enteloki | LABY - IC INBOX

I have information.

[That's a pleasant surprise. Maybe this allyship wasn't a complete waste of time.]

What is it?

In the labyrinth, I lived my wish coming true.

[The breath he was holding-

Becomes an annoyed exhale in seconds. In the labyrinth- the same place that made him eat cereal and provided green milk as a prize. Everything in there is absurd.]

That is interesting. It's something to note. A hallucination is an unexpected consequence of exploring that place.

There's more to it then that.

This wasn't just a hallucination. It was a memory of my future. I know this for a fact.

[There's a vague memory - Eren mentioning he was with some from his world. They may be buffering his certainty of the situation.]

How fortunate your wish is your destined future, I suppose. How do you know for certain?

["Fortunate." Eren feels like he could kill him - use some of that god-like power to rip him apart from the inside out. It was so easy to kill.]

My friends are here from the future of my timeline. It all happened as they described.

[It's important. The intel and-

The fact this world is controlled by Vaeros in a profound way. Every corner, every frayed thread of this place is under his influence.

That could mean these so called friends, could mean memories, could be any number of intimate details. A future that already was repeated for the subject in question - it's manipulation. Not fact.]

What do you make of it? Do you truly think Vaeros gave you a vision of a wish granted or could it be something else?

It was my wish. I'm certain of that.

Then if I may ask, how did you not know it was granted already? I'm surprised this is your first time getting it confirmed with your friends here to provide such details.

I'm not saying that Vaeros granted anything. I already had the power before I made any wish.

But that memory of the future was true. It's worth noting.

[That's different. That's better. He was worried Eren fell victim to the nonsensical bullshit that was wish granting, despite his distrust in everything around them.]

It is. It's troubling, though unsurprising given the other information you provided. It may have been as simple as plucking the memory from one of your friends to replay for you.

No.

I lived it.

[Felt the heat, smelled the blood, tasted that intoxicating, god-like power, twisting in his veins like sweet poison.

[His heart still races thinking about it.]

Did it feel like you were back in your world entirely? Perhaps that's a key on how to return.

Yes.

I felt it all.

[This is worth investigating in full - a path out and it involves that shitty labyrinth.]

Thank you for sharing. Others didn't have such a rewarding outcome. I imagine it was nice to get a taste of home.

No.

No?

No.

[This feels like a landmine, but conversations with Eren typically are and-

He's never been afraid of a little explosion. Impossible to refrain from picking at it like a grotesque scab.]

Forgive me for asking but why? An vision of a wish fulfilled in a future corroborated by your friends - that seems almost too perfect.

I've told you everything you need to know.

[No answer to that picked at wound - an expected response.

No sense pushing. They aren't friends in any capacity and whatever sullen shit is going through his head doesn't matter when there are important details to investigate.]

Very well. I'll reach out if anything conclusive comes from that.

[There's no response after that.]

[Be careful walking around town if you're a bitch! For lack of anything better to do and the overwhelming need to shut down his brain in any and every way possible, Eren has taken to stalking through Somnius in his wolf form; nothing much out of the ordinary, really - unless you're kinda new and a total wimp.

[Eren hasn't exactly been in the most Silly of moods lately, but when he sees Akechi, he feels like growling anyway, so he figures he might as well run with it and try scaring the piss out of him.

[He hasn't been spotted yet. Looping around a cover of trees, he slinks out from the other side. Eren gets low down by the ground, sloooooowly stalking toward Akechi with his lips snarling over bared teeth, the fur bristling dangerously on his back. He growls, low and vicious, creeping forward toward the boy.]

[This is hell - a version of it. Maybe a warning for a future to come because instead of fire and brimstone, it's an unrelenting torrent of rogue wildlife that hate him on sight.

He wishes it was the former. Flames licking flesh and bone would be a relief to whatever the fuck this is.

But it's like a shadow - the creature prowls out of the brush and the momentary surprise by it is replaced with a look of incredible annoyance. There's a brief temptation to test out of if this is a palace once and for all. See if ripping the face off this animal will yield an agidyne wielding abomination.

Maybe it just wants his lunch though - a somnius variation of jerky and a small bread roll. The process of sharing his food seems like the easier option. He isn't confident in his strength to rip this creature apart without a weapon, if it's not a cognition.

He stands ramrod still for a moment before throwing the jerky directly at the shitheel's face.]

[Eren's reflexes are good as a human, let alone a creature built for them. He snaps his jaws and catches the jerky in his teeth, then continues stalking forward, undeterred. Pathic...]

[This stupid fucking mutt - maybe he wandered into its territory? He needs to read up on the bizarre wildlife here to avoid these situations, though he's starting to think it's a personal vendetta from an angry god.

He throws the bread at it next and takes the opportunity to back up a little.]

[The bread misses, lands on the ground beside Eren; he ignores it, stalking ever forward. He wonders if Akechi will run if he gives chase...

[He picks up the pace in a would-be jog toward him to test the waters.]

[Is this his life? Really? This podunk shithole gets worse every single day.

And no one around seems to care about the fact he's going to mauled in the center of town. Sounds about right.

Well, guess what dumbass wolf - he can boulder and he's going to book it to the nearest little hovel to climb. Sorry (???) business in question. He doesn't particularly care.]

[Akechi Goro is scrambling up the side of a building like a frightened chicken; I repeat--

[This has actually done wonders to lift Eren's mood tonight, so he should be thanking Akechi for that. He doesn't let the bit go yet. Standings at the bottom of the hovel, he growls and snaps, the fur on his back bristling dangerously. He throws his head back and lets out a howl. Hopefully Captain Levi isn't nearby to recognize it and come ruin his fun.]

[Bullying an innocent guy!!!!! Just a little dude!!!!!!!

Great - this little shit is just waiting and now he's on a roof, somehow, yet again. In an effort to confuse the creature's two functioning braincells, he tries to look for a sneaky path away from this scenario towards the backside of the shitty building. Maybe it can be an out of sight, out of mind thing.]

[He'll let Akechi think that it works for about one minute before dashing over to the other side of the building and snapping at his ankles as he tries to climb down.]

[Great! Fantastic! It has enough functioning braincells to understand 'front' and 'back'. Ankles, nipped at. His patience, gone. Whatever god Akechi has pissed off-]

[Probably isn't a match for a psuedo-country girl with a shovel.

Given the situation, she may be able to assist or have some tip. She helped him off a different roof from an equally annoying animal.

So-]

[Ring ring @ aub, on video and all. In case she doesn't believe, what is now becoming, a common situation for him.]

My apologies for bothering you. Do you have a moment?

[Shit, a random video call? And it’s not Eren? Is goat boy taking up her offer or what…]

Eren? [Yeah, she’d know that wolf anywhere. The heels not so much, but.] What the hell is going on?!

[She thinks he is Eren? Something in his soul almost snaps in two - a brief fleeting feeling of rebellion blooming in his chest, a memory of a sensation of two ethereal beings ripping and tearing from his spirt and-]

You're mistaken - this is Akechi.

[Wait.

Vaeros. Garden. Potions. Animal Transformations and-]

[

]

[Intense, immediate rage flows through his whole body, expression flickering into something else against his will, for the briefest moment. Only a second, only a glimpse, only-]

[A plastered, paper thin smile reappears on his face, hand holding the screen steady on the culprit. He rarely has regrets, but speaking to this piece of shit and aligning himself with him-

Ugh.]

I was going to ask for your assistance on what to do here, but it seems that's no longer necessary. Unless he's so lost to this beast form that he won't even understand the voice of a friend.

[Ope--]

[Whatever. Get wrecked! This is the best Eren's felt all day, and he needs that right now.

[If Aubrey hadn't said something, it would have become obvious anyway; as soon as he hears her voice, his posture relaxes, his tail starts wagging, his head jerks curiously to the side.

[He watches Akechi's expression break. There it is. And now he'll never get Eren to leave him alone.

[He barks cheerfully! :) Hi, bestie!]

[So! There’s a lot to take in here. Like hell if Aubrey would ever mistake these two, and it’s nice to see Eren happy and all, but— oh who is he kidding he’s in puppy form she can’t scold him like this. Or ever, really?]

Hi, Eren. Hi, Akechi. [So much for today’s search for fantasy-drywall. Aubrey tries to rein her voice back into something less affected, but there’s a fond, wry amusement in it anyway.] How did this happen? Are you on a roof again?

...I am.

[The dilapidated shingles of someone's shitty business/home or whatever else it could be is a solace caught on camera. The edges visible from where Akechi's squat down, one arm holding the side for balance. The physical distance worth less than the mental one - it keeps Eren from biting his legs and Akechi from saying something he'll regret.

There's a witness on livestream, after all.

Calm. Feigned embarrassment to cover up the other feelings surging through his body. Relax. Be understanding. Kind. A prince.]

It's a funny situation, isn't it? While this isn't what I expected, I appreciate your help on the matter. It seems I'm unwelcome in his presence no matter where I go - though I was minding my own business. He decided to act aggressively unprompted.

[The fucking asshole.]

[This asshole. Can't take a joke, Akechi? Eren's not being aggressive at all, see? He sits at the base of the house, throws up his head, and howls. It was all a simple misunderstanding. If he catches Aubrey on the camera again, he'll give another little bark, as if that's his side of the story. Look how pleasant he is being!]

[Acting aggressively unprompted… hm. That’s not something Aubrey hasn’t encountered from Eren before. He seems to be in good spirits now, though....]

Okay, okay. [She sounds a bit less amused.] I’m not gonna play peacemaker here [lord knows that went well last time], but… seriously? What am I missing here?

[It’s unclear who she’s directing it to. Aubrey offers a small wave for Eren, then shuts her video off; she stays on the call, though.] And where are you?

[Wolf herder was the original intent - a note he keeps to himself as he slides the phone back to voice, pressing it between his shoulder and ear. Both eyes on Eren.

With the witness off camera, Akechi predicts it will take all of five seconds for him to start acting up like a petulant furry child.

Unrelated to all of this, the sun's out - it seems like a good day to request his gun back.]

I'm unsure. I simply went to the highest point I could find in the moment - we're both in town though.

[He gives a little hum and-]

Judging by his reaction, he's quite pleased to see you. If you're nearby, I'm sure he would appreciate you paying a visit. Perhaps you could even play with him. He seems to have an excess of energy.

["...play with him," Akechi says. Ever seen a wolf roll its eyes? Part of him knows that if Aubrey agrees, it will work, but he's not acknowledging that right now! Don't insult his pride, Akechi. He barks once - as loudly and suddenly as he can - hoping to make Akechi jump. After that, he simply scratches behind his ear and yawns. This is getting boring (kinda wants to see Aubrey though).]

What, like a dog? [See, she’s given him excessive ear scritches and let him rest his big wolf head on her lap, but that was different.] But yeah, I’m headed over. I’ll keep an eye on the skyline…

[And/or listen for another bark, like that. It’s a wonder this little circus hasn’t attracted a crowd. Just another day in Somnius, huh?]

Like a dog.

[Yes, is the friendly implication - repeated loud and unbothered. Bring some treats, a water bowl or some goddamn puppy pads for all he cares.

Eren does exceed his expectations by not becoming volatile the second he's off camera. Potentially due to an owner coming to appease him and his senseless shit. It's amazing how easy he is to leash when the right people get involved. Incredible.]

I hope this detour doesn't ruin your afternoon. I regret I couldn't figure this out myself and deal with it on my own.

[Yeah, he bets Akechi does regret that. He doesn't appreciate that "Like a dog," bullshit. If he could hear watch Akechi was thinking, he'd be snapping at him again. For the moment, he only growls.]

Hey, if I was being chased by a wolf, I’d run up a roof, too. [Frankly Aubrey would like to say this has made her afternoon, but she’s still figuring out how to feel about it. Akechi wasn’t kidding about the bad impressions....]

Anyway, he’s not a dog. [Hm, there’s a silhouette on that rooftop across the block.] I don’t know why he went after you, but his head’s the same in there. He just can’t talk.

[There's a long, protruding silence as he takes in the importance of that statement - his head's the same in there. There's no bestial urges, no room to blame their captor's potion messing with heads.

It's Eren. It was only Eren. It's always Eren.

And Eren is a dog through and through, leashed and tamed by a girl wild in her own right. One who at least offers some neutrality in the wake of his supposed ally's strong feelings against him.

Another note - he owes Aubrey two things now. As a goat herder and dog sitter.]

Of course, a wolf. My mistake. Though this isn't the animal I would have thought he would become. Vaeros certainly has a sense of humor.

[Voice light. Jovial. Playful, like they're old friends, and he's not taunting an insult behind those soft spoken words.]

I'm curious, Aubrey - did you take the potion to?

[Aubrey’s not laughing.

[She’s reminded of that one time Eren compared people to cattle.]

Yeah, I did. [Dry. And she hangs up.

[Ostensibly not (just) being rude, though; the alley gives way to sunlight, and there’s the Pleasant Boy being glared down by the boy-wolf. It probably would’ve been funnier if Aubrey was still in the mood. As-is, she just pockets her phone and claps once for attention. Here, boy.]

[Eren is back to growling by the time Aubrey approaches; a low, deep sound, rumbling dangerously in his chest. Akechi can climb down when he grows the goddamn balls to face a pair of jaws. He doesn't like the way Aubrey claps for him; and here he thought she wasn't on board with the whole "like a dog" thing.

[Part of him gets that she's just trying to get his attention, but his bark in her direction says, "I have a name."

[He turns and pads over to her, tail swishing, but slowly. He nudges his head into her side, pushing in heavily and holding it there. Let's get out of here...]

[A haven with a perfect view for the wholesome little display happening below him - he stays affixed in his uncomfortable position.

A dog trots to its master at the clap of a hand - it's all Eren in there, she had said. An image he'll laugh about tonight, in the comfort of sturdy castle walls. He isn't stupid enough to risk sliding down, even with him leashed by her presence. When they both turn the corner and are long out of his sight, he'll finally make his way back to whatever he planned to do today.]

Thank you. I hope the rest of your day is a pleasant one - for the both of you, of course.

[Eren’s not a dog, but he heels like one. Shoves like a person, though, and Akechi seems just as eager to be on his way.

[Thing is, Aubrey had questions for both of them. But only one can answer, and she’s not feeling it. They don’t get along, these two, but they have that same funny little quirk: people they don’t like are good as animals.

[She doesn’t know a damn thing about either of them.]

Yeah. See you, too.

[Aubrey watches Akechi for a breath after that; she won’t be pushed along, thanks. But she gives Eren a… sort-of pat, closed knuckles nudging his head down, and skulks off.

[The hell was all that about…]

Hey. It’s none of my business, but it’s been bothering me. What happened between you and Eren?

[Straight to the point, this one.]

[An addition, shortly after:]
I know what you said about him helping you. I want to know why you pissed each other off.

[This childish shit is why he doesn't get involved with groups of people. Pissed each other off? Akechi can't begin to fathom the issues that crawl up Eren's ass to incite these reactions against him.]

To my knowledge, nothing. I'm not angry in the slightest.

[An easy lie to pick apart. He adds-]

I am somewhat annoyed though, but it's nothing major. The issue has been resolved, so there's no use thinking about it anymore.

You’re not? [Call her crazy, but she did not get the impression of “somewhat annoyed.” That, and/or Pleasant Boy’s got looser lips than she thought.]

What was with the dog comments?

No, but I apologize if I gave the impression. The whole situation was rather exhausting and I lost my lunch in the process.

[His lil meat,,, his bread,,,]

As for the comment, he was acting like one and looked like one. I think I was allowed one remark after what he did.

He took your lunch?

I mean, I don’t blame you for being annoyed. I don’t know. I guess it just sounded extreme to me.

I threw it at him, when he came out growling from the bushes. I thought him to be a hungry animal smelling food.

[Why on earth calling a dog a dog is extreme is beyond him - but it's about impressions. Pretend and play nice. Aubrey has been a good ally to have, unlike another he aligned with. These two are friends and they'll pretend to care about one another until a real issue arises.]

I'll admit it was petty on my part to stoop to that. It's not like me.

However, I don't regret saying it. If words are the only consequence he faces to acting that way, then he got off easy. Who knows what someone else may have done.

[It’s starting to dawn on Aubrey that being approached like this about her not-friends, before recent events, would’ve pissed her off to hell and back. Akechi’s being patient, considering.]

That’s true. I don’t know, I’m sure he recognized you - doesn’t make it better, but I think he’s smart enough not to go after a stranger like that.

[Which doesn’t make it better, either, exactly.]

I’m glad you called me, in any case. Although if it was an actual wolf, I would’ve just suggested... exactly what you did, honestly. Maybe less? Good thinking there.

[It's worse that he did. There was intent in his actions - it's a memory Akechi won't forget or let go of.]

It's irrelevant who he recognizes. It's who would recognize him inside of a gigantic growling wolf. It's reckless and dangerous to act that way.

But I appreciate your words. I couldn't think of who else to call for advice. It's fortunate you were able to recognize him so quickly, or I could have been up there for some time.

[She wants to say “he wouldn’t have hurt you.”

[Wants to.]

It is reckless. Eren can take care of himself, but I’m not happy about it, either. I’d hope he wouldn’t have kept you up there all day.

[And that’s the best she’s got.]

You really have no way to defend yourself out here, huh?

[Well, he's about to request his gun and have an onset of short term memory loss if Eren does that again. That's a defense.]

Hopefully he's learned a lesson. [(x) to doubt.]

I have some self-defense training thanks to my position. It's not something I would put faith in when faced with a true threat though. Conflict like that is something I try to avoid.

[Her faith in that “lesson” isn’t high, either.]

[Moving on.] It’s a start. But you’re right, there’s worse out here. There was a mirror world with actual monsters in February, and I’ve been told Somnius goes crazy somehow every other month.

[…]

I’m learning to swordfight. I’d invite you to train with me, but Eren’s the teacher....
But if you can find a teacher for some kind of weapon, that’d be best, I think. Weapon or magic.

[He doesn't get it.

It shouldn't matter to her if he's stuck on a roof, dead in a gutter or bleeding in maws of some forest creature. A part of him knows it's that human need to portray altruism and care, but-

He ignores it.]

That's a wise assessment. I'll be certain to look for assistance on that front and better arm myself for the problems to come. I would hate to be a burden on anyone.

I'm glad Eren is teaching you. For all our squabbles, I don't deny he must have skill. You're doing well to learn from him.

[That's what a previous Sleepr implied. A comment that makes him want to chew off his own fingers the second he hits send - giving him any kind of credit is enough to ruin his mood.

But it's about being the bigger person. Mature. Considerate and kind. ]

“Burden”?

[Ah. That’s a familiar sentiment.]

Not everyone comes here with magic and war in their home worlds. But I get it.

Call me if danger comes around again. [Unintended pun!] I can’t promise I can be there, but we’ll figure something out.

[Congrats, Akechi: you may be shady, and Aubrey’s sword is sworn elsewhere, but the desire to see to your safety just skyrocketed.]

[If he had the capacity to feel guilt anymore, he might in this moment - when concern feels genuine even in a text message. When he knows damn well there's a power locked away, out of reach, but there.

It doesn't matter. This is all stupid bullshit anyway. The offers are meaningless and meant to placate. Nothing about this place will matter when his fingers are wrapped around Shido's throat. ]

Thank you.

That's generous of you to offer. I'll certainly do my best to make sure it doesn't get to that point, but to know I can rely on you is a comforting thought.

Good.

[A pause. This might be a touch too revealing, but… hell with it. He saw her Sleepr.]

I know I felt pretty alone when I first got dropped here. But a lot of people here are willing to help out, and... sometimes you might not have a choice.

But it pays off, I think. To let them in.

[Let them in with barbs whispered over worn tables in a quiet cafe and-

Let them in with secrets exchanged in moments of rare clarity. In truths loosened from his throat in late night phone conversations. In laughter that burst through his whole body, to the point tears blurred the corners of his vision. Let them in for normalcy lost the second he shook his hand, watched a body dissipate under his heel, felt cool porcelain against his forehead because nothing would stay down, the dripping red, red, red from the face of someone he let in and-

A spot on the wall starts to turn into more - colorful and blinding. Unblinking eyes burning at the lack of movement after reading that seemingly sincere comment.

She is going to get hurt someday - brutally and-

Akechi doesn't give a shit about it. Not one. Not for a second. It won't matter because he won't be here. She's someone to exploit and use in the interim. That's it. Why would he care about the feelings of skittering ants.]

You're right. I'm used to working alone and I don't have many friends. It doesn't come naturally to me.

Your advice is appreciated. I won't forget it.

[It’s hard to tell over text, but that sounds like a dismissal; “I won’t forget it,” the end, no need to say more.

[Aubrey gets it. She hopes he’s actually taking what she says to heart. It wouldn’t surprise her if he’s not.

[Not having many friends does that to a person.]

Yeah. No problem. [I’m not in any position to give advice about anything. But it came out that way, didn’t it? Maybe a natural follow-up would be the offer of a listening ear. Maybe that’s pushing it.]

Take care out there, Akechi.

Thank you. You too.

I'm sure we'll talk again soon. Under better circumstances, or so I hope.

[It’s a lovely day at the lake. Things don’t go wrong here; the sun exists, the water is blue and bloodless, and a small canine is running around the shoreline, yapping merrily. Aubrey is chasing it.]

Stop running! [But the dog won’t listen to her.] Give him back!

[Not that Akechi would know, but the lake’s a little different than reality. The forest beyond is just a few yards closer than it should be, claustrophobic in some corners; old toys and pinwheels are being swallowed by overgrowth. And the pier, which is supposed to stop a few feet out, now extends all the way to that tiny island with the statue, like an aisle straight to hell. Faintly, a whisper from the congregation of trees. They don’t approve of what’s happening.

[Akechi is seated on the structure’s roof. Aubrey’s sword is his; if he’d like, he can grab it like a good shovel.]

What are you doing? [It’s unclear whether Aubrey is yelling at him or the runaway. The mongrel appears safe from a distance, but there’s a wild look in its eyes, clearer up close. Something is in its mouth. A bone?

[An arm.

[The animal nearly runs past the interloper (that’d be you, Akechi), then freezes. Beady, horizontal pupils lock him in its crosshairs. Red drips from its maw. It looks ready to charge. Aubrey won’t catch up before it’s too late.]

Edited (what if I posted the tag and immediately rephrased a bunch of things. what then) 2024-05-01 04:27 (UTC)

[Roof.

The fact he's here bothering him less than the recognition that it's not a surprise - sword beside him, he's tempted to stab through the molding.

He doesn't though. Simply grips the hilt on the top of this bungalow, distressed Aubrey noises in the distance along with a dog(??). It looks like one. The item in its mouth-

A doubletake. An arm - human in nature. The dog blood coated and ready to fight. A familiar sight given recent events. Bashing its skull relentlessly a style he approves of, but one he won't be able to recreate. He steadies the blade in his hand ready to slash it to pieces though - a passing thought about whether it will be that easy or not, given the state of the dreamlike world. If it comes to him, he won't hesitate.]

I suppose it's no surprise this memory would stay with you.

Huh? [Aubrey doesn’t have lucid dreams.] What are you—?

[The dog lunges. No canine should be able to jump that high, but it nips at Akechi’s heel. It laughs, feral.

[What Akechi does to it, the ease and result of the slash, is up to him. Aubrey wasn’t the one who kept him safe.]

[Oh that laugh, the tone, it's-

Without hesitation, the bloodied dog is coated with a new sheen of brilliant red - throat slashed with the sword left to him. Instant. Precise.

It's self-defense after all. Eren taught him how to kill rabid dogs with efficiency. Unavoidable.]

My apologies.

[There. Akechi is good at that. That’s how he kept them safe.

[Aubrey catches up, at least physically. She steps on the dog’s head as if it’s nothing but a stray toy. The skull snaps like a twig.]

Thanks, Akechi. You’re a lifesaver. [And though she looks up at him, it strikes her as… off, somehow. Shouldn’t she be holding the blade? Or, no, something else? He wasn’t this high up.

[Gratefulness gives idle way to bafflement.]

How’d you get up there…?

That's a question I should ask you. I simply appeared here.

[A dead dog - a snap of its body under her uncaring heels. Eren's voice an echo. Maybe it wasn't his to begin with.

It's a dream. Dropping down won't cause permanent damage - he does take care when he slides down one of the columns anyway after tossing the sword to the ground. It's not his.]

This is a rather idyllic backdrop for such an aggressive dream.

[What the dog doin??? Not much now.]

[It almost smooths over. Of course he appeared here, just like anyone does. (In Somnius.) The sword drops, her palm bleeds, that’s right—

[“Dream.”

[Aubrey blinks, as if startled.] Ake–ow— Akechi? [Pinched herself mid-name there. On the hand, incidentally, the skin that got just a bit mangled. She takes a step back, very much awake, and loses a shoe to the broken bones. She tries not to look at it.]

How did you…? [Know? Get in here? How…?]

[The erratic nature of the mind makes shifts, sounds, and blood soaked palms look normal, despite every blink bringing a new issue to the literal and metaphorical light. She doesn't seem as aware as some of the others he's stumbled in - it makes sense. He's an intruder in her world, much like a palace. Any sort of shock or shake to that foundation-

Could be a problem.]

It's not my intent to intrude on your private thoughts and dreams, if that's your concern. This happened on accident.

[He sounds too clear for one of her dreams. Then again, she rarely remembers them. Aubrey’s not used to having thoughts like this. Then again…]

Akechi. Goro Akechi. [Subtly, the scene shifts like melting clockwork; ridges in the pier smoothing out to ground, gaps in the statue sprouting the criss-cross of an anti-goat gate. If Aubrey notices these, they don’t give her pause.] You know me. We’ve met…

[Then why does it feel off? Dream sense: here one second, gone the next. Aubrey backs up a little, as if she might be the intruder. Glances around the space, as if the lake is only just registering.]

We’re friends. Right?

[It's borderline offensive that his cognitive association involves that goddamn goat - the gate a familiar source of ire for a bitter memory.

She's-

Still not here. Says his name, steps back like she's afraid - he wonders if it's so odd for her to have people she recognizes in this personal space.

We're friends. Right?

A question that should be an instantaneous 'yes' - the grip of a hand around his coated with spoken gratitude, someone holding a leash for volatile, a guardian to those who need it most and least. He hates her. Every piece of her - phone calls and check in texts that are meaningless in a fantasy world set to be destroyed. He isn't going to care about the mumblings of ants and-

He doesn't give a shit about lying to a girl in her own dreams.

He hates Aubrey.

A laugh, a soft smile and a gloved hand pressed under his chin - he acts like the question is ridiculous.]

Of course we're friends - unless that's too strong a term for you. I would hate to presume anything about our relationship, but I find myself drawn to you. It would be an honor to be considered one.

You’re pleasant.

[Said like a half-joke. But she seems placated by the notion, tense shoulders dropping. In the waking world, “friend” is still a word Aubrey would hesitate to use lightly. But if anyone had earned it…

[Yeah. This makes sense. Memory has always warped this place. Of course it would be extra potent now, even if her settled mind can’t quite latch onto the why or how.

[Aubrey regards Akechi with a small nod, approving of his continued existence. This also makes sense, to her.]

I used to visit the lake with my friends back at home. [Idyllic, you see. Answering a question that wasn’t asked. Vines in the periphery slink back into the mundane overgrowth of an abandoned property.] Kel has a dog [as if Akechi is supposed to magically intuit who that is], and he’d get loose and run all around here.

Used to drive us nuts. [It’s fond.]

[The pleasant a riled up nerve covered with a saccharine smile. He ignores it.

The next few pieces - he doesn't. A lake he glances over - typical to what he's seen before. Discussion of Kel and friends back home and dogs getting loose.

It's so normal. So typical. Vines appear in his peripherals, but he ignores them for them for now.

He offers a pleasant little hm and-]

Do you miss this place?

A bit, yeah. [She scratches her neck. Everything is okay. It’s a familiar place, and things are where they (more or less) should be, and…

[It’s empty, besides them.]

A lot.

[A sigh, small. Resigned. Not dwelling on it. Wanting to go back to the way it used to be was only ever a dream.

