TEAM BUILDING EVENT #3

[synfluxmods]

TEAM BUILDING EVENT #3

CONTENT WARNINGS: medical content

▶ 001. WELL DESERVED REST.

With no sign of upcoming city-level threats, LILITH has made the decision to provide Outsiders with a well-deserved break: there will be no official missions for the month of December. Outsiders are free to roam the city, continue their usual civilian jobs or take a holiday to any of the locations available via data portal. During this period, LILITH leadership will also be taking time off and any attempts to contact them will be met with an ‘out of office’ return email unless it is an emergency. (Dr. Spim is still around, but … he is a cat and doesn’t answer anyway... unless he feels like it.)

That isn’t to say it’s going to be a completely quiet month, of course. Our players have kindly prepared several player plots that anyone is welcome to join. Please refer to the top level here for links to the relevant plots. An updated quest has also been listed here.

Additionally, the Outsiders Program has successfully finished its first year! LILITH will be giving all Outsiders old and new a thank you bonus of 500,000 KRYPTOS (approximately 3230 USD) to spend freely on their holiday. Try not to spend it all on pachinko!

▶ 002. LET IT SNOW.

Starting December 1st, the temperature in Neo Tokyo will take a dive as the country enters into winter. The first signs of snowfall will occur on December 1st, and as it continues, the city will be transformed into a winter wonderland. The shops and restaurants of Neo Tokyo are capitalizing on the approaching festivities, putting up Christmas lights, Christmas trees and decorations. Many stores are having sales on warm clothing and popular gifts. Isn’t it the perfect time to find some nice gifts for your friends?

While only a suggestion, it is encouraged to support the integration of the orphans from Transylvania by taking them out on a winter adventure.

Winter activities found in Neo Tokyo include:

- Christmas Winter Illuminations. Certain parts of the city will be lit up in Christmas lights and holographic, winter-themed illuminations. Stop by at the right time and there might even be a drone show to watch.
- Ice sculpture building. Artists have gathered in Yoyogi Park to showcase their latest ice sculpture creations. Outsiders may view the attraction or join in on the ice sculpture contest. Winners will get prize money.
- Ice-skating. The Yokohama Red Brick Ice Rink is open again and characters are free to go skating with their friends. As a part of its latest attraction, the ice has been fitted with microscopic nanobots that light up when touched, causing the ice to glow or showcase striking colors as people skate across it.
- Playing in the snow. Even under threat of kaiju, the people of Neo Tokyo take the time to have fun when they can. Through the streets, there are people making snow angels or pelting each other with snowballs.

Characters may visit Las Vegas, Kyoto or Okinawa using the data portals. Kyoto and Okinawa continue to be uninhabited, but they can camp there if they wish. They are free to book a hotel and enjoy their holiday in Las Vegas too, where the city will have its own brand of winter activities (winter illuminations, Christmas shows, ice-skating and holiday-themed Vegas shows). While the weather is still cold, it will be snowing in Kyoto but not in Okinawa or Las Vegas.

▶ 003. SNUGGLE UP.

All the lights and festivities happening in the city are putting some strain on the power grid, and this leads to occasional bouts of power failure during the month of December. These seem to be happening in the base and throughout the city of Neo Tokyo, and they last for a few hours each time. With hospital equipment running on back-up generators, it isn’t a huge cause for concern, but it certainly is an annoyance; especially with the weather so cold.

LILITH robots will be offering Outsiders on the base extra blankets (traditional and emergency foil blankets) along with heat packs to get through the cold. Starting a fire within the base will not be allowed since it is a hazard, so those who still need the extra warmth will need to find other creative ways to obtain it. A snuggle never hurt anyone, right? There is one operational fireplace in the Library, and Outsiders may notice an influx of small tables throughout the base with self-serve hot beverages on battery operated kettles, such as tea, hot cocoa & artificial coffee. As Outsiders congregate around the base, snuggled up in their new festive blankets, perhaps now would be a good time for some classic party games such as Never Have I Ever and Two Truths and a Lie.

▶ 004. TAKE YOUR MEDICINE.

Dr. Spim takes regular cat naps anyway, so he doesn’t see the need to take a holiday. As a result, he has continued to work tirelessly on finetuning the cure for the vampiric disease. Throughout the month, he will make several requests for volunteers (those with and without the vampiric disease) to participate in the ongoing clinical trials.

The serum he is testing will not cause harm to the body, but it might result in any of the following side effects:

- Dizziness, fatigue and difficulty coordinating movement.
- Fever, chills and a desperate need for warmth.
- Mood changes, which can present as euphoric or depressed or both.
- Hallucinations or delusions.
- Increased hunger, thirst or other physical needs (interpret as you wish.)
- A ravenous need for blood (for vampires.)

Certain volunteers may encounter no side effects at all, while some may experience all of them. Luck of the draw, really. The side effects are not permanent and last for a few hours. As always, Dr. Spim will explain the possible side effects and get consent before administering the medicine.

By the end of the month, a stable cure will be finalized and LILITH robots will deliver it to all those affected by the vampiric disease (if your character was already a vampire, don't worry about it). It is highly encouraged to take the medicine! Dr. Spim has no time to chase down the people refusing to take their medicine, so he might pay some of their friends to do it for him. He is a cat. He has better things to do (such as knock this beaker off the table….)

As an OOC note, please do not let your character remain a vampire unless they are already a vampiric character. The vampire event in Transylvania was meant to only have temporary effect.

▶ 005. AFTERWORD.

Welcome to our third team building event! All tags on this log are worth 2 points and will count towards December AC.

We have a lot of player plots this month, and are using this log to encourage players to participate in the player plots since the event itself is light. As a reminder, the mod team will be taking a break during the month of December and will not be answering any questions at this time.

EVENT BREAKDOWN/RECAP (CLICK TO EXPAND)

1. WELL DESERVED REST: Outsiders enjoy a quiet month with no kaiju attacks, but are provided plenty of things to do (via player plots) and they are welcome to use the data portal to travel to Okinawa and Las Vegas at this time.

2. LET IT SNOW: Heavy snowfall turns Neo Tokyo into a winter wonderland with many snow related activities to participate in such as ice skating, ice sculpture making, etc. LILITH encourages the Outsiders to allow the misplaced orphans to participate in some of these activities.

3. SNUGGLE UP: The power outages strike again, this time from too many festive lights that overheat the generators. LILITH provides Outsiders with emergency blankets and hot beverages during times of outages.

4. TAKE YOUR MEDICINE: Dr. Spim trial runs an antidote for the vampiric disease that struck Outsiders during their mission in Brasov. He takes volunteers who are both vampires and not. Finally, a cure is made, and all Outsiders are asked to take it (please do not let your character remain a vampire unless they are already a vampiric character.)

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Bakugō Katsuki 💥 Boku no Hero Academia 💥 Everlight

[blastedass]

[OOC: Click on the headers to open the prompts!]

001. ▶ WELL DESERVED QUEST. --> (Mid November - December)

💥 ➊ QUEST. - Morning Mingle

[Yeah, he knows it's cold. He knows it's morning. He knows the sun's only halfway above the horizon. But at least it's not snowing or icing yet! Bakugo's finally gotten the permission to lead escorts outside the city for searching. His aim? Medical plants that might be lurking within the overgrown fields, highways, and surrounding areas. Blame the constant Outsider missions to other locations foreign to Neo Tokyo. Perhaps searching for plant life at the onset of winter is a foolish attempt, but there's a break in the general chaos of their usual lives. He's determined to at least see what can be found outside. Even if they can't find any of the medical flora until spring, they can search out potential locations that look promising, as well as scout the surrounding areas for future quests.

