somewhat extraordinary compared to you. Shuichi: But...I remember you saying something about having the strength of an old person... K1-B0: T-True, but...Considering the tragedy that occurred during trial production, it was a logical design choice.Now first, is my visual acuity. I have 20/13 vision... Impressive, no? Shuichi: ...You think so? I believe that's pretty normal... K1-B0: What are you talking about!? Over 50% of high school students have less than 20/20 vision! But no matter what, my visual acuity will always be 20/13. Shuichi: If it got any worse, I suppose that would count as a malfunction... K1-B0: My next function will definitely surprise you. Shuichi, please raise your hand. Shuichi: Huh? My what? K1-B0: I want you to put your hand in front of my mouth. Shuichi: ...Like this? K1-B0 Haaaaaaaaaaa... Shuichi: ...What the hell is this? K1-B0: Haaaaaaaaaaa... Shuichi: Lukewarm breath grazed across my hand. Well, Keebo is a robot, so maybe not "breath"... K1-B0: How about that? In addition, my warm breath also functions as a dryer. Shuichi: Ah...I see... K1-B0: Now, now, you can't be surprised just yet, okay? Case in point, my hand can turn into a multi-tool! With both hands, I have 20 tools at my disposal! My finger can detect wafting aromas, and even distinguish between different scents! I also have a music player for when I'm bored. I can even play tapes and records. Neat, huh? Shuichi: I'm still thinking about how weird your breath felt, I dunno about your other functions... K1-B0: Don't be too surprised. After all, I am the Ultimate Robot! Shuichi: ...

The start of Keebo’s FTE is almost word for word how he starts with Kaede. This is how he introduces himself to people. This is him being confident and secure. Unlike Kaede though, Shuichi has no qualms in pointing out Keebo’s shortcomings instead of letting him chatter on like he does with Kaede. He spends a lot more time trying to show him new functions, apparently thinking he just needs to show one that’s a bit more ‘impressive’ to get a positive reaction. Like being asked questions, or at least a ‘oh that’s cool’ instead of ‘wait aren’t you weak’. But we’ll gloss over the the tragedy in trial production AGAIN. To the point he takes Shuichi’s baffled silence as a more positive reaction than of the others he got, seeing as he seems to think the detective is impressed...even though we know he’s not. It’s true most people don’t have twenty tools always on hand and a music player that can take tapes and records on them at all times but...it’s easy to dismiss as not that interesting. Even though he’s desperately fishing for validation here. The nicest answer we can get out of Shuichi here...is clearly a lie, to be honest. (Keebo probably uses that music function a lot.)

Shuichi: Y-Yeah...amazing K1-B0: Right? I am Professor Idabashi's masterpiece, after all. The professor's technology has given me the functions to support a life of comfort. Shuichi: A life of comfort... I see. That makes sense. K1-B0: However...My greatest attribute is actually not a function at all.

He takes it as a honest statement and instantly brings up how great his creator is. Keebo...cares about Professor Idabashi a lot. He is bragging, about himself...but everything he is is something his ‘father’ made. Or at least that’s what he thinks anyway...He wants people to know how great his dad is. and that’s sadly sweet. (Since he probably doesn’t exist. or care about him if he was made for this...) The part where he supports of a life of comfort is interesting though. Are you built to bring comfort to the professor, or mostly yourself Keebs? It could be both. It’s nice to think Keebo’s father figure would want him to be able to live comfortably...be able to stand on his own two feet as it were. He might not have a use for many of the functions, but he’s clearly thinks they’re valuable

Shuichi: That's actually pretty normal. K1-B0: Gh—! Wh-What do you mean, "normal"!? What do you know about robots!? The meaning of "normal" is purely subjective anyway! Don't assume your definition of normal is the same as mine! Shuichi: Oh no, he's really mad! K1-B0: F-Furthermore...! My greatest attribute is actually not a function at all.

ahahahaWHOOPS. Good job Shuichi, you genuinely upset him. Because you said his ‘father’s’ work is ‘normal’. Without the context of the ‘nicer’ reply, this can seem really out of left field! Keebo is usually all about being ‘normal’ and fitting in ‘like everyone else’ but here he goes basically spitting fire at Shuichi for it. What do you know about robots indeed Keebo...But hey, we get some of that impulsive side here, getting overwhelmed and just spitting out what he thinks right away. This is WAY more fight than we usually see him give Kokichi, and that guy’s mocking him all the time. probably because he hopes Shuichi is a better/nicer person than him but still. In contrast...

Shuichi: Ah...is that it? K1-B0: Is that it...? You mean, you're not impressed? Shuichi: Well, I assumed you would have more...special...functions. K1-B0: ...W-Well, you know...I *might* have a special function of sorts... Shuichi: ...Might? K1-B0: But Professor Idabashi told me to keep it a secret. I hope you get the chance to see it someday. And besides... My greatest attribute is actually not a function at all.

He just takes it when Shuichi is unimpressed. Clearly Shuichi not being impressed with him is a shortcoming on his part, not the Professor, or his work. Being told he’s lame or disappointing is something we’ve seen a lot of...and apparently that doesn’t trigger his get mad buttons. Think he’s...kinda used to it by chapter 2. Though Keebo will still try and fish for later attention by suggesting he does have a ‘special’ function he’s been told to keep a secret. (Though...what Keebo things is special might not rate such praise from others)

Shuichi: It isn't? K1-B0: You can't tell what it is? It's my compact, lightweight design that makes my various functions possible! This is what truly drives Professor Idabashi's technological revolution! Well? Now do you understand just how amazing I am? Shuichi: I don't know how to respond to his boasting...Maybe someone like Miu would really appreciate his mechanics. Shuichi understandably is ‘ you’re like slightly less heavy than Gonta and he’s way bigger than you Keebo wtf do you mean’. This makes far more sense when you know KEEBO CAN FLY. He’s lightweight enough for that That is incredible. Too bad Keebo doesn’t actually like flying, according to him. Though really, being light enough to travel around where humans can fairly easily when he’s made is metal and carrying quite a bit of hardware is similarly impressive, even if Shuichi doesn’t really see it. He does correctly get that Miu would probably be impressed though! sorry keebo your attempts to look self assured have failed yet again. (As I wonder if Keebo feels he can be above or below humans, but not equal considering how little success he has and how his final FTE finishes but mhm we’ll get there.) Keebo is ones already grabbed by Gonta by the time Shuichi gets dragged in.

Korekiyo: The same is true of the rest of us. We were all seized by Gonta...and brought here. Tenko: But Shuichi's the only one who got knocked out. K1-B0: Gonta apologized for that. Apparently he couldn't slow down in time when he tried to grab you. Shuichi: What is this anyway...? Why did Gonta do this?

Gotta let Shuichi know that Gonta is sorry. Gonta is probably one of the nicer ones to him in general, so it’s not a big surprise that he’s already forgiving the guy for dragging him here, and hoping Shuichi doesn’t blame him either. Since we know who’s to blame....

K1-B0: I do not think Gonta would ever decide on his own to capture us. What is Kokichi trying to accomplish by taking advantage of Gonta's naivete? Regardless, I cannot forgive his nonchalant attitude about using people!

...haha keebo’s being nonchalantly used by tons of people...Anyway he doesn’t blame Gonta for this at all, understandably and is already going ‘what is that little gremlin up to?' He’s been concerned about this exact thing for days but wasn’t able to do anything about it. He even clarifies that even if there was a ‘good’ reason, he cannot stand for Kokichi just using Gonta like this...but unfortunately won’t be able to prevent it the second time either.

Kokichi: Isn’t it great!? Only an evil supreme leader like me could do something so...eeeeeevil! K1-B0: Kokichi...why are you doing this? Kokichi: Oh, I thought we could throw ourselves a little screening party with all our videos. With all you here, exchanging our motive videos wouldn't be that difficult at all...And I wanna see your videos, too, so I figured we could all binge-watch them together! K1-B0: D-Do you know what will happen if you do that? Kokichi: Ummm... Everyone will know their motive and a killing will be more likely to happen? But I like playing on Mean difficulty. Also, I don't run from battles in RPGs, either! I wanna win this killing game! So I'm not gonna run from it, I'm gonna crush it! That’ll be waaaay less boring, don’tcha think?

protag and rival square off. Or more Kokichi monologues his evil plan. Keebo’s the one to confront him about it first...and oh look, Danganronpa reference in regards to difficultly level. I wonder if he suspects he’s talking to a camera already. After all, he decides the gathered group is ‘enough’ for the little viewing party even though Gonta couldn’t get everyone. Five missing people is quite a few.

K1-B0: It seems I must be the one to take care of this. With my talent, Kokichi, I will stop- Kokichi: Yeah, yeah. I don't have time to listen to some robot. Let's see...it's exactly 9 pm. right now. I should be back by nighttime. Welp! Have fun with the bugs till then!

sorry keebo you don’t get to have monologues. He just listed to yours Kokichi, get back here and listen to the whole thing. It is good to see Keebo taking initiative though! Even if...people are not going to be all that impressed even though it works.

Tenko: M-My Neo-Aikido is no match for Gonta's superhuman strength either... K1-B0: ...We still have a chance when Kokichi comes back. That’s when I will take care of this. Everyone, please just endure it until then. Shuichi: E-Endure it—

Hey remember how all the cameras in the game are apparently magically tiny bug bears? So feasibly all CGs could just be shots from them? How are there bugs on the edges on such a tiny camera? ...Well we have a bigger camera at this scene, don’t we! keebo’s totally buried by bugs like himiko is ohno. Keebo might not be able to get bitten, but he’s not having a good time at the insect meet and greet either. He doesn’t talk during it, and his post dialogue doesn’t mention his own feelings. I imagine bugs crawling inside him would be unpleasant though :v Hopefully that didn’t happen. All those armored plates have edges for things to get at though...hm.

K1-B0: ...Thank you for enduring it, everyone. This is the last chance. Please leave the rest to me.

He is gonna help! do your best you funky little robot. Though if anyone had stopped Kokichi from leaving or made him have to listen to the speech Keebo could have done this an hour ago. This is why you back up your robot buddy, kids.

Kokichi: Oh, don't worry about it, Gonta. Just keep watch so these guys don't— K1-B0: That’s it! I won’t let you do as you please! Kokichi: Hm? K1-B0: I didn't want to use this unless I absolutely had to. It eats up a lot of my electricity. But that’s neither here nor there! I will stop you right here, right now! Shuichi: Keebo...what are you going to do...? K1-B0: ... Shuichi: Still glaring at Kokichi, Keebo slowly reach a hand behind his ear...and spun the mechanical parts there. Tsumugi: He's lighting up!? Is he gonna self-destruct or— *whirrr...* Tenko: Huh? What's that sound? K1-B0: One moment please... I'm rewinding the tape right now. Himiko: The tape?

Shuichi: Keebo shouted out and pushed his palm against his ear That's when... ‘Is this your doing, Kokichi? Did you have Gonta kidnap us?’ Was that...my voice? ‘Nee-heehee...he's so simple-minded. As soon as I told him that everyone who hates bugs was trying to get rid of them......he started crying, and said that he would get you guys to love bugs...or something like that.’ Could this be...? K1-B0: So, what do you think!? You just saw my audio recording function for the first time! Tenko: Did he really just whip out an audio recorder like it’s some kinda secret weapon!? Tsumugi: Really? It’s a cassette tape? In this day and age? K1-B0: But it’s metal tape, you know!? Tsumugi: The sound quality isn't the issue! K1-B0: L-Let's just put this aside now. More importantly, it seems to have worked.

Over the top and flashy for...recording audio with very good quality. No wonder it uses so much electricity if he needs to light up to get it to work. Or he was just trying to show off since he’s personally getting back at Kokichi for this actions here...or at least making sure he’ll see some consequences. Not that it matters, he just gets made fun of anyway...even if he tries to defend the tape being metal as a way to seem less unimpressive. 

K1-B0: We must run while we still can! Tenko: Wait! We need to take back our Kubs Pads first! Shuichi: Tenko snatched the Kubs Pads from Kokichi. Kokichi: Awwww... Shuichi: Then, we all ran out of the lab. After leaving the room, I could still hear the muffled buzzing and Kokichi screaming.

yup keebo leads the fleeing out and totally leaves him there to his fate. With audible screams. He might be nice but he’s got limits. and apparently being locked in a room for like two hours being swarmed with bugs is one of those limits! Though I think he’s still more bothered by the ‘using Gonta’ bit. After they get out Monodam takes the pads to return them...

Tsumugi: But out of all of them, we can probably trust that one, right? K1-B0: Shall we go back to our dorms? It is well past nighttime. Angie: Nyahahaha, that's true! We have the magic show tomorrow.

of course you’d think that Tsumugi. We trust the robotic one that kills it’s siblings. Though they are the ‘friendliest’ cub...it just makes me think of another robot who gets determined to kill all their friends for the greater good hm. Keebo just thinks all his human friends should get some sleep, but he’s probably wanting to go charge if that light show just gobbled a chunk of his battery. It must be one hell of a drain if he can go a week normally without worry... Which he somewhat confirms in the morning.

Shuichi: Ah, Keebo. Good morning. K1-B0: Good morning, Shuichi How are you feeling today? Are you still sore from the events of last night? Shuichi: Ah, I'm fine. Are *you* alright? K1-B0: Yes, I’m fine. I’ve recharged the electricity that I used on my recording function. Even so...I'm very happy that I was finally able to use my functions to help everyone! Shuichi: Keebo's recording function... It's not exactly revolutionary technology, but it did help a lot. Yes, thank you, Keebo. You really earned your title of Ultimate Robot. K1-B0: Oh, it was nothing, really. If you ever need my help for anything, please don't hesitate to ask. Shuichi: Ahaha... Yeah, I sure will. K1-B0: So...the magic show is starting soon, yes? Everyone has probably gathered in the gym already. We should get going as well.

Shuichi actually asks if Keebo’s alright! Actual concern instead of more dunking! Keebo asking if Shuichi is okay is not as much of a surprise, but it’s nice to see he admits he’s happy that he was able to be helpful. He wants to be useful. Goes and downplays how he helped in order to keep stressing how ‘please ask me if you need help I WANT TO HELP’ :v Then he’s off to go to the Magic show, which he probably isn’t super interested in but Everyone Should Be There, so he’s gonna go. Also, we learn from Angie that Keebo and Kaito were the designated equipment carriers from Himiko’s lab. I guess it wasn’t too heavy, or Kaito might have been doing the brunt of the lifting. Also, when you talk to Angie before the show...

Angie: Tenko, you’re trembling. I've told you many times that Atua loves all His creations. Tenko: What do you mean, all his creations!? That's way too much love! What about Monokuma, huh? Does Atua love him, too? Angie: Of course. So we must love Monokuma, so that our love will reach him. Tenko: Shaddup already! Robots can't feel love! They can't feel any emotions at all! K1-B0: And yet...I felt a strange pain in my chest after you just said that...

y u gotta do this Tenko, he’s RIGHT HERE. or at least apologize! But no, we’re just gonna let Keebo know his emotions he’s feeling aren’t real I guess. You two were getting on okay, so of course he’s upset...but this does also set up a little more that Keebo’s heard Angie say Atua accepts robots twice now.

K1-B0: This is quite a professional-looking set. However, considering how unsettled Himiko is...We might not get to witness for ourselves the skill of the Ultimate Magician. How unfortunate.

Well, he’s impressed by the work his friends did! And seems like he’s at least semi-interested in seeing Himiko’s talent in action, even if he knows it’s trickery, not magic. He’s always ready to be a supportive sort of friend and praise their efforts. not that he gets it back all that much. He does get caught up in the tension of the show and seems to worry a bit after Gonta runs up to the stage.

K1-B0: Um...Less than ten seconds remain...

Notably, he’s also one of the ones who looks to be mid movement after this line...(there’s a lot of CGs for this part, huh)

K1-B0: Look! The piranhas! Tenko: H-Hurry! The curtains! Open the curtains already!

Then Ryoma is shown to be very very dead. Due to how everyone who wasn’t at the show rushes in, there aren't as many reactions before...well.

