TRAVEL LOG #3

[synfluxmods]

TRAVEL LOG #3

CONTENT WARNINGS: cult-like symbols and implications, abduction.

▶ 001. TARGU MURES AIRPORT.

In the early morning of the 1st, Outsiders will receive a message in their oculars.

"Oh, seriously? You’re putting this on my plate now when I have so much to do? Tch … Outsiders currently caring for Imugi eggs, bring them to the medical bay. I’ll take over for now. Captain Yamakawa needs everyone to report to the hangar right away. There’s been a distress call from a distant land and we’re noticing some strange readings. We need you to go investigate this.

…Put some catnip on my plate, Alex. It’ll be a long night."

True enough, a SPECIAL ALERT will blare through the implants shortly after, asking those who would be willing to help with a distress call to head to the hangar. The reward will be an additional bonus pay, as this seems to be different from detecting a kaiju. There, they will see a familiar sight: the LILITH SKY CRUISER, a spacecraft capable of carrying 80 passengers. There is little time for seat assignments, so seating will be on a first come, first serve basis (hopefully you don’t get the middle seat!) and the flight will last about 10 hours. Just like any aircraft, Outsiders may stand up and walk around once the seatbelt signs turn off. There is inflight entertainment consisting of AI movies or virtual reality games (see TRAVEL LOG #2). Characters with inhuman features are required to wear their cloaking devices.

The plane will touch down at Targu Mures Airport, Transylvania, Romania, which appears to be abandoned and desolate. There isn’t a living soul to be found.

"Most of the country was destroyed decades ago, so there shouldn’t be anyone still living here. Yet, these readings ….. And we can’t ignore that call for help. We’ll need to investigate further. My Angels, go the rest of the way on foot..."

There isn’t a data portal in Romania, and there’s just no way to transport the number of cars needed for over 60 people via plane. Let’s hope you managed to get proper rest on the way here, because the hike will take about 5-6 hours through the dense forest, with the Captain feeding directions through the ocular based on where the kaiju readings are most pronounced.

All teams will be traveling together along a treacherous terrain which will include both harmful flora & fauna. Outsiders can expect to come across brown bears, wolves, European lynx, golden jackal & wild boars. Although the forest is dense, these animals are scarce to come by, but they can appear, especially when the hike takes place at dusk and into the night.

In this time of the year, hay fever is a common occurrence in these forests. Those sensitive to pollen may be sneezing and feeling fatigue through this hike. There will be steep hills, slippery ground and eerie sounds of the night to serenade the Outsiders. It doesn't help that the further they travel, the thicker a dark fog gathers around them, making the surroundings difficult to make out. Everyone will be provided with flashlights, but those with abilities to see in the dark or cast their own light will be encouraged to lead small groups. Everyone is going in the same general direction, but giving each other some space might be helpful. There will be no time to rest, no matter how tired Outsiders may be.

Just when it feels like they might need to trek through the forest forever—is that smoke coming from a fire up ahead?

▶ 002. BRAȘOV, TRANSYLVANIA.

Wander further through the bushes, and behold, it does appear to be smoke—but not from any natural fire. It’s coming from a chimney! The Outsiders will stumble upon the historic region of Brașov, known for its Gothic architecture and medieval towns. Romania has been classified as a desolate region for a very long time, and as far as LILITH is concerned, this city should be completely destroyed and abandoned. Yet, there is smoke coming from the chimneys, fresh laundry hanging on lines and the faint chatter of children playing. There are very clearly people living here, and this has LILITH completely dumbfounded.

"So it’s true … The resilience of humanity cannot be understated. I’ll need to report this to the Commander right away. My Angels, embark on the town. We need to find the source of this distress call and investigate these kaiju readings. I know we’ve had setbacks recently, but I’ve always had my faith in you."

One thing Outsiders will notice when they step into the town is how it appears to be lost in time. The date is still 2278 as far as anyone knows, but there’s no sign of any modern technology—no computers, telephones, or any sign of electricity or plumbing. Each and every house looks like it could have been plucked right out of the 1700s, and there even appear to be horse-drawn carriages parked along the pavements.

The townspeople themselves also look plucked out of time, with the women donning petticoats and aprons, and the men sporting waistcoats and riding boots. They welcome the Outsiders with warmth, delight, and over-the-top hospitality; more than happy to show the visitors around Brasov on their carriages. With how rarely they meet anyone from outside the village, the children are full of curiosity, following the Outsiders around and poking at their technology while bombarding them with questions, such as where did you come from? Do you know how to play any games? What do you like to eat?

Outsiders will be presented with food, clean clothing, and a room to stay at the village inns (2-3 people per room). They are free to roam and explore the village, where they will find taverns, fresh food markets, shops, inns, and a church dedicated to the village god.

One notable aspect of the town is the fact that they appear to have fresh, non-lab grown food. The vegetables taste fresher and are vibrant in color. The meat tastes much richer than it would back in Neo Tokyo. This is owed to the fact that the people of Brasov actually tend to their own farmlands, a lost practice in these times. Venture a little out of the city and you’ll find it: acres of farmland, growing wheat, corn, oats, potatoes, grapes and sunflowers. They even have livestock!