[With a shrug, Aubrey turns back to shore, motioning for Akechi to follow.] How’d you know? What this is, I mean.

I've been pulled into a few now. It's somewhat obvious to an intruder like myself. I imagine it's less apparent for the dreamer.

[They feel like a palace too, in a way. It's different than the pseudo-reality of Somnius.

But he treks behind faithfully - the shore of the lake calming, despite the excitement from earlier. Maybe the water will lap that dog's corpse away.]

It seems peaceful here. I can understand why you would miss it.

[The dream may be Aubrey’s, but Akechi is here, too. A small secession: Behind them, the water rises like a tide, and if they look back the corpse won’t be where it fell. It’s gone now.

[Aubrey doesn’t notice this. But ahead, sand lines the shore; it didn’t before. The beach was a calming place, too.]

It’s so… normal. [The last word said as though she’s not sure how to feel about it.] You know, I went to Lake Omen once, back when I first got here. Something in the water started singing, and I freaked out and left.

[There’s a tune on the wind now. A gentle hum from far away, remembered clear as though it was yesterday.
[Aubrey looks to the shore, and it stops. It’s been gone for years.]

You visit dreams, Akechi. [Maybe that’s not normal. At this point, what is?] Is it always like this?

Did you now? No one could blame you. Though after defeating Danger, I'm quite certain you could handle whatever was in that lake.

[It's a joke, mostly. He doesn't want to fish her corpse out of the water, but she isn't foolish enough to take that as an invitation to fight whatever's in the water.

But there's a hum he tries to follow with his eyes - no discernable source in this idyllic little world. It may be Aubrey. A parent. Anyone.]

You ask that as if I'm an expert - in my minimal experience, I've visited far more volatile ones. So-

[A beat - the water is nice. The sand is nice. It's all too calm and it's giving him a sense of unease.] I have to say I'm enjoying it here most of all.

[Fully lucid or not, there is one thing that strikes Aubrey as off:
[“I find myself drawn to you.” “I’m enjoying it here most of all.”
[Is he kissing her ass?]

Yeah… I guess it’s nice. Despite how it started. [“Nice.” Melancholy, too, for her. But it doesn’t show in the world; only in how she says the word, “nice,” a sorry consolation. She really doesn’t have the mind to linger. Strangely, it’s not a wholly unfamiliar feeling. Was that split really only two months ago?

[Time doesn’t matter here, maybe. There’s only forward.]

[Not far off the shore is a red-checked blanket, though the basket is missing. Flowers are strewn across like a family picnic. Only two people are left.
[Aubrey seats herself, and motions for Akechi to join her. For the moment, the rest of the landscape is still.]

I’m tired of fighting. [She picks idly at a few stems, playing with the idea of weaving them. Doesn’t commit just yet.] You must be— I mean, we’re both from normal worlds, right? Even as a detective, you probably didn’t have to fight.

[The run-in with Danger implies as much. But that doesn’t sound right, either. He kept them safe....]

[Slicing down that manic dog is a part of the pleasantries of this place. He isn't upset to put a feral creature in its place.

The blanket is new - a feature that blinks into existence in a manner so picturesque, he thinks it's something from a book instead of her memories. He joins all the same - sitting politely by the edge as he watches her pick at the flowers.]

Suffice to say while you may be tired of it, please remember you still have to. Your dream is a reprieve, but reality requires it.

[But-

"you probably didn't have to fight" is true. He didn't have to.

He chose to walk into Mementos with blade and gun, turn people's souls into muck and ash, press a gun to the head of his 'friend' and watch the drip, drip, drip of blood pepper the ground.

No, he didn't have to. Wasn't forced to. But he did, he does, and he will continue until Shido's head is laying at his feet.]

A rowdy perpetrator wasn't uncommon - however, I'm unaccustomed to this degree of battle. It's quite tiring at times.

[“Please remember you still have to.” She might take some offense to that, if she was awake, more agitated. The unreality of it all would, should irritate her; “quite tiring,” an understatement. Aubrey’s been sleep-deprived for a while.

[Maybe it’s only okay with her because it’s coming from her. Because Aubrey doesn’t have nightmares, not bad enough to recall. Because maybe everyone likes to escape in their dreams, whether they remember or not.

[Akechi envisions a head. A breeze, and leaves and paper drift by in an autumn chill. Wrong season for that; Aubrey’s frown tenses. She must have forgotten to close the window again, or the patch blew off from where the birds swarmed in; Sunny’s got an awful lot of papers crammed under his couch, and she’s tried not to look, but they go astray at times.

[A sketch lands at Akechi’s feet.]

[He steps on it - single foot crushing the image under his heel.

No hesitation, plastered smile glued in place, the sole of his shoe covering the bloody head of a man. The childish drawing is too simple, but he-

Shifts. Ignores it. Presses all his weight into the bloody neck, bleeding eyes, the image of Shido that's meant for him and him alone.

It might not be Shido. It's definitely Shido. He can't handle the fact that it's Shido.

A calm dream tainted by him, a part of him recognizing that it's his presence causing it.

Isn't that typical.]

We're waking up.

[Sudden and tense.]

My apologies, but I worry if you stay asleep too long, something might happen. You may have collapsed in a dangerous place.

[They're leaving.]

Please find a way to do so.

[Aubrey doesn’t have a second to look at the image; it’s only leftover intuition that told her it was Sunny’s drawing, but that’s not right at all. Akechi crushes it with prejudice. Subconscious upset. She trusts him.]

I don’t remember collapsing.

[Again—disruption prompting wakefulness, or at least awareness. Aubrey’s on her feet in an instant, and the overgrowth closes in. It never fully went away. It’s the wrong season; summer at home, cold here, and just like that first month, there’s no defense. What’s next, a swarm of snow angels—?

[Thoughts are dangerous. Forget the flowers. Aubrey grabs Akechi’s wrist and bolts, grabbing her weapon along the way—a stick, gnarled and pathetic. It’s nothing. It won’t save him.]

You’re the one with dream experience! [It’s his fault.] How do you wake up?

Edited (had to change one (1) word) 2024-05-06 01:11 (UTC)

[This is preferable to the Shido looking drawing that scattered by him - he can only hope the overgrowth consumes that shitty image.

They're running now - her grasping his wrist like he wouldn't keep up otherwise. A stick for protection. He doesn't need saving, she does, but the old adage of dying in real life if you die in a dream-

It's not true. He's dreamed enough to know it.

He isn't bothered by their current situation - a shitty sequel to the events of a few weeks ago. It must be a raw wound for her. Dragged, but he lacks the fear she's exuding. If they die, they die. If they live, they live. Waking up is the priority now.]

You're generously overestimating how much I know about this. I've been dragged into them - I can't recall how to leave, though if it's like a normal dream...

[Being jolted awake. A sudden fear. Maybe death is the answer now.]

Please release my arm.

[Akechi talks, and he’s not panicked; Aubrey slows, but she’s not calmed. He has a request. She shakes her head.]

No. No, I can’t let y—

[A raw wound. Death is the answer. She drops, and the arm falls to the—no, the stick, it was—an arm—a bone—a writhing, maggot-infested thing chunk of torn meat it—crawled in years ago it must have died there under piles of garbage and rotted away like an abandoned toy it’s a rabbit it’s a pet a dog an animal human dead gone gone—

[Aubrey wakes up to a wilting tendril wrapped around her arm. Its thorns have long shriveled, but they prick like soft teeth anyway. Figures....

[A few mintues later, a text for Akechi:]
Hey. Did you have a weird dream?

[Of course he did.

A disgusting arm consumed by rot being gripped by a girl who did everything to protect the origin of it, only to pay for it in nightmares.

That's what she gets for playing the hero. For having friends. For saving someone pathetic and worthless.]

No, I've been awake for some time.

[The wriggling maggots are phantoms across his own flesh.]

Sometimes stress can play a part in weird dreams. Please do your best to take care of yourself.

[He can tell. Just from that little nondescript message, he can tell.
[“No.” Ughhhhh. See, no sane person would have a dream about someone and think, ‘hey, they must have stopped by for a head-space visit.’ Who does that?!

[Aubrey has been here too long.]

Sorry to bother you. You were in mine, so I thought it might’ve been this place being stupid again.

I got pricked by one of those thorns overnight, so that might be it.

[Is it even still night? Akechi’s been awake; probably not. She can’t tell back here.]

Oh, is that so.

[A few seconds - almost a minute, and-]

Perhaps there's some poison remaining in it that causes side effects of that nature. Please get yourself checked out at the clinic when you can, just to ensure no harm was done.

[She’s projecting, but in that pause Aubrey feels like an ant under a magnifying glass. It’s objectively ridiculous, even she can recognize that; just a text. Her own damn fault for letting her house stay this overgrown. Yeah, yeah, she’s awake now; pile of raw nerves schleps itself out of bed, swatting at dead tangles.

[Sunny seemed like he wanted to be alone for the night. Or was that last night? Fuck, she has work to do.]

I don’t really have time for that right now, but I guess if it lasts I’ll ask about it.

[Does she have training today…]

Thanks. Watch out for those vines yourself.

Please do. I would hate to see them turn into nightmares, when the fix could be a simple antidote.

[Gleaning what she remembers in full almost doesn't matter. Dreams don't last. She seemed confused even inside of it. It stands to reason that it will fade into nothing now that she's back in the world, if anything's there outside of a vague sense of Akechi's existence.]

I will, thank you. Oh, before I forget-

Watch out for sticks too.

[The funny thing is, her dreams reallly usually do fade as soon as she gets up.

[This one hasn’t.]

Ha ha. See you around, Pleasant Boy.

Edited (typo :pensive:) 2024-05-06 04:18 (UTC)

[How fucking cute. He wants to puke.]

Same to you, Aubrey.

Dear Akechi,

Would you mind coming over to my house to share some tea together? I figured we could also catch up about all the recent happenings in this place, to see if we have learned anything more since the last time we spoke. Not to mention I would greatly appreciate your company.

Greetings,

Inigo

[ Is this weirdly formal? Yes?

And sure, partially it's just that Inigo is shy and not good at making friends outside of his already existing friend group back home, but.. a large part of it is also just Inigo being a medieval fantasy boy who absolutely does not know how to text in a normal teen way.

Sorry, Akechi. ]

[The text is a surprise - not from the sender in question. He expected to hear from him in due time, but the manner it comes in feels more like he opened a letter or a formal request to visit a news agency.

Being polite isn't unwelcome though. It's the tea offer, a statement that sounds like a genuine request for company over a discussion - that's suspicious, though some people like formalities like this.]

Of course. I was hoping to hear from you and look forward to speaking. Please allow me to bring something as well. The tea is a kind offer I won't refuse, but I would hate to let the host have all the burden.

Of course! You can bring anything you like.

[ Inigo sure isn't picky, after all. It's what happens when you get stuck in an apocalyptic wasteland and have to live off pretty much whatever you can find.. It leaves you with not exactly the most refined sense of taste. ]

I live in one of the treehouses. I will send you the address, and then you can come over as soon as you have some time. I will be waiting.

[ As promised, the address is attached to the message! ]

Very well. I'll see you shortly.

[And off he goes to find a little snack from one of the cafes - a barista stuck in a milk frothing loop ruining the 'quick' part of his 'quick trip'. Tragic.

Eventually, he makes his way to the address Inigo dropped though. Hello, a bastard is here.]

[ Welcome, bastard!

.. except that's obviously not the way Inigo greets him. The moment he hears a knock on the door, he's already opening the door with an incredibly warm and friendly smile on his face. Like the other is a long-lost friend, rather than just someone he's had one conversation with over the network. ]

Hello! Oh, it's so good to finally see you in person! Come in..! [ He's already moving out of the way to let the other guy in, closing the door behind him before gesturing over towards a table with some chairs around it where they can sit. ]

Sorry that my place is so tiny, but.. well, it's at least large enough for a get together with two fri-- [ ...

Inigo seems to do a double take there, realising he may just have gotten a little ahead of himself. He pauses, his cheeks grow red, and he instead adds: ]

A-- Acquaintances!

[ Nailed it. So smooth. ]

[This guy is -

Awkward. Shy. A combination of the two - he can't tell if it's real or an incredible act put on for his sake. He slides past him all the same with a small box of some kind of snack for the two of them to share. The slip of friend-

Ignored, for now. A content smile crosses his own face at the warm welcome.]

Thank you very much, Inigo. [A beat, and-] You truly are a kind man. It's barely been a moment and you're already an impeccable host.

[ He lets out a laugh. It sounds a touch awkward, but judging by how quickly the laugh follows after what the other said, it's very likely to be genuine and instinctive despite the awkward edge. ]

Oh, come on. I have hardly done anything so far. [ He'll move to close the door behind the other though. ] You don't need to flatter me just for having invited you over, you know. I am definitely willing to share some tea regardless of whether there are compliments being thrown around or not.

[ At least that last part does seem to be a little playful - like a joke. Like he's trying to make the atmosphere a little lighter again and shake off his own nerves about hanging out with someone one-on-one over at his place. I-It's fine, Inigo! It's just Akechi! He was really nice when you spoke last time, so.. it's fine..!! Deep breaths!

He does manage to shove down some of the shyness enough that the smile on his face becomes more noticable than the shyness itself at this point. If not just since he's so used to putting up a smile in the first place. It's like habit by now. ]

[Scooting through the door, he moves his way into the room without a hint of displeasure towards the man's shy demeanor. Smile met with one of his own, the teasing tone is noted. It's a detective prince's duty to make others feel comfortable. It's what he's supposed to do, so it's how he will be.

Inigo has information. He needs to keep this amenable.]

I'll keep that in mind, but you should know not many would offer time in their home to a relative stranger, for tea or otherwise. I find that admirable of you - of course, that's not me tacking on compliments. It's a genuine observation I wanted to point out is all.

..

[ Inigo has to duck his head for a moment, like the compliment - or genuine observation, as the other himself puts it - seems to be just a little bit too much for him. He's dealing with it though, if not just by instead busying himself with pouring both of them a cup of tea like a proper host and sitting down. ]

Well.. thank you, in that case. [ It's not like he can deny the other a genuine observation, after all. Even if it does fluster Inigo. ] As for why I called you here.. I am sure you must have noticed as well that everything and everyone around town seems quite strange lately.

[ The other is smart, after all. Inigo thinks he seems smart. Not to mention that you'd practically have to be a real idiot to not notice it anyway, since the sudden change in behaviour the locals are having is so big that you'd have to go out of your way to not notice.

And said change is worrying enough to Inigo that he just really wanted to talk about it with someone. And considering the interest he expressed in talking about matters of this place before, Akechi seemed like the perfect choice for it. ]

It's troubling, isn't it? Almost the like the world is breaking apart, right at the seams.

[Tea and cookies laid out on the table, it feels bizarre - like he's in an old friend's home, despite never having the experience to fall back on.

He settles in his chair - confident and content.]

I've been caught in many loops and been witness to some severe situations regarding the locals. Having them turn on us so viscerally is concerning.

It reminds me a little of when they all got brainwashed a while ago.

[ The boy frowns as he says that. Clearly he isn't recalling the situation as a very pleasant one - just like this one isn't. It makes him slowly shake his head. ]

But it's still different. They don't seem to be under the influence of anything right now. Or.. if they are, then whatever that 'anything' is isn't showing themselves. [ Whereas the mind flayers definitely were showing themselves back then. Hell, even back home it was never too hard to find out who was behind something, in Inigo's experience. ] It's almost more as if they're.. broken, somehow.

[ He looks over at Akechi, giving the other a half-apologetic case. ]

Though that is a strange thing to say in this case, right? We are talking about people, after all. [ And people don't break.

Yet it's somehow the impression they give off now. Like the locals can't understand anything anymore. Like they keep falling into the same mindless patterns. ]

[Brainwashing? An interesting connection to an event he didn't experience. The tea is a delicious buffer, as the man states his thoughts. Decent ones. Broken an apt description he ponders with a thoughtful hum behind his cup.]

No, it's not strange at all. Erratic behavior isn't uncommon - if they had a mental shutdown or a psychotic break, all of these factors begin to make sense. They could be 'broken' as you put it.

[His persona, Loki, has an ability to cause it. Another person could have a similar skill they pulled back from the crystal. Vaeros or a part of the core group controlling this place may be privy to that power and exploiting it. A dangerous scenario and-

It makes this situation a bit more dire.]

Can you tell me more about the brainwashing?

[ There's a slight nod from Inigo at the question, though the boy obviously looks a little bit uncomfortable as he's describing it. It's not a deep kind of discomfort, but it's because he's attempting to cover up at least some of it, not wanting to seem so unsettled about it in front of someone else.

Not even for the sake of Inigo's own pride, mind you. It's more that he's worried Akechi might become paranoid about his stay in this place if Inigo portrays this badly enough, and he doesn't want Akechi to have to worry. It doesn't matter that Inigo may not know him super well yet - he still can't help but want to look out for the other. For everyone. ]

There were these.. these beings. [ He starts to explain, clearly having trouble even finding the right words. ] I have never seen anything like them before. They looked like people, except their heads were almost more like-- like some sort of creature you might find in the sea.

[ He shakes his head. ]

They appeared all of a sudden, and they had the ability to make any of us or the local townspeople fall under their thrall. You would just completely forget any sense of who you are.

[Neutral - he takes the information with a long sip of tea. The information is vital, and important. Brainwashing and thralls don't go beyond the nature of the place, given how they were forced to partake in this whole nightmare to begin with. If he had Call of Chaos, it's an ability he could dish right back to this shitty world.]

That's frightening and a rather aggressive foe for our captor to allow. Of course, perhaps he's trying to figure out the extent of control he can lord over us by using other creatures to test us.

[Ah, what a disaster. His gaze rises up to the ceiling in thought before returning back to Inigo.]

Maybe one day Vaeros himself will try his hand at brainwashing every single person here.

... that's not exactly a great thing to think about. [ He slowly admits.

Inigo would prefer being positive, after all. It's his entire goal in life to be as optimistic as possible around other people in an attempt to give them hope, to allow them to keep going and smiling. But how can he spin such a frightening idea into something positive? It feels impossible, especially with how little they were able to do to break out of the mind control those creatures had.

And if their power was already so strong - then how much greater must Vaeros' be, when he brought those creatures here in the first place? ]

Perhaps we should have some sort of plan in place. [ Maybe that's the only positive thought he can have right now. They have to make sure to be prepared. That's something they can do. ] Just in case we notice any signs of such a thing happening. I wouldn't want to allow him to just do such a thing.

[Akechi has a solid plan for that one - an instantaneous and vicious attack on the labyrinth and the ivory tower Vaeros hides in.

But it's not one he can utter to a relative stranger who has a particular image of him. Inigo has been a valuable observer - he can't risk losing that source. ]

It may be difficult to concoct a plan of that nature, but I trust your tenure here will serve to be 'a canary in the mine' so to speak. If there are signs or trends, I imagine you can note them faster than I can. Working off that assumption-

[One leg crosses over the other - with brainwashing and forced control, the effect may be rapid. It could be as simple as washing people in ailment guards, or as complicated as fortifying the mind.]

Let me think on it. If you don't mind, I would like to come to you on the matter when I have my own first hand experience with the world to reflect on. It's a bad habit of mine to be skeptical until I witness it.

[ Inigo blinks a little, like he's surprised by what the other is saying. Not utterly shocked, but it seems like some part of it managed to catch him off guard anyway. Maybe it's Akechi's intelligence. Inigo may be hanging out often with people smarter than him, but it has more to do with Inigo's baseline intelligence not being all that high than it has to do with those other people actually being smart or not. So Akechi definitely stands out to him as someone who seems exceptionally smart.

Especially with the way he's talking now. ]

Of course. [ Inigo says once he gets over the momentary surprise. ] I don't mind at all. I wouldn't want you to feel like you're being forced into making any plan up on the spot. Especially about something this important.

[ He shakes his head. He knows he'd be pretty hard pressed himself if someone told him to think up a plan right now. ]

.. I must apologize if I seemed a little too hasty. [ He offers - a slight smile, and some genuine apologetic signs in his gaze. ] It's just that I've been a little worried about the possibility of this happening again ever since it first occurred. It would have terrible effects on this place, after all.

There's takeout in the kitchen. Donuts.
Don't forget to eat.

If you see Zazie, let them know there's food too.

Of course. I'll let them know if our paths cross today.

Did you already have some? I would hate to take any if our host hasn't eaten first.

Don't worry about me.

I'm not much of a cook so you'll probably be on your own most of the time.

To be frank, that's not my strong suit either. I tend to eat out every day for convenience. I would never expect you feed me - you've extended enough kindness letting me stay here.

Regardless, some of my portion will be left for you should you change your mind.

[Donuts are too sweet anyway!!! Come eat them Vash.]

Oh, I didn't realize.

I'm probably beyond saving, but have you tried lessons?

[ HE IS DODGING the "eat the food" implication. ]

[Dodge it forever - Vash will find a portion there for him or the ants. Whatever gets to it first.]

Even if I were to learn here, I wouldn't have time to do it in my world, but your point stands.

A kind girl did show me how to debone a fish for a stew. I could pass that knowledge onto you as well, if you're interested. If I could manage such a feat, I'm sure you could as well.

[ No.... not ants in his house.... ]

I don't know. I'm kind of a disaster when it comes to anything in the kitchen.
But if you want to try I guess it wouldn't be fair to say no.

[Okay, he doesn't want to touch another nasty fish again. This has backfired horrifically. Maybe he can get away with instructing and get a nice little stew out of the process. ]

Then if I may request, please allow me to show you sometime. It's the least I can do to repay you for everything and I'll make sure to clean up any disasters that occur. You'll be able to learn without worry.

[ Boy, you're in for a terrible time. ]

You don't have to pay me back for anything, really.
But there's no harm in trying.
I can grab ingredients if you tell me what we need.

[ there is so much harm in trying but they'll figure that out. ]

Edited 2024-05-05 23:52 (UTC)

I try not to accrue debts. Whether it's today or in the future, I will be paying you back for the space. It's in my nature to do so.

Please get any kind of fish, carrot, potato, onion, chicken broth, butter and spices you enjoy. It sounds like a lot, but it's quite simple once we get started.

I think I can manage that. It normally wouldn't be hard to fish one or two out of the lake but...

With how things are lately, maybe store bought is better.

The hats they wear might be hiding some kind of mutation. Perhaps they're warping into a new creature entirely and will finish what last month's animals started.

That's a joke of course.

Thank you for picking up the ingredients. I'll see you shortly.

Would the hats be part of the fish or are they like clothes, do you think?

Yeah. it won't take long.

[ Vash is efficient when he shops at least, once he has a list. It's easier to avoid getting distracted. It's a little complicated to pay though, when the gelfling at the shop keeps trying to add up the same item over and over. Vash manages to make it through that, however, and it's not too long before he's standing outside the castle with a paper bag in his arms, staring at the house like he's hesitant to go in. His expression is neutral at least.

He's still not inside though, like some kind of weirdo. ]

It would have to be a part of the fish, given how it stays on them. If it were clothes, wouldn't it float to the surface?

[This is stupid. The question so outlandish and his own response digging at him. He should pretend his phone's glitching, but-

All he does is wait instead. Vash's habits are a mystery outside of crossed paths in shared spaces and short opportunities to watch him. Nothing extensive, not enough to glean anything of value. The time it's taking him to get back though - maybe he's stuck in a loop.

It would be funny, if there wasn't perishable items involved and if he hadn't been the one to send him on a fetch quest. That's another check in the mental debt category if so.

That's why he's about to go outside and see, when the door opens on-

Him. Just standing there, like a B horror jump scare.]

Oh, there you are. I was just coming to check on you. Do you need help carrying the bag?

[This is all Eren's dreamt of since he learned the truth - months ago, before the labyrinth; still, it was this.

[An ocean of blood. They aren't on its shores, but its center. Eren sits, waist-deep in its shallow waves. Inky red stretches off into every horizon. He doesn't speak.]

[The red spans in every direction, endless. It's metallic, coppery and cloys the air with a sickening stench of death.

A different body of water than the one in Aubrey's. A new sensation entirely. He tests the actual content of the liquid around him by raising his leg some - it's stained the same way it was after leaving two corpses in a dark cellar.

And of course, it's Eren at the center of it all.]

Well, this is a sight.

[Eren's voice is idle.]

It's more the stench for me...

[It's disgusting. He gives a little hm and-]

You're rather calm. Does this not bother you?

Bother me?

[Eren isn't looking at him. It's odd. The way his legs are crossed, arms laid upon them, it almost looks like he's meditating. His eyes stare blankly forward.]

I wanted this.

You wanted this.

[Repeated and stated with a tinge of disbelief. Another wide sweeping glance at the sea of nothing surrounding them for what's wanted. He can't figure it out.]

What is this?

This is what's left of my world.

[It's fleeting - the look of genuine surprise that peels away the placeholder smile plastered on his face.

I wanted this and This is what's left. A dream based in something. Rooted somewhere.]

I see.

[It's just blood. There's no one but Eren here. If it were reality, he would say something about the horrific way it looks. The injustice of it all, but-

It's a dream - one unlikely to be remembered and he can claim ignorance. There's a sense of freedom in this world that's impossible in Vaeros' reality or otherwise.]

A world barren and covered in blood - it sounds more like the desire of a god than a child.

Both.

Not to mention an idiot.

[Eren thinking he's a god - please. The ego on him is unreal.

The scene around him is too.]

We can agree on that.

[A beat. Silence and-]

How do you plan to do this? You're an apt fighter - that I won't deny, but this seems beyond your capabilities.

You don't know shit about my capabilities. [His voice is flat; there's no bite.]

I already told you. I was a God.

This has already been done.

[He remembers the birthday party. An Eren sullen, defanged and distracted at its center.

Talk about the cruelty of the world and-

It looks like the trash and rot were taken out in full.]

A god that smites - how traditional. What do you plan to do after? Sit there until you die too?

I'm already dead.

Is that so?

[Then it's a fitting end to all involved.]

Why did you do it? I can't imagine what drove such a need for bloodshed.

Because the world was rotten. [His voice has gone very dark.] I wanted to see it empty.

[In reality, he would feign disgust. Purvey values of justice long since tossed aside. Find a way to berate Eren for his choice and twist his expression into disdain and contempt.

It's a dream - a place meant to be freeing. A world that will die when his eyes open and a crueler reality sets in to take its place.]

I have to say I'm a bit jealous. [It spills. It overflows.] You certainly saw this through to the end.

[For the first time, Eren turns his head to look at Akechi. His eyes are dull green voids; empty, empty, empty...]

I knew we were the same.

The same is a stretch.

[Eyes twist to him - he meets them in turn. Not that it matters, when Eren isn't all there.]

I won't deny the world is full of rot and that this fate isn't well deserved. [One coated in the same red, red, red that peppered a dark floor.] I don't have such lofty dreams though.

Are you afraid of how they'll see you once they know?

Are you?

[Fear is pointless in hypotheticals. His image is immaculate and one the few slip ups-

Easily covered. Painted over. Brushed off and twisted as a slip of a nervous student. Only ruining Shido's life matters, watching red foam bubble from his lips and after that-

Akechi Goro doesn't have a future. A detective prince will be dead from a cabal's retaliation. It won't matter what people think of a corpse. ]

Didn't think I'd have to be.

[He takes a deep breath.]

I wish I were still dead.

It doesn't seem like you to want to run away from the consequences of your actions.

[Past. Present. Future. Eren is blunt and volatile - traits he hates. Loathes. Despises with every fiber of his being and-

He moves to stand beside him in that shitty bloodbath - kneels to his level, only an arm's length away.]

Your ultimate goal requires these kind of sacrifices - that includes having people looking at you with disdain and contempt.

[A beat and-]

But what does that matter in the end, if you plan to kill them anyway.

You're right. It doesn't matter. I deserve it. [He's not denying any of that.]

I didn't kill my people. [People from his nation? Yeah. But not His People.

[Not...all of them, anyway...

[Hange is gone. His face briefly contorts with pain.

[What...are they doing here?]

Eighty percent. [His voice has gone quiet.] That's how much of human population I destroyed.

A god of mercy to those he deems redeemable and no one else.