Among the gathered group, likely smaller due to the chilly weather and the nature of the quest, Bakugo passes out a self-made field guide with multiple herbs and plants, complete with reference pictures, habitat notes, warnings for any toxic or irritating to the touch, and whether to collect the seeds, uproot saplings, or take a cutting (yes it includes instructions on how to do the latter two). Anyone who wants to pass on the physical guide can get a digital version 'emailed' to their inbox for download into their ocular. Each provided harvesting pouch contains bags, pruning shears, a small spade, and other tools to use.]

The more we find, the more we can stock medicine and anesthetics. Unless you want it to hurt like hell when you're in surgery. [He's in this to avoid the nigh-torturous experience of upgrading, for current and future Outsiders.] Anything you find is useful. We move as a group; anyone who wants to break off, partner up. If you see a kaiju or some mutated beast, back off.

You're all my responsibility and no one's getting hurt on my watch. We're searching and collecting, not fighting. [Odd to hear Bakugo say something so peaceful, but he's serious.] I'll make sure we're all back before sunset. If you have a question, ask now.

💥 ➋ QUEST. - Herbalist Harvest

[Bakugo might be the responsible leader of the excursion, but he's not about to baby the people who came with him. He trusts their intention to help, as well as their ability to read and handle the basics of the quest. Depending on where they go each time, difference landscapes present themselves to the Outsiders. An abandoned highway crawling with vines and surrounded by overgrown ditches, a small gas station and rest stop now reclaimed by nature, a peaceful field of grasses and shrubbery interspersed with patches of looming trees and studded with boulders. Each of the locations are a strange combination of desolate and tranquil in the frosty air. As the sun rises further in the sky and their bodies move, warmth returns to the air until no one can see their breath anymore. Bakugo stays at the head of the group, though checks on the flanks and rear at periodic intervals.

Once they get down to it, he works alongside the other Outsiders rather than walking about them like a manager. Getting his gloved hands working in the cold earth, opening the field guide to compare pictures of plants with the ones he's parsing through. Bakugo brushes aside some bushes, scanning the ground around their bases, then backs off to look elsewhere. Other times, he grins in success at locating a matching shrub! Find him working the small shear and knife into a branch to harvest a cutting before placing it a bag half-filled with dirt. Or did you want to help Bakugo with mapping out the surrounding areas? He'll even take people on an explosive-powered flight if they need the higher vantage point for it.

Beyond running into a few deer and winter-hardy birds or rodents, the wildlife out here is rather scarce for the cold weather. That's good new for him, as he'd rather not run into a damn kaiju while out on this work. Probably won't be so lucky when it comes to doing this in the spring, however. Bakugo pauses beside a hill, then calls you over to look at this. What appears to be a collection of rubble turns out to be a collapsed structure, possibly a stand of sorts.]

We can take some of this back for Shashou's greenhouse in Okinawa.

💥 ➌ QUEST. - Sundown Shelter

Let's wrap it up! We're going back! [True to his word, Bakugo refuses to let anyone on his watch stay out after the sun goes down. Once it begins descending towards the horizon, he quickly makes his rounds to gather the group back into close proximity, helping anyone who needs to finish collecting a plant or scouting an area. Once rounded up, the pace back to Neo Tokyo is a quick clip so they'll be back in the city before dark. Head count and verbal check in make sure everyone's accounted for and uninjured. Minus any potential small bumps or scratches from messing around in nature all day. If someone wants to review their findings with him on the way back, feel free to approach him and talk about it.

Once they arrive back at the city and approach the base greenhouse, Bakugo helps the Outsiders unload whatever they collected, offering to handle it from here if they're tired and want to go back to their rooms for a warm shower and rest. Otherwise, he'll direct his coworkers to the greenhouse space LILITH set aside for him in the nursery. It's warmer in here under the lights and enclosed glass, so if you want to stay and help him pot some plants or compile some map notes, feel free to finish up with another hour or so before going back to the base.

It might be a rare thing, but you'll get a gruff thanks for your help.]

002. ▶ LET IT SNOW.

💥 ➊ SNOW. - Cold Weather Sucks

[Anyone who's been around Bakugo for the past few months knows he's not a fan of cold weather. At all. It messes with his Quirk, which messes with his results, which messes with his image, which messes with his attitude and pride. He prefers to stay indoors more often, studying in his room, working out in the gym, training in the simulation area, or tending to things in the greenhouse. Despite the Christmas spirit, the grumpy hero seems to ignore most of it, bundling up in jackets, warm pants, and scarves while outside.

Occasionally he'll stop to look at the holiday decorations, hands in his pockets and mouth hidden in the wrap of his scarf as the cold weather dusts his nose and ears with red. While the decor of the city brings a nostalgic cheer from his own world, it's also a painful reminder that Bakugo's been gone from his home for a year now. A bittersweet anniversary. Perhaps you find him in a store looking through some potential gifts. Or sitting quietly in a small cafe looking out the window at the snow outside with a quiet air of reflection. Or heading back to base amid a gentle snowfall with his hair and shoulders dusted in the winter flakes. At least he's up and around. Doing things.]

💥 ➋ SNOW. - Blades on Ice

[There's a certain someone Bakugo vowed to best last winter. At fighting? Nope! At ice skating. White lines trail after his skates atop the frozen pond beside the large snow-dusted shrine up the nearby trail of steps. His hands rest in his pockets, sheltered from the cold inside gloves as he turns on his skates and flows backwards across the ice. Graceful isn't a word often used to describe Bakugo, but he's not about to end up a clunking ice skater stomping around the ice. Powerful motions from his legs push him along the surface, shoulders leaning forward or to the sides to arc a curve before pulling into a hard close-knit circle. He takes a moment to rest before starting laps around the pond, beginning with a warm up or two then escalating into rising speeds to push faster and faster. If you feel up for joining him, perhaps challenge Bakugo to a race? Otherwise, he might catch you lingering by the edge of the pond, either putting on your skates or suspiciously watching without attempting to try.]

Oy. If you're gonna stare, get out here.

[Feel free to set this at The Yokohama Red Brick Ice Rink if you want! The microscopic nanobots fitted in the ice lead to some really interesting lights showing up when touched, leaving glowing striking colors trailing behind your skates for patterns and displays. Bakugo may or may not be a complete dick and write something on the ice...]

💥 ➌ SNOW. - Winter Wars

[Alternatively... WHAP!! Incoming! Another white missile screams through the air, prompting a harsh duck. Snow scatters against the tree trunk and Bakugo snarls behind the built-up fortress walls. These bastards had him and his team pinned down in their last stronghold. Five more enemies lurk outside on the field, behind small divots of snow pushed up to serve as mid-field shelters. Bakugo glances over his shoulder at the stockpile of snowballs. They don't have unlimited resources either. Peeking up from the wall of the fortress, he surveys the ground, then drops down as another snowball whistles past. PAFF!!]