The people of Brasov are more than happy to answer questions about their town and way of living. Outsiders who go around gathering information from the villagers will learn the following:

• Why is the land so fertile? This is all owed to their benevolent village god, the Lord of the Forest. No one goes hungry because their god takes care of them. Observant Outsiders will see a common symbol plastered around town: a canine skull.
• There was a distress call. Is everyone okay? The townspeople would respond in confusion and assure the Outsiders that nothing is out of the ordinary. They have been living peacefully for centuries and it’s because their god protects them. They don’t seem to know anything about what’s going on outside their town and the word ‘kaiju’ is lost on them.
• Who is the Lord of the Forest? The townspeople will sing his praises, telling the Outsiders about how he has been providing for and protecting their town for many years.
• Where is the Lord of the Forest? He lives in the forest and mountains that surround the village. Sure enough, if the Outsiders look around, they will see they are completely surrounded by foggy forest and mountains as far as the eye can see.
• Can they go into the forest? The villagers will look worried. While the Lord of the Forest keeps them safe, the forest is still filled with dangerous creatures. Also, the thick fog and trees makes it easy to get lost. Only the most skilled hunters venture out to catch prey like deer and bears. Characters who venture into the woods will get turned around and lost but will eventually find their way back to the village, to which others will reply it is the lord's guidance that brought them back to safety.

Outsiders can do as they please. The villagers are very friendly and will try to accommodate them however possible. There seems to be very little crime in the town and the people look happy. LILITH has been quiet for some time now. Maybe this is a great opportunity to have a well-deserved break? How can you not when the people are so kind and the food looks and tastes so delicious? In fact, the longer that Outsiders stay here, the more some of them may begin to feel like they belong here.

▶ 003. BONFIRE FEAST.

On the night of the 7th, the villagers will knock on doors inviting everyone to a bonfire party! It’s just about time to harvest their crops so food is abundant. They can’t think of any better way to use it than to prepare a feast. The bonfire will be held in the council square. Tables and benches have been set up and an impressive spread of fresh food is laid out for everyone to enjoy. Outsiders can enjoy bread, cheese, fresh pork, stew, roasted chicken, seasonal vegetables and free flowing alcohol. There are live musicians on the scene as well, playing merry tunes on their instruments. Some of the villagers have even started dancing around the bonfire and they’re pulling people in to join them! At the center of the table, a canine skull is placed, and the villagers give thanks to their god before partaking in the food.

Nothing seems out of the ordinary … Full and content, everyone will feel tired and want to retire for the night. Characters that do not need to sleep will also feel tired.

Night passes, and daybreak comes. Outsiders might notice that their numbers have dwindled; certain people have gone missing and are nowhere to be found. There won’t be a trace of the captured Outsiders aside from their belongings that they may have left behind.

The villagers do not seem bothered and everything seems normal in the village. Asking the villagers about these disappearances will result in no answers—they claim to have no clue as to the missing Outsiders' whereabouts. It also won’t be possible to contact them, or even LILITH for that matter. It is almost like communications have been cut off completely and their implants receive weak reception.

Observant characters may notice that a heavy fog has descended upon the village overnight and though it gets better during the day, it never lets up.

Captured Outsiders are as followed:

Aventurine
Choso
Dan Heng
Denji
Ereshkigal
Hiyori Iki
Kabru
Kaga
Lucy/Kaede
Maki Zenin
Makima
Malkuth
Loop
Nanami Kento
Rover
Sampo Koski
Taryon Darrington
Wriothesley
Yzak Jule
Zagreus

▶ 004. THE CHOSEN (KIDNAPPEES ONLY).

A separate log for KIDNAPPEES ONLY can be found HERE.

▶ 005. AFTERWORD.

Welcome to our third travel log!

There are no assigned seats this time, so characters may sit wherever they choose. Inhuman-looking characters will need to wear their cloaking devices so as to not alarm the people of the town. A separate log has been prepared for kidnappees only. An additional prompt will go up for non-captured characters before the kaiju fight. The scheduling will depend on actions in the captive log. We will announce it on plurk.

All tags on this log are worth 2 points and will count towards October AC.

EVENT BREAKDOWN/RECAP (CLICK TO EXPAND)

1. TARGU MURES AIRPORT: There has been a distress signal. Characters caring for eggs must leave their eggs with Dr. Spim and report to the hangar to board their flight. The Outsiders will touch down in Targu Mures Airport, and will need to hike the rest of the way through the forest.

2. BRAȘOV, TRANSYLVANIA: Romania was thought to be a desolate country but one village seems to be thriving. The town of Brasov has historic, medieval architecture and the people seem plucked out of the 1700s. They are friendly, welcoming and curious, having never seen technology like what the Outsiders have. Outsiders are provided free lodgings, fresh clothing, food and water. The villagers raise their own livestock and grow their own food, which is unheard of in these times. They don't know anything about a distress call. All around the village, the symbol of a canine skull can be found. This is the Lord of the Forest, the god of this village whom the villagers worship.

3. BONFIRE FEAST: The villagers invite the Outsiders to a bonfire party where fresh food is abundant. After a night of merrymaking, they find that certain Outsiders have disappeared from their numbers and nobody seems to know what happened to them.