[80% is an unfathomable number - he can't wrap his mind around it. A whole world is easier to swallow than that. The picking and choosing of followers-

Reminds him of Shido.]

You really are something else.

That's right. I'm a bad guy.

I wanted the people I loved to live long lives, so they will. It was my power, so I got to decide.

That's just the way it works.

[It's all about love isn't it. I loved them - meaningless in this context. As if a world destroying monster could be painted over by placating them with the gift of life.

Shido loves his followers too. Their constant praise and debts accrued for his favor. For his power. For Akechi's power and-

It's different. Even he can recognize that. Shido would never die, never relent a single piece of power he's accrued. Eren is dead. Eren wants to be dead.

He lets out a breath.]

Of course. And who's there to stop you, after all. You're in control of everything until you die. [He stretches his fingers against the blood pooling below them - it's disgusting.] The world is rotten and unjust, so it's only fitting to treat it in the same manner.

It was the only way.

I tried.

[Eren turns his head, staring forward once again. His gaze sharpens into a slight glare, set on the horizon.]

They stopped me. They killed me. I'm glad they did.

[His friends were made heroes to the world, and Eren got to rest...

[At least, that's what was supposed to happen.]

Are you?

[Empathy left in the hollow remains of a false god. Glad they stopped him. Glad they ended it. Glad a tormented god was put down by the people he supposedly loved most.

It's cruel to those that have to live with his blood on their hands, the loss of someone beloved or-

Maybe they hated him all along. Delighted in the opportunity to end his life. He can't be sure and he doesn't give a shit either way.]

Then in the end, I suppose you got everything you ever wanted, didn't you? How fortunate.

[Eren's voice is very quiet.]

Not everything...

[It's complicated. Death was the only way. He did want it. But he wanted to live too. He wanted to be be with them. And he couldn't be. So...]

What are you doing here, Akechi? Why do you follow the blood I spill's scent?

[Ominous. Quiet.

He doesn't push it.]

You make it sound like my appearance here was intentional. It's your dream - perhaps you drew me in all on your own. In fact, I may not even be real at all.

May not be, huh?

I don't spend my time dreaming about you, Sweetheart. Hate to be the bearer of bad news.

There's no need for namecalling.

[The condescension in sweetheart makes him want to wrap his fingers around Eren's throat and push out all the air inside. Fuck this guy.]

There's a first time for everything, isn't there? Who knows - perhaps you wanted a chance to kill me and your subconscious brought me in.

[That actually sounds likely.]

It's irrelevant either way. Pay this no mind. As soon as I have the opportunity to leave, I will.

Kill you?

[Dull green eyes glance at Akechi. His voice is eerie calm.]

Why would I want to kill you, Akechi?

Who knows. Perhaps simply because I'm part of the 80% you feel is rotten.

[He meets that gaze - unrelenting and unwavering. Even in another's dream, he will not back down.]

Of course, that's only a joke. Even if you wanted to, you couldn't murder me in a dream.

Not in a dream.

[He lets those words hang for a moment before he continues.]

I don't want to kill you.

In fact, I want to know you. Then again, sometimes, I think I know you better than anyone, already...

[His gaze hasn't dropped from Akechi's.]

Aren't you tired of no one knowing the truth?

I know how lonely that is.

[I don't want to kill you slices through his chest and-

I want to know you and I think I know you better than anyone twist, twist, twist a knife deep into his gut and-

He hates Eren.

It's two warm hands pressed against his in crowded clinic halls, it's a a friend-

Someone that was a friend. A person who could have been a friend. A guy who played pretend with him like they were friends as they whispered in jazz cafes and drank coffee by flickering vending machines and-

It's irrelevant. It always is. It's meaningless. It always is. It's pointless. It always is. He hates Eren. He hates Aubrey. He hates Joker.

A nobody who thinks there's a secret to worming into his mind - that he knows something. Boy turned god pretending to wield all the powers behind that.

He can't talk, for a moment. Words in his throat, retorts on his lips and bitter barbs swallowed.

All he does is smile - saccharine and soft.]

I am who I am, Eren. Why would I ever be lonely, when I find myself surrounded by so many here?

[It aches, it burns, it rebels and it rages.]

No, not in the slightest.

Yeah...

[Eren sighs. He pushes himself up to stand. His clothes are soaked with blood from the waist down, the end of his long black coat still swishing around in the waves.]

You know everything now. There's nothing you can say that would scare me.

[He turns to face Akechi; extends a hand, slowly dripping red tar into the rancid sea.]

It's getting tiring pretending we won't end up friends. I know what you are.

Call it what it is, then. [Because he knows - he knows - how lonely that feels.]

[It echoes.

Eren doesn't know a goddamn thing. Can't possibly fathom a single thought that goes through his head, the goals that drive him, the dreams that bury and bruise and rip him apart and-

The presumption infuriates him. Makes him want to slap that blood coated hand away and push him into the depths of rot where he belongs.

But-

A hand grasps Eren's before he registers any movement in his body. A fleeting thought to blame it on the dream. A subconscious push forced him into doing it. There's no other reason for it.]

I'm not opposed to being friends - we're close enough by now, aren't we? It seems like a logical next step.

[Lying to ants or gods, it's all the same. The label doesn't matter, when it's the result he wants and Eren-

Blood tinted Eren, world destroyer Eren-

Is a good ally to have.]

[A bond forged in blood; Akechi's hand is smeared with red.]

Alright. Wake up.

[Red registers, like it always does and-

Then a blanket half drawn over his body, a cold floor against his back.

And he's awake with a hand coated in frigid damp sweat instead of splatter from a friend's bullet wound, from an ocean of blood.

He doesn't call Eren. Doesn't text. Doesn't say a goddamn thing at all.]

Hello, Akechi-kun! This is Dr. Maruki. I'm settling in and had time to set my phone up. The models really are old, huh... were you even born when we had phones like this!?

Anyhow, I wanted to thank you again for your kindness. I don't know what I would have done without you!

I recall them vaguely. Some of my classmates had them when I was young.

No need to thank me. It was no problem at all and I'm always happy to assist.

Though we would have crossed paths in time, it's a comfort to meet someone from the same world. I'm happy we met when we did.

Well... I'll keep thanking you, but I also might ask for your assistance again, the first time I go to visit the crystal.

I can't believe I typed that. Such a bizarre world...

Ah, but that was my reason for texting you! I wanted to check, you really haven't seen anyone else from Tokyo since you've been here?

Of course. I'll be happy to accompany you.

There are others from different versions of Tokyo, as well as variations of Earth, fantastical as that is to say. The similarities tend to end at the name for most.

Though I haven't met everyone here. I can't claim with 100% certainty we're the only ones from our version of Tokyo.

"Our" Tokyo versus the Tokyo others have known... Not just a matter of perception, but a whole separate reality. That's a fascinating concept.

And a bit of a disappointment, if I'm honest.

Oh well! We may not have known each other there, but I'm glad you don't have to be alone anymore, Akechi-kun. I hope I can help you as much as you've helped me.

['You don't have to be alone anymore-as if he cared about such trivial shit. It's easier to blend in without those who know him, even at the barest level. Having to feign an additional level of care-

It's exhausting. Impossible to know what will or won't remain of their memories upon ripping this place apart and settling back where they belong. He can't risk someone ruining his image or gossiping to magazines about his behavior. Pretend. Play it up. Act like he cares. Act like this matters. Act like it isn't a shady coincidence that this particular counselor appeared from nowhere.]

Your presence is enough to help. It's a comfort to know someone familiar with the things I'm used to is a simple phone call away. Who wouldn't feel better knowing that.

However you said it's a a disappointment? How so? That's a curious take on our situation.

[ It's true!!! Who WOULDN'T feel better knowing that. So glad they agree :) nice boy friendly boy :)

Maruki sends each line as a new message. Have fun with that, Akechi. This is what Akira was enjoying on a weekly basis. ]

Oh, I just mean... Well, based on our discussion before, I'm sure you've had some of these same thoughts.

In theory, the existence of a reality like this is incredible.

People from different worlds being pulled into the same reality?

And a reality that appears to be based in the collective unconscious of dreams?

I never would have imagined I'd actually experience something like that. I want to study it, if that's even possible.

There must be some commonalities that tie everyone here together.

Not just you and I, everyone. Even if we come from vastly different worlds.

And how much of this is happening only in our own minds? How are we influencing one another's cognition? It's fascinating.

But in practice... There are people that I was looking forward to seeing who aren't here, and no way of knowing when or how I will see them again.

That's all I meant by that. A personal disappointment being weighed against quite a lot of professional interest!

Edited (oh my god caitlin get it together) 2024-05-06 18:20 (UTC)

[The rapid fire texts bother him less than-

Cognition.

Dr. Maruki - related to Shujin Academy, a mention of a collective unconscious, of cognition. A fascination with their predicament over anger. It shouldn't surprise him from a doctor, but-

He doesn't like it. It worries into his gut, his chest - paranoia weighing heavier than logic. Those gut emotions that rip through him are meant for survival and he won'tignore it.]

In truth, we do hold similar thoughts on the matter. Investigations are yielding little and it's difficult to discern what's correlation or causation in the few similarities shared among others. Though there are patterns in everything and it's a matter of figuring it out. Once we do, it's a process of elimination.

However in reference to influence - Vaeros seems to control this reality. His temperament and demeanor warp the world at random. It's unconfirmed whether this is conscious or unconscious, though after recent events...

[He's certain they're being treated like grotesque dolls in a shitty house. A group watching from the shadows, a cabal with an unknown goal, a distraction in the form of a shitty tantruming palace ruler.]

It's a bit more enlightening than it used to be. It may not be long before you're able to see those people you're eager to meet again.

That's the other side of the coin though, isn't it? As nice as it would be to see them again, I'm not sure I would want them to be here, for their sake.

[ He has heard enough about what goes on here from a few of the dreamtime patients that he is 99.9% certain this reality could cause more pain than even their old one. ]

Have you been investigating then, Akechi-kun? I should have figured!

Agreed. Being held against our will after supposedly signing a contract - that's something I would never wish on another person. To be toyed with like this is quite disturbing.

But yes, I have. It's in my nature to so. There are other talented detectives here as well. In due time, we should have an answer to this situation and a way to return to our home.

[Killing Vaeros and his cabal will do it. That he's assured of and planning on. It's the matter of finding them that's the issue.]

I don't doubt it. Thank you for your hard work.

I'm going to do my own digging once I've gotten a few more things set up. Ah, maybe this is presumptuous, but... If I can be of any assistance, I would be honored to work with you. I may not be a detective, but I think that my research background could come in handy.

[The closer Maruki is-

The better, for the time being. This isn't unwanted. Until a connection is clear and he can figure out what's exploitable in his connections.]

It would mean a lot to have someone with your skillset as an ally here. Periodically, I'm lucky enough to have the chance to work with talented people.

[A barista, a teenager who didn't realize the extent of rot in the world, who was talented beyond measure and a casualty of an unjust world.]

I would like if you became one of them. I believe the more we work together, the greater chance we have of solving the mystery before us.

Really? That's great, Akechi-kun. We have a deal!

[ Ah, that's familiar. ]

I'll share any information I gather and theories I begin building with you. Please call on me whenever you'd like my assistance, no matter the time or reason.

Edited 2024-05-06 19:43 (UTC)

Likewise. I will open my schedule whenever you require it.

As I start to get answers, I will convey them to you so we can pool our resources.

We'll find a way back to our true reality.

[The extent of what Akechi's willing to share with this rando - time will tell.]

We will. Whatever it takes.

See you soon, Akechi-kun.

[Before Akechi can even begin to deny the dream they shared:]

Now that we’re friends, are you going to pay monthly for your meals, or are you going to let me just drop them off for free? I don’t feel much like arguing, so just tell me.

[You know who was content to ignore the entire goddamn ordeal? This guy. The dream should have dissipated upon awakening - that's how normal ones work. Eren isn't the type to keep a shitty dream journal by his bed to reflect and-

Of course he would remember. Would take it seriously. Would think Akechi Goro was seated in a ocean of blood with him.

He doesn't answer immediately. The message sits for at least an hour before he settles on a response.]

Did you bump your head? I don't know what's made such a change of heart happen, but I won't deny it's a pleasant surprise.

However, I don't plan to argue with you. That's not my intent. I'm only concerned about your sudden shift in attitude.

[Oh, for fuck’s sake.]

I dreamt of you, Darling. What? You don’t remember?

[Darling?

The intrusive thoughts are winning. The next text taking an exceptional amount of time to come through.

With Eren this adamant, a tenacious attitude present even on the most minor issues, he needs to change tactics.]

No, I don't remember. It's quite a blur and I often find myself unable to recall details of my dreams.

Though again, I don't mind the shift the attitude. If a friend is requesting I support their business, who am I to deny such a thing.

Yeah, whatever. You're a worse liar than you think you are.

[I showed myself to you.]

Actually, it's just embarrassing. Do you realize that? It's pathetic.

[Every slung insult annoys the shit out of him - his fingers on the keyboard a savior, since he can't bark out an instant retort. Someone this adamant and resolute in his view - Eren never ceases to surprise him. He hates him. ]

You're speaking with a lot of confidence.

Would you really want someone to remember such a private matter? I would think you'd be grateful for my lapse in memory.

What private matter? All I said was that we became friends. Remembering something else?

Idiot.

[He hates Eren. He hates Eren.]

Perhaps my memory is being jogged the longer we talk. How convenient. The subconscious is truly something else.

Truly.

So you'll be paying monthly, then?

Yes.

Okay. Just pay me when I drop off and at the beginning of every month, then.

I'm supposed to ask if you have dietary restrictions, but frankly, you're getting what you get.

Very well.

Though I would recommend you don't ignore a person's allergies. I don't have any though. I'll eat what you provide for the price discussed. Quite frankly, I'm not picky and just need something to sustain myself.

[He keeps forgetting people have allergies--]

Lucky for you, it's good food. I'm realizing you haven't tried it yet.

In fact, I bet it's so good it'll probably piss you off.

When have I ever lost my temper around you? You can't possibly think good food would anger me. I welcome it, actually.

I can see the rage behind your eyes. You kinda space out for a second just staring at me like you want to cut me in half.

[Wow, he hates Eren. Time to look at the sun instead of his stupid goddamn face. ]

It's a bad habit of mine to let my thoughts wander, but it's never with ill intent. There's a lot on my mind at all times.

Sure. Wanna talk about it?

Not particularly, though I appreciate your offer. It's all rather minor.

[He doesn't believe that for a second, but whatever.]

Whatever you say. Offer stands.

I drop off meals in the afternoons.

[It's only intense rage @ his patricidal plans being on the backburner it's chill it's gucci.]

Thank you. If I'm not there, simply leave it out front. Either Vash or myself will bring it in later.

[His address is sent a few seconds after the previous text.]

👍

[And that's that about that.]

Good morning! Ready to head out?

[Charlie??? The username is unfamiliar, but he chats with so many people. ]

Good morning.

My apologies - could you refresh my memory? I can't recall where we're going.

( Who the god damn hell is Akechi-)

Oh, whoops! Sorry, that was meant for someone else. But you can come too, if you want! I'm heading to the bakery in town!

It's quite alright. You don't need to invite me simply because of a username mistake.

Who are you looking for?

My dad. And I don't mind! I'm always happy to meet new people, so you should come along anyway.

[Will he ever understand what drives people to just randomly invite strangers into their routines? No, never, but he's supposed to be courteous and nice. Make an effort. This rando invited him. He should accept. It may lead to something worthwhile.]

That's kind of you to offer then. I'll take you up on it.

Who is your dad though? Perhaps I can point you into the right direction.

Lucifer! King of Hell, wears a big hat, loves rubber ducks like a loooooot.

[ Occasionally, Maruki indulges in tiny bouts of spite.

He's not perfect! He never claimed to be perfect. And to be fair, it's not something he genuinely holds against Akechi; he has no ill will toward him whatsoever. But once he found a dark, empty hillside hole to pass out in, he did have the thought that it would have been polite to be invited to the castle at some point, just for a brief respite in its more modern amenities.

Of course, he'd also never impose on Akechi and ask to come over, so that minor irritation circled firmly back to himself and his own behavior, as they all do. God bless Vash for intervening.

That said, it does please him to have Akechi come give him directions that he doesn't need. He packs up his truly pathetic satchel (contents: a potion he will not drink, that contract he hates, and half a sandwich from Eren) and meets Akechi outside the cafe, more grateful than ever. ]

Good afternoon, Akechi-kun. Sorry to impose on your castle. Hopefully Vash asked you before extending the invitation?

[Maybe things would have been different if Doctor Prince Maruki had arrived instead of the humble, kind-hearted researcher who apparated into existence instead. Sucks to suck.

But it's typical - a familiar path leading him back towards the good doctor. Vash, stupid as he is, continues to offer his home to random strays. It'll backfire one day with Akechi or the supposed unknown cognitive psience researcher. It's all-

Just a little too convenient - threads tied into a bow for a bomb wrapped as present. Nothing is coincidental.

When Maruki appears, Akechi pulls his own intense gaze away from his phone screen to the satchel over Maruki's shoulder - armed with the clothes on his back and an ever-present smile.]

It's not my home to impose on. I'm simply living in a room - I had nothing to do with its formation nor do I have a say on who arrives. Your presence will be welcome though. I'm not against your arrival in the slightest.

[ WELL GUESS WHO'S A PRINCE NOW TOO, G O R O

It's still difficult not to feel like he's crashing in on something he shouldn't be crashing in on, but, well. It is a castle. It's not like they'll be sharing a wall.

(They will be sharing a wall.)

Maruki smiles at him even wider, eyes crinkling up behind his glasses. ]

Thank you. If nothing else, I'll ingratiate myself by cooking dinner tonight. Vash said no one who lives there is much good in the kitchen.

[ He isn't even going to beat around the bush as Akechi leads them to the castle and nods to his phone. ]

Were you still interrogating the moon?

Edited 2024-05-13 00:37 (UTC)

I saw. You may be disappointed by our lack of ingredients. I'm not sure what you'll make from what's there, but I'll be certain to repay you for whatever you make. Much like Vash, I'm not picky.

[Leftovers and donuts - somehow there always seems to be one or two of those pastries lying around. Eren's meals sustaining Akechi at a minimum. A debt to Vash paid in portions of those meals, a debt to Maruki paid another way. Trust in the altruism of a man who might be involved in the same shady undercurrents he's woven into is impossible.

Which leads him to clench his phone tight - a single motion sliding it into his pocket as they move, a smile plastering itself to his face with the gesture.]

No, I wasn't. [He was. The :) a grudge burned into his skull.] I've moved on from that fruitless endeavor. I was simply reading other people's bios this month. They're always interesting.

[ It actually makes him laugh, sudden and genuine, the beautiful chaos that was Sleepr forgotten for a second. He'll get back to that. ]

Wait, have I not told you how broke I was in Tokyo? I can cobble together a meal out of just about anything. It won't be gourmet, but I can promise it'll be tasty.

[ He'll go out to pick up ingredients tomorrow, slightly less manic about hoarding his shards now that he has a business license in process. But only slightly. There are other things he knows he needs.

He tucks his hands into his pockets as they walk, kicks a rock out of their path. ]

And you won't be repaying me. As I told Vash, I enjoy cooking for others. If we live together, it's just second nature.

[ lethimtakecareofyoulethimtakecareofyoulethimtakecareofyou ]

I see - then I look forward to it.

[A broke counselor feels too on the nose to comment on. He's aware it's a field that pays little and burns out those who take it on faster than new graduates can keep up. It's interesting to see how people destroy themselves for the supposed sake of others.]

However you'll have to forgive me for being blunt - my comment wasn't asking for permission. It was to prepare you for what I will do. If you have a preferred method of being paid back, now's the time to let me know.

[No negotiation. Unrelenting. A bitterness sown in his previous conversation boiling over into this one. He doesn't trust Maruki or Vash and isn't about to have multiple people in the same household trying to bait future favors out of him. Zazie, to their credit, asks and wants for nothing.]

My suggestion would be to allow me to purchase some items for you - perhaps a blanket or something useful you might need for the future.

[ From one guy who pretty much only deals in transactional relationships to another: This is so sad to see in action. Is this how he acts? Ugh.

Maruki won't argue it, though. He understands the impulse. They'll have plenty of time together, anyway. No shortage of opportunities to gently steer Akechi away from thinking of their friendship in terms of debts to be paid. ]

If you insist! A blanket might be nice... I've just been using my coat since the ones on the bed where I was seemed, ah...

[ Wrinkles his nose. This place needs the simple, clean efficiency of a capsule hotel or something. ]

Anyhow, don't put yourself out on my account, really. I'm happy with anything.

The options are dire here. Nothing will replace what Tokyo can offer, unfortunately. At a minimum, I'll make sure you're prepared to sleep in any kind of weather. It's one less worry to concern yourself with.

[It's an easy exchange to make and fair for both parties - the edge in his tone dissipates when Maruki caves. A blanket is simple - likely a pillow too. Meals aren't worth a better mattress, but he can provide the basics from the marketplace. Thin blanket for summer, thick one for potential winter. The thought of being here that long-

He holds back a frustrated exhale - adjusts the cuff of his gloves instead. Whatever. ]

On that note - what else do you have?

[A GUN? Shido's shell company credit card? Diabolical plans written on cognitive papers????]

Ah– what else?

[ He will fully take the satchel off his shoulder and open it to show Akechi. It is incredibly empty. ]

Oh, actually, this belongs to you now.

[ He takes out the potion and hands it off. ]

I saw Eren-kun transform into animals. He explained the potions. I want nothing to do with them. Do whatever you want with it. So now, as you can see, I have nothing but a contract!

[I saw Eren-kun trans- are the last words this bottle will ever hear. An instant and brutal throw at the first glimmer in his peripheral vision. The nearest goddamn window a sudden target of three months of wrath. It doesn't shatter the glass - the bottle is the only causality and the blue liquid seeps against it like forgotten cleaner.

Cool! He feels a little better. What he hell else did Maruki say? His voiced turned to static for a couple minutes. He backtracks. Heard it. Only a contract left. This man truly has nothing.

Akechi arrived in the same manner. It's bizarre how familiar this feels.]

I should have known a researcher would understand how dangerous it is to put our faith in a random bottle of liquid promising power. Mine is in my room as well. Untouched, of course. I refuse to play our captor's games.

[ And there it goes. Secretly, Maruki gets a little satisfaction out of seeing it smash too. He's going to hide his smile in the collar of his jacket like god intended. ]

I know that I'm probably stuck in my ways by only thinking about things in terms of the metrics that I'm used to instead of giving in to the logic of this reality, but in my opinion, a magical potion isn't simply a magical potion. It's more cognitive manipulation. So no, I won't put any faith in it.

[ Okay, there's no hiding the smile anymore. ]

Why don't you smash yours too?

[That's a +1 in his book and an apt observation. It's manipulation in some form - cognitive or otherwise. The nefarious nature of the potion's price still looming over those that took it and they seem none the wiser.]

I'm a calm person. I don't feel the need to act out often and as such, I've simply let it be. My only goal is to keep it for negotiation or payment, should the need arise.

[He eyes the sopping mess - watches the blue drip, drip in the rural paths before continuing on their way.]

Perhaps it can even be useful as window cleaner in the future.

[ Oh, they're just +♪♪♪ all over the place, aren't they! Maruki admires that kind of forward thinking. His impulsiveness to destroy that potion immediately was only tempered by his fear that it might explode, or summon monsters, or otherwise maim him somehow. ]

Perhaps. If that's the case, I'd say you've done your good deed for the day.

[ For the most part, Maruki has been Struggling with connecting with people outside of counseling – those transactional relationships and all. Sleepr made it easier, so reminiscent of texting the Phantom Thieves – and this, this wandering and chattering and gentle sarcastic joking is so reminiscent of his time with Akira.

It's a strange thing to consider, especially as he's spent his time here carefully edging around the chasm of disappointment in the middle of his mind that is Akira's absence. He clears his throat to banish the thought. ]

You mentioned the bios on that application – the ones that are auto-generated seem a little too knowledgeable, don't you think?

[It's surprising -

A detective prince has an image to maintain. One he has a vice grip on, especially around a man who could run to tabloids at best or Shido's shadow at worst. The instantaneous destruction of that bottle doesn't fit that image.

And Maruki doesn't seem to care. Not a single admonishment or threat behind his words, not that he has ground to stand on without proof. Those displays and slips easy to deny when there's only word against word.

Maruki is really full of surprises.

The next question gives him pause - his first Sleepr post a persistent memory. It purveys the truth with an exceptional degree of accuracy. It's something he could check past posts of, though he doubts the same investigative instinct lies within the doctor.

A hand rests under his chin - eyes to the ground and then Maruki himself.]

Sometimes. Other times they seem to be glitches. I witnessed one such instance. [His own. He will deny it until the day he dies.] The distinction is difficult to make unless someone is willing to own up to it. Though it's troubling, isn't it? A contract that owns us, a program that has all our information stored within - we have no agency or privacy here.

[ Investigative instinct? No. Meddlesome nosiness? Yes. Trust and believe, He Will Be Backreading.

But he hasn't had the time or energy yet, too stretched thin between dream counseling, impromptu real counseling, and attempting to reestablish formal counseling.

This is one of the only things he has done entirely unrelated to his job, actually. It's a profound relief. Akechi can't possibly know how much. ]

That was my fear. My first assumption was that it was generating text based on messages that have been sent, even private ones, but then I began to wonder if its scope extended beyond that.

[ If it is a cognitive world, it stands to reason that anything within their cognitions – conscious or unconscious or subconscious – is fair game. ]

... Mm. This place.

[ He would like the privacy of a castle before he says more about cognitive psience, not that it will really make an appreciable difference, but it'll calm his mind. Also, still wild to think he'll be living in a castle! This place indeed.

He reaches into the satchel again to pull out the contract, which has been folded and crumpled pretty carelessly for such a seemingly important document. ]

When I awoke in the labyrinth, I ran into a girl. We both followed our orbs out together and compared our contracts. They're exactly the same. I assume yours is too, as is everyone's. Yes?

[The crumbled piece of paper is familiar, down to the worn erratic folds that show a complete lack of care.

Akechi hadn't been so kind - a 'contract' rolled into a ball between his palms and crushed. It didn't make him feel any better.]

Yes, all I've spoken to concur with that. Every experience has been the same in reference to waking up in the garden with the few items afforded to us and-

[Powers stifled and taken. Weapons in a different reality.]

A contract made under duress in a dream or in death.

[ What he expected. It doesn't confirm or deny anything. It just serves to further his suspicion that this is a cognitive world of some kind – he doesn't know the term Palace yet, but if he did, he'd be half-convinced. A template arrival seems like an obvious clue. A nonspecific contract and the manipulation of forcing their cognitions to conjure the thought of a wish.

Which, well. He has been curious. ]

Can I ask you, Akechi-kun... What were you doing before you were brought here?

[The question registers and then it doesn't. Untangles a sudden thought that bursts into his mind with blinding clarity.

No one has asked him that before and-

It's an invasive question that leads to the typical 'And what about you?' the reason he avoided it in turn. This is where-

Your justice ends.

A soft laugh mixed with an acidic sigh. A hand moved to his head before he realized and-

Someone from his world is here and he needs plausible deniability when real problems start to apparate from the fucking garden. The unintentional grip on his hair a savior, as he feigns deep thought - eyes closed and recalling-

Dripping red, acrid air, a dingy low lit room-

In vivid clarity so he opens them with effort.]

Ah, I apologize. It's been difficult for me to recollect exactly. It was a rather exhausting week, if I recall, and my schedule was packed to the brim. I get nauseous whenever I try to remember-

[Skull fragments, dulled and sharp, splashed against a metal wall and thunk a loud thunk he can't recall if there was any other sound but the thunk. Adrenaline and euphoria overwhelming to the point he might have puked then-

And now.

And so he drops his hand to his side, lets an uneasy smile take over. A gentle, unassuming exhale - like that simple act takes all his problems away.]

That's not the answer you were hoping for, I'm sure - it's not amnesia or anything of the sort. When I have time to reflect, the details will come to me. For now, it only gives me a headache.