Pack that! [Ordered at his teammate in a gruff voice.] If those bastards are gonna give us ammo, we'll use it! [Before grabbing a bottle of water from the inside of his jacket. He stuffs it into the snowbank intending to cool it down.] Time to crash them to pieces. [Is he serious?! Coating a snowball in ice?! ... DAMN RIGHT HE IS!! Going for that CLUNK!! don't try this at home, kids. it can seriously hurt someone.]

003. ▶ SNUGGLE UP.

💥 ➊ SNUGGLE. - Keeping Warm

[Great. Neo Tokyo's back to the power outages again. Bakugo remembers these fucking flickers from his first December here. Lights going out, the hum of the heater dying, computer switching to battery, and everything else plunging to black stillness. At least they seem to only last for a few hours this time, rather than leaving them for a day or three without power. He growls about not being able to build a damn fire in the base, though is less intent about doing so since the power outages are less severe this time. Bakugo's not good with cold weather in the first place, so having to deal with bouts of chill in the base leaves him irritated.

* He usually retreats back to his room once the power turns off, so you might find him heading down the halls, one hand cupped in front of him as small explosions burst and snap around his palm to light the way. This might end up sitting in his bed under the blankets for a casual talk about how dumb the weather is... or nostalgic memories.

* Another log's shoved in the fireplace and Bakugo returns to the couch to tuck under the blanket again, opening the book to his stopping point to resume reading in the glowing warmth within the hearth. If you want to bother him about what he's reading or try to encourage him into some activity, go for it.

* If you accept his invite or tail him, you might get to "cheat" a little and sit with Bakugo in his car with the heater running. Pester him enough and he'll probably drive around the city to look at the decorations too. A certain someone will get something extra...

* Bakugo swipes a cup of hot tea from the table before rolling his eyes at the other call. Dammit, he doesn't need to get involved in these stupid childish games! Barking over his shoulder about it doesn't help, and eventually he's sitting on the couch, grumpily participating in one of those party games: Never Have I Ever, Two Truths and a Lie, or Charades.]

[OOC: I'm down for any other plans or plots you might have! Feel free to send me a PM to discuss or plot anything, or leave an OOC message here to work something out. I'm good to write individual starters if you like. Inbox threads are also A+ if you want to play around with that. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!]

Blades on Ice

[intertwinedfates]

[On the other end of the spectrum, there's Yato, who loves winter and all its associated fun. Everything from the way breath hangs in the air as vapor to the Christmas lights to the festive holiday cheer. Maybe being a god makes him somewhat immune to the natural elements, but he's out and about all decked up in a long, trailing scarf, hat, and gloves anyway simply because they look and feel nice. And it's good to not totally freeze one's ass off while going about their day.

Especially when said day includes zipping around on a frozen pond, where everything feels around ten degrees cooler than in the city proper. Spotting Bakugo out upon the ice as well, Yato makes a slow, curving arc in his path into to intercept the hero. Once close enough, he snags the kid by the arm, linking it in his own while continuing to skate alongside him.

Hope you like playing pairs, Bakugo.]

Hiya, Bakugo! How's it hanging?

[He's tempted to ask how he liked his gift-wrapped room, but he doesn't feel like dying just yet.]

[blastedass]

[This is an obvious result. Bakugo hates the cold and Yato loves it. Bakugo's sane and Yato's fucking nuts. See? There's a small "oof" when someone snags his arm, almost yanks his hand right out of his pocket, but both impact and his own reaction mean there's hardly a risk of stumbling as Bakugo finds himself abruptly shackled to the god.]

You trying to make me crash!? [ROAR!! What'd Yato expect? Pleasantries? The blonde growls across his shoulder as he instinctively finds and matches the raven's speed, legs pushing off and stopping in tandem to glide beside him without break. For some stupid reason, seeing sky blue cloth trailing behind Yato in the winter air brings a small sense of normalcy to their otherwise crazy past few weeks. Annoying as he is, at least the god's okay.]

[intertwinedfates]

[Not an inaccurate assessment, really. He'd have to be crazy to try interrupting Bakugo's pleasant afternoon out in the cold, yet here he is, doing just that with a happy smile upon his face like getting chewed out is a gift in itself. And maybe it kind of is. It means that Bakugo's doing well, and that's what he likes to see.]

Nah! I had faith you'd recover! [A small bit of praise to hopefully help make up for his rude interruption as they skate along, finding a rhythm that works for them both so neither one of them jerks the other off-balance. He can't help chuckling though as their feet glide across the ice, cutting a smooth pattern in it. It almost looks as though they've practiced this.]

You're pretty good at skating. I gotta admit I'm a little surprised. I thought it might be something that'd frustrate you.

[blastedass]

[What a damn weirdo. Bakugo scowls at the air in front of him.]

Of course I recovered! You think that's enough to put me down? [Hardly a scratch! Ignoring it was indeed more than a scratch. He's suffered worse. The vampirism malady was more annoying than his injuries. It's been a while since he's seen Yato, both of them busy with different stuff since getting back from the accursed village. People, chores, distractions, healing.

Falling into rhythm with Yato's pretty easy, mostly because Bakugo doesn't want to look stupid by tumbling out of it cause some jerk wants to hang on his arm while they skate. He didn't ask for a pair up! Tch, always the clingy guy...]

Haa?! What's surprising? Die! Skating isn't hard! [It's nothing more than balancing while you walk on ice atop narrow blades attached to your feet! Yato better not be commenting he thought something would be difficult for someone as great as Bakugo! (No, what frustrated him about skating was Raidou outperforming him by a mile.)]

[intertwinedfates]

[News at eleven. Same as Bakugo getting irritable over what should technically amount to simple, pleasant conversation. Everything's a battle with him it seems.]

Nope, not for a minute. ...well, maybe about thirty seconds. [Being cheeky again! It's like he can't help himself when around Bakugo; the kid draws out some of the worst in his teasing tendencies. Probably because he's lonely for Yukine, his shinki, and Bakugo has a temper like him. It's familiar in a nostalgic way.

He's glad though that he didn't mess the guy up though - crashing them both would've ended with him getting throttled big time. But it was a calculated risk, and one he felt safe enough taking. Both in the balance department and social butterfly angle.]

Hmm, true, you do have really good balance given how you propel yourself using your Quirk. I suppose it makes sense that would transfer to something like ice skating. But is there a reason you're out here? You're such a workaholic that I'm a little shocked to see you out having fun! [Still not surprised that he can't friggin smile while doing it, though. One day he's going to see those lips turn upwards and then he might faint from the shock.]

[blastedass]

[Everything. Excuse him for getting irked when someone interrupts his peaceful moment by running into him. He's not shaking Yato off, however, a telling event which should not be mentioned aloud.]

It didn't do shit to me! [Rawr! Bakugo's not admitting any recovery time despite obviously being down with injury and malady. From bandages to blood cravings to bundling up to ride his motorcycle to dealing with his boyfriend's trauma, he's had a hell of a month after... a hell of a month. Yato gives him an outlet to vent on, his cheerful nature and rebound a strange combination of Midoriya and Kirishima in nerdy passion. Why does he attract people he wants to blow up?!]

I'm gonna beat the hell out of Shashou. [And he wanted some time to himself, but fuck mentioning that. Raidou's skill surpassed his own and Bakugo didn't have ample time to train up before the thaw. Now he has to make up for several months out of practice AND catch up to Raidou in hopes of surpassing him.]