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Comments

[nutkick]

[ it's not that he ... thought about it before, the idea of marriage, and it was for all the reasons bakugou was thinking about. he agrees with him. they are still learning what it means to be in a relationship; there is a lot to uncover about one another. denji is still working on a lot of unresolved trauma and doing his best not to let them get in the way. that alone is a struggle and a weakness he knew he had to overcome before he could think of himself as worthy of being with someone as amazing as his boyfriend. this mission is fated to take an ugly turn in a few days, and it will shake them both in different ways - how will they recover and cope? it's not easy. he's not easy despite the hero's emotional intelligence. denji knows.

that being said, he's still a dreamer. in a cruel world that was his only way to survive was to close his eyes and run to a place where everything was safe. the scenarios he played in his head, the stories he shared with pochita - are nothing but fiction, but they made him happy. what's wrong with dreaming? hoping and wishing? some might call it foolish but he's not hurting anybody, is he? it's not hurtful to him or bakugou to think about how it would've been if those rings resembled something else. if his boyfriend was expecting a look of disappointment, that won't happen. and no, he's not feeding denji false hope that they might have this kind of ending, and he's not building him up for heartache, none of that. none. instead, he made denji happy - simply with the thought of it. he's glad the gift wasn't tossed in his direction in dismissal. he's glad bakugou took the time and effort to make this experience as special and as beautiful. he's so— emotional over the genuine affection behind every touch, whisper, and glance. he's not sure how much it costs to purchase those devices, but even if they were worth a dollar it wouldn't overshadow how important it is.

the request was, in a way, denji's attempt to lighten the mood, knowing that he kinda fucked up by getting way too excited and made the other boy feel either awkward or guilty. however, there was no hesitation or mockery, and bakugou reached for his hand, complying. this forest feels as though it exists in a world of its own; the night settles in, wrapping every tree and the lake in deep, restful peace. there is a sense of timelessness here, and that under the watchful eye of the moon, all denji could focus on is the boy before him, as though the world has softened around him to cradle this moment of vulnerability and newfound connection. he will kick himself later for dropping his guard after vowing he will do whatever to keep his lover safe. here they are in an open space, in a foreign land, and he's already failing. but he couldn't help it. he couldn't remember the last time he felt this accepted.

"I'll always be with you"

it was a learning process. a very bitterly slow one to understand why certain words/actions/or even scenes in a movie trigger such a strong reaction out of him. denji could be fine in one second, and then it's like a switch, uncomfortable and intense. they were always unpredictable, and they came at him without a warning. he glanced down at the ring on his finger, grounding himself against the overwhelming warmth flooding his chest. a deep breath in— slow and careful— as he tries to steady himself, but he feels his throat tighten, betraying his effort to stay composed. a faint tremor ran through his lips, but his smile didn't waver. he wants to respond, to say something that matches the depth of the affection he’s been shown, but no words seem right or enough. eventually, he reached for the small box tucked against the other's neck, flipped it open, and pulled out the ring before he tossed the packet safely over their clean clothes, freeing his hands for the next step. after a losing battle, a single tear finally escaped, tracing a quiet path down his cheek— a silent testament to how much this moment truly means to him, but that's all to it. there is no grief behind his low hooded eyes, only rare serenity.

considering his basic logic from watching western movies (that will always be his source of guidance with romance, unfortunately), he reached for what felt more - promising, imitating his boyfriend's gesture, and went for the second finger from the left. he held bakugou's hand and pushed the ring past his knuckles in a perfect fit. despite the heavy emotions in his heart, denji didn't shy away from looking way too proud, way too happy, and helplessly in love. ] I promise to always look out for you, too. I'll always take care of you and be there for you. I mean it. I will do anything and everything for you ...

[ 'always' was a dream, not their reality. they both know that, but in this neon city— that promise held its depth, and denji will honor it until their last day together in here. he steps closer, curling their fingers together and dropping their hands to the side. the urge to lean in for a kiss is pressing, but he doesn't want to ruin that view just yet. he stares as droplets of water cling to bakugou's face, catching the light of the fireflies like tiny crystals on his skin. his golden hair is soaked, strands sticking to his forehead and curling slightly at the edges. a few beads of water slide slowly down his temples, tracing a path along his cheekbones and gathering at his jawline before dripping down his chest. gorgeous. too gorgeous. it's almost sinful. ]

They will track our location, right? I don't mind. It will make me feel better knowing where you are, too. I wouldn't need to ask you to send me live locations anymore, huh?