[A small wave of his hand, as he adjusts their direction with a slight turn. A looming structure in sight, no longer out of reach.

He needs to lay down.]

But tell me - what were you doing?

[ When the answer doesn't come easily, and brings along with it apologetic caveats, a whole new file opens in Maruki's mind.

It would be too easy if they all shared something in common with their last remembered moments in their realities, but he already knows just from the few people he's asked that that's not the case. There is very little consistency in their actions or emotional states. Their wishes may or may not have been acute in their consciousness before they were probed to speak it. And those who come from the point of death pose another set of variables entirely. He's not expecting an answer from Akechi that will cast a sudden light onto any patterns or cognitive themes he's missed until now.

But this: The lack of clarity, the nausea, the headache. That's new.

Maruki doesn't interrogate him or let on that this is a new discovery on his side of things. He only looks at Akechi, concerned and sympathetic, and wants to help. ]

When we get to the castle, we don't need to do the crossword. I can make you a cup of tea and let you rest.

[ That's assuming these perpetual bachelors and one (1) bug(?) have tea, but if not, he'll go get some.

He watches as the castle steadily grows closer, larger in size, and speaks easily. ]

Ah, sorry. To answer your question, I was commuting home after visiting an old friend. It was late on Christmas Eve, the subway was relatively empty, and I nodded off.

[ The blood red sky through the high rise windows, his professor's ignorance, the spite and rebellion boiling over inside him, the voice made manifest. The deal they once struck resurfacing, gaining strength, sealing itself to his soul. Azathoth. A new contract.

He looks down at the crumpled paper in his hand and laughs, shrugs, shoves it back in the satchel. ]

I had just signed something before I fell asleep, so seeing the contract when I awoke was a funny coincidence. But that's really the only notable thing about it.

There's no need. Often even water makes it worse when this happens - I'll be fine after laying down for a few moments. It's only a little uncomfortable. In fact, I think the thought of that unfinished puzzle bothers me far more.

[The last thing he wants is some doting nobody trying to make him tea, like he's a child that needs coddled. He'll get back - lay down for a few minutes, let his stomach settle and refocus on weathered spots on the ceiling and-

Focus now on the tale Maruki offers with ease. Christmas Eve. Shido's election is secure - he doesn't need to question that. No doubt in his mind over their plan coming to fruition with the thieves out of commission. A blood drenched body to bring in the new year. When he looks at Maruki, a man none the wiser over the corruption exploiting him, he feels-

Better. Breathes easier. There's a future guaranteed with his presence by his side, no matter how bizarre his background is. A carefree, lackadaisical tone relaying a story to be expected of anyone with a job. Subway. Asleep. Contract.]

I wonder why each of us was chosen. It seems too intentional to be random and yet it's only minor coincidences that bind us all together - sleeping and dying. It's quite the mystery to unravel.

[ Too bad, this doting nobody is still going to make him that cup of tea – much later tonight, long after Akechi's stomach is settled. Just as a friendly peace offering between housemates. Get used to it, punk.

Maruki huffs a sigh at the same musing that keeps circling his head. ]

I have a hard time believing that anything that would happen here is random. Even you and I – there must be a reason for it, as there is for everything else. I know I haven't been here long, but the things I've been hearing...

[ He shakes his head and looks sidelong at Akechi. ]

I hope to uncover some of the answers to that mystery through my counseling. If this reality is influenced at all by our cognitions, then the patterns are likely to lie much deeper beneath the surface.

[ Emotional wounds, pains of the heart. Same as it ever was. ]

I could be chasing after the wrong idea, of course. But this does all seem a little t– oh, wow.

[ They're close enough now that the size of the castle becomes clear. Maruki lets the train of thought drop and laughs, a hand through his hair. ]

I know you said it was something out of a fairy tale, but you weren't kidding! And there are really only three of you living here? What do you even do with all of that space!?

Edited (i lied i wanna make it just slightly worse) 2024-05-16 11:51 (UTC)

[It slams into his body - like a door splitting him in two.

If this reality is influenced by our cognitions-

By Mementos.

By a shared delusion.

By the exploitation of a world unknown from someone who can warp, twist and bend reality in a way that feels impossible, until you travel through a world of shadows and humanity's whispers.

The counseling is only useful to Maruki. Information gleaned for him alone to collect and disperse - Akechi on the sidelines waiting for fucking scraps like a hungry dog. Waiting for an kind, benevolent person to spoon feed him information when it's deemed worthy.

If this is Mementos, he's more than capable of figuring out the shit happening here and-

He needs Loki back, more than ever.]

I look forward to the conclusion of your own investigation then. It should be worthwhile and provide some deeper insight that no one else can achieve but yourself.

[The castle's grander is nothing to scoff at. It's an experience most in Tokyo will never have, so Akechi doesn't blame the shocked reaction. It's far better than carving out a shitty life in a hovel underground.]

I'm unsure what Vash does with it. As I said, I only live in a single room and tend to keep to myself. It would be a shame if he decided his benevolence was no longer necessary by us poking around. He's quite kind, but I would hate to push it.

[Don't fuck this up FOR HIM MARUKI.]

[ Maruki gives him a curious little smile. There's keeping to yourself, and then there's never having even a cursory look around the place where you live. ]

Don't worry, I won't be poking around. I've lived entirely alone for... wow, ten years? Or more? So keeping to myself is all that I know.

[ With that said, he realizes just how strange it will be to share space again after so long – as ever, he rushed into this without much forethought and nothing but faith that it would all work out. Hopefully it will. He just has to remember what it's like to be around people.

He grins sidelong at Akechi as they enter. ]

I won't torment you by asking for a grand tour now. If you show me where that crossword is, I can take a look while you have a quick rest.

[ GORO AKECHI DISSOCIATION HOURS 2K24 LET'S GOOOOOO ]

I think you'll find it still has the comforts of living alone, despite the amount of people here. The space is large enough that privacy is respected. There are no issues.

[Honestly? Thank god. This is the second time he's had to play tour guide to Maruki in a couple weeks.

He does offer the kindness of verbally pointing out the restroom, the kitchen, a crossword still on a table in a shared living space and-

He's going to just go off and die for awhile. Don't mind him!! It's just [static hours] now.]

[ None the wiser!! Maruki's going to take the opportunity to familiarize himself with the layout of the ground floor and marvel at the fact that wow, yeah, this really is A CASTLE. Guy who has only lived in shoebox apartments in Tokyo says what??

The kitchen needs... a little work... The state of the refrigerator is tragic. What do these guys eat? Zazie eats raw meat and nothing else, apparently, but what about Akechi and Vash??

Take all the time you need, Akechums. This is dire and he has to fix it.

When Akechi eventually comes back to the living area, he'll find two cups of coffee on the table and Maruki curled up in the corner of a sofa with the journal he got to start writing down what he could remember from dream counseling in his lap. He isn't working on the crossword, he's writing an extensive grocery list to get this place fully stocked, but he will say without looking up: ]

Eight letters, suffering from malnutrition.

Edited 2024-05-18 09:40 (UTC)

[A new set of steps and noises feel odd in a castle that holds so few. Zazie keeps to themself. Vash is a consistent presence in other ways. A comfortable routine settled, familiar noises that remind him of his plodding neighbors back in Tokyo, enough distance between everyone that all sound is short lived.

Maruki does nothing outlandish, but he hears the fridge open, doors open and shut, tap, tap, tap along castle stone.

Maybe he's just searching for it - trying to memorize whatever Maruki does, so the second he steps out of line, acts abnormal, settles too close to his room-

He can be prepared.

A pounding headache and waves of nausea vanish within, what felt like, a few minutes laying on his shitty blanket - the sun is far too low in the sky for it to have been that.

By the time he ambles back out - Maruki is settled. That's fine. Vash invited him, so he should be the one to be a tour guide around this place. Akechi did the bare minimum and-]

Malnutrition?

[8 letters. Starved. No. Hunger. No. Famine. No.

It's bizarre how easy it is to settle into this game.]

Are there any revealed letters?

[ Maruki looks up and smiles mildly. ]

Underfed. That's what you guys are.

[ He glances back down, finishes the word he was in the middle of writing – dashi??? – and then holds it up for Akechi to see. ]

Groceries. I'll take care of it tomorrow.

[ He rolls himself up off the couch, already so much more relaxed in a home that has furniture that isn't in a state of disrepair, and crosses over to the table with the crossword and the coffees. ]

That one is yours if you'd like, but if your stomach is still off, I'll gladly drink both. I was just excited to have a coffee maker again!

[ He'd only given the crossword a glance earlier, not wanting to get too much of a head start if Akechi slept for a while, but there's one he spotted right away. ]

Founder of client-centered therapy. Rogers. That was all I found before I got distracted and it was just luck.

Oh, I do quite well for myself - thank you. I have three meals a day, just simply from town. I can't speak for the others in this castle though.

[The implication he doesn't take care of himself an annoying observation he rebukes instantly - confident and no hint of a lie belied in his tone.

But groceries are good, probably. Akechi doesn't bother with it. There's no point in this shithole and he won't cook. Maruki can do what he wants - he apparently lives here now and-

The coffee is accepted without a word - hot on his lips and with a much needed caffeine boost on the horizon. Spending all night laying around isn't productive.]

Thank you for the coffee and for the assistance. Rogers is...

[Noted, with small strokes of a pencil. Good. A familiar seat is settled into, coffee off the side, crossword on a counter-

Some things never change.]

That gives a four letter word for trash 'o' as the third letter and 's' as the first.

[This is the BANE of his existence - already hunched over the paper, scribbling different words for trash in the blank corner in small font.

UNREAL. He's so annoyed.]'

What sort of obscure word is this.

[ Maruki rests an elbow on the table and leans his cheek into the palm of one hand, tipping his head to watch the words Akechi scratches out. His brows furrow thoughtfully – they have half of the letters, they should be able to figure out the rest!! – as he sips his coffee. ]

No one on Sleepr had any ideas? Huh. Irritating...

[ s q u i n t ]

You're sure the other letters are correct?

Please don't underestimate me. The other letters are correct - that I can assure you.

[No ideas though - a bizarre cryptic word with no Google in sight to confirm what it is or isn't.

He taps at 2 down (10 letters) and 4 down (7 letters) - empty blocks that will complete this nightmare word Akechi will commit to memory for the rest of his life. He shifts the paper askew, so both of them can read it comfortably as he takes slow sips of non-LeBlanc coffee.

2 Down - Home of Alan Shepard Park has a '?' scribbled to the side and 4 Down - Emulate eels.]

Any ideas?

[ Maruki huffs a little laugh, already sort of fond. ]

I'm not underestimating you. Simply double checking. Let's see–

[ He doesn't even know what Alan Shepard Park is, so he focuses on the other and begins to scribble words along the margin on his side. ]

Squirms? No... Slither? Ah, what else do eels do...

[ He picks his head up to stare out the window, gaze unfocused, pencil pressed to his lips. ]

Wiggles? I feel like the clue doesn't indicate a conjugated verb, though.

Edited 2024-05-20 07:36 (UTC)

['Wiggles' is etched into the blocks, a few 'across' are solved with that word to prove it's correct.

Which leaves The Cursed Word. The most annoying four letters in existence. S-_-O-W.

He leans back against the chair - shuts his eyes to mentally run through every combination of characters imaginable. This shit is unreal.]

You know, detectives have a strong desire to solve every mystery set before them. Because of that, I've taken on many cases. Most haven't baffled me as much as this word.

[Old Lady with a missing pet?? Cheating scandals?? Even some murders were blatant in their motivation. The little day to day crimes he solved don't hold a candle to this.

There's a pause. He opens his eyes and-]

I'm going to the library first thing in the morning. If anything, a dictionary should help - hopefully the copies there are modern enough to have such a bizarre word. I'm starting to think it's slang from a different reality.

[ Maruki stares down at the paper, bewildered. He has a pretty extensive vocabulary, but this is new to him. He too starts running through letters in his head. ]

... Slow? As in, to slough off? No, that doesn't make sense.

[ Think, Takuto. THINK. You are smarter than a dictionary. You have a doctorate degree. ]

Depending on the level of pollution, snow can certainly become somewhat trash-like... Ah, that's not it either.

[ There are only so many sounds starting with s-consonant that it could be. He runs through them all in his head again and sighs. ]

I'm counting on you to defeat this evil tomorrow. It may haunt me.

Of course. A detective's goal is always to find the truth and this simple case is no exception to that.

[Slow, S_OW, Slough, Snow and other Words that Drive You Mad Part 1 - hopefully there's a book named that to keep him from having to spend his life searching through pages of an old fashioned dictionary.

When he gets back, he'll never take the internet for granted again.]

Shall we call it for the evening then? Maybe one of us will be hit with a stroke of genius while we sleep. It may not even require a trek to library.

[ Maruki exhales a derisive little laugh at that and shakes his head. ]

I flatter myself to think I've had several strokes of genius in my life, but none would come close to being able to puzzle this one out.

[ Seriously. Stow? Show? Spow? SPOW ISN'T EVEN A WORD. What could it BE.

He's happy to admit defeat for the night and finishes off his coffee, gathers their cups. ]

But no, you're right. I need to figure out my room situation, anyhow. We'll continue our battle tomorrow.

[ Despite the fact that it's been long years since he lived with someone and he hardly knows Akechi well, barely knows Vash or Zazie, it's all too easy for someone as desperate for connection as Maruki to fall into a comfortable domestic routine. Table cleared, cups washed and dried. Shoes by the door and jacket in a closet (not Zazie's). Good nights exchanged casually in passing. A warm shower, a warm bed, the quiet sounds of others going about their lives above and below and around him.

He won't know until he sees him again in the morning that he happened to pick the room directly next to Akechi's. ]

[ They've been home for nearly 72 hours.

The first 24 were spent dead asleep. Maruki awoke only when he'd accidentally shifted onto his back or his right side in his sleep, pain searing through his body at every angle. He would let himself gain just enough consciousness to readjust, then knock back out.

Truth be told, when he finally woke up enough to realize how hungry and filthy he was, he still could have slept for another twelve hours at least. But he'd forced himself up on day two, approximated a shower without getting his bandages wet and staggered down to the clinic.

Paranoia won out over pain, which says more about Maruki's shifting values in this hellish reality than he'd like to admit. He had refused any healing magic and opted to have his wounds cleaned out and stitched up. Another horrifically painful experience, but worth it for a wound much easier to tend to and some sense of security over his own free will. He came home, ate two meals from Eren, and returned back to his room for another night of blessedly dreamless sleep.

And so: Day three.

Maruki comes downstairs, hair still wet from the shower that's a huge pain in the ass to manage, right arm in its sling to give his shoulder a fighting chance at recovering well, and sees Akechi at the bar with coffee.

They've only seen each other in passing on the rare occasions they were both conscious at the same time, two bone tired ghosts moving through the same space.

Maruki doesn't hesitate before sliding into the seat next to his. He still has bruises and cuts all over his body, sees that Akechi does too. But it's a relief to see him without the bloodstains, at least.

Maruki looks sidelong at him, tone and expression both pleasantly mild. ]

Thank you for the floral bandage. It added some sorely needed flair to my otherwise grim appearance.

[ The stupid thing flaking off with the rest of his ruined bandages and gauze after he finally awoke, making his delirious laughter echo off the castle walls.

Little shit. ]

Edited 2024-05-30 10:47 (UTC)

[The second they woke up in that assortment of flowers, Akechi wiped the whole fucking scenario from his mind. His babysitting duty ended with that dead silent walk back to the castle and-

He slept. Can't remember the last time he collapsed to the floor that fast outside of his own dual awakening. That took almost a week to recover from, a beyond dire walk back to his condo from the subway. His teachers were annoyed at his sudden disappearance - someone in Shido's office smoothed it over.

It's a day this time. Almost 24 hours of near non-stop rest. The temptation to buy small padding to sleep on an urge he might indulge now that waking up from a stone floor has actual consequences.

The next 48 hours are normal - ghosting through halls, a shower that he stood in so long he thought the hot water would be used up. Stayed, honestly, to see how far a fantasy water heater could last - a battle lost after his skin started to prune to the point of annoyance. Bandages changed. Routine re-established.

Coffee returns to the kitchen on the third day - a sign of life from Maruki or a hint of mercy from Vash. The caffeine chases lingering exhaustion away and it's in that peace -

A ghost appears and settles next to him - makes a comment about the accent accessory Akechi nearly forgot about.]

Is that so? I was simply using every resource at our disposal at the time. I didn't pay attention to the pattern.

[The smile curling around the cup at his lips a bit too pleased for that.]

Maybe that's what pulled us out of that world - wouldn't that be funny?

[It would not, in fact, be funny at all.]

[ A huffed breath of a laugh; touchstone objects as a way of accessing the cognitive world was a hypothesis he had pursued and dismissed in his research. Akechi can't possibly know that, but it is funny.

The cognitive world that Akechi has been to. Used his persona in. Maruki can't address it now, still too worn out, but he also can't forget. ]

Hilarious, yes.

[ Loath as he is to move again once settled, he does to go get a cup for himself. His movements are slow, deliberate. Left hand unsteady with the pot, in the way a non-dominant hand is, but he concentrates all his effort on not spilling a drop of coffee. A spoonful of sugar. Forget the milk, he doesn't want to deal with it right now.

Task done, he seats himself again and looks Akechi over. ]

You've held up well, then?

[ Curious in a friendly way, not overbearing. The instinct to mother hen is dulled by both his own pain and having seen Akechi at work. Some level of respect forged under duress – a new feeling for Maruki, if he's honest with himself. He's never had an ally in anything but moaning over coursework and caseloads before. ]

Edited 2024-05-30 15:47 (UTC)

[There's no sympathy as he watches Maruki - not a single move made to assist. It's a valuable lesson. A necessary skill to learn.

But he watches anyway. Limited distress in Maruki's movements, aches clearly slowing him. The sling will be an issue to contend with, but it's not Akechi's problem in the slightest.

Dinner might be limited for the next few weeks - that part sucks.

He leans against the back of his chair, injured arm raising moving up and out for a dramatic stretch.

It hurts, in the dulled way he's used to with safe room injuries. None of it shows on his face.]

Of course. What kind of a Detective Prince would I be if I couldn't handle a few monsters? I would put every hero to shame.

[Hero being a goddamn laugh, but it's all a part to play. Hilarious, honestly.

With the display over - he lets his arm drop back to his side to nurse his coffee.]

When do you plan to see Venat?

[ The invocation of the Detective Prince title makes Maruki smile, wry and amused, eyebrows raised. He isn't about to poke holes in anything Akechi's doing or has done – in fact, he will gladly play his own part in maintaining the image as he's sure Akechi will in maintaining his – but it is funny. He knows now that that is anything but the whole truth.

The question, though– ]

Ah, well...

[ He scratches along his stubble and laughs, a little self-conscious. ]

I'm not sure that I will? I mean! Not to take care of this, anyway, I'm sure I'll see her soon regardless. I haven't made up my mind just yet, but...

[ He is fully aware how inane it is to not take advantage of a power offered to him freely, one that he trusts and knows works. It's difficult to explain. There is, of course, the emotional side of things – which he has absolutely no interest in divulging to the teenager he lives with, ally or not – but the practical side as well.

Maruki sips his coffee thoughtfully, mulls it over, then opts for honesty. ]

You may or may not agree with my thinking here, but I'm trying to find some value in the consequences of my own pain.

[ Which, yes, sounds really weird when said out loud. He hears it, winces and tries again. ]

I guess what I'm trying to say is... If anything even remotely similar to what we went through awaits me in the future, either here or in our true reality, then I want to be prepared to handle all aspects of it. Relying on a power outside of my own, in this case, feels like a step sideways at best.

[ He isn't explaining it well. He can't possibly manage to summarize a lifetime of pathologically avoiding pain to Akechi. Hopefully it makes some small amount of sense. ]

Is that so?

[That's-

Unexpected.

He reassess Maruki with a side-eye over steaming hot coffee. It's a respectable, somewhat idiotic, position to take. Hesitation over unfamiliar healing powers a factor he can understand and-

The only person you can rely on is yourself. Exploitation works if the consequences are clear, but those relationships are fragile, broken fast and burned to the ground in split second decisions and realizations of distrust.

Maruki has the right idea.

The comment about the true reality - an implication he will be getting into the Metaverse an annoying reminder of the future. One with a bullet in Maruki's skull the second he figures out the bizarre application on his phone and screws around in places he shouldn't.

He should have added the dinosaur band-aid he found later, a few hours into Maruki's sleep - slapped it right next to the floral printed bandage. The cartoonish versions of creatures they were battling looked stupid - would've been ridiculous plastered to an injury caused by one. A small price to pay for the future problems this asshole is going to cause him.

Next time.]

It's your decision. I can't say I'm for or against it. My only comment on the matter is to keep a pulse on how the town is acting and reacting to certain scenarios. The world can be unjust and cruel - sometimes you don't get the luxury of maintaining your values over survival.

[Small sips. Fresh. Hot. Still not Leblanc.]

But historically speaking, after the labyrinth opens, we have a couple weeks of peace. That should give you enough time to heal on your own to the greatest extent possible.

[ It's valuable advice, and appreciated. The thing is that Maruki cannot stop keeping a pulse on how the inhabitants of Somnius are acting and reacting. It's something he can't turn off, all of the compulsions of his analytical mind and obsessions over how realities function ramped up to 11.

Only a few days away from his usual routine of field research, network reading and information gathering via potential counseling patients has him feeling an itch just beneath his skin. He has to get back to it, to trying to suss out the truth of this fucking place.

Breathe. Smile. Shrug one shoulder. ]

Survival is paramount, I know that now.

[ Akechi must be aware that he's already shelved his own values once. He has seen Maruki in ways that no one has, and likely no one will. There is such a tenuous thread of trust connecting them now, in every word and action, no matter how seemingly insignificant. ]

That's good to hear about the usual pattern of things, though. I'll focus on my recuperation. Let me apologize in advance for how simplified my cooking is about to become for a little while.

[ Which reminds him. His expression turns bright and teasing. ]

Did you prefer what we went through, or your green milk experience?

[A comment about cooking dies on his lips the second green milk experience rears its ugly head. A room full of dry, sugary cereal. His stomach hurt for days afterwards.

His face falls, displeasure and disgust made clear with a single look.]

I'll wait until I have one more experience in the labyrinth before I give my final response to that. As it stands now - the monsters by far. The amount of cereal I had to eat to leave the other room was...excessive.

[His stomach's churning at the memory and he slumps forward wtih a large sip to settle it back down. He's being so brave right now.

The thought of food leading him back to-

Cooking. A second of thoughtful silence - Maruki's seen him in a way he shouldn't have. They're back in reality now and he needs to reframe his image in a more positive light. That means being helpful.]

And while I can't say I'll be useful with my limited experience, if you need assistance cooking I'm available. We could also order additional food from Eren's business for awhile - he already delivers daily. Tacking on a few extra meals should be no issue.

[ Well, he didn't expect that.

The offer extended, not the answer about the labyrinth. Even if the room were full of one's favorite food instead of cereal, he has a feeling Akechi would still choose the monsters.

He grins at Akechi, wide and sincere. ]

Really? I'd welcome the help! Ah, not that I ever mind doing it on my own, I really do enjoy it... But it might be fun to cobble together a meal or two together, if you're up for it.

[ Hacking monsters to bits, chopping vegetables. Same difference. ]

But yes, we should take advantage of Eren's service as well... It really is a tremendous kindness he and Jean do for the people here.

[ He is keenly aware of how casual he's become in speaking to Akechi and resolves to button it back up around others. But here and now, the castle otherwise empty save for Zazie lurking in the nooks and crannies– it's fine.

Maruki finishes off the coffee, stands to get another. He is still so exhausted.

He gestures toward Akechi's cup, a silent offer to top him off if he'd like, and tentatively puts forth one thing that's been bothering him in his scant waking hours. ]

I don't want to inundate you with questions, but could I ask you something about what we now both know we can do?

Edited 2024-05-30 18:35 (UTC)

[He might as well take advantage of the opportunity to learn something. As long as he doesn't have to chop up a raw fish again, it's fine. The lesson with Izutsumi a valuable one, even if he hasn't made an attempt to cook again. There's no need with two soft hearted fools who have decided to make it their life mission to feed others. As long as Akechi pays them, it's fine.

It won't matter once he's back in Tokyo, within walking distance of a Triple 7 again.

He pushes his cup forward at the silent offer - has it topped off because who knows what Maruki's going to ask.

I don't know is in his arsenal though. No matter what, he can brush off anything that's considered too much.]

Of course. Please feel free to ask what you want, as long as you're aware I may not have a sufficient answer for you. I'm new to this as well.

Edited (holy fuckin words batman) 2024-05-30 18:50 (UTC)

[ Maruki smiles at him gratefully, refills both their cups. He doesn't return to sit this time, his back already tender and sore from the chair. Just leans a hip against the counter across from him and rests there, a little slouched.

Akechi may be new to this, but Maruki remembers every word of their discussion about cognitive realities and the collective unconscious. That diagram. He either understands more than he realizes, or more than he's willing to let on.

Maruki does too, so it's fine. ]

How to put this...

[ This question, though, is a genuine gap in his knowledge. Most will be. He's working with so little practical knowledge about anything, and even if Akechi can't– or won't answer, it helps to get his thoughts out in some sort of concrete form. ]

You mentioned that you awoke to your– ah, persona, in the cognitive world. I clearly did not. You also said parts of my experience sounded atypical.

[ Put together the pieces, Takuto. ]

With what little I do know, it makes much more sense for that to occur in a cognition. That's the norm, then, right? Based on what accounts you've heard?

Correct. While my own set of evidence is limited, the norm thus far has been to awaken in the cognitive world alone. You're the first I know of to have it happen in reality. It's very strange.

[It makes him odd and odd is dangerous. Odd is a guy who can wield more personas than any person could feasibly count. Odd is a sudden onslaught of random goddamn teenagers traversing around the hearts of others.

He stares down at the coffee - blows lightly on the top of it.

Information needs to be carefully divvyed out, but they've toed this discussion in the convenience store. So far, it's fine.]

And you hearing a voice for a great deal of time prior - that is abnormal. I only heard Robin Hood when it awoke. Others follow a similar pattern.

[ Look. Listen. Between you and me, between the privacy of brackets, Maruki already knows he's different. Special. Granted access to a power entirely unrelated to combat, and then propelled into an ascent to something akin to godhood until it got ripped from his hands. That is not the norm. He could guess that without Akechi ever telling him a single scrap of information more.

But simple aspects like length of time before awakening to this power? If multiple people have done it, and if it follows any laws of cognitive psience at all, then something as basic as that shouldn't fall outside standard conventions.

His dumbfounded look is completely, entirely genuine. ]

Really?

[ FOR REAL? ]

That's...

[ A nervous little laugh. Huh. Okay. ]

That's incredibly bizarre.

[ Like maybe this was less a manifestation of his own will, and more an entity making deliberate contact. ]

What do you make of that?

[ And then he sets his cup down quickly and presses his palm to his forehead, frenetically apologetic. ]

Ah, I'm sorry to ask you so many esoteric questions! If you don't have any thoughts on the matter, I understand. Seriously. What a weird thing...

[There's an opportunity in this leading question. A hand presses to his chin in thought - as if pondering the open ended question Maruki provided.

No, he has something else in mind. A way to see the extent of his true knowledge. Potentially catch him in one of his many lies, find out if there's an increasingly unlikely affiliation to Shido and-

His arms cross over his chest, tone apologetic and subdued. Feigned in every extent possible.]

As a detective, this is a mystery I would desperately love to solve. However...my apologies. I don't have any leading theories on the matter. The cognitive world is a recent research topic for me and I'm not experienced enough in it to provide anything worthwhile.

[A sigh and he leans forward, resting elbows on the counter and his chin against raised, folded hands.]

If only we had Wakaba Isshiki's notes here. She was quite the prominent researcher in that field, wasn't she? It's a shame about what happened to her.

[ His hand drops from his forehead as Akechi speaks, glad to not have caused any offense with his strange and selfish questions. It's something for him to dwell on as he waits for the opportunity to visit that crystal again.