[intertwinedfates]

[Yeah, even Yato can't blame him for getting a bit irate at having his practice session interrupted by a clingy god, though said god is at least smart enough to not point out his luck at not being blasted off into the sunset.]

Hehe, of course, of course. [He'll let him have his way and pretend that absolutely nothing was wrong with him when they came back from the mission. He knows that for some people it's easier to just let problems roll off like water on a duck's back. He's also well aware that others prefer letting off steam - something that Bakugo obviously thrives on. So it's no big deal for him to act as an anger sponge for him to let loose one, provided things don't get physical.]

Ah, Raidou? [Unless there's someone else who looks like a train conductor. Curious, he cants his head to one side as they skate, subtly picking up the pace. Let's see if he notices he's being challenged here and now.] You see everything as a competition, don't you?

[blastedass]

[Luckily the god didn't barge in on him mid race lap, rather catching him on a cool down. Otherwise he would've ripped his damn arm off. (Right.) The steady back and forth of their legs in tandem makes for a strangely calming glide across the ice, cold air numbing the top curves of his ears.]

Haa?! Are you looking down on me?! [Don't "of course of course" like you disbelieve him! He rebounded back from that stupid village faster than most people. There were others who had it far worse than him and they deserved to be looked after more. Bakugo mostly focused on the Outsiders, though Denji managed to wrangle him into babysitting duty twice... before Vash and Raidou "kindly" opted to take over the rest of his shifts. Apparently making kids piss themselves after disobeying was frowned upon. THEY DISOBEYED!! Little brats.]

Aa. [No one else here fits that description and even though Raidou's grumped about it before, Bakugo straight up ignored him and continues with the nickname. Another push increases the speed, keeping up with Yato's pace. There's a brief snort when the god comments on seeing things as a competition.] That's what a race is, Bakami.

[intertwinedfates]

[As long as he gave said arm back when he was done with it, Yato wouldn't mind too terribly, heh. He's getting to the point where Bakugo's more violent-seeming tendencies are almost welcomingly familiar. If the kid didn't threaten him now and then, he'd start to worry! Thankfully though things are more peaceful in reality as they skate along, working surprisingly well together.]

As if I would dare to. [He still smiling despite the outburst, taking them through a curve with practiced ease. That Bakugo could handle himself despite his injuries and illness really doesn't surprise him in the least. The hero's more resilient than most by a far margin, hence why he felt it was okay to leave him be until now. If Yato was really worried about his condition, he would've checked in on him sooner.]

Well, yeah, I know that. But even when it comes to mundane things you take it so seriously. [Some things are meant to just be fun! Relaxing! Something he wonders if Bakugo even knows how to do sometimes. But if he wants a challenge, then he'll be happy to provide him with one. As they come into a turn on the other side of the pond, he propels them towards the center, leaning forward for even more speed. Try to keep up, Bakugo!] Like I said before, one day I'm gonna see you smile for real!

[blastedass]

[Right. Chuck his arm back after ripping it off. Use it as a back scratcher or something. Not something Bakugo would likely do, as he'd rather blow it up or throw it away than let an enemy have it's "weapon" back. Has he ripped an arm off before? That's... debatable. He's blown people's Quirk-generated body parts off.]

I'm not gonna waste my time doing something half-assed. [He grew up competitive, perfectionist, driven, and more. Everything he did was praised by his friends, classmates, teachers, parents, neighbors, and he thrived on that feeling. Failure ended up an anathema, the wretched feeling of disappointment and criticism fueling a burning hatred for it. In everything, he wants to be great, the best! Hence, he takes it seriously. Melodramatic as hell. That's him.]

All my smiles are real, Bakami. [Bakugo puts a burst of speed in, when they approach the center, this time deliberately breaking rank with Yato and edging in front of him. He knows what Yato means; he's deliberately defying it.] If you really wanna beat me, you're gonna have to try a lot harder than that.

[intertwinedfates]

[If he did decide to throw Yato a bone (heh) and give him his arm back, he'd probably find himself slapped across the face with it, just for the sheer humor of it. A challenge to a dual, if you will. Although it would come as something of a surprise to know Bakugo has done almost exactly that before... He seems so keen on preserving life.]

That could explain why you look like you've sucked on a lemon so much. [If lemons could make one grin maniacally in a crazy sort of way... In some ways he feels bad for Bakugo, being driven to strive for perfection all the time to the point he seems to sacrifice his ability to relax and have fun. To just... chill. Take it easy for a change. Only when working in the greenhouse had he seemed truly calm. He's still young. He deserves to enjoy things more.]

You know what I mean, dammit! [Thrusting himself forward with another push keeps him in line with Bakugo so their arms can remain linked. Like he's challenging himself to cling to the kid for as long as possible. Which he probably is, knowing him. Not to piss Bakugo off; no, he would be more deliberate in that sort of attempt. But to see if he can make him work together rather than fight each other over their motions.] Heh, in that case, let's see what you can do.

[blastedass]

[He would then proceed to cram a whole dynamite cluster down his throat and erupt his stupid body like a mortal kombat finisher. Slap him with all THOSE pieces, you bastard! No one said he was gonna duel with the sport of chivalrous knights. (No, but the idea of Yato slapping Bakugo with his own disembodied arm is fucking hilarious and should someday be done... without losing the arm... somehow.)

Look, his classmate grew additional limbs with his Quirk; he can blast those off safely. And he had zero qualms about trying to splatter that fucking sludge bastard all over the street.]

HAA?! I DON'T LOOK LIKE THAT!! [He doesn't want to hear that from someone who looks like he's doped up on ecstasy half the time! Not that he's ever seen someone doped up. In some ways, Bakugo's a product of his own making, going from a happy successful boy into a driven teenager with a major attitude and pride problem. But he can certainly find time to have fun, though his version of fun is winning. Relaxing comes privately. Most people don't ever get to see him do it. Usually with books or music or lazily scrolling through his phone. Gardening and cooking sometimes too.]

Oh yeah? I don't see any subtitles explaining you! [That's deliberately taunting him. Of course he knows what Yato means and he's denying it emphatically! As soon as Yato picks up the speed, Bakugo defies it with another increase, keeping ahead of him deliberately. Still with their arms locked, though it makes the actions more difficult since their legs have to stay in a steady rhythm or else they'd get clunked together.] You can't race if you're tied together, dumbass.

mixing (sundown shelter) + (keeping warm)

[nutkick]

[ he wasn't expecting their morning to start with a wrestling match, and it wasn't even the sexy type, but that happened. in bakugou's defence, he did not force denji to join and gave him the option to return to bed but the half-devil is too stubborn to allow it. as much as he hates the early cold mornings— he did promise his partner to join him when the time comes; he knew this assignment was important to katsuki and therefore it's important to him. while he's so loving and understanding ... denji still retaliates by holding the hero hostage under the blankets for an extra five minutes, only to lose that battle. katsuki was adamant about carrying on the promised mission; nothing would shake his resolve. sigh. even when he showed up with messy curls and heavy bags under his eyes, denji never complained (verbally), nothing more than looking mildly miserable while thinking of their warm little nest back in the base. that is until bakugou addressed the group and, at that moment, despite not being a fan of the situation — it was hard not to smile a bit. heh, he does look super cool when he leads. denji couldn't bring himself to be petty much longer.

after a long day, the group made their way to the greenhouse, their boots scuffing against the tiled floor with the occasional thud of a crate being set down; fresh finds from the forest lay spread out on the worktables, and the air buzzed with a sense of accomplishment. even after an exhausting day, most of the crew wanted to help out some more. an hour passed, and one by one, the group began to peel away. the allure of the base, the call of dinner, a shower, and rest— proved too strong to resist. soon, slow steps echoed against the stone walkway leading away from the greenhouse. the space quieted, the hum of the heaters and the occasional creak of the glass panes the only sounds left. one figure remained behind, giving the impression denji was pulling up his jacket to leave as well, but nope. he was searching for something. a chocolate bar he snuck in his pocket before leaving in the morning.

yeah, he's staying. not leaving without bakugou. he didn't care how long it took. ] Dinner time.