[ ooc; it was the best rollercoaster of his life. but bakugou will suffer now that he has introduced that idea to his head. he will always look at those rings and feel giddy. just saying! LMAO ]

[blastedass]

[from the beginning to now, none of denji's unresolved issues has gotten in the way of their relationship. what began as pragmatic partnership developed into trusted companions to close friends to romantic boyfriends. no matter what pains and trauma rose from denji's background or what stubborn barricades came from katsuki's attitude, "they" didn't stop. moving forward silently under their noses until finally emerging in as a surprised despite being there for so long. even their initial date had been a prompted action from one of those stupid social experiments (well, they're called get together events, but there's a chip on bakugou's shoulder about them since forever). when it came, he refused to stop it or deny himself. only taking a while to get used to the idea. whether denji thought he was worthy or not didn't influence katsuki's decision to date him. and the not so decided decision to fall for him. that happened naturally. because denji.

nothing is wrong with dreaming, nothing is wrong with hopes and wishes. bakugou would be lying if he said he never had any of those. despite calling them goals and plans, they're still the ambitions in the mind of a young boy yearning to be the world's greatest hero. had he thought somewhere in his middle school years his life as a hero would include a partner? a romantic partner? not really. a young teenage "BLEH!" followed any suggestion of such mushy crap. truly, denji and katsuki had very different dreams growing up, due to having very different life circumstances. now, as he lies beside his boyfriend in the bed, sometimes katsuki finds himself wondering how he ever thought he'd have a heroic life without finding someone like this. without finding denji. yeah, logically he knows the answer, but this happiness and fulfillment... what a loss to never feel it. logic is ever the enemy of dreams. if he knew for sure they would reunite again, that he could even steal denji away into his own world and live with him in musutafu until they're old and still kicking (because fuck retiring), he would have meant these rings differently. but he can't. he can't promise that to denji truthfully. because he already vowed never to lie to the man he loves.

so they have the time here. unknown in duration, yet theirs for however they want in creation. if they're here when denji and he turn nineteen, after graduation happens, there's going to be a different story with those rings. but that's for two years later. for now, he wants to make his boy happy. as much as possible. and if that means making the giving of the rings a romantic affair that will linger in denji's mind and heart forever, he'll make it that intense. did he plan on it being a twilight woodland lake, devoid of clothing save for lantern light and firefly glow? nope! but he brought the rings with the intention of doing it this month, and hopefully in a time, place, setting, scene that would do denji's romantic heart justice.

well, they're both young and this is their first time. would it be them if they did everything perfect right now? communicated, thought, intent, and reception without the single twitch of awkward? bakugou demands perfection so much, but he's still a human and a boy, capable of fucking up, misreading, and other unintended slips. things he recovers from as he takes denji's hand in his and places the ring on his finger. sliding from the tip of his nail over the first joint to the second and finally settling against his knuckle with a silken smooth fit. hell yes his stomach twists into a billion knots and trades places with his heart, choking his breath without permission. fuck, he just put a ring on his boyfriend's finger! THAT'S NOT A SMALL THING, DAMMIT!! he'll survive the rush of feelings at least. guess it's not the worst moment to find his own guard dropped in front of denji. there's not much else they have on them left to drop as is.

at any point in this, he's expecting denji's emotions. tears, laughter, discomfort, sad, happy, embarrassed, awkward, a host of hugs and sappy things all over his face and neck. red eyes linger on the quiver of his boyfriend's lips, how his tawny eyes water in the light of the lantern. so often he'd tell others not to cry, or chastise them for being a crybaby. there's no attempt to do that now. denji's smile stays on, and so long as it matches the one in his eyes, teary and quivering as it may be, katsuki's good with that. there aren't any words needed. he lifts his head once the other boy has his hand on the box and lets him take it. nice shot. over the curtain and everything. (he can tell because there's neither the "ploosh" of it hitting water or the "scrunch" against dried pine or trundle in the dirt.) denji has the ring in his hand and it's katsuki's turn to feel his innards do gory gymnastics inside his torso. fuck, he just gave one to this boy! why the hell is he now getting these feelings?! they're even worse than when he slipped the ring on denji's finger! ... of course he doesn't resist. not when that crystal tear escapes the other boy's eye and wanders down his cheek. it means a lot. for both of them.

unfortunately for denji, katsuki's shied away from romance films. his mom made him sit and watch two of them before he declared he was done with them for life! doesn't mean he doesn't know the tropes and elements. it made him wonder, for a moment, whether denji would know the importance of which finger the ring went on. each had certain meanings in certain cultures, but there was one in particular... one he deliberately placed denji's ring on. a promise, a vow, a silver band wrapped around the half-devil's fourth finger. now mirrored as his boyfriend slips the ring onto katsuki's second from the left. there have been so many times he's rested his hand within denji's own, fingers interlocked. ever skin on skin. now there's going to be an interruption, crowned with two different tones of color, whenever they lace together. he's fine with that. denji's little tumble of words and emotions, however? ... yeah, his eyes aren't watering because katsuki's an eternal badass, but there's no way to hide how the cords in his neck tense and his throat dips in a hard swallow. fuck, saying those kinds of things...] Always.

[it's okay to dream. that's what makes the future happen. katsuki has no intention of failing the promise he made to denji, or abandoning the dreams they have together. water glides against his skin as the other boy steps in close. he moves his hand flush to denji's own. fingers slide and brush against each other's, lifting the half-devil's for a moment before he can slot his between his boyfriend's. and finally settle in a drape over the back of his hand, clinging softly between his knuckles and the slender bones under his skin. even as their hands drop down, they stay connected, eyes busy with each other. his handsome, beautiful, tragic man. a man katsuki has every intention of loving, protecting, saving, and healing no matter how long it took or what challenges rose because of it. he'll be with denji so fiercely, it'll be impossible for the hunter to go home without some element of the hero permanently threaded into his heart.]