Kokichi: Yeah, break it. It’ll take too long to drain it by hand. Shuichi: But what would we even use to break— Kokichi: Gonta! Kee-boy! You’re up! K1-B0: Huh? What do you mean, we're up? Kokichi: Gonta, throw Kee-boy as hard as you can! Use that robot like a battering ram! K1-B0: Who are you calling a battering ram!? Gonta: Gonta throw Keebo! Got it! Tenko: Then, I’ll help too! K1-B0: N-Now wait just a second. You don't need to team up now—

K1-B0: AAAAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!

robot gets yeeted despite protests because guy no one likes says to. Why are all you guys so mean to this poor robot. You could have seriously hurt him! Good thing he’s waterproof, but he still got treated as a thing and probably got nasty blood water all over him >> Does anyone even say ‘sorry’? Or even thank you? NO. being keebo is suffering, like it’s pretty funny but MAN these kids are jerks to him.

K1-B0: I’ve...gathered Ryoma’s body and belongings...in one place... Shuichi: Keebo looks depressed... He *was* just used as a battering ram, so I understand why.

maybe apologize for what happened? or tell Kokichi off, or Gonta for listening and Tenko for just going along with it? no? ok sure we’ll just leave him staring listlessly after carrying the remains of his friend while soaked in his blood, why not. after all he doesn’t have feelings, apparently. 

Korekiyo: In any event...let us begin the investigation. K1-B0: Investigation... So it's really going to start again. Tsumugi: I can't believe it... One of us killed Ryoma...

yes you can tsumugi. Why are you always talking near keebs this chapter. Unsurprisingly, Keebo still doesn’t really like the idea of a class trial and what it means, but I suppose it gives him something to think about that isn’t how he has zero respect around here. Anyway, Maki says ‘nope, i’m out’

Miu: The fuck is that bitch's problem!? She's seriously not gonna investigate!? K1-B0: That seems...rather irresponsible. Korekiyo: She likely assumes someone else will take care of it...and I suppose she isn't wrong.  

Considering you all die if you’re wrong, irresponsible is certainly a word that works. He doesn’t do name calling or anything though, just points out the behavour. She’s busy trying to hide she’s an assassin, but it isn’t like the rest of the kids have too much time to worry about that. Keebo is probably a bit more shaken than he lets on though, he doesn’t confront or talk to Kokichi at all while he’s busy accusing Himiko, and usually he does!

Kirumi: To solve this mystery, we must first learn the trick behind Himiko’s Underwater Escape Act... K1-B0: We have no choice in the matter. Shuichi: He’s right...we have no choice. We have no choice but to find the culprit who killed Ryoma. This investigation is to save all of our lives...because we’re risking our lives in the class trial!

Behold as Kirumi tries to send both protags on a pointless wild goose chase! The underwater trick and how it works turns out to be completely irrelevant! Which of course, Kirumi knows and is banking on. :v She’s sneaky. Anyway, Kaito is Shuichi’s partner for this case...

K1-B0: Although there are many unknown variables, the first thing we need to make clear is...when was Ryoma murdered? Kaito: Well, in the middle of the show, obviously. The culprit knew how Himiko's trick worked and took advantage of it to kill Ryoma. In other words, everyone watching the show isn't suspicious. K1-B0: ...Kaito, you didn’t attend the show either, did you? Kaito: N-No, but I'm still not suspicious. I forgot a promise...so I was just eating breakfast. You got it!? I’m not suspicious! K1-B0: I do not understand how that explanation is supposed to convince me. Shuichi: Keebo does have a point...

Robot is right, ‘when’ the murder happened is one of the most important details of the case. So thankfully, he didn’t just immediately try and follow Kirumi’s ill motivated advice. Apparently if Kaito gets questioned by Keebo his brain just goes into shock. Kaito isn’t dumb but he has this weird habit of getting flustered with Keebo’s blunt questions. Maybe because he’s figured out Keebs wants some reasonable explanations! and he doesn’t really have one and just...tries to justify himself in a way Keebs is not impressed with at all. He doesn’t provide any other information, but that’s not a big shock. Considering he was both at the show and the meet and greet and had to recharge, he didn’t really have a chance to see anything of use for this case. this will be a trend.

Shuichi: The fragments of the broken glass water tank have been piled up. There are so many tiny pieces...Gonta and Tenko certainly didn't hold back when they threw Keebo at the glass.

More proof of robot abuse. but really Keebo doesn’t come up much in this investigation. Kirumi actually shows up a second time to distract Shuichi by giving the ‘clue’ that Gonta was the last to see Maki at 8PM. She really had plans to not get caught. We have no need to hear from our robot friend again until pre-trial time.

K1-B0: ...Is everyone ready? Gonta: Not like we have choice, right? Korekiyo: Kehehe... You are quick to understand. It's as though Monokuma has you trained.

Has all of you trained, Kiyo. But Keebo’s doing his protag job in asking the obvious question to prompt responses :v

K1-B0: I did not calculate that we would gather here under these circumstances again...What would Kaede say if she saw us right now...?

I suppose it is also your job to hope. Though it is a little sad that he’s worried about letting Kaede down. Most of the others are more concerned about the trial and the case surrounding it at the moment, but this is what he’s stuck on. Shame and disbelief. this robot understands empathy very well, okay.  Class trial time :v

Kirumi: But it does point to Himiko being the most suspicious. K1-B0: Ryoma died during Himiko's magic show. Korekiyo: His body appearing in the water tank leads one to think the escape trick played a part. It’s only natural we suspect Himiko. She was the one performing the trick.

oh look who’s the first person to agree Himiko is suspect after Kokichi/Angie point to her. Keebo is just outright wrong here! This is why he is not the detective :v Somewhere along the way he’s decided ‘during the show’ was the time of death, whoops. This is also a bit weird becauseeee after the nonstop debate about the cause of death...

Angie: Ryoma drowned, Himiko changed places with him, and then the piranhas ate him. Right? K1-B0: No, Himiko only had 60 seconds to escape from the tank...Even if they changed places at the start of the show, that's insufficient time to drown someone. Kirumi: If that is the case, then when did he drown?

watch out the robot knows how long it takes to drown a man. But this is why his other comment is weird...he knows Ryoma couldn’t have drowned during the show? I suppose he didn’t know the cause of death...but it’s in the monofile...throwaway line you aren't meant to think about too hard but dang it

Korekiyo: Yes... By that point, he had already joined the ranks of the dead. K1-B0: Could that mean his body was hidden until the culprit made it appear in the tank? Gonta: Hidden...where? Kirumi: The culprit would have had to hide the body near the tank, and then show it during the act.

He gets back on the right track after Shuichi points out Ryoma had to die before the show. I super didn’t notice this the first time I played, but Kirumi is always here to make the correct idea seem unlikely and try and steer conversation away from it! and of course kokichi helps her derail it back to explaining the trick.

K1-B0: How did Himiko escape the water tank? Angie: Maybe she just climbed out and no one noticed.

So Keebo kicks off the non-stop debate about the water tank :v Because asking a question is his favourite thing to do, and he just tried suggesting the body could be hidden, so he’s filled his doing things quota.

Shuichi: The staircase also has an escape hatch, one facing away from us. It’s placed so that the water would not drain from the staircase. K1-B0: In which case, a person could exit and leave water inside the staircase. Shuichi: However, that person would be soaked, meaning that *some* trace should be left...That would explain why there was a puddle around the stairs...

Rephrase for the audience and give Shuichi a gap before he has to launch into another explanation. He’s quick to pick up the logic, but he doesn’t really need to apply it since Shuichi usually does that part too :v

Shuichi: ...It's because she changed her uniform. K1-B0: The dormitory is stocked with uniforms. Did you hide one behind the stage in advance? Himiko: Nyeh... Nyeeeh! Angie: I remember seeing Himiko go to the gym this morning, carrying a uniform and a towel.

He does get to do it here though! V3 is nice in letting the other characters also confirm things without Shuichi’s handholding, but he will still be doing the bulk of it, obviously :v keebs can be smart.

Miu: So Himiko went in the stairs with the body!? What kinda kinky shit is she into!? K1-B0: That seems unlikely. There isn't enough space for two people to fit in there. Tsumugi: Yeah, the stairs are pretty cramped. It'd be hard to fit even Ryoma and Himiko in there.

Keebo makes a point, Tsumugi takes the chance to reiterate it to be ‘helping’ by doing very little :v Angie argues for a switcheroo which leads to the next debate, Shuichi refutes it, leading to

Korekiyo: She had no need to worry about us witnessing her at that point. For the entire stage was hidden behind a curtain. To all but Gonta, anyway. K1-B0: Then the culprit never would have considered hiding inside the staircase with the body.Entering the staircase *after* moving the body is much faster, and seems more rational too! Tsumugi: Then...Ryoma’s body wasn’t hidden in the stairs?

He’s back again to confirm his earlier point was correct! With extra logic on his side thanks to Gonta going where he wasn’t meant to. and yes mugi that is what he just said please pay attention. He’ll keep defending it too, such as in the debate afterwards.

Tsumugi: It wasn't really in the stairs, was it? K1-B0: After all, there was only enough space for Himiko.

Shuichi’s busy agreeing with Korikiyo here since he actually goes into what another option might be other than reiterating it’s not the stairs. Trial goes on, Miu correctly accuses Kirumi but of course, it’s too early and baseless so we need to argue with her.

Gonta: I-Is too soon to tell. We should hear what everyone has to say, right? Miu: Fuck that noise! K1-B0: But, Miu, you don't have an alibi for when the crime occurred either, do you? Miu: Y-You think I’m suspicious? I...don’t even know where the gym is.

oh Miu. Robot is always glad to point out relatively simple contradictions like this and get people flustered. Not one to accuse though, since he might simply not know something...

Tenko: Anyway, among those four, the culprit must be the one who doesn't have an alibi! K1-B0: ...I apologize but given the circumstances, we have no choice but to suspect you. Tenko: Suspect who!? Who’s the culprit!?

Even though he says sorry, this triggers a mass panic debate :v Though it’s the logical thing to do, he can occasionally figure out putting people on the spot for murder can be uncomfortable and apologize for it. This is a friendly robot who is way nicer than most people are to him gdi. Miu, Kaito and Kirumi squabble it out. Keebs ends up being in TWO conversations :v

Miu: I have an alibi! K1-B0: What is your alibi? Miu: When I was running from Gonta...Things got a little...heated if ya catch my drift.

He caught it, and apparently had no interest in following up, as that segment switches to Angie asking after Maki’s alibi. Keebo decides to poke at Kirumi’s alibi instead. which is the weak point for this debate. All business today it seems!

Kirumi: That was five minutes before 9:00 p.m. K1-B0: Did you really leave the gym at 9:00 p.m.? Are you sure you did not stay at the gym?

Of course the bullet that breaks it is Kokichi’s account. Because Kokichi and Keebo get on like a house on fire :v which of course means it’s time for the two to squabble again.

Kirumi: This information could have been told to us beforehand. Kokichi: Sorry! Forgot! I definitely didn’t keep it a secret to make the trial more interesting! K1-B0: Forgot...? It seems far more plausible that you were telling another lie. Kokichi: Unlike robots, we meatbags can't pull out our memories from our hard drive. K1-B0: Was that supposed to offend me? Your irrationality fills me with pity...

Of course, the alibi ends up being worthless since the time of the crime isn’t what the kids think it is. (Later it’ll damn Kirumi but right now? not so much.) It makes Kirumi look like less of a suspect so it’s actively harmful, whoops :v So were you ‘forgetting’ because it won’t help solve the case yet...or just having fun. Either way, Keebo shows that he really needs to install a sarcasm detector, that was REALLY blatant. But sassy robot returns, he goes from angry to eye rolling once he realizes it’s more of a backhanded complement than an insult. ‘Why yes my memory IS better than yours, annoying purple meatbag’. Too bad it ultimately leads to Kirumi being off the hook so Kokichi can get his ‘make Maki and Kaito fightfightfight’ game on but I like this interaction. He gets to feel proud of himself a little :v He keeps this attitude for a bit, considering...

K1-B0: Most of that was unintelligible nonsense, but it would seem that Miu has an actual alibi. Kokichi: Yup. It took a while, but at least we got everyone's alibis cleared up...We should remember all of this, in case we need to recall these events again.

oh no they’re AGREEING. someone check hell it’s probably freezing over. But lookit that swipe at Miu. They really don’t start off on the right foot at all! We get the everyone’s alibi bullet which still ultimately means nothing(for now)...and Kokichi gets the fight ball rolling with a...surprising assist from Keebo?

Kokichi: If one of them is the culprit, then the innocent one should know who the guilty one is. Yeah? Because if you know you're not the culprit, then you can just accuse the other person. K1-B0: Yes, that is true. Kokichi: Which means, there is one person among us who definitely knows who the culprit is! To that someone who knows... Do your best to convince us! Work harder!

He’s still eye rolling here, but offers his agreement. which yes, it is true...if either of the accused is the culprit. Which they aren’t. Keebo doesn’t know this, obviously but it’s still weird to see them ‘working together’, but this happens more often the further we go. Mostly because Keebo will follow anything with a solid/logical backing. Kokichi might be a liar, but he generally has a solid bit of evidence or logic to springboard off of. (even when taking us in the WRONG DIRECTION. if you wanted to pressure maki we could have done this in a way easier way you little gremlin). So really, these two will team up more often than Keebo would with say...Kaito, who prompts his next line.

Kaito: Hmph... You don't get it. This isn't just any hunch...This is an official hunch from *the* Kaito Momota, Luminary of the Stars! Tsumugi: Wh-What...? K1-B0: How illogical... This is even more difficult to comprehend than Kokichi's antics. Kokichi: You're totally not serious! You can't be *that* stupid, right?

Yup. Kaito is more confusing than Kokichi. Kaito is basing Maki’s innocence on nothing but what he feels, which people can sort of get. We all have ‘hunches’, the backs of our brains picking up on little things that we might not actively be paying attention to, and he’s got a lot of belief and trust to give. We can get it, some people you just want to trust! Keebo doesn’t get it. Error, no input found, please give me a provable, actual reason for that hunch. I kind of think he doesn’t even get hunches himself. He can clearly worry, or have concern, but he might lack those sort of gut feelings on if you can trust something or not. After all, he can actively search through his own ‘brain’ and explain why he feels a certain way, he doesn’t need to just ‘have a feeling’. Kokichi following Keebo up here to slap an insult on an honest statement of ‘i have no goddamned idea what you’re on about’ is just expected :v

Kirumi: So...you do not have any evidence. K1-B0: Only baseless conjecture. Tenko: B-But...I totally get where he's coming from! Cuz I wanna believe in Himiko too!

Kaito’s inspiring speech broke zero ground in the ‘make the everyone understand’ attempt. Whoops. So Keebo’s backing up the murderer pointing out the lack of proof. As it is baseless conjecture. You need a fact, or at least a lie presented as fact to get him to understand what you’re driving at. This is honestly interesting, considering he’s ‘hope’ motivated later on. There’s nothing logical about a meaningless hope! So it feels less like him and more his...helpful voice telling him to ignore logic... Maki fesses up to say she saw Ryoma at nighttime

K1-B0: So Ryoma was still alive at nighttime!? Tenko: I thought the crime took place between 8 and 10 o'clock at night?

He’s not on board yet, but he’s listening! Even though if true, haha we spent all that time talking about stuff that doesn’t matter.

Miu: Quit fuckin' around! You think I'm dumb enough to swallow that line of crap!? Kirumi: Yes, this seems too convenient. K1-B0: But why did Maki wait until now to mention that? Kokichi: Ah-hahahaha! It’s totally obvious! Maki’s sooo desperate that she has to lie!

oh hi kirumi no big surprise you simply go ‘no it is garbage’. Keebo’s the one to offer a way out by asking why exactly she didn’t mention it until now, he’s not instantly saying it’s out of the question. Kokichi follows up to try and press that it’s a lie, answering his question. Which probably just tells him that he should keep listening, since Kokichi lies so much :v

Kirumi: Does this mean you an Ryoma recived one another’s motive video? Maki: Maybe... I actually didn't check the one I got, so I wouldn't know. K1-B0: Maki admitted earlier that she hadn't checked her Kubs Pad. Angie: Then why did Ryoma think that Maki had his motive video? Kaito: If he went around asking at random, he might've asked some people besides Maki. Miu: He never asked me! He probably never asked you guys either, right!? K1-B0: Then...who was it that told Ryoma about his Kubs Pad?