[blastedass]

[hey, denji promised and judgement day finally came. in the winter. which katsuki warned his boyfriend about the moment he got permission to create the missions. so yeah, he wrestled the other boy out of bed after denji agreed but kept going "five more minutes" each time while trying to trap him with blankets. that takes way more energy than saying no, dammit! denji might have gotten bit somewhere sensitive for his troubles, not hard but enough to startle him awake. probably a smug promise for later too. they're partners, they support each other, yet katsuki's not above rewarding his lover for helping him. that's one reason why denji got a little thermos of hot chocolate to go along with him when they set out for the little excursion. he had firsthand experience with the general idea back in transylvania, as well as working with the explosive hero on the notebook and planting, which put the half-devil in the advantage over other outsiders on the trip. katsuki checked in on denji throughout the day as well, both to gauge his progress and simply because he wanted to spend time with his boyfriend even on duty.

honestly didn't expect to get as much as they did their first try. none of it will be actively helpful with the end goal, as this trip was little more than gathering what remains before winter really crashed in. they have to collect and cultivate before they can harvest. but katsuki appreciates the effort of each person who stepped up to help. getting everything arranged around the greenhouse and prepared for work tomorrow isn't too difficult, albeit time consuming. as people drift off to their evening lives, katsuki takes over whatever work's left behind. initial direction made sure it wouldn't be too much. he's well aware denji will stay with him and has no intention of abusing his boyfriend's patience after so long already today. a few more plants need to be settled on the shelves and some satchels hung up, but beyond that, nothing else. he can get the rest tomorrow.

is he surprised denji fished out a chocolate bar? not really. kinda thought he'd sneak a sandwich or something in there.]

Tch, hilarious. I'll get you proper dinner when we're done. [Shouldn't be more than thirty minutes.]

[nutkick]

[ he values those little efforts, from the warm drink that was prepared exclusively for him (and denji was more than happy to flaunt the special treatment to others), to bakugou staying by his side throughout the entire mission, working together while still indulging in small talk— and, maybe, for the first time, they were more of an official couple in their own subtle way. being public yet private. this might be how the hero likes to express himself around others, and denji is starting to get it.

he picked up his chocolate bar, peeling back the wrapper just enough to break off a square, popping it into his mouth. the sweetness melted against his tongue, and the brief indulgence and the touch of a sugary delight would soother the exhaustion after a long day of exploring the greenery. denji glanced up from his little munching session, licking off a thin stretch of caramel from his lower lip, and caught sight of his lover at the far end of the greenhouse. bakugou was crouched low, inspecting the fragile buds of a plant, his head tilted in concentration. the soft glow of the lights complimented his profile and features, urging denji to smile a bit. holding the remaining treat loosely in one hand, he made his way toward the young hero, stepping carefully to avoid disturbing the rows of seedlings. as he approached, he slowed, savoring the sight of him lost in his element.

without a word, he bent slightly, slipping his arms around bakugou's waist from behind. he then rested his chin lightly on a shoulder, the faint scent of greens and his boyfriend's aroma mingling in harmony. while he likes to pretend they're sharing warmth, that's not the case tonight. they'd been walking for hours in the freezing cold, so it's safe to say when denji squished his cheek against the other boy, it prompted a shiver down his spine. did that make him want to pull away? hell no. he chuckled instead, low and hearty. ] Shit, you're freezing ...

[ with a small tip of his head, he held the chocolate bar out in front of bakugou, just enough for him to see. a silent offering. he does plan to free his boyfriend so he can continue with his work soon, but he selfishly wishes to steal a minute of his time. ] Can we grab some burgers on the way back? [ plenty of options for takeaway on their drive back home. additionally, he didn't want to burden bakugou with cooking him a meal when they reach the base; he would probably be too exhausted after everything. they're allowed to inhale junk meals from time to time. ]

[blastedass]

[sugar rush. leaving denji to munch on his sweet, katsuki hooks a finger under the plant buds and lifts them, gauging whether he needed to prop them. weakened from the cold, but not out, belies a stubbornness he respects. reaching for a small collection of wooden splints, he fashions one on either side of the plant's stem, crooked at the tips to support the bud-laded top until the plant adjusted to its new surroundings and perked up again. might take a few days with the cold weather outside. some warmth indoors and watering brings new life back to many things. part of him wonders why the hell he's bothering with something as "gentle" and benign as gardening; it never caught much interest as a kid. but if the outsiders are going to keep going forward next year... aa, this is for them. present and future alike.]

Hn? [warmth slithers about his waist, breaking concentration. red eyes flutter for a second as he turns his head over his shoulder, catching denji's cheek and profile resting over his shoulder. draped like a protective needy thing, garnet eyes sparkling beneath a sandy veil of scruffy bangs. tired yet interested. he's lasted all day despite the early morning, and katsuki's chest warms with a quiet pride and gratitude. even with everyone else gone, denji stays with him, knowing full well he could go back to his room and rest. he's cold, but with a warm body pressing to his back, it's hard to feel the chill anymore. he scuffs his hand (it's clean) through denji's hair in a lazy ruffle over his shoulder.] That's you, dumbass.

[tch, fine. he leans in and nips a square off the bar. mleh, too sweet. but it gives a surge of energy soon enough. chewing away, he returns to the plant, shifting his body so denji can keep holding onto him without interrupting his work. compromise. he wants to finish up so they can retire for the night.] Yeah. Wanna go to the neon place or the burger van?

[it's not like he doesn't like hamburgers and the occasional junk food. he's a teenager.]

[nutkick]

[ he closed his eyes as fingers plunged into his golden strands, ruffling with a playful yet loving trace, sending his hair into complete disarray before a few curls flopped across his forehead. a sign that a certain someone needs a haircut! as for who's freezing in here— it's both of them, actually. denji might be the one who'd cope a bit better in the cold weather, quick to warm up as they escaped the chilly breeze, but as he glanced up, he noticed the way the frost clung to the windows, forming intricate patterns. as beautiful of a visual it was, denji knew the temperature is about to drop soon, and it might start snowing too. snow, huh? yeah, he didn't want to think about it too much. they had a good day. it was a good one. it's been so long since he felt like himself again after everything that happened in october. he'd rather focus on their accomplishment and the boy between his arms. nothing more. ] Hmm, both are good options ... maybe the burger van? That double cheeseburger was so good ...