Yeah. It's one of the reasons I wanted to get them. [there's a small smirk at the little whine curtailing the end of that check in question.] You'll ask for live locations no matter what, dumbass.

[and leans in for a kiss to seal the deal. since he doesn't have his arm around denji's neck, katsuki has to go up on his toes, but... whatever. he wants to do it.]

[ooc: we'll see what other roller coasters we can shove them on! eh, he did this knowing full well what he was asking for, and getting in the future. look, denji can now flash his ring and say "i'm taken" all he wants, knowing it's all the more true for it. katsuki will be happy knowing denji's happy when he looks at them. sometime they'll have to do that sappy partner thing where they lie side by side and hold their hands up to look at the rings together. what a dork.]

[nutkick]

[ denji learned something today. he learned not to rush it, but take it in and allow the emotions to define themselves without forcing an explanation on the spot. he learned not to be confused if they didn't make any sense at the start— not to question why he inwardly agreed that they shouldn't entertain this conversation while they both proceeded by welcoming the idea with unspoken resolve. his gaze rested on his hand, on the simple band circling his finger, catching the light in a way that made it look almost like it was glowing. he then turned his hand slightly, still holding onto bakugou's, watching the ring shift with him, almost as though it was breathing. this small ring held so much more than metal— it held promises, whispered dreams, and silent fears they’d soothed away together. it was a reminder of laughter shared in quiet corners and long walks where words weren't needed, of the way they fit together without trying. late-night talks that stretched into dawn, days spent doing nothing but existing in the same space, the way they'd look at each other and share a smile that only the two of them could understand. he exhaled, feeling the weight of it all, this beautiful weight, like carrying a piece of his partner with him wherever he went. it's strange how he's not thinking of the actual ceremony of exchanging vows, getting married or the party that follows and the gifts they are expected to receive. denji is more excited over the bond it creates when couples seal the deal, the mere thought that someone loved him enough to want to share their life with him and-

maybe they have it now. the foundation of what marriage represents without really going through it. yes, it's confusing. denji wouldn't be able to explain it out loud or make sense of it, but he knew this was enough. to hold this ring, to see bakugou's unshakable adoration, is enough for him. he didn't need to announce their love to the world. he didn't need to wait until they're older and follow society's rules. he didn't need a piece of paper to dictate if they loved each other enough. maybe exchanging those rings is their own expression of devotion, without any formal label. denji will view it this way, quietly in his heart. sorry, bakugou. in a way, this is a proposal - it just had its own flavor that is more unique and reserved to them. that ring will never leave his finger, and the half-devil is already thinking of ways to protect it. for starters, he won't wear it around his finger during the missions. it sucks, but he knew he would lose it from day one, or once his chainsaw busts out after each transformation, he will end up cutting it into two. he'd probably have to be creative with the way he'd maintain it when they're fighting kaijus, maybe as a necklace around his neck instead. it is his responsibility to protect and honor it, so he will figure out a way.

he relaxed into the kiss, closing his eyes, fingers gently squeezing bakugou's as he held him there, letting the silence speak for their inner sentiments, as though the touch of their lips could express everything their voice couldn't capture. denji could feel the rise and fall of the other's breath, each inhale and exhale syncing with his own. right, this time, despite the soft intimacy - the kiss might come off a bit heated, not with haste but with the light slip of his tongue, the slow part of his lips, and the warmth of his breath. his other hand reached to curl its fingers behind bakugou's neck, prodding for more of him. a kiss, then a makeout session - again, denji is careful not to escalate while he's fucking escalating it. however, in his defense, it's still in the 'cute' territory because both hands are in the green areas, aka: parts of the body that wouldn't trigger a boner. he's merely holding his hand and his neck. it's fine. they're allowed to smother their lips together after all of this. how is bakugou expecting him to leave this beautifully rare scenery without trying to exchange spit and wrestle tongues? impossible. he wants to cross from his list 'hot makeouts while the fireflies watch.' he let his fingers relax, sometimes brushing up to tuck stray pieces behind bakugou's ear, lingering there for a moment to graze his thumb along his cheek. he slows down, then some more, until he is no longer kissing him while he lingers close enough not to break their lips apart.

his face is a flustered mess, despite the calm behind his half-lidded eyes— more smitten over horny, but between those two rivals, there is a blurred line. ] Katsuki. When we get back home, I will spoil you ...

[ why did that sound more threatening than sweet? well, bakugou just opened many gates denji was trying to ignore for so long, and now it felt like he's free to explore them. being outshined in the romantic department, which is his specialty, is somewhat unacceptable too. it didn't mean whatever he was planning would be the type of sappiness that would have zero impact on his boyfriend. no, he will figure something out. perhaps during their promised date on the beach — he'll have to think of something to make it more special. right, the tracker rings .... denji tries to compose himself, shifting a bit so he's not pressing a certain intruder against bakugou's thigh or something. it's not their first time dealing with this. it happened many times, and while bakugou was kind enough to assist him in some situations, they also adopted the art of 'let him ride it out' too. nope, he's still refusing to do anything risky out in the damn forest. he will have to suck it up until they make it back to the privacy of their room. it's just ... being naked and wet and the ring and bakugou and the stupid fireflies adding the perfect background to enhance his boyfriend's appeal, and then the ring! yeah, he's only human.

he wipes away at that single tear, rubbing it off his feverish cheek. ] Show me how it works.