But then– ]

Oh, you've read Isshiki-san's research?

[ It's said with a sort of tempered, mild surprise. He knows Akechi has an interest in cognitive psience, and it's not as if there are many big names in their field. It makes sense that he would have found it during the early stages of his own research. Everything she did was foundational. Maruki's own work owes a tremendous debt to her. The only unexpected thing here is hearing a name only ever spoken in university lecture halls and research labs right here, in Somnius of all places. Like seeing your teacher at the grocery store.

His mouth downturns a bit, brows knitting together in sympathy. Any death is tragic; any suicide, doubly so. He may not have known her, but he doesn't like to think about such things. ]

Yes, it was a tragedy in our field. I never met her, but her work was second to none.

[ Until his own, of course. Cut off, unrecognized.

He's halfway through thinking of a way to say that he's so deeply familiar with every word Wakaba Isshiki ever published that he can confidently say there was nothing in there that would help with this persona conundrum, without sounding like he's inflating his own ego too much, when a more pertinent thought occurs to him and he looks at Akechi, wide-eyed. ]

That library. It's not outside the realm of possibility that cognitive psience books could appear there, is it?

Edited (you ever just fuckin not finish a thought) 2024-05-30 21:34 (UTC)

Read is a generous description of what I did. It was beyond my understanding at the time I saw it. Glanced through, is more appropriate.

[A single truth in that statement - he did flip through the complicated documents to glean information about a world he visited almost daily. All the general knowledge in the world and deductive reasoning can't parse out a complicated research paper, when your background is basically I went there a few times.

Things escalated and he never thought to touch it again. The knowledge of her suicide resulting in a daughter losing her parent -

Didn't bother him and-

Maruki doesn't say much. Akechi can't confirm anything with confidence, but the way he sounds, the words he uses, the expression on his face -

The likelihood of him being involved with Shido as a part of his personal group of researchers has plummeted deep into the earth. Not impossible, since Maruki's a liar, but-

Improbable.]

To your question - it stands to reason that it's possible. Finding specific information on such a niche topic will truly be like searching for a needle in a haystack, so-

[His arms slide back to his lap, move to touch the cup and settle against the edge of the table to grip.]

When I'm there I'll also look for those books. Two people searching holds a higher chance of success after all.

[ None the wiser to anything out of the ordinary in the conversation, and all too happy to let the subject of a deceased researcher and mother drop, Maruki smiles tentatively. ]

Sounds like a plan. I can't say that I expect to find anything, but who knows? Stranger things have happened.

[ If you want something badly enough, it can happen. If you believe, it can become reality.

God, he needs to pay a visit to the crystal.

Which reminds him: It was in this kitchen, with the two of them in these exact positions on opposite sides of the bar, that they both lied about not having any inherent abilities. Pleasantly, politely, easily.

Maruki doesn't feel an ounce of ill will toward Akechi for it. It would be entirely hypocritical, for one thing – and for another, just as he had his own reasons to keep quiet, he knows Akechi must have too. Strangely, the truth of their mutual lies surfacing has only made him trust Akechi more. Something within him might be wired wrong, but his heart hasn't steered him astray yet.

His smile turns wry and appreciative, and he sips his coffee with raised eyebrows. ]

You really tricked me, you know. About not having any abilities.

Edited (that subject line only made sense with the original direction i was gonna take this that made no sense lol tired) 2024-05-31 08:37 (UTC)

I could say the same about you. However, I'm assuming for both of us it was a self-preservation tactic. We come from a world where that isn't normal.

[A wave of his hand, as if brushing off the thought entirely. Akechi won't forget he's a liar, but in discussion of powers, it makes sense.]

If we were to go back and you were to tell the tabloids I thought Robin Hood was in my body, well, that would certainly ruin my career, wouldn't it?

[The coffee's lukewarm already - the previous topic souring the taste when he takes small sips.]

And I could ruin your life in Tokyo easily. All it would take are a few comments on Good Morning Japan about a counselor who hears a being called Azathoth.

[THREAT.]

I'm just happy there's a certain degree of trust between us now.

[ It's a threat, sure, but it also makes him laugh. Genuine, and a little sardonic, and fond.

They're both liars, so Akechi has no reason to take what he says now at face value. Maruki knows that. He says it anyway, eyes alight with his total honesty. ]

I can assure you that if we return to our reality with our memories of this place intact, I don't plan to breathe a word about you.

[ He hasn't actually thought about it this way before, but... ]

I guess I see what's happening to us here as... a closed circuit, so to speak. One where you have my promise of total confidentiality, which carries over into our reality or, god forbid, any other one.

[ It's so simple, really. It just took a spin in the labyrinth to crystallize it in Maruki's mind.

He smiles at Akechi. ]

You're my ally. I'll maintain your image.

[ Not a threat. A promise. ]

['You're my ally' uttered with unexpected sincerity and-

'I'll maintain your image' added with a double meaning that -

He wouldn't assume for any other person in this world. A promise to keep what he's seen under wraps in Tokyo - an almost pointless consolation when Shido's resources are at his disposal.

It's not the first time someone tried to out him - information on his family history a google search away. My mother died of an illness to reporters and His mother killed herself plastered on 2Chan forums as a mockery and-

It's wiped away, always. Blacklisted and ignored. Shido's resources second to none and Akechi's image vital to maintain for all. Whatever Maruki uttered wouldn't matter. It's-

The second comment. The second meaning. A separate promise from a liar with secrets of his own to bury deep.

The wall past Maruki turns into blooms of colors and sharp, bright lines. He didn't blink. He does now, focuses on the damaged, slinged arm and-

Then back to his lukewarm coffee. Visions of shared battles, of thinly coiled words, of-

He opens his mouth - tone practiced, neutral and calm.]

Right. Thank you.

[Pause. He spins the cup to grab the handle with his left hand.]

I'll do the same though if I may be so bold - we will remember. I will not allow this place to control my memories. We won't forget the time here when we return to our true reality. I'll be holding you to your promise.

[ It's a relief that Akechi does seem to take him at his word, and doesn't fight it. And promises the same.

A hesitation in his heart. Does he trust it?

He thinks he does.

On the off chance he's wrong, though, and Akechi goes on a path of destruction against him upon their return– well, it would devastate him on several personal levels. But it wouldn't matter for long. It would be undone, like every other grave injustice, every pain point, every mistake. An ideal reality is only days away.

He would like to have that chess match and tempura udon first, though.

But more than all of that– ]

Ah. I'd been waiting to learn your thoughts on the matter. History does seem to indicate that it isn't a given that we'll remember, but...

[ He spends so much of his time poring over the network, the notes from Lioriley. Gathering information in casual conversations and counseling alike with dreamers who have been here long enough to lose someone. ]

For whatever it's worth, I don't intend to lose my memories either. I've only been here one month, and I can't imagine returning to the man that I was. Like a puppet.

Edited 2024-05-31 23:45 (UTC)

[Maruki says that and-

It's funny. Akechi lets out a quiet laugh - soft and acerbic.

Maruki won't return to be a puppet and Akechi-

Will return to dancing on goddamn strings for everyone. Will be the puppet master for others. Play the part of a mindless doll himself until he's able to reveal everything - to the world. To Shido.]

I'm glad to hear it. No one should live their life as some mindless puppet in someone else's world. I refuse to accept a reality concocted by someone else and let them control my memories, my feelings-

[He finishes off the room temperature coffee. It's gross.]

No, I won't forget and neither will you.

( Good evening, Akechi! Bet the last thing you expected to see coming through your window was a scantily clad dryad with a bouquet of white flowers cradled in the crook of her arm. )

Hey! I- oh. Whoops. ( She was sitting on the windowsill now, an antler half stuck in the pane before she managed to duck down enough to free it. ) Scent must have been off. Maruki does live here right? Also, hi. Been a minute.

[Good evening what in the ever loving jumpscare fuck?

He's mid hammer swing on this goddamn statute for his final evening enrichment time before semi-unspoken quiet hours occur, since his neighbor can't sleep through the noise when-

This happens. Awesome. The flowers and hunt for Maruki - it's somewhat apparent what the intent is. He's Not Happy. Not at all.]

Excuse me?

[A little flabbergasted, somewhat stunned, before finally sliding back into his little act.]

I'm - hello. Yes, my apologies - you're looking for the next window. That's Maruki's room. In fact, I know he's in there right now. Would you like me to inform him?

[Yes? No? Doesn't fuckin matter - his fist collides with their shared wall, like a forced knock on a door! He's so helpful!]

Oh, you don't have to- ( Holy shit? Night Sky flinched as she finally landed her (bare) feet on solid ground. ) Uh... thanks.

( She's just going to scope out his room while she's in here. ) Nice statue. Oh! My dogs are outside. Do you mind if they come in?

[Nice statue? Nice statue? Nice statue?

Like this was a fucking home decor choice and not an eternal curse shoved into his space by a spiteful little puppet.

Right, he should talk. Tense, coiled and too airy to be natural.]

Thank you - I'm quite fond of it.

[But then he hears the second part, thankfully, before Maruki gets another blast against the shared wall. He isn't upset the dogs are outside, actually. It's kind of-

Nice. They have snacks in the kitchen - he looks a bit less wound up as he drops the hammer.]

I don't mind, however this isn't my home. I'm unsure where Vash stands on pets, but if there's an issue I'm sure Maruki-san would be more than happy to clear the air on the matter. Feel free to let them in.

[ One of the many pros of the castle: It's incredibly well-built, thick reinforced stone walls dampening most noise. It's definitely a step up from shoebox apartments in Tokyo where he could time his morning routine by the children's show commercials playing nextdoor.

Most noise. Casual conversation, definitely. Music, if they had it, probably. Not statue destruction. And definitely not pounding on the wall.

Maruki sits cross-legged on his bed, some of Lioriley's papers fanned out in front of him along with both of his notebooks. He's shirtless, because any fabric touching his back still makes him want to die, still covered in scrapes and cuts and bruises in various stages of healing, his right arm is in its sling.

He picks his head up from his reading and raises his voice loud enough to be heard through the wall, a decibel level he's now practiced well with Akechi. ]

What?

Edited (jk i can read ) 2024-05-31 22:59 (UTC)

I know Vash. I'm sure he won't mind. Besides, you know they're good boys. ( they will behave, especially if you give them treats.

Night Sky seemed to perk up at the sound of Maruki's voice, a grin spreading across her lips. She kept her voice low. )

Just tell him he has a visitor. Any idea if his door is unlocked?

[They are good, well behaved dogs. There's a strong temptation to lay the groundwork for Maruki to have to explain their appearance with subtle, innocent inquiries to Vash, but-

For now, he hears Maruki. Sees her smile. She asks a question that Akechi is all too happy to answer with the utmost confidence.

He knows for a fact that he's unarmed and without a persona. It's not like either one of them will get hurt from a surprise appearance.]

Oh, I think I'll let that be a secret. It's confirmed he's there, so feel free to simply walk into his room. He has no self-preservation skills, unfortunately. He doesn't lock his door. Ever.

[He's such a Good Boy that he even opens his bedroom door for her to leave.

Get out.]

Please leave the dogs in my care for now - I only ask that you don't come into my room again in return.

[ Huh. No response. Guess it was nothing. Maybe statue shrapnel, if Akechi really got lucky.

Whatever! Head back down into his notes. He's operating on like seventeen different levels of cognitive psience bullshit right now, he's galaxy brain meme for real, he's in his happiest place of all. Nothing and no one can take that from him. ]

Yeah, of course. Sorry about that. Have fun with the boys!

( She promptly exited the room, headed to the designated door, and pushed it open, making sure to pose seductively in the doorway because she is nothing if not a fucking menace to society and, more specifically, to him. )

Maruki! I meant to visit sooner but- holy shit are you okay?

[ The sound of the heavy door scraping stone startles him; Akechi and Vash are both nothing if not polite and conscientious housemates, and if they ever need him, they knock. Perhaps Zazie, who may not understand all social niceties due to Being Bugs, but–

Oh, he straight up yelps and flails back against the empty air, the papers clutched in his left hand flying as he scrambles to brace himself before he falls backwards.

IS HE DREAMING? DEAD? BACK IN THE LABYRINTH?? ]

Ah! Night Sky, you scared me, I–

[ Her question, the shock on her face. How bad he knows he looks, right shoulder and back still wrapped in thick bandages and every other exposed part of him beat up.

Also! Too much of him is exposed!! He was in the privacy of his own room where he's allowed to hang out in just pyjama pants!!! H E L P ]

I'm fine, I just– what on earth are you doing here?

( Night Sky's initial excitement waned quickly, the flowers placed on the closest flat surface and forgotten, for now, so she could hurry over to his bedside. She knows she startled him - that was the point, but she thought he'd be flustered and healthy, not flustered and horribly wounded. )

I wanted to see you. ( A beat. ) Not for a counseling session or anything, just because. I - seriously. What happened?

O-oh, you did...

[ she fucking WHAT.

Focus!! Maruki seats himself upright again, tries to laugh it off. Which works fine over the network. Not so much in person. ]

It's not so... no, it is pretty bad, isn't it. Ah, Akechi-kun and I explored the labyrinth. We had quite the time.

[ Great non-explanation, idiot.

A beat. ]

There were monsters taller than skyscrapers. It could have been worse.

Yeah, a lot worse... ( She had been in there plenty of times to know how shitty it could be. On the other hand, sometimes it was... oddly nice? For what it was.

Night Sky moved to sit on some clear spot on the bed, pushing some scattered pages into a pile. )

Looks like it really did a number on you. You know there are magic healers that can get that fixed a lot faster, don't you? ( a nod to his arm. )

[Maruki seems to like this pillow on Vash's couch -

He gives it to Bear Heart to lay on. Rubs on his back a little too. Really get the dog smell and hair deep into it.]

[ He looks down at the arm too. It isn't actually horribly injured, beyond the superficial half-healed bumps and bruises everywhere. But the wound that's been bandaged starts at his shoulder before snaking halfway down his back, and he's supposed to keep it immobilized, so– sling. He hates it. His right hand flexes irritably, tired of being useless. ]

I know. I made the decision not to pursue a magical cure. If push comes to shove– that is, when this place gets dangerous again, if I'm still too unhealed to be of any use I'll ask Venat-san to help.

[ It would be impossible to explain his logic behind this to anyone but Akechi. It hardly even made sense when Maruki told him.

He shrugs his good shoulder and grins at her. ]

You really came to see me? That was very kind of you.

So long as you know your options. ( Some people - most people back home - weren't inclined to trust magical healing. Maybe Maruki was like that, and she wasn't going to hound him about it either if that was the case.

The worry in her eyes remained, but she willed a smile to her lips.)

Yeah, of course. I figured you weren't working since it's kind of late - missed the mark a little and ended up in Akechi's room, but. ( A shrug. Because popping in someone's window was normal?? ) I brought you flowers. ( reaching over to grab the bouquet and offer it to him. )

[ And suddenly, the strike to the wall makes sense.

Oh, Maruki is never, ever going to live this down.

However, his full body panic over her entering his room, via Akechi, dressed the way that she is, with flowers for him–

Is waylaid by the realization that she? Has flowers? For him? ]

Oh! Oh, you did say you were going to do that, didn't you...

[ They're lovely, fragrant. Scent memory is a strong thing and his vision shakes for a moment before he looks from the flowers to Night Sky, grin faded into something more quietly grateful. ]

Thank you. I don't know what else to say to something like that...

You don't have to say anything else. You're welcome. ( She smiled back at him, warm and still a touch concerned. ) You don't have to water them or anything, and they won't die. I always make sure of that when I grow them myself. ( a boon of magical abilities.

She cleared her throat and gently traced her finger over the bedsheets. )

What were you working on?

[ Oh. They won't die. Permanent jasmine for his room. Incredible. Play stupid games, win stupid prizes, Maruki.

Well, maybe it'll be good exposure therapy. He'll have to find a vase for them, but for now he just lays the bouquet in his lap and gives a nervous, self-deprecating laugh. ]

Oh, just research. Old habits die hard. I'm trying to apply the concepts and principles of the field that I studied back home to what happens here, with middling success. It's slow going, but– I enjoy it.

[ He will start gathering up the papers though, because they really did take over his bed.

Wait.

He should not still be in his bed. ]

Ah, I'm sorry, there's not really anywhere else in here to sit... Did you want to go somewhere?

[What the dog DOING??

Eating little meats - Akechi's throwing them in the air and having them catch it in their mouths.

They're so smart - hitting every single mark. He rewards them with a small sip of water from Maruki's favorite cup.]

( Night Sky nodded. Boring nerd shit. Got it.

She was seconds away from suggesting she leave, give him space so he could rest and recover and look over his notes- but then he asked that question, and Night Sky actually laughed; the sound airy and accented with genuine surprise.)

Like... out? ( She didn't think she'd get this far, honestly. For once her cheeks flared with color. ) Uh. Yeah! Yeah - sure. I know a few places around if you're... you sure you're good to go out?

[ Oh. Wait. What?

Wait. He made HER blush? What??? ]

Oh! Oh, no, I just meant... I mean, we could! I could get myself together, if you wanted. I mostly just meant, if you wanted to, ah... hang out...

[ Vague gestures around the room with his left hand. It's not as sparse (read: fucking empty) as Akechi's room, but still. A bed, a small chest of drawers, a table acting as a desk that's mostly just acting as a station for Lioriley's papers and everything he needs to haul to his new office when he has the strength. ]

There's not anywhere to do that in here except... well, here.

[ Awkward pat to the bed.

Oh god, what is he doing. ]

( Well now she was embarrassed, because what the hell did that mean? Just... hang out in a different room of the castle? Probably for the best, given his condition, but that seemed potentially awkward too. Night Sky briefly debated the merits of leaving just to save them both from the embarrassment-

-but then a familiar opening presented itself. Night Sky laughed. )

I wouldn't mind staying in bed with you. ( And it's such a fucking joke because yeah, okay, she wouldn't mind, but that's very clearly not what she came for. ) Whatever you want to do, seriously. I don't mind.

[ For a few seconds, Maruki is stunlocked–

And then he hears the joke inherent in her words and bursts into relieved, delighted laughter. ]

Oh, thank god. No, we can stay here. If I can be honest with you, I feel terrible.

[ Which is a HUGE get, good job Sky! He would have forced himself up and out if she truly wanted to take him somewhere – god knows he needs to see more of Somnius than he has – but it wouldn't have been misery. ]

Here, let me put this nonsense away. Make yourself comfortable! We can just chat for a bit, if you'd like.

[ As friends, not in counseling. Right. That's good for him.

In... his bed....... right. That's ??????????? for him.

Whatever. Busying himself with piling all the papers and notebooks and putting them over on the absolute organized chaos mess of a desk. ]

( They can raincheck. God knows the poor guy couldn't get rid of her now if he tried, and she would absolutely be back to drag him around town once he was better.

Since she had two working arms and didn't feel like shit, Night Sky moved to assist him and speed the cleaning process up. She was flopping back down onto the empty bed afterwards. )

Soooooo. Getting your ass kicked by monsters aside, had any other adventures?

[Good boys, good boys!!!

Adventures in hanging out with dogs - he's ruffling their big smart heads and doling out ear scratches.

They're even playing a light hearted game of catch with one of Maruki's shoes.]

[ NONE THE WISER TO WHAT THE DOG DOIN, Maruki gratefully accepts the help before rejoining her. He can't flop – there is exactly one (1) position he can lay comfortably in – but he does gingerly settle to sit back down next to her, legs crossed, back straight. Like when they meditated, almost. ]

That was by far the most exciting thing to happen to me! And hey, you don't know, perhaps I kicked ass in return...

[ He never swears. It sounds strange coming from him. ]

Ah, I went camping up on a cliff to escape Akechi-kun's statue destruction one night. That was lovely. I'm assuming that you saw his demolition room?

You're right, I don't know. ( So if he wanted to tell her some grand tale of him kicking ass, maybe she would believe him. )

The Starlight cliffs? That's one of my favorite spots. ( she quirked a brow. ) Wait. He was trying to break that statue? Why?

[ Oops.

You know, if Maruki knew what Akechi and the dogs were doing, maybe he wouldn't feel so bad about blowing his cover. Unfortunately, as it stands, he's still deep in the throes of That's My ~~Fellow Liar, Ally and Confidant~~ Pookie (Platonic) mode, so he winces apologetically. ]

Ah, it's meant to be his secret, don't tell him that I told you...

[ ........... but like. It IS pretty funny. ]

It's indestructible, as far as we know, so he seeks to destroy it. It's good exercise for him.

I mean, he did have a hammer. I just assumed he was... uh. Sculpting? ( She didn't really think too hard about the initial scene she walked in on, seeing as she hadn't come to bother Akechi and had been ushered out of his room fairly quickly. )

Weird, but be it far from me to judge people for their choice of exercise.

Anyway, next time you need to get away, you should come see me.

[ Sculpting makes him laugh a little – actually, it might not be a bad idea to take an artist's chisel to it, something about the metaphor of artistic creation and destruction? He'll float the idea to Akechi.

But that offer– ]

Ah, do you mean it? I wouldn't want to intrude on your castle!

[ Yeah, it's not like anyone else in this bed intruded on a castle tonight, genius. ]

You wouldn't be intruding. Besides, you don't even have to go to the castle itself to find me - I'm usually outside in the garden. ( she tilted her head back to glance out the window. ) You can even see the top of my willow tree from here, I think. So it shouldn't be hard to find!

[Jfc Maruki - how long is this little """"""meeting"""""" going to take? Listen he's no expert but-

Anyway. He's on a hunt for someone's laundry. Seems like the dogs could help fold it right now. Put them to work.

Bummer Akechi couldn't predict dogs couldn't do basic laundry tasks. Listen, he's not a pet owner. It's a learning process. Hank has a sock stuck on his nose and oh, Maruki's once clean shirt is suddenly around Bear Heart. How did this happen? Oh nooooooo.]

[ ~~what the fuck would you know, reddit incel~~

Maruki cranes to look out the window as well. ]

I guess you're right, we are close enough! Well, thank you for the invitation. I'll surely take you up on it.

[ Although, that camping trip is fresh in his mind. He looks back at Night Sky with a wry smile. ]

Do you sleep in the garden too?

( boys stop you're both pretty. )

Usually, unless it's cold, then I'll go inside. Why - thinking of going camping again?

[ says the prettiest one of all!! ]

Hah, no– well, maybe! But it's just funny.

[ He fiddles with his sling, lost for what to do with his hands when he can't fold them together to ground himself. ]

Apparently, every kind and beautiful woman here is more than half a century old and sleeps outside. It's an interesting pattern. What are the odds?

[ And then he hears what he said and his eyes go wide and nervous. ]

Ah, I'm sorry! That was so unprofessional of me, I just meant it as a compliment!

( Night Sky blinks dumbly at him, the apples of her cheeks tinged with pink. She might be a terrible, nasty flirt with zero filter, but if there was one surefire way to fluster her, he just did it. )

You think I'm beautiful? ( Forget the rest of it. That there is more than one person he's describing (and good for him, hitting it off with multiple old as hell women!) and all that. Night Sky zeroed in on that. Yeah, people call her beautiful all the time - but that wasn't always the case. Once upon a time she was an emaciated, sick elf on death's door and people looked at her like she was a monster. )

[ GREAT, NOW THEY'RE BOTH FLUSTERED AND BLUSHING LIKE IDIOTS ]

A-ah, well– of course I do, I mean, you've surely seen yourself!

[ A beat. ]

Oh, that sounded more tactless than I intended it to. I only meant–

[ And another beat before he buries his face in one hand, laughing weakly. ]

My apologies. What a mess. Please, accept the compliment and allow me to die quietly.

( Night Sky snorted out a laugh (embarrassing). )

It's okay, I know what you meant. Thank you, sweetness. ( Another pause. Then, she leaned in to kiss the top of his head while he desperately tried to hide his face.) I'm afraid I can't let you die though. It would make me sad.

[ Oh.

He feels the kiss through his mess of hair, like a jolt of pure electricity. It's barely anything, a chaste gesture of gratitude, and yet it's more than he's had in years.

And he told Night Sky that, sitting in her garden, admitting a bit of his own mess to help her feel less bad about hers.

He drags the hand down his face just far enough to uncover his eyes and glance up at her, then manages – with great effort – to drop it away and sit up straight again, with a nervous laugh. ]

Well, what a turn this night took. I really thought I'd fall asleep face first into my research.

[ He pauses, realizes he hasn't heard the sounds of attempted statue destruction in quite some time.

Uh oh. ]

You seem like you needed a break anyway. ( Too many people she knew busied themselves with research and working to the point she started to see it as unhealthy. Maruki struck her as the type.)

Given your... current state, I can't really offer to make it that much more interesting, but if you want- ( A glance to the door, then back to him. She hummed, leaned in closer. ) I can keep you company tonight. Long walk back to my castle and everything.

[Such a long sad walk to the castle, much like the long, sad, lonely walk Maruki's satchel has taken through the fish covered mud in the backyard. Thanks Bear Heart - you're a real one. The dog has it in its mouth courtesy of [one] Akechi who thought it would be best to air dry it after it was chewed on. What a kind chore he's taken on for an ungrateful roommate who can't tell his ''''''''situation partners'''''' what window to crawl through.

He gives Bear Heart another treat - good dog. Best dog. Smartest dog in the whole world.]

Edited (sssssssssssssssssssooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooottoojgdlsjgk) 2024-06-02 15:50 (UTC)

[ .............. !?!?!?!?

Here's a fun thing: Maruki has zero pride about how absolutely clueless, maidenless and rizzless he is. Any charm he has lies in his earnestness, and so it's entirely without prevarication when he looks at Night Sky with a dumbfounded little smile and asks: ]

Could I... ask you to please be completely, entirely clear about what you mean by that before I answer?

Oh, sorry.

( She beams a smile so bright it could blind a man as she utters the most blunt thing she could possibly say. )

I was suggesting that if you weren't wounded, we could fuck. Since you are, I offered instead to just sleep over.

( now perish. )

[ fucking what

LITERALLY ]

Haha!!! Oh.

[ Oh?

Haha. OH. ]

That's... That's a very generous offer...

[ SHE'S YOUR PATIENT? ]

Why don't we, ah, revisit that possibility in the future to discuss our options.

[ Nailed it. That's future Takuto's problem now, and more importantly, FUTURE DR. MARUKI'S PROBLEM. DON'T FUCK YOUR PATIENTS!

Something unsticks in his frozen brain and he looks wildly around the room. ]

Sleep over? Here? Ah, there's only one bed...

[ HOW DID YOU EVER LAND A WOMAN AT ALL? ]

( Absolutely incredible how endearing this motherfucker is...

Night Sky is laughing. If the walls weren't so thick Akechi could probably hear it. Give her a few seconds to calm down enough to speak. )

That's the idea, sweetness. We sleep in it. Together.

[ And THAT'S how he lands women, actually. The bumbling sincere charmer act isn't even an act, and it works. Being laughed at by a beautiful woman after making a fool of himself? That's third base!

Wow. This is so brazen that he can't even have a minor mental shutdown over not having slept with anyone else in his bed for (tv static) years. Honestly, Sky, good job. ]

Sure, as long as you don't mind all the... this.

[ Vague lift of his fucked up arm. Which hurts and immediately makes him wince. The bumbling never ends.

A beat, and what's happening here does manage to sink in enough to make him cognizant of how strange this all is, but not enough to enter The Danger Zone. ]

You really are too kind, Night Sky. I can hardly believe it.

You can't? I've been flirting with you since we met.

( She reached out to gently pat his cheek, paused like she was going to say something else - and then suddenly remembered something. )

I should probably get the boys. I'm sure Akechi doesn't want to babysit them all night.

[ oh NO

Maruki freezes again. ]

Akechi-kun's babysitting who now?

Hm? Oh, my dogs. He's watching them for me while I'm here.

( REAL NICE GUY.

She stands up, booping the tip of Maruki's nose before she leaves. ) Don't change your mind while I'm gone. I'll be right back. ( Off to the living room.

What the dogs doin.)

[ HAHAHAHHAHAHAHAHHAA OH FUCK ]

[The problem with being confined to one singular room with Maruki related items is, guess what, that ends!