[ the rest of the treat was tossed inside his mouth before he buried his face inside the wide collar of bakugou's jacket, seeking warmth against the scarf underneath and securing his neck. his grip on his boyfriend tightened, not enough to hinder his work but enough to anchor himself to his comforting presence. bakugou's steady movements became a lullaby, the rustle of leaves and the soft clink of tools grounding him. the minor signs are still there, one of someone who is still yearning for reassurance. even if he's not as clingy as he was last month or as anxious, denji is still coping with physical solace. though ... he is trying not to be too unbearable. baby steps into, hopefully, healing.

and part of healing is — well, talking about it.

he watched as bakugou continued with his work, gloved hands tending to each delicate stem and leaf with a skillful touch. ] Katsuki ... [ denji has yet to learn the etiquette of conversations, but he'd rather go for it when his heart is strong enough for it, which is a rare perk for the half-devil. ] ... I just want you to know ... I'm better. Thanks to you. Not good ... but better.

[ there's a pause before he admitted with a hint of shame. ] I don't think I would've been able to pull myself out of that one alone. You really saved me ...

[blastedass]

[hmph, guess he'll be taking denji out tomorrow for a haircut. he came here attractively scruffy, but now denji's moved into the realm of shaggy and that's not gonna fly. can't blame him, considering the past few months have been utter bullshit and he's not had the time or presence of mind to chop off some locks. but now... a haircut will feel good, freeing him from some of the burden on his shoulder. akin to showering after a hard day. refreshed. clean. certainly not out here in the greenhouse with ice licking at the windows and dirt on the gloves. lights begin to click on throughout the glass-enclosed space, keeping the plants warm despite the cold outside. he and denji should focus on keeping warm as well. the plants they collected today are going to be fine for the night until he gets to them tomorrow. only a few more and katsuki's attention will be his boyfriend's for the rest of the night.] I know. You had three of them last time.

[even if one of them was saved for later. with those prices, might as well go for bulk and quality. he tilts his head to the side as denji stuffs his face into his jacket collar and buries nose-first into his scarf. heat wafts up from inside, cupping about the half-devil's chin and cheeks. katsuki shucks dirt into another pot before transferring the plant from bag to new home. his body moves into those embracing arms, taking comfort in denji's warmth and hold. ever since october, his boyfriend's been clingier than usual, gripping, touching, holding, bumping, feeling, constant reminders he's present and tangible. no damn dream ready to shatter when he wakes up enough. those fucking doubts continue to plague him, irking katsuki more than the vampiric malady he spent last month with. those bastards left their scars on his boyfriend... and he can't do anything to destroy them. all he can do is help ease denji's pain and discomfort until they hopefully fade enough.]

Hm? [he knows his tone, his softer voice, as a chest unlocks and the lid tilts back on quiet hinges. opening into the darkness once more to bring out those pains and recovering wounds. talking about it. katsuki knows by now not to shut the topic up, letting denji speak when he feels strong enough to work through it some more. pressed to his side and back as he is, the half-devil won't miss the way the hero's body eases when he speaks. i'm better. no idyllic promise of being cured, recovered, complete. but simply better. that's all he can hope for. all he wants. katsuki finishes up with the pot and clunks the spade on the stool leg until it's mostly clear of dirt. then turns his head enough to rest his mouth atop denji's head, lips pressing into his hair. a slow and gentle touch.]

I'm glad. [that small ghost of shame... he flicks it away.] But I couldn't pull you out alone either. You're strong, Denji. Thanks... for not giving up.

[nutkick]

[ as they stood in the middle of it all, surrounded by the hum of growing greenery with his lover's hands busy arranging soil and carefully tending to seedlings. the faint scrape of a trowel and light movements made him feel less — bare. denji is still learning the art of sharing without being overwhelming, and it's tricky to balance. he could feel the soft kiss against his head, followed by words that were foreign in his heart but warm. so warm. because bakugou believed it. for someone who had no issue smothering the other boy with his adoration, whether it's with words, buying flowers, or an act of service, the half-devil has been very unapologetic about experiencing what might be the only healthy relationship in his life, and yet a 'you're strong' was enough to make his ears blush; head still buried against the scarf.

soon after, the hero returned to finish off the few remaining tasks, but denji's arms shifted, one sliding down to follow his movement. slowly, deliberately, his fingers found bakugou's, halting his work mid-motion. it was a gentle touch, yet it carried a quiet urgency that stopped him. he then curled his fingers around the other, intertwining them completely even through that thick glove of his, denji's grip firm but tender, protective. the trowel clattered softly onto the table, pressing their bodies closer, his palm enveloping bakugou's in a way that felt both possessive and reverent as he guided his hand up to his chest. with their fingers now entangled, rested against katsuki's heart, rising and falling in time with his breaths. a motion filled with quiet affection, his unspoken emotions pouring into the simplicity of their joined hands — and on any other day, this might be enough. a simple shared moment could express long conversations of unspoken sentiments.

but, honestly? he's unsure if he will ever be this brave again. ]

People leave unexpectedly without any warning, and I ... know we can't stop that. I've been home before, so I know that's where I will end up eventually. Without you. There are no heroes back home, Katsuki. No one is kind where I'm from. No one will help me. But what scares me the most ... is I won't remember what it feels like to be with you. I won't remember that I was ... happy. If I forget, I'll go back to that hell. I'll have nothing. Again.

[ the words had left him tumbling out in a rush, raw and unpolished. he hadn’t planned to say them, buried in the furthest corners of his mind where he hoped they wouldn't hurt him. his shoulders began to sag under the enormity of what he’d just revealed. denji felt hollow. like the confession had pulled something essential out of him, leaving a quiet, aching void in their wake. and yet, beneath the ache, there was something else— a hint of hope. ]

But, if we keep our memories ... I think I'll be okay. Even if everyone believes I don't deserve a normal life ... I'll remember someone still chose to love me in the end.

[blastedass]

[for all his pride and attitude, bakugo's stubborn about credit. being given the due for accomplishment has to be true. if he can handle something all on his own, and does, fuck yes he's going to rage at anyone trying to divide the credit amongst people who did fuck all to win! but taking credit for something he didn't do, or only helped with, messes with him just as much. proudly he'll chuff his participation was the best or he did the bulk of the work, but in this case, that's not true. sinking his feet in the gory ground, locking his hands around denji's bloody wrists, hauling back until every muscle threatened to snap, he could pull and shout at the other boy to climb back up all he wanted. but... holding on and pulling was all katsuki could do. denji was the one who had to decide for himself to climb out. otherwise, the dead weight would remain ever dangling over the pit. how could he tell his boyfriend he was anything but strong, when it took everything the boy had to reject his own doubts and pain in order to start climbing. denji is strong. katsuki won't let him think otherwise.

luckily he's not interrupted from something too intense when fingers slide down his arms and digits lace between his own. work pauses, no complaints coming as tactile need and demand communicates through the touch. kind of wishes the glove was off right now; instead it's trapped under denji's grip. oy, you're gonna get his shirt dirty! (it's already, a little.) katsuki frowns in small confusion as his hand presses to his chest, held there by his boyfriend's strong grip. feeling the beat of his heart against his hand, thudding as strongly as it does through his back and into denji's chest pressed flush to him. what he feels, the emotions flowing through that simple action enough, all momentarily rush enough to catch his breath in his throat. dammit, couldn't he have waited until they were done? when he had the breadth to ditch his work and throw all focus onto his boyfriend? ... guess there's a priority earned because katsuki's not protesting the interruption. denji's needs are more important. he turns his head slightly, resuming the gentle nuzzle once more.]