Flexing that good memory, and giving Maki a little backup. After all, Keebo’s an expert in what it feels like to get dismissed :v He them prompts Shuichi to Do His Thing in calling Kokichi out as the one who told Ryoma. (Though he doesn't actually get to make him answer before they get derailed again) Though even though he’s willing to listen and belive she possibly did see Ryoma...he’s still not too thrilled about Maki’s choice to keep it secret.

Korekiyo: *If* that story is true... Maki: ...It's true. K1-B0: Then why did you wait until now to bring that up? Maki: I didn’t say anything until now because I wasn’t in the mood to be suspected.

He’s pointing and everything. He’ll believe you but darn it explain. He wants to understandddd. But still, no name calling or excessive rudeness, because he is a good lad who doesn’t threaten or do such things. She explains not wanting to be suspected buuuut

Kaito: Well, whatever. Either way, let's just believe Maki. Angie: Yes, yes. Those who believe shall be saved. K1-B0: No, we need to wait. There is still more to confirm— Shuichi: Well then, why don’t we ask Kokichi?

couldn’t you wait for him to finish the goddamned sentence Shuichi. Still, Keebo’s not a hasty one, the second Kaito wants to just go ‘good enough’ robot is right back to WAIT NO THAT’S NOT LOGICAL. It does get Kokichi to properly admit he knows who had who’s pads though. More squabbling about believing Maki ensues...

Korekiyo: I find Maki's testimony suspicious. It's far too...convenient for her. K1-B0: This is...difficult to determine. Kokichi: Maki is lying! Like I said before, a liar like me knows their own kind!

Are you trying to convince Keebo, Kokichi? You keep reiterating your point right after he speaks. Keebo is basically admitting he’s completely undecided and not taking a stand either way, but he’s usually pretty wishy-washy...because having an opinion involves what he thinks. and he doesn’t like admitting what he’s thinking very much. Certainly not if he doesn’t have a fact to back him up. Shuichi lies in the following debate. keebo will basically always follow shuichi, he’s the ultimate detective. Though hearing everyone else agree/trust him first probably lets him consider it true more easily. (and kokichi just nudging shuichi he saw that lie but not doing anything about it...)

Himiko: So we're right back where we started... What a pain. K1-B0: However, it should be clear now that the crime occurred after nighttime began. Kirumi:  But then when was Ryoma's body placed inside the piranha tank?

Maki’s testimony + Kokichi’s admitting of telling Ryoma Maki had his kubspad + Shuichi’s lie about overhearing= enough to set this as ‘the truth’ for Keebo. It is true, but here comes Kirumi to instantly derail them to the wrong detail first. When doesn’t really matter right now!

Miu: So did we fuck up by thinkin’ the body got stuffed into the piranha tank? K1-B0: I don't think so. We have evidence to prove that's what happened. Tenko: Then when did the culprit throw the body into the piranha tank?

There is evidence, and even then he’s saying ‘think’. he’s so hesitant to speak in absolutes right now. As he might be wrong :v The whole Maki debacle was confusing for him. But now Tenko is repeating the question Kirumi posed and we go on a merry goose chase and have a scrum debate about it. Keebo’s on Shuichi’s side again. (He always will be, with one exception.) He doesn’t actually have a line though! He just gets to shout THIS IS OUR ANSWER with everyone.

K1-B0: That means it was certainly possible to put the body in the piranha tank from the window... Shuichi: However, I’m also positive the pane dividing the piranha tank was set up beforehand. Korekiyo: That certainly couldn't be tossed in. It would need to be placed carefully. Kirumi: Even if the culprit were to throw the body from outside the window...The window is far too high. It cannot be reached from the floor.

protag explaining tag team. Shuichi speaks more confidently in trials, saying things like ‘he’s confident’ while Keebo is hovering around with ‘possible’. You think our detective is an anxious mess half the time? so’s the robot :v oh and Kirumi is once again pointing out ‘problems’ to try and get the line of thought dropped. It works, considering we start going on about the ladder and whatnot and slam headlong into a logic wall until Maki says ‘okay no, time to talk about Where Die, not how get in fish tank’. You knew too Kokichi don’t you ‘ Why didn't anyone realize this yet?’ me :v

Shuichi: That’s important to remember...it’s not as if everyone here *wants* us to find the truth. One of us is trying to sabotage this trial... K1-B0: Well then, let's discuss the crime scene to figure out who the culprit is. Himiko: That's not a bad idea for a robot. The last time I heard such a good idea was......when Nino told me to move in with her under the bridge to get out of the cold. Tenko: Himikawa Under the Bridge!?

it’s a Arakawa Under the Bridge reference :v Honestly there’s tons of references in the game in general and we can totally blame Tsumugi for them. Keebs is glad to be the one to agree to a new topic though. Then he doesn’t have to state an opinion and can just fish for everyone else’s thoughts! He doesn’t even react to the ‘for a robot’ crack at him. :c Though for good reason I suppose when no one takes you seriously and judges you on a dime. Next nonstop debate to establish the crime scene...

Angie: Wasn't it the dorm room? Ryoma was relaxing in his room when he got attacked. K1-B0: But the cause of death was drowning. There is nothing in his room that could collect enough water.

Refuting Angie’s idea with a pointless weak point. I DO think the white noise that goes across when Miu goes ‘S-S-Sow’ might be Keebo though. ‘This is difficult to watch’ does match his general speaking style, and probable opinion :v

Angie: Hmmm...How did those handcuffs get from the lab to the water tank? Maki: Because Ryoma was wearing them, right? K1-B0: Yes, though they were only visible for a brief moment when Ryoma appeared in the tank. I am certain he was wearing the handcuffs at the time. Kirumi: The handcuffs were left after the piranhas devoured Ryoma

He did it, he said he was certain about something! Good job. Considering perfect memory and the horror that was that moment it was probably very easy to recall. oh dear keebo has perfect memories of all his friends corpses. that can’t be fun. oh and the fun of being THROWN AT THE REMAINS. Kirumi ‘helps’ with the easy logic of handcuffs didn’t get eaten. :v Now we’re working with the angle of body movement now that we know it came from Ryoma’s ultimate lab. Tenko suggests just tossing the body from the pool area...

Kirumi: Your explanation contradicts some things we discussed earlier. The gym window was too high to reach from the pool side, even if one used the ladder. Tenko: That’s right! I apologize! I must go on a journey to reflect on this! K1-B0: We keep hitting dead ends, since we don't know how the body was thrown into the gym... Kokichi: Nee-heehee... Well, that didn't really give us any info about the crime.

So of course the murderer tries to make it sound impossible, since we’re getting a bit too close to the truth! Keebo’s frustrated at this point, he’s eye rolling again with no leads to how it was actually done. He hasn’t considered the new approaches that could be possible now that they know where everything started. Kokichi ‘agreeing’ with him should be a tip off though :v shuichi goes and drives a brain taxi and raises the rope possibility.

Kirumi: Is the rope long enough to reach both windows? Korekiyo: The rope is roughly 65 feet in length. As for the distance between the windows... K1-B0: According to the sign at the pool, the width of the pool is roughly 35 feet...and the distance from the edges of the pool to the windows is an additional 16 feet. Altogether, the sum total length from one window to the other is roughly 50 feet. Gonta: And pool is only thing between research lab and gym windows... Miu: You bet it’s long enough! Heh! That’s what she said!

Chatty when he can do something easy like math! Numbers make sense and don’t confuse him with believing and who is working against them. Miu does basically sum up what Keebo took a paragraph to say tho. Since he needs to show his work. he likes having proof, and assumes everyone else likes knowing how he got the answer too. oh and reminder gonta is still plenty smart, he points out how to do the rope trick here. Then we talk about the zipline-i mean ropeway.

Korekiyo: You say the culprit placed their foot on the windowsill? Isn't that against school rules? It would count as entering the gym, would it not? Monosuke: Last time we got asked that question, we decided it was okay. Stickin' your body through the window is an automatic out, but standing on the sill is— K1-B0: Wait, who asked you last time? Monosuke: ...Eh? K1-B0: It is quite possible that the culprit went to you to confirm the details of their plan... Monosuke: ... ...O-Oh shiiiiit!

He does know how to press on something suspicious! Not too surprising he’s the one to confront a Kub, he even cut him off to do this. Keebo seems to put more stock in what the Monokubs say or do at any given time anyway. Of course, he won’t answer, but it isn’t really necessary. Just confirming someone asked was enough, which that freakout accomplished. Kirumi tries to sidetrack again with the ‘multiple trips’ thing...

Korekiyo: Which is why the crime was committed during nighttime, while we all slumbered. K1-B0: But if the culprit was so careful to recover the rope they used to commit the crime...Why did they leave the inner tube in the pool? Shuichi: I believe that was an accident.

He really, really loves questioning things. This part doesn’t make sense, better ask about it, and hurrah, my detective has an answer ready to go. He might not contribute much himself, but he does provide setup :v Shuichi announces Kirumi as his top suspect...

Korekiyo: That is not yet a certainty. Let us hear her testimony first. K1-B0: Is this true, Kirumi? Kirumi: I cannot believe you would suspect me...If that is the case, then I will have to deny it. I will not let you make the wrong choice.

question.exe is always running. i swear. Still, never just taking it right away, he wants to hear an answer. Snap judgements are not his thing. Even if he does lean towards believing Shuichi. because he has secret protag sensing powers. Trial 2 is such a change from one with how hard Kirumi fights here. since kaede did not want to kill everyone :v Keebs says quiet until he’s heard enough proof to throw his support behind Shuichi again

Shuichi: Just tying the rope to the frame wouldn't cause so much damage. The rope that was tied to the frames must have been weighed down significantly. The frames didn't break, but they were left with distinct marks. K1-B0: Those scratches are proof that you used a rope to carry the body to the windowsill. Kirumi: ... Kokichi: Oh? What’s wrong, Kirumi? What’s wrong, what’s wrong!? Hey, what’s wrong? Hey, hey, hey, hey, hey!?

Pictured: two very different confrontation styles. I suppose it makes sense Keebo would be knowledgeable about scratches on metal :v He’ll just state some proof that goes with Shuichi’s statement, while Kokichi attempts to annoy her into submission instead. Shuichi brings up the black fabric/the ‘everyone’ thing and Kirumi slips.

Kirumi: Y-Yeah, so what? You’re still wrong! Your logic is flawed!!! K1-B0: Kirumi...why are you becoming increasingly erratic? Korekiyo: Kehehe... There is such absolute beauty in trying to fight against the truth.

:c He’s confused again. Yelling out questioning perfectly good logic is strange for her, emotionally charged, and he hasn’t really figured out guilt and panic makes people act out strangely. He knows the feelings exist, but not the full extent they can go to. and really it can’t be fun to watch someone so collected start falling apart because they murdered another one of your friends and is going to die for it...

Shuichi: The extra uniforms in our rooms are made of the same material we're wearing now. We can test my theory by comparing the fabric scrap with your glove. Kirumi: Gh...grgh... K1-B0: ...Well, Kirumi? Will you allow us to compare the black fabric we found in the pool with your gloves? Kirumi: U-Uhhh...!

‘will you allow us to damn you’. Keebo, you sound like you’re mocking her if you ask now. but he probably doesn’t quite realize that. comic, kirumi spite votes shuichi...

Tenko: Th-There’s nothing good about this at all...! *sob, sniffle...* Wh-why did it have to be Kirumi...? K1-B0: Truly, this result was unexpected. Tsumugi: How can you be so calm about it...?

This time, the culprit actively tried to get away with it. He might not really know how to feel about the whole thing. Kaede was apologizing, while Kirumi was fighting the whole way (and will keep doing so). He probably would have said this about anyone though...suspecting friends isn’t something he likes to do. and you made him this way moogie shush. 

Tsumugi: You mean like from the motive video? So Kirumi watched hers after all? K1-B0: Earlier, Kirumi mentioned that she had accepted a request...Perhaps that request came from a someone important in her motive video? Kirumi: ... Maki: ...Do you have nothing to say for yourself?

Going to ask more questions to try and understand, as per usual. Kirumi does use this as a chance to try and get away again mhm. Keebo isn’t using any of his distressed sprites here either. He might be coming off as a bit heartless at the moment, poking at ‘why did you kill’ and not even looking shaken. so guess who mentions that after Kirumi drops the ‘prime minister’ bit.

Kokichi:  I don't think it's odd that an Ultimate-level talent could be *that* powerful. I mean, Kee-boy’s talent lets him pretend to be human, even though he’s a heartless robot. K1-B0: How rude! I am not pretending! I am still learning! Tsumugi: U-Uh...I see. Well...good luck, I guess.

Yes, this gets the biggest reaction out of him. That’s normal and easy to understand over ‘how do we feel about this.’ While Tsumugi mocks his attempts to learn because she’s terrible :v and Kokichi is almost another backhanded complement? ‘Pretend to be human’, so you do buy his ‘pretending’ and how he seems very human? even though you keep calling him heartless and emotionless...and getting him thrown at things...

Monokuma: I am the ruler of this world. Nothing is beyond my power. Shuichi: Nothing is beyond your power? What kind of arrogant, ridiculous— K1-B0: That is 100% a lie! It is impossible that he could bring disaster to a country! Monokuma: Puhu... Puhuhuhu

Keebo feels the need to cut Shuichi off here! To back him up, but I wonder if his inner voice was telling him he had to deny that claim. He’s throwing out impossible and 100%, certainties...while Monokuma is mugging for the audience. as he basically is a god in their fake little world. It would explain how he’s changed his mind by the next line...

Tsumugi: Kirumi's got the lives of hundreds of millions of people on her shoulders, right? K1-B0: Logically, Kirumi’s survival would result in fewer casualties than our collective survival would. Himiko: Geez... Maybe it would've been better if we'd gotten the culprit wrong...

He seems to believe it now. Not enough to say anything definitive, but he will say it’s ‘logical’. even though you can’t really assume that. Who knows what the collective rest could do for people? No one :v

Kokichi: Do you really think someone as desperate to live as Kirumi would give up so easily? Of course not. In fact, she probably still hasn't given up, even now. She was hoping that learning the truth would make one of us volunteer to die in her place. K1-B0: ...What!? Kirumi: ... Kokichi: But Monokuma would never allow a blackened to escape punishment, so maybe......she wanted everyone to rebel, so she could use that as cover to escape on her own. ...How about it, Kirumi? Am I close?

This shakes him. Lying over something so important is almost unbelievable. After all, he couldn’t see why someone would lie on someone else’s behalf with their life on the line in trial one. Not really a shock he doesn't consider the opposite being possible too. Keebo doesn’t really...lie. Basically ever. The closest he ever gets is a flustered non answer that is technically a lie in a back route. He still cheers her on when she makes a break for it though.

K1-B0: Run! Please hurry!

He doesn’t really react to the death, he’s prompted to speak by Angie.

Angie: ...Oh? Isn't that what Atua said? All desire, even your desire to escape this place, can corrupt you beyond redemption. K1-B0: It's Monokuma who is corrupt. He is the one who distributed the motive videos. Korekiyo: Those videos were more dangerous than we thought. To have driven Kirumi that far...

He’d still rather blame the obvious antagonist over the people he calls friends. Clashing with Angie here doesn’t stop him from getting roped in later...hhm.

Shuichi: That must be why Kirumi did not want to show the videos. She thought that if everyone felt the same murderous rage that she did...this killing game would be pure chaos. She...wanted to stop it. Kokichi: If that's the case, then we really shouldn't show our videos to each other! K1-B0: That was our consensus from the beginning. Not including you, of course.

Shuichi gives a pretty kind interpretation of her actions, and Kokichi earns some robot sass for his actions. Kokichi likely had his own video and was not driven to any such murder...figured out his own plan might actually be bad too little too late.

K1-B0: For now...we should rest. To me, that seems the most rational course of action.

keebo wants to be morgana. GO TO BED. While you just...sit around awake all night long and think about what happened, I guess. Of course, we won’t do that because we have another reveal to do first.

Kokichi: Maki admitted it during the class trial, remember? Ryoma wanted her to show him his motive video cuz he was looking for a reason to live. But that wasn’t the whole story... Ryoma was blackmailing you, wasn’t he, Maki? K1-B0: B-Blackmail? Ryoma just so happened to discover Maki's true identity. So he used that to blackmail her. I bet he said something like... “If you don’t show me my motive video, I’ll tell everyone what you really are.”  That's why Maki didn't want us to know she met with Ryoma. She wanted to keep her true identity a secret! That’s why she kept quiet until the last minute!