[ will he pay attention? hmm. ]

[ ooc; the next one better be katsuki going through it. HE NEEDS TO BE THERE FOR HIM, TOO. its give and take in the trauma department in here! and yeah, he will 100% be all 'im taken' and flash the ring like a weapon. if they do that sappy thing, he will be so happy. but then make it more sappy so he'd enjoy the cute hissing and shoving <3 ]

[blastedass]

[a band woven of memories. far from a romantic twine, there's truth in the description. as denji turns his hand, metal catches lantern light, turning silver momentarily into a ring of sun. this represents them. a combination of two people who had nothing alike at first save for being kidnapped together. a ring on his finger would have been strange alone, but with denji's resting beside it, the partner to his own, "strange" replaces with fitting, amazing, and comfortable. removed from its function, they represent their lives together. never ending, a continuous circle going on and on. like experiences summoned up in his mind. meals shared together over the table evolving from jumper-clad rations to nicely-dressed restaurants. bypassing the couch to make for his room eventually seeing him sitting on the couch beside his boyfriend in a double date as an action movie sparkled on tv. an empty bed in a sterile room leaving him clad in loneliness and worry became a full bed with warmth and a trusted partner in a room that's seen messes and cleanliness in rotation. denji's been with him through each of them, growing beside him as seedling feelings emerged small roots and strengthened over time until a tree bloomed above ground. no matter its flaws, scars, injuries, or struggles, it will not break, it will not move, it will not fall. it's a promise, as these bands signify together.

what marriage represents? ... he's too young and inexperienced to think he knows such things. he's seen three marriages in his life up close: his own parents, midoriya's parents, and todoroki's parents. each of them have some major fucking issues, from his mother's explosive temper and aggressive attitude (apple doesn't fall far, huh) to midoriya's father vanishing from his wife and son's lives for an overseas job, and the todoroki's... mess is an understatement. either way, katsuki can't say he would know what marriage would be between them. this is a promise, however, to one day find out if they're still here together when the time comes. in the time being, "they" are together in the way that suits them the best. partners, lovers, friends, a couple. denji is more than able to view this promise in the way he wants, romantic sap and all. the feelings are what matter most to katsuki. the commitment between them, promise of love, support, protection, and more.

right... a snap back to reality means he'll have to figure out how to deal with the ring in real life. it's not like he's worn rings before. mostly because he's never been one for jewelry of any kind (a bother) and because his quirk deals with explosions in his fucking hands! how's a piece of metal going to stand up to repeated blasts of scorching temperatures and massive shock waves? obviously it's not going to be on his finger during missions (despite that likely being one of THE MOST IMPORTANT times to wear it, considering the last few missions and his preference to keep tabs on denji during battles). but he also isn't shy about setting his explosions off at any damn time. tch... is he limited to one hand now? he'll have to think about this. they can talk it over later, see what their thoughts are. maybe ask other outsiders who have them.

denji, why the hell is 'hot makeouts while the fireflies watch' even on your list?! where did that come from?! does he have to worry about the pocky challenge kiss but it's a corndog instead? ... let it be known no one in this fucking place has as unique a boyfriend as katsuki does. he's never going to have a boring life while this guy's around. says the teenager who ended up trading rings naked in a lake by lamplight and is now making out with said boyfriend in the same location. head tilting, eyes closed, mouth opened in alternating rhythm as he moves with each kiss. the soft lick of water around their legs mingles with kissing bordering between chaste and full on intimacy. a kiss too forceful pushes his head back into the hand cupping his neck, a return kiss presses denji's head upward as katsuki cards his fingers through water-damp tussles. combing his bangs back from his forehead for a moment before raking them down over his brow and eyes once more. free hand finding its way to denji's jaw and splaying over the fair game of his ear, cheek, and upper neck. feeling the way his jaw moves with his kiss, cheek shifts a flex of tongue and a tiny tremor of a moan. their lips part enough for slick muscle to be visible between their mouths, sliding together and trading saliva with no hesitation or shame of what's going on between them. before vanishing again with another kiss. hot and more hot and more until cooling passions slowly ease the make out into something closer to nuzzles, heated words ghosting across his mouth as denji talks to him. he'd be concerned if the half-devil's face wasn't a mess right now.]

Don't fucking threaten me. [sweet and threatening, that's what it is, and katsuki knows it. what is meant by "spoil" could be anything, and exploring that right now would snap whatever gossamer thread of restraint lingers between them. fuck it, probably snapped already a while ago. he doesn't care. if denji's plotting to try and regain his title as romantic sap king between the two of them, he won't find katsuki attempting to dethrone him. this might have been the entire summation of any and all romantic "bones" in the blonde's body for the whole damn year. doesn't mean he won't be a flush-faced howler monkey when denji starts plying his sappy plots at him in the future.

yeah yeah. he's aware there's a very interested party down below and he isn't any less struggling with the idea. no one's around, they're far away, and if there's any concern about someone coming to the sound of yelling in the woods, how the hell does denji think people will respond to yelling in some damn medieval era inn without concrete walls? arguably it's safer to do it here since people would have to reach them first. if they even heard... so apparently katsuki's been thinking on it too. it'll be easier to clean up out here as well. they have water and soap after all. plus used clothes. look, he's only human too.

he glances to the single tear wiped off, thumb coming up to brush under denji's eye.] You gonna pay attention? [will that boner last through the instructions? not sure. but he'll give him a rundown of how to pair the rings together and sync them with the oculars. he also mentions the option to pair the rings with other rings as well, though that requires both participants to agree, so there's no "paired behind your back" bullshit going on. as for the other part...]