That's not true. [not all of it. as stubborn and resolute as he is, katsuki hates the reality denji points out. the cold stark truth they're on borrowed and limited time. unsure when they'll go home. he believes as hard as he can some element of their time here will remain, even if it's a sliver in their hearts, tiny vestiges of people they knew and loved despite the memories being stripped away. it doesn't make the reality easier to handle and he hates it. being without denji...] You're a hero. And you're kind.

[he knows what denji means, but can't leave him to deny himself. each word hurts, picking open phantom wounds on his heart and making his stomach sink cold into the pit of his torso. part of him has run from these words for a long time, accepting them as "duty" without actually looking at the heartbreak they carry. it's safer that way. safer... without these icy sorrows denji calls into being. he tightens his grip on the boy's hand, breath coming slightly hotter, mouth wetter despite himself. dammit, denji. why now? in the cold and light, dirty and alone. but he has to... he has to move and hold onto him. catch him from the crumbling erode under his boyfriend's feet. a painful reality check. katsuki can't say much to assuage him. he has a war he has to return to, a life. running away to denji's world... neither of them would accept that. yet he wants to, so badly, to protect him, save him, care for him, love him.]

I don't think... we'll lose everything when we go home. [katsuki presses his back against denji's chest, wanting to be closer to him, make him feel his warmth and the beat of his heart in his chest.] Memories, feelings, we'll keep some of them. I don't know how much, but I won't forget you love me.

[it may manifest in a warm feeling during a lonely night. or a gentle caress when he looks at a chainsaw. or a pang of nostalgia and bittersweet as he watches a couple walk by. impossible to forget. he wants to remember everything that happened here, even find a way to make the traveling ability work for them. to reunite...]

I promised you I wouldn't leave you. I won't break it. Even if I'm worlds away from you. [heroes sometimes make foolish promises. in the middle of a burning building, bloody and weak, they'll still tell the little girl they're protecting from the fire "we'll be all right" with a smile. to a world they can't possibly be everywhere all the time, they say "i'll be there" to help. to a boy crying in his heart over the future loss of someone who loves him ... "i won't leave you"

heroes make those promises because they are fools. fools who make those promises come true.] I'll always be with you.

[nutkick]

[ why now? why here? he didn't know— it just felt right for some reason. considering everything that had happened in the past few months and how unpredictable their life can be from one day to another, did they ever have the luxury to plan ahead? speak your heart before it's too late, that's what denji is starting to believe. he held his lover tightly, his arms a lifeline, as though letting go would mean losing everything that tethered him to the world. their shared warmth seeped into his chest, weighing on him like a thousand unspoken truths, embedding itself into his senses, a memory he'd wish to carry forever. bakugou called him a hero and said he was kind— denji's smile trembled, barely holding against the emotions surging inside. it was a smile that masked an ache too profound for words, the type born of knowing how fleeting this moment was, how fragile the thread of time felt when stretched too thin. a calming ache where hope and dread coiled together. the future was a vast, uncertain thing, a horizon he couldn’t yet see, and the weight of it pressed on him as he held bakugou closer. he wished he could freeze their shared embrace, carve it into eternity where neither time nor pain could touch them.

ahh, even denji knew that was a difficult promise to keep. his eyes burned, not the type of sting that would trigger tears, the type that encouraged a bittersweet smile instead, an outward curve of lips betraying the turmoil beneath. a love so intense it hurt, a heart so full it might break, but there is an odd, unexplained sense of comfort behind it. a glimmer of longing — somewhere. to know that bakugou will still think of him might be enough. even if they never see each other again, the thought of this boy remembering him with nothing but warmth and adoration in his heart could heal his soul.

a difficult promise. maybe a foolish one - but not impossible.

with his head still buried against bakugou's neck, in the stillness, a faint light began to creep in. a subtle glow seeping through the cracks, brushing over his lashes. he loosened his hold, not on him, but on the fear that had kept him buried for so long. slowly, deliberately, denji lifted his head. there are no tears, only a flustered face and a soft smile. he tilits his head, meeting bakugou's gaze, vision clearing up, and he's back to the greenhouse, back to reality, and in the moment again. ]

I'm so glad I made a move on you that night ... even when you yelled at me afterward. [ he lightens the mood now, genuine but not really. all that's clouding his mind right now is how much he loved that boy. he loved him so much he just knew he could never experience this type of love with anyone else. bakugou is not a crush or his first love ... he's his soulmate. his savior. his everything. he leans in for a kiss, brief yet gentle. he relaxed his fingers, allowing bakugou the freedom to pull his hand away, go back to work, and finish what needed to be done. denji stays close, bodies pressed, but no longer restraining his boyfriend. ]

Sorry to throw all of this at you so suddenly ... I just wanted you to know that ... I'll be okay now. [ a pause, he then hummed. ] It doesn't mean you should stop coddling me, though. I really enjoy that ...

[blastedass]

[as sweet as the moment is, sewn through with emotion and feeling threatening to burn his eyes and cling his throat, he can't find it in himself to want eternal freezing in time. no, he'd much rather continue to live, experiencing the ups and downs of his life with denji. from dynamic changes to quiet smooths uninterrupted. thinking of their separation hurts more than he ever though it would, prompting him to push the thought away. no need to weigh themselves down with future unknowns. who knew whether their separation would even be permanent? if LILITH brought them all here, they could bring them back. a reunion to celebrate victory, a passage to see their companions again, hopefully with a fucking invite this time and not at a worst moment in his life. as denji clings to him, katsuki leans into his warmth. how familiar these arms are now, wrapped around his body to hold him close. he knows their feeling and shape against his ribs and stomach, knows whether the half-devil absent-mindedly strokes with his index or middle finger first, knows his hand will always finds its way to katsuki's chest because he likes the feeling of the hero's heartbeat... and will ever be enamored with his pecs. denji... it may be fleeting, yet a brand lies in his mind and heart, perhaps even deeper, no amount of travel or death will be able to erase.

smiling. denji's smiling. translated even through the wind if his scarf around his neck. turmoil roiling under the surface of his skin, as if his shoulder might begin shaking at any moment. the hunter manages to hold it together, but the hero knows he's close to breaking. not out of pure sorrow and loss, but a bittersweet desire to enjoy the time they have less, while admitting it's not fair an ending has to exist somewhere in the future. katsuki promises to remember denji. devoid of falsehood, coming clear and strong despite the quiet of his voice. they'll see each other again, even if it's only once upon a heart's dream.

as denji slowly raises his head, their hair slices through each other in a usual mingle, spikes of ashen blonde poking into wavy tufts of scruffy sandy blonde. curtaining a few shades of his boyfriend's beautiful eyes. if he's surprised at the lack of crystal tears beading on his lower lids, katsuki keeps a poker face, merely resting his forehead against his boyfriend's and letting his eyes lid halfway in solidarity. pink cheeks on denji's face, a gentle smile on his lips, warmth radiating on his skin as he emerges from his sorrow into a quiet understanding. not vanish, not buried, not even covered, but rather accepted, to return again later when he'll hold onto katsuki for comfort again.]