That’s the last thing he does, enables Kokichi by asking for clarification :v Hope you liked to see Keebo do things, as the ‘trio’ forms up he has fewer chances to show up. He’s still got a few in 3, but in 4 and 5 he’s fairly sidelined. Well he TALKS a lot, but mostly just his normal questions :v

hahaha this took way to long why am i like this. when am i going to cover his gifting dialouge. who knows. aaaaaaaaaaa. feel free to yell at me about the robitt. or any of the characters :v Chapter 3 will come sooner than I expect I assume...

[fullmetalscullyy]

the way it was - chapter 13

we got some rich love

summary:  what if riza never went to war?  riza hawkeye has just married the man she loves. six months into their marriage, an unexpected surprise stops her from following roy to the military. a canon divergence au that explores what might have happened had riza been unable to join the military. there will be plenty of family fluff, angst, and royai.

rated: m | warnings: no archive warning apply

chapter 12 | read on ao3

1914

'cause if we don't find money

then what we got honey is just enough

we got some rich love

Riza wasn’t one to complain, but her shoulders sagged in defeat when she noticed there were Military Police blocking her usual walk to Mia’s school. Normally, she wouldn’t mind, but she’d stepped in a puddle caused by the rain that had been pouring all day and her left shoe and left sock were sodden. She just wanted to collect Mia then hurry home into something warm and dry. Glancing at the police, she noticed how they were getting into rather heated discussions with other citizens, explaining firmly that the roads were closed, and no, it wouldn’t be opening anytime soon. Steering clear, Riza picked up her pace and walked around the blockade, hoping Mia’s school wouldn’t be blocked off as well. 

Thankfully, it wasn’t.

Riza rocked back and forth on her heels as she waited for the classes to leave for the day. The raindrops pitter-pattered off her umbrella, making a soothing sound. Parents were milling about and chatting with one another, but Riza preferred her own company. She had Hayate with her anyway, and he was far more preferable than some of the other housewives here. Their pup looked up at Riza as he sat dutifully by her side, his tail wagging happily as his tongue lolled from the side of his mouth. Riza bent to scratch him behind the ears.

“Did you hear?” a woman nearby gossiped rather loudly to her friend. “Apparently it’s a serial killer.”

Riza froze in her spot. She felt anchored in place. What?

Hayate whined, nudging her hand gently with his nose to get her to pet him again.

“He’s tearing up the city and the military is trying to stop him.”

Riza’s heart jumped into her throat because this was real. She’d seen the police closing off roads, arguing harshly with citizens and telling them they couldn’t walk a certain way.

“Apparently he’s targeting State Alchemists,” the friend replied. “Carol called me because she lives in the apartment above where it happened. The Flame Alchemist and the Strong-Arm Alchemist were there dealing with it.”

Roy.

She stood slowly from her crouch like she was in a daze, but her mind, her heart, and her breathing were all going a mile a minute. She needed to move. She needed to act.

Riza had to know if he was okay.

“Mummy! Hayate!” Mia grinned as she sprinted across the concrete towards Riza. She panicked when she spotted her daughter. Mia’s arm was flailing out to the side as she ran through the rain. Her hood was a little too big for her and slid over one of her eyes. In order to counteract her loss of vision, Mia never moved the piece of clothing. She instead opted to tip her head back and to one side, struggling to look out from underneath it to see where she was going. The goofy grin on her face matched her silly behaviour. In any other situation it would be comical, but Riza just wanted to get home.

Getting a grip on her emotions, Riza waved to her daughter. She couldn’t break down in front of Mia in a panic. She needed to be strong for Mia and figure out what was going on first. Hayate stepped forward to greet Mia, his tail moving like crazy as his best friend had finally returned to him.

“Hello, Mia Bear.” Her smile was forced but Mia would be too young to notice. “How was school?” she asked, turning and hurrying home after grasping Mia’s hand tightly. It felt like she was tugging Mia and Hayate along, but Riza’s mind was elsewhere at that moment. Riza was barely paying attention to Mia’s excited ramblings. It was drowned out by her mind screaming at her to get home as soon as possible and find out what the hell was going on.

There was no answer at Roy’s office. No one was there to tell her what was happening. The only thing she had to go on was the radio report informing everyone to stay inside their homes and not leave.

It did nothing to alleviate her worry.

Thankfully, Mia never seemed to notice her mother’s distress.

“Hey, Riza,” Rebecca greeted cheerily over the phone. Her body sagged in relief. She was glad she’d gotten through to someone. “What can I do for you?”

“I was wondering if you knew where Roy was?”

“Um, I think he’s out on a field mission right now,” she replied. There was the flicking of paper on the other side of the phone.

“Riza?” a disembodied voice asked Rebecca. It was a male voice, and one Riza didn’t recognise. “Riza Hawkeye?”

She reacted to her maiden name, clutching the receiver tightly. Who was this man? Why did he know her maiden name?

“No, sir,” Rebecca replied. Her voice was muffled and quieter. She was probably covering the mouthpiece and holding it away from her mouth. “Riza Mustang.”

There was silence before Rebecca spoke again. 

“Sorry about that,” she chuckled, but it was slightly nervous. “Can you give me five minutes, Riza? Can I call you back?”

If she gripped the phone any tighter, Riza thought it might shatter into a million pieces. “Rebecca? What’s going on?”

There was a beat where nothing was said. Riza held her breath, praying her friend would come through for her.

“It’s nothing.” Her tone was sincere, and Riza told herself to believe Rebecca. “I’ll need to leave the office to find out what’s going on. I’ve just been informed there is a situation in the city right now, but I don’t know what it is. Can you give me five minutes?”

Of course. Rebecca always would help her out if she needed it. She always had.

“Okay,” Riza whispered.

“It will be fine, Riza,” Rebecca reassured her kindly. “Roy’s got a good team behind him, all right?”

Yes, but she wasn’t there.

“Plus, he won’t be beaten so easily. He has to come home to you and Mia,” Rebecca added.

Riza nodded. “I know,” she replied quietly.

“I’ll be as quick as I can,” Rebecca vowed, her voice determined.

“Mummy!” Mia called from their living room. “Can we play now?”

Walking back through, Riza spotted her with her favourite bear in her hand and one of her dolls in the other.

“I’m waiting on a phone call, Mia,” Riza explained, scooping her daughter up into her arms. Mia had pouted when she was told no but giggled when Riza lifted her. “But I promise we will do it after that, okay?”

“Okay,” she replied sullenly, playing up that she was sad they couldn’t play right now.

“Ah,” Riza admonished lightly, a smile slowly crossing her face. “Don’t laugh, now,” she stated, lifting a finger and slowly moving it closer to Mia’s face so she could boop her nose lightly. The corner of Mia’s lips quirked up for a second then dropped. “Don’t laugh, now,” she repeated, putting on a sillier voice. Mia was fighting the urge to smile now. This continued two more times, then Riza had Mia giggling in her arms.

“You’re the best, Mummy,” Mia announced after Riza set her down.

“How come, Bear?” she asked fondly, placing a hand atop her unruly hair.

“Because you can always make me laugh,” she beamed, looking proudly up at her mother.

Riza crouched and smoothed her hand over Mia’s hair, bringing it to cup her cheek. “I love you, my Mia Bear.”

“Love you too, Mummy.” Arms were wrapped around Riza’s neck tightly, just as the phone rang. Her happiness and joy were quickly replaced by fear and dread. Just what would await her on the other side of that phone?

“There’s a man in East City who is out targeting State Alchemists,” Rebecca informed her through the phone. That familiar fear and panic clawed their way back up Riza’s throat. “He was aiming for the Elric brothers who are under the Colonel’s command, then Mustang intervened. He’s out there trying to control the situation,” Rebecca informed her quietly. “He’s out there with Hughes, the Elric brothers, and Alex Armstrong, the Strong-Arm Alchemist. There’s a troop of Military Police out there with him, along with his team.”

Riza relaxed, but only slightly. His team was good. They’d look out for him. However, until she saw him with her own eyes, she’d never completely relax.

“He’s all right, Riza. They’re fine. I’ll update you if anything changes, but I don’t imagine anything will,” Rebecca reassured her. “I promise, you’ll be the first to know.”

“Thank you,” she breathed, swallowing her tears so she could go back through and face her daughter while she waited for Roy to come home.

*          *          *

Riza almost crumpled on the spot when the front door opened and she saw Roy step through it. Abandoning her daughter during their imaginary bear fight – Mia wanted to pretend they were capturing a bear (her favourite toy bear) so they could tame it and make it her pet – Riza threw herself at her husband, looping her arms around his neck and giving him a tight squeeze.

“Riza?” he asked, bewildered. His hands landed on her hips. “What’s wrong? What happened?”

“You’re okay,” she breathed, burying her face into his shoulder.

Roy was silent and still. Then, after a moment, he wrapped his arms around her body, understanding her meaning. “You heard?”

Riza nodded, pulling away to search his eyes. Her hands rose to cup his cheeks, then began to roam over his shoulders and down his arms, just to affirm he was real, and he was okay. “It was all over the radio. They told everyone to stay indoors. I was walking to pick Mia up from school when I saw the Military Police closing off roads.” The grip on her waist tightened. “I overheard women at Mia’s school talking about it. They said you were there. You dealt with it.”

Roy nodded slowly.

“Are you okay?” she asked desperately.

“I’m fine,” he reassured her. “I got a scratch on the arm, but nothing serious.”

Riza’s eyes instantly moved to scan his arms. He was in just his shirt but didn’t notice anything amiss, and she hadn’t felt anything out of the ordinary on her initial, panicked skim over his arms. After a second cursory glance, she spotted a slightly discoloured spot on his shirt, up by his bicep. It looked bulkier than the rest of his arm. She raised a hand to brush her fingers over it and Roy never even flinched.

“See? I’m fine.” His soft smile eased her worry.

Riza hugged him fiercely again. “I was so worried.”

“I’m sorry. I didn’t have a chance to call. Then again, I didn’t think the radio stations would broadcast that there was a serial killer on the loose in the city,” he added as an afterthought, his tone hinting on anger. In hindsight, it was a stupid thing to do. It would do nothing but instil panic in the citizens. 

“It’s okay,” Riza assured him, turning her face up to meet him. A smile made its way onto her face, expressing her relief. “I’m just glad you’re okay.”

That night, Riza had some news to share with her husband. However, it was quickly forgotten about in the heat of the moment. Her fear and worry had overridden everything, banishing the thought from her mind. As they lay in bed, she curled into him, her grip tight and unforgiving as she anchored him to her. It terrified her that she could’ve lost him today. It was only as she was drifting off that her tired mind jerked her back awake, reminding her of her news. Glancing up at Roy, she saw he was already asleep. It was always a struggle for him to fall into it, so she was loath to wake him. Instead, Riza had ghosted her fingertips over the bandage on his bicep. He was okay. He was alive, and he was here with her. He wasn’t dead, taken away from her by a serial killer.

He’s alive.

It was a mantra in her head as she drifted off once more, resolving to tell him her news in the morning. She wanted to wait for a better time. 

*          *          *

Riza had been to the doctors herself the day before. She hadn’t started her period again. She thought it might have been from just a few weeks ago, however, the doctor confirmed she was a lot further along than Riza initially thought.

She was expecting baby number two.

Riza was desperate to tell him the next morning, but as usual, their home was a madhouse. Roy was rushing to get ready. His shirt was hanging open – the view very appreciated by Riza, but that wasn’t the point – and he had a piece of toast in his mouth as he fiddled with the belt buckle of his trousers. Riza just watched him, amused, and shook her head. However, her attention was quickly diverted away, because she had to get Mia ready. She was loving school in East City and had even made a few friends. She was practically vibrating with excitement as Riza buttoned up the top of her little polo shirt and fixed her cardigan in place.

Tears sprang to her eyes. Her baby girl had started school this spring. It just seemed like a month or two ago she was crawling around on her knees. When did she get so big?

“Okay, I’m off,” Roy announced, grabbing his briefcase from atop the kitchen table. He kissed Mia, cupping both her cheeks in his hands, making her giggle. “Enjoy school, Mia Bear. Be good and study hard, okay?”

“Okay, Daddy!”

“That’s my girl.” Then, it was Riza’s turn. “I’ll see you tonight,” he smiled, all his love for her pouring out of his eyes.

“Actually,” Riza interrupted, pulling on the lapels of his military jacket and tugging him gently back to face her. “Can we meet up for lunch?”

It was something they did often, and if Riza had to hold in her news any longer, she was sure she’d explode. That was the earliest she’d be able to catch him so she could tell Roy properly, rather than doing it as he was leaving in the morning in a rush. She knew his world would stop, and it would make him even later for work.

“Lunch?” Roy cocked his head, checking his mental schedule to see if anything clashed with her request. “Lunch is good. I can do lunch.” His excitement was contagious.

Riza kissed him in farewell. “I’ll see you at half past twelve?”

“Robertson’s?” he asked, naming her favourite café, and one she had frequented often when Mia was younger.

“Perfect. See you then.”

“I’m thoroughly looking forward to it,” he grinned. He turned to leave them both, giving a small wave. “Bye, ladies!”

“Bye Daddy!” Mia cried happily. “Oh! Mummy! I almost forgot!”

“What, honey?”

“I have a project due tomorrow.” Riza felt her stomach drop. Oh no. What could this possibly be? “We have to write our favourite things and a little bit about us on a piece of paper so we can tell the whole class about it.” Riza felt her body relax in relief. Okay, that was doable. “Can we do it tonight after Daddy comes home?” Her big eyes were wide as they begged her to say yes.

“Of course, Mia,” Riza reassured their daughter. Riza crouched low and placed a hand on top of her head. “I would love that, and I know Daddy would too.” 

Mia beamed and clapped her hands. “Yay!”

“You need to get your butt to school too.” Mia nodded and dashed to pick up her rucksack at the front door. “What about your shoes?” Riza asked. Looking down at her feet, Mia rolled her eyes and shrugged her rucksack off, diving for her little school shoes by the door. Riza was frozen on the spot, amazed at how alike Roy she was. He did the same thing, when he forgot something trivial around the house, like boiling water for a coffee, or forgetting to retrieve their post from the box in the mail room. Then, he’d trudge downstairs dutifully to collect it.

Once they’d both walked to Mia’s school, Riza walked home and once in the door, she let the excitement of her big news hit her fully. Placing a hand over her mouth, she let out a happy sob. They were going to be parents again. A hand was placed over her stomach, and Riza grinned through the tears that had begun to fall down her cheeks. There was life growing inside of her. She felt the same joy she’d felt the first time she’d found out she was pregnant, however that was dampened by the fact Roy was leaving in a few hours to go and fight in a war that he may not return home from.

She smirked to herself, letting the laugh bubble out of her chest at the thought of his reaction to this news. These were happier times. He wasn’t leaving. She wasn’t going to do this on her own. She would do it with him by her side. That thrilled her and made her feel so much more relaxed about the whole process already.

*          *          *

“Sorry I’m late,” Riza rushed as she sat down at the table Roy had already picked out for them. “My schoolwork took a little longer than I thought it would.”

“That’s okay,” Roy smiled warmly at her.

“Our darling daughter told me right after you left that she had a project due tomorrow, so I wanted to complete all my tasks before picking her up from school.”

Roy’s face fell. “Oh no. What kind of project?”

“Just a little profile for them. It’s going on the wall of the classroom, and Mia will present it to the class as a short talk, just telling everyone about herself.”

Roy relaxed. “That sounds easy enough.”

“She wants to do it with both of us tonight after dinner.”

“Sounds perfect to me,” Roy grinned.

Riza heaved a sigh, finally settled, comfortable, and warming up after being out in the cool spring air. The temperature had yet to pick up considerably, but it was close. There was no longer a light dew on the grass in their front garden in the morning. Riza was just glad it was no longer frosty. She wasn’t used to the frost. East City was warmer because it was nearer the desert, so she’d never fully experienced frost like it before. Her childhood home in the forests out East was also warmer and more humid, so the most she got was dew on the grass. Maybe that was why she was always cold nowadays.

“Better?” Roy asked with a knowing smile.

“Better,” she confirmed.

“I ordered you a tea instead,” he stated, picking up the menu. “I noticed you took one this morning, so I figured that must be what you were in the mood for today.”