You can also temporarily experience what the other person's is experiencing, but only through sight, hearing, and feeling. [whether that "feeling" means emotion or physical touch or both is unknown.] It's an optional function. [just keep feeding the kinky mind ideas, katsuki. what can go wrong?]


[ooc: we shall see! i'm picky with tormenting him, haha. he's gone through plenty in his life. but he's overdue for something intense! denji's gonna be there for him with biting and blood, so that's one! katsuki's ironically led an extremely un-traumatic life, unlike so many of his classmates and canonmates. no sob story, no tragic background, he's just a jerk, hah! katsuki will likewise be "taken" if the topic comes up. look, denji's happy with any kind of sappy. what an adorable dork. he puts up with so much.]

[nutkick]

[ hmm, were denji's parents happily married? did he have any close-up experience with what that means to share this level of commitment? one of the topics he wouldn't want to explore or even talk about, if he's honest. it encourages him to think about his father and ... what happened. that piece of his childhood was a blur, some purposely hidden behind a locked door, and the rest he didn't wish to acknowledge it as real. with that, denji does relay on life education and human connections through the television screen— often painted in roses and unrealistic expectations. it's that type of delusion that brought him happiness. he knew the basics, though. marriage = two people in love wishing for a legal commitment. he and bakugou can skip the 'legal' part and embrace the more important aspect of the connection. but, you know, bakugou didn't need to be aware of his plan, right? it will not affect their dynamic and their routine in any way. it's not like he will scream out the window they're married; he will simply pretend they are! no harm done! let him live.

who wouldn't want to fucking makeout around the fireflies? they are tiny stars on earth, and it sets the mood just right to express affection to the person you love. it's not an insane request to add to his list. katsuki is fated to reach the really weird ones in the future. he is careful not to push him into that side without slow introductions; it helps to get approval from bakugou when he's somewhat mentally prepared for it. step by step. the fact his boyfriend agreed to try a drink is an achievement worth celebration. then again, denji didn't have the chance to really relish that win; their time together in this lake was a beautiful escalation from one core memory to another. it didn't allow him to think of something else, and he found himself present and all his senses embraced the experience as they come and go— which is a rare blessing. he could never get sick of kissing that boy; it was like the world had quietly shifted on its axis, leaving everything familiar yet somehow different, a spark that ignited a fire in his chest. his pulse would quicken, and he’d feel his face grow hot as if his body had betrayed him. he knew he shouldn't, but he didn't care to deprive himself of it either. bakugou was that fucking good— he knew how to work those lips, how to touch him; even a simple stroke of fingers through his hair was an art of seduction. it's fine. it's fine even if the party below the waistline is thriving. denji has to learn to build his stamina. he can't fold like a damn flip phone whenever bakugou looks at him a certain way or whisper something a bit too close to his ear. that's too much damn power! stay down, dick. not yet. soon.

he scoffed a chuckle; despite the embarrassing blush on his face, denji still had it in him to appreciate bakugou's unintentional humor. this guy had to take it as a threat, and hey— maybe it was. it remains lighthearted foolery between them. a fun, one-sided competition where the half-devil will seek his crown back. ] I always pay attention. [ said with an expression that promised anything but that. he already had that tipsy kinda skewed grin exposing him. it's there, while he does make a respectful effort to take the situation seriously. a dumb face, but his brain is listening, and he's fucking glad he did because ... woah. that took a wild turn. ]

Wait. Are you saying you'd be able to feel what I feel?

[ it's safe to say that— denji is conflicted with this one. first of all, he didn't understand how is that possible. then again, coming from the 90s, he never thought browsing porn videos for fucking free was achievable. progress from having to buy a fake ID, walk into the xxx store and somehow try to scam the owner into giving him a magazine that is worth his one-month survival budget. after all that, it was just pictures, while what he has now is a full-on, explicit super HD- ... WHY IS HE THINKING ABOUT THIS?!! right, back to the exchanging feelings thing. denji scowls, forcing a super serious face, and huffs an exhale. ]

So, if I'm feeling ... sad ... you'll be able to feel the same way too? or, you'll just know i'm upset?

[ it's strange that this could've been a way for denji to toy with his boyfriend in creative ways, and while he will get to those options, right now, he's a bit concerned. in the end of the day, the half-devil is aware he's not— okay. his thoughts are brutal. he's always trying to either distract himself or find ways to mute them; if he lets them run wild, it's trouble. he's not sure he wants his boyfriend to know just how bad it is (yet). he's aware he's not the image of a healthy mindset, katsuki isn't stupid, and he can see that without the lore drop, but that's not an invitation to expose how big of a fuck up he is. then again, maybe it wouldn't be as - deep. maybe the device can track basic emotions instead of digging into their insecurities. a simple 'sad' and 'happy'. hmm. ] ... Can I switch it off whenever I'm not feeling so good?