Maybe don't do shit that makes me yell at you. [what a joke; katsuki yells at anyone over anything. regret is a rare thing in his life and neither denji nor the experiences he's had with the half-devil have ever had that word applied to him. love is patient, love is kind, right? thinking back on their trip to this moment is a rush of memories, from annoyance at the locker room question of partnership to bitching about jobs leading to partnering up at the police station to the sordid question of going on a date to the first kiss shared together... and so much more. katsuki leans into the kiss, eyes closing as he tilts his head and deepens it for a few seconds, letting it linger. it breaks with a soft kiss, but he only frees one hand to get back to work. the other stays interlaced with denji's. and all he's bothering to do is finish this last potting before nothing else matters but his boyfriend. he can come back and finish this tomorrow.]

Tch. Pick a better time and place next time. [grumping without any heat or sincerity behind the words; denji knows he can come to katsuki whenever he needs to vent or wants comfort. does he believe he'll be "okay" now? not in the vein of everything is eternally settled. but for now... he feels better.] Huh? When the hell do I coddle you? [they both know he does, sometimes roughly in his own way. katsuki finishes up with his work, then pulls the glove free from his hand. only so he can lace his fingers through denji's hair, feeling skin to strand, warm and firm, and pull him in for another kiss.] Let's go.

[he wants to tell denji not to eat too much, since they're going to be up late tonight... but even uttering such a thing risks throwing food out the proverbial window for another kind of hunger.]

[nutkick]

... I can't promise you that, hero. [ yeah, bakugou is asking for too much with that one. it's impossible to continue through life without giving his lover a reason or two to snap at him. at times, it's necessary if he wants them to experience something new, push and let go when the situation begs for it. either way, denji didn't hate it. it's part of his boyfriend's charm to be bold and unapologetic about his feelings. so long as denji learns when it's serious and he should be more mindful, then it's all good. as for picking a better time and place— he fucking agrees. honestly, bakugou wouldn't believe the amount of time this idiot tried to plan out a heart-to-heart, stressing over insignificant details and staring over their calendar for too long. it was just too damn overwhelming, and he didn't want to walk into such a delicate situation as agitated. he didn't want to bark it out, or overshare to the point he'd turn the other off. there's a lot of sensitive topics to unfold, and he will open up step by step.

he gets another kiss, just as soft, a press of their cold lips, quick to heat up. as much as katsuki hates the cold, it is a good look on him— with his features framed by the fluff trim of his jacket, the winter air left a light flush that seemed warmer than the season allowed, a few stray strands of hair escaped the confines of his hood, skin a bit pale, hues a little too vivid in red. those blonde lashes were dusted with the tiniest hints of frost, and whenever he blinked, the movement was slow and mesmerizing; breath visible in the chilled air, only to be carried away on the gentle breeze that teased the edges of his scarf. yeah, it seems denji did a little herb hunting and more staring today.

fingers trace through his hair again. a stray curl, longer than the rest, was twirled between bakugou's knuckles, pulled slightly, then released to spring back with a stubborn defiance. denji carried that lazy, easy half-smirk the entire time, sedated after all those heavy emotions, finding comfort in lovingly admiring the boy before him. the grief will always shadow him, and denji might never be 'okay', but - he's learning not to hide from it. he expressed one of his biggest fears openly instead of trying to hide behind distractions. did it heal him? he's still scared but not as scared. if that makes any sense. ] ... You took care of me. [ and it wasn't easy. there were days when denji didn't want to leave the bed, and bakugou stayed by his side. he struggled to function, often spending his nights watching hours and hours of movies, eating crap, and slacking off work— katsuki allowed him to cope and then gently coaxed him into stepping out for a bit; replaced the junk treats with healthy meals, planned chill dates so they could spend some time outside the base, change of scenery and slowly pull denji away from deteriorating between closed walls. he was there, tolerant and gentle.

he holds onto the other boy's hand, walking by his side as they leave the greenhouse, making sure the scarf is secured around his neck. as expected, it starts to snow. their eyes met, both reflecting the same quiet 'ugh,' and then they began walking, their steps unhurried as the snow crunched faintly beneath their boots. subconsciously, denji was squeezing bakugou's hand a tiny bit too hard, but his expression remained nonchalant. ] ... if you're too tired, I can drive.

[blastedass]

Then I'm gonna yell at you. [blanket warning for life. sharing more experiences with denji slots itself into his goals for life. as ridiculous as it sounds, he's find himself thinking about his boyfriend during moments he did something alone. from walking the streets in seoul to being on a high speed chase in neo tokyo to buying a roasted yam at one of the shrines while he practiced ice skating. things he wants to experience and share with denji. another reason he dragged his boyfriend out to the carnival during november once yato introduced katsuki to winning a 3D printing of yourself. no way was he going to let that opportunity pass denji up, screw if he was still dealing with trauma. he could weather it for figures.

each pass of his fingers through mussed tresses plows his boyfriend's hair in lazy waves before they fall right back as they were like his hand never passed by. yet it's hard to feel anything but good as their softness caresses around his fingers, stubborn locks twining slightly and bouncing away once he gets too far. pretty eyes lingering on his own through a flushed face, lopsided grin showing sharp teeth as gentler feelings finally settle over previously-raging currents. denji's a beautiful guy, and katsuki's aware of his own luck in winning the half-devil's heart. hell, took a while to even realize he was in the proverbial running. but once he figured it out, and accepted it... he nips once more at denji's lip. no, he doesn't expect the half-devil to lose all fear, settle all doubts, leave his heart perfectly pristine. life doesn't work like that. so long as he's willing to trust him and give things a chance to be better, that's good enough for katsuki.]

What kinda shitty boyfriend would I be if I didn't? [he gave denji plenty of lax and spare during his recovery, but refused to abandon him completely to poor coping mechanisms. stay in bed all day, but after the first week, he pulled his boyfriend out of bed to walk in the chill air during the afternoon. didn't even have to say anything, so long as he was outside in the sun and moving beside him. movies binged throughout the night, but eventually a hand caught over his eyes and katsuki did his damnest to make sure denji at least got a few hours of sleep. he stayed awake beside him, sitting with a hand on his chest or in his hair, or lying next to him with an arm around his boyfriend, tactile promising to be there and fight off the nightmares. junk food permitted, even in the bed, but post week one, katsuki began introducing healthy things again. even if it meant cauliflower "pizza" and caramel apples to compromise the desire for junk. of course he refused to let denji go out on police work for at least two weeks, and never pushed him to return until the hunter felt good and ready. even then he simply patrolled or helped denji with some office work rather than actively engaging in stopping crime. and finally dug him out of his room, albeit at the cost of his vampiric malady being a jealous kick in the ass to really pull his boyfriend from his flunk. all through, he focused on denji's needs alongside his wants. balancing them out as best he could until the half-devil was able to move.]

Che! As if this crap could wear me out. [katsuki steps through another clump of snow, leaving an imprint of his boot beside denji's as they make for his car across the parking lot. everyone else has already left, returned to base via carpools, public transport, or simply used their abilities to travel.] You can drive if you want to.

[and unlocks the car once they near it, heading around to the passenger's side while leaving denji to the driver's. ever the tough guy, he won't admit to being tired at all. unless he's complaining about something and someone's getting in the way of his rest. go figure. katsuki trusts denji's driving skills as easily as anyone else's now. he's really come a long ways since his first beat as a cop.]