No, she’d taken a tea because she couldn’t have coffee now that she was pregnant. It had left her with terrible heartburn the first time around. Excitement coiled like a spring in her stomach when she remembered she still had to tell him her news.

“Did you order anything to eat yet?”

Roy shook his head. “I wanted to wait for you.”

Riza nodded, unable to stop her own smile from forming as she perused the menu. She knew she would always choose the soup but liked to see if anything else might take her fancy that day.

“The usual?” Roy asked, lifting an eyebrow.

Riza sighed and nodded. Soup sounded wonderful right now. Her hands were still cold underneath her gloves, so she wasn’t quite ready to pull them off yet. Soup would do just the trick to heat her up.

“Yes. The usual.”

Roy’s menu snapped closed with a grin, and he stood from his chair. “I’ll go and order it.”

While Riza waited her excitement refused to settle down. She was restlessly wringing her hands together when Roy returned, lost in a daydream.

“What’s up with you?” he asked, amused.

“What do you mean?” Riza asked, her attention snapping back to reality.

“You’re very jumpy this afternoon. Is everything all right?”

“Everything is fine, I just… I have some news.”

“Okay, go for it,” Roy encouraged, pocketing the bill for their lunch and turning his full attention to her.

“I didn’t want to do it here, but I just couldn’t wait any longer.” All morning she’d switched between telling him at lunch and telling him when he got home. Riza eventually settled on the former because she couldn’t hold it any longer.

“Hey guys!” a loud voice greeted just as Riza opened her mouth. Maes Hughes was approaching them hurriedly with a grin. He even waved. Riza’s stomach dropped. Not now, Maes!

Roy groaned quietly beside her, but she knew it was good-natured. “Hello, Hughes.”

“How are you both this fine day?” he grinned.

“Fine,” Riza replied.

 Roy shot her an apologetic look. “We’re good.”

“Excellent! I’m particularly chipper today and do you want to know why?”

“Something tells me you’re going to tell us anyway,” Roy replied, making Hughes laugh. The latter slapped his friend amicably on the back, and Riza noticed Roy winced. It was thoroughly amusing to watch the pair of them interact. There was a lot of respect for each other in their relationship, and Riza knew Roy loved Maes like a brother.

“My darling daughter has drawn me the most beautiful picture this morning! She’s a true artist,” he sniffed proudly. Riza was sure he was going to wipe away a tear at some point.

“That’s great, Hughes,” Roy replied, sounding less than enthused.

Riza nudged his leg underneath the table, shooting Roy a look to tell him to stop being a grump.

“It is great, Roy. Thank you! Oh, Riza, I haven’t seen you in a while. Let me show you all our photos from her third birthday party.”

Roy groaned louder this time and sat back in his chair, closing his eyes. Riza snickered, knowing he’d seen these about ten times already.

Although Riza hadn’t been able to share her news, and was slightly frustrated she needed to wait another couple of hours, it was a lovely lunch nonetheless. It was a joy to speak to Maes again. He was in town for this Scar case they were both working on, and Riza had to admit, she’d missed him. It had been too long since their last meeting.

Maybe it would be better if she just told Roy about the pregnancy at home. It wasn’t something she wanted to share in front of Maes. Not until Roy knew.

“Maes?” Riza managed to ask in between his constant gushing about his family.

“Yes, Riza, my dear?”

Amused at the added pet name, Riza smiled. He was obviously in a very good mood. “How would you like to come around for dinner one night?” Roy raised a questioning eyebrow at her, but Riza ignored it. “I feel like we haven’t properly sat down and talked in a long time.”

He cocked his head to the side in thought. “No, I suppose we haven’t. That was way back when Gracia and I lived in East City. Okay! Sounds great!”

“Bring Elicia and Gracia too, obviously,” Riza added.

“What about those Elric boys? Why don’t you invite them over too, Roy?” Hughes asked. “We’ve had them over for dinner a couple of times. I’m sure they would appreciate it.”

“Well, one will,” Roy muttered.

“That sounds like a great idea, Maes.”

His grin was wide. “Brilliant! This will be a lovely little dinner party.” He even clapped happily. “I will let Gracia know right away, and I’ll contact the boys. They’re heading to Liore right now, so I will see if they can manage it when they get back. Typical,” he rolled his eyes. “They only left yesterday.”

“Thank you, Maes.” At least that would give her a few weeks to prepare.

“Okay, I should get going,” Maes announced, checking the watch on his wrist. “I have a large stack of paperwork sitting on my desk, calling my name,” he groaned. “Half of it is because of all the havoc you cause,” he added, shooting Roy a pointed look.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Roy replied haughtily. 

“I know you do. Anyway, it was lovely to see you again Riza. I look forward to dinner next week,” he grinned. He gave her a little wave as he left. “See you soon!”

Roy stood too. Riza opened her mouth to tell him, the reveal on the tip of her tongue, but Roy beat her to it. “I should probably get going as well,” he sighed. “Unfortunately, I have a mountain of paperwork too,” he revealed grimly.

Roy rounded the table, kissing her cheek. He crouched down to her level, eyeing her carefully. “Sorry for the rushed exit.”

“It’s okay,” Riza reassured him. “Go and save the world, Roy Mustang.” She patted his head affectionately, and Roy grinned. He lifted himself up to her level, kissing her lips.

“I’ll see you tonight.” With one last kiss and a longing gaze complete with his puppy dog eyes, Riza watched him leave with a little laugh.

Her smile fell when Roy was out of sigh. Now she had even longer to wait. The excitement, however, returned with a vengeance, and made her lips curl upwards again.

*          *          *

“You moan, but I think we should take this opportunity while we can. It would be nice to meet those young men. Plus, we – well, I – never really see the Hughes’, and we should make the most of having dinner with them. They won’t be around forever.”

“That man will outlive all of us, mark my words,” Roy stated, pointing his fork at her over the dinner table. “He’s far too stubborn, cheery, and good to die before any of us. Well, except you of course, my dear,” he grinned.

“Are you calling me stubborn?” Riza deadpanned, but inside she was laughing.

“Of course,” Roy retorted, and Riza snorted, shaking her head. Roy could be so dramatic sometimes and then ended up being kind of sweet in a weird, roundabout, way. “I knew you as a kid, remember? You were a nightmare.”

“So were you, city boy.” She stuck her tongue out at him.

“You two knew each other when you were little?” Mia asked, looking between her mother and father.

Roy nodded. “I visited Mummy and learned alchemy from Granddad.”

“That’s so cool!” Mia exclaimed, her eyes sparkling. “You’ve known each other for ages.”

Child logic dictated they were both ancient in age compared to Mia, so her comment made Riza laugh.

“Yes, we have, Mia.”

“Do you think I’ll meet someone nice like that when I’m a bit older?”

Riza smiled, shooting a glance at Roy. “If you can put up with them for that long, and still like them, then I hope so, honey.”

Mia beamed and went back to eating her food, satisfied with Riza’s answer.

“What was it you wanted to tell me at lunch, by the way?” Roy asked, filling his mouth with food. Her stomach fluttered in response, excitement carving its way through her body anew. “Before Hughes rudely interrupted us.”

Riza paused, then set down her fork. Her hands were shaking as she placed them on her lap, but it was with excitement. “I went to the doctors a few days ago.”

“What for?” he asked. Riza said nothing, just let her excitement show, unable to hold it any longer. “Are – Are you –” he stuttered, unable to even get the word out.

Riza nodded in confirmation, letting tears form in her eyes. It felt like she’d waited years for this moment. Roy jumped up from his chair and circled the table. Mia jumped in fright and watched her father carefully, almost looking scared. He knelt by Riza’s chair, grabbing her hands and gripping them tightly in his. Wonder filled his eyes as he gazed up at her.

“Are you pregnant?” he whispered.

“Yes,” she nodded vigorously.

He surged upwards and hugged Riza tightly. Her tears were already falling, but she laughed as he almost knocked her off her chair with the force of it.

“Oh my god,” he whispered in her ear.

“Mummy?” Mia asked in a very small voice. Both parents glanced up at their daughter. She looked scared, unsure about what was going on and why her parents were crying. Mia looked like she was going to cry herself at the sight of them. “What’s going on?”

“Mia,” Riza stated, standing from her chair. Roy let her go, and she approached their daughter, placing a hand on her head in comfort. Riza’s hand slid down to her cheek and cupped them both with a smile. “You’re going to be a big sister.”

Mia’s face contorted in confusion. Her head cocked to the side, pushing against Riza’s hands. Riza moved them to her shoulders as Roy placed a hand on Riza’s shoulder, giving it a squeeze.

“A big sister?” Mia asked.

Riza nodded. “Yes. I’m going to have another baby.”

It took a minute, but Mia’s face lit up. A large smile spread across her face and then her mouth opened wide as she gasped excitedly. She bounced in her chair. “A baby?!”

Roy chuckled as Riza nodded in reply. “Yes, honey.”

“Oh, wow!” she exclaimed in wonder. “Is it a boy or a girl?” she asked desperately.

“We don’t know yet,” Riza smiled. “It’s too early to know. When we find out, we’ll let you know.”

“Yay!”

Mia threw her arms around Riza’s neck, clutching at her collar tightly. “Thank you, Mummy.”

“What for, honey?”

“I’ve always wanted a little brother or sister,” she whispered. “Thank you for giving me one. I love you.”

Riza hugged her against her body tightly. “I love you too, Mia.” Roy ruffled Mia’s hair fondly.

They had quickly finished dinner then celebrated their news. Roy had run out to the nearest supermarket and bought a cake for them both, much to Riza’s amusement. Then, Riza remembered at the last minute about Mia’s project for school, so they spent an hour working on that. They laughed and played along with her, going over everything about Mia that she wanted to include in her project. It tired her out, eventually, because she fell asleep on the couch and Roy carried her through to her bedroom. It was an incredibly adorable sight, and one Riza would never tire of.

Once in bed that night Roy pulled Riza tightly against his chest. His hand came to rest upon her stomach, making her smile.

“How did you manage to keep that a secret for so long?” he asked.

“It was a struggle,” Riza smiled to herself. “But I managed.”

“You’re a much stronger person than me. I would never have been able to hold it in.”

Riza chuckled. “I thought I was going to burst at lunch.”

“Oh my god,” Roy groaned. She felt his forehead touch the back of her head as it bowed. “And Hughes picked the perfect time to show up, as per usual.”

“It was all right,” Riza stated. “I like Maes. I’m glad we found the time to invite them around.”

Roy kissed her bare shoulder. “Me too. It will be nice to socialise again,” he chuckled.

“Work has kept you busy, huh?” Riza patted the hand over her stomach in sympathy before entwining their fingers together.

“It has. I won’t lie, things have definitely picked up recently after the Scar case. And if I get transferred to Central then it will only get worse.”

“Is it still the right direction, though?”

Roy nodded. “Yes. And now we’re going to have this baby…” His thumb stroked over her skin and she twitched, tickled by his ministrations. “Things are going to change, but for the better, I think. I hope.”

“I’m sure you’ll figure it out, whatever happens.”

“With you by my side, I’ll never be steered wrong.” He kissed her temple.

[fireteam-dauntless]

A Tale of Two Guardians XXIX

Part I of the Destined Series Chapter 29 : Vision masterlist

word count : 3.2K tag list: @mail-me-a-snail @basically-nacl @galagd @speed-boop @lady-efriyeet​

We landed in the Hanger, greeted by the Vanguard and Eris.  I pulled off my helmet and walked straight by them.  My eyes were still puffy from all of the crying.  

“Genesis…” Ikora said, and reached out to grab my arm, but I moved out of her reach.  “Guardian.”  She followed me out of the Hanger, and managed to stop me in the hall between the hanger and the plaza.  “Genesis, stop!”  She demanded.  I stopped in place and turned around to face her.  She took one look at my face and I saw her expression soften.

“What happened on the Moon?”

I gazed at her, but I felt like I was void of emotion.  “Ikora,”  I said quietly.  “Your Vanguard built a team of Guardians who are fueled by both grief and vengeance.  Maverick sent Skinner and I away in the hopes that we would make it out alive and he was willing to die in there.  We could have helped him.  He’s only alive because Eris pulled him out with some kind of dark magic.”  I took a step back and shook my head.  “And you wonder why I have issues trusting people.  The moment I let myself get close, I lose them.”

“But you didn’t lose him, Genesis,”  she said.  “He’s alive.”

“Today.  He made it out alive, today.  But what about tomorrow?  Or the next time our situation gets tight?”

I walked away before waiting for her response.  It was raining in the Last City.  I didn’t even stop at the Postmaster, I just took the elevator down to the City and went straight home.  When I got home, I stripped out of my armor and took a long, very much needed hot shower.  Every time I closed my eyes, I saw Maverick just before he sent Skinner and I to safety.  His sacrifice for us could have cost him his life, and we wouldn't have even known.  I shuddered at the thought of that.  If he had died in there, Skinner and I would still be on the Moon waiting for him, and this war would be lost.

I stepped out of the shower and dried off, then slipped into something more comfortable.  I grabbed my glimmer and walked back downstairs, piled my armor on the coffee table, tied my hair up out of my face, and started to clean everything.  I had my Ghost put on some music to help me drown out any outside noise.  While cleaning my robes, I found the dead Ghost I had tucked inside.  I almost forgot about it.  I cleaned off any remains of the Wizard’s ashes and set it inside the drawer of my side table for safe keeping.

Halfway through cleaning my gauntlets, there was a knock on my door.  I paused for a minute before answering, despite not wanting to see anyone right now.  When I opened the door, Maverick stood outside, hands shoved in his pockets, hood pulled over his head to protect himself from the rain.  I took one look at him and started to close the door immediately. 

“Angel, wait,” he said quickly, his hand catching the door before I could close it.  “I tried calling you, but you didn’t answer.”

“I know,” I said.  “I really don’t want to talk right now, Maverick…”

“Which is exactly why we have to,”  he pleaded.

“I don’t have to do anything!” 

“Angel, please.”  He looked down at me, red eyes staring deep into mine.  My shoulders sank and I sighed, and released my hand off of the door.  He stepped inside and closed the door behind himself, then pulled off his soaked sweatshirt.

“What do you need, Maverick?”  I asked as I walked into the living room and took a seat on the couch.  I picked up where I left off with my gauntlets.  I didn’t even want to look at him.  He must have noticed this because I heard him sigh before he walked over and took the glimmer and gauntlet out of my hands, set them down, and then sat down next to me. I just sat there for a moment, empty hands still where they had been, before I sighed and let them drop in my lap.

“Angel, I’m sorry,” he started, and gently took hold of my hands.  

I pulled my hands out of his and stood, and walked over to the window.  I hugged myself tightly.  I hated being this cold to him, but I couldn’t forgive him for what he did.  “Are you?”  I accused.  “What are you sorry for?”

“For thinking that sending you out of there was the best thing I could do!”  He shouted.  I winced at the sound of anger in his voice.  “For thinking that I could maybe accept the fact that I let my old team die if I saved you guys.”  His hands gently placed on my shoulders and turned me around to face him.  I gazed up at him, though it was obvious that I was still trying to avoid his gaze  “I get that you’re angry,” he said in a softer tone.  “I get that what I did wasn’t right.”

“You’re damn right it wasn’t right,” I muttered.

“It… it wasn't fair to you.”

I felt tears start to bud at the corners of my eyes.  I averted my gaze and pulled away from the Exo.  “I thought you were dead, Maverick,”  I said, my voice tense and choked by tears.  I walked across the room to give myself some distance.  “I thought you were gone.  It was like Phobos all over again.  What were you thinking?!”  I picked up a book from the table and turned, throwing it at him even though I missed.  “We are a team, you idiot!”  I chucked one of the throw pillows on my couch at him, and it bounced pathetically off his chest.  “Teams don’t split up!  Teams don’t take on literal hordes of enemies alone!  Teams trust each other to have their back!”  I grabbed my cup of coffee and threw it at him, missed again, and it shattered against the wall.  “I can’t believe you!  You could have died there, and Skinner and I would never have known!” 

“I know, but if you would just listen to me for a sec—” Maverick started to approach me slowly, his hands held out in surrender.

“No!” I shouted.  “You listen to me!”  I started to feel lightheaded from all of the shouting and crying.  “You promised me that you would never leave me.  I trust you to have my back, no matter what.”  He was standing directly in front of me now, gently took hold of my wrists, and helped me sit down before my legs could give out.  I took a deep breath and sighed.  “Mon chérie, I trust you with everything, in the field and out of it.   But can you trust me?”