[ ooc; un-traumatic?? sir, you've been kidnapped, low-key bullied/blamed by the other students for being the reason for all might's downfall, died while fighting tomura before the magic of anime brought him back (then again, not sure what timeline you brought him in?) - we won't compare mha and csm trauma scales, but that's a lot for someone who's still a kid. but, yeah, we don't have to go through all that if you don't want to! syn happily fuels us with delicious drama at times, and we will have a chance of denji comforting him <3 ]

[blastedass]

[katsuki has no intention of shattering denji's idea of marriage. he did just give the guy a promise ring. "later" is simply an extension of "now" with zero idea of refusal. their time together doesn't need to change (albeit winter months mean katsuki spending more time sleeping in denji's bed because it's stupid cold) and their actions together continue on as normal. cooking, fighting, learning, training, policing, living, etc. he doesn't want to leave his boyfriend's side.

check another one off the list then. what a blessing not to be able to read minds and thus not be privy to that copious list in his mate's head. denji's not only a romantic sap, but a romantic sappy nerd. hosts of dreams and fantasies gleaned from television and books that obviously paint very real and factual pictures of how things happen in life. how many of those are going to get smacked in the face with a reality check? ... then again, denji's getting to make out with his boyfriend in a lake surrounded by fireflies in the lantern light. so maybe he's got a point. katsuki will be the judge of whether something's "too weird" to go for, or if he'll accept it then and there or needs some time to think about it. after all, it took quite some time for him to accept kissing in the kitchen, due to the public space and wanting to keep it clean. but denji's quiet, continued work on the blonde's barriers slowly unlocks new elements one after another. sharing a drink for the first time is probably one of the biggest wins against katsuki's clean image challenger.

that little laugh warms his chest and he rubs his thumb across denji's cheek again. of course he took it as a threat. the guy said it that way! must say something to the half-devil's charm that he can get away with threatening the hero and not finding himself ass up over a tree branch smoked to a crisp. denji's ability to bring that lightness and warmth to his chest is a gift katsuki won't ever be able to admit how appreciative of it he is. yet he takes it each time and rests within it.]

Uh-huh. [that earns him a knock of his knuckle against his boyfriend's water-beaded forehead. sure, "attention" from denji's paid when he's personally invested in something, but even that's not fastidious academic learning. add his besotted expression right now, hazy eyes glowing in the lantern light, a lopsided grin? yeah, katsuki's sure this is going in one ear and out the other. until one part proves itself such a huge knot, it rams into said ear and sticks there with a jolt to the head. not surprising which part it is.]

Aa. For a short while by choice. [granted katsuki's always been wary of lilith's tech not being under full control. things "break" and "accidents" happen, embarrassing factors tumble free, who knows if the same will be true of the rings in the future? they have to gamble on that. katsuki's as conflicted and adverse to the suggestion as denji it. his emotions and feelings and thoughts are private, something he only wants to show when he wants to show them, under his own control. risking those things spilling into his boyfriend's body sounds like a fucking mess waiting to happen.]

That's what I heard.

[feeling your partners' emotions, seeing what they see, hearing what they hear. he hasn't encountered anyone saying the ring lets you experience the tactile sensation, but who knows. meaning denji could potentially get railroaded by katsuki's aggressive pride and short temper. like hell is he planning on letting this option happen without mutual agreement between the two of them! denji doesn't need to be burdened by his ideas and feeling of heroics (does it even work that way?) but how would he feel if he could also feel the sensation of pride katsuki has when he sees his boyfriend's success? or those soft emotions of affection and happiness the blonde usually buries under his scowl or only lets out while watching denji sleep beside him... vulnerable expressions that chafe against his proud external appearance. or perhaps it is as denji wonders, something that only goes surface level and no deeper. he doesn't know. is that better, the simple ones?]

I'm not gonna turn it on unless we both agree to it in the moment.

[he loves you, but his feelings are private.]


[ooc: i meant his childhood, not the cluster-fuck that was year one of u.a. well, i do think he has some ptsd regarding getting kidnapped/almost killed by sludge villain, as well as his kidnapping by the league, but those are more specific triggers. like the nape of his neck. he's the one who blames himself over all might's retirement. and yeah, his death in the war was pretty holy fuck.

i brought katsuki from right after he was revived by edgeshot and rescued all might. essentially a moment before he got ready to fire off at kid-all-for-one. so he has ninja heart and wrecked arm, but we didn't know the results of that until way later in the year, sooo... i obvs couldn't play with that in mind. hence just his chest scar.

still, yeah denji's trauma versus katsuki's trauma is like dark vs light, haha. sometimes i wonder if gege just likes tormenting denji. come on, there's a limit to treating your character like shit, man. sheesh.

it's not that i don't go into katsuki's trauma, it's more that he keeps those things so close to his chest, it's almost impossible for him to let someone else see them and assist him with it. he's a self-reliant guy after all. but we can definitely make some plans on letting denji in there in future events!]