And thus ends the display of petulance once he realizes there's no more shit to use and no more food to bribe the dogs with. He was already pretty tired - the additional dog related spite exercise pushing him over the groggy edge.

Enjoy your stupid continued 'situation' because he's dead asleep, torso slung on half the couch, legs on the floor over a satchel holding Bear Heart. Hank in Maruki shirt gets the half of the couch Akechi isn't covering. Maruki's cup on the floor still half filled with water, a shoe half exposed under a table.

Eat shit asshole, but at least he's been enriched. Enjoy the cleanup!!]

The fuck did you guys do out here? ( Night Sky asks it quietly to the dogs, the sound a soft rumble in her throat that Hank groggily responds to without opening his eyes.

'Played with everything he threw at us and ate too many treats. Are we going home?'

Night Sky laughed. )

Nah, we're staying. Rest up with your friend. ( prancing back to Maruki's room. ) Nevermind. They're good.

[ In the short time Night Sky is away, Maruki manages to get his stupid sling off and lay down on his left side, the only way he can comfortably sleep. Which will either mean watching her sleep, or – dear god in heaven, the bases don't even GO this high – SPOONING???

When she reenters, he looks up with slightly manic eyes. ]

They're good? Does Akechi-kun still have them? Did you tell him you're staying? What did he say?

[ NIGHT SKY HE IS N E V E R GOING TO LIVE THIS DOWN ]

They're all sleeping in the living room. ( She shrugged. ) Made a hell of a mess out there playing, too. Hank said he gave them a bunch of treats. They're fine.

( And she sure wasn't going to wake the guy if he was sleeping. Night Sky moved to lay on the bed, deciding for him which position he would have to suffer...

Face to face (for now), apparently. Night Sky smiled and set a hand on his cheek.) You need to relax.

[ A hell of a mess, huh.

Oh, he can only imagine. He's going to be paying for this for a long time.

Also? Excellent, now he's face to face, in very close quarters, with a very beautiful woman who has made her intentions plainly known. Great going. Not overwhelming at all.

Maruki glances over at what he can see of her hand on his cheek, blurry outside the frame of his glasses – yes, he intends to sleep in his glasses – and laughs, clearly nervous. ]

Yes, well, you might be unsurprised to learn relaxing is not one of my strong suits.

[ Despite all the big game he talked about mindfulness meditation and breathing exercises. Oops. ]

Ah... hah. Well. Are you comfortable?

[ IT'S NOT A VERY BIG BED, SKY ]

( Be it far from he to judge how a man sleeps. She spends most of her time lying in the damn dirt. )

I heard meditating helps.

( She laughs. Now keenly aware of his nervousness and the fact that he wasn't fully prepared to take a trip down to pound town without a conversation, Night Sky was surprisingly careful when she scooted closer, knee gently bumping between his just for a little added room. She tucked some of his hair behind his ear. ) I'm perfectly fine, sweet thing.

[ The fingers through his hair, even in such a quick, casual motion–

Every morning, she would wake up before him. Start the coffee, get ready for work. An easy routine to fall into even before they moved in together – her early commutes and steady jobs, his endless years in lecture halls and research labs making him keep odd hours. By the time she was ready to leave for work, he'd have just woken up, sitting up groggily in their bed, vision fuzzy and mind still half-stuck in dreams. She would come to say goodbye to him, comb her fingers through the mess he made of his hair in the night, tuck it back and slide his glasses onto his face. That simple act, every morning, for years – getting him ready to face the day before he was even fully conscious of it. Maruki has never been cared for so completely by another person, doubts he ever will be again.

It shocks through him, chain lightning up and down his nerves. He told Night Sky that he'd been too busy with his career to have much time for or interest in romance. That wasn't a lie, but it was far from the whole truth. If something as simple as a person touching his hair plunges him deep into the most painful recesses of his mind, how can he ever hope to handle anything else?

It isn't her fault. After a frozen moment, he smiles again, something vaguely vacant about it. ]

I'm glad to hear it. I don't tend to move around much in my sleep now that I've been injured, but if you find I'm too close, please don't hesitate to wake me.

[ Yeah, he already knows that's not going to be an issue. If anything, she'll be too close to him, and he will let that panic settle into the walls of his heart to be ripped out and dealt with later. ]

It feels odd to say pleasant dreams, considering this place, doesn't it?

( She can feel the way he tenses; knows only because she's done this before - accidentally touched where she shouldn't, and without him saying anything, she isn't sure exactly what she did wrong. Was it his ear? His hair? The brush of her fingertips against his neck for a split second?

Her hand retracted, tucking between them carefully as not to jostle his arm. She smiled. )

A little.

( A beat. A brief debate. ) I don't have to stay if you're not comfortable with it, you know. You don't need to do shit to appease me because I'm.... well. Insistent.

[ Maruki is complicated. The touch makes the monstrous, yawning chasm in the back of his mind poise to swallow him whole. The removal of the touch disappoints him. He can't win.

And there it is: A completely valid interpretation of his reactions, but an incorrect one. ]

No, I'm not appeasing you. I can promise you that.

[ Maruki's boundaries may be virtually nonexistent, but if he truly, wholly did not want her here, he would have said so. There is a not insignificant part of him that does appreciate the company, and her company specifically. He has been lonely for longer than he will admit to anyone, including himself. ]

I'm not uncomfortable. I'm sorry, I know it must seem that way.

[ And then a smile, beatific. ]

And I wouldn't call you insistent. I think you're incredibly caring. The people in your life are lucky to have you.

( Night Sky searched his expression, tilted her head like she was trying to really hear the words he said. She wasn't exactly an expert in reading people, but when she honed in, she liked to think she could discern insincerity, at the very least.

And he seemed sincere enough. Her gaze softened. She nodded. )

It's okay. I just — I never want to push, you know? Especially not someone I like.

( she could be both of those things, she nearly argued — insistent and caring — but did not see the point. ) I hope you include yourself in that, sweetness. You do a lot for people, and you deserve to be cared for like you care for them.

[ BOY THEY ARE TREADING INTO DANGEROUS TERRITORY. And it's territory that keeps being trod into, these days! Akechi cleaving cleanly into the very core of his heart with one astute observation of his self-worth, Eren sniping at him about how he only listens and never talks. All of it stems from the same place. He hates that people here can pinpoint it so clearly. No one in Tokyo ever bothered. The benefits of a huge city, of a more disconnected life. He wants to return to that, fully aware of how unhealthy that desire is. ]

Well, it's my job.

[ Said lightly, almost jokingly. But Christ does he mean it. ]

Helping people is its own reward for me. I do appreciate how generous some people here are with their care, though...

[ But it isn't necessary. He doesn't need it to survive. Thrive? Sure. But not survive.

He shakes his head and uses it as an excuse to melt more comfortably into the bed, cheek turning into the pillows.

A thoughtful pause, and then without speaking or opening his eyes, he moves his right arm just enough to let his hand cover hers. The palm is rough with healing scrapes from stumbling and clamoring through the ruined rubble of a nameless city, but it's otherwise uninjured, and he's happy to hold hers as they drift off. ]

( She was tempted to say something more — something like you're not working now just to call him out for it. But Night Sky just chuckled softly. Sure, Maruki. Whatever helps you sleep at night.

...Which is also apparently handholding? Fine by her. Night Sky adjusted to curl her fingers slightly, pressing back against his palm as if to silently assure him that she was totally on board for it. )

[ Setting aside the absolute mental shutdown (Akechi DNI) he's going to have later about this, it really is an incredible comfort to fall asleep next to someone. He's even spared from counseling dreams! Maybe there's a connection. (There isn't.)

It is less of a comfort to wake up in the morning and realize he cannot throw Night Sky to the dogs. Literally. She has to go downstairs and collect her dogs, and if any of his housemates are around, she shouldn't have to deal with the consequences alone.

Hopefully Akechi returned to his room.

Hopefully Vash is still in his.

Hopefully Zazie is bugs.

He'll walk her out like a gentleman. Sure. But he's going to wish he was dead the second he sees anyone in that common room. ]

[Given the uncomfortable way he fell asleep, surrounded by two living weighted blankets, he's fucking up. Early.

The dogs are still here. Night Sky is still here! The sun is up and everyone is just here.

Akechi has removed the shirt from the dog at least, even though Hank wore it better. Residual mud wiped off their paws that he neglected to remove last night. Shame they weren't just gone when he opened his eyes.

Oh well! They walk in and he's on the couch, scrolling his phone, one leg over the other. Laying in wait like a disappointed parent with a feigned smile and airy cadence. ]

Oh, good morning. I'm surprised you're both up so early, given the exhausting night you must have had. My, I wonder what could've happened, with you coming in like a burglar and staying all night in someone's room. Not that it's any of my business.

( He didn't have to walk her out to the common room, but be it far from Night Sky to reject such a polite offer from a guy she likes.

Be it far from Night Sky to also give a ratfuck what Akechi thinks about the whole situation. Upon entering the room, both dogs rose to their feet with a stretch and padded over to their master, taking heel as she knelt down to pat them on the head. )

You would have known if we were fucking, even with walls this thick. ( Said without hesitation and without the smile fading from her lips. ) Did you enjoy your snuggle with the boys? Seems like you had a wilder night than we did.

[ Maruki, drawing a breath to give Akechi the most casual Good Morning Fellow Housemate Would You Like An Omelette Ha Ha Everything Is Normal greeting, immediately chokes on it.

Don't mind him spluttering and coughing and trying to get a handle on himself. Good grief. ]

Then I'll simply assume things didn't go well. A shame, but not a surprise.

[After all the work crawling through a castle window like an unwanted pest. Truly, his heart breaks for them.

The dogs plod away and he-

Doesn't care one bit, outside of the fact the foot he had under Bear Heart is exposed and cold.

Maruki's sputtering nothing to her comments isn't a shock. Thankfully, Akechi isn't 10 years old and takes the question in stride. Anger brewing in his chest stride. He's so calm and collected. So chill.]

And I didn't do anything of the sort. The dogs got into some mischief and I fell asleep on the couch. Of course, that's on me for being so inexperienced in caring for animals. My apologies.

Assume whatever you like, sweetheart.

( Night Sky knew what was up and what happened. She glanced from Akechi to Hank, who she was currently petting behind the ears. )

'Is that true?' ( It came out like a growl again, uttered right to Hank who growled in turn, interjected by a barking Bear Heart. )

'We were playing fetch with shoes and-' 'And drinking out of a mug, and eating treats and I got to wear a nice fancy shirt!' ( and Akechi and Maruki would hear Night Sky laugh. ) Yeah. They got into some mischief. ( SURE, JAN. )

[ SHE CAN FUCKING TALK TO DOGS????????? ]

Ah, well, I'm glad to see everyone had a great night. Good morning, dogs. Good morning, Akechi-kun.

[ Only someone who now knows him as well as Akechi does will be able to hear the pleasantly passive aggressive barb in that name. Kaiju bonding! ]

Night Sky, thank you again for the chat and the company.

[SHE CAN TALK TO DOGS???

Akechi spares a quick glance to Bear Heart, who assuredly isn't-

'They got into some mischief' tells everything. The laugh. The tone.]

They certainly did. [Double down, eyes going back to his phone. Don't @ him like that dogs he gave you SO many treats!!!]

Yes, thank you Night Sky for coming through my window. It added some valuable excitement to my evening. I'm sure Maruki-san -

[Passive aggression matched with his own - he heard it and doesn't care.]

Showed you where his window is. I'm assuming he'll want you back over soon, so please take care to remember it.

( She can talk to all animals! Better get your shit together or she'll ask the local birds what's up.

Bear Heart continued his excited rambling of the previous night's shenanigans, tail wagging furiously. Night Sky stood, either did not notice or did not care to acknowledge the passive aggressive back and forth, and beamed a smile at both men. )

You're welcome, and he sure did. I know exactly which window to crawl through now - sorry for the interruption last night, of course. ( Night Sky spun on her heel toward Maruki and reached out to brush her fingertips under his chin. ) I should get out of your hair. Come visit me soon, okay?

( and as she pulled back, ready to leave with her dogs in tow, she shot a look over her shoulder to Akechi. ) Don't be a stranger either! The boys really like you! ( wink!

Ok bye she's out. )

Hah– oh, okay, y-yes– will do, Night Sky, thank you!

[ He watches her go.

Lets the silence in the room sit for as long as possible as he un-blushes and de-flusters.

Slowly, s l o w l y turns back toward Akechi, face a perfect mask of mild neutrality. ]

Can I offer you a cup of coffee and some toast as an apology for the unsolicited visitor?

[Night Sky's comments and ACTIONS are brushed aside because he is staring so HARD at his phone - he would hope those snacks allowed for some good will with her pets. Their fridge is almost empty.

But Maruki - coffee and toast????

For his whole night spent as an impromptu babysitter to two dogs, in the living room and out of his preferred enclosure? Toast?]

No apology needed. It didn't bother me in the slightest. You're certainly allowed to have whoever you want over, at any point. Vash has no rules, outside of that locked room. So long as she doesn't scurry in through there, all should be well.

[Clearly, Akechi is super chill.]

I really didn't take you for the type to solicit midnight visitors. You surprise me every day.

[ IF YOU WANT SOMETHING OTHER THAN TOAST, ASK FOR SOMETHING OTHER THAN TOAST. LET THIS BE A LESSON.

Shut up. He's heading into the kitchen. Post up at the bar, Akechi. ]

I am decidedly not the type. I didn't invite her, and she never told me she was coming over!

[ Seriously, he looks a little distressed by it. ]

That's never happened to me before. I am so sorry that you were involved.

Edited (actually he may have told her about castle de vash and i'm too lazy to check lol) 2024-06-03 01:54 (UTC)

[He is coming to the bar out of routine habit, not because Maruki moved away and he's trying to continue this horrible conversation. It takes a second to settle into his normal spot.

Maruki is a liar. More than Akechi would have ever expected from the way he fronts, but-

This seems genuine. He isn't exactly a person that spends his time flirting and asking people to spend the night. Night Sky however - he doesn't know her well enough to confirm if this is special Maruki treatment, or if she's just like that.

He has a feeling it's the latter. She was a bit too comfortable crawling through a window in the middle of the night.

Phone out of his hands and face down on the counter, he stares at Maruki's back like he's a parent trying to decide appropriate discipline to dole out.]

Outside of that matter - I understand sometimes an adult has certain needs.

[He hates this, actually. This is the worst? But they share a wall and Akechi has decidedly marked his claim to his room. Leaving means the Moon wins too.]

And this castle is meant for all of us, not just the comfort of some - that includes you, of course, if you find yourself in need of-

[Wow, he wants to die? No, he's mature. He can handle this. It's a typical, normal situation any adult would be in when they don't have a hidden cabal funding their condo.]

My point is - we share a wall. Please take care to give any appropriate warnings. If it happens too often, perhaps consider another room down the hall.

[ Maruki weathers the words as he fiddles with the coffee maker, his expression going increasingly dumbfounded.

This can't actually be happening.

Why is he still talking?

Maruki waits for him to STOP TALKING, for the only sound in the room to be the percolation of the brewing coffee, before he turns around and leans back against the counter. ]

I'm sorry. Did you just tell me I'm allowed to have sex in the castle?

[ AKECHI GORO YOU ARE SPEAKING TO YOUR ~~MOTHER~~ PARTNER IN CRIME ]

[Oh, this is terrible. Absolutely terrible. Maruki said the quiet part out loud because he has no goddamn tact and truly, Akechi has to continue to carry this moment.]

[All the Metaverse murders, coercion, blackmail, betrayal and cunning plans couldn't prepare him for this shit. This mundane nonsense.

It's unreal.

His face makes several expressions before he's able to steel it - twist and glue it into a semi-permanent, plastered neutrality over two raised and folded hands in front of his face.]

[He's not 10 years old. He can HANDLE a fucking conversation about sex.

Unreal. Horrible. He blames the pain in his back from being slumped uncomfortably on a couch and the grogginess from a shitty night's sleep. That's it. Absolutely.

And after a moment of stunned silence, he utters out a single, definitive-]

Yes.

Edited 2024-06-03 03:04 (UTC)

[ Akechi has revealed himself to not only be a skilled persona user – someone with experience wielding a creature generated from the collective unconscious and sealed to their very souls – but an efficient and tempered-enthusiastic killer of, at the very least, gigantic monsters.

Maruki is the preeminent living mind in cognitive psience, with complete control over an individual's reality that recently extended to control over the entire world, and a newly-named persona of his own whose combat skills he's dearly looking forward to testing.

And they are staring at each other, completely blank in expression, horrified by their own topic. ]

Ah. I see.

[ He cannot steeple his own hands in front of his face. He can only run his left through his hair, open his mouth to speak. Close it. Gesture vaguely. Take another breath as if to manage to say something. Fail. Sigh. Adjust his glasses. Try again. ]

Thank you for being so considerate. As we are both adults living in a shared space, I shouldn't have to say that the same goes for you. We both have the autonomy to live our lives as we choose, and the courtesy to respect one another by providing ample warning.

[ He pushes off the counter to cross the kitchen, over to the bar where Akechi sits. ]

However.

[ He leans over, grabs the little crossword book two seats down from Akechi, and lightly swats him right on top of the head with it. ]

That's not what happened! That's not what's going to happen! Are you out of your mind!? I never want anyone in my room again!

Edited 2024-06-03 03:35 (UTC)

[This is THE WORST. Maruki points out his own right to do what he wants as if Akechi is the one with women coming through his goddamn window in the dead of night. He's stunned into a brand new world of absolute silence - a part of him grateful for the split second where there are, effectively, zero thoughts in his mind.

It's blissful. Empty. Maruki's movements don't register as his brain struggles to catch up with the horrifying realization that just happened when-

A bap to the head - it kickstarts his body back to life, full steam ahead in a whole new direction.

He reaches up to touch at where the light tap occurred, as if Maruki has done the impossible and Akechi has untouchable up until this moment. A superpower hidden in a paperback book. Anger might swell in a minute. Right now, he's simply stunned.

But not enough to let those comments go by without a response.]

I'm not a child and I don't want details, but there's no need to pretend - quite frankly, it's insulting.

[This is awful. Bad. He can't help to drop his face in back into his hands for a second to recuperate from the shit that's happening.

Not 10. He's 18, going on 19. Only a child in age, not in maturity. Maruki's getting flustered in a pathetic way, but he won't.

He presses his fingertips into his eyes for a second. Awesome. The colors against his eyelid are good. Grounding. Back to the topic.

Both hands settle back on the counter. A deep breath. He's gucci gold.]

Please don't make this more difficult than it has to be.

[ WHY IS HE STILL TALKING ABOUT IT???????????

Maruki baulks at him, eyes wide. ]

Oh, I'm– I'm making this more difficult? Is that so?

[ He can't help it. He laughs, the sound jolting out of him suddenly, like the sheer ridiculousness of this situation just caught up with him. Maruki leans one hand on the bar and lets his body bend over it with the force of the laughter. ]

Akechi. Seriously. This is– good god.

[ Oh, he actually hasn't laughed this hard in a while.

This is so, so fucking stupid.

He finally heaves a huge, calming breath and rights himself. He's still unsuccessfully trying to hold back little chuckles as he sets about making the promised toast, pouring the now brewed coffee into–

Where the hell is his usual mug?

Well, whatever. Into two mugs. ]

I'm not pretending anything. Absolutely nothing untoward transpired, or will transpire in that room. I'm not–

[ He pauses as he sets a cup in front of Akechi, closes his eyes, waves his hand. ]

You don't want details. I don't want to give them. But rest assured that is not what I'm after.

[ If anyone is close to unlocking his traumatic backstory, it's Akechi, but it isn't happening here and now. Honestly? This whole situation is so deeply bizarre that it's far from Maruki's mind at all, which is a blessing.

While he waits for the toast to pop up, he sugars and sips his coffee and adds one final thought: ]

Ah, but should we make sure Vash knows he's allowed too?

[ SORRY, AKECHI. NOT SORRY. YOU'RE A LITTLE SHIT AND HE LIKES TO TEASE. ]

[The laughter breaks the awkward topic up - rips it into metaphorical confetti by how miniscule it seems in the wake of man hunched over next to him, consumed by hysterics. A sound that might be contagious if Akechi wasn't contending with the brutal mind numbing sensation that happens when catching up with a horrific conversation.

Because that sure did JUST HAPPEN. That is a talk that occurred. He hates this goddamn world so much.

But now there's coffee in front of him - a smell that, coupled with quick sip, does more to calm his riled up ire than any crossword puzzle.

Okay - it's done. Over. They both have coffee. Night Sky and the dogs are gone and Akechi's back feels better pressed against the chair's until-

Make sure Vash knows breaks the silence and Akechi slowly, ever so slowly, ever so calmly, sets his cup back down to the table.

This fucking asshole.

He flips his phone over, fingering hovering against Vash's UN with clear intent to call him.]

Since you brought it up, feel free to do the honors, Maruki. You are a doctor after all. These conversations should be nothing for you.

[Come on, Mr. Doctor. Go ahead and say Zazie's name too - he dares you.]

Edited (IMPORTANT CHANGE) 2024-06-03 04:23 (UTC)

[ Maruki watches him pull up Vash's contact.

Hears the taunt.

Pulls out his phone.

Types quickly.

Puts it back in his pocket. ]

Consider it taken care of.

[ His brightest, most winningest smile.

The toast pops up. He turns to plate it, grab a knife and the block of butter from the refrigerator. ]

Jam or honey?

[The FUCK just happened?

Akechi has no clue what Maruki typed out, or to who - he assumes he sent a random text to someone and this is all over. That smile would seem like a warning if he thought Maruki had the backbone to meet his taunt, after the flustered way he reacted earlier.

Whatever.

He flips his phone back around and eyes the toast that pops up.]

Jam, please.

[ Maruki knows this is all over as soon as Vash responds in some way, whether in person (highly unlikely) or via text to Akechi (not outside the realm of possibility).

He fully expects to get throttled. He will enjoy the sweet taste of victory while it lasts.

Jam it is, for both of them! Two pieces of toast on one plate that they can share as Maruki comes around to sit next to him. ]

Anyway, you had fun playing with the dogs? They seemed nice.

[He waits for something to happen, another smart ass comment Akechi has to pull out his phone for, but-

Nothing. It's jam, toast and an easy conversation as he pulls a piece of bread off the plate to pick apart. Tiny bite sized pieces created in his hands.]

I didn't dislike it. Though they became a bit rambunctious and got into items they weren't supposed to. As I told Night Sky, I blame my own inexperience. They were nice and quite smart.

[Good dogs. The best dogs, even. He chooses to not look back at the warzone behind him.]

I hope Vash doesn't mind they were on the couch. I've never owned pets, but I've heard dog hair is difficult to remove from fabric.

[He's counting on it, actually. Fuck your shirt Maruki. He hopes you're allergic.]

[ The upside of being so flustered by Akechi's presence in the living room and Night Sky's departure is that Maruki was more or less blind to everything else around him. The state of the room didn't register to him. Hell, the dogs themselves barely did. He says they seemed nice, but his mind was so frantic that he can't even recall what they vaguely looked like. ]

All jokes aside, I really am sorry that you had to deal with that. It must have been a frustrating interruption to your reg–

[ –ularly scheduled statue demolition dies on his tongue as he turns to look sympathetically back at where Akechi had to spend the night.

A beat.

A squint. ]

Is that my shirt?

['Is that my shirt?'

The jam is so sweet on his tongue with every bite sized piece of toast he slowly pops between his lips. He doesn't need to look back - already knows exactly how that room's set up, but tilts his head to the side all the same, following Maruki's gaze.

Feigned surprise crosses his faces. He takes another bite. Oh nooooo - it sure looks like his shirt.]

Oh, is it?

[A damn shame, those dogs and their shenanigans.]

I'm unsure. I was so tired from watching them I hardly know what they got into - my sincerest apologies if they happened to get your clothing.

[ This little shit and his feigned innocence. Maruki catches on almost immediately. ]

That's my satchel. Akechi–

[ He's up off the chair, padding back into the living room.

One of his shoes, half-chewed, sticks out from under the sofa.

Maruki picks it up, stares at it, then back at Akechi, expression wild. ]

You didn't.

[A wild look met with a calm, piercing gaze.

The coffee tastes great today. As does his next bite of toast, chewed on slowly while he pretends to survey the area for the first time.]

It seems more damage was done then I initially thought. What an unfortunate mess.

[ The final piece of his torn up toast consumed, he eyes the shoe! So troubled! A detective prince should be deeply concerned about such matters.]

I didn't do anything. Surely you don't think I chewed up the shoe. Dogs are truly unpredictable animals. Though...this may be a lesson in putting up your items as well.

You never know when a surprise visitor will come through your window with pets, after all.

Edited (W o r d ) 2024-06-03 06:12 (UTC)

[ He stares at Akechi through his whole monologue, continues it for a long moment afterwards.

Then laughs, defeated. ]

Yeah, I believe I deserved that. Well-played.

[ Make no mistake, he's incredibly irritated about the state of his belongings! He gathers up the shirt, the satchel, the shoe, places them on the table to take back to his room afterwards–

And there it is. ]

My mug!

[ He stoops too quickly as he scoops it up, hisses in pain on the stiff, unsteady way back up. Damn back.

If he had a free hand, he'd swat Akechi again on his way back to the bar, fond and annoyed at once. ]

The dogs even knew which mug I prefer, huh. Smart guys.

['Well-played' is an unexpected response to the Maruki-centric mass destruction splayed around the living room. What a forgiving, bleeding heart.

Then 'My mug' elicits more glee than it should - smug smile hidden by a well timed sip of coffee. He's glad it hurts - screw him. A little pain is good for the spirit or whatever.]

Your 'friend' trained them well - what can I say. They picked it out from the cupboard and I was trying to play the part of an attentive, kind host.

[In his humble opinion, he did great!]

All the cups look similar - I'm not so petty as to pick out yours on purpose. It's an unfortunate accident. You have my deepest apologies.

[He sure doesn't sound sorry.]

[ No, he absolutely doesn't sound apologetic, and Maruki clocks it instantly. He snorts a laugh, slides back into his seat, returns to his toast and coffee, and lets the companionable silence fall between them.

It's only broken when he casually, thoughtfully asks: ]

Do you think one of us needs to tell Zazie the new house rule, or are bugs exempt?

[ Just hit him, Akechi. He thinks he's funny. ]

[Maruki.

He stares at the man for a solid minute in dead, complete silence. Looks back to the residual jam on his plate, the cup of coffee and-

Rolls up the crossword to whack him on his injured shoulder - light, but it probably hurts. He hopes it DOES.]

Neither of us studied entomology. Please refrain.

[Sent shortly before sunrise, June 2:]
Happy birthday, Akechi. Since you only wanted a text, I made a text picture of you and Danger.

....("＾‿＾)🖕
=============
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXX
XXXXXXXXXXXXX  [ >:( ]
XXXXXXXXXXXXX     \
XXXXXXXXXXXXX      🐐

Have a good one.

[The finger hovering over the delete button at happy birthday-

Moves away with the image that scrolls to life with each tap of the down button. An infuriating reminder of his first week here, staring down insane livestock in a shitty rural town. A shovel wielding girl from the suburbs a savior in disguise.

It's so stupid, so absurd, so ridiculous in his early morning grogginess that he laughs - light, quiet and free.

He doesn't delete it. If he thought these crappy old smartphones could screencap, he would. For now, it sits at the front of his text messages.]

Thank you, Aubrey.

[ Maruki has noticed that except on the rare occasion that he's busy for the evening, Akechi hangs out in the kitchen every time he makes dinner. Sometimes they chat, but mostly it's a quiet, companionable energy between them. An unspoken bond between two guys who miss the creature comforts of home – and perhaps who have both been lonely for longer than they'll admit to anyone, including and especially themselves.

A homecooked meal can be its own sort of therapy.

When Akechi wakes up on the morning of his birthday, there will be a tray outside his door with the best approximation of a traditional Japanese breakfast that Maruki has been able to cobble together. Some things are a little different – he's had to make do with whatever (non-hat wearing) fish could be caught, and he and Kurogiri's attempt to recreate miso paste doesn't taste quite right – but it's recognizable enough, and overall tasty. He practiced making it a couple times, late at night when the rest of the castle was asleep.