His hand brushed my hair out of my face and tucked it behind my ear.  “I do,” he said quietly.  Relief flooded over my body.  “It was… it was just that place.  I lost everyone that I cared about there.  I… I didn’t want to lose anyone else.”

“And we didn’t want to lose you.  You’re not a one man band, Mav, you understand that, right?”

He looked down and gave me a silent nod.

I pulled my hands away and wiped my cheeks dry.  “Promise me, Maverick, you won’t ever do that to me again.  I cannot lose you, mon amour, it would be the end of me.”

“I promise, Angel.  I don’t want to risk losing you again.”

He pulled me against his chest in an embrace.  I welcomed it without hesitation and nestled myself against him.  He held onto me tightly, like I would slip away if he let me go.

After minutes of silence and reconciliation, I had finally found it in me to forgive him.

—————

“Oh!”  I exclaimed after we spent some time relaxing.  “I almost forgot!”  I sat up and reached over Maverick to the end table, then pulled out the Ghost.  “When we first landed, one of the Wizards you killed dropped this.  I tried to get your attention to tell you guys, but you were so focused on the mission that… you dismissed me.”  I sat back down and held it out for Maverick.  The look on his face was unmistakable:  he knew who’s Ghost it was.

“This… This was Vision’s Ghost,”  he said as he took it from my hands.  “It was taken by a Wizard in the Abyss.  One of the Wizards we killed…. it dropped this?”

“Yes it did drop it, I had to brush it off, though it was still covered in the Wizard’s ashes.” I said.

“Hold on,” he said and pulled out his Ghost.  “Open a line with Skinner.” He put his Ghost on an open call so I could hear.

“What do you want Mav?” Skinner asked.  He sounded annoyed.

“You have Vision’s current address right?”

“Yeah, I’m actually with him now so I’ll call you back.”

“I have his Ghost.” Mav blurted before he could hang up.  Skinner must have had us an open call as well, because a second person on Skinner’s end of the call butt in. It must have been Vision.

“He what!?”  Vision shouted.  “Maverick you get your ass over here right now! Skinner send him the address.”

“Alright!  Here’s the address, Mav, don’t be late.” Skinner said before cutting the channel.

We sat in silence for a moment.  “So I finally get to meet Vision?” I asked.

“And I get to see him for the first time since the Pit,” he replied, though his voice was laced with concern and worry.

“Come on, Maverick, he’ll be happy to see you,” I reassured him.  “Where’s the address placing him?”

“In the part of the City for Ex-Guardians, Guardians that have either lost their Light or aren’t mentally fit for active duty anymore.”

“Oh they made a part of the city for just them?” I was intrigued.  I had no idea that the Vanguard had organized this for Guardians that were essentially discharged from the Vanguard, or Lightless.  “Why?”

“A lot of them are unstable.  Being faced with your own mortality takes a toll after a while, you know?  We should be heading out, though, the storm is only supposed to get worse and I don’t want to keep them waiting.”

“Well then, let’s get ready and go.”

I grabbed a jacket and pulled up the hood, and slipped Vision’s ghost in my pocket.  Maverick pulled his sweatshirt back on as I slipped on my combat boots.  Maverick waited for me on the front steps while I closed up the apartment.  We started down the street; I was pressed close to Maverick’s side.  I took his hand and squeezed it gently, trying to give him a feeling of reassurance.  He squeezed my hand back, but I could tell he was nervous and hesitant.

—————

By the time we made it to the sector, it was down pouring.  I was wearing a windbreaker, but I was chilled to the bone.  Water dripped off my hood and down my nose.  I crossed my arms and hugged myself as Maverick approached the Guard post that was at the gate.  This sector really was secluded and set apart from the rest of the city, it was almost a pity that these Guardians were stuck here.

“Who will you be seeing today, Guardian?” the watchmen asked.

“Samuel, from Fireteam Insurgent, I’m Maverick-8, the Fireteam’s leader,”  Maverick replied.  The watchman’s eyes widened.

“Oh, um, hold on.” he said before walking into the booth.

He walked out a few minutes later. “He’s waiting for you at the address he gave you. You may proceed.” he said as the gate opened.

“Thank you.” Maverick turned and motioned for me to follow him.  I walked up and followed close behind him, nodding to the watchman.  He looked like he wanted to stop me and ask for my identification, but seeing as I was with Maverick, he didn’t ask questions.

We walked the streets through the pouring rain.  My breath puffed out in front of me in a thin white cloud.  Maverick wrapped an arm around my shoulders.  “I promise, we’re almost there,” he said quietly.  

Most houses were lit inside, though almost everyone’s curtains were drawn closed.  The people here seemed to like their seclusion, at least.  I wouldn’t blame them, though.  They had lost everything, and weren’t able to move on.  If I hadn’t met Maverick and Skinner, I would probably be living here, too.  I plunged my hands into  my pockets and grasped tightly onto Vision’s Ghost.  I didn’t have the chance to give my friends a proper burial, nor could I ever return their Ghosts to them.  I wanted to believe that giving Vision his Ghost would allow me to reconcile that.

We arrived at a small duplex, the lawn was uncut, but the house itself was very well maintained.  Vision seemed to take pride in keeping the house in shape.  It was probably one of the few things he had left that he could control.  Maverick and I climbed the steps, the Titan in front of me, and he knocked on the door.  Skinner opened it.  There was a cold stare in his eyes as he laid eyes on Mav.  It was obvious he still hadn’t forgiven him for what happened in the Hellmouth.  He looked over at me and nodded.  

“I see you two have made up,”  he said.  “Storm, wait here.  It… it’s better if you guys come in one at a time.”  He opened the door up more, and motioned Maverick inside.  Maverick sighed, like he was preparing for the worst, then stepped inside.  Skinner looked at me one more time, gave me a small nod, then closed the door behind him.

I stared at the closed door for a moment.  My heart was pounding.  I felt like an idiot just standing there, staring at the door, so I took a seat on the top step underneath the overhang.  My leg bounced nervously.

“You don’t need to be so nervous,” Dawn said.

I could hear them start arguing inside and I let out a long sigh.  “Are you sure?”  It sounded like Maverick and Vision, with Skinner butting in every now and then.  Their words were muffled, but it sounded like they were arguing about Maverick’s actions in the Hellmouth.

She didn’t give me a response.  I pulled Visions Ghost out of my pocket and gazed down at the empty shell.  It was like holding Adam’s corpse all over again.  I clasped it in both of my hands and gently rested my chin on top of it.  The arguing inside calmed down.  I must have sat outside for five minutes before the door opened.  I turned and looked over my shoulder, but it wasn’t Skinner or Maverick.  

“So you’re the Warlock that took my spot on the team?”  Vision asked.  It was more of a statement than a question.  We both knew the answer.  “I’m Samuel, or just Sam, the team called me Vision.  What’s your name?”

I went to stand up, but Vision came down and sat next to me  “Genesis.  They call me Storm.  Previously, I was called Long Shot.”

“Previously?”

I shifted a bit and looked down at the Ghost in my hands.  “Yeah… previously.  I… I lost my team, too.”

Vision followed my gaze and saw his dead Ghost in my hands.  He didn’t say a word at first, so I reached over and gently took hold of his hand with my free one.  I felt his muscles tense, like he was ready to pull away.  I met his gaze for a moment, waited for him to calm, then looked down again.  I flipped his hand over, opened his palm, and placed the Ghost in his hand.  

“I believe this is yours,”  I said quietly. 

He laughed bitterly.  “Yeah, well, it’s no use to me anymore.  But thanks.  For finding it.”

I smiled at him and nodded.  “It’s only right that it comes back to you.”

We sat in silence for a moment.  It felt… right, actually.  It was almost comforting.  

“Skinner tells me Maverick says he loves you,”  Vision said out of nowhere.  “And that’s saying something for a guy that really can’t feel, but only remembers what feeling is like.”

I couldn’t help the smile that came to my lips.  Vision noticed this immediately.  “And clearly, you love him.  He’s a reckless piece of shit, but he’s a damn good leader and friend.  I wish it was just easier for me to tell him that.”

“Well,”  I said and turned to him.  “It wouldn’t be bad if you let him see you every now and then.  He misses you, you know.”

Visions eyebrows raised in shock.  “Really?  He has a funny way of showing it.  While I was trying to get used to being Lightless and almost totally blind, he was off… somewhere.  I thought he didn’t want anything to do with me.”

“That’s not true.  He wants to reconnect with you.  You’re still family to him, you know.”  He looked at me skeptically.  I laughed a bit.  “Look, I may have taken your spot on the team, but can anyone ever replace a Titan’s best friend?  Especially if said friend is another Titan?  C’mon, Sam,”  I nudged his shoulder in a playful manner.  “No one could ever really replace you.”

I could tell he wanted to smile, but he just looked away and his expression turned blank.  “Yeah, well, bridges are harder to build after they’ve been burned.”

“Yeah… I know.”  I looked out to the street.  “I should go.  You guys have a lot to talk about, and I don’t want to get in the way of you and Skinner telling Maverick that he needs to stop thinking like a Titan and start thinking like a team leader.”

Now he was laughing.  “You sound like you’ve already tried.”

“Oh I have.  I threw a couple things at him in the process.  Ikora says I have a temper.  I think I got through to him, but he might need a reminder from you guys.”  I stood up and stepped down a couple steps.  I turned and looked at the ex-Guardian who was still sitting there, his hands gripping tightly to his dead Ghost.  “It was nice to finally meet you, Samuel.”

“Vision,”  he said firmly.  “I said the team calls me Vision.  You are a part of the team now, Storm.  Don’t forget that.”

I nodded and smiled at him.  “I know,”  I said quietly.  I looked past him and caught a glimpse of Skinner and Maverick in the window before they scurried away from it.  I turned my attention back to Vision.  “If it wasn’t for this team, I’d be living here, too.  Bonne nuit, mon ami.”  There was a look of disbelief in his eyes for a moment, but I left before he could respond.

[hoodie-lover]

Poor Unfortunate Souls Nightmare Edition

Killer and Dust led Cross to Nightmare’s abode. It was a large and looming castle, how they even managed to get out of his empty AU was a feat of it’s own. A small cyan glow came from within the windows, and Cross felt chills up his spine as he was coerced in. 

Wispy spirits tied to the ground with chains reached out to him, their faces melting and contorted as they grabbed at him and pulled with distorted screams of pain. With a scream Cross jerked his clothes free and ran down the hall until he was in a large sitting room. 

“Come in, come in my child.” A deep and smooth voice said, it came from everywhere, but was loudest near a small vanity in the corner. 

“We mustn't lurk in doorways. It’s rude.” Nightmare said, standing up and looking at Cross. Nightmare looked like the traditional Sans, besides the tar covering his body and right eye, leaving his left eye to glow a bright cyan. 

“One might question your upbringing.” Nightmare said with a chuckle, looking in the vanity mirror, but not sitting down as he trailed his fingers over his face, in awe at his own reflection. 

“Now then, you’re here because you want your AU back to life. Not that I blame you, it was your home, and a quite beautiful one, wasn’t it?” Nightmare said smiling as he made eye contact with the shaking skeleton. 

Chara was flipping out and screaming at Cross that this guy was wack and we could always ask Ink for help! But Cross was intrigued by the dark skeleton. 

“Well, Crossy, the solution to your problem is simple.” Nightmare said walking up to Cross.

“The only way to get what you want, is to travel and collect pieces of AUs” Nightmare said, smiling darkly.

“Can you do that?” Cross asked, wondering just how powerful Nightmare was.

“No but, my dear, sweet child, I can help you travel.” Nightmare said, cupping Cross’ face in his hands as he pat his head. 

“It's what I live for.” He said, dragging Cross to a cauldron where an unknown liquid bubbled. 

“To help unfortunate monsters like yourself.” Nightmare said, grabbing bottles from a cabinet using the tentacles sprouting from his back. 

“Poor souls with no one else to turn to. I admit that in the past I've been a nasty.” Nightmare said as he placed a hand on his chest in a dramatic fashion. 

“They weren't kidding when they called me, well, a bitch.” Nightmare said, chuckling. 

“But you'll find that nowadays. I've mended all my ways.” He said, looking at Cross.

“Repented, seen the light, and made a switch.” He snapped his finger and the lights went out. “True? Yes.” His eye glowed a sinister light. 

“And I fortunately know a little magic. It's a talent that I always have possessed.” He threw things into the cauldron as he splashed. 

“And dear sir, please don't laugh, I use it on behalf Of the miserable, the lonely, and depressed, pathetic.” Nightmare said, the last word escaping Cross. Though Dust and Killer snickered.

“Poor unfortunate souls!”

“In pain, in need.”

“This one longing to have freedom.” He draped a tentacle around Killer as the latter leaned into the touch.

“That one wants to get revenge.” Dust smiled as he drew a knife and nearly broke his skull as he grinned. 

“And do I help them? Yes, indeed.” Nightmare said, booping Cross on the nose. 

“Those poor unfortunate souls! So sad, so true.”

“They come flocking to my castle crying, “‘Spells, Nightmare, please!’”

“And I help them, yes, I do.”

“Now it's happened once or twice, someone couldn't pay the price.” Nightmare said, a solemn look on his face as he made two skeletal illusions above the cauldron. 

“And I'm afraid I had to rake 'em 'cross the coals.” Nightmare said as he turned the illusions to wisps of smoke, identical to the figures in the hall. 

“Yes I've had the odd complaint, but on the whole I've been a saint.” He said, making an angel halo on his head. 

“To those poor unfortunate souls!” 

“Now, here’s the deal.” Nightmare said, throwing Cross onto a large velvet couch with gold accents. 

“I will send you to whatever AU you want. You can collect whatever you want from the AU, no killing though. Got that? No killing.” Nightmare said, his smile dropping as he glared. 

“Now, listen, this is important.” Nightmare said, bringing his face close to Cross’. 

“Everytime you go to an AU, I need you to cause misery and despair for at least one person. That means, you need to do more than make them sad, they need to be in pain. Not just any pain, true unrivaled agony and heartbreak.” Nightmare said, an image of a soul shattering in front of Cross.  

“If you do this, then I will help you rebuild your AU and protect you. But if you don’t, I will trap you in your own mind and torture you until you are nothing but a husk of who you once were.” Nightmare said, 

“Have we got a deal?” Nightmare said, cackling. 

“If I take pieces from universes and cause misery, I'll lose my friendship with Ink and Dream.” Cross said, pondering the offer. 

“But, you'll have your brother and your old friends.” Nightmare said, smacking sarcastically. 

“Life's full of tough choices, isn't it?” Nightmare said, before he remembered something. 

“Oh, and there is one more thing.” He said, smiling like a cheeky child.

“We haven't discussed the subject of payment.” He was grinning ear-to-ear.

“But I don't have-” Cross said, he was dirt poor, and he didn’t even have dirt. 

I'm not asking much, just a token really, a trifle

What I want from you is your soul

“My soul…?” Cross said, holding a hand over his chest. 

“You got it sweetcakes.” Nightmare said, still smiling. “No more magical soul effects, no more damage in battle, nadda.” Nightmare said, inspecting his law-like fingertips as he grabbed a file. 

“But if I give you my soul, how can I live a normal life?” Cross said, shaking. 

“You'll have your power, and my reputation to keep you safe.”

“And don't underestimate the importance of me, ha!”

“The guards there aren’t really respected.”

“What will they think of someone unkillable?” Nightmare said, eye glowing a brighter cyan. 

“You will be able to do anything with no caveats or qualms.” 

“And after all dear, what is an idle heart for?” Nightmare said, shrugging. 

“Come on, they're not all that impressed with weakness.” 

“True warriors avoid it when they can.” Nightmare said, wrapping his arms around Cross. 

“But they dote and swoon and fawn, on a man who is so strong.” Nightmare booped his nose again. 

“It's he who shows his strength who deserves some joy.” Nightmare said, leaning on Cross more as he tackled him on the ground.

“Come on you poor unfortunate soul!” Nightmare wrapping Cross up like a burrito and turning him upside down. 

“Go ahead!” Nightmare screamed, getting in his face as he spun him like a wheel. 

“Make your choice”! Nightmare screamed again, getting closer as he dropped Cross on the 

“I'm a very busy skeleton and I haven't got all day.” Nightmare said, picking him up and placing him at the door before dragging him back. 

“It won't cost much. Just your soul!” Nightmare said, laughing maniacally.

“You poor unfortunate soul!” Nightmare said, cackling.

“It's sad but true.” Pouting ingenuinely Nightmare mocked Cross. 

“If you want to cross the bridge, my sweet. You've got to pay the toll.” Nightmare said, 

“Take a gulp and take a breath. And go ahead and sign the scroll.” Nightmare shows Cross a piece of paper

“Killer, Dust, now I've got him, boys.” Nightmare whispered to the duo’s amusement. 

“The boss is on a roll!”

“This poor unfortunate soul!” Nightmare cried out as Cross signed his name, crying purple tears as his thoughts drifted to his brother. 

“Pledge o’ pledge, to serve me and only me. Pledge o’ pledge, to serve me and only me.” Nightmare chanted, Killer and Dust repeating his words. 

“And give you my soul!” Nightmare announced, seeming to grow in size as Cross cowered. 

“Now, pledge!” Nightmare commanded, and Cross obliged. 

“I-I-I p-pledge…” Cross said, stuttering in fear

“Keep going!” Nightmare screamed, a cyan tornado of magic encasing the two as Nightmare egged him on. 

“To serve you, and give you my soul!” Cross screamed as Nightmare trapped his soul in the heart locket Cross wore around his neck. Chara’s protests now silent as the child was muted. 

I got the inspiration for this fic by a question from @turrissen to @lollzida @lollzida drew a picture.

I may do more of this stuff with other Disney songs, but I wanted to get this one out there.

[jksmoongf]

Baby’s Breath [pt. 6]

Pairing: Jungkook x reader Genre: angst / fluff Wordcount: 3.8k Warning: smut  Plot: Sometimes one reckless night is all it takes to completely turn your life upside down. But what if you can’t even trust your best friends to keep your secret?

This is for @jaxonah ! You’re my rock, Sammy. ilysm 💖

“Who’s coming over? Do we know them?” Taehyung was following Jungkook around the living room while he straightened out the pillows on the couch and put away some clutter. “Yes, you know them. At least one of them..” “But I know all your friends… you wouldn’t be so secretive about them..unless” Tae flopped down on the couch, eyeing the younger one carefully. “There’s no secret, it’s just a surprise.” He shrugged while trying to wipe a water stain off the coffee table with his sleeve. Taehyung let out a frustrated whiny groan. “All you and Jin hyung have been doing today is cleaning; like are your parents visiting?” Jungkook shook his head. “No, I would’ve told you.” He froze; how would he even tell his parents that they already were grandparents? He just knew they would be disappointed in him when all he wanted was for them to be proud of him. But now was not the time to go through every possible scenario of them disowning their own son. 

* She stood in front of the door to the dorms, her hands tightly wrapped around the handle of the stroller to stop them from shaking. There was no reason for her to be so nervous, Jungkook wanted her to come but she had not seen any of the other boys since the day she broke up with him. What if they were going to attack her like a starving wolf-pack?  It probably wasn’t the smartest idea to visit but Jungkook wouldn’t stop begging her to come over, and it was nearly impossible to say no to him once he started pouting.  She had missed how annoyingly cute he was when he wasn’t getting what he wanted. 

For a second, she closed her eyes and then looked at the little baby who was happily squeezing her plush bunny between her chubby baby hands. Everything would be okay; they had been friends before and surely, they could reconnect. She pressed the doorbell; seconds later she heard footsteps approaching hastily and Jungkook swung the door open with a big smile on his face. “Ahh, finally. I thought you changed your mind.”  “No, no! My brother in law just had to stop to get gas before dropping me off.” “Don't worry, I was joking.” He pulled her into a hug that lasted longer than it should have. She breathed in the familiar scent of laundry detergent mixed with his cologne. 

He helped her get the stroller inside and watched her as she picked up his daughter and propped her up on her hip. “Are you okay?” He asked, still remembering how splotchy her neck got whenever she wasn’t feeling comfortable or stressed. “I’m just a little nervous.”  “Hey, don’t worry! They’ll be happy to see you.” Gently, he rested his hand on the small of her back, rubbing it for reassurance. “I hope you’re right.” Jungkook didn’t notice the fake smile on her lips. She had lied to him and broken his heart; they wouldn’t be happy to see her, that she was sure of. 

Following him down the hallway, she pressed her daughter tightly to her body until Jungkook stopped her. “Okay, you all have to close your eyes.” He called into the living room which was followed by a series of groans. “Why Jk? That is so stupid?” It was hard differentiating their voices after what seemed like an eternity. “Just do it, hyung!” He grabbed her hand and lead her inside. “You can look now!” 

They were all frozen in shock, eyes darting between her and Soo-Yun, down to her hand in Jungkook’s.  Hoseok rubbed his eyes, trying to make sure he wasn’t dreaming. Yoongi and Namjoon both stared at her in utter disbelief, mouths agape. Jin, on the other hand, watched the others with an amused look on his face.  “Y/N OH MY GOD.” Taehyung and Jimin were the first ones to jump up from their seats and hurry over to them. Both hugging her before turning their full attention to the baby in her arms. “Who’s the little princess? She’s so cute.” Tae cooed, gently stroking her cheek. “Soo-Yun.” “A beautiful name for a beautiful little angel.” Jimin held up his finger to boop her nose. She pulled her hand from her mouth and wrapped her tiny fingers around his. “Wow, she’s strong.” He giggled fondly.  “Can I please hold her, y/n?”  “Of course, but don’t drop her.” She laughed, letting Tae engulf her in his arms before he slowly walked to the sofa, followed by Jimin who seemed like he didn’t want to miss a second of the adorable toddler in his best friend’s arms.  

*

The older boys seemed to hold back; they wouldn’t be blinded by the cuteness of a baby; still remembering how much she had hurt the youngest member of the group causing him fall victim of a downward spiral of heartbreak and self-doubt.  “So, you’re back in Seoul?” Namjoon asked as she sat down next to him.  “Only for a few days to visit my family.” He nodded lost in thought; his gaze resting on the three youngest members, who were playing with the baby on the floor; fighting for her attention by making cute and funny faces.  “Is she his?” Hobi nodded towards Jungkook, who had his back turned.  But before she could answer Yoongi chuckled. “Of course she is. Just look at her, she looks so much like him.”  They fell silent; all watching Tae as he started tickling the baby and her bright giggle filled the room.  “So is she the reason why you left, y/n?” Yoongi asked finally, arms crossed. She chewed on the inside of her cheek; the inevitable topic had to come up at some point.  “Not now Yoongi, okay? This is supposed to be a happy reunion.” Jin flashed a smile at her, and she knew she could always count on him to take the heat off her back. Yoongi nodded but the expression on his face made it crystal clear that he wasn’t going to let it go.  “She’s beautiful y/n.” Namjoon said, as he got up and joined the others on the floor. 

*

The boys had gotten the toys from one of the bags and played with Soo-Yun, helping her stack blocks and making animal noises according to the flashcards that Jimin held up.  Jungkook removed himself from play time and went to sit on the couch. Jin and Hoseok had taken y/n to introduce her to Odeng and Eomuk. “Soo-Yun, look here…” Tae squeezed his arm, forming the little elephant trunk between the two moles; while trying to imitate the trumpet sound. “That’s an elephant.”  “If you keep talking to her like that, she’ll be just as dumb as you.” Yoongi commented while walking past them to the kitchen. 

Usually, Jungkook would never do what he was about to do now but he needed confirmation, following suit with his ulterior motive of why he had insisted on her coming over in the first place. He reached for her phone on the coffee table when he was sure no one was looking at him. He pressed the home button and that guy appeared again; rolling his eyes he typed in the passcode; 0217. Although he could feel anger bubbling up in his stomach, a satisfied grin spread across his face. If she was really dating that guy then why was her passcode still their anniversary date? 

He tapped on the camera roll and slowly scrolled through her pictures. They were mostly of Soo-Yun and the occasional selfie but then he stopped; eyes widening as he had to see that guy with his daughter and her. With shaky hands, he tried processing what he saw. They looked so happy; laughing and hugging each other and worst of all; kisses on cheeks. She really moved on quickly, while he suffered and never really got over that his first love left him lying in a ditch.  He closed the app, opening messages just to make sure he wasn’t blinded by pictures.  “I miss you. Please call me tonight if you can.”  “My mom asks if she should make some kimchi for you as well.”  “Aiiiish you’re so cute. I miss your face.”  “Next time you’re going to Seoul, I’m coming with you. The distance is killing me.” 

Jungkook rolled his eyes; maybe that guy was more mature than he ever would be but he sure as hell wasn’t as clingy. Even if he tried to explain it away, there was something between the two of them; friends did not talk like that. 

Suddenly her phone vibrated in his hand, Jihoon flashing in big letters on the screen and a picture of them in the background.  Jungkook didn’t think this through, he just tapped the green icon on the display and lifted the phone to his ear; not saying a word.  “Baby? Are you there? I miss you, let me hear your voice.” Anger shot straight through his veins as Jihoon’s voice echoed in his head. He hung up and threw her phone on the couch with so much force that it jumped from the plush cushion and landed on the hardwood floor, display facing down. 

“Fuck that.” Jungkook got up, fists clenched, knuckles turning white.  “Jk, don’t swear in front of the baby.” Jimin covered her ears in shock. “Whatever.” He made his way around the table; wanting nothing more than to hide in his room; or punch someone..something.  “What’s going on?” Jin, Hoseok and y/n were standing in the doorway, all three had a puzzled look on their faces.   “Nothing.” Jungkook pushed past them, storming off to his room.  “Why’s my phone on the floor?” She picked it up, carefully examining the shattered display. “What happened?”  The boys, who were still sitting on floor shrugged but Jimin silently nodded in the direction of where Jungkook had disappeared. 

*

Without knocking she opened the door, only to find him pacing around his room grumbling to himself. “What are you doing here?” He spat, once he noticed that she was leaning against the closed door. “I just wanted to ask you what happened to my phone?” “Nothing. Soo-Yun was playing with it and dropped it.” He stopped, looking her dead in the eyes. The anger that filled them, sent a shiver down her spine. “I know my baby girl well enough to know that she wouldn’t do that. You, on the other hand, you throw your phone when you’re angry…” She trailed off, breaking eye contact; it made her uncomfortable to see him like that; pent-up anger and hurt radiating off of him. 

“How could you move on like that? Didn’t you think of me at all? Was I nothing to you? Is that baby even mine?” He blurted out, not being able to hold it in any longer.  “What the fuck Jungkook! Of course, she’s yours, stop being so delusional.” She barked back, not answering the other burning questions.  “I’ll stop being delusional when you stop being a lying bitch.”  “You’re a paranoid asshole, I hope you know that.” She turned to leave his room, but he grabbed her hand and spun her around. “Let go..I-I…” 

She was cut off by his lips pressing hungrily onto hers, sucking her bottom lip in-between his. At first, she wanted to push him away, but as his tongue greedily licked into her mouth she couldn’t. Her fingers digging into the fabric of his shirt. His hands followed the shape of her waist up until one of them cupped her cheek and the other tightly grabbed her neck. 

Their tongues were fighting over dominance, neither willing to give into submission. She wrapped her arms around his neck, both hands tangled in his black hair as he hoisted her up to carry her over to his bed. Her back harshly pressed into the metal steps of the ladder that led up to his bed. Impatiently she tugged at his shirt, wanting to feel the hidden skin underneath. 

Reluctantly he broke the kiss; both panting as she pulled his shirt over his head before attacking his neck with kisses, sucking crudely at the delicate skin, earning a soft whimper from Jungkook. He grabbed her legs, unwrapping them from around his waist so he could unbutton her jeans. He pushed them down, alongside the flimsy lace fabric of her panties, letting them pool at her ankles. With ease he lifted her up again, making her stand on the lowest step of the ladder, his hands securely grabbing her hips. 

Trying to distract him; she coyly pressed her lips on his, lulling him into a seemingly innocent kiss as her hand painfully slow traced his abs and disappeared in his sweatpants. He wasn’t fully hard yet but she still knew how to get him there. Her nails gently scratched over the sensitive skin right above his dick; Jungkook moaned into her mouth but his hand wrapped around her wrist.  “Since when do you have so much self-control?” She leaned her head to the side, a smirk playing on her swollen lips.  “Since when do you care?” He huffed; an uncanny sternness in his voice, sinking to his knees to place sloppy kisses onto her stomach. “Take your shirt off.” She obliged and wiggled out of the grey cotton t-shirt. “Bra too.” He mumbled, looking up at her - his mouth getting closer to the small bundle of nerves. Clumsily she undid her bra with one hand, the other clinging to the metal bar of the ladder to steady herself. 

Jungkook’s hands danced over her thighs, making her body quiver with anticipation. “You know I hate when you tease me like that.” She whined, nudging his shoulder with her knee.  “Tease you?” His eyes innocently looked into hers, like they used to in the early stages of their relationship. He let out a low chuckle while getting up. “Fine, no teasing.”  She rolled her eyes, turning around on the ladder, slowly climbing up to give him a good view.  His heart was rapidly beating as he caught glimpses of the wetness between her legs, teeth digging into his bottom lip. He freed himself from his sweatpants and followed her. 

She was lying on her back, thighs tightly pressed together as he crawled towards her. His lips tasting every inch of her skin they could reach until their tongues collided again.  Greedily he massaged her breasts, twisting her nipples until they were perky enough for his liking. He licked a wet strip down the middle of her throat; her back arching as he took one of her nipples into his mouth to harshly suck on it. His knee desperately trying to spread her legs but she wouldn’t budge. “Stop trying to make it difficult for me.” He grunted against her stomach, his hot breath making her skin crawl. 

“But I wanna touch you, baby.” Her whiny voice almost made him give in to her wishes. Propping himself up, he looked at her. Her cheeks were flushed, her breasts were fuller, yet softer than he remembered, the curve of her body; softly his fingertips traced invisible lines over her stomach. Her hand reached for his dick, trying to get the upper hand, making him melt under her touch. Jungkook grabbed her wrist, pulling her fingers away from the tip. “Hands above your head, don’t move.” She obliged his order, grabbing the railing behind her head. Without another word, he pushed her legs apart. The soft milky flesh of her inner thighs was wet. Like an animal he licked his lips, ready to devour her. In an aggravatingly slow pace, he licked up her arousal from her thighs, eliciting a soft, breathy moan from her. He licked a long stripe along the slit, before pressing his tongue against her clit. The familiar taste of her made his dick twitch against his stomach. 

His face buried between her thighs, Jungkook let his tongue flick her clit in a steady rhythm, accompanied by small whimpers. Without warning, he closed his lips around the sensitive and swollen bundle of nerves; sucking it into his mouth.  “hnngg Jungkook-ahhh…fuck.” She moaned, her fingers digging into his hair as he slowly slipped two of his inside her, finding her sweet spot right away like old times. Desperately she tried grabbing his shoulder. “I told you, hands above your head or I’ll stop.” With sternness in his voice he looked up at her; chest rising and falling rapidly. She nodded as she pulled her hands from him. “Good girl..” The vibrations on the humming against her clit almost sent her over the edge; feeling herself clench around his fingers, her clit throbbing in his mouth. 

Loud moans echoed from the walls and he knew she was close to cumming around his fingers. With a lewd sound, he pulled his fingers out of her and started sucking on the skin next to her entrance.  “Why’d you stop? I was so close.” She smacked his shoulder as he lied down on top of her. He started moving his hips, his dick sliding up and down her pussy, almost slipping inside of her.  “Please…”  “Please, what?” He crooked an eyebrow, licking his lips, his eyes dark and filled with lust. She bucked her hips up in response. “Oh…” He hummed, against her lips. “Is that what you want?”  She nodded, running her fingers from his shoulders over his toned chest. Slowly he let the tip slide inside of her, trying really hard not to moan and just nail her into the mattress right then and there. At first, his thrusts were shallow, he was taking his sweet time; fully aware of how much she hated it when he teased her like that.  “Baby, please…I-I want…” He pulled out of her again, when she pulled his face close to hers, lips almost touching. “I want you inside me…please.” She breathed against his open mouth and as her tongue darted into his, he thrust inside her with no remorse. 

Encouraged by her whiny moans, skin slapping on skin, Jungkook kept up the fast pace using all this pent up anger to relentlessly thrust into her; wanting to show her that he was man enough and better than that guy… Blinded by colors behind her eyes, she could feel the knot starting to form in her stomach. She had missed this, him…and how perfectly they fit together. “Are you close, baby?” Jungkook’s voice was deep and raspy against her ear. She let out a moan in affirmation, digging her nails into his shoulders, leaving crescent moon marks. 

Her back arched off the mattress as she repeatedly clenched around him before coming completely undone; her ears deafening from the intensity. An array of curse words filled the air as Jungkook released inside her; painting her walls white, marking her as his, again. 

Panting heavily, he towered over her, sweating dripping from his hair and running down his face. He could feel his dick getting soft and slipping out of her, while she occasionally clenched around nothing now. He laid down beside her, pulling her against his chest pressing his lips to her forehead when a loud banging on the door interrupted them. “SHUT UP WE CAN HEAR YOU!” Jimin scolded them from the other side. They looked at each other in shock, before bursting into laughter. “You shut up!” Jungkook yelled and threw one of his pillows against the door. 

She stopped laughing and looked up at him; how his eyes crinkled from laughing so hard, his scrunched up nose, the bunny teeth on full display and out of nowhere waves of sadness and longing came crashing down on her. She failed miserably at holding back the tears; shamelessly sobbing against his chest, her arms wrapped around his neck. “I missed you so much Jungkook, I really did.” She pressed out in between sobs, nestling her nose against his skin. 

Unsure of what to do, he too wrapped his arms around her; knowing that even if it made him feel awkward to show his feelings, he had to. He had to prove to her that he had grown and learned from his mistakes in the past. “I know you did. I missed you too…” He whispered, trying to blink away the tears. “I’m so sorry I did this to you. I’m sorry I broke your heart.”  “You had to…I understand now…”  “No, I should have fought for you and not ran away. We..we could have found a way to make this work together…”  “I know baby but you did what you thought was best. Please don’t blame yourself.” He tightened his embrace around her as if to make sure she wouldn’t just get up and leave. “You’re here now..” 

Her tears felt like acid against his skin; he hated when she cried, especialy when there was nothing he could do expect to hold her; making sure she felt safe. 

*  A little while later a knock on the door snapped them back into reality. Taehyung’s voice was loud and clear through the slightly cracked door. “I hope both of you are decent…” He said, not waiting for an answer before he walked in. “I didn’t want to bother you y/n but Soo-Yun won’t stop crying. We tried feeding her and changed her diaper but she just won’t stop. Even Yoongi tried pulling funny faces and at first, it worked but then…” “I think she misses you…” Yoongi walked in, carrying the baby in his arms. She wrapped the duvet around her chest, making sure there was still some covering Jungkook before she took her daughter in her arms. “Hey angel, did you miss mommy?” She gently stroked her head and kissed her forehead. “Did you miss daddy too?” 

Daddy…that was something Jungkook would have to get used to. She laid back down, the baby on her chest as he carefully draped his arm over her stomach; peppering kisses on her shoulder. He wanted time to slow down and just stay like this forever; happy in their own little bubble. 

* Jin watched Namjoon nervously tip-toe around his and Yoongi’s shared room, as he sat on his bed playing Mario Cart.  “You’re making me nervous too..” He laughed and put the console down next to him.  “What’s on your mind?” 

Namjoon quickly crossed the room and sat down. “I have a bad feeling about all of this…we have to tell Sihyuk, hyung.”  Jin’s teeth dug into his bottom lip; he knew Namjoon was right. They wouldn’t be able to keep this secret for long before word got out. “I know.” 

[theshapeshifter100]

Guess What? I’m Not a Robot Ch31

Summary: Megan goes with Alex and Ivy to protest. It doesn’t go well.

Chapter Warnings: implied and explicit anxiety, police.

Word Count: 2,345 (I swear that wasn’t intentional!)

08.45AM Wednesday 10th November 2038

Julia thankfully returned, and Alex followed her downstairs. Once she reached the table she tipped her backpack upside down and out fell six old fashioned hand held radios.

“Like I said, they have no batteries... Alex what are you doing?” Julia asked with the weariness of someone who was used to Alex doing weird stuff. The individual in question had picked up one of the radios and was looking at it from all angles.

“Looking for screws.”

“These things were supposed to recharge in a dock. I don’t think you can replace the batteries.”

“Of course you can!” Alex snorted. “Hey Paul, can you get a look as well? You might be able to get a better idea of the screwdriver we need.”

Paul huffed, but went over to check anyway. He appeared to stare at the back of one of the radios for a second before he announced his findings and saying, “but Julia may have a point...” he trailed off as Alex charged upstairs.

“Don’t bother,” Lucas sighed, black hair rippling as he shook his head. “When they get an idea in their head it’ll take the combined forces of heaven and hell to stop them. And they’re atheist.”

Paul nodded wearily and looked over at Megan, who was also examining the radios.

“I guess you haven’t changed your mind?” he asked her quietly. Megan shook her head in response, putting down the radio with trembling hands. “You’re shaking.”

“Thanks Captain Obvious,” her sarcasm did little to hide her nerves.

“If you’re that scared then-” Paul was interrupted by Megan stubbornly shaking her head.

“I’m doing this,” she said as Alex came charging down the stairs with a screwdriver. “You can’t change my mind.”

Paul glanced at Alex attacking the radios with their screwdriver and sighed. “I really wish you’d reconsider.”

Megan didn’t respond, before starting in surprise as Alex crowed in triumph.

“We can replace the batteries!” they charged upstairs again, presumably to tear the place apart to find replacements or a charging dock for them. Paul shot a pained look at Megan, who quickly looked away.

Alex came back down with a massive box filled with miscellaneous batteries and chargers and dumped it on the floor before ripping off the lid. After a pause Megan went to help them rifle through.

“What exactly are you looking for?” she asked.

“Battery chargers or replacement alkaline batteries,” Alex declared, drawing up a handful. “You unscrew, I replace?”

“Okay,” Megan got up and started carefully unscrewing the backs off of the radios. She made sure the tiny screws were left in a small pile on top of the radio backs they had come from. Meanwhile all of the batteries formed a small pile to the side.

Alex found what they were looking for and began slipping in new batteries with satisfying clicks. The two worked more or less in silence as the rest of the room looked on, unsure of what to do.

“You’re really going to do this, aren’t you?” Julia asked.

“You really had to ask?” Alex responded. “Anyone else want to come with?” Alex paused and looked out over the rest of the room. No one moved for a second, before Ivy stepped forward.

“I’m in.”

“Anyone else?” Alex looked a mixture of apprehensive and accusing. No one else volunteered.

“Fine,” they sighed. “Paul, you still up to be mission control?”

“Yes,” Paul said neutrally, and Alex threw a radio at him with new batteries. They picked up another and held down the call button.

“Testing, testing. One two, Charlie Tango Foxtrot.”

Alex’s voice crackled through Paul’s radio, and they smiled. “Good, now we have to remember to change frequencies often. Just in case.”

Four radios were finished quickly, Paul had one, Alex, Megan and Ivy had the others.

“Last chance,” Alex declared, grabbing hold of one of the now battered signs. “Anyone else?”

No one moved, and Megan and Ivy grabbed their signs.

“See you later,” Alex smirked in a cruel way before disappearing upstairs. Before she left, Megan could feel Paul’s gaze and paused for a second. She almost turned her head to look at him, but stopped herself. Any more arguments from him and her resolve might just shatter.

She followed Alex and Ivy.

 11AM Wednesday 10th November 2038

Capitol Park was silent.

People were still out and about, but they were few and far between, most sheltering from the weather and increased military presence in their work and homes. Megan wondered whether they should be doing the same thing.

All three of them were bundled up in thick winter clothes, woollen gloves clutching their cardboard signs. Ivy and Megan were starting to question the wisdom of this, but Alex had a determined glint in their eye.

They weren’t going to stop, and the other two were here now.

They stood outside the closed CyberLife store and began to chant. Their voices, despite shouting, were swallowed up by the silence, barely seeming to go further than the statue they were standing near.

The few people that were there barely spared them a glance before briskly walking to their desired destination. The trio began to pace in a circle in an attempt to keep warm, as the weak sun was doing almost nothing to help.

An hour stretched into two and Megan could no longer feel her fingers or toes. This was pointless, going nowhere. Why did she think this was a good idea?

Then, a fourth voice joined in.

“Androids are Alive! Androids are Alive!” they chanted, and Alex beamed at them before renewing their own chant with vigour.

Slowly, slowly, they built up more people. More people who either didn’t know or didn’t care that what they were doing was illegal. Five, ten, fifteen people, all shouting and chanting. Someone brought heat packs and drinks as midday went past.

The chanting halted as police sirens were heard in the distance.

Alex was the only one who didn’t seem to care. They continued chanting, face red and nose running from the cold. People were bolstered by Alex’s show of defiance and kept shouting.

Megan’s radio crackled, and she pulled it from her waist.

“Good news guys, you’re on the local news,” Paul informed.

“Thank you Beep Boop,” since they were using radios they went to their usernames, despite how cumbersome they were. “I’m sure AAA Battery will be glad to hear.”

“Be careful about the police,” Paul added, almost as if he could hear the sirens.

“Will do. Over and out.”

Megan felt nervousness build in her belly as the sirens got louder. Thoughts clamoured in her head, begging for attention, but she focused on how loudly she could shout, even as her throat began to hurt.

A group of police cars pulled up, accompanied by a military vehicle. The chanting began to die down, even Alex stopped as a police officer stepped out of the car. A weary looking detective emerged from the car, looking he’d more than enough for one day and was probably about to shoot someone.

“This gathering is illegal!” he called out, not bothering with a megaphone given the size of the crowd. “Disperse and return to your homes!”

The crowd shuffled awkwardly. Those who joined recently quickly left, but Alex, ever stubborn, did not budge.

“The right to assembly has been suspended!” the detective called out. “Disperse, or you will be arrested!”

Ivy muttered to Alex.

“Let’s go. We can’t help if we’re arrested.”

Alex didn’t respond, their jaw set.

“Alex!”

Megan looked around as more police officers began to exit their cars. “Alex,” she hated how whiny she sounded, but it got Alex’s attention.

The older student looked at Megan, her exactly five foot height making her appear younger than she was, and more scared. They looked at the approached officers, and swore.

“Go, now,” was all they said, but it was too late. The police were done waiting.

They charged at the remains of the protest, and Megan ducked away, avoiding an officer’s arms. Alex was grabbed by several and handcuffed, which Megan couldn’t help but stare at.

Everything descended in chaos. People were running in all directions, some yelling, some screaming. Someone grabbed Megan’s shoulder and pulled her away. A quick look told her that it was Ivy, it was disconcerting to see her face so close without her excessive make up.

Ivy pulled her hood over her distinctive hair, and Megan did the same as the taller girl pulled her along. They avoided the police and ducked into small streets. Ivy’s legs were long, and Megan struggled to keep up, her breath coming out in harsh gasps as her heartbeat thundered in her ears.

Ivy stopped and grabbed both of Megan’s shoulders, making her look up at her.

“You know the way back?” she asked, trying to sound calm as police sirens wailed somewhere. Megan nodded, not trusting her voice. “Good. We need to split up. Change the frequency to 5. Meet you in a few hours.”

Megan nodded, and Ivy disappeared.

For a second Megan stood there, catching her breath and trying to figure out what to do now. Her thoughts moved at the speed of a glacier and a lightning strike at the same time.

“You there!” someone shouted. It wasn’t really that threatening, and if she waited she would seem less suspicious.

She was already running when that thought crossed her mind.

“Stop right there! Detroit police!”

Dumpsters coming up. Megan managed to get into an oddly familiar mindset, of when she was a cheerleader. She could identify the good ways to go around it or over it. Over was quicker.

She jumped and hauled herself over in one smooth movement. She landed in a crouch and pushed off of her toes to keep going.

She passed by the side door to a restaurant and pulled down a stack of pallets as she passed before ducking out into the main street. Slightly busy, as it was lunch time. Armed military were patrolling.

Megan initially panicked before ducking behind a bus shelter. She couldn’t draw attention to herself, so walk, not run.

She gave it a few minutes for the officer to pass by before moving, hands deep in her pockets. She’d dropped her sign at the statue without realising.

She could get the bus, or the train. Disappear into the crowd. Yes. That’s she needed to do.

You’ll fuck it up

The voice taunted her, and she ignored it, glancing up quickly to read street signs. The nearest station wasn’t far. All she had to do was walk calmly.

Calm? You have social anxiety. You are never calm. You’ll draw attention to yourself

Megan’s shoulders covered her ears, although she could convince herself that it was from the cold.

They’ll ask for ID. They’ll recognise you.

They’ll remember the hair and forget everything else.

Small female with bright red hair leaving the Capitol Park area. Not suspicious at all

My ID says I’m a student. That’ll clear it up. They’ll assume

Students usually do protests. And they interviewed Oscar the other day

Oscar wasn’t with us

No, but were you in shot?

Megan didn’t have an answer. The voice laughed in her ear as she reached the train station and showed her ID to the guard.

“Sorry ma’am, I just got a report that a young woman matching your description was fleeing an illegal protest. I’m going to have to ask you a few questions,” the soldier motioned her to one side, out of the way of the train doors.

Told you so

Megan swallowed the lump in her throat that threatened to make her cry. She needed to be calm, she needed to avoid suspicion.

“Where have you just come from?”

“College,” Megan was surprised how calm her voice was.

“All the schools are shutting down.”

“Last day. We had a quiz we couldn’t miss, especially if human staff could be spared,” Megan’s voice was getting faster, and she wasn’t looking at the soldier.

Great way to not draw suspicion

“You seem nervous miss. Is everything okay?”

“I usually get the bus home. Not used to the train. I have anxiety,” the responses came out in a quick staccato fashion.

“One last question. Are you familiar with the name Alex Briar?”

“No,” Megan said, far too quickly. The soldier paused, clearly thinking.

“I suggest you stay at home now ma’am, until this mess is sorted out,” he said as certainly as he could. In truth it looked like the teenager in front of him was about to burst into tears, and he did not want to deal with the scene that would make.

“Thank you,” the next train pulled in on cue, and Megan got on. She made herself stand until it left the station, and then she collapsed into a seat, swallowing tears. She would not cry. She would not cry. Not here. Not in public.

Her mind drifted to Ivy and Alex, and she started to shake. Alex had been arrested and Ivy, fuck knows where Ivy was. She could be anywhere from a back street to the back of a police car.

She began to tap her finger against the seat, trying to keep a steady rhythm. It was hard, and she lost the rhythm a few times, but slowly her breathing calmed.

The radio crackled, turning some heads.

“Nervousness Incarnate. Come in Nervous Incarnate. Over,” Paul’s voice came through, and she realised that she’d forgotten to change the channel.

“Here. Over,” she said into quietly.

“What happened? I saw police and the protest scatter. Over.”

“Tell you later. Switching off. Over and Out,” Megan switched off the radio and returned it to her belt. She didn’t want to think about it. Not yet.

She had to show her ID to the next guard when she exited the train, and had to answer the same questions. She was a little more prepared now, and the soldier let her go with the same warning. Stay at home.

So, a lot to unpack, first, a longer chapter than usual, since there wasn't really a good point to cut it without leaving it too short or too long. Usually I prefer too long over too short.

Also, Wednesday in this game is interesting, since bugger all happens in terms of canon. I kid you not anything that happens that's shown in game happens at 4.17PM at the earliest, depending if Carl is dead or not. Since that this based on Jacksepticeye's playthrough, Carl is still alive, so nothing happens until 7.31pm. The only thing that actually affects this story is President's Warren's press conference, which I will cover.

Anyway, my point is that Wednesday is great day to mess with, because almost anything can happen without messing too much without canon.Thursday is pretty much the same actually, since again, bugger all happens until close to 11pm.

Other Options Flowchart

(Megan) Change mind

(Paul) Volunteer to go protest

(Megan) Last chance to change mind

(Megan) Say nothing. Stand with Alex. Be firm. (Wrong choice could lead to 'Megan Arrested' Ending)

(Megan) Stay with Ivy QTEs. Dodge police officers. Escape police officers. Hide. (If failed could lead to 'Megan Arrested' Ending)

Staying with Ivy will initiate a different scenario but will have similar outcomes. Either arrested or make it back to Alex's.

Tags! @nightmarejim @septicart-appreciation