There is one addition not typically found in a classic breakfast – a cylindrical container of jagarico. Where did he get that?

Finally, a simple notecard sits on the tray as well:

Happy Birthday, Akechi!

To many more years of your happiness when we take back our true reality.

Maruki

It's been left right before the precise time he knows Akechi wakes up, so it's still hot, and if Akechi goes looking for him, he won't find him in the castle. ]

[A near miss with the tray, the scent a warning that saves him from a stubbed toe. The whole display - a note -

A reminder of his small hand tangled in the soft fabric of his mom's shirt in a kitchen that fit the two of them like a snug puzzle piece. He remembers when she would try - smells that permeated through a too small, dingy apartment. Their instant noodle meals more than enough because all he wanted was to sit in her lap, but the elation that ran through his body when he felt steam hit his face - the smell of almost burnt fish, an expression on her face that may have been a smile at one point in her life. She had stopped smiling by the time his memories started and-

He remembers.

This smells better. Looks better. Is probably similar to the photos he's sure she looked at online before she tried to recreate a meal beyond their normal microwave heat ups.

It tastes better. Feels the same. An insane churning in his stomach as he picks apart the fish, the eggs, a reminder of home he never experienced, but surges through his body all the same. Nostalgia and grief an overwhelming, crushing, burning-

A meal created for him with the same degree of care his mother must have tried to feel.

It was hard for her. She was obligated. She tried and he'll never begrudge how much it hurt her to try and try and try when he life was falling apart because of the person she was making birthday meals for.

The irony in knowing he's taking bites from a breakfast of someone who tries and tries , despite the bullet Akechi will be forced to put in his skull.

He pushes it down. Forces it down. Rips it from his throat so he can swallow. Tears it from his chest so he can breathe.

The note is laughable and-

Placed into his pillowcase. A lie Gone. A lie hidden. A lie that's his.

The jagarico an inside joke - sticks lost in a dream back in his hands in reality. Umami Seaweed. It's one of his favorites, stocked in his cabinet at home.

The text comes long after breakfast, well into the afternoon. After Akechi's washed the dishes and tray it came on.]

It was unnecessary to do that.

But it was delicious. I haven't had a breakfast like that in years.

Sometimes nostalgia is a nice sensation to revisit.

Thank you for the meal.

Ah, I'm so glad you enjoyed it!

Don't even mention it. It was my pleasure.

Has it been a good birthday?

Yes, thank you. I prefer quiet days like this, so it's gone well.

[He could let it end there. Should. His lower back presses into the pillow that holds a secret, the rocky wall sharp on his upper spine. It's comfortable all the same.

Content. Calm. A numbness in that realization that makes him continue, as if he's come back from an afternoon with Joker. A level of ease he hasn't felt in months.]

My last birthday was boisterous compared the ones I had prior to being a celebrity.

All the online accolades, Good Morning Japan even made a comment on it, and I was given offers from up and coming restaurants to have food on their dime. I had to respond to comments and messages all day.

It's funny, then, how I find the birthday in some distorted world to be the better one.

[He lets sit. Stares at the words on the screen and-]

You were gone rather early. Was everything alright?

[ Oh. That's completely unexpected.

Maruki's sat at his desk in Eyn Sof, painstakingly indexing the the makeshift patient notes in his journal so that he can copy them down into true case files once his right arm is better. He glances over at the device as the first message comes in, smiles to himself – quiet birthdays are his preference too – and then the rest come.

Akechi is guarded. Calculated. A liar.

This doesn't feel like any of that. ]

Granted, I hate anyone making even the smallest fuss over me, but... honestly, something on that scale sounds like hell.

I can see why you'd prefer a day like today, even considering our circumstances.

[ In truth, he left way too early for his usual schedule, came to Eyn Sof, and immediately went back to sleep on the couch. He figured Akechi would want the privacy, but he isn't about to say that. ]

Yes, everything's fine! I wanted to get a head start on some of the more mind numbing administrative parts of the job to get them over with. Hah, surely you had annoying rote tasks like that as a detective.

[It's aptly appropriate that a man who spends his life doling out advice and listening to every woe, doesn't want a fuss made about himself. 99% of his day seems to feigning care and consideration for others, while he suffers with gaping wound covering half his back. Suffering for the sake of consequences, while trying to heal them in others.

If it wasn't so pathetic, it might be funny.]

Hell is a strong description. Of course, I'm grateful for the support of my fans and the fortune that has smiled upon me.

[And the odds him being alive next year -

19 was a milestone he never expected to make. 20 an impossible number to reach. It won't be a concern.]

As for administrative work, I do understand. That was a majority of my job as a detective. I even assisted with those tasks at the Public Prosecutors Office, so I'm acutely aware at how they can pile up. It's smart to take advantage of the time you have.

I won't keep you then. I simply wanted to express my gratitude.

[ Right, of course. Any celebrity would say that. ]

Well, gratitude accepted. Say no more on the matter.

Are you doing anything to celebrate tonight?

No, nothing of importance. I may try to find a new book at the library, but that's the extent of my plans for today.

Nice. Enjoy yourself, Akechi.

[ He's picking up a new crossword on his way back to the castle. No more big deals about the birthday need be made, just that silent gesture. ]

[In the small hours of the morning on June 2nd, Blue delivers a package to the doorstep of the castle where Akechi stays. She doesn't knock or linger--it's placed somewhere obvious, so someone is sure to find it, even if it's not the recipient. Perhaps especially if it's not the recipient. Who's to say?]

[The package itself isn't particularly big or small, wrapped in green paper with an intricate bow sewn together in the shape of a sunflower. A small tag is attached to the bow with only four words in neat vine-like handwriting:]

Dear Akechi, Happy Birthday

[Inside the package are two items: a mug with the words Keep Calm and Hide Evidence written on the outside, splattered with red paint made to look like blood; and a sugar jar with sugar. not arsenic. sugar. written on the outside. Both look handmade, though it's uncertain if the one who made the pieces was also the one who painted them.]

[There is no signature on the tag, but he'll know who it's from. And if he doesn't, then he's not a very good detective.]

[The second his eyes settle on the bright yellow sunflower, he knows. A request for a simple text ignored. An outcome expected given her propensity to do whatever the hell she wants, unprompted and without consideration. A gift already annoys him and when he opens it up -

There's an instant surge of unease. The mug too on the nose for his liking. A moment of reflection as he tries to figure out if there was ever an implication to his true job that she could glean.

No, nothing at all. He isn't the type to slip like that. Blue's smart and likes to poke metaphorical bears. Fantastic. He eyes the homemade cup, looks towards the sugar container that relieves some tension in his shoulders. It's all a shitty joke towards his profession - that's an easier pill to swallow.

Later that afternoon, once Akechi has set the sugar container in the kitchen, claiming he found it on the road, and moved the cup to the back of dishware cabinet - Blue will receive a message! ]

That was kind of you. A simple text would have satisfied me, but I appreciate you going out of your way to make those. It was quite clever.

Thank you.

[It's a shame she can't point out that he is in fact in this moment hiding evidence. She'd be delighted with the irony.]

You're welcome, though it wasn't that much out of my way. Did you know, that gelfling potter in the marketplace is far too persuasive. I can't help but buy something every time I pass by.

The glaze was my idea, though. I hope I made them interesting for you.

It was certainly a funny joke. I'll have to remember that for when your birthday comes around.

When is it, by the way?

Not for some time yet. My comeuppance will still be a few months out.

It's a shame you won't simply say it. That's quite cruel, when my only intent is to repay the kindness you showed me.

But I would hate to take any spotlight away from this day meant to celebrate you.

Enjoy your gifts, the well-wishes of your friends, and ask me tomorrow. Perhaps I'll be more inclined to tell you.

[Oh, he would love to not be in the spotlight, thanks]

Of course - don't think I'll forget. I'll be messaging you first thing in the morning.

Don't forget to enjoy yourself in the meantime, sunflower.

[If he texts her at exactly 12:01, she'll be delighted.]

[LEFT ON FUCKING ✓✓READ @ XX:XX.]

[Such a delightful boy.]

um....

Thanks. But no thanks.

[Oh my GOD. He knows this stems from Maruki's consider it done text, but what the hell did he say??]

Care to refresh my memory? I'm unclear what you're referencing.

Quick question:

I understand it won't be avoidable forever, given the nature of this place.

But am I correct in assuming your intention is to keep your abilities a secret unless absolutely necessary?

Yes, you're the only person who knows I have an ability and I plan to maintain that for as long as possible. Quite frankly, I don't trust a majority of those here. I'm not interested in showing my full hand to anyone.

You've been hush on that matter as well. I assume your plan is the same, but I would like to get a confirmation.

Agreed on all accounts. I've told enough people that I'm a boring guy from a mundane reality, and I'd like to keep that cover going.

That said...

Not to be presumptuous, but if you were still open to helping me with a bit of training, we'd need to find somewhere to do that. I don't know that inside the castle is a good idea... you'll understand when you see it, haha...

Noted. I won't imply otherwise if the topic ever comes up with another person. Your secret is safe with me.

For training, there are plenty of secluded spots we can go. Unfortunately, given the small nature of this town, it will be difficult to remain undetected once stronger abilities come into play.

The forest near Lake Omen will work for some time. We'll opt to go at night to avoid issue.

[And if they're found? Akechi will just lie. A forest creature gone awry - there's so much to blame the noise on in a dense, mystical forest.]

Thanks, Akechi. The same to you. It goes without saying, in this and all other matters, but I'll say it anyway.

That's a good idea. Let's plan for it. I'm hoping to make a trip to the crystal (which never stops sounding ridiculous...) sooner rather than later.

[ Better start concocting lies for tentacles now, the both of them!! ]

It's strange...

What did it feel like for you before you regained Robin Hood?

[What a question - Robin Hood and Loki being an integral part of his soul for years, despite his dislike of the current one residing in his spirit. It felt-

Not empty, not quite. The spirit of rebellion still in him, even if the manifestations were inactive and hidden out of reach. They were born from his soul - created from it, not the other way around.

But he missed them - a power gone, a world lost. ]

Robin Hood, of course, is new to me. My perception may be skewed.

It felt odd, like a memory just out of reach. One I could recall in full, but felt like a piece was missing from.

When the crystal allowed me to regain what was rightfully mine and I summoned Robin Hood in my room for the first time-

It's an indescribable sensation, to be frank. I hesitate to say a 'piece' of myself returned. It wasn't quite that way, but that's the closest descriptor I can come up with.

I can only imagine. It must be a comfort, in a way.

Perhaps, if not a piece of yourself returning... a part of the image that was hazy or shrouded, now sharpened and brought into the light.

My apologies, that must have seemed like a bizarre question to ask out of the blue.

Considering how long I've heard the voice, I've felt out of sorts without it since I arrived here, but it wasn't until you put a name to it that the absence made itself more starkly known. So it's been on my mind, that's all. I appreciate you sharing that.

[Reading that apt description -

The man really must have a persona, not that any doubts remained. A voice, a contract, and a name shared with that vow. Everything he stated proved as such.

When he puts those words to the sensation, it's closer. Sharpened. Unclouded. Robin Hood's gleaming image an eyesore and a comfort all the same.]

Of course. I'm happy to share what I know, given my experience on the matter. Dealing with it on your own is difficult beyond measure. I would hate to see you go through that.

Although, I have some questions of my own - you say there's a voice. Robin Hood doesn't speak in the manner you're implying. I can always feel it, of course. Sometimes it makes its intent known with internal guidance without words, but at the end of the day, Robin Hood is a part of me.

I control it. The vow was for acceptance, not a partnership.

So let me ask - why doesn't it sound like Azathoth operates the same way? Why do you hear a voice so often? What does it say to you?

Edited (shhh words) 2024-06-03 19:43 (UTC)

Oh. Really? You can't hear it at all?

[ w h y does his experience continue to sound like an outlier!! ]

I should probably rephrase that... I've made it sound like I heard the voice often. In truth, it was only a few times over many years. But something like that does tend to stick with you, so it feels more significant than it probably is.

It was mostly unintelligible until it fully manifested, right before I came here.

[ He trusts Akechi. But he's also wary of sounding even more abnormal. Half honesty is best. ]

I only understood being told to recognize it within myself.

[ Seek me.

Call me forth. ]

And that we shared an anger with reality.

You can see why I thought I was going crazy, haha...

It felt like acceptance. I can say that much. Outside of that, I really have no idea. We'll both learn a lot soon enough, I suppose.

[A few times too many for Akechi's liking and intimate knowledge of the Metaverse. It's abnormal. Uncommon. No matter how unintelligible it was until it fully manifested in reality.

In reality being the troubling key. Either Maruki couldn't tell he was in another world, or it's true. Both are disturbing.]

The issue with such a small dataset is one I'm sure you're familiar with as a researcher. Your experience may be the more common one - who's to know for sure. To parse out confirmed facts from only a few is impossible.

I don't intend to inundate you with questions when the experience is so new. It's simply difficult to keep my curiosity in check at times like this, after I've found another who's experienced what I have.

If you could indulge one final question -

When you accepted that vow and acknowledged your anger against reality - how did you do that? More specifically, was there a physical manifestation you were compelled to free yourself of? How did it feel?

[Because he has a sneaky suspicion that Maruki didn't have a mask to rip off his face in the real world and what the means - he can't say. Only wants a confirmation one way or the other.]

Oh, come on. I've certainly inundated you with my own questions! I don't mind it at all. Please ask, any time. We can only learn more together that way.

That's an interesting question, though. A physical manifestation...

Ah... We might need to catch up on a few other things for this to make sense, but it isn't something I want to do over text, so please excuse the shoddy answer.

My research was defunded and discontinued rather suddenly. I spent years trying to continue it independently, without any financial or institutional backing. I drove myself into the ground doing that, and I can admit that by the time this occurred, I wasn't thinking rationally. I allowed my anger to motivate me and confronted an old professor who had been involved in stonewalling me.

He continued to dismiss the potential impact of my work, even when it was right in front of him. I've never felt so powerless.

[ Not strictly true. Not never. But only once before, sitting bedside, watching the person he loved lose herself. ]

And so... I believe that intense emotion of betrayal, spite and helplessness is what triggered its manifestation.

[ And the blood red sky, and the pull and tear of reality's seams. ]

How did it feel? I guess I've never considered that.

Powerful, I suppose. To no longer be alone.

But there was no physical manifestation to free myself of, no. Did you experience something like that? I'd love to hear about it, if you don't mind sharing a story of your own.

[A distinct paranoia brims at the mention of a sudden defunding on cognitive research, stonewalled with no finances or support. It reeks.

But he swallows it down. Educational institutions are built on contracts, grants and temporary funding. It could have been anyone, anything. Cognitive Psience is a niche field unaccepted by the general public.

It's the intimate details on Maruki's life, feelings, desolation, rage and helplessness. A man who devotes so much of himself to others and places their every whim above his own to admit to such vile feelings is -

Humanizing. He knows there's something in him because it formed the second he slammed a knife into that beast's neck. Sees it in their interactions and in spewed lies across the network.

More oddities reveal themselves in this text message. If Maruki knew how uncommon this was, he doubts he ever would have written it. It's an opportunity to slowly pick away what he can before the man catches on and walls it off forever.]

Not many could withhold their wrath in such a scenario. No one can blame you for your reaction or your feelings on the matter.

When something beloved to you is ripped away, the thought can consume you. Or so I've seen in my career. It's fortunate all you did was confront him. I've arrested many who went further.

[Then there's a question posed and-

Akechi could lie. Could say he doesn't remember, like he does with so many other scenarios. A part of him almost believes it - the awakening of Robin Hood and Loki such a tiring, painful experience it felt like his soul was ripped from his body. A dreamlike state followed until he managed to fumble home.

Maruki didn't experience that. None of it. That's troubling. Bizarre.

But Maruki is a liar, like him. Someone who holds things close to chest and on the cuff. I don't remember is an excuse used in key moments, not for every conversation he wants to keep private.

And there's something to be said about having an ally - untrustworthy and reliable all the same.]

Powerful is apt description. I felt the same. As you know, I work in the pursuit of justice.

My anger against an unjust world allowed Robin Hood to awaken and a mask appeared on my face, affixed to my flesh. To accept the vow, I had to rip it off.

It was...uncomfortable.

I assume it's because you awoken your persona in reality that this wasn't a requirement on your part.

[ When something beloved to you is ripped away, the thought can consume you.

It is a testament to how he's come to appreciate all facets of Akechi's presence in Somnius that the statement doesn't knock his consciousness a few clicks to the left, leave him dazed and adrift. He thinks of her, of course. Maruki is always thinking of her regardless, but that conjures up specific, visceral memories–

And a lurch of nausea aside as he sets the phone down and presses his forehead against the cool wooden wall of Eyn Sof, they don't throw him.

Maruki isn't naive enough to think he's getting a better handle on himself. He knows the deep grave of repression that he's buried his memories into is, quite frankly, fucked beyond repair. But there is now one person in Somnius who he thinks he might be able to tell without entering into a tailspin he can't pull himself out of, and that's– saying a lot.

He breathes. Returns to hanging a plant from the wooden beams above the office. Then sits on the floor and picks the phone back up to read the rest. ]

Anger against an unjust world, huh... It's interesting to me that although our circumstances and reasonings are undoubtedly different, the emotional core is the same. I couldn't have put the feeling better myself.

[ But more importantly: What??? ]

A physical mask? You truly had to tear it from your own skin?

Dear god. The cognitive world can be a little on the nose with its symbolism, can't it.

No, jokes aside, that's... horrific, actually. My vow feels ridiculously tame in comparison.

And that's true of other awakenings you've heard of? The mask.

[They couldn't be more different and Akechi knows it. The emotional core is the same in text and without intimate knowledge on the truth depth of their respective wraths. Maruki's assumption is wrong, but one he isn't interested in shifting. This is better. Pretend they're similar and allow it bolster this fake relationship.]

I thought the same. When the mask appeared, I remember thinking it was a joke. Subtly isn't the cognitive world's strong suit as I've learned.

The mask is a common requirement, however please remember that I only know of other awakenings in that world. Ones in reality may all follow the description you had - a voice and a vow alone.

It's an important and interesting distinction between the two, though I don't know what to make of it at this time.

[ :) oh sure buddy. ]

Fascinating...

I don't know what to make of it either. My hope is that we gain at least a little clarity when we're both able to summon them.

Or you'll just find me even weirder, haha!

Thank you for taking the time to talk me through these things, as always. Even if we don't find answers right away, being able to bounce these concepts around with you helps.

[ Hm. What a familiar feeling. ]

Agreed. I find it refreshing to have someone as intelligent as you to speak with. It opens my mind to new ideas and offers a chance to speak about topics I've had to mull over privately.

You can only get so far alone, after all. Please feel free to rely on me anytime you want a conversation.

I look forward to seeing your persona soon - there's a great disparity in how rebellion manifests and the powers alongside it. We'll find out exactly what you can do. I won't go easy on you.

[Which gives him insight on the greater problem he'll have back in reality. With any luck, Maruki's persona might be weak to curse or physical moves. If-

No. When this persistent idiot stumbles into the Metaverse, it'll be easier to deal with him.]

Hah, for the first time in my life I get to say this: I won't hold back against you either.

Good.

I can't wait to see what makes you so different. Don't let me down.

Hello, Akechi? I believe we’ve messaged one before, some months ago. I’m contacting you to verify that Dr. Maruki is, in fact, as qualified as he claims, and if you would vouch for his character, since I can’t exactly check his credentials from another world.

[What in the online testimonial is happening here? Maruki must have given this guy notice to contact him - there's no other reason to believe they share a world.

Oh, he'll remember that. No chance that man is getting away with using him as some kind of verification system. Cognitive Psience researcher turned counselor - incredible.]

Yes, that's me. I recall your username. I hope you're doing well.

Your skepticism is refreshing, to be frank. The amount of people who take others at face value, without question, is rather concerning. However, to your inquiry-

Maruki-san and I never met in our reality. Our experience has been limited to this world and our current situation as roommates. For his character, I can certainly vouch. He is overwhelmingly genuine.

[And a fucking liar - not that Akechi cares.]

As for credentials, he was a counselor at a high school in our world for some time. He was hired on to assist with the traumatic events that had occurred there with the populace. If my own experience doesn't suffice, perhaps that will put you at ease.

Edited 2024-06-05 11:17 (UTC)

Being wary of others intentions comes with the profession. I personally had no interest in his services, but someone I know is, and it would do them a world of good.

[And he’s friends with enough of the local disasters to know he’s still keeping it vague. Why they all flock to him like underfed strays is beyond him, but he’s accepted it at this point.]

Your words do put me at ease enough to let things go forward, but admittedly it still much to be desired, but there’s nothing to do about it here. If a school brought him in then he must at least have the credentials, and if you’re saying he’s earnest in his intentions then I’ll have to trust your judgment.

Edited (Html hates me today ) 2024-06-05 11:54 (UTC)

As does my profession. You're in good company.

I find it hard to believe he's faking such a thankless career. It's not a lucrative field in my world and there's little benefit to listening to the problems of others.

The actions I've seen him undertake to set up his business and get proper paperwork and confidentiality agreements in order-it would likely comfort you more than my words ever could.

Normally I would verify his degrees, look up any potential disciplinary actions on his license or legal battles, s well as reviews on the practice. Possibly some vague snooping in regards to anything public. You wouldn’t want a couples councilor that’s going through their fourth divorce after all. You make fair points, and yet that’s part of what makes it so hard to believe. What’s his motivation? No one is that openly warm and friendly without some sort of agenda, but the only thing I can think of is that he’s one of those “fixer” types. You know the "complete disaster of a personal life so they try to fix others for self gratification" kind of person.

[In truth-

Maruki's motivations for care are a mystery to him. The drive to serve others such a foreign concept, he knows it's spurned by whatever selfish intent is hidden below the surface.

He doesn't trust Maruki, or anyone. It's a well worn hesitation, but-

They've been through the gambit. A liar that follows through words with action. Akechi, for the most part, can respect it.]

To speak to that level is impossible for me. I would be doing a disservice to him and you by trying.

It's my suggestion you find out his motivations yourself. Either through taking advantage of the service for the purpose of seeing how he operates or by speaking to him personally.

Even if I were a member of his family, with intimate knowledge of him, my assumption is you're intelligent enough to trust that opinion even less.

[Then-

Moments come to mind as he moves to set down his phone and end the ridiculous conversation on amicable terms with this man. A flicker of licking wounds in a dilapidated convenience store, a note pressed against the back of his pillow, a breakfast made for a quiet birthday.]

For all the people I've dealt with - criminals, liars and otherwise who purport altruism for the sake of inflating their own ego - Maruki-san truly seems genuine in his attempts. That is what I can attest to.

Edited 2024-06-05 14:38 (UTC)

Re: vouching.

Thank you, and I'm sorry that you had to.

Edited 2024-06-08 00:24 (UTC)

[He'll hold that grudge until the day he DIES.]

It's fine. Vil reached out and we had a short discussion on the matter.

Frankly, it's refreshing to have someone who questions what they're told and doesn't blindly follow what someone proclaims.

I agree. I have no problem with people looking into my qualifications. I just don't enjoy having to involve you.

I owe you. What'll it be?

[That's a first - he can't say that mindset isn't pleasing. He doesn't want to be involved in any of that counseling shit.]

I feel as though I'm in a rare spot. Perhaps I should hold it as an 'IOU' until I truly need something.

[It's a bit too much like Shido though - lording debts, even in this small way, makes him want to puke.]

I'm joking, of course. If you could, please pick me up a new book from the library. I trust your judgement to find something worthwhile and I don't have time to go today.

You've got it.

And now that I've made good on that, I have to ask yet another favor of you.

[jfc what now]

And that would be?

[ HE ISN'T HAPPY ABOUT THIS EITHER ]

Here's a funny coincidence.

Vil reached out to check my credentials due to his concerns for Freminet - understandable.

Today, Webby attempted to find a way to break into my office. We had a conversation in which she revealed she lives with Vil and Freminet.

I'm not about to drop a patient, but I have zero trust in this situation.

Should I need your detective skills to - oh, I don't know, sweep my office for bugs in the future - can I call on you?

[This is what Maruki gets for trying to help someone - many someones - who clearly can't be trusted in their own right.

Hilarious, almost, that these people would look at an opportunity for assistance for someone they care about and try to exploit the situation. Disregard privacy. That sort of feigned care is more sickening than anything. It's unfortunate for whoever Freminet is that they're among people who don't trust them or their choices. His own belief in this counseling shit null - he has no skin in the game regardless.

It's not his detective skills that will be used here - the cabal did multiple sweeps for privacy, using Akechi or otherwise. He's witnessed enough potential tampering to know what to look for. It's easy. ]

You certainly stumbled into quite an issue and during your first few weeks no less. Why am I not surprised?

It's fortunate for you that I had some training in this area and need to keep my skills sharp. When you're suspicious, call me, and I'll do my best to assist.

Granted, I only know to look for items I'm familiar with. If there's a bug from another world or coated in some magical ability, well-

Simply exercise caution whether I've looked through the room or not - that's all.

[ It is what he gets. He know's that. This is trouble he invited directly to his door, quite literally.

These people don't know what's good for them. ]

This hasn't taken me by surprise either. I was already well aware people were suspicious of me. I got used to explaining myself within my first few days here.

What I didn't foresee was people taking matters into their own hands to supersede something as basic as confidentiality for their own motives. A foolish oversight. That's on me.

Thank you, and I will. I appreciate it more than I can say. There's nothing I take more seriously than the privacy of my patients.

Edited 2024-06-08 01:22 (UTC)

[It's clearly an important aspect, if he's willing to rely on Akechi to debug his facility.

And privacy is also important to Akechi, even outside of this context. Having your trust betrayed and life put on display for the amusement of others-

It rubs him the wrong way, in a manner that will ensure he will keep that place bug free to the best of his abilities. Especially if he will be making his own goddamn appearance in that place weekly to make sure this idiot is rested enough to wield his persona.

What a fucking mess.]

It's an unfortunate situation. There are too many worlds to predict a baseline for any type of behavior. You learned this lesson early and that's valuable in its own right.

If those same people would be willing to expend that energy into solving our situation, none of us would have to be here at all. It's a shame they chose to focus their efforts on an office instead of a looming castle.

Agreed.

The only guy who should focus on that office is the guy utilizing it to get to said castle.

Anyhow, I have a completely unrelated question, and then I'll let you go and head home.

[What?? Maruki?? Want him to infiltrate a home??? Go into someone's cognition???? BOY.]

I assume you mean through gaining shards with your discussions, otherwise I can't fathom how counseling lets you get to the castle. Unless Vaeros decided to sign up, that is.

That's a joke, of course.

What's your question?

[ He did genuinely laugh, thank you Akechi. ]

How is your statue doing?

[Oh.]

[Maruki doesn't need to worry about bugs - he dies today.]

[WILLPOWER PLAYS IN THE DISTANCE.

Akechi types and retypes about ten solid responses, a specific emoji that Eren enjoys, and-]

You'll have to tell me later.

It's in your room now.

Also, I would suggest tidying up or we may find ourselves overrun with a different kind of bug.

[Is the statue in Maruki's room? No. Does Akechi go into Maruki's room ever? No, outside of the singular time he took a picture of the lantern in case someone called him out about his 'hypothetical'.

But fuck him, actually.]

Edited 2024-06-08 01:56 (UTC)

Oh, good. That'll be less disruptive for you.

See you soon.

[Wait - did he want a turn?

Okay.

A text follows a few minutes later, you know, because he's a busy boy.]

For the record, it's back in my room.

And as a note, you are welcome to test its capabilities whenever you need, so long as you give me proper notice.

I'll be back late tonight, but still in time for dinner. As such, I ask you wait for me to return before you go in.

Of course I'll wait for you. I'd never enter your room unaccompanied.

[ He might, one day, to do some laundry out of the kindness of his heart. ]

Thanks, Akechi.

[ He can't roll sushi with one hand, but Akechi's getting sashimi tonight for sure. ]

If you ever do, I would know. Your little intruder isn't the only one with bugs.

But you're welcome, Maruki. I'll see you soon.

[There ain't no bugs in there lol enjoy finding that gun someday.]

[ Sure, everything has gone to pure shit, but they do occasionally have to rest away from the forest and he stays silly. ]

If we all survive this mess Sky has gotten us into, I plan to have that sushi night for you and Kuro once things are back to normal.

Huge "if"!

However, in the interest of planning, please put in your order now.

Edited (jk i made new icons. give me a reason to use this) 2024-06-14 09:02 (UTC)

[Away from the forest, but not enrichment!! The sushi text having apt timing as he finishes off a snack, unconscious body at his feet.]

I'll survive regardless - please refrain from perishing when I'm not around.

Night Sky would certainly be distressed to find there isn't a room for her to crawl into in your absence.

However, for sushi -

I would say omakase, but I can already see the look on your face.

Salmon and otoro nigiri. The latter may be beyond your expertise to prepare, so please know I'll be content with any type of sushi provided.

[ Was that snack provided by Mamaruki. Was it, Akechi. Tell him his hard work isn't going to waste.

Also........ weirdly sweet response to his blithe pessimism? o k a y ]

Hah. Heard and understood. Thank you, Akechi.

Do you think they have fatty tuna here? I guess I haven't had many opportunities to see normal fish, so anything is possible.

[It is a Mamaruki Approved and Given snack - thank u. Who else is gonna feed his ass????? The Moon???? Please.]

We could ask Vash, given his tenure here. I've only been to the market a few times since my arrival, and I wasn't looking for that.

As an educated guess on the matter, I would assume no. That would be too convenient.

But there are fish - that much is abundantly obvious now. One of them may mimic the consistency.

[ HELL YEAH enjoy the bag lunches he makes for you to take for another day of getting enthralled!

also neither of them should be asking Vash anything at the moment. Jesus. ]

This is going to be fun to do without youtube. Maybe I can wish for a smartphone that only plays sushi tutorials. I mean, if you got that TV...

[FIGHT HIM!!!!!!!]

I hope this doesn't come off as rude, but-

My expectation is quite low. Whatever you make will be suitable. You aren't an expert and I'm not treating you as such. I'm sure Kurogiri will feel the same. There's no need to waste shards on such things for our benefit alone. Unless you want to, of course. They're yours to spend as you please.

I know that, but thank you anyway. It's still fun to try!

And besides... with all due respect... Akechi, I have so many damn shards.

You're being suspiciously kind to me. Enthralled?

I'm always nice to you. It's not in my nature to be unfriendly.

And for the record, no. Not at all. I'm in complete and total control, like normal.

[ AS THE KIDS SAY: WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWW

KEK, EVEN ]

Careful with that dagger...

I haven't the faintest idea what you're trying to imply with that statement.

Perhaps exhaustion is finally getting to you and you're becoming delirious. I suggest you take a nap.

[As the kids say: Take the L, Boomer. Are you MAD he's RIGHT??? Mad Harisen Recovery works ~~sometimes~~???]

[ "im not owned! im not owned!!", akechi continues to insist as he slowly shrinks and transforms into a corn cob ]

I just woke up, actually.

And anyway, I could say the same for you. When are you coming back to the castle? I'll make sure there's food for you if I'm not here.

[He is getting hungry. Also in the mood for corn potage of all things. Weird.]

Thank you.

I plan to be back within the hour after I clean up a mess. However if I'm not -

Then I was last by the Moon Church. Please do with that information what you will.

[Not that he may get ENTHRALLED or anything.]

Noted.

Keep sharp. See you soon.

[ Exactly 45 minutes later, no more, no less. ]

ENTHRALLED?

[ Why does he even ask when he suspects the answer is yes. When has an enthralled dreamer ever taken the time to answer a text. ]

We really should turn on location sharing just for this...

[NO RESPONSE. But he's having a grand ole time - don't worry about it.]

Come on, not again...

See you by the Moon Church. Try to sequester yourself so we can make this quick.

[So, the thing to do after one almost gets killed by their ???friend for no apparent reason is to… go sleep over their castle. Yeah. Sure. You know? Why not. It’s been a wonderful time for decision-making all around, really.

[Aubrey does not sleep. Finds it’s not difficult to stay up, anyway, what with the endless darkness and the leftover mortal terror and everything. She tells herself it’s because she wants to watch her back. It’s that, and not… the glint in his eyes as he talked about Featherman, or the way he fell silent when bandaged palm took gloved hand, or wild laughter, or pleasant, airy words, or—

[“I’m happy you understand.”
[“You pathetic nobody.”
[Come on, man.

[Maruki hasn’t seemed too concerned; Aubrey’s acted like she’s not. She watches Akechi, though. Any stir or turn, half-conscious mumbling. Maybe nothing. She could be hallucinating by now, frankly.

[But when he moves enough to suggest wakefulness, she nudges that water mug closer to his side of the table.]

[At first, he's back in Tokyo - phantom vibrations from a smartphone left behind a pillow, covered in his own blankets on a comfortable mattress. Maybe his couch. The perpetual night is due to the blackout curtains in his room and the entire ordeal is over. An irritating dream concocted from stress to be pushed aside forever. He tries to reach for his phone, eyes closed and-

He's snug. Tightly packed into the fabric like a human sardine. In fact,

It would be too convenient for the Green Knight to propel him back to Tokyo. No exchange for serving in that shitty army? Unreal.

Arms and legs are untangled from whatever the fuck tucked him in - an already embarrassing thought. This is a level of malicious care that reminds him he was enthralled, Maruki had to get him and-

A flash of faded pink. A sudden, vivid memory of screams, bloody palms and a coiled up blue flame wrapped around them.

What the hell is she doing here?

The teenage jumpscare is the surprise of the century and it not grogginess that keeps him silent - no, he's very fucking awake. Rapid fire recollection of their fight, the outcome, the sudden loss of consciousness after Maruki's attack. Enthrallment is the simple excuse - an easy one. True. But why the hell is she here, settled in the room beside him? Voice hoarse - early morning throat clearing, a mask donned too early. Holy fuck. ]

My apologies - I didn't expect to see you here, Aubrey. I'm not-

[He pulls the blankets off in their entirety, tossing them over the arm of the couch, eyes the half drank water from a familiar, likely unwashed cup and-

Oh, what a goddamn morning(???). It's a battle he won't surrender, despite being at an immediate loss.]

Or rather, have you been here long?

Yeah.

[Well, someone woke up fast. Aubrey sits back, if none too relaxed, her own blanket long folded and tossed over the back of the couch.]

What do you remember?

[There's no time.

A lie is obvious in prolonged silence - the seconds that tick by a clear sign of it. If he wanted to play stupid, he should have pretended to wake up ill. Headache, feigned attempts to recall a fuzzy memory.

God fucking dammit.

It doesn't matter. Enthrallment isn't a lie. New tactics - a prince on the edge, detective at the forefront. Take charge of the conversation. He decides the flow.]

I recall enough to find your presence here a surprise.

Why?

Why what? Please be more clear.

[It could be anything - his suspicion for the why obvious in the way she's engaging him now. In the way she stayed.]

You need me to spell it out for you?

[Why he did it. Hell, why he’s surprised.

[She considers actually elaborating, then decides ~~to be petulant~~ that she might get more if he fills the blanks.]

Guess, detective.

[Oh.

They're doing this, huh? This shitty little back and forth until someone relents. Interrogation isn't his specialty - he's better handling the backend duties, cleaning up trash, connecting dots.

And boy did this connect.]

Surely you aren't asking why an enthralled attacked you? That can't have been your first fight.

People who are just enthralled don’t catch on fire.

[Give or take the mockery. Even so....]

I know that wasn’t yours, either.

[He knows she's seen Robin Hood - it's the Maruki addendum that isn't clear. What was said, what wasn't - he was knocked out so fast after Azathoth appeared.

He ignores that comment. Using his persona was reckless against a normal, human girl, no matter how out of sorts he was.]

No, it wasn't. I've been enthralled many times - an embarrassing amount, quite frankly, and have assisted other enthralled to the lake by force.

[A slight lean against the couch, arms fold over his chest.]

You're not a stranger to bludgeoning things, or otherwise. I've seen your skills training with Eren. So I'll ask again what are you requesting from me? Or are you simply looking for gratitude for not crushing my skull?

Do you think I’m stupid? [He could’ve ended that fight in an instant.] Is that it?

[“An embarrassing amount.” She’d blow it off if not for Maruki’s confirmation.]

I thought you were better than that.

I don't associate with idiots.

[Unfortunately, she's not a moron. Life would be much easier if she was.]

And it seems you're looking for a confirmation of something you've decided is the truth. Forgive me for trying to clarify your request or maybe-

[A flick of the hand - this whole conversation ridiculous. Whether or not this relationship is salvageable is irrelevant. A lost resource is just that.]

You're too afraid to ask.

[Moving for the first time since this bullshit talk started, Aubrey leans forward, elbows digging into her knees, and rubs her hands over her face. Should’ve known better than going into a talk with Goro Akechi, really.]

Fine.

[Where did all that anger go, anyway? She knows what she’s about to ask is pathetic. Far be it from Aubrey to know how not to be blunt, though.

[She tries for eye contact, at least. Hers are tired. Searching, maybe, but…]

Do you hate me?

[Be honest.]

[Every fiber of his being does.

Pieces of offered help, her resilience, her care, thrown stones at glass houses she repairs with deft hands, a protector, a guardian, a-

Angry, rebellious fighter with a steeled resolve and -

A pair of hands over his, text messages with inside jokes, a photo.

It was pleasant for so long. Too long. He meets her eyes without flinching and no words. With only heat creeping against his palm, like a phantom touch. A reminder. He isn't wearing gloves and it bothers him. If he looks down -

And he does - makes sure his palms aren't alight in fake flames from a memory before -

Back up. A lie will save this. The truth will destroy it. He wants to rip her apart and-

He hates Aubrey. His stomach drops. He hates her and his chest tightens. He hates her and-

That need for the truth holds the same presence in her heart as it once did in his.

It's such a pathetic, fucking conversation. ]

It's unlikely you'll be satisfied no matter what I say. If I answer yes, no amount of provided reasoning will make you content. If I say no, I doubt you'll believe me given the fact you asked to begin with. It shows how tentative our relationship was, if such a surface level confrontation could shake it so.

[Those arms unfold over his chest to allow elbows to rest on knees, the back of his hands fold under his chin. She leaned forward - so does he. There's a pause on his end. A flicker of something in his vision. A slow exhale.]

You're welcome to leave if that's your only question or if you're unsatisfied. However, if you're willing to stay -

May I tell you a story?

Edited (WWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWORRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRDS) 2024-06-19 03:26 (UTC)

[It’s a yes or fucking no question.

[“Surface level.” Right. If he says so. Aubrey’s hands close in her lap, slow but tight, and she’s got half a mind to—

[Hell. She’ll never be satisfied.

[All at once she leans back, sighing, kicking her feet up on the table and crossing them. If it knocks over his mug, oops. Aubrey plans her chin on her hand and her elbow on the chair.]

Knock yourself out.

Thank you.

[She's annoyed - he could care less. The cup topples over and spills what remains.

How fucking poetic. Akechi doesn't bother it and hopes it slides off the table.]

You'll have to forgive me, as I don't often talk about this. It's somewhat of a sore subject for me, but perhaps it will offer more than a simple 'yes' or 'no'.

[And that, in fact, is the truth - the topic is raw despite the months that past. Still makes his stomach churn.]

You already know I have difficulty making friends and it's always been that way, but I did have one - a boy around my age. We met while I was being interviewed on TV. He was in the audience. We disagreed on the topic immediately.

In fact, in every meetup after, we disagreed and debated over almost everything. It was-

Nice. I truly enjoyed every chat we had, even the outcome didn't end in my favor. We met often, at the place he lived and in areas I enjoyed. Even in silence, the moments were never dull. It always felt like a symbiotic relationship - a type of mutualism formed from a desire to make the other stronger. To prove ourselves to each other.

[But no one's more powerful than a bullet to the skull - not even the illustrious leader himself.

Akechi wants to puke. The castle walls trickled with the same red splatters in Maruki's memory, in Joker's steel coated coffin.]

We even tested our strength in more traditional ways - competition didn't end with words. Our rivalry went beyond what most would consider normal.

[In the end -

What's the goddamn point of telling Aubrey this.

It's the same way he spewed out his mother's history, the foster homes, in a worn bathhouse. The way he uttered out shit at LeBlanc's counter in moments of heavy silence. In the alleyway whispers, conversations under the dim light of a flickering jazz club's bulb.

He stretches his legs out - leans back against the couch again. The cup falls from the table with that movement. Good.]

In my entire life, he was the only person I ever connected with beyond a superficial level.

Edited 2024-06-19 04:07 (UTC)

[She thinks, at first, that it’s more bullshit. Ooh, a sore subject; what, like Robin Hood? Tell her more—

[He has her at “did have one.”

[“Did.”

[Aubrey takes her feet off the table. She leans forward again, slowly. Doesn’t realize she’s doing it.

[Never a dull moment. A bond forged by challenge—more than words. A refusal to see the other quit. A rival. A living space. A friend. Talks into the night. Worse.

[Gone.]

…Hey.

[Quiet, now. Soft. He sinks into the couch. Aubrey glances at the fallen cup, not focused on it; a courtesy, not to watch him.]

I can tell… he meant a lot to you.

[It's disgusting how similar they are at times - a boy who understood too little, too late and a girl who understands nothing at all.

She's still here. He doesn't know how to feel about it - a pounding headache is what he chooses to concentrate on.]

He was special. Someone I couldn't stand to lose to - ever.

[Joker meant nothing to him. Everything. Drove him to maddening depths that were thrilling and frustrating with every challenge thrown Akechi's way. In whatever remains of his short life, he will never find another person that compares to the leader of the Phantom Thieves.

An easy smile is plastered on. This entire goddamn ordeal is uncomfortable and irritating. No more forest adventures if the outcome requires a conversation like this.

He hates Aubrey.]

That's all I had to say. Sometimes I get carried away when I talk - my apologies. You're welcome to stay or leave as you see fit. If you're willing, Maruki-san will be up soon and I'm sure he would be happy to provide breakfast for you.

[She wonders if it killed him. Couldn’t stand to lose…

[Dismissed. Akechi’s used this little… apology, wave-off, before. Aubrey has let him have it, because that’s what decent friends do, she feels; give people space, if they need it, and it’s not, y’know, life-threatening.

[No one ever said she was a good friend. Not like that.]

Don’t apologize. [Less soft. Eyes back up.] I mean that.

[Without much pause:] You know… [It’s funny. She was thinking of a story, too. Doesn’t feel like it matters now, though, not enough to mention—but there was a point to it.]

I’m really sick of people feeling like they have to lie. Pretending shit’s okay when it’s not, and… the way that all breaks down. [“People,” “they.” It’s not just them.]

I think you’re better than that. [Can be. Will be.] And, hey. I’ll be honest with you. No matter what you’d answered, I—

I care about you anyway. [She reaches over, pats his shoulder twice with all the briskness of a nudge from the lake, and gets up herself.]

Jackass. See you at breakfast.

Edited (unintentional redundancy) 2024-06-19 05:41 (UTC)

['Don't apologize' - as if his words aren't a placating buffer full of feigned sincerity. Like she needs to truly assuage him of the guilt of speaking and-

The intent behind her rough response is clear - don't lie, talk to me. This is a spat between friends and not smoothing over a potential murder attempt.

His palms burn - his fingers clench into fists over his knees. Annoying.]

I see. [Neutral - a crisis averted, a resource kept, an ally confirmed.] You're a better person than I am. I appreciate your understanding of the matter and the offer. It won't be something I forget.

['Jackass']

I may be late to breakfast though - perhaps it's a residual effect from yesterday, but I'm not feeling well. Please feel free to eat without me if that's the case.

[Fuck this he's-

Wrapping himself back up in the blanket to claim his place over the new couch hovel. He's just gonna hang out here - the cushion was a nice change of pace anyway. He'll wander back to his room later.]

[Does she buy that? Does it matter? His uncovered hands are fists over his knees. She’ll give it to him.]

I’ll wait.

[Kind of.

[Exit Aubrey, stage left. She actually will wait—and, most likely, fall asleep at the counter. As one does. What a day....]

[ Things seem to have worked out for the best– or at least for the better.

Maruki ventures downstairs only when he no longer hears muffled voices. Finds Akechi asleep again on the couch, Aubrey with her head down on the dining bar. He makes coffee, offers breakfast. Makes simple omelettes for both of them. Chats amicably, sparingly, cognizant that she likely needs the silence more. Doesn't let her leave without a small supply of snacks to bring into the woods next time she goes.

Watches her go, back out into that eternal night with all its horrors.

Then returns to the living room and stares down at Akechi, still asleep.

Azathoth is summoned silently, the Tentacle of Healing does its work on his aches and scrapes left over from the fight. There's a bruise blooming along his jaw where Aubrey hit him; it's gone.

He picks up the mug, wipes the spilled water with one of the spare blankets he'd given to Aubrey and gathers those linens up to put in the wash.

Returns to Akechi, still out.

Irritation and exasperation tug in his chest right alongside a protective fondness.

Maybe that's what makes him bring another cup of water – full this time, and not the same mug that he favors – and set it down on the table, along with one of the crossword pages they haven't yet gotten to. A pen, an apple.

Maruki tugs one of the blankets that's slipped half-off the couch back up over him and leaves him with a final thought, whether he hears it or not: ]

At least try to enjoy it less next time you stab one of your friends.

[ Maruki OUT. ]

I haven't seen you in a bit. I know you're not venturing out as often, but...

Enthralled?

I'm doing well. Not enthralled in the slightest.

I should be back shortly.

Take your time, I just wanted to be sure you were alright. I'm home for the "night" so I'm not going anywhere.

[ The actual question he wanted to ask, typed and deleted several times over. He'll settle for this for now. ]

See anything interesting this time?

I see. Thank you. If my plans happen to deviate from a simple walk around town, I'll let you know.

Of course, there's nothing new to note. Trees, enthralled - it's becoming such a common sight. The Green Knight's power truly is something else.

It's unfortunate that we can't we negotiate with it or claim it as a persona for our arsenal.

I'm joking, of course.

Edited (ok nevermind words wrong bed now) 2024-06-21 05:50 (UTC)

[ Question briefly diverted. Fucking what? ]

Is that how it works? Can you negotiate with... creatures to manifest them as personas?

Wait, can you even have more than one persona?

[HAHAHAHHAHA.

Don't worry about it. It's just a funny funny joke. He isn't even about to allude to Joker's shitty persona assortment. There will never be another like him, so it's irrelevant.]

No, not to my knowledge. That would somewhat odd, wouldn't? Imagine an ego so split that more than one persona formed from it. It goes against reason.

As for negotiation - I know very little about it due to my minor experience. However, I've heard you can negotiate with shadows. They are basically 'enemies' in the cognitive world, though that tends to be for items or money.

If a persona can be gained from it, well, that says more about the individual than anything. It goes back to a discussion about the split ego or an unsolidified sense of self.

So I would assume.

[ An ego split enough for multiple personas isn't exactly outside the realm of possibility from a psychological standpoint... For example, extremely stressful or traumatic circumstances could easily cause that to occur, especially at a young age.

Just for example, of course. ]

Huh. That's fascinating, even just as a theoretical... I have to admit that I'm eager to return to our reality for countless reasons, but chief among them is to be able to learn more about this phenomenon. As always, I really appreciate you sharing what you know with me.

Shadows in a cognitive world. That's a little on the nose. Sometimes our conversations make me imagine Jung rolling over in his grave.

I can't imagine having another persona that would suit me as well as mine does. Could you?

[There's an implication in eager to return - a contentious topic he isn't sure about broaching in full. Maruki exhibits abnormalities in every single part of his awakening and then some. Checks on an ever growing list of the potential future problem he's facing.

Ugh.]

Please keep in mind it's not as simple as opening up a phone application. Going into the cognitive world is seemingly random. You may never learn more.

As for suitability -

It's interesting, isn't it? Robin Hood isn't a figure I would have associated with myself in any capacity. As a celebrity, it hardly follows the tradition of stealing from the rich to give back to the poor. I would argue the opposite.

In fact, in my research, I found some rather dire conflicting accounts of Robin Hood. Hero or villain, savior or murderer - it truly makes you wonder.

Though in saying that, I don't know anything about Azathoth and despite my search of the library, I've yet to learn a thing. I hesitate to say it suits you until I learn more. Something I'm eager to do with our return back to reality.

[ Akechi Goro, if anyone can enter the cognitive world without even something as helpful and simple as a phone app, it's gonna be him. Literally! ]

I didn't know there was that much variance in the legends about Robin Hood. That's a fascinating dichotomy.

If I can add one thing... You know your own mind better than anyone, but just from how I've come to know you, I can say there's much more to you than your celebrity status and image. Whether Robin Hood suits you or not probably has little to do with that.

If that were the case, maybe your soul would manifest as Poirot. Or Detective Conan!

Hah, I'm kidding, obviously.

Anyway, to be fair, I don't know very much about Azathoth either - and obviously I didn't have any time to research between its awakening and my arrival here. I only know it's a primordial god. The suitability is more of a general feeling I have than anything backed by literary evidence, I suppose.

It's all so strange to discuss. I don't know how you went about things alone, even for a short amount of time.

[Sometimes -

It feels like Joker on the other end of this phone. Only the edges of him because that boy was in a league of his own - untouchable until he wasn't. There's no comparison, even against Maruki.

But he reads 'there's more to you than your celebrity status and image' and-

Before he was a celebrity, he was no one. Not a single thought spared to Akechi Goro.

Maruki will never see Akechi Goro in full, even with the bits and pieces that fray off in his presence, but -

He screencaps the message. Waits. Reads it again and-

Deletes it. Back to the topic. He ignores the first portion.]

A primordial god - it certainly has the abilities of one. The range of your skills as a newcomer is quite astounding and they're only due to grow.

I wonder what makes you so special. A humble counselor with a desire to help and assist manifesting the spirit of ancient deity. To think an altruistic heart could form something so powerful. Moments like this - it's exciting for me. The cognitive world is one of the most fascinating mysteries I've ever stumbled on.

But it's less difficult than you would think to work alone, thanks to the notes and research from dedicated professionals like yourself.

Hmm...

What I just said about your image goes for my profession as well. Azathoth predates that by years. Honestly, it predates any interest in helping others beyond those closest to me.

I appreciate any kind words you have to say about my altruism, but I also think it's being given undue weight.

Hopefully when this nightmare clears up and we have a little breathing room, I can tell you the full story of why Azathoth came to me.

[ Or as full as it can be, anyway. And if he does, there's no avoiding talking about the memory they shared.

It twists in his chest weakly, too tired to be frightened of the notion. It feels nearly impossible right now that this will ever end.

Which, well– ]

I have another question entirely unrelated to personas and the cognitive world, if it's alright. I don't want to distract you on your way out of the woods.

[That's a surprise - an offer he won't forget. Maruki the counselor comes second to Maruki the liar, after all. Having an opportunity to hear the truth, willingly, from his own lips -

Well, he'll withhold judgement until then.]

I'll hold you to it. It's something I would like to hear.

As you said, we are more than our image. A full story is always preferable to a pretty little book cover.

Feel free to ask your question.

Do you intend to attempt to take on the Green Knight?

[Lying is pointless. Maruki would see through it in an instant, given their experience together.

The text comes without a moment's hesitation.]

Of course, if the opportunity arises. Though I don't plan to go in recklessly.

I'll ask you the same - though I feel like your answer is as obvious as mine.

Yes.

[ A couple minutes of ... appearing, disappearing, reappearing as he says too much, not enough, untrue things, sentimental things. Nothing correct enough to send until he lands on: ]

I've spent enough time feeling helpless.

[ Over the past two weeks. During his captivity thus far in Somnius. Throughout his entire life. Everything, all of it. ]

I won't tell you to stay safe, I know that isn't possible here. But when you do go, please try not to die. I can heal everything else up to that point, so give him hell.

I'm making stir fry, whenever you come home.

Edited (WORDS GOD. THE BEER SLEEPIES GOT ME) 2024-06-21 23:02 (UTC)

[In the depths of that palace, Mementos - somewhere in the cognitive world-

He remembers the first time Loki slaughtered without remorse or mercy. A relentless assault spurned by feeling trapped, helpless, lost and-

Powerful.

Maruki is powerful.

Maruki is trapped. Helpless. Lost. Looking to unleash the same unrelenting fury against a world that's wronged him through forced capture, through the loss of a friend, through a distortion of reality. ]

I will not die.

You will not die.

[Another sentence typed out, deleted - you really are more than your image lost to backspaces and rewrites.]

Whether you face the Green Knight or not, you are not helpless nor weak. No part of your will is. A battle doesn't change that, won or lost. Go in with a clear head to assess the fight.

Sometimes a battle is won through wit above force. Other times, you must be merciless.

[Another pause. More typing. The trees cling to the earth around him. It's stifling - Loki could rip it apart. ]

Azathoth is strong because you are. Not the other way around.

After dinner, let's focus on guarding without your tentacle friends - if they become subdued, you need to be prepared.

[ As he hiked a cliffside with Venat, before this nightmare, even before the labyrinth, he told her: Back in our reality, Akechi-kun and I never would have had reason to meet, and he's become someone important to me here.

As he dried off outside the lake with Luz, discussing dreamers who have left and dreamers who still could, he told her: If my housemate was taken, I would be bereft.

It wasn't a consolation prize meant to make the circumstances of their captivity seem less worrisome. And it wasn't lip service meant to empathize and further a bond growing between counselor and patient. It was the truth.

It sits heavy somewhere deep in the center of his sternum now. Bright and warm. ]

Thank you, Akechi. Anything else I could say in response would be inadequate.

Actually, I will say one thing...

So you believe me now that the tentacles are friendly! I wasn't lying to you back in my dream, was I?

See you soon.

[READ AT ✓✓XX:XX.

He is going to unleash SO many megidolaons on him after dinner.]

im ok

hope you are too

come have fish sometime.

I'm glad to hear it - all is well on my end. Please keep me posted on your status.

Once this is over, I would like that.

I've learned some new techniques from watching Maruki-san cook. I think our next meal will be quite good.

youve been practicing?

[ she's a little impressed. ]

Observing, mostly.

Though I have tried on my own in private moments. The food doesn't compare to Maruki-san's, unfortunately, but I think my skills have gotten better.

whats a maruki.

[A friend.]

One of my roommates. We're from the same world so our food preferences are similar. He cooks often.

Edited 2024-06-23 01:54 (UTC)

and hes good at it?

In comparison to the rest of us in this castle? Yes.

. . . do you all suck at it.

[Yes.]

I would hate to speak on behalf of Vash or Zazie, but I haven't known either to be good cooks. None of really attempted it prior to Maruki-san's arrival though.

so you all suck.

Yes, unfortunately.

do you want me to bring you more fish.

If you're willing, I would be happy to exchange some items we have for it.

items?

Items.

Other types of food or supplies - anything you may need. I can do my best to procure it, if we don't have it already.

[ anything she wants??? such power. ]

i want a mouse stuffed toy.

[He did not EXPECT THAT. NOT AT ALL.

She really is just a cat.]

If that's truly what you want, then I'll find one for you.

really?

Of course. You aren't asking anything unreasonable and I wouldn't have offered if I didn't intend to try.

when can i have it??

Soon, or so I hope. I don't have one on hand, so I'll need to find someone that can make it. That shouldn't be difficult though.

I'll contact you the second I have it.

okay.

LABY - IC INBOX

I hereby christen this inbox | text; un: eren (03/30 (his birthday :3c)

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cws for thread: genocide, graphic violence, gorey descriptions

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I hereby christen this inbox a second time | action

ue ue ue intensifies cw: akechi violent thoughts @ animal

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1/2

2/3 now

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after -gestures upward- That Thread | text; un: aub

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cw: akechi thoughts, emeto mention, murder

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post-event | action (dream